View 2013 Brochure
Transcription
View 2013 Brochure
Abercrombie & Kent Abercrombie & Kent 2013 LUXUrY smALL groUp joUrneYs luxury SMAll GrOuP JOurNEyS INVITATIONAL JOURNEYS 2013 Contact your travel professional or Abercrombie & Kent at: 1411 Opus Place Executive Towers West II, Suite 300 Downers Grove, IL 60515 800 323 7308 (M-F 8-7, Sat 9-1 CST) [email protected] abercrombiekent.com @AKTravel_USA facebook.com/AbercrombieKent 2013 Please call your travel professional or Abercrombie & Kent at 866 252 3836 or visit our web site at akmarcopolo.com. ® ® Marco Polo Club Invitational Journeys Luxury Small Group Journeys Abercrombie & Kent 2013-2014 AntArcticA LUXUrY PrivAte trAveL luxury Private travel AntArcticA Contact your travel professional or Abercrombie & Kent at: Contact your travel professional or Abercrombie & Kent at: facebook.com/AbercrombieKent 2013 2013-2014 1411 Opus Place Executive Towers West II, Suite 300 Downers Grove, IL 60515 800 652 8568 [email protected] abercrombiekent.com @AKTravel_USA 1411 Opus Place Executive Towers West II, Suite 300 Downers Grove, IL 60515 800 652 8403 [email protected] abercrombiekent.com facebook.com/AbercrombieKent @AKTravel_USA ® ® Luxury Private Travel ® LUXUrY smALL groUp joUrneYs 2013 ® 2013 ® Marco Polo Club International Journeys Abercrombie & Kent 2013-2014 connectionS Abercrombie & Kent Abercrombie & Kent INVITATIONAL JOURNEYS Please call your travel professional or Abercrombie & Kent at 866 252 3836 or visit our web site at akmarcopolo.com. Luxury Small Group Journeys 2013-2014 AntArcticA Contact your travel professional or Abercrombie & Kent at: 1411 Opus Place Executive Towers West II, Suite 300 Downers Grove, IL 60515 800 652 8568 [email protected] abercrombiekent.com facebook.com/AbercrombieKent @AKTravel_USA 2013-2014 Antarctica 2013 luxury SMAll GrOuP JOurNEyS Contact your travel professional or Abercrombie & Kent at: ® Marco Polo Club International Journeys AntArcticA 2013-2014 2013 ® ® Luxury Private Travel 1411 Opus Place Executive Towers West II, Suite 300 Downers Grove, IL 60515 800 323 7308 (M-F 8-7, Sat 9-1 CST) [email protected] abercrombiekent.com @AKTravel_USA ® Luxury Small Group Journeys WORLDWIDE HOTEL PORTFOLIO AntArcticA LUXUrY PrivAte trAveL 1411 Opus Place Executive Towers West II, Suite 300 Downers Grove, IL 60515 800 652 8568 [email protected] abercrombiekent.com facebook.com/AbercrombieKent @AKTravel_USA 2013 Please call your travel professional or Abercrombie & Kent at 866 252 3836 or visit our web site at akmarcopolo.com. 2013-2014 AntArcticA Contact your travel professional or Abercrombie & Kent at: facebook.com/AbercrombieKent 1411 Opus Place Executive Towers West II, Suite 300 Downers Grove, IL 60515 800 323 7308 (M-F 8-7, Sat 9-1 CST) [email protected] abercrombiekent.com facebook.com/AbercrombieKent @AKTravel_USA Abercrombie & Kent Abercrombie & Kent Abercrombie & Kent 2013 luxury Private travel 1411 Opus Place Executive Towers West II, Suite 300 Downers Grove, IL 60515 800 652 8403 [email protected] abercrombiekent.com facebook.com/AbercrombieKent @AKTravel_USA INVITATIONAL JOURNEYS Contact your travel professional or Abercrombie & Kent at: Marco Polo Club International Journeys Contact your travel professional or Abercrombie & Kent at: Abercrombie & Kent ® Luxury Small Group Journeys 2013 2013 luxury SMAll GrOuP JOurNEyS 2013 2013 Please call your travel professional or Abercrombie & Kent at 866 252 3836 or visit our web site at akmarcopolo.com. Antarctica LUXUrY smALL groUp joUrneYs ABERCROMBIE & KENT LUXUrY smALL groUp joUrneYs INVITATIONAL JOURNEYS Contact your travel professional or Abercrombie & Kent at: 1411 Opus Place Executive Towers West II, Suite 300 Downers Grove, IL 60515 800 323 7308 (M-F 8-7, Sat 9-1 CST) [email protected] abercrombiekent.com facebook.com/AbercrombieKent @AKTravel_USA Abercrombie & Kent Abercrombie & Kent 2013 luxury SMAll GrOuP JOurNEyS CONNECTIONS Abercrombie & Kent 2013 ® Private Luxury Travel Antarctica AntArcticA connectionS AntArcticA Contact your travel professional or Abercrombie & Kent at: 2013-2014 1411 Opus Place Executive Towers West II, Suite 300 Downers Grove, IL 60515 800 652 8568 [email protected] abercrombiekent.com @AKTravel_USA facebook.com/AbercrombieKent ® Private Luxury Travel Antarctica WOrldWide GrOup JOurneys Connections Worldwide Group Journeys WORLDWIDE HOTEL PORTFOLIO Contact your travel professional or Abercrombie & Kent at: 1411 Opus Place Executive Towers West II, Suite 300 Downers Grove, IL 60515 800 652 8018 ak-connections.com abercrombiekent.com @AKTravel_USA facebook.com/AbercrombieKent 2013 ® Worldwide Hotel Portfolio Connections Worldwide Group Journeys Contact your travel professional or Abercrombie & Kent at: WOrldWide GrOup JOurneys Connections Worldwide Group Journeys WOrldwide Group Journeys Contact your travel professional or Abercrombie & Kent at: 1411 Opus Place Executive Towers West II, Suite 300 Downers Grove, IL 60515 XXX XXX XXX [email protected] abercrombiekent.com facebook.com/AbercrombieKent @AKTravel_USA 1411 Opus Place Executive Towers West II, Suite 300 Downers Grove, IL 60515 800 652 8018 ak-connections.com abercrombiekent.com @AKTravel_USA facebook.com/AbercrombieKent 2013 2013 ® Worldwide Hotel Portfolio ® Connections Worldwide Group Journeys Contact your travel professional or Abercrombie & Kent at: 1411 Opus Place Executive Towers West II, Suite 300 Downers Grove, IL 60515 800 652 8018 ak-connections.com abercrombiekent.com facebook.com/AbercrombieKent @AKTravel_USA 2013 ® Venice revealed herself to us in spectacular fashion. A World of Inspiring Connections Dear traveller, When we first launched Abercrombie & Kent 50 years ago in Africa, I dreamed of allowing my guests to make an authentic connection with the lands they visited. Today, I am proud to unveil an entirely new approach to A&K travel, one that combines our tradition of service with neverbefore-seen value. I am proud to introduce Connections by Abercrombie & Kent. Connections journeys are created by on-the-ground experts working out of our 50 local offices worldwide, the same dedicated people who have made A&K a byword for inspiring travel for five decades. All the destinations profiled in this book are ripe for discovery the A&K way: in comfort and with the finest Tour Directors and local guides at your side. Enjoy reading this brochure, and start dreaming of all the places A&K can take you. Geoffrey Kent Founder, Chairman & CEO Abercrombie & Kent 800 652 8018 / ak-connections.com 1 throughout our journey, we found ourselves in places only the locals knew. Table of Contents 2013 Worldwide Group Journeys 16 Italy: Renaissance Cities 18 Italy: South to North 22 France: Art & Artistry 24 Spain: Seven Cities 26 Eastern Europe: Budapest, Vienna & Prague 28 Croatia: Jewel of the Coast 30 East Africa: Tanzania & Kenya 34 Morocco: Kasbahs & Medinas 36 Egypt: Ancient Kingdoms 40 China: Life Along the Yangtze 44 Southeast Asia: Thailand, Cambodia & Vietnam 48 India: Spiritual Splendors 50 Australia: Adventure Down Under 52 Peru: Land of the Incas 54 North America: Canyons of the Southwest 56 North America: Yellowstone 58 North America: Canadian Rockies For an overview of all departures, refer to page 66. 800 652 8018 / ak-connections.com 3 within no time, we had learned to decipher hieroglyphics like a native expert. What Does It Mean to Connect? Imagine yourself visiting Egypt, exploring the tombs in the Valley of the Kings on the west bank of the Nile. Emerging from one tomb, you observe your Tour Director waving for you to join him in conversation with a local man. This turns out to be one of the tomb’s caretakers who, speaking through your guide, provides a unique firsthand perspective on the challenges and rewards of maintaining these treasures of antiquity. All at once, your visit takes on an added dimension. Through this encounter, unique and spontaneous, you have made an unforgettable connection both to Egypt’s past and its present — one which virtually no other traveller can match. Moments such as this lie at the heart of Connections travel. Authentic, surprising and backed by peerless local expertise, Connections journeys by Abercrombie & Kent bring out the best in every destination you visit. 800 652 8018 / ak-connections.com 5 with both sunrise and afternoon visits, we appreciated every facet of the Taj Mahal’s beauty. The Abercrombie & Kent Difference What makes A&K unique? For 50 years, Abercrombie & Kent has set the standard for luxury adventure travel, bringing five-star comfort and uncompromising service to exotic lands the world over. Today, we are launching a new tier of A&K travel that brings our incomparable experience and expertise to a whole new world of travellers. Connections by Abercrombie & Kent offers one-on-one connections with the world’s most intriguing places and cultures. For explorers at heart who refuse to skimp on inspiration and enrichment, Connections journeys offer something never before possible: a chance to discover the world in the company of unmatched local experts, at an unbeatable value. Fifty Local Offices. One Impeccable Standard. Abercrombie & Kent knows there is simply no substitute for having local staff on the ground, experts with beyond-theguidebook knowledge of what makes your destination tick. That is why A&K operates 50 independent offices around the globe, employing hundreds of full-time local experts. These men and women have spent decades, and in some cases lifetimes, getting to know the people and places you will encounter on your journey, and their insights are what make Connections journeys so special. Our on-the-ground approach extends to all areas of our operations. We train our own staff, maintain our own vehicles and oversee every detail of your journey with consummate expertise. 800 652 8018 / ak-connections.com 7 Connecting to the World’s Greatest Places How Connections journeys deliver unmatched value Great Value from Beginning to End Connections travel delivers what you value most in a vacation: a true understanding of your destination’s culture, history and natural beauty, without the extra amenities that make up a typical luxury journey. Our commitment to great value shines through in every aspect of your journey, from the hotels handselected by our local experts to the Tour Directors who make sure you get the most from every stop on your itinerary — read on for more details. Jean Bernard-Coudon, A&K Morocco “I designed Morocco: Kasbahs & Medinas to introduce you to the many wonderful facets of my home country, from the timeless beauty of Fez to the warmth and hospitality of Marrakech.” 8 / 2013 The Finest Local Experts Your A&K Tour Director brings your itinerary to life with one-of-a-kind local insight. Part storyteller, part scholar and part expert organizer, the Tour Director oversees your Connections journey from beginning to end, answering questions (usually before you think to ask them) and engaging every single member of the travelling party in the wonders of your destination. Assisting the Tour Director are local guides who lend your journey additional expertise and insight that only come from a longtime native. Pedro Barraza, A&K South America “Our Tour Directors may come from all walks of life, but they have one thing in common: an incredible passion for their homeland that comes out in every visit, every meal and every local interaction.” Small Groups of Just 24-28 Guests Other travel companies tout “average group sizes” of as many as 44 passengers — meaning you can end up travelling with even more than that. In order to truly connect you to your destination, Connections journeys are limited to no more than 24-28 guests. That means more one-on-one local connections, less time spent boarding and disembarking vehicles and plenty of personal interaction with your A&K Tour Director. 800 652 8018 / ak-connections.com 9 Hotels Selected by A&K Experts Your accommodations are more than a place to lay your head at night: they are an important way of experiencing the character of your destination. Ranging from spacious resorts to boutique lodgings, the hotels and lodges on Connections itineraries are chosen by local A&K experts for their amenities, local character and proximity to the places that make your destination unique. Sujata Raman, A&K Australia “For the perfect ‘home base’ for a visit to the Great Barrier Reef, we chose Peppers Beach Club for its open-air design and close proximity both to the reef and to the Daintree Rainforest.” 10 / 2013 Irresistible Dining Opportunities Connections journeys offer a balance between planned meals at restaurants rich in local flavor and history — not to mention festive welcome and farewell dinners — and meals left free to allow you to explore and discover independently. Not sure where to start? Ask an expert: your A&K Tour Director is ready with suggestions to satisfy any palate. Friendly Service From the Moment You Arrive When you arrive in country for your Connections itinerary, your A&K representative is on hand to welcome you and escort you to your first lodging, a preview of the close personalized service you will receive throughout your journey. Vikram Madhok, A&K India “The first thing you see when you arrive in India is an A&K representative holding our famous yellow sign. Once you see that sign, you can relax — everything is going to run smoothly.” 800 652 8018 / ak-connections.com 11 Choose Your Journey With Confidence Travel with A&K, and travel with peace of mind What does it mean to book with confidence? It means knowing that your journey is going to run, guaranteed; that the price you pay is always the best price; and that the company you choose has an unmatched record of acclaim. Departures and Prices Guaranteed logo Select2C thisline:brochure (topdepartures line: PMS Cool Gray 7 Cin bottom PMS 295 C) are guaranteed to operate with a minimum of only two guests. In addition, every group journey is led from start to finish by an A&K Tour Director. The A&K Price Assurance (see page 64) ensures that you always pay the lowest possible price for your vacation — so if the price on your journey is reduced after booking, 2C logo (top line: PMS Cool Gray 7 C bottom line: PMS 295 C) A&K will refund you the difference immediately. 12 / 2013 All-inclusive Value: Transfers & Gratuities Award-Winning Standards, Time and Time Again Included in your Connections journey price are your arrival and departure transfers, no matter which airline you choose or whether you book your flights or have us do it for you. Most taxes and gratuities are also included up front — Connections journeys end with inspiring memories, not surprise fees. Year after year, A&K’s inspiring journeys win the recognition and praise of travellers and travel professionals alike. The same dedicated experts and staff who have made A&K a byword for quality are the ones working behind the scenes to make your Connections journey as perfect as it can be — award-winning service on every departure. A Great Fit for Solo Travellers Solo travellers are welcome on all Connections departures, where single accommodations are available on every stop on the itinerary. Group journeys are a great fit for the solo traveller: all the planning is taken care of for you, and there is always a like-minded fellow guest with whom to share a meal or discuss the day’s sightseeing. 800 652 8018 / ak-connections.com 13 Connections by Abercrombie & Kent 2013 Destinations Start planning your next great adventure today. CANADA czech republic FRANCE SPAIN UNITED STATES austria hungary croatia italy morocco egypt kenya tanzania Peru Connections Destinations Additional A&K Destinations 14 / 2013 What sets Connections journeys apart from the rest? • Hundreds of dedicated local experts in 50 offices around the world • Decades-long relationships that give us prime access to your destination’s best sites • Unprecedented value for travellers who value authenticity over luxury China • World-renowned resident Tour Directors and local experts • Small groups of no more than 24-28 guests INDIA thailand • Authentic, characterful hotels in the best locations vietnam • Guaranteed Departures on select dates cambodia • Price Assurance insures you pay the lowest possible price • Round-the-clock support no matter where in the world you are australia Your Journey Begins Here Read the following pages and discover a world of inspiring travel made possible only with Abercrombie & Kent. A&K Destination Specialists are on hand at 800 652 8018 Monday through Friday (8-7 CST) and on Saturday (9-1 CST); you may also find more information online, at ak-connections.com. When you’re ready to take the next step, call us or consult your travel professional. 800 652 8018 / ak-connections.com 15 The unmistakable Duomo in Florence. Italy: Renaissance Cities Priced from $4,380 Limited to 28 Guests | 8 Days | 13 Meals Connections at a Glance Venice Discover your destination through these local connections. A D R I AT I C SEA Florence Siena ITALY TYRRHENIAN SEA Rome Road Rail • Enjoy unique, private access to the atelier (workshop) that produces Venice’s carnival costumes, and tour the palace that houses it. • Visit the Uffizi Gallery in Florence accompanied by a specialist art guide. • Stop at a farm near Siena for lunch and an opportunity to sample local honey and saffron. • Join a fun night out, learning the secrets of pizza making from an authentic Roman piazziaolo. • Visit a traditional Florentine enoteca, where the owner guides you through tastings of the various Italian wines. Day 1: Arrive in Rome Arrive and transfer to your hotel. Later, meet your fellow guests for a welcome dinner. Rome Marriott Grand Hotel Flora / Dinner Day 2: rome / City of Empire Explore the seat of the former Roman Empire, visiting the Roman Forum and Palatine, the Colosseum and the theatrical Piazza Navona, once a Roman racetrack and now the setting for Bernini’s awe-inspiring sculptures. Rome also gave its name to romance, and nowhere is that more apparent than at the spectacular Trevi Fountain. You also visit the Pantheon, originally a Roman temple to the gods, and the magnificent Castel Sant’Angelo, which overlooks the Tiber River. Rome Marriott Grand Hotel Flora / Breakfast, Lunch 16 / 2013 Day 3: rome / The Vatican This morning, visit Vatican City and explore the treasures of the Vatican Museums, including the Sistine Chapel with its famous frescoes by Michelangelo. Continue to St. Peter’s Basilica, a Renaissance and Baroque masterpiece. Explore the city at your leisure this afternoon, and tonight, learn the secrets of pizza making from an authentic Roman piazziaolo. Rome Marriott Grand Hotel Flora / Breakfast, Dinner Day 4: Florence / The Heart of Tuscany Depart for Florence this morning, stopping en route for a visit to the scenic Tuscan town of Siena, built on three hills and enclosed by a series of walls and gates. Visit Siena’s Duomo, considered to be one of the finest Gothic cathedrals in Italy. Afterward, continue to a nearby farm for a light lunch and an opportunity to sample local honey and saffron. Arrive in Florence later this afternoon. Hotel Brunelleschi / Breakfast, Lunch Day 5: Florence / Treasures of the Renaissance Set out to discover this vast and beautiful monument to the Renaissance, a city transformed by artists such as Botticelli, Michelangelo and Donatello into one of the world’s great capitals of the arts. A specialist art guide accompanies you on visits to the Uffizi Gallery, housing some of the world’s most important art treasures, as well as the Bargello, which contains Italy’s finest collection of Renaissance sculpture. Enjoy a light lunch before visiting a traditional Florentine enoteca, where the owner conducts a tasting of the various regional wines. Hotel Brunelleschi / Breakfast, Lunch local connections Venice is renowned for its yearly carnival, so we included a peek behind the scenes at the workshop where the famous carnival costumes are made. Day 6: venice / Europe’s Drawing Room Depart Florence this morning aboard a high-speed train to Venice. On arrival, transfer along the Grand Canal to St. Mark’s Square, known as the “drawing room of Europe,” for a walking tour of the square that includes St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace. End the day with a Venetian spritz looking out over the Grand Canal. Hotel Danieli / Breakfast Day 7: Venice / City of Splendors This morning, enjoy a taste of local life with a visit to the market district around the Rialto Bridge. Visit the nearby Frari Church, considered one of the most imposing Gothic monuments in Venice, where you can admire timeless works by Bellini and Titian. End your morning with a special private visit to the long-serving atelier (workshop) for Venice’s iconic carnival costumes, housed in a Venetian palace that is still home to one of the oldest families in the city. Tour the palace, and then learn about the history of the costumes and how they are made. Mark the end of your journey with a festive farewell dinner. Hotel Danieli / Breakfast, Dinner Dates & Pricing Journeys in bold are guaranteed to operate. Apr 09-16 Apr 30-May 07 May 14-21 Jun 11-18 Jul 30-Aug 06 Aug 20-27 Land arrangements: Double occupancy Triple occupancy Single supplement Sep 03-10 Oct 01-08 Oct 15-22 Apr-Jun; Sep-Oct Jul-Aug $4,675$4,380 $4,310$4,115 $1,440$1,200 A&K is happy to arrange your international air or pre-/post-itinerary hotel nights. Contact A&K for details. Hotel Spotlight Take a closer look at this journey’s inspiring accommodations. Day 8: Depart Venice Transfer to the airport for your flight home. Breakfast Hotel Danieli Combines a magnificent atmosphere with easy access to Piazza San Marco. Hotel Brunelleschi Once the property of a Renaissance nobleman, now a contemporary haven. Visit ak-connections.com for photos of all the hotels on this journey. 800 652 8018 / ak-connections.com 17 Italy: South to North Priced from $7,270 Limited to 28 Guests | 13 Days | 21 Meals Venice Connections at a Glance Discover your destination through these local connections. Cinque Terre Florence • Take a walk through Rome’s Trastevere district with a local resident. • Learn the secrets of Florentine cuisine from your chef, who guides you in an Italian culinary class. • Enjoy unique, private access to the atelier (workshop) that crafts Venice’s carnival costumes, and tour the palace that houses it. • Meet a local buffalo mozzarella producer on his farm to sample this delicious cheese and learn firsthand how it is made. • Lunch with a family who produces celebrated balsamic vinegar and sample this local favorite. A D R I AT I C SEA Siena ITALY Rome TYRRHENIAN SEA Naples Sorrento Road Rail Day 1: Arrive in Naples Arrive in Naples and transfer to your hotel. Meet your fellow guests at tonight’s welcome dinner. Hilton Sorrento Palace / Dinner Day 2: Sorrento / The Amalfi Coast Embark on a walking tour of Sorrento, a Belle Ėpoque treasure of elegant streets with a stunning view across the Bay of Naples. Travel along the famously scenic Amalfi Coast, pausing in Positano, a town built into the cliff face, before continuing to delightful Amalfi. Visit the 10th-century Duomo fronted by a beautifully colored 13thcentury façade. Hilton Sorrento Palace / Breakfast Day 3: Sorrento / The Island of Capri Start your journey this morning with a cruise by hydrofoil to the 18 / 2013 The town of Positano on the Analfi Coast. Mediterranean island paradise of Capri. You may visit the town of Capri via cable car, and also take a boat to the iridescent Blue Grotto. This afternoon, meet a local buffalo mozzarella producer and learn how the cheese is made before enjoying a sample. Hilton Sorrento Palace / Breakfast Day 4: rome / Secrets of Pompeii Travel north this morning to Rome, stopping en route in the ancient city of Pompeii, which was buried in volcanic ash and essentially frozen in time when Mount Vesuvius erupted in AD 79. The excavated city now offers incredible insights into Roman life. A specialist local guide joins you to bring this extraordinary place to life. After lunch, resume your journey north, arriving in Rome in the late afternoon. This evening, explore the Trastevere district with a local resident, ending with a wine-tasting and dinner. St. Regis Rome / Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Day 5: Rome / The Empire & the Vatican Journey through history today with a visit to the Imperial Roman Forum, the ancient political, commercial and religious center of Roman life. Afterward, visit the Colosseum where gladiators fought pitched battles with each other and wild beasts before crowds of over 50,000 spectators. Continue to Vatican City. View the treasures of the Vatican Museums, including the Sistine Chapel with its unparalleled frescoes by Michelangelo. Visit St. Peter’s Basilica, with its elaborate interior of marble, mosaic, gilt and bronze. St. Regis Rome / Breakfast Jonathan White, A&K Europe “From the great cities of Rome, Florence and Venice to the quaint beauty of Capri and the Cinque Terre, this journey offers a truly comprehensive Italian experience.” one of the most widely copied buildings in the Western world. Later, stop at the iconic Trevi Fountain and then continue to the charming Campo de Fiori, whose local food market delights the senses. Spend your afternoon exploring at leisure. St. Regis Rome / Breakfast Day 7: Siena / Tuscan Treasures Travel north this morning to the famed region of Tuscany, stopping en route in the scenic Tuscan town of Siena. Here your local expert introduces you to the Piazza del Campo, one of the finest main squares in Italy, and the Palazzo Pubblico, which has served as Siena’s town hall since the 14th century. In the afternoon, visit Siena’s Duomo, one of the finest Gothic cathedrals in Italy. Continue through the Tuscan countryside to the elegant spa town of Montecatini Terme. Grand Hotel & La Pace Spa / Breakfast, Dinner Day 6: Rome / The City in Depth Visit the Piazza Navona, today dominated by the remarkable Baroque Fountain of the Four Rivers, and continue to the Pantheon, 800 652 8018 / ak-connections.com 19 A morning mist shrouds the Tuscan countryside. Day 8: Cinque Terre / Beauty Along the Coast Discover the extraordinary beauty of the Cinque Terre (“Five Lands”), five scenic villages built along the steep coastal cliffs of Liguria on the Italian Riviera. Board the local train at Levanto and visit Vernazza, a beautiful village consisting of tall, colorful houses and a church clustered together at the head of a sheltered cove; partially buried in a 2011 mudslide, the town has been rebuilt and restored to its former glory. Manarola is a fishing village set amid terraced vineyards where you can walk to view the coast and visit other neighboring villages. You may also wish to visit Riomaggiore, a medieval village set in a narrow valley. Continue to Florence, considered the birthplace of the Renaissance. Hotel Brunelleschi / Breakfast, Lunch Day 9: Florence / The Renaissance Come to Life Florence is a vast and beautiful monument to the Renaissance, and Michelangelo, Botticelli and Donatello were its artist laureates, transforming the city into one of the world’s greatest centers of fine art. A specialist art guide accompanies you on visits to the Uffizi Gallery, housing some of the world’s most important art treasures, and the Bargello, which contains Italy’s finest collection of Renaissance sculpture. After lunch at leisure, drive out to the hills surrounding Florence to visit Villa Castello and Villa della Petraia, home to two outstanding terraced gardens created by the Medici family in the 15th century. Hotel Brunelleschi / Breakfast, Dinner Day 10: Florence / Tuscan Flavors The excavated ruins of Pompeii. 20 / 2013 Savor the sights of the central market hall before enjoying a threehour culinary class, where your chef shares the secrets of Florentine local connections Italy is a food-lover’s paradise. That’s why we have arranged a three-hour private cooking lesson with a Florentine chef — and of course, you can enjoy the results for lunch! cooking. Enjoy the fruits of your labor for lunch, and then spend the remainder of the day experiencing the flavor of Florence on your own. Hotel Brunelleschi / Breakfast, Lunch Day 11: Venice / A Culinary Excursion Travelling by coach to Venice, stop en route this morning to enjoy a gastronomic treat: a private tasting of balsamic vinegar in a rustic restaurant owned by a renowned balsamic vinegar producer and his family. Hear the history of vinegar making, and then join the family for a light lunch of local specialties. Afterward, continue to Venice. Hotel Monaco & Grand Canal / Breakfast, Lunch Day 12: Venice / Palaces and Canals Visit St. Mark’s Basilica, with its rich decoration of marbles and golden mosaics, and the Doge’s Palace before continuing to the bustling Rialto district. Top off your morning with a specially arranged visit to the workshop (or atelier) that crafts Venice’s iconic carnival costumes, housed in a Venetian palace still occupied by of one of the oldest families in Venice. Tour the palace, and then learn the history of the costumes and how they are made. Tonight, gather with your fellow guests for a festive farewell dinner. Hotel Monaco & Grand Canal / Breakfast, Dinner Dates & Pricing May 27-Jun 08 Jun 03-15 Land arrangements: Double occupancy Triple occupancy Single supplement Journeys in bold are guaranteed to operate. Jun 17-29 Jul 01-13 Jul 22-Aug 03 Sep 09-21 Oct 14-26 May-Jun; Oct Jul-Aug Sep $7,495 $7,270$7,590 $7,045$6,860 $7,125 $2,300 $2,095$2,380 A&K is happy to arrange your international air or pre-/post-itinerary hotel nights. Contact A&K for details. Hotel Spotlight Take a closer look at this journey’s inspiring accommodations. Day 13: Depart Venice Transfer to the airport for your flight home. Breakfast St. Regis Rome A 2011 Condé Nast Traveler Gold List property near the Trevi Fountain. Grand Hotel & La Pace Spa Situated within a vast private park in Montecatini Terme. Visit ak-connections.com for photos of all the hotels on this journey. 800 652 8018 / ak-connections.com 21 The Eiffel Tower lights up the Paris evening. France: Art & Artistry Priced from $4,760 Limited to 28 Guests | 9 Days | 15 Meals Connections at a Glance Paris Discover your destination through these local connections. B AY O F B I S C AY FRANCE Avignon Nimes Arles Monte Carlo Aix-enProvence Nice Road RAIL • Join a resident Parisian for a walking tour of her neighborhood. • Lunch at a Provençal family farm near St. Remy, featuring your host’s homegrown vegetables. • Stop at a delightful olive oil mill for a tour and tasting. • Visit the private studio of Paul Cezanne in Provence. • Meet a local art student for a lesson in Provençal art history. • Enjoy the art de vivre on the Côte d’Azur with a game of boules, followed by dinner at a countryside restaurant. • Sample the local wine at a private tasting in Aix-en-Provence. • Pay a private visit to a local artist’s studio. Day 1: Arrive in Paris On arriving, transfer to your hotel, and later, meet your fellow guests over champagne at the hotel’s historic Champagne Bar. Radisson Blu le Dokhan’s Hotel, Paris Trocadero / Dinner Day 2: Paris / The City of Light Explore Paris, starting at the historic Notre Dame Cathedral. Continue to Sainte Chapelle and the Left Bank, meandering through the charming streets of the Latin Quarter. Pass by La Sorbonne, and then cross the river to the lovely Marais district. Continue to the stunning Champs-Elysées, capped by the famous Arc de Triomphe. End your tour at the iconic Eiffel Tower. The rest of the day is at leisure. Radisson Blu le Dokhan’s Hotel, Paris Trocadero / Breakfast 22 / 2013 Day 3: Paris / An Artistic Treasure Trove Spend the morning at the Louvre Museum, home to one of the world’s most famous and distinguished art collections. Highlights include the Venus de Milo, Ghirlandaio’s The Visitation and Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa. Afterward, join a Parisian for a fascinating walk through the markets in her neighborhood, meeting local vendors. Later, have dinner in a nearby restaurant. Radisson Blu le Dokhan’s Hotel, Paris Trocadero / Breakfast, Dinner Day 4: Avignon / Papal Estates Travel south to Avignon by TGV high-speed train. Visit the Palais des Papes, a 14th-century palace built as Avignon’s papal capital. The city overlooks the River Rhône and is the strategic point of the valley. From the fortress’ ramparts, you can see the Pont d’Avignon. Avignon Grand Hotel / Breakfast, Dinner Day 5: St-Remy-de-Provence & Arles / Country Charms Explore the French countryside, immortalized by Vincent van Gogh. Visit St. Paul de Mausole, the asylum where the famous painter was voluntarily interned for a year. Continue to Arles, exploring its Roman amphitheater, cathedral and Place du Forum, where Van Gogh painted his famous Café at Night. After a rustic French lunch featuring homegrown produce at a family-owned farm, continue to Les Baux-de-Provence. The main attractions near this cliffside village are its Celtic and Roman ruins. End the afternoon with a stop at an olive oil mill for a tasting of this flavorful local product. Avignon Grand Hotel / Breakfast, Lunch local connections Because no journey to France would be complete without an authentic French wine experience, we take you to a Provençal château for a private wine tasting. Day 6: NÎmes / Roman Wonder Visit a family-run company helping to keep the art of traditional textile printing alive, and meet a member of the family. Then drive to Nîmes to explore the city’s stunning architecture, including the amphitheater, which once held 24,000 spectators for gladiatorial combats and chariot races. En route back to Avignon, stop at the Roman ruins of Pont du Gard. Avignon Grand Hotel / Breakfast Day 7: Aix-en-Provence / Cezanne’s Hometown Drive through the Provençal countryside to the 17th-century town of Aix-en-Provence. Visit the studio of Paul Cézanne for an intimate look at one of the founders of modern art. Afterward, share lunch with a local art student who introduces you to the artists who called Provence home. Stroll through the picturesque streets to admire the fountains, colorful market shops and bustling cafés. Pause at a château for a tour and private wine tasting. Continue to Monaco, where you have a chance to visit the famous casino. Fairmont Monte Carlo / Breakfast, Lunch Dates & Pricing Apr 12-20 May 03-11 Journeys in bold are guaranteed to operate. May 31-Jun 08 Jun 07-15 Land arrangements: Double occupancy Triple occupancy Single supplement Jun 28-Jul 06 Aug 16-24 Oct 11-19 Oct 18-26 Apr-May; Oct 18 Jun-Aug; Oct 11 $4,760 $4,995 $4,590 $4,750 $1,495 $1,670 A&K is happy to arrange your international air or pre-/post-itinerary hotel nights. Contact A&K for details. Hotel Spotlight Take a closer look at this journey’s inspiring accommodations. Day 8: Nice / Coastal Gems Transfer to Nice and enjoy a private visit to a local artist’s studio, followed by a lunch of Niçoise specialties. Pay a visit to the medieval village of Eze for a glimpse of how locals live and to take part in a fun-filled game of boules. Head back to Monte Carlo for a special farewell dinner. Fairmont Monte Carlo / Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Day 9: Depart monte carlo Transfer to the airport for your flight home. Breakfast Radisson Blu le Dokhan’s Hotel, Paris Trocadero A former private residence in the 16th arrondissement. Fairmont Monte Carlo Stunning Mediterranean views and a luxurious spa set this resort apart. Visit ak-connections.com for photos of all the hotels on this journey. 800 652 8018 / ak-connections.com 23 The Plaza de España, Seville. Spain: Seven Cities SPAIN Limited to 28 Guests | 10 Days | 17 Meals Connections at a Glance Barcelona Discover your destination through these local connections. BALEARIC SEA Madrid Seville Priced from $5,495 Córdoba Granada Gibraltar Marbella ALBORAN SEA • Sample savory Spanish olive oil at a private tasting in Granada. • Attend a private recital by an ensemble of Andalusian musicians. • Visit an authentic bodega to privately sample sherry in the famed region of Jerez. • Savor the authentic taste of Seville on an evening tapas tour. • Travel via horse drawn carriage to a private palace in Seville for dinner with the owners. • Enjoy an unforgettable private performance by local flamenco dancers and singers from the Santa Cruz district. Road AIR Rail Day 1: Arrive in Barcelona Your A&K representative greets you on arrival and escorts you to your hotel. Get to know your fellow guests at tonight’s welcome dinner. El Palace Hotel Barcelona / Dinner Day 2: Barcelona / Heart of Catalonia Explore this vibrant city, beginning with the Boquería, perhaps the finest food market in all Europe. Continue to the Sant Jaume Square, the cathedral and then down into the elegant Eixample district. End your tour with a visit to Gaudi’s sensational Sagrada Familia Basilica. El Palace Hotel Barcelona / Breakfast Day 3: Granada / Spain’s Islamic Heritage Fly to Granada and check in to your historic hotel. This afternoon, 24 / 2013 visit the Alhambra Palace, one of the most beautiful examples of Islamic architecture in the world, and then the extraordinary district of the Albaizín, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in its own right. Later, savor a uniquely Spanish experience: a tasting of local olive oils. Following dinner, enjoy a remarkable recital by an ensemble of world-class Andalucian musicians. Hotel Alhambra Palace / Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Day 4: Marbella / Historic Málaga Depart for Marbella, stopping en route in Málaga to visit the beautifully restored historic center and to see the Picasso and Carmen Thyssen Museums. Continue to Marbella, the finest resort on the south coast of Spain, where the remainder of the afternoon is free to spend as you like. Hotel Fuerte Marbella / Breakfast Day 5: Gibraltar / Europe’s Last Outpost Follow the coast westward to the Rock of Gibraltar, visiting the spectacular St. Michael’s Cave and seeing Gibraltar’s Barbary macaques, the only wild monkeys in all of Europe. Return to Marbella, where the rest of the day is at leisure to explore the shops and restaurants. Hotel Fuerte Marbella / Breakfast, Lunch Day 6: Seville / Ronda and Jerez Journey into the heart of Andalucía, first up the winding hills to Ronda, one the most beautiful “white villages” in all of Spain. Continue through the mountains to Jerez, home of golden sherry, where you visit a bodega to learn about sherry and taste its different varieties. After time at leisure, the road takes you to Seville. This evening, join your fellow guests on a tapas tour through Seville’s finest taverns. Hotel Alfonso XIII / Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner local connections No visit to Spain is complete without flamenco, and so we’ve arranged for a private flamenco performance in a palace where the owners welcome you for dinner. Day 7: Seville / Sunny Santa Cruz Explore this uniquely lovely city: the Royal Palace of the Alcázar, the enormous Gothic cathedral and of course, the f lower-filled Santa Cruz district. The afternoon is at leisure to explore on your own. On this unique and exciting evening, ride a horsedrawn carriage to a beautiful palace, where the owners host your private dinner. Afterward, enjoy an unforgettable performance of flamenco dancing and singing on the patio of this historic home. Hotel Alfonso XIII / Breakfast, Dinner Day 8: CÓrdoba / Streets of Flowers Today the road leads north to Córdoba, where you visit the extraordinary Mezquita, the cathedral and former great mosque of Córdoba, and walk along its flower-lined streets. Later in the afternoon, board your high-speed AVE train to Madrid. Hotel Ritz Madrid / Breakfast Dates & Pricing Journeys in bold are guaranteed to operate. Apr 22-May 01 May 13-22 Jun 17-26 Jun 24-Jul 03 Jul 08-17 Jul 22-31 Land arrangements: Double occupancy Single supplement Sep 02-11 Sep 16-25 Oct 14-23 Apr-Jun 17; Jul-Oct Jun 24 $5,795$5,495 $1,690$1,425 Internal airfare from Barcelona to Grenada included in program cost. A&K is happy to arrange your international air or pre-/post-itinerary hotel nights. Contact A&K for details. Hotel Spotlight Take a closer look at this journey’s inspiring accommodations. Day 9: Madrid / Masterful Art & Architecture This morning, view works by the great Spanish masters El Greco, Velázquez and Goya in the Prado Museum. Afterward, visit the Royal Palace, followed by a short walk to the Plaza Mayor, and the marvelous San Miguel market, where you arrive in time to savor its mouth-watering ensemble of tapas bars for lunch at leisure. This evening, join your Tour Director for a farewell dinner. Hotel Ritz Madrid / Breakfast, Dinner Day 10: Depart Madrid Transfer to the airport for your flight home. Breakfast Hotel Alfonso XIII An iconic 1920s landmark in Moorish style, renovated in 2012. Hotel Ritz Madrid A Baroque palace built in 1910 at the bequest of King Alfonso XIII. Visit ak-connections.com for photos of all the hotels on this journey. 800 652 8018 / ak-connections.com 25 The Charles Bridge in the quiet of dusk, Prague. Eastern Europe: Budapest, Vienna & Prague Priced from $4,335 Limited to 28 Guests | 10 Days | 15 Meals Connections at a Glance Prague Discover your destination through these local connections. CZECH REPUBLIC • Enjoy a private visit to the Opera House in Budapest. • Take an evening cruise along the Danube River. • Learn the art of apple strudel baking at a demonstration by a professional pastry chef. • Attend a music lecture with Edward Kudlak, retired violist with the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. • Practice your waltz with a lesson in one of Vienna’s most prestigious dance schools. • Take a private tour of the ornate library of the Strahov Monastery in Prague. Vienna AUSTRIA Budapest HUNGARY Road Day 1: Arrive in Budapest Arrive in Budapest and meet your A&K representative. This evening, gather with fellow guests at a welcome dinner. InterContinental Budapest / Dinner Day 2: Budapest / Old World Splendors Explore Budapest, starting with a private tour of the palatial State Opera House. Visit the ornate Dohány Street Synagogue, the vast Heroes’ Square and St. Stephen’s Basilica, the city’s largest church. After lunch, ascend Castle Hill, where the former Royal Palace gracefully towers over the Danube. Visit the Matthias Church, where many Hungarian kings have been crowned, and enjoy the stunning views of the city and river. InterContinental Budapest / Breakfast, Lunch 26 / 2013 Day 3: Budapest / The Danube by Twilight Spend the morning strolling among the merchants and local shoppers in the Central Market Hall, at the Pest end of Liberty Bridge. The afternoon is at leisure for you to explore on your own. This evening, enjoy a relaxing private cruise along the Danube. InterContinental Budapest / Breakfast Day 4: Vienna / Pannonhalma Depart Budapest for Vienna. Stop along the way at Pannonhalma, where your local guide leads you on a tour of the 1,000-year-old Benedictine abbey. Afterward, enjoy lunch in the abbey’s restaurant while sampling a range of their wines. Arrive in Vienna this afternoon. Hotel Imperial / Breakfast, Lunch Day 5: Vienna / Home of the Habsburgs Discover the fabulous imperial city of Vienna during a walking tour. Walk along the famous Ringstrasse with its 19th-century buildings, and visit the Hofburg Palace, former home of the Habsburgs. Also visit the Gothic St. Stephen’s Cathedral, whose soaring structure enshrines the heart of Vienna. This afternoon takes you to Schönbrunn Palace for an apple strudel baking lesson and tasting with a professional pastry chef. Hotel Imperial / Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Day 6: Vienna / A Musical History After a morning at leisure, join Edward Kudlak, retired Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra violist, for a talk on Vienna’s incomparable musical heritage. The performance is but a prelude to this evening, when you take part in a private Viennese waltz lesson in one of the city’s most prestigious dance schools. Hotel Imperial / Breakfast local connections Soak up Vienna’s musical heritage with a private lecture and performance by Edward Kudlek, former violist with the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, and a private waltz lesson later that evening. Day 7: Prague / Medieval Telc This morning, depart Vienna for Prague. Stop en route at the medieval Czech town of Telc, famous for its fine Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque buildings, where you may visit the abbey at your leisure. Continue to Prague for an afternoon at leisure, or join your Tour Director for a brief orientation walking tour. InterContinental Prague / Breakfast Day 8: Prague / The Old Town Enjoy a walking tour of the Old Town with its cobbled streets and Jewish Quarter, birthplace of Franz Kafka. See the Gothic Town Hall in Old Town Square, famous for its astronomical clock. Visit the Jewish Museum, which houses the largest collection of Judaica in Europe, along with the Jewish Cemetery. In the afternoon, enjoy an excursion to Prague’s Castle District and visit the Cathedral of St. Vitus. Complete your sightseeing with a visit to the Strahov Monastery, with its glorious Baroque decorations, where you enjoy a private tour of the ornate library. InterContinental Prague / Breakfast Dates & Pricing Apr 23-May 02 May 14-23 Land arrangements: Double occupancy Triple occupancy Single supplement Journeys in bold are guaranteed to operate. May 21-30 Jun 11-20 Jun 18-27 Jul 09-18 Sep 10-19 Oct 08-17 Apr-Jun; Sep-Oct Jul $4,560$4,335 $4,205$4,100 $1,665$1,380 A&K is happy to arrange your international air or pre-/post-itinerary hotel nights. Contact A&K for details. Hotel Spotlight Take a closer look at this journey’s inspiring accommodations. Day 9: Prague / Czech Favorites Today, take an in-depth look at two of the Czech Republic’s bestknown products: Bohemian crystal and Pilsner Urquell beer. You are also welcome to relax and explore on your own. Gather tonight for your farewell dinner. InterContinental Prague / Breakfast, Dinner Day 10: Depart Prague Transfer to the airport for your flight home. Breakfast Hotel Imperial Built in 1863 as a royal palace, located on Vienna’s Ringstrasse. InterContinental Budapest A chic property overlooking the Danube and Budapest landmarks. Visit ak-connections.com for photos of all the hotels on this journey. 800 652 8018 / ak-connections.com 27 The sapphire-blue waters along the Dubrovnik coast. Croatia: Jewel of the Coast Limited to 28 Guests | 9 Days | 16 Meals Connections at a Glance Zagreb Discover your destination through these local connections. CROATIA A D R I AT I C SEA Priced from $3,675 Split Brac • Explore Split’s Mestrovic Gallery as its curator opens its doors to you for a private guided tour. • Meet a local fisherman and sample his harvest of Croatia’s famous oysters. • Attend a private talk in Dubrovnik with a local resident who relates her experiences during the Balkan War. • Meet some of the local traders and craftsmen of Dubrovnik. • Immerse yourself in Croatia’s musical heritage during a local brass band’s performance. MONTENEGRO Dubrovnik Kotor Road Day 1: Arrive in Zagreb On arrival, meet your A&K representative and transfer to your hotel. Gather for a welcome dinner tonight. Regent Esplanade Zagreb / Dinner Day 2: Zagreb / The Stately Capital This morning, take a tour of the Croatian capital. Walk the loveliest parts of Zagreb, seeing the National Theatre, Mimara Museum and Academy of Arts and Sciences. Visit the Ban Jelačić Square, which divides the old town from the newer part of the city. Then ride a funicular, built in 1889, to reach the charming Upper Town quarter from Lower Town. The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore your favorite parts of the capital. Regent Esplanade Zagreb / Breakfast 28 / 2013 Day 3: Split / Plitvice Lakes Drive to the coastal city of Split. En route, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Plitvice Lakes, where emerald forests surround 16 shimmering turquoise lakes linked by a series of breathtaking waterfalls. Enjoy lunch in this spectacularly scenic region before continuing to Split. Radisson Blu Resort / Breakfast, Lunch Day 4: Brac / The View from Vidova Gora Board a ferry to Brač, a Dalmatian island famous for its stone, used in the construction of Split’s Diocletian Palace and the White House in Washington, D.C. In Brac, travel to Vidova Gora, the highest summit of the Adriatic islands, for spectacular views. Enjoy a lunch made from local ingredients. Radisson Blu Resort / Breakfast, Lunch Day 5: Split / The Emperor’s Palace Tour Split, starting with the fascinating Palace of the Emperor Diocletian, built in 295 BC. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure for you to explore at your own pace. You may also visit Riva, a coastal boardwalk lined with palm trees, to soak up the sun and the views of the port and nearby islands. In the late afternoon, take a private tour of the Mestrović Gallery, led by its curator. Marvel at the 86 bronze, marble and wood sculptures fashioned by this talented artist. Radisson Blu Resort / Breakfast, Dinner Day 6: Dubrovnik / The Culinary Road Depart Split for Dubrovnik, stopping first at Ston, world-renowned for its oysters. Meet a local fisherman and sample one of these gastronomic delights on the spot. Savor magnificent seafood at a local restaurant, and then continue along the Pelješac peninsula to a region renowned for its red wine. Visit winemaker Mike Grgich’s birthplace, Trstenik, and his small winery. Continue to Dubrovnik. Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik / Breakfast, Lunch local connections Croatia’s world-famous oysters taste especially fantastic when taken fresh from the sea, as you discover when you meet with a local fisherman. Day 7: Dubrovnik / The City Museum Enjoy a morning tour of Dubrovnik. Proclaimed a “city museum” by UNESCO, the old town is surrounded by a circuit of walls, with a tower in each corner. Along the way, meet some of the local traders and craftspeople in the town’s markets. At morning’s end, a survivor of the Balkan War shares emotional memories of that tumultuous time. Spend the afternoon at leisure, perhaps strolling along the Stradun, the centuries-old main city promenade. Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik / Breakfast, Dinner Day 8: Montenegro / Of Beaches and Mountains Drive along the Konavle Valley to Montenegro, a country of sandy beaches and high mountains. Visit Boka Kotorska, the most southern fjord in Europe, where precipitous mountains rise from azure waters. Continue past Risan and Perast, and visit the Church of Our Lady of the Rocks, a Baroque edifice constructed in 1452 on a man-made islet. Later, visit the walled city of Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, before returning to Dubrovnik for a farewell dinner with your fellow guests, accompanied by music from a local brass band. Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik / Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Day 9: Depart Dubrovnik Transfer to the airport for your flight home. Breakfast Dates & Pricing May 03-11 May 24-Jun 01 Land arrangements: Double occupancy Single supplement Journeys in bold are guaranteed to operate. Jun 07-15 Jun 21-29 Sep 06-14 Sep 13-21 Oct 04-12 May-Jun; Oct Sep $3,675$3,860 $795 $940 A&K is happy to arrange your international air or pre-/post-itinerary hotel nights. Contact A&K for details. Hotel Spotlight Take a closer look at this journey’s inspiring accommodations. Regent Esplanade Zagreb A palatial exterior gives way to art deco glamour and modern amenities. Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik A 100-year-old hotel just steps away from Dubrovnik’s Old Town. Visit ak-connections.com for photos of all the hotels on this journey. 800 652 8018 / ak-connections.com 29 East Africa: Tanzania & Kenya Masai Mara Game Reserve Priced from $5,195 Limited to 24 Guests | 11 Days | 28 Meals Connections at a Glance Discover your destination through these local connections. KENYA • Experience East Africa with the company that pioneered the modern safari adventure, Abercrombie & Kent. • Pay a visit to Ilboru Primary School, one of the few area schools to service special-needs children. • Meet with a Maasai village elder, who welcomes you into the community. • Visit Gibb’s Farm for a fresh lunch and a leisurely walk through the gardens. • Observe a traditional Maasai dance, performed for you by members of the local tribe. Nairobi Serengeti National Park Amboseli Ngorongoro Crater Arusha TANZANIA Road AIR Day 1: Arrive in Arusha Arrive and meet your A&K representative, who escorts you to your hotel in the center of Arusha. The Arusha Hotel Day 2: Arusha / Ngorongoro Crater Start your morning with a visit to Ilboru Primary School, one of the few schools in the region that offers programs for deaf and specialneeds children. Pause at Gibb’s Farm for a lunch prepared from farm-fresh ingredients. Following lunch you have the opportunity to stretch your legs on a walk to the nearby coffee farm and vegetable garden. Continue your journey to Ngorongoro Crater, a collapsed volcano some 10 miles across, and which serves as sanctuary to a stunning array of wildlife. Stay the next two nights at the 30 / 2013 A lion in the Masai Mara. Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge, which offers spectacular views across this 2,000-foot-deep natural amphitheater. Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge / Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Day 3: Ngorongoro Crater / Africa’s Garden of Eden Descend to the crater floor this morning for your first game drive, in an A&K custom safari vehicle. The crater walls serve as a spectacular backdrop to every photo as you begin your search for the “Big Five” (lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos and Cape buffalo), as well as the myriad other animals that populate the crater, including hyenas, zebras, gazelles and flamingos; even the rare and elusive black rhinoceros, one of Africa’s most endangered species, is a resident here. Enjoy a picnic lunch near the hippo pool before continuing with your game drive. The crater lies within the territory of the Maasai: tall, proud, nomadic warriors and herdsmen who continue to co-exist with wildlife as they have for centuries. You may chance to see members of the local tribe driving their herds. This afternoon, meet with a village elder at a nearby Maasai village who introduces you to the village community and its culture and traditions. Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge / Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Day 4: Serengeti National Park / Land of the Migration Depart the crater this morning for Serengeti National Park, a land whose name alone conjures powerful images of nature at its most spectacular. Each year this park is the setting of an awe-inspiring migration, when millions of wildebeest and zebra make their annual trek in search of fresh grasses, trailed by lions, leopards and hyenas hoping to make a kill. Arrive at your lodge early this afternoon with Mark Wheeler, A&K Kenya “Africa is a land of proud, longstanding cultures as well as wildlife, which is why we introduce you to the Maasai tribe and let you discover their unique way of life.” time to settle in. If time permits, take an afternoon game drive for your first taste of this famed reserve and its wildlife. Serengeti Sopa Lodge / Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Day 5: Serengeti National Park / Land of the Migration This morning, you have the option to view the Serengeti from a unique perspective: from a hot air balloon soaring high over the plains (at an additional cost). Following lunch back at your lodge, relax by the pool or in your tent before returning to the Serengeti for an afternoon game drive. Return to your lodge through a golden sunset at the end of a truly wonderful and unforgettable day. Serengeti Sopa Lodge / Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Day 6: Amboseli National Park / Mountain Vistas Transfer to the airstrip this morning for your onward flight to Arusha, where you travel overland to Amboseli National Park. Amboseli is located at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro, and the snow-capped peak of 800 652 8018 / ak-connections.com 31 One of the “Big Five,” the majestic elephant. Africa’s highest mountain dominates every view of the reserve. This is where Ernest Hemingway spun stories of big-game hunting in the African wilds, and it is also home of the Maasai people. Enjoy game viewing en route to your lodge, which is shaded by acacia trees deep in the heart of the park. Between game drives, watch animals graze nearby. Enjoy an evening of entertainment at your lodge, perhaps featuring a demonstration of traditional dance by the local Maasai. Ol Tukai Lodge / Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Day 7: Amboseli National Park / Mountain Vistas Enjoy a full day in Amboseli National Park today, with morning and afternoon game drives. The snows of Kilimanjaro form a backdrop to one of Kenya’s most spectacular displays of wildlife including lions, elephants, leopards, cheetahs, buffalo and hosts of plains game and birds — Amboseli is a photographer’s paradise. Part of the reserve is composed of a dried-up lakebed, which produces mirages in the shimmering heat. Swamps and springs, fed by underground rivers from Kilimanjaro’s melting snows, form permanent watering places for the wildlife in times of drought. Ol Tukai Lodge / Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Day 8: Masai Mara Game Reserve / Jewel of Africa A traditional Maasai dance. 32 / 2013 Depart Amboseli this morning for Nairobi. Lunch today is at Carnivore, an open-air restaurant famous for their game meats. Afterward, board a flight for the Masai Mara Game Reserve, a jewel in Africa’s crown, rich in plains game, predators and birds. Embark on an afternoon game viewing drive before returning to the Fairmont Mara Safari Club, your home for the next three nights. local connections A&K pioneered the luxury safari 50 years ago, and no one does East Africa better. We train our own driver-guides, maintain our own vehicles and oversee every element of your safari, from beginning to end. Perched on the brow of the steep banks of the Mara River, the Mara Safari Club offers a luxurious retreat on the edge of the world’s greatest wilderness. Fairmont Mara Safari Club / Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Days 9-10: Masai Mara Game Reserve / Jewel of Africa Spend the next two days in the Masai Mara with morning and afternoon game viewing each day. The Mara’s 583 square miles of open savanna, woodlands and tree-lined rivers create an ecosystem that supports huge numbers of bird and mammal species. The western border of the park is the spectacular Siria Escarpment, and together with the acacia-dotted plains, creates scenery of stunning beauty. Lions are found in abundance throughout the park, as are elephants, giraffes, a variety of gazelle species and zebras. Cheetahs and leopards are also regularly sighted, and you may even spot rhinos. For an unforgettable view of the reserve, take an optional early morning balloon flight (at an additional cost). Fairmont Mara Safari Club / Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Dates & Pricing Mar 20-30 May 04-14 Journeys in bold are guaranteed to operate. Jun 12-22 Jul 03-13 Aug 02-12 Sep 04-14 Land arrangements: Double occupancy Single supplement Internal airfare: Serengeti/Arusha; Nairobi/Masai Mara Oct 16-26 Dec 11-21 Mar, Jun-Dec May $6,895$5,195 $2,245$1,510 Economy class from $635 A&K is happy to arrange your international air or pre-/post-itinerary hotel nights. Contact A&K for details. Hotel Spotlight Take a closer look at this journey’s inspiring accommodations. Day 11: Depart Nairobi Enjoy a final game drive before driving back to Nairobi. A dayroom is reserved for your use until your transfer to the airport for your flight home. Fairmont The Norfolk Hotel (Dayroom) / Breakfast Fairmont Mara Safari Club The epitome of tented comfort, flanked by the Mara River on three sides. Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge A beautiful lodge perched on the rim of Ngorongoro Crater. Visit ak-connections.com for photos of all the hotels on this journey. 800 652 8018 / ak-connections.com 33 The view through the Blue Gate, Fez. Morocco: Kasbahs & Medinas Priced from $3,395 Limited to 28 Guests | 8 Days | 16 Meals Connections at a Glance Discover your destination through these local connections. AT L A N T I C OCEAN Rabat Casablanca Marrakech • “Everybody comes to Rick’s”: Enjoy a nostalgic welcome dinner at Rick’s Café in Casablanca. • Dine in an authentic riad, where a special guest speaker shares an insider’s view of life in Fez. • Get to know Marrakech with a horse-drawn carriage ride. • Experience Moroccan hospitality when you dine with a family in their home in Marrakech. • Stop at a village in Imlil in the Atlas Mountains, where you meet the local Berber people and visit them in their homes. Fez MOROCCO Road Day 1: Arrive in Casablanca Arrive in Casablanca and transfer to your hotel. Your welcome dinner tonight is at Rick’s Café. Hyatt Regency Casablanca / Dinner Day 2: Casablanca / Roman Volubilis Start the day by exploring Casablanca’s most important site, the Hassan II Mosque, which houses 25,000 worshippers. Afterward, drive to the city of Meknes, built in the 17th century to rival the court of Louis XIV. Following lunch, continue to Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to Morocco’s largest and best-preserved Roman ruins; its greatest treasures are its excellently preserved mosaic floors. At day’s end, arrive in Fez. Sofitel Fès Palais Jamaï / Breakfast, Lunch 34 / 2013 Day 3: Fez / The Medieval City Step back in time to the Middle Ages as you visit one of the most ancient and untouched city neighborhoods in the world, Fez el-Bali (“Old Fez”), the cultural heart of Morocco. Wander among the 9,000 lanes, alleys and souks that comprise the city’s old quarter, taking in the sights and sounds of locals conducting their day-today business. Pause at Nejjarine Square, with its beautiful fountain with elaborate mosaic tile work. After lunch, discover Fez el-Jadid (“New Fez”), built by the Merinid Dynasty in the 13th century. Fez el-Jadid is home to the Mellah, the old Jewish quarter, which boasts traditional Jewish architecture of wrought iron–decorated windows and splendid carved wood balconies. Tonight, dine at a traditional Moroccan riad, where a special guest offers insights into life in Fez during an informal talk. Sofitel Fès Palais Jamaï / Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Day 4: Rabat / Morocco’s Capital After breakfast, drive to Rabat, the capital of Morocco. Set off to explore the city’s highlights, including its superbly preserved Moorish relics, such as the 12th-century Hassan Tower, the incomplete minaret of a great mosque built by Yacoub el-Mansour. View the mausoleum of Mohamed V, founder of modern Morocco, and visit Oudaya Kasbah, built on a bluff overlooking the Atlantic. Note the carvings on the kasbah’s gate, among the most beautiful surviving in the Moorish world. Sofitel Rabat Jardin des Roses / Breakfast, Lunch Day 5: Marrakech / The Red City Travel overland today to Marrakech, arriving in the afternoon. Considered the “Pearl of the South,” Marrakech was once the capital of an empire that stretched from Spain to Senegal, and is sometimes known as “the red city” for the distinctive hues of its brick buildings. Hotel Sofitel Marrakech Lounge and Spa / Breakfast local connections What better way to get to know someone than to dine with them? That’s why we arranged for a local family in Marrakech to welcome you into their home for dinner. Day 6: Marrakech Spend the day discovering Marrakech, starting at its ancient medina, the old walled section of the city. Visits include the Saadian Tombs, displaying intricate stucco and Granada-style carvings, and the Dar Si Said, one of the most beautiful palaces and the home to the Museum of Moroccan Arts and Crafts. Continue to El Badi Palace and the 12th-century Koutoubia Minaret, the most perfect Islamic religious structure in North Africa. Enjoy an exciting stroll through the fabled Djemaa el-Fna square where fire-eaters, mime artists and street musicians perform at every turn. Before returning to your hotel, savor another view of the city with a private horse-drawn carriage ride. This evening, join a special dinner hosted by a local Marrakech family. Hotel Sofitel Marrakech Lounge and Spa / Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Dates & Pricing Aug 22-29 Journeys in bold are guaranteed to operate. Sep 05-12 Land arrangements: Double occupancy Single supplement AugSep $3,395$3,750 $735$990 A&K is happy to arrange your international air or pre-/post-itinerary hotel nights. Contact A&K for details. Hotel Spotlight Take a closer look at this journey’s inspiring accommodations. Day 7: Marrakech / Atlas Mountains You may choose to remain in Marrakech today or enjoy a full-day excursion to the High Atlas Mountains, North Africa’s greatest mountain range. Visit a picturesque village at Imlil Valley, meeting with local Berbers and visiting them in their home. Your farewell dinner tonight is held at the Palais Soleiman, a lovely Moroccan riad. Hotel Sofitel Marrakech Lounge and Spa / Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Day 8: Depart Marrakech Transfer to the airport for your flight home. Breakfast Sofitel Fès Palais Jamaï, Fez Outstanding Moorish and Arabic architecture sets this hotel apart. Sofitel Rabat Jardin des Roses Located in the heart of Rabat, near the mausoleum of Mohamed V. Visit ak-connections.com for photos of all the hotels on this journey. 800 652 8018 / ak-connections.com 35 Egypt: Ancient Kingdoms Limited to 24 Guests | 9 Days | 18 Meals Connections at a Glance Cairo Discover your destination through these local connections. Egypt Luxor Edfu RED SEA Kom Ombo Aswan Abu Simbel Priced from $3,795 Air Cruise • Cruise for three nights on board the luxurious Nile cruiser Sanctuary ‘Sun Boat IV,’ named top small cruise ship by Condé Nast Traveler. • Avoid crowds and the hassle of navigating around other ships, thanks to private Nile docking facilities in Luxor and Aswan. • Discover the heritage of the Nubian people with a visit to one of their villages. • Sail aboard an authentic Egyptian felucca around the Aswan Islands. • Enjoy afternoon tea on the Victorian-inspired terrace at the historic Sofitel Legend Old Cataract hotel. Day 1: Arrive in Cairo Arrive in Cairo, the largest city in Africa and the hub of your adventure through milennia of history. Meet your A&K representative, who escorts you to your hotel. Fairmont Nile City Day 2: Cairo / Pyramids of Giza This afternoon, visit the Giza Plateau to view one of the world’s truly iconic sights: the pyramids of Mycerinus and Chefren and the Great Pyramid of Cheops, the last surviving structure of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and, for much of its existence, the tallest manmade structure on earth. Standing guard before the pyramid of Chefren is the Great Sphinx, the largest statue ever carved from a single piece of stone. This enigmatic figure depicts a pharaoh with the body of a lion, 36 / 2013 Looking out over the pyramids at Giza. though who the figure represents is unknown. Continue to the Solar Boat Museum, which houses Cheops’ 142-foot funerary boat, perhaps the single most important archaeological find in Egypt since the tomb of Tutankhamun. Get to know your fellow guests at tonight’s welcome dinner. Fairmont Nile City / Breakfast, Dinner Day 3: Abu Simbel / The Twin Temples Early this morning, fly south to Abu Simbel, site of the magnificent twin temples of Ramses II and his wife, Queen Nefertari. The four towering sculptures of Ramses (each nearly 70 feet tall) are impressive enough; even more astonishing, this entire site was disassembled and moved to its present location to save it from flooding in the waters of the Aswan High Dam. Following your visit, take a short flight to Aswan and enjoy afternoon tea and the Nile views from the terrace of your hotel. Later, pay a visit to the Nubian Museum, home to many rare artifacts and mummies from this distinct Nile-dwelling culture. Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan / Breakfast Day 4: Aswan / Temple of Philae Begin the day with a visit to the granite quarries to view the enormous Unfinished Obelisk, a 1,200-ton block that showcases the outstanding skills of ancient Egypt’s stonemasons. From here, take a short boat ride to the exquisite temple of Philae on the island of Agilika. Like Abu Simbel, this temple was dismantled and reconstructed to prevent its eventual destruction by the Nile floodwaters. Later, step off the beaten track when you discover the less-visited temple of Nubian Egypt, Kalabsha, constructed around 30 BC. Continue overland to your five-star deluxe Nile cruise boat, Sanctuary ‘Sun Boat IV.’ This afternoon, sail in a Amr Badr, A&K Egypt “Escorting you throughout your journey is your own A&K Egyptologist, a native expert in the history and myths of the pharaohs.” traditional Nile felucca and continue your discovery of Nubian culture and heritage with a visit to a traditional Nubian village. Sanctuary ‘Sun Boat IV’ / Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Day 5: Cruising the Nile / Kom Ombo to Edfu After a morning at leisure, take part in a cooking lesson and a chance to help prepare this afternoon’s lunch hosted by your onboard chef. Your next port of call is Kom Ombo, where you visit its lovely Greco-Roman temple. Kom Ombo is unique for having been dedicated to two gods, Haroeris and Sobek, and its construction mirrors this dual focus. Mummified crocodiles were also discovered near the site, and a few are on display here. Return to Sanctuary ‘Sun Boat IV’ for a leisurely sail to Edfu, where you explore the beautifully preserved Temple of Horus, the falcon god, built in 230 BC. The temple spent much of the modern era buried in sand and debris, thus preserving its colorful murals from the ravages of time. This evening’s dinner on board is an “Egyptian Night” costume party, with a chance to don traditional galabeyyas (long robes) 800 652 8018 / ak-connections.com 37 A traditional felucca sails the Nile. and enjoy a buffet of savory Egyptian cuisine, followed by music and dancing. Sanctuary ‘Sun Boat IV’ / Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Day 6: Cruising the Nile / Luxor This morning, tour the famed temple of Luxor, built in 1400 BC and containing, among other wonders, a Christian mural dating from the 10th century. Visit the neighboring temple of Karnak, an awe-inspiring complex built by a succession of pharaohs over two millennia. Its highlight is the great Hypostyle Hall, a forest of towering stone columns spanning an area greater than Notre Dame cathedral. After lunch, explore the west bank of the Nile, the famous necropolis of Thebes where many of Egypt’s pharaohs were laid to rest. Begin in the Valley of the Kings, the burial ground of the pharaohs of the New Kingdom, including Tutankhamun. Continue to the lovely, terraced mortuary temple of Queen Hatshepsut, Egypt’s first female pharaoh, and end with a stop at the Colossi of Memnon, two gargantuan statues of Amenhotep III. Sanctuary ‘Sun Boat IV’ / Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Day 7: Cairo / The Ancient City Bid farewell to Sanctuary ‘Sun Boat IV’ before your return flight to Cairo. On arriving, embark on a sightseeing excursion to Old Cairo and its Coptic area. Explore the remains of the Fortress of Babylon, built in the sixth century BC, as well as the oldest synagogue in Egypt, Ben Ezra. In this basilica-style temple were found the Cairo Geniza documents, an invaluable source of information about the life of the Jews in Egypt’s past. You also visit the Coptic Museum, with its many fine examples of pagan and Christian art. Return to your hotel and spend the afternoon at leisure. Fairmont Nile City / Breakfast, Lunch Day 8: Cairo / The Pharaohs’ Treasures Visit the world-famous Egyptian Museum of Antiquities, home to over 38 / 2013 120,000 relics of ancient Egypt. While your guide introduces you to many stunning sights, none are as awe-inspiring as the Mummy Room, where some of ancient Egypt’s pharaohs and nobility lie in state, and the treasures of Tutankhamun’s tomb, including his priceless gold funerary mask. A wireless earpiece allows you to hear your Egyptologist’s commentary even in the most crowded galleries. Continue your tour of Cairo, exploring the Sultan Hassan mosque, remarkable for containing a madrasa for each of the four schools of Sunni Muslim belief. Continue to the Khan El-Khalili, the city’s famous bazaar, where you may browse and haggle for all manner of goods, from souvenir keepsakes to rugs, clothing and fresh spices. Celebrate your journey with a farewell dinner tonight. Fairmont Nile City / Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Day 9: Depart Cairo Transfer to the airport for your flight home. Breakfast Hotel Spotlight Take a closer look at this journey’s inspiring accommodations. Sofitel Legend Old Cataract, Aswan Fairmont Nile City, Cairo Completely restored Victorian An elegant, modern hotel with great jewel on the banks of the Nile. Nile views and in-house spa. Visit ak-connections.com for photos of all the hotels on this journey. local connections This journey illuminates every era of Egyptian history — not only the glory days of the pharaohs, but also the less well-known civilization of the Nubians, which you discover during a visit to a Nubian village. Sanctuary ‘Sun Boat IV’ Comfort Worthy of the Pharaohs Deck Plan PROMENADE DECK Lib ra ry Sw Su Low n D er ec k im mi ng Po ol SUN DECK Dates & Pricing Sep 10-18 Journeys in bold are guaranteed to operate. Oct 22-30 Nov 19-27 Dec 03-11 Gi ft Sh op Lo & unge Ba r BRIDGE DECK Land/Cruise arrangements: NILE DECK Re ce pt ion Re sta ur an t Ga le y MAIN DECK Royal Suites (638 sq. ft.) Promenade Deck (162 sq. ft. avg.) Gy m Presidential Suites (468 sq. ft.) Bridge Deck (180 sq. ft. avg.) Main Deck (193 sq. ft. avg.) Nile Deck (207 sq. ft. avg.) Sanctuary ‘Sun Boat IV’ offers equally distinguished service and comfort. With a maximum of about 80 guests, she delivers one of the most intimate experiences on the Nile. ›› 36 luxury cabins, 2 Presidential Suites and 2 Royal Suites with balcony ›› Fully air-conditioned with cabin control ›› Most cabins have panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows ›› Elegant dining room with picture windows ›› Smoking and cell phone use restricted for your comfort ›› On-board doctor is always available ›› Wireless Internet access Sep Nile Deck Main Deck Bridge Deck Promenade Deck Presidential Suite Royal Suite Oct-Dec Nile Deck Main Deck Bridge Deck Promenade Deck Presidential Suite Royal Suite Internal airfare: Luxor/Cairo; Cairo/Abu Simbel/Aswan Double occupancy Single supplement $3,795 $3,895 $3,990 $4,095 $4,555 $5,075 $1,030 $1,190 $1,265 $1,375 $2,295 $3,115 $4,495 $4,660 $4,720 $4,820 $5,635 $6,350 $1,455 $1,610 $1,690 $1,800 $2,905 $3,825 Economy class from $630 A&K is happy to arrange your international air or pre-/post-itinerary hotel nights. Contact A&K for details. 800 652 8018 / ak-connections.com 39 China: Life Along the Yangtze Priced from $4,690 Limited to 28 Guests | 13 Days | 27 Meals Beijing Connections at a Glance Discover your destination through these local connections. EAST C H I N A S ea Xian Chongqing Three Gorges Dam Project Shanghai Fengdu CHINA Hong Kong SOUTH C H I N A S ea Air Cruise • Pay a unique visit to a family home for a dumpling making lesson and lunch with the family. • Hop into a pedicab and explore a traditional Beijing neighborhood. • See a noodle making demonstration. • Participate in traditional tai chi exercise, lead by a tai chi master. • Visit a Yangtze River village to mingle with the locals. • Participate in a Chinese brush painting and calligraphy lesson. • Take a traditional sampan ride through the local floating villages. • Enjoy a tea service at a local Shanghai teahouse. Day 1: Arrive in Beijing Arrive in Beijing, China’s bustling capital, where your A&K representative meets you and takes you to your hotel. Fairmont Beijing Day 2: Beijing / The Heart of the City Start your explorations of Beijing at Tiananmen Square, where thousands gather to walk, fly kites or enjoy the view of the monuments surrounding the square. Continue to the Forbidden City, so named because it was barred to all but the emperors who inhabited it and the servants who attended them. The Imperial Palace is a vast complex of halls, pavilions, courtyards and walls. It was within these walls that 24 emperors — aided by their ministers, soldiers and servants — ruled imperial China for nearly 500 years. 40 / 2013 The Great Wall coursing over the Chinese landscape. After an afternoon at leisure, enjoy a special welcome dinner. Fairmont Beijing / Breakfast, Dinner Day 3: Beijing / A Taste of the Ancient Capital Patrick Macleod, A&K Hong Kong Hop into a pedicab and explore a traditional Beijing neighborhood. Hutongs, winding alleyways that were once the lifeblood of old Beijing, used to number in the thousands; yet under urban renewal, they are quickly disappearing. Pay a visit to a home for a dumpling making lesson and lunch with the family. Afterward, travel to the Mutianyu section of Great Wall of China, and explore this architectural feat along its best-preserved section. Return to Beijing, pausing en route to take photos of the Bird’s Nest and Water Cube, fixtures of the 2008 Summer Olympics. This evening, savor traditional Peking duck at a local restaurant. Fairmont Beijing / Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Chinese architectural style of the exquisite Great Mosque. Visit the Ming-era City Walls as well. Tonight, enjoy dinner and a show, based on Tang Dynasty music and dance. Hilton Xian / Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Day 4: Xian / Treasures of the Silk Road Day 6: Chongqing / At River’s Edge Fly to Xian, the ancient eastern terminus of the Silk Road. Visit the Yangling Museum, which features archaeological discoveries from Han Dynasty tombs. Enjoy a local dumpling lunch, one of the city’s culinary specialties, followed by an afternoon at leisure. Hilton Xian / Breakfast, Lunch Day 5: Xian / Terra Cotta Warriors Visit the site of what is often considered to be the single greatest archaeological find of the 20th century, the Terra Cotta Warriors. See the more than 8,000 life-size figures said to represent second-century Chinese military might. After lunch, continue exploring Xian. Stroll through the markets and lanes of the old city quarter and discover the “Learn many of China’s traditional arts through firsthand instruction, including tai chi, calligraphy — even dumpling making.” Fly from Xian to Chongqing this morning. Visit the Chongqing Zoo to catch a glimpse of China’s famous pandas. Afterward, take a tour of the city, the gateway to China’s southwest frontier. Following lunch, board Sanctuary ‘Yangzi Explorer.’ Sanctuary ‘Yangzi Explorer’ / Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Day 7: Fengdu / Life Along the Yangtze Start off your morning with a soothing tai chi session alongside a tai chi master. In the afternoon, disembark for a shore excursion in Fengdu, a village on the shores of the Yangtze. Explore Fengdu, chatting with locals and visiting a school. Return to ‘Yangzi Explorer,’ where more activities and fascinating lectures await. 800 652 8018 / ak-connections.com 41 The breathtaking Three Gorges region. Tonight, meet the captain during a welcome reception before dinner. Sanctuary ‘Yangzi Explorer’ / Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner is at leisure to explore the city. Fairmont Peace Hotel / Breakfast, Dinner Day 11: Hong Kong / City-State on the Make Day 8: The Three Gorges / Cruising a Chinese Scroll Painting ‘Yangzi Explorer’ enters the Qutang Gorge this morning through the majestic cliffs of Kui Men gate. Continue cruising through Wu Gorge, known for its famous peaks, said to represent a celestial being and her 12 attendants. At Badong, embark on an exclusive excursion up the picturesque Shennong Stream on board a traditional sampan, rowed by expert Tujia boatmen. Back on board ‘Yangzi Explorer,’ pass through the Xiling Gorge. Later, partake in a Chinese brush painting and calligraphy lesson, as your instructor explains the method of Chinese writing. Tonight, dress in traditional Chinese attire for a festive dinner. Sanctuary ‘Yangzi Explorer’ / Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Day 9: The Three Gorges Dam Project Visit the Exhibition of the Three Gorges Dam Project for a tour of the area. The Three Gorges Dam Project, the largest construction project ever undertaken, stands at 1.2 miles in length and 600 feet high. Sail through its locks before continuing to Yichang. Disembark in Yichang and transfer to the airport for your flight to Shanghai. Fairmont Peace Hotel / Breakfast, Lunch This morning, fly from Shanghai to Hong Kong, a vibrant city known for its expansive skyline, deep harbor and surprising greenery. Royal Pacific Hotel & Towers / Breakfast Day 12: Hong Kong / East Meets West This morning, visit the Dried Food and Herbal Medicine Market in the Western District. Continue to the incense-filled Man Mo Temple and to the Peak Tram for a ride on this storied funicular up to Victoria Peak. Enjoy a stunning panoramic view of the city from the observation deck. Afterward, take a sampan ride through the local floating villages of Aberdeen. The afternoon is at leisure. This evening, attend a special farewell dinner. Royal Pacific Hotel & Towers / Breakfast, Dinner Day 13: Depart Hong Kong Transfer to the airport for your flight home. Breakfast Hotel Spotlight Take a closer look at this journey’s inspiring accommodations. Day 10: Shanghai / China’s Style and Economic Capital Join your Tour Director for a stroll along the Bund — the promenade along the Huangpu River — watching locals doing their morning exercises. Continue through Shanghai’s old Chinese quarter to the 16th-century Yu Garden. Afterward, enjoy a tea appreciation service at a local teahouse. Return to the Bund, with its lovely British, French, American, German, Japanese and Russian buildings. Your afternoon 42 / 2013 Fairmont Beijing Royal Pacific Hotel & Towers Winner of TripAdvisor.com’s 2012 Located on stunning Victoria Harbour, Travelers’ Choice Awards. near the shops of Canton Road. Visit ak-connections.com for photos of all the hotels on this journey. local connections One of the best ways to know a culture is through food, which is why we arranged for a hands-on dumpling making session and lunch with a local family in Beijing. Sanctuary ‘Yangzi Explorer’ ato ev FFuu n RRo ncctitoi oom onn mss Deck Plan EXPLORER DECK in an g L d B ou ar nge Sta ir El S Lo uite un ge r Five-star style on the Yangtze. Fit Spa ne a ss n d Ce nte r r ato ev Sta ir El Vi e De wing ck Vi ew QUTANG DECK XILING DECK El ev ato r Ma Thea in ter Flo or Sta ir Ma nd K arin Ja d K e El ev ato r Me Thea zz ter an ine WU DECK Sta ir tio ep Re c Im pe K rial n Ce les K tial El ev ato r Re s tau ra nt Sta ir Sh op s MAIN DECK Deluxe Cabin (333 sq. ft.) Suite (420 sq. ft.) Jade Suite (871 sq. ft.) Mandarin Suite (871 sq. ft.) Celestial Suite (1,183 sq. ft.) Imperial Suite (1,183 sq. ft.) With luxurious staterooms and public areas, expert on-board guides and a peerless staff and crew, ‘Yangzi Explorer’ is the best choice for cruising China’s mighty Yangtze. ›› 38 Deluxe Cabins, 20 Suites and four specialty suites ›› Private balcony in all cabins and suites ›› Viewing lounge with bar ›› International restaurant offering a wide array of menu options ›› Double-decker theater area with bar ›› Spa and beauty salon Dates & Pricing Apr 20-May 02 May 11-23 May 18-30 Land/Cruise arrangements: Deluxe Cabin Main Deck Xiling Deck Wu Deck Suite Wu Deck Qutang Deck Jade/Mandarin Celestial/Imperial Internal airfare: Journeys in bold are guaranteed to operate. Jun 01-13 Jun 22-Jul 04 Jul 13-25 Aug 17-29 Sep 07-19 Sep 21-Oct 03 Oct 05-17 Oct 26-Nov 07 Apr; Sep; Oct 05 Oct 26-Nov May Jun -Aug Oct24 Double Double DoubleDouble occupancyoccupancy occupancy occupancy $5,225 $5,120$4,690 $5,315 $5,305 $5,200$4,770 $5,395 $5,385 $5,280$4,850 $5,475 $6,225 $6,350 $8,305 $8,965 $6,120$5,490 $6,315 $6,245$5,590 $6,440 $8,200$6,830 $8,395 $8,860$7,380 $9,055 Beijing/Xian/Chongqing; Yichang/Shanghai/Hong Kong Single supplement from $2,115. Call A&K for details. Economy class from $920 A&K is happy to arrange your international air or pre-/post-itinerary hotel nights. Contact A&K for details. 800 652 8018 / ak-connections.com 43 Southeast Asia: Thailand, Cambodia & Vietnam Priced from $5,395 Limited to 28 Guests | 15 Days | 32 Meals Connections at a Glance Hanoi Discover your destination through these local connections. Chiang Mai S outh C hina S ea Thailand Bangkok Siem Reap Danang vietnam A ndaman S ea CAMBODIA • Enter the Grand Palace via a secret doorway. • Encounter one of the last masters of Thai traditional puppetry. • Explore Bangkok through a unique rickshaw and walking tour. • Witness a stunning sunrise at Angkor Wat. • Meet a war veteran who shares his eye-opening experience during your visit to the Cu Chi tunnels in Vietnam. • Travel by traditional cyclo through Hanoi’s old quarter. • Experience a private elephant ride at Maesa Elephant Camp. • Chat with a Buddhist monk at Wat Umong. Ho Chi Minh City AIR Day 1: Arrive in Bangkok Arrive in Thailand’s vibrant capital city, where an A&K representative is on hand to greet you and escort you to your hotel. Millennium Hilton Bangkok Day 2: Bangkok / City of Angels Start at the Grand Palace, entering via a secret doorway that reveals oft-missed treasures in the exhibit of royal regalia. Explore its sprawling grounds dotted with over 100 ornate buildings, gardens and statues of mythological creatures. Continue to the Wat Phra Kaew, home to the famous Emerald Buddha. Then visit Wat Pho, where the 150-foot-long Reclining Buddha lies. Cruise the Chao Phraya River to an artists’ collective for a traditional performance by 44 / 2013 Sunrise at Angkor Wat, Cambodia. one of the last masters of Thai puppetry. Tonight, enjoy a welcome dinner with fellow guests set to traditional Thai dance performances. Millennium Hilton Bangkok / Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Day 3: Bangkok / The Local’s Way Venture off the beaten path onto the opposite side of the river for a rickshaw ride and walking tour. Stops include a local temple to witness Buddhists at worship. Then embark on a long-tail boat ride to a lush, secluded area of the city. Take a ride on a samlor (bicycle taxi) through the greenest parts of Bangkok before returning to the other side of the river. The rest of your day is at leisure. Millennium Hilton Bangkok / Breakfast, Dinner Day 4: Chiang Mai / Home to the Lion Buddha Fly to Chiang Mai. Venture through its streets via rickshaw, stopping at Wat Phra Singh, home to the revered Phra Singh (Lion Buddha), one of the most revered images of Buddha. Later, stroll Chiang Mai’s famous Night Market, a kaleidoscope of merchants and food carts. Le Meridien Hotel / Breakfast, Dinner Day 5: Chiang Mai / Meditating Buddhism Meet and chat with a Buddhist monk at Wat Umong, a famed center of meditation. Afterward, visit Wat Doi Suthep. Enjoy lunch in a hill tribe village, followed up by an opportunity to experience a private elephant ride to Maesa Elephant Camp. Le Meridien Hotel / Breakfast, Lunch Samuel Desmier, A&K Thailand “Explore a key battleground of the Vietnam War, the Cu Chi tunnels — and then meet a veteran who fought there.” Day 6: Siem Reap / The Temple in the Jungle Fly from Chiang Mai via Bangkok to Siem Reap, near the ruins of Angkor Wat. Visit romantic Ta Prohm, entangled in the surrounding jungle foliage. Climb over its crumbling stonework and marvel at the tree roots dripping down the temple’s walls. Sofitel Angkor / Breakfast, Dinner Day 7: Siem Reap / The Khmer Crown Jewel Travel early today to Angkor Wat to catch the sunrise. Then discover the masterpiece of the Khmer empire, walking amid moss-covered cobbled pathways and marveling at the intricately carved bas-reliefs. Continue to Banteay Srei, a temple constructed with red sandstone. After lunch, board a wooden boat and cruise through the floating villages on Tonle Sap Lake, visiting a local school and perhaps even presenting students with study materials. Sofitel Angkor / Breakfast, Lunch Day 8: Siem Reap / The Faces of Bayon Set off to explore the fortified city of Angkor Thom and Bayon Temple, with its beguiling 172 large-scale faces. Wrap up 800 652 8018 / ak-connections.com 45 Carrying produce across Pagoda Bridge in Hoi An. your first day at the Elephant Terrace and the Terrace of the Leper King. The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore Siem Reap on your own. Sofitel Angkor / Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Day 9: Ho Chi Minh City / Old Saigon Fly to Ho Chi Minh City. Begin your explorations of the city formerly known as Saigon in Cholon, its Chinatown, home to delis, ancient quarters, old temples and beautiful architecture. Continue to Thien Hau Pagoda and Le Cong Kieu, one of the city’s oldest commercial streets. InterContinental Asiana Saigon Hotel / Breakfast, Dinner Day 10: Ho Chi Minh City / Shaping Contemporary Vietnam Drive into the countryside to explore the expansive Cu Chi Tunnel network, a key Vietcong resource during the Vietnam War, and meet a war veteran who recounts his experiences in the tunnels. After lunch, visit the Notre Dame Cathedral, with its neo-Romanesque façade and bell towers. You also stop at the 19th-century Frenchcolonial Post Office, the largest in Vietnam. InterContinental Asiana Saigon Hotel / Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Day 11: Hoi An / Pearl of China Beach A closer look at the Champa temple in My Son. 46 / 2013 Fly from Ho Chi Minh City to Danang and continue to Hoi An. Explore this traditional town, visiting the colorful local market and the 400-year-old Japanese covered bridge. Stop at a local home to see how silkworms are raised. Then visit an artisan’s house for a demonstration on how to make Hoi An’s famous silk lanterns. InterContinental Danang / Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner local connections Southeast Asia is stepped in spirituality, and so your journey includes a chance to chat one-on-one with a monk at Wat Umong in Chiang Mai. Day 12: My Son / Seat of the Champa Kingdom Visit My Son, the former capital of the ancient Cham civilization and considered to be the Champa Kingdom’s counterpart to Angkor in Cambodia. Enjoy lunch near My Son and return to Hoi An for an evening at leisure. InterContinental Danang / Breakfast, Lunch Day 13: Hanoi / Capital of Culture Fly to Hanoi. Start exploring Vietnam’s capital by visiting Ho Chi Minh’s House, and continue to the lotus-shaped One Pillar Pagoda, the Temple of Literature and the Quan Thanh Temple. End your city tour at the famed “Hanoi Hilton” Prison, used by French colonists in Vietnam for political prisoners and later by the North Vietnamese for prisoners of war. InterContinental Westlake Hotel / Breakfast, Dinner Day 14: Hanoi / The Old Quarter Visit the Fine Arts Museum, home to ancient antiquities and contemporary art. Then set off on an exciting cyclo ride into the Old Quarter, where narrow streets dating back to the 15th century bear names reflecting the business once conducted there: Silk Street, Rice Street, Paper Street. After lunch, your afternoon is at leisure. Join your fellow guests for a farewell dinner this evening. InterContinental Westlake Hotel / Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Dates & Pricing Sep 12-26 Oct 03-17 Journeys in bold are guaranteed to operate. Oct 10-24 Oct 24-Nov 07 Nov 07-21 Nov 21-Dec 05 Land arrangements: Double occupancy Single supplement Dec 05-19 Dec 12-26 SepOct-Dec $5,395$5,865 $1,525$1,800 Internal airfare: Bangkok/Chiang Mai/Siem Reap/ Ho Chi Min City/Danang/Hanoi Economy class from $1,265 A&K is happy to arrange your international air or pre-/post-itinerary hotel nights. Contact A&K for details. Hotel Spotlight Take a closer look at this journey’s inspiring accommodations. Day 15: Depart Hanoi Transfer to the airport for your flight home. Breakfast Sofitel Angkor Modern elegance with a touch of French art de vivre in Siem Reap. InterContinental Danang Surrounded by beautiful views of the South China Sea. Visit ak-connections.com for photos of all the hotels on this journey. 800 652 8018 / ak-connections.com 47 A glimpe of traditional life in Agra, home of the Taj Mahal. India: Spiritual Splendors Priced from $3,990 Limited to 28 Guests | 11 Days | 19 Meals Connections at a Glance Discover your destination through these local connections. Delhi Jaipur Agra Jhansi Varanasi Khajuraho INDIA Road Air Rail • Visit the Deepalaya School, which services local underprivileged children. • Take an exciting rickshaw ride through the colorful shopping district of Chandni Chowk. • Experience both sunrise and sunset visits to the Taj Mahal. • Enjoy an elephant safari on a private Rajput farm. • Witness the evening Aarti ceremony on the Ganges, complete with chanting prayers and mantras, drums and bells. • Marvel at an unforgettable sunrise boat ride on the sacred river Ganges. Day 1: Arrive in Delhi Arrive in Delhi, where an A&K representative is on hand to greet you. Taj Palace Hotel Day 2: Delhi / India’s Capital This morning, visit the A&K Philanthropy-supported Deepalaya School, which supports the education of local underprivileged children, before starting your tour of New Delhi. Visit two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Humayun’s Tomb, a red-sandstone predecessor to the Taj Mahal, and 13th-century Qutub Minar. Meet your fellow guests tonight for a welcome dinner. Taj Palace Hotel / Breakfast, Dinner Day 3: Delhi / Treasures of Old Delhi Tour Old Delhi for a glimpse into some of India’s most historic sites, 48 / 2013 including the 17th-century Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque. Take a rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk bazaar. Continue to the Red Fort, with its red sandstone walls extending for more than a mile. Afterward, visit Raj Ghat, a memorial to Mahatma Gandhi. The afternoon is at leisure. Taj Palace Hotel / Breakfast, Lunch DAY 4: VARANASI / The Holy City Fly to Varanasi, located on the Ganges River. Millions of pilgrims flock to Varanasi’s ghats (steps leading into the river), where the devout wash away their sins. This afternoon, visit Sarnath, the birthplace of Buddhism. Explore the ruins of a once-flourishing Buddhist monastery and a Buddhist art and sculpture museum. This evening, visit the ghats during the Aarti ceremony, as worshippers pray near the water by the light of candles and lanterns. The Gateway Hotel Ganges, Varanasi / Breakfast, Dinner DAY 5: KHAJURAHO / Medieval Temples Discover India’s spirituality from another perspective — by taking an unforgettable sunrise boat ride on the Ganges, f loating past ghats as worshippers begin to appear on the banks. Afterward, fly to Khajuraho, where you spend the afternoon discovering its exquisitely carved temples. Hotel Chandela, Khajuraho / Breakfast, Lunch DAY 6: JHANSI / On the Road to the Taj Mahal Travel from Khajuraho to Jhansi, stopping en route at Orchha. Pass by small villages and fields plowed by ox carts, in time arriving at the 17th-century Orchha Palace and its group of Hindu temples. Enjoy lunch near the temples, and then board a train to Agra, home to the Taj Mahal; your luxury hotel offers private views of this monument from every room. The Oberoi, Amarvilas / Breakfast, Lunch local connections Witness one of the most moving of rituals: the Aarti ceremony, at which lamps and candles are lit in honor of the Hindu deities. DAY 7: AGRA / The Greatest Monument to Love Visit the Taj Mahal early this morning to watch as the sunrise decorates its sheer white surface in rosy pinks. Afterward, visit the Agra Fort before returning to your hotel for an afternoon at leisure. Return to the Taj Mahal at sunset to watch as the light dances off the crisp white marble. The Oberoi, Amarvilas / Breakfast, Dinner DAY 8: JAIPUR / The Pink City Drive to Jaipur, stopping en route at Fatehpur Sikri, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After lunch in Bharatpur, continue to the “pink city,” as Jaipur is often known, for its pink-hued sandstone buildings. Rambagh Palace / Breakfast, Lunch DAY 9: JAIPUR / Mughal Treasures Visit the Amber Fort, with its distinct Mughal architecture, and then set off for a local village to ride an elephant through the countryside. After lunch, make a photo stop at Hawa Mahal (or Palace of the Winds), and visit the City Palace. You also stop at the Jantar Mantar Observatory, which houses the world’s largest sundial. This evening, join your fellow guests for a farewell dinner. Rambagh Palace / Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Dates & Pricing Journeys in bold are guaranteed to operate. Apr 07-17 Sep 15-25 Oct 20-30 Oct 27-Nov 06 Land arrangements: Double occupancy Single supplement Internal airfare: Delhi/Varanasi/Khajuraho; Jaipur/Delhi Nov 10-20 Dec 08-18 Apr-SepOct-Dec $3,990$4,850 $1,535$2,375 Economy class from $385 A&K is happy to arrange your international air or pre-/post-itinerary hotel nights. Contact A&K for details. Hotel Spotlight Take a closer look at this journey’s inspiring accommodations. DAY 10: DELHI / Return to the Capital Fly back to Delhi, where the remainder of day is at leisure. Trident, Gurgaon / Breakfast DAY 11: DEPART DELHI Transfer to the airport for your flight home. Breakfast Rambagh Palace The “Jewel of Jaipur” was once a royal residence. The Oberoi, Amarvilas Ranked the 4th best hotel in Asia by Travel + Leisure readers. Visit ak-connections.com for photos of all the hotels on this journey. 800 652 8018 / ak-connections.com 49 Beautiful Port Douglas, gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Australia: Adventure Down Under Daintree Rainforest Priced from $5,350 Limited to 24 Guests | 10 Days | 17 Meals Connections at a Glance Port Douglas Discover your destination through these local connections. Great Barrier Reef Uluru (Ayers Rock) CORAL S ea Sydney G reat australian bight Melbourne Road AIR Cruise • Learn about life in the bush with a visit to a family-run sheep ranch. • Spend an unforgettable evening at Uluru (Ayers Rock), including an authentic Australian “barbie” and stargazing with an expert. • Marvel at the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef, with insights from a qualified marine biologist. • Follow a local indigenous guide down tribal paths through the Daintree Rainforest. • Travel the Daintree River with an expert guide. • Enjoy a personally guided tour of the Sydney Opera House. Day 1: Arrive in Melbourne Arrive in Melbourne, and then gather tonight for a cocktail reception and welcome dinner. Sofitel Melbourne / Dinner Day 2: Melbourne / “Aussie Living” Explore Melbourne today, viewing St. Paul’s Cathedral and the beautiful Royal Botanic Gardens. Then depart for the Barber family sheep farm in Coliban Park to learn about one of Australia’s most important industries. Enjoy morning tea followed by a sheepshearing demonstration. You may also plant an Australian native tree, and then embark on a drive around the property to spot kangaroos in their natural environment. Sofitel Melbourne / Breakfast, Lunch 50 / 2013 Day 3: The Outback / Uluru (Ayers Rock) Fly via Alice Springs to Uluru (Ayers Rock) for an overnight in the heart of the Australian Outback. Gaze in wonder at fabled Uluru, its surface alive with the colors of the setting sun. Enjoy sparkling wine and canapés, followed by an authentic Australian barbecue. Then turn your gaze to the night sky, as a local expert takes you on a tour of the spectacular southern stars. Voyages Sails in the Desert / Breakfast, Dinner Day 4: The Outback / Tropical Getaway This morning, take a guided walk around Uluru and hear some of the legends that feature the monolith. Meet your indigenous guide and learn how the traditional owners of the land survived in the arid Outback. Afterward, fly to Cairns, leaving behind the desert, and transfer to Port Douglas. Gather with fellow guests this evening for dinner. Peppers Beach Club / Breakfast, Dinner Day 5: Great Barrier Reef / The Spectacular Sea Cruise to the Low Isles and spend a full day exploring one of earth’s most incredible “living” sites, the Great Barrier Reef. Marvel at the colors and beauty of the coral and fish while swimming, snorkeling or observing from a glass-bottom boat, while a marine biologist offers guidance and answers questions. Spend the evening at leisure back at your resort. Peppers Beach Club / Breakfast, Lunch Day 6: Daintree Rainforest / Tribal Paths This morning, head north toward Daintree Rainforest. Joined by a local indigenous guide, follow rainforest paths that have been travelled for centuries by the Kuku Yalanji people, who have generously granted us access to their tribal lands. Set out on a wildlife cruise on the Daintree River with an expert guide, keeping on the lookout for “salties” — Australia’s infamous saltwater crocodiles. Explore the small township of Daintree before returning to your resort for an afternoon at leisure. Peppers Beach Club / Breakfast Day 7: Sydney / The True Blue City Bid farewell to the Coral Sea and the tropics as you take off for Sydney late this morning, arriving in the afternoon. Mix with the locals tonight over a casual dinner in a pub in the famous Rocks area of Sydney. Sheraton on the Park / Breakfast, Dinner Day 8: Sydney / The Harbourside One of Australia’s iconic sights takes center stage today when you visit Sydney Opera House on a personally guided tour. Then board a cruiser on Sydney Harbour for a view of some of this extraordinary city’s landmark sites, including Harbour Bridge, the Opera House, Luna Park and Sydney’s waterfront mansions. Following the cruise, cross the harbor to the Taronga Zoo, where you may get up close and personal with Australia’s charming native fauna. Sheraton on the Park / Breakfast, Lunch local connections Access the Kuku Yalanji lands and explore the Daintree Rainforest with a local indigenous guide, treading paths that have been travelled for centuries by the tribe. Dates & Pricing Journeys in bold are guaranteed to operate. Sep 9-18 Oct 07-16 Dec 02-11 Land arrangements: Double occupancy Single supplement $5,350 $1,865 Internal airfare: Melbourne/Uluru/Cairns/Sydney Economy class from $1,180 A&K is happy to arrange your international air or pre-/post-itinerary hotel nights. Contact A&K for details. Hotel Spotlight Take a closer look at this journey’s inspiring accommodations. Day 9: Sydney / Sydney at Leisure Spend your last day exploring on your own. Ask your Tour Director for some suggestions, or go wherever inspiration leads. Gather for a farewell dinner tonight. Sheraton on the Park / Breakfast, Dinner Day 10: Depart Sydney Voyages Sails in the Desert Hotel Located in the heart of the Outback, with Aborigine-inspired decor. Peppers Beach Club An open-air resort located near Daintree and the Great Barrier Reef.. Transfer to the airport for your flight home. Breakfast Visit ak-connections.com for photos of all the hotels on this journey. 800 652 8018 / ak-connections.com 51 Looking down upon Machu Picchu. Peru: Land of the Incas Priced from $4,185 Limited to 28 Guests | 9 Days | 16 Meals Connections at a Glance Discover your destination through these local connections. PERU Lima Machu Picchu Urubamba Cusco Pa c i f i c ocean Road Air Rail • Meet a local family in Urubamba who welcomes you into their home. • Visit a private residence with an impressive collection of colonial artifacts. • Enjoy two opportunities to explore Machu Picchu, including a sunrise visit when the ruins emerge from the morning mists. • Meet an internationally renowned weaver who introduces you to this traditional craft. • Engage in an Andean musical presentation by Tito Leon, a regionally famous musician from Cusco. Day 1: Arrive in Lima On arriving in Lima, transfer to your hotel. Casa Andina Private Collection Hotel Day 2: Lima / City of Kings Begin exploring Lima at the Plaza Mayor. Continue to the historic Cathedral and walk past the Presidential Palace. Then visit the Monastery of San Francisco and its collection of paintings and frescoes. Leave Lima’s colonial center to visit the Larco Museum, home to an extensive private collection of pre-Inca ceramics. This evening, join fellow guests for dinner at a restaurant located next to an impressive archaeological site, which you may explore afterward. Casa Andina Private Collection Hotel / Breakfast, Dinner 52 / 2013 Day 3: Urubamba / Heart of the Sacred Valley Fly to Cusco, the ancient capital of the Incan empire. Savor novoandina fare at lunchtime before continuing to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, Urubamba. Make a stop at Awana Kancha, a breeding center for llamas, alpacas and vicuñas. Learn about the renowned fibers created from their coats, as well as the ancient weaving techniques still used to this day. Upon arrival at your hotel, the remainder of the afternoon is free for you to relax and settle into your new surroundings. Aranwa Sacred Valley Hotel & Wellness / Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Day 4: Urubamba / The Andes Unveiled Meet a local family at their home and chat with them over a glass of chicha (traditional Andean corn drink). Continue to Ollantaytambo, a massive Incan fortress constructed of rose-colored granite. Then have lunch at Hacienda Huayoccari, home of the Lambarri-Orihuela family. View their impressive collection of artifacts and learn the traditional Andean game of “guinea pig raffle.” Continue to Chincheros, where you meet and learn the art of weaving from Nilda Callañaupa Alvarez, an expert weaver. Aranwa Sacred Valley Hotel & Wellness / Breakfast, Lunch Day 5: Machu Picchu / The Lost City of the Incas Board the glass-topped Vistadome train and arrive in Machu Picchu in the late morning, with plenty of time to begin your explorations of this mysterious, breathtaking Incan citadel. Accompanied by your guide, visualize the lives of the craftsmen, servants and priests who inhabited this seemingly uninhabitable citadel. After lunch, continue to Aguas Calientes and your hotel. Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel / Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner local connections The highlight of any trip to Peru is Machu Picchu — and we arrange for our guests to visit it once in the evening and again for a special sunrise stroll through these unforgettable ruins. Day 6: Machu Picchu / Sunrise Over the Ruins Rise early this morning for another visit to Machu Picchu, this one an unforgettable sunrise walk through the mist-shrouded ruins. You may choose to hike one of the many trails around the ruins for a different perspective. After lunch at your hotel, board the Vistadome train back to Cusco, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Aranwa Cusco Boutique Hotel / Breakfast, Lunch Day 7: Cusco / Incan and Colonial Splendors Explore Cusco’s evocative mix of Incan and Spanish colonial architecture and spirit. Visit the Cathedral on the Plaza de Armas and the Santo Domingo Temple, built on the foundation of the Incas’ principal religious building. Experience the lively local culture with a stop at the bustling market of San Pedro, a great opportunity to interact with the locals. Head to Sacsayhuaman, a fortress compiled of huge blocks pieced together so precisely that not even a piece of paper can slip between the cracks. Later this afternoon, enjoy a traditional Andean musical presentation by expert local musician Tito Leon. Join your Tour Director and fellow guests for a special farewell dinner. Aranwa Cusco Boutique Hotel / Breakfast, Dinner Dates & Pricing Apr 05-13 May 03-11 May 17-25 Journeys in bold are guaranteed to operate. Jun 07-15 Jul 19-27 Sep 06-14 Sep 20-28 Oct 25-Nov 02 Land arrangements: Double occupancy Single supplement $4,185 $895 Internal airfare: Economy class from $355 Lima/Cusco A&K is happy to arrange your international air or pre-/post-itinerary hotel nights. Contact A&K for details. Hotel Spotlight Take a closer look at this journey’s inspiring accommodations. Day 8: Lima / Return to the Capital Fly back to Lima this morning, where the remainder of the day is at leisure to explore the city at your own pace. Casa Andina Private Collection Hotel / Breakfast Day 9: Depart Lima Transfer to the airport for your flight home. Breakfast Aranwa Sacred Valley Hotel & Wellness Built on the grounds of a 17th-century hacienda in the Sacred Valley. Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel Beautiful property on 12 verdant acres, a short drive from Machu Picchu. Visit ak-connections.com for photos of all the hotels on this journey. 800 652 8018 / ak-connections.com 53 The incomparable Grand Canyon. North America: Canyons of the Southwest UTAH NEVADA Bryce Canyon National Park Zion National Park Las Vegas Lake Powell Grand Canyon Priced from $4,845 Limited to 28 Guests | 10 Days | 22 Meals Connections at a Glance Discover your destination through these local connections. Arches National Park Monument Valley Sedona • Stay directly within some of America’s great national parks, leaving more time to explore. • Explore Sedona’s history with a resident expert. • Pay an up-close visit to Rainbow Bridge National Monument. • Explore Monument Valley in the company of a local Navajo guide. • Join an experienced river pilot on a float trip on the Colorado River. ARIZONA Phoenix Road Day 1: Arrive in Phoenix On arriving in Phoenix, you are greeted and taken to your hotel. Fairmont Scottsdale Princess / Dinner Day 2: Sedona / Land of Red Rocks Start your morning in the Sonoran Desert, where the iconic saguaro cacti dot the vast landscape. Ascend from the desert to Sedona and its extraordinary red rock landscapes. Meet up with a local expert who leads you on a tour that uncovers the town’s fascinating history. Following free time in town, travel to the Grand Canyon (7,200 feet) for the night. Maswik Lodge or Yavapai Lodge / Breakfast, Dinner Day 3: Grand Canyon National Park / America’s Treasure The Grand Canyon’s colors, otherworldly formations and immense 54 / 2013 scale are overwhelming, and this morning’s sunrise at the canyon is a spectacle you will never forget. Visit the most celebrated vantage points of the Grand Canyon’s South Rim before travelling through Navajo Reservation lands and the Painted Desert. Continue on to the Glen Canyon National Recreation area and Lake Powell. Lake Powell Resort / Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Day 4: Lake Powell / Rainbow Bridge Embark on a relaxing 50-mile cruise along the Lake Powell shoreline en route to Rainbow Bridge National Monument, the largest known natural bridge in the world. Following a scenic walk, explore Rainbow Bridge up close, a thrilling opportunity to experience a natural wonder as few visitors do. Lake Powell Resort / Breakfast, Lunch Day 5: Monument Valley / Navajo Trails Depart Lake Powell early this morning for an exciting day in the native lands of Monument Valley. Join your local Navajo guide, who introduces some of the most extraordinary geological formations in the West, many made famous in classic American Western films. This afternoon, continue on to Moab, Utah, and your ranch resort. Red Cliffs Lodge / Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Day 6: Arches National Park / Colorado River Float Trip Begin your day with a visit to Arches National Park, which boasts more than 2,000 arches, domes, pinnacles and spires (the greatest density of natural sandstone arches in the world), the most famous being the Delicate Arch formation. Later today, enjoy a fun float trip down the Colorado River. Red Cliffs Lodge / Breakfast, Dinner Day 7: Bryce National Park / Nature’s Amphitheater Depart Moab for the unique landscapes of Bryce Canyon National Park (8,300 feet), a series of stunning natural amphitheaters complete with natural “audiences” of hoodoos, extraordinary spires of striated rock. Overnight directly in Bryce Canyon National Park, giving you even more time to explore this otherworldly place. The Lodge at Bryce Canyon / Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Day 8: Zion National Park / Scenic Splendor More diverse landscapes await as you depart Bryce Canyon National Park for Zion National Park. Sculptured canyons and massive, soaring cliffs are highlights of the park, particularly Zion Canyon, a 15-mile-long canyon of reddish and tan Navajo sandstone carved by the Virgin River. Descend to the canyon floor and explore at your own pace. You might wish to take a short walk to one of the waterfalls and colorful pools, or embark on a more rigorous hike for extraordinary canyon views. Overnight at Zion Lodge, located in the heart of the national park. Zion Lodge / Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner local connections Your guide takes you up-close to Rainbow Bridge to experience the awesome wonder of the largest known natural bridge in the world. Dates & Pricing Journeys in bold are guaranteed to operate. Apr 28-May 07 Jun 23-Jul 02 May 12-21 Jul 07-16 Jun 08-17Aug 04-13 Sep 01-10 Sep 15-24 Sep 29-Oct 08 Land arrangements: Double occupancy Triple occupancy Single supplement $4,845 $4,505 $1,285 A&K is happy to arrange your international air or pre-/post-itinerary hotel nights. Contact A&K for details. Hotel Spotlight Take a closer look at this journey’s inspiring accommodations. Day 9: Las Vegas / The Entertainment Capital Bid farewell to the canyons of the southwest as you cross the Mojave Desert en route to Las Vegas, where you are free to spend the day enjoying the pleasures of the Strip. Tonight, join your Tour Director and fellow guests for a farewell reception and dinner. Bellagio Las Vegas / Breakfast, Dinner Day 10: Depart Las Vegas Transfer to the airport for your flight home. Breakfast Red Cliffs Lodge Located on the Colorado River, with stunning views of the nearby red cliffs. Fairmont Scottsdale Princess A full-featured desert oasis, complete with spa and golf courses. Visit ak-connections.com for photos of all the hotels on this journey. 800 652 8018 / ak-connections.com 55 One of the many scenic sights in Yellowstone National Park. North America: Yellowstone Priced from $3,995 Limited to 28 Guests | 10 Days | 18 Meals Connections at a Glance Yellowstone National Park Grand Teton National Park Discover your destination through these local connections. Cody Ucross Rapid City South dakota wyoming Salt Lake City • Stay at hotels located within Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks. • Hear ranch hands swap stories around the campfire. • Cruise the Yellow Tail Reservoir, followed by a barbecue lunch. • Take part in a guided experience at the Buffalo Bill Museum. • Shoot the rapids on the Snake River with dinner under the stars. • Gather at the Mormon Temple in Salt Lake City for an organ recital. utah Road Day 1: Arrive in Rapid City Transfer to your hotel. Later, join your Tour Director and fellow travellers for a welcome dinner. Hotel Alex Johnson / Dinner Day 2: Mount Rushmore / Mountain of Presidents Drive a short distance from Rapid City to Mount Rushmore, towering above the Black Hills. Continue to the Crazy Horse Memorial honoring the Lakota leader, and the world’s largest mountain carving. Stop for lunch in historic Spearfish and then head west into the northern heart of Wyoming for an overnight visit to The Ranch at Ucross. Join the wranglers for a fun evening of stories around the bonfire. The Ranch at Ucross / Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 56 / 2013 Day 3: Cody / Legacy of Buffalo Bill Drive past the site of the Battle of Little Bighorn and arrive at the Yellow Tail Reservoir, located in Bighorn Canyon. Cruise on the reservoir to a special picnic area for a barbecue lunch before continuing to the old west town of Cody, Wyoming, founded with help from the pioneering Western showman “Buffalo” Bill Cody. Take some time to explore on your own and have dinner before experiencing the exciting Nite Rodeo. The Holiday Inn in Buffalo Bill Village / Breakfast, Lunch Day 4: Yellowstone National Park / Old Faithful Explore Buffalo Bill Village, including its museum and historical center. A short drive away is Yellowstone National Park (7,800 feet), your home for the next two nights. Tour this magnificent national treasure this afternoon before proceeding to rustic, historic Old Faithful Inn, near the famous geyser. Old Faithful Inn / Breakfast, Dinner Day 5: Yellowstone National Park / America’s Wilderness Today is devoted to experiencing the grandeur of Yellowstone National Park, home to mountains, rivers, lakes, and of course, some of the world’s most concentrated geothermal activity. Diverse wildlife, such as grizzly bears, wolves, bison, elk, and moose live throughout the national park, so keep your eyes peeled and cameras ready throughout the day. Old Faithful Inn / Breakfast Day 6: Grand Teton National Park / Where Bears Roam Depart Yellowstone this morning for Grand Teton National Park (6,800 feet), noted for its stunning mountain vistas and abundant wildlife. Following lunch on your own, gather for a tour of the park, where carnivores such as grey wolves and black bears reside. Jackson Lake Lodge / Breakfast, Dinner local connections To properly introduce you to two of America’s great national parks — Yellowstone and Grand Teton — we’ve arranged for overnight accommodations inside each of them. Day 7: Grand Teton National Park / Whitewater Adventure Continue exploring the park today, and after lunch, prepare for the ride of a lifetime: white water rafting on the Snake River. Class II and III rapids are combined with gentle f loating for eight miles down the river to an idyllic site for a fun barbecue dinner. If you prefer, a gentle cruise on Jackson Lake is also available. Jackson Lake Lodge / Breakfast, Dinner Day 8: Salt Lake City / The Oregon Trail Set out this morning for the fascinating city of Salt Lake. Pause for lunch in Pocatello, Idaho, located at the fork in the road called the Oregon Trail. Continue south through the picturesque Idaho countryside to Salt Lake City. Utah’s capitol city lies in a large valley between two mountain ranges, the Wasatch and the Oquirrhs. Hotel Monaco / Breakfast, Lunch Dates & Pricing May 26-Jun 04 Journeys in bold are guaranteed to operate. Jun 23-Jul 02 Land arrangements: Double occupancy Triple occupancy Single supplement Jul 08-17 Aug 26-Sep 04 MayJun-Sep $3,995$4,150 $3,895$3,995 $1,195$1,195 A&K is happy to arrange your international air or pre-/post-itinerary hotel nights. Contact A&K for details. Hotel Spotlight Take a closer look at this journey’s inspiring accommodations. Day 9: Salt Lake City / Mormon Heritage Visit the impressive Salt Lake Temple, home of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, and then see the majestic State Capitol building, the Governor’s Mansion, the Pony Express station and more. After a bit of free time, gather to hear a beautiful organ recital in the temple. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure for you to explore the city at your own pace. Hotel Monaco / Breakfast, Dinner Day 10: Depart Salt Lake City Old Faithful Inn The most requested lodging in Yellowstone, adjacent to Old Faithful. Jackson Lake Lodge Located right within Grand Teton National Park, with spectacular views. Transfer to the airport for your flight home. Breakfast Visit ak-connections.com for photos of all the hotels on this journey. 800 652 8018 / ak-connections.com 57 The still waters of Lake Louise in Banff National Park. North America: Canadian Rockies Priced from $4,390 Limited to 28 Guests | 8 Days | 15 Meals Connections at a Glance Discover your destination through these local connections. Jasper ALBERTA Banff Lake Louise Calgary Road • Upon arrival in Calgary, enjoy a warm Canadian welcome with a special ceremony. • Wake up to magnificent lakeside views at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. • Learn the art of photography from a professional photographer at scenic Moraine Lake, one of the most picturesque in the Canadian Rockies. • Hike Emerald Lake with one of the country’s best naturalist guides. • Savor a barbecue picnic lunch and enjoy a lecture by an expert park naturalist with Sunwapta Falls in the background. Day 1: Arrive in Calgary Arrive in Calgary, where your A&K representative greets you and takes you to your hotel. Fairmont Palliser Hotel / Dinner Day 2: Lake Louise / Pristine Waters Depart Calgary and start an adventure filled with natural beauty, highlighted by the famed lakes of the Canadian Rockies. Drive through the Bow Valley to Johnston Canyon, with its sheer walls, waterfalls, tunnels and pools formed by erosion over thousands of years. Stroll along the interpretive walkway before setting off for Moraine Lake, a glacially fed lake in Banff National Park. Later, get a hands-on lesson on the art of wildlife and landscape photography alongside a professional photographer. Try out your newfound skills 58 / 2013 on one of the most picturesque lakes in the Canadian Rockies. End the day at your accommodation at Lake Louise (5,700 feet). Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise / Breakfast Day 3: Lake Louise / Flora and Fauna This morning, drive through the serene Yoho National Park en route to Emerald Lake, so named for its unique, vibrant color, the effect of glacial sediment in its waters. Meet with your expert guide, who reveals the geological and natural forces behind this scenic lake, and describes the breathtaking natural surroundings and habits of the endangered local grizzly bear. After lunch, weather permitting, continue through the old railroad town of Field, pausing at Takakkaw Falls, Spiral Tunnel and Kicking Horse Natural Bridge. The remainder of the day is at leisure to explore Lake Louise (5,700 feet) at your own pace. Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise / Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Day 4: Jasper / Through the Icefields Travel the scenic Icefields Parkway, along the backbone of the Canadian Rockies. Named after the sprawling icefields in the area, this is one of the world’s great drives, with roadside wildlife a common sight and vistas of verdant forests and soaring peaks all around. Stop at the massive Athabasca Glacier (7,200 feet) for a thrilling ride across its surface on a specially designed vehicle. After your glacial adventure, continue to magnificent Jasper National Park via Peyto Lake and Crowfoot Glacier before arriving at your lodge. Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge / Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Day 5: Jasper / Canyon Skyscrapers Cruise along the mile-high Maligne Lake to the famous Spirit Island, a tiny island surrounded by the towering snow-capped Rockies. You may opt to join your fellow guests for a guided hike through the Maligne Canyon, with its impressive 200-foot-tall limestone walls. Later, return to your lodge, where the remainder of the day is at your leisure to enjoy its natural surroundings and amenities. Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge / Breakfast, Dinner Day 6: Banff / Waterfalls Between the Parks This morning, depart Jasper National Park, stopping at Athabasca Falls, known for its awesome power. You also visit lovely Sunwapta Falls, enjoying a barbecue lunch and lecture by a local park naturalist in this beautiful, remote setting. Continue to Banff National Park — a UNESCO World Heritage Site, established in 1885 as Canada’s first national park — and your extraordinary hotel, often called the “Castle in the Rockies.” Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel / Breakfast, Lunch Day 7: Banff / Nestled in Nature Bordered on all sides by wilderness, Banff is a national park resort community surrounded by spectacular nature, home to roaming deer, elk and other wildlife. Begin your day with a memorable float trip down the majestic Bow River. The rest of your day is at leisure to enjoy Banff at your own pace, perhaps exploring the community’s restaurants, galleries and unique shops. This evening, attend a special farewell dinner. Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel / Breakfast, Dinner Day 8: Depart Banff Depart for the airport and your return f light home. Breakfast local connections We not only arranged for a professional photographer to provide a hands-on lesson, but timed it for the beginning of your trip, so you can become a pro yourself as your journey continues. Dates & Pricing May 25-Jun 01 Jun 08-15 Journeys in bold are guaranteed to operate. Jul 06-13Aug 03-10 Jul 20-27 Aug 31-Sep 07 Sep 14-21 Sep 28-Oct 05 Land arrangements: Double occupancy Single supplement May; Sep 28 Jun; Aug31-Sep Jul-Aug 17 $4,390 $4,895$5,090 $1,190 $1,720$1,900 A&K is happy to arrange your international air or pre-/post-itinerary hotel nights. Contact A&K for details. Hotel Spotlight Take a closer look at this journey’s inspiring accommodations. Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel Located at stunning Lake Louise, with Styled after a Scottish castle, with premium rooms overlooking the water. a 125-year history of excellence. Visit ak-connections.com for photos of all the hotels on this journey. 800 652 8018 / ak-connections.com 59 British Airways Club WorldSM Booking Your Air with Abercrombie & Kent The best way to fly. Booking your airline reservations with A&K is both easy and beneficial. We know which flights work best with your A&K travel itinerary and can offer them at a specially negotiated fare. You may pay for your tickets either on the same schedule as the rest of your trip or at the time of booking, and relax knowing that all of your travel arrangements have been made. Why book your air through A&K? ››Special fares available only through A&K ››A&K can cancel and refund our special fare air tickets up to the day before departure (less a fee); tickets booked through the airline must usually be paid for within 24 hours of booking and may be non-refundable ››Earn mileage credit offered by your preferred airline’s frequent-flyer club, where applicable ››Reserve your preferred seat when you make your reservations, where applicable Our partners in the air Choose from a variety of global carriers who have partnered with A&K to offer you special fares. 60 / 2013 Passenger Travel Protection Program One more reason to travel with A&K. Abercrombie & Kent knows the value of planning for every travel contingency. Circumstances can force you to cancel your trip at the last minute, return home early or seek emergency medical treatment overseas. That’s why Travel Guard has developed the Passenger Travel Protection Program to meet the needs of A&K travellers. The option to buy is included on your departure invoice. There are no additional forms to fill out; simply indicate that you wish to purchase the plan, pay the amount shown and you are enrolled. The Passenger Travel Protection Program is designed to provide broad coverage that includes:* ››Coverage due to pre-existing medical conditions ››Medical coverage for illness or injury sustained while travelling. Optional upgrade is available for primary coverage ››Baggage loss, theft, delay or damage coverage including an option to upgrade to primary coverage ››Plan also includes toll-free 24/7 assistance with medical, dental or legal emergencies, lost travel documents, emergency cash transfers and more Enjoy your journey with Abercrombie & Kent’s Passenger Travel Protection Program. *This is only a brief description of the coverage(s) available. The Policy will contain reductions, limitations, exclusions and termination provisions. Insurance is underwritten by National Union Fire Insurance Company of Pittsburgh, Pa., with its principal place of business in New York, NY. Coverage may not be available in all states. Travel assistance services are provided by Travel Guard. 800 652 8018 / ak-connections.com 61 Sundowner view over the Masai Mara Luxury Small Group Journeys A world of inspiration awaits. Abercrombie & Kent’s Luxury Small Group Journeys offer the finest group travel experience in the world: journeys where luxury and discovery go hand in hand, and where A&K’s signature insider access introduces you to people and sites far beyond the reach of the average traveller. With more than 40 itineraries to choose from, Luxury Small Group Journeys let you visit nearly every continent in premier A&K style. Luxury Small Group Journeys offer: ››Exclusive private access to the people and places that make a destination unique ››The most luxurious hotels in the best locations ››Small groups of no more than 12-18 guests (24 on cruises and family journeys) ››Complimentary Travelling Bell Boy® luggage handling, an A&K exclusive that delivers your bags from room to room throughout your journey Abercrombie & Kent ››Free Internet at most hotels ››World-renowned resident Tour Directors and local experts 2013 LUXUrY smALL groUp joUrneYs Request the Luxury Small Group Journeys brochure and learn more about A&K group travel at its absolute best. Contact an A&K travel specialist at 800 323 7308, visit abercrombiekent.com/luxury or contact your travel professional. luxury SMAll GrOuP JOurNEyS Contact your travel professional or Abercrombie & Kent at: 1411 Opus Place Executive Towers West II, Suite 300 Downers Grove, IL 60515 800 323 7308 (M-F 8-7, Sat 9-1 CST) [email protected] abercrombiekent.com @AKTravel_USA facebook.com/AbercrombieKent 2013 ® 62 / 2013 Image of a Vietnamese rice farmer, a finalist in A&K’s Facebook photo contest A&K Everywhere Keep up with A&K through Facebook, Twitter and your favorite mobile devices. The Social Traveller Get the latest A&K news and offers, and become part of an active and engaged online travel community, through Facebook and Twitter. A&K’s page on Facebook features travellers’ experiences and pictures from locales near and far, while our Twitter feed keeps you up to date on the latest travel news and offers from around the world. Find us online today. facebook.com/AbercrombieKent @AKTravel_USA A&K on the Go A&K’s mobile website features content specially tailored to mobile browsers and allows you to view any A&K journey from your iPhone, Blackberry or Android device. Search for your favorite destinations, catch up on the latest offers and promotions or browse through photo galleries just as you would on the full site. Visit abercrombiekent.com on your mobile device. See the World of A&K on Your iPad ® See the world through the eyes of an A&K traveller with The World of A&K, an immersive multimedia environment developed exclusively for the iPad. From Virtual Visits that recreate the A&K experience through sound and video to an interactive map that is yours to customize and share, A&K for iPad lets you explore and interact with dozens of A&K destinations without ever leaving home. abercrombiekent.com/ipad iPad and App Store are registered trademarks of Apple Inc. ® ™ 800 652 8018 / ak-connections.com 63 Terms & Conditions Connections journeys as indicated on select dates are guaranteed to operate with a minimum of two (2) persons. Guaranteed departures will operate except only in cases of force majeure, which could include any major world event adversely affecting international travel patterns or other circumstances beyond A&K’s control. Programs containing a cruise component may require a varying number of passengers to operate. A&K GUARANTEED DEPARTURES: A&K PRICE ASSURANCE: The A&K Price Assurance applies to 2013 Connections and Luxury Small Group Journeys available through Abercrombie & Kent USA, LLC. Short-term one-day promotions and international air and extra services are excluded. The A&K Price Assurance applies only to 2013 advertised rates on abercrombiekent. com for the same program, travel date and accommodation classification. Abercrombie & Kent reserves the right to modify or cancel the A&K Price Assurance for future bookings without prior notice. Marco Polo Club discount does not apply to Connections departures. INCLUDED IN ESCORTED GROUP PROGRAMS: All accommodations as noted in the itinerary; meals as specified; arrival and departure transfers (regardless of days of arrival and departure); fully guided sightseeing as noted in the itinerary (including park and entrance fees); local bottled water during sightseeing; selected beverages with group meals; services of an A&K Tour Director (or Egyptologist in Egypt); handling of two pieces of baggage per person for international flights (other conditions/restrictions may apply for internal routes; please refer to BAGGAGE section); hotel taxes; and gratuities throughout, except to the Tour Director/Egyptologist and safari camp staff/driver-guides/ trackers. (See separate section on GRATUITIES for more details.) Medical evacuation service, when available, including air transportation to medical care facilities, is included within Kenya and Tanzania. Hospitalization and medical expenses are at an additional cost. SPECIAL NOTES: Services on Connections journeys may be modified to accommodate a small group. All extensions are locally guided. GRATUITIES: Gratuities are included for hotel and restaurant staff, porterage and local guides and drivers. Gratuities are not included for the A&K Tour Director/Egyptologist, which are at the traveller’s discretion and should be based on the level of satisfaction with the service received. Where applicable, gratuities to ship crews and camp staff are also not included in the escorted group program price and are at the discretion of the traveller. Recommended guidelines by tour will be provided in A&K’s pre-tour documentation. NOT INCLUDED IN connections Journey PRICES: Passenger Travel Protection Program; international and internal airfares, unless otherwise noted; costs associated with obtaining passports or entry visas; airport departure taxes, unless otherwise noted; excess baggage charges; gratuities to the A&K Tour Director/Egyptologist on Connections programs or camp staff as outlined above; meals other than those specified in the itinerary; beverages other than noted in your pre-tour documentation; sightseeing not included in the published itinerary; and personal expenses such as laundry, communication charges and optional activities (which are subject to availability). Accommodations including vessels and arranged sightseeing are subject to change at any time due to unforeseen circumstances or circumstances beyond Abercrombie & Kent’s control. Every effort will be made to operate itineraries as planned, but alterations may occur after the final itinerary has been issued. A&K also reserves the right to withdraw a program or any part of it, to make such alterations to the itinerary or the program inclusions as it deems necessary or desirable, and to pass on to tour members any expenditures or losses caused by delays or events beyond its control. ITINERARIES: SPECIAL REQUESTS: Specific requests such as adjacent or connecting rooms, bedding requests, smoking rooms and special dietary needs should be advised at time of booking. Please note that while every effort will be made to secure a special request, it cannot be guaranteed in advance of travel. PRICES AND ARRANGEMENTS: Quoted program prices are per person, double occupancy except where indicated. Prices include planning, handling and operational charges and are based on current rates of exchange, tariffs and taxes in effect at the time of publication. A&K reserves the right to increase program prices to cover increased costs, tariffs, taxes and V.A.T. received after prices are published and to reflect fluctuations in foreign exchange markets. A&K is under no 64 / 2013 obligation to give a breakdown in costs of any small group escorted journey. Modification of program content to accommodate a smaller group size will not affect the published program price. On programs where immediate check-in has not been included in the program price, A&K has requested that all hotels provide the service when possible; however, it cannot be guaranteed. Most hotels allow check-in to take place during the mid-afternoon. Should you wish to have a guaranteed room ready for your immediate check-in upon arrival, it can be arranged for an additional charge. Please ask A&K for details and prices. IMMEDIATE CHECK-IN: A&K recommends that you arrive a day or two before the start of your planned program to allow time to relax and refresh after your journey. To prepare for the start of your tour, A&K has negotiated favorable overnight rates at many hotels; please ask for details at time of booking. Departing early from the U.S. and Canada during the winter months is strongly recommended, due to possible flight disruptions and cancellations caused by inclement weather. EARLY ARRIVAL: CHILD POLICY: On non-family A&K escorted small group journeys, unless otherwise indicated on the individual tour, a minimum age of 10 years is required. However, some activities contained within an itinerary may have a different age restriction than the overall minimum age requirement. Details will be provided at the time of booking . Some active elements have been incorporated into select itineraries. To enjoy the trip as intended, a minimum level of fitness is required. A&K will require notice if any participant has any physical or other condition or disability that could create a hazard to him or herself or to other members of the group. A&K reserves the right to decline acceptance of anyone whom it considers unsuitable due to fitness level. A&K also reserves the right to remove from the trip, at the participant’s own expense, anyone whose condition is such that it could create a hazard to him or herself or others, or otherwise impact the enjoyment of other passengers. SHOULD YOU HAVE ANY ACTIVE ELEMENTS: are subject to the following: Cancellations received 31 or more days prior to the service will be refunded in full; cancellations received 30-15 days in advance will be charged 50% of the price; and cancellations received less than 15 days in advance will be charged 100% of the price. Special cancellation charges apply to select hotels in Egypt and East Africa. Payment and cancellation terms and conditions for extensions and internal air may vary from those noted above. Ask A&K for details. EXCEPTIONS: AIR TRANSPORTATION: International airfares are not included in program pricing. Abercrombie & Kent USA, LLC, has special agreements with many carriers and can offer quotations from any gateway. Please ask your destination specialist about our special fares. All international and internal air quotes are subject to change and can carry penalties and surcharges until final payment has been received by A&K. Flight confirmation is based on availability. Air reservations cannot be confirmed until a passport copy is received by A&K. PLEASE NOTE THAT CERTAIN AIRFARES ARE SUBJECT TO A SERVICE FEE. Airlines concerned are not to be held responsible for any act, omission or event during the time passengers are not on board their planes or conveyances. These programs may use the services of any IATA carrier. International air carriers are subject to international air conventions limiting their liability. The limitations of liability are contained on the reverse side of the airline ticket or e-ticket receipt, or on the carrier’s web site, and form part of the terms and conditions of this package. The passage contract in use by these companies, when issued, shall constitute the sole contract between the companies and the purchaser of these travel programs and/or passage. BAGGAGE: Abercrombie & Kent provides handling of two pieces QUESTIONS OR NEED ANY CLARIFICATION ABOUT A SPECIFIC PROGRAM, PLEASE ASK FOR DETAILS AT TIME OF BOOKING. of baggage per person. Weight restrictions on some routes on internal/ domestic flights may apply; details will be provided with pre-tour documentation. Baggage and personal effects are at the owner’s risk throughout the travel program, and A&K assumes no liability for lost or damaged baggage. Please check with your international carrier for other baggage restrictions applicable to your international flights. A&K’S PASSENGER TRAVEL PROTECTION PLAN: Claims and Refunds: Refunds are not made for any missed Our specially designed travel protection plan, which provides cancellation coverage, medical coverage and protection against lost or damaged luggage, is not included in the program price and is strongly recommended. See page 61 for more details. Valid passports are required for all international destinations. It is recommended that you check with A&K and the U.S. Department of State website for the latest passport and visa requirements. Please note that non-U.S. passport holders are responsible for obtaining the required documentation applicable for entry. Passports must be valid for six (6) months after the return of your journey and should also have sufficient blank pages for visas and immigrations stamps. A&K cannot be held responsible should you be denied entry to a country due to non-compliance with these requirements. A copy of your valid passport must be submitted to A&K in order to confirm air reservations. PASSPORTS AND VISAS: REGISTRATION AND PAYMENT SCHEDULE: A deposit of $500 per person is required at the time of booking. Final payment is due 90 days prior to departure. If your reservation is made within 90 days of departure, the entire cost of the trip must be paid at the time of the request in order to secure confirmation. For all India programs operating between November 1 and December 31, 2013, final payment is due 120 days prior to departure. A special deposit applies. For China: Life Along the Yangtze, a non-refundable deposit is required to confirm a Specialty Suite (Jade, Mandarin, Imperial or Celestial) on the Sanctuary ‘Yangzi Explorer.’ Ask A&K for details. CANCELLATION CHARGES: Cancellations received by A&K 90 days or more prior to departure will be subject to a $500 per person/ per tour cancellation fee; 89-60 days prior to departure will be subject to 20% of the program price; 59-30 days prior to departure will be subject to 50% of the program price; and 29 days or less prior to departure will be subject to 100% of the program price. For all India programs operating between November 1 and December 31, 2013, a special cancellation schedule applies. Ask A&K for details. Additional hotel nights and other extra services booked in connection with A&K programs CANCELLATION FOR extra services: services, except for verifiable extenuating circumstances. Please see our Limits on Abercrombie & Kent’s Responsibility clause below. For verifiable claims to be considered, they must be received in writing within 30 days of the termination of the program and be accompanied by supporting documentation and/or a statement from the local destination company verifying the claim. Any adjustment considered will be based on the actual price of the services involved and not on a per diem basis. Adjustments will not be made for unused sightseeing trips or meals. A&K will not accept any liability for any claims that are not received within 30 days of the termination of your travel program. All claims for days missed while travelling should be made in writing within 30 days of the termination of the program. Photography During Travel: Abercrombie & Kent reserves the right to take photographs during the operation of any program or part thereof and to use them for promotional purposes. By booking a program with A&K, program members agree to allow their images to be used in such photographs. Program members who prefer that their images not be used are asked to identify themselves to their Tour Director at the beginning of their program. Limits on Abercrombie & Kent’s Responsibility: Abercrombie & Kent, USA, LLC, its employees, shareholders, officers, directors, successors, agents and assigns (collectively A&K), does not own or operate any entity which is to or does provide goods or services for your trip. It purchases transportation (by aircraft, coach, train, vessel or otherwise), hotel and other lodging accommodations, restaurant, ground handling and other services from various independent suppliers (including from time to time other affiliated Abercrombie & Kent companies). All such persons and entities are independent contractors. As a result, A&K is not liable for any negligent or willful act of any such person or entity or of any third person. In addition and without limitation, A&K is not responsible for any injury, financial or physical loss, death, inconvenience, delay or damage to personal property in connection with the provision of any goods or services whether resulting from but not limited to acts of God or force One Name: One Unparalleled Standard Worldwide the advance payments received by Abercrombie & Kent. More details of the Throughout this brochure and on abercrombiekent.com, you’ll see references at 345 Seventh Avenue, Suite 1801, New York, New York 10001, by email to to “Abercrombie & Kent” (or simply “A&K”). This is our shorthand for the many [email protected] or by visiting their website at www.USTOA.com. USTOA Travelers Assistance Program may be obtained by writing to USTOA independent A&K companies that work with Abercrombie & Kent USA, LLC of Downers Grove, Illinois, to provide its travellers with a consistent worldwide ASTA TOP Tour Operator Program standard of expertise and excellence in travel. Their independence allows our Abercrombie & Kent USA, LLC is a member of the American Society of Travel Agents TOP Program, open guests to benefit from the unique local knowledge and specialized services available only from destination-based operating companies around the globe. United States Tour Operators Association $1 million travelers assistance program only to select tour operators. Abercrombie & Kent USA, LLC is also a member of the National Tour Association (NTA), the leading association for professionals serving travelers to, from and within North America. Abercrombie & Kent USA, LLC, as an Active Member of USTOA, is required to post $1 Million with USTOA to be used to reimburse, in accordance with Travel Agents the terms and conditions of the USTOA $1 Million Travelers Assistance A travel agent can enhance your trip by providing information and advice Program, the advance payments of Abercrombie & Kent customers in the not contained in this brochure. A&K has long-standing relationships with unlikely event of an Abercrombie & Kent bankruptcy, insolvency or cessation the industry’s best travel agents and would be pleased to work with yours. of business. Further, you should understand that the $1 Million posted by Abercrombie & Kent may be sufficient to provide only a partial recovery of majeure, illness, disease, acts of war, civil unrest, insurrection or revolt, animals, strikes or other labor activities, criminal or terrorist activities of any kind, overbooking or downgrading of services, food poisoning, mechanical or other failure of aircraft or other means of transportation or for failure of any transportation mechanism to arrive or depart on time. There are many inherent risks in adventure travel of the type involved here, which can lead to illness, injury, or even death. These risks are increased by the fact that these trips take place in remote locations, far from medical facilities. Passenger assumes all such risks associated with participating in these trips. Travel Advisories and Warnings: It is the responsibility of the traveller to become informed about the most current travel advisories and warnings by referring to the U. S. State Department’s travel website at travel.state.gov or by phone at 888 407 4747. In the event of an active State Department Travel Warning against travel to the specific destination location(s) of the trip, should the traveller still choose to travel, notwithstanding any travel advisory or warning, the traveller assumes all risk of personal injury, death or property damage that may arise out of the events like those advised or warned against. Arbitration Agreement: Any controversy or claim arising out of or relating to these Terms and Conditions, to the Limits on Abercrombie & Kent’s Responsibility clause, to the brochure, to any information relating in any way to the trip, to the trip itself, or to any products or services related to the trip, shall be settled solely and exclusively by binding arbitration in Chicago, Illinois in accordance with the Commercial Arbitration Rules of the American Arbitration Association, except that (a) in lieu of a personal appearance at arbitration, the arbitration may be conducted by telephonic means, (b) arbitration is the exclusive forum for dispute resolution (no court actions), and (c) except as otherwise provided by statute, each party shall bear its own costs and expenses and an equal share of the arbitrator and administrative fees. Traveller’s Representations: The traveller represents that neither he nor she nor anyone travelling with him or her has any physical or other condition or disability that could create a hazard to himself or herself or other members of the tour. A&K reserves the right to decline to accept anyone on a trip, and to remove from the trip, at his or her sole expense, anyone whose condition is such that he or she could create a hazard to himself or others, or otherwise impact the enjoyment of other passengers on the trip. ANY PAYMENT TO ABERCROMBIE & KENT CONSTITUTES YOUR ACCEPTANCE OF THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS SET OUT HEREIN AND IN MORE SPECIFIC PRE-DEPARTURE PASSENGER DOCUMENTATION, INCLUDING THE PERSONAL INFORMATION FORM. Abercrombie & Kent accepts all major credit cards. © 2012 Abercrombie & Kent USA, LLC. ABERCROMBIE & KENT, A&K, GUARDIAN ANGEL, CONNECTIONS BY ABERCROMBIE & KENT, INSPIRING EXPERIENCES, MARCO POLO CLUB, PRIVATE JOURNEYS, SIGNATURE SERIES, SIMPLY THE BEST WAY TO TRAVEL, TRAVELLING BELL BOY and the ampersand design are service marks owned by Abercrombie & Kent Group of Companies, S.A. The service marks and trademarks of airlines appearing in this brochure and on abercrombiekent.com are owned by the respective companies mentioned. Kramer, Ernesto Rios Lanz, Frans Lemmen, LMR Media, LOOK Die Bildagentur der Fotografen GmbH, Guillem Lopez, Lucid Photography Services, Dennis MacDonald, Richard Manin, Stevie Mann, Lawrence Manning, Mantra Group, Michael Walters 4, MIVA Stock, Stephen Morris, Luciano Mortula, Altrendo Nature, Orient-Express Hotels Ltd, Vladimir Ovchinnikov, Panorama Media (Beijing) Ltd., Panoramic Images, Peppers Beach Club, Ben Pipe, Vincente Machancoses Primo, Purestock, QCumber, William Rawlings, Red Cliffs Lodge, The Regent Esplanade Zagreb, Robert Harding World Imagery, Rollie Rodriguez, Sanctuary Retreats, SIME s.a.s., Sino Group of Hotels, Sofitel Luxury Hotels, Sopa Lodges, St. Regis Rome Grand Hotel, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., Lee Karen Stow, Keren Su, SuperStock, Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces, Suzanne Teng, Thinkstock, Luboslav Tiles, Tips Images / Tips Italia Srl a socio unico, Travelscape Images, Tuul, Martin Valigursky, View Stock, Voyages Hotels & Resorts, James Warwick, Andrew Watson, Stuart Westmorland, Tim Whitby, Paul Williams, Jan Wlodarczyk, Xanterra Parks & Resorts, Inc., Brian Yarvin, Steve Zalan CST#2007274-20 design & production: Abercrombie & Kent USA, LLC / Downers Grove, IL / abercrombiekent.com printing: Lithographix Inc. / Hawthorne, CA / lithographix.com photography: Abercrombie & Kent, Alamy, Steve Allen, Jaime Amerlan, Karl Ammann, Aranwa Hotels Resorst & Spas, Liz Boyd, Sylvain Brajeul, British Airways, Yvette Cardozo, The Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group, Cephas Picture Library, China Span, Comstock Images, Corbis Images, Dennis Cox, CTK, CuboImages s.r.l., Digital Vision, Li Ding, Stephen Emerson, eStock Photo, Greg Balfour Evans, eventpix, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, Steve Filipiak, James Forni, FunkyFood London, Fuse, Slawomir Gawryluk, Getty Images, Andrea Getuli, graficart.net, Grand Hotel & La Pace Spa, Grand Teton Lodge Company & Flagg Ranch Company, Gwen Shabka Photography, Ryan Heffernan, Hemera, Hemera Technologies, Andy Hockridge, Cindy Hopkins, Hotel Alfonso XIII, Hungarian National Tourism Board, Imperial Dubrovnik, Inkaterra Machu Picchu, InterContinental Hotels Group, iStockphoto, Jupiterimages, Sandra Kapocius, Silva Krajnc, Philip 800 652 8018 / ak-connections.com 65 Connections by Abercrombie & Kent 2013 Destinations Index of Dates and Destinations Destination 66 Brochure Page # # of days priced from Italy: Renaissance Cities 16 8 $4,380 Italy: South to North 18 13 $7,270 France: Art & Artistry 22 9 $4,760 Spain: Seven Cities 24 10 $5,495 Eastern Europe: Budapest, Vienna & Prague 26 10 $4,335 Croatia: Jewel of the Coast 28 9 $3,675 East Africa: Tanzania & Kenya 30 11 $5,195 Morocco: Kasbahs & Medinas 34 8 $3,395 Egypt: Ancient Kingdoms 36 9 $3,795 China: Life Along the Yangtze 40 13 $4,690 Southeast Asia: Thailand, Cambodia & Vietnam 44 15 $5,395 India: Spiritual Splendors 48 11 $3,990 Australia: Adventure Down Under 50 10 $5,350 Peru: Land of the Incas 52 9 $4,185 North America: Canyons of the Southwest 54 10 $4,845 North America: Yellowstone 56 10 $3,995 North America: Canadian Rockies 58 8 $4,*90 / 2013 Book with confidence Journeys in bold are guaranteed to operate with a minimum of two guests. Italic indicates an itinerary that concludes in the following month. Jan FEB MAR APR may jun jul aug sep oct 09-16 30-07 14-21 11-18 30-06 20-27 03-10 01-08 15-22 27-08 03-15 17-29 01-13 22-03 09-21 14-26 12-20 03-11 31-08 07-15 28-06 22-01 13-22 17-26 24-03 08-17 22-31 02-11 16-25 14-23 23-02 14-23 21-30 11-20 18-27 09-18 10-19 08-17 03-11 24-01 07-15 21-29 06-14 13-21 04-12 04-14 12-22 02-12 04-14 16-26 22-29 05-12 20-30 20-02 11-23 18-30 01-13 22-04 13-25 17-29 07-17 Venice revealed herself to us in spectacular fashion. 05-13 03-11 17-25 07-15 19-27 28-07 12-21 08-17 23-02 07-16 04-13 26-04 23-02 8-17 26-04 25-01 08-15 6-13 20-27 03-10 31-07 dec 11-19 18-26 16-24 03-13 nov 10-18 22-30 07-19 21-03 05-17 26-07 12-26 11-21 19-27 03-11 03-17 10-24 24-07 07-21 21-05 05-19 12-26 15-25 20-30 27-06 10-20 08-18 09-18 07-16 06-14 20-28 25-02 02-11 01-10 15-24 29-08 14-21 28-05 800 652 8018 / ak-connections.com 67 Terms & Conditions Connections journeys as indicated on select dates are guaranteed to operate with a minimum of two (2) persons. Guaranteed departures will operate except only in cases of force majeure, which could include any major world event adversely affecting international travel patterns or other circumstances beyond A&K’s control. Programs containing a cruise component may require a varying number of passengers to operate. A&K GUARANTEED DEPARTURES: A&K PRICE ASSURANCE: The A&K Price Assurance applies to 2013 Connections and Luxury Small Group Journeys available through Abercrombie & Kent USA, LLC. Short-term one-day promotions and international air and extra services are excluded. The A&K Price Assurance applies only to 2013 advertised rates on abercrombiekent. com for the same program, travel date and accommodation classification. Abercrombie & Kent reserves the right to modify or cancel the A&K Price Assurance for future bookings without prior notice. Marco Polo Club discount does not apply to Connections departures. INCLUDED IN ESCORTED GROUP PROGRAMS: All accommodations as noted in the itinerary; meals as specified; arrival and departure transfers (regardless of days of arrival and departure); fully guided sightseeing as noted in the itinerary (including park and entrance fees); local bottled water during sightseeing; selected beverages with group meals; services of an A&K Tour Director (or Egyptologist in Egypt); handling of two pieces of baggage per person for international flights (other conditions/restrictions may apply for internal routes; please refer to BAGGAGE section); hotel taxes; and gratuities throughout, except to the Tour Director/Egyptologist and safari camp staff/driver-guides/ trackers. (See separate section on GRATUITIES for more details.) Medical evacuation service, when available, including air transportation to medical care facilities, is included within Kenya and Tanzania. Hospitalization and medical expenses are at an additional cost. SPECIAL NOTES: Services on Connections journeys may be modified to accommodate a small group. All extensions are locally guided. GRATUITIES: Gratuities are included for hotel and restaurant staff, porterage and local guides and drivers. Gratuities are not included for the A&K Tour Director/Egyptologist, which are at the traveller’s discretion and should be based on the level of satisfaction with the service received. Where applicable, gratuities to ship crews and camp staff are also not included in the escorted group program price and are at the discretion of the traveller. Recommended guidelines by tour will be provided in A&K’s pre-tour documentation. NOT INCLUDED IN connections Journey PRICES: Passenger Travel Protection Program; international and internal airfares, unless otherwise noted; costs associated with obtaining passports or entry visas; airport departure taxes, unless otherwise noted; excess baggage charges; gratuities to the A&K Tour Director/Egyptologist on Connections programs or camp staff as outlined above; meals other than those specified in the itinerary; beverages other than noted in your pre-tour documentation; sightseeing not included in the published itinerary; and personal expenses such as laundry, communication charges and optional activities (which are subject to availability). Accommodations including vessels and arranged sightseeing are subject to change at any time due to unforeseen circumstances or circumstances beyond Abercrombie & Kent’s control. Every effort will be made to operate itineraries as planned, but alterations may occur after the final itinerary has been issued. A&K also reserves the right to withdraw a program or any part of it, to make such alterations to the itinerary or the program inclusions as it deems necessary or desirable, and to pass on to tour members any expenditures or losses caused by delays or events beyond its control. ITINERARIES: SPECIAL REQUESTS: Specific requests such as adjacent or connecting rooms, bedding requests, smoking rooms and special dietary needs should be advised at time of booking. Please note that while every effort will be made to secure a special request, it cannot be guaranteed in advance of travel. PRICES AND ARRANGEMENTS: Quoted program prices are per person, double occupancy except where indicated. Prices include planning, handling and operational charges and are based on current rates of exchange, tariffs and taxes in effect at the time of publication. A&K reserves the right to increase program prices to cover increased costs, tariffs, taxes and V.A.T. received after prices are published and to reflect fluctuations in foreign exchange markets. A&K is under no 64 / 2013 obligation to give a breakdown in costs of any small group escorted journey. Modification of program content to accommodate a smaller group size will not affect the published program price. On programs where immediate check-in has not been included in the program price, A&K has requested that all hotels provide the service when possible; however, it cannot be guaranteed. Most hotels allow check-in to take place during the mid-afternoon. Should you wish to have a guaranteed room ready for your immediate check-in upon arrival, it can be arranged for an additional charge. Please ask A&K for details and prices. IMMEDIATE CHECK-IN: A&K recommends that you arrive a day or two before the start of your planned program to allow time to relax and refresh after your journey. To prepare for the start of your tour, A&K has negotiated favorable overnight rates at many hotels; please ask for details at time of booking. Departing early from the U.S. and Canada during the winter months is strongly recommended, due to possible flight disruptions and cancellations caused by inclement weather. EARLY ARRIVAL: CHILD POLICY: On non-family A&K escorted small group journeys, unless otherwise indicated on the individual tour, a minimum age of 10 years is required. However, some activities contained within an itinerary may have a different age restriction than the overall minimum age requirement. Details will be provided at the time of booking . Some active elements have been incorporated into select itineraries. To enjoy the trip as intended, a minimum level of fitness is required. A&K will require notice if any participant has any physical or other condition or disability that could create a hazard to him or herself or to other members of the group. A&K reserves the right to decline acceptance of anyone whom it considers unsuitable due to fitness level. A&K also reserves the right to remove from the trip, at the participant’s own expense, anyone whose condition is such that it could create a hazard to him or herself or others, or otherwise impact the enjoyment of other passengers. SHOULD YOU HAVE ANY ACTIVE ELEMENTS: are subject to the following: Cancellations received 31 or more days prior to the service will be refunded in full; cancellations received 30-15 days in advance will be charged 50% of the price; and cancellations received less than 15 days in advance will be charged 100% of the price. Special cancellation charges apply to select hotels in Egypt and East Africa. Payment and cancellation terms and conditions for extensions and internal air may vary from those noted above. Ask A&K for details. EXCEPTIONS: AIR TRANSPORTATION: International airfares are not included in program pricing. Abercrombie & Kent USA, LLC, has special agreements with many carriers and can offer quotations from any gateway. Please ask your destination specialist about our special fares. All international and internal air quotes are subject to change and can carry penalties and surcharges until final payment has been received by A&K. Flight confirmation is based on availability. Air reservations cannot be confirmed until a passport copy is received by A&K. PLEASE NOTE THAT CERTAIN AIRFARES ARE SUBJECT TO A SERVICE FEE. Airlines concerned are not to be held responsible for any act, omission or event during the time passengers are not on board their planes or conveyances. These programs may use the services of any IATA carrier. International air carriers are subject to international air conventions limiting their liability. The limitations of liability are contained on the reverse side of the airline ticket or e-ticket receipt, or on the carrier’s web site, and form part of the terms and conditions of this package. The passage contract in use by these companies, when issued, shall constitute the sole contract between the companies and the purchaser of these travel programs and/or passage. BAGGAGE: Abercrombie & Kent provides handling of two pieces QUESTIONS OR NEED ANY CLARIFICATION ABOUT A SPECIFIC PROGRAM, PLEASE ASK FOR DETAILS AT TIME OF BOOKING. of baggage per person. Weight restrictions on some routes on internal/ domestic flights may apply; details will be provided with pre-tour documentation. Baggage and personal effects are at the owner’s risk throughout the travel program, and A&K assumes no liability for lost or damaged baggage. Please check with your international carrier for other baggage restrictions applicable to your international flights. A&K’S PASSENGER TRAVEL PROTECTION PLAN: Claims and Refunds: Refunds are not made for any missed Our specially designed travel protection plan, which provides cancellation coverage, medical coverage and protection against lost or damaged luggage, is not included in the program price and is strongly recommended. See page 61 for more details. Valid passports are required for all international destinations. It is recommended that you check with A&K and the U.S. Department of State website for the latest passport and visa requirements. Please note that non-U.S. passport holders are responsible for obtaining the required documentation applicable for entry. Passports must be valid for six (6) months after the return of your journey and should also have sufficient blank pages for visas and immigrations stamps. A&K cannot be held responsible should you be denied entry to a country due to non-compliance with these requirements. A copy of your valid passport must be submitted to A&K in order to confirm air reservations. PASSPORTS AND VISAS: REGISTRATION AND PAYMENT SCHEDULE: A deposit of $500 per person is required at the time of booking. Final payment is due 90 days prior to departure. If your reservation is made within 90 days of departure, the entire cost of the trip must be paid at the time of the request in order to secure confirmation. For all India programs operating between November 1 and December 31, 2013, final payment is due 120 days prior to departure. A special deposit applies. For China: Life Along the Yangtze, a non-refundable deposit is required to confirm a Specialty Suite (Jade, Mandarin, Imperial or Celestial) on the Sanctuary ‘Yangzi Explorer.’ Ask A&K for details. CANCELLATION CHARGES: Cancellations received by A&K 90 days or more prior to departure will be subject to a $500 per person/ per tour cancellation fee; 89-60 days prior to departure will be subject to 20% of the program price; 59-30 days prior to departure will be subject to 50% of the program price; and 29 days or less prior to departure will be subject to 100% of the program price. For all India programs operating between November 1 and December 31, 2013, a special cancellation schedule applies. Ask A&K for details. Additional hotel nights and other extra services booked in connection with A&K programs CANCELLATION FOR extra services: services, except for verifiable extenuating circumstances. Please see our Limits on Abercrombie & Kent’s Responsibility clause below. For verifiable claims to be considered, they must be received in writing within 30 days of the termination of the program and be accompanied by supporting documentation and/or a statement from the local destination company verifying the claim. Any adjustment considered will be based on the actual price of the services involved and not on a per diem basis. Adjustments will not be made for unused sightseeing trips or meals. A&K will not accept any liability for any claims that are not received within 30 days of the termination of your travel program. All claims for days missed while travelling should be made in writing within 30 days of the termination of the program. Photography During Travel: Abercrombie & Kent reserves the right to take photographs during the operation of any program or part thereof and to use them for promotional purposes. By booking a program with A&K, program members agree to allow their images to be used in such photographs. Program members who prefer that their images not be used are asked to identify themselves to their Tour Director at the beginning of their program. Limits on Abercrombie & Kent’s Responsibility: Abercrombie & Kent, USA, LLC, its employees, shareholders, officers, directors, successors, agents and assigns (collectively A&K), does not own or operate any entity which is to or does provide goods or services for your trip. It purchases transportation (by aircraft, coach, train, vessel or otherwise), hotel and other lodging accommodations, restaurant, ground handling and other services from various independent suppliers (including from time to time other affiliated Abercrombie & Kent companies). All such persons and entities are independent contractors. As a result, A&K is not liable for any negligent or willful act of any such person or entity or of any third person. In addition and without limitation, A&K is not responsible for any injury, financial or physical loss, death, inconvenience, delay or damage to personal property in connection with the provision of any goods or services whether resulting from but not limited to acts of God or force