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Abercrombie and Kent: Escorted Tours 2019-2020

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ESCORTED TOURS <strong>2019</strong>/20


We enjoyed our<br />

unique journey. It<br />

was interesting <strong>and</strong><br />

educational – our<br />

guide was truly<br />

remarkable, so<br />

knowledgeable<br />

<strong>and</strong> insightful<br />

Rosemary M


Dear traveller,<br />

We’ve been perfecting the small group escorted tour experience ever since I founded<br />

the company in 1962. A&K’s <strong>Escorted</strong> <strong>Tours</strong> for <strong>2019</strong>/20 reflect everything we have<br />

learned in the past five decades.<br />

Limited to a maximum of 18 guests, our escorted tours are led by A&K’s resident tour<br />

directors, <strong>and</strong> feature only the best in five-star luxury accommodation <strong>and</strong> experiences<br />

beyond the scope of most other travel companies. Whether it’s an intimate visit with<br />

locals in a remote Peruvian village or peeking inside the vaults of the Hermitage<br />

Museum in St Petersburg, on an A&K <strong>Escorted</strong> Tour the offerings arranged by our<br />

insider access are simply without peer.<br />

There are two types of tours to choose from: Immersive Journeys, which include the<br />

innovative Design your Day SM concept <strong>and</strong> no single supplement for solo travellers;<br />

<strong>and</strong> Luxury Small Group Journeys, which feature the VIP Travelling Bellboy SM <strong>and</strong><br />

Traveller’s Valet SM services. In addition, our programme of award-winning Luxury<br />

Expedition Cruises are led by a renowned, unparalleled team.<br />

Each itinerary is designed by A&K’s travel experts in our myriad offices around<br />

the world. These luxurious <strong>and</strong> authentic journeys will immerse you in your chosen<br />

destination <strong>and</strong> allow you to experience life like a local at its most inspiring<br />

<strong>and</strong> transformational.<br />

No matter whether you choose a Luxury Small Group Journey African safari, an<br />

Immersive Journey to Morocco or China, or a Luxury Expedition Cruise to one of<br />

the Poles, we will make your travel dreams an unforgettable reality.<br />

As always, I wish you happy travels…<br />

Geoffrey <strong>Kent</strong><br />

Founder, Chairman & CEO<br />

<strong>Abercrombie</strong> & <strong>Kent</strong><br />

Follow @geoffrey_kent on Instagram<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 3


4 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


CONTENTS<br />

INTRODUCTION<br />

Letter from Geoffrey <strong>Kent</strong>......................................................... 3<br />

Why travel with A&K................................................................ 6<br />

Our people on the ground.........................................................8<br />

Why an A&K <strong>Escorted</strong> Tour...................................................10<br />

Immersive Journeys..................................................................12<br />

Luxury Small Group Journeys................................................14<br />

Luxury accommodation..........................................................16<br />

Extend your journey <strong>and</strong> book your flights with A&K.......17<br />

Transforming travel: A&K Philanthropy...............................18<br />

Why choose an A&K safari.....................................................20<br />

Deciding on your safari destination.......................................21<br />

AFRICA<br />

South Africa & Victoria Falls..................................................22<br />

Botswana: Safari in Style.......................................................... 24<br />

The Great Migration: Safari in Style....................................... 26<br />

Kenya & Tanzania: Wildlife Safari......................................... 30<br />

Climbing Kilimanjaro: Summiting the Machame Route....32<br />

A Naturalist’s Guide to Madagascar<br />

with Charlie Gardner...............................................................36<br />

NORTH AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST<br />

Egypt & the Nile.......................................................................38<br />

Jordan: Petra & Beyond............................................................42<br />

Splendours of Oman: City, Mountain & Desert...................46<br />

The Delights of Morocco.........................................................50<br />

INDIAN SUBCONTINENT<br />

Splendours of the Golden Triangle........................................64<br />

The Secrets of Southern India................................................. 68<br />

The Spice L<strong>and</strong>s of Sri Lanka..................................................72<br />

LATIN AMERICA<br />

Peru’s Ancient Marvels.............................................................76<br />

Galápagos Wildlife Adventure................................................80<br />

Inside Tracks in Argentina & Brazil....................................... 84<br />

Adventures in Chile..................................................................88<br />

Patagonia: The Last Wilderness.............................................. 92<br />

SOUTH-EAST ASIA & THE FAR EAST<br />

The Wonders of China............................................................. 94<br />

China & the Yangtze................................................................ 98<br />

Journey through Japan: From Tokyo to Kyoto...................102<br />

Classic Japan............................................................................106<br />

Images of Indochina & Angkor Wat...................................108<br />

Cruising the Mekong: Siam, Saigon & Angkor Wat..........112<br />

LUXURY EXPEDITION CRUISES<br />

Why visit the Arctic or Antarctica with A&K....................116<br />

In the company of experts.....................................................120<br />

Le Lyrial & Le Boreal..............................................................122<br />

Antarctica, South Georgia & the Falkl<strong>and</strong> Isl<strong>and</strong>s.............124<br />

Arctic Cruise Adventure:<br />

Norway, Greenl<strong>and</strong> & Icel<strong>and</strong>..............................................126<br />

EUROPE<br />

Quintessential Sicily.................................................................54<br />

The Treasures of Russia............................................................ 58<br />

Sc<strong>and</strong>inavia: Stockholm, Copenhagen & Oslo.....................62<br />

FURTHER INFORMATION<br />

Terms & conditions................................................................128<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 5


WHY TRAVEL WITH A&K<br />

With over 55 years of experience, more than 55 offices around the world,<br />

<strong>and</strong> a renowned network of connections, only A&K’s <strong>Escorted</strong> <strong>Tours</strong> can take<br />

you to the heart of a destination with the privilege of authentic, local access.<br />

6 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


TRUST & HERITAGE<br />

From our first pioneering safari in Africa in 1962<br />

– when Geoffrey <strong>Kent</strong> led his debut tour with little<br />

more than a refrigerated ex-Army truck <strong>and</strong> the<br />

best tents money could buy – we’ve been setting<br />

the st<strong>and</strong>ard for adventurous, luxury escorted<br />

tours. A lot has changed in the intervening years,<br />

but we still want to take you down the road less<br />

travelled, devising unique, meticulously planned<br />

journeys into hard-to-reach wildernesses to<br />

commune with authentic cultures.<br />

Nearly six decades later, with Geoffrey <strong>Kent</strong> still at<br />

the helm, we have grown into a family of over 2,500<br />

travel specialists. These experts have turned their<br />

passion for travel into a vocation. We are devoted<br />

to making your holiday dreams an unforgettable<br />

reality, <strong>and</strong> our long-st<strong>and</strong>ing networks allow us to<br />

reveal local secrets beyond the reach of most.<br />

When you travel with A&K, we don’t just take you<br />

to the front of the line; we take you to the rooms<br />

in the palace not typically open to visitors, on an<br />

exclusive tour with the best historian in the region.<br />

This kind of unfettered access to the authentic heart<br />

<strong>and</strong> soul of a place – to the people <strong>and</strong> sites that are<br />

set far beyond the reach of the average traveller – is<br />

something we pride ourselves on delivering for<br />

every journey we create, whether to the world’s<br />

most iconic or off-the-beaten-track destinations.<br />

It is unequivocally what sets A&K apart from<br />

any competitor. And it has everything to do with<br />

our extensive <strong>and</strong> long-established connections<br />

throughout every locale in which we operate.<br />

OUR PEOPLE<br />

A&K works tirelessly to design adventures you<br />

won’t be able to undertake with any other tour<br />

provider, backed up by the most robust support<br />

network, including over 55 offices in more than<br />

30 countries around the world. Unlike other<br />

operators, we recruit, train, <strong>and</strong> manage our own<br />

full-time staff, orchestrating every aspect of your<br />

journey with precision <strong>and</strong> flexibility, down to the<br />

last detail. Whether it’s the seamless flow of an<br />

A&K itinerary or the prompt attention paid to an<br />

unexpected request, you can be sure that our global<br />

family is the driving force making it happen.<br />

Your well-being is always our highest priority.<br />

Our network of local offices <strong>and</strong> long-established<br />

relationships in every region in which we operate<br />

allow us to keep our finger on the pulse of local<br />

dynamics <strong>and</strong> events. Should an averse situation<br />

arise, A&K has the resources at the ready to allow<br />

you to seamlessly continue your journey.<br />

CONFIDENCE<br />

When you book with A&K you can do so with<br />

complete confidence. We’re IATA accredited <strong>and</strong><br />

a member of ABTA. Additionally, if you choose to<br />

allow us to arrange your flight, your holiday will be<br />

financially protected as we’re proudly part of the<br />

ATOL scheme.<br />

AWARD-WINNING WINNER<br />

A&K’s service <strong>and</strong><br />

reputation are tested every<br />

day by the most discerning<br />

critics: our clients. And<br />

BEST LUXURY TOUR OPERATOR<br />

time <strong>and</strong> again, we pass<br />

with flying colours. Travellers who choose A&K<br />

often write to tell us they’re now too spoilt to travel<br />

with anyone else. They vote for us too – thanks<br />

to those who have journeyed with us, we have<br />

won distinctions that include ‘Best Tour Operator<br />

2018’ in the Luxury Lifestyle Magazine Readers’<br />

Travel Awards. In 2018, A&K was ‘Best Luxury<br />

Tour Operator’ for the third time at the annual<br />

News UK Travel Awards, voted for by the readers<br />

of The Times, The Sunday Times, <strong>and</strong> The Sunday<br />

Times Travel Magazine. Among our peers, we are<br />

consistently recognised as the gold st<strong>and</strong>ard for<br />

luxury travel, <strong>and</strong> have been awarded industry<br />

accolades including ‘Best Small Luxury Tour<br />

Operator 2016’ at The Telegraph ULTRA awards;<br />

<strong>and</strong> in 2018, for the ninth consecutive year, A&K<br />

was voted ‘Africa’s Leading Luxury Tour Operator’<br />

at the World Travel Awards.<br />

SIGNATURE MOMENTS<br />

Every journey brings discovery <strong>and</strong> delight. We<br />

know that by travelling with us, you are searching<br />

for momentous experiences – memories that will<br />

last a lifetime. While all A&K <strong>Escorted</strong> <strong>Tours</strong>’<br />

clients are like-minded, we underst<strong>and</strong> that<br />

everyone is an individual <strong>and</strong> no two sets of needs<br />

<strong>and</strong> desires are the same. While one person will<br />

be wowed by views of the Taj Mahal at sunrise or<br />

sunset, another traveller will be blown away by<br />

sipping a sundowner by the Dead Sea. We celebrate<br />

that uniqueness <strong>and</strong> individuality – whatever a<br />

signature moment means to you, we guarantee that<br />

on an A&K <strong>Escorted</strong> Tour, you will have it.<br />

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OUR PEOPLE<br />

ON THE GROUND<br />

We are a truly global br<strong>and</strong>. We have more than 55 offices<br />

around the world <strong>and</strong> there isn’t much ground our worldwide<br />

family of 2,500 experts hasn’t trodden. Between them, they<br />

have visited nearly every country on Earth. They have gone<br />

off the beaten track all around the world, to help you find<br />

authentic experiences in far-flung places.<br />

OUR A&K OFFICES<br />

Buenos Aires, Argentina<br />

Melbourne, Australia (2)<br />

Maun, Botswana<br />

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil<br />

Phnom Penh, Cambodia<br />

Santiago, Chile<br />

Beijing, China (2)<br />

Hong Kong, China<br />

Shanghai, China<br />

Quito, Ecuador<br />

Abu Simbel, Egypt<br />

Alex<strong>and</strong>ria, Egypt<br />

Aswan, Egypt<br />

Cairo, Egypt (2)<br />

Hurghada, Egypt<br />

Luxor, Egypt<br />

Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt<br />

Agra, India<br />

Bharatpur, India<br />

Jaipur, India<br />

New Delhi, India<br />

Florence, Italy<br />

Amman, Jordan<br />

Mombasa, Kenya<br />

Nairobi, Kenya<br />

Monte Carlo, Monaco<br />

Casablanca, Morocco<br />

Marrakech, Morocco<br />

Bagan, Myanmar<br />

Inle Lake, Myanmar<br />

M<strong>and</strong>alay, Myanmar<br />

Yangon, Myanmar<br />

Auckl<strong>and</strong>, New Zeal<strong>and</strong><br />

Cusco, Peru<br />

Lima, Peru<br />

Moscow, Russia<br />

St Petersburg, Russia<br />

Kigali, Rw<strong>and</strong>a<br />

Cape Town,<br />

South Africa<br />

Johannesburg, South Africa<br />

Madrid, Spain<br />

Colombo, Sri Lanka<br />

Zurich, Switzerl<strong>and</strong><br />

Arusha, Tanzania<br />

Bangkok, Thail<strong>and</strong><br />

Kampala, Ug<strong>and</strong>a<br />

Cheltenham, UK (2)<br />

Harrods, UK<br />

London, UK<br />

Chicago, US (2)<br />

Da Nang, Vietnam<br />

Hanoi, Vietnam<br />

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam<br />

Lusaka, Zambia<br />

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Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 9


WHY AN A&K<br />

ESCORTED TOUR<br />

When it comes to choosing an A&K <strong>Escorted</strong> Tour, you can be sure it has<br />

everything you need included – <strong>and</strong> that you’re not going to be unpleasantly<br />

surprised at any stage of your trip. A&K’s approach to guided holidays<br />

means that you have all the information you need as soon as you start<br />

planning the tour of your dreams. We pride ourselves on inclusions that<br />

make your trip as authentic as possible, while ensuring it’s also as special as<br />

you want. Here’s everything that’s included on an A&K <strong>Escorted</strong> Tour...<br />

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33OUR RESIDENT TOUR<br />

DIRECTORS & GUIDES<br />

Their expertise is unmatched <strong>and</strong> their<br />

excitement is contagious. Not only have<br />

they lived for decades, or even their entire<br />

lives, in the places you visit, they are<br />

year-round residents with the kind of insight<br />

into local culture that can only come from being<br />

permanently immersed in a destination. Small<br />

wonder our guests rated them as ‘excellent’<br />

more than 95 per cent of the time last year.<br />

Overseeing your entire journey, they accompany<br />

you every day, sharing a beyond-the-guidebook<br />

underst<strong>and</strong>ing of daily life that stems from their<br />

own genuine curiosity, <strong>and</strong> introducing you to<br />

everything from temples in their most flattering<br />

light to side-street cafés that serve up the local<br />

delicacies you’ve been dying to try, made to<br />

a centuries-old recipe. The result is a journey<br />

that reveals the real spirit of a place, connecting<br />

you to the people, places, <strong>and</strong> wildlife you’ll<br />

encounter in a way you’ll never forget.<br />

33GUARANTEED DEPARTURES<br />

As long as we have at least two people booked on<br />

an A&K <strong>Escorted</strong> Tour, it will take place. So you<br />

don’t need to worry about a last-minute phone<br />

call saying your holiday has to be cancelled. If<br />

you’re committed to going, then so are we.<br />

33SMALL GROUPS<br />

This is how to travel in a group. We guarantee<br />

that no tour will have more than 18 guests on<br />

it, <strong>and</strong> we average about 14 on our trips. This<br />

means you travel in a like-minded group at a<br />

pace that suits you all. And that you will have<br />

easy <strong>and</strong> personal access to your expert guides,<br />

throughout the journey.*<br />

*Please note there are some exceptions to the maximum<br />

group size of 18; <strong>and</strong> in some instances on cruising days<br />

during your itinerary, your group can be aboard a boat<br />

with multiple A&K groups of 18. Refer to the group size<br />

reference on each itinerary.<br />

33FIVE-STAR LUXURY<br />

ACCOMMODATION<br />

Enjoy the top level of accommodation<br />

available throughout your trip. We make<br />

certain that all our hotels are the best quality<br />

<strong>and</strong> luxurious, ensuring you the holiday<br />

you deserve. In some developing or remote<br />

regions occasionally featured in our pioneering<br />

<strong>and</strong> more adventurous itineraries, ‘five-star’<br />

accommodation may not always exist. In these<br />

rare instances, we choose the best quality <strong>and</strong><br />

most luxurious option available.<br />

33AIRPORT MEET & GREET,<br />

RETURN PRIVATE TRANSFERS<br />

Be truly escorted on every step of your journey<br />

with an airport meet <strong>and</strong> greet service on arrival<br />

<strong>and</strong> return private transfers to <strong>and</strong> from your<br />

first <strong>and</strong> last hotels.<br />

33EXCURSIONS AS STATED,<br />

ENTRANCE FEES, TAXES, & TIPS<br />

Let us take the strain off your wallet while you<br />

are away by making sure you won’t need to think<br />

about the usual sundry costs of entrance fees,<br />

taxes, <strong>and</strong> tips (excluding one for your resident<br />

tour director, which is at your discretion).<br />

These are all included in the price of the tour,<br />

meaning you can focus on the experience, not<br />

the expense.<br />

33DOMESTIC FLIGHTS,<br />

WHERE APPLICABLE<br />

If in-country travel is necessary during your<br />

A&K <strong>Escorted</strong> Tour, rest assured once again<br />

that the cost is accounted for <strong>and</strong> you won’t<br />

be asked for more.<br />

33WELCOME &<br />

FAREWELL DINNERS<br />

Being part of an A&K <strong>Escorted</strong> Tour is more<br />

than just a trip away. It’s a chance to meet other<br />

travellers <strong>and</strong> enjoy the experience together. Our<br />

welcome <strong>and</strong> farewell dinners provide the perfect<br />

frame around your holiday – this is when your<br />

memories will begin <strong>and</strong> then be cemented.<br />

We also include most breakfasts in your stay, as<br />

well as selected lunches <strong>and</strong> dinners throughout.<br />

33WIFI IN ACCOMMODATION<br />

If you really want to be online – checking emails<br />

or sharing the memories you are making – wifi<br />

in accommodation is included in your package,<br />

wherever we can make it happen.<br />

33SCENIC SUNDOWNERS<br />

There’s always time for a sunset celebration of<br />

your travel experience, so on selected days <strong>and</strong><br />

in the most idyllic locations, enjoy a beverage<br />

with a view on us.<br />

LUXURY<br />

SMALL GROUP<br />

JOURNEYS<br />

IMMERSIVE<br />

JOURNEYS<br />

SELECT YOUR TOUR<br />

Our guided tours come in two formats: Luxury Small<br />

Group Journeys <strong>and</strong> Immersive Journeys. Read on<br />

to find the one that’s right for you.<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 11


IMMERSIVE JOURNEYS<br />

The Immersive Journeys that A&K offers are ideally suited to travellers who like<br />

the support of an escorted group, but with a little bit more freedom. Taking every<br />

day at a more leisurely pace, these trips are truly immersive. They are in-depth <strong>and</strong><br />

informative, giving you the chance to underst<strong>and</strong> the culture, history, or lifestyle you<br />

have travelled to experience.<br />

12 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


IMMERSIVE<br />

JOURNEYS<br />

Pick from three distinct<br />

Design your Day SM themes<br />

to help you easily identify<br />

the option that suits you<br />

These trips offer the same promises whether you are<br />

travelling with family, with friends, or alone, as well<br />

as all the features highlighted on pages 10 & 11.<br />

33NO SINGLE SUPPLEMENTS<br />

Travelling solo? Book early <strong>and</strong> the first four<br />

solo places won’t pay any single supplement.<br />

The same journey, the same luxury, guaranteed<br />

at the same price.<br />

33DESIGN YOUR DAY SM<br />

An innovative addition to the Immersive<br />

Journey itinerary is A&K’s new Design your<br />

Day SM concept. On these days you have the<br />

freedom to pick an experience that is suited to<br />

you <strong>and</strong> your interests. These are grouped into<br />

three themes to help you choose the ideal way<br />

to spend your day (see right).<br />

ARTS & CULTURE<br />

A chance to really underst<strong>and</strong> what<br />

makes each destination unique, <strong>and</strong> the<br />

influences that framed its development<br />

33LEISURELY PACE<br />

Clients travelling on these trips enjoy enough<br />

time at each location to take in all of its sights –<br />

from the popular to the lesser known.<br />

33FLEXIBILITY<br />

Travelling at an unhurried rate also means<br />

more downtime in your chosen destination.<br />

Go with the slow <strong>and</strong> explore under your own<br />

steam. Your resident tour director <strong>and</strong> guides<br />

will be happy to make recommendations based<br />

on your interests <strong>and</strong> tastes – from niche<br />

museums <strong>and</strong> specialist stores to hidden city<br />

cafés that the locals all love – for you to find in<br />

your leisure time.<br />

CULINARY DELIGHTS<br />

Live like a local <strong>and</strong> learn how to make<br />

favourite foods <strong>and</strong> signature dishes in<br />

classes taught by local cooks <strong>and</strong> chefs<br />

ACTIVE<br />

Get the adrenalin pumping as you head<br />

out on more physical adventures that<br />

will enhance your escorted tour<br />

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LUXURY SMALL<br />

GROUP JOURNEYS<br />

If you’re looking to fit as much as you can into your holiday, our Luxury<br />

Small Group Journeys are just the ticket. Travelling at a faster pace than<br />

our Immersive Journeys, you will be sure to experience all the facets of<br />

a destination, while gaining an underst<strong>and</strong>ing of exactly how these piece<br />

together, thanks to our expert guides.<br />

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LUXURY<br />

SMALL GROUP<br />

JOURNEYS<br />

Everything on these trips is designed to make life as easy as possible for you with several elements<br />

you won’t want to miss out on, in addition to all the features highlighted on pages 10 & 11.<br />

33VIP TRAVELLING BELLBOY SM<br />

Make sure your travels are hassle-free as you are picked up from the airport, with your<br />

baggage all h<strong>and</strong>led for you by your own personal bellboy.<br />

33TRAVELLER’S VALET SM<br />

Don’t worry about packing extra clothes on this trip as you will receive a complimentary<br />

laundry service at the midpoint of your journey, making sure you’re as fresh as the<br />

experiences you’re having.<br />

33UNIQUE & VARIED DINING EXPERIENCES<br />

Enjoy breakfast in bed at A&K’s expense on selected days, <strong>and</strong> participate in a culinary<br />

demonstration at the chef ’s table at specially chosen restaurants in your tour destinations.<br />

33RIDE LIKE A LOCAL<br />

Experience the real locale as you take to the streets by cyclo or tuk-tuk, just like the residents.<br />

This is how to see the authentic towns <strong>and</strong> countryside, in a way that won’t harm the<br />

environment but will bring you closer to nature.<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 15


LUXURY<br />

ACCOMMODATION<br />

FIVE-STAR TREATMENT<br />

When luxury is what you’re looking for, there’s no reason to settle for second-best.<br />

Our local experts choose the premier hotels in each location – often award-winning<br />

properties, <strong>and</strong> always synonymous with five-star style. In some developing or remote<br />

regions occasionally featured in our pioneering <strong>and</strong> more adventurous itineraries,<br />

five-star accommodation may not always exist. In these rare instances, we choose the<br />

best quality <strong>and</strong> most luxurious option available.<br />

ONE-OF-A-KIND LOCATIONS<br />

When considering a hotel, our specialists look at more than just the rooms.<br />

Wherever possible, we arrange for stays close to the destinations you dream of seeing,<br />

in the region’s best properties. Luxuriate at the ITC Mughal in Agra for easy access<br />

to the Taj Mahal; or stay at The Victoria Falls Hotel to see the smoke that rises<br />

from Mosi-oa-Tunya.<br />

INTIMATE BOUTIQUE CAMPS & LODGES<br />

As a home base on secluded <strong>and</strong> extraordinary wilderness adventures, our journeys<br />

feature luxurious boutique camps <strong>and</strong> lodges available only to smaller groups,<br />

<strong>and</strong> always with an incredible front-row seat to wildlife displays, often just outside<br />

your door.<br />

STYLISH SHIPS<br />

Our commitment to luxury doesn’t stop at the water’s edge: when it comes to polar,<br />

ocean, <strong>and</strong> river cruising with A&K, step aboard knowing you’ll experience the same<br />

comfort, service, <strong>and</strong> style you would on l<strong>and</strong>, all while discovering the joys of life on<br />

the water.<br />

16 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


EXTEND YOUR<br />

JOURNEY<br />

Discover a region in greater detail with a tailor-made extension, added to the start or<br />

end of your escorted tour. Speak to your A&K travel specialist about your desires <strong>and</strong><br />

needs, <strong>and</strong> they will be happy to create a bespoke, compatible addition to your tour.<br />

Some non-group extensions are highlighted throughout on the Immersive Journeys<br />

pages – for example, you could top <strong>and</strong> tail Peru’s Ancient Marvels with a Chiclayo <strong>and</strong><br />

Trujillo pre-tour extension <strong>and</strong> post-trip Amazon cruise.<br />

Alternatively, some of our Luxury Small Group Journeys feature small-group<br />

extensions, all led by local experts. Lengthen your well-deserved holiday with a<br />

harmonious addition. Come back down to Earth in style when you enjoy a safari in<br />

Tanzania after the Climbing Kilimanjaro: Summiting the Machame Route tour. Or<br />

visit Reykjavík in Icel<strong>and</strong> after experiencing the Arctic Cruise Adventure. Look out for<br />

the pre- <strong>and</strong> post-tour extensions flagged throughout this brochure. The prices of all<br />

extensions featured in this brochure are per person <strong>and</strong> based on two sharing.<br />

BOOK YOUR<br />

FLIGHTS WITH A&K<br />

Flights are not included in the price of our escorted tours – we believe this works to<br />

your advantage, allowing you to travel when <strong>and</strong> how you wish. Thanks to our extensive<br />

experience in air travel <strong>and</strong> well-established, excellent relationships with partner airlines,<br />

A&K travel specialists <strong>and</strong> dedicated ‘air team’ know when <strong>and</strong> how to book the very<br />

best flights for you – at ideal times, with the amenities you desire, <strong>and</strong> at the best price.<br />

Contact your A&K travel specialist to allow us to go to work finding you the ideal flight.<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 17


TRANSFORMING TRAVEL:<br />

FROM ADVENTURE TO ADVANTAGE<br />

The travel industry is evolving. Greater equity<br />

<strong>and</strong> sustainability from tourism is becoming<br />

a key element of every holiday. Ensuring that<br />

the local community benefits from the tourist<br />

economy is vital to the majority of our A&K<br />

<strong>Escorted</strong> <strong>Tours</strong>’ clients.<br />

From its inception in 1982, <strong>Abercrombie</strong> &<br />

<strong>Kent</strong> Philanthropy (AKP) has been dedicated<br />

to positively impacting lives <strong>and</strong> livelihoods in<br />

the communities to which our guests travel.<br />

From Africa to Asia, Latin America to<br />

the Antarctic, we are working with partner<br />

communities on 41 education, healthcare,<br />

conservation, <strong>and</strong> enterprise development<br />

projects, across 20 countries <strong>and</strong> with eight<br />

full-time A&K Philanthropy co-ordinators –<br />

a philanthropic commitment unequalled by<br />

our peers.<br />

We are committed to ensuring guests learn<br />

about our philanthropic investments as an<br />

integral part of their travel experience. For<br />

many of our clients, their ‘wow’ Signature<br />

Moment comes courtesy of A&K Philanthropy<br />

projects – the dedicated co-ordinators at<br />

work on these projects, <strong>and</strong> the face-to-face<br />

interactions with communities reveal genuine<br />

local perspectives. From meeting the rangers<br />

protecting rhino in Botswana to witnessing<br />

the impact of clean water from AKP-dug<br />

wells in Cambodia, guests learn how these<br />

communities are tackling big challenges <strong>and</strong><br />

achieving inspirational triumphs.<br />

AKP is committed to operating with<br />

integrity, accountability, <strong>and</strong> openness. We are<br />

proud to have received a gold-level GuideStar<br />

‘Seal of Transparency’.<br />

OUR FOUR MAIN MISSION OBJECTIVES ARE:<br />

Education<br />

Providing a supportive learning environment, we are committed to enabling<br />

children <strong>and</strong> young adults to fulfil their potential with many diverse opportunities.<br />

Conservation<br />

Partnering with communities living on the edge of wilderness areas, we support<br />

strategies to maintain a balance between endangered species, fragile ecosystems,<br />

<strong>and</strong> economic opportunity.<br />

Health<br />

We actively support the water, sanitation, <strong>and</strong> other health-related needs of<br />

residents within our partner communities, ensuring greater well-being for all.<br />

Enterprise<br />

Training our partner communities in self-support <strong>and</strong> income-generating activities,<br />

we help drive the growth of economic opportunity <strong>and</strong> deliver other innovations to<br />

positively impact local livelihoods.<br />

18 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


AKP in action<br />

Look for the AKP logo on our itinerary pages – it indicates an opportunity to visit an<br />

A&K Philanthropy project on your Immersive Journey or Luxury Small Group Journey.<br />

DEEPALAYA SCHOOL<br />

Splendours of the<br />

Golden Triangle<br />

CAMBODIA CLEAN<br />

WATER PROJECT<br />

Images of Indochina<br />

& Angkor Wat<br />

ENKERERI PRIMARY<br />

SCHOOL<br />

The Great Migration:<br />

Safari in Style<br />

CHILDREN OF THE<br />

RAINBOW SCHOOL<br />

Peru’s Ancient Marvels<br />

NAKATINDI COMMUNITY<br />

& SCHOOL<br />

Botswana: Safari in Style<br />

AKP PROJECT<br />

SPOTLIGHT<br />

Cambodia Clean<br />

Water Project<br />

Travel to rural Cambodia on<br />

Images of Indochina & Angkor<br />

Wat <strong>and</strong> meet a family who has<br />

benefited from the installation<br />

of a well. Witness first-h<strong>and</strong> the<br />

impact that clean water has on<br />

their lives, including improved<br />

prosperity from irrigated fields.<br />

We experienced<br />

positive energy at<br />

every moment<br />

Aileen S remembers her visit to<br />

Children of the Rainbow School<br />

during her A&K tour in Peru<br />

For more information on AKP projects around<br />

the world, visit akphilanthropy.org<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 19


WHY CHOOSE<br />

AN A&K SAFARI<br />

The original <strong>and</strong> still the best: while others seek to emulate A&K’s safari experience, ours remain<br />

unparalleled. So what makes us the world’s best safari company, year after year?<br />

MORE THAN 55 YEARS OF<br />

ON-THE-GROUND EXPERIENCE<br />

A&K was born in Kenya in 1962, when Geoffrey <strong>Kent</strong><br />

invented the modern luxury African safari. More than<br />

five decades later, A&K is still setting the st<strong>and</strong>ard for an<br />

African journey like no other, delivering meticulously<br />

planned tours into hard-to-reach wildernesses to meet<br />

authentic cultures. Where other safari companies<br />

subcontract their services from a continent away, we live<br />

<strong>and</strong> work every day in the very same areas you visit.<br />

A PEERLESS LOCAL PRESENCE<br />

Our long-st<strong>and</strong>ing connections – <strong>and</strong> 12 offices in<br />

sub-Saharan Africa – allow us to offer the most desirable<br />

room categories, the best game-viewing locations for<br />

lodges <strong>and</strong> camps, <strong>and</strong> unmatched service at every stage<br />

of your journey.<br />

SIMPLY THE BEST SAFARI GUIDES<br />

A&K’s safari guides are h<strong>and</strong>picked for their expertise in<br />

Africa’s culture, flora, <strong>and</strong> wildlife. In Kenya, every A&K<br />

guide has attained a minimum of bronze-level certification<br />

from the Kenya Professional Safari Guides Association –<br />

that’s more than any other tour operator.<br />

CUSTOM SAFARI VEHICLES<br />

WE DESIGN, BUILD, & OWN<br />

While other safari providers rent or lease their vehicles,<br />

A&K owns <strong>and</strong> maintains a custom fleet – the finest in<br />

East Africa. These conveyances have been built to our<br />

specifications, with high front <strong>and</strong> side windows providing<br />

great views; air conditioning in most vehicles (a blessing<br />

on hot afternoons in the bush); a refrigerator filled with<br />

chilled water; <strong>and</strong> even wifi access (for posting Big Five<br />

sightings straight to Instagram).<br />

ONLY THE FINEST SAFARI<br />

CAMPS & LODGES<br />

Retreat daily to your own ver<strong>and</strong>a-fronted tent or restful<br />

lodge to enjoy an unexpected haven of five-star comfort<br />

in the heart of Africa. From Sanctuary Ngorongoro<br />

Crater Camp in Tanzania <strong>and</strong> Sanctuary Chief ’s Camp<br />

in Botswana, to Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti<br />

<strong>and</strong> renowned Gibb’s Farm, our safaris feature luxurious<br />

accommodation positioned away from the crowds, <strong>and</strong><br />

near an abundance of wildlife <strong>and</strong> scenic views.<br />

EXCELLENCE RECOGNISED BY<br />

TRAVELLERS & TRAVEL PROS<br />

A&K’s African safaris have won acclaim from guests<br />

<strong>and</strong> travel professionals alike. At the World Travel Awards<br />

in 2018, we have been chosen as ‘Africa’s Leading Luxury<br />

Tour Operator’ for the ninth consecutive year; <strong>and</strong> across<br />

the pond in the US, we have been named ‘Best Tour<br />

Operator in Africa’ for 12 years running by the readers<br />

of Travel Weekly – accolades the global family is justifiably<br />

proud of. In Africa <strong>and</strong> throughout the world, A&K sets<br />

the st<strong>and</strong>ard.<br />

20 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


DECIDING ON<br />

YOUR DESTINATION<br />

As you try to pick the A&K safari journey which best suits your travel interests,<br />

it helps to underst<strong>and</strong> how the safari experience differs between East Africa<br />

<strong>and</strong> Southern Africa.<br />

EAST AFRICA:<br />

CLASSIC APPEAL<br />

East Africa (including Kenya, Tanzania, <strong>and</strong> Ug<strong>and</strong>a) is the definition of classic safari country. Home<br />

to the vast Serengeti <strong>and</strong> Masai Mara as well as the teeming Ngorongoro Crater, East Africa has formed<br />

the backdrop for legendary safari expeditions since the days of Ernest Hemingway <strong>and</strong> Karen Blixen,<br />

<strong>and</strong> served as the birthplace of A&K.<br />

In northern Tanzania, the seemingly endless horizon yields to Mount Kilimanjaro – the tallest<br />

mountain in Africa, at over 5,895 metres. Conquer it with surety – A&K enjoys the highest summit<br />

rate of any operator in Africa.<br />

Wildlife viewing throughout Kenya <strong>and</strong> Tanzania is reliably spectacular. The famed Big Five – lion,<br />

leopard, elephant, rhino, <strong>and</strong> Cape buffalo – are sighted here on a regular basis, along with hundreds of<br />

other species, ranging from wildebeest <strong>and</strong> zebra to antelope <strong>and</strong> giraffe. And up-close encounters with<br />

mountain gorilla are available, on an extension with A&K that takes you trekking through Ug<strong>and</strong>a.<br />

East Africa’s wide-open grassl<strong>and</strong>s also bear witness to the Great Migration, when millions of<br />

wildebeest, zebra, antelope <strong>and</strong> other herd animals make their annual trek in search of water <strong>and</strong> fresh<br />

grazing l<strong>and</strong>, stalked by predators every step of the way. One of nature’s most incredible spectacles, the<br />

Great Migration vividly illustrates the timeless circle of life in the wild.<br />

SOUTHERN AFRICA:<br />

DYNAMIC & DIVERSE<br />

Southern Africa, an area encompassing Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, <strong>and</strong> South Africa,<br />

offers varying topography. From the forests of Botswana to incomparable Victoria Falls, which borders<br />

both Zambia <strong>and</strong> Zimbabwe, <strong>and</strong> from the stark, stunning s<strong>and</strong> dunes of the Namib Desert to the<br />

bushveld of South Africa’s private reserves, variety abounds.<br />

Southern African wildlife is similarly varied, with the iconic big cats – lion, leopard, <strong>and</strong> cheetah<br />

– always on the prowl. In Botswana, the lush Okavango Delta draws a profusion of species, including<br />

hippo, giraffe, crocodile, rhino, <strong>and</strong> baboon, which A&K clients encounter in private game reserves.<br />

The nation of South Africa offers exceptional safari experiences, first-rate culinary <strong>and</strong> cultural<br />

opportunities, ranging from tastings at award-winning wineries in the ruggedly beautiful Cape<br />

Winel<strong>and</strong>s, to visits to historical sites <strong>and</strong> the majestic Table Mountain in the country’s cosmopolitan<br />

‘Mother City’, Cape Town.<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 21


South Africa &<br />

Victoria Falls<br />

LUXURY<br />

SMALL GROUP<br />

JOURNEYS<br />

9 days/8 nights | From £8,055 per person | Maximum 18 guests<br />

This eclectic itinerary offers nine days of pure delight. Visit Cape Town’s most intriguing<br />

attractions, tour mighty Victoria Falls, <strong>and</strong> experience the wildlife wonders of Kruger<br />

KEY HIGHLIGHTS<br />

››<br />

Experience South Africa’s<br />

treasures, from Cape Town<br />

to Kruger National Park<br />

››<br />

See Table Mountain,<br />

the Cape of Good Hope,<br />

<strong>and</strong> a penguin colony<br />

››<br />

Enjoy game drives, bush<br />

walks, <strong>and</strong> wildlife lectures<br />

while on safari<br />

››<br />

Cruise the Zambezi River<br />

at sunset with a scenic<br />

sundowner cocktail<br />

››<br />

Visit the natural wonder of<br />

Victoria Falls on a private<br />

walking tour<br />

INCLUSIONS<br />

33<br />

Five-star luxury accommodation<br />

33<br />

Resident tour director &<br />

English-speaking expert<br />

local guides<br />

33<br />

Airport meet & greet<br />

& return private transfers<br />

33<br />

Entrance fees, taxes & tips,<br />

& excursions as stated<br />

33<br />

Domestic flights included<br />

33<br />

Welcome & farewell dinners<br />

33<br />

8 breakfasts, 6 lunches<br />

& 6 dinners<br />

33<br />

Wifi in accommodation<br />

33<br />

Scenic sundowners<br />

33<br />

Travelling Bellboy SM<br />

33<br />

Complimentary breakfast in bed<br />

on Day 3<br />

33<br />

Traveller’s Valet SM on Day 5<br />

Cape<br />

Town<br />

Victoria Falls<br />

Johannesburg<br />

Winel<strong>and</strong>s<br />

DAY 1: Arrive Cape Town,<br />

South Africa<br />

L<strong>and</strong> in Cape Town, a beautiful harbour<br />

city where old <strong>and</strong> new converge in history,<br />

architecture, cultural pursuits, <strong>and</strong> its people.<br />

Warmed by the African sun, the city is<br />

dominated by the towering, flat-topped Table<br />

Mountain, set on a peninsula of rocky heights<br />

<strong>and</strong> lush valleys. An A&K representative<br />

transfers you to your luxurious hotel.<br />

One&Only Cape Town<br />

ZAMBIA<br />

Livingstone<br />

Hwange<br />

National<br />

Park<br />

SOUTH AFRICA<br />

ZIMBABWE<br />

DAY 2: Cape Town<br />

Wind your way to Table Mountain; ascend<br />

to its sky-high plateau by cable car (weather<br />

permitting) for dazzling views of city <strong>and</strong><br />

sea. Next, see Groote Kerk, City Hall on the<br />

Gr<strong>and</strong> Parade, <strong>and</strong> other notable buildings.<br />

Continue past the pentagonal Castle of Good<br />

Hope, originally built by the Dutch East India<br />

Company. When available, stop at Streetwires,<br />

where locals craft unique wire <strong>and</strong> bead art.<br />

Next, visit Kirstenbosch National Botanical<br />

Garden alongside a private local guide<br />

before tonight’s welcome dinner. A resident<br />

chef or sommelier guides you through a<br />

contemporary feast.<br />

One&Only Cape Town | Meals: B L D<br />

Kruger<br />

National Park<br />

ARRIVE/DEPART<br />

AIR<br />

ROAD<br />

EXTENSION<br />

DAY 3: Cape Town<br />

Head to Cape Point, the mountainous<br />

promontory at the south-western tip of the<br />

continent. Pass by the ‘bikini beaches’ at<br />

the base of the towering Twelve Apostles<br />

mountains, bucolic Hout Bay’s bustling fishing<br />

harbour, <strong>and</strong> over the famous Chapman’s<br />

Peak Drive. Explore Cape Peninsula <strong>and</strong><br />

Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve in search<br />

of bontebok, chacma baboon, <strong>and</strong> endemic<br />

plant species. Ride the Flying Dutchman, the<br />

funicular at blustery Cape Point, <strong>and</strong>, from<br />

July to November, watch for southern right<br />

whale. At Boulders Beach, see endangered<br />

African penguin; accustomed to humans, they<br />

provide endless photo opportunities. Spend<br />

the remainder of your day as you wish.<br />

One&Only Cape Town | Meals: B L<br />

DAY 4: Greater Kruger Area<br />

Fly to either the Lion S<strong>and</strong>s River Lodge in<br />

Sabi S<strong>and</strong>s Game Reserve, set among the<br />

ancient trees on the banks of the Sabie River;<br />

or MalaMala Main Camp in the private<br />

MalaMala Game Reserve, on the lush banks<br />

of the S<strong>and</strong> River. Both of these wildlife-rich<br />

properties boast private reserves which border<br />

Kruger National Park. Once you’re settled into<br />

your elegant accommodation, set off in search<br />

of the Big Five <strong>and</strong> other wildlife.<br />

Lion S<strong>and</strong>s River Lodge/MalaMala Main Camp |<br />

Meals: B L D<br />

DAYS 5 & 6: Greater Kruger Area<br />

Spend two days immersed in your private<br />

game reserve. Embark on game drives in<br />

open safari vehicles <strong>and</strong> take morning game<br />

walks with your ranger. This region is one of<br />

the finest in Africa for abundant wildlife. As<br />

you explore, learn about the flora <strong>and</strong> fauna,<br />

<strong>and</strong> acquire some basic tracking skills. Also<br />

today, participate in a chef ’s table culinary<br />

experience, preparing a traditional South<br />

African dish. At dusk, stop for a sundowner,<br />

<strong>and</strong> then search for nocturnal animals before<br />

returning to your lodge for dinner.<br />

Lion S<strong>and</strong>s River Lodge/MalaMala Main Camp |<br />

Meals: B L D<br />

22 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


AFRICA<br />

DATES & PRICING<br />

GUARANTEED<br />

DEPARTURE<br />

DATES (<strong>2019</strong>)<br />

PER<br />

PERSON<br />

FROM<br />

SINGLE<br />

SUPP.<br />

FROM<br />

SOUTHERN AFRICA<br />

JANUARY:<br />

9, 20, 31 £8,055 £2,225<br />

FEBRUARY:<br />

8, 18 £8,055 £2,225<br />

MARCH:<br />

3, 5, 18 £8,055 £2,225<br />

APRIL:<br />

4, 19 £8,055 £2,225<br />

MAY:<br />

11, 22, 25, 31 £8,055 £2,225<br />

YOUR LUXURY<br />

ACCOMMODATION<br />

DAY 7: Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe<br />

Today, fly to Livingstone, Zambia, <strong>and</strong> then<br />

transfer to your hotel in Victoria Falls,<br />

Zimbabwe. After lunch, enjoy an afternoon<br />

at leisure, anticipating tomorrow’s visit to the<br />

falls once called Mosi-oa-Tunya (‘The Smoke<br />

That Thunders’).<br />

The Victoria Falls Hotel | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 8: Victoria Falls<br />

Take a guided walking tour of breathtaking<br />

Victoria Falls, one of the world’s greatest<br />

natural wonders, <strong>and</strong> explore the surrounding<br />

rainforest. See rainbows <strong>and</strong> clouds of spray<br />

as the mile-wide Upper Zambezi plummets<br />

into the Lower Zambezi. Afterwards, you may<br />

opt to shop at the stalls of artisans at a local<br />

market. At sunset, cruise the Zambezi, viewing<br />

hippo <strong>and</strong> elephant at the shore, while sipping<br />

a cocktail for a delightfully relaxing scenic<br />

sundowner. Gather together tonight for a<br />

farewell dinner.<br />

The Victoria Falls Hotel | Meals: B D<br />

DAY 9: Depart Johannesburg,<br />

South Africa<br />

Fly to Johannesburg, where you can access the<br />

Premier Lounge, before departing for home.<br />

Meals: B<br />

TAILOR-MADE TRAVEL WITH A&K<br />

Ask us about how to customise<br />

this itinerary to create the perfect<br />

bespoke holiday, just for you.<br />

JUNE:<br />

11, 23 £8,055 £2,225<br />

JULY:<br />

5, 18, 26 £8,055 £2,225<br />

AUGUST:<br />

9, 14, 16, 25 £8,055 £2,225<br />

SEPTEMBER:<br />

1, 17, 19, 29 £8,055 £2,225<br />

OCTOBER:<br />

11, 15, 25, 30 £8,055 £2,225<br />

NOVEMBER:<br />

15, 29 £8,055 £2,225<br />

DECEMBER:<br />

12 £8,055 £2,225<br />

JOURNEY DETAILS<br />

Please note that Table Mountain closes annually<br />

mid-July to mid-August. Alternate touring will<br />

be provided for affected departures. On certain<br />

departures, you will stay on Days 4-6 at MalaMala<br />

Main Camp rather than Lion S<strong>and</strong>s River Lodge, or in<br />

alternative (equivalent) accommodation on Days 1-3<br />

<strong>and</strong>/or Days 7 & 8. Please speak to your specialist for<br />

more information.<br />

FLIGHTS<br />

To provide you with flexibility <strong>and</strong> the latest flight offers,<br />

we don’t include international flights. Our specialists<br />

will be able to find the best travel options to suit you.<br />

PRE & POST-TOUR<br />

EXTENSIONS<br />

Winel<strong>and</strong>s pre-tour extension –<br />

three days from £2,150pp<br />

Available on the following departures:<br />

8 & 18 Feb; 11 & 25 May; 5 & 18 Jul;<br />

9, 16 & 25 Aug; 1 & 29 Sep.<br />

Hwange post-tour extension –<br />

four days from £2,335pp<br />

Available on the following departures:<br />

8 & 18 Feb; 11 & 31 May; 23 Jun; 5 & 18 Jul;<br />

9, 16 & 25 Aug; 1 & 29 Sep.<br />

Contact a specialist for more information<br />

about how to extend your escorted tour.<br />

One&Only Cape Town<br />

Condé Nast Traveller Gold List<br />

hotel with Table Mountain views<br />

Lion S<strong>and</strong>s River Lodge<br />

Luxurious lodge with incredible vistas<br />

overlooking the Sabie River<br />

MalaMala Main Camp<br />

Luxury tents set on one of South<br />

Africa’s oldest private game reserves<br />

The Victoria Falls Hotel<br />

Historic colonial-style hotel just a<br />

10-minute walk from Victoria Falls<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 23


Botswana:<br />

Safari in Style<br />

LUXURY<br />

SMALL GROUP<br />

JOURNEYS<br />

10 days/9 nights | From £7,650 per person | Maximum 16 guests<br />

From the scenic to the sublime, this safari adventure offers a huge range of experiences.<br />

Traverse this great safari destination <strong>and</strong> its l<strong>and</strong>scapes as you seek out the Big Five<br />

KEY HIGHLIGHTS<br />

››<br />

Get tips on capturing the<br />

best Big Five images<br />

during a private lecture<br />

with a professional<br />

photographer<br />

››<br />

Glide through the<br />

Okavango Delta in a<br />

mokoro (dugout canoe)<br />

››<br />

Take a private tour of<br />

Victoria Falls, experiencing<br />

them from both the Zambia<br />

<strong>and</strong> Zimbabwe sides<br />

››<br />

Coast along the Zambezi<br />

River on a sunset cruise<br />

INCLUSIONS<br />

33<br />

Five-star luxury accommodation<br />

33<br />

Resident tour director<br />

& English-speaking expert<br />

local guides<br />

33<br />

Airport meet & greet<br />

& return private transfers<br />

33<br />

Entrance fees, taxes & tips,<br />

& excursions as stated<br />

33<br />

Domestic flights included<br />

33<br />

Welcome & farewell dinners<br />

33<br />

9 breakfasts, 8 lunches<br />

& 9 dinners<br />

33<br />

Wifi in accommodation<br />

33<br />

Scenic sundowner<br />

33<br />

Travelling Bellboy SM<br />

33<br />

Complimentary breakfast in<br />

bed on Day 2<br />

33<br />

Limited laundry service<br />

available at all camps & lodges<br />

ZAMBIA<br />

Livingstone<br />

ZIMBABWE<br />

Chobe National Park<br />

Victoria<br />

Okavango Delta Falls<br />

Maun<br />

NAMIBIA<br />

Cape Town<br />

BOTSWANA<br />

SOUTH AFRICA<br />

DAY 1: Arrive Johannesburg,<br />

South Africa<br />

L<strong>and</strong> in Johannesburg <strong>and</strong> transfer to your<br />

hotel. Tonight, enjoy a gourmet welcome<br />

dinner prepared with locally sourced<br />

ingredients. A professional photographer<br />

joins you to offer tips for the days ahead.<br />

Saxon Boutique Hotel, Villas <strong>and</strong> Spa | Meals: D<br />

DAY 2: Livingstone, Zambia<br />

Fly to Livingstone, Zambia, where you’re met<br />

by your A&K resident tour director. Continue<br />

to Sanctuary Sussi & Chuma, <strong>and</strong> settle into<br />

your luxury treehouse built into the riverside<br />

canopy. At twilight, cruise the Zambezi River,<br />

sipping a scenic sundowner <strong>and</strong> gazing out<br />

across a verdant <strong>and</strong> teeming vista set against<br />

the boundless African sky.<br />

Sanctuary Sussi & Chuma | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 3: Livingstone<br />

Begin with a guided tour of Victoria<br />

Falls from the Zambian side. Plummeting 108<br />

metres, the thick mist inspired the native name<br />

Mosi-oa-Tunya (‘The Smoke That Thunders’).<br />

See the mighty Zambezi River cascade over<br />

a two-kilometre-wide basalt lip. Afterwards,<br />

you can peruse local crafts, including excellent<br />

wood carvings, on a pleasant market visit.<br />

Gain insight into local daily life with a trip<br />

to a school <strong>and</strong> clinic supported by A&K<br />

Philanthropy in Nakatindi Village. Return to<br />

camp for a cocktail <strong>and</strong> a chef ’s table tasting of<br />

traditional Zambian fare.<br />

Sanctuary Sussi & Chuma | Meals: B L D<br />

Johannesburg<br />

ARRIVE/DEPART<br />

AIR<br />

ROAD<br />

EXTENSION<br />

DAY 4: Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe -<br />

Chobe National Park, Botswana<br />

This morning, see these awe-inspiring falls<br />

from the Zimbabwean side. Afterwards,<br />

visit an artists’ village, where you can meet<br />

local artisans <strong>and</strong> observe them at work.<br />

Enjoy lunch in the town of Victoria Falls<br />

before continuing to Chobe National Park<br />

in Botswana. Here your scenic lodge offers<br />

panoramic views across the isl<strong>and</strong>s <strong>and</strong><br />

floodplains of the Chobe River. Set out on<br />

an afternoon game drive – 120,000 elephant<br />

live in the park, as well as impala, buffalo,<br />

<strong>and</strong> you may also spot lion.<br />

Sanctuary Chobe Chilwero | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 5: Chobe National Park<br />

Head out on a sunrise game drive, when<br />

animals are most active. You might even<br />

glimpse a leopard returning from a hunt.<br />

Later, embark on a Chobe River safari cruise<br />

aboard a double-decker boat. Look out for<br />

crocodile <strong>and</strong> hippo, as well as elephant that<br />

come down to drink <strong>and</strong> play in the water. The<br />

park’s beautiful wetl<strong>and</strong>s also lure a wealth<br />

of birdlife, with 460 species that either live<br />

here or migrate through, including raptors,<br />

vultures, <strong>and</strong> waterfowl. When you return to<br />

the lodge, revel in the comforts of your luxury<br />

accommodation <strong>and</strong> enjoy a freshly made meal.<br />

Sanctuary Chobe Chilwero | Meals: B L D<br />

DAYS 6 & 7: Okavango Delta<br />

Fly to the vast private concession in the<br />

Okavango Delta, the largest inl<strong>and</strong> delta in<br />

the world. The afternoon is yours to enjoy<br />

at leisure with a choice of game-viewing<br />

activities, such as a seasonal mokoro<br />

(dugout canoe) ride on the delta or a night<br />

game-viewing drive. The next morning,<br />

continue with your choice of activities. Set<br />

off on a thrilling, guided game drive in a<br />

customised 4x4 vehicle or a bush walk in the<br />

company of an armed, expert guide, on the<br />

lookout for giraffe, hippo, <strong>and</strong> lion.<br />

Sanctuary Stanley’s Camp/Belmond Khwai River<br />

Lodge | Meals: B L D<br />

24 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


YOUR LUXURY ACCOMMODATION<br />

AFRICA<br />

Saxon Boutique Hotel, Villas <strong>and</strong> Spa<br />

Condé Nast Traveller Gold List<br />

hotel spread across 1.6 hectares<br />

Sanctuary Sussi & Chuma<br />

A dozen romantic, air-conditioned<br />

treehouses, set in a riverine forest<br />

BOTSWANA<br />

Sanctuary Chobe Chilwero<br />

15 incredibly luxurious cottages<br />

<strong>and</strong> a fully equipped spa<br />

Sanctuary Stanley’s Camp<br />

Classic camp with 10 tents<br />

on a large private concession<br />

DAY 8: Okavango Delta<br />

Fly across the Okavango Delta to your next<br />

amazing camp, from where you will enjoy<br />

game drives in Moremi Game Reserve.<br />

Widely acknowledged as the ‘predator capital<br />

of the world’, this area is one of Botswana’s<br />

best places for spotting the Big Five. Hunters<br />

include cheetah, spotted hyena <strong>and</strong>, at the<br />

very top of the food chain, large resident lion<br />

prides. White <strong>and</strong> black rhino are also found<br />

here. This afternoon, enjoy game-viewing<br />

activities led by experienced driver-guides or<br />

observe the wildlife from your private deck.<br />

Sanctuary Chief’s Camp/Belmond Eagle Isl<strong>and</strong><br />

Lodge | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 9: Okavango Delta<br />

Depart on another spectacular early morning<br />

game drive. Beyond predators, the Okavango<br />

Delta draws large concentrations of elephant,<br />

buffalo, red lechwe, giraffe, <strong>and</strong> impala. Enjoy<br />

a seasonal mokoro ride across deceptively<br />

quiet marshl<strong>and</strong>s alive with crocodile, bathing<br />

hippo, tiny red reed frog, <strong>and</strong> many bird<br />

species. If you opt for an afternoon game<br />

drive, listen for roaring lion on the hunt or spy<br />

nocturnal animals starting out for the night.<br />

After a full day of wildlife-watching, return to<br />

your camp to relax <strong>and</strong> enjoy a farewell dinner.<br />

Sanctuary Chief’s Camp/Belmond Eagle Isl<strong>and</strong><br />

Lodge | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 10: Depart Johannesburg,<br />

South Africa<br />

Fly from Botswana to South Africa, from<br />

where you’ll depart for home. Relax in the<br />

Premier Lounge at Johannesburg airport,<br />

compliments of A&K.<br />

Meals: B<br />

TAILOR-MADE TRAVEL WITH A&K<br />

Ask us about how to customise<br />

this itinerary to create the perfect<br />

bespoke holiday, just for you.<br />

Belmond Khwai River Lodge<br />

Stunning riverside setting <strong>and</strong> easy<br />

access to Moremi Game Reserve<br />

Sanctuary Chief’s Camp<br />

Award-winning camp with luxurious bush<br />

pavilions <strong>and</strong> exceptional amenities<br />

Belmond Eagle Isl<strong>and</strong> Lodge<br />

Remote safari retreat located<br />

on a private isl<strong>and</strong><br />

PRE & POST-TOUR<br />

EXTENSIONS<br />

Cape Town post-tour extension<br />

– four days from £1,920pp<br />

Contact a specialist for more information<br />

about how to extend your escorted tour.<br />

DATES & PRICING<br />

GUARANTEED<br />

DEPARTURE<br />

DATES (<strong>2019</strong>)<br />

PER<br />

PERSON<br />

FROM<br />

SINGLE<br />

SUPP.<br />

FROM<br />

JANUARY:<br />

7 £7,650 £1,150<br />

FEBRUARY:<br />

8 £7,650 £1,150<br />

MARCH:<br />

5, 14 £7,650 £1,150<br />

APRIL:<br />

9<br />

16<br />

22<br />

£8,420<br />

£8,035<br />

£9,190<br />

£1,535<br />

£1,535<br />

£2,150<br />

MAY:<br />

2, 8, 17, 21, 31 £9,190 £2,150<br />

JUNE:<br />

9, 13, 19, 21 £11,110 £3,840<br />

JULY:<br />

1, 7, 12, 24, 31 £12,265 £4,610<br />

AUGUST:<br />

7, 9, 18, 29 £12,265 £4,610<br />

SEPTEMBER:<br />

5, 16, 22, 30 £11,495 £4,075<br />

OCTOBER:<br />

11, 13, 19, 22 £11,110 £3,840<br />

NOVEMBER:<br />

4 £8,805 £2,150<br />

DECEMBER:<br />

18 £12,265 £4,610<br />

JOURNEY DETAILS<br />

On the following departure dates, the hotel on<br />

Days 6 & 7 will be changed from the Sanctuary<br />

Stanley’s Camp to the Belmond Khwai River<br />

Lodge; <strong>and</strong> the hotel on Days 8 & 9 will be changed<br />

from the Sanctuary Chief’s Camp to the Belmond<br />

Eagle Isl<strong>and</strong> Lodge: 14 Mar; 22 Apr; 17 & 31 May;<br />

21 Jun; 12 Jul; 9 Aug; 11, 13 & 19 Oct; 4 Nov <strong>2019</strong>.<br />

FLIGHTS<br />

To provide you with flexibility <strong>and</strong> the latest flight offers,<br />

we don’t include international flights. Our specialists<br />

will be able to find the best travel options to suit you.<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 25


The Great Migration:<br />

Safari in Style<br />

14 days/13 nights | From £12,525 per person | Maximum 18 guests<br />

Perfect for all wildlife-lovers, this quintessential safari follows the Great Migration<br />

from the vast Serengeti to the famed Masai Mara, visiting the Ngorongoro Crater<br />

<strong>and</strong> other game-viewing hot spots en route<br />

LUXURY<br />

SMALL GROUP<br />

JOURNEYS<br />

KEY HIGHLIGHTS<br />

››<br />

Experience the Great<br />

Migration in the Serengeti<br />

or the Masai Mara<br />

››<br />

Observe Africa’s iconic<br />

Big Five with A&K’s expert<br />

driver-guides in our own<br />

custom-made vehicles<br />

››<br />

Enjoy a private tour of<br />

Olduvai Gorge<br />

››<br />

Visit a vibrant Tanzanian<br />

village, <strong>and</strong> explore by<br />

tuk-tuk<br />

INCLUSIONS<br />

33<br />

Five-star luxury accommodation<br />

33<br />

Resident tour director &<br />

English-speaking expert<br />

local guides<br />

33<br />

Airport meet & greet<br />

& return private transfers<br />

33<br />

Entrance fees, taxes & tips,<br />

& excursions as stated<br />

33<br />

Domestic flights included<br />

33<br />

Welcome & farewell dinners<br />

33<br />

13 breakfasts, 12 lunches<br />

& 12 dinners<br />

33<br />

Wifi in accommodation<br />

33<br />

Scenic sundowners<br />

33<br />

Travelling Bellboy SM<br />

33<br />

Limited laundry service<br />

available at camps & lodges<br />

Serengeti<br />

National Park<br />

To Entebbe,<br />

KENYA<br />

Ug<strong>and</strong>a<br />

Masai Mara<br />

Migori Game Reserve<br />

Tarime<br />

Nairobi<br />

Ngorongoro<br />

Crater<br />

ARRIVE/DEPART<br />

AIR<br />

ROAD<br />

EXTENSION<br />

DAY 1: Arrive Nairobi, Kenya<br />

L<strong>and</strong> in Nairobi <strong>and</strong> transfer to the luxurious<br />

Fairmont The Norfolk. Perhaps Kenya’s most<br />

famous hotel, The Norfolk is in the heart of<br />

Nairobi, welcoming generations of safari-goers<br />

since it first opened on Christmas Day, 1904.<br />

Fairmont The Norfolk Hotel<br />

DAY 2: Amboseli National Park<br />

Today, drive to Amboseli National Park<br />

at the base of the soaring, snow-capped<br />

Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest freest<strong>and</strong>ing<br />

mountain in the world at 5,895 metres. Set out<br />

in search of the region’s spectacular wildlife –<br />

African savanna elephant, leopard, cheetah,<br />

<strong>and</strong> hosts of plains game – all roaming freely<br />

amid swamps, springs, <strong>and</strong> a shimmering<br />

dried-up lakebed. This evening, gather with<br />

fellow guests for a welcome dinner celebrating<br />

the start of an unforgettable safari adventure.<br />

Tawi Lodge | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 3: Amboseli National Park<br />

Spend a full day exploring wildlife-rich<br />

Amboseli National Park, watching for lion<br />

<strong>and</strong> buffalo. Enjoy a morning on safari<br />

before breaking for lunch. This afternoon,<br />

make another game drive, capped off with<br />

a refreshing sundowner.<br />

Tawi Lodge | Meals: B L D<br />

Tarangire<br />

National Park<br />

TANZANIA<br />

Arusha<br />

Amboseli<br />

National<br />

Park<br />

From<br />

Victoria Falls<br />

via Livingstone<br />

DAY 4: Tarangire National Park,<br />

Tanzania<br />

Drive to the Tanzanian border, stopping for<br />

lunch in Arusha. From here, fly to Tarangire<br />

National Park <strong>and</strong> settle into your luxurious<br />

accommodation. Sanctuary Swala’s large tents<br />

are built on raised decks under umbrella<br />

acacia trees overlooking the Gurusi flood<br />

plains. Expanses of wooded savanna are<br />

nurtured by the Tarangire River. Resident<br />

herds of impala often graze inside the camp,<br />

while excursions through the dusty l<strong>and</strong>scape<br />

may be populated by abundant big game, such<br />

as lion, elephant, <strong>and</strong> buffalo, as well as a range<br />

of bird species.<br />

Sanctuary Swala | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 5: Tarangire National Park<br />

Embark on morning <strong>and</strong> afternoon game<br />

drives, seated six to a vehicle to allow<br />

window seats for all. Observe the stunning<br />

concentration of herd animals here, such as<br />

elephant, zebra, <strong>and</strong> impala. You may opt for<br />

a night safari, available at an additional fee,<br />

to spy nocturnal creatures. With specialised<br />

lighting, look for African wildcat, leopard,<br />

hyena, <strong>and</strong> lion. You may also see bushbaby,<br />

spotted genet, serval, <strong>and</strong> bat-eared fox.<br />

During your stay, partake of a chef ’s table<br />

26 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


AFRICA<br />

KENYA & TANZANIA<br />

experience <strong>and</strong> learn to prepare local dishes<br />

such as ugali, mak<strong>and</strong>e, <strong>and</strong> kachumbari.<br />

Sanctuary Swala | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 6: Ngorongoro Crater<br />

Learn how Africans live today, exploring in<br />

<strong>and</strong> around the village of Mto wa Mbu, as you<br />

Ride like a Local by tuk-tuk, a major form of<br />

transport here. See rice fields <strong>and</strong> a banana<br />

plantation, <strong>and</strong> try banana beer at a bar. In the<br />

village, enjoy a walk through the local market<br />

to see the colourful produce on display. After<br />

lunch in the village, head to Ngorongoro<br />

Crater. Arrive at your restful luxury lodge,<br />

set near the Ngorongoro Conservation Area,<br />

for a tranquil evening <strong>and</strong> overnight stay.<br />

Gibb’s Farm/The Manor at Ngorongoro |<br />

Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 7: Ngorongoro Crater<br />

Set out on a full-day game drive in<br />

Ngorongoro Crater. Explore the panoramic,<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 27


short-grass prairies along the floor of this<br />

ancient caldera, home to rare black rhino as<br />

well as lion, hyena, <strong>and</strong> gazelle. The diverse<br />

wildlife dwelling within the encircling crater<br />

walls led this incredible ‘lost world’ to be<br />

recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.<br />

This afternoon, visit a Maasai village <strong>and</strong> meet<br />

with an elder to learn about local culture <strong>and</strong><br />

traditions, <strong>and</strong> witness a traditional beadwork<br />

crafting demonstration.<br />

Gibb’s Farm/The Manor at Ngorongoro |<br />

Meals: B L D<br />

DAYS 8-10: Serengeti National Park<br />

Drive to Serengeti National Park, pausing for<br />

a privately guided visit to archaeologically rich<br />

Olduvai Gorge. As you continue, prepare to<br />

witness one of Earth’s most incredible wildlife<br />

spectacles – the Great Migration. Every year,<br />

millions of herbivores traverse the Serengeti<br />

plains in search of water <strong>and</strong> fresh grass, with<br />

hungry predators awaiting them. Over the<br />

next two days, take morning <strong>and</strong> afternoon<br />

game drives to observe the phenomenon.<br />

You can also opt for a hot-air balloon ride,<br />

at an additional cost, for an exciting new<br />

perspective on the wildlife.<br />

Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti/Lemala Kuria<br />

Hills | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 11: Masai Mara Game Reserve,<br />

Kenya<br />

Fly to the Masai Mara, the northern extension<br />

of the Serengeti. Settle into Sanctuary<br />

Olonana, <strong>and</strong> take an afternoon game drive.<br />

Follow the Mara River to see crocodile, hippo,<br />

<strong>and</strong> other thirsty animals. Over 500 bird<br />

species make their home here. Your riverside<br />

accommodation, recently rebuilt, is one of<br />

the finest safari lodges in Kenya. As well as a<br />

great range of on-site amenities, your private<br />

ver<strong>and</strong>a offers magnificent views of the Mara<br />

River. Tonight, join fellow guests for a scenic<br />

sundowner, followed by an elegant dinner.<br />

Sanctuary Olonana | Meals: B L D<br />

DAYS 12 & 13: Masai Mara Game<br />

Reserve<br />

Spend two full days exploring the open<br />

savanna, woodl<strong>and</strong>s, <strong>and</strong> tree-fringed rivers of<br />

the Masai Mara. Look out for unique sights<br />

such as leopard stalking along acacia branches<br />

overhead, or elephant shielding calves from<br />

opportunistic predators. Watch as Maasai<br />

tribesmen w<strong>and</strong>er the plains or herd goats <strong>and</strong><br />

cattle. You can opt for a hot-air balloon ride<br />

over the prime game-viewing country at an<br />

additional cost. Visit a village <strong>and</strong> Enkereri<br />

Primary School supported by A&K<br />

Philanthropy, <strong>and</strong> learn how AKP’s e-reader<br />

programme is improving literacy rates here.<br />

Sanctuary Olonana | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 14: Depart Nairobi<br />

Fly back to Nairobi <strong>and</strong> spend the afternoon<br />

at leisure in a comfortable dayroom. In the<br />

evening, transfer to the airport or begin a<br />

post-tour extension to Ug<strong>and</strong>a.<br />

Fairmont The Norfolk Hotel (dayroom) | Meals: B<br />

DATES & PRICING<br />

GUARANTEED<br />

DEPARTURE<br />

DATES (<strong>2019</strong>)<br />

PER<br />

PERSON<br />

FROM<br />

SINGLE<br />

SUPP.<br />

FROM<br />

JANUARY:<br />

9, 23 £12,525 £2,995<br />

FEBRUARY:<br />

6, 20 £12,525 £2,995<br />

MARCH:<br />

6 £12,525 £2,995<br />

JUNE:<br />

5, 12, 19 £13,295 £3,460<br />

JULY:<br />

3, 10, 17, 24, 31 £13,295 £3,460<br />

AUGUST:<br />

7, 14, 21, 28 £13,295 £3,460<br />

SEPTEMBER:<br />

4, 11, 18, 25 £13,295 £3,460<br />

OCTOBER:<br />

2, 9 £13,065 £3,075<br />

DECEMBER:<br />

17 £14,065 £3,840<br />

JOURNEY DETAILS<br />

On the following departure dates, the hotel on Days<br />

6 & 7 will be changed from Gibb’s Farm to The Manor<br />

at Ngorongoro: 6 Feb & 6 Mar. On the following<br />

departure date, the hotel on Days 8-10 will be<br />

changed from Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti<br />

to Lemala Kuria Hills Lodge. This will involve a direct<br />

flight from Manyara to Serengeti without a visit to<br />

Olduvai Gorge: 19 Jun.<br />

FLIGHTS<br />

To provide you with flexibility <strong>and</strong> the latest flight offers,<br />

we don’t include international flights. Our specialists<br />

will be able to find the best travel options to suit you.<br />

PRE & POST-TOUR<br />

EXTENSIONS<br />

Victoria Falls pre-tour extension<br />

– four days from £3,310pp<br />

Available on the following departures:<br />

9 Jan; 20 Feb; 5 & 19 Jun; 17 Jul;<br />

7, 21 & 28 Aug; 11 Sep.<br />

Ug<strong>and</strong>a post-tour extension –<br />

four days from £3,930pp<br />

Available on the following departures: 6 Feb;<br />

5 & 19 Jun; 17 Jul; 14 & 28 Aug; 11 Sep; 9 Oct.<br />

Contact a specialist for more information<br />

about how to extend your escorted tour.<br />

TAILOR-MADE TRAVEL WITH A&K<br />

Ask us about how to customise<br />

this itinerary to create the perfect<br />

bespoke holiday, just for you.<br />

28 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


AFRICA<br />

KENYA & TANZANIA<br />

YOUR LUXURY ACCOMMODATION<br />

Fairmont The Norfolk Hotel<br />

A starting point for safaris since 1904,<br />

located within central Nairobi<br />

Tawi Lodge<br />

13 cottages facing Mount Kilimanjaro,<br />

set on a private reserve<br />

Sanctuary Swala<br />

12 elegant pavilions by a waterhole, with<br />

panoramic views of Tanzania’s grassl<strong>and</strong>s<br />

Gibb’s Farm<br />

17 cottages surrounded by gardens <strong>and</strong> a<br />

coffee plantation near Ngorongoro Crater<br />

The Manor at Ngorongoro<br />

Enjoy exceptional hospitality within<br />

this expansive coffee estate<br />

Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti<br />

Elegant lodge situated on plains<br />

blessed with prolific wildlife<br />

Lemala Kuria Hills<br />

This lodge offers tremendous<br />

game-viewing <strong>and</strong> relaxation facilities<br />

Sanctuary Olonana<br />

Superb luxury lodge on the Masai Mara,<br />

14 spacious suites with private decks<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 29


Kenya & Tanzania:<br />

Wildlife Safari<br />

12 days/11 nights | From £7,375 per person | Maximum 18 guests<br />

Get fully focused on the fauna of Kenya <strong>and</strong> Tanzania on this 12-day safari.<br />

Spot wildlife in the best national parks <strong>and</strong> game reserves, <strong>and</strong> experience<br />

African hospitality at its finest<br />

LUXURY<br />

SMALL GROUP<br />

JOURNEYS<br />

KEY HIGHLIGHTS<br />

››<br />

Embark on daily game<br />

drives with expert driverguides<br />

in custom-built<br />

safari vehicles<br />

››<br />

Visit a Maasai village to<br />

learn about the nomadic<br />

herders’ traditions<br />

››<br />

Prepare <strong>and</strong> sample local<br />

dishes during a chef’s<br />

table experience<br />

››<br />

Explore Olduvai Gorge,<br />

where fossils linking man<br />

to his distant ancestors<br />

were first discovered<br />

INCLUSIONS<br />

33<br />

Five-star luxury accommodation<br />

33<br />

Resident tour director &<br />

English-speaking expert<br />

local guides<br />

33<br />

Airport meet & greet<br />

& return private transfers<br />

33<br />

Entrance fees, taxes & tips,<br />

& excursions as stated<br />

33<br />

Domestic flights included<br />

33<br />

Welcome & farewell dinners<br />

33<br />

11 breakfasts, 10 lunches<br />

& 10 dinners<br />

33<br />

Wifi in accommodation<br />

33<br />

Scenic sundowners<br />

33<br />

Travelling Bellboy SM<br />

33<br />

Complimentary breakfast in<br />

bed, on Days 5 & 9<br />

33<br />

Traveller’s Valet SM on Day 5<br />

DAY 1: Arrive Nairobi, Kenya<br />

Arrive in Nairobi <strong>and</strong> transfer to your hotel.<br />

A microcosm of the African continent, this<br />

capital city is your gateway to a dramatic<br />

procession of natural spectacles in Kenya<br />

<strong>and</strong> Tanzania, among the most thrilling<br />

destinations in the world.<br />

Nairobi Serena Hotel<br />

KENYA<br />

Masai Mara<br />

Game Reserve<br />

Migori<br />

Tarime<br />

Nairobi<br />

Serengeti<br />

National Park<br />

Ngorongoro<br />

Crater<br />

Arusha<br />

Lake Manyara<br />

National Park<br />

ARRIVE/DEPART<br />

AIR<br />

ROAD<br />

TANZANIA<br />

Amboseli<br />

National Park<br />

DAY 2: Amboseli National Park<br />

Drive to Amboseli National Park, known<br />

for its thriving big-game population. Take in<br />

views of the snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro,<br />

with its impressive Uhuru Peak soaring to<br />

5,895 metres. Arrive at your lodge, set beneath<br />

acacia trees in the shadow of the mountain.<br />

After lunch, explore the acacia woodl<strong>and</strong>,<br />

freshwater swamps, scrub brush, <strong>and</strong> open<br />

plains in search of wildlife. Part of the park<br />

is composed of a dried-up lakebed, where<br />

mirages rise in the shimmering heat. This<br />

evening, share in a special welcome dinner<br />

with your fellow guests.<br />

Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 3: Amboseli National Park<br />

Spend the day on early morning <strong>and</strong> afternoon<br />

game drives, crisscrossing the l<strong>and</strong>scape in<br />

search of elephant, zebra, <strong>and</strong> wildebeest<br />

along the saltpan trails. Prepare for predator<br />

sightings, as opportunistic animals begin to<br />

roam these plains in search of prey.<br />

Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge | Meals: B L D<br />

INDIAN<br />

OCEAN<br />

DAY 4: Lake Manyara National Park,<br />

Tanzania<br />

Travel by road to the border of Tanzania.<br />

After stopping for lunch in Arusha, continue<br />

to the village of Mto wa Mbu, where you<br />

Ride like a Local on a tuk-tuk, passing rice<br />

fields <strong>and</strong> native villages. Afterwards, browse<br />

the colourful stalls of the village market, as<br />

merchants display rice <strong>and</strong> bananas. Your<br />

lodge is located in a picturesque region of the<br />

Great Rift Valley. On arrival, settle in, freshen<br />

up, <strong>and</strong> relax before gathering with fellow<br />

guests for a hearty dinner.<br />

Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 5: Ngorongoro Crater<br />

Set out on a morning game drive in search of<br />

baboon, dik-dik, <strong>and</strong> large herds of buffalo,<br />

wildebeest, <strong>and</strong> zebra. Along a narrow belt<br />

of acacia woodl<strong>and</strong>, you may even spot the<br />

region’s unique tree-climbing lion, which<br />

ascends branches for a cool breeze. After a<br />

farm-fresh lunch, travel to the Ngorongoro<br />

Crater, the largest unbroken ancient caldera<br />

in the world <strong>and</strong> a likely place to find lion,<br />

elephant, hyena, <strong>and</strong> gazelle. This afternoon,<br />

prepare <strong>and</strong> sample local dishes in a chef ’s<br />

table demonstration in the hotel kitchen.<br />

Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 6: Ngorongoro Crater<br />

Wake to explore this ‘lost world’ of animals;<br />

its savannas are an ideal spot to see buffalo<br />

<strong>and</strong> elephant. Bird lovers can view flamingo,<br />

when in season, <strong>and</strong> countless other species<br />

on the crater’s 259-square-kilometre floor.<br />

You may even see the rare black rhino.<br />

Following a picnic lunch, visit a Maasai village<br />

to gain a better underst<strong>and</strong>ing of the nomadic<br />

cattle-herders’ daily life <strong>and</strong> culture. Witness<br />

a demonstration of traditional crafts.<br />

Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 7: Serengeti National Park<br />

Drive to vast, wildlife-rich Serengeti National<br />

Park, stopping en route for a privately guided<br />

tour of Olduvai Gorge, where ancient fossils<br />

offer insight into humankind’s past. Pass<br />

savanna grassl<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong> volcanic hills, before<br />

dropping steeply downward into the gorge.<br />

30 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


YOUR LUXURY<br />

ACCOMMODATION<br />

AFRICA<br />

DATES & PRICING<br />

Nairobi Serena Hotel<br />

Oasis of serenity set within<br />

the vibrant city of Nairobi<br />

KENYA & TANZANIA<br />

GUARANTEED<br />

DEPARTURE<br />

DATES (<strong>2019</strong>)<br />

PER<br />

PERSON<br />

FROM<br />

SINGLE<br />

SUPP.<br />

FROM<br />

Visit the small museum <strong>and</strong> examine the<br />

excavations which revealed 3.7 million-yearold<br />

footprints <strong>and</strong> a 1.8 million-year-old skull.<br />

Your nearby lodge enjoys comm<strong>and</strong>ing views<br />

of this l<strong>and</strong>scape. The park is also on the route<br />

of the annual Great Migration.<br />

Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 8: Serengeti National Park<br />

Spend your day in true safari country,<br />

searching for the Big Five (lion, leopard, Cape<br />

buffalo, elephant, <strong>and</strong> rhino), along with<br />

giraffe, gazelle, <strong>and</strong> zebra. Along the rivers,<br />

plains, <strong>and</strong> rocky outcroppings, you may also<br />

spot some of the Serengeti’s more diminutive<br />

denizens, such as the leopard tortoise <strong>and</strong><br />

rhinoceros beetle.<br />

Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 9: Masai Mara Game<br />

Reserve, Kenya<br />

Fly to the vast Masai Mara Game Reserve,<br />

Kenya’s finest wildlife spectacle. The unending<br />

l<strong>and</strong>scape hosts some 400-500 bird species, 95<br />

animal species <strong>and</strong> all of the great predators,<br />

including the country’s largest lion population.<br />

The Mara lies within the territory of the<br />

Maasai, who help administer the park <strong>and</strong><br />

protect it from poachers. After familiarising<br />

yourself with your accommodation, ideally<br />

situated at the confluence of the Mara’s four<br />

game-viewing regions, take a drive through<br />

the famed reserve.<br />

Mara Intrepids | Meals: B L D<br />

DAYS 10 & 11: Masai Mara Game<br />

Reserve<br />

Spend two days exploring a region bestowed<br />

with nearly 1,300 square kilometres of<br />

savannas, woodl<strong>and</strong>s, <strong>and</strong> tree-fringed rivers.<br />

Observe crocodile basking in the sun, everalert<br />

hippo wallowing in muddy water, <strong>and</strong><br />

mischievous monkey racing overhead. Spot<br />

massive elephant <strong>and</strong> graceful giraffe. One<br />

evening, enjoy a scenic sundowner experience<br />

overlooking the plains at dusk. Optional<br />

JANUARY:<br />

8, 22, 29 £8,840 £1,150<br />

FEBRUARY:<br />

5, 12,19<br />

26<br />

JOURNEY DETAILS<br />

This journey includes some long walks.<br />

FLIGHTS<br />

To provide you with flexibility <strong>and</strong> the latest flight offers,<br />

we don’t include international flights. Our specialists<br />

will be able to find the best travel options to suit you.<br />

TAILOR-MADE TRAVEL WITH A&K<br />

Ask us about how to customise<br />

this itinerary to create the perfect<br />

bespoke holiday, just for you.<br />

experiences include a hot-air balloon ride<br />

over the plains (at an additional cost) <strong>and</strong> a<br />

visit to a local school. On your final evening,<br />

attend a farewell dinner with fellow guests.<br />

Mara Intrepids | Meals: B L D<br />

£8,840<br />

£8,300<br />

£1,150<br />

£1,075<br />

MARCH:<br />

5, 12 £8,300 £1,075<br />

MAY:<br />

21 £7, 375 £690<br />

JUNE:<br />

18 £9,530 £1,305<br />

JULY:<br />

2, 9, 16, 23, 30 £9,530 £1,305<br />

AUGUST:<br />

6, 13, 20, 27 £9,530 £1,305<br />

SEPTEMBER:<br />

3, 10, 17, 24 £9,530 £1,305<br />

OCTOBER:<br />

8, 15 £9,530 £1,305<br />

NOVEMBER:<br />

5 £8,840 £1,150<br />

DECEMBER:<br />

3<br />

23<br />

£8,840<br />

£10,375<br />

£1,150<br />

£1,305<br />

DAY 12: Depart Nairobi<br />

Return to Nairobi. Spend the afternoon at<br />

leisure in a reserved dayroom before you<br />

depart for home.<br />

Nairobi Serena Hotel (dayroom) | Meals: B<br />

Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge<br />

Secluded safari lodge with<br />

Masai-inspired guest rooms<br />

Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge<br />

Drink in panoramic views<br />

of the Great Rift Valley<br />

Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge<br />

Comfortable lodge on the<br />

very rim of Ngorongoro Crater<br />

Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge<br />

Stylish, well-located lodge offering<br />

comm<strong>and</strong>ing views of the Serengeti<br />

Mara Intrepids<br />

Authentic safari tents in the heart<br />

of Kenya’s game-viewing country<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 31


Climbing Kilimanjaro:<br />

Summiting the Machame Route<br />

9 days/8 nights | From £5,690 per person | Maximum 12 guests<br />

This itinerary follows the scenic Machame Route to the summit, allowing extra time<br />

to acclimatise to the altitude. Ideal for amateurs <strong>and</strong> experienced mountaineers alike,<br />

enjoy unrivalled equipment <strong>and</strong> certified guides<br />

LUXURY<br />

SMALL GROUP<br />

JOURNEYS<br />

KEY HIGHLIGHTS<br />

››<br />

A&K has been leading<br />

treks up Kilimanjaro for<br />

over 30 years <strong>and</strong> boasts<br />

a successful summit rate<br />

of 97 per cent<br />

››<br />

Superior, top-of-the-line<br />

camping gear <strong>and</strong> safety<br />

equipment, owned <strong>and</strong><br />

maintained by A&K<br />

››<br />

Chefs, porters <strong>and</strong> guides<br />

are directly employed,<br />

<strong>and</strong> all guides are<br />

certified Wilderness<br />

First Responders<br />

››<br />

Stay in the largest <strong>and</strong><br />

most comfortable sleeping<br />

tents on the mountain, with<br />

private toilet facilities<br />

››<br />

Carry only a daypack, as<br />

porters transport your<br />

luggage <strong>and</strong> equipment<br />

throughout the climb<br />

<strong>and</strong> descent<br />

INCLUSIONS<br />

33<br />

Resident tour director &<br />

English-speaking expert<br />

local guides<br />

33<br />

Airport meet & greet<br />

& return private transfers<br />

33<br />

Entrance fees, taxes & tips,<br />

& excursions as stated<br />

33<br />

Welcome dinner & farewell<br />

lunch<br />

33<br />

8 breakfasts, 8 lunches<br />

& 7 dinners<br />

3,990m<br />

Shira Camp<br />

3,850m<br />

DAY 1: Arrive Arusha, Tanzania<br />

L<strong>and</strong> in Arusha <strong>and</strong> transfer to your hotel.<br />

Enjoy a good night’s rest as one of only 12<br />

guests on this epic journey.<br />

Lake Duluti Lodge<br />

MOUNT KILIMANJARO<br />

Barafu Camp<br />

4,680m<br />

Karanga Camp<br />

Mweka Camp<br />

Machame Camp 3,100m<br />

2,835m<br />

DAY 2: Arusha<br />

In preparation for the climb ahead, acclimatise<br />

as you walk through Arusha National<br />

Park. Situated between the peaks of Mount<br />

Kilimanjaro <strong>and</strong> Mount Meru, this scenic<br />

park houses a wide range of habitats, from its<br />

string of crater lakes populated by waterfowl<br />

to its montane forest <strong>and</strong> imposing summit<br />

views. The forest harbours a wealth of wildlife,<br />

including frolicking black-<strong>and</strong>-white colobus<br />

monkey <strong>and</strong> regal bushbuck. This evening, sit<br />

down to a welcome dinner with fellow guests.<br />

Lake Duluti Lodge | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 3: Mount Kilimanjaro<br />

Drive from Arusha to the Machame village<br />

on the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro to begin<br />

your climb along the challenging <strong>and</strong> scenic<br />

Machame Route. Hike for about six hours<br />

through dense rubber tree <strong>and</strong> giant fig<br />

forests to reach your camp, set up near huts<br />

once used for shelter. As you make your way<br />

up through the forested terrain, keep an eye<br />

out for elephant. Settle into your first camp,<br />

poised at an altitude of 2,835 metres.<br />

Machame Camp | Meals: B L D<br />

Barranco Camp<br />

3,900m<br />

Uhuru Peak<br />

5,895m<br />

DAY 4: Mount Kilimanjaro<br />

Awake early to a piping-hot cup of coffee<br />

or tea. As you leave camp, absorb the<br />

comm<strong>and</strong>ing view of Uhuru Peak. Trek out<br />

of the forest up to the Hagenia zone, through<br />

a savanna of tall grasses <strong>and</strong> haunting volcanic<br />

lava l<strong>and</strong>scapes. After a six-hour hike, arrive<br />

at the Shira Plateau <strong>and</strong> your camp. At 3,850<br />

metres, it boasts sweeping views across the<br />

Masai Steppe to distant Mount Meru <strong>and</strong> the<br />

Shira Needles.<br />

Shira Camp | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 5: Mount Kilimanjaro<br />

During a further six-hour trek, skirt the Shira<br />

Plateau toward the Kibo Massif, continuing<br />

upward to the pass at Lava Tower (4,600<br />

metres). Descend towards Barranco Camp<br />

through the immense, waterfall-punctuated<br />

Gr<strong>and</strong> Barranco Canyon, which is fed by<br />

streams from the Umbwe River. Today’s camp<br />

is situated at an elevation of 3,900 metres.<br />

Barranco Camp | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 6: Mount Kilimanjaro<br />

Hike for about five hours along the Barranco<br />

Cliff with no increase in elevation. This allows<br />

32 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


AFRICA<br />

TANZANIA<br />

you time to rest <strong>and</strong> adjust to the increasingly<br />

higher altitudes. In the afternoon, you may<br />

hike in the Karanga Valley set beneath<br />

the icefalls of the Heim, Decken, <strong>and</strong><br />

Kersten glaciers.<br />

Karanga Camp | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 7: Mount Kilimanjaro<br />

Take a four- to five-hour trek on another day<br />

of acclimatisation as you near the mountain’s<br />

peak, stopping at Barafu Camp (4,680 metres)<br />

on a moraine, with views of majestic<br />

Mawenzi Peak to the right <strong>and</strong> looming<br />

Kibo Peak overhead. Gaze out over the<br />

surrounding mineral terrain dotted with<br />

only some lichens <strong>and</strong> moss. Don’t turn in<br />

too late this evening – tomorrow, you make an<br />

early start for the summit.<br />

Barafu Camp | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 8: Mount Kilimanjaro<br />

Rise early with a hot drink before setting<br />

out on approximately 13 hours of trekking.<br />

Should all go as planned, you’ll st<strong>and</strong> at the<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 33


highest point in Africa in about seven hours’<br />

time. Ascend a winding path flanked by the<br />

towering Ratzel <strong>and</strong> Rebmann glaciers to<br />

soaring Stella Point on the rim of Kibo Crater.<br />

As the sun rises, continue around to Uhuru<br />

Peak (5,895 metres), the highest point in<br />

Africa, where the air is rarefied. Savour your<br />

achievement before you descend to your last<br />

campsite at 3,100 metres.<br />

Mweka Camp | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 9: Depart Arusha<br />

Continue your way down to the base of the<br />

mountain, where your A&K driver greets<br />

<strong>and</strong> transports you back to Arusha. During a<br />

farewell lunch, bask in your accomplishments<br />

with fellow guests. Comfortable dayrooms are<br />

provided until your departure flight.<br />

Lake Duluti Lodge (dayroom) | Meals: B L<br />

DATES & PRICING<br />

GUARANTEED<br />

DEPARTURE<br />

DATES (<strong>2019</strong>)<br />

PER<br />

PERSON<br />

FROM<br />

SINGLE<br />

SUPP.<br />

FROM<br />

JANUARY:<br />

22 £5,690 £1,690<br />

FEBRUARY:<br />

5, 19 £5,690 £1,690<br />

MAY:<br />

21 £5,690 £1,690<br />

JUNE:<br />

18 £5,690 £1,690<br />

JULY:<br />

18, 23 £5,690 £1,690<br />

AUGUST:<br />

6, 20 £5,690 £1,690<br />

SEPTEMBER:<br />

17 £5,690 £1,690<br />

OCTOBER:<br />

8, 22 £5,690 £1,690<br />

NOVEMBER:<br />

12 £5,690 £1,690<br />

JOURNEY DETAILS<br />

This journey is strenuous with steep ascents <strong>and</strong> high<br />

altitudes; however, novice climbers are welcome.<br />

FLIGHTS<br />

To provide you with flexibility <strong>and</strong> the latest flight<br />

offers, we don’t include international flights.<br />

Our specialists will be able to find the best<br />

travel options to suit you.<br />

TAILOR-MADE TRAVEL WITH A&K<br />

Ask us about how to customise<br />

this itinerary to create the perfect<br />

bespoke holiday, just for you.<br />

PRE & POST-TOUR<br />

EXTENSIONS<br />

Tanzania safari post-tour<br />

extension – five days from<br />

£3,040pp<br />

Contact a specialist for more information<br />

about how to extend your escorted tour.<br />

YOUR ACCOMMODATION<br />

• Our customised tents<br />

are the most luxurious<br />

on the mountain<br />

• Sleeping tents are designed<br />

to accommodate two<br />

people with raised camp<br />

beds <strong>and</strong> tall ceiling heights<br />

• Dining tents are solar-lit<br />

with comfortable chairs<br />

<strong>and</strong> tables <strong>and</strong> all our<br />

camps on the mountain<br />

have hygienic private<br />

toilet facilities<br />

Lake Duluti Lodge<br />

Spacious private chalets<br />

with views over an expansive<br />

coffee farm<br />

34 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


AFRICA<br />

TANZANIA<br />

CLIMBING KILIMANJARO WITH A&K<br />

With a successful summit rate of 97 per cent (compared<br />

to the 60-70 per cent average), A&K’s Mount Kilimanjaro<br />

expeditions give you an outst<strong>and</strong>ing chance of reaching<br />

‘the roof of Africa’. Our experienced climbing team<br />

oversees every factor that contributes to a successful climb<br />

GUIDES & PORTERS<br />

Every A&K guide is a certified Wilderness First Responder, trained<br />

in mountain craft, natural history, <strong>and</strong> ecological awareness. Our<br />

guides are also trained in first aid <strong>and</strong> fluent in English, <strong>and</strong> most have<br />

completed over 200 summits. A founding member of Kilimanjaro<br />

Porter Assistance Project <strong>and</strong> a proud Partner for Responsible Travel<br />

with the International Mountain Explorers Connection, A&K is an<br />

advocate for the welfare of our team of porters. Their hard work <strong>and</strong><br />

dedication are what make every A&K trek possible.<br />

COMFORTS ON THE MOUNTAIN<br />

Summiting Mount Kilimanjaro comes easier to those who are well<br />

rested – <strong>and</strong> A&K campsites are famous for their comforts. Our<br />

customised sleeping tents are the largest <strong>and</strong> most luxurious on the<br />

mountain, designed for two people with raised camp beds <strong>and</strong> tall<br />

ceiling heights. Solar-lit dining tents with comfortable tables <strong>and</strong> chairs<br />

allow you to relax out of the elements <strong>and</strong> rejuvenate during the trek.<br />

Hygienic private toilets are also exclusively available to A&K trekkers.<br />

FOOD & NUTRITION<br />

Another key element to conquering Kilimanjaro is to maintain proper<br />

nutrition throughout your entire trek. Every meal is designed to<br />

provide the fuel you need to reach the summit. Unlike many other<br />

companies, A&K provides fresh food throughout the entire trek,<br />

including abundant snacks between meals as well as unlimited,<br />

purified water. Special diets can also be accommodated.<br />

ACCLIMATISATION<br />

While most trekkers spend a total of five days on the mountain,<br />

we schedule seven days (six nights) to allow more time for premium<br />

altitude acclimatisation, giving A&K a successful summit rate of<br />

97 per cent.<br />

SUSTAINABLE TREKS<br />

A&K leaves no trace on the mountain <strong>and</strong> takes pride in operating<br />

green campsites. Every A&K camp is completely portable with no<br />

fixed ground structures or plumbing, <strong>and</strong> we remove all waste<br />

<strong>and</strong> rubbish from our treks.<br />

SAFETY ON THE MOUNTAIN<br />

A&K climbs use the finest climbing <strong>and</strong> camping apparatus, safety<br />

equipment <strong>and</strong> communications network. On every climb, we supply<br />

<strong>and</strong> carry all safety <strong>and</strong> emergency equipment, including emergency<br />

oxygen, a portable altitude chamber, a defibrillator, pulse oximeters,<br />

a stretcher, an extensive first-aid kit, <strong>and</strong> three means of<br />

communication (mobile phone, two-way radio, <strong>and</strong> satellite phone).<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 35


A Naturalist’s Guide<br />

to Madagascar<br />

with Charlie Gardner<br />

SMALL GROUP<br />

JOURNEYS<br />

12 days/11 nights | From £6,180 per person | Maximum 18 guests<br />

Madagascar’s people, wildlife, <strong>and</strong> l<strong>and</strong>scapes are extraordinary. Explore its flora <strong>and</strong> fauna<br />

in expert h<strong>and</strong>s <strong>and</strong> be astonished by the diverse terrain, still largely untouched by tourism<br />

KEY HIGHLIGHTS<br />

››<br />

Gain expert insights into<br />

the wildlife of Madagascar<br />

from your guest host<br />

Charlie Gardner<br />

››<br />

Explore the colonial<br />

Haute-Ville district<br />

of Antananarivo<br />

››<br />

Tick off lemur, chameleon,<br />

<strong>and</strong> many bird species<br />

across the country’s<br />

finest national parks<br />

››<br />

Hike between 500-yearold<br />

baobabs in Sacred<br />

Spiny Forest, one of the<br />

oldest on the planet<br />

››<br />

Experience the unique<br />

cultural traditions of the<br />

Ant<strong>and</strong>roy people<br />

INCLUSIONS<br />

33<br />

Resident tour director &<br />

English-speaking expert<br />

local guides<br />

33<br />

Airport meet & greet<br />

& return private transfers<br />

33<br />

Entrance fees, taxes & tips,<br />

& excursions as stated<br />

33<br />

Domestic flights included<br />

33<br />

Welcome & farewell dinners<br />

33<br />

11 breakfasts, 9 lunches<br />

& 11 dinners<br />

33<br />

Scenic sundowners<br />

MOZAMBIQUE<br />

CHANNEL<br />

ARRIVE/DEPART<br />

AIR<br />

ROAD<br />

DAY 1: Arrive Antananarivo<br />

On arrival into the hilly Malagasy capital,<br />

you’re met by an A&K representative <strong>and</strong><br />

transferred to your hotel in the embassy<br />

district of Haute-Ville (upper town). This<br />

part of the city is a tangled assortment of<br />

steep, partly cobbled streets, red-tiled roofs,<br />

<strong>and</strong> pastel-coloured houses with a lovely cool<br />

climate. After time to settle in, your guest host<br />

Charlie Gardner will introduce himself <strong>and</strong><br />

give you a briefing on the adventure ahead<br />

over welcome drinks <strong>and</strong> dinner in the hotel.<br />

Hotel Colbert | Meals: D<br />

MADAGASCAR<br />

DAY 2: Antananarivo – Andasibe<br />

Head east to Andasibe, passing rice fields,<br />

redbrick houses <strong>and</strong> roadside stalls of seasonal<br />

produce. Andasibe-Mantadia is a stunning<br />

rainforest park comprising Périnet Special<br />

Reserve <strong>and</strong> Mantadia National Park. Périnet<br />

is world famous for its population of indri,<br />

the largest lemur species. Arrive at your lodge<br />

in time for lunch, <strong>and</strong> spend the afternoon<br />

at leisure before a guided night walk into the<br />

surrounding forests. Look out for nocturnal<br />

lemur such as mouse lemur, white-footed<br />

sportive lemur, fat-tailed dwarf lemur, <strong>and</strong><br />

woolly lemur.<br />

Mantadia Lodge | Meals: B L D<br />

Antananarivo<br />

Ifotaka<br />

Andasibe-<br />

Mantadia<br />

National<br />

Park<br />

Manafiafy<br />

Fort Dauphin<br />

DAY 3: Andasibe<br />

Today, go in search of the iconic indri lemur<br />

in the 810-hectare Périnet Reserve. This lemur<br />

is one of the few animals in the world that<br />

cannot survive in captivity. Another 11 species<br />

of lemur find their home here; you may see<br />

grey bamboo lemur, common brown lemur,<br />

diademed sifaka, <strong>and</strong> black <strong>and</strong> white ruffed<br />

lemur. Birdwatchers could observe the velvet<br />

asity, blue coua, <strong>and</strong> nuthatch vanga, <strong>and</strong><br />

many more endemic species. Périnet is also<br />

home to reptiles, invertebrates, <strong>and</strong> some of<br />

Madagascar’s thous<strong>and</strong> orchid species.<br />

Mantadia Lodge | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 4: Andasibe – Antananarivo<br />

Head to Lemur Isl<strong>and</strong> first thing this morning.<br />

This small private reserve protects a number<br />

of habituated lemur. Here you can find four<br />

species – bamboo lemur, brown lemur, black<br />

<strong>and</strong> white ruffed lemur, <strong>and</strong> one diademed<br />

sifaka. Head back to the capital after lunch.<br />

Le Relais des Plateaux | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 5: Antananarivo – Ifotaka<br />

Fly to Fort Dauphin. The group is divided<br />

today; Group One visits M<strong>and</strong>rare River<br />

Camp for Days 5-8 <strong>and</strong> Manafiafy Beach &<br />

Rainforest Lodge for Days 8-11. Group Two<br />

does the reverse, <strong>and</strong> the following itinerary<br />

relates to Group One. Your guest host remains<br />

at M<strong>and</strong>rare while your local escort stays<br />

at Manafiafy. In the afternoon, venture into<br />

Sacred Spiny Forest to see many endemic<br />

Madagascan plants, extraordinary wildlife,<br />

<strong>and</strong> the Ant<strong>and</strong>roy’s ancestral tombs, before<br />

sundowners on the river bank.<br />

M<strong>and</strong>rare River Camp | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 6: Ifotaka<br />

Depending on water levels, take a morning<br />

boat ride across the M<strong>and</strong>rare River to visit<br />

the stunning Sacred Gallery Forest. Inquisitive<br />

groups of ring tailed lemur <strong>and</strong> Verreaux’s<br />

sifaka are the highlight of this excursion.<br />

Return to camp for lunch <strong>and</strong> a relaxed<br />

afternoon. A night walk in the Forest of<br />

Zenavo is a fantastic way to see diurnal<br />

lemur bedding down <strong>and</strong> nocturnal lemur<br />

emerging, as well as two species of mouse<br />

lemur, chameleon, owl, <strong>and</strong> the active<br />

sportive lemur.<br />

M<strong>and</strong>rare River Camp | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 7: Ifotaka<br />

Revisit the Sacred Spiny Forest this morning,<br />

36 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


YOUR A&K HOST<br />

DR CHARLIE<br />

GARDNER<br />

Charlie has worked as a<br />

scientific advisor for the<br />

WWF <strong>and</strong> has published many papers on<br />

Madagascar’s wildlife <strong>and</strong> its conservation.<br />

He has appeared on wildlife documentaries,<br />

<strong>and</strong> assisted with the filming of Sir David<br />

Attenborough’s BBC series Madagascar.<br />

AFRICA<br />

MADAGASCAR<br />

YOUR LUXURY<br />

ACCOMMODATION<br />

<strong>and</strong> see the sunlight break through the<br />

octopus trees while looking out for endemic<br />

birds such as crested coua, the running coua,<br />

<strong>and</strong> a variety of vanga species. Return to camp<br />

for breakfast followed by a visit to the local<br />

market or the village to meet members<br />

of the fascinating Ant<strong>and</strong>roy community.<br />

This evening, enjoy a memorable sundowner<br />

among the baobabs, with views to the<br />

mountains beyond. Then witness a<br />

traditional performance by the villagers.<br />

M<strong>and</strong>rare River Camp | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 8: Ifotaka – Manafiafy Beach<br />

Return to Fort Dauphin for lunch <strong>and</strong> then in<br />

the afternoon head north to Manafiafy Beach,<br />

a secluded tropical paradise. Also known as<br />

Sainte Luce, Manafiafy is a beautiful s<strong>and</strong>y bay,<br />

fringed with forest-covered mountains <strong>and</strong><br />

wildlife-abundant mangroves. After arrival<br />

at your lodge for the next three nights, spend<br />

a relaxed afternoon by the pool enjoying<br />

cocktails as the sun sets over the bay.<br />

Manafiafy Beach & Rainforest Lodge | Meals: B L D<br />

DAYS 9 & 10: Manafiafy Beach<br />

Enjoy two days to spend at leisure. The<br />

lodge offers a wide range of wildlife, <strong>and</strong><br />

sporting activities, which are all included.<br />

Wildlife-watching options include guided<br />

day <strong>and</strong> night walks in the rainforest,<br />

snorkelling excursions in the bay <strong>and</strong> nearby<br />

cove, kayaking <strong>and</strong> scenic boat trips to the<br />

mangroves, <strong>and</strong> a whale-watching tower<br />

(humpback whale pass through these waters<br />

between July <strong>and</strong> September). Enjoy boat rides<br />

to nearby isl<strong>and</strong>s for secluded picnics, walks<br />

up long empty beaches, <strong>and</strong> trips to the local<br />

village, supported by the lodge.<br />

Manafiafy Beach & Rainforest Lodge | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 11: Manafiafy – Antananarivo<br />

Return by road to Fort Dauphin Airport<br />

where the group reunites for the flight back<br />

to Antananarivo. This evening, enjoy farewell<br />

cocktails <strong>and</strong> dinner at Le Café de la Gare,<br />

a lovely restaurant in Antananarivo’s<br />

ab<strong>and</strong>oned central railway station, a typically<br />

French building constructed in 1910.<br />

Hotel Colbert | Meals: B D<br />

DAY 12: Depart Antananarivo<br />

Say goodbye for now to Madagascar <strong>and</strong><br />

transfer to the airport.<br />

Meals: B<br />

DATES & PRICING<br />

GUARANTEED<br />

DEPARTURE<br />

DATES (<strong>2019</strong>)<br />

PER<br />

PERSON<br />

FROM<br />

SINGLE<br />

SUPP.<br />

FROM<br />

APRIL:<br />

15 £6,180 £1,100<br />

JUNE:<br />

23 £6,180 £1,100<br />

NOVEMBER:<br />

10 £6,180 £1,100<br />

JOURNEY DETAILS<br />

This journey includes some long walks. In order to<br />

provide travellers with exclusive accommodation<br />

at the Manafiafy Beach & Rainforest Lodge <strong>and</strong><br />

M<strong>and</strong>rare River Camp, the group will be divided.<br />

Group One visits M<strong>and</strong>rare River Camp on Days 5-8<br />

<strong>and</strong> Manafiafy Beach & Rainforest Lodge on Days<br />

8-11. Group Two does the reverse. Your guest host,<br />

Charlie, will remain at M<strong>and</strong>rare on Days 5-11 while<br />

your local escort stays at Manafiafy. The featured<br />

itinerary relates to the programme scheduled for<br />

Group One.<br />

FLIGHTS<br />

To provide you with flexibility <strong>and</strong> the latest flight offers,<br />

we don’t include international flights. Our specialists<br />

will be able to find the best travel options to suit you.<br />

TAILOR-MADE TRAVEL WITH A&K<br />

Ask us about how to customise<br />

this itinerary to create the perfect<br />

bespoke holiday, just for you.<br />

Hotel Colbert<br />

Homely hotel with views<br />

over iconic city sights<br />

Mantadia Lodge<br />

Comfortable base for<br />

excursions to spot indri lemur<br />

Le Relais des Plateaux<br />

Lovely hotel offering good spa<br />

facilities <strong>and</strong> appealing cuisine<br />

M<strong>and</strong>rare River Camp<br />

Tented camp in magnificent location; enjoy<br />

wildlife-watching <strong>and</strong> tribal experiences<br />

Manafiafy Beach & Rainforest Lodge<br />

Coastal bungalows from which you can<br />

enjoy walks in the littoral rainforest<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 37


Egypt &<br />

the Nile<br />

LUXURY<br />

SMALL GROUP<br />

JOURNEYS<br />

10 days/9 nights | From £4,675 per person | Maximum 18 guests<br />

Explore the iconic marvels of Egypt, as well as its longest-kept secrets,<br />

on a journey south along the Nile, including a river cruise<br />

aboard Sanctuary Sun Boat IV<br />

KEY HIGHLIGHTS<br />

››<br />

Sail aboard award-winning<br />

Sanctuary Sun Boat IV<br />

››<br />

All shore excursions led by<br />

expert A&K Egyptologists<br />

››<br />

Special entry into the tomb<br />

of Seti I in the Valley of<br />

the Kings, <strong>and</strong> a chance to<br />

enter a legendary pyramid<br />

››<br />

Ride like a Local on<br />

camelback <strong>and</strong> sail the<br />

Nile in a felucca (sailboat)<br />

››<br />

Private docking facilities in<br />

Luxor <strong>and</strong> Aswan<br />

INCLUSIONS<br />

33<br />

Five-star luxury accommodation<br />

33<br />

Resident tour director &<br />

English-speaking expert<br />

local guides<br />

33<br />

Airport meet & greet<br />

& return private transfers<br />

33<br />

Entrance fees, taxes & tips,<br />

& excursions as stated<br />

33<br />

Domestic flights included<br />

33<br />

Welcome & farewell dinners<br />

33<br />

9 breakfasts, 8 lunches<br />

& 8 dinners<br />

33<br />

Wifi in accommodation<br />

33<br />

Scenic sundowner<br />

33<br />

Travelling Bellboy SM<br />

33<br />

Complimentary breakfast in bed<br />

on Days 3 & 9<br />

33<br />

Traveller’s Valet SM on the boat<br />

ARRIVE/DEPART<br />

AIR<br />

CRUISE<br />

EGYPT<br />

DAY 1: Arrive Cairo, Egypt<br />

Arrive in Cairo where you’re met by your A&K<br />

representative <strong>and</strong> transferred to your historic<br />

hotel with fantastic views of the pyramids.<br />

Marriott Mena House Hotel<br />

Cairo<br />

Edfu<br />

Luxor<br />

Esna<br />

Kom Ombo<br />

Aswan<br />

Abu Simbel<br />

DAY 2: Cairo<br />

This morning, explore the Museum of<br />

Egyptian Antiquities, home to an extensive<br />

collection of 120,000 ancient Egyptian<br />

artefacts – including myriad items from<br />

Tutankhamun’s tomb. After lunch at a local<br />

restaurant, enjoy your afternoon at leisure.<br />

Tonight, gather for a sumptuous welcome<br />

dinner with your fellow travellers.<br />

Marriott Mena House Hotel | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 3: Giza<br />

Drive to Sakkara, site of hundreds of tombs<br />

<strong>and</strong> 14 pyramids, including the Step Pyramid<br />

of Djoser. Later, tour the Giza Plateau, site of<br />

the pyramids of Menkaure <strong>and</strong> Khafre, <strong>and</strong> the<br />

Great Pyramid. Built in the Fourth Dynasty<br />

(approximately 2,690 BC), it is the only<br />

survivor of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient<br />

World. Explore these legendary pyramids from<br />

inside, <strong>and</strong> visit the tombs of the pyramid<br />

builders. Ride like a Local on camelback, then<br />

visit the Solar Boat Museum – site of Cheops’<br />

funerary boat – <strong>and</strong> the Great Sphinx.<br />

Marriott Mena House Hotel | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 4: Luxor<br />

Fly to Luxor, site of the ancient city of Thebes.<br />

Your full-day tour commences at the Temple<br />

of Karnak. Pass the huge columns of Great<br />

Hypostyle Hall, before stepping aboard<br />

Sanctuary Sun Boat IV for lunch. Afterwards,<br />

explore the Necropolis of Thebes, continuing<br />

to the Valley of the Kings. Visit the tomb of<br />

Tutankhamun as well as the well-preserved<br />

tomb of Seti I. See the Temple of Hatshepsut,<br />

ancient Egypt’s first female pharaoh <strong>and</strong> one of<br />

its most successful leaders. Finish with a photo<br />

stop at the Colossi of Memnon.<br />

Sanctuary Sun Boat IV | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 5: Cruising the Nile<br />

Journey once more to the east bank of the<br />

Nile, this time visiting the city of Thebes <strong>and</strong><br />

the striking Temple of Luxor. Behold the three<br />

large statues of Ramses II along the front of<br />

the temple pylons; the Courtyard of Ramses<br />

II behind the East Tower; <strong>and</strong> the Colonnade<br />

of Amenhotep III, with its 14 papyrus-headed<br />

columns, some 15 metres in height. This<br />

afternoon, sail to Esna <strong>and</strong> visit the Temple of<br />

Khnum <strong>and</strong> marvel at its soaring columns.<br />

Sanctuary Sun Boat IV | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 6: Cruising the Nile<br />

View the Temple of Horus, falcon-headed<br />

god of the sky. Built in 230 BC by Ptolemy III,<br />

this stunningly well-preserved <strong>and</strong> colourful<br />

structure reveals what temple worship in<br />

ancient Egypt was like. Join your chef back<br />

on board for a local cooking lesson. Later,<br />

38 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


NORTH AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST EGYPT<br />

disembark at Kom Ombo (hill of gold) to visit<br />

the Greco-Roman temple dedicated to Horus<br />

(the sun god) <strong>and</strong> Sobek (the crocodile god),<br />

who some ancient Egyptians believed to be the<br />

creator of the world. Here you can view the<br />

mummified remains of several Nile crocodiles.<br />

Sanctuary Sun Boat IV | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 7: Aswan<br />

Cruise to Aswan <strong>and</strong> ride a motorised boat<br />

to Philae Temple on the isl<strong>and</strong> of Agilkia,<br />

dedicated to the goddess Isis. This sacred<br />

complex reflects a fusion of the Egyptian,<br />

Greek, <strong>and</strong> Roman civilisations. The entire<br />

temple was transported when Aswan High<br />

Dam was constructed. Built in the 1960s, the<br />

dam spans the Nile River, more than three<br />

kilometres across. Proceed to the impressive<br />

granite quarries <strong>and</strong> the Unfinished Obelisk.<br />

Later, Ride like a Local around the isl<strong>and</strong>s in<br />

a felucca (sailboat), weather permitting.<br />

Sanctuary Sun Boat IV | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 8: Abu Simbel<br />

Today, bid farewell to Sanctuary Sun Boat IV,<br />

disembarking to fly to Abu Simbel. There,<br />

discover the comm<strong>and</strong>ing twin temples of<br />

Ramses II <strong>and</strong> his wife, Queen Nefertari. Built<br />

at about 1250 BC, the main temple’s façade is<br />

dominated by four spectacular statues of the<br />

pharaoh, each nearly 21 metres tall. This entire<br />

World Heritage site was disassembled <strong>and</strong><br />

moved in the 1960s due to the construction of<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 39


the Aswan High Dam. Return to Cairo for an<br />

afternoon spent entirely at your leisure.<br />

Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza |<br />

Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 9: Cairo<br />

Explore the Mosque <strong>and</strong> Madrasa of Sultan<br />

Hassan, among the finest examples of early<br />

Mamluk architecture. Head from the<br />

twin-towered Bab al-Futuh in Cairo’s Old<br />

City walls to Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, one of<br />

the city’s major souks. Browse spices, leather<br />

goods, <strong>and</strong> jewellery on a street that has hardly<br />

changed for centuries; haggling is expected, so<br />

prepare to negotiate. After lunch, visit Coptic<br />

Cairo or return to your hotel for an afternoon<br />

at leisure. This evening, gather with fellow<br />

guests at a farewell dinner.<br />

Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza |<br />

Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 10: Depart Cairo<br />

After breakfast, transfer to the airport <strong>and</strong><br />

depart the city.<br />

Meals: B<br />

DATES & PRICING<br />

GUARANTEED<br />

DEPARTURE<br />

DATES (<strong>2019</strong>)<br />

PER<br />

PERSON<br />

FROM<br />

SINGLE<br />

SUPP.<br />

FROM<br />

JANUARY:<br />

4, 11, 18, 25 £4,985 £1,535<br />

FEBRUARY:<br />

1, 8, 15, 22 £4,985 £1,535<br />

MARCH:<br />

1, 8, 15, 29 £4,985 £1,535<br />

APRIL:<br />

2, 6, 10<br />

14, 18<br />

22, 26<br />

£4,985<br />

£5,525<br />

£4,985<br />

£1,535<br />

£1,610<br />

£1,535<br />

AUGUST:<br />

30 £4,675 £1,305<br />

SEPTEMBER:<br />

3, 7, 11, 15, 19, 23, 27 £4,675 £1,305<br />

OCTOBER:<br />

1, 5, 9, 13, 17,<br />

21, 25, 29 £6,525 £1,920<br />

NOVEMBER:<br />

2, 6, 10, 14, 26 £6,525 £1,920<br />

DECEMBER:<br />

4, 8, 12, 16<br />

20, 24, 28<br />

£6,525<br />

£6,675<br />

£1,920<br />

£1,995<br />

JOURNEY DETAILS<br />

Price is based on Nile Deck cabin. Upgrade prices<br />

to the Main, Bridge & Promenade Decks, <strong>and</strong><br />

presidential <strong>and</strong> royal suites are on request.<br />

FLIGHTS<br />

To provide you with flexibility <strong>and</strong> the latest flight offers,<br />

we don’t include international flights. Our specialists<br />

will be able to find the best travel options to suit you.<br />

YOUR LUXURY<br />

ACCOMMODATION<br />

Marriott Mena House Hotel<br />

History-rich luxury hotel featuring<br />

rooms with views of the pyramid<br />

Sanctuary Sun Boat IV<br />

A spacious vessel offering<br />

a great array of amenities<br />

TAILOR-MADE TRAVEL WITH A&K<br />

Ask us about how to customise<br />

this itinerary to create the perfect<br />

bespoke holiday, just for you.<br />

Four Seasons Hotel<br />

Cairo at Nile Plaza<br />

Luxury hotel on the famed<br />

Corniche along the Nile River<br />

40 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


NORTH AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST<br />

EGYPT<br />

Sanctuary Sun Boat IV<br />

Art Deco-inspired décor, modern amenities <strong>and</strong> exceptional service distinguish<br />

Sanctuary Sun Boat IV. With a maximum capacity of about 80 guests, the atmosphere<br />

aboard this elegant vessel is among the most intimate on the Nile<br />

A&K SIGNATURE ELEMENTS<br />

33<br />

36 luxury cabins, two presidential<br />

suites, <strong>and</strong> two royal suites with<br />

balcony<br />

33<br />

Expert A&K Egyptologist<br />

accompanies all shore excursions<br />

33<br />

Fully air-conditioned<br />

with cabin control<br />

33<br />

Panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows<br />

in all cabins (except Nile Deck)<br />

33<br />

Flat-screen LCD television with<br />

satellite available in all rooms<br />

33<br />

Elegant dining room with<br />

picture windows<br />

33<br />

Onboard, on-call doctor<br />

33<br />

Wifi access available<br />

BREATHTAKING RIVER VIEWS<br />

All cabins are air-conditioned <strong>and</strong> feature<br />

flat-screen TV, direct-dial international phone<br />

<strong>and</strong> minibar. Floor-to-ceiling windows grace<br />

most decks offering sweeping views of the<br />

river’s shore. Art Deco-inspired public areas<br />

make it easy to find a quiet corner from<br />

which to observe life along the Nile. Teak<br />

flooring enhances outdoor spaces, <strong>and</strong> vintage<br />

decoration coexists with modern comforts.<br />

A REGAL, RELAXING SUN DECK<br />

The Sun Deck is adorned with luxurious<br />

Egyptian marble, soft canvas sunshades,<br />

<strong>and</strong> a tiled swimming pool.<br />

FINE FOOD & SUPERB SERVICE<br />

Sanctuary Sun Boat IV offers exquisite<br />

dining <strong>and</strong> peerless service, including<br />

excursions to the Nile’s greatest<br />

monuments led by expert Egyptologists.<br />

DECK ‘Sanctuary PLAN Sun Boat IV’<br />

‘Sanctuary Sun Boat IV’<br />

‘Sanctuary Sun Boat IV’<br />

‘Sanctuary Sun Boat<br />

Sun Deck<br />

IV’<br />

Sun Deck<br />

‘Sanctuary Sun Boat IV’<br />

Pool<br />

Pool<br />

Sun Deck<br />

Pool<br />

SUN DECK<br />

Sun Deck<br />

Pool<br />

402 404 406 408<br />

Lower<br />

Sun<br />

Sun Deck<br />

402<br />

Deck<br />

404 406<br />

Pool<br />

408<br />

Lower<br />

401<br />

407<br />

Sun Deck<br />

402 404 403 406 405<br />

408<br />

Lower<br />

407<br />

Sun Deck<br />

402 401 404 403 406 405<br />

408<br />

Lower<br />

401 403 405 407<br />

PROMENADE Sun Deck DECK 402302<br />

404304 406306 308408<br />

310 312<br />

Lower<br />

401 403 405 407<br />

Sun Deck Lounge<br />

302 304 306 308 310 312<br />

Lounge<br />

401302<br />

301 403304 303 405 407<br />

306 305 308 307 309 310 312 311<br />

Lounge<br />

302 301 304 303 306 305 308 307 309 310 312 311<br />

Lounge<br />

Lounge302<br />

301<br />

304<br />

303<br />

202306 305<br />

204308 307 309<br />

206 208 310 312<br />

311<br />

210<br />

301 303 305 307 309 311<br />

BRIDGE DECK Lounge Restaurant Lounge 202 204 206 208 210<br />

Restaurant Lounge301 303 202 201305 204 203307 206 205309 208 207 311 209 210<br />

Restaurant Lounge 202 201 204 203 206 205 208 207 209 210<br />

Restaurant<br />

Lounge 202<br />

201 203 205 207 209<br />

104 204 106 206 108 208 110 112210<br />

Restaurant<br />

201 203 205 207 209<br />

104 106 108 110 112<br />

MAIN DECK<br />

201<br />

104 103 203<br />

106 105 205<br />

108 107 207 109 110 112 111 209<br />

104 103 106 105 108 107 109 110 112 111<br />

103 105 107 109 111<br />

104 106 108 110 112<br />

103 105 107 109 111<br />

103 105 107 109 111<br />

NILE DECK<br />

Royal suites (59 sqm)<br />

Presidential suites (38sqm)<br />

Promenade Deck (15 sqm avg.)<br />

Bridge Deck (17 sqm avg.)<br />

Main Deck (18 sqm avg.)<br />

Nile Deck (18 sqm avg.)<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 41


IMMERSIVE<br />

JOURNEYS<br />

Jordan: Petra & Beyond<br />

9 days/8 nights | From £2,295 per person | Maximum 18 guests<br />

Adventurers can cross Crusader kingdoms <strong>and</strong> see biblical beauty on a nine-day sweep<br />

through Jordan. Visit ancient Jerash <strong>and</strong> swoon-worthy Petra, then traverse Bedouin<br />

desertscapes in the Wadi Rum <strong>and</strong> rejuvenate in the Dead Sea<br />

Dead Sea<br />

Petra<br />

Jerash<br />

Amman<br />

JORDAN<br />

ARRIVE/DEPART<br />

ROAD<br />

EXTENSION<br />

DAY 1: Arrive Amman, Jordan<br />

Touch down in Amman. You’ll be cordially<br />

greeted <strong>and</strong> driven the 40 minutes to your<br />

hotel. We recommend resting well before<br />

tomorrow’s excitements.<br />

Intercontinental Amman<br />

DAY 2: Ajloun & Jerash<br />

Start your Jordan adventure at the Crusader<br />

castle of Ajloun. Strategically built in the<br />

hilly contours, on a clear day, you can admire<br />

views all the way to the Dead Sea. Head to<br />

Jerash, one of the best-preserved Greco-<br />

Roman cities in the world. Once a hub for<br />

spice traders, today you can walk around its<br />

striking colonnades, crumbling archways, <strong>and</strong><br />

pavements permanently grooved by years of<br />

chariot traffic. You’ll have the afternoon to<br />

explore <strong>and</strong> linger as you please.<br />

Intercontinental Amman | Meals: B D<br />

DAY 3: Amman<br />

Today, Design your Day SM – giving<br />

you the freedom to choose the experience<br />

that is best suited to you. Select from the<br />

following options:<br />

OPTION 1: Get acquainted with Amman<br />

Visit Amman’s ancient citadel to view the<br />

monumental Temple of Hercules <strong>and</strong> the<br />

Umayyad Palace. Then head to the Royal<br />

Automobile Museum to see classic cars from<br />

American cruisers to regal Rolls-Royces.<br />

OPTION 2: Visit the Iraq Al-Amir Women<br />

Cooperative Society<br />

Take a look at the work of this local<br />

42 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


NORTH AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST<br />

JORDAN<br />

cooperative aimed at developing craftwork by<br />

women in the surrounding villages. Visit both<br />

the fabric <strong>and</strong> paper workshop showcasing<br />

artisanal designs.<br />

This afternoon, take the opportunity to duck<br />

into the Jordan Museum to see the Ain Ghazal<br />

statues, which date from 7250 BC.<br />

Intercontinental Amman | Meals: B<br />

DAY 4: Amman – Petra<br />

Take the scenic route to Petra, stopping at<br />

Mount Nebo, from where Moses glimpsed the<br />

Promised L<strong>and</strong>. From its summit you can<br />

gaze out over Jerusalem. Follow the crosscountry<br />

King’s Highway, forged by Old<br />

Testament kings (<strong>and</strong> everyone who came<br />

after). You’ll swoop through the Amman<br />

gorge to Madaba <strong>and</strong> see its Byzantine Mosaic<br />

Map, made from two million pieces of stone.<br />

Learn how to preserve ancient mosaics before<br />

heading to dramatic Shobak, a 12th-century<br />

Crusader castle, built to guard the King’s<br />

Highway. Continue to your hotel in Petra.<br />

Mövenpick Resort Petra | Meals: B<br />

DAY 5: Petra<br />

Despite Indiana Jones’s best efforts, nothing<br />

can quite prepare you for Petra, Jordan’s rock<br />

star l<strong>and</strong>mark. Sculpted into the mountain<br />

range, its huge carved temples <strong>and</strong> rose-hued<br />

s<strong>and</strong>stone beguile even the most discerning<br />

travellers. With over 2,000 years of history,<br />

you can view Nabataean masonry at its finest.<br />

There are over 1,000 tombs, so boot up<br />

to stroll around treasured sites such as<br />

the colonnaded Temple of Winged Lions,<br />

the Corinthian Tomb, the Palace Tomb, <strong>and</strong><br />

the magnificent Treasury. You’ll also have the<br />

chance to investigate original baths, markets,<br />

<strong>and</strong> storerooms.<br />

Mövenpick Resort Petra | Meals: B L<br />

DAY 6: Petra<br />

Today, Design your Day SM – giving<br />

you the freedom to choose the experience<br />

that is best suited to you. Select from the<br />

following options:<br />

OPTION 1: Explore Petra<br />

Return to the Lost City <strong>and</strong> continue<br />

surveying its network of tombs. This time you<br />

might choose to walk the Siq, the near milelong<br />

passageway leading to the Treasury.<br />

OPTION 2: Experience Little Petra<br />

See Siq al-Barid, smaller but no less beautiful<br />

than Petra. It’s mercifully overlooked by<br />

tourists, so you can enjoy its cooling cave<br />

dwellings <strong>and</strong> h<strong>and</strong>-painted frescoes in peace.<br />

Mövenpick Resort Petra | Meals: B<br />

DAY 7: Petra – Dead Sea<br />

Channel Lawrence of Arabia on a 4x4 journey<br />

across the Wadi Rum. You’ll get your kicks<br />

KEY HIGHLIGHTS<br />

››<br />

Explore the Greco-<br />

Roman city of Jerash<br />

››<br />

See Petra’s ancient<br />

rose-red temples<br />

››<br />

Trailblaze the Wadi Rum<br />

desert in a 4x4<br />

››<br />

Sip an elegant sundowner<br />

by the Dead Sea<br />

INCLUSIONS<br />

33<br />

Design your Day SM on Days 3 & 6<br />

33<br />

Five-star luxury accommodation<br />

33<br />

Resident tour director &<br />

English-speaking expert<br />

local guides<br />

33<br />

Airport meet & greet<br />

& return private transfers<br />

33<br />

Entrance fees, taxes & tips,<br />

& excursions as stated<br />

33<br />

Welcome & farewell dinners<br />

33<br />

8 breakfasts, 2 lunches<br />

& 2 dinners<br />

33<br />

Wifi in accommodation<br />

33<br />

Scenic sundowner<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 43


DESIGN YOUR DAY SM<br />

Design your Day SM experiences<br />

have been organised into themes<br />

to help you easily identify the<br />

option that suits you. See Days<br />

3 & 6 for further details<br />

ARTS & CULTURE<br />

DAY 3: Get acquainted with Amman<br />

DAY 3: Visit the Iraq Al-Amir Women<br />

Cooperative Society<br />

DAY 6: Experience Little Petra<br />

careering through rippled desert, speckled<br />

with Bedouin Camps during World War I.<br />

These still exist today <strong>and</strong> you can pause for<br />

lunch under canvas. Continue to the shores of<br />

the Dead Sea, the lowest l<strong>and</strong> on Earth, <strong>and</strong><br />

check into your shoreside resort. Spend the<br />

rest of the afternoon hypnotised by the pale<br />

blue waters, best enjoyed with an icy cocktail.<br />

Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa | Meals: B L<br />

DAY 8: Dead Sea<br />

Set off for ‘Bethany Beyond the Jordan’, said<br />

to be the site where Jesus was baptised by<br />

John the Baptist. Its religious importance<br />

has earned it UNESCO accreditation. After<br />

spending time here, return to your hotel<br />

then cool off in the Dead Sea, a swimming<br />

experience of a different sort. Despite its<br />

name, the Dead Sea has long attracted<br />

travellers who believe in its rejuvenating<br />

qualities. Join them to bob across the surface<br />

of its mineral-rich waters.<br />

Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa | Meals: B D<br />

DAY 9: Depart Amman<br />

It’s time to say ‘adieu’. This morning you’ll be<br />

taken to the airport so you can return home.<br />

Meals: B<br />

DATES & PRICING<br />

ACTIVE<br />

DAY 6: Explore Petra<br />

PRE & POST-TOUR<br />

EXTENSIONS<br />

Dead Sea post-tour extension –<br />

three days from £255pp<br />

Contact a specialist for more information<br />

about how to extend your escorted tour.<br />

GUARANTEED<br />

DEPARTURE DATES (<strong>2019</strong>)<br />

PRICE<br />

PER<br />

PERSON<br />

SEPTEMBER:<br />

6, 20 £2,295<br />

OCTOBER:<br />

11, 25 £2,295<br />

NOVEMBER:<br />

8 £2,295<br />

GUARANTEED<br />

DEPARTURE DATES (<strong>2020</strong>)<br />

PRICE<br />

PER<br />

PERSON<br />

FEBRUARY:<br />

7, 21 £2,420<br />

MARCH:<br />

6, 20 £2,420<br />

APRIL:<br />

10, 24 £2,420<br />

MAY:<br />

8 £2,295<br />

TRAVELLING SOLO?<br />

Book early <strong>and</strong> the first four solo places won’t pay any<br />

single supplement. The same journey, the same luxury,<br />

guaranteed at the same price.<br />

FLIGHTS<br />

To provide you with flexibility <strong>and</strong> the latest flight offers,<br />

we don’t include international flights. Our specialists<br />

will be able to find the best travel options to suit you.<br />

TAILOR-MADE TRAVEL WITH A&K<br />

Ask us about how to customise<br />

this itinerary to create the perfect<br />

bespoke holiday, just for you.<br />

44 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


YOUR LUXURY<br />

ACCOMMODATION<br />

Intercontinental Amman<br />

Contemporary outpost in an ancient<br />

setting, atop one of the city’s seven hills<br />

NORTH AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST<br />

JORDAN<br />

Mövenpick Resort Petra<br />

Modern luxury meets<br />

the ancient Middle East<br />

Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa<br />

Glamorous resort with<br />

stunning sea vistas<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 45


IMMERSIVE<br />

JOURNEYS<br />

Splendours of Oman:<br />

City, Mountain & Desert<br />

8 days/7 nights | From £2,865 per person | Maximum 18 guests<br />

Explore Oman’s every aspect from the coastal capital Muscat, to the mountains<br />

of Jebel Akhdar, through to the desert area of Sharqiya S<strong>and</strong>s.<br />

Herein lies culture, nature, <strong>and</strong> relaxation<br />

UNITED ARAB<br />

EMIRATES<br />

ARRIVE/DEPART<br />

ROAD<br />

Jebel Akhdar<br />

Muscat<br />

Sharqiya S<strong>and</strong>s<br />

OMAN<br />

Salalah<br />

DAY 1: Arrive Muscat, Oman<br />

Arrive in Muscat, where you are met <strong>and</strong><br />

transferred to your hotel. Tonight, join your<br />

fellow travellers for a welcome dinner.<br />

Gr<strong>and</strong> Hyatt Muscat | Meals: D<br />

DAY 2: Muscat<br />

Muscat is a unique city where modern<br />

commerce co-exists with traditional culture.<br />

Today explore the Sultan Qaboos Gr<strong>and</strong><br />

Mosque <strong>and</strong> the National Museum in a brief<br />

introduction to Oman’s fascinating history.<br />

After visiting the Fish Market <strong>and</strong> colourful<br />

Muttrah Souk, take your photo at the<br />

magnificent Al Alam Palace, official residence<br />

of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos <strong>and</strong> flanked<br />

by the 16th-century Portuguese forts Mirani<br />

<strong>and</strong> Jalali. Spend the afternoon at leisure<br />

discussing Muscat’s marvels.<br />

Gr<strong>and</strong> Hyatt Muscat | Meals: B<br />

DAY 3: Muscat<br />

Today, Design your Day SM – giving<br />

you the freedom to choose the experience<br />

that is best suited to you. Select from the<br />

following options:<br />

OPTION 1: Backstage at the opera<br />

Choose to visit the Royal Opera House Muscat<br />

46 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


NORTH AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST<br />

OMAN<br />

– a fusion of Omani tradition <strong>and</strong> modernity.<br />

Culture is high on the Sultan’s agenda – take<br />

your chance to indulge with a backstage tour.<br />

OPTION 2: Omani cooking masterclass<br />

Choose the best catch of the day with your<br />

chef at Muttrah Fish Market <strong>and</strong> sample spices<br />

at Muttrah Souk. Cook up your Omani-style<br />

dish, then savour the flavours at lunch.<br />

Gr<strong>and</strong> Hyatt Muscat | Meals: B<br />

DAY 4: Muscat – Jebel Akhdar<br />

Leave Muscat by 4x4 to see Barka’s fish market<br />

<strong>and</strong> souk, before passing the Batinah Plain<br />

<strong>and</strong> on to Nakhal <strong>and</strong> its fort. Turn off to Wadi<br />

Bani Auf to see the sedimentary mountains<br />

<strong>and</strong> canyon. Stop at Bilad Sayt – one of Oman’s<br />

quaintest villages – <strong>and</strong> explore its streets on<br />

foot. The patchwork of terrace farming <strong>and</strong><br />

traditional houses laid out against the rocky<br />

slopes is breathtaking. Follow the mountain<br />

roads from here to Al Hamra <strong>and</strong> its mud<br />

houses <strong>and</strong> date plantations, before arriving at<br />

the resort of Alila Jabal Akhdar.<br />

Alila Jabal Akhdar | Meals: B D<br />

DAY 5: Jebel Akhdar<br />

This day is all about experiencing the best of<br />

the region with a visit to the necropolis of<br />

Al-Ayn, <strong>and</strong> the picturesque ab<strong>and</strong>oned<br />

village of Wadi Bani Habib. From here, you<br />

can gaze across spectacular scenery of terraced<br />

farms <strong>and</strong> valleys, <strong>and</strong> follow trails around<br />

the wadi or farml<strong>and</strong>s, through the ancient<br />

walnut trees <strong>and</strong> fragrant pomegranate<br />

bushes. If you need some R’n’R, you might<br />

prefer to spend time at the wonderful hotel<br />

soaking up the views, meals, <strong>and</strong> relaxing<br />

spa. The choice is yours.<br />

Alila Jabal Akhdar | Meals: B D<br />

DAY 6: Jebel Akhdar – Sharqiya<br />

S<strong>and</strong>s<br />

Today you’ll visit Nizwa, capital of the<br />

interior <strong>and</strong> the birthplace of Islam in<br />

the Sultanate of Oman. Discover Nizwa’s<br />

famous Round Tower Fort, built in the 17th<br />

century, <strong>and</strong> its souk. Renowned for its cattle<br />

auction, h<strong>and</strong>-carved khanjars (daggers), <strong>and</strong><br />

ornamental silver jewellery, be prepared to<br />

be wowed. Relax at Wadi Bani Khalid with<br />

its deep blue pools fringed by palms. Head to<br />

Sharqiya S<strong>and</strong>s, <strong>and</strong> see a variety of flora <strong>and</strong><br />

fauna. Practice your photography skills on<br />

the patterns of the dunes, then check in at<br />

Desert Nights Camp for sunset.<br />

Desert Nights Camp | Meals: B D<br />

DAY 7: Sharqiya S<strong>and</strong>s - Muscat<br />

Take time this morning to enjoy camp<br />

activities such as camel riding or quad biking<br />

(additional cost to be paid at the resort).<br />

Then see how traditional dhows (sailboats)<br />

were made in the fishing town of Sur when<br />

you visit the dhow factory. Relax on Fins<br />

Beach or discover the pearl-white villages<br />

KEY HIGHLIGHTS<br />

››<br />

Spend a night under the<br />

stars in a desert camp<br />

››<br />

Watch traditional dhow<br />

building in Sur<br />

››<br />

Spend two nights at the<br />

celebrated Alila Jabal<br />

Akhdar hotel<br />

››<br />

Visit the Gr<strong>and</strong> Mosque<br />

<strong>and</strong> National Museum<br />

in Muscat<br />

››<br />

Marvel at the changing<br />

colours of Sharqiya<br />

S<strong>and</strong>s<br />

INCLUSIONS<br />

33<br />

Design your Day SM on Day 3<br />

33<br />

Five-star luxury accommodation<br />

33<br />

Resident tour director &<br />

English-speaking expert<br />

local guides<br />

33<br />

Airport meet & greet<br />

& return private transfers<br />

33<br />

Entrance fees, taxes & tips,<br />

& excursions as stated<br />

33<br />

Welcome & farewell dinners<br />

33<br />

7 breakfasts, 1 lunch<br />

& 5 dinners<br />

33<br />

Scenic sundowner<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 47


DESIGN YOUR DAY SM<br />

Design your Day SM experiences<br />

have been organised into themes<br />

to help you easily identify the<br />

option that suits you. See Day 3<br />

for further details<br />

of Wadi Tiwi, before visiting the mysterious<br />

Bimmah Sinkhole where you can enjoy a<br />

picnic lunch. Return to Muscat, where tonight<br />

you’ll join together for a farewell dinner.<br />

Gr<strong>and</strong> Hyatt Muscat | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 8: Depart Muscat<br />

Say goodbye to magical Muscat as you transfer<br />

to the city’s stylish new airport.<br />

Meals: B<br />

DATES & PRICING<br />

CULINARY DELIGHTS<br />

DAY 3: Omani cooking masterclass<br />

GUARANTEED<br />

DEPARTURE DATES (<strong>2019</strong>)<br />

PRICE<br />

PER<br />

PERSON<br />

SEPTEMBER:<br />

22 £2,865<br />

OCTOBER:<br />

6, 20 £2,995<br />

GUARANTEED<br />

DEPARTURE DATES (<strong>2020</strong>)<br />

PRICE<br />

PER<br />

PERSON<br />

FEBRUARY:<br />

9 £2,995<br />

MARCH:<br />

1, 15 £2,995<br />

APRIL:<br />

19 £2,995<br />

TRAVELLING SOLO?<br />

Book early <strong>and</strong> the first four solo places won’t pay<br />

any single supplement. The same journey, the same<br />

luxury, guaranteed at the same price.<br />

ARTS & CULTURE<br />

DAY 3: Backstage at the opera<br />

FLIGHTS<br />

To provide you with flexibility <strong>and</strong> the latest flight<br />

offers, we don’t include international flights. Our<br />

specialists will be able to find the best travel options<br />

to suit you.<br />

PRE & POST-TOUR<br />

EXTENSIONS<br />

Muscat pre-tour extension –<br />

two days from £400pp<br />

Salalah post-tour extension –<br />

three days from £375pp<br />

Contact a specialist for more information<br />

about how to extend your escorted tour.<br />

TAILOR-MADE TRAVEL WITH A&K<br />

Ask us about how to customise<br />

this itinerary to create the perfect<br />

bespoke holiday, just for you.<br />

48 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


YOUR LUXURY<br />

ACCOMMODATION<br />

Gr<strong>and</strong> Hyatt Muscat<br />

One of the most luxurious <strong>and</strong> opulent<br />

Arabian-style hotels in the capital<br />

NORTH AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST<br />

OMAN<br />

Alila Jabal Akhdar<br />

Outst<strong>and</strong>ing location, amazing views,<br />

<strong>and</strong> luxury beyond your wildest dreams<br />

Desert Nights Camp<br />

Experience ultimate desert adventure<br />

in Bedouin-style tents under the stars<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 49


IMMERSIVE<br />

JOURNEYS<br />

The Delights of Morocco<br />

11 days/10 nights | From £2,995 per person | Maximum 18 guests<br />

Ideal for travellers eager to experience Morocco’s many highlights. Featuring<br />

cosmopolitan Casablanca, the imperial city of Fes, the windswept s<strong>and</strong> dunes of the Erg<br />

Chebbi, cinematic Ouarzazate, <strong>and</strong> cultural Marrakech<br />

Casablanca<br />

Marrakech<br />

Ouarzazate<br />

MOROCCO<br />

ARRIVE/DEPART<br />

ROAD<br />

Volubilis<br />

Fes<br />

Erfoud<br />

Merzouga<br />

DAY 1: Arrive Casablanca, Morocco<br />

Arrive in the cosmopolitan port city of<br />

Casablanca where an A&K driver will take<br />

you to your hotel. After checking in, you have<br />

the rest of the day to explore on your own.<br />

Conjure romantic images of Bergman <strong>and</strong><br />

Bogart while strolling past Art Deco buildings,<br />

or enjoy lunch at one of the waterfront<br />

restaurants. Why not explore the city’s café<br />

society <strong>and</strong> watch the world go by, or head<br />

to the local market for the scents of fresh<br />

oranges, peaches, <strong>and</strong> herbs?<br />

Le Casablanca Hotel<br />

DAY 2: Casablanca – Fes<br />

Wake up early to visit the Hassan II Mosque,<br />

the largest mosque in Morocco with the<br />

tallest minaret in the world. It’s also one<br />

of the most visually striking with pale blue<br />

marble, elaborate ch<strong>and</strong>eliers, <strong>and</strong> glass<br />

floors where worshippers can pray above the<br />

Atlantic sea. Amble around the palm studded<br />

Mohammed V Square <strong>and</strong> the leafy Quartier<br />

Habous district, where you’ll see the city’s<br />

French influence. Then set off to Fez. En route,<br />

you’ll take a pit stop at the capital city, Rabat,<br />

for a look around its majestic Hassan tower<br />

before continuing to your hotel.<br />

Palais Amani | Meals: B D<br />

DAY 3: Fes<br />

It’s time to explore Morocco’s cultural capital,<br />

a medieval city steeped in tradition. Walk<br />

around its labyrinthian alleyways, riads, <strong>and</strong><br />

century-old souks. Visit the 9th-century<br />

Al Quaraouiyine, the oldest university in the<br />

50 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


of Erfoud, you may find 400 million-yearold<br />

sharks’ teeth <strong>and</strong> ammonite fossils from<br />

Morocco’s underwater past. A 4x4 will take<br />

you through the Erg Chebbi’s rolling s<strong>and</strong><br />

dunes to your tented camp. Take in the sunset<br />

on a camelback ride <strong>and</strong> then tuck into<br />

dinner around the campfire.<br />

Merzouga Luxury Camp | Meals: B L D<br />

NORTH AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST MOROCCO<br />

world, <strong>and</strong> Al-Attarine, a splendid madrasa<br />

patterned with mosaics. For centuries Fes<br />

has been an artisanal hub. Experience this at<br />

the leather tanneries <strong>and</strong> also at the ceramics<br />

factory where you can see how zellij tiles are<br />

made. Next stop the Dar Batha Museum, filled<br />

with Moroccan arts, <strong>and</strong> finally Nejjarine<br />

Square, with the city’s best tiled fountain.<br />

Palais Amani | Meals: B<br />

DAY 4: Volubilis & Meknes<br />

Take a trip to the excavation of Volubilis,<br />

once a 3rd-century Roman outpost that grew<br />

rich by trading olives. Today you can still<br />

see gr<strong>and</strong>eur in the crumbling temples, a<br />

triumphal arch, <strong>and</strong> vast mosaic floors. Then<br />

on to the imperial city of Meknes, quieter<br />

than Fes but no less intriguing. It was the<br />

home of the Moroccan sultanate whose large<br />

fortifications, royal stables (sheltering 12,000<br />

horses), <strong>and</strong> the magnificent Bab Mansour<br />

gateway have remained untouched since the<br />

11 th century. Head back to Fes for the night.<br />

Palais Amani | Meals: B<br />

DAY 5: Fes – Erg Chebbi<br />

It’s an eight-hour drive from Fes to Erfoud, but<br />

the journey offers spectacular vistas. Traverse<br />

the vast Atlas Mountains where you’ll come<br />

across Tafilalt, a huge oasis known for its<br />

savoury dates <strong>and</strong> miles of palm groves. In<br />

the Sahara, which skirts the fortified village<br />

DAY 6: Erg Chebbi – Ouarzazate<br />

Travel west to the city of Ouarzazate stopping<br />

for a snapshot of the Todra Gorges, a series<br />

of rust-coloured river canyons. En route, pop<br />

into a private museum for a peek into kasbah<br />

culture. After five hours or so you’ll reach<br />

Ouarzazate, the gateway to the Sahara Desert<br />

<strong>and</strong> the setting for many a Hollywood movie.<br />

After the journey, you’ll be ready for some<br />

downtime by the pool with a fresh mint tea.<br />

Berbère Palace | Meals: B D<br />

DAY 7: Ouarzazate<br />

Today you can visit Taourirt Kasbah, one of<br />

the most impressive kasbahs around, with<br />

crenellated towers <strong>and</strong> a maze of chambers.<br />

The seat of the powerful Glaoui family in<br />

the 19 th century, you can still see traces of<br />

delicate stucco décor <strong>and</strong> painted cedar<br />

ceilings. Continue to Morocco’s most iconic<br />

l<strong>and</strong>mark, Aït Benhaddou, a fortified site<br />

unchanged since the 11 th century. It’s one of<br />

the best-preserved ksars – a group of earthen<br />

buildings surrounded by high walls – <strong>and</strong> the<br />

most cinematic. You may recognise its clay<br />

architecture from films such as Gladiator <strong>and</strong><br />

Lawrence of Arabia.<br />

Berbère Palace | Meals: B D<br />

DAY 8: Ouarzazate – Marrakech<br />

Drive back through the Atlas Mountains<br />

towards Marrakech. Take a photo stop at the<br />

Tizi n’Tichka Pass, the journey’s highest point<br />

at 2,260 metres. After taking in views over<br />

the Marrakech plains, weave down through<br />

red-hued Berber villages <strong>and</strong> eucalyptus trees<br />

all the way to your hotel. Hungry? Make sure<br />

to order a chwaya (grilled meat tagine),<br />

a local speciality.<br />

Les Jardins de la Medina | Meals: B<br />

DAY 9: Marrakech<br />

Explore the maze-like medina <strong>and</strong> its myriad<br />

souks bursting with Berber carpets, colourful<br />

spices, brass trinkets, <strong>and</strong> leather goods.<br />

Lose yourself in the buzzing Jemaa el-Fna,<br />

KEY HIGHLIGHTS<br />

››<br />

Visit Morocco’s great<br />

imperial cities, Fes,<br />

Meknes, <strong>and</strong> Marrakech<br />

››<br />

Explore the Roman ruins<br />

of Volubilis<br />

››<br />

Enjoy a night under the<br />

stars in a desert camp<br />

››<br />

Spend three nights in<br />

whimsical Marrakech<br />

››<br />

Rest your head in<br />

boutique hotels<br />

INCLUSIONS<br />

33<br />

Design your Day SM on Day 10<br />

33<br />

Five-star luxury accommodation<br />

33<br />

Resident tour director &<br />

English-speaking expert<br />

local guides<br />

33<br />

Airport meet & greet<br />

& return private transfers<br />

33<br />

Entrance fees, taxes & tips,<br />

& excursions as stated<br />

33<br />

Welcome & farewell dinners<br />

33<br />

10 breakfasts, 1 lunch<br />

& 4 dinners<br />

33<br />

Scenic sundowner<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 51


DESIGN YOUR DAY SM<br />

Design your Day SM experiences<br />

have been organised into themes<br />

to help you easily identify the<br />

option that suits you. See Day 10<br />

for further details<br />

ARTS & CULTURE<br />

DAY 10: Visit the Yves Saint Laurent Museum<br />

DAY 10: W<strong>and</strong>er Marrakech’s gardens<br />

a cacophony of orange juice stalls, fire-eaters,<br />

<strong>and</strong> snake charmers at every turn. Pause by<br />

the Koutoubia Mosque. Its emblematic red<br />

stone minaret rises to 77 metres, inspiring<br />

others of its kind, including the Giralda of<br />

Seville. Then visit the 19th-century Bahia<br />

Palace, which took 15 years to build, noted for<br />

its marble, stucco, <strong>and</strong> mosaic structures.<br />

Les Jardins de la Medina | Meals: B<br />

DAY 10: Marrakech<br />

Today, Design your Day SM – giving<br />

you the freedom to choose the experience<br />

that is best suited to you. Select from the<br />

following options:<br />

OPTION 1: Visit the Yves Saint Laurent Museum<br />

Visit this 13,000-square-metre building<br />

dedicated to the Yves Saint Laurent fashion<br />

house. Peruse more than 5,000 dresses<br />

<strong>and</strong> 15,000 haute couture accessories amid<br />

architecture inspired by the dazzling colours<br />

of Marrakech.<br />

OPTION 2: W<strong>and</strong>er Marrakech’s gardens<br />

Take a horse-drawn carriage to the Menara<br />

Gardens, set among orchards <strong>and</strong> olive<br />

groves. Then on to Jardins Majorelle, designed<br />

by painter Jacques Majorelle, <strong>and</strong> filled<br />

with cacti.<br />

You have the rest of the afternoon to explore<br />

<strong>and</strong> shop as you please.<br />

Les Jardins de la Medina | Meals: B<br />

DAY 11: Depart Marrakech<br />

After breakfast, you’ll be driven to the airport<br />

from where you’ll depart.<br />

Meals: B<br />

TAILOR-MADE TRAVEL WITH A&K<br />

Ask us about how to customise<br />

this itinerary to create the perfect<br />

bespoke holiday, just for you.<br />

DATES & PRICING<br />

GUARANTEED<br />

DEPARTURE DATES (<strong>2019</strong>)<br />

TRAVELLING SOLO?<br />

Book early <strong>and</strong> the first four solo places won’t<br />

pay any single supplement. The same journey, the<br />

same luxury, guaranteed at the same price.<br />

FLIGHTS<br />

To provide you with flexibility <strong>and</strong> the latest flight<br />

offers, we don’t include international flights.<br />

Our specialists will be able to find the best travel<br />

options to suit you.<br />

PRE & POST-TOUR<br />

EXTENSIONS<br />

PRICE<br />

PER<br />

PERSON<br />

SEPTEMBER:<br />

9 £2,995<br />

OCTOBER:<br />

7, 21 £2,995<br />

GUARANTEED<br />

DEPARTURE DATES (<strong>2020</strong>)<br />

PRICE<br />

PER<br />

PERSON<br />

MARCH:<br />

9 £3,240<br />

APRIL:<br />

6, 20 £3,240<br />

MAY:<br />

4 £3,240<br />

Marrakech post-tour extension<br />

– three days from £255pp<br />

Contact a specialist for more information<br />

about how to extend your escorted tour.<br />

52 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


YOUR LUXURY<br />

ACCOMMODATION<br />

NORTH AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST<br />

MOROCCO<br />

Le Casablanca Hotel<br />

Art Deco retreat in the heart of the city<br />

Palais Amani<br />

Palatial riad in Fes with 1920s-style flair<br />

Merzouga Luxury Camp<br />

Splendid tented camp among s<strong>and</strong> dunes<br />

Berbère Palace<br />

Oasis-like hotel built as a<br />

kasbah in Ouarzazate<br />

Les Jardins de la Medina<br />

Charming riad amid orange trees<br />

<strong>and</strong> jacar<strong>and</strong>as in Marrakech<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 53


IMMERSIVE<br />

JOURNEYS<br />

Quintessential Sicily<br />

10 days/9 nights | From £2,995 per person | Maximum 18 guests<br />

This itinerary is perfect for those fascinated by Sicily’s historic wonders <strong>and</strong><br />

classic Italian beauty. See baroque churches, seaside towns, <strong>and</strong> ancient<br />

temples from Syracuse to Taormina, guided by savvy local experts<br />

Palermo<br />

ARRIVE/DEPART<br />

ROAD<br />

SICILY<br />

Agrigento<br />

Ragusa<br />

Taormina<br />

Catania<br />

Syracuse<br />

Ortygia<br />

Noto<br />

DAY 1: Arrive Catania, Sicily<br />

Arrive at Catania’s airport <strong>and</strong> you will be<br />

transfered to your hotel in sun-drenched<br />

Syracuse. Nearly 3,000 years old, the city<br />

played its part as a powerful stronghold in the<br />

Mediterranean during ancient times. It was<br />

the birthplace of Archimedes <strong>and</strong> frequented<br />

by Plato. Cicero called it “the greatest Greek<br />

city <strong>and</strong> the most beautiful of all”. Spend<br />

the rest of the afternoon strolling around its<br />

golden piazzas <strong>and</strong> baroque buildings. Then<br />

head for dinner at a local restaurant for your<br />

first taste of no-nonsense Sicilian cooking.<br />

Hotel Ortea Palace | Meals: D<br />

DAY 2: Ortygia<br />

The white isl<strong>and</strong> of Ortygia is Syracuse’s<br />

historical centre, lapped by the sparkling<br />

Ionian Sea. Images of ancient Greece <strong>and</strong><br />

its deities (Artemis was supposedly born<br />

here) are conjured as you navigate medieval<br />

lanes, temples, <strong>and</strong> striking duomos. Stop at<br />

Chiesa di Santa Lucia alla Badia to see Sicily’s<br />

famed Caravaggio masterpiece, The Burial<br />

of Saint Lucy. Then visit a Greek theatre <strong>and</strong><br />

an impressive Roman amphitheatre. If you<br />

wish, there is also time to enjoy the Paolo Orsi<br />

Archaeological Museum with its displays of<br />

Neolithic pottery <strong>and</strong> Greek statues.<br />

Hotel Ortea Palace | Meals: B<br />

DAY 3: Noto & Ragusa<br />

Surviving an earthquake in the last gasp<br />

of the 17th century, the historic towns of<br />

Sicily’s south-eastern corner made a glorious<br />

recovery. Take the day to explore honey-<br />

54 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


EUROPE<br />

ITALY<br />

coloured buildings <strong>and</strong> graceful churches<br />

flanked by picture-perfect Italian seaside.<br />

Noto’s Baroque cathedral is especially<br />

splendid, while Ragusa’s treasures are to be<br />

found on a rocky hilltop. The views you get<br />

from its tangled alleyways are worth the<br />

steep climb. The region is known for great<br />

food: homemade gnocchi; fresh swordfish<br />

from Michelin-starred restaurants; <strong>and</strong><br />

family-run trattorias. The area is also<br />

celebrated for artisanal chocolate.<br />

Hotel Ortea Palace | Meals: B<br />

DAY 4: Syracuse – Agrigento<br />

Set off to Agrigento to explore the Valley<br />

of the Temples, built by ancient Greeks <strong>and</strong><br />

now Sicily’s most prized archaeological site.<br />

W<strong>and</strong>er around Doric temples dating back<br />

to the 5th century <strong>and</strong> dedicated to deities<br />

including Hercules <strong>and</strong> Juno. You’ll me<strong>and</strong>er<br />

among 1,000-year-old olive trees <strong>and</strong> ponder<br />

Greek kingdoms before heading to your hotel,<br />

a stone’s throw from the park.<br />

Hotel Villa Athena | Meals: B D<br />

DAY 5: Palermo<br />

Head to seaside city Palermo, a couple of<br />

hours’ drive away. Stop en route at Monreale<br />

Cathedral, a place of intoxicating beauty. It’s a<br />

stupendous example of Norman architecture<br />

where you can investigate 12th-century<br />

gold leaf mosaics, palm dotted grounds, <strong>and</strong><br />

colonnaded cloisters. Continue to your hotel<br />

in Palermo <strong>and</strong> check-in. Feeling peckish?<br />

Grab some arancini at the food market <strong>and</strong><br />

settle down to enjoy it in one of Palermo’s<br />

beautiful squares.<br />

Gr<strong>and</strong> Hotel Villa Igiea | Meals: B<br />

DAY 6: Palermo<br />

Take the morning to enjoy a sweep of the<br />

city’s finest churches. As captivating as it is<br />

romantic, much of Palermo’s history can<br />

be seen on foot. First stop the cathedral, to<br />

admire its white marble shell <strong>and</strong> panoramic<br />

rooftop views. Walk to old Palermo’s Quattro<br />

Canti where you can visit the pared-back<br />

church of San Cataldo with its three red<br />

domes. Then pop into the Palatine Chapel,<br />

small but dazzling – yet another Norman<br />

triumph. You can sooth any aching muscles<br />

with a massage back at your hotel.<br />

Gr<strong>and</strong> Hotel Villa Igiea | Meals: B<br />

DAY 7: Palermo<br />

Today, Design your Day SM – giving<br />

you the freedom to choose the experience<br />

that is best suited to you. Select from the<br />

following options:<br />

OPTION 1: A day at the opera<br />

Step inside Palermo’s romantic Teatro<br />

Massimo, the largest opera house in Italy.<br />

It featured in the film The Godfather III, a<br />

testament to its dramatic appearance.<br />

KEY HIGHLIGHTS<br />

››<br />

Explore the ancient<br />

Greek city Ortygia<br />

››<br />

See temples dedicated to<br />

gods in Agrigento<br />

››<br />

Visit the honey-gold,<br />

model Baroque towns<br />

of Noto <strong>and</strong> Ragusa<br />

››<br />

Admire gold-leaf mosaics<br />

at Monreale Cathedral<br />

››<br />

Rest your head in<br />

picturesque Taormina<br />

INCLUSIONS<br />

33<br />

Design your Day SM on Day 7<br />

33<br />

Five-star luxury accommodation<br />

33<br />

Resident tour director &<br />

English-speaking expert<br />

local guides<br />

33<br />

Airport meet & greet<br />

& return private transfers<br />

33<br />

Entrance fees, taxes & tips,<br />

& excursions as stated<br />

33<br />

Welcome & farewell dinners<br />

33<br />

9 breakfasts & 4 dinners<br />

33<br />

Wifi in accommodation<br />

33<br />

Scenic sundowner<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 55


DESIGN YOUR DAY SM<br />

Design your Day SM experiences<br />

have been organised into themes<br />

to help you easily identify the<br />

option that suits you. See<br />

Day 7 for further details<br />

CULINARY DELIGHTS<br />

DAY 7: Sample some street eats<br />

ARTS & CULTURE<br />

DAY 7: A day at the opera<br />

OPTION 2: Sample some street eats<br />

Hit the food market to try local delicacies<br />

such as panelle (chickpea fritters) <strong>and</strong> gelato<br />

con brioche, the ultimate sweet treat. Those<br />

feeling adventurous should nibble on pani ca<br />

meusa (spleen s<strong>and</strong>wiches).<br />

Gr<strong>and</strong> Hotel Villa Igiea | Meals: B<br />

DAY 8: Palermo – Taormina<br />

It’s an early start to get to Taormina. Along<br />

the way, you’ll stop at the rural town of Piazza<br />

Armerina to take a look at Villa Romana<br />

del Casale, once a luxurious Roman abode.<br />

Observe its exquisite mosaics depicting<br />

mythological scenes before continuing to the<br />

hilltop town of Taormina. Arrive at your final<br />

hotel <strong>and</strong> drink in the sea views.<br />

Hotel NH Collection Taormina | Meals: B D<br />

DAY 9: Taormina<br />

Soak up la dolce vita at this outpost at the<br />

foot of Mount Etna. Over the years, Taormina<br />

has hosted famous faces from DH Lawrence,<br />

who lived here in the 1920s, to various rock<br />

stars. Who would blame them? It’s achingly<br />

beautiful with narrow streets, uninterrupted<br />

sea views, <strong>and</strong> an inspiring Greek theatre.<br />

Spend the day exploring at your own pace<br />

before a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.<br />

Hotel NH Collection Taormina | Meals: B D<br />

DAY 10: Depart Catania<br />

Today your driver will take you to the airport<br />

for your departure from Sicily.<br />

Meals: B<br />

TAILOR-MADE TRAVEL WITH A&K<br />

Ask us about how to customise<br />

this itinerary to create the perfect<br />

bespoke holiday, just for you.<br />

DATES & PRICING<br />

GUARANTEED<br />

DEPARTURE DATES (<strong>2019</strong>)<br />

PRICE<br />

PER<br />

PERSON<br />

SEPTEMBER:<br />

6, 20 £3,565<br />

OCTOBER:<br />

4, 18 £3,565<br />

NOVEMBER:<br />

8 £2,995<br />

GUARANTEED<br />

DEPARTURE DATES (<strong>2020</strong>)<br />

PRICE<br />

PER<br />

PERSON<br />

MARCH:<br />

6, 20 £2,995<br />

TRAVELLING SOLO?<br />

Book early <strong>and</strong> the first four solo places won’t pay<br />

any single supplement. The same journey, the same<br />

luxury, guaranteed at the same price.<br />

FLIGHTS<br />

To provide you with flexibility <strong>and</strong> the latest<br />

flight offers, we don’t include international flights.<br />

Our specialists will be able to find the best travel<br />

options to suit you.<br />

56 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


YOUR LUXURY<br />

ACCOMMODATION<br />

EUROPE<br />

ITALY<br />

Hotel Ortea Palace<br />

Ornate Italian hotel splendour<br />

built in the 1920s<br />

Hotel Villa Athena<br />

Classical residence overlooking the<br />

Valley of the Temples<br />

Gr<strong>and</strong> Hotel Villa Igiea<br />

Splendid sea-facing hotel in Palermo<br />

complete with Italian masterpieces<br />

Hotel NH Collection Taormina<br />

Contemporary hotel with<br />

wow-factor views<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 57


IMMERSIVE<br />

JOURNEYS<br />

The Treasures of Russia<br />

8 days/7 nights | From £2,675 per person | Maximum 18 guests<br />

The perfect itinerary for those wanting to explore the highlights of Russia’s two iconic<br />

cities, Moscow <strong>and</strong> St Petersburg. Featuring the country’s finest sights – diamond regalia,<br />

onion-domed cathedrals, <strong>and</strong> palatial museums<br />

ARRIVE/DEPART<br />

RAIL<br />

St Petersburg<br />

RUSSIA<br />

Moscow<br />

DAY 1: Arrive Moscow, Russia<br />

L<strong>and</strong> in Moscow <strong>and</strong> you will be taken to your<br />

hotel. After travelling, you can take advantage<br />

of the hotel’s M<strong>and</strong>ara Spa. For those eager<br />

to explore, downtown Moscow is on your<br />

doorstep. Walk down the 15th-century Arbat,<br />

one of the city’s oldest surviving streets.<br />

Or stroll to the monumental Red Square to<br />

catch your first glimpse of the Kremlin <strong>and</strong><br />

St Basil’s Cathedral. Hungry? Your hotel has<br />

a very good Italian restaurant headed by<br />

Michelin-star chef, Carlo Cracco.<br />

Lotte Hotel Moscow<br />

DAY 2: Moscow<br />

No trip to Moscow is complete without a<br />

visit to the Kremlin, the symbol of Russia’s<br />

political power. A 14th-century walled fort<br />

(its name literally means ‘fortress within<br />

a city’), the complex is as dazzling as it is<br />

thought-provoking. Comfortable shoes are<br />

imperative for walking past the miles of<br />

imperial costumes, thrones, <strong>and</strong> diamond<br />

regalia. You’ll visit the five-domed Assumption<br />

Cathedral, as well as the Annunciation <strong>and</strong><br />

Archangel churches. You will also have a<br />

chance to see the ceremonial parade of the<br />

Horse Guard. Tonight, join your fellow<br />

travellers for a welcome dinner.<br />

Lotte Hotel Moscow | Meals: B D<br />

DAY 3: Moscow<br />

Spend the morning exploring the city’s<br />

l<strong>and</strong>marks. Start at Red Square, which<br />

conjures images of tsars <strong>and</strong> coronations.<br />

Then walk across to the oft-photographed<br />

58 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


EUROPE<br />

RUSSIA<br />

St Basil’s Cathedral with its multi-coloured<br />

domes, commissioned by Ivan the Terrible in<br />

the 16th century. Inside you’ll find it’s just as<br />

vivid with an array of brightly painted murals.<br />

Afterwards, take a ride on the Moscow Metro.<br />

Also known as the ‘Palaces of the People’, it’s<br />

probably the most ornate mode of transport<br />

you will ever encounter.<br />

Lotte Hotel Moscow | Meals: B<br />

DAY 4: Moscow – St Petersburg<br />

Today, Design your Day SM – giving<br />

you the freedom to choose the experience<br />

that is best suited to you. Select from the<br />

following options:<br />

OPTION 1: Go to the GARAGE<br />

Visit Russia’s leading contemporary art<br />

museum. Revamped by Roman Abramovich<br />

<strong>and</strong> Dasha Zhukova, the nearly 20,000-squaremetre<br />

structure hosts exhibitions, events, <strong>and</strong><br />

opportunities for public dialogue.<br />

OPTION 2: Visit Novodevichy Convent<br />

Head to the tranquil Novodevichy Convent,<br />

frequented by noblewomen in the 16th<br />

century. In its cemetery you will find the final<br />

resting places of Chekhov <strong>and</strong> Prokofiev.<br />

OPTION 3: Take in the Tretyakov Gallery<br />

Browse the world’s best collection of Russian<br />

fine art. This includes icons <strong>and</strong> works<br />

by artists such as Andrei Rublev, Wassily<br />

K<strong>and</strong>insky, <strong>and</strong> Kazimir Malevich.<br />

In the afternoon, take the high-speed train to<br />

St Petersburg, where you’ll be met <strong>and</strong> driven<br />

to your hotel. The city is known as the Venice<br />

of the North for its network of canals, so you<br />

may want to spend some of the afternoon<br />

walking alongside the waterways.<br />

Lotte Hotel St Petersburg | Meals: B<br />

DAY 5: St Petersburg<br />

Start your day at Peter <strong>and</strong> Paul Fortress,<br />

founded by Peter the Great in 1703. It was<br />

later used as a prison, incarcerating Gorky <strong>and</strong><br />

Trotsky among other left-wing figures. Also<br />

visit the onion-domed Church of the Saviour<br />

on Spilled Blood, built on the spot where<br />

Emperor Alex<strong>and</strong>er II was assassinated. The<br />

interior dazzles with 7,500 square metres of<br />

mosaics. Stop in at the Tsarskoye Selo, once an<br />

imperial retreat, also known as Pushkin, after<br />

Russia’s beloved writer who studied here. Take<br />

time to stroll around its Rococo Catherine<br />

Palace <strong>and</strong> immaculate gardens.<br />

Lotte Hotel St Petersburg | Meals: B<br />

DAY 6: St Petersburg<br />

Today, Design your Day SM – giving<br />

you the freedom to choose the experience<br />

that is best suited to you. Select from the<br />

following options:<br />

OPTION 1: See the hidden Hermitage<br />

Peek inside the Hermitage Museum’s vaults.<br />

While you will be visiting the museum<br />

tomorrow, today you have the opportunity<br />

KEY HIGHLIGHTS<br />

››<br />

View the Kremlin’s<br />

imperial glitz<br />

››<br />

Hop from Moscow to<br />

St Petersburg on a<br />

high-speed train<br />

››<br />

Take a ride on the<br />

palatial Moscow Metro<br />

››<br />

Discover enormous royal<br />

art collections in the<br />

Hermitage Museum<br />

››<br />

Stay in opulent hotels<br />

close to Russia’s famous<br />

l<strong>and</strong>marks<br />

INCLUSIONS<br />

33<br />

Design your Day SM on Days<br />

4 & 6<br />

33<br />

Five-star luxury accommodation<br />

33<br />

Resident tour director &<br />

English-speaking expert<br />

local guides<br />

33<br />

Airport meet & greet<br />

& return private transfers<br />

33<br />

Entrance fees, taxes & tips,<br />

& excursions as stated<br />

33<br />

Welcome & farewell dinners<br />

33<br />

7 breakfasts & 2 dinners<br />

33<br />

Wifi in accommodation<br />

33<br />

Scenic sundowner<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 59


DESIGN YOUR DAY SM<br />

Design your Day SM experiences<br />

have been organised into themes<br />

to help you easily identify the<br />

option that suits you. See Days<br />

4 & 6 for further details<br />

ARTS & CULTURE<br />

DAY 4: Go to the GARAGE<br />

DAY 4: Visit Novodevichy Convent<br />

DAY 4: Take in the Tretyakov Gallery<br />

DAY 6: See the hidden Hermitage<br />

DAY 6: See Russia’s greatest artworks<br />

ACTIVE<br />

DAY 6: Climb St Isaac’s Cathedral<br />

TAILOR-MADE TRAVEL WITH A&K<br />

Ask us about how to customise<br />

this itinerary to create the perfect<br />

bespoke holiday, just for you.<br />

to preview its antique frescoes <strong>and</strong> furniture,<br />

which are temporarily exhibited in a state-ofthe-art<br />

restoration facility.<br />

OPTION 2: Climb St Isaac’s Cathedral<br />

As well as lavish interiors, St Isaac’s Cathedral<br />

is renowned for its gleaming gold dome.<br />

Feeling sprightly? Walk up its 262 steps to<br />

the top for the best city views.<br />

OPTION 3: See Russia’s greatest artworks<br />

Visit the State Russian Museum, dedicated<br />

to preserving art from avant-garde works by<br />

Kazimir Malevich to paintings by the great<br />

Karl Bryullov.<br />

Lotte Hotel St Petersburg | Meals: B<br />

DAY 7: St Petersburg<br />

The second largest museum in the world, the<br />

State Hermitage Museum was commissioned<br />

by Catherine the Great in 1764 as a court<br />

museum, adjoining the Winter Palace. Today<br />

you can view some of the huge collection<br />

which includes works by da Vinci, Rembr<strong>and</strong>t,<br />

Rubens, Picasso, Monet, <strong>and</strong> Matisse. Not<br />

to mention the ostentatious Imperial rooms.<br />

Don’t miss the Ambassador’s Staircase, the<br />

Throne Room, <strong>and</strong> the Ballroom in particular.<br />

You have the afternoon to explore on your<br />

own before a celebratory dinner.<br />

Lotte Hotel St Petersburg | Meals: B D<br />

DAY 8: Depart St Petersburg<br />

Today you are driven to the airport from<br />

where you’ll depart for home.<br />

Meals: B<br />

DATES & PRICING<br />

GUARANTEED<br />

DEPARTURE DATES (<strong>2019</strong>)<br />

PRICE<br />

PER<br />

PERSON<br />

JUNE:<br />

14 £3,150<br />

JULY:<br />

19 £3,150<br />

AUGUST:<br />

16 £2,895<br />

SEPTEMBER:<br />

6, 20 £2,895<br />

OCTOBER:<br />

11 £2,675<br />

GUARANTEED<br />

DEPARTURE DATES (<strong>2020</strong>)<br />

PRICE<br />

PER<br />

PERSON<br />

MARCH:<br />

20 £2,675<br />

APRIL:<br />

10, 24 £2,675<br />

MAY:<br />

1 £2,675<br />

TRAVELLING SOLO?<br />

Book early <strong>and</strong> the first four solo places won’t pay any<br />

single supplement. The same journey, the same luxury,<br />

guaranteed at the same price.<br />

FLIGHTS<br />

To provide you with flexibility <strong>and</strong> the latest flight offers,<br />

we don’t include international flights. Our specialists<br />

will be able to find the best travel options to suit you.<br />

60 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


EUROPE<br />

RUSSIA<br />

YOUR LUXURY<br />

ACCOMMODATION<br />

Lotte Hotel Moscow<br />

Opulence in the heart of<br />

downtown Moscow<br />

Lotte Hotel St Petersburg<br />

Contemporary comfort<br />

in a historic mansion<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 61


Sc<strong>and</strong>inavia:<br />

Stockholm, Copenhagen & Oslo<br />

10 days/9 nights | From £7,995 per person | Maximum 18 guests<br />

Ideal for those drawn by the historic charm of northern Europe, this refined itinerary<br />

offers an enlightening tour of the pristine Sc<strong>and</strong>inavian capitals of<br />

Stockholm, Copenhagen, <strong>and</strong> Oslo<br />

LUXURY<br />

SMALL GROUP<br />

JOURNEYS<br />

KEY HIGHLIGHTS<br />

››<br />

Visit three lively<br />

Sc<strong>and</strong>inavian capitals, <strong>and</strong><br />

their most iconic hotels<br />

››<br />

Experience modern<br />

Norwegian cuisine at<br />

Oslo’s Mathallen Food Hall<br />

››<br />

Go to Sigtuna <strong>and</strong> tour<br />

Uppsala’s majestic Gothic<br />

cathedral<br />

››<br />

Travel first-class from<br />

Stockholm to Copenhagen,<br />

across the Øresund<br />

Bridge, by train<br />

››<br />

View authentic, excavated<br />

Norse longships in Oslo<br />

<strong>and</strong> Stockholm<br />

INCLUSIONS<br />

33<br />

Five-star luxury accommodation<br />

33<br />

Resident tour director &<br />

English-speaking expert<br />

local guides<br />

33<br />

Airport meet & greet<br />

& return private transfers<br />

33<br />

Entrance fees, taxes & tips,<br />

& excursions as stated<br />

33<br />

Welcome & farewell dinners<br />

33<br />

9 breakfasts, 5 lunches<br />

& 5 dinners<br />

33<br />

Wifi in accommodation<br />

33<br />

Scenic sundowner<br />

33<br />

Complimentary breakfast in bed<br />

on Days 5 & 7<br />

33<br />

Traveller’s Valet SM on Day 5<br />

Voss<br />

Bergen<br />

Gudvangen/Flåm<br />

NORWAY<br />

ARRIVE/DEPART<br />

ROAD<br />

CRUISE<br />

RAIL<br />

EXTENSION<br />

Oslo<br />

DENMARK<br />

DAY 1: Arrive Stockholm, Sweden<br />

L<strong>and</strong> in Stockholm, capital of Sweden, where<br />

you are met <strong>and</strong> transferred to your centrally<br />

located hotel. Tonight, join your resident tour<br />

director for a briefing <strong>and</strong> reception followed<br />

by a welcome dinner at a local restaurant.<br />

Gr<strong>and</strong> Hotel | Meals: D<br />

DAY 2: Stockholm<br />

Today, tour the city, built on a 14-isl<strong>and</strong><br />

archipelago. Visit Gamla Stan (Old Town),<br />

walking its cobblestone streets past shops,<br />

museums, <strong>and</strong> galleries, as well as the Royal<br />

Palace. Explore the isl<strong>and</strong> of Djurgården <strong>and</strong><br />

the neighbourhood of Kungsholmen, where<br />

you enter the Stockholm City Hall, site of the<br />

Nobel Prize awards banquet. After lunch at a<br />

local restaurant, tour the Vasa Museum, home<br />

to the only preserved 17th-century ship in the<br />

world. The rest of your day is at leisure.<br />

Gr<strong>and</strong> Hotel | Meals: B L<br />

DAY 3: Uppsala & Sigtuna<br />

Travel to Uppsala to tour its soaring Gothic<br />

cathedral. Inside, view the 14th-century<br />

murals depicting the legend of Saint Eric,<br />

patron saint of Sweden. Break for lunch, <strong>and</strong><br />

then proceed to Sigtuna, Sweden’s first town,<br />

to appreciate its charming wooden buildings<br />

<strong>and</strong> fascinating rune stones.<br />

Gr<strong>and</strong> Hotel | Meals: B L D<br />

SWEDEN<br />

Elsinore<br />

Uppsala<br />

Stockholm<br />

Copenhagen<br />

DAY 4: Copenhagen, Denmark<br />

After a leisurely morning, board the express<br />

train that whisks you to Copenhagen, crossing<br />

the Øresund Bridge, an eight-kilometre<br />

engineering marvel that spans the strait<br />

between Sweden <strong>and</strong> Denmark. Check into<br />

your hotel <strong>and</strong> savour a Danish dinner at a<br />

local restaurant.<br />

SKT. PETRI | Meals: B D<br />

DAY 5: Copenhagen<br />

Start your day with a city tour of Copenhagen,<br />

Denmark’s elegant capital. Cruise the canals<br />

to see the city from a unique perspective.<br />

Spend your afternoon at leisure, with the<br />

included option to visit the Tivoli Gardens.<br />

This evening, enjoy dinner at a restaurant in<br />

the gardens.<br />

SKT. PETRI | Meals: B D<br />

DAY 6: Elsinore<br />

Tour Frederiksborg Castle, a stunning example<br />

of Renaissance architecture. Proceed to the<br />

charming fishing village of Gilleleje for lunch.<br />

Afterwards, tour nearby Elsinore’s Kronborg<br />

Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site <strong>and</strong><br />

the setting of Shakespeare’s Hamlet. Return<br />

to Copenhagen.<br />

SKT. PETRI | Meals: B L<br />

DAY 7: Copenhagen – Oslo, Norway<br />

Experience urban beekeeping on the roof of<br />

Copenhagen’s city hall. Stop for lunch at a<br />

local restaurant before boarding an overnight<br />

ferry to the Norwegian capital, Oslo. Relax in<br />

62 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


EUROPE<br />

SCANDINAVIA<br />

YOUR LUXURY<br />

ACCOMMODATION<br />

DATES & PRICING<br />

GUARANTEED<br />

DEPARTURE<br />

DATES (<strong>2019</strong>)<br />

PER<br />

PERSON<br />

FROM<br />

SINGLE<br />

SUPP.<br />

FROM<br />

Commodore Class <strong>and</strong> enjoy the vessel’s many<br />

recently renovated facilities.<br />

DFDS Seaways | Meals: B L<br />

DAY 8: Oslo<br />

Awaken to the views of the Oslo Fjord as<br />

you sail into Norway’s cosmopolitan capital.<br />

After a hearty breakfast, disembark <strong>and</strong> visit<br />

the Mathallen Food Hall, <strong>and</strong> take part in a<br />

cooking class focused on modern Norwegian<br />

cuisine. Enjoy the lunch you helped prepare,<br />

before visiting the city with a local guide.<br />

Receive an exclusive behind-the-scenes<br />

tour of the stunning waterfront opera house<br />

<strong>and</strong> visit the Viking Ship Museum, with its<br />

restored medieval longships as well as the<br />

Kon-Tiki Museum, housing adventurer Thor<br />

Heyerdahl’s famous expedition vessel.<br />

Hotel Continental Oslo | Meals: B L<br />

DAY 9: Oslo<br />

This morning, enjoy a private guided tour<br />

of the Munch Museum – devoted to the art<br />

of Norwegian artist Edvard Munch, who<br />

bequeathed all of his works to the city of Oslo.<br />

Then, spend your afternoon at leisure before<br />

gathering this evening for a farewell dinner at<br />

a local restaurant.<br />

Hotel Continental Oslo | Meals: B D<br />

DAY 10: Depart Oslo<br />

After breakfast, transfer to the airport to<br />

depart for home or perhaps begin your<br />

post-tour extension.<br />

Meals: B<br />

MAY:<br />

11 £7,995 £2,765<br />

JUNE:<br />

15 £8,150 £2,840<br />

JULY:<br />

13 £8,150 £2,840<br />

AUGUST:<br />

10, 24 £8,150 £2,840<br />

SEPTEMBER:<br />

7 £7,995 £2,765<br />

OCTOBER:<br />

5 £7,995 £2,765<br />

JOURNEY DETAILS<br />

This journey includes some long walks.<br />

FLIGHTS<br />

To provide you with flexibility <strong>and</strong> the latest flight<br />

offers, we don’t include international flights. Our<br />

specialists will be able to find the best travel options<br />

to suit you.<br />

PRE & POST-TOUR<br />

EXTENSIONS<br />

Bergen & Norway’s Fjords<br />

post-tour extension –<br />

six days from £3,995pp<br />

Contact a specialist for more information<br />

about how to extend your escorted tour.<br />

TAILOR-MADE TRAVEL WITH A&K<br />

Ask us about how to customise<br />

this itinerary to create the perfect<br />

bespoke holiday, just for you.<br />

Gr<strong>and</strong> Hotel<br />

Helsinki waterfront hotel overlooking<br />

the Royal Palace <strong>and</strong> Gamla Stan<br />

SKT. PETRI<br />

Uniquely designed hotel in the heart<br />

of Copenhagen’s Latin Quarter<br />

DFDS Seaways<br />

Comfortable, recently renovated<br />

cruise ship with many amenities<br />

Hotel Continental Oslo<br />

Elegantly appointed luxury hotel,<br />

family-owned for four generations<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 63


IMMERSIVE<br />

JOURNEYS<br />

Splendours of the Golden Triangle<br />

11 days/10 nights | From £2,355 per person | Maximum 18 guests<br />

Ideal for first time visitors to India, this tour features the Golden Triangle’s main sights coupled<br />

with the city of Udaipur. Prepare for complete immersion in the country’s most incredible destinations<br />

Udaipur<br />

ARRIVE/DEPART<br />

AIR<br />

ROAD<br />

EXTENSION<br />

Amritsar<br />

Jaipur<br />

INDIA<br />

Delhi<br />

Shimla<br />

Agra<br />

Varanasi<br />

DAY 1: Arrive New Delhi, India<br />

Touch down in New Delhi, where you are met<br />

<strong>and</strong> transferred to your hotel.<br />

Sheraton New Delhi Hotel<br />

DAY 2: Old & New Delhi<br />

A busy day taking in the sights of<br />

Old <strong>and</strong> New Delhi, <strong>and</strong> visiting the<br />

AKP-supported Deepalaya School. Visit Jama<br />

Masjid, the largest Indian mosque, then the<br />

Red Fort for its teeming bazaars. You’ll drive<br />

past the cremation sites of G<strong>and</strong>hi <strong>and</strong> Nehru.<br />

Then it’s over to New Delhi to Humayun’s<br />

Tomb. You can’t miss the 42-metre-high<br />

stone arch of India Gate, before a drive along<br />

Rajpath, flanked by ornamental ponds. Try<br />

to glimpse the Rashtrapati Bhawan. Enjoy a<br />

welcome dinner this evening with your group.<br />

Sheraton New Delhi Hotel | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 3: New Delhi<br />

Today, Design your Day SM – giving<br />

you the freedom to choose the experience<br />

that is best suited to you. Select from the<br />

following options:<br />

OPTION 1: Seek out Sikhism<br />

Spend time in the kitchen of Gurudwara<br />

Bangla Sahib, where the community cooks<br />

for the needy, <strong>and</strong> be blessed by Lakshmi<br />

Narayan M<strong>and</strong>ir’s priest.<br />

OPTION 2: Get spicy with Indian cuisine<br />

Time to relish Indian delicacies cooked by<br />

you, after visiting a local spice <strong>and</strong> vegetable<br />

market <strong>and</strong> learning how to create the perfect<br />

dish for your stomach <strong>and</strong> your heart.<br />

OPTION 3: Appreciate artworks at the National<br />

Gallery of Modern Art<br />

Its 12,000 square metres of exhibition space<br />

makes the NGMA one the world’s largest<br />

64 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


INDIAN SUBCONTINENT<br />

a royal dowry. Spend your afternoon as you<br />

choose: perhaps visiting Hansraj Children’s<br />

Home, a residential school where an A&K<br />

Philanthropy project is improving facilities.<br />

Hotel Fateh Garh Udaipur | Meals: B L<br />

NORTHERN INDIA<br />

modern art museums. W<strong>and</strong>er among over<br />

14,000 local pictures <strong>and</strong> sculptures, as well as<br />

foreign works.<br />

Spend the afternoon at your leisure.<br />

Sheraton New Delhi Hotel | Meals: B<br />

DAY 4: New Delhi – Udaipur<br />

This morning, transfer to the airport <strong>and</strong> fly<br />

to Udaipur, India’s most romantic city. Upon<br />

arrival, you will be met <strong>and</strong> transferred to<br />

your hotel <strong>and</strong> from here you can explore the<br />

tumbling, whitewashed mansions <strong>and</strong> Aravalli<br />

Hills. At sunset take a boat ride on the placid,<br />

shimmering waters of Lake Pichola. From the<br />

boat, view the city rising majestically above<br />

the lake in the middle of the Rajasthan desert.<br />

Be sure to visit the Jag M<strong>and</strong>ir Palace – a<br />

second isl<strong>and</strong> palace in the middle of the lake.<br />

You might recognise it from the 1983 Bond<br />

film, Octopussy.<br />

Hotel Fateh Garh Udaipur | Meals: B<br />

DAY 5: Udaipur<br />

Enjoy a sumptuous breakfast before a<br />

morning city tour of Udaipur. Be amazed at<br />

the enormous City Palace <strong>and</strong> the paintings,<br />

mosaics, chhatries, <strong>and</strong> architecturally brilliant<br />

façade. Visit the Crystal Gallery, which houses<br />

crystal ornaments, fountains, crockery, <strong>and</strong><br />

furniture. Saheliyon-ki-Bari, ‘The Garden of<br />

the Maids of Honour’, is a lavish tribute to<br />

the 48 ladies-in-waiting who formed part of<br />

DAY 6: Udaipur<br />

Today, Design your Day SM – giving<br />

you the freedom to choose the experience<br />

that is best suited to you. Select from the<br />

following options:<br />

OPTION 1: Hop in the saddle for the best views<br />

Use pedal power to appreciate Udaipur’s<br />

wonderful surroundings. Head up the Aravalli<br />

mountains, passing the Monsoon Palace <strong>and</strong><br />

Badi Lake, <strong>and</strong> meeting some local people<br />

along your route.<br />

OPTION 2: Tickle the tastebuds with<br />

traditional cuisine<br />

Learn the local Rajasthani approach to<br />

cooking from a family with centuriesold<br />

recipes, then enjoy the lunch you’ve<br />

made. Guests will help the family shortlist<br />

ingredients, <strong>and</strong> prepare the exquisite meal.<br />

Spend the afternoon at your leisure.<br />

Hotel Fateh Garh Udaipur | Meals: B<br />

DAY 7: Udaipur – Jaipur<br />

This morning, transfer to the airport <strong>and</strong> fly<br />

the one hour to Jaipur. Upon arrival, you will<br />

be met <strong>and</strong> transferred to your hotel.<br />

Spend the afternoon at your leisure.<br />

ITC Rajputana, a Luxury Collection Hotel | Meals: B<br />

DAY 8: Jaipur<br />

Today is all about underst<strong>and</strong>ing the city,<br />

starting with a tour of the Amber Fort, with<br />

its distinctive Mughal architecture. Initiated in<br />

1600 by Raja Man Singh, the fort was added<br />

to over the years by subsequent rulers. After<br />

lunch, it’s time for a quick photo at Hawa<br />

Mahal (also known as the ‘Palace of Winds’),<br />

perhaps Jaipur’s most famous building, with<br />

its red <strong>and</strong> pink façade. Head to City Palace,<br />

a large complex, <strong>and</strong> then end your tour at the<br />

Jantar Mantar Observatory.<br />

ITC Rajputana, a Luxury Collection Hotel | Meals: B L<br />

DAY 9: Jaipur<br />

Today, Design your Day SM – giving<br />

you the freedom to choose the experience<br />

that is best suited to you. Select from the<br />

following options:<br />

OPTION 1: Spot the leopard<br />

Safari in Jhalana Reserve Forest to get up close<br />

KEY HIGHLIGHTS<br />

››<br />

View the Taj Mahal at<br />

sunrise <strong>and</strong> sunset<br />

››<br />

Spend three nights<br />

each in Delhi, Udaipur,<br />

<strong>and</strong> Jaipur<br />

››<br />

Enjoy a sunset boat ride<br />

on Lake Pichola<br />

››<br />

Discover the old <strong>and</strong> new<br />

faces of Delhi<br />

››<br />

View the jewel of Jaipur,<br />

the Amber Fort<br />

INCLUSIONS<br />

33<br />

Design your Day SM on Days 3,<br />

6 & 9<br />

33<br />

Five-star luxury accommodation<br />

33<br />

Resident tour director &<br />

English-speaking expert<br />

local guides<br />

33<br />

Airport meet & greet<br />

& return private transfers<br />

33<br />

Entrance fees, taxes & tips,<br />

& excursions as stated<br />

33<br />

Domestic flights included<br />

33<br />

Welcome & farewell dinners<br />

33<br />

10 breakfasts, 3 lunches<br />

& 2 dinners<br />

33<br />

Wifi in accommodation<br />

33<br />

Scenic sundowner<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 65


DESIGN YOUR DAY SM<br />

Design your Day SM experiences<br />

have been organised into themes<br />

to help you easily identify the<br />

option that suits you. See Days 3,<br />

6 & 9 for further details<br />

ARTS & CULTURE<br />

DAY 3: Seek out Sikhism<br />

DAY 3: Appreciate artworks at the<br />

National Gallery of Modern Art<br />

CULINARY DELIGHTS<br />

DAY 3: Get spicy with Indian cuisine<br />

DAY 6 Tickle the tastebuds with<br />

traditional cooking<br />

ACTIVE<br />

DAY 6: Hop in the saddle for the best views<br />

DAY 9: Spot the leopard<br />

DAY 9: Hike in the foothills of the Amer<br />

DAY 9: Go water walking<br />

to the elusive leopard. With around 15 leopard<br />

living in this forest, you st<strong>and</strong> a good chance<br />

of glimpsing one of the beautiful beasts.<br />

OPTION 2: Hike in the foothills of the Amer<br />

Walk along the Amer to the Anokhi Museum<br />

of H<strong>and</strong> Printing. This popular traditional<br />

pastime is housed in a haveli, which received<br />

an award for its restoration from UNESCO.<br />

OPTION 3: Go water walking<br />

Trek the water walk at Nahargarh to see<br />

how water was channelled in ancient times<br />

from hilltop forts. Take in the sights of<br />

Madhavendra Bhawan <strong>and</strong> fine city views.<br />

Spend the afternoon at your leisure.<br />

ITC Rajputana, a Luxury Collection Hotel | Meals: B<br />

DAY 10: Jaipur – Fatehpur Sikri – Agra<br />

It’s time to head to Agra, stopping off at the<br />

deserted Mughal City of Fatehpur Sikri.<br />

Located in Uttar Pradesh, Fatehpur Sikri<br />

shared imperial duties with Agra <strong>and</strong> is<br />

regarded as Emperor Akbar’s crowning<br />

architectural legacy. Its palaces, halls, <strong>and</strong><br />

masjids or mosques satisfied his aesthetic<br />

impulses, so typical of Mughals, <strong>and</strong> so<br />

intriguing to us still. From here, head to Agra<br />

<strong>and</strong> check in at your hotel. Tonight, visit the<br />

Taj Mahal at sunset <strong>and</strong> drink in the view.<br />

Then, join your group for a farewell dinner.<br />

ITC Mughal, a Luxury Collection Hotel | Meals: B D<br />

DAY 11: Agra – New Delhi<br />

One visit to the Taj Mahal is never enough,<br />

so rise early to wonder at the breathtaking<br />

monument in a moment of peace before<br />

sunrise. Then it’s time to return to your hotel<br />

for breakfast. Once you’ve eaten, head to<br />

Agra Fort on the bend of the River Yamuna,<br />

almost in the heart of the town. Built by the<br />

great Mughal emperor Akbar I as his citadel<br />

between 1565 <strong>and</strong> 1573, it has imposing gates<br />

<strong>and</strong> red s<strong>and</strong>stone walls – a beautiful example<br />

of Indian architecture. Transfer to Delhi<br />

airport <strong>and</strong> depart for the UK.<br />

Meals: B<br />

TAILOR-MADE TRAVEL WITH A&K<br />

Ask us about how to customise<br />

this itinerary to create the perfect<br />

bespoke holiday, just for you.<br />

PRE & POST-TOUR<br />

EXTENSIONS<br />

Shimla post-tour extension –<br />

four days from £545pp<br />

Varanasi post-tour extension –<br />

four days from £430pp<br />

Amritsar post-tour extension –<br />

four days from £495pp<br />

Contact a specialist for more information<br />

about how to extend your escorted tour.<br />

DATES & PRICING<br />

GUARANTEED<br />

DEPARTURE DATES (<strong>2019</strong>)<br />

PER<br />

PERSON<br />

FROM<br />

SEPTEMBER:<br />

27 £2,355<br />

OCTOBER:<br />

11, 25 £2,425<br />

NOVEMBER:<br />

8, 22 £2,425<br />

GUARANTEED<br />

DEPARTURE DATES (<strong>2020</strong>)<br />

PER<br />

PERSON<br />

FROM<br />

FEBRUARY:<br />

7, 21 £2,495<br />

MARCH:<br />

6, 13, 27 £2,495<br />

TRAVELLING SOLO?<br />

Book early <strong>and</strong> the first four solo places won’t pay any<br />

single supplement. The same journey, the same luxury,<br />

guaranteed at the same price.<br />

FLIGHTS<br />

To provide you with flexibility <strong>and</strong> the latest flight offers,<br />

we don’t include international flights. Our specialists<br />

will be able to find the best travel options to suit you.<br />

66 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


INDIAN SUBCONTINENT<br />

NORTHERN INDIA<br />

YOUR LUXURY<br />

ACCOMMODATION<br />

Sheraton New Delhi Hotel<br />

This central location with refined<br />

touches opens New Delhi’s doors<br />

Hotel Fateh Garh Udaipur<br />

Take advantage of renowned Vedic<br />

architecture <strong>and</strong> a palatial pool in Udaipur<br />

ITC Rajputana, a Luxury Collection<br />

Hotel<br />

Enjoy Jaipur in refinement with all mod cons<br />

ITC Mughal, a Luxury Collection<br />

Hotel<br />

Offering easy access to the Taj Mahal<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 67


IMMERSIVE<br />

JOURNEYS<br />

The Secrets of Southern India<br />

11 days/10 nights | From £2,355 per person | Maximum 18 guests<br />

If you’re game to explore Southern India’s lesser-travelled road from Kerala to<br />

Tamil Nadu, this is the tour for you. Featuring historical Kochi, Kumarakom’s backwaters,<br />

Munnar’s tea estates, <strong>and</strong> the splendid temple town of Madurai<br />

ARRIVE/DEPART<br />

AIR<br />

ROAD<br />

EXTENSION<br />

Goa<br />

Munnar<br />

Kochi<br />

Kumarakom<br />

Madurai<br />

Periyar<br />

Chennai<br />

DAY 1: Arrive Kochi, India<br />

L<strong>and</strong> in the coastal city of Kochi (or Cochin)<br />

where you’ll be chauffeured to your hotel.<br />

Your afternoon jaunt starts at Mattancherry<br />

Palace, gifted to the King of Kochi in the 16th<br />

century, displaying well-preserved Hindu<br />

murals. Then visit St Francis Church, India’s<br />

first European-built church. In the afternoon,<br />

take a boat ride along the harbour, stopping at<br />

the Bolgatty Palace, one of India’s oldest Dutch<br />

mansions. You’ll see fishermen tending to<br />

Chinese nets <strong>and</strong> lush isl<strong>and</strong>s with waterside<br />

hamlets. Return to your hotel to get ready for<br />

your welcome dinner.<br />

Forte Kochi | Meals: D<br />

DAY 2: Kochi<br />

Today, Design your Day SM – giving you<br />

the freedom to choose the experience that is<br />

best suited to you.<br />

This morning, visit Paradesi Synagogue,<br />

the oldest active synagogue in the<br />

Commonwealth. Peruse Chinese<br />

h<strong>and</strong>-painted tiles, a brass pulpit,<br />

<strong>and</strong> Belgian glass ch<strong>and</strong>eliers.<br />

Select Option 1, which occurs prior to the<br />

synagogue visit, or from Option 2 or 3 which<br />

occur afterwards:<br />

OPTION 1: Bike Kochi<br />

Pedal around the city’s diverse l<strong>and</strong>marks<br />

<strong>and</strong> communities on a four-hour tour.<br />

Highlights include the colonial-era Thakur<br />

House, the Dutch Cemetery, the Jeevamatha<br />

Church, <strong>and</strong> the atmospheric dhobi khana<br />

(public laundry).<br />

OPTION 2: Crabbing in Kumbalangi<br />

Visit Kumbalangi, an isl<strong>and</strong> village tucked<br />

away in the backwaters. Watch weavers work<br />

with coir, learn about the traditional Chinese<br />

nets, or take part in a spot of crab fishing.<br />

68 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


INDIAN SUBCONTINENT<br />

OPTION 3: Enjoy a kathakali performance<br />

Traditionally, the kathakali dance performance<br />

lasts all night until dawn. However, you can<br />

experience a shorter version of its dramatic<br />

choreography depicting Hindu epics.<br />

Forte Kochi | Meals: B<br />

DAY 3: Kochi – Kumarakom<br />

Leave Kochi after breakfast <strong>and</strong> head towards<br />

Kumarakom, a traditional village in Kerala’s<br />

backwater paradise. Sitting on the picturesque<br />

Vembanad Lake, your hotel is accessible only<br />

by boat. Glide through serene water dotted<br />

with hyacinths <strong>and</strong> check into your hotel. You<br />

may want to spend the rest of the afternoon<br />

unwinding with an Ayurvedic massage or sit<br />

out by the lake, cocktail in h<strong>and</strong>.<br />

Coconut Lagoon | Meals: B<br />

DAY 4: Kumarakom<br />

Exploring Kerala’s backwaters on a traditional<br />

houseboat is a must. The cocoon-like rice<br />

barge is one of the region’s most iconic<br />

images. Punt along sun-dappled waterways<br />

<strong>and</strong> through corridors of mangroves, coconut<br />

palms, <strong>and</strong> thick paddy fields. From the deck,<br />

you might catch glimpses of fishermen hauling<br />

their nets <strong>and</strong> an egret or two perched in the<br />

vegetation. You’ll pass sleepy fishing villages<br />

with women weaving on the shoreline <strong>and</strong><br />

children playing in the shallows.<br />

Coconut Lagoon | Meals: B L<br />

DAY 5: Kumarakom – Periyar<br />

This morning, a driver will take you into<br />

the Western Ghats to explore an area of<br />

remarkable natural beauty. The Periyar<br />

National Park is a sanctuary for wildlife<br />

including the Indian elephant <strong>and</strong> tiger that<br />

congregate around the rolling rivers. Spend<br />

time exploring miles of tropical forest, huge<br />

dams <strong>and</strong> serene lakes. Then continue to your<br />

hotel in the Cardamom Hills where you can<br />

stroll around the spice gardens <strong>and</strong> take a dip<br />

in the pool.<br />

Shalimar Spice Garden | Meals: B<br />

DAY 6: Periyar – Munnar<br />

It’s a three-hour drive to the misty mountain<br />

town of Munnar, famed for its emerald tea<br />

gardens. Sitting at the confluence of three<br />

rivers, its forested highl<strong>and</strong>s are home to herds<br />

of wild elephant <strong>and</strong> vivid flora <strong>and</strong> fauna.<br />

You can visit the Tea Museum showcasing<br />

the work of British tea planters, before taking<br />

a walk through the plantations. Here you’ll<br />

see local workers clipping tea bushes <strong>and</strong><br />

collecting the valuable leaves. There’s time<br />

to visit the nearby market before you return<br />

to your hotel.<br />

Windermere Estate | Meals: B<br />

DAY 7: Munnar<br />

Today, Design your Day SM – giving<br />

you the freedom to choose the experience<br />

that is best suited to you. Select from the<br />

following options:<br />

OPTION 1: Jump on a jeep safari<br />

Take a jeep ride to the world’s highest tea<br />

estate, Kolukkumalai, for a behind-the-scenes<br />

tour of its factory. Then enjoy a picnic lunch<br />

amid rural countryside.<br />

OPTION 2: Take a hike in the Letchmi Hills<br />

Hike to the top of the Letchmi Hills where on<br />

a clear day you can see Anamudi, the highest<br />

peak in southern India. Take a picnic <strong>and</strong><br />

enjoy wildlife spotting.<br />

OPTION 3: Trek to Chokkarmudi<br />

Follow the Chokkarmudi trail up craggy<br />

mountain slopes from where you can see<br />

rolling tea plantations <strong>and</strong> tiny villages<br />

embroidered in the hilly contours.<br />

OPTION 4: Climb to Top Station<br />

The best views can be achieved in higher<br />

territory. Trek the ridges of the Western Ghats<br />

to Top Station where you can take in towering<br />

mountain peaks from above the clouds.<br />

Windermere Estate | Meals: B<br />

KEY HIGHLIGHTS<br />

››<br />

Punt through<br />

Kumarakom’s backwaters<br />

on a traditional barge<br />

››<br />

Sip the freshest brew at a<br />

tea plantation in Munnar<br />

››<br />

Trek to Munnar’s Top<br />

Station for ultimate<br />

peak views<br />

››<br />

Explore Southern India’s<br />

star wildlife sanctuary,<br />

Periyar National Park<br />

››<br />

Visit the iconic temple<br />

town of Madurai<br />

INCLUSIONS<br />

33<br />

Design your Day SM on<br />

Days 2 & 7<br />

33<br />

Resident tour director &<br />

English-speaking expert<br />

local guides<br />

33<br />

Airport meet & greet<br />

& return private transfers<br />

33<br />

Entrance fees, taxes & tips,<br />

& excursions as stated<br />

33<br />

Domestic flights included<br />

33<br />

Welcome & farewell dinners<br />

33<br />

10 breakfasts, 1 lunch &<br />

2 dinners<br />

33<br />

Wifi in accommodation<br />

33<br />

Scenic sundowner<br />

SOUTHERN INDIA<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 69


DESIGN YOUR DAY SM<br />

Design your Day SM experiences<br />

have been organised into themes<br />

to help you easily identify the<br />

option that suits you. See<br />

Days 2 & 7 for further details<br />

ARTS & CULTURE<br />

DAY 2: Crabbing in Kumbalangi<br />

DAY 2: See a kathakali performance<br />

DAY 7: Jump on a jeep safari<br />

DAY 8: Munnar – Madurai<br />

Cross over to the temple city of Madurai,<br />

Tamil Nadu’s spiritual heart. On the banks of<br />

the River Vaigai, it’s one of the oldest cities in<br />

the world with over two millennia of complex<br />

history. Today the metropolis pulses with<br />

worshippers travelling to pray at its temples.<br />

Your hotel sits in a quiet spot in the hills<br />

where you can unwind <strong>and</strong> have lunch –<br />

Tamil Nadu is renowned for fresh ground<br />

masalas. Or take a tuk-tuk to investigate the<br />

Dravidian architecture.<br />

Heritage Madurai | Meals: B<br />

ACTIVE<br />

DAY 2: Bike Kochi<br />

DAY 7: Hike in the Letchmi Hills<br />

DAY 7: Trek to Chokkarmudi<br />

DAY 7: Climb to Top Station<br />

DAY 9: Madurai<br />

Every year, thous<strong>and</strong>s make the pilgrimage to<br />

the Meenakshi Temple, celebrating Lord Shiva<br />

<strong>and</strong> the Meenakshi deity. This morning you<br />

can explore its dazzling maze of courtyards,<br />

gr<strong>and</strong> pillared hallways, <strong>and</strong> towers of brightly<br />

painted stucco carvings. Take a break in the<br />

afternoon, perhaps recuperating in your<br />

hotel spa. Return to the temple at dusk for<br />

the closing ceremony, a spectacle of idols,<br />

musicians, <strong>and</strong> rituals in procession. From one<br />

celebration to another, return to your hotel for<br />

a final dinner.<br />

Heritage Madurai | Meals: B D<br />

DAY 10: Madurai – Chennai<br />

This morning you’ll be driven to the airport<br />

for your flight to Chennai. On arrival, you’ll<br />

be taken straight to your hotel. Relax by the<br />

pool or you may want to stroll around the<br />

city’s Victorian-era buildings. There’s also the<br />

Chennai Fish Market <strong>and</strong> Fort St George,<br />

a strategic outpost during the British Empire.<br />

Trident Hotel | Meals: B<br />

DAY 11: Depart Chennai<br />

Your chauffeur will drive you to Chennai<br />

airport from where you’ll depart.<br />

Meals: B<br />

PRE & POST-TOUR<br />

EXTENSIONS<br />

Goa post-tour extension –<br />

four days from £375pp<br />

Contact a specialist for more information<br />

about how to extend your escorted tour.<br />

DATES & PRICING<br />

GUARANTEED<br />

DEPARTURE DATES (<strong>2019</strong>)<br />

PER<br />

PERSON<br />

FROM<br />

OCTOBER:<br />

12, 26 £2,355<br />

NOVEMBER:<br />

9, 23 £2,355<br />

GUARANTEED<br />

DEPARTURE DATES (<strong>2020</strong>)<br />

PER<br />

PERSON<br />

FROM<br />

JANUARY:<br />

11, 25 £2,455<br />

FEBRUARY:<br />

8, 22 £2,455<br />

MARCH:<br />

14 £2,455<br />

TRAVELLING SOLO?<br />

Book early <strong>and</strong> the first four solo places won’t pay<br />

any single supplement. The same journey, the same<br />

luxury, guaranteed at the same price.<br />

FLIGHTS<br />

To provide you with flexibility <strong>and</strong> the latest flight<br />

offers, we don’t include international flights. Our<br />

specialists will be able to find the best travel options<br />

to suit you.<br />

TAILOR-MADE TRAVEL WITH A&K<br />

Ask us about how to customise<br />

this itinerary to create the perfect<br />

bespoke holiday, just for you.<br />

70 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


YOUR LUXURY<br />

ACCOMMODATION<br />

Forte Kochi<br />

Colonial-style hotel in<br />

historical Fort Kochi<br />

INDIAN SUBCONTINENT<br />

SOUTHERN INDIA<br />

Coconut Lagoon<br />

Based on a traditional Keralan village<br />

in the backwaters of Kumarakom<br />

Shalimar Spice Garden<br />

Stylish thatched cottages among<br />

the spice gardens in Thekkady<br />

Windermere Estate<br />

Stone bungalows <strong>and</strong> plantation<br />

style in the Cardamom Hills<br />

Heritage Madurai<br />

Old-world charm among seven<br />

hectares of lush gardens<br />

Trident Hotel<br />

Modern luxury near Chennai’s l<strong>and</strong>marks<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 71


IMMERSIVE<br />

JOURNEYS<br />

The Spice L<strong>and</strong>s of<br />

Sri Lanka<br />

13 days/12 nights | From £1,875 per person | Maximum 18 guests<br />

Even for seasoned travellers, Sri Lanka offers a wealth of unique cultural attractions coupled with superb<br />

scenery. Visit heritage sites, explore national parks, <strong>and</strong> stay in characterful, authentic hotels<br />

Colombo<br />

Galle<br />

Dambulla<br />

SRI LANKA<br />

Habarana<br />

Polonnaruwa<br />

K<strong>and</strong>y<br />

Nuwara Eliya<br />

INDIAN<br />

OCEAN<br />

Yala National Park<br />

ARRIVE/DEPART<br />

ROAD<br />

DAY 1: Arrive Colombo, Sri Lanka<br />

L<strong>and</strong> in Colombo, where you are met by an<br />

A&K representative <strong>and</strong> transferred to your<br />

hotel. Spend the rest of the day at your leisure.<br />

Galle Face Hotel<br />

DAY 2: Colombo<br />

Today, Design your Day SM – giving you<br />

the freedom to choose the experience that is<br />

best suited to you.<br />

Make the most of Colombo with a morning<br />

tour. Sri Lanka’s capital blends historic value<br />

<strong>and</strong> modern vibes. Dating back over 600 years,<br />

it is incredibly diverse. An array of temples,<br />

mosques, <strong>and</strong> churches reflect the various<br />

beliefs on the isl<strong>and</strong>. Architecturally, beautiful<br />

façades of colonial buildings contrast with the<br />

modern. Discover the Gangaramaya Buddhist<br />

Temple, the Pettah bazaar, the Wolvendaal<br />

Dutch Church, the Old Parliament, <strong>and</strong><br />

Independence Square.<br />

This afternoon, select from the following<br />

options:<br />

OPTION 1: Get arty in Colombo<br />

Tour Saskia Fern<strong>and</strong>o Gallery <strong>and</strong> admire<br />

contemporary art, <strong>and</strong> the Asokaramaya<br />

Buddhist Temple’s murals. Interact with street<br />

artisans in Viharamahadevi Park. End in style<br />

with a tuk-tuk ride.<br />

OPTION 2: Be blessed with Buddhism<br />

A supremely sacred site, Lord Buddha is said<br />

to have visited Kelaniya Temple. Tour the<br />

temple, then hear a short sermon <strong>and</strong> attend<br />

a blessing ceremony.<br />

72 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


of the Buddha cut into the stone, <strong>and</strong> ruins<br />

of ancient palaces, intricately carved moon<br />

stones, <strong>and</strong> royal baths.<br />

Jetwing Lake | Meals: B D<br />

DAY 5: Dambulla<br />

Take time at breakfast before a trip to the vast<br />

complex that is Dambulla cave temple. The<br />

site is still a significant Buddhist monastery,<br />

with the largest collection of cave temple<br />

paintings in Sri Lanka on its ceiling. It also<br />

houses the greatest number of Buddha<br />

statues in a single place. W<strong>and</strong>ering through<br />

the temple, absorb the serenity of this<br />

well-preserved l<strong>and</strong>mark. It is no wonder<br />

Dambulla has been named a UNESCO World<br />

Heritage Site. Spend the rest of the day at<br />

your leisure.<br />

Jetwing Lake | Meals: B D<br />

INDIAN SUBCONTINENT<br />

SRI LANKA<br />

OPTION 3: Stretch your legs before tea<br />

Join resident photographers to underst<strong>and</strong> the<br />

isl<strong>and</strong>’s history. See the Old Dutch Hospital<br />

<strong>and</strong> Colombo Fort. Take tea then hit Pettah<br />

Bazaar, before dinner <strong>and</strong> drinks at your hotel.<br />

Galle Face Hotel | Meals: B D<br />

DAY 3: Colombo – Dambulla<br />

The early start this morning pays off with a<br />

stop at Ridi Viharaya cave temple. Admire<br />

the gold-plated Buddha <strong>and</strong> Bible Tiles, but<br />

linger on the cave’s carved door frame with<br />

its intricate carvings inlaid with ivory. Spend<br />

your afternoon at leisure or climb Sigiriya,<br />

the famed rock fortress. A UNESCO World<br />

Heritage Site, ‘the Lion Rock’ rises 200 metres<br />

above the jungle <strong>and</strong> was a royal citadel for<br />

almost 20 years. Admire the mirror wall, the<br />

graffiti, the Sigiriya frescoes, <strong>and</strong> the great lion<br />

paws. The 360-degree view is as breathtaking<br />

as the climb.<br />

Jetwing Lake | Meals: B D<br />

DAY 4: Habarana & Polonnaruwa<br />

Delve into dual destinations today <strong>and</strong> spend<br />

time with monks, then see the archaeological<br />

monuments of Sri Lanka’s second kingdom.<br />

In Habarana, enjoy local hospitality, partaking<br />

in dana, when meals are offered to the village<br />

temple, followed by a Buddhist sermon. Travel<br />

to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa. See the<br />

iconic man-made reservoir, the famous Gal<br />

Viharaya or ‘Rock Temple’ with four statues<br />

DAY 6: Dambulla – K<strong>and</strong>y<br />

After breakfast, head to K<strong>and</strong>y for a personal<br />

guided tour, ending at the sacred Temple of<br />

the Tooth Relic, another UNESCO World<br />

Heritage Site. Historic K<strong>and</strong>y Lake, the Royal<br />

Botanical Gardens, <strong>and</strong> the scenic Victoria<br />

Golf Club are also worthy of your time.<br />

Shop for silverware, brassware, <strong>and</strong> gemstudded<br />

jewellery, carved by skilled K<strong>and</strong>yan<br />

craftsmen. Escape the evening city bustle to<br />

watch the sunset <strong>and</strong> religious ceremonies<br />

around the Sacred Temple. By special<br />

arrangement, meet with the head priests <strong>and</strong><br />

receive their blessing.<br />

Mahaweli Reach Hotel | Meals: B D<br />

DAY 7: K<strong>and</strong>y<br />

Today, Design your Day SM – giving<br />

you the freedom to choose the experience<br />

that is best suited to you. Select from the<br />

following options:<br />

OPTION 1: Learn local culinary secrets<br />

Join a local family in a cookery session<br />

at home. Learn authentic techniques <strong>and</strong><br />

flavours to create a fish or chicken curry <strong>and</strong><br />

accompaniments, tasting as you go.<br />

OPTION 2: Experience temple traditions<br />

Visit four ancient temples of K<strong>and</strong>y –<br />

Gadaladeniya, Lankathilaka, Degaldoruwa,<br />

<strong>and</strong> Embakke in a half-day trip. See how<br />

Hinduism has influenced Buddhist culture<br />

<strong>and</strong> how each temple is highly individual.<br />

OPTION 3: Channel your inner chieftain<br />

Step into the past when you try on a richly<br />

decorated royal costume, worn exclusively<br />

by the ancient kings <strong>and</strong> noble chieftains of<br />

K<strong>and</strong>y (known as nilame). This is a rare photo<br />

opportunity to revel in traditional splendour.<br />

Mahaweli Reach Hotel | Meals: B D<br />

DAY 8: K<strong>and</strong>y – Peradeniya –<br />

Nuwara Eliya<br />

After breakfast, stroll through the Royal<br />

Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, a 14thcentury<br />

pleasure park for Sri Lankan royalty.<br />

The largest botanical garden measures 59<br />

hectares <strong>and</strong> is home to over 4,000 species<br />

of flora, <strong>and</strong> an array of butterflies <strong>and</strong> bird<br />

species. Admire the incredible collection<br />

of over 300 varieties of orchids – one of the<br />

KEY HIGHLIGHTS<br />

››<br />

Me<strong>and</strong>er the streets<br />

of the ancient city of<br />

Polonnaruwa<br />

››<br />

Visit the Temple of the<br />

Tooth Relic in K<strong>and</strong>y<br />

››<br />

Enjoy a game drive at<br />

Yala National Park<br />

››<br />

Explore the famous Galle<br />

Dutch Fort area<br />

››<br />

View the UNESCO-listed<br />

Dambulla cave temple<br />

INCLUSIONS<br />

33<br />

Design your Day SM on Days<br />

2 & 7<br />

33<br />

Resident tour director &<br />

English-speaking expert<br />

local guides<br />

33<br />

Airport meet & greet<br />

& return private transfers<br />

33<br />

Entrance fees, taxes & tips,<br />

& excursions as stated<br />

33<br />

Welcome & farewell dinners<br />

33<br />

12 breakfasts & 11 dinners<br />

33<br />

Wifi in accommodation<br />

33<br />

Scenic sundowner<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 73


DESIGN YOUR DAY SM<br />

Design your Day SM experiences<br />

have been organised into themes<br />

to help you easily identify the<br />

option that suits you. See Days<br />

2 & 7 for further details<br />

ARTS & CULTURE<br />

DAY 2: Get arty in Colombo<br />

DAY 2: Be blessed with Buddhism<br />

DAY 7: Experience temple traditions<br />

DAY 7: Channel your<br />

inner chieftain<br />

CULINARY DELIGHTS<br />

DAY 7: Learn local cooking secrets<br />

ACTIVE<br />

DAY 2: Stretch your legs before tea<br />

garden’s highlights, as well as giant bamboo<br />

<strong>and</strong> double palm trees, both of which are<br />

imports to the isl<strong>and</strong> – some from more than<br />

100 years ago. Visit the commonwealth war<br />

cemetery then leave for Nuwara Eliya.<br />

Langdale by Amaya | Meals: B D<br />

DAY 9: Nuwara Eliya<br />

This morning you have the opportunity to<br />

experience one of Sri Lanka’s highlights on a<br />

tea factory visit. Personally guided by a local<br />

expert, this is a tea experience like no other.<br />

Get up close <strong>and</strong> personal with h<strong>and</strong>picked<br />

Ceylon tea, learn about the tea manufacturing<br />

process, <strong>and</strong> sample several varieties in a<br />

tasting session to underst<strong>and</strong> the different<br />

flavours <strong>and</strong> processes that make Sri Lankan<br />

teas among the best in the world. Spend the<br />

rest of the day at your leisure (with a cup of<br />

your favourite brew).<br />

Langdale by Amaya | Meals: B D<br />

DAY 10: Nuwara Eliya – Yala<br />

Head to Moon Plains, <strong>and</strong> visit the best<br />

vantage points for the central highl<strong>and</strong>s of Sri<br />

Lanka. Suited to nature lovers, this is a halfday<br />

trip an hour from the hotel. Nearly 2,000<br />

metres above sea level <strong>and</strong> encircled by cloud<br />

forests, take your fill of the view <strong>and</strong> of photos<br />

of the surrounding mountain ranges <strong>and</strong><br />

peaks including Pidurutalagala, Kirigalpotta,<br />

<strong>and</strong> Thotupola, <strong>and</strong> keep an eye open for the<br />

sambar deer, <strong>and</strong> a variety of birds. From here,<br />

it’s five hours’ journey to Yala.<br />

Jetwing Yala | Meals: B D<br />

DAY 11: Yala<br />

Rise with the sun for an early game ride with<br />

a local trekker, spotting wildlife unique to<br />

the region, before breakfast. If you’re lucky,<br />

you may see three of Sri Lanka’s Big Five<br />

endangered animals on one single safari,<br />

since the native leopard, sloth, <strong>and</strong> elephant<br />

can all be found in the area. While searching<br />

for the elusive leopard, herds of spotted<br />

deer, wild boar, wild buffalo, crocodile,<br />

<strong>and</strong> peacock will provide you with plenty<br />

of fantastic photograph opportunities.<br />

Spend the afternoon as you wish.<br />

Jetwing Yala | Meals: B D<br />

DAY 12: Yala – Galle<br />

After breakfast, drive along the south coast<br />

to Galle for a well-deserved rest before a late<br />

afternoon transfer to Galle Fort. Take time for<br />

a guided tour of the walled city – another of<br />

Sri Lanka’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites.<br />

The exotic mixes with the colonial here <strong>and</strong><br />

the impressive fortress is a living example<br />

of European architecture <strong>and</strong> South Asian<br />

traditions melded between the 16th <strong>and</strong> 19th<br />

centuries. Explore Galle Fort on foot, before<br />

your farewell group dinner.<br />

Tamarind Hill | Meals: B D<br />

DAY 13: Depart Galle<br />

Transfer to Colombo airport <strong>and</strong> depart for<br />

the UK.<br />

Meals: B<br />

DATES & PRICING<br />

GUARANTEED<br />

DEPARTURE DATES (<strong>2019</strong>)<br />

PER<br />

PERSON<br />

FROM<br />

OCTOBER:<br />

20 £1,875<br />

NOVEMBER:<br />

17 £2,160<br />

GUARANTEED<br />

DEPARTURE DATES (<strong>2020</strong>)<br />

JANUARY:<br />

12<br />

26<br />

FEBRUARY:<br />

9<br />

23<br />

PER<br />

PERSON<br />

FROM<br />

£2,240<br />

£2,335<br />

£2,335<br />

£2,245<br />

MARCH:<br />

15 £2,145<br />

TRAVELLING SOLO?<br />

Book early <strong>and</strong> the first four solo places won’t pay any<br />

single supplement. The same journey, the same luxury,<br />

guaranteed at the same price.<br />

FLIGHTS<br />

To provide you with flexibility <strong>and</strong> the latest flight offers,<br />

we don’t include international flights. Our specialists<br />

will be able to find the best travel options to suit you.<br />

TAILOR-MADE TRAVEL WITH A&K<br />

Ask us about how to customise<br />

this itinerary to create the perfect<br />

bespoke holiday, just for you.<br />

74 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


YOUR LUXURY<br />

ACCOMMODATION<br />

Galle Face Hotel<br />

Colonial-style hotel in Colombo<br />

with wonderful views of the ocean<br />

INDIAN SUBCONTINENT<br />

SRI LANKA<br />

Jetwing Lake<br />

Marvel at palatial gardens, centrally located<br />

for exploration of the Dambulla area<br />

Mahaweli Reach Hotel<br />

Both peaceful <strong>and</strong> picturesque,<br />

in an idyllic river location in K<strong>and</strong>y<br />

Langdale by Amaya<br />

This boutique property has glorious hillside<br />

views across Nuwara Eliya’s plantations<br />

Jetwing Yala<br />

Scenic ocean location enhanced<br />

by proximity to the national park<br />

Tamarind Hill<br />

Occupying a former aristocratic colonialstyle<br />

mansion, this Galle hotel is stunning<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 75


IMMERSIVE<br />

JOURNEYS<br />

Peru’s Ancient Marvels<br />

15 days/14 nights | From £4,525 per person | Maximum 18 guests<br />

This itinerary is perfect for those keen to unravel Peru’s rich history <strong>and</strong> culture. Delve into ancient<br />

citadels, Incan ruins, <strong>and</strong> splendid colonial architecture from Lima to the Sacred Valley<br />

Chiclayo <strong>and</strong> Trujillo<br />

Lima<br />

PERU<br />

ARRIVE/DEPART<br />

AIR<br />

Colca<br />

ROAD<br />

RAIL<br />

EXTENSION<br />

Arequipa<br />

Elevation:<br />

Cusco – 3,400m. approx.<br />

Sacred Valley – 2,000m-3,000m. approx.<br />

Machu Picchu – 2,400m. approx.<br />

To Amazon posttour<br />

excursion<br />

Machu Picchu<br />

Sacred Valley<br />

Cusco<br />

Puno<br />

DAY 1: Arrive Lima, Peru<br />

L<strong>and</strong> in Lima, Peru’s spotlight capital city, <strong>and</strong><br />

you will be chauffeured straight to your hotel<br />

in the exclusive Miraflores district. If it’s late,<br />

you may just want to relax <strong>and</strong> order room<br />

service tonight.<br />

Hilton Lima Miraflores<br />

DAY 2: Lima<br />

Head straight to the Larco Museum for<br />

your first fix of ancient Peru. Its flower-filled<br />

gardens are worth a visit alone, not to mention<br />

its thous<strong>and</strong>s of pre-Columbian artefacts,<br />

pottery, <strong>and</strong> Incan relics. Over the years,<br />

Lima has become a serious dining destination<br />

<strong>and</strong> foodies from all over the world make<br />

the pilgrimage to its restaurants. For lunch,<br />

you may want to try a trendy cevichería,<br />

completely queue-worthy. Make sure you<br />

leave space for dinner at one of the city’s<br />

finest eateries.<br />

Hilton Lima Miraflores | Meals: B D<br />

DAY 3: Lima – Arequipa<br />

Today, Design your Day SM – giving<br />

you the freedom to choose the experience<br />

that is best suited to you. Select from the<br />

following options:<br />

OPTION 1: Scenic cycling in Lima<br />

Hop on a bike <strong>and</strong> pedal along Lima’s seafront.<br />

Pause at the Bridge of Sighs, a local meeting<br />

point, <strong>and</strong> take in views over surfers <strong>and</strong><br />

sweeping sea.<br />

OPTION 2: Explore the ruins at Pachacamac<br />

Take a trip to Pachacamac, a ruin dating back<br />

76 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


LATIN AMERICA<br />

PERU<br />

to 200 AD. It’s one of the most important<br />

pre-Hispanic settlements. Explore the tombs,<br />

terraced pyramids, <strong>and</strong> temples of early Lima.<br />

OPTION 3: Take a cooking class<br />

Head to the market with a local chef to source<br />

tuna, corn, aji (Peruvian chilli), <strong>and</strong> cuts<br />

of sirloin. Then whip up ceviche <strong>and</strong> lomo<br />

saltado for lunch.<br />

In the afternoon you’ll be driven to the airport<br />

for your flight to Arequipa. You’ll be met on<br />

arrival <strong>and</strong> transferred to your hotel for the<br />

next two nights.<br />

Hotel Libertador Arequipa | Meals: B<br />

DAY 4: Arequipa<br />

Welcome to Arequipa, fondly known as the<br />

White City for the gleaming volcanic stone<br />

used in much of its architecture. First stop, the<br />

historic Yanahuara district to see Andalucianstyle<br />

churches, the arched square, <strong>and</strong> views<br />

over the entire city. Then on to the colonial<br />

Church of San Francisco for a w<strong>and</strong>er around<br />

its pretty plaza. End at the Santa Catalina,<br />

Arequipa’s most impressive site. Known as<br />

the ‘city within a city,’ this 16th-century<br />

monastery comes complete with ornate<br />

chapels, geranium-filled doorways, colourfully<br />

painted cloisters, <strong>and</strong> even an art gallery.<br />

Hotel Libertador Arequipa | Meals: B<br />

DAY 5: Arequipa – Colca<br />

The four-<strong>and</strong>-a-half-hour drive to the Colca<br />

Canyon is worth the views. Stop at Yura,<br />

a town known for its medicinal hot springs,<br />

used by the Incas for their healing qualities.<br />

You’ll pass plains dotted with wild vicuña,<br />

extinct volcanoes, <strong>and</strong> wetl<strong>and</strong>s where you<br />

may spot an Andean flamingo. Pause at Abra<br />

Patapampa, the highest point of your journey<br />

(4,910 metres above sea level), then continue<br />

to your lodge in the Colca Canyon. It’s twice as<br />

deep as the Gr<strong>and</strong> Canyon <strong>and</strong> you can spend<br />

the afternoon admiring the vastness from<br />

bubbling hot springs.<br />

Colca Lodge | Meals: B L<br />

DAY 6: Colca<br />

Wake up early to seek out condor soaring on<br />

the warm morning thermals. Peru’s national<br />

bird is somewhat elusive, but scouting it out<br />

with your expert guide is all part of the fun.<br />

From the teetering canyon rim, look out to<br />

see nearly two-metre wingspans <strong>and</strong> huge<br />

shadowy frames silently gliding through the<br />

canyon. If you’re lucky, you can get close to<br />

them perching in the sheer cliffs. Afterwards,<br />

stop in at the traditional villages of Maca <strong>and</strong><br />

Yanque, which, although tiny <strong>and</strong> remote,<br />

boast ornate colonial churches.<br />

Colca Lodge | Meals: B<br />

DAY 7: Colca – Puno<br />

Set your sights on Puno, Lake Titicaca’s<br />

waterside city. The journey may be long (five<br />

hours), but you can stretch your legs hiking<br />

to the pre-Incan ruins of San Antonio. Then<br />

follow the highl<strong>and</strong> road from which you<br />

might see roaming alpaca <strong>and</strong> llama. Reach<br />

the highest point in your journey at 4,528<br />

metres before continuing to your hotel on the<br />

very edge of Lake Titicaca.<br />

Hotel Libertador Puno | Meals: B L<br />

DAY 8: Puno<br />

Sky-facing <strong>and</strong> mirror-like, Lake Titicaca is<br />

considered the highest navigable lake in the<br />

world. At a surface elevation of nearly 4,000<br />

metres, its waters are home to indigenous<br />

communities where life is conducted as it has<br />

been for centuries. Take a boat to the Floating<br />

Isl<strong>and</strong> of Uros, cleverly made of tightly woven<br />

reeds. Learn how its people build their homes<br />

<strong>and</strong> live a traditional way of life. You’ll then<br />

visit Taquile isl<strong>and</strong> where a hike will reward<br />

you with views over the glittering blue waters,<br />

<strong>and</strong> a well-earned lunch.<br />

Hotel Libertador Puno | Meals: B L<br />

KEY HIGHLIGHTS<br />

››<br />

Explore the Inca city of<br />

Machu Picchu, Peru’s<br />

ancient wonder<br />

››<br />

See condors soar on the<br />

Colca Canyon thermals<br />

››<br />

Discover history-rich<br />

Cusco <strong>and</strong> the Sacred<br />

Valley<br />

››<br />

Visit Lake Titicaca’s<br />

floating reed isl<strong>and</strong>s<br />

››<br />

Stay in st<strong>and</strong>out hotels<br />

throughout<br />

INCLUSIONS<br />

33<br />

Design your Day SM on Day 3<br />

33<br />

Five-star luxury accommodation<br />

33<br />

Resident tour director &<br />

English-speaking expert<br />

local guides<br />

33<br />

Airport meet & greet<br />

& return private transfers<br />

33<br />

Entrance fees, taxes & tips,<br />

& excursions as stated<br />

33<br />

Domestic flights included<br />

33<br />

Welcome & farewell dinners<br />

33<br />

14 breakfasts, 8 lunches<br />

& 3 dinners<br />

33<br />

Wifi in accommodation<br />

33<br />

Scenic sundowner<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 77


DESIGN YOUR DAY SM<br />

Design your Day SM experiences<br />

have been organised into themes<br />

to help you easily identify the<br />

option that suits you. See Day 3<br />

for further details<br />

ARTS & CULTURE<br />

DAY 3: Explore the ruins at Pachacamac<br />

CULINARY DELIGHTS<br />

DAY 3: Take a cooking class<br />

ACTIVE<br />

DAY 3: Scenic cycling in Lima<br />

DAY 9: Puno – Cusco<br />

A driver will take you to Puno station where<br />

you’ll board a train to Cusco. Sit back in<br />

a Pullman-style carriage <strong>and</strong> watch the<br />

l<strong>and</strong>scape unfold from vast plains to emerald<br />

mountain slopes. There’s an observation car<br />

where you can take in the views with a pisco<br />

sour. You can also enjoy a three-course lunch.<br />

Arrive into Cusco <strong>and</strong> a driver will take you to<br />

your central hotel.<br />

Palacio del Inka | Meals: B L<br />

DAY 10: Cusco<br />

It’s time to explore history-rich Cusco. Once<br />

the Incan capital before the Spanish crushed<br />

their civilisation, today you can witness both<br />

colonial architecture <strong>and</strong> Incan remains<br />

on just about every corner. Sights include<br />

the 16th-century cathedral on the bustling<br />

Plaza de Armas, <strong>and</strong> Coricancha, a former<br />

Inca palace turned Spanish church. Head to<br />

Sacsayhuamán on Cusco’s outskirts, where<br />

Incas shaped giant polished boulders into a<br />

cyclopean fortress. There’s time to see San<br />

Pedro market’s jostling fruit stalls before lunch.<br />

Palacio del Inka | Meals: B<br />

DAY 11: Cusco – Sacred Valley<br />

This morning, your driver will take you<br />

to the Sacred Valley, Peru’s spiritual l<strong>and</strong><br />

of giant mountains <strong>and</strong> traditional towns.<br />

Drop into the town of Pisac, famed for its<br />

Sunday markets bursting with colourful<br />

textiles, h<strong>and</strong>icrafts, <strong>and</strong> fruit gathered by the<br />

Quechan communities. Then visit Hacienda<br />

Sarapampa where you can learn how the locals<br />

harvest the giant white corn, Peru’s staple<br />

ingredient. Continue to your hillside hotel<br />

tucked away in the valley.<br />

Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba | Meals: B L<br />

DAY 12: Sacred Valley<br />

Take the morning to visit Chinchero, a<br />

pretty market town <strong>and</strong> hot spot for local<br />

textiles. Here you can mingle with the<br />

Andean community whose ancient weaving<br />

techniques, medicinal remedies, <strong>and</strong> adobe<br />

brickwork survive today. Return to your hotel<br />

in time for tea. You may want to do a spot of<br />

bird-watching or stroll around the farml<strong>and</strong>.<br />

Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba | Meals: B L<br />

DAY 13: Sacred Valley –<br />

Machu Picchu<br />

This morning, you’ll be driven to<br />

Ollantaytambo to take a look around its<br />

imposing fortress, once an Incan lookout<br />

point. While school is in session, visit the<br />

AKP-supported Kuychi Centre to meet pupils<br />

from the Children of the Rainbow School.<br />

Then catch the train to the town of Aguas<br />

Calientes where a bus will take you to the very<br />

TAILOR-MADE TRAVEL WITH A&K<br />

Ask us about how to customise<br />

this itinerary to create the perfect<br />

bespoke holiday, just for you.<br />

last citadel in pre-Columbian society. No<br />

matter how many photos you’ve seen, nothing<br />

can prepare you for Machu Picchu’s wide<br />

avenues, cascading terraces <strong>and</strong> intricate<br />

stonework. All this cradled by steamy forest<br />

<strong>and</strong> sky-piercing mountains. Spend time<br />

navigating this ancient wonder before heading<br />

down to your hotel.<br />

Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 14: Machu Picchu – Cusco<br />

Return to Machu Picchu for a second look.<br />

You may want to linger here or walk to the<br />

iconic Sun Gate. For those intrepid enough<br />

can hike up the neighbouring Huayna Picchu<br />

mountain, at 2,693 metres it has staggering<br />

bird’s-eye views. In the early afternoon you’ll<br />

take the train back to Ollantaytambo where<br />

your driver will take you to Cusco. Celebrate<br />

the last night at a st<strong>and</strong>out restaurant.<br />

Palacio del Inka | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 15: Depart Cusco<br />

This morning your driver will take you to<br />

Cusco airport from where you’ll depart.<br />

Meals: B<br />

DATES & PRICING<br />

GUARANTEED<br />

DEPARTURE DATES (<strong>2019</strong>)<br />

PER<br />

PERSON<br />

FROM<br />

SEPTEMBER:<br />

4, 25 £4,525<br />

OCTOBER:<br />

9, 23 £4,525<br />

GUARANTEED<br />

DEPARTURE DATES (<strong>2020</strong>)<br />

PER<br />

PERSON<br />

FROM<br />

MARCH:<br />

18, 25 £4,625<br />

APRIL:<br />

15, 29 £4,625<br />

TRAVELLING SOLO?<br />

Book early <strong>and</strong> the first four solo places won’t pay any<br />

single supplement. The same journey, the same luxury,<br />

guaranteed at the same price.<br />

FLIGHTS<br />

To provide you with flexibility <strong>and</strong> the latest flight offers,<br />

we don’t include international flights. Our specialists<br />

will be able to find the best travel options to suit you.<br />

PRE & POST-TOUR<br />

EXTENSIONS<br />

Amazon post-tour extension –<br />

three days from £850pp<br />

Chiclayo & Trujillo pre-tour<br />

extension – five days from<br />

£1,515pp<br />

Contact a specialist for more information<br />

about how to extend your escorted tour.<br />

78 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


LATIN AMERICA<br />

PERU<br />

YOUR LUXURY<br />

ACCOMMODATION<br />

Hilton Lima Miraflores<br />

Gr<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong> elegantly styled property,<br />

ideally located near Parque Kennedy<br />

Hotel Libertador Arequipa<br />

Refinement in a gr<strong>and</strong> setting, plus the city’s<br />

most important sites are a short walk away<br />

Colca Lodge<br />

Rustic retreat on the banks<br />

of the Colca River<br />

Hotel Libertador Puno<br />

Modern chic overlooking Lake Titicaca<br />

on its own private isl<strong>and</strong><br />

Palacio del Inka<br />

Gr<strong>and</strong> colonial mansion in Cusco,<br />

oozing with Iberian flair<br />

Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba<br />

Hacienda-style hotel with a<br />

farm-to-table dining concept<br />

Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo<br />

Adobe whitewashed cottages<br />

set within tropical gardens<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 79


Galápagos<br />

LUXURY<br />

SMALL GROUP<br />

JOURNEYS<br />

Wildlife Adventure<br />

10 days/9 nights | From £7,360 per person | Maximum 18 guests<br />

From family fun to in-depth observation, search for the unique species,<br />

which inhabit the Galápagos Isl<strong>and</strong>s. Uncover their habitats on boating<br />

excursions, guided hikes, <strong>and</strong> other exciting activities<br />

KEY HIGHLIGHTS<br />

››<br />

Cruise the Galápagos<br />

Isl<strong>and</strong>s on expedition<br />

vessel, La Pinta<br />

››<br />

Enjoy the opportunity to<br />

have wildlife encounters<br />

with iguana, cormorant,<br />

<strong>and</strong> giant tortoise<br />

››<br />

Explore the lesser-known<br />

sites of Post Office Bay<br />

<strong>and</strong> Darwin Lake<br />

››<br />

Partake in glass-bottom<br />

boat trips, kayaking,<br />

snorkelling, trekking,<br />

<strong>and</strong> shore excursions<br />

››<br />

Attend guided stargazing<br />

<strong>and</strong> nature lectures, <strong>and</strong><br />

enjoy attentive staff<br />

INCLUSIONS<br />

33<br />

Luxury accommodation<br />

33<br />

Resident tour director<br />

& English-speaking<br />

expert local guides<br />

33<br />

Airport meet & greet<br />

& return private transfers<br />

33<br />

Entrance fees, taxes & tips,<br />

& excursions as stated<br />

33<br />

Domestic flights included<br />

33<br />

Welcome & farewell dinners<br />

33<br />

9 breakfasts, 7 lunches<br />

& 8 dinners<br />

33<br />

Wifi in accommodation<br />

33<br />

Travelling Bellboy SM<br />

33<br />

Complimentary breakfast in bed<br />

on Day 3<br />

33<br />

Traveller’s Valet SM while on the<br />

cruise<br />

Baltra<br />

GALÁPAGOS<br />

ISLANDS<br />

PACIFIC<br />

OCEAN<br />

ARRIVE/DEPART<br />

AIR<br />

DAY 1: Arrive Guayaquil, Ecuador<br />

Arrive in Guayaquil, the commercial centre<br />

of Ecuador, where you’re met <strong>and</strong> transferred<br />

to your hotel.<br />

Hotel Oro Verde Guayaquil<br />

DAY 2: Guayaquil<br />

This morning, drive into the rural countryside<br />

for a visit to Hacienda La Danesa, a traditional<br />

dairy <strong>and</strong> cacao farm with a rich heritage <strong>and</strong><br />

history. Learn about growing <strong>and</strong> harvesting<br />

cocoa to create famed Ecuadorian chocolate<br />

during a h<strong>and</strong>s-on plantation visit that<br />

includes artisanal chocolate tasting, before an<br />

organic farm lunch. Return to Guayaquil for<br />

a brief city tour. Tonight, enjoy a delightful<br />

welcome dinner.<br />

Hotel Oro Verde Guayaquil | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 3: The Galápagos<br />

Fly to Baltra in the remote Galápagos Isl<strong>and</strong>s.<br />

Meet your naturalist guide <strong>and</strong> board La Pinta,<br />

your home for a six-night cruise through the<br />

Galápagos’ Western Isl<strong>and</strong>s. Nimble enough to<br />

access these waters yet large enough for safety<br />

<strong>and</strong> comfort, La Pinta is built for adventure.<br />

The vessel is ecologically sound as well, <strong>and</strong><br />

comes equipped with pangas (rubber rafts), a<br />

glass-bottom boat, <strong>and</strong> sea kayaks that allow<br />

for independent exploration. After lunch,<br />

attend an introductory briefing <strong>and</strong> a fitting<br />

for your wetsuit <strong>and</strong> snorkelling gear.<br />

La Pinta | Meals: B L D<br />

ECUADOR<br />

Guayaquil<br />

DAYS 4-8: The Galápagos<br />

Because weather, water, <strong>and</strong> wildlife<br />

conditions can change, your cruise itinerary<br />

remains flexible, though two daily excursions<br />

are planned. Each cruise day begins with a<br />

hearty breakfast, before boarding a sturdy<br />

panga for the morning shore excursion.<br />

Explore l<strong>and</strong>marks such as Punta Espinoza,<br />

the red beach of Rábida Isl<strong>and</strong>, Champion<br />

Inlet, <strong>and</strong> the Charles Darwin Research<br />

Station on Santa Cruz Isl<strong>and</strong>. You may<br />

spot sunbathing sea lion, skittering Sally<br />

Lightfoot crab, century-old tortoise, <strong>and</strong> both<br />

marine <strong>and</strong> l<strong>and</strong> iguana. Birdlife includes<br />

penguin, flamingo, blue-footed booby, <strong>and</strong><br />

Darwin’s iconic finch. Return to La Pinta for<br />

a refreshing lunch <strong>and</strong> a little time at leisure.<br />

Return to the pangas for a second excursion,<br />

perhaps with an opportunity to swim, kayak,<br />

or snorkel. After a wonderful meal, your<br />

80 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


LATIN AMERICA<br />

GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS<br />

DATES & PRICING<br />

YOUR LUXURY<br />

ACCOMMODATION<br />

GUARANTEED<br />

DEPARTURE<br />

DATES (<strong>2019</strong>)<br />

PER<br />

PERSON<br />

FROM<br />

SINGLE<br />

SUPP.<br />

FROM<br />

JANUARY:<br />

23 £7,825 £5,380<br />

MARCH:<br />

20 £7,825 £5,380<br />

APRIL:<br />

17 £7,825 £5,380<br />

MAY:<br />

15 £7,825 £5,380<br />

SEPTEMBER:<br />

4 £7, 360 £5,075<br />

OCTOBER:<br />

2, 30 £7,825 £5,380<br />

La Pinta<br />

Spacious adventure yacht featuring<br />

sea kayaks <strong>and</strong> a glass-bottom boat<br />

evenings are your own – attend astronomy<br />

<strong>and</strong> nature lectures presented by your affable<br />

guides, peruse the onboard library, or gather<br />

in the lounge.<br />

La Pinta | Meals: B L D<br />

JOURNEY DETAILS<br />

This journey includes some active elements.<br />

FLIGHTS<br />

To provide you with flexibility <strong>and</strong> the latest flight offers,<br />

we don’t include international flights. Our specialists<br />

will be able to find the best travel options to suit you.<br />

DAYS 9 & 10: Depart Guayaquil<br />

Disembark today <strong>and</strong> fly back to Guayaquil.<br />

Enjoy time to relax before gathering for a<br />

farewell dinner at your hotel’s restaurant.<br />

The next morning, transfer to the airport<br />

to head for home.<br />

Hotel Oro Verde Guayaquil |<br />

Meals: B D (Day 9); B (Day 10)<br />

TAILOR-MADE TRAVEL WITH A&K<br />

Ask us about how to customise<br />

this itinerary to create the perfect<br />

bespoke holiday, just for you.<br />

Hotel Oro Verde Guayaquil<br />

Central hotel located close to<br />

Centennial Park <strong>and</strong> the airport<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 81


MEET THE NATIVES<br />

From the finches that inspired Darwin<br />

to the whales that return to the isl<strong>and</strong>s<br />

each autumn, wildlife sets the Galápagos<br />

apart. Encounter each isl<strong>and</strong>’s unique<br />

species up close with the help of your<br />

naturalist guide<br />

SEA LION<br />

The social sea lion hardly bats an eye at<br />

human visitors. When not congregating on<br />

the beach, they are swift, powerful swimmers.<br />

Want to swim with a sea lion? January<br />

through March is a great time of year for<br />

water clarity <strong>and</strong> warmer temperatures. Or<br />

come in October for a chance to snorkel with<br />

a sea lion pup.<br />

SALLY LIGHTFOOT CRAB<br />

This brilliant-hued crab is perhaps the isl<strong>and</strong>s’<br />

most photogenic species. It occupies the rocky<br />

coasts, feeding on algae, year round.<br />

BLUE-FOOTED BOOBY<br />

Given to foot-stamping mating displays that<br />

make it a favourite of Galápagos visitors, the<br />

endearing blue-footed booby may be found<br />

mating <strong>and</strong> nesting year round, depending<br />

on conditions.<br />

FLIGHTLESS CORMORANT<br />

Over the eons since arriving by air in the<br />

Galápagos, this living experiment from<br />

‘Nature’s Laboratory’ evolved into the<br />

world’s only flightless seabird besides the<br />

penguin. It nests from May to October.<br />

MARINE & LAND IGUANA<br />

Called the ‘imp of darkness’ by Darwin, the<br />

marine iguana is well adapted to the water,<br />

with finlike tails <strong>and</strong> teeth designed to scrape<br />

algae from rocks. Nesting begins in February.<br />

Its terrestrial kin, the l<strong>and</strong> iguana, prefers<br />

dining on prickly pear cactus <strong>and</strong> has a<br />

mating schedule that varies by isl<strong>and</strong>.<br />

GALÁPAGOS PENGUIN<br />

Both the rarest <strong>and</strong> the most northerly<br />

penguin species, this isl<strong>and</strong> denizen arrived<br />

at the Galápagos via the chilly Humboldt<br />

Current from Antarctica. Penguin, <strong>and</strong> many<br />

other Galápagos bird species, such as the<br />

red-footed booby, start nesting in January.<br />

GIANT TORTOISE<br />

Overhunting <strong>and</strong> habitat loss nearly drove<br />

these placid, stately reptiles to extinction.<br />

Happily, conservation efforts are proving<br />

successful <strong>and</strong> many subspecies’ populations<br />

are on the increase. Visit in January to see<br />

laying. Come between March <strong>and</strong> May to see<br />

its rare aquatic cousin, the green sea turtle,<br />

nesting on the beaches.<br />

WHEN WHAT WHERE<br />

January<br />

February<br />

March<br />

April<br />

May<br />

September<br />

October<br />

November<br />

L<strong>and</strong> bird nesting, marine iguana<br />

displaying bright colours, sea turtle<br />

laying<br />

Greater flamingo nesting,<br />

Bahama pintail duck breeding,<br />

marine iguana nesting<br />

Marine iguana nesting, waved<br />

albatross arriving, penguin performing<br />

water acrobatics<br />

Waved albatross performing courtship<br />

ritual, giant tortoise hatching season<br />

ends, l<strong>and</strong> iguana hatching season starts<br />

Blue-footed booby courting, sea turtle<br />

hatching, marine iguana hatching<br />

Galápagos penguin performing water<br />

acrobatics, seabirds are active,<br />

sea lion are active<br />

Lava heron nesting, fur seal mating,<br />

blue-footed booby raising chicks,<br />

giant tortoise laying eggs<br />

Sea lion pupping season, brown noddy<br />

breeding season, b<strong>and</strong>-rumped storm<br />

petrel nesting season<br />

Española Isl<strong>and</strong><br />

Floreana Isl<strong>and</strong>, Santa<br />

Cruz<br />

Fern<strong>and</strong>ina, Española<br />

Isl<strong>and</strong>, Isabela Isl<strong>and</strong><br />

Española Isl<strong>and</strong>, Isabela<br />

Isl<strong>and</strong><br />

North Seymour Isl<strong>and</strong>,<br />

Gardner Bay, Punta<br />

Cormorant, Puerto Egas,<br />

Santa Cruz<br />

Bartolomé, Mosquera<br />

Isl<strong>and</strong>, Española, Rábida<br />

Isl<strong>and</strong>, Santiago<br />

Española, Isabela Isl<strong>and</strong><br />

Various Galápagos<br />

isl<strong>and</strong>s<br />

To find out more about what you can see on the Galápagos Isl<strong>and</strong>s <strong>and</strong> when, see our<br />

Best Time To Visit guide: abercrombiekent.co.uk/galapagos-isl<strong>and</strong>s/best-time-to-visit<br />

82 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


LATIN AMERICA<br />

GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS<br />

La Pinta<br />

At the heart of your Galápagos experience is La Pinta, a vessel built for adventure.<br />

By day, cruise the isl<strong>and</strong>s <strong>and</strong> discover the wonders of this incredible region. By night,<br />

luxuriate in your comfortable, spacious cabin<br />

SHIP DETAILS AT A GLANCE<br />

33<br />

24 outside cabins, with large<br />

windows <strong>and</strong> ocean views,<br />

located on the Upper Deck<br />

33<br />

Includes four triple cabins able<br />

to accommodate a third guest<br />

under 12 years of age<br />

33<br />

Menus, created by a Cordon<br />

Bleu-trained chef, featuring<br />

fine Ecuadorian dishes <strong>and</strong><br />

international cuisine<br />

33<br />

Sea kayaks <strong>and</strong> a glass-bottom<br />

boat available on board for<br />

independent exploration<br />

MADE FOR EXPLORATION<br />

La Pinta combines the amenities of a<br />

first-class yacht with the skilled personnel<br />

of an expedition vessel. At 63 metres long,<br />

she carries just 48 guests in 24 spacious<br />

cabins (multiple groups). That means more<br />

room to stretch out. A small group size also<br />

ensures better service, with 28 crew members,<br />

three Galápagos-certified naturalist guides <strong>and</strong><br />

A&K resident tour directors at your service<br />

throughout your voyage.<br />

STYLISH YET CASUAL DINING<br />

Dining on board is a stylish affair, with menus<br />

featuring international cuisine <strong>and</strong> celebrated<br />

Ecuadorian dishes. Aboard La Pinta, fine<br />

dining doesn’t mean formal. You need not<br />

pack anything dressier than smart-casual wear,<br />

<strong>and</strong> many meals may be enjoyed alfresco in<br />

the Observation Lounge & Bar.<br />

STABLE & ECO-FRIENDLY<br />

When not on shore expeditions, guests are free<br />

to w<strong>and</strong>er La Pinta’s relaxed public spaces,<br />

including the outside Sky Bar on the boat<br />

deck, perfect for a chat with your guides.<br />

The ship itself is small enough to nimbly<br />

navigate the Galápagos waters but large<br />

enough to ensure the safety of passengers.<br />

DECK PLAN<br />

Outside Sky Bar<br />

Jacuzzi<br />

BOAT DECK<br />

CABIN DECK<br />

MAIN DECK<br />

Dining<br />

Library<br />

Gym<br />

Reception<br />

Dr.<br />

Observation<br />

Lounge & Bar<br />

Boutique<br />

Luxury cabins (17 sqm average)<br />

Luxury plus cabins (23 sqm)<br />

(Triple occupancy only)<br />

Terrace<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 83


IMMERSIVE<br />

JOURNEYS<br />

Inside Tracks in<br />

Argentina & Brazil<br />

9 days/8 nights | From £2,865 per person | Maximum 18 guests<br />

For those who want the inside scoop on Buenos Aires <strong>and</strong> Rio de Janeiro.<br />

Delve into BA’s cosmopolitan atmosphere <strong>and</strong> its exclusive tango scene,<br />

then witness Brazil’s thundering Iguazu Falls <strong>and</strong> Rio’s signature coast<br />

ARGENTINA<br />

From Estancia<br />

Iguazu Falls<br />

Buenos<br />

Aires<br />

BRAZIL<br />

To the Amazon<br />

Rio de Janeiro<br />

ARRIVE/DEPART<br />

AIR<br />

EXTENSION<br />

DAY 1: Arrive Buenos Aires, Argentina<br />

L<strong>and</strong> in Argentina’s cosmopolitan capital,<br />

Buenos Aires, <strong>and</strong> transfer from the airport<br />

to the city centre for a walking tour around<br />

Recoleta, including a light lunch at La Biela.<br />

As far as city boroughs go, few can compete<br />

with Recoleta’s leafy plazas, European<br />

architecture, <strong>and</strong> beautiful cemetery. Aside<br />

from igniting postcode envy, this classical<br />

neighbourhood is where the city’s well-heeled<br />

crowd comes to shop in boutiques <strong>and</strong><br />

dine on Michelin star-worthy tasting menus.<br />

Tonight you can follow suit with a chef ’s table<br />

experience, including steaks aged to perfection<br />

<strong>and</strong> wine to match.<br />

The Brick Hotel | Meals: L D<br />

DAY 2: Buenos Aires<br />

Spend the morning visiting the 16th-century<br />

Plaza de Mayo, the city’s political heart, <strong>and</strong><br />

then La Boca, a colourful neighbourhood with<br />

an equally vibrant history. W<strong>and</strong>er through<br />

Recoleta’s cemetery to see Eva Perón’s ornate<br />

resting place as well as the tombs of other<br />

celebrated figures. The pièce de résistance is<br />

a private, guided tour of the Teatro Colón,<br />

which hosted the likes of Pavarotti <strong>and</strong> Maria<br />

Callas, lit by a 700-bulb ch<strong>and</strong>elier. Tonight,<br />

enjoy an intimate tango performance at the<br />

Philippe Starck-designed Faena Hotel. Get up<br />

close to the dancers moving sensually around<br />

the cabaret-style setting.<br />

The Brick Hotel | Meals: B<br />

84 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


LATIN AMERICA<br />

thundering cataracts which you can view<br />

from a platform. Cross the border into Brazil<br />

to your jungle retreat. When the park closes<br />

at 18.00 to visitors who aren’t staying at the<br />

hotel, you will have the Falls to yourselves.<br />

Belmond Hotel das Cataratas | Meals: B<br />

DAY 5: Iguazu Falls<br />

It’s impossible to soak up the Falls all in<br />

one day, so today you have the chance to<br />

investigate further. You’ll have the option<br />

to zoom on a Zodiac boat along a threekilometre<br />

stretch of the Iguazu River, <strong>and</strong> get<br />

as close to the Falls as possible. Will you get<br />

wet? Very. So make sure to don quick-drying<br />

clothes. Tonight, foodies can opt to visit<br />

the home of a prestigious chef for a private<br />

dinner (at an additional cost). Learn about<br />

native ingredients as you dine by c<strong>and</strong>lelight.<br />

Belmond Hotel das Cataratas | Meals: B<br />

KEY HIGHLIGHTS<br />

ARGENTINA & BRAZIL<br />

DAY 3: Buenos Aires<br />

Today, Design your Day SM – giving<br />

you the freedom to choose the experience<br />

that is best suited to you. Select from the<br />

following options:<br />

OPTION 1: Hit the galleries<br />

Peruse controversial photography <strong>and</strong><br />

sculptures at two up <strong>and</strong> coming art galleries<br />

<strong>and</strong> visit MALBA for works by Latin<br />

America’s champions – Diego Rivera, Frida<br />

Kahlo, <strong>and</strong> Fern<strong>and</strong>o Botero.<br />

OPTION 2: Private dining at Bajollave<br />

Cook Argentinean classics at Bajollave –<br />

a ‘closed-door’ restaurant. Whip up the<br />

perfect crêpe batter with a private chef <strong>and</strong><br />

have lunch in what feels like a chic friend’s<br />

dining room.<br />

OPTION 3: Tango in San Telmo<br />

Head to San Telmo, a tango hot spot, where<br />

you’ll learn the sharp, staccato moves. Then<br />

stroll through the cobbled streets lined with<br />

colonial buildings <strong>and</strong> artists’ studios.<br />

The Brick Hotel | Meals: B<br />

DAY 4: Buenos Aires – Iguazu Falls,<br />

Brazil<br />

Fly to Iguazu Falls, a natural wonder<br />

straddling both Argentina <strong>and</strong> Brazil. After<br />

l<strong>and</strong>ing, head to the Argentinean side for<br />

a train ride that circuits the mist-shrouded<br />

waterfalls. You’ll have world-class views of<br />

its curtain-like sheets of water. The most<br />

impressive is the Devil’s Throat, a series of<br />

DAY 6: Iguazu Falls – Rio de Janeiro<br />

Pop into the bird park to see rainforestdwelling<br />

toucan <strong>and</strong> macaw before your<br />

transfer to Iguazu Falls airport. Fly to Rio,<br />

a city famed for its flamboyant Carnival,<br />

sultry samba, <strong>and</strong> ridiculously goodlooking<br />

cariocas. The architecture is equally<br />

h<strong>and</strong>some, from the towering statue of Christ<br />

the Redeemer to the colourful 215-step<br />

Selarón staircase. After checking into your<br />

hotel, take a cable car to the top of Sugarloaf<br />

Mountain, where from the summit you can<br />

toast the sunset with a caipirinha.<br />

Hilton Rio Copacabana | Meals: B<br />

DAY 7: Rio de Janeiro<br />

Today, Design your Day SM – giving<br />

you the freedom to choose the experience<br />

that is best suited to you. Select from the<br />

following options:<br />

OPTION 1: Sample art <strong>and</strong> cachaça<br />

Explore artsy Santa Teresa stopping at a<br />

19th-century mansion <strong>and</strong> a spectacular city<br />

viewpoint. Visit an artist’s workshop <strong>and</strong><br />

finish the day with a cachaça tasting.<br />

OPTION 2: Carnival behind the scenes<br />

Get a taste for Carnival. See how costumes<br />

<strong>and</strong> floats are made <strong>and</strong> visit a top samba<br />

school, where you’ll dress up in authentic<br />

carnival costumes <strong>and</strong> enjoy a caipirinha.<br />

Finally me<strong>and</strong>er the nearby cobblestone<br />

alleys to explore Rio’s history on foot.<br />

OPTION 3: See Rio by bike<br />

Set off on a gentle bike ride along the<br />

patterned promenades of Rio’s iconic<br />

beaches. Pedal through Copacabana,<br />

Ipanema, Leblon, <strong>and</strong> around the Rodrigo<br />

de Freitas Lagoon.<br />

Hilton Rio Copacabana | Meals: B<br />

››<br />

Rest your head<br />

in Buenos Aires’<br />

well-heeled Recoleta<br />

››<br />

Gaze at Rio from the<br />

deck of a private yacht<br />

››<br />

Out-of-hours access<br />

to Brazil’s Iguazu Falls<br />

››<br />

Visit Rio’s treasured<br />

l<strong>and</strong>mark, Christ the<br />

Redeemer<br />

››<br />

Sip a sundowner atop<br />

Sugarloaf Mountain<br />

INCLUSIONS<br />

33<br />

Design your Day SM on Days 3 & 7<br />

33<br />

Five-star luxury accommodation<br />

33<br />

Resident tour director &<br />

English-speaking expert<br />

local guides<br />

33<br />

Airport meet & greet<br />

& return private transfers<br />

33<br />

Entrance fees, taxes & tips,<br />

& excursions as stated<br />

33<br />

Domestic flights included<br />

33<br />

Welcome & farewell dinners<br />

33<br />

8 breakfasts, 1 lunch<br />

& 2 dinners<br />

33<br />

Wifi in accommodation<br />

33<br />

Scenic sundowner<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 85


DESIGN YOUR DAY SM<br />

Design your Day SM experiences<br />

have been organised into themes<br />

to help you easily identify the<br />

option that suits you. See Days<br />

3 & 7 for further details<br />

ARTS & CULTURE<br />

DAY 3: Hit the galleries in Buenos Aires<br />

DAY 7: Sample art <strong>and</strong> cachaça<br />

DAY 7: Carnival behind the scenes<br />

CULINARY DELIGHTS<br />

DAY 3: Private dining at Bajollave<br />

ACTIVE<br />

DAY 3: Tango in San Telmo<br />

DAY 7: See Rio by bike<br />

DAY 8: Rio de Janeiro<br />

It’s your last full day, so why not celebrate<br />

on a private yacht? From sparkling blue<br />

waters, look back at Sugarloaf Mountain for<br />

a different take. You’ll cruise past isl<strong>and</strong>s <strong>and</strong><br />

forts, stopping for dips along the way. Brazil’s<br />

love of meat is eternalised in its restaurants.<br />

In the evening, dine at a churrascaria<br />

(barbecue restaurant), where carnivores<br />

can tuck into melt-in-your-mouth cuts.<br />

Hilton Rio Copacabana | Meals: B D<br />

DAY 9: Depart Rio de Janeiro<br />

Be sure to take one last look at the Corcovado<br />

Mountain as you bid farewell to Brazil <strong>and</strong><br />

are chauffeured to Rio airport. You’ll take<br />

the scenic route along the foothills of the<br />

Tijuca Forest <strong>and</strong> through traditional<br />

Brazilian neighbourhoods.<br />

Meals: B<br />

PRE & POST-TOUR<br />

EXTENSIONS<br />

Estancia pre-tour extension –<br />

four days from £1,100pp<br />

Amazon post-tour extension –<br />

four days from £1,390pp<br />

Contact a specialist for more information<br />

about how to extend your escorted tour.<br />

DATES & PRICING<br />

GUARANTEED<br />

DEPARTURE DATES (<strong>2019</strong>)<br />

PER<br />

PERSON<br />

FROM<br />

SEPTEMBER:<br />

20 £2,865<br />

OCTOBER:<br />

18 £2,975<br />

NOVEMBER:<br />

1, 22 £2,975<br />

GUARANTEED<br />

DEPARTURE DATES (<strong>2020</strong>)<br />

PER<br />

PERSON<br />

FROM<br />

JANUARY:<br />

10 £2,975<br />

FEBRUARY:<br />

7 £3,045<br />

MARCH:<br />

6 £3,045<br />

TRAVELLING SOLO?<br />

Book early <strong>and</strong> the first four solo places won’t pay<br />

any single supplement. The same journey, the same<br />

luxury, guaranteed at the same price.<br />

FLIGHTS<br />

To provide you with flexibility <strong>and</strong> the latest<br />

flight offers, we don’t include international flights.<br />

Our specialists will be able to find the best travel<br />

options to suit you.<br />

TAILOR-MADE TRAVEL WITH A&K<br />

Ask us about how to customise<br />

this itinerary to create the perfect<br />

bespoke holiday, just for you.<br />

86 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


YOUR LUXURY<br />

ACCOMMODATION<br />

LATIN AMERICA<br />

The Brick Hotel<br />

Modern five-star hotel in sought-after<br />

Recoleta area of Buenos Aires<br />

ARGENTINA & BRAZIL<br />

Belmond Hotel das Cataratas<br />

Colonial-style residence with an<br />

unbeatable location near Iguazu<br />

Hilton Rio Copacabana<br />

Classic luxury on Copacabana’s<br />

famed beachfront in Rio<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 87


IMMERSIVE<br />

JOURNEYS<br />

Adventures in Chile<br />

10 days/9 nights | From £5,940 per person | Maximum 18 guests<br />

This 10-day itinerary is perfect for intrepid travellers, who are fascinated by Chile’s poetic<br />

l<strong>and</strong>scapes. It features the capital of Santiago, Patagonia’s enchanting wilderness,<br />

<strong>and</strong> the otherworldly Atacama Desert<br />

Calama<br />

CHILE<br />

Santiago<br />

To<br />

Easter<br />

Isl<strong>and</strong><br />

Winel<strong>and</strong>s<br />

Puerto<br />

Natales<br />

San Pedro<br />

de Atacama<br />

ARRIVE/DEPART<br />

AIR<br />

ROAD<br />

EXTENSION<br />

DAY 1: Arrive Santiago, Chile<br />

L<strong>and</strong> in Chile’s capital where you’ll be met<br />

<strong>and</strong> taken to your hotel. After checking in,<br />

head to the glass-roofed spa to soak up the<br />

city skyline <strong>and</strong> views of the Andes. Itchy feet?<br />

Head straight out to w<strong>and</strong>er around attractive<br />

neoclassical architecture <strong>and</strong> myriad eateries.<br />

Ritz-Carlton Santiago | Meals: D<br />

DAY 2: Santiago<br />

Today, Design your Day SM – giving<br />

you the freedom to choose the experience<br />

that is best suited to you. Select from the<br />

following options:<br />

OPTION 1: See some street art<br />

Santiago’s streets have been a graffiti hot<br />

spot for some time. From Barrio Brasil to<br />

the Bellavista district you’ll see abstract<br />

designs plus anime, as well as more politically<br />

motivated works.<br />

OPTION 2: Go in search of local eats<br />

Santiago is a cornucopia of hip eateries <strong>and</strong><br />

street food stalls. Visit La Vega, a market loaded<br />

with indigenous fruit <strong>and</strong> veg, <strong>and</strong> Mercado<br />

Central for some of Santiago’s best seafood.<br />

OPTION 3: Have a morning of museums<br />

Visit the Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian<br />

Art, boasting the country’s important<br />

pre-Hispanic works. Then the stately Chilean<br />

National Museum of Fine Arts to see<br />

19th-century sculptures. Finish at La<br />

Chascona, one of Pablo Neruda’s three homes.<br />

OPTION 4: Take a bike tour<br />

Pedal around the bohemian neighbourhood of<br />

Bellavista, where you can soak up its outdoor<br />

graffiti. Stop at the bustling markets for tapas<br />

88 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


LATIN AMERICA<br />

CHILE<br />

KEY HIGHLIGHTS<br />

››<br />

Explore vast glaciers<br />

in wild Patagonia<br />

››<br />

Kayak in Chile’s<br />

fjordl<strong>and</strong>s<br />

››<br />

Discover the lunarlike<br />

l<strong>and</strong>scape of the<br />

Atacama Desert<br />

››<br />

Enjoy stargazing in the<br />

desert with professional<br />

equipment for an<br />

unparalleled viewing<br />

››<br />

Bunk down in high<br />

design hotels<br />

INCLUSIONS<br />

33<br />

Design your Day SM on Day 2<br />

<strong>and</strong> cycle through the pretty Parque Forestal.<br />

Ritz-Carlton Santiago | Meals: B<br />

DAY 3: Santiago – Puerto Natales<br />

This morning you’ll be driven to the airport<br />

for your flight south to Punta Arenas. Your<br />

driver-guide will then take you three hours<br />

across the vast Patagonian pampas. Your hotel<br />

sits on the outskirts of Puerto Natales, a port<br />

city <strong>and</strong> the gateway to Patagonia’s wilderness.<br />

Perched on the lake, you can take in mountain<br />

views from every angle. Watch chefs fire up<br />

the grill for a rustic asado <strong>and</strong> treat yourself<br />

to a glass of carménère.<br />

The Singular Patagonia | Meals: B L D<br />

DAYS 4 & 5: Puerto Natales<br />

Spend the next couple of days venturing<br />

through l<strong>and</strong>scapes that inspired Pablo<br />

33<br />

Five-star luxury accommodation<br />

33<br />

Resident tour director &<br />

English-speaking expert<br />

local guides<br />

33<br />

Airport meet & greet<br />

& return private transfers<br />

33<br />

Entrance fees, taxes & tips,<br />

& excursions as stated<br />

33<br />

Domestic flights included<br />

33<br />

Welcome & farewell dinners<br />

33<br />

9 breakfasts, 7 lunches<br />

& 8 dinners<br />

33<br />

Wifi in accommodation<br />

33<br />

Scenic sundowner<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 89


DESIGN YOUR DAY SM<br />

Design your Day SM experiences<br />

have been organised into themes<br />

to help you easily identify the<br />

option that suits you. See<br />

Day 2 for further details<br />

Neruda <strong>and</strong> Bruce Chatwin. Kayak on serene<br />

fjords where you may spot a Chilean flamingo<br />

or black-necked swan. Or sail to the great<br />

Balmaceda glacier to witness radiant blue<br />

icebergs. There are trails for the hardcore<br />

trekker, <strong>and</strong> scenic routes for the ambler,<br />

with miles of lenga forest to explore. You’ll<br />

find old-world estancias used by 19th-century<br />

pioneers as well as life-changing lookout<br />

points. Peckish? Take a delicious picnic to<br />

one of the lagoons.<br />

The Singular Patagonia | Meals: B L D<br />

ARTS & CULTURE<br />

DAY 2: See some street art<br />

DAY 2: Have a morning of museums<br />

CULINARY DELIGHTS<br />

DAY 2: Go in search of local eats<br />

ACTIVE<br />

DAY 2: Take a bike tour<br />

DAY 6: Puerto Natales – Santiago<br />

Take the morning to relax or squeeze in a<br />

hike along the Last Hope Sound. In the early<br />

afternoon, a driver will take you to the airport<br />

for your flight back to Santiago. This time your<br />

hotel is a convenient stone’s throw away from<br />

the airport so you can bunk down in a matter<br />

of minutes.<br />

Holiday Inn Santiago – Airport Terminal |<br />

Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 7: Santiago – San Pedro<br />

de Atacama<br />

Walk over to the airport for your flight to<br />

Calama in the north. You’ll be met <strong>and</strong> driven<br />

to the outskirts of San Pedro de Atacama, an<br />

oasis town in the Chilean desert. Your hotel<br />

sits tucked away in the rust-coloured hills of<br />

the Catarpe Valley, an otherworldly l<strong>and</strong>scape<br />

which you can admire from the pool.<br />

Alto Atacama Desert Lodge & Spa | Meals: B L D<br />

DAYS 8 & 9: San Pedro de Atacama<br />

Explore Chile’s Atacama Desert, a lunar-like<br />

terrain of salt-rich mountains <strong>and</strong> tangerine<br />

desertscape. It’s the driest desert on Earth,<br />

affording spectacular scenery from dusk<br />

until dawn. Visit the salt flats, where you may<br />

spot a pink flamingo, or hike to high-altitude<br />

lagoons. You can trek up to the bubbling<br />

geysers at El Tatio <strong>and</strong> enjoy a picnic with<br />

volcano views. In the evening, watch the<br />

amber sun melt over the salt lakes. You can<br />

embark on moonlit walks <strong>and</strong> go stargazing in<br />

the clearest skies with a professional telescope.<br />

Alto Atacama Desert Lodge & Spa | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 10: Depart Calama<br />

A driver will take you to Calama airport from<br />

where you’ll depart.<br />

Meals: B<br />

PRE & POST-TOUR<br />

EXTENSIONS<br />

Easter Isl<strong>and</strong> post-tour extension<br />

– four days from £1,335pp<br />

Winel<strong>and</strong>s post-tour extension<br />

– four days from £1,100pp<br />

Contact a specialist for more information<br />

about how to extend your escorted tour.<br />

DATES & PRICING<br />

GUARANTEED<br />

DEPARTURE DATES (<strong>2019</strong>)<br />

PRICE<br />

PER<br />

PERSON<br />

OCTOBER:<br />

8 £5,940<br />

DECEMBER:<br />

3 £6,100<br />

GUARANTEED<br />

DEPARTURE DATES (<strong>2020</strong>)<br />

PRICE<br />

PER<br />

PERSON<br />

JANUARY:<br />

21 £6,250<br />

FEBRUARY:<br />

11 £6,250<br />

MARCH:<br />

10 £5,995<br />

TRAVELLING SOLO?<br />

Book early <strong>and</strong> the first four solo places won’t<br />

pay any single supplement. The same journey,<br />

the same luxury, guaranteed at the same price.<br />

FLIGHTS<br />

To provide you with flexibility <strong>and</strong> the latest flight<br />

offers, we don’t include international flights.<br />

Our specialists will be able to find the best<br />

travel options to suit you.<br />

TAILOR-MADE TRAVEL WITH A&K<br />

Ask us about how to customise<br />

this itinerary to create the perfect<br />

bespoke holiday, just for you.<br />

90 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


LATIN AMERICA<br />

CHILE<br />

YOUR LUXURY<br />

ACCOMMODATION<br />

Ritz-Carlton Santiago<br />

Manor house-style hotel with<br />

an enviable rooftop pool<br />

The Singular Patagonia<br />

Industrial-luxe in a former<br />

cold-storage warehouse space<br />

Alto Atacama Desert Lodge & Spa<br />

A low-slung adobe lodge that slots into<br />

the l<strong>and</strong>scape of the San Pedro region<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 91


Patagonia:<br />

The Last Wilderness<br />

10 days/9 nights | From £8,260 per person | Maximum 18 guests<br />

This enlightening itinerary leads discerning adventurers through South America’s most<br />

beautiful <strong>and</strong> unforgiving l<strong>and</strong>scapes. Visit towering glaciers, remote ranches <strong>and</strong> isolated<br />

isl<strong>and</strong>s, where you can experience unforgettable l<strong>and</strong>scapes<br />

LUXURY<br />

SMALL GROUP<br />

JOURNEYS<br />

KEY HIGHLIGHTS<br />

››<br />

Experience cosmopolitan<br />

Buenos Aires, Santiago, <strong>and</strong><br />

the Patagonian wilderness<br />

››<br />

Sail to Tierra del Fuego to<br />

see Magellanic penguin<br />

››<br />

Visit a working ranch <strong>and</strong><br />

enjoy hiking <strong>and</strong> horse riding<br />

››<br />

Explore Patagonia <strong>and</strong><br />

Torres del Paine by horse,<br />

foot, or kayak<br />

››<br />

Admire the cracking<br />

<strong>and</strong> roaring of Perito<br />

Moreno Glacier<br />

INCLUSIONS<br />

33<br />

Five-star luxury accommodation<br />

33<br />

Resident tour director &<br />

English-speaking expert<br />

local guides<br />

33<br />

Airport meet & greet<br />

& return private transfers<br />

33<br />

Entrance fees, taxes & tips,<br />

& excursions as stated<br />

33<br />

Domestic flights included<br />

33<br />

Welcome & farewell dinners<br />

33<br />

9 breakfasts, 6 lunches<br />

& 8 dinners<br />

33<br />

Wifi in accommodation<br />

33<br />

Scenic sundowner<br />

33<br />

Travelling Bellboy SM<br />

33<br />

Complimentary breakfast in bed<br />

on Days 4 & 10<br />

33<br />

Traveller’s Valet SM on Day 9<br />

ARRIVE/DEPART<br />

AIR<br />

ROAD<br />

PACIFIC<br />

OCEAN<br />

CHILE<br />

Puerto Natales<br />

Punta Arenas<br />

DAY 1: Arrive Buenos Aires, Argentina<br />

Welcome to Buenos Aires, Argentina’s elegant<br />

capital, <strong>and</strong> a city bursting with European<br />

flair, where you’re met <strong>and</strong> transferred to your<br />

hotel. Relax with early check-in. Tonight,<br />

gather for a welcome briefing, followed by a<br />

festive dinner at the famed Elena Restaurant.<br />

Four Seasons Hotel Buenos Aires | Meals: D<br />

DAY 2: Buenos Aires - Ushuaia<br />

Explore Buenos Aires in the company of your<br />

resident tour director. Visit the Plaza de Mayo,<br />

pass through the San Telmo neighbourhood,<br />

continue to La Boca, <strong>and</strong> walk along Caminito<br />

Street. After a light lunch, visit La Recoleta<br />

Cemetery, final resting place of Eva Perón.<br />

Then, fly south to Ushuaia, a scenic city set in<br />

magnificent Tierra del Fuego. Tonight, enjoy<br />

dinner at your hotel.<br />

Arakur Ushuaia | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 3: Ushuaia<br />

Drive to Estancia Harberton, the oldest<br />

farm in Tierra del Fuego <strong>and</strong> an Argentine<br />

National Historical Monument. Embark on a<br />

private sail to Isla Martillo to walk among a<br />

teeming rookery of Magellanic penguin before<br />

continuing to Gable Isl<strong>and</strong> for lunch. Relax in<br />

the solitude of this remote, primal l<strong>and</strong>scape.<br />

After lunch, sail back to Harberton <strong>and</strong> return<br />

to your hotel for an evening at leisure.<br />

Arakur Ushuaia | Meals: B L D<br />

Santiago<br />

Buenos Aires<br />

ARGENTINA<br />

Torres del Paine<br />

National Park<br />

El Calafate<br />

Ushuaia<br />

ATLANTIC<br />

OCEAN<br />

DAY 4: El Calafate<br />

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast or take an early<br />

morning hike through the Reserva Natural<br />

Cerro Alarkén with your local guide. Your<br />

hotel, Arakur Ushuaia, is set within a region<br />

devoted to preserving the native forests. Fly<br />

to Patagonia El Calafate to visit a secluded<br />

Patagonian ranch. Observe sheep shearing<br />

<strong>and</strong> herding, <strong>and</strong> hike or horse ride along the<br />

banks of Argentino Lake. Tonight, dine on<br />

local lamb grilled on a traditional Patagonian<br />

cross stake.<br />

Hotel Posada Los Alamos | Meals: B D<br />

DAY 5: El Calafate<br />

Start the day sailing by catamaran to Seno<br />

Mayo of Argentino Lake, stopping to explore<br />

the Andean Patagonian forest. Continue<br />

to Perito Moreno Glacier, one of the few<br />

remaining advancing glaciers in the world.<br />

Hike at your own pace <strong>and</strong> ability along the<br />

seven walkways located at different heights<br />

<strong>and</strong> distances from the glacier, taking in<br />

magnificent views of its northern <strong>and</strong><br />

southern faces. Return to your hotel<br />

<strong>and</strong> enjoy an evening at leisure.<br />

Hotel Posada Los Alamos | Meals: B L<br />

DAY 6: Puerto Natales, Chile<br />

Journey to Puerto Natales, check into your<br />

luxury hotel <strong>and</strong> have a late lunch, before<br />

enjoying the remainder of your afternoon at<br />

leisure. Choose from a wide range of exclusive<br />

expeditions <strong>and</strong> activities offered by your<br />

hotel, such as horse riding, trekking, kayaking,<br />

<strong>and</strong> mountain biking, all designed to reveal<br />

Patagonia at its most authentic.<br />

The Singular Patagonia | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 7: Puerto Natales<br />

Take today to explore the magnificent<br />

wilderness area of Torres del Paine National<br />

92 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


LATIN AMERICA<br />

YOUR LUXURY<br />

ACCOMMODATION<br />

PATAGONIA<br />

Four Seasons Hotel Buenos Aires<br />

Stylish, comfortable hotel, located<br />

within historic Recoleta<br />

Park, created by tectonic movements during<br />

the last Ice Age. A UNESCO Biosphere<br />

Reserve, it is renowned for its otherworldly<br />

l<strong>and</strong>scape. Scan the peaks for Andean condor.<br />

After dinner, if the sky is clear, step outside for<br />

some impromptu stargazing.<br />

The Singular Patagonia | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 8: Puerto Natales<br />

Among many optional excursions, today<br />

you can sail through the Patagonian Fjords<br />

(weather dependent). Observe colonies of<br />

blue-eyed cormorant <strong>and</strong> sea lion, arriving at<br />

Seno de Última Esperanza (Last Hope Fjord).<br />

At Bernardo O’Higgins National Park, hike to<br />

the mirador (viewpoint) overlooking Serrano<br />

Glacier to view icebergs calving. If conditions<br />

allow, visit Lago Azul to observe the pristine<br />

vegetation at Mount Balmaceda. Tonight, join<br />

your resident tour director <strong>and</strong> fellow guests<br />

for a dinner paired with superb Chilean wines.<br />

The Singular Patagonia | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 9: Santiago<br />

After a leisurely morning, drive to Punta<br />

Arenas for your flight to vibrant Santiago,<br />

capital of Chile. Enjoy dinner at the hotel.<br />

The Ritz-Carlton, Santiago | Meals: B D<br />

DAY 10: Depart Santiago<br />

Enjoy a morning tour of the city highlights.<br />

Visit the Palacio de La Moneda presidential<br />

palace <strong>and</strong> the Plaza de Armas. Ride a<br />

funicular up San Cristobal Hill to behold the<br />

statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Relax this<br />

afternoon with privileged late access to your<br />

room, before transferring to the airport.<br />

The Ritz-Carlton, Santiago (dayroom) | Meals: B<br />

DATES & PRICING<br />

GUARANTEED<br />

DEPARTURE<br />

DATES (<strong>2019</strong>)<br />

PER<br />

PERSON<br />

FROM<br />

JOURNEY DETAILS<br />

This journey includes some long walks.<br />

SINGLE<br />

SUPP.<br />

FROM<br />

JANUARY:<br />

18, 25 £8,260 £1,840<br />

FEBRUARY:<br />

15, 22 £8,260 £1,840<br />

MARCH:<br />

8, 22 £8,260 £1,840<br />

OCTOBER:<br />

11, 25 £8,260 £1,840<br />

NOVEMBER:<br />

8, 15 £8,260 £1,840<br />

DECEMBER:<br />

6 £8,260 £1,840<br />

FLIGHTS<br />

To provide you with flexibility <strong>and</strong> the latest flight offers,<br />

we don’t include international flights. Our specialists<br />

will be able to find the best travel options to suit you.<br />

TAILOR-MADE TRAVEL WITH A&K<br />

Ask us about how to customise<br />

this itinerary to create the perfect<br />

bespoke holiday, just for you.<br />

Arakur Ushuaia<br />

Surrounded by ancient woodl<strong>and</strong>s with<br />

views over the stunning l<strong>and</strong>scape<br />

Hotel Posada Los Alamos<br />

Luxury hotel within El Calafate,<br />

close to Lake Argentino<br />

The Singular Patagonia<br />

Contemporary hotel overlooking<br />

the Patagonian fjords <strong>and</strong> Antonio<br />

Varas Peninsula<br />

The Ritz-Carlton, Santiago<br />

Comfortable lodgings in the<br />

heart of charming Santiago<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 93


IMMERSIVE<br />

JOURNEYS<br />

The Wonders of China<br />

12 days/11 nights | From £4,395 per person | Maximum 18 guests<br />

This itinerary is the ideal taster for those wanting to take in China’s most famous highlights. Featuring<br />

the capital Beijing, culture-rich Xian, rural Guilin, sleepy Yangshuo, <strong>and</strong> the Shanghai megalopolis<br />

CHINA<br />

ARRIVE/DEPART<br />

AIR<br />

DAY CRUISE<br />

RAIL<br />

EXTENSION<br />

Xian<br />

Guilin<br />

Beijing<br />

Hangzhou<br />

Shanghai<br />

Yangshuo<br />

DAY 1: Arrive Beijing<br />

L<strong>and</strong> in Beijing <strong>and</strong> you will be driven straight<br />

to Tiananmen Square, the beating heart of<br />

the city. It’s one of the largest city squares on<br />

Earth, pulsing with kite-flyers <strong>and</strong> commuters.<br />

Take a slower pace at the Forbidden City,<br />

given its name because no riff-raff were<br />

allowed to enter during the emperors’ reigns.<br />

Today you can peruse its collection of Chinese<br />

artwork (the largest in the world), <strong>and</strong> take<br />

a peek at an opulent reception hall, usually<br />

closed to the public.<br />

Hotel Eclat Beijing | Meals: L D<br />

DAY 2: Beijing<br />

Travel an hour <strong>and</strong> a half outside the city to<br />

the Great Wall. Having served as an enemy<br />

lookout over 2,000 years ago, today you’ll walk<br />

along the lesser-trodden Mutianyu section<br />

viewing Ming Dynasty watchtowers, merlons,<br />

<strong>and</strong> fortresses. Take the cable car up <strong>and</strong> down<br />

to cast your gaze over the Yan Mountains’<br />

loftiest peaks. Refuel on dumplings, then<br />

head to the Old Summer Palace, built in<br />

the 18th century for the Qianlong Emperor.<br />

Stroll around weeping willows, pavilions, <strong>and</strong><br />

lakes bobbing with dragon boats. The former<br />

Imperial Gardens are a horticultural heaven.<br />

Hotel Eclat Beijing | Meals: B L<br />

DAY 3: Beijing<br />

Today, Design your Day SM – giving<br />

you the freedom to choose the experience<br />

that is best suited to you. Select from the<br />

following options:<br />

94 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


SOUTH-EAST ASIA & THE FAR EAST<br />

OPTION 1: Contemplate the contemporary<br />

Visit Beijing’s edgiest art community – 798<br />

Art District – housed within an industrialstyle<br />

complex. Brimming with studios,<br />

galleries, restaurants, <strong>and</strong> bars, <strong>and</strong> works by<br />

China’s leading modern artists.<br />

OPTION 2: Hop to a hutong<br />

Take a pedicab through Beijing’s winding<br />

alleyways, known as hutongs. Here you’ll<br />

be able to visit the home of a friendly local<br />

family <strong>and</strong> partake in a calligraphy class.<br />

OPTION 3: Get cultural at the Capital Museum<br />

Peruse the finest Chinese porcelain <strong>and</strong><br />

collections of jade. The main highlight is an<br />

exhibition dedicated to Beijing’s history told<br />

through bronze, calligraphy, <strong>and</strong> paintings.<br />

Hotel Eclat Beijing | Meals: B<br />

DAY 4: Beijing – Xian<br />

You’ll be driven to the train station in the<br />

morning for your journey to Xian. There’s<br />

no dawdling on this high-speed train which<br />

will zip you to the one-time imperial capital<br />

in just over four hours –<strong>and</strong> you’ll have more<br />

legroom than if you flew. From the station,<br />

you’ll be taken to your hotel. You may be<br />

tempted to spend the rest of the afternoon<br />

in the spa.<br />

Shangri-La Hotel Xian | Meals: B<br />

DAY 5: Xian<br />

It’s time to explore Xian’s star attraction: the<br />

Terracotta Warriors. See the subterranean<br />

army built to guard the tomb of China’s first<br />

emperor, Qin Shi Huang, in the third century<br />

BC. Visit pits one, two, <strong>and</strong> three, where from<br />

balconies you can peer over legions of lifesize<br />

sculptures, each created with a unique<br />

face. You’ll also get to view bronze chariots<br />

– the largest in Chinese archaeology. Leave<br />

in time for lunch, after which you can weave<br />

through the city’s Muslim quarter. A visit to<br />

the Great Mosque is a must for its blend of<br />

Chinese <strong>and</strong> Islamic architecture.<br />

Shangri-La Hotel Xian | Meals: B L<br />

DAY 6: Xian – Guilin<br />

Fly to rural Guilin, famed for its enigmatic<br />

karst mountains. Straight after l<strong>and</strong>ing you’ll<br />

be driven to the fairytale setting of Elephant<br />

Trunk Hill, where the curved rock resembles<br />

a snout dipping into the Li River. Then steer<br />

towards the limestone Reed Flute Cave,<br />

formed over 600,000 years ago. The cave was<br />

named after the reeds growing outside, which<br />

can be made into musical intruments. Inside<br />

is a heady vision of stalactites, stalagmites,<br />

<strong>and</strong> Tang-era calligraphy, all the more<br />

dramatic when colourfully lit. Then head<br />

to your hotel to check in.<br />

Shangri-La Hotel Guilin | Meals: B<br />

DAY 7: Guilin – Yangshuo<br />

This morning, board a boat <strong>and</strong> sail down the<br />

Li River to Yangshuo, taking in the splendid<br />

bucolic views of rice paddies, grazing buffalo,<br />

<strong>and</strong> cormorant fishermen on the calm water<br />

– classic Chinese l<strong>and</strong>scapes. Your hotel sits<br />

just outside the small river town of Yangshuo<br />

framed by surreal karst peaks. Order a rum<br />

cocktail (your hotel has its own distillery)<br />

<strong>and</strong> watch the sun set over mountainous<br />

farml<strong>and</strong>. The afternoon is yours to enjoy.<br />

Alila Yangshuo | Meals: B L<br />

DAY 8: Yangshuo<br />

Today, Design your Day SM – giving<br />

you the freedom to choose the experience<br />

that is best suited to you.<br />

Select from the following options:<br />

OPTION 1: Partake in some painting<br />

Try your h<strong>and</strong> at ink painting at the Peony<br />

Xuan Art Gallery.<br />

KEY HIGHLIGHTS<br />

››<br />

See into an off-limits<br />

ceremonial hall in<br />

Beijing’s Forbidden City<br />

››<br />

Walk the less-frequented<br />

Mutianyu section of the<br />

Great Wall<br />

››<br />

Meet Xian’s 2,000-yearold<br />

Terracotta Warriors<br />

››<br />

Immerse yourself in<br />

Guilin’s karst topography<br />

››<br />

Explore the Bund,<br />

Shanghai’s buzzing<br />

waterfront hot spot<br />

INCLUSIONS<br />

33<br />

Design your Day SM on Days 3,<br />

8 & 11<br />

33<br />

Five-star luxury accommodation<br />

33<br />

Resident tour director &<br />

English-speaking expert<br />

local guides<br />

33<br />

Airport meet & greet<br />

& return private transfers<br />

33<br />

Entrance fees, taxes & tips,<br />

& excursions as stated<br />

33<br />

Domestic flights included<br />

33<br />

Welcome & farewell dinners<br />

33<br />

11 breakfasts, 4 lunches<br />

& 2 dinners<br />

33<br />

Wifi in accommodation<br />

33<br />

Scenic sundowner<br />

CHINA<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 95


DESIGN YOUR DAY SM<br />

Design your Day SM experiences<br />

have been organised into themes<br />

to help you easily identify the<br />

option that suits you. See Days 3,<br />

8 & 11 for further details<br />

OPTION 2: Ready, steady, cook<br />

Browse the food markets with a local<br />

connoisseur. Then master the wok to make<br />

aubergine in oyster sauce <strong>and</strong> ginger chilli duck.<br />

OPTION 3: Join a fan club<br />

Go to Fuli, a traditional village where paper<br />

fans are the main commodities. Make a fan<br />

yourself <strong>and</strong> perhaps purchase pre-made ones.<br />

OPTION 4: Go ride a bike<br />

Peddle off-piste through Yangshuo’s picturesque<br />

countryside, through verdant paddies, busy<br />

villages, <strong>and</strong> along the quieter Yulong River.<br />

Alila Yangshuo | Meals: B<br />

ARTS & CULTURE<br />

DAY 3: Contemplate the contemporary<br />

DAY 3: Hop to a hutong<br />

DAY 3: Get cultural at the Capital Museum<br />

DAY 8: Partake in some painting<br />

DAY 8: Join a fan club<br />

DAY 11: Hit the Bund<br />

DAY 11: Enjoy the Shanghai Museum<br />

CULINARY DELIGHTS<br />

DAY 8: Ready, steady, cook<br />

DAY 11: Seek out some street food<br />

ACTIVE<br />

DAY 8: Go ride a bike<br />

TAILOR-MADE TRAVEL WITH A&K<br />

Ask us about how to customise<br />

this itinerary to create the perfect<br />

bespoke holiday, just for you.<br />

DAY 9: Yangshuo – Shanghai<br />

Today you’ll be taken to Guilin airport where<br />

you’ll board a flight to Shanghai. China’s<br />

futuristic city is a sharp contrast to peaceful<br />

Yangshuo, <strong>and</strong> after dropping your bags at<br />

your hotel, you may want to hit the streets <strong>and</strong><br />

scout out the fashionable shops <strong>and</strong> eateries<br />

which lie within walking distance.<br />

Four Seasons Shanghai at Puxi | Meals: B<br />

DAY 10: Shanghai<br />

It’s possible to find the spirit of the old city,<br />

you just need to know where to look. This<br />

morning, you’ll travel to the ancient water<br />

town of Zhujiajiao, where you can take a boat<br />

ride down the canals. Drift between its narrow<br />

alleyways <strong>and</strong> under arched stone bridges.<br />

After spending time here, sample xiao long<br />

bao back in Shanghai before scouting out the<br />

Chinese old quarter. Visit the 16th-century<br />

Yuyuan Gardens, quieter in the afternoons,<br />

<strong>and</strong> view rockeries, vermilion pagodas, <strong>and</strong> a<br />

maze of bridges.<br />

Four Seasons Shanghai at Puxi | Meals: B<br />

DAY 11: Shanghai<br />

Today, Design your Day SM – giving<br />

you the freedom to choose the experience<br />

that is best suited to you. Select from the<br />

following options:<br />

OPTION 1: Hit the Bund<br />

A waterfront promenade where old <strong>and</strong> new<br />

collide. Walk alongside colonial buildings <strong>and</strong><br />

former trading houses. Then discover West<br />

Bund’s burgeoning art scene.<br />

OPTION 2: Seek out some street food<br />

Weave through Shanghai’s backstreets where<br />

you can find the most delicious street food in<br />

town. Tuck into deep fried wontons <strong>and</strong> slurp<br />

bowls of chang shou mian.<br />

OPTION 3: Enjoy the Shanghai Museum<br />

Arguably China’s top museum for ancient art.<br />

Explore beautifully displayed ceramics, bronze<br />

sculptures, jade, <strong>and</strong> traditional paintings.<br />

Enjoy an afternoon at leisure before gathering<br />

for a farewell dinner this evening.<br />

Four Seasons Shanghai at Puxi | Meals: B D<br />

DAY 12: Depart Shanghai<br />

Say goodbye to Shanghai <strong>and</strong> head to the<br />

airport in good time for your flight home.<br />

Meals: B<br />

DATES & PRICING<br />

GUARANTEED<br />

DEPARTURE DATES (<strong>2019</strong>)<br />

PRE & POST-TOUR<br />

EXTENSIONS<br />

PER<br />

PERSON<br />

FROM<br />

AUGUST:<br />

8 £4,495<br />

SEPTEMBER:<br />

19 £4,595<br />

OCTOBER:<br />

10, 24 £4,595<br />

NOVEMBER:<br />

7 £4,695<br />

GUARANTEED<br />

DEPARTURE DATES (<strong>2020</strong>)<br />

PER<br />

PERSON<br />

FROM<br />

FEBRUARY:<br />

20 £4,595<br />

MARCH:<br />

12, 26 £4,595<br />

APRIL:<br />

9, 16 £4,395<br />

TRAVELLING SOLO?<br />

Book early <strong>and</strong> the first four solo places won’t<br />

pay any single supplement. The same journey,<br />

the same luxury, guaranteed at the same price.<br />

FLIGHTS<br />

To provide you with flexibility <strong>and</strong> the latest flight offers,<br />

we don’t include international flights. Our specialists<br />

will be able to find the best travel options to suit you.<br />

Hangzhou post-tour extension –<br />

four days from £415pp<br />

Contact a specialist for more information<br />

about how to extend your escorted tour.<br />

96 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


YOUR LUXURY<br />

ACCOMMODATION<br />

SOUTH-EAST ASIA & THE FAR EAST<br />

CHINA<br />

Hotel Eclat Beijing<br />

Upscale hotel with its own<br />

private art collection<br />

Shangri-La Hotel Xian<br />

Contemporary retreat close to<br />

the city’s ancient wonders<br />

Shangri-La Hotel Guilin<br />

Traditional-style Chinese architecture<br />

on the banks of the Li River<br />

Alila Yangshuo<br />

Former sugar mill turned<br />

cutting-edge sanctuary<br />

Four Seasons Shanghai at Puxi<br />

Contemporay luxury in<br />

Shanghai’s historic centre<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 97


China &<br />

the Yangtze<br />

LUXURY<br />

SMALL GROUP<br />

JOURNEYS<br />

13 days/12 nights | From £5,920 per person | Maximum 18 guests<br />

Travelling by pedicab, bullet train, river cruiser, <strong>and</strong> plane, explore a sublime<br />

series of attractions. Perfect for foodie fans, nature enthusiasts <strong>and</strong><br />

culture lovers alike, this itinerary offers authentic discovery<br />

KEY HIGHLIGHTS<br />

››<br />

Embark on a three-night<br />

cruise on the Yangtze<br />

River aboard the luxurious<br />

Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer<br />

››<br />

Discover the less-visited<br />

<strong>and</strong> well-preserved<br />

Mutianyu section of the<br />

Great Wall of China<br />

››<br />

View the incredible<br />

Terracotta Army<br />

accompanied by a specialist<br />

››<br />

Get up close <strong>and</strong> personal<br />

with giant p<strong>and</strong>a roaming<br />

free in their natural habitat<br />

››<br />

Experience the narrow<br />

winding lanes <strong>and</strong><br />

courtyard residences<br />

of a traditional hutong<br />

INCLUSIONS<br />

33<br />

Five-star luxury accommodation<br />

33<br />

Resident tour director &<br />

English-speaking expert<br />

local guides<br />

33<br />

Airport meet & greet<br />

& return private transfers<br />

33<br />

Entrance fees, taxes & tips,<br />

& excursions as stated<br />

33<br />

Domestic flights included<br />

33<br />

Welcome & farewell dinners<br />

33<br />

12 breakfasts, 10 lunches<br />

& 7 dinners<br />

33<br />

Wifi in accommodation<br />

33<br />

Scenic sundowner<br />

33<br />

Travelling Bellboy SM<br />

33<br />

Complimentary breakfast in bed<br />

on Days 3 & 7<br />

33<br />

Traveller’s Valet SM on Day 7<br />

CHINA<br />

Chengdu<br />

Xian<br />

ARRIVE/DEPART<br />

AIR<br />

CRUISE<br />

RAIL<br />

Chongqing<br />

DAY 1: Arrive Beijing, China<br />

Arrive in the capital city of Beijing, the<br />

country’s long-time seat of power, where you<br />

are transferred to your luxurious hotel.<br />

Four Seasons Hotel Beijing<br />

Yichang<br />

Beijing<br />

DAY 2: Beijing<br />

After your welcome briefing, participate in<br />

a private tai chi lesson taught by a master<br />

instructor at the Temple of Heaven, a stunning<br />

example of classical Ming period architecture.<br />

After lunch, take in the sweep of history<br />

at Tiananmen Square before exploring the<br />

imperial gr<strong>and</strong>eur of the Forbidden City.<br />

Tonight, gather for a special welcome dinner<br />

at your hotel.<br />

Four Seasons Hotel Beijing | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 3: Beijing<br />

Travel to the well-preserved Mutianyu section<br />

of the Great Wall of China. Walk or ride<br />

a cable car to the top of the wall to take in<br />

sweeping views of the surrounding mountains.<br />

After experiencing this wonder of the world,<br />

return to Beijing. Then, Ride like a Local on a<br />

pedicab through a hutong, a vast yet intimate<br />

neighbourhood of small winding alleyways<br />

dating back to China’s dynastic period.<br />

Four Seasons Hotel Beijing | Meals: B L<br />

Shanghai<br />

DAY 4: Xian<br />

Fly to Xian, a modern city cloaked in over<br />

3,000 years of history. Once the eastern<br />

terminus of the Great Silk Road, Xian has<br />

become a melting pot of Middle Eastern <strong>and</strong><br />

Asian influences. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch,<br />

<strong>and</strong> then visit the old city quarter with its<br />

teeming markets <strong>and</strong> beautiful Great Mosque,<br />

a 14th-century national heritage site. A blend<br />

of classic Chinese temple architecture <strong>and</strong><br />

central Asian embellishments makes it one of<br />

the most fascinating sites in Xian.<br />

Sofitel Legend People’s Gr<strong>and</strong> Hotel Xian |<br />

Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 5: Xian<br />

Today, accompanied by an on-site specialist,<br />

visit the excavation area of the Terracotta<br />

Warriors <strong>and</strong> Horses, the life-size army<br />

created during the Qin Dynasty to protect<br />

Qin Shi Huang, China’s first emperor, in his<br />

afterlife. More than 8,000 remarkably crafted<br />

soldiers are spread throughout three dig pits,<br />

each bearing a unique face. Then, enjoy a<br />

chef ’s table dumpling-making demonstration<br />

followed by lunch.<br />

Sofitel Legend People’s Gr<strong>and</strong> Hotel Xian |<br />

Meals: B L<br />

DAY 6: Chengdu<br />

Travel to Chengdu, the charming capital<br />

of Sichuan Province. After lunch, immerse<br />

yourself in local life <strong>and</strong> culture at the People’s<br />

Park, where regional residents play traditional<br />

98 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


SOUTH-EAST ASIA & THE FAR EAST<br />

CHINA<br />

Chinese instruments, practice calligraphy,<br />

<strong>and</strong> engage in tai chi. Observe a traditional<br />

tea demonstration <strong>and</strong> learn about the<br />

centuries-old match-making techniques<br />

still in use today. Tonight, enjoy a special<br />

Sichuan hotpot dinner.<br />

Waldorf Astoria Chengdu | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 7: Chengdu – Chongqing<br />

Today, visit the Chengdu P<strong>and</strong>a Breeding <strong>and</strong><br />

Research Centre. Enjoy the rare opportunity<br />

to observe these endangered creatures<br />

roaming freely in their natural habitat.<br />

Then, board a high-speed train for a<br />

ride through the Chinese countryside to<br />

Chongqing, where you embark on your river<br />

cruiser, Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer, for a<br />

three-night journey to Yichang. Settle into<br />

your cabin as the craft sets sail downstream<br />

to the stunning Three Gorges region.<br />

Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 8: Cruising the Yangtze<br />

Start your morning with tai chi on the deck<br />

before breakfast. Disembark in the small<br />

city of Fuling <strong>and</strong> enjoy a shore excursion,<br />

beginning with a visit to the White Crane<br />

Ridge Underwater Museum. Descend 46<br />

metres underwater to see centuries-old rock<br />

carvings. Afterwards, continue to a local<br />

market to gain insight into the region’s<br />

rich culinary culture. After lunch, learn<br />

about Chinese traditional medicine <strong>and</strong><br />

reflexology <strong>and</strong> in the evening, attend<br />

the captain’s reception.<br />

Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 9: Cruising the Yangtze<br />

Early this morning, Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer<br />

navigates the Qutang <strong>and</strong> Wu Gorges before<br />

anchoring at Badong, where you board a ferry<br />

<strong>and</strong> travel up Shennong Stream. Transfer to<br />

‘pea pod’ boats poled by Tujia boatmen to<br />

view a scenic gorge. The Tujia are members<br />

of a local minority culture famed for their<br />

boatbuilding skills <strong>and</strong> keen knowledge of<br />

the Yangtze. Gain insights into their daily<br />

lives by visiting a village before returning<br />

by ferryboat to Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer.<br />

Tonight, savour a ‘Taste of China’ dinner,<br />

followed by onboard entertainment.<br />

Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer | Meals: B L D<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 99


YOUR LUXURY<br />

ACCOMMODATION<br />

Four Seasons Hotel Beijing<br />

Elegant hotel renowned for<br />

exceptionally high-quality service<br />

DAY 10: Yichang – Shanghai<br />

This morning, disembark <strong>and</strong> fly to Shanghai,<br />

stopping briefly to photograph the Three<br />

Gorges Dam, a project that resulted in the<br />

resettlement of 1.2 million residents of the<br />

cities submerged behind the 185-metre-tall<br />

engineering marvel. Upon arrival in Shanghai,<br />

transfer to your elegant hotel, located on the<br />

city’s historic Bund, for some relaxation.<br />

Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund | Meals: B L<br />

DAY 11: Shanghai<br />

Explore dynamic Shanghai, where stunning<br />

modern skylines meet classic street markets<br />

<strong>and</strong> gardens. Contrast this experience with<br />

a visit to charming Zhujiajiao, a traditional<br />

water village which harks back to China’s<br />

imperial past. Glide along its main canal on<br />

a sampan (wooden boat). Tonight, attend<br />

a performance by the Shanghai Acrobatics<br />

Troupe, featuring dazzling feats of athleticism.<br />

Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund | Meals: B<br />

DAY 12: Shanghai<br />

Stroll the streets of the Old Town <strong>and</strong> visit<br />

the 16th-century Yu Garden with its pavilions<br />

<strong>and</strong> streams. Walk along the Bund, Shanghai’s<br />

most popular promenade. This afternoon,<br />

explore studios <strong>and</strong> galleries in the M-50<br />

Contemporary Art District. Then, gather<br />

tonight for a farewell dinner.<br />

Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund |<br />

Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 13: Depart Shanghai<br />

After breakfast, transfer to the airport to<br />

depart for home.<br />

Meals: B<br />

DATES & PRICING<br />

GUARANTEED<br />

DEPARTURE<br />

DATES (<strong>2019</strong>)<br />

MARCH:<br />

15, 22<br />

29<br />

PER<br />

PERSON<br />

FROM<br />

£5,920<br />

£6,305<br />

SINGLE<br />

SUPP.<br />

FROM<br />

£1,535<br />

£2,305<br />

APRIL:<br />

5, 12, 19, 26 £6,305 £2,305<br />

MAY:<br />

3, 10, 17, 24, 31 £6,305 £2,305<br />

JUNE:<br />

14, 21, 28 £5,920 £1,535<br />

JULY:<br />

12, 19, 26 £5,920 £1,535<br />

AUGUST:<br />

2, 9, 16, 23<br />

30<br />

£5,920<br />

£6,305<br />

£1,535<br />

£2,305<br />

SEPTEMBER:<br />

6, 13, 20, 27 £6,305 £2,305<br />

OCTOBER:<br />

4, 11, 18, 25 £6,305 £2,305<br />

NOVEMBER:<br />

1 £6,305 £2,305<br />

JOURNEY DETAILS<br />

Price is based on Main Deck cabin. Upgrade prices to<br />

the Xiling Deck, Wu Deck <strong>and</strong> suites are on request.<br />

This journey includes some active elements. Please<br />

note that multiple groups of 18 A&K guests <strong>and</strong><br />

other passengers may be travelling on board<br />

Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer simultaneously.<br />

FLIGHTS<br />

To provide you with flexibility <strong>and</strong> the latest flight offers,<br />

we don’t include international flights. Our specialists<br />

will be able to find the best travel options to suit you.<br />

TAILOR-MADE TRAVEL WITH A&K<br />

Ask us about how to customise<br />

this itinerary to create the perfect<br />

bespoke holiday, just for you.<br />

Sofitel Legend People’s Gr<strong>and</strong><br />

Hotel Xian<br />

Iconic <strong>and</strong> ideally located property<br />

within Xian’s historic walls<br />

Waldorf Astoria Chengdu<br />

Art Deco-style hotel offering<br />

stunning city views<br />

Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer<br />

Reconditioned river cruiser boasting<br />

the largest cabins on the Yangtze<br />

Waldorf Astoria Shanghai<br />

on the Bund<br />

Palatial luxury hotel, a five-minute<br />

walk from the Bund<br />

100 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


SOUTH-EAST ASIA & THE FAR EAST<br />

CHINA<br />

Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer<br />

With luxurious staterooms <strong>and</strong> public areas, expert onboard guides, <strong>and</strong> a peerless<br />

staff <strong>and</strong> crew, Yangzi Explorer is ideal for cruising the mighty Yangtze<br />

DECK PLAN<br />

Sanctuary ‘Yangzi Explorer’<br />

A&K SIGNATURE ELEMENTS<br />

33<br />

38 deluxe cabins, 20 suites<br />

<strong>and</strong> four speciality suites<br />

33<br />

Private balcony in all cabins<br />

<strong>and</strong> suites<br />

33<br />

Viewing lounge & bar<br />

33<br />

International restaurant offering<br />

a wide array of menu options<br />

33<br />

Double-decker theatre with bar<br />

33<br />

Spa <strong>and</strong> beauty salon<br />

SPACIOUS, ELEGANT CABINS<br />

The recently refurbished Yangzi Explorer’s<br />

spacious, elegant staterooms range from a<br />

roomy deluxe cabin — at 31 square metres,<br />

the largest cabin of its kind on the river — to<br />

the palatial Imperial <strong>and</strong> Celestial suites at 110<br />

square metres. Some suites feature a private<br />

sun deck/balcony, king-size bed <strong>and</strong> separate<br />

lounge with panoramic views. All cabins <strong>and</strong><br />

suites include private balconies with alfresco<br />

sitting area, private bathroom, minibar, air<br />

conditioning, <strong>and</strong> flat-screen TV.<br />

FINE AMENITIES & SUPERB STAFF<br />

Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer includes all the<br />

amenities you would expect at a deluxe hotel,<br />

with its fitness centre, business centre, spa <strong>and</strong><br />

beauty salon, <strong>and</strong> a laundry service. And, with<br />

a staff-to-guest ratio of better than 1:1, you<br />

can rely on the most attentive service.<br />

EXCELLENT FOOD & WINE<br />

A dedicated team of internationally<br />

trained chefs prepare meals from fresh<br />

ingredients, <strong>and</strong> perfectly pair each dish with<br />

complimentary house wines.<br />

ONBOARD SPECIALISTS<br />

Your A&K resident tour director <strong>and</strong> the<br />

ship’s onboard China specialists co-ordinate<br />

educational programmes <strong>and</strong> shore excursions<br />

that reveal the Yangtze’s integral role in<br />

Chinese history.<br />

Function<br />

Room<br />

Spa/<br />

Fitness Centre<br />

Theatre<br />

Mezzanine<br />

Theatre<br />

Main Floor<br />

Restaurant<br />

Suite<br />

Lounge<br />

EXPLORER DECK<br />

QUTANG DECK<br />

WU DECK<br />

XILING DECK<br />

MAIN DECK<br />

Business Centre<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Viewing Lounge<br />

& Bar<br />

501 503 505 507 509 511<br />

502 504 506 508 510 512 514 M<strong>and</strong>arin<br />

Lift<br />

401 403 405 407 409 411 413<br />

Lift<br />

402 404 406 408 410 412 414 416<br />

Art Gallery/<br />

Shops<br />

301 303 305 307 309 311 313 Celestial<br />

302 304 306 308 310 312 314 Imperial<br />

Reception 201 203 205 207 209 211 213 215<br />

Lobby<br />

Viewing<br />

Deck<br />

202 204 206 208 210 212 214 216<br />

Jade<br />

Imperial/Celestial suite (110 sqm)<br />

M<strong>and</strong>arin/Jade suite (81 sqm)<br />

Suite – Qutang Deck (39 sqm)<br />

Suite – Wu Deck (39 sqm)<br />

Deluxe cabin – Wu Deck (31 sqm)<br />

Bridge<br />

Deluxe cabin – Xiling Deck (31 sqm)<br />

Deluxe cabin – Main Deck (31 sqm)<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 101


IMMERSIVE<br />

JOURNEYS<br />

Journey through Japan:<br />

From Tokyo to Kyoto<br />

12 days/11 nights | From £6,740 per person | Maximum 18 guests<br />

The ideal escape for those keen to embrace both modern <strong>and</strong> traditional Japan. Journey from futuristic<br />

Tokyo to ancient Kyoto, seeing everything from samurai houses to the world-famous bullet train<br />

ARRIVE/DEPART<br />

ROAD<br />

RAIL<br />

EXTENSION<br />

Hiroshima<br />

Kanazawa<br />

Kyoto<br />

JAPAN<br />

Nakasendo Way<br />

Tokyo<br />

Hakone<br />

DAY 1: Arrive Tokyo<br />

L<strong>and</strong> in Japan’s capital city where you will be<br />

met <strong>and</strong> driven straight to your hotel. Spend<br />

the rest of the day getting acquainted with<br />

this metropolis. Pull up a stool at a sushi bar<br />

or go for a walk to soak up the medley of<br />

neon lights, modern skyscrapers, <strong>and</strong><br />

buzzing atmosphere.<br />

Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel<br />

DAY 2: Tokyo<br />

Start the day in the Asakusa district to see<br />

the city’s oldest temple, Senso-ji. You can<br />

pick up souvenirs at the nearby Nakamise<br />

Arcade selling rows of traditional objects<br />

<strong>and</strong> snacks. Continue to Meiji Shrine, one of<br />

Japan’s most important Shinto sites. Its serene<br />

forest setting is a far cry from Harajuku, your<br />

next stop, famed for Japanese youth culture<br />

<strong>and</strong> cutting-edge fashion. For something a<br />

bit more refined, head to the shopping mecca<br />

of Omotes<strong>and</strong>o, an avenue known as Tokyo’s<br />

Champs-Élysées for its architectural design<br />

<strong>and</strong> upmarket shops.<br />

Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 3: Tokyo<br />

Today, Design your Day SM – giving<br />

you the freedom to choose the experience<br />

that is best suited to you. Select from the<br />

following options:<br />

OPTION 1: Experience art two ways<br />

Immerse yourself in the hi-tech Mori Art<br />

Museum, the world’s first digital museum.<br />

For artwork on a large scale, visit the Suntory<br />

Museum of Art’s impressive architecture.<br />

102 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


SOUTH-EAST ASIA & THE FAR EAST<br />

JAPAN<br />

OPTION 2: Dive into Tsukiji Fish Market<br />

Wake up early to see the world’s largest fish<br />

market in full swing. Then learn how to make<br />

sushi like a pro <strong>and</strong> tuck into homemade<br />

maguro hosomaki (tuna rolls).<br />

OPTION 3: Swing samurai swords<br />

Don a kimono <strong>and</strong> begin your samurai<br />

training journey. An expert will show you the<br />

swings <strong>and</strong> thrusts used by generations<br />

of these famed warriors.<br />

OPTION 4: Take up Taiko drumming<br />

Try out the Japanese drumming techniques<br />

used in ancient religious ceremonies.<br />

You’ll learn about the history <strong>and</strong> join<br />

in a traditional jam session.<br />

Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel | Meals: B<br />

DAY 4: Tokyo – Takayama<br />

Leave Tokyo behind <strong>and</strong> zip through the<br />

country on the revolutionary bullet train.<br />

Travelling at over 480kph, you’ll arrive at<br />

Nagoya in just over an hour <strong>and</strong> a half where<br />

you’ll switch to a slower paced train. Tuck into<br />

a bento box <strong>and</strong> enjoy panoramic views of<br />

mountains, gorges, <strong>and</strong> rural villages before<br />

you glide into the town of Takayama. Your<br />

driver will be waiting to take you to your<br />

retreat. Take the afternoon to relax or stretch<br />

your legs on a hike through the hills.<br />

Hotel Associa Takayama Resort | Meals: B L<br />

DAY 5: Takayama<br />

During spring, the whole town celebrates<br />

the new season by parading precious<br />

17th-century yatai (floats) through the<br />

streets. You may not be there for the festival,<br />

but you can get close to these ornate floats at<br />

the Takayama Festival Floats Exhibition Hall.<br />

Chase this with a sake tasting, delving behind<br />

the scenes of a few cedar-smelling breweries<br />

<strong>and</strong> observing the different brewing methods.<br />

The afternoon is free to explore as you please.<br />

Hotel Associa Takayama Resort | Meals: B<br />

DAY 6: Takayama – Kanazawa<br />

Today you’ll be driven a couple of hours to<br />

the historic city of Kanazawa. Pause at the<br />

traditional village of Shirakawago, UNESCO<br />

accredited for its remote beauty <strong>and</strong> intact<br />

culture. Tucked away in the verdant Shogawa<br />

River Valley, it is here you can see its famed<br />

A-shaped thatched gassho-zukuri houses, said<br />

to resemble the h<strong>and</strong>s of Buddhist monks.<br />

Continue to Kanazawa <strong>and</strong> your hotel.<br />

Kanazawa Tokyu Hotel | Meals: B<br />

DAY 7: Kanazawa<br />

At first, Kanazawa may appear modern.<br />

Nevertheless, the city is renowned for<br />

its distinct pockets of yesteryear Japan.<br />

Head to the samurai district where you<br />

can view well-preserved samurai residences.<br />

Nomura-ke is one such restored house<br />

where you can investigate its earthen walls,<br />

carp-filled ponds, <strong>and</strong> custom-made outfits<br />

from the glory days. Then visit the zen-like<br />

Kenroku-en, a prize-winning garden <strong>and</strong><br />

horticultural haven. Stroll around the<br />

streams, irises, <strong>and</strong> flowering trees.<br />

Kanazawa Tokyu Hotel | Meals: B<br />

DAY 8: Kanazawa – Kyoto<br />

You have the morning to explore on your<br />

own or do some last minute shopping. In<br />

the afternoon your guide will take you to the<br />

train station where you’ll catch the bullet<br />

train to Kyoto. The journey takes just over an<br />

hour <strong>and</strong> when you arrive, you’ll be driven<br />

to your hotel. Worlds away from Tokyo’s<br />

futuristic neon lights, the city of Kyoto evokes<br />

old-world Japan. Why not start off with an<br />

introductory stroll through what was once<br />

KEY HIGHLIGHTS<br />

››<br />

Explore geisha culture<br />

<strong>and</strong> watch a timeless,<br />

entrancing performance<br />

››<br />

Discover Tokyo in depth<br />

for three nights<br />

››<br />

Whistle through Japan<br />

on the world-famous<br />

bullet train<br />

››<br />

See traditional<br />

gassho-zukuri houses<br />

in Shirakawago<br />

››<br />

Unravel Hiroshima’s<br />

history with an expert<br />

INCLUSIONS<br />

33<br />

Design your Day SM on Days 3 & 11<br />

33<br />

Resident tour director &<br />

English-speaking expert<br />

local guides<br />

33<br />

Airport meet & greet<br />

& return private transfers<br />

33<br />

Entrance fees, taxes & tips,<br />

& excursions as stated<br />

33<br />

Welcome & farewell dinners<br />

33<br />

11 breakfasts, 2 lunches<br />

& 2 dinners<br />

33<br />

Wifi in accommodation<br />

33<br />

Scenic sundowner<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 103


DESIGN YOUR DAY SM<br />

Design your Day SM experiences<br />

have been organised into themes<br />

to help you easily identify the<br />

option that suits you. See Days<br />

3 & 11 for further details<br />

the country’s Imperial capital? You can take it<br />

at your own pace.<br />

Kyoto Tokyu Hotel | Meals: B<br />

DAY 9: Kyoto<br />

Get ready to visit Kyoto’s iconic Kinkaku-ji,<br />

glittering with gold. It used to belong to the<br />

powerful Saionji family in the 14th century<br />

<strong>and</strong> is now a Zen Buddhist temple offering its<br />

visitors fantastical reflections in the mirrorlike<br />

pond. Steer towards the 17th-century Nijo<br />

Castle harking back to the feudal era with<br />

original moats <strong>and</strong> stone walls. Its manicured<br />

gardens blanketed with cherry trees are reason<br />

enough to visit, but make sure to stop at the<br />

Ninomaru Palace for its lavish gold-leaf décor<br />

<strong>and</strong> decorated ceilings.<br />

Kyoto Tokyu Hotel | Meals: B<br />

ARTS & CULTURE<br />

DAY 3: Experience art two ways<br />

DAY 11: Don a kimono<br />

CULINARY DELIGHTS<br />

DAY 3: Dive into Tsukiji Fish Market<br />

DAY 11: Browse markets <strong>and</strong> make sweets<br />

ACTIVE<br />

DAY 3: Swing samurai swords<br />

DAY 3: Take up Taiko drumming<br />

DAY 11: Enjoy a rickshaw ride<br />

DAY 10: Hiroshima<br />

Take the bullet train to Hiroshima, the site<br />

where the first atomic bomb was dropped<br />

on 6 August 1945. Today you can still see<br />

the ruins where this devastating attack took<br />

place. While the city itself was rebuilt, the<br />

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park remains as a<br />

legacy of the atttack, detailing its history with<br />

pictures <strong>and</strong> memorabilia. Then take the ferry<br />

to Itsukushima, known as Miyajima (‘Shrine<br />

Isl<strong>and</strong>’), to see the floating red Torii gate.<br />

Return to Kyoto on the bullet train.<br />

Kyoto Tokyu Hotel | Meals: B<br />

DAY 11: Kyoto<br />

Today, Design your Day SM – giving<br />

you the freedom to choose the experience<br />

that is best suited to you. Select from the<br />

following options:<br />

OPTION 1: Don a kimono<br />

For centuries Japanese people have worn silk<br />

kimonos, the country’s cultural symbol. Visit<br />

a town full of machiya houses where you can<br />

learn the history of the kimono <strong>and</strong> try one on.<br />

OPTION 2: Browse markets <strong>and</strong> make sweets<br />

Visit Nishiki market that’s been thriving<br />

since the 17th century. Browse endless rows<br />

of fresh produce. Then learn how to prepare<br />

traditional Japanese sweets.<br />

OPTION 3: Enjoy a rickshaw ride<br />

Set off on a rickshaw ride around the lofty<br />

Sagano Bamboo Forest, particularly idyllic in<br />

the light wind. You can buy bamboo baskets or<br />

mats made in the local workshops.<br />

This evening, you’ll be treated to a special<br />

geisha performance while you dine. You can<br />

also try your h<strong>and</strong> at traditional Japanese<br />

party games to celebrate your last night.<br />

Kyoto Tokyu Hotel | Meals: B D<br />

DAY 12: Depart Kyoto<br />

A chauffeur will drive you to the airport from<br />

where you will depart.<br />

Meals: B<br />

TAILOR-MADE TRAVEL WITH A&K<br />

Ask us about how to customise<br />

this itinerary to create the perfect<br />

bespoke holiday, just for you.<br />

DATES & PRICING<br />

GUARANTEED<br />

DEPARTURE DATES (<strong>2019</strong>)<br />

PRICE<br />

PER<br />

PERSON<br />

SEPTEMBER:<br />

9 £6,740<br />

OCTOBER:<br />

18 £6,995<br />

NOVEMBER:<br />

13 £7, 265<br />

GUARANTEED<br />

DEPARTURE DATES (<strong>2020</strong>)<br />

MARCH:<br />

10<br />

16<br />

PRICE<br />

PER<br />

PERSON<br />

£6,995<br />

£7, 325<br />

APRIL:<br />

1, 8 £7, 395<br />

MAY:<br />

13 £7,250<br />

TRAVELLING SOLO?<br />

Book early <strong>and</strong> the first four solo places won’t pay<br />

any single supplement. The same journey, the same<br />

luxury, guaranteed at the same price.<br />

FLIGHTS<br />

To provide you with flexibility <strong>and</strong> the latest flight<br />

offers, we don’t include international flights. Our<br />

specialists will be able to find the best travel options<br />

to suit you.<br />

PRE & POST-TOUR<br />

EXTENSIONS<br />

Nakasendo Way post-tour<br />

extension – four days<br />

from £1,120pp<br />

Hakone ryokan stay post-tour<br />

extension – three days<br />

from £450pp<br />

Contact a specialist for more information<br />

about how to extend your escorted tour.<br />

104 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


SOUTH-EAST ASIA & THE FAR EAST<br />

JAPAN<br />

YOUR LUXURY<br />

ACCOMMODATION<br />

Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel<br />

Sky-scraping luxury with<br />

contemporary Tokyo style<br />

Hotel Associa Takayama Resort<br />

Mountain escape with a traditional onsen<br />

Kanazawa Tokyu Hotel<br />

Contemporary outpost five<br />

minutes from the city l<strong>and</strong>marks<br />

Kyoto Tokyu Hotel<br />

Modern retreat close to the sights<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 105


Classic Japan<br />

9 days/8 nights | From £8,765 per person | Maximum 18 guests<br />

LUXURY<br />

SMALL GROUP<br />

JOURNEYS<br />

Combining fantastic foodie experiences, remote natural retreats, <strong>and</strong> a chance to<br />

discover Japan’s historic <strong>and</strong> ultra-modern marvels, this diverse itinerary leads you<br />

to the heart of an extraordinary <strong>and</strong> unique country<br />

KEY HIGHLIGHTS<br />

››<br />

Capture the spirit<br />

of Japan in a traditional<br />

tea ceremony<br />

››<br />

Experience Japan’s culture,<br />

from ancient traditions to<br />

ultra-modern bullet trains<br />

››<br />

Meet a geiko <strong>and</strong> a<br />

maiko at an exclusive<br />

shabu-shabu dinner<br />

››<br />

Relax in an authentic<br />

ryokan at a popular<br />

hot-spring destination<br />

››<br />

View cherry blossoms in<br />

spring or enjoy astonishing<br />

autumnal colours<br />

INCLUSIONS<br />

33<br />

Five-star luxury accommodation<br />

33<br />

Resident tour director<br />

& English-speaking<br />

expert local guides<br />

33<br />

Airport meet & greet<br />

& return private transfers<br />

33<br />

Entrance fees, taxes & tips,<br />

& excursions as stated<br />

33<br />

Welcome & farewell dinners<br />

33<br />

8 breakfasts, 6 lunches<br />

& 4 dinners<br />

33<br />

Wifi in accommodation<br />

33<br />

Scenic sundowner<br />

33<br />

Travelling Bellboy SM<br />

33<br />

Complimentary breakfast in bed<br />

on Days 3 & 5<br />

33<br />

Traveller’s Valet SM on Day 5<br />

ARRIVE/DEPART<br />

ROAD<br />

RAIL<br />

EXTENSION<br />

Hiroshima<br />

Kyoto<br />

Osaka<br />

JAPAN<br />

Tokyo<br />

Hakone<br />

DAY 1: Arrive Tokyo, Japan<br />

Arrive in Tokyo, Japan’s exciting <strong>and</strong> modern<br />

capital. Transfer to your hotel <strong>and</strong> enjoy the<br />

expansive views over the city’s skyline.<br />

The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo<br />

DAY 2: Tokyo<br />

After your welcome briefing, proceed to<br />

Tsukiji Fish Market, a bustling hub. Continue<br />

to the Shitamachi Museum to view historical<br />

reproductions of the living spaces of artisans<br />

<strong>and</strong> merchants who once occupied Tokyo’s<br />

lowl<strong>and</strong>s. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant,<br />

<strong>and</strong> then visit the colourful Asakusa Kannon<br />

Temple, completed in 645 AD, pausing in the<br />

tiny shops of Nakamise-dori. Finish your day<br />

with a photo stop at the Imperial Palace Plaza.<br />

Tonight, enjoy a welcome dinner.<br />

The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 3: Tokyo<br />

Today, start at the Samurai Museum, where<br />

you learn about the customs of this elitewarrior<br />

class <strong>and</strong> get an up-close look at<br />

an authentic weaponry collection. Then,<br />

pass by Shibuya Crossing, Tokyo’s answer<br />

to Times Square, to watch the mesmerising<br />

foot traffic. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant<br />

before proceeding to Tokyo’s vibrant Harajuku<br />

district, where the city’s youth gathers to<br />

see <strong>and</strong> be seen, sporting colourful, eclectic<br />

fashions. Also visit Omotes<strong>and</strong>o Street, an<br />

elegant row of upscale shops with dazzling<br />

façades. The remainder of the day is at leisure.<br />

The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo | Meals: B L<br />

DAY 4: Hakone<br />

Travel to Hakone, among Japan’s most popular<br />

hot-spring destinations, <strong>and</strong> view Hakone<br />

National Park’s coastlines, mountains, lakes,<br />

<strong>and</strong> many volcanic isl<strong>and</strong>s. Board an aerial<br />

tram for inspiring views of Mount Fuji. Enjoy<br />

lunch at a local restaurant before strolling the<br />

grassy hillsides of Hakone’s Open Air Museum<br />

to admire the contemporary sculptures <strong>and</strong><br />

artwork on display, including one of the<br />

world’s finest Picasso exhibits, presenting<br />

visitors with some 300 works by the cubist<br />

master. Tonight, enjoy unparalleled service<br />

<strong>and</strong> traditional Japanese cuisine at Gora<br />

Kadan, a top-rated ryokan (traditional inn).<br />

Gora Kadan | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 5: Osaka<br />

After breakfast at your ryokan, visit the Okada<br />

Museum of Art to view its stunning paintings,<br />

ceramics, lacquerware, <strong>and</strong> bronzes from<br />

Japan, Korea, <strong>and</strong> China. Then, Ride like a<br />

Local by bullet train to Osaka. Historically<br />

known as a merchant city, today Osaka is<br />

Japan’s undisputed culinary capital. Indulge<br />

in everything from octopus dumplings to<br />

okonomiyaki – a battered, grilled concoction<br />

of cabbage, meat, or seafood, <strong>and</strong> seaweed,<br />

topped with mayo. This evening, explore the<br />

popular Dotonbori district on a foodie tour,<br />

stopping at a diverse array of restaurants.<br />

The St Regis Osaka | Meals: B L<br />

DAY 6: Nara<br />

Travel to Nara, Japan’s first capital, to visit<br />

Todai-ji, a temple complex <strong>and</strong> UNESCO<br />

World Heritage Site containing the largest<br />

bronze Buddha statue in Japan. Proceed<br />

to Nara Park, home to hundreds of deer,<br />

venerated here as divine spirits, which you<br />

can feed by h<strong>and</strong>. Complete your Nara<br />

excursion with a visit to Kasuga Taisha Shrine<br />

to experience a Shinto ceremony. Pause for<br />

lunch at a local restaurant before proceeding<br />

106 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


SOUTH-EAST ASIA & THE FAR EAST<br />

JAPAN<br />

YOUR LUXURY<br />

ACCOMMODATION<br />

DATES & PRICING<br />

GUARANTEED<br />

DEPARTURE<br />

DATES (<strong>2019</strong>)<br />

PER<br />

PERSON<br />

FROM<br />

SINGLE<br />

SUPP.<br />

FROM<br />

to the Kehaya-za Sumo Pavilion. Observe a<br />

demonstration of this popular Japanese sport.<br />

Return to your hotel for dinner.<br />

The St Regis Osaka | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 7: Kyoto<br />

Travel early this morning to contemplate<br />

the iconic Zen rock garden at Ryoan-ji, the<br />

perfect spot for a meditative moment, <strong>and</strong><br />

discover the glittering Kinkaku-ji Temple<br />

(Golden Pavilion) – covered with gold leaf,<br />

surrounded by green gardens <strong>and</strong> casting its<br />

delicate reflection in the tranquil pond beside<br />

it. After a traditional bento box lunch, explore<br />

the Arashiyama neighbourhood, including the<br />

garden of Tenryu-ji Temple. Later, bask in the<br />

magical atmosphere of Arashiyama Bamboo<br />

Grove, strolling through the towering shoots.<br />

Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto | Meals: B L<br />

DAY 8: Kyoto<br />

Visit Shogunzuka Temple for stunning views<br />

of Kyoto, <strong>and</strong> then continue to the home <strong>and</strong><br />

studio of the late Kawai Kanjiro, one of Kyoto’s<br />

most famous potters. View his creations as<br />

well as his personal collection of ceramics,<br />

sculptures <strong>and</strong> wood carvings. Proceed to<br />

a temple to experience the art of the tea<br />

ceremony, noting its refined etiquette.<br />

Tonight, savour traditional Japanese cuisine,<br />

while attending geisha dance, sing, pour sake,<br />

<strong>and</strong> converse about their fascinating lives.<br />

Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto | Meals: B D<br />

DAY 9: Depart Kyoto<br />

After breakfast, transfer to Kansai<br />

International Airport or Itami Airport, both<br />

located just outside of Osaka. Alternatively,<br />

begin a post-tour extension to Hiroshima.<br />

Meals: B<br />

MARCH:<br />

4<br />

11<br />

18, 22, 25, 29<br />

APRIL:<br />

1, 5, 8<br />

12, 15<br />

£8,765<br />

£9,610<br />

£9,995<br />

£9,995<br />

£9,610<br />

JOURNEY DETAILS<br />

This journey includes some long walks. April<br />

departure dates are planned to potentially coincide<br />

with the famed blooming of Japan’s cherry blossoms.<br />

FLIGHTS<br />

To provide you with flexibility <strong>and</strong> the latest flight offers,<br />

we don’t include international flights. Our specialists<br />

will be able to find the best travel options to suit you.<br />

PRE & POST-TOUR<br />

EXTENSIONS<br />

£3,690<br />

£4,225<br />

£4,610<br />

£4,610<br />

£4,225<br />

MAY:<br />

6, 13 £9,610 £4,225<br />

SEPTEMBER:<br />

13, 30 £9,610 £4,225<br />

OCTOBER:<br />

7, 11, 14, 21 £9,610 £4,225<br />

NOVEMBER:<br />

4, 11 £9,610 £4,225<br />

Hiroshima post-tour extension<br />

- three days from £2,840pp<br />

Contact a specialist for more information<br />

about how to extend your escorted tour.<br />

TAILOR-MADE TRAVEL WITH A&K<br />

Ask us about how to customise<br />

this itinerary to create the perfect<br />

bespoke holiday, just for you.<br />

The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo<br />

Enjoy panoramic views of Mount<br />

Fuji from Tokyo’s tallest building<br />

Gora Kadan<br />

Traditional ryokan situated<br />

within Hakone National Park<br />

The St Regis Osaka<br />

Luxury hotel set on Midosuji Boulevard,<br />

the Champs-Élysées of Osaka<br />

Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto<br />

Enjoy a tea ceremony around<br />

the 800-year-old pond garden<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 107


Images of Indochina<br />

& Angkor Wat<br />

LUXURY<br />

SMALL GROUP<br />

JOURNEYS<br />

13 days/12 nights | From £7,095 per person | Maximum 18 guests<br />

Whether you’re attracted by the striking natural beauty, the fascinating history<br />

surrounding the glittering temples, or the unique charm of rural Indochinese lifestyles, this<br />

diverse itinerary offers many unforgettable wonders<br />

KEY HIGHLIGHTS<br />

››<br />

Spend two days exploring<br />

the ruins of Angkor with<br />

your expert guide<br />

››<br />

Take a tranquil overnight<br />

cruise on Ha Long Bay<br />

››<br />

Enjoy expedited customs<br />

<strong>and</strong> immigration<br />

formalities upon arrival<br />

in Hanoi, Siem Reap,<br />

<strong>and</strong> Bangkok<br />

››<br />

Step back in time as you<br />

explore tranquil Luang<br />

Prabang<br />

››<br />

Experience vibrant café<br />

culture in Hanoi <strong>and</strong> Ho<br />

Chi Minh City<br />

INCLUSIONS<br />

33<br />

Five-star luxury accommodation<br />

33<br />

Resident tour director &<br />

English-speaking expert<br />

local guides<br />

33<br />

Airport meet & greet<br />

& return private transfers<br />

33<br />

Entrance fees, taxes & tips,<br />

& excursions as stated<br />

33<br />

Domestic flights included<br />

33<br />

Welcome & farewell dinners<br />

33<br />

12 breakfasts, 9 lunches<br />

& 6 dinners<br />

33<br />

Wifi in accommodation<br />

33<br />

Scenic sundowner<br />

33<br />

Travelling Bellboy SM<br />

33<br />

Complimentary breakfast in bed<br />

on Days 9 & 10<br />

33<br />

Traveller’s Valet SM on Day 5<br />

Bangkok<br />

ARRIVE/DEPART<br />

AIR<br />

ROAD<br />

CRUISE<br />

Luang<br />

Prabang<br />

THAILAND<br />

Siem Reap<br />

LAOS<br />

CAMBODIA<br />

DAY 1: Arrive Hanoi, Vietnam<br />

Arrive in Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam,<br />

<strong>and</strong> transfer to your colonial-style hotel.<br />

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi<br />

Hanoi<br />

Hai Phong<br />

Ha Long<br />

Bay<br />

VIETNAM<br />

Ho Chi<br />

Minh City<br />

DAY 2: Hanoi<br />

Hanoi is the country’s cultural heart, bearing<br />

traces of centuries of changing dynasties.<br />

Visit Ho Chi Minh’s house, a simple structure<br />

that served as home to the revolutionary<br />

guerrilla leader. Continue to the lotus-shaped<br />

One Pillar Pagoda, dating back to the first<br />

independent Vietnamese empire. Also<br />

visit the infamous ‘Hanoi Hilton’ prison,<br />

where American prisoners of war were once<br />

confined. Ride like a Local by cyclo through<br />

the city’s Old Quarter. This evening, gather<br />

with your fellow guests for a welcome dinner.<br />

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 3: Ha Long Bay<br />

Travel to Haiphong to board Orchid <strong>and</strong> cruise<br />

picturesque Ha Long Bay. Pass the islets of<br />

Con Vit <strong>and</strong> Gia Luan, their striking karsts<br />

rising dramatically from the emerald waters.<br />

On a course less frequented by other cruises,<br />

wind past Cat Ba Isl<strong>and</strong>, Thoi Quyt, Coc Ngoi<br />

islet, <strong>and</strong> Cua Van floating village. Halt in Lan<br />

Ha Bay, where you can disembark to enjoy<br />

this remote beach. Back aboard, watch the sun<br />

set over the Gulf of Tonkin, before a chef ’s<br />

table demonstration featuring traditional<br />

Vietnamese cuisine, followed by dinner.<br />

Orchid | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 4: Ha Long Bay & Haiphong<br />

Greet the day on deck with sunrise tai chi<br />

overlooking the bay. Then, set out to explore<br />

Toi <strong>and</strong> Sang (Dark <strong>and</strong> Bright) Cave.<br />

Return for brunch on board as Orchid sails<br />

home to port in Haiphong. Back on terra<br />

firma, proceed to Hang Keng Temple <strong>and</strong><br />

enjoy a water puppet show. Later, fly to Ho Chi<br />

Minh City, formerly Saigon, where you settle<br />

in at your hotel.<br />

InterContinental Saigon Hotel | Meals: B L<br />

DAY 5: Ho Chi Minh City<br />

Recently undergoing a resurgence of art <strong>and</strong><br />

culture, Ho Chi Minh City is a lively hub of<br />

108 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


SOUTH-EAST ASIA & THE FAR EAST<br />

CAMBODIA, LAOS, THAILAND & VIETNAM<br />

activity. View examples of the city’s colonial<br />

legacy, including the Reunification Palace<br />

<strong>and</strong> Central Post Office, stopping for photos<br />

at the Cathedral of Notre Dame <strong>and</strong> Saigon<br />

Opera House. After lunch at a local restaurant,<br />

visit the War Remnants Museum, to view<br />

photographs of the Vietnam War by Japanese<br />

photojournalist Bunyo Ishikawa. Then<br />

experience present-day Vietnamese life at Ben<br />

Thanh Market. Tonight, gather with fellow<br />

guests for dinner at a local culinary hot spot.<br />

InterContinental Saigon Hotel | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 6: Ho Chi Minh City<br />

Travel into the countryside to explore the<br />

expansive Cu Chi Tunnels. On arrival, talk<br />

with a former Viet Cong soldier <strong>and</strong>, if you<br />

like, crawl through these small tunnels once<br />

traversed by Viet Cong guerrillas. After lunch,<br />

return to your hotel for an afternoon at leisure.<br />

InterContinental Saigon Hotel | Meals: B L<br />

DAY 7: Siem Reap, Cambodia<br />

Fly to Siem Reap, the town nearest to Angkor<br />

Thom <strong>and</strong> Angkor Wat, <strong>and</strong> enjoy lunch at<br />

a local restaurant upon arrival. Then, begin<br />

your exploration of Angkor Thom, the last<br />

capital of the Khmer kingdom, with a visit to<br />

the Bayon Temple. Its 172 faces bear beguiling<br />

smiles, representing gods, goddesses, <strong>and</strong><br />

other beings from classical poems <strong>and</strong><br />

mythology. Check in to your hotel before<br />

gathering for dinner at a local restaurant.<br />

Belmond La Résidence d’Angkor | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 8: Siem Reap<br />

Rise early this morning to experience the<br />

incomparable serenity <strong>and</strong> inspiration of<br />

sunrise over mystical Angkor Wat. Return<br />

to your hotel for breakfast <strong>and</strong> a morning<br />

at leisure. Later this afternoon, explore the<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 109


110 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners<br />

stunning ruins of Ta Prohm, where the roots<br />

of great trees have spilled over the roof of<br />

this iconic temple. Enjoy a scenic sundowner<br />

on a gondola while floating on the Angkor<br />

Thom moat.<br />

Belmond La Résidence d’Angkor | Meals: B<br />

DAY 9: Siem Reap<br />

Today, visit a less well-known temple,<br />

Banteay Srei, dedicated to Shiva <strong>and</strong> known as<br />

the ‘Citadel of Women’. Learn about the<br />

essential work of the Cambodia Clean Water<br />

Project, an A&K Philanthropy initiative that<br />

builds pumping wells in rural communities<br />

throughout the country. Enjoy lunch at a<br />

local restaurant before visiting the Angkor<br />

National Museum, home to golden-era<br />

Khmer kingdom artefacts. Then, bid farewell<br />

to Cambodia as you fly to Luang Prabang.<br />

Belmond La Résidence Phou Vao | Meals: B L<br />

DAY 10: Luang Prabang, Laos<br />

Step back in time for a day. This morning,<br />

join in a village baci ceremony, <strong>and</strong> then<br />

proceed to Wat Xieng Thong, a Buddhist<br />

Temple noted for its Tree of Life wall mosaic.<br />

After lunch at a local restaurant, stop at the<br />

Traditional Arts & Ethnology Centre, which<br />

is devoted to protecting the ethnic diversity<br />

of Laos. In the evening, enjoy a stroll through<br />

the vibrant night market before continuing on


YOUR LUXURY<br />

ACCOMMODATION<br />

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi<br />

Condé Nast Traveller Gold List hotel<br />

with stylish, spacious rooms<br />

SOUTH-EAST ASIA & THE FAR EAST<br />

DATES & PRICING<br />

Orchid<br />

All-balcony luxury vessel with superb<br />

onboard service cruising Ha Long Bay<br />

CAMBODIA, LAOS, THAILAND & VIETNAM<br />

to sample Laos cuisine at a top local restaurant<br />

for dinner.<br />

Belmond La Résidence Phou Vao | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 11: Luang Prabang – Bangkok,<br />

Thail<strong>and</strong><br />

Rise very early to give alms to local monks<br />

before returning to the hotel for breakfast.<br />

Next, visit the National Museum, once a royal<br />

palace, before continuing to a local restaurant<br />

for lunch. Visit a silk weaving centre <strong>and</strong> then<br />

fly to Bangkok, Thail<strong>and</strong>’s vibrant capital.<br />

The Peninsula Bangkok | Meals: B L<br />

DAY 12: Bangkok<br />

Visit the sprawling Gr<strong>and</strong> Palace. Explore the<br />

historic Siamese court, home to Thail<strong>and</strong>’s<br />

most important shrine, the jade Emerald<br />

Buddha. See the temple of Wat Pho, with<br />

its massive, gilded reclining Buddha. Next,<br />

enjoy a splendid view of Wat Arun from the<br />

deck of a boat as you take a Chao Phraya<br />

River cruise. Tonight, gather for a special<br />

farewell dinner.<br />

The Peninsula Bangkok | Meals: B D<br />

GUARANTEED<br />

DEPARTURE<br />

DATES (<strong>2019</strong>)<br />

PER<br />

PERSON<br />

FROM<br />

JOURNEY DETAILS<br />

This journey includes some long walks.<br />

SINGLE<br />

SUPP.<br />

FROM<br />

JANUARY:<br />

6, 10, 13, 17,<br />

20, 24, 27 £7,095 £2,245<br />

FEBRUARY:<br />

10, 17, 21, 28 £7,095 £2,245<br />

MARCH:<br />

3, 7, 14, 17, 28 £7,095 £2,245<br />

APRIL:<br />

14 £7,095 £2,245<br />

SEPTEMBER:<br />

22 £7,095 £2,245<br />

OCTOBER:<br />

6, 13, 17, 20 £7,095 £2,245<br />

NOVEMBER:<br />

3, 7, 14 £7,095 £2,245<br />

DECEMBER:<br />

8, 12<br />

15<br />

£7,095<br />

£7,870<br />

£2,245<br />

£2,785<br />

FLIGHTS<br />

To provide you with flexibility <strong>and</strong> the latest flight<br />

offers, we don’t include international flights. Our<br />

specialists will be able to find the best travel options<br />

to suit you.<br />

TAILOR-MADE TRAVEL WITH A&K<br />

InterContinental Saigon Hotel<br />

Luxurious rooms in the heart of<br />

energetic Ho Chi Minh City<br />

Belmond La Résidence d’Angkor<br />

Serene, leafy hideaway<br />

set close to Angkor Wat<br />

Belmond La Résidence Phou Vao<br />

Tranquil boutique luxury hotel,<br />

appointed with teak <strong>and</strong> local textiles<br />

DAY 13: Depart Bangkok<br />

After breakfast, transfer to the airport to<br />

depart for home.<br />

Meals: B<br />

Ask us about how to customise<br />

this itinerary to create the perfect<br />

bespoke holiday, just for you.<br />

The Peninsula Bangkok<br />

One of Asia’s best hotels, overlooking<br />

Chao Phraya River<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 111


Cruising the Mekong:<br />

Siam, Saigon & Angkor Wat<br />

12 days/11 nights | From £6,590 per person | Maximum 24 guests<br />

This great eastern river is certain to satisfy those who hunger for diverse<br />

experiences; explore secluded markets, wildlife-rich mangroves, <strong>and</strong> jungle<br />

temples, learning from local villagers <strong>and</strong> Buddhist monks<br />

LUXURY<br />

SMALL GROUP<br />

JOURNEYS<br />

KEY HIGHLIGHTS<br />

››<br />

Cruise for seven<br />

nights on the luxurious,<br />

exclusively chartered<br />

Mekong Princess<br />

››<br />

Tour the attractions of<br />

Bangkok by tuk-tuk <strong>and</strong><br />

traditional rice barge<br />

››<br />

Explore magnificent<br />

Angkor Wat at sunset<br />

with an expert guide<br />

››<br />

Gain deeper insight into<br />

South-East Asia’s varied<br />

cultures as you meet locals<br />

››<br />

Enjoy access to<br />

less-frequented locales<br />

including little-known<br />

river isl<strong>and</strong>s<br />

INCLUSIONS<br />

33<br />

Five-star luxury accommodation<br />

33<br />

Resident tour director &<br />

English-speaking expert<br />

local guides<br />

33<br />

Airport meet & greet<br />

& return private transfers<br />

33<br />

Entrance fees, taxes & tips,<br />

& excursions as stated<br />

33<br />

Domestic flights included<br />

33<br />

Welcome & farewell dinners<br />

33<br />

11 breakfasts, 9 lunches<br />

& 9 dinners<br />

33<br />

Wifi in accommodation<br />

33<br />

Scenic sundowner<br />

33<br />

Travelling Bellboy SM<br />

33<br />

Complimentary breakfast in bed<br />

on Days 3 & 4<br />

33<br />

Traveller’s Valet SM on Day 4<br />

Bangkok<br />

Hanoi<br />

Luang Prabang<br />

LAOS<br />

THAILAND<br />

Siem Reap<br />

ARRIVE/DEPART<br />

AIR<br />

ROAD<br />

CRUISE<br />

EXTENSION<br />

DAY 1: Arrive Bangkok, Thail<strong>and</strong><br />

Arrive in Bangkok, the Thai capital, <strong>and</strong><br />

transfer to your luxurious hotel.<br />

The Peninsula Bangkok<br />

Phnom Penh<br />

CAMBODIA<br />

Kampong<br />

Cham<br />

Mekong Delta<br />

VIETNAM<br />

Ho Chi<br />

Minh City<br />

DAY 2: Bangkok<br />

After your welcome briefing, discover the<br />

temple of Wat Pho, with its huge Buddha<br />

statue, <strong>and</strong> listen to the musical sound of<br />

coins dropping into brass offering bowls.<br />

Ride like a Local on a tuk-tuk around the<br />

sprawling Gr<strong>and</strong> Palace. Explore the royal<br />

Siamese court, home to Thail<strong>and</strong>’s most<br />

important shrine, the jade Emerald Buddha.<br />

Next, gather for lunch aboard a traditional<br />

wooden rice barge. Cruise the Chao Phraya<br />

River, taking in the wonderful views. Later, fly<br />

to Siem Reap, Cambodia, <strong>and</strong> transfer to your<br />

traditional, Khmer-style boutique hotel.<br />

Belmond La Résidence d’Angkor | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 3: Siem Reap, Cambodia<br />

Explore the extraordinary temples of Angkor,<br />

a breathtaking jungle city <strong>and</strong> Cambodia’s<br />

most prized national treasure. Enter the<br />

monumental gates of Angkor Thom, where 54<br />

gods <strong>and</strong> 54 demons are represented in an epic<br />

tug of war. Visit Bayon Temple, with its 172<br />

large-scale faces wearing enchanting smiles,<br />

<strong>and</strong> Terraces of the Elephant <strong>and</strong> Leper Kings.<br />

Walk to the temple of Ta Prohm, an Indiana<br />

Jones-worthy fantasy with crumbling towers.<br />

Stay at Angkor Wat until sunset, marvelling<br />

as the diminishing light washes over this<br />

unforgettable, faraway world.<br />

Belmond La Résidence d’Angkor | Meals: B L<br />

DAY 4: Cruising the Mekong<br />

Drive through the scenic Cambodian<br />

countryside to Kampong Cham, where<br />

you board A&K’s private charter, the<br />

Mekong Princess, your boutique river cruiser<br />

for the next seven nights. Tonight, enjoy a<br />

Khmer-inspired dinner on board.<br />

Mekong Princess | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 5: Cruising the Mekong<br />

Explore the charming town of Angkor Ban,<br />

where you enjoy glimpses into the lives of local<br />

people, starting with a visit to a family home.<br />

Continue to the village school to observe a<br />

classroom. Stop briefly at the local monastery<br />

complex on your walk back to the ship.<br />

Mekong Princess | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 6: Cruising the Mekong<br />

Ride like a Local through Phnom Penh,<br />

Cambodia’s lush capital city, on an engaging<br />

cyclo tour. Discover the ornate Royal Palace<br />

<strong>and</strong> w<strong>and</strong>er past huge stupas, spirit houses,<br />

<strong>and</strong> potted flowers en route to the famous<br />

Silver Pagoda, home of Cambodia’s Emerald<br />

112 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


SOUTH-EAST ASIA & THE FAR EAST<br />

CAMBODIA, THAILAND & VIETNAM<br />

Buddha <strong>and</strong> the diamond-encrusted Maitreya<br />

Buddha. Visit the National Museum this<br />

afternoon. Later, learn about Cambodia’s<br />

darker days as you visit the notorious killing<br />

fields of Choeung Ek. Then, leave behind<br />

that bleak period in Cambodian history to<br />

attend an uplifting performance of apsara, the<br />

country’s national dance.<br />

Mekong Princess | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 7: Cruising the Mekong, Vietnam<br />

Cruise into Vietnam this morning, continuing<br />

downstream to little-known Hong Ngu.<br />

Experience a friendly welcome, before you<br />

visit a local family home to watch the weaving<br />

of kormas (traditional Khmer scarves). Later,<br />

explore a local temple dedicated to Hoa Hao,<br />

a unique Vietnamese Buddhist sect. In the<br />

afternoon, board a sampan (wooden boat)<br />

to Gieng Isl<strong>and</strong>, where these vessels are<br />

constructed. Cruise a canal past orchards<br />

<strong>and</strong> rice fields, heading to the French Cu Lao<br />

Gieng Church, built in 1879.<br />

Mekong Princess | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 8: Cruising the Mekong<br />

This morning, disembark at the village of<br />

Hoa An, well known for its floral <strong>and</strong> craft<br />

industries. You have the chance to see how<br />

locals grow <strong>and</strong> use flowers, <strong>and</strong> to meet a<br />

family in their home. Later, reboard the ship<br />

<strong>and</strong> cruise downstream towards Can Tho.<br />

Mekong Princess | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 9: Cruising the Mekong<br />

Rise early for a sampan cruise through a<br />

fascinating floating market near Can Tho.<br />

Weave between the boats selling a diverse<br />

array of goods, capturing photographs of<br />

dynamic market life. Fresh coconut water,<br />

the Vietnamese ‘anti-ageing drink’, refreshes<br />

you before a stop at a local factory to see the<br />

making of instant noodles. Back on board the<br />

Mekong Princess, sail deeper into the Mekong<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 113


YOUR LUXURY<br />

ACCOMMODATION<br />

The Peninsula Bangkok<br />

One of Asia’s premier hotels,<br />

overlooking Chao Phraya River<br />

Belmond La Résidence d’Angkor<br />

Serene, leafy retreat where ancient<br />

tradition meets contemporary style<br />

Delta, rarely touched by travellers, to see the<br />

fourth-century Phuoc Hau Pagoda <strong>and</strong> meet<br />

local monks to learn about their daily lives<br />

<strong>and</strong> practices.<br />

Mekong Princess | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 10: Cruising the Mekong<br />

Today, it’s back onto a sampan to wend your<br />

way through the thick mangroves, whose<br />

tangled roots provide a sheltered habitat for<br />

the smallest denizens of the river’s ecosystem.<br />

Pause to see artisans produce coconut c<strong>and</strong>y,<br />

a favourite local snack. Next, board an<br />

intimate, two-seater boat for a cruise through<br />

narrow creeks lined with nipa palms, a native<br />

species <strong>and</strong> the only one of its kind adapted<br />

to the mangrove habitat.<br />

Mekong Princess | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 11: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam<br />

Unlike other river ships, Mekong Princess<br />

docks right in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City.<br />

Recently experiencing a resurgence of art<br />

<strong>and</strong> culture, the city is a hub of activity. Bid<br />

farewell to the crew of Mekong Princess <strong>and</strong><br />

visit the Central Post Office <strong>and</strong> colourful<br />

Ben Thanh Market. Then, drive past the<br />

former US embassy building, from which<br />

helicopters carried off the last American<br />

personnel before the city fell to the Viet Cong<br />

in 1975. Tonight, gather with your fellow<br />

guests for a special farewell dinner.<br />

InterContinental Saigon Hotel | Meals: B D<br />

DAY 12: Depart Ho Chi Minh City<br />

After breakfast, begin a Cu Chi <strong>and</strong> Hanoi<br />

post-tour extension or transfer to the airport<br />

to depart for home.<br />

Meals: B<br />

DATES & PRICING<br />

GUARANTEED<br />

DEPARTURE<br />

DATES (<strong>2019</strong>)<br />

PER<br />

PERSON<br />

FROM<br />

SINGLE<br />

SUPP.<br />

FROM<br />

JANUARY:<br />

7 £6,590 £650<br />

FEBRUARY:<br />

4, 18 £6,590 £650<br />

MARCH:<br />

4, 18 £6,590 £650<br />

OCTOBER:<br />

28 £6,820 £690<br />

NOVEMBER:<br />

11 £6,820 £690<br />

DECEMBER:<br />

9<br />

23<br />

£6,820<br />

£7,360<br />

£690<br />

£765<br />

JOURNEY DETAILS<br />

Price is based on Saigon suite. Upgrade prices to<br />

Apsara, Tonle <strong>and</strong> Angkor suites are on request.<br />

This journey includes some active elements.<br />

FLIGHTS<br />

To provide you with flexibility <strong>and</strong> the latest flight<br />

offers, we don’t include international flights. Our<br />

specialists will be able to find the best travel options<br />

to suit you.<br />

TAILOR-MADE TRAVEL WITH A&K<br />

Ask us about how to customise<br />

this itinerary to create the perfect<br />

bespoke holiday, just for you.<br />

Mekong Princess<br />

Exclusively chartered all-suite<br />

river cruiser limited to just 24 guests<br />

InterContinental Saigon Hotel<br />

Luxurious rooms in the<br />

heart of Ho Chi Minh City<br />

PRE & POST-TOUR<br />

EXTENSIONS<br />

Luang Prabang pre-tour<br />

extension – four days<br />

from £2,365pp<br />

Cu Chi & Hanoi post-tour<br />

extension – three days<br />

from £1,715pp<br />

Contact a specialist for more information<br />

about how to extend your escorted tour.<br />

114 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


SOUTH-EAST ASIA & THE FAR EAST<br />

CAMBODIA, THAILAND & VIETNAM<br />

Mekong Princess<br />

Redefining intimate with an exclusive A&K charter of an extraordinary 12-suite vessel<br />

A&K SIGNATURE ELEMENTS<br />

33<br />

12 elegant suites with private<br />

ver<strong>and</strong>as or Juliet balconies<br />

33<br />

Spa-inspired bath amenities<br />

33<br />

Nightly turndown service<br />

33<br />

Fully air-conditioned<br />

with cabin control<br />

33<br />

Complimentary laundry<br />

service, canapés, <strong>and</strong> scented<br />

baths in Angkor suites<br />

FRENCH-COLONIAL DÉCOR<br />

Experience the treasures of the Mekong<br />

River from aboard the 12-suite Mekong<br />

Princess, stopping to explore unique ports <strong>and</strong><br />

destinations virtually unknown to travellers.<br />

Adorned with French-colonial furnishings,<br />

the vessel’s staff are gracious, <strong>and</strong> guests can<br />

enjoy the comfortable spa, which offers a<br />

complimentary, hour-long treatment.<br />

The dozen tranquil, well-appointed suites on<br />

Mekong Princess offer spa bath amenities,<br />

with nightly turndown service, as well as<br />

either a private ver<strong>and</strong>a or Juliet balcony,<br />

both with panoramic views.<br />

DELICIOUS DINING<br />

Breakfast <strong>and</strong> lunches on board are served<br />

buffet-style. Come evening, sit down to<br />

casually elegant, multi-course dinners in<br />

the c<strong>and</strong>lelit Indochine dining room amid<br />

expansive, floor-to-ceiling windows.<br />

ELEGANT ONBOARD LIVING<br />

While plying the waters, pause to watch life<br />

unfold from the Observation Deck, recounting<br />

activities in the lounge, <strong>and</strong> staying connected<br />

in the library. Keep in shape in the fully<br />

equipped fitness centre.<br />

DECK PLAN<br />

‘Mekong Princess’<br />

Lounge<br />

Observation<br />

Deck<br />

BASSAC DECK<br />

Dining Room<br />

MEKONG DECK<br />

207<br />

208<br />

205<br />

206<br />

Spa Gym Library<br />

Angkor suite (52sqm)<br />

Tonle suite (30 sqm)<br />

Apsara suite (24 sqm)<br />

Saigon suite (24 sqm)<br />

203<br />

204<br />

103 101<br />

104 102<br />

201<br />

202<br />

Private<br />

Ver<strong>and</strong>a<br />

Private<br />

Ver<strong>and</strong>a<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 115


LUXURY EXPEDITION CRUISES<br />

At home in the faraway polar regions, A&K’s programme of Antarctic <strong>and</strong> Arctic cruises delivers<br />

an artful combination of passion, experience, dynamism, <strong>and</strong> unrivalled expertise from start to finish<br />

116 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


WHY VISIT ANTARCTICA<br />

OR THE ARCTIC WITH A&K<br />

Bob Simpson<br />

Bob Simpson, past chair of the<br />

IAATO Executive Committee<br />

<strong>and</strong> A&K’s vice president of<br />

Expedition Cruises, explains<br />

what makes A&K the best<br />

choice when looking for an<br />

exceptional polar cruise<br />

I am proud <strong>and</strong> privileged every time I set out on an A&K<br />

Expedition Cruise. Navigating the harsh but amazing frontiers of<br />

the Arctic <strong>and</strong> Antarctica six times a year, in the company of our<br />

passionate expedition team with their unparalleled experience in<br />

these continents, is awe-inspiring.<br />

The desire to underst<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong> explore the Arctic <strong>and</strong> Antarctic is<br />

the driving factor behind every cruise we undertake. We set sail on<br />

a luxury cruise ship with an intimate tour group to a natural wonder<br />

of our world. Whether is it trips to lesser known parts of these wild<br />

frontiers, or a Zodiac outing to watch wildlife in the most unspoilt<br />

of habitats, or even the opportunity to seek out rarely visited<br />

communities, these up close <strong>and</strong> personal experiences are those of<br />

a lifetime.<br />

In my view, there are a host of ways in which A&K polar cruises<br />

exceed every expectation, but here are five key elements that make<br />

our expeditions incomparable, with no other operator coming close.<br />

EXPERIENCE & HERITAGE<br />

When it comes to expeditions to these wild <strong>and</strong> wonderful frontiers,<br />

you know you’re in safe h<strong>and</strong>s with us because:<br />

• The A&K polar team has been doing this since 1991<br />

• We’ve led over 300 expeditions <strong>and</strong> still counting<br />

• We are experts in all the best places to stop – from the highlights<br />

you’ll see on most itineraries to more rarely visited locations like<br />

the US Palmer Station<br />

• When it comes to choosing our team, we pick the best<br />

of the best<br />

• Our experience <strong>and</strong> knowledge mean we underst<strong>and</strong> the<br />

importance of protecting <strong>and</strong> preserving these fragile areas:<br />

we currently operate four projects in the polar regions through<br />

<strong>Abercrombie</strong> & <strong>Kent</strong> Philanthropy.<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 117


OUR SHIPS, BUILT FOR SAFETY & COMFORT<br />

Preparation <strong>and</strong> equipment are vital on polar expeditions. We only<br />

use the highest level rating of everything we need to ensure your<br />

safety <strong>and</strong> enjoyment:<br />

• Ice-class ratings on both Le Lyrial <strong>and</strong> Le Boreal allow us to<br />

safely navigate frozen polar regions<br />

• State-of-the-art stabilisation systems, controlled by<br />

Rolls-Royce technology, offer you one of the most<br />

comfortable cruise experiences<br />

• The vessels have the latest communication, navigation, <strong>and</strong> safety<br />

equipment including the Global Maritime Distress <strong>and</strong> Safety<br />

System (GMDSS) <strong>and</strong> a satellite weather system that receives<br />

real-time images of cruising conditions to ensure your safety<br />

• Exclusively chartered for A&K, our vessels are built to sleep<br />

from 244-264, but we guarantee to only take a maximum of 199.<br />

This ensures more space <strong>and</strong> premium accommodation for<br />

every guest<br />

• Responsible cruising – the vessels are clean-ship certified,<br />

exceeding all environmental protocols including energyefficient<br />

engines, fuel-efficient motors fitted to all Zodiacs,<br />

<strong>and</strong> a computerised dynamic positioning system to reduce<br />

the need to drop anchor.<br />

TRUE LUXURY<br />

Although you’ll be on the ice for some excursions, our vessels will<br />

be your home for the duration of your trip. Our attention to detail<br />

ensures the luxury levels you expect with A&K, including:<br />

• Guaranteed private balcony with every accommodation<br />

• Complimentary butler service in every suite<br />

• Select open bar throughout programme<br />

• All-inclusive cruising – a full programme of lectures, events,<br />

<strong>and</strong> excursions with our award-winning expedition team<br />

• No hidden extras: from tips to complimentary wifi <strong>and</strong> laundry.<br />

118 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


THE FINER DETAILS, ONLY THE BEST<br />

OF EVERYTHING<br />

And life at the world’s extremities should be extremely wonderful.<br />

We guarantee five-star treatment <strong>and</strong> service throughout your trip:<br />

• Culinary excellence – our fresh menu is inspired by French<br />

gastronomic heritage<br />

• Two beautiful restaurants on both ships – The Grill for casual<br />

buffet service <strong>and</strong> The Restaurant for a more formal dining<br />

experience – or choose to eat alfresco on the terrace by the pool<br />

• Complimentary 24-hour room service <strong>and</strong> breakfast in bed options<br />

• Unlimited house drinks when dining, open bar in the Panoramic<br />

Lounge, or Club Lounge with nightly live music<br />

• Custom-designed parka <strong>and</strong> backpack included for you to keep<br />

• Complimentary use of rental boots, waterproof trousers, <strong>and</strong><br />

trekking poles<br />

• Exclusive A&K-designed Voyage Journal featuring the best<br />

moments <strong>and</strong> photos from each day of your expedition, sent<br />

to your home after your journey<br />

• A personnel-to-guest ratio of 1 to 1.3, all of whom work together<br />

behind the scenes to deliver an exceptionally seamless experience<br />

at sea.<br />

We only trust the execution of our voyages to our h<strong>and</strong>picked <strong>and</strong><br />

experienced expedition team. They are accomplished, real-life<br />

explorers who make your polar expedition your perfect experience.<br />

Turn to the next page to see how they will bring your journey to life<br />

in a most extraordinary way.<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 119


IN THE COMPANY<br />

OF EXPERTS<br />

One of the advantages of cruising with A&K is exploring the polar<br />

l<strong>and</strong>scapes with our incredible expedition team, a h<strong>and</strong>picked group<br />

of experts who represent the pinnacle of their fields.<br />

ADVENTURES WITH THOSE IN THE KNOW<br />

Antarctica <strong>and</strong> the Arctic comm<strong>and</strong> respect <strong>and</strong> require knowledge,<br />

<strong>and</strong> are no places for the uninitiated traveller. Which is why A&K<br />

employs the world’s best guides, <strong>and</strong> international experts, to ensure<br />

your safety <strong>and</strong> enhance your polar experience. With skills ranging<br />

from expedition leading to photography coaching, <strong>and</strong> indepth<br />

knowledge on climate change <strong>and</strong> natural history, our team’s insight<br />

makes your journey magical. Through lectures, guided tours,<br />

<strong>and</strong> informal instruction, they equip you with the know-how to<br />

negotiate these wild, remote locations. We only trust the execution<br />

of our voyages to our h<strong>and</strong>picked, highly experienced expedition<br />

team, who work together behind the scenes to deliver a seamless<br />

experience for our guests at sea. They are accomplished, real-life<br />

explorers – from award-winning scientists, habitat conservationists,<br />

<strong>and</strong> wildlife photographers, to historians <strong>and</strong> recipients of the<br />

prestigious Polar Medal – <strong>and</strong> they bring your voyage to life in a<br />

most extraordinary way.<br />

SPECIAL PLACES WE KNOW BY HEART<br />

Decorated with awards <strong>and</strong> namesake isl<strong>and</strong>s, many of our guides<br />

have been breathing the cool air of the Arctic <strong>and</strong> Antarctic regions<br />

for decades, if not a lifetime. With over 25 years of experience<br />

of successful polar expeditions, our team cross the barren polar<br />

wastel<strong>and</strong>s <strong>and</strong> glacier-carved coves as easily as their home town<br />

streets – in fact you could practically call them locals in these remote<br />

regions. There’s no better way to explore this fascinating l<strong>and</strong>scape<br />

than in the company of these passionate people.<br />

Meet some of the experts from our award-winning expedition team:<br />

Suzana Machado D’Oliveira<br />

Expedition director<br />

Richard Harker<br />

Photo enrichment coach<br />

Dr Patricia Silva<br />

Ornithology lecturer<br />

Russ Manning<br />

Naturalist & Zodiac driver<br />

Dr James McClintock<br />

Climate ecology lecturer<br />

Sally Escanilla<br />

Assistant cruise director<br />

Agustín Ullmann<br />

Expedition leader<br />

Matthew Messina<br />

Marine mammal lecturer<br />

Bob Burton<br />

History lecturer<br />

Helen Ahern<br />

Young explorers’ guide<br />

Juan José (JJ) Apestegui<br />

Assistant expedition leader<br />

Dr Daria Nikitina<br />

Geology lecturer<br />

120 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 121


Le Lyrial & Le Boreal<br />

Step aboard the finest purpose-built luxury expedition ships, exclusively chartered by A&K<br />

for our Luxury Expedition Cruising. Sister ships Le Lyrial <strong>and</strong> Le Boreal offer incredible comfort<br />

at sea, <strong>and</strong> thanks to small group numbers, all clients can enjoy a balconied stateroom or suite<br />

DISCOVER ANTARCTICA<br />

ABOARD LE LYRIAL<br />

With an elegantly airy design inspired by one of the brightest stars in<br />

the sky, impressive Le Lyrial makes a gr<strong>and</strong> statement in polar waters,<br />

featuring everything from cutting-edge technology to a multitude of<br />

plushly comfortable suites.<br />

CRUISE THE ARCTIC AND<br />

NORTHWEST PASSAGE<br />

ON LE BOREAL<br />

High design defines vibrant Le Boreal, which features gorgeous<br />

staterooms <strong>and</strong> suites, luxurious amenities <strong>and</strong> beautiful common<br />

areas with access to outside decks.<br />

From above (top to bottom): Le Boreal’s owner’s suite; Le Boreal’s lounge with<br />

panoramic view; a Le Lyrial stateroom. Right at top of column: Le Lyrial’s reception<br />

122 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


Lift<br />

Lift Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

LE LYRIAL<br />

DECK 7<br />

DECK 6<br />

DECK 5<br />

DECK 4<br />

DECK 3<br />

DECK 2<br />

‘ Le Lyrial’<br />

‘<br />

Le<br />

Le<br />

Lyrial’<br />

Lyrial’<br />

‘ Le Lyrial’<br />

‘ Le Open Lyrial’ Air Bar<br />

Marina<br />

Marina Marina<br />

Open Air Bar<br />

Open Air Bar<br />

Open Air Bar<br />

Open Air Bar<br />

Open Air Bar<br />

Pool<br />

Pool<br />

Pool<br />

Pool<br />

Pool<br />

Pool<br />

Fitness<br />

Fitness Sauna Showers <strong>and</strong><br />

Fitness Sauna<br />

Stream Room<br />

Fitness Sauna Showers <strong>and</strong><br />

Salon Massage Stream<br />

Showers<br />

Room<br />

<strong>and</strong><br />

Fitness Sauna<br />

Stream Room<br />

Showers <strong>and</strong><br />

Fitness Salon Massage Sauna<br />

Stream Room<br />

Salon MassageShowers <strong>and</strong><br />

Salon Massage Stream Showers Room <strong>and</strong><br />

Salon Massage<br />

Salon Massage<br />

Le Lyrial Cabin Categories<br />

SUITES INCLUDING BUTLER SERVICE:<br />

n Category 9 Owner’s Suite<br />

n Category 8 Gr<strong>and</strong> Privilege Three-Room Suite<br />

n Category 7 Gr<strong>and</strong> Deluxe Two-Room Suite<br />

n Category 6 Privilege Two-Room Suite<br />

n Category 5 Premier Two-Room Suite<br />

n Category 4 Prestige Suite<br />

LE BOREAL<br />

DECK 7<br />

DECK 6<br />

DECK 5<br />

DECK 4<br />

DECK 3<br />

DECK 2<br />

Sauna<br />

Theatre<br />

Stream Room<br />

Theatre<br />

Theatre<br />

Theatre<br />

Theatre<br />

Theatre<br />

Bar<br />

Club Lounge Bar<br />

Bar<br />

Club Lounge<br />

Shop<br />

Club Lounge Bar<br />

Bar<br />

Club Lounge Shop<br />

Shop<br />

Club Lounge Shop<br />

Club Lounge<br />

Shop<br />

Shop<br />

The Restaurant<br />

The Restaurant<br />

The Restaurant<br />

The Restaurant<br />

The Restaurant<br />

Grill<br />

Grill<br />

Grill<br />

Grill<br />

Grill<br />

Grill<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Photo Desk<br />

Photo Desk<br />

Photo Desk<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Photo Desk<br />

Photo Desk<br />

Photo Desk<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Elevator<br />

Elevator<br />

Elevator<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Elevator<br />

Elevator<br />

Elevator<br />

Elevator<br />

Elevator<br />

Elevator<br />

Elevator<br />

Le Boreal Cabin Categories<br />

SUITES INCLUDING BUTLER SERVICE:<br />

n Category 8 Owner’s Suite<br />

n Category 7 Prestige Two-Room Suite<br />

n Category 6 Premier Two-Room Suite<br />

n Category 5 Prestige Suite<br />

Bar<br />

The Restaurant<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Elevator<br />

Elevator<br />

Lift<br />

Leisure Area<br />

Leisure Area<br />

Leisure Area<br />

Leisure Area<br />

Leisure Area<br />

Leisure Area<br />

Excursion<br />

Desk<br />

Excursion<br />

Reception Excursion Desk<br />

Desk Excursion<br />

Reception<br />

Desk<br />

Reception Desk Excursion<br />

Excursion Desk<br />

Reception Desk<br />

Desk<br />

Reception<br />

Reception Desk<br />

Desk<br />

‘ Le Boréal, L’ Austral, Le Soléal’<br />

‘ Le Boréal, L’ Austral, Le Soléal’<br />

Le Boréal, L’ Austral, Le Soléal’<br />

‘ Le Open Boréal, Air Bar L’ Austral, Le Soléal’<br />

Marina Marina Marina<br />

Marina<br />

Open Air Bar<br />

Open Air Bar<br />

Open Air Bar<br />

Open Air Bar<br />

Pool<br />

Pool<br />

Pool<br />

Pool<br />

Pool<br />

Fitness<br />

Fitness<br />

Sauna<br />

Sauna<br />

Fitness Sauna<br />

Showers <strong>and</strong><br />

Stream<br />

Showers<br />

Showers Room<br />

<strong>and</strong><br />

<strong>and</strong><br />

Fitness Sauna<br />

Stream<br />

Stream<br />

Room<br />

Room<br />

Showers <strong>and</strong><br />

Salon MassageStream Room<br />

Fitness<br />

Salon<br />

Massage<br />

Sauna Showers <strong>and</strong><br />

Stream Room<br />

Salon Massage<br />

Salon MassageShowers <strong>and</strong><br />

Salon Massage<br />

Theatre<br />

Stream Room<br />

Theatre<br />

Theatre<br />

Theatre<br />

Theatre<br />

Bar<br />

Bar<br />

Bar<br />

Bar<br />

Club<br />

Club Lounge<br />

Lounge<br />

Shop<br />

Club Lounge Bar<br />

Shop<br />

Club Lounge Shop<br />

Shop<br />

Club Lounge<br />

Shop<br />

The<br />

The Restaurant<br />

Restaurant<br />

The Restaurant<br />

The Restaurant<br />

The Restaurant<br />

Grill<br />

Grill<br />

Grill<br />

Grill<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Grill<br />

Lift<br />

Photo Desk<br />

Photo<br />

Photo<br />

Desk<br />

Desk<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Photo Desk<br />

Photo Desk<br />

Photo Desk<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Lift<br />

Leisure<br />

Leisure Area<br />

Area<br />

Leisure Area<br />

Leisure Area<br />

Leisure Area<br />

Excursion<br />

Excursion Desk<br />

Desk<br />

Excursion<br />

Reception Desk<br />

Excursion<br />

Reception Desk<br />

Desk<br />

Excursion<br />

Reception<br />

Desk<br />

Desk<br />

Reception<br />

Desk<br />

Reception<br />

Desk<br />

Zodiac<br />

Sun<br />

Zodiac<br />

Deck<br />

Zodiac<br />

Sun<br />

Zodiac<br />

Deck Sun<br />

Deck Sun<br />

Zodiac<br />

Deck<br />

Zodiac<br />

Sun<br />

Zodiac<br />

Deck Sun<br />

Deck<br />

Zodiac<br />

Zodiac<br />

614 612 610 608 606 604 602<br />

Panoramic Panoramic<br />

614 612 610 608 606 604 602 Internet<br />

614 612 610 608 606 604 602<br />

Lounge Terrace<br />

614 611612 609 610 607 608 606 605 604 603 601 Panoramic Panoramic<br />

602 Internet Library Panoramic Lounge Panoramic Terrace<br />

614 611612 609 610 607 608 60605 604 603 601 602 Internet Panoramic Lounge Panoramic Terrace<br />

614 611612 609 610 607 608 60605 604 603 601 602 Internet Library Lounge Terrace<br />

611 609 607 605 603 601 Panoramic Panoramic<br />

Library<br />

Internet Panoramic Lounge Panoramic Terrace<br />

Internet Library<br />

611 609 607 605 603 601 Lounge Terrace<br />

611 609 607 605 603 601 Library<br />

536 534 532 530 528 524 520 516 512 Library508 506 504 502<br />

536 534 532 530 528 524 520 516 512 508 506 504 502 Bridge<br />

536 534 532 530 528 524 520 516 512 508 506 504 502<br />

536 539 534 537 532 53530 528 531 524 527 520 523 519 516 515 512 509 507 508 505 506 503 504 502 501 Bridge<br />

Bridge<br />

536 539 534 537 532 53530 528 531 524 527 520 523 519 516 515 512 509 507 508 505 506 503 504 502 501<br />

536 534 532 530 528 524 520 516 512 508 506 504 502 Bridge<br />

539 537 535 531 527 523 519 515 509 507 505 503 501<br />

539 537 535 531 527 523 519 515 509 507 505 503 501 Bridge<br />

Bridge<br />

539 537 535 531 527 523 519 515 509 507 505 503 501<br />

539 537 535 531 527 523 519 515 509 507 505 503 501<br />

434 432 430 428 426 424 422 420 418 416 414 412 410 408 406 404 402<br />

434 432 430 428 426 424 422 420 418 416 414 412 410 408 406 404 402<br />

434 432 430 428 426 424 422 420 418 416 414 412 410 408 406 404 402<br />

437 434 435 432 430 433 428 431 426 429 424 427 422 425 420 423 418 421 416 419 414 417 415 412 410 411 409 408 407 405 406 403 404 401 402<br />

437 434 435 432 430 433 428 431 426 429 424 427 422 425 420 423 418 421 416 419 414 417 415 412 410 411 409 408 407 405 406 403 404 401 402<br />

437 434 435 432 430 433 428 431 426 429 424 427 422 425 420 423 418 421 416 419 414 417 415 412 410 411 409 408 407 405 406 403 404 401 402<br />

437 435 433 431 429 427 425 423 421 419 417 415 411 409 407 405 403 401<br />

437 435 433 431 429 427 425 423 421 419 417 415 411 409 407 405 403 401<br />

437 435 433 431 429 427 425 423 421 419 417 415 411 409 407 405 403 401<br />

334 332 330 328 326 324 322 320 318 316 314 312 310 308<br />

334 332 330 328 326 324 322 320 318 316 314 312 310 308<br />

334 332 330 328 326 324 322 320 318 316 314 312 310 308<br />

334 337 335 332 330 333 328 331 326 329 324 327 322 325 320 323 318 321 316 319 314 317 312 315 310 311 308 309<br />

334 337 335 332 330 333 328 331 326 329 324 327 322 325 320 323 318 321 316 319 314 317 312 315 310 311 308 309<br />

334 337 335 332 330 333 328 331 326 329 324 327 322 325 320 323 318 321 316 319 314 317 312 315 310 311 308 309<br />

337 335 333 331 329 327 325 323 321 319 317 315 311 309<br />

337 335 333 331 329 327 325 323 321 319 317 315 311 309<br />

337 335 333 331 329 327 325 323 321 319 317 315 311 309<br />

Bar<br />

Bar<br />

Bar<br />

Bar<br />

Bar<br />

Bar<br />

n Category 3 Premier Stateroom<br />

n Category 2 Deluxe Stateroom<br />

n Category 1 Classic Stateroom<br />

Zodiac<br />

Zodiac<br />

Zodiac<br />

Zodiac<br />

Zodiac<br />

Zodiac<br />

Zodiac<br />

Zodiac<br />

Zodiac<br />

Sun<br />

Deck<br />

Sun<br />

Deck<br />

Sun<br />

Deck<br />

Sun<br />

Deck<br />

Sun<br />

Deck<br />

n Category 4 Superior Stateroom<br />

n Category 3 Premier Stateroom<br />

n Category 2 Deluxe Stateroom<br />

n Category 1 Classic Stateroom<br />

Medical<br />

Centre<br />

Medical<br />

Medical Centre<br />

Medical Centre<br />

Centre<br />

Medical<br />

Medical Centre<br />

Centre<br />

Zodiac<br />

626 622 618 614 610 604 602<br />

626 622 618 614 610 604<br />

602<br />

626 622 618 614 610 604 602<br />

Panoramic<br />

Panoramic<br />

Panoramic<br />

Panoramic<br />

Internet<br />

626 622 618 614 610 604 602<br />

Panoramic<br />

Lounge<br />

Lounge<br />

Panoramic<br />

Terrace<br />

Terrace<br />

Internet<br />

625 623 619 615 609 605 603 601<br />

625<br />

623 619 615 609 605 603 601 Library InternetPanoramic<br />

Lounge Panoramic Terrace<br />

62625<br />

623 622 618 619 614 615 609 610 605604<br />

603 602 601<br />

Library<br />

Internet Lounge Terrace<br />

Library<br />

625 623 619 615 609 605 603 601 Panoramic Panoramic<br />

Internet Library Lounge Terrace<br />

625 623 619 615 609 605 603 601<br />

Library<br />

536 534 532 530 528 524 520 516 512 508 506 504 502<br />

536 534 532 530 528 524 520 516 512 508 506 504<br />

502<br />

536 534 532 530 528 524 520 516 512 508 506 504 502<br />

Bridge<br />

Bridge<br />

539 536 537 534 532 53530 531 528 527 524 523 520 519 516 515 512 509 507 508 505 506 503 504 501 502<br />

Bridge<br />

539 537 535 531 527 523 519 515 509<br />

507 505 503<br />

501<br />

536 539 534 537 532 53530 528 531 524 527 520 523 516 519 512 515 509 507 508 505 506 503 504 502 501 Bridge<br />

539 537 535 531 527 523 519 515 509 507 505 503 501 Bridge<br />

539 537 535 531 527 523 519 515 509 507 505 503 501<br />

434 432 430 428 426 424 422 420 418 416 414 412 410 408 434 432 430 428 426 424 422 420 418 416 414 412 410 408<br />

406 404 402<br />

406 404 402<br />

434 432 430 428 426 424 422 420 418 416 414 412 410 408 406 404 402<br />

437 434435 432433 430431 428429 426427 424 425 422423 420 421 418 419 416 417 414 415 412 411 410 409 408 407 405 406403 404401<br />

402<br />

437 435 433 431 429 427 425 423 421 419 417 415 411 409 407<br />

405 403 401<br />

437 434 435 432 430 433 428 431 426 429 424 427 422 425 420 423 418 421 416 419 414 417 415 412 410 411 409 408 407 405 406 403 404 401 402<br />

437 435 433 431 429 427 425 423 421 419 417 415 411 409 407 405 403 401<br />

437 435 433 431 429 427 425 423 421 419 417 415 411 409 407 405 403 401<br />

334 332 330 328 326 324 322 320 318 316 314 312 310 308<br />

334 332 330 328 326 324 322 320 318 316 314 312 310 308<br />

334 332 330 328 326 324 322 320 318 316 314 312 310 308<br />

337 334 335 332 333 330 331 328 329 326 327 324 325 322 323 320 321 318 319 316 317 314 315 312 311 310 309 308<br />

337 335 333 331 329 327 325 323 321 319 317 315 311 309<br />

334 337 335 332 330 333 328 331 326 329 324 327 322 325 320 323 318 321 316 319 314 317 312 315 310 311 308 309<br />

337 335 333 331 329 327 325 323 321 319 317 315 311 309<br />

337 335 333 331 329 327 325 323 321 319 317 315 311 309<br />

Bar<br />

Bar<br />

Bar<br />

Bar<br />

Bar<br />

Medical<br />

Medical Centre<br />

Medical<br />

Centre<br />

Medical<br />

Centre<br />

Centre<br />

Medical<br />

Centre<br />

AMENITIES ON<br />

A&K CHARTERS<br />

33<br />

Private balcony with every guest<br />

stateroom <strong>and</strong> suite<br />

33<br />

Complimentary butler service with<br />

every suite (includes welcome<br />

champagne, nightly canapés,<br />

packing/unpacking, etc. on request)<br />

33<br />

Stateroom <strong>and</strong> suite amenities<br />

include a hairdryer, large wardrobe<br />

<strong>and</strong> ample storage, safe, alarm clock,<br />

<strong>and</strong> Hermès bath products<br />

33<br />

Stateroom <strong>and</strong> suite electricity: 220v<br />

outlets – Europe 2-prong style (plus<br />

two 110/220 U.S. outlets)<br />

33<br />

Sun deck <strong>and</strong> multiple outer deck<br />

observation areas<br />

33<br />

Outside heated pool<br />

33<br />

Library with selection of books<br />

<strong>and</strong> games<br />

33<br />

Open bar with beer, wine, spirits,<br />

cocktails, soft drinks, coffee, tea, <strong>and</strong><br />

mineral water (excludes premium<br />

wines <strong>and</strong> spirits)<br />

33<br />

Two lounges with bars: club with<br />

live music <strong>and</strong> a panoramic lounge<br />

with terrace<br />

33<br />

Two restaurants: main,<br />

<strong>and</strong> indoor/outdoor grill<br />

33<br />

Complimentary 24-hour<br />

room service<br />

33<br />

Complimentary in-cabin breakfast<br />

(on request)<br />

33<br />

Three passenger lifts<br />

33<br />

Fitness centre with Kinesis ® wall<br />

33<br />

Spa with salon, sauna, <strong>and</strong> steam<br />

room<br />

33<br />

Theatre with comfortable seating<br />

for all guests<br />

33<br />

Boutique shop<br />

33<br />

24-hour medical facilities with<br />

certified doctor<br />

33<br />

A&K’s complimentary Traveller’s<br />

Valet SM laundry service up to eight<br />

items (additional laundry available)<br />

33<br />

Complimentary wifi (due to remote<br />

destinations, access <strong>and</strong> speed<br />

may vary)<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 123


Antarctica, South Georgia<br />

& the Falkl<strong>and</strong> Isl<strong>and</strong>s<br />

LUXURY<br />

EXPEDITION<br />

CRUISES<br />

18 days/17 nights | From £18,520 per person | Maximum 199 guests<br />

This once-in-a-lifetime voyage to the White Continent follows in the footsteps<br />

of Sir Ernest Shackleton, offering excursions to incredible wildlife watching<br />

destinations among many other entertaining <strong>and</strong> enriching experiences<br />

KEY HIGHLIGHTS<br />

››<br />

Be sure of a balcony<br />

stateroom aboard Le Lyrial<br />

››<br />

Join A&K’s renowned<br />

expedition team<br />

››<br />

Explore South Georgia<br />

<strong>and</strong> visit Sir Ernest<br />

Shackleton’s gravesite<br />

››<br />

Depart on 17 December<br />

to enjoy workshops,<br />

events, <strong>and</strong> excursions<br />

led by dedicated Young<br />

Explorers’ guides<br />

INCLUSIONS<br />

33<br />

Five-star luxury accommodation<br />

33<br />

Award-winning expedition team<br />

33<br />

Airport meet & greet<br />

& return transfers<br />

33<br />

Domestic flight from<br />

Buenos Aires to Ushuaia<br />

33<br />

Entrance fees, taxes & tips,<br />

& excursions as stated<br />

33<br />

Onboard welcome & farewell<br />

dinners<br />

33<br />

17 breakfasts, 16 lunches<br />

& 15 dinners<br />

33<br />

Wifi in accommodation<br />

(where available)<br />

33<br />

Traveller’s Valet SM<br />

LUXURY EXPEDITION CRUISES<br />

Ask us for more details of our full range<br />

of award-winning polar cruises.<br />

ARRIVE/DEPART<br />

AIR<br />

CRUISE<br />

EXTENSION<br />

Ushuaia<br />

Deception<br />

Isl<strong>and</strong><br />

ARGENTINA<br />

DAY 1: Arrive Buenos Aires, Argentina<br />

Arrive in Argentina’s capital city <strong>and</strong> transfer<br />

to your hotel. Enjoy time at leisure before<br />

joining fellow travellers tonight for a<br />

welcome reception.<br />

Park Hyatt Palacio Duhau<br />

Port Stanley<br />

DRAKE<br />

PASSAGE<br />

ANTARCTICA<br />

Buenos Aires<br />

DAY 2: Buenos Aires<br />

With its wide boulevards <strong>and</strong> classical<br />

buildings, romantic <strong>and</strong> exciting Buenos<br />

Aires is charged with a distinctive energy.<br />

Explore its best treasures with expert A&K<br />

local guides, choosing from a selection<br />

of included excursions. Explore the city<br />

on a guided tour complete with a tango<br />

demonstration. Or you can spend a full day<br />

at an authentic estancia (ranch), complete<br />

with a local lunch. Alternatively, dive into a<br />

burgeoning art scene on a guided tour focused<br />

on Buenos Aires’ street art. Tonight, enjoy the<br />

evening at your leisure.<br />

Park Hyatt Palacio Duhau | Meals: B L<br />

Iguazu Falls<br />

South Georgia<br />

Isl<strong>and</strong><br />

South Shetl<strong>and</strong><br />

Isl<strong>and</strong>s<br />

Antarctic Sound<br />

DAY 3: Ushuaia<br />

Fly to the port city of Ushuaia, located at the<br />

southern tip of South America. On arrival,<br />

enjoy lunch at the Arakur Ushuaia Resort.<br />

Time <strong>and</strong> weather permitting, you can take<br />

a nature walk in the Cerro Alarken Nature<br />

Reserve, or simply relax with a coffee in front<br />

of views of Ushuaia <strong>and</strong> the Beagle Channel.<br />

Later, board Le Lyrial <strong>and</strong> settle into your<br />

cabin with a private balcony. Throughout your<br />

journey, benefit from insightful enrichment<br />

programmes both aboard <strong>and</strong> on shore, <strong>and</strong><br />

an expedition team that is second to none.<br />

Le Lyrial | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 4: Cruising the South Atlantic<br />

As you sail east toward the Falkl<strong>and</strong> Isl<strong>and</strong>s,<br />

your expedition team begins an informal<br />

series of daily discussions on the flora <strong>and</strong><br />

fauna, geology, <strong>and</strong> history of the region.<br />

These expert lectures span diverse topics,<br />

such as seabirds <strong>and</strong> penguin of the Southern<br />

Ocean, the formation of sea ice over thous<strong>and</strong>s<br />

of years, <strong>and</strong> personal accounts of living <strong>and</strong><br />

working in Antarctica. Enjoy time with A&K’s<br />

resident photo coach too, <strong>and</strong> observe the<br />

waters from the deck for marine mammals<br />

hunting the rich krill population here.<br />

Le Lyrial | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 5: Port Stanley, Falkl<strong>and</strong> Isl<strong>and</strong>s<br />

Today, Le Lyrial arrives in the remote<br />

Falkl<strong>and</strong> Isl<strong>and</strong>s, where you can spend the<br />

day exploring. This may include a visit to<br />

Stanley, the tiny colourful capital, where you<br />

can stroll its charming streets <strong>and</strong> explore its<br />

surrounding wilderness areas. Alternatively,<br />

124 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


POLAR<br />

ANTARCTICA<br />

north for her return to Ushuaia. Enjoy more<br />

opportunities to observe birds <strong>and</strong> marine life<br />

while reflecting on an incredible journey with<br />

fellow passengers <strong>and</strong> new friends.<br />

Le Lyrial | Meals: B L D<br />

discover the south-east isl<strong>and</strong>s of Sea Lion <strong>and</strong><br />

Bleaker, home to unspoiled wildlife habitats.<br />

Le Lyrial | Meals: B L D<br />

DAYS 6 & 7: Cruising the South<br />

Atlantic<br />

As you approach South Georgia, deck-side<br />

sightings of whale <strong>and</strong> other wildlife become<br />

more frequent. Time spent cruising is once<br />

again filled with informative lectures <strong>and</strong><br />

casual talks with your guides, leaving your<br />

knowledge of the region greatly enhanced.<br />

Scan the seas to spot marine mammals <strong>and</strong><br />

seabirds, as the ship cruises the nutrient-rich<br />

waters past the isl<strong>and</strong>s of Shag Rocks.<br />

Le Lyrial | Meals: B L D<br />

DAYS 8-10: South Georgia<br />

South Georgia is a nearly submerged<br />

continuation of the Andes mountain range,<br />

<strong>and</strong> your days here are spent exploring its<br />

glacier-carved coves <strong>and</strong> rugged shores. While<br />

weather <strong>and</strong> ice conditions determine the<br />

schedule, stops may include Eleshul Bay to<br />

see nesting w<strong>and</strong>ering albatross, as well as<br />

Salisbury Plain, St Andrews Bay, <strong>and</strong> Gold<br />

Harbour, all three of which are home to<br />

vast colonies of king penguin <strong>and</strong> southern<br />

elephant seal. You may also visit Ernest<br />

Shackleton’s gravesite in Grytviken<br />

alongside your onboard historian,<br />

an expert on the great explorer’s life.<br />

Le Lyrial | Meals: B L D<br />

DAYS 11 & 12: Cruising the Scotia Sea<br />

During your time navigating the Scotia<br />

Sea – abundant with marine mammals <strong>and</strong><br />

fish – your enrichment specialists recap<br />

your adventures in South Georgia. During<br />

additional lectures, learn more about the<br />

seventh continent, from its terrain to the<br />

hardy wildlife that inhabits it. Ensuring<br />

your experience reaches far beyond that<br />

of everyday travellers, ongoing, informative<br />

discussions with your expedition team lend<br />

further context.<br />

Le Lyrial | Meals: B L D<br />

DAYS 13-15: Antarctica<br />

Conditions permitting, your itinerary calls<br />

for l<strong>and</strong>ings on the Antarctic Peninsula<br />

<strong>and</strong> a number of South Shetl<strong>and</strong> Isl<strong>and</strong>s,<br />

which may include Half Moon, Penguin,<br />

<strong>and</strong> Deception. You may also visit Cuverville<br />

<strong>and</strong> Goudier isl<strong>and</strong>s, Paradise Bay, <strong>and</strong> the<br />

Lemaire Channel, called ‘Kodak Alley’ for its<br />

photogenic scenery. Further adventures may<br />

include Wilhelmina Bay, noted for its prolific<br />

humpback whale activity. The 17 December<br />

departure features an unforgettable New Year’s<br />

Eve celebration onboard to cap off a final day<br />

of exploration on the White Continent.<br />

Le Lyrial | Meals: B L D<br />

DAYS 16 & 17: Cruising the Drake<br />

Passage<br />

Bid farewell to Antarctica as Le Lyrial points<br />

DAY 18: Depart Ushuaia<br />

After breakfast, disembark your luxury<br />

expedition ship in Ushuaia. Transfer to the<br />

airport for your return flight to Buenos Aires,<br />

from where you will set off for home.<br />

Meals: B<br />

DATES & PRICING<br />

GUARANTEED<br />

DEPARTURE<br />

DATE (<strong>2019</strong>)<br />

PER<br />

PERSON<br />

FROM<br />

JOURNEY DETAILS<br />

Price is based on classic balcony stateroom.<br />

Upgraded cabin prices are on request.<br />

SINGLE<br />

SUPP.<br />

FROM<br />

DECEMBER:<br />

17 £18,520 £13,370<br />

GUARANTEED<br />

DEPARTURE<br />

DATE (<strong>2020</strong>)<br />

PER<br />

PERSON<br />

FROM<br />

SINGLE<br />

SUPP.<br />

FROM<br />

JANUARY:<br />

1 £19,295 £13,950<br />

FLIGHTS<br />

To provide you with flexibility <strong>and</strong> the latest flight<br />

offers, we don’t include any flights. Our specialists will<br />

be able to find the best travel options to suit you.<br />

PRE & POST-TOUR<br />

EXTENSIONS<br />

Iguazu Falls pre-tour extension<br />

– from £1,575pp<br />

Contact a specialist for more information<br />

about how to extend your escorted tour.<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 125


Arctic Cruise Adventure:<br />

Norway, Greenl<strong>and</strong> & Icel<strong>and</strong><br />

LUXURY<br />

EXPEDITION<br />

CRUISES<br />

15 days/14 nights | From £13,140 per person | Maximum 199 guests<br />

Hardened adventurers with a taste for luxury will relish this expedition to<br />

some of the planet’s remotest regions, sighting iconic Arctic wildlife,<br />

intriguing ancient sites, <strong>and</strong> striking natural phenomena<br />

SVALBARD ISLANDS<br />

KEY HIGHLIGHTS<br />

››<br />

Join A&K’s renowned<br />

expedition team<br />

››<br />

Enjoy luxury amenities<br />

on board<br />

››<br />

Explore many Arctic<br />

habitats, including the<br />

polar bear domain of<br />

Norway’s pristine<br />

Svalbard Isl<strong>and</strong>s<br />

››<br />

Visit stunning Scoresby<br />

Sound, Icel<strong>and</strong>’s<br />

Langjökull glacier<br />

<strong>and</strong> the Westman Isl<strong>and</strong>s<br />

››<br />

Benefit from expert<br />

photography programming<br />

INCLUSIONS<br />

33<br />

Five-star luxury accommodation<br />

33<br />

Award-winning expedition team<br />

33<br />

Airport meet & greet<br />

& return transfers<br />

33<br />

Domestic flight from Oslo<br />

to Longyearbyen<br />

33<br />

Entrance fees, taxes & tips,<br />

& excursions as stated<br />

33<br />

Welcome & farewell dinners<br />

33<br />

14 breakfasts, 13 lunches<br />

& 13 dinners<br />

33<br />

Wifi in accommodation<br />

(where available)<br />

33<br />

Traveller’s Valet SM<br />

GREENLAND<br />

Hornstr<strong>and</strong>ir<br />

Nature Reserve<br />

Scoresby<br />

Sound<br />

DAY 1: Arrive Oslo, Norway<br />

Say “hallo” to Oslo, Norway’s capital city <strong>and</strong><br />

your gateway to the Arctic. On arrival, you’re<br />

met <strong>and</strong> escorted to your hotel. This evening,<br />

join your fellow guests for a jovial welcome<br />

cocktail reception.<br />

Radisson Blu Airport<br />

DAY 2: Longyearbyen<br />

Board an early morning charter flight to<br />

Longyearbyen on Spitsbergen Isl<strong>and</strong>, the<br />

unofficial capital of Svalbard. This Arctic<br />

archipelago is ruled by Norway, <strong>and</strong> is one<br />

of the remotest isl<strong>and</strong> groups on the planet,<br />

with nearly two-thirds of its surface covered<br />

in luminous glaciers. Tour the tiny town <strong>and</strong><br />

its Arctic Museum. This afternoon, board your<br />

expedition cruiser.<br />

Le Boreal | Meals: B L D<br />

SPITSBERGEN<br />

Longyearbyen<br />

GREENLAND<br />

SEA<br />

Akranes ICELAND<br />

Reykjavík NORWEGIAN<br />

Westman Isl<strong>and</strong>s SEA<br />

ARRIVE/DEPART<br />

NORWAY<br />

AIR<br />

Oslo<br />

CRUISE<br />

EXTENSION<br />

DAYS 3-6: Svalbard Isl<strong>and</strong>s<br />

Few have the opportunity to observe the<br />

remote Svalbard Isl<strong>and</strong>s, but you can go on<br />

twice daily excursions on l<strong>and</strong> or by Zodiac<br />

boat, led by our knowledgeable expedition<br />

team <strong>and</strong> enrichment specialists. In this<br />

archipelago, polar bear, walrus, Svalbard<br />

reindeer, <strong>and</strong> a rich variety of birds abound.<br />

Cathedrals of ice <strong>and</strong> mountain peaks<br />

populate the l<strong>and</strong>scape, which comes alive<br />

with diminutive flora under summer’s<br />

midnight sun. Your captain <strong>and</strong> expedition<br />

team will plan activities dependent on<br />

weather, sea, ice, <strong>and</strong> wildlife conditions. Daily<br />

excursions may include these spectacular areas:<br />

Magdalenefjorden<br />

A stunning fjord which straddles blue-hued<br />

glaciers <strong>and</strong> deep crevasses. Often frequented<br />

by walrus <strong>and</strong> rare seabirds, this ‘glacier coast’<br />

provides magnificent views of the slowmoving<br />

ice masses.<br />

Ny-Ålesund<br />

Once an Arctic-expedition launch point,<br />

meteorology, seismology <strong>and</strong> many other<br />

sciences are now studied at Ny-Ålesund’s<br />

research station. You may visit the museum,<br />

gallery <strong>and</strong> the world’s northernmost post office.<br />

Hinlopen Strait<br />

Navigate this passageway between Spitsbergen<br />

<strong>and</strong> the isl<strong>and</strong> of Nordaustl<strong>and</strong>et, arriving at<br />

Alkefjellet, or ‘auk cliff ’. This towering rock<br />

face drops directly into the sea, housing large<br />

colonies of auk.<br />

Wahlbergøya<br />

In the centre of the southern entrance to<br />

Hinlopen Strait, this isl<strong>and</strong> (named after<br />

Swedish botanist Peter Fredrik Wahlberg)<br />

is a favourite summer haul-out for walrus.<br />

Monaco Bay <strong>and</strong> Glacier<br />

Located in north-west Spitsbergen, Monaco<br />

Bay is frequented by a variety of wildlife<br />

populations, including polar bear, walrus, <strong>and</strong><br />

bearded seal, as well as a multitude of seabirds.<br />

126 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


country. Disembark for an adventurous visit<br />

aboard special expedition trucks, stopping<br />

en route at the shimmering waterfall of<br />

Hraunfossar before arriving at the entrance<br />

to Langjökull. Explore the labyrinth of ice<br />

tunnels <strong>and</strong> caves, all revealing breathtaking<br />

shades of blue <strong>and</strong> depths of ice. Following<br />

lunch in nearby Húsafell, return this afternoon<br />

to Akranes to board Le Boreal.<br />

Le Boreal | Meals: B L D<br />

POLAR<br />

ARCTIC<br />

DAY 14: Westman Isl<strong>and</strong>s<br />

Visit Westman Isl<strong>and</strong>s (Vestmannaeyjar), a<br />

rock-studded, volcanically active archipelago<br />

on Icel<strong>and</strong>’s south coast. Explore Heimaey,<br />

home to diverse populations of seabirds<br />

including the iconic puffin which flock here in<br />

eight million-strong groups. Observe Eldfell<br />

(‘Mount Fire’), a new mountain created during<br />

a 1973 eruption. Discover a local village,<br />

seeing Viking buildings which date back<br />

to 650 AD, <strong>and</strong> enjoy the panorama from<br />

Helgafell. Conditions permitting, view Surtsey<br />

Isl<strong>and</strong>, a volcanic isl<strong>and</strong> formed in the 1960s<br />

by an underwater eruption <strong>and</strong> protected as a<br />

UNESCO World Heritage Site ever since.<br />

Le Boreal | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 15: Depart Reykjavík<br />

This morning, disembark Le Boreal in<br />

Reykjavík <strong>and</strong> transfer to the airport to return<br />

home, or continue to explore Icel<strong>and</strong> with a<br />

Reykjavík extension.<br />

Meals: B<br />

DATES & PRICING<br />

GUARANTEED<br />

DEPARTURE<br />

DATE (<strong>2019</strong>)<br />

PER<br />

PERSON<br />

FROM<br />

SINGLE<br />

SUPP.<br />

FROM<br />

Liefdefjorden (The Love Fjord)<br />

In northern Svalbard, this bay is excellent for<br />

spotting polar bear <strong>and</strong> other wildlife.<br />

Le Boreal | Meals: B L D<br />

DAYS 7 & 8: Cruising the Arctic<br />

Ocean<br />

As Le Boreal plies toward Greenl<strong>and</strong>, spend<br />

the day at sea with new friends <strong>and</strong> the<br />

expedition team, who continue engaging,<br />

exciting discussions <strong>and</strong> lectures that promise<br />

an enlightening experience while you cruise.<br />

Le Boreal | Meals: B L D<br />

DAYS 9 & 10: Greenl<strong>and</strong><br />

For the next two days, explore the rarely<br />

visited east coast of Greenl<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong> Scoresby<br />

Sound, the largest <strong>and</strong> longest fjord system in<br />

the world. Embark on thrilling, twice-daily<br />

Zodiac excursions, taking in isl<strong>and</strong>s <strong>and</strong><br />

icebergs as you search for common residents<br />

such as musk ox <strong>and</strong> reindeer. Throughout<br />

your exploration, informed enrichment<br />

specialists impart in-depth knowledge<br />

about the region. Ice conditions permitting,<br />

disembark to visit Ittoqqortoormiit, a small<br />

settlement founded in 1925 <strong>and</strong> one of the<br />

most isolated villages in Greenl<strong>and</strong>.<br />

Le Boreal | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 11: Cruising the Denmark Strait<br />

Enjoy a relaxing day at sea, cruising the<br />

narrow strip of water that separates Greenl<strong>and</strong><br />

from Icel<strong>and</strong>, <strong>and</strong> connects the Arctic Sea<br />

with the Atlantic Ocean. Continue exciting<br />

conversations with your expedition team <strong>and</strong><br />

enrichment specialists, <strong>and</strong> watch for seabirds<br />

<strong>and</strong> whale from the deck in between the<br />

insightful lectures your experts present.<br />

Le Boreal | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 12: Icel<strong>and</strong>’s West Fjords<br />

Today, explore the spectacular, unspoiled<br />

wilderness of Icel<strong>and</strong>’s remote West Fjords.<br />

Designated as a nature reserve in 1975 <strong>and</strong><br />

free of any roads, Hornstr<strong>and</strong>ir still appears<br />

as it would have when the Vikings first arrived.<br />

Your treks this morning reveal tranquil<br />

wildflower meadows, striking waterfalls,<br />

<strong>and</strong> other geological features. This afternoon,<br />

visit the small village of Hesteyri, where<br />

you’re welcomed by the local villagers.<br />

Le Boreal | Meals: B L D<br />

DAY 13: Akranes<br />

The glacier-carved West Fjords continue to<br />

provide a scenic backdrop as you journey to<br />

Langjökull, the second highest glacier in the<br />

J U LY:<br />

15 £13,140 £9,600<br />

JOURNEY DETAILS<br />

Price is based on classic stateroom. Upgraded suite<br />

prices are on request.<br />

FLIGHTS<br />

To provide you with flexibility <strong>and</strong> the latest flight offers,<br />

we don’t include any flights. Our specialists will be able<br />

to find the best travel options to suit you.<br />

LUXURY EXPEDITION CRUISES<br />

Ask us for more details of our full range<br />

of award-winning polar cruises.<br />

PRE & POST-TOUR<br />

EXTENSIONS<br />

Reykjavík post-tour extension –<br />

four days from £3,485pp<br />

Contact a specialist for more information<br />

about how to extend your escorted tour.<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 127


TERMS & CONDITIONS<br />

The Terms <strong>and</strong> Conditions apply to group journeys including,<br />

Immersive Journeys, Luxury Small Group Journeys, Small Group<br />

Journeys, Luxury Expedition Cruises <strong>and</strong> Group Pre/Post Tour<br />

Extensions departing between 1 January, <strong>2019</strong> <strong>and</strong> 31 December,<br />

<strong>2020</strong>. Your contract is with <strong>Abercrombie</strong> & <strong>Kent</strong> Limited ‘the<br />

Company’ of St George’s House, Ambrose Street, Cheltenham,<br />

Glos. GL50 3LG, which is registered in Engl<strong>and</strong> under company<br />

number 1082430. The following conditions, together with our<br />

Privacy Policy, the relevant information set out in this brochure <strong>and</strong><br />

on our website <strong>and</strong> any other written information we brought to<br />

your attention before we confirmed your booking, will form part of<br />

your contract with the Company. Please read them carefully before<br />

you book.<br />

By making a booking, the first named person on the booking agrees<br />

on behalf of all persons detailed on the booking that:<br />

a. he/she has read these Booking Conditions <strong>and</strong> has the authority to<br />

<strong>and</strong> does agree to be bound by them;<br />

b. he/she consents to our use of information personal data in<br />

accordance with our Privacy Policy <strong>and</strong> is authorised on behalf of<br />

all persons named on the booking to disclose their personal details<br />

to us, including where applicable, special categories of data (such<br />

as information on health conditions or disabilities <strong>and</strong> dietary<br />

requirements);<br />

c. he/she is over 18 years of age <strong>and</strong> where placing an order for services<br />

with age restrictions declares that he/she <strong>and</strong> all members of the party<br />

are of the appropriate age to purchase those services;<br />

d. he/she accepts financial responsibility for payment of the booking<br />

on behalf of all persons detailed on the booking.<br />

1. BOOKING YOUR HOLIDAY<br />

(a) Our aim is to provide the right holiday to suit your requirements.<br />

You can call us on +44 (0)1242 547 892 or email: info@<br />

abercrombiekent.co.uk to discuss or make a booking <strong>and</strong> provide you<br />

with a price per person. In order to maintain our customer services<br />

st<strong>and</strong>ards <strong>and</strong> to assist with the ongoing training of our staff we may<br />

record or monitor our telephone conversations or emails with you.<br />

(b) To secure your booking we require a deposit, typically the amount<br />

set out below. Some suppliers <strong>and</strong> holidays may require higher deposits<br />

at the time of booking. You will be notified of these requirements<br />

before you pay your deposit.<br />

Deposit per person required at time of booking<br />

Immersive Journeys = £500 per person<br />

Luxury Small Group Journeys & Small Group Journeys = £750 per person<br />

Luxury Expedition Cruises = £2,500 per person<br />

Payment can be made by cheque, bank transfer or by most major<br />

credit cards in favour of <strong>Abercrombie</strong> & <strong>Kent</strong> Limited. If, for any<br />

reason, we do not accept your booking your deposit will be returned.<br />

(c) Many airlines now require the full name of all passengers travelling.<br />

We will therefore ask you at the time of booking to confirm the<br />

number of members in your party <strong>and</strong> to provide us with the first<br />

forename (as shown in each passport) as well as the title <strong>and</strong> surname<br />

of each member.<br />

(d) Special Requests, such as diet, room location, twin or doublebedded<br />

room, a particular facility or flight seat which are an important<br />

factor in the choice of holiday, should be indicated in writing at the<br />

time of booking. We will pass your request on to the hotel or airline<br />

but cannot guarantee that it will be accommodated. We will also<br />

pass on any dietary requests to airlines but we recommend that you<br />

check directly with the airline once your tickets have been issued.<br />

The Company will try to arrange for Special Requests to be met, but<br />

cannot guarantee that they will be, nor will the Company be liable if<br />

any Special Request is not met. The provision of any Special Request<br />

does not constitute a term of your contract with us unless we have<br />

confirmed in writing that your requirement will be met. Most hotels<br />

allow check-in to take place during the mid-afternoon. Should you<br />

wish to have a guaranteed room ready for your immediate check-in<br />

upon arrival, it can be arranged for an additional charge. Please ask<br />

A&K for details <strong>and</strong> prices.<br />

(e) On receipt of your correct deposit we will book your arrangements<br />

<strong>and</strong> issue a Confirmation Invoice. A contract will come into existence<br />

on the date on which we issue a Confirmation Invoice. If your<br />

confirmed arrangements include a flight, we (or if you booked via an<br />

authorised agent of ours, that agent) will also issue you with an ATOL<br />

Certificate.<br />

(f) It is important for you to check the details on the Confirmation,<br />

<strong>and</strong> ATOL Certificate where applicable, as soon as you get it, as<br />

these set out the services we have agreed to provide. In the event of<br />

any discrepancy please contact us immediately. If you arrange your<br />

holiday direct with the Company all correspondence <strong>and</strong> other<br />

communications will be sent to the address of the person who made<br />

the initial payment unless you specify otherwise. If you request<br />

correspondence through a business address, a residential address will<br />

also be required for emergency <strong>and</strong> security reasons.<br />

(g) If your booking is made through a travel agent, the Company will<br />

address all communications to that travel agent, who will act as agent<br />

for you in regard to all communications from us to you. All monies<br />

paid by you to a travel agent under or in contemplation of this contract<br />

will be held by the travel agent for the Company until such monies are<br />

forwarded to the Company.<br />

(h) Final payment of the cost of your arrangements is due 90 days<br />

prior to departure. For select Journeys indicated below* final payment<br />

is due 120 days prior to departure. If your reservation is made within<br />

this period, the entire cost of the trip must be paid at the time of the<br />

request in order to secure confirmation. If it is not paid in time, we<br />

reserve the right to treat your booking as cancelled by you in which<br />

case the cancellation charges set out in clause 2 below will become<br />

payable. An additional £600 per person non-refundable permit fee is<br />

required at time of booking for the Ug<strong>and</strong>a extension tour.<br />

*Select Journeys: A Naturalist’s Guide to Madagascar; Ultimate<br />

Arctic Adventure; Antarctica, South Georgia & the Falkl<strong>and</strong>s Isl<strong>and</strong>s,<br />

Myanmar & the Irrawaddy; India Wildlife Safari; Legends of the East<br />

by Rail; Mongolia: Naadam Festival; Southern Africa Safari by River<br />

& Rail, Taj Mahal & the Treasures of India, Cruising the Mekong:<br />

Indochina & Angkor Wat; Churchill: Belugas & Bears; <strong>and</strong> related pre/<br />

post-tour extensions, or any other Journey <strong>and</strong> related pre/post-tour<br />

extension indicated to you at the point of booking.<br />

2. AMENDMENTS & CANCELLATION<br />

(a) Amendments by you<br />

The Company will make every effort to assist you if you wish to alter<br />

your arrangements, but it may not always be possible. Requests for<br />

an amendment must be in writing, signed by the person who made<br />

the initial payment. If it is possible to make the amendment, it will be<br />

subject to an amendment charge of £50 per booking, together with all<br />

communication charges or other expenses incurred by the Company<br />

as a result of the change. These charges will be payable whether or not<br />

the Company succeeds in confirming your requested amendment.<br />

Scheduled airlines normally regard name changes as a cancellation<br />

<strong>and</strong> rebooking, <strong>and</strong> any alteration may incur a 100% cancellation<br />

charge in respect of the air fare. Please note that save for the transfer<br />

of a booking, it will not be possible to make changes within 28 days<br />

of your departure date. Your request may be treated as a cancellation<br />

<strong>and</strong> re-booking <strong>and</strong> the normal cancellation charges detailed in clause<br />

2(b) below will apply dependent upon the conditions imposed by our<br />

suppliers.<br />

If you wish to change your arrangements whilst on your holiday, all<br />

costs are payable by you.<br />

(b) Transfers of Booking<br />

If you or any member of your party is prevented from travelling, that<br />

person(s) may transfer their place to someone else, subject to the<br />

following conditions:<br />

a. that person is introduced by you <strong>and</strong> satisfies all the conditions<br />

applicable to the holiday;<br />

b. we are notified not less than seven (7) days before departure;<br />

c. you pay any outst<strong>and</strong>ing balance payment, an amendment fee of £50<br />

per person transferring, as well as any additional fees, charges or other<br />

costs arising from the transfer; <strong>and</strong><br />

d. the transferee agrees to these booking conditions <strong>and</strong> all other terms<br />

of the contract between us.<br />

e. flight tickets may not be able to be transferred in which case a<br />

replacement ticket for the transferee would need to be purchased.<br />

You <strong>and</strong> the transferee remain jointly <strong>and</strong> severally liable for payment<br />

of all sums. If you are unable to find a replacement, cancellation<br />

charges as set out in clause 2(c) will apply in order to cover our<br />

estimated costs. Otherwise, no refunds will be given for passengers not<br />

travelling or for unused services.<br />

(c) Cancellation by you<br />

All cancellations must be advised in writing, signed by the person<br />

who made the initial payment <strong>and</strong> sent to the Company at St George’s<br />

House, Ambrose Street, Cheltenham, Glos. GL50 3LG. Cancellations<br />

are effective on the date they are received by the Company. Recorded<br />

delivery is strongly recommended. Since we incur costs in cancelling<br />

your travel arrangements, the following cancellation charges will be<br />

payable, depending upon the number of days prior to departure the<br />

Company receives your notice of cancellation.<br />

STANDARD CANCELLATION FEES PER PERSON<br />

91 days prior to date of departure or more = Loss of deposit<br />

90-61 days prior to date of departure = 25% of total holiday cost<br />

60-31 days prior to date of departure = 50% of total holiday cost<br />

30 days prior to date of departure or less = 100% of total holiday cost<br />

Select Journeys listed above <strong>and</strong> related Group Pre/Post Tour<br />

Extensions<br />

121 days prior to date of departure or more = Loss of deposit<br />

120-91 days prior to date of departure = 25% of total holiday cost<br />

90-61 days prior to date of departure = 50% of total holiday cost<br />

60 days prior to date of departure or less = 100% of total holiday cost<br />

We will deduct the cancellation charge(s) from any monies you have<br />

already paid to us.<br />

Important Note: Certain arrangements may not be amended<br />

after they have been confirmed <strong>and</strong> any alteration or cancellation<br />

could incur a cancellation charge of up to 100% of that part of the<br />

arrangements in addition to the charge above.<br />

Partial Room Cancellation: If a guest cancels or leaves a journey <strong>and</strong><br />

a roommate remains, an additional supplement may apply to the price<br />

for the remaining guest.<br />

Please note that at certain times of year, for example peak season, or for<br />

certain products, for example some game lodges <strong>and</strong> cruises, stricter<br />

cancellation conditions may apply. Any such revised conditions will<br />

be notified to you prior to booking. We strongly recommend that you<br />

secure adequate travel insurance as per clause 6 below.<br />

(d) Cancellation by You due to Unavoidable & Extraordinary<br />

Circumstances:<br />

You have the right to cancel your confirmed holiday before departure<br />

without paying a cancellation charge in the event of “unavoidable <strong>and</strong><br />

extraordinary circumstances” occurring at your holiday destination<br />

or its immediate vicinity <strong>and</strong> significantly affecting the performance<br />

of the holiday or significantly affecting the transport arrangements<br />

to the destination. In these circumstances, we shall provide you with<br />

a full refund of the monies you have paid but we will not be liable to<br />

pay you any additional compensation. Please note that your right to<br />

cancel in these circumstances will only apply where the Foreign <strong>and</strong><br />

Commonwealth Office advises against travel to your destination or<br />

its immediate vicinity. For the purposes of this clause, “unavoidable<br />

<strong>and</strong> extraordinary circumstances” means warfare, acts of terrorism,<br />

significant risks to human health such as the outbreak of serious<br />

disease at the travel destination or natural disasters such as floods,<br />

earthquakes or weather conditions which make it impossible to travel<br />

safely to the travel destination.<br />

(e) Re-booking following a cancellation<br />

Should you wish to cancel a holiday <strong>and</strong> re-book an alternative<br />

this will be subject to the cancellation terms within these booking<br />

conditions. If the alternative booking requires a greater deposit than<br />

has already been paid (after deducting cancellation fees) then the<br />

balance between what is required as a deposit <strong>and</strong> any deposits sums<br />

already paid becomes due.<br />

(f) Accuracy of information<br />

We check the information which we provide about our holidays very<br />

carefully. However, tour, excursion or cruise itineraries may change as<br />

a result of local conditions. Circumstances such as these, or weather<br />

conditions, may cause some of the amenities we have described to be<br />

unavailable or different from those advertised. When we are told of any<br />

significant or long-term changes we will always endeavour to advise<br />

you prior to your departure.<br />

128 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners<br />

(g) Amendments by the Company<br />

Great care is taken to ensure that the description <strong>and</strong> prices given<br />

in our brochures <strong>and</strong> on our website are accurate at the time of<br />

publication. However, changes can occur, <strong>and</strong> the Company reserves<br />

the right to change any of the details in company literature, including<br />

prices, in which case the Company will advise you of any such change<br />

before accepting your booking. After a Confirmation Invoice has<br />

been issued, the Company makes every effort to operate all holidays<br />

as advertised. We plan arrangements a long time in advance of your<br />

holiday using independent suppliers such as airlines, hotels, local<br />

transport operators <strong>and</strong> guides, over whom we have no direct control.<br />

In very rare circumstances, the Company may have to modify a<br />

holiday before you depart. Most of these changes are insignificant.<br />

If we make an insignificant change to your holiday, we will make<br />

reasonable efforts to inform you or your travel agent as soon as<br />

reasonably possible if there is time before your departure but we will<br />

have no liability to you. Examples of insignificant changes include<br />

alteration of your outward/return flights by less than 12 hours, changes<br />

to aircraft type, change of accommodation to another of the same or<br />

higher st<strong>and</strong>ard <strong>and</strong> changes of carriers.<br />

Occasionally we may have to make a significant change to your<br />

confirmed arrangements. Examples of “significant changes” include<br />

the following, when made before departure: a change of flight time<br />

by more than 12 hours, a change of international airport (except<br />

between airports serving the same city), a change of destination or a<br />

change to a lower st<strong>and</strong>ard accommodation, <strong>and</strong>/or price. If we have<br />

to make a significant change we will tell you as soon as possible <strong>and</strong> if<br />

there is time to do so before departure, we will provide you with three<br />

alternatives. You may accept the modification, you may change your<br />

booking to another available <strong>and</strong> comparable holiday, or you may<br />

cancel <strong>and</strong> receive a full <strong>and</strong> prompt refund. If you choose another<br />

holiday which is cheaper, the Company will make the appropriate<br />

refund.<br />

You must notify us of your choice within seven (7) days of our offer.<br />

If we do not hear from you within seven (7) days, we will contact<br />

you again to request notification of your choice. If you fail to respond<br />

again, we will assume that you have chosen to accept the change or<br />

alternative booking arrangements.<br />

If you cancel <strong>and</strong> receive a full refund following a significant change<br />

made for any reason other than Force Majeure or Low Bookings you<br />

will receive the following compensation, calculated according to the<br />

number of days prior to departure that you are notified of the change.<br />

Compensation when Notification of Change is sent<br />

Days prior to Departure Compensation Per Person<br />

More than 42 days £10<br />

29 - 42 days prior £20<br />

15 - 28 days prior £25<br />

0 - 14 days prior £30<br />

*IMPORTANT NOTE: We will not pay you compensation in the<br />

following circumstances:<br />

(a) where we make an insignificant change;<br />

(b) where we make a significant change or cancel your arrangements<br />

more than 91 days before departure (or 121 days in the case of the<br />

select journeys listed in clause 1(h), above, <strong>and</strong> related Group Pre/Post<br />

Tour Extensions <strong>and</strong> Ultimate Arctic Adventures);<br />

(c) where we make a significant change <strong>and</strong> you accept those changed<br />

arrangements or you accept an offer of alternative travel arrangements;<br />

(d) where we have to cancel your arrangements as a result of your<br />

failure to make full payment on time;<br />

(e) where the change or cancellation by us arises out of alterations to<br />

the confirmed booking requested by you; <strong>and</strong><br />

(f) where we are forced to cancel or change your arrangements due to<br />

Force Majeure.<br />

Force Majeure has the meaning set out in clause 16.<br />

‘Low Bookings’ means that an insufficient number of people have<br />

booked the arrangements to make their operation financially viable in<br />

the advertised form.<br />

If there is an insignificant change before you depart (that is, any change<br />

not included in the definition of a significant change set out above), the<br />

Company will try to notify you, although it is not obliged to pay any<br />

compensation. lf the Company becomes unable to provide a significant<br />

proportion of your holiday after it has commenced, every effort will be<br />

made to provide suitable alternative arrangements, which will be made<br />

for you at no extra charge to you (save in the case of Force Majeure)<br />

or, alternatively, you will be returned to your point of departure<br />

<strong>and</strong> the company will, where appropriate, pay compensation. No<br />

compensation is payable in the case of Force Majeure.<br />

(h) Cancellation by the Company<br />

We reserve the right in any circumstances to cancel your holiday for<br />

any reason, subject to commitments in 2(g). However, we will not<br />

cancel your hotel arrangement less than 90 days before your departure<br />

date, except for reasons of Force Majeure or failure by you to pay the<br />

final balance. If you fail to pay the balance of the holiday price at least<br />

90 days before departure, the Company will treat your booking as<br />

cancelled <strong>and</strong> levy the cancellation charges set out in clause 2(c). If the<br />

Company is obliged to cancel your holiday in any other circumstances<br />

before departure, the Company will use its best endeavours to offer<br />

alternative arrangements of equivalent or very closely similar st<strong>and</strong>ard<br />

<strong>and</strong> price, if available; travel arrangements of a lower st<strong>and</strong>ard <strong>and</strong> a<br />

refund of the difference in price; or will give you a full <strong>and</strong> prompt<br />

refund of all monies paid. In addition, unless the cancellation has<br />

been caused by Force Majeure, failure by you to pay the final balance<br />

or Low Bookings, the Company will pay you compensation as set out<br />

in clause 2(g).<br />

(i) A&K Guaranteed Departures<br />

All Luxury Small Group Journeys <strong>and</strong> Immersive Journeys are<br />

guaranteed to operate with a minimum of two (2) persons. Guaranteed<br />

departures will operate except in cases of Force Majeure, which could<br />

include any major world event adversely affecting international travel<br />

patterns. If only two, three or four people are booked, we will advise<br />

you three months before travel <strong>and</strong> check that you are happy to<br />

travel even if numbers do not increase or whether you would prefer a<br />

departure with more guests booked. If only one person is booked we<br />

will offer alternative dates at the same price. A Naturalist’s Guide to<br />

Madagascar is subject to minimum numbers.


(j) Design your Day SM (DYD)<br />

Immersive Journeys allow you to select guiding experiences on a<br />

designated day from a choice of options. Each DYD experience<br />

is subject to availability <strong>and</strong> may require a minimum number of<br />

travellers in order to operate. If the minimum number of travellers<br />

have not selected your experience you will be offered an alternative<br />

experience. Some DYD experiences may have a maximum number<br />

of travellers. If your selected experience is already fully booked an<br />

alternative from the menu will be offered.<br />

3. ABERCROMBIE & KENT PRICE POLICY<br />

(a) We reserve the right to alter the prices of any of the holidays shown<br />

in our brochure or on our website. You will be advised of the current<br />

price of the holiday that you wish to book before your contract is<br />

confirmed.<br />

(b) When you make your booking you must pay a deposit, see<br />

section 1(b) for relevant deposits. The balance of the price of your<br />

travel arrangements must be paid by the date indicated on your<br />

confirmation. If the deposit <strong>and</strong>/or balance is not paid in time, we shall<br />

cancel your travel arrangements. If the balance is not paid in time we<br />

shall retain your deposit.<br />

(c) In respect of any booking covered by our ATOL, all monies you pay<br />

to the travel agent are held by them on behalf <strong>and</strong> for the benefit of the<br />

Trustees of the Air Travel Trust at all times. This is subject to the agent’s<br />

obligation to pay it to us for so long as we do not fail. If we fail, any<br />

money held at that time by the agent, or subsequently accepted from<br />

you by the agent, is <strong>and</strong> continues to be held on behalf of <strong>and</strong> for the<br />

benefit of the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust without any obligation to<br />

pay that money to us.<br />

(d) The Company is under no obligation to give a breakdown of the<br />

costs involved in a holiday.<br />

(e) The Company reserves the right to notify you of an increase in<br />

the brochure or advertised price before accepting your booking <strong>and</strong><br />

prices may go up or down. While we do our utmost to avoid such a<br />

scenario, due to human or computer error there may on occasion be<br />

an incorrect price shown in a brochure or online. When we become<br />

aware of any such error, we will endeavour to notify you at the time of<br />

booking (if we are then aware of the mistake) or within seven (7) days<br />

of the time of booking, or as soon as reasonably possible. We do have<br />

to reserve all our rights in a situation such as this which may include<br />

cancelling a holiday if the actual price applicable to the holiday is not<br />

acceptable to you. We will of course allow you to amend your holiday<br />

with us, if you so wish, to an alternative holiday at the correct price.<br />

(f) We reserve the right to increase the price of confirmed holidays<br />

solely to allow for increases which are a direct consequence of changes<br />

in:<br />

a. the price of the carriage of passengers resulting from the cost of fuel<br />

or other power sources;<br />

b. the level of taxes or fees chargeable for services applicable to<br />

the holiday imposed by third parties not directly involved in the<br />

performance of the holiday, including tourist taxes, l<strong>and</strong>ing taxes or<br />

embarkation or disembarkation fees at ports <strong>and</strong> airports; <strong>and</strong><br />

c. the exchange rates relevant to the package.<br />

Such variations could include but are not limited to airline cost<br />

changes which are part of our contracts with airlines (<strong>and</strong> their agents),<br />

cruise ship operators <strong>and</strong> any other transport providers.<br />

(g) We will absorb <strong>and</strong> you will not be charged for any increase<br />

equivalent to 2% of the price of your travel arrangements, which<br />

excludes insurance premiums <strong>and</strong> any amendment charges <strong>and</strong>/or<br />

additional services or travel arrangements. You will be charged for<br />

the amount over <strong>and</strong> above that. However, if this means that you have<br />

to pay an increase of more than 8% of the price of your confirmed<br />

holiday (excluding any insurance premiums, amendment charges <strong>and</strong>/<br />

or additional services or travel arrangements), you will have the option<br />

of accepting a change to another holiday if we are able to offer one (if<br />

this is of equivalent or higher quality you will not have to pay more but<br />

if it is of lower quality you will be refunded the difference in price), or<br />

cancelling <strong>and</strong> receiving a full refund of all monies paid to us, except<br />

for any insurance premiums <strong>and</strong> any amendment charges <strong>and</strong>/or<br />

additional services or travel arrangements. Should you decide to cancel<br />

for this reason, you must exercise your right to do so within seven (7)<br />

days from the issue date printed on your final invoice. We will consider<br />

an appropriate refund of insurance premiums paid if you can show<br />

that you are unable to transfer or reuse your policy.<br />

(h) Should the price of your holiday go down due to the changes<br />

mentioned above, then any refund due will be paid to you less<br />

an administrative fee of £10. However, please note that travel<br />

arrangements are not always purchased in local currency <strong>and</strong> some<br />

apparent changes have no impact on the price of your travel due to<br />

contractual <strong>and</strong> other protection in place.<br />

(i) There will be no change made to the price of your confirmed<br />

holiday within 20 days of your departure nor will refunds be paid<br />

during this period.<br />

4. RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE COMPANY<br />

(a) The Company applies all reasonable checks to ensure that those<br />

involved in the preparation <strong>and</strong> provision of your holiday maintain the<br />

appropriate st<strong>and</strong>ards.<br />

(b) We will accept responsibility for the arrangements we agree to<br />

provide or arrange for you as an “organiser” under the Package Travel<br />

<strong>and</strong> Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018, as set out below<br />

<strong>and</strong> as such, we are responsible for the proper provision of all travel<br />

services included in your package, as set out in your Confirmation<br />

Invoice. The descriptions, information <strong>and</strong> opinions given in our<br />

brochures or on the website by the Company in respect of the airlines,<br />

hotels <strong>and</strong> other suppliers whose services are used are given in good<br />

faith, based on the latest information available at the time of printing.<br />

The Company accepts liability for any loss you may suffer if due to fault<br />

on our part, or that of our agents or suppliers, any part of the holiday<br />

arrangements you book with the Company before your departure is<br />

not as described in our brochure, on our website, or itinerary or not of<br />

a reasonable st<strong>and</strong>ard <strong>and</strong> we don’t remedy or resolve your complaint<br />

within a reasonable period of time, <strong>and</strong> this has affected the enjoyment<br />

of your package holiday, in such circumstances you may be entitled<br />

to an appropriate price reduction or compensation or both. You must<br />

inform us without undue delay of any failure to perform or improper<br />

performance of the travel services included in this package. The<br />

Company limits its liability in respect of these claims to a maximum<br />

of three times the holiday cost. Subject to the conditions set out below,<br />

The Company also accepts liability if you or any member of your party<br />

suffers death or personal injury as a direct result of the negligence of<br />

the Company or its suppliers. However, these acceptances of liability<br />

do not apply if there has been no fault on the part of the Company<br />

or its servants, agents, or suppliers or if, the loss, death or personal<br />

injury suffered is attributable to (i) your own acts or omissions, (ii)<br />

the acts or omissions of a third party not involved in providing the<br />

services which make up your holiday <strong>and</strong> which were unavoidable <strong>and</strong><br />

extraordinary or (iii) Force Majeure. In addition, where claims do not<br />

involve personal injury or death, they are also conditional upon you<br />

following the procedures for notification of complaints set out in clause<br />

11, <strong>and</strong> upon you assigning to the Company any right you may have<br />

against any other person whose acts or omissions have given rise to<br />

the Company’s liability. Nothing in the above shall limit or exclude the<br />

Company’s liability for fraud or for death or personal injury caused by<br />

negligence, or to the extent otherwise not permitted by law.<br />

(c) The Company’s liability to compensate you <strong>and</strong> the amount of such<br />

compensation is subject to the following limitations. First, in the case<br />

of damage other than death, illness or personal injury, compensation is<br />

restricted to a reasonable amount having regard to such factors as, inter<br />

alia, the holiday cost <strong>and</strong> the extent to which the enjoyment of your<br />

holiday can be said to have been affected. Second, if any failure in your<br />

holiday arrangements relates to, or if you or any member in your party<br />

is killed, injured or becomes ill during or as a result of, carriage by<br />

aircraft, ship, train or coach forming part of the holiday arrangements<br />

booked with us before your departure from the UK, our liability to<br />

pay compensation <strong>and</strong>/or the amount of compensation we will pay is<br />

limited as if we were the carrier under any international convention<br />

which governs such services. International Conventions which may<br />

apply include: in respect of carriage by air, the Montreal Convention<br />

1999 or the Warsaw Convention 1929 (including as amended by<br />

the Hague Protocol of 1955 <strong>and</strong> by any of the Montreal Additional<br />

Protocol of 1975); in respect of carriage by sea, the Athens Convention<br />

1974; in respect of rail carriage, the Berne/Cotif Convention 1980;<br />

<strong>and</strong> in respect of carriage by road the Geneva Convention 1973. The<br />

terms of these conventions are incorporated into <strong>and</strong> form part of your<br />

contract with us. In respect of death or personal injury, the liability<br />

of an air carrier under the Montreal Convention <strong>and</strong> the Warsaw<br />

Convention is limited to damage sustained caused by an accident<br />

which takes place onboard the aircraft or in the course of any of the<br />

operations of embarking or disembarking. You can get copies of the<br />

relevant conventions if you ask us for them. You should also note that<br />

these conventions may limit or remove the carrier’s liability to you <strong>and</strong><br />

the amount which the carrier has to pay you. You should also know<br />

that the carrier will rely upon its ‘conditions of carriage’ which may<br />

limit or remove the carrier’s liability to you <strong>and</strong> limit compensation<br />

under international conventions.<br />

(d) Our suppliers (such as accommodation or transport providers)<br />

have their own booking conditions or conditions of carriage, <strong>and</strong> these<br />

conditions are binding between you <strong>and</strong> the supplier. Some of these<br />

conditions may limit or remove the relevant transport provider’s or<br />

other supplier’s liability to you. You can get copies of such conditions<br />

from our offices, or the offices of the relevant supplier.<br />

(e) If we make any payment to you or any member of your party for<br />

death, personal injury or illness, you must co-operate fully with us in<br />

seeking recovery of any payment we make.<br />

(f) Operational decisions may be taken by air carriers <strong>and</strong> airports<br />

resulting in delays, diversions or rescheduling. <strong>Abercrombie</strong> & <strong>Kent</strong><br />

has no control over such decisions, <strong>and</strong> is therefore unable to accept<br />

responsibility for them. Where, as a result of circumstances beyond our<br />

control, we are obliged to change or end your holiday after departure,<br />

but before the end of your holiday, we will not pay compensation or<br />

reimburse you for expenses incurred. We strongly recommend you<br />

have adequate travel insurance for your holiday <strong>and</strong> should claim<br />

via your insurance company for any loss or damage to luggage <strong>and</strong>/<br />

or personal possessions. In the event that any claim is made directly<br />

with us, our liability to pay compensation <strong>and</strong>/or the amount of<br />

compensation will be limited in accordance with the conventions<br />

referred to in (c) above.<br />

(g) If you suffer death, injury or illness during your holiday arising out<br />

of an activity which does not form part of the inclusive arrangements<br />

booked with the Company, the Company will offer assistance where<br />

appropriate <strong>and</strong> in its sole discretion. This assistance must be requested<br />

within 90 days of your misadventure <strong>and</strong> will be limited to general<br />

advice <strong>and</strong>/or assistance with legal fees up to £5,000 per party, such<br />

contributions to be repaid to the Company out of any judgment or<br />

insurance payment you subsequently obtain.<br />

(h) Where it is impossible for you to return to your departure point as<br />

per the agreed return date of your package, due to “unavoidable <strong>and</strong><br />

extraordinary circumstances”, we shall provide you with any necessary<br />

accommodation (where possible, of a comparable st<strong>and</strong>ard) for a<br />

period not exceeding three nights per person. If the circumstances<br />

continue beyond a three-night period our responsibility under this<br />

clause will cease <strong>and</strong> you will need to claim upon your travel insurance<br />

where you are able to do so. Please note that the three-night cap<br />

does not apply to persons with reduced mobility, pregnant women<br />

or unaccompanied minors, nor to persons needing specific medical<br />

assistance, provided we have been notified of these particular needs<br />

at least 48 hours before the start of your holiday. For the purposes<br />

of this clause, “unavoidable <strong>and</strong> extraordinary circumstances” mean<br />

warfare, acts of terrorism, significant risks to human health such as the<br />

outbreak of serious disease at the travel destination or natural disasters<br />

such as floods, earthquakes or weather conditions which make it<br />

impossible to travel safely back to your departure point.<br />

5. YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES<br />

(a) Make yourself travel aware – before making a booking, please<br />

consult the travel advice produced by the government of your home<br />

jurisdiction, as well as that of the government who issued the passport<br />

<strong>and</strong>/or visa you intend to travel under.<br />

Also ensure you make yourself familiar with the Foreign &<br />

Commonwealth Office advice on staying safe <strong>and</strong> healthy on your<br />

trip – gov.uk/travelaware. Advice can change, so always check regularly<br />

for the latest updates.<br />

(b) If the Foreign Office advises that people should not visit a<br />

particular country, we will act on this advice. US residents who<br />

are planning a holiday with us should be aware that the US State<br />

Department issues a travel warning when, based on all relevant<br />

information, it determines that Americans should avoid travel to<br />

or within a certain nation. The State Department maintains a list of<br />

nations under a travel warning on its website at: http://travel.state.gov/<br />

travel/cis_pa_tw/tw/tw_1764.html. American travellers are advised to<br />

check this before making a booking.<br />

(c) In the event of active government advice <strong>and</strong> warnings against<br />

travel to a specific destination or location(s) of a trip, should the<br />

traveller still choose to travel, notwithst<strong>and</strong>ing such travel advisory or<br />

warning, the traveller assumes all risks of loss, personal injury, death<br />

or property damage from any event that may arise out of or associated<br />

with the travel advice or warnings given. The Company strongly<br />

recommends you do not travel against Foreign Office Travel or US<br />

State Department Travel advice <strong>and</strong> warnings as they are given for<br />

your safety <strong>and</strong> security.<br />

(d) It is important that you check the details on your Confirmation<br />

Invoice when you receive it. In the event of any discrepancy, you<br />

should contact the Company or your travel agent.<br />

(e) General information concerning passport, visa <strong>and</strong> health<br />

requirements applicable to UK Citizens is set out in our literature.<br />

However, such requirements are subject to change <strong>and</strong> you must check<br />

current requirements before departure. Passports for British Citizens<br />

are valid for travel to any EU country up to <strong>and</strong> including the passport<br />

expiry date. Many countries outside of the EU require that passengers’<br />

passports are valid for at least six months after the completion of their<br />

journey, <strong>and</strong>/or contains blank pages (for visas). Please visit gov.uk/<br />

foreign-travel-advice for advice by country. Some destinations also<br />

require visas <strong>and</strong> additional documentation <strong>and</strong> you should contact<br />

the Embassy or Consulate of the country which you are planning to<br />

visit in good time before you travel. Further information is available<br />

from Visa Central (http://visacentral.co.uk/). You should also contact<br />

your medical advisor or a specialist vaccination centre for details of<br />

the measures you will need to take prior to departure. All children<br />

should travel on full passports. It is your responsibility to obtain all<br />

documents required for your holiday, including passports, visas, health<br />

certificates <strong>and</strong> international driving licences, to ensure that these are<br />

in proper order <strong>and</strong> to take them with you. We recommend that if<br />

you are travelling with a child that does not share your surname, in<br />

order to minimise the possibility of disruption to your travel plans, you<br />

travel with documentation that proves your relationship to the child<br />

as well as documentation that proves you have permission to travel<br />

with them. The Company cannot be held responsible should you or<br />

any member of your travelling party be denied entry to a country due<br />

to non-compliance with these requirements. Please consult the travel<br />

advice produced by the government of your home jurisdiction, as well<br />

as that of the government who issued the passport <strong>and</strong>/or visa you<br />

intend to travel under for further details. We will not be liable to make<br />

any refund or pay compensation if you or any member of your party<br />

is unable to proceed with the holiday as planned because of incorrect<br />

or missing personal documents, or any other failure to meet passport,<br />

visa or immigration requirements.<br />

(f) Approximately seven (7) days before departure you will receive<br />

your flight tickets together with other information concerning your<br />

holiday. Please ensure that you check the names <strong>and</strong> flight timings<br />

on your tickets carefully <strong>and</strong> contact us immediately if you have any<br />

queries. The correct timings, using the 24-hour clock system, may have<br />

been adjusted since you received your Confirmation Invoice.<br />

(g) You are responsible for checking-in for flights at the correct time<br />

<strong>and</strong> for presenting yourself to take up all pre-booked components of<br />

your holiday. The Company cannot accept responsibility for clients<br />

missing flights as a result of late check-ins <strong>and</strong> no credit or refunds will<br />

be given if you fail to take up any component of your holiday. No credit<br />

or refunds will be given for lost, mislaid or destroyed travel documents.<br />

(h) Most people go on holiday for rest <strong>and</strong> relaxation, so if in our<br />

reasonable opinion or that of any airline pilot, hotel manager, tour<br />

leader or other person in authority, your behaviour is causing danger,<br />

damage to property or persistently affecting the enjoyment of others,<br />

we reserve the right to terminate your holiday. Should this happen no<br />

refund or compensation would be paid.<br />

(i) If you lose any personal items whilst on holiday, please obtain a<br />

written report from the police, to help with any insurance claim upon<br />

your return.<br />

(j) You are responsible for the costs of any damage to the<br />

accommodation <strong>and</strong>/or any extra charges incurred with our suppliers<br />

during your holiday. Should you fail to make such payment at the time<br />

the charges <strong>and</strong>/or costs are incurred, you will be liable to reimburse us<br />

for these <strong>and</strong> you authorise the Company to automatically debit your<br />

credit card to the value instructed by the supplier for any such costs<br />

<strong>and</strong>/or charges.<br />

6. INSURANCE<br />

We cannot emphasise enough the importance of purchasing<br />

comprehensive travel insurance prior to date of travel. This insurance<br />

should be commensurate to the value of your booking, <strong>and</strong> cover<br />

cancellation <strong>and</strong> curtailment, all medical expenses including<br />

evacuation/repatriation, personal baggage, personal liability, death<br />

<strong>and</strong> permanent disability <strong>and</strong> travel document insurance. If you suffer<br />

from a disability or medical condition, you should disclose this to<br />

insurers. For those who participate in sports <strong>and</strong> activities whilst on<br />

holiday that have been organised <strong>and</strong> arranged independently of us,<br />

it should be understood that participation is at the individual’s own<br />

risk <strong>and</strong> it is your responsibility to obtain the relevant insurance. Note<br />

that special insurance may be required if you intend to scuba dive or<br />

undertake any other dangerous or sports activities. Please keep your<br />

insurance details with you whilst on holiday.<br />

7. AIRLINES & OTHER SUPPLIERS<br />

(a) As between you <strong>and</strong> the suppliers of the transport, accommodation<br />

<strong>and</strong> other components making up your holiday, the conditions of the<br />

supplier will apply. These conditions may be subject to international<br />

Conventions which limit <strong>and</strong>/or restrict the suppliers’ liability. (Copies<br />

are available on request – please allow 28 days). Under EU law you<br />

have rights in some circumstances to refunds <strong>and</strong>/or compensation<br />

from your airline in cases of denied boarding, cancellation or delay to<br />

flights. Full details of these rights will be publicised at EU airports, <strong>and</strong><br />

will also be available from your airline. Reimbursement in these cases<br />

is the responsibility of the airline <strong>and</strong> will not automatically entitle<br />

you to refund of your holiday cost from the Company. Your rights<br />

to compensation from the Company is set out in clause 2(g). If your<br />

airline does not acknowledge your rights, you should complain to the<br />

Civil Aviation Authority at caa.co.uk/<br />

(b) Transport timings are provided by the carrier concerned <strong>and</strong><br />

are subject to such matters as weather conditions, maintenance<br />

requirements, the ability of passengers to check-in on time <strong>and</strong>, in the<br />

case of flights, to air traffic control restrictions. Accordingly, the times<br />

of flights <strong>and</strong> other forms of transport are estimates only <strong>and</strong> cannot<br />

be guaranteed.<br />

(c) As airlines regularly overbook, we recommend that you check<br />

in online as soon as you are notified by the airline that check-in is<br />

available or 24 hours before departure. If you do not check-in online or<br />

are unable to, we recommend that you arrive at the airport three hours<br />

prior to departure as airlines have been known to reallocate seats in<br />

the event of late arrivals. The Company is unable to check you in <strong>and</strong><br />

it is your responsibility to ensure that you are checked in within the<br />

appropriate time. The Company is not responsible or liable if you are<br />

downgraded an airline class as a result of the airline overbooking the<br />

class in which you are booked. Seat reservations are at the discretion<br />

of the airline <strong>and</strong> may be changed at any time without notice.<br />

(d) The majority of airlines have introduced a total smoking ban on<br />

most or all of their flights. Please ask before booking if this information<br />

is important to you.<br />

(e) The European Commission publishes a list of airlines that are<br />

subject to an operating ban within European air space. To view the<br />

list, go to http://ec.europa.eu/transport/modes/air/safety/air-ban/<br />

index_en.htm or search for “banned airlines” at europa.eu.<br />

Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners 129


Some itineraries may include one of the following airlines:<br />

LAM (LINHAS AÉREAS DE MOÇAMBIQUE S.A.)<br />

Coastal Aviation<br />

Tara Air<br />

Fishtail<br />

Yeti<br />

Buddha Air<br />

(f) Some activities carry inherent risks <strong>and</strong> if you are participating in<br />

such activities you may be asked to sign an additional form by the local<br />

supplier. In rare cases beginners may have to take lessons at a charge<br />

before being permitted to use hotel equipment otherwise offered free.<br />

8. EXCURSIONS<br />

Please note that when you book an excursion locally you contract with<br />

the local company providing that excursion <strong>and</strong> not the Company.<br />

The Company has no legal liability for anything that goes wrong on<br />

such an excursion <strong>and</strong> any claim which you might have arising out of<br />

the excursion will be against the relevant local company <strong>and</strong> subject<br />

to the local company’s terms <strong>and</strong> conditions. The Company will, at its<br />

discretion, offer advice, guidance <strong>and</strong> assistance if you or any member<br />

of your party suffer death, illness or injury arising out of an activity<br />

which does not form part of your holiday with the Company, or an<br />

excursion arranged locally. Where legal action is contemplated <strong>and</strong><br />

you want the Company’s assistance, you must obtain the Company’s<br />

written consent prior to commencement of proceedings. The<br />

Company’s consent will be given subject to you undertaking to assign<br />

any costs, or benefits received <strong>and</strong> any relevant insurance policy to the<br />

Company. We limit the cost of the Company’s assistance to you or any<br />

member of your party to £5,000.<br />

9. DATA PROTECTION<br />

(a) In order to process your booking <strong>and</strong> to ensure that your travel<br />

arrangements run smoothly <strong>and</strong> meet your requirements, we need<br />

to use the information you provide such as your name, <strong>and</strong> address,<br />

any special needs/dietary requirements etc. We take full responsibility<br />

for ensuring that proper security measures are in place to protect<br />

your information. We must pass the information on to the relevant<br />

suppliers of your travel arrangements such as airlines, hotels, transport<br />

companies <strong>and</strong> so on. The information may also be provided to<br />

security or credit checking companies, public authorities such as<br />

customs <strong>and</strong> immigration if required by them, or as required by law.<br />

Additionally, where your holiday is outside the European Economic<br />

Area (EEA), controls on data protection in your destination may<br />

not be as strong as the legal requirements in this country. We will<br />

not however, pass any information on to any person not responsible<br />

for part of your travel arrangements. This applies to any sensitive<br />

information that you give to us such as details of any disabilities,<br />

or dietary/religious requirements. If, however, we cannot pass this<br />

information to the relevant suppliers, whether in the EEA or not, we<br />

cannot accept your booking. In making a booking, you consent to this<br />

information being passed on to the relevant persons. Please note that<br />

where information is also held by your travel agent, this is subject to<br />

your agents’ own data protection policy. You are entitled to a copy of<br />

your information held by us. If you would like to see this please contact<br />

the Company during normal working hours.<br />

(b) The information you are required to provide may include debit/<br />

credit card details. As set out above, we take full responsibility for<br />

ensuring that proper security measures are in place to protect this<br />

information. In accordance with applicable legal, regulatory <strong>and</strong><br />

business requirements this information will be securely deleted as soon<br />

as it is no longer required. However, it is necessary for the Company<br />

to retain your debit/credit card details for a reasonable period of time<br />

after the conclusion of your holiday, <strong>and</strong> you consent to such retention,<br />

in the event that any costs referred to in clause 5(j) above are incurred<br />

<strong>and</strong> you fail to settle these directly with the supplier, in order that the<br />

Company can debit your card for the relevant amount. This will be<br />

reviewed on a regular basis to ensure that the information is not kept<br />

longer than is strictly necessary for the purposes set out above.<br />

10. ILLNESS AND DISABILITY<br />

If you or any member of your party suffer from a disability or other<br />

medical condition please tell us before you book. <strong>Abercrombie</strong> &<br />

<strong>Kent</strong> is happy to give you advice <strong>and</strong> to try to assist you in choosing<br />

a holiday that will meet your requirements. However, most of our<br />

holidays are in destinations which are off the beaten track <strong>and</strong> lack<br />

even the simplest facilities for disabled guests such as ramps for<br />

wheelchairs, lifts <strong>and</strong> so on. Many of our holidays require a fair degree<br />

of physical fitness. Medical facilities may not be readily available. In<br />

order to assist you we must be provided prior to booking with full<br />

written details regarding your medical condition <strong>and</strong> any special<br />

requirements which result from this. An appropriate medical form<br />

will be sent to you for this purpose. Air travel can cause problems for<br />

some people with circulatory or bronchial problems, such as deep<br />

vein thrombosis. It is inadvisable for anyone with high blood pressure<br />

or respiratory problems to visit high altitudes. You should consult<br />

your doctor for advice before you book <strong>and</strong> in good time before your<br />

departure.<br />

11. IF YOU HAVE A PROBLEM<br />

(a) If you are unhappy with any aspect of the Company’s arrangements<br />

while you are on holiday, you must address your complaint<br />

immediately to the Company’s local representative (or, if none, to the<br />

Company by contacting the Duty Manager on +44 207 998 4141)<br />

<strong>and</strong> to the management of the hotel or other supplier whose services<br />

are involved. They will do their best to rectify the situation. It is<br />

unreasonable to take no action whilst on holiday, but then to write<br />

a letter of complaint upon return. If the problem cannot be resolved<br />

locally <strong>and</strong> you wish to complain, full details must be sent to the<br />

Company in writing to arrive within 30 days of your return. We will<br />

do our best to investigate <strong>and</strong> reply to you within 28 days of receipt of<br />

your letter. Failure to take either of these steps will deny the Company<br />

the opportunity to resolve the problem immediately <strong>and</strong>/or investigate<br />

it properly. In consequence, this may affect your rights under this<br />

contract.<br />

(b) In the rare event of a dispute which cannot be amicably settled, it<br />

may (if you wish) use ABTA’s approved Alternative Dispute Resolution<br />

(ADR) scheme, available through abta.com which, though devised<br />

by arrangement with the Association of British Travel Agents, is<br />

administered quite independently by the Centre for Effective Dispute<br />

Resolution (CEDR). The scheme (details of which will be supplied on<br />

request) provides for a simple <strong>and</strong> inexpensive method of arbitration<br />

on documents alone, with restricted liability on holidaymakers in<br />

respect of costs. The scheme does not apply to claims for an amount<br />

greater than £5,000 per person or £25,000 per party, neither does it<br />

apply to claims which are solely or mainly in respect of physical injury,<br />

illness, nervous shock, death or their consequences. The scheme can,<br />

however, deal with compensation claims which include an element of<br />

minor injury or illness subject to a limit of £1,500 on the amount the<br />

arbitrator can award per person in respect of this element. Application<br />

for arbitration under this scheme must be made within 18 months of<br />

the date of return from the holiday, otherwise it will only be available<br />

if we agree, but the ABTA Code does not require such agreement from<br />

us. For injury <strong>and</strong> illness claims, you can request the ABTA Mediation<br />

Procedure <strong>and</strong> we have the option to agree to mediation.<br />

12. GOVERNING LAW<br />

This contract <strong>and</strong> any matters arising from it are governed by the laws<br />

of Engl<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong> Wales <strong>and</strong> are subject to the jurisdiction of the Courts<br />

of Engl<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong> Wales.<br />

13. DESCRIPTIONS<br />

Every effort is made to ensure that the details, description <strong>and</strong> prices<br />

contained in company literature are correct, based on inspections, <strong>and</strong><br />

information passed to the Company by its suppliers. However, changes<br />

do occur, sometimes at short notice <strong>and</strong> therefore the Company<br />

will advise you at the time of booking, or if after booking as soon as<br />

possible of any such changes to our published information. It is not<br />

always possible for the Company to control all elements of the holiday<br />

whereby advertised facilities can sometimes become unavailable at<br />

short notice due to inclement weather conditions, lack of dem<strong>and</strong>,<br />

emergency repair works etc.<br />

14. FINANCIAL PROTECTION<br />

We provide full financial protection for our package holidays.<br />

We provide financial security for flight-inclusive packages by way of<br />

our Air Travel Organiser’s Licence number 2881, issued by the Civil<br />

Aviation Authority, Gatwick Airport South, West Sussex, RH6 0YR,<br />

UK, telephone 0333 103 6350, email: claims@caa.co.uk.<br />

When you buy an ATOL protected flight or flight-inclusive holiday<br />

from us you will receive an ATOL Certificate. This lists what is<br />

financially protected, where you can get information on what this<br />

means for you <strong>and</strong> who to contact if things go wrong. We, or the<br />

suppliers identified on your ATOL Certificate, will provide you with<br />

the services listed on the ATOL Certificate (or a suitable alternative).<br />

In some cases, where neither we nor the supplier are able to do so<br />

for reasons of insolvency, an alternative ATOL holder may provide<br />

you with the services you have bought or a suitable alternative (at no<br />

extra cost to you). You agree to accept that in those circumstances the<br />

alternative ATOL holder will perform those obligations <strong>and</strong> you agree<br />

to pay any money outst<strong>and</strong>ing to be paid by you under your contract<br />

to that alternative ATOL holder. However, you also agree that in some<br />

cases it will not be possible to appoint an alternative ATOL holder,<br />

in which case you will be entitled to make a claim under the ATOL<br />

scheme (or your credit card issuer where applicable).<br />

If we, or the suppliers identified on your ATOL certificate, are unable<br />

to provide the services listed (or a suitable alternative, through an<br />

alternative ATOL holder or otherwise) for reasons of insolvency, the<br />

Trustees of the Air Travel Trust may make a payment to (or confer a<br />

benefit on) you under the ATOL scheme. You agree that in return for<br />

such a payment or benefit you assign absolutely to those Trustees any<br />

claims which you have or may have arising out of or relating to the<br />

non-provision of the services, including any claim against us, the travel<br />

agent (or your credit card issuer where applicable). You also agree that<br />

any such claims may be re-assigned to another body, if that other body<br />

has paid sums you have claimed under the ATOL scheme.<br />

When you buy a package holiday that doesn’t include a flight,<br />

protection is provided by way of a bond held by ABTA Ltd, The Travel<br />

Association, 30 Park Street, London, SE1 9EQ, abta.co.uk.<br />

<strong>Abercrombie</strong> & <strong>Kent</strong> is a member of ABTA (number V6398) <strong>and</strong><br />

holds an ATOL Licence (number 2881) issued by the Civil Aviation<br />

Authority. We are obliged to maintain a high st<strong>and</strong>ard of service to you<br />

by ABTA’s Code of Conduct. For further information about ABTA,<br />

The Code of Conduct <strong>and</strong> the arbitration scheme available to you, or<br />

if you have a complaint, contact ABTA, 30 Park Street, London SE1<br />

9EQ. Tel: 0203 117 0500 or abta.com. For further information, visit<br />

abta.com.<br />

15. PROMPT ASSISTANCE<br />

If, whilst you are on holiday, you find yourself in difficulty for any<br />

reason, we will offer you such prompt assistance as is appropriate in<br />

the circumstances. In particular, we will provide you with appropriate<br />

information on health services, local authorities <strong>and</strong> consular<br />

assistance, <strong>and</strong> assistance with distance communications <strong>and</strong> finding<br />

alternative travel arrangements. Where you require assistance which is<br />

not owing to any failure by us, our employees or sub-contractors, we<br />

will not be liable for the costs of any alternative travel arrangements<br />

or other such assistance you require. Any supplier, airline or other<br />

transport supplier may however pay for or provide refreshments <strong>and</strong>/<br />

or appropriate accommodation <strong>and</strong> you should make a claim directly<br />

to them. Subject to the other terms of these Booking Conditions, we<br />

will not be liable for any costs, fees or charges you incur in the above<br />

circumstances, if you fail to obtain our prior authorisation before<br />

making your own travel arrangements. Furthermore, we reserve<br />

the right to charge you a fee for our assistance in the event that the<br />

difficulty is caused intentionally by you or a member of your party, or<br />

otherwise through your or your party’s negligence.<br />

16. FORCE MAJEURE<br />

Except where otherwise expressly stated in these Booking Conditions<br />

we will not be liable or pay you compensation if our contractual<br />

obligations to you are affected by “Force Majeure”. For the purposes<br />

of these Booking Conditions, Force Majeure means any event beyond<br />

our or our supplier’s control, the consequences of which could not<br />

have been avoided even if all reasonable measures had been taken.<br />

Examples include warfare <strong>and</strong> acts of terrorism (<strong>and</strong> threat thereof),<br />

civil strife, significant risks to human health such as the outbreak of<br />

serious disease at the travel destination or natural disasters such as<br />

floods, earthquakes or weather conditions which make it impossible to<br />

travel safely to the travel destination or remain at the travel destination,<br />

the act of any government or other national or local authority<br />

including port or river authorities, industrial dispute, labour strikes,<br />

lock closure, natural or nuclear disaster, fire, chemical or biological<br />

disaster, unavoidable technical problems with transport <strong>and</strong> all similar<br />

events outside our or the supplier(s) concerned’s control.<br />

Brexit Implications: please note that certain travel arrangements<br />

may be affected as a result of the United Kingdom’s decision to leave<br />

the European Union. This could include an unavailability of certain<br />

flight routes, access to certain ports <strong>and</strong> airports <strong>and</strong> changes to the<br />

visa requirements of British citizens travelling to, within or through<br />

the EU. Please rest assured that this is something we will continue<br />

to monitor <strong>and</strong> will advise our customers as soon as possible if we<br />

become aware of any confirmed bookings that will be affected.<br />

However, since this is something which is completely unprecedented<br />

<strong>and</strong> outside our control, we would treat any such changes as Force<br />

Majeure, <strong>and</strong> whilst we will endeavour to provide suitable alternative<br />

arrangements or refunds where possible, we will not be liable to pay<br />

you any compensation.<br />

16. PHOTOGRAPHY DURING TRAVEL<br />

The Company reserves the right to take photographs during the<br />

operation of any programme or part thereof <strong>and</strong> to use them for<br />

promotional purposes. By booking a programme with the Company,<br />

guests agree to allow their images to be used in such photographs.<br />

Guests who prefer that their images not be used are asked to identify<br />

themselves to their tour director at the beginning of their programme.<br />

17. CHILD POLICY<br />

The minimum age is 10 years old unless noted on the itinerary <strong>and</strong><br />

all children under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Some<br />

activities contained within an itinerary may have a different age<br />

restriction than the overall minimum age requirement. Details will<br />

be provided at the time of booking. The Company reserves the right<br />

to marginally exceed the published maximum group size on Family<br />

journeys to accommodate a family.<br />

WHAT YOUR HOLIDAY PRICE INCLUDES<br />

••<br />

All accommodation, meals <strong>and</strong> fully guided sightseeing (including<br />

park <strong>and</strong> entrance fees) as noted in the itinerary<br />

••<br />

Airport transfers to/from hotel in the first/last published city<br />

regardless of day of arrival <strong>and</strong> departure (for Luxury Expedition<br />

Cruises, departure transfer is from the ship to the airport on day of<br />

departure only)<br />

••<br />

Services of A&K tour director or appropriate guide on extensions<br />

••<br />

Coffee/tea/soft drinks/water at included meals; local wine <strong>and</strong><br />

beer at welcome <strong>and</strong> farewell dinners; local bottled water during<br />

sightseeing<br />

••<br />

Porterage of two (2) pieces of baggage – Luxury Small Group<br />

Journeys only<br />

••<br />

Complimentary internet access (Immersive Journeys & Luxury<br />

Small Group Journeys only – where available on l<strong>and</strong>, service levels<br />

are not guaranteed)<br />

••<br />

Hotel taxes<br />

••<br />

Gratuities throughout, except to the tour director/extension guide/<br />

safari driver-guides<br />

Luxury Small Group Journeys Additional Inclusions: A&K’s<br />

Travelling Bellboy SM service is provided; however, because of security<br />

regulations, this service may be limited at airports, rail stations <strong>and</strong><br />

points of embarkation for cruises. A&K’s Traveller’s Valet SM includes<br />

laundry service for five (5) pieces on journeys of 10 days or less <strong>and</strong><br />

eight (8) pieces on journeys over 10 days (except Mount Kilimanjaro<br />

<strong>and</strong> Galápagos programmes <strong>and</strong> extensions). Dry cleaning is not<br />

included.<br />

Immersive Journeys Additional Inclusions: Design your Day SM<br />

optional sightseeing <strong>and</strong> guiding, scenic sundowner<br />

Expedition Cruises Additional Inclusions: Complimentary st<strong>and</strong>ard<br />

bar drinks, beer, house wine, soft drinks, coffee, juices <strong>and</strong> bottled<br />

water (excluding premium wines <strong>and</strong> champagnes) while on board; all<br />

shore excursions <strong>and</strong> full lecture programme while on board; services<br />

of an A&K expedition staff <strong>and</strong> local guides; gratuities for the ship’s<br />

crew <strong>and</strong> A&K expedition staff, a complimentary expedition parka <strong>and</strong><br />

backpack provided on board; <strong>and</strong> a post-cruise expedition logbook.<br />

Africa Journeys Additional Inclusions: Medical evacuation<br />

service, when available, including air transportation to medical care<br />

facilities, is included within Kenya, Tanzania, Botswana, Zambia <strong>and</strong><br />

Zimbabwe. For Climbing Kilimanjaro: Summiting the Machame<br />

Route programme participants, medical evacuation is included from<br />

the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro to Nairobi. Hospitalisation <strong>and</strong> medical<br />

expenses are at an additional cost.<br />

YOUR HOLIDAY PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE<br />

••<br />

International flights – where flights are included, they will be<br />

economy class air travel unless otherwise specified. (World Traveller<br />

Plus, Business <strong>and</strong> First Class travel supplements available)<br />

••<br />

United Kingdom passenger duty – included where levied in<br />

connection with flights booked by <strong>Abercrombie</strong> & <strong>Kent</strong><br />

••<br />

Free baggage allowance – full details will be supplied with your<br />

itinerary. Normally on Intercontinental flights, Economy Class<br />

passengers are allowed 20kg of luggage, 30kg per person in<br />

Business Class <strong>and</strong> 40kg per person in First Class<br />

••<br />

Normal local flight baggage restrictions – some of our arrangements<br />

utilise local domestic airlines <strong>and</strong> charter flights operating small<br />

aircraft with restrictions on baggage allowance. Full details will be<br />

supplied with your itinerary<br />

••<br />

Passport or visa costs, porterage & holiday insurance<br />

••<br />

Overseas departure taxes – where these are levied <strong>and</strong> payable<br />

locally by the client<br />

••<br />

Sightseeing tours – except where specified in the itinerary<br />

••<br />

Personal expenditure – on such items as drinks, laundry, room<br />

service, telephone calls etc., <strong>and</strong> any related tax <strong>and</strong> service charge<br />

••<br />

Excess baggage charges<br />

••<br />

Gratuities to the A&K tour director/extension guide/<br />

safari driver-guides<br />

••<br />

Meals other than those specified in the itinerary<br />

••<br />

Beverages other than those noted in inclusions above<br />

••<br />

Optional activities (which are subject to availability)<br />

••<br />

Government levies or taxes – any government levies or taxes<br />

introduced after the publication of company literature<br />

••<br />

Domestic flights where applicable<br />

130 Call 01242 547 892, visit abercrombiekent.co.uk/escortedtours, or speak to one of our trusted travel agent partners


THREE MORE UNIQUE WAYS TO TRAVEL WITH<br />

A&K ON ESCORTED SMALL-GROUP TOURS<br />

WINGS OVER THE WORLD<br />

A&K’s <strong>Escorted</strong> <strong>Tours</strong> elevated – Wings Over the World is our name for a<br />

higher calibre of small-group journeys, one that shows off each destination<br />

at its luxurious, inspiring best. Travel by chartered private plane with a<br />

maximum group size of no more than 20 guests. With no commercial air<br />

travel involved, distances dissolve <strong>and</strong> the way is cleared for comprehensive<br />

itineraries that never lose the sense of enriching, unhurried discovery that<br />

has always been an A&K hallmark. Enjoy convenient departure <strong>and</strong> arrival<br />

times that work with your itinerary – as well as VIP service both on the<br />

ground <strong>and</strong> in the air from your dedicated flight crew on some tours –<br />

<strong>and</strong> savour the added time for exploring each destination.<br />

PRIVATE JET<br />

To travel on an A&K Private Jet Journey is to experience<br />

the ultimate in inspiring adventure, incorporating<br />

everything we have experienced in our more than 55<br />

years as the world’s luxury travel pioneer. Your small<br />

group of 50 like-minded individuals travels on an<br />

exclusive itinerary packed with immersive insider-access<br />

opportunities, fine dining <strong>and</strong> invitation-only cultural<br />

events. Jet from one destination to the next aboard<br />

a chartered Boeing 757 with fully lie-flat, first-class<br />

seats <strong>and</strong> featuring a staff of expert tour managers, a<br />

dedicated flight crew, an executive chef <strong>and</strong> an onboard<br />

physician. Finish each day in refined, perfectly located<br />

accommodation. Experience a journey that combines<br />

luxury, authenticity, <strong>and</strong> expertise as only A&K can.<br />

CULTURAL CRUISES<br />

Our Cultural Cruises are all-inclusive, the A&K way. That means we take care of everything<br />

so that you can fully enjoy every breathtaking moment of your adventure. Whether sailing<br />

the Mediterranean or the Sea of Japan with our award-winning expedition team <strong>and</strong> local<br />

guides, you can look forward to: engaging lectures; special events; <strong>and</strong> a selection of curated<br />

shore excursions – all included. We’ve h<strong>and</strong>picked the finest luxury cruise vessels, <strong>and</strong><br />

designed itineraries that allow our passengers to visit the key highlights, <strong>and</strong> the hidden<br />

treasures, throughout each trip.<br />

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT ABERCROMBIEKENT.CO.UK/PRIVATEJET


<strong>Abercrombie</strong> & <strong>Kent</strong> Ltd.<br />

St George’s House, Ambrose Street, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL50 3LG<br />

101 St Martin’s Lane, London, WC2N 4AZ<br />

Call us on 01242 547 892 or visit abercrombiekent.co.uk<br />

Cheltenham opening hours: Monday to Friday: 09.00–19.00; Saturday: 10.00–19.00; Sunday: 12.00–18.00<br />

London opening hours: Monday to Friday: 09.00–17.30<br />

You are welcome to visit us in our Cheltenham or London offices, or alternatively call into one of our boutique stores:<br />

<strong>Abercrombie</strong> & <strong>Kent</strong> at Harrods<br />

Lower Ground Floor, Harrods, 87–135 Brompton Road, London, SW1X 7XL<br />

Call A&K at Harrods on 020 7173 6440<br />

Opening hours: Monday to Saturday: 10.00–20.00; Sunday: 12.00–18.00<br />

<strong>Abercrombie</strong> & <strong>Kent</strong> Monaco<br />

Monte Carlo Palace, 7 Boulevard des Moulins, Monaco, 98000<br />

Call A&K Monaco on +377 97 98 53 33<br />

Opening hours: Monday to Friday: 09.00–18.00

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