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NEWSPAPER POST
March 2016
BSL
Britannia Tours
www.bsl.com.mt
LONG HAUL
& CRUISES
2016
Valletta Branch
Paola Branch
Mosta Branch
Gozo Branch
The Savoy Shopping
Arcade, St. John Street,
Valletta VLT 1112
Tel: 2123 8039, 2124 1904
2124 5418
e-mail: [email protected]
143, Antoine de Paule Square,
Paola (between Main Street
and APS Bank)
Tel: 2180 9930
Fax: 2180 9868
Independence Avenue,
Mosta
Tel: 2141 3030
Fax: 2141 0002
10, Triq Mro.
Dirjanu Lanzon,
Victoria, Gozo
Tel: 2156 5620
Mob: 7920 0488
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Vietnam & Cambodia Discovery
4 star hotels, all excursions, meals & entrances included as per programme
International flights with Emirates Airline
VISITING Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hoi An, Hai Van Pass, Danang, Marble
Mountain, Hue, Saigon, Mekong, Phnom Penh, Angkor Wat & Siem Reap
Thursday, 22 September | We meet
at the airport for our Emirates flight to
Hanoi via Bangkok. The flight leaves at
3.30 p.m. and arrives in Dubai at 01.00
a.m. early Friday morning.
Friday, 23 September | Our Emirates
flight departs to Bangkok at 3.40 a.m.
and arrives at 12.50 a.m. we then board
our flight to Hanoi leaving at 3.55
p.m. On arrival at 5.45 p.m. we are
transferred to our 4 star hotel. We check
in and free time to relax after the long
flight and to familiarize ourselves with
Hanoi. We later have a welcome dinner
at a local restaurant. Overnight in Hanoi.
Saturday, 24 September | We start our
holiday with a city tour of Hanoi, where
first we visit the complex dedicated
to Ho Chi Minh, the nation’s founder.
This complex also comprises the One
Pillar Pagoda. Then we visit the Tran
Quoc Pagoda, Hanoi’s oldest pagoda
on the bank of West Lake. Lunch at a
local restaurant and in the afternoon
we visit Van Mieu - Quoc Tu Giam.
We take a cyclo ride around the Old
Quarter streets which were named after
the specific goods once offered for sale
at these places. We stop at Hoan Kiem
Lake to learn about legend of the lake
and visit Ngoc Son Temple, followed
by a Water Puppet show - a uniquely
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Northern Vietnamese art form depicting
scenes from rural life and episodes of
national history. Overnight in Hanoi.
flight to Danang. Upon arrival, we are
transferred to our hotel. Overnight in
Hoi An.
an elegant garden with a magnificent
lake and pavilion complex. Overnight
in Hue.
Sunday, 25 September | Breakfast and
we depart from our hotel to Halong
Bay, one of the World Natural Heritages
recognized by UNESCO with over 3,000
spectacular limestone islands rising from
the clear, emerald sea in the Gulf of
Tonkin. Upon arrival, we are transferred
to our Cruise ship where we will enjoy a
welcome drink before checking in. While
we pass by many rocky islets, caves,
floating villages and beaches, our fresh
seafood lunch will be served on board.
We then stop to explore Surprise Cave,
one of the most beautiful caves of the
bay. Some free time for swimming or
relaxing on the sundeck. Later the cruise
ship will move in a quiet area to dock
for the night. Typical Vietnamese dinner
will be served on board. Overnight on
board.
Tuesday, 27 September | Today we
go for a guided walking tour around
Hoi An Ancient Town. Where we visit
the Japanese covered bridge, Chinese
assembly hall, a typical Vietnamese
merchant’s house, one of the interesting
museums and the local market. There
are numerous art galleries, souvenirs
and tailor shops where you can get
some express made-to-measure clothes
if you like. We then visit a craftsman
home in the old streets where a brief
introduction on the history of the
lanterns and will go through the stages
of making them. We will make a lantern
by your own and we will keep it as a
souvenir of our time in Hoi An. Lunch
at local restaurant and the rest of the
afternoon is free for leisure. Overnight
in Hoi An.
Thursday, 29 September | We are
transferred to the pier to take a boat
to visit Thien Mu Pagoda on the bank
of the scenic Perfume River. We then
continue by bus to visit Tomb of King
Khai Dinh, its interest lies within its
uneasy combination of Vietnamese
and European features and the use of
fragments of ceramics and glass for
decoration. Lunch at local restaurant
and after we are transferred to the
airport for our flight to Saigon. Upon
arrival, we go at our hotel for check-in.
Overnight in Saigon.
Monday, 26 September | Early birds
can attend a Tai Chi demonstration
on the sundeck at the break of dawn.
Breakfast is served while we continue
exploring Halong Bay by sailing across
its 2000 islets. Arriving at the dock we
disembark and are transferred back to
Hanoi. Lunch at a local restaurant and
we make our way to the airport for our
Wednesday, 28 September | We leave
Hoi An to Hue via Danang where we
pass through the Hai Van Pass, which
ranks among the top rides in Vietnam
with sweeping vistas. Upon arrival in
Danang, we make a stop to visit the
Cham Museum where it houses the
finest collection of Cham sculptures.
We see many sandstone carvings,
statues of genies and female dancers
and numerous valuable artifacts. Then
we proceed to the Marble Mountains
with mysterious cave pagodas and a
stone carving village at the foot of the
mountain. We continue to Hue, upon
arrival at our hotel we check-in and
then have lunch at a local restaurant.
In the afternoon we visit the Imperial
Citadel. We see amongst other the Flag
Tower, Nine Holy Cannons, Ngo Mon
Gate, Thai Hoa Palace, Nine Dynastic
Urns, Forbidden Purple City. We then
continue to visit the Tomb of King Tu
Duc - the ‘poet Emperor’, which is set in
2 | BRITANNIA TOURS LONG HAUL & CRUISES 2016
Friday, 30 September | Check out
from our hotel to visit the incredible
network of the underground Cu Chi
Tunnels constructed by Vietnamese
fighters during the long struggle for
independence and reunification. This
network of over 200 km of tunnels
became legendary during the 1960’s
when they played a vital part in the
American War, allowing the Viet Cong
to control a large rural area close to
Ho Chi Minh City. In their heyday, the
tunnels were functioning underground
cities. Then we head back to the city
for lunch at local restaurant. In the
afternoon, we visit the War Remnants
Museum and the Reunification Palace.
We end the day with a visit to the
Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral and
the bustling Ben Thanh Market for
shopping. Overnight in Saigon.
Saturday, 01 October | Depart from
our hotel in the morning for a 2 hour
pleasant drive to Ben Tre province,
crossing Rach Mieu bridge. On arrival
in Hung Vuong Pier, we hop on a
motorized boat were we cruise Ben
Tre river – one of the tributaries of
Mekong river. Our first stop is at a
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brick factory to know more about
the traditional ways to make the
main material of the many houses
in the Mekong Delta. We then
visit one of the many coconut
processing workshops located along
the canal. We return to the boat
and go through the natural creeks
to a village where we see some
locals making sleeping mats. Lunch
at a riverside restaurant, afterwards
we take a rowing-boat along the
beautiful water palm creek before
boarding the boat to go back to
pier. Return to hotel and overnight
in Saigon.
Sunday, 02 October | The day is
free for shopping or to discover
more the capital. Later we are
transferred to the airport for our
flight to Phnom Penh in Cambodia.
Upon arrival, check-in at our hotel.
Overnight in Phnom Penh.
Monday, 03 October | Phnom
Penh has been the capital since
1866 and although it suffered
extensive damage during the Khmer
Rouge era, the city still retains its
rustic charm. Accompanied by
an English-speaking local guide
we will tour the city to discover
its ancient and recent past. We
will visit Cambodia’s Royal Palace,
which stands majestically in the
city center just off the riverfront
area. Several buildings are open to
visitors including the Silver Pagoda
whose floor is lined with solid
silver tiles. We then continue to
the Cambodia National Museum
that is located in a fabulous old
building, the Museum is filled with
art and artifacts dating back to the
pre-Angkorian era. At the north end
of the city is the hilltop pagoda of
Wat Phnom, for which the capital
was named. Climb the stairs to the
top of the hill for fabulous views
of the city below. Lunch at a local
restaurant. Then in the afternoon
we go to visit Tuol Sleng Prison
(S-21) and the Killing Fields which
is a sobering reminder of the
evils of the Khmer Rouge regime.
Although not a joyful tour, visiting
these monuments unlocks keys to
understanding the development
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22 Sep - 7 Oct
PRICE PER PERSON
of this still developing country.
Overnight in Phnom Penh.
Tuesday, 04 October | We make
our way to the airport for our flight
to Siem Reap. Upon arrival, pick
up and transferred to our selected
hotel. Lunch at a local restaurant
and afterwards we go to Angkor
Wat, one of the modern wonders
of the world. The temples are set
among a large forest with shaded
roads which are relatively quiet.
On arrival at the temple, we stroll
through the intricately carved
hallways that still show hundreds of
fine carvings of Apsara and Hindu
mythology and discover small
shrines still in use today by local
people. Will be amazed by the sheer
size of the temple and will learn
how the Khmer Empire prospered
between the 11th and 13th
century. Overnight in Siem Reap.
Wednesday, 05 October | Today
we go to Angkor Thom, the ancient
royal city of the Khmer Empire with
its centre piece; the Bayon temple.
We then continue to Ta Prohm,
considered to be one of Angkor’s
jewels with its overgrown fig
trees, giving a haunting yet exotic
atmosphere. The roots of the trees
have merged over the centuries
through the temple’s huge stone
blocks. Lunch at a local restaurant.
In the afternoon, we visit the
Banteay Srei temple. This red sandstone temple is one of Angkor’s
most significant structures as its
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walls are decorated with elaborate
carvings which have been preserved
remarkably well. We return to our
hotel. In the evening we can go to
the Artisans d’Angkor market, an
organization focusing on training
unschooled rural youth in traditional
handicraft skills. Ancient techniques
are still practiced here such as wood
and stone carving, lacquering,
gilding and silk painting. Overnight
in Siem Reap
Please ask at the desk for visa requirements
Please ask for more information regarding the triple rooms in
Halong Bay
PRICE INCLUDES
Emirates flights to Bangkok and back (via Dubai)
Vietnam Airlines flight from Bangkok to Hanoi and
internal flights to Danang & Saigon
Cambodia Angkor Air internal flights to Phnom Penh
& Siem Reap
Bangkok Airways flight from Siem Reap to Bangkok
13 nights accommodation in 4 star hotels
13 buffet breakfasts, 10 lunches and 2 dinners
Meals (except for breakfasts) are taken in typical local
restaurants
All transfers in a private air conditioned vehicle
All excursions guided by English speaking guide as
indicated in itinerary
Entrance fees to places of interest as shown on
itinerary
Services of Tour Leader
All taxes
Thursday, 06 October | The day
is free to enjoy Siem Reap with
its colonial and Chinese-style
architecture in the Old French
Quarter, and around the Old
Market. In the city, there are
museums, traditional Apsara dance
performances, Cambodian cultural
village, souvenir and handycraft
shops, silk farms and many markets.
We suggest you visit the Psar
Chaa – Old market which every
day is packed with locals as well as
tourists. Many small stalls are set
up on the ground, like vegetables,
fish and meat. There are many stalls
which you can find everything you
can imagine - from spices, snacks,
souvenirs, linen, clothes, leather
goods, home furnishings and more.
Not to be missed are stalls that sell
Cambodian silk scarfs or shawls.
(Check-out time is at noon). Later in
the afternoon we are transferred to
the airport for our departure flight
back home, leaving at 8.30 p.m.
and arriving in Malta at 2.10 p.m.
(Friday, 07 October).
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Explore Mexico & Guatemala
International flights with British Airways
VISITING Cancun, Chichen Itza, Valladolid, Merida, Celestun Flamingo Park, Campeche,
Palenque, Mishol Ha, Agua Azul waterfalls, San Cristobal de las Casas, Sumidero Canyon,
Chiapa de Corzo, Zinacatan, San Juan Chamula, Guatemala, Panajachel, Lake Atitlan,
Antigua, Flores, Tikal and Xoximilco
Sunday, 05 June | We meet at the
airport for our British Airways flight to
Cancun via London. The flight leaves
at 8.40 a.m. and arrives in London at
10.55 a.m. We then proceed to our
airport hotel for our overnight stay.
Monday, 06 June | Check-out and make
our way to the airport for our flight
to Cancun. The flight leaves Gatwick
airport at 11.15 a.m. and arrives in
Cancun at 3.45 p.m. (Cancun entry tax
of USD26 pp to be paid upon arrival
at airport). Upon arrival, our English
speaking guide will be waiting for us
and then we are transferred to our
hotel for check in. Later we join the
tour leader for a familiarization walk.
Overnight in Cancun.
Tuesday, 07 June | We start our holiday
with an excursion that takes us to the
UNESCO World Heritage Site - Chichén
Itzá, the most important archaeological
zone in Yucatan. We explore the ancient
capital of the Mayan Empire, where we
see the pyramid or Kukulcán temple,
the Ballgame Court, the Skull temple,
Jaguar’s temple, the Observatory, the
One Thousand Columns Square and
the Sacred Well. It was built by the
Mayas around 600 A.D. and in 2007
it became one of the 7 wonders of
the world. We then proceed to one
of the most famous cenotes (a natural
sinkhole) - Ik-Kil. At Ik-Kil cenote, one
can swim, browse Mayan handicrafts or
admire the beautiful botanical grounds.
Afterwards our tour guide will take us
to Valladolid, known for its quiet streets
and sun-splashed pastel walls. Overnight
in Merida.
Wednesday, 08 June | Our day starts
with a guided city tour of Merida. We
get to know Merida’s delightful and
bustling city centre, which boasts plenty
of colonial churches and mansions to
admire. Known as ‘the white city,’ for
its clean, white buildings that seem to
sparkle in the sunshine, Merida was
established when the henequen industry
was at its peak. We admire the wrought
iron railings, carved wooden doors and
charming courtyards as we stroll along
Montejo Avenue, the Cathedral and the
Government Palace. Evening at leisure.
Overnight in Merida.
Thursday, 09 June | We make our
way to Campeche and on the way we
stop in Celestun, a beautiful estuary
of pink flamingos. The estuary is a
natural breeding ground for flamingos
and other birds. Watch numerous
birds flock on shore as they eat the
shrimp-like crustaceans that give the
flamingos their unique pink color. The
declared Biosphere Reserve is one of the
only places in the world to view such
numbers of these fascinating birds in the
wild! Overnight in Campeche.
Friday, 10 June | Be prepared for a great
day as we explore the rich culture of
the beautiful colonial Campeche, the
historic downtown area and museums.
Located on the coast of the Gulf of
Mexico, the city features fortresses build
by the Spanish conquistadores during
the 15th century. We visit the San Jose
el Alto stronghold, San Francisco and
San Roman church, the Nuestra Senora
de la Soledad bastion and the cathedral.
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We also visit the Armoury Museum
and Puerta de Tierra. Overnight in
Campeche.
Saturday, 11 June | Early departure
from Campeche to go to Palenque. We
visit Palenque’s Archeological site, which
is one of the most remarkable cities of
the Mayan world. The city was founded
around 100 B.C. and its development
lasted nearly a thousand years, after
which it was abandoned. The buildings
that can be seen today are the Palace
and the Temple of the Inscriptions. This
Temple safeguards King Pakal’s tomb,
the most famous ruler of Palenque. We
then proceed to our hotel for check-in.
Overnight in Palenque.
Sunday, 12 June | Today we relax at
two world-class waterfalls, Misol-Ha and
Agua Azul, both known for their bright
blue waters and stunning jungle setting.
Misol-Ha, a beautiful waterfall of about
35 metres, where we can freshen up in
its natural pool surrounded by rain forest
of the Chiapas highlands. We then go
to visit Agua Azul waterfall, which will
amaze us with its incredible turquoise
color due to the dissolved salts in it, and
its lush vegetation and petrified trees.
We continue on to San Cristobal to our
hotel for check-in and overnight.
Monday, 13 June | After breakfast
we leave our hotel to go and enjoy
the delights of the Sumidero Canyon.
Where our boat trip takes us on a
spectacular journey with some of the
canyon walls towering 1000 mts above
us. The wildlife on display is spectacular,
and our boat takes us past one or two
caves and cascades in the area. Our trip
along the canyon will be followed by
a tour of the magical town of Chiapa
de Corzo. A town that was the first
settlement founded by the Spaniards
with its Mudejar fountain known as
“La Pila”, built in the XVI century; it is
sample of the colonial architecture with
an Arabic influence. Overnight in San
Cristobal.
Tuesday, 14 June | This morning our
guide takes us for a city tour through
San Cristobal’s cobbled streets, churches
and markets, soaking up the unique
ambience and the wonderfully clear
highland light. Then we go to discover
two picturesque towns inhabited
mostly by descendants of Maya-Tzotzil
culture. In these villages reigns a
peaceful atmosphere with simple and
friendly natives who keep many of
their traditions, ways of life and original
beliefs. In San Juan Chamula we see
the church of San Juan Bautista, a
beautiful and humble building inside
which clearly seen religious syncretism
of this population. In the community
of Zinacantan we see local women
artisans, which produce beautiful fabrics
using ancient techniques. Here you can
buy blankets, tablecloths, pillowcases,
costumes and other textiles made from
cotton fibers of high strength. Overnight
in San Cristobal.
Wednesday, 15 June | Early breakfast
and we depart to Guatemala, where
we cross the border (border crossing
fee between Mexico & Guatemala of
USD28 pp has to be paid). Once we are
in Guatemala we proceed to Panajachel,
located on the shores of Lake Atitlán.
Overnight in Panajachel.
Thursday, 16 June | Today’s excursion
takes us by boat to Santiago Atitlan.
We cross Lake Atitlan, which is
considered one of the wonders of the
world and enjoy the magnificent view
of the volcanoes and Mayan villages
all around. Upon arrival at Santiago
Atitlan - the most ancient village, we
learn about the local Saint Maximon.
On our return we are picked up and
go to towards the highlands, to one
of the most colorful and famous
native flea markets. Surrounded by
valleys, with mountains serrating the
horizons, Chichicastenango can seem
isolated in time. We go round this
small stucco-white town and visit St
Thomas temple where it is common to
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7 June - Public Holiday
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find “Shaman” (religious leaders)
to practice traditional rituals. We
have some free time for shopping
in the market. Outstanding
among the items offered are
textiles, particularly the women’s
blouses. The manufacture of masks,
used by dancers in traditional
dances has also made this city
famous for woodcarving. Overnight
in Panajachel.
Friday, 17 June | We are transferred
to Antigua - one of the oldest cities
in the Americas, a place of rare
beauty, major historical significance
and vibrant culture. A former
capital, the city boasts an impressive
catalogue of colonial relics in a
magnificent setting. Streetscapes
of pastel facades unfold beneath
three volcanoes (Agua, Fuego
and Acatenango). Many old
ecclesiastical and civic structures
are beautifully renovated, while
others retain tumbledown charm,
with fragments strewn about parklike grounds. We go round the
cobblestoned streets and see the
America’s Colonial Monument,
Plaza de Armas, The Palace of
the Captains, the Cathedral and
churches amongst others. We arrive
at our hotel late in the afternoon.
Overnight in Antigua.
Saturday, 18 June | Early pick up
for our flight to Flores, upon arrival
we are transferred to see the caves
of Actun Kan. These caves form
a large network of underground
passageways. We admire the large
stalactites and stalagmites in the
cave. Here the natural formations
are so distinctive that some have
nicknames like “The God of Rain
and “The Elephant Foot.” We
continue crossing Lake Petén Itzá
to go to Petencito Island, home
to a zoo. Paths will take us past
enclosures of native species,
including ocelots, jaguars, and
spider monkeys. Tropical birds and
wild pigs roam free. From here,
the boat tour continues to the
archeological site of El Mirador, on
the peninsula of Tayasal. Tayasal
was an important site during the
post-classic era of the Maya. This
city held out against the invading
Spaniards the longest of any Mayan
city. The El Mirador pyramid still
stands, encased in encroaching
plants. Overnight in El Remate Flores.
Sunday, 19 June | Today’s
excursion takes us to El Peten, to
visit the crown jewel of Mayan
ruins in Guatemala - Tikal. Its
name means “Place of Voices” and
though it has many of the same
beautiful temples as its well-known
counterparts in Mexico, Tikal stands
apart because of its location deep
in the jungle. We walk under a
thick canopy of trees to explore the
plazas, pyramids, and temples of
Tikal. Settled around 700 BC, Tikal
flourished during the Classic Period,
between 200 and 900 AD. As the
capital of a conquest state, it served
as a center for trade and economy,
growing to a population of almost
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100,000 before its decline. We
see Complex Q & R, the Central
Acropolis, Temple I “The Great
Jaguar” and Temple II “Of the
Masks”. Overnight in El Remate Flores.
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Monday, 20 June | Check-out and
we are transferred to the airport for
our flight to Guatemala (departure
tax of Flores of USD33 pp has to be
paid at the airport). Upon arrival we
are picked up and transferred to our
hotel. Overnight in Guatemala City.
British Airways flights to/from Cancun (via London)
Internal flights from Antigua/Flores, Flores/Guatemala
and Guatemala/Cancun
1 night accommodation in 3 star Gatwick Airport
Hotel
1 English buffet breakfast
16 American breakfasts and 1 Mexican dinner
itinerary
Airport taxes, service charge and hotel taxes
Tuesday, 21 June | We are
morning flight to Cancun via
Panama. (entrance tax of Cancun
of USD26 pp has to be paid at
the airport). Upon arrival we are
transferred to our hotel for checkin. We have time to rest before we
are picked up at 6pm and taken for
our excursion to Xoximilco where
we board a trajinera for a nighttime
cruise that takes us to sail along
the beautiful canals. On board we
enjoy a tasty Mexican dinner with
an open bar (tequila, beer, fruit
flavored beverages and sodas).
Overnight in Cancun.
Wednesday, 22 June | Morning at
leisure for shopping or to enjoy the
facilities of this beach hotel. We are
picked up from hotel at 1:30pm
for our transfer to Cancun airport
to board our flight back home.
Our flight leaves at 5.35 p.m. (via
London) and arrives in Malta at
4.00 p.m. (Thursday, 23rd June).
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Cuba a Caribbean adventure
All excursions, meals & entrances included as per programme
VISITING Havana, Vinales Valley, Cienfuegos, Bay of Pigs, Santa Clara, El Nicho waterfalls,
Hanabanilla Lake, Topes de Collantes, Trinidad, Valle de Los Ingenios, Sancti Spiritus,
Camaguey, Bayamo, El Cobre, Santiago de Cuba, Baracoa, Toa and Humbolt National Park
Tuesday, 14 June | We meet at the
airport for our flight to Havana via
Paris. The flight leaves at 6.30 a.m.
and arrives in Paris at 09.25 a.m.
We then board our flight to Havana
which departs at 4.35 p.m. and
arrives at 8.25 p.m. On arrival we are
transferred to our hotel. We check
in and the rest of the day is free to
relax after the long flight. Overnight
in Havana.
Wednesday, 15 June | We start our
holiday with an excursion to the
Viñales Valley. We get to take in
some of Cuba’s best natural scenery,
also we visit a tobacco farm and
cigar-rolling facility where the whole
process from seed to cigar will be
explained. After lunch, we visit the
Pinar del Rio and Guayabita rum
factory. On the way back we go to
the Orchid Gardens of Soroa, which
feature hundreds of varieties of
orchids. It covers an area of 35,000
square meters and has more than
20,000 orchid plants. It also has
thousands of ferns and trees that
make it a truly unique destination in
the world located in the Sierra del
Rosario, a world biosphere reserve.
Dinner and overnight in Havana.
Thursday, 16 June | Breakfast and we
depart to Cienfuegos where we stop
at a local crocodile farm. Another
stop will be at the historic Bay of Pigs
where we see the actual place where
US forces landed during the 1961
invasion. Then we proceed to Santa
Clara, one of the most important
places in Cuban Revolutionary history.
We have lunch here and afterwards
we go for a city tour where we
see several fascinating historical
sites including the Che Guevara
monument and mausoleum, his final
resting place. We arrive at our hotel
in Cienfuegos for overnight.
Friday, 17 June | Our guide takes
us for a city tour of Cienfuegos, a
laidback maritime city known as
the Pearl of the South due to its
lovely location on a picturesque
Caribbean bay. We see the city’s
well preserved colonial centre
and learn about its proud musical
tradition and its famous musician
such as Benny More. We depart to
Cumanayagua by jeeps and go to El
Nicho waterfalls. We have lunch and
then with our guide we go for a short
trek to see the amazing waterfalls and
river. We have time to swim under
the falls. Then we go to Hanabanilla
lake and Topes de Collantes before
proceeding to Trinidad. We have
dinner at our hotel. Overnight in
Trinidad.
Saturday, 18 June | Be prepared
for a great day today as we explore
Valle de Los Ingenios. We ride an old
steam train dating from 1906 and go
through the sugar cane valley which
was once the centre of sugar and
slaves trading. The train track takes
us through tunnels and over few
bridges, right through the sugar cane
fields which brought prosperity to
Trinidad region in the 18th century.
We return to Trinidad where we have
lunch at a local restaurant. Afterwards
we go to explore this city, which was
founded in 1514. The town remained
a major centre for trading sugar and
slaves for 200 years. This wealth is
reflected by the well restored colonial
architecture found in the centre
and was declared a UNESCO World
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Heritage Site in 1988. Dinner and
overnight in Trinidad.
Sunday, 19 June | We leave Trinidad
and our first stop today is at Sancti
Spiritus, which despite having a
wonderful colonial heart is well off
the Cuban tourist trail. We visit the
city, the historic centre, the Iglesia
Parroquial and the local market. After
lunch we proceed to Camaguey.
Upon arrival we go for a city tour
with bicycle taxis. It’s the third largest
city in Cuba and a UNESCO World
Heritage Site. The city was founded
in 1515 on the coast but was moved
inland after 13 years of continuous
attacks from pirates. The new city
was built with a confusing layout of
winding alleys and forked streets that
lead to squares and piazzas. Dinner
and overnight in Camaguey.
Monday, 20 June | Today we go to
the city of Bayamo which though it
was founded in 1513 it was almost
destroyed in 1870’s during the
first Cuban war of independence.
Today the city is a world leader in
sustainable transportation. We go
through the town centre, we see
the house of Manuel Cespedes and
horse drawn carriages all over the
town. Lunch and then we proceed
to El Cobre for a short visit before we
arrive in Santiago de Cuba. Overnight
in Santiago.
Tuesday, 21 June | Santiago de
Cuba the former capital of Cuba has
a fascinating history where during
the Cuban revolution the city was a
hotbed of guerilla activity. During
our city tour we see numerous sights
amongst which the Plaza Cespedes,
from ¢2799
14-27 June
PRICE PER PERSON
Adult in Triple
Adult in Twin
Adult in Single
Child Sharing
Visa Cost
¢2799
¢2899
¢3090
¢2100
¢47
PRICE INCLUDES
the Cathedral, Callejon del Padre
Pico, the house of Diego de
Velasquez, the Carnival museum
and Plaza Dolores. We have lunch
in a local restaurant and then go
to the cemetery of Santa Ifigenia,
the Moncada Garison, the Morro
Castle and Granjita Siboney.
Overnight in Santiago.
Wednesday, 22 June | Today we
set off for the town of Baracoa on
the eastern tip of Cuba. On the
way we stop for lunch in a local
restaurant. Upon arrival in Baracoa
we check-in in our hotel and the
rest of the day is free. Overnight in
Baracoa.
Thursday, 23 June | Baracoa is
the oldest Spanish settlement in
Cuba and is where Christopher
Colombus first landed. Ironically,
it is now the only place in Cuba
where the descendants of the
original Taino indigenous people
of Cuba still live - in the rest of the
island the Taino people became
extinct as a culture following
by the settlement of Spanish
colonists. Baracoa is surrounded
by a large mountain range,
home to numerous rivers and the
Caribbean’s highest waterfall,
which gives the area an isolated
and wild feel. During our tour of
the area we take a boat trip along
the beautiful Toa River and also
visit a cocoa farm which Baracoa
is famous for - chocolate! Lunch
is included today, overnight in
Baracoa.
Friday, 24 June | Today’s excursion
takes us to Humboldt Park,
the largest and best conserved
remnant of forested mountain
ecosystem in the Caribbean
and most protected area for its
extraordinary biodiversity values.
We go for a walk through small
rivers and bushes with a local
specialized guide who will explain
to us the flora and fauna of this
park. Good walking shoes are
a must, as well as a towel and
swimsuit to cool off! We have
lunch in a local restaurant and then
return to Baracoa. Overnight in
Baracoa.
Saturday, 25 June | We are
flight to Havana. On arrival we
Airmalta flights to/from Paris
Air France flights to/from Havana
Internal flight from Baracoa to Havana
12 nights accommodation in 3 and 4 star hotels
restaurants
except for the jeep excursion
itinerary
All taxes
go for lunch and later on, on our
city tour will be acquainted with
Cuba’s capital city. One of the
highlights is the splendid historic
neighborhood of Habana Vieja
(Old Havana), a UNESCO World
Heritage. Wars and revolution have
done little damage to its heritage,
making it the finest example of
Spanish colonial city anywhere in
the Americas. Stops on the tour will
include the 4 plazas, the Bodeguita
del Medio and the Cathedral. Then
we visit Malecon for its classic
cars, 5th Avenue in Miramar, the
neighborhood of Jaimanitas (where
a Cuban Gaudí has decorated the
neighborhood with mosaic for 23
years now), Callejon de Hamel
(a completely painted alley) and
plaza de la Revolucion. Overnight
in Havana.
Sunday, 26 June | We go round
the streets of Havana for the last
time, before we go for our farewell
lunch in a local restaurant. Later
we are transferred to the airport
for our return flight back home.
Our flight leaves at 10.55 p.m. (via
Paris) and arrives in Malta at 10.00
p.m. (Monday, 27th June).
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Grand tour of U.S.A. & Canada
All excursions & entrances included as per programme
International flights with Lufthansa
VISITING Toronto, Niagara Falls (Canada), New York, Washington, Las Vegas,
Grand Canyon, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Monterey and Carmel
Monday, 01 August | We meet at
the airport at 9.45 a.m. for our flight
with Lufthansa to Frankfurt. The flight
leaves at 12.45 p.m. and arrives in
Frankfurt at 3.25 p.m. We are then
transferred to our hotel in Frankfurt
for our overnight stay.
Tuesday, 02 August | Check-out
and we make our way to the airport
for our flight to Toronto. The flight
leaves Frankfurt at 2.10 p.m. and
arrives in Toronto at 4.40 p.m. Upon
arrival we are transferred to our
hotel for check in. Later we join the
tour leader for a familiarization walk.
Overnight in Toronto.
Wednesday, 03 August | Our
first excursion takes us to see the
beautiful Niagara Falls. The Falls
separate two countries, Canada and
the USA, as well as two of the Great
Lakes, Ontario and Erie, and they
can be visited on both sides of the
international border. The Canadian
(Horseshoe) Falls are 177 feet high
with a crest of 2200 feet. The US
Falls are 184 feet high, with a crest
of 1075 feet. Included in today’s
excursion is a boat ride on the “Maid
Of The Mist” (waterproof clothing
suggested), which passes directly in
front of the Falls. Time permitting; a
stop will be made in the picturesque
19th century village of “Niagara-OnThe-Lake”. Overnight in Toronto.
Thursday, 04 August | Today we leave
Toronto to take the flight to New York.
On arrival transfer to our hotel. After
checking in we go for a familiarization
walk with the tour leader. Overnight in
New York.
Friday, 05 August | In the morning we
go for a half day city tour where we
visit amongst others Central Park West,
Lincoln Centre, Rockfeller Centre, Fifth
Avenue, Millionaire’s Row, Broadway,
Times Square, Rockfeller Centre
and others. The afternoon is free for
personal sightseeing or shopping, or
else one can join the tour leader for
a walk to the Empire State Building,
which is the highest building in New
York and Ground Zero. Overnight in
New York.
Saturday, 06 August | Today is a
free day or else you can opt to go to
the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
Museum of Immigration by boat
(extra). The Statue of Liberty is a
gift from France in 1886, the Statue
measures 150 feet, and can be viewed
from all sides. Ellis Island is the nation’s
main point of entry for millions of
immigrants between 1892 and 1954.
The museum has 30 galleries and
exhibits the history of immigration
into the United States. In the evening
we suggest you go to a famous
theatre for a fabulous theatrical show
(extra). Overnight in New York.
Sunday, 07 August | We depart New
York and upon arrival at Washington
airport, we are picked up and
transferred to our hotel. Overnight in
Alexandria - Washington.
Monday, 08 August | We go for a
city tour of Washington DC where
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we see amongst others the U.S.
Capitol Building, the White House, the
Lincoln Memorial, the FBI Building,
Federal Triangle, the Ellipse, the Tidal
Basin, the Jefferson Memorial, the
Washington Monument, the House
and Senate Office Building, and the
National Gallery of Art. Overnight in
Alexandria - Washington.
Tuesday, 09 August | Breakfast
and we go to the airport for our
flight to Las Vegas. On arrival we
are transferred to our hotel. A short
familiarization walk and after free time
to explore this gambling paradise.
Stroll along “The Strip” comparing
the many hotels, each trying to outdo
the other. Try your luck in one of
the casinos or attend to one of the
many shows there are every night.
Overnight in Las Vegas.
Wednesday, 10 August | Today we
go for the much awaited excursion of
the Grand Canyon. We depart early
from the hotel, our coach will drive
past the Hoover Dam on the Colorado
River, before turning into the Hualapai
Indian Reservation and Grand Canyon
West. Then we board a shuttle bus
that will take us to various viewpoints
overlooking the Canyon. There is also
a “Western” Town reminiscent of the
1880’s. Lunch is included. Return at
the hotel in the evening. Overnight in
Las Vegas.
Thursday, 11 August | The day is free
to relax and enjoy Las Vegas, a city
that never sleeps with all its Casinos
and nightclubs offering every type
of entertainment. Overnight in Las
Vegas.
Friday, 12 August | Our coach will
take us to the airport for our flight
to Los Angeles. On arrival we are
transferred to our hotel. Familiarization
from ¢4999
1-19 August
PRICE PER PERSON
Adult in Triple
Adult in Twin
Adult in Single
Child Sharing
¢4999
¢5299
¢6289
¢3759
walk with the leader. Overnight in
Los Angeles.
Saturday, 13 August | We start
the day by touring the world
famous city of Los Angeles. Take
in the excitement, where we
see Marina Del Rey, the yacht
harbor of Los Angeles, Venice,
the home of “Muscle Beach”,
where Governor Schwarzenegger
used to lift weights before his
movie career. From here to
Santa Monica, then Beverly Hills,
“Sunset Strip”, and Hollywood,
where a stop will be made at
the famous Chinese Theatre
on the “ Walk Of Fame”. From
here to Downtown Los Angeles,
where we see the Disney Centre,
St. Mary’s Cathedral, and the
original Mexican birthplace of L.A.
Overnight in Los Angeles.
Sunday, 14 August | The day
is free for shopping or personal
sightseeing or you can opt to
spend the day in Disneyland
(extra), where fairytale dreams
come true for children of all ages.
Delight in exciting attractions,
enchanting fireworks, musical
parades and beloved Disney
Characters across whimsical lands.
See fantasy become a reality
as you explore Adventureland,
Frontierland, Liberty Square,
Fantasyland, Tomorrowland and
Main Street, U.S.A. areas. Zoom
through space and become a
swashbuckling pirate. Overnight in
Los Angeles.
and Robert Stroud (The Birdman
of Alcatraz). Overnight in San
Francisco.
Monday, 15 August | Morning
departure for our flight to San
Francisco. On arrival the coach will
take us to a city tour to discover
America’s most exciting city. Sights
that will be seen are Union Square,
Chinatown (the largest Chinese
enclave outside of China proper),
North Beach (Italian District and
home of the “Beats”), Lombard
Street (the crookedest street in the
world), Fisherman’s Wharf, the
Golden Gate Bridge, Twin Peaks,
the Golden Gate Park and the Civic
Center. Then we proceed at the
hotel for check-in. Overnight in
San Francisco.
Tuesday, 16 August | This
morning we go for an
unforgettable tour of Alcatraz. A
short boat ride will take us across
San Francisco Bay to Alcatraz, once
one of the most famous and secure
prisons in the world and today a
living museum operated by the
National Park Service. The selfguided tour (using headphones)
leads you through the facility,
and gives a commentary on
the history of the island, the
prison, and some of the infamous
prisoners, including Al Capone
PRICE INCLUDES
Lufthansa return flights to Toronto/San Francisco
Internal flights to New York/Washington/Las Vegas/
Los Angeles/San Francisco
All transfers
17 nights accommodation in 3 & 4 star hotels
17 breakfasts & 1 lunch
All excursions as per itinerary
Entrance fees to places of interest included as shown
on itinerary
All excursions guided by an English speaking guide
All taxes
Wednesday, 17 August | Our last
excursion takes us to Monterey,
which was the first capital of
California 200 years ago, and
this history is preserved in the
downtown area, where many
original buildings still exist. A stop
will be made at Old Fisherman’s
Wharf, where sea lions often
gather under the pier. From here
to Cannery Row which was made
famous by the eponymous John
Steinbeck novel. A visit will be
made to the Monterey Aquarium,
famous for the unusual exhibits of
sea creatures from the surrounding
waters. After this, continue to
Carmel, a quaint village of stylish
boutiques and restaurants, where
Clint Eastwood used to be mayor.
We return to San Francisco for
our last night. Overnight in San
Francisco.
Thursday, 18 August/Friday,
19 August | Late breakfast and
afterwards we are transferred to
the airport for our return flight
to Malta via Frankfurt. Flight
departs at 3.05 p.m. and arrives in
Frankfurt at 11.00 a.m. of the 19th
August. We then board our flight
to Malta leaving at 1.40 p.m. and
arriving at 4.05 p.m. (Friday).
| 9
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Grand tour of China
VISITING Shanghai, Bund, Suzhou, Guilin, Li River, Yangshou, Xi’an,
Terracotta Warriors, Beijing, the Forbidden City and the Great Wall of China
Thursday, 11 August | We meet at
the airport for our Emirates flight to
Shanghai. The flight leaves at 4.25
p.m. and arrives in Dubai at 11.50
p.m.
Friday, 12 August | We then board
our Emirates flight to Shanghai
departing at 2.50 a.m. and arriving in
Shanghai at 3.30 p.m. On arrival, we
are transferred to our hotel. We check
Shanghai. We later have dinner and
overnight in Shanghai.
Saturday, 13 August | After breakfast
we start our holiday in China by
touring Shanghai, one of the largest
metropolitan cities in China. We go
through the Bund Shanghai’s most
famous landmark and a symbol of old
and new Shanghai. Four kilometers
long, it has been one of the most
important areas of Shanghai. In the
1930s, the Bund was host to the city’s
financial and commercial centers. We
then visit the Jade Buddha Temple,
built in 1882. The temple has 2 jade
statues of the Sakyamuni Buddha, one
seated and one reclining, brought
from Myanmar. The seated Buddha is
1.9 metres (6ft) high and was carved
out of a single piece of white jade and
is wearing a robe inlaid with precious
jewels. We also visit the famous Yu
Garden and get to see part of old
Shanghai. Lunch and dinner included.
Overnight in Shanghai.
Sunday, 14 August | After breakfast,
we are today taken to visit Suzhou,
nicknamed Venice of the East, and the
city of gardens. Here we see amongst
others Master’s Net Garden built in the
Ming Dynasty (1600s). The exquisite
Ming Gardens and the Chinese
Scholar Culture have all affected the
architectural and garden design. We
visit the Suzhou Embroidery Institute,
where we are able to see Chinese
women crafting their fine arts. After
lunch, we go on a mini cruise on the
Grand Canal and later we return to our
hotel in Shanghai. Free evening. Lunch
is included. Overnight in Shanghai.
Monday, 15 August | After breakfast,
today we visit the Shanghai Art
Museum which possesses a collection
of 120,000 precious works of art. Its
rich and high-quality collection of
ancient Chinese bronze, ceramics,
painting and calligraphy is renowned
around the world. The present
Shanghai Museum has eleven
galleries and three special temporary
exhibition halls. Afterwards we can
go and visit downtown of Shanghai.
In the afternoon we are taken to the
airport for our flight to Guilin, an
important cultural city with a history
encompassing more than 2000 years.
On arrival we are transferred to our
hotel. Lunch is included. Overnight
in Guilin.
Tuesday, 16 August | After breakfast
we head to the stunning landscape of
Guilin with the strangely shaped hills
or karsts with the verdant vegetation
ranging from bamboo to conifers,
together with wonderful caves that
make Guilin such an attraction for
tourists. It is considered the pearl
of China’s thriving tourist industry
on account of the natural beauty
and historic treasures. We go on an
exciting 4 hour cruise on the Li River
from Guilin to Yangshuo. Tonight you
will have chance to see the Liusanjie
light show (extra). We will stay
overnight in Yangshuo. Lunch and
dinner included today.
Wednesday, 17 August | In the
morning, we go with our local
guide to the beautiful countryside of
Yangshuo, along the river, through
villages, rice fields and orchards. We
will visit Yulong River & Moon Hill
plus a farmer’s home. Drive back to
Guilin. Only lunch is included today.
Overnight in Guilin.
Thursday, 18 August | After breakfast
another interesting day awaits us
when today we visit the Reed Flute
Cave. Inside this water-eroded cave
is a spectacular world of various
stalactites, stone pillars and rock
formations. Illuminated by coloured
lighting, the fantastic spectacle is
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found in many variations along this
240 metre long cave. From here we
go to a tea village and later we take a
chairlift (extra) to Yao Mountain where
we have a wonderful paranomic view
of Guilin city. We are transferred to the
airport for our flight to Xi’an later in
the afternoon. Upon arrival, our coach
will transfer us to our hotel. Lunch
included today. Overnight in Xi’an.
Friday, 19 August | After breakfast we
start our three day stay with a visit to
the ancient City Wall of Xi’an, called
the capital of Shanxi Province. It lies
in the middle of the Guanzhong Basin
with the Weihe River to its north. It
was the capital of 12 dynasties over
1,000 years and has a great number
of precious relics and historical sites.
Xi’an was the start of the Old Silk Road
to the west during the 7th century.
In the afternoon we visit the Big Wild
Goose Pagoda, considered as one
of the oldest Pagodas in China. The
7 storey Great Wild Goose Pagoda
was built in 652AD. It is a striking
elegant building, and is the symbol
of Xi’an. The famous Buddhist monk
Xuan Zang returned from a 17-year
pilgrimage, and the square pagoda
was built to house the 600 or so
Buddhist texts that he had collected in
India. Lunch and dinner are included.
Overnight in Xi’an.
Saturday, 20 August | We start
the day with breakfast and then
we visit the Museum housing the
world famous Terra-Cotta Warriors.
The vaults or pits containing Qin
Shihuang’s Terracotta Army are
located just outside Xi’an and were
accidentally found by farmers in 1974.
This army of more than 6,000 life
size terracotta warriors, with horses
and chariots lined up facing east and
ready for battle, is one of the world’s
most remarkable archaeological finds.
from ¢2899
11-26 August
PRICE PER PERSON
Adult in Triple
Adult in Twin
Adult in Single
Child Sharing
¢2899
¢2999
¢3429
¢2559
Visa costs ¢60 and must be paid directly at the Embassy together
with a reference letter
The terracotta warriors were made
for Qin Shihuang (259-210BC),
also known as The First Emperor,
and with his mausoleum lying only
1.5km away, it is assumed the army
was made to accompany him on
his journeys after death. Lunch is
included. Possibility to visit Tang
Dynasty Dance and Music show
(extra). Overnight in Xi’an.
Sunday, 21 August | After breakfast
we go to the airport for the flight
that will take us to Beijing, the
capital city of China. On arrival,
our coach will take us to our hotel.
We visit Temple of Heaven in the
afternoon and see the landmark
building of old Beijing which is the
Hall of Prayer for Good Harvest.
Only lunch is included today.
Overnight in Beijing.
Monday, 22 August | Breakfast and
today we visit the Forbidden City
(known officially as the Imperial
Palace Museum). The third Emperor
of the Ming Dynasty, Emperor
Yong Le commissioned the palace
to be built during 1406 and 1420.
It was burnt down, rebuilt, sacked
and renovated countless times, so
most of the architecture you can see
today dates from the 1700’s and
onwards. The Forbidden City was
the seat of Imperial Power for 500
years, and is now a major tourist
attraction in China. We will also go
to the centre of Beijing City and
the famous Tiananmen Square,
where you can see Tiananmen
Tower, Monument to the People’s
Heroes, Great Hall of the People,
Mao Zedong Memorial Hall. We
suggest you take a rickshaw ride
to Hutong area where you will visit
a local family, see the Bell Tower
and how people live in the Hutong
area (extra). Lunch included today.
Tuesday, 23 August | After
breakfast, we visit other interesting
places around Beijing. We first go
to the Ming Tombs, which lie in the
valley of the south of the Tianshou
Mountains in the Changping
district. Here 13 Ming emperors
were buried and the tombs are
“defended” from evil influences by
the dragon and tiger hills on either
side of the valley. We have the
possibility to visit one of the tombs.
From here we go to the famous
Great Wall. A symbol of ancient
Chinese civilization, the Great Wall
has stood for more than 2,000
years. It was built in stages from the
5th century BC to the 16th century
AD as protection against northern
nomadic tribes. Stretching from
the coast of the Bohal Bay in the
east and ending at the Jlayu Pass in
the west, it snakes along the back
of mountains, deserts and valleys
for 6.350km. It is said to be, one of
PRICE INCLUDES
the only two human engineering
projects visible by astronauts from
space with the naked eye. Built
of huge granite slabs and special
sized bricks, the Great Wall at
Badaling 75km north of Beijing
is most typical of the Wall during
the Ming Dynasty (1368 - 1644).
There the wall is wide enough
for 5 horsemen to ride abreast
or 10 men to walk side by side.
Lunch and Peking Duck dinner are
included. Overnight in Beijing.
Emirates flights to Shanghai and return flight from
Beijing (via Dubai)
Air China internal flights Shanghai/Guilin/Yangshou/
Guilin/Xi’an/Beijing
Meals (except for breakfasts) are taken in typical
Chinese restaurants with one glass of soft drink
All transfers
itinerary
All tips for local guides and drivers included
All taxes
Wednesday, 24 August | After
breakfast, we visit Beihai Park,
one of the oldest ancient imperial
park in Chinese history and see
local people doing Taiji or sword
exercises there. In the afternoon,
we will visit the popular Summer
Palace in western park of Beijing.
This beautiful park was originally a
retreat for emperors. We will offer
an optional tour to see the famous
Kung Fu show this evening (extra).
Only lunch is included today.
Thursday, 25 August | Today
we visit the Zoo, Lama Temple
and Xiushui Market before we
are transferred to the airport for
our flight back home. Lunch is
included today. Our Emirates
flights departs at 11.55 p.m. and
arriving in Malta at 2.40 p.m.
(Friday, 26 August).
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The best of
Thailand & Myanmar
VISITING Bangkok, Kanchanaburi, Erawan National Park, Yangon, Kyaiktiyo
Mountain, Heho, Inle Lake, Mandalay, Mingun, Bagan and Kandawgyi Lake
Thursday, 04 August | We meet at
the airport for our Emirates flight to
Bangkok via Dubai. The flight leaves at
4.25 p.m. and arrives in Dubai at 11.50
p.m. early Friday morning.
Friday, 05 August | Our Emirates flight
departs to Bangkok at 3.40 a.m. and
arrives at 1.10 p.m. we are picked
up and transferred to our hotel. We
check-in and free time to relax. In the
evening we go for a familiarization walk.
Overnight in Bangkok.
Saturday, 06 August | We start our
holiday with a city tour of Bangkok,
where we visit the Royal Grand Palace,
Wat Phra Kaew and Wat Po. The
Reclining Buddha is the oldest and
largest Buddhist temple in Bangkok. It is
home to more Buddha images than any
other Bangkok temples and it shelters
one of the largest Buddha in Thailand.
We later enjoy a boat cruise along Chao
Phraya River where we go through
Thaonburi canals and visit the Wat Run
(Temple of Dawn) one of the most
striking riverside landmarks of Thailand.
Then we go to the Pak Klong Talad
Market, the biggest flower market in
Bangkok. The area is a kaleidoscope of
bright, blooming colour as vendors and
consumers trade in Jasmine, lotus and
roses – amongst other things. Lunch
included today. Overnight in Bangkok.
Sunday, 07 August | We check-out
from our hotel and on our way to
Kanchanaburi, we stop at a dock where
we embark a boat which takes us to
the famous Damnoen Saduak floating
market. Running along a network of
canals just off the Mae Klong River,
Damnoen Saduak is abuzz at early
morning with wooden rowboats
selling all kinds of fruits, vegetables and
ready-to-eat snacks. We continue to
Bang Kung Camp, famous for its old
Naval Forces Camp. We see the temple
of Wat Bang Kung where the main
attraction of the temple is the chapel
overgrown by a Banyan tree, which
roots cover completely the building.
Then we proceed to the bridge on
the River Kwai, which has gained
International fame from the film version
of the novel. The Imperial Japanese
Army ordered the black railway bridge
to be brought to Kanchanaburi by the
prisoners of war from Java as part of the
so-called Death Railway. We visit the
Thailand-Burma Railway Centre, where
interactive exhibits, short films and clear
descriptions provide the context of the
Japanese aggression in Southeast Asia.
Next to the Railway Centre, we will
find the Don Rak war cemetery and the
memorial site. Lunch included today.
Overnight in Kanchanaburi.
Monday, 08 August | Today we go
to Erawan National Park which covers
over 500 sq.km and is surrounded
by stunning scenery and houses the
famous Erawan waterfalls. These falls
have seven levels dropping down over
1500m and are regarded as one of the
most beautiful in Thailand. We can
walk to each level easily on the paths
but to get to the very top it is a bit of
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a scramble up the cliff, but worth the
effort! Around the park there are also
several caves where we can explore and
see wonderful limestone formations
- stalactites and stalagmites. In the
afternoon we go to visit Thaweechai
Elephant Camp, where we do bamboo
rafting and ride the elephants. Despite
their vast size, elephants are remarkably
agile and go through the narrow tracks
in the forest effortlessly. Hold tight when
taking the approx. 30 min elephant
ride. Lunch included today. Overnight
in Kanchanaburi.
Tuesday, 09 August | Breakfast and
check-out of rooms. Kanchanaburi is
best known for it’s more recent history,
where during World War II the Japanese
Imperial Army began the construction
of the “Death Railway”. In total, over
100,000 prisoners of war lost their lives.
We walk through the Hellfire Pass, which
is a 25 meters wide and 75 meters
long incision of the mountain made by
hammer and chisel only. We continue to
Wat Luang Ta Bua, known as the Tiger
Temple. After gaining a reputation as a
refuge for wounded animals, the temple
received its first tiger cub in 1999 and
has accumulated 17 more since. During
visiting hours, the cats are led around
a quarry by the monks, and for a fee,
will pose for photos with tourists. Lunch
included today. We then are transferred
to Bangkok to our hotel for overnight.
Wednesday, 10 August | We are
transferred to the airport for our flight
to Yangon. Upon arrival, we go to our
hotel for check-in. In the afternoon,
we visit the charming downtown of
Yangon. We see the City Hall, High
Court, General Post Office, Customs
House and the Strand Hotel while
passing religious pagodas and parks. We
stop near Sule Pagoda to take photos of
the golden stupa and the Independence
Monument at the Maha Bandoola
recreation park. In the evening one can
go to China town and enjoy an exciting
stroll through the buzzing streets
of Yangon. Lunch included today.
Overnight in Yangon
Thursday, 11 August | This morning we
depart for Kyaiktiyo Mountain, home
of the famous and religiously important
Golden Rock Pagoda. Along the way
to Bago, stop briefly at Htauk-kyant
town to have a look at the beautifullylandscaped Allied War Cemetery. Upon
arrival in Bago, we have some time to
explore the 16th century capital of the
Mon Kingdom. We visit the 55-metre
long reclining Shwethalyaung Buddha.
We stop at the Mon style Kyaik Pun
Pagoda to see the historical four-seated
sitting Buddha. In the afternoon, we go
to the Golden Rock past Kyaikho town.
Upon arrival at the foot of Kyaikhtiyo
Mountain, we take local transport (an
open roof truck) for a journey half way
up the mountain. Then, we enjoy a
walk up the hill to reach the top where
you will be rewarded with excellent
views of the giant Golden Rock and
its surrounding valley. At sunset, we
witness the wonders of the Golden
Rock, said to be held in place by a
delicately placed hair of the Buddha.
Lunch included today. Overnight in
Kyaithtiyo
Friday, 12 August | Rise early to
enjoy a serene sunrise on the Pagoda
platform. Later, walk back down part
of the mountain the way we came. The
trucks take us to the bottom where
our car awaits to drive us back to
Yangon. We are transferred straight to
Yangon airport for our flight to Heho.
Upon arrival, we enjoy a scenic drive
to Nyaung Shwe where is situated Inle
Lake - Myanmar’s second largest lake
which measure 70km². Transfer to
our hotel by boat and check in. Lunch
included today. Overnight in Inle Lake.
Saturday, 13 August | Located at
880m above sea level, Inle Lake is also
one of the highest lakes in the country.
from ¢3299
4-18 August
PRICE PER PERSON
This morning we visit the so called
five-day market. We observe the
vibrant atmosphere with local
people in colorful costumes trading
farm products such as vegetables,
fruits, dried tea leaves as well as
livestock. Later we visit the weaving
village of Inpawkon and then we go
to the historical Phaung Daw Oo
Pagoda. While riding on boat, we
observe the unique rowing style of
fishermen at Inle, who stand stern
on one leg and wrap the other
around the oar. Observe floating
gardens on the lake in its beautiful
surroundings on your way back to
your hotel. Lunch included today.
Overnight in Inle Lake.
Sunday, 14 August | We are
transferred to the airport to take
our flight to Mandalay. Together
with our guide we go to the ancient
royal capital of Amarapura and visit
Mahagandayon monastery, where
more than a thousand monks and
novices live and study the doctrine
of Buddha. We visit the nearby U
Bein bridge - the longest teakwood
span in the world. Then we visit
The Great Sage, home to the most
venerated sitting Buddha image,
that have been covered with gold
leaf over the years. Later we visit
the traditional handicraft industries
such as gold-leaf hammering
factory, wood carvings and kalaga
making workshops, to learn more
about the city’s cottage industries.
Late afternoon we visit the Golden
Palace Monastery that was built
in the early 19th century, being
famous for its teak carvings of
Buddhist myths. We end the day
with a visit to Mandalay Hill, and
enjoy the magnificent views from
the 230m high summit. Return to
our hotel. Lunch included today.
Overnight in Mandalay.
Monday, 15 August | Our day
starts with an excursion on board
a riverboat where we cruise over
the Ayeyarwaddy River to the
ancient town of Mingun, home
to the world’s largest ringing bell,
which weighs over 87 tons. We
visit the site of the bell and the
pretty Hsinbyume Pagoda. Then we
continue to the unfinished Mingun
Mantara pagoda, which was built
between in the late 18th century
by King Bodawpaya. We return
to Mandalay by boat and then
proceed to Bagan. Lunch included
today. Overnight in Bagan.
Tuesday, 16 August | We meet
our guide and go for sightseeing in
Bagan. We start our tour with the
vibrant Nyaung Oo Market, and
then proceed to see some of the
distinctive pagodas and temples
in Bagan. We visit the Shwezigon
Pagoda, the Annada Temple: a
whitewashed masterpiece of Mon
architecture with four standing
Buddhas, and the adjacent
brick monastery. Later we visit
Thatbinnyu Temple, know as
“temples of omniscience” and we
end our trip at Sulamani temple.
Then we are transferred to our the
hotel. In the afternoon, we visit
Adult in Triple
Adult in Twin
Adult in Single
Child Sharing
Thailand Visa
one of Myanmar’s most treasured
handicrafts, a lacquer ware
home Industry. Continue to visit
Damayangyi Temple (the massive
temple in Bagan). By a local horse–
cart we make our way to Pyitthagyi
Temple. In the evening, we go for
a boat trip where we sail on the
Ayeyarwaddy River - coming to life
in beautiful warm evening hues at
dusk. We enjoy a delicious cocktail
onboard and watch the scenic
view of the sun setting over the
mountains. Lunch included today.
Overnight in Bagan.
Please ask at the desk for visa requirements and regarding the
Myanmar Visa
PRICE INCLUDES
Wednesday, 17/Thursday, 18
August | We check-out and are
transferred to the airport to take our
flight back to Yangon. Upon arrival
at Yangon we go first to visit to the
magnificent Shwedagon pagoda,
before going to our hotel. Lunch
included today. Then we visit the
Bogyoke Market also known as Scott
Market, the most popular shopping
place and tourist destination in
Yangon where all kinds of souvenir,
gems, jewellery arts and crafts, silk
and cotton fabrics and garments
can be shopped. Then we head
to the appealing Indian quarter
for a different view of the city.
We proceed to Kandawgyi Lake,
one of central Yangon’s greenest
spots where we see the glittering
royal Karaweik barge. Then we
are transferred to the airport for
our flight back home that leaves
Yangon at 7.50 p.m. (via Bangkok
and Dubai) and arrives in Malta at
2.10 p.m.
¢3299
¢3447
¢3772
¢2869
¢30
| 13
Emirates flights to Bangkok and back (via Dubai)
Internal flights to/from Bangkok/Yangon, Yangon/
Heho, Heho/Mandaly, Bagan/Yangon
12 buffet breakfasts and 12 lunches
restaurants
All excursions guided by English speaking guide
Entrance fees and boat trips to places of interest as
shown on itinerary
All taxes
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A journey through
Ecuador, Galapagos Islands & Peru
All excursions, meals & entrances included as per programme
VISITING Quito, Galapagos Islands, Santa Cruz Island, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Moray,
Maras, Yucay, Machu Picchu, Puno, Pucara, Lake Titicaca, Uros Islands, Taquile Island,
Colca Canyon, Cruz Del Condor, Antahuilque, Chivay, Maca, Yanque and Arequipa
Tuesday, 06 September | We meet
at the airport for our KLM flight to
Amsterdam departing at 7.40 a.m. and
arriving at 10.50 a.m. We then proceed
to our hotel in Amsterdam for our
overnight stay.
Wednesday, 07 September | We
check-out and board our flight to Quito
departing at 10.00 a.m. and arriving at
2.45 p.m. On arrival, we are transferred
to our hotel. We check in and free time
to relax after the long flight. Overnight
stay in Quito.
Thursday, 08 September | Quito is set
in a hollow at the foot of a volcano and
is surrounded by hills and snowcapped
mountains. In 1978 it has been
declared by UNESCO “Patrimony of
Mankind”. We start our holiday with a
city tour of Quito, our guide takes us
for a walk through the culturally diverse
history of Quito. Have a closer look
at the Independence Square with the
Government and the Bishops Palace.
Visit the Museum of the Cathedral
and the Cathedral. On the way to San
Francisco Square, we pass the church
of La Compañia, which has the most
ornate and richly sculptured façade and
interior. Afterwards, we visit the famous
hill of the old town, Panecillo where we
see the angel statue “Virgen de Quito”.
Overnight in Quito.
Friday, 09 September | We are
transferred to the airport for our flight
to the Galapagos Islands, the highlight
of Ecuador. Among the animals found,
are the different species of giant
“Galapagos” tortoises that gave the
islands their name, a variety of birds
and marine mammals such as iguanas,
sea lions, dolphins, whales as well as a
great number of fish. Upon arrival we
get a ferry where it takes us to Santa
Cruz island. On the way to Puerto Ayora
we visit “Los Gemelos”. We go for a
short walk in the scalesia forest and
watch Darwin finches. We proceed to
our hotel for check-in and have lunch,
afterwards we go to visit the Charles
Darwin Research Station. The station’s
most impressive attraction is the tortoise
breeding center, where we see tortoises
of all shapes and sizes, including the
famous Lonesome George, at 90+ years
old, and the last remaining member of
the Pinta Island subspecies. Access to
the tortoises is quite open and visitors
can feel free to walk amongst them.
Lunch and dinner included today.
Overnight in Santa Cruz Island.
Saturday, 10 September | Today’s
excursion takes us to the north of
the island and we visit one of the
four islands: North Seymour, South
Plazas, Bartholomew or Santa Fe. Nord
Seymore is a small flat island surrounded
by low cliffs, barely separated from
Baltra Island by a small narrow stretch
of water. You will be landing near a
long sandy beach, where sea lions and
marine iguanas hang out between the
rocks. South Plaza Island is uplifted sea
floor, rather than a volcanic island like
nearby Santa Cruz. Although South
Plaza is barely 1km long and 100m
wide it is home to an amazing variety
of wildlife. The volcanic island of
Bartholomew, characterized by a 114m
high volcanic crater, is 1.2 square km in
size and located close to the east coast
of Santiago Island. The landscape of
the island is breathtaking. With a little
bit of luck we see marine iguanas, lava
lizards and various cacti. The island of
Santa Fe is one of the oldest islands of
the archipelago. Its age and isolation
have allowed several endemic animals
to evolve, including species of land
iguana, rice rat and gecko. Sea lions
are the most common sight on Santa
Fe Island. Lunch and dinner included
today. Overnight in Santa Cruz Island.
The itinerary of today’s excursion is
subject to change. It depends on the
availability of the boats and the National
Park Regulations for the day tours. Daily
excursions are guaranteed, however there
might be other islands or visitor sites than
mentioned visited: Cerro Dragon and
Venecia, Daphne, Caleta Tortuga, the
Islands of Floreana, Isabela and/or the
Highlands of the Island Santa Cruz.
Sunday, 11 September | In the
morning, we are transferred to the
airport for our flight to Quito. Upon
arrival we check-in at our hotel and
the rest of the day is free to enjoy this
beautiful city. Overnight in Quito.
Monday, 12 September | We board
our flight to Cusco (via Lima). Cusco
is South America’s archaeological
capital. Nevertheless, it is still the hub
of the Inca Empire: Quechua-speaking
Inca descendants can still be found
multitudinously in the centuries-old
stone-walled city streets. Upon arrival
www.bsl.com.mt
we are transferred to our hotel for
check-in. Overnight in Cusco.
Tuesday, 13 September | Today,
we go on a city tour of Cusco which
consists of a visit to its most important
landmarks of both the Inca and the
Colonial times. During our tour we
visit the temple of the sun. Continue
to the Cathedral, considered the best
repository of colonial art from the Cusco
school. It was built over the palace of
the Inca Wiracocha and considered the
religious and political centre of Cusco
during the Inca era. We walk through
the Inca Street of Loreto, a fine sample
of the old town and its remarkable Inca
walls. Afterwards, we leave the city to
visit the outer parts of Cusco were we
find important ruins of the Inca Empire.
Between them the most important is
the archaeological park of the fortresstemple Saqsaywaman which shows
precise zigzags of massive stone to
which centuries could not do any harm.
Overnight in Cusco.
Wednesday, 14 September | Our
guide takes us on a tour to the different
Inca Communities and antique salt
mines. We start the tour with a visit to
Chinchero community located at 28 km
from Cusco. There are the remains of
what was the royal hacienda of Tupac
Inca Yupanqui. The excursion continues
to Moray, a little Andean community
which is famous for its embedded
amphitheatre, formed by four circular
terraces which seem to disappear into
the interior of the puna, like an artificial
crater. Finally, we visit the Salt Mines
of Maras. The view of this complex of
nearly 3,000 wells is spectacular. The
local people demonstrate the ancient
techniques to visitors, even allowing us
to participate. Overnight in Yucay.
Thursday, 15 September | Pick up
from the hotel and transferred to the
train station in Ollantaytambo to take
the train toward Aguas Calientes. Upon
arrival, take the shuttle bus to Machu
Picchu (30 minutes). Machu
Picchu – Also known as “The Lost
City of the Incas”. It was built
around AD 1450 at the top of a
granite mountain but abandoned
a hundred years later, at the time
of the Spanish conquest of the Inca
Empire. Forgotten for centuries,
the site was brought to worldwide
attention in 1911. UNESCO
declared it a World Heritage Site
in 1983. Recently, it also has been
named one of the “New Seven
Wonders of the World”. Machu
Picchu is a perfect example to point
out the Incas ingenious engineering
and masonry techniques, which
enabled them to transport heavy
stone blocks up the mountain side
and to form them to amazingly
polished stones that fit together
perfectly without any cement, but
also to come already with running
water and food supply. Enjoy a
guided tour of the marvellous
citadel, visiting the main plaza, the
royal quarters, Temple of Three
Windows, the circular tower and the
sacred Sun Dial and burial grounds.
In the afternoon, train back to
Ollantaytambo and continue by
road to Cusco and to our hotel.
Overnight in Cusco.
Friday, 16 September | The day is
free to relax and enjoy this beautiful
city of Cusco. Overnight in Cusco.
Saturday, 17 September | On
the way to Puno we visit Pucara
which is famous for its pottery.
Visit the Pucara Stone Museum
and Andahuaylillas church which
is considered to be the “Sistine
Chapel” of the Americas. Then we
visit Raqchi ruins. These are the best
and to this extent the only surviving
ruins that have adobe walls still
sitting on a base of Inca rock walls.
Lunch at local restaurant included.
We arrive in the beautiful town of
Puno with its mixture of typical
Andean architecture that is found
all the way down from the hill sides
to the bank of Lake Titicaca. This
Sacred Lake of the Incas is one of
the most enigmatic places in the
world. It is the highest navigable
lake and combines beautiful sights,
culture and history. Lunch in
included today. Overnight in Puno.
Sunday, 18 September | After
breakfast we depart from Puno’s
from ¢4899
dock towards Uros Islands in the
Titicaca Lake. The Uros are 40 small
floating islands made of packed
reed. Here the inhabitants of the
lake, the Uros, live just as their
ancestors did and maintaining
their customs. After visiting the
Uros Islands we head by boat to
Taquile Island. Taquile, was part of
the Inca Empire. It was one of the
last locations in Peru to capitulate
to Spanish domination during the
Spanish conquest of Peru. In the
main square, there is a cooperative
shop, selling woollen goods and
hand-woven items. The Taquile
people have maintained their
traditions and culture and many
locals wear traditional clothing.
Lunch will be served at a local
restaurant. Overnight in Puno.
Monday, 19 September | We
depart Puno and head to Colca
Canyon. Best known as one of the
world’s deepest canyons. Reaching
a depth of 4160 m, whose depth
can be appreciated from the Cruz
Del Condor, a viewpoint where
Andean Condors can be seen most
days throughout the year. Packed
lunch included today. Overnight
in Colca.
Tuesday, 20 September | Early start
to the day and we go to Cruz Del
Condor, from here we can observe
the condors and have a look at
the depth of the Canyon. We then
proceed to Chivay, on the way we
stop at the Antahuilque Viewpoint,
where a wonderful 1,500 year old
terracing can be observed. We
continue to the town of Maca, an
Andean community and the town
of Yanque. Between Arequipa
and Chivay, we go through a
range of unique ecological zones,
from desert to altiplano to dry
6-24 September
tundra. We arrive at Arequipa late
afternoon. Overnight in Arequipa.
Wednesday, 21 September |
The city tour will start with a visit
to Carmen Alto district, from
this viewpoint we appreciate the
beautiful landscapes of the city,
the volcanoes and the pre-Incas
terrace. We continue to the old
neighbourhoods of San Lázaro and
Yanahuara, famous for its viewing
point. Furthermore, our guide will
show us Arequipa´s Cathedral and
its beautiful “Plaza de Armas”.
Afterwards, we visit the complex of
the Company of Jesus, exponent of
the baroque Spanish art of the XVII
century. After that, we continue to
Santa Catalina Convent, a beautiful
and romantic place from the XVI
century, built by the Spaniards.
Overnight in Arequipa.
PRICE PER PERSON
Adult in Triple
Adult in Twin
Adult in Single
Child Sharing
¢4899
¢5099
¢5869
¢3999
The above prices include the Galapagos National Park fee &
Transit Control Card of USD220 per person
PRICE INCLUDES
KLM flights to/from Quito/Lima (via Amsterdam)
Internal flights Quito/Galapagos/Quito,Quito/Lima/
Cusco & Arequipa/Lima
17 nights accommodation in 3 & 4 star hotels
17 buffet breakfasts, 5 lunches and 2 dinner
restaurants
All transfers
itinerary
All taxes
Thursday, 22/Friday, 23
September | We are picked up
for our flight to Lima departing at
10.15 a.m. and arriving at 11.50
a.m. We then go for a city tour
of Lima, we go through the main
square and see the Cathedral, the
Government Palace, Archbishop’s
Palace and the City Hall. Continue
to the residential districts of San
Isidro and Miraflores. The tour ends
at the Lovers’ Park from where we
have a great view of the Pacific
Ocean. We are then transferred
to the airport for our flight to
Amsterdam that leaves at 8.15
p.m. and arrives at 3.40 p.m. (23rd
September). Upon arrival we head
to our hotel for an overnight stay.
Saturday, 24 September | We
check-out and proceed to the
airport for our flight back home that
leaves at 11.50 a.m. and arrives in
Malta at 2.50 p.m.
| 15
www.bsl.com.mt
Wonders of China
plus Yangtze River Cruise
VISITING Shanghai, Bund, Yangtze River, Three Gorges Dam, Shibaozhai, Chengdu,
Sanxingdui, Xi’an, Terracotta Warriors, Beijing, the Forbidden City and the Great Wall of China
Monday, 17 October | Meet at the
airport for our Emirates flight to
Shanghai. The flight leaves at 3.30 p.m.
and arrives in Dubai via Cyprus at 01.00
a.m. early Sunday morning.
Tuesday, 18 October | We then
board our Emirates flight to Shanghai
departing at 2.50 a.m. and arriving in
Shanghai at 3.30 p.m. On arrival, we
are transferred to our hotel. We check
Shanghai. We later have dinner and
overnight in Shanghai.
Wednesday, 19 October | Our holiday
starts by touring Shanghai, one of the
largest metropolitan cities in China.
We go through the Bund is Shanghai’s
most famous landmark and a symbol of
old and new Shanghai. Four kilometers
long, it has long been one of the most
important areas of Shanghai. In the
1930s, the Bund was host to the city’s
financial and commercial centers. We
then visit the Jade Buddha Temple,
built in 1882. The temple has 2 jade
statues of the Sakyamuni Buddha, one
seated and one reclining, brought
from Myanmar. The seated Buddha is
1.9 metres (6ft) high and was carved
out of a single piece of white jade and
is wearing a robe inlaid with precious
jewels. We also visit the famous Yu
Garden and get to see part of old
Shanghai. Lunch and dinner included.
In the evening, one can go to the
Acrobatic Show (extra). Overnight in
Shanghai.
Thursday, 20 October | After breakfast,
we are transferred to Shanghai for our
flight to Yichang. Yichang, the second
largest city in Hubei Province, is an
ancient city with a history of more
than 4,000 years. Now, it is regarded
as the best gateway to Three Gorges
and Three Gorges Dam along Yangtze
River. We have dinner before boarding
on our cruise ship. Overnight on board.
Friday, 21 October | We sail through
the Three Gorges Dam at Sandouping,
the largest in the world. The Three
Gorges Dam are one of nature’s most
extraordinary sculptures, carved along
the Yangtze river. Later we enter the
Three Gorges Dam Ship locks and Xiling
George, the longest (41 miles) and the
deepest of the Three Gorges. Lunch and
dinner included. Overnight on board.
Saturday, 22 October | This morning
we are transferred to a smaller vessel
for a relaxing excursion through the
beautiful gorges of Goddess Stream.
Depending on river conditions, an
alternate excursion may be substituted
to the gorges of Shennong Stream
or Daning River. Later we enter Wu
Gorge, known for its quiet beauty,
forest covered mountains and cliffs so
sheer that the sun barely penetrates the
precipices. Then we sail through Qutang
Gorge, the shortese (5 miles) and
narrowest (500 feet) and most dramatic
gorge. Lunch and dinner included.
Overnight on board.
Sunday, 23 October | Today’s
excursion takes us to Shibaozhai,
with its impressive wooden pagoda,
appropriately named “The Pearl of
the Yangtze”. No nails were used in
the construction of this magnificient
structure. Depending on river conditions,
an alternate excursion may be
substituted to Fengdu. Lunch and dinner
included. Overnight on board.
Monday, 24 October | In the morning
we arrive at Chongqing, upon
disembarkation we are transferred to
the train station to catch the bullet train
where we cross over 300 km in 1.5 hours
to Chengdu. Chengdu is a city brimming
with strong leisurely ambience. Upon
arrival we visit Jinli Street, famous place
for baldachin - a rich, ornate cloth. We
admire the traditional-style buildings, tea
houses, artisans, stores and taste some
local snacks. The wooden steles and the
brick-walls exhibit an ancient charm.
Strolling down the narrow street, we
find ourselves surrounded by old-world
stores selling Shu Embroidery, lacquer
products, folk handicrafts, curios, or
calligraphies and paintings of celebrities.
Lunch and dinner included. Overnight in
Chengdu.
Tuesday, 25 October | Spend our day
with some loveable creatures that will
capture our heart. The Chengdu Panda
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Breeding Center is a non-profit research
and breeding facilities for giant pandas
and other rare animals that strive to
simulate a natural environment for these
creatures. Our guide will take us through
the center to get a full overview of a
panda’s development. We learn about
the progression from a baby panda to
a full grown panda with a visit to the
baby panda area, where we admire these
small and delicate creatures. Despite
their age and size, we see how full of
life and energy they are! Later we go
to Sanxingdui Ruins, located about 40
kilometers northeast of Chengdu, this
archeological site has artifacts dating
far back as 5,000 years ago. It is the
largest museum in southwest China,
with a large number of precious relics,
and it is grandly called “the origin of
the civilization of the Yangtze River”. No
texts have been found, and there is no
mention of this culture in the records of
other cultures. The Sanxingdui finds are
exciting, but they remain enigmatic. In
the evening one can opt to go to the
“Changing Faces” show (extra). Lunch
and dinner included. Overnight in
Chengdu.
Wednesday, 26 October | The morning
is free to enjoy a tea in a typical house in
Jinli Street before we are picked up and
transferred to the airport for our flight to
Xi’an. Dinner included today. Overnight
in Xi’an.
Thursday, 27 October | We start the
day with breakfast and then we visit the
Big Wild Goose Pagoda, considered as
one of the oldest Pagodas in China. The
7 storey Great Wild Goose Pagoda was
built in 652AD. It is a striking elegant
building, and is the symbol of Xi’an.
The famous Buddhist monk Xuan Zang
returned from a 17-year pilgrimage,
and the square pagoda was built to
house the 600 or so Buddhist texts that
he had collected in India. We later visit
from ¢2899
17 Oct - 1 Nov
PRICE PER PERSON
Adult in Triple
Adult in Twin
Adult in Single
Child Sharing
the Museum housing the world
famous Terra-Cotta Warriors.
The vaults or pits containing Qin
Shihuang’s Terracotta Army are
located just outside Xi’an and were
accidentally found by farmers in
1974. This army of more than
6,000 life size terracotta warriors,
with horses and chariots lined up
facing east and ready for battle, is
one of the world’s most remarkable
archaeological finds. The terracotta
warriors were made for Qin
Shihuang (259-210BC), also known
as The First Emperor, and with his
mausoleum lying only 1.5km away,
it is assumed the army was made
to accompany him on his journeys
after death. Lunch and dinner are
included. Possibility to visit Tang
Dynasty Dance and Music show
(extra). Overnight in Xi’an.
Friday, 28 October | Visit the
ancient City Wall of Xi’an, called the
capital of Shanxi Province. It lies in
the middle of the Guanzhong Basin
with the Weihe River to its north. It
was the capital of 12 dynasties over
1,000 years and has a great number
of precious relics and historical
sites. Later we are transferred to
the airport for our flight to Beijing.
Upon arrival we are transferred
to our hotel for check-in. Tonight
there will the opportunity to see the
famous Kung Fu show (extra).
Saturday, 29 October | Breakfast
and today we visit the Forbidden
City (known officially as the
Imperial Palace Museum). The third
Emperor of the Ming Dynasty,
Emperor Yong Le commissioned
the palace to be built during 1406
and 1420. It was burnt down,
rebuilt, sacked and renovated
countless times, so most of the
architecture you can see today
dates from the 1700’s and
onwards. The Forbidden City was
the seat of Imperial Power for 500
years, and is now a major tourist
attraction in China. We will also go
to the centre of Beijing City and
see the famous Tiananmen Square,
where you can see Tiananmen
Tower, Monument to the People’s
Heroes, Great Hall of the People,
Mao Zedong Memorial Hall. We
suggest you take a rickshaw ride
to Hutong area where you will visit
a local family, see the Bell Tower
and how people live in the Hutong
area (extra). Lunch included today.
Lunch and Peking Duck dinner are
included. Overnight in Beijing.
Sunday, 30 October | Today we
visit other interesting places around
Beijing. We first go to the Ming
Tombs, which lie in the valley of the
south of the Tianshou Mountains
in the Changping district. Here 13
Ming emperors were buried and
the tombs are “defended” from evil
influences by the dragon and tiger
hills on either side of the valley.
We have the possibility to visit one
of the tombs. From here we go to
the famous Great Wall. A symbol
of ancient Chinese civilization, the
Great Wall has stood for more than
2,000 years. It was built in stages
from the 5th century BC to the 16th
century AD as protection against
northern nomadic tribes. Stretching
from the coast of the Bohal Bay in
the east and ending at the Jlayu Pass
in the west, it snakes along the back
of mountains, deserts and valleys
for 6.350km. It is said to be, one of
the only two human engineering
projects visible by astronauts from
space with the naked eye. Built of
huge granite slabs and special sized
bricks, the Great Wall at Badaling
75km north of Beijing is most
typical of the Wall during the Ming
Dynasty (1368 - 1644). There the
wall is wide enough for 5 horsemen
to ride abreast or 10 men to walk
side by side. Lunch and a farewell
dinner included today. Overnight
in Beijing.
¢2899
¢2989
¢3499
¢2529
Visa costs ¢60 and must be paid directly at the Embassy together
with a reference letter
Gratuities of CNY 150 per person has to be paid upon check-in at
the Victoria Jenna Cruise ship
PRICE INCLUDES
Turkish Airlines flights to Shanghai and return flight
from Beijing (via Istanbul)
Air China internal flights Shanghai/Yichang,
Chengdu/Xi’an/Beijing
4 nights accommodation on board Victoria Jenna
Cruise Ship
Meals (except for breakfasts) are taken in typical
Chinese restaurants with one glass of soft drink
All transfers
itinerary
All taxes
Monday, 31 October/Tuesday, 1
November | Our last excursion will
take us to visit Beihai Park, one of
the oldest ancient imperial park in
Chinese history and see local people
doing Taiji or sword exercises there.
Later we visit the popular Summer
Palace in western park of Beijing.
This beautiful park was originally
a retreat for emperors. Lunch is
included today. In the evening we
are transferred to the airport for our
flight departing at 12.50 a.m. and
arriving in Malta at 10.20 a.m.
| 17
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Authentic Japan
VISITING Tokyo, Nikko, Chuzenji Lake, Kegon Fall, Hakone, Ashi Lake, Komagatake,
Takayama, Shirakawa-go, Osaka, Nara Park, Kyoto, Hiroshima and Miyajima
Tuesday, 16 August | We meet at the
airport for our Emirates flight to Tokyo
via Dubai. The flight leaves at 4.25
p.m. and arrives in Dubai at 11.50 p.m.
Wednesday, 17 August | Our Emirates
flight departs to Tokyo at 2.50 a.m.
and arrives at 5.25 p.m. on arrival we
are transferred to our 4 star hotel. We
check in and free time to relax after the
long flight and to familiarize ourselves
with Tokyo. Overnight in Tokyo.
Thursday, 18 August | We start our
holiday with a city tour, to look at
some of Tokyo’s many highlights. Our
first stop is the double bridge of the
Imperial Palace, which is situated in
a large park surrounded by moats
and massive stone walls in the center
of Tokyo. Then we go to Asakusa,
where we visit Sensoji - the kannon
temple. Asakusa is Tokyo’s oldest
Geisha district and home to Tokyo’s
oldest Buddhist temple. The streets
here are a great place to wander; one
of them called Nakamise is over 200
meters full of old Japan character with
many interesting stalls and shops.
In the afternoon we visit Meiji Jingu
shrine, dedicated to the spirit of the
late Emperor Meiji. It is a popular site
for Japanese weddings and if we are
lucky we may see a couple dressed in
traditional Shinto wedding garments.
Next, we take a walk down Tokyo’s
Champs Elysees, Omotesando and
Takeshita streets which are lined
by many trendy shops, fashion
boutiques, crepe stands and fast food
outlets. Overnight in Tokyo.
Friday, 19 August | Breakfast and
we go to Nikko national park, home
to Buddhist shrines, incredible lakes,
mountains and natural beauty. It is
renowned for the UNESCO World
Heritage Toshogu Shrine, which is the
most ornate and lavish shrine in all
of Japan. It consists of Buddhist and
Shinto buildings ornately decorated
and set in a beautiful forest area.
The shrine was designed by over
15,000 craftsman in two years, and
is distinguished for its rich colours,
elaborate carvings, and ornate details
in gold leaf. We have lunch at a local
restaurant. The Nikko National Park
is also known for Lake Chuzenji,
which is surrounded by forests and
has wonderful hot springs where we
make a photo stop. Afterwards we
go to Kegon Waterfall, one of the
park’s most beautiful waterfalls. We
capture perfect pictures of the falls
from a variety of points and feel the
refreshing spray of water on our faces
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as we gaze from an observation deck.
Lunch included. Overnight in Tokyo.
Saturday, 20 August | Be prepared
for a great day as we travel to
Hakone, a place to go for spectacular
views of Mount Fuji along with a
variety of art museums and hot
springs. Famous for its beautiful
natural scenery, we enjoy a boat
cruise around Lake Ashi and enjoy
postcard views of Mount Fuji. We
have lunch and then visit Hakone
Shrine, which stands at the foot of
Mount Hakone along the shores of
Lake Ashi. The shrine buildings are
hidden in the dense forest, but are
well advertised by its huge torii gates.
A path leads from the torii gate in
Lake Ashi up a series of steps flanked
by lanterns through the forest to the
main building of the shrine, which
sits peacefully among the tall trees.
Afterwards we go for a ride on the
Komagatake Ropeway, the Ropeway
opened in 1963 and is a popular way
to take in one of the most stunning,
scenic views in Japan. The Ropeway
runs from the edge of Lake Ashi to
the summit of Mount Komagatake.
Lunch included. Overnight in Tokyo.
Sunday, 21 August | Day at leisure
or else one can enjoy a boat cruise
(extra) down the Sumida Gawa River
to see Tokyo from a different point
of view. Overnight in Tokyo.
Monday, 22 August | We are
transferred to the train station to
board the JR bullet train which takes
us to Takayama (via Nagoya). Upon
arrival at Takayama, we are picked
up and transferred to our hotel. The
rest of the day is free or else one can
enjoy the Onsten (hot spring) for
free at the hotel. In the evening we
enjoy a japanese dinner at the hotel.
Overnight in Takayama.
Tuesday, 23 August | Takayama is a
beautifully preserved town, which once
was cut off from the rest of Japan due
to its inaccessible location. The Sake
of this area is especially prized due to
the purity of the water used to make it.
After breakfast we head up to Miyagawa
morning market, which sells interesting
local crafts and produce. Later we go
for a stroll in the old town, where the
southern half, especially Sannomachi
Street is in a particularly pretty state with
many old homes, shops, coffee houses
and sake breweries, some of which
have been in business for centuries. In
the afternoon we go to Shirakawago, situated in Shogawa River Valley
between remote mountains. Declared
a UNESCO world heritage site in 1995,
they are famous for their traditional
farmhouses, some of which are more
than 250 years old. The architectural
style developed over many generations
and are designed to withstand the large
amounts of heavy snow that falls during
winter. The roofs, made without nails,
provided a large attic space used for
from ¢4999
16-30 August
PRICE PER PERSON
Adult in Triple
Adult in Twin
Adult in Single
Child Sharing
cultivating silkworms. We are then
transferred to our hotel. Overnight
in Takayama.
Wednesday, 24 August | Check
out from our hotel and we are
transferred to the train station.
We board our train that will take
us to Osaka. Upon arrival we are
transferred to our hotel. Rest of the
day is free. Overnight in Osaka.
Thursday, 25 August | Today’s
excursion takes to Kyoto but first
we go to Nara Park. Nara Park is a
unique 1250-acre reserve with more
than 1000 tamed deers roaming
freely. We admire these gentle
creatures as they graze and wander
the park. One can purchase special
deer food, which the animals gladly
eat from our hand. We visit the
peaceful temple of Todaiji home
to the giant Buddha and we visit
Kasuga Shrine, which features
over 3,000 stone and bronze
lanterns. Afterwards we go to Kyoto
where we immerse ourselves in the
captivating culture and history of
this city; hailed the cradle of Japan’s
cultural heritage. The former capital
is full of significant monuments and
legend-shrouded landmarks. We
visit Kinkaku-ji Temple; an elegant
temple where we stroll through its
Japanese garden. We conclude our
tour with a leisurely stroll down a
charming lane lined with pottery
shops and arrive at Kiyomizu
Temple. Marvel at panoramic vistas
of the city from here. Overnight in
Osaka.
Friday, 26 August | The morning
is free before we are transferred
to the train station and board
another bullet train to Hiroshima.
Upon arrival we go for a city tour,
perhaps more than any other city
in the world Hiroshima is famous
for one moment in history as being
the first target of an atomic bomb
on August 6th, 1945. However,
Hiroshima has risen phoenix
like from the ashes, and rebuilt
itself as one of Japan’s most laid
back, vibrant cities full of wide
boulevards and museums, great
food and friendly people. We stop
at the Hiroshima Memorial Park;
we stroll through the park and
discover the many memorials,
monuments and statues in the park
before heading into the Atomic
bomb museum. We then are
transferred to our hotel. Overnight
in Hiroshima.
Saturday, 27 August | Today we
board a ferry and sail towards the
natural haven of Miyajima. A small
wooded island located in the Inland
Sea, here we find one of the most
photographed sites in Japan – the
Floating Torii Gate, which appears
to be protruding from the sea. We
¢4999
¢5199
¢6999
¢4729
PRICE INCLUDES
visit Itsukushima Jinja Shrine and
admire the dynamic architecture
of the temple and hear of its rich
historical heritage from our guide.
Afterwards we have some free
time before returning to our hotel.
Overnight in Hiroshima.
Emirates flights to Tokyo and back (via Dubai)
12 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 1 dinner
restaurants
itinerary
Train tickets
All taxes
Sunday, 28 August | We make
our way back to Osaka with the
bullet train. Upon arrival we go
for a city tour of Osaka which is a
great way to get an introduction
to the history, culture and scenery
of one of Japan’s largest cities. We
explore Osaka Castle, an architectural marvel that sits on a stone
rampart above the city. Built from
enormous stone blocks, the castle
also features displays with relics
of old Osaka and the Toyotomi
family that originally erected
the castle. We then go through
Umeda and Namba districts,
which are the city’s most famous
entertainment districts and
offer abundant dining and shopping choices. Overnight in Osaka.
Monday, 29/Tuesday, 30
August | Our last day in Japan
is free to enjoy the bustling city
of Osaka. Check-out is done in
the evening and then we are
departure flight back home, leaving at 11.40 p.m. and arriving in
Malta at 2.40 p.m. (Tuesday).
| 19
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Alaska Cruise
on board Celebrity Infinity
Friday 15 July | We meet the tour leader
at Malta International Airport at 15.00
for check in on Lufthansa flight LH1311
departing to Frankfurt at 17.00. We
land in Frankfurt Airport at 19.40. On
arrival at Frankurt our private coach will
transfer us to our hotel in Frankfurt.
Saturday 16 July | After breakfast our
coach will transfer us to Frankfurt Airport
for check in at 11.50. We board the LH
492 at 13.30 and arriving in Vancouver
at 14.25. On arrival we are transferred
to our Hotel Listel in Vancouver. Check
in.
Sunday 17 July | Late morning, we meet
the tour leader at the hotel reception for
check out of hotel. Our private coach
will take us to Vancouver Port where
we will embark at around 13.00. Upon
embarkation, we will be assigned our
cabin. Our adventure begins as soon as
we embark on the Celebrity Infinity. We
prepare ourselves for an unforgettable
seven night Alaskan Cruise as the ship
leaves port at around 16.30.
Monday 18 July | After a lavish
breakfast, we have a relaxing day at sea
to explore this beautiful ship. On this
day we have the opportunity to make
use of the onboard facilities and join
the activities with the animation team.
Why not relax by the pool whilst sipping
a nice cocktail or doing a relaxing
massage at the spa. Enjoy the view on
the ship deck while cruising the Inside
Passage.
Tuesday 19 July | Today, we have
another exciting day ahead. Our next
port of call is Icy Strait. It is located near
the city of Hoonah, the largest native
Tlingit Indian settlement in Alaska, and
very near Glacier Bay National Park.
Visit the historic cannery, dating back
to 1930. It has been fully restored to
provide visitors with a glimpse of this
interesting part of Alaskan history.
The original cookhouse has also been
renovated for family-style dining, the
Alaskan way. Locals share the sea
with humpback whales, orcas, Dall
porpoises, seals, sea otters, halibut and
all five species of Pacific salmon. It is
not uncommon to spot a humpback or
an orca while walking along the shore.
Experience Alaskan history while eating
some of the freshest fish you’ve ever
tasted at the Historic Fish House. You’ll
find freshly caught wild salmon, halibut,
crab and other Alaskan delicacies at this
restored fish house on the waterfront.
Alaska is home to so many extreme
adventures, and Icy Strait Point is no
exception. Enjoy biking, ocean kayaking
and fishing in this beautiful wilderness.
Wednesday 20 July | Our next port
of call is Hubbard Glacier. It is the
longest river of ice in North America;
the Hubbard Glacier is also one of
the most active glaciers of its kind in
Alaska. And since our ships are designed
to provide our guests with the best
viewing possible, you’ll be able to see
this massive natural wonder, with its
1,350 square miles of blue ice, from just
about anywhere on the ship. You will
experience the excitement of seeing an
active glacier up close. Even the ship will
feel small.
Thursday 21 July | After breakfast, our
ship takes us to Juneau. It is the capital
of Alaska, which was founded during a
gold rush in 1880. Today, the former
gold-mining town counts among its
riches some of Alaska’s most spectacular
scenery. Nestled at the foot of Mt.
Juneau in the Alaska Panhandle, it faces
the water from the mainland side of
Gastineau Channel. Several magnificent
fjords are located along the channel
coast, and the majestic Mendenhall
Glacier, a favourite of visitors, is nearby.
When you’re in Juneau, you shouldn’t
miss the amazing glacial landscape.
The best view available is from the seat
of a helicopter on one of the shore
excursions on board the ship, where
you can watch for bears, mountain
goats, and moose. Then, once you’ve
landed, you can take a once-in-a-lifetime
dogsled ride. Explore Juneau on foot.
With more trails than roads, Alaska’s
capital features world-class hiking through glacial waterfalls and the largest
temperate rain forest in the state.
Friday 22 July | Today we have another
exciting day ahead. Our ship takes us
to Ketchikan. Ketchikan originated as
an Indian fish saltery, but the town’s
major growth began when it became a
supply base and entry port for miners
during the 1898 Gold Rush to the
Klondike. Much of the town’s colourful
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past is still in evidence, especially in the
nearby Indian villages, where you’ll see
colourfully carved totem poles and hear
the fascinating legends that surround
them. While fishing is by far the most
popular sport in Ketchikan, there are a
lot of other activities for people to take
part in. Take a memorable kayaking
trip to the beautiful Tatoosh Island.
Keep a lookout for bald eagles, seals,
and sea lions. Ketchikan is the “Salmon
Capital of the World,” and as you’d
expect, the salmon are plentiful and
fresh. Immerse yourself in Alaska’s
breathtaking underwater world as you
snorkel the calm and clear waters of
Mountain Point.
Saturday 23 July | Although it is our
last day at Sea, on such a trip there is
never a dull moment. Our day at sea
is packed with activities, from deck
games to entertainment. We can
shop onboard from the boutiques
or we can indulge ourselves to a full
body massage at the spa. Tonight we
are instructed to leave your luggage
from ¢2810
15-30 July
PRICE PER PERSON
TWIN
EBD
NRM
¢2810 ¢2910
¢3090 ¢3190
¢3810 ¢3910
Inside
Outside
Balcony
Important Notice: A Biometric Passport is needed to Travel
to Alaska and Canada. Kindly fill the ESTA application
form on the following link: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta.
Charge is approx: ¢15.00
A visa is not required for Maltese nationals to go to Canada.
However as from March 16 an Electronic Travel Authorisation
(eTA) will be needed - see weblink: http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/
visit/
PRICE INCLUDES
outside our room as bags are
transported ashore by Celebrity
Cruises Personnel early the
following morning.
Jasper. Option to visit and soak
in the Miette Hot Springs. Check
into hotel and enjoy free time for
exploring the town.
Sunday 24 July | Our ship docks in
Vancouver at 07.00. After our last
breakfast onboard the wonderful
Celebrity Infinity, we check out
around 08.00. At 09.00 we go on
our first excursion taking us on
the Rocky Mountain Tour. On our
trip we stop at Othello Tunnels.
We will then visit Spahat s Falls in
Clearwater and Dutch Lake. Once
can choose to go on a Bear Safari
Boat tour (extra). We will have a
BBQ dinner with a campfire next to
the lake in the forest setting. Later
we proceed to Mike Wiegele Resort
in Blue River. Check In.
Tuesday 26 July | After breakfast
we travel the Icefiels Parkway. We
visit the Sunwapta Falls. Stop at
the famous Columbia Icefields with
the option to go on the World
Renowned SnoCoach Tour (extra).
Enjoy sightseeing at Bow Lake
and Peyto Lake. On our arrival in
Banff we will have tour round the
town. Option to go on the Sulphur
Mountain Gondola for amazing
views of the Rockies. Check in to
Banff International. Free Time for
shopping, sightseeing and dinner
on Banff Avenue (extra).
Monday 25 July | After Breakfast,
on the way to Banff we will
pass through Jasper and Icefiels
Parkway. Enjoy the view of Mount
Robson. Then stop in the town of
Wednesday 27 July | After
breakfast, we leave Banff. On our
way to Revelstoke, we hike to
Johnstons Canyon. Explore beautiful
Lake Louise. Leisure time at Moraine
Lake with the option to rent a canoe
(extra). Travel through Roger’s
Pass. Check into Sutton Place Hotel
at Revelstoke Mountain Resort.
Evening at leisure to enjoy the resort
amenities.
Thursday 28 July | After breakfast,
our coach will take us to
Vancouver. On our way we will visit
Craigallechie and the Last Spike.
Travel though the Okanagan Valley
and stop in Kelowna. Enjoy a wine
tour at Summerhill Winery. Arrive
in Vancouver at approx. 19.30 and
check into hotel.
OPTIONAL ROCKIES TOUR
AS PER PROGRAMME
Friday 29 July | After Breakfast, free
time before our coach drives us to
Vancouver Airport for our Lufthansa
flight to Frankfurt LH493 departing
at 16.30 and arriving in Frankfurt at
11.10 on the 30th July.
Saturday 30 July | On Arrival at
Frankfurt airport we board our flight
LH1310 departing at 13.45 and
arriving in Malta at 16.10.
Return Lufthansa Flights to Vancouver
7 nights Alaska Cruise on Full board basis on board
the Infinity by Celebrity Cruises
Daily Entertainment and use on board facilities
Airport Taxes, Port Charges, Fuel Surcharge
Return Airport Transfers
The Service of a Tour Leader
1 night accommodation at the Intercity Hotel in
Frankfurt on BB basis
2 nights accommodation at the Hotel Listel,
Vancouver on BB basis
Gratuities Extra: ¢96.00 (to be paid with full
payment)
Porterage fees: $6.75 (approx. ¢5.00 per bag)
| 21
1 night accommodation at Mike Wiegele Resort or
similar in Blue River
1 night accommodation in Jasper
1 night accommodation in Banff International Hotel
in Banff
1 night accommodation in Revelstoke Mountain
Resort or similar in Revelstoke
@ ¢650.00 per person
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Norwegian
Fjords Cruise
On board Koningsdam, Holland America
Sunday 7 August | We meet the
tour leader at Malta International
Airport at 05.40am for check in on
Airmalta flight KM394 departing to
Amsterdam at 07.40am. We land
in Schiphol Airport at 10.50am.
On our way to the cruise terminal
for check in formalities, we drive
around Amsterdam, the capital of the
Netherlands. It is the country’s largest
city with its financial, cultural, and
creative centre. Our adventure begins
as soon as you embark on the MS
Koningsdam. We prepare ourselves
for an unforgettable seven night
Northern Norwegian Fjords Cruise as
it leaves the port at around 04.00pm.
Monday 8 August | We have a
relaxing day at sea to explore the
beautiful ship. On this day we have
the opportunity to make use of
the onboard facilities and join the
activities with the animation team.
Why not relax by the pool whilst
sipping a nice cocktail.
Tuesday 9 August | After breakfast
we have another exciting day ahead.
Today we proceed to Bergen, the
second largest city in Norway. It is
the gateway to fjord country. Bergen
is surrounded by steep forested
mountains and has the lively feel of a
university town. Experience Bergen’s
greatest attractions. We walk
along the Bryggen pier where the
German office of Hanseatic League
of Merchants was once located. We
pass the famous fish & flower Market
and board the funicular for an eight
minute ride to 1,200 feet above sea
level. At the top of Mount Floien we
walk to Skomakerdiket Lake. Here
you can experience a breathtaking
panoramic view of Bergen from the
spacious plateu on the edge of the
mountain top. We return to ship.
Wednesday 10 August | Today
we cruise the world famous
Geirangerfjord. This is one of nature’s
masterpieces. Its description as
“the world most beautiful fjord”
is no exaggeration and it is amid
this dramatic mountain magic that
we experience some spectacular
views. It is the picture perfect fjord
town. The nearby, Seven sisters
Waterfall are truly magnificent and
fall from a height of 5000 feet. A
kayak is the best way to experience
nature’s overwhelming beauty in
Geirangerfjord. On this tour you
will travel through the village of
Geiranger and wind your way 4,500
feet to the top of Mount Dalsnibba,
where you can see your ship. Pass the
village small church and local farms
as you venture into the highlands.
Finally, twist through 11 hairpins
turns to the Eagle Bend for the best
views of the Seven Sisters Waterfall.
On this excursion you will also visit
the Flydals Gorge and Norwegian
Fjordsenter.
Thursday 11 August | After a lavish
breakfast on board the ship, we go
for an optional excursion to Alesund,
which is the commercial capital of the
More and Romsdal District. The city
with a population of 41,000 has one
of Norway’s largest fishing harbours
with a rich and lively history behind
it. The picturesque fishing port at
the mouth of Stor Fjord spans two
islands and features delightful are
nouveau architecture, stone towers,
spires and medieval facades. Enjoy
the breathtaking views of Alesund,
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from ¢1549
7-14 August
PRICE PER PERSON
Inside Cat L
Cat K / J
Outside Cat F/E
Cat D/C
Balcony
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¢1559 ¢1809
¢1859 ¢ 1959
¢1899 ¢1999
¢2119 ¢2219
PRICE INCLUDES
the surrounding islands, the fjords
and the Sunmore Alps from Mount
Askla / Fjellstua vantage point. The
coach will drive you from the Town
Park to Fjellstua, which is situated
at the top. You will find here an
outdoor restaurant, café and a
platform to enjoy the view. Alesund
greatest attraction is a must see!
Friday 12 August | Our last port
of call is Eidfjord, the World best
kept ice climbing secret. Eidfjord
was for long a hidden secret and
until recently, only a handful of
routes had been climbed in this
Norwegian ice climbing Mekka.
We drive through the village of
Eidfjord before we continue up the
steep Mabodalen Valley. Here we
view the Voringsfossen Waterfalls.
The majestic falls cascade almost
600 feet into the wild Mabo Valley
below.
Saturday 13 August | Although it
is our last day at Sea, on such a trip
there is never a dull moment. Our
day at sea is packed with activities,
from deck games to entertainment.
We can shop onboard from the
boutiques or we can indulge
ourselves to a full body massage at
the spa. Tonight we are instructed
to leave our luggage outside our
room as bags are transported
ashore by Holland America Cruise
Personnel early the following
morning.
Return Airmalta flights to Amsterdam
7 nights Norwegian Fjords Cruise on Full board basis
on board the MS Koningsdam by Holland America
Lines
Daily Entertainment and use of onboard facilities
Return transfers
Airport taxes, Port charges & Fuel Surcharge
Tour Leader
Gratuities of $12.50 (Approx. ¢11.50) per person per
day are to be paid on board
Excursions to be taken from on board the ship.
Travel Insurance is optional but highly recommended.
Sunday 14 August | Our ship
docks in Amsterdam at 07.00am.
We enjoy a very early breakfast
onboard the wonderful Ms
Konningsdam before our dream
holiday comes to an end. We
disembark and we are immediately
transferred to Schiphol Airport for
check in on Airmalta flight KM395
which is scheduled to leave at
11.50am and arrive in Malta at
2.50pm.
| 23
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Mediterranean
Cruise
from ¢1529
On board the Vision of the Seas
Saturday 13 August | We meet our
tourleader at Malta International
Airport at 06.20am for check in our
flight departing to Linate Airport
at 08.20am. We land in Milan at
around 10.15pm. Our private coach
will take us to Venice Port where
we will embark at around 1.00pm.
Upon embarkation we will be
assigned our cabin. Our adventure
begins as soon as we embark the
Vision of the Seas. We prepare
ourselves for an unforgettable
7night cruise around Montenegro
and the Greek Islands as the ship
leaves the port at around 5.00pm.
Sunday 14 August | Our first
port of call is Kotor, Montenegro.
Located where the Balkans meet
the Adriatic, Kotor sits on a deep
bay surrounded by soaring cliffs. A
hilltop fortress stands guard over
the walled medieval Old Town,
where you’ll find small piazzas,
elegant palazzos, lively cafes and
shops. Kotor boasts of Venetians
architectural influences dating the
middle-ages and is surrounded by
an impressive, well preserved city
wall protected by UNESCO. Once
in Kotor you will soon see why
the town was deemed a World
Heritage Site as it offers its visitors
a remarkably well preserved town
centre with important buildings
such as the cathedral of Sveti
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Tripun, Saviour the beautiful
atmosphere of this true gem of
town before returning back to the
ship.
Monday 15 August | After
breakfast, we arrive in Corfu, it
is known as the Emerald Island
because of its lush greenery and
breathtaking beauty. Corfu is one
of the hidden treasures of the seven
Ionian Islands. Take an opportunity
to tour the Anchilleion Palace, built
by the Empress Elizabeth of Austria
in 1891. View her breathtaking
gardens as well as the spectacular
panoramic view.
Tuesday 16 August | Today we
arrive in Pireaus. It is the main
port of Athens, the biggest port in
Greece, one of the leading ports in
the Mediterranean, an important
centre of the merchant marine,
industry and transportation. Piraeus
port is the chief exit point from the
city by sea for destinations amongst
the Aegean Islands and elsewhere
in the east Mediterranean. The
port in Piraeus is also used by
several Europe cruise companies to
welcome visitors to Greece.
Wednesday 17 August | After
breakfast, our ship takes us
to Mykonos. It is the most
famous cosmopolitan island,
a whitewashed paradise in the
heart of the Cyclades. According
to mythology, Mykonos was
formed from the petrified bodies
of giants killed by Hercules.
It is one of the best examples
of Cycladic architecture and a
spellbinding attraction for visitors.
Stroll around its narrow marble
streets and admire whitewashed
houses with colourful doors and
window frames, bougainvillea
trees in purple bloom and hidden
churches. Pay a visit to the church
of Panayia Paraportiani, the Town
hall and the castle situated above
the harbour. Wander around the
pedestrian shopping streets of
the Hóra, always colourful and
busy. The most glamorous of all
is Matoyánni Street, lined with
brand name stores, charming
cafés and stylish restaurants. Soak
up the atmosphere along the
lively waterfront and admire a fleet
of fishing boats casting colourful
reflections in the azure waters.
Thursday 18 August | Morning at
leisure to experience the ship. Late
morning we arrive in Argostoli. It
is the largest of the Ionian Islands
which is perfect for nature and
history lovers. Discover rugged
mountain forests, golden beaches,
dramatic coastline. In the port
of Argostoli explore a vibrant
culture shaped by a rich past. Near
Argostoli, just outside of Skala, are
the ruins of the ancient Roman Villa.
Don’t leave Argostoli without trying
a few of their local specialities.
Friday 19 August | Today we have
a relaxing day at sea to explore
this beautiful ship. On this day
we have the opportunity to make
use of onboard facilities or join
the activities with the animation
team. Why not relax by the pool
whilst sipping a nice cocktail or
doing a relaxing massage at the
spa. Enjoy the view on the ship
deck while cruising. Although it
is our last day at sea, on such a
trip there is never a dull moment.
Tonight we are instructed to leave
our luggage outside our room as
bags are transported ashore by
Royal Caribbean Personnel early the
following morning.
13-21 August
PRICE PER PERSON
Inside Cabin
Inside Cabin
Outside Cabin
Balcony Cabin
EBD
¢1529
¢1549
¢1699
¢3219
NRM
¢1629
¢1649
¢1799
¢3319
PRICE INCLUDES
Return Airmalta Flights : Malta – Milan - Malta
7 nights cruise on board the Vision of the Seas by
Royal Caribbean on Full board basis
1 night accommodation in a 3 star hotel in Milan on
BB basis
Daily Entertainment and use of onboard facilities
Airport taxes, Port Charges and Fuel Surcharge
Return Airport transfers
Service of tour leader
Tips are extra: ¢96.00 to be paid with full payment
Saturday 20 August | Our ship
docks in Venice at 7.00am. Our
coach will keep luggage for us and
we can explore the city of Venice.
Then late afternoon the coach
will transfer us to Milan Hotel.
Overnight at Hotel.
Sunday 21 August | After breakfast
the coach will transfer to central
Milan for a day excursion. Late
afternoon the coach will take to
Linate Airport for our Airmalta flight
to Malta departing at 9.20pm and
arrive in Malta at 11.15pm.

pdf file - Britannia Tours Malta

Transcription

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