7 days from Warsaw to Berlin and Prague

INCLUDED FEATURES:

First class hotels, rooms with private facilities
Service charges and hotel taxes
Breakfast daily and 3 dinners
Touring by modern motor coach
Airport and local transfers
Professional Tour Director
Luggage handling

SIGHTSEEING TOURS INCLUDED:

Warsaw
Berlin
Prague

Day 1, arrive Warsaw, Friday

You will be met and transferred to the hotel. There
will be plenty of time to relax before meeting your
fellow travelers and tour director. (D)

Day 2, in Warsaw, Saturday

The 700 year old capital is the symbol of the Polish
nationhood and the will to survive against great
odds.
A sightseeing tour includes a drive along the
famous Royal Route from magnificent Castle Square
to Lazienki Park and Palace, the summer residence of
the last King of Poland. Pass by the Palace of Science
and Culture (known as a “wedding cake”), the
Saxon Gardens, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier,
Monument to the Heroes of the Warsaw Ghetto and
the Barbican. Continue with the walking tour of
the Old Town, the Old Market Square and St. John’s
Cathedral. The rest of the day is free for relaxing,
shopping, a stroll through the city or an optional late
afternoon Chopin concert. (B)

Day 3, to Berlin, Sunday
Stop in Poznan for an orientation tour, and then
continue to Berlin, today’s final destination. (B, D)

Day 4, in Berlin, Monday

Your morning sightseeing tour features the
Reichstag, the Renaissance building that once
housed German Parliament, and the lovely Schloss
Charlottenburg. The tour continues through the city
to view the other famous sights such as the Opera,
the Schiller Theater and the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial
Church. The afternoon is free to explore this once
divided city on your own. (B)

Day 5, to Prague, Tuesday

This morning, continue your journey via Dresden, the
beautiful Saxon Baroque city. On your orientation
tour, view the Zwinger Palace and Semper Opera
House.
Afterwards, continue to the Czech capital of Prague.
390 km (B, D)

Day 6, in Prague, Wednesday

Built on the seven hills more than 1000 years ago
and situated on both banks of the Vltava River,
Prague is one of the most attractive cities in the
world. Your city tour starts with a panoramic drive to
the famous Wenceslas Square, the Strahov Stadium
and the Castle Square. On a walking tour, visit the
Royal Castle of Hradcany, St. Vitus Cathedral, Royal
Palace and Loretto Church. Cross the Charles Bridge
and walk through the old quarter of Prague to view
the Jewish Ghetto, Town Hall and the world famous
Astronomical Clock. The balance of the day is free.
An optional visit to a cultural performance will be
available. (B)

Day 7, depart Prague, Thursday

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your departure

HOTELS:

Warsaw: Radisson BLU (SF)
Berlin: Hotel ABBA (SF)
Prague: Diplomat (F)

LITTLE TOUR OF RUSSIA

7 days from Moscow to Novgorod and St. Petersburg

INCLUDED FEATURES:

First class hotels, rooms with private facilities
Service charges and hotel taxes
Breakfast daily and 3 dinners
Airport transfers
Touring by modern motor-coach
Professional Tour Director throughout
Luggage handling

SIGHTSEEING TOURS INCLUDED:

Moscow
Novgorod
St. Petersburg

Day 1, arrive Moscow, Saturday
Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your
hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure. Welcome
dinner in the evening. (D)

Day 2, in Moscow, Sunday
Moscow, one of the largest cities in the world, is the
symbolic heart and soul of the country. Sightseeing
begins at the Red Square, dominated by St. Basil’s
Cathedral and by the massive red walls of the
Kremlin. Visit the Armory Museum; proceed to
see the Moscow University and the popular Arbat
shopping district. Continue with a drive along the
wide boulevards and then stroll through GUM,
Russia’s largest department store. Rest of the day is
at leisure. You may take part in an optional tour by
night of Moscow and its subway. (B)

Day 3, to Tver and Novgorod, Monday
After an early breakfast, depart for Tver, an ancient
trading port nestled on the banks of the Volga
River. The city offers fascinating treasures, including
Putevoy Dvorets, built for Catherine II as a resting
place on her journeys from Moscow to St. Petersburg.
Enjoy a short sightseeing tour of this remarkable city.
End the day in historic Novgorod, founded almost
twelve centuries ago. (B, D)

Day 4, to St. Petersburg, Tuesday

A morning sightseeing tour of Novgorod starts at the
Kremlin with a visit to St. Sophia Cathedral. Then,
cross the river via a pedestrian bridge to visit the
Yaroslav Court. In the afternoon, travel north to St.
Petersburg, the former capital of the Romanov Czars.
Upon arrival first enjoy a sightseeing tour of the city
starting with the visit of Peter and Paul Fortress,
quarter of the City museum and its cathedral, which
houses the crypt of the Russian emperors. Next, visit
St. Isaac’s Cathedral. (B, D)

Day 5, in St. Petersburg, Wednesday

There are not many cities in the world that can
match the grace of St. Petersburg. When Peter the
Great founded the city in 1703, he hired Europe’s
best architects, craftsmen and artists to build and
decorate it. Spread over 100 islands linked by over
600 bridges, it is often referred to as “Venice of the
North”. This morning sightseeing tour will feature
highlight: the world-famous Hermitage, which
houses many treasures from the Czarist era. The rest
of the day is free at leisure. (B)

Day 6, in St. Petersburg, Thursday

Free day for shopping or individual activities. An
optional tour to visit Petrodvorets, Peter the Great’s
Summer Palace, will be available. In the evening you
may take part in an optional tour featuring a folklore
performance (B)

Day 7, depart St. Petersburg, Friday

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your
departure flight. (B)

HOTELS:
Moscow: Marriott Grand (SF)
Novgorod: Beresta (F)
St. Petersburg: Holiday Inn (F)

K100 ~ VENICE, FLORENCE, ROME

8 Days from Venice to Florence and Rome

TOUR FEATURES:

First class hotels, rooms with private facilities
Service charges and hotel taxes
7 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 4 dinners including a
welcome dinner in Venice and a farewell
dinner in Rome
Private deluxe motorcoach with air-conditioning,
extra leg room and emergency washroom
Sightseeing with local guides: Venice, Pisa,
Florence, Rome
Airport transfers
Service of a professional tour director

SPECIAL FEATURES:

 Inside visits and special features as shown
in the tour description, including
admission charges where applicable

Day 1, arrive Venice, Sunday
Arrive in Venice airport where you will be met and
transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is at
leisure. Welcome dinner and overnight. (D)

Day 2, in Venice, Monday
Today begins with a sightseeing tour Venice. Start
your walking tour in St. Mark’s Square, visit St. Mark’s
Basilica and the Doge’s Palace , and view the Bell
Tower and Bridge of Sighs. Also visit a glass blowing
factory where you will see the demonstration of a
traditional Venetian glass blowing. Balance of the
day is at leisure. Enjoy Venice at your own pace, shop
or join an optional gondola ride. (B)

Day 3, to Florence, Tuesday

Drive to Ferrara, a renaissance gem in the Emilia-
Romagna region standing on the banks of the Po River.
Orientation tour with your Tour Director. Continue to
Pisa to view the famous Piazza del Miracoli with its
Leaning Tower, the Baptistery and Duomo. End your
day in Florence with dinner in your hotel. (B, D)

Day 4, in Florence, Wednesday
Today’s morning city tour begins at the majestic
Piazza del Duomo to see the Cathedral crowned by
Brunelleschi’s Dome, the Giotto’s Bell Tower, and the
Baptistery with Ghiberti’s bronze “Gate of Paradise”.
Then, visit the Academy of Fine Arts, where
Michelangelo’s David is displayed. Tour ends at the
Piazzale Michelangelo with the most spectacular view
over Florence. Remainder of the day is at leisure to
independently savor the renaissance splendor of the
Tuscan capital. (B)

Day 5 , to Rome, Th urs day
Traveling towards Rome through the stunning
panorama of Tuscany, and afterwards, travel through
Umbria to Assisi for a walking tour of the main square
and a visit to the Basilica of St. Francis. Continue to
Rome for dinner and overnight. (B, D)

Day 6, in Rome, Friday
A full day sightseeing tour shows you all the highlights
of the Eternal city. V isit the Vatican Museums with
Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica . Then
continue on to visit the Colosseum, ancient Palatine
Hill overlooking the Circus Max imus and the I mperial
Palace, and the Roman Forum. Overnight. (B, L )

Day 7, in Rome, Saturday
A full day free in spectacular Rome. Y our Tour Director
will have suggestions on how to spend your time.
Y ou might want to visit some of the wonderful shops,
galleries and museums, or relax in a sidewalk cafe. An
optional ex cursion to Pompei is available. Once a
prosperous port city, it was buried under volcanic ash
when Mt. V esuvius erupted in late August of 79 A.D.
Y our ex cursion will bring to life the sights and history
of this fascinating town. Tonight, a farewell dinner in
a local restaurant, complete with wine and music, is the
perfect way to celebrate your glimpse of I taly. (B, D)

Day 8, departing Rome, Sunday
Morning transfer to Rome airport. Y our homebound
flight arrives the same day. (B)

HOTELS:

Venice: Carlton ( F )
Florence: Croce Di Malta ( F )
Rome: Palatino ( F )

K301 ~ HIGHLIGHTS OF SLOVENIA

7 days from Ljubljana, Postojna, Piran, Goriska Brda, Soca Valley, Bled and Bohinj

INCLUDED FEATURES:

First class hotels, rooms with private facilities
Service charges and hotel taxes
Breakfast daily and 2 dinners
Airport transfers
Travel by modern air-conditioned motor-coach
Professional Tour Director throughout
Luggage handling

SIGHTSEEING TOURS INCLUDED:

 Ljubljana
 Postojna cave and Predjama castle
 Piran
 Secovlje
 Soca valley
 Bled

Day 01, Monday, arrive Ljubljana or Venice

Upon arrival in Venice or Ljubljana you will be met
and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is
at leisure. This evening, meet your fellow travelers
for welcome orientation meeting including welcome
drink. Overnight in Ljubljana.

Day 02, Tuesday, Postojna and Lipica

The day is reserved for the Karst region. Visit Postojna
Cave and continue to Predjama medieval castle
perched in the middle of a cliff. Drive to Slovenian
coast. Dinner at local restaurant. Overnight in Piran
(B, D)

Day 03, Wednesday, Piran, Portoroz and Goriska Brda

Morning tour of Piran followed by the visit of
Portoroz, popular tourist resort and then continue
to Secovlje Salt -pans. We will turn inland and travel
to Nova Gorica. Rest of the day at leisure or you can
take a part in an optional tour to the vineyard region
of Goriska Brda where you will have the possibility
to taste local cuisine and wines. Overnight in Nova
Gorica (B)

Day 04, Thursday, Soca Valley

Morning drive upstream the emerald green Soca
river, through Kobarid (mentioned in Hemmingway’s
Farewell to Arms) and visit of the WW1 museum.
After the visit you will travel to Bled and end the day
in this peaceful town beautifully situated in the Alps.
Overnight in Bled. (B)

Day 05, Friday, Bled
A sightseeing tour of Bled features the charming
town with the lakeshore, and imposing Bled Castle,
perched on a cliff high above the lake.
The rest of the day is at leisure or you can take an
optional tour to Skofja Loka – the medieval town
with castle that rises above the confluence of the two
Sora rivers. Overnight in Bled. (B)

Day 06, Saturday, Bled and Bohinj

Day at leisure in Bled.
Possibility to join the optional tour to the other Alpine
beauty – lake Bohinj. You will visit the Sheppard’s
museum and taste the best Slovenian cheese. Return
to Bled.
Tonight farewell dinner at local restaurant and
overnight in Bled. Overnight in Bled. (B, D)

Day 07, Sunday, depart

After breakfast you will be transferred to Ljubljana
airport, Koper port or Venice airport for your flight
home. (B)

HOTELS:

 Ljubljana: Hotel Central (F)
 Piran: Hotel Piran (F)
 Nova Gorica: Hotel Park (F)
 Bled: Park (F) or Golf (SF)

K501 ~ DISCOVERING THE BALKANS

9 days from Sofia to Belgrade, Sibiu, Brasov and Bucharest

INCLUDED FEATURES:

First class hotels, rooms with private facilities
Service charges and hotel taxes
Breakfast daily, 1 lunch and 6 dinners
Touring by modern motor coach
Airport and local transfers
Professional Tour Director
Luggage handling

SIGHTSEEING TOURS INCLUDED:

 Sofia
 Belgrade
 Hunedoara
 Sibiu
 Sighisoara
 Brasov
 Bucharest

Day 1, arrive Sofia, Saturday

Arrive in Sofia. You will be met at the Airport and
transferred to the hotel. Plenty of time to relax before
meeting your fellow travelers and tour director at the
welcome dinner. (D)

Day 2, in Sofia, Sunday

Half day Sofia city tour. The highlights of the tour will
be the visits to the National History Museum where
the gold and silver Thracian treasures are displayed,
the Alexander Nevski Cathedral and Alexander Nevski
Crypt. Evening at leisure to relax. Overnight. (B)

Day 3, Sofia-Nis-Belgrade, Monday

After breakfast departure to Nis. On the route
visit Studenica Monastery, one of the largest and
richest Serb Orthodox monasteries. In 1986 UNESCO
included Studenica monastery on the list of World
Heritage. In the late afternoon, arrival at Belgrade.
Enjoy dinner with local live music in a typical national
restaurant in the old bohemian quarter of Skadarlija.
Overnight. (B, D)

Day 4, in Belgrade, Tuesday

Your morning sightseeing tour includes the city’s
main attractions: the imposing Kalemegdan Fortress
dramatically situated at the joining of the Sava and
Danube Rivers; the Republic Square and Knez
Mihajlova street; Saint Sava Temple, the largest
Orthodox Church in the city, and Tito’s Memorial. (B)

Day 5, Belgrade-Timisoara-Hunedoara-Sibiu, Wednesday

After breakfast departure to Sibiu. A short visit of
Timisoara, the city where Romanian revolution
started in 1989. Lunch en route is included. On the
way to Sibiu, we will visit the fortress of Hunedoara,
that became the castle of the most pre-eminent king
of the medieval – Matia Corvin. The monument has
a special glamour due to its different construction styles,
the presence of military and civil innovations as well
as for the impetuous court life that animated it for more
than 400 years. Arrival to Sibiu and accommodation
with dinner. (B, L, D)

Day 6, Sibiu – Sighisoara – Brasov, Thursday

After breakfast, sightseeing tour of Sibiu, once the
richest town in Transylvania. During the tour you will
see the Huet Square, the Large Square, the E vangelical
Cathedral, the Liars’ Bridge and others. Continue
towards Sighisoara, the best preserved medieval city
in South-E astern E urope, for sightseeing tour including
entrance to the famous Clock Tower Museum. Continue
to Brasov, walking tour of Brasov including the visit
of the First Romanian School with an impressive
collection of rare books. Accommodation and dinner
in a local restaurant. (B, D)

Day 7, Brasov – Bucharest, Friday

Following breakfast departure towards Bran. Visit of
the Bran Castle made famous by Bram Stoker’s novel
as the residence of the vampire count, Dracula.
Continue to Bucharest and stop in Peles Castle built
as the summer residence of K ing Carol I . Afterwards
continue to the 17th century Sinaia Monastery and
to Bucharest. After arrival accommodation at your
hotel and dinner. (B, D)

Day 8, in Bucharest, Saturday

Get acquainted with the Romanian capital, once nick-
named “ Little Paris” . During the tour you will visit the
Parliament Palace, the second largest building in the
world after the Pentagon and the N ational Treasure.
Listen how the Romanian people finally succeeded to
topple the last communist dictator in eastern E urope
in the Revolution Square. Your tour will bring you also
to the Romanian Athenaeum, the Opera House, the
the N ational Military Club, the Military Academy,
Triumphal Arch and The Village Museum. Farewell
dinner with folklore show. (B, D)

Day 9, depart Bucharest, Sunday

After breakfast you have some time at leisure until
the departure transfer to the airport for your flight
home. (B)

HOTELS:

 Sofia: K empinski (SF)
 Beograd: Balkan Hotel (F)
 Sibiu: Ramada (SF)
 Brasov: Aro Palace (SF)
 Bucharest : Marriott (DLX)

K505 ~ PRAGUE, VIENNA & BUDAPEST

10 days from Prague and Vienna to Budapest

INCLUDED FEATURES:

 First class hotels, rooms with private facilities
 Service charges and hotel taxes
 Breakfast daily
 Dinner with folklore in Prague
 Dinner with entertainment in Grinzing suburb
of Vienna

Farewell dinner with entertainment in typical
csarda restaurant in Budapest
Opera performance in Prague
Strauss & Mozart Concert in Vienna

Inter-city travel by modern motor coach or
first class train
Arrival and departure transfers

 Professional Tour Director throughout *
 Luggage handling
* In case of traveling by train, the tour will be fully locally escorted

SIGHTSEEING TOURS INCLUDED:

 Prague: Royal Castle of Hradcany,
St. Vitus Cathedral
 Vienna: Hofburg Palace, Kunsthistorische
Museum
 Budapest: Fisherman’s Bastion, Coronation
Church

Day 1, Friday, arrive Prague
You will be met and transferred to your hotel. Dinner
with folklore in a local restaurant. (D)

Day 2, Saturday, in Prague

This morning, tour the old part of the city to view the
Old Town Square, the famous Astronomical Clock,
the Jewish Quarter, St. Nicholas Church, Charles
Bridge and more. The rest of the day is at leisure.
Tonight, enjoy an opera performance. (B)

Day 3, Sunday, in Prague

Today, cross the Vltava River to visit the Royal Castle
of Hradcany and St. Vitus Cathedral. Your afternoon
and evening are at leisure. (B)

Day 4, Monday, to Vienna

Travel by motor coach or first class train to Vienna, the
“City of Waltz”. The rest of the day is free. Dinner
tonight will be in a typical local Heurigen restaurant.
(B, D)

Day 5, Tuesday, in Vienna

On your morning sightseeing tour, visit the Hofburg
Palace, once the seat of the Austro-Hungarian Empire,
and view the Belvedere Palace, Prater amusement
park, the UN buildings, St. Stephen’s Cathedral and
other vivid reminders of the city’s imperial history.
After a free afternoon, enjoy an evening concert of
Strauss’ and Mozart’s music. (B)

Day 6, Wednesday, in Vienna

Take a guided visit to the Kunsthistorische Museum
in the morning. The rest of the day is at leisure. (B)

Day 7, Thursday, to Budapest

Today, journey takes you eastbound by motor
lass train to Budapest, often called
“Paris of the East”. The afternoon is free for
independent activities or optional excursions. (B)

Day 8, Friday, in Budapest

Situated on the opposite banks of the Danube River,
the former cities of Buda and Pest are linked by a series
of graceful bridges. Your morning sightseeing tour
includes views of the decorative Parliament building,
seat of the National Assembly; Vaci Utca, a pedestrian
street lined with shops and restaurants; Heroes’
Square with the Millennium Memorial, 118 foot high
Corinthian column dedicated to the Roman Catholic
Church, and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The
rest of the day is at leisure. (B)

Day 9, Saturday, in Budapest

Sightseeing tour this morning focuses on the
Castle Hill area, the 13th century Matthias Church,
Fisherman’s Bastion and Royal Palace. Afternoon
is free for last minute shopping or independent
exploration.Tonight,enjoydinnerwithentertainment
in a typical Csarda restaurant. (B, D)

Day 10, Sunday, depart Budapest

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your departure flight.
(B)

HOTELS:

Prague: Ambasador (SF)
Vienna: Savoyen (F)
Budapest: Intercontinental Hotel (F)

K506 ~ PRAGUE & VIENNA

7 Days from Prague to Vienna

INCLUDED FEATURES:

 First class hotels, rooms with private facilities
 Service charges and hotel taxes
 Breakfast daily
 Dinner with folklore in Prague
 Dinner with entertainment in Grinzing suburb
of Vienna

Opera performance in Prague
Strauss & Mozart Concert in Vienna
Inter-city travel by modern motor coach or first
class train



Arrival and departure transfers

 Professional Tour Director throughout *
 Luggage handling

* In case of traveling by train, the tour will be fully locally escorted

SIGHTSEEING TOURS INCLUDED:

 Prague: Royal Castle of Hradcany, St. Vitus
Cathedral
 Vienna: Hofburg Palace, Kunsthistorische
Museum

Day 1, Friday, arrive Prague

You will be met and transferred to your hotel. Dinner
with folklore in a local restaurant. (D)

Day 2, Saturday, in Prague

This morning, tour the old part of the city to view the
Old Town Square, the famous Astronomical Clock,
the Jewish Quarter, St. Nicholas Church, Charles
Bridge and more. The rest of the day is at leisure.
Tonight, enjoy an opera performance. (B)

Day 3, Sunday, in Prague

Today, cross the Vltava River to visit the Royal Castle
of Hradcany and St. Vitus Cathedral. Your afternoon
and evening are at leisure. (B)

Day 4, Monday, to Vienna

Travel by motor coach or first class train to Vienna, the
“City of Waltz”. The rest of the day is free. Dinner
tonight will be in a typical local Heurigen restaurant.
(B, D)

Day 5, Tuesday, in Vienna

On your morning sightseeing tour, visit the Hofburg
Palace, once the seat of the Austro-Hungarian Empire,
and view the Belvedere Palace, Prater amusement
park, the UN buildings, St. Stephen’s Cathedral and
other vivid reminders of the city’s imperial history.
After a free afternoon, enjoy an evening concert of
Strauss’ and Mozart’s music. (B)

Day 6, Wednesday, in Vienna

Take a guided visit to the Kunsthistorische Museum
this morning. The rest of the day is at leisure. (B)

Day 7, Thursday, departure Vienna

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your

departure flight. (B)

HOTELS:

Prague: Ambasador (SF)
Vienna: Savoyen (F)

K507 ~ VIENNA & BUDAPEST

7 days from Vienna to Budapest

INCLUDED FEATURES:

 First class hotels, rooms with private facilities
 Service charges and hotel taxes
 Breakfast daily
 Dinner with entertainment in Grinzing suburb
of Vienna

Farewell dinner with entertainment in typical
csarda restaurant in Budapest
Strauss & Mozart Concert in Vienna

Inter-city travel by modern motor coach or first
class train
Arrival and departure transfers

 Professional Tour Director throughout *
 Luggage handling

* In case of traveling by train, the tour will be fully locally escorted

SIGHTSEEING TOURS INCLUDED:

 Vienna: Hofburg Palace, Kunsthistorische
Museum
 Budapest: Fisherman’ s Bastion, Coronation
Church

Day 1, Monday, arrive Vienna

You will be met and transferred to your hotel. Dinner
tonight will be in a typical local Heurigen restaurant.
(D)

Day 2, Tuesday, in Vienna

On your morning sightseeing tour, visit the Hofburg
Palace, once the seat of the Austro-Hungarian Empire,
and view the Belvedere Palace, Prater amusement
park, the UN buildings, St. Stephen’s Cathedral and
other vivid reminders of the city’s imperial history.
After a free afternoon, enjoy an evening concert of
Strauss’ and Mozart’s music. (B)

Day 3, Wednesday, in Vienna

Take a guided visit to the Kunsthistorische Museum
this morning. The balance of the day is free. (B)

Day 4, Thursday, to Budapest

Today, journey eastbound by motor coach or first
class train to Budapest, often called “Paris of the
East”. The afternoon is free for independent activities
or optional excursions. (B)

Day 5, Friday, in Budapest

Situated on the opposite banks of the river Danube,
the former cities of Buda and Pest are linked by a series
of graceful bridges. Your morning sightseeing tour
includes views of the decorative Parliament building,
seat of the National Assembly; Vaci Utca, a pedestrian
street lined with shops and restaurants; Heroes’
Square with the Millennium Memorial, 118 foot high
Corinthian column dedicated to the Roman Catholic
Church, and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The
balance of the day is at leisure. (B)

Day 6, Saturday, in Budapest

Sightseeing tour this morning focuses on the
Castle Hill area, the 13th century Matthias Church,
Fisherman’s Bastion and Royal Palace. Afternoon
is free for last minute shopping or independent
exploration.Tonight,enjoydinnerwithentertainment
in a typical csarda restaurant. (B, D)

Day 7, Sunday, depart Budapest

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your

departure flight. (B)

HOTELS:

Vienna: Savoyen (F)
Budapest: Intercontinental Hotel (F)

K508 ~ VIENNA TO BUCHAREST

10 days from Vienna to Budapest and Bucharest

INCLUDED FEATURES:
 First class hotels, rooms with private facilities
 Service charges and hotel taxes
 Breakfast daily
 Dinner with entertainment in Grinzing suburb
of Vienna
 Dinner with entertainment in typical csarda
restaurant in Budapest
 Strauss & Mozart Concert in Vienna
 Inter-city travel by modern motor coach or first
class train

 Arrival and departure transfers
 Professional Tour Director throughout *
 Luggage handling
 Flight ticket ’Budapest – Bucharest’
* In case of traveling by train, the tour will be fully locally escorted

SIGHTSEEING TOURS INCLUDED:

 Vienna: Hofburg Palace, Kunsthistorische
Museum
 Budapest: Fisherman’s Bastion, Coronation
Church
 Bucharest: Parliament Palace, The Village
Museum
 Brasov: First Romanian School; Sinaia Monastery;
Bran Castle
Day 1, Monday, arrive Vienna

You will be met and transferred to your hotel. Dinner
tonight will be in a typical local Heurigen restaurant.(D)

Day 2, Tuesday, in Vienna

On your morning sightseeing tour, visit the Hofburg
Palace, once the seat of the Austro-Hungarian Empire,
and view the Belvedere Palace, Prater amusement
park, the UN buildings, St. Stephen’s Cathedral and
other vivid reminders of the city’s imperial history.
After a free afternoon, enjoy an evening concert of
Strauss’ and Mozart’s music. (B)

Day 3, Wednesday, in Vienna

Take a guided visit to the Kunsthistorische Museum
this morning. The balance of the day is free. (B)

Day 4, Thursday, to Budapest

Today, journey eastbound by motor coach or first
class train to Budapest, often called “Paris of the
East”. The afternoon is free for independent activities
or optional excursions. (B)

Day 5, Friday, in Budapest

Situated on the opposite banks of the river Danube,
the former cities of Buda and Pest are linked by a series
of graceful bridges. Your morning sightseeing tour
includes views of the decorative Parliament building,
seat of the National Assembly; Vaci Utca, a pedestrian
street lined with shops and restaurants; Heroes’
Square with the Millennium Memorial, 118 foot high
Corinthian column dedicated to the Roman Catholic
Church, and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The
balance of the day is at leisure. (B)

Day 6, Saturday, in Budapest

Sightseeing tour this morning focuses on the
Castle Hill area, the 13th century Matthias Church,
Fisherman’s Bastion and Royal Palace. Afternoon
is free for last minute shopping or independent
exploration.Tonight,enjoydinnerwithentertainment
in a typical csarda restaurant. (B, D)

Day 7, Sunday, to Buc h arest

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your
flight to B ucharest. U pon arrival hotel transfer with
a panoramic orientation city tour. The rest of the day
is at leisure. (B)

Day 8 , M o nday, in Buc h arest
Get acquainted with the Romanian capital, once nick-
named “ Little Paris” . During the tour you will visit the
Parliament Palace, the second largest building in the
world after the Pentagon and the N ational Treasure.
Listen how the Romanian people finally succeeded to
topple the last communist dictator in eastern E urope
in the Revolution Square. Your tour will bring you also
to the Romanian Athenaeum, the Opera House, the
N ational Military Club, the Military Academy,
Triumphal Arch and The Village Museum.
Accommodation and dinner in a local restaurant.(B, D)

Day 9 , Tuesday, to Sinaia, Bran and Braso v

Your sightseeing tour starts with a visit to the 17th
century Sinaia Monastery. Then stop in Peles Castle
built as the summer residence of K ing Carol I . Continue
the tour with a visit to the Bran Castle made famous
by Bram Stoker’ s novel as the residence of the vampire
count, Dracula. N ex t, walking tour of Brasov including
the visit of the First Romanian School with an
impressive collection of rare books. Farewell dinner
with folklore show. (B, D)

Day 10, Wednesday, depart Bucharest

After breakfast transfer to the airport for your flight
home. (B)

HOTELS:

 Vienna: Savoyen (F)
 Budapest: Intercontinental Hotel (F)
 Bucharest: Intercontinental Hotel (F)

K601 ~ EASTERN EUROPEAN PANORAMA

13 days from Vienna to Budapest, Krakow, Warsaw, Berlin and Prague

INCLUDED FEATURES:

 First class hotels, rooms with private facilities
 Service charges and hotel taxes
 Breakfast daily and 6 dinners
 Airport transfers
 Touring by modern air-conditioned motor coach
 Professional Tour Director throughout
 Luggage handling

SIGHTSEEING TOURS INCLUDED:

 Vienna
 Budapest
 Krakow
 Warsaw
 Berlin
 Prague

Day 1, arrive Vienna, Saturday

You will be met and transferred to your hotel. Plenty
of time to relax before meeting your fellow travelers
and your Tour Director at the welcome dinner. (D)

Day 2, in Vienna, Sunday

On your morning sightseeing tour, visit the Hofburg
Palace, once the seat of the Austro-Hungarian Empire,
and view the Belvedere Palace, Prater amusement
park, the UN buildings, St. Stephen’s Cathedral and
other vivid reminders of the city’s imperial history.
Afternoon is at leisure. (B)
Day 3, to Budapest, Monday

Today, travel east and cross the border to Hungary.
ContinuethroughtheTransdanubianregion,reaching
Budapest just in time to relax before dinner. (B, D)

Day 4, in Budapest, Tuesday

Situated on the opposite banks of the Danube River,
the former cities of Buda and Pest are linked by a
series of graceful bridges. Your morning sightseeing
tour includes views of the outstanding Parliament, the
Royal Palace and the Castle Hill area, the Fisherman’s
Bastion, Matthias Church, the Heroes’ Square and
Gellert Hill with its Citadel. The rest of the day is at
leisure to explore this exciting city on your own. (B)

Day 5, to Krakow, Wednesday

The road to Krakow winds through the lovely hills and
countryside of Slovakia, past the Tatras Mountains
and into the great plains of Poland. A relaxing dinner
in Krakow is planned upon arrival. (B, D)

Day 6, in Krakow, Thursday

Your sightseeing tour starts with a visit to the Wawel
Hill, viewing the Royal Castle and visiting the Royal
Cathedral.EnjoyawalkingtouroftheOldTownwhere
you will visit the Main Market Square, Renaissance
Cloth Hall and St. Mary’s Church. The afternoon is
free for a stroll around the city. (B)

Day 7, to Warsaw, Friday

This morning perhaps join an optional trip to one of
the most somber memorials of the past, Auschwitz
Concentration Camp. Later, journey to Czestochowa
and visit the Yasna Gora Monastery, known for the
blackened picture of the Virgin Mary popularly called
the “Black Madonna”. In the late afternoon, arrive in
Poland’s capital city, Warsaw. (B, D)

Day 8, in Warsaw, Saturday

The 700 years old capital is a symbol of the Polish
nationhood and the will to survive against great
odds. A sightseeing tour here includes a drive along
the famous Royal Route from the magni cent Castle
Square to Lazienki Park and Palace, the summer
residence of the last king of Poland. Pass by the Palace
of Science and Culture (known as the “wedding
cake”), the Saxon Gardens, the Tomb of the Unknown
Soldier, the Monument to the Heroes of the Warsaw
Ghetto and the Barbican. Continue with the walking
tour of the Old Town, the Old Market Square and
St. John’s Cathedral. The rest of the day is free for
relaxing, shopping, a stroll through the city or an
optional late afternoon Chopin concert. (B)

Day 9, to Berlin, Sunday

Stop in Poznan for an orientation tour, and then
continue to Berlin, today’s final destination. (B, D)

Day 10, in Berlin, Monday

Your morning sightseeing tour features the Reichstag,
theRenaissancebuildingthatoncehousedGermany’s
Parliament, and the lovely Schloss Charlottenburg.
The tour continues through the city to view famous
sights such as the Opera, the Schiller Theater and the
Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church. The afternoon is free
to explore this once divided city on your own. (B)

Day 11, to Prague, Tuesday

This morning, continue your journey via Dresden, the
beautiful Saxony Baroque city. On your orientation
tour, view Zwinger Palace and Semper Opera House.
Afterwards, continue to Prague, the Capital of Czech
Republic. (B, D)

Day 12, in Prague, Wednesday

Built on seven hills more than 1000 years ago and
spread over both banks of the river Vltava, Prague
is one of the most attractive cities in Europe. Your
city tour starts with a panoramic drive to the famous
Wenceslas Square, the Strahov Stadium and the
Castle Square. On a walking tour, visit the Royal
Castle of Hradcany, St. Vitus Cathedral, the Royal
Palace and Loretto Church. Cross the Charles Bridge
and walk through the old quarter of Prague to view
the Jewish Ghetto, the Town Hall and the world
famous Astronomical Clock. The rest of the day is
free. An optional visit to a cultural performance will
be available. (B)

Day 13, depart Prague, Thursday

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your
departure flight. (B)

HOTELS:

 Vienna: Renaissance (SF)
 Budapest: Radisson BLU (F)
 Krakow: Radisson BLU (F) or Holiday Inn (F)
 Warsaw: Radisson BLU (SF)
 Berlin: Hotel ABBA (SF)
 Prague: Diplomat (F)

K681 ~ VIENNA TO WARSAW

9 days from Vienna to Budapest, Krakow and Warsaw

INCLUDED FEATURES:

 First class hotels, rooms with private facilities
 Service charges and hotel taxes
 Breakfast daily and 4 dinners
 Airport transfers
 Touring by modern air-conditioned motor coach
 Professional Tour Director throughout
 Luggage handling

SIGHTSEEING TOURS INCLUDED:

 Vienna
 Budapest
 Krakow
 Warsaw

Day 1, arrive Vienna, Saturday

You will be met and transferred to your hotel. Plenty
of time to relax before meeting your fellow travelers
and your Tour Director at the welcome dinner. (D)

Day 2, in Vienna, Sunday

On your morning sightseeing tour, visit the Hofburg
Palace, once the seat of the Austro-Hungarian Empire,
and view the Belvedere Palace, Prater amusement
park, the UN buildings, St. Stephen’s Cathedral and
other vivid reminders of the city’s imperial history.
Afternoon is at leisure. (B)

Day 3, to Budapest, Monday

Today, travel east and cross the border to Hungary.
Continue through the Transdanubian region, reaching
Budapest in time to relax before dinner. (B, D)

Day 4, in Budapest, Tuesday
Situated on the opposite banks of the Danube River,
the former cities of Buda and Pest are linked by a
series of graceful bridges. Your morning sightseeing
tour includes views of the outstanding Parliament,
the Royal Palace and Castle Hill area, the Fisherman’s
Bastion, Matthias Church, the Heroes’ Square and
Gellert Hill with its Citadel. The rest of the day is at
leisure to explore this exciting city on your own. (B)

Day 5, to Krakow, Wednesday

The road to Krakow winds through the lovely hills and
countryside of Slovakia, past the Tatras Mountains
and into the great plains of Poland. A relaxing dinner
in Krakow is planned upon arrival. (B, D)

Day 6, in Krakow, Thursday

Your sightseeing tour starts with a visit to the
Wawel Hill, viewing the Royal Castle and visiting the
Royal Cathedral. Enjoy a walking tour of the Old
Town where you will visit the Main Market Square,
Renaissance Cloth Hall and St. Mary’s Church. The
afternoon is free for a stroll around the city. (B)

Day 7, to Warsaw, Friday

This morning perhaps join an optional trip
to one of the most somber memorials of the
past, Auschwitz Concentration Camp. Later,
journey to Czestochowa and visit the Yasna
Gora Monastery, known for the blackened
picture of the Virgin Mary popularly called the
“Black Madonna”. In the late afternoon, arrive in
Poland’s capital city, Warsaw. (B, D)

Day 8, in Warsaw, Saturday

The 700 year old capital is a symbol of Polish
nationhood and the will to survive against great odds.
A sightseeing tour here includes a drive along the
famous Royal Route from magni cent Castle Square
to Lazienki Park and Palace, summer residence of
the last king of Poland. Pass by the Palace of Science
and Culture (known as a “wedding cake”), the
Saxon Gardens, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier,
Monument to the Heroes of the Warsaw Ghetto
and the Barbican. Continue with the walking tour of
the Old Town, the Old Market Square and St. John’s
Cathedral. The rest of the day is free for relaxing,
shopping, a stroll through the city or an optional late
afternoon Chopin concert. (B)

Day 9, depart Warsaw, Sunday

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your
departure flight. (B)

HOTELS:

Vienna: Renaissance (SF)
Budapest: Radisson BLU (F)
Krakow: Holiday Inn (F)
Warsaw: Radisson BLU (SF)

K700 ~ BELGRADE TO ZAGREB

11 days from Belgrade, Cetinje, Kotor, Dubrovnik, Split, Plitvice Lakes, Postojna Cave, Bled, Ljubljana and Zagreb

INCLUDED FEATURES:

 First class hotels, rooms with private facilities
 Service charges and hotel taxes
 Breakfast daily and 6 dinners
 Arrival and departure transfers
 Touring by modern air-conditioned motor coach
 Economy flight Belgrade (Serbia)-Podgorica
(Montenegro)
 Professional Tour Director throughout
 Luggage handling

SIGHTSEEING TOURS INCLUDED:

 Belgrade
 Cetinje
 Kotor
 Dubrovnik
 Split
 Plitvice Lakes
 Postojna Caves
 Bled
 Ljubljana
 Zagreb

Day 1, arrive Belgrade, Thursday

You will be met and transferred to your hotel. The day
is at leisure until meeting your fellow travelers at the
welcome cocktail.

Day 2, in Belgrade, Friday

Your morning sightseeing tour includes the city’s
main attractions: the imposing Kalemegdan Fortress
dramatically situated at the joining of the Sava and
Danube Rivers; the Republic Square and Knez
Mihajlova street; Saint Sava Temple, the largest
Orthodox Church in the city, and Tito’s Memorial.
Enjoy dinner with local live music in a typical national
restaurant in the old bohemian quarter of Skadarlija.
(B, D)

Day 3, to Dubrovnik via Montenegro, Saturday

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for a short
flight to Podgorica, capital of Montenegro. Upon
arrival, continue by motor coach to Cetinje, the
historical capital of Montenegro located at the foot
of Mount Lovcen. Then, take a spectacularly steep
road down to the Bay of Kotor, the deepest fjord in
Southern Europe, and along the way view the towns
of Risan and Kotor. Head towards Croatia for dinner
and overnight in Dubrovnik. (B, D)

Day 4, in Dubrovnik, Sunday

There is a walking tour of “Old Dubrovnik” this
morning; the Rector’s Palace, Bell Tower Clock,
Orlando’s Column and the Sponza Palace. You will
also see the Dominican Monastery and Franciscan
Monastery with its Pharmacy, one of the oldest in the
world. The rest of the day is at leisure. (B)

Day 5, to Split, Monday
Depart Dubrovnik and travel north along the
spectacular Adriatic coast, past old shing villages
and new resorts, to Split. Enjoy a city tour featuring the
historic inner city, built around the Roman Emperor
Diocletian’sPalace,aUNESCOWorldCulturalHeritage
site. See the remnants of Split’s Roman heritage, its
Renaissance and Gothic structures, Jupiter’s Temple,
the Peristyle and the Cathedral. 227 km (B, D)

Day 6, to Trogir and Plitvice Lakes, Tuesday
After breakfast, head to Trogir, the center of artistic
activities. Scholars from around the world gather to
study and paint here. Then, turn inland and travel to
Plitvice Lakes National Park. Upon arrival, have your
camera ready and take a walking tour around several
of the lower lakes. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery of
this natural wonder of 16 terraced lakes surrounded
by thickly wooded mountains and lush vegetation.
317 km (B, D)

Day 7, to Opatija, Postojna and Bled, Wednesday
Return to the coast and travel along the beautiful
bay of Kvarner to its popular resort, Opatija. After
some free time, journey north to Postojna, home to
one of the largest caves in Europe. Tour the fantastic
subterranean world by miniature electric train.
Afterwards, continue to Bled, beautifully set amidst
the Julian Alps. 352 km (B, D)

Day 8, in Bled, Thursday
A sightseeing tour of Bled features the charming
town with the lakeshore, and imposing Bled Castle,
perched on a cli high above the lake. The balance
of the day is at leisure for optional activities, such as
visiting the small island in the middle of the lake. (B)

Day 9, to Ljubljana and Zagreb, Friday
Start your day with a walking tour of Ljubljana, the
capital of Slovenia. Visit the most signi cant sights
of the old city centre: the picturesque Central open-
air Market and the Three Bridges, both designed by
famous architect Joze Plecnik, Baroque Town Hall
and Robba’s Fountain. Then, continue to Zagreb, the
capital city of Croatia. 189 km (B, D)

Day 10, in Zagreb, Saturday
This morning enjoy a city tour featuring the historic
Upper Town, St Mark’s Church, St. Catherine’s Church,
the Cathedral, the Parliament and the Government
Palace. The rest of the day is at leisure to explore the
winding streets of the Old town or take an optional
excursion to the countryside. (B)

Day 11, depart Zagreb, Sunday
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your
departure flight. (B)

HOTELS:
 Belgrade: Balkan (F)
 Dubrovnik: Lapad (F)
 Split: Atrium (F)
 Plitvice: Jezero (F)
 Bled: Park (F) or Golf (SF)
 Zagreb: Westin (DLX)

K801 ~ BOSNIA, CROATIA & SLOVENIA

11 days from Sarajevo, Dubrovnik, Split, Plitvice Lakes, Bled, Ljubljana to Zagreb

INCLUDED FEATURES:

First class hotels, rooms with private facilities
Service charges and hotel taxes
Breakfast daily and 6 dinners
Arrival and departure transfers
Touring by modern air-conditioned motor coach
Professional Tour Director throughout
Luggage handling

SIGHTSEEING TOURS INCLUDED:

 Sarajevo

Dubrovnik
Split
Plitvice Lakes
Postojna Cave
Bled
Ljubljana
Zagreb

Day 1, arrive Sarajevo, Thursday

You will be met at the airport and transferred to your
hotel. The day is at leisure until a welcome dinner. (D)

Day 2, in Sarajevo, Friday

Sarajevo, capital of the Republic of Bosnia and
Herzegovina, has been influenced by a number
of cultures and civilizations. On your city tour,
visit the picturesque Turkish bazaar “Bas Carsija”,
the Husref Bay’s Mosque, Olympic Stadium and
Gavrilo Princip Museum. Afternoon is free. (B)

Day 3, to Dubrovnik, Saturday

A drive through the marvelous gorge of the Neretva
River to Mostar. Here, see the remains of the Turkish
quarter and the reconstruction efforts on the 16th
century stone bridge. Dinner and overnight in
Dubrovnik. 286 km (B, D)

Day 4, in Dubrovnik, Sunday

There is a walking tour of “Old Dubrovnik” this
morning; the Rector’s Palace, Bell Tower Clock,
Orlando’s Column and the Sponza Palace. You will
also see the Dominican Monastery and Franciscan
Monastery with its Pharmacy, one of the oldest in
the world. The rest of the day is at leisure. (B)

Day 5, to Split, Monday

Depart Dubrovnik and travel north along the
spectacular Adriatic coast, past old fishing villages
andnewresorts,toSplit.Enjoyacitytourfeaturingthe
historic inner city, built around the Roman Emperor
Diocletian’sPalace,aUNESCOWorldCulturalHeritage
site. See the remnants of Split’s Roman heritage, its
Renaissance and Gothic structures, Jupiter’s Temple,
the Peristyle and the Cathedral. 227 km (B, D)

Day 6, to Trogir and Plitvice Lakes, Tuesday

After breakfast, head to Trogir, the center of artistic
activities. Scholars from around the world gather to
study and paint here. Then, turn inland and travel to
Plitvice Lakes National Park. Upon arrival, have your
camera ready and take a walking tour around several
of the lower lakes. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery of
this natural wonder of 16 terraced lakes surrounded
by thickly wooded mountains and lush vegetation.
317 km (B, D)

Day 7, to Opatija, Postojna and Bled, Wednesday

Return to the coast and travel along the beautiful
bay of Kvarner to its popular resort, Opatija. After
some free time, journey north to Postojna, home to
one of the largest caves in Europe. Tour the fantastic
subterranean world by miniature electric train.
Afterwards, continue to Bled, beautifully set amidst
the Julian Alps. 352 km (B, D)

Day 8, in Bled, Thursday

A sightseeing tour of Bled features the charming
town with the lakeshore, and imposing Bled Castle,
high above the lake. The balance
of the day is at leisure for optional activities, such as
visiting the small island in the middle of the lake. (B)

Day 9, to Ljubljana and Zagreb, Friday

Start your day with a walking tour of Ljubljana, the
capital of Slovenia. Visit the sights
of the old city centre: the picturesque Central open-
air Market and the Three Bridges, both designed by
famous architect Joze Plecnik, Baroque Town Hall
and Robba’s Fountain. Then, continue to Zagreb, the
capital city of Croatia. 189 km (B, D)

Day 10, in Zagreb, Saturday

This morning, enjoy a city tour featuring the historic
UpperTown, St. Mark’s Church, St. Catherine’s Church,
the Cathedral, the Parliament and the Government
Palace. The rest of the day is at leisure to explore the
winding streets of the old town or take an optional
excursion to the countryside. (B)

Day 11, depart Zagreb, Sunday

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your
departure flight. (B)

HOTELS:

Sarajevo: Holiday Inn (F)
Dubrovnik: Lapad (F)
Split: Atrium (F)
Plitvice: Jezero (F)
Bled: Park (F) or Golf (SF)
Zagreb: Westin (DLX)

K802 ~ DALMATIAN SUNSHINE

9 days from Dubrovnik , Split, Plit vice Lak es, Postojna Cave, Bled, Ljubljana and Zagreb

INCLUDED FEATURES:

First class hotels, rooms with private facilities
Service charges and hotel taxes
Breakfast daily and 5 dinners
Arrival and departure transfers
Touring by modern air-conditioned motor coach
Professional Tour Director throughout
Luggage handling

SIGHTSEEING TOURS INCLUDED:

 Dubrovnik
 Split
 Plitvice Lakes
 Postojna Cave
 Bled
 Ljubljana
 Zagreb

Day 1, arrive Dubrovnik, Saturday

You will be met at the airport and transferred to your
hotel. The balance of the day is at leisure. (D)

Day 2, in Dubrovnik, Sunday

There is a walking tour of “Old Dubrovnik” this
morning; the Rector’s Palace, Bell Tower Clock,
Orlando’s Column and the Sponza Palace. You will
also see the Dominican Monastery and Franciscan
Monastery with its Pharmacy, one of the oldest in
the world. The rest of the day is at leisure. (B)

Day 3, to Split, Monday

Depart Dubrovnik and travel north along the
spectacular Adriatic coast, past old fishing villages and
new resorts, to Split. Enjoy a city tour featuring the
historic inner city, built around the Roman Emperor
Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCOWorld Cultural Heritage
site. See the remnants of Split’s Roman heritage, its
Renaissance and Gothic structures, Jupiter’s Temple,
the Peristyle and the Cathedral. 227 km (B, D)

Day 4, to Trogir and Plitvice Lakes, Tuesday

After breakfast, head to Trogir, the center of artistic
activities. Scholars from around the world gather to
study and paint here. Then, turn inland and travel to
Plitvice Lakes National Park. Upon arrival, have your
camera ready and take a walking tour around several
of the lower lakes. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery of
this natural wonder of 16 terraced lakes surrounded
by thickly wooded mountains and lush vegetation.
317 km (B, D)

Day 5, to Opatija, Postojna and Bled, Wednesday

Return to the coast and travel along the beautiful
bay of Kvarner to its popular resort, Opatija. After
some free time, journey north to Postojna, home to
one of the largest caves in Europe. Tour the fantastic
subterranean world by miniature electric train.
Afterwards, continue to Bled, beautifully set amidst
the Julian Alps. 352 km (B, D)

Day 6, in Bled, Thursday

A sightseeing tour of Bled features the charming
town with the lakeshore, and imposing Bled Castle,
perched on a high above the lake. The balance
of the day is at leisure for optional activities, such as
visiting the small island in the middle of the lake. (B)

Day 7, to Ljubljana and Zagreb, Friday

Start your day with a walking tour of Ljubljana, the
capital of Slovenia. Visit the sights
of the old city centre: the picturesque Central open-
air Market and the Three Bridges, both designed by
famous architect Joze Plecnik, Baroque Town Hall
and Robba’s Fountain. Then, continue to Zagreb, the
capital city of Croatia. 189 km (B, D)

Day 8, in Zagreb, Saturday

This morning, enjoy a city tour featuring the historic
UpperTown, St. Mark’s Church, St. Catherine’s Church,
the Cathedral, the Parliament and the Government
Palace. The rest of the day is at leisure to explore the
winding streets of the old town or take an optional
excursion to the countryside. (B)

Day 9, depart Zagreb, Sunday

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your
departure flight. (B)

HOTELS:

Dubrovnik: Lapad (F)
Split: Atrium (F)
Plitvice: Jezero (F)
Bled: Park (F) or Golf (SF)
Zagreb: Westin (DLX)

K803 ~ FROM GREECE TO DALMATIA

16 days from Athens, Kalambaka, Ohrid, Tirana, Dubrovnik, Split, Plitvice Lakes, Postojna Cave, Bled, Ljubljana to Zagreb

INCLUDED FEATURES:

First class hotels, rooms with private facilities
Service charges and hotel taxes
Breakfast daily and 9 dinners
Arrival and departure transfers
Touring by modern air-conditioned motor coach
Professional Tour Director throughout
Luggage handling

SIGHTSEEING TOURS INCLUDED:

 Athens  Plitvice Lakes
 Meteora  Postojna Caves
 Ohrid  Bled
 Tirana  Ljubljana
 Dubrovnik  Zagreb
 Split

Day 1, arrive Athens, Saturday
You will be met and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy a
welcome dinner in a traditional Greek tavern in Plaka,
the old part of Athens. (D)

Day 2, in Athens, Sunday
See the highlights of Athens this morning on a
sightseeing tour. This cosmopolitan and bustling
capital city is set amidst reminders of a long and
glorious past: graceful temples, centuries-old
monasteries, and ornate Byzantine churches. Visit
the immortal Acropolis, the Parthenon, and the
Erectheion with the Porch of the Maidens, the Temple
of Athena Nike and the Wingless Victory. Below the
Acropolis lies the ancient Agora and the Theaters of
Dionysus and Herodus Atticus. Your afternoon and
evening are free. (B)

Day 3, to Delphi and Kalambaka, Monday
Your first stop this morning is Delphi, where the
famous oracle foretold the destiny of men.The Temple
of Apollo, in which the oracle functioned, was built
in the 6th century B.C. Also see the Sacred Way, the
Stadium and the Castilian Fountain, where pilgrims
cleansed themselves in preparation for consulting the
oracle. Visit the Archaeological Museum of Delphi,
which contains an impressive collection of finds from
the site, including the beautiful “Bronze Charioteer,”
before continuing on to Kalambaka. (B, D)

Day 4, to Ohrid, Tuesday
After breakfast, admire the fantastic landscapes of
Meteora, known as “the rocks that fell from the sky.”
Here monks built their rock-top monasteries, far
away from civilization. Of the 13 large and 20 small
monasteries and hermit’s cells, only 4 are now active.
The most important is Megalo or Great Meteoro, of
peculiar architecture with its tall and intricate dome,
12 sides and fine frescoes. Continue across the border
to Macedonia, and on to Ohrid. (B, D)

Day 5, Ohrid to Tirana, Wednesday
The lakeside resort of Ohrid is an important cultural
and spiritual center, classified as a UNESCO World
Heritage site. Start your morning sightseeing tour
with a walk through the cobblestone streets of the
old town. Visit the Cathedral of St. Sofia, containing
some magnificent frescoes from the 10th century.
In the early afternoon, travel to Tirana, the capital of
Albania. (B, D)

Day 6, in Tirana, Thursday
On a morning sightseeing tour, see the Skanderbeg
Square, the Mosque of Et ’hem Bey, the Clock
Tower, and the statue of G.K. Skanderbeg, Albania’s
national hero; the Palace of Culture, built with Soviet
assistance; and the National History Museum, with
a mosaic on its facade portraying Albanian history.
Your afternoon is free to continue exploring on your
own, shop, or just relax. (B)

Day 7, to Dubrovnik, Friday
After breakfast, depart Tirana and travel to the town of
Shkodra, a cultural center and one of Albania’s oldest
cities. See the ruins of Rozafa Castle, set on a hill high
above the city, then cross the border into Montenegro
and on to Croatia and beautiful Dubrovnik. (B, D)

Day 8, in Dubrovnik, Saturday
There is a walking tour of “Old Dubrovnik” this
morning; the Rector’s Palace, Bell Tower Clock,
Orlando’s Column and the Sponza Palace. You will
also see the Dominican Monastery and Franciscan
Monastery with its Pharmacy, one of the oldest in the
world. The rest of the day is at leisure. (B)

Day 9, in Dubrovnik, Sunday
Today, full day is at leisure to relax, shop or explore on
your own. (B)

Day 10, to Split, Monday
Depart Dubrovnik and travel north along the
spectacular Adriatic coast, past old fishing villages
and new resorts, to Split. Enjoy a city tour featuring the
historic inner city, built around the Roman Emperor
Diocletian’sPalace,aUNESCOWorldCulturalHeritage
site. See the remnants of Split’s Roman heritage, its
Renaissance and Gothic structures, Jupiter’s Temple,
the Peristyle and the Cathedral. 227 km (B, D)

Day 11, to Trogir and Plitvice Lakes, Tuesday
After breakfast, head to Trogir, the center of artistic
activities. Scholars from around the world gather to
study and paint here. Then, turn inland and travel to
Plitvice Lakes National Park. Upon arrival, have your
camera ready and take a walking tour around several
of the lower lakes. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery of
this natural wonder of 16 terraced lakes surrounded
by thickly wooded mountains and lush vegetation.
317 km (B, D)

Day 12, to Opatija, Postojna and Bled, Wednesday
Return to the coast and travel along the beautiful
bay of Kvarner to its popular resort, Opatija. After
some free time, journey north to Postojna, home to
one of the largest caves in Europe. Tour the fantastic
subterranean world by miniature electric train.
Afterwards, continue to Bled, beautifully set amidst
the Julian Alps. 352 km (B, D)

Day 13, in Bled, Thursday
A sightseeing tour of Bled features the charming
town with the lakeshore, and imposing Bled Castle,
perched on a cliff high above the lake. The balance
of the day is at leisure for optional activities, such as
visiting the small island in the middle of the lake. (B)

Day 14, to Ljubljana and Zagreb, Friday
Start your day with a walking tour of Ljubljana, the
capital of Slovenia. Visit the most significant sights
of the old city centre: the picturesque Central open-
air Market and the Three Bridges, both designed by
famous architect Joze Plecnik, Baroque Town Hall
and Robba’s Fountain. Then, continue to Zagreb, the
capital city of Croatia. 189 km (B, D)

Day 15, in Zagreb, Saturday
This morning, enjoy a city tour featuring the historic
Upper Town, St. Mark’s Church, St. Catherine’s Church,
the Cathedral, the Parliament and the Government
Palace. The rest of the day is at leisure to explore
the winding streets of the old town or to take an
optional excursion with dinner into the surrounding
countryside. (B)

Day 16, depart Zagreb, Sunday

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your
departure flight. (B)

HOTELS:
Athens: Divani Palace Acropolis (F)
Kalambaka: Divani (F)
Ohrid: Metropol (F)
Tirana: Sheraton (DLX)
Dubrovnik: Lapad (F)
Split: Atrium (F)
Plitvice: Jezero (F)
Bled: Park (F) or Golf (SF)
Zagreb: Westin (DLX)

K804 ~ FROM ATHENS TO DUBROVNIK

10 days from Athens, Kalambaka, Ohrid and Tirana to Dubrovnik

INCLUDED FEATURES:

 First class hotels, rooms with private facilities
 Service charges and hotel taxes
 Breakfast daily and 5 dinners
 Arrival and departure transfers
 Touring by modern air-conditioned motor coach
 Professional Tour Director throughout
 Luggage handling

SIGHTSEEING TOURS INCLUDED:

 Athens
 Meteora
 Ohrid
 Tirana
 Dubrovnik

Day 1, arrive Athens, Saturday

You will be met and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy a
welcome dinner in a traditional Greek tavern in Plaka,
the old part of Athens. (D)

Day 2, in Athens, Sunday

See the highlights of Athens this morning on a
sightseeing tour. This cosmopolitan and bustling
capital city is set amidst reminders of a long and
glorious past: graceful temples, centuries-old
monasteries, and ornate Byzantine churches. Visit the
immortal Acropolis, the Parthenon, the Erectheion
with the Porch of the Maidens, the Temple of Athena
Nike and the Wingless Victory. Below the Acropolis
lies the ancient Agora and the Theaters of Dionysus
and Herodus Atticus. Your afternoon and evening are
free. (B)

Day 3, to Delphi and Kalambaka, Monday

Your first stop this morning is Delphi, where the
famous oracle foretold the destiny of men.The Temple
of Apollo, in which the oracle functioned, was built
in the 6th century B.C. Also see the Sacred Way, the
Stadium and the Castilian Fountain, where pilgrims
cleansed themselves in preparation for consulting the
oracle. Visit the Archaeological Museum of Delphi,
which contains an impressive collection of finds from
the site, including the beautiful “Bronze Charioteer,”
before continuing on to Kalambaka. (B, D)

Day 4, to Ohrid, Tuesday
After breakfast, admire the fantastic landscapes of
Meteora, known as “the rocks that fell from the sky.”
Here monks built their rock-top monasteries, far
away from civilization. Of the 13 large and 20 small
monasteries and hermit’s cells, only 4 are now active.
The most important is Megalo or Great Meteoro, of
peculiar architecture with its tall and intricate dome,
12 sides and fine frescoes. Continue across the border
to Macedonia, and on to Ohrid. (B, D)

Day 5, Ohrid to Tirana, Wednesday
The lakeside resort of Ohrid is an important cultural
and spiritual center, classified as a UNESCO World
Heritage site. Start your morning sightseeing tour
with a walk through the cobblestone streets of the
old town. Visit the Cathedral of St. Sofia, containing
some magnificent frescoes from the 10th century.
In the early afternoon, travel to Tirana, the capital of
Albania. (B, D)

Day 6, in Tirana, Thursday

On a morning sightseeing tour, see the Skanderbeg
Square, the Mosque of Et’hem Bey, the Clock
Tower, and the statue of G.K. Skanderbeg, Albania’s
national hero; the Palace of Culture, built with Soviet
assistance; and the National History Museum, with
a mosaic on its facade portraying Albanian history.
Your afternoon is free to continue exploring on your
own, shop, or just relax. (B)

Day 7, to Dubrovnik, Friday

After breakfast, depart Tirana and travel to the town of
Shkodra, a cultural center and one of Albania’s oldest
cities. See the ruins of Rozafa Castle, set on a hill high
above the city, then cross the border into Montenegro
and on to Croatia and beautiful Dubrovnik. (B, D)

Day 8, in Dubrovnik, Saturday

There is a walking tour of “Old Dubrovnik” this
morning; the Rector’s Palace, Bell Tower Clock,
Orlando’s Column and the Sponza Palace. You will
also see the Dominican Monastery and Franciscan
Monastery with its pharmacy, one of the oldest of
the world. The rest of the day is at leisure. (B)

Day 9, in Dubrovnik, Sunday

Today, full day is at leisure to relax, shop or explore on
your own. (B)

Day 10, departure Dubrovnik, Monday

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your
departure flight. (B)

HOTELS:

 Athens: Divani Palace Acropolis (F)
 Kalambaka: Divani (F)
Ohrid: Metropol (F)
Tirana: Sheraton (DLX)
Dubrovnik: Lapad (F)

K805 ~ ADRIATIC CRUISE ABOARD M/V ARION

8 days featuring Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Montenegro and Albania

TOUR FEATURES:

 7 nights cruise aboard m/v Arion in inside cabins
Cat. 1; upgrades to categories 2 – 6 are available
 Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily

Day 1, Arrive in Koper (Slovenia), Sunday

Embarkation in Koper will be between 4 PM and 10
PM. Late evening departure towards Zadar (overnight
sailing). (D)
Day 3 (continued), Korcula, Tuesday afternoon

Day 2, Zadar, Monday

Monday morning arrival in Zadar, the oldest Slavic
city on the Adriatic, once famed cultural center.
Optional tour to Plitvice National Park with
breathtaking scener y of 16 terraced lakes
surrounded by thickly wooded mountains and lush
vegetation, also listed in UNESCO’s World Heritage
list.
Optional tour of Zadar includes the ruins of the
Roman Forum, the Romanesque Cathedral of St.
Anastasia, the Church of St. Donat, the Church of
St. Mary and Benedictine Convent.
Depart Zadar at 8 PM sailing to Ploce. (B, L, D)

Day 3, Ploce, Tuesday morning

Morning arrival in Ploce, a large commercial port
located in Central Dalmatia.
Optional tour to Mostar, a famous old city in Bosnia
and Herzegovina where you will see the reconstructed
old bridge built by the occupying Turkish forces some
500 years ago.
Depart Ploce at 2:30 PM sailing to Korcula. (B, L, D)

Arrive in Korcula, birth place of Marco Polo, on Tuesday
afternoon. You can visit the main square and see the
Cathedral Square and nearby Marco Polo’s family
house. In the evening enjoy optional performance of
Moreska, the island’s unique version of Morris Dance.
Depart Korucla at 11 PM. (B, L, D)

Day 4, Kotor, Wednesday
Morning arrival in Kotor, Montenegro. The Bay of
Kotor and the old town of Kotor are both on UNESCO’s
World Heritage List. Bay of Kotor is actually the largest
European Fjord outside of Norway.
Optional tour to the former capital city of Cetinje or
Montenegro’s Grand Tour of the Riviera.
Leave Kotor towards Albania at 10:30 PM (B, L, D)

Day 5, Durres, Thursday
Morning arrival in the port of Durres, the most
important maritime gate of Albania, also well known
for its nice Riviera.
Optional tour to Tirana, the country’s capital city, only
40 kilometers away. Spend a full day discovering the
city, including typical lunch in a local restaurant.
At 10:00 PM start sailing towards Dubrovnik. (B, L, D)

Day 6, Dubrovnik, Friday
Arrive Dubrovnik in the morning. Entering the gates
of this over 1000 years old architectural marvel is like
a step back in time.
Optional tour: City tour includes the Rector’s Palace,
Bell Tower clock, Orlando’s Column and the Sponza
Palace. Also see the Dominican Monastery and
Franciscan Monastery housing one of the oldest
pharmacies in the world.
Optional Folklore Performance. (B, L, D)

Day 7, Split, Saturday
Morning arrival in Split.
Optional tour of Split features the historic inner city,
built around the Roman Emperor Diocletian’s Palace,
a UNESCO world heritage sight. See the remnants of
Split’s Roman heritage, its Renaissance and Gothic
structures, Jupiter’s Temple, the Peristyle and the
Cathedral.
Optional tour to nearby Trogir, the center of artistic
activities. Scholars from around the world gather to
study and paint here.
In the afternoon sail back to Koper. (B, L, D)

Day 8, Koper, Sunday
Disembark after breakfast (after 9 AM). (B)

K806 ~ ADRIATIC CRUISE AND ITALY

15 days featuring Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Montenegro, Albania and Italy

TOUR FEATURES:
 7 nights cruise aboard m/v Arion in inside cabins Cat. 1;
upgrades to categories 2 – 6 are available
 Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily onboard
 First class hotels, rooms with private facilities
 Service charges and hotel taxes
 Land tour: breakfast daily, 1 lunch and 3 dinners including
a welcome dinner in Venice and a farewell dinner in Rome
 Private deluxe motorcoach with air-conditioning, extra
leg room and emergency washroom
 Professional English speaking Cruise Manager/ Tour Director
 Airport transfers

SPECIAL FEATURES:

 Inside visits and special features as shown in bold in the
tour description, including admission charges where
applicable
 Whisper technology enhanced touring

SIGHTSEEING TOURS INCLUDED:
 Venice: Doge’s Palace, St. Mark’s Basilica
 Florence: Michelangelo’s David
 Assisi: Basilica of St. Francis
 Rome: Vatican Museum & Sistine Chapel, Forum and
Colosseum

Day 1, Arrive in Venice or Ljubljana, Sunday
Transfer from the airport to the port of Koper, for embarkation
between 4 PM and 10 PM. Late evening departure towards
Zadar (overnight sailing). (D)

Day 2, Zadar, Monday
Monday morning arrival in Zadar, the oldest Slavic city on the
Adriatic, once famed cultural center.
Optional tour to Plitvice National Park with breathtaking
scenery of 16 terraced lakes surrounded by thickly wooded
mountains and lush vegetation, also listed in UNESCO’s World
Heritage list.
Optional tour of Zadar includes the ruins of the Roman Forum,
the Romanesque Cathedral of St. Anastasia, the Church of St.
Donat, the Church of St. Mary and Benedictine Convent.
Depart Zadar at 8 PM sailing to Ploce. (B, L, D)

Day 3, Ploce, Tuesday morning
Morning arrival in Ploce, a large commercial port located in
Central Dalmatia.
Optional tour to Mostar, a famous old city in Bosnia and
Herzegovina where you will see the reconstructed old bridge
built by the occupying Turkish forces some 500 years ago.
Depart Ploce at 2:30 PM sailing to Korcula. (B, L, D)

Day 3 (continued), Korcula, Tuesday afternoon
Arrive in Korcula, birth place of Marco Polo, on Tuesday
afternoon. You can visit the main square and see the Cathedral
Square and nearby Marco Polo’s family house. In the evening
enjoy optional performance of Moreska, the island’s unique
version of Morris Dance. Depart Korucla at 11 PM. (B, L, D)

Day 4, Kotor, Wednesday
Morning arrival in Kotor, Montenegro. The Bay of Kotor and
the old town of Kotor are both on UNESCO’s World Heritage
List. Bay of Kotor is actually the largest European Fjord outside
of Norway.
Optional tour to the former capital city of Cetinje or
Montenegro’s Grand Tour of the Riviera.
Leave Kotor towards Albania at 10:30 PM. (B, L, D)

Day 5, Durres, Thursday
Morning arrival in the port of Durres, the most important
maritime gate of Albania, also well known for its nice Riviera.
Optional tour to Tirana, the country’s capital city, only 40
kilometers away. Spend a full day discovering the city,
including typical lunch in a local restaurant.
At 10:00 start sailing towards Dubrovnik. (B, L, D)

Day 6, Dubrovnik, Friday
Arrive Dubrovnik in the morning. Entering the gates of this
over 1000 years old architectural marvel is like a step back
in time.
Optional tour: City tour includes the Rector’s Palace, Bell Tower
clock, Orlando’s Column and the Sponza Palace. Also see the
Dominican’s Monastery and Franciscan Monastery housing
one of the oldest pharmacies in the world.
Optional Folklore Performance. (B, L, D)

Day 7, Split, Saturday
Morning arrival in Split.
Optional tour of Split features the historic inner city, built
around the Roman Emperor Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO
world heritage sight. See the remnants of Split’s Roman
heritage, its Renaissance and Gothic structures, Jupiter’s
Temple, the Peristyle and the Cathedral.
Optional tour to nearby Trogir, the center of artistic activities.
Scholars from around the world gather to study and paint here.
In the afternoon sail back to Koper. (B, L, D)

Day 8, Koper to Venice, Sunday
Disembark after breakfast (after 9 AM).
Transfer to your hotel in Venice. The rest of the day is at leisure.
Meet your fellow travelers for orientation meeting with the
tour director, followed by a welcome dinner. (D)

Day 9, in Venice, Monday
Today begins with a sightseeing tour Venice. Start your
walking tour in St. Mark’s Square, visit St. Mark’s Basilica
and the Doge’s Palace, and view the Bell Tower and Bridge
of Sighs. Also visit a glass blowing factory where you will see
the demonstration of a traditional Venetian glass blowing.
Balance of the day is at leisure. Enjoy Venice at your own
pace, shop or join an optional gondola ride. (B)

Day 10, to Florence, Tuesday
Drive to Ferrara, a renaissance gem in the Emilia-Romagna
region standing on the banks of the Po River. Orientation
tour with your Tour Director. Continue to Pisa to view the
famous Piazza del Miracoli with its Leaning Tower, the
Baptistery and Duomo. End your day in Florence with dinner
in your hotel. (B, D)

Day 11, in Florence, Wednesday
Today’s morning city tour begins at the majestic Piazza del
Duomo to see the Cathedral crowned by Brunelleschi’s Dome,
the Giotto’s Bell Tower, and the Baptistery with Ghiberti’s
bronze “Gate of Paradise”. Then, visit the Academy of Fine
Arts, where Michelangelo’s David is displayed. Tour ends at
the Piazzale Michelangelo with the most spectacular view
over Florence. Remainder of the day is at leisure to
independently savor the renaissance splendor of the Tuscan
capital. (B)

Day 12, to Rome, Thursday
Traveling towards Rome through the stunning panorama of
Tuscany, and afterwards, travel through Umbria to Assisi for
a walking tour of the main square and a visit to the Basilica of
St. Francis. Continue to Rome for dinner and overnight.(B, D)

Day 13, in Rome, Friday
A full day sightseeing tour shows you all the highlights of the
Eternal city. Visit the Vatican Museums with Sistin Chapel
& St. Peter’s Basilica. Then continue on to visit the Colosseum,
ancient Palatine Hill overlooking the Circus Maximus and the
Imperial Palace, and the Roman Forum. Overnight. (B, L)

Day 14, in Rome, Saturday
A full day free in spectacular Rome. Y our Tour Director will
have suggestions on how to spend your time. You might want
to visit some of the wonderful shops, galleries and museums,
or relax in a sidewalk cafe. An optional excursion to Pompei
is available. Once a prosperous port city, it was buried under
volcanic ash when Mt. Vesuvius erupted in late August of 79
A.D. Your excursion will bring to life the sights and history
of this fascinating town. Tonight, a farewell dinner in a local
restaurant, complete with wine and music, is the perfect way
to celebrate your glimpse of Italy. (B, D)

Day 15, departing Rome, Sunday
Morning transfer to Rome airport. Your homebound flight
arrives the same day. (B)

HOTELS:
Venice: Carlton (F)
Florence: Croce Di Malta (F)
Rome: Palatino (F)

K807 ~ SLOVENIA AND ADRIATIC CRUISE
14 days featuring Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Montenegro and Albania

TOUR FEATURES:
 First class hotels, rooms with private facilities
 Service charges and hotel taxes
 In hotels: breakfast daily and 2 dinners
 Roundtrip airport transfers
 Travel by modern air-conditioned motor-coach
 Professional English speaking Cruise manager/ Tour
Director
 Luggage handling
 7 nights cruise aboard m/v Arion in inside cabins Cat.
1; upgrades to categories 2 – 6 are available
 Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily onboard the ship
SIGHTSEEING TOURS INCLUDED:

Ljubljana
Postojna cave and Predjama castle
Piran
Secovlje
Goriska Brda
Soca valley
Bled
Bohinj

Day 1, Arrive in Venice or Ljubljana, Monday
Transfer to your hotel in Ljubljana. The rest of the day is
free to relax. This evening, meet your fellow travelers for
welcome orientation meeting including welcome drink.
Overnight in Ljubljana.

Day 2, Postojna and Lipica, Tuesday
The day is reserved for the Karst region. Visit Postojna Cave
and continue to Predjama medieval castle perched in the
middle of a cliff. Drive to Slovenian coast. Dinner at a local
restaurant. Overnight in Piran. (B, D)

Day 3, Piran, Portoroz & Goriska Brda, Wednesday
Morning tour of Piran followed with the visit of Portoroz,
popular tourist resort and then continue to Secovlje Salt
-pans. We will turn inland and travel to Nova Gorica. Rest of
the day at leisure or you can take a part in an optional tour
to the vineyard region of Goriska Brda where you will have
the possibility to taste local cuisine and wines. Overnight
in Nova Gorica. (B)

Day 4, Soca Valley, Thursday
Morning drive upstream the emerald green Soca river,
through Kobarid (mentioned in Hemmingway’s Farewell
to Arms) and visit of the WW1 museum. After the visit
you will travel to Bled and end the day in this peaceful town
beautifully situated in the Alps. Overnight in Bled (B)

Day 5, Bled, Friday
A sightseeing tour of Bled features the charming town with
the lakeshore, and imposing Bled Castle, perched on a cliff
high above the lake.
The rest of the day is at leisure or you can take an optional
tour to Skofja Loka – the medieval town with castle that
rises above the confluence of the two Sora rivers. Overnight
in Bled. (B)

Day 6, Bled and Bohinj, Saturday
Day at leisure in Bled.
Possibility to join the optional tour to the other Alpine
beauty – lake Bohinj. You will visit the Sheppard’s museum
and taste the best Slovenian cheese. Return to Bled.
Tonight enjoy dinner at local restaurant and overnight in
Bled. (B, D)

Day 7, Bled to Koper, Sunday
Breakfast. Morning at leisure.
Afternoon transfer to Koper port for embarkation between
4 PM and 10 PM. Late evening departure towards Zadar
(overnight sailing). (B, D)

Day 8, Zadar, Monday
Monday morning arrival in Zadar, the oldest Slavic city on
the Adriatic, once famed cultural center.
Optional tour to Plitvice National Park with breathtaking
scenery of 16 terraced lakes surrounded by thickly wooded
mountains and lush vegetation, also listed in UNESCO’s
World Heritage list
Optional tour of Zadar includes the ruins of the Roman
Forum, the Romanesque Cathedral of St. Anastasia, the
Church of St. Donat, the Church of St. Mary and Benedictine
Convent.
Depart Zadar at 8 PM sailing to Ploce. (B, L, D)

Day 9, Ploce, Tuesday morning
Morning arrival in Ploce, a large commercial port located
in Central Dalmatia.
Optional tour to Mostar, a famous old city in Bosnia and
Herzegovina) where you will see the reconstructed old
bridge built by the occupying Turkish forces some 500
years ago.
Depart Ploce at 2:30 PM sailing to Korcula. (B, L, D)

Day 9 (continued), Korcula, Tuesday afternoon
Arrive in Korcula, birth place of Marco Polo, on Tuesday
afternoon. You can visit the main square and see the
Cathedral Square and nearby Marco Polo’s family house.
In the evening enjoy optional performance of Moreska, the
island’s unique version of Morris Dance. Depart Korucla at
11 PM. (B, L, D)

Day 10, Kotor, Wednesday
Morning arrival in Kotor, Montenegro. The Bay of Kotor
and the old town of Kotor are both on UNESCO’s World
Heritage List. Bay of Kotor is actually the largest European
Fjord outside of Norway.
Optional tour to the former capital city of Cetinje or
Montenegro’s Grand Tour of the Riviera.
Leave Kotor towards Albania at 10:30 PM (B, L, D)

Day 11, Durres, Thursday
Morning arrival in the port of Durres, the most important
maritime gate of Albania, also well known for its nice Riviera.
Optional tour to Tirana, the country’s capital city, only 40
kilometers away. Spend a full day discovering the city,
including typical lunch in a local restaurant.
At 10:00 start sailing towards Dubrovnik. (B, L, D)

Day 12, Dubrovnik, Friday

Arrive Dubrovnik in the morning. Entering the gates of this
over 1000 years old architectural marvel is like a step back
in time.
Optional tour: City tour includes the Rector’s Palace, Bell
Tower clock, Orlando’s Column and the Sponza Palace. Also
see the Dominican’s Monastery and Franciscan Monastery
housing one of the oldest pharmacies in the world.
Optional Folklore Performance. (B, L, D)

Day 13, Split, Saturday
Morning arrival in Split.
Optional tour of Split features the historic inner city, built
around the Roman Emperor Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO
world heritage sight. See the remnants of Split’s Roman
heritage, it’s Renaissance and Gothic structures, Jupiter’s
Temple, the Peristyle and the Cathedral.
Optional tour to nearby Trogir, the center of artistic
activities. Scholars from around the world gather to study
and paint here.
In the afternoon sail back to Koper. (B, L, D)

Day 14, Disembark, Sunday
Disembark after breakfast (9 AM). Transfer to Venice or
Ljubljana airport for your flight home.

HOTELS:
 Ljubljana: Hotel Central (F)
 Piran: Hotel Piran (F)
 Nova Gorica: Park (F)
 Bled: Park (F) or Golf (SF)

K808 ~ ZAGREB TO VENICE
14 days f rom Zagreb, Sarajevo, Dubrovnik , Split, Plit vice L akes and Ljubljana to Venice

INCLUDED FEATURES:

First class hotels, rooms with private facilities
Service charges and hotel taxes
Breakfast daily and 8 dinners
Arrival and departure transfers
Touring by modern air-conditioned motor coach
Professional Tour Director throughout
Luggage handling

SIGHTSEEING TOURS INCLUDED:

Zagreb

Sarajevo
Dubrovnik
Split
Plitvice Lakes
Opatija
Ljubljana
Bled
Postojna Cave
 Venice

Day 1, arrive Zagreb, Saturday
You will be met at the airport and transferred to your
hotel. The day is at leisure until a welcome dinner. (D)

Day 2, in Zagreb, Sunday
A morning sightseeing tour will take you along
the historic Upper Town. See St. Mark’s Church, St.
Catherine’s Church, the Cathedral, the Parliament
and the Government Palace. The rest of the day
is at leisure to explore the winding streets of the
old town or take an optional excursion to the
countryside. (B)

Day 3, Zagreb to Sarajevo, Monday

Journey south, out of Croatia to Sarajevo, the capital
of Bosnia and Herzegovina. After checking in at the
hotel, relax and enjoy dinner. (B, D)

Day 4, Sarajevo to Dubrovnik, Tuesday
Sarajevo has been influenced by a number of cultures
and civilizations. On your city tour visit the picturesque
Turkish bazaar“Bas Carsija”, the Husref Bay’s Mosque,
Olympic Stadium and Gavrilo Princip Museum.Then,
continue your trip through the mountains and along
the gorge of the Neretva River to Mostar. Here, see the
remains of theTurkish quarter and the reconstruction
efforts on the 16th century stone bridge. Travel on to
Dubrovnik. (B, D)

Day 5, in Dubrovnik, Wednesday
There is a walking tour of “Old Dubrovnik” this
morning; the Rector’s Palace, Bell Tower Clock,
Orlando’s Column and the Sponza Palace. You will
also see the Dominican Monastery and Franciscan
Monastery with its Pharmacy, one of the oldest in
the world. The rest of the day is at leisure. (B)

Day 6, in Dubrovnik, excursion to Montenegro, Thursday
Travel to the Republic of Montenegro. Head towards
the mouth of the beautiful Bay of Kotor, the longest
and deepest fjord in Southern Europe. See the little
towns of Risan and Kotor. Then proceed to Cetinje,
once the seat of Montenegrin rulers, today a city-
museum. After the sightseeing in Cetinje, travel to
the coast for a short stop in the villages of Sveti Stefan
and Budva before returning to Dubrovnik. (B)

Day 7, Dubrovnik to Split, Friday
Depart Dubrovnik and travel north along the
spectacular Adriatic coast, past old fishing villages
andnewresorts,toSplit.Enjoyacitytourfeaturingthe
historic inner city, built around the Roman Emperor
Diocletian’s Palace,a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage
site. See the remnants of Split’s Roman heritage, its
Renaissance and Gothic structures, Jupiter’s Temple,
the Peristyle and the Cathedral. (B, D)

Day 8, Split to Trogir and Plitvice Lakes, Saturday
After breakfast, head to Trogir, the center of artistic
activities. Scholars from around the world gather to
study and paint here. Then, turn inland and journey
to Plitvice Lakes National Park. (B, D)

Day 9, in Plitvice Lakes, Sunday
A full day to enjoy Plitvice National Park, listed as a
UNESCO World Heritage site. Have your camera ready
and take a walking tour around several of the lower
lakes. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery of this natural
wonder with 16 terraced lakes surrounded by thickly
wooded mountains and lush vegetation. The rest of
the day is at leisure. (B, D)

Day 10, Plitvice Lakes to Opatija and Bled, Monday
Return to the coast to the beautiful bay of Kvarner
and its popular resort, Opatija. An orientation tour
of Opatija will present the highlights of this former
Imperial resort city. After your visit here, drive across
the border into Slovenia and on to picturesque Bled.
(B, D)

Day 11, in Bled, Tuesday
A sightseeing tour of Bled features the charming
town with the lakeshore, and imposing Bled Castle,
perched on a high above the lake. After your
tour, travel to Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia. Here,
view the Central open-air Market, Baroque Town
Hall, Robba’s Fountain, the Three Bridges and the
Parliament. Return to Bled in the evening. (B)

Day 12, Bled to Venice, Wednesday
Leave Bled, driving south to Postojna, home to one
of the largest caves in Europe. Tour this fantastic
subterranean world by miniature electric train. Then,
continue on to the marvelous city of Venice. (B)

Day 13, in Venice, Thursday
Today begins with a walking tour of Venice featuring
the major highlights: St. Mark’s Square, St. Mark’s
Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, the Bell Tower and the
Bridge of Sighs. The tour ends with a visit to a glass
blowing factory where you may see the demonstration
of a traditional Venetian glass blowing. Balance of
the day is at leisure. In the afternoon, enjoy Venice
at your own pace, shop or join an optional gondola
ride. Farewell dinner at local restaurant. (B, D)

Day 14, depart Venice, Friday
After breakfast we drive to Venice airport for your
flight home. (B)

HOTELS:
 Zagreb: Westin (DLX)
 Sarajevo: Holiday Inn (F)
 Dubrovnik: Lapad (F)
Split: Atrium (F)
Plitvice: Jezero (F)
Bled: Park (F) or Golf (SF)
Venice: Principe (SF) or Amadeus (SF)

K808G ~ DUBROVNIK TO VENICE

11 days from Dubrovnik, Split, Plitvice Lakes and Ljubljana to Venice

INCLUDED FEATURES:

First class hotels, rooms with private facilities
Service charges and hotel taxes
Breakfast daily and 6 dinners
Arrival and departure transfers
Touring by modern air-conditioned motor coach
Professional Tour Director throughout
Luggage handling

SIGHTSEEING TOURS INCLUDED:

Dubrovnik
Split
Plitvice Lakes
Opatija
Ljubljana
Bled
Postojna Cave
Venice

Day 1, arrive Dubrovnik, Tuesday
You will be met at the airport and transferred to your
hotel. The day is at leisure until a welcome dinner. (D)

Day 2, in Dubrovnik, Wednesday
There is a walking tour of “Old Dubrovnik“ this
morning; the Rector’s Palace, Bell Tower Clock,
Orlando’s Column and the Sponza Palace. You will
also see the Dominican Monastery and Franciscan
Monastery with its Pharmacy, one of the oldest in
the world. The rest of the day is at leisure. (B)

Day 3, in Dubrovnik, excursion to Montenegro, Thursday
Travel to the Republic of Montenegro. Head towards
the mouth of the beautiful Bay of Kotor, the longest
and deepest fjord in Southern Europe. See the little
towns of Risan and Kotor. Then proceed to Cetinje,
once the seat of Montenegrin rulers, today a city-
museum. After the sightseeing in Cetinje, travel to
the coast for a short stop in the villages of Sveti Stefan
and Budva before returning to Dubrovnik. (B)

Day 4, Dubrovnik to Split, Friday
Depart Dubrovnik and travel north along the
spectacular Adriatic coast, past old fishing villages
and new resorts,to Split.Enjoy a city tour featuring the
historic inner city, built around the Roman Emperor
Diocletian’s Palace,a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage
site. See the remnants of Split’s Roman heritage, its
Renaissance and Gothic structures, Jupiter’s Temple,
the Peristyle and the Cathedral. (B, D)

Day 5 , Split to Trogir and Plitvice Lakes, Saturday
After breakfast, head to Trogir, the center of artistic
activities. Scholars from around the world gather to
study and paint here. Then, turn inland and journey
to Plitvice Lakes National Park. (B, D)

Day 6 , in Plitvice Lakes, Sunday
A full day to enjoy Plitvice National Park, listed as a
UNESCO World Heritage site. Have your camera ready
and take a walking tour around several of the lower
lakes. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery of this natural
wonder with 16 terraced lakes surrounded by thickly
wooded mountains and lush vegetation. The rest of
the day is at leisure. (B, D)

Day 7 , Plitvice Lakes to Opatija and Bled, Monday
Return to the coast to the beautiful bay of Kvarner
and its popular resort, Opatija. An orientation tour
of Opatija will present the highlights of this former
Imperial resort city. After your visit here, drive across
the border into Slovenia and on to picturesque Bled.
(B, D)

Day 8, in Bled, Tuesday
A sightseeing tour of Bled features the charming
town with the lakeshore, and imposing Bled Castle,
perched on a high above the lake. After your
tour, travel to Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia. Here,
view the Central open-air Market, Baroque Town
Hall, Robba’s Fountain, the Three Bridges and the
Parliament. Return to Bled in the evening. (B)

Day 9, Bled to Venice, Wednesday
Leave Bled, driving south to Postojna, home to one
of the largest caves in Europe. Tour this fantastic
subterranean world by miniature electric train. Then,
continue on to the marvelous city of Venice. (B)

Day 10, in Venice, Thursday
Today begins with a walking tour of Venice featuring
the major highlights: St. Mark’s Square, St. Mark’s
Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, the Bell Tower and the
Bridge of Sighs. The tour ends with a visit to a glass
blowing factory where you may see the demonstration
of a traditional Venetian glass blowing. Balance of
the day is at leisure. In the afternoon, enjoy Venice
at your own pace, shop or join an optional gondola
ride. Farewell dinner at local restaurant. (B, D)

Day 11, depart Venice, Friday
After breakfast we drive to Venice airport for your
flight home. (B)

HOTELS:

Dubrovnik: Lapad (F)
Split: Atrium (F)
Plitvice: Jezero (F)
Bled: Park (F) or Golf (SF)
Venice: Principe (SF) or Amadeus (SF)

K808 Z ~ ZAGREB TO DUBROVNIK

7 days from Zagreb and Sarajevo to Dubrovnik

INCLUDED FEATURES:

First class hotels, rooms with private facilities
Service charges and hotel taxes
Breakfast daily and 3 dinners
Arrival and departure transfers
Touring by modern air-conditioned motor coach
Professional Tour Director throughout
Luggage handling

SIGHTSEEING TOURS INCLUDED:

 Zagreb

 Sarajevo
 Dubrovnik

Day 1, arrive Zagreb, Saturday
You will be met at the airport and transferred to your
hotel. The day is at leisure until a welcome dinner. (D)

Day 2, in Zagreb, Sunday
A morning sightseeing tour will take you along
the historic Upper Town. See St. Mark’s Church, St.
Catherine’s Church, the Cathedral, the Parliament
and the Government Palace. The rest of the day
is at leisure to explore the winding streets of the
old town or take an optional excursion to the
countryside. (B)

Day 3, Zagreb to Sarajevo, Monday
Journey south, out of Croatia to Sarajevo, the capital
of Bosnia and Herzegovina. After checking in at the
hotel, relax and enjoy dinner. (B, D)

Day 4, Sarajevo to Dubrovnik, Tuesday
Sarajevo has been in uenced by a number of cultures
and civilizations. On your city tour visit the picturesque
Turkish bazaar“Bas Carsija”, the Husref Bay’s Mosque,
Olympic Stadium and Gavrilo Princip Museum.Then,
continue your trip through the mountains and along
the gorge of the Neretva River to Mostar. Here, see the
remains of theTurkish quarter and the reconstruction
orts on the 16th century stone bridge. Travel on to
Dubrovnik. (B, D)

Day 5, in Dubrovnik, Wednesday
There is a walking tour of “Old Dubrovnik” this
morning; the Rector’s Palace, Bell Tower Clock,
Orlando’s Column and the Sponza Palace. You will
also see the Dominican Monastery and Franciscan
Monastery with its Pharmacy, one of the oldest in
the world. The rest of the day is at leisure. (B)

Day 6, in Dubrovnik, excursion to Montenegro, Thursday
Travel to the Republic of Montenegro. Head towards
the mouth of the beautiful Bay of Kotor, the longest
and deepest d in Southern Europe. See the little
towns of Risan and Kotor. Then proceed to Cetinje,
once the seat of Montenegrin rulers, today a city-
museum. After the sightseeing in Cetinje, travel to
the coast for a short stop in the villages of Sveti Stefan
and Budva before returning to Dubrovnik. (B)

Day 7, depart Dubrovnik, Friday
After breakfast we drive to Dubrovnik airport for
your flight home. (B)

HOTELS:

Zagreb: Westin (DLX)
Sarajevo: Holiday Inn (F)
Dubrovnik: Lapad (F)

K809 ~ CROATIA AND ADRIATIC CRUISE

11 days from Zagreb, Plitvice, Split, Brac, Makarska, Korcula, Dubrovnik, Mljet and Hvar back to Split

TOUR FEATURES:
 First class hotels, rooms with private facilities
 Service charges and hotel taxes
 Breakfast daily, 6 lunches and 2 dinners
 Arrival and departure transfers
 Touring by modern air-conditioned motor coach as
per itinerary
 Professional Tour director / Cruise Manager
 Luggage handling
 7 nights cruise from Split back to Split on board
M/S ’Afrodita’ or ’Eden’ in cabin with private shower/
toilet
SIGHTSEEING TOURS INCLUDED:

 Zagreb
 Plitvice
 Split
 Korcula
 Dubrovnik
 Hvar

Day 1, Arrive Zagreb, Wednesday
You will be met at the airport and transferred to your
hotel. The day is at leisure until welcome dinner. (D)

Day 2, in Zagreb, Thursday
A morning sightseeing tour will take you along the historic
Upper Town. See St. Mark’s Church, St. Catherine’s Church,
the Cathedral, the Parliament and the Government Palace.
The rest of the day is at leisure to explore the winding
streets of the old town or take an optional excursion to the
countryside. (B)

Day 3, Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes and Split, Friday
Journey south, and visit Plitvice Lakes National Park,
listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Have your camera
ready and take a walking tour around several of the lower
lakes. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery of this natural
wonder with 16 terraced lakes surrounded by thickly
wooded mountains and lush vegetation. After your visit,
drive southbound to Split. (B)

Day 4, in Split, Saturday
Today begins with a walking tour of the historic inner city,
built around the Roman Emperor Diocletian’s Palace, a
UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site. See the remnants of
Split’s Roman heritage, its Renaissance and Gothic
structures, Jupiter’s Temple, the Peristyle and the Cathedral.
Time on your own, until embarkation. Tonight, join at dinner
on board with your fellow ‘sailors’. Overnight on board. (D)

Day 5, sail to Brac and Makarska, Sunday
Breakfast and lunch on board. Morning departure to Brac
Island. Enjoy the pleasant sea front promenade walk and
swimming. Lunch on board. From Brac Island sail to
Makarska on the mainland. (B, L)

Day 6, Makarska – Korcula, Monday
After breakfast departure to Korcula Island, with a stop en
route for swimming and relaxing. Lunch on board, late
afternoon arrival to Korcula, the acclaimed birthplace of
the famous explorer Marco Polo. Walking tour, including
visit to the Cathedral, followed by the rest of day by
leisure. (B, L)

Day 7, Korcula – Dubrovnik, Tuesday
Morning departure from Korcula to Dubrovnik. With a stop
en route for swimming. Lunch on board. In the afternoon
arrival to Dubrovnik, the pearl of Adriatic, famous city
enlisted at UNESCO’s World Heritage. There is a walking
tour of ‘Old Dubrovnik’ this afternoon; the Rector’s Palace,
Bell Tower Clock, Orlando’s Column and the Sponza Palace.
You will also see the Dominican Monastery and Franciscan
Monastery with its Pharmacy, one of the oldest in the
world. (B, L)

Day 8, Dubrovnik – Mljet National Park, Wednesday
Morning departure from Dubrovnik to Mljet Island with a
stop for swimming on the way. Lunch on board. Arrival to
the heart of Mljet National Park , where you will enjoy a
beautiful walk all around the Great and the Small Lake.
(B, L)

Day 9, Mljet – Hvar, Thursday
Morning departure from Mljet to Hvar. Stop for swimming
and relaxing in one of the secluded coves of Peljesac
peninsula (weather permitting). Lunch on board. Afternoon
arrival to the town of Hvar, with unique cultural and
historical heritage and an important tourist destination
with a centuries-old tradition in tourism. Enjoy orientation
walking tour of Hvar, featuring views of the Fortress and
Franciscan Monastery. The main attractions are its pleasant
climate with a lot of sunshine, natural beauties, high-
standard of accommodation, excellent gastronomic o er,
sports and recreational opportunities, etc. (B, L)

Day 10, Hvar – Split, Friday
Morning departure from Hvar to Split, with a swimming
and relaxing stop in Milna on Brac Island.
Lunch on board. (B, L)

Day 11, depart Split, Saturday
Disembarkation after breakfast.
Transfer to Split airport for your flight home. (B)

HOTELS:

Zagreb: Westin (DLX)
Split: Atrium (F)
Cruises: M/S ’Afrodita’ or M/S ’Eden’

K812 ~ SLAVONIA & BARANJA

4 days from Zagreb to Ilok, Vukovar, Osijek and Knezevi Vineyards

INCLUDED FEATURES:

 First class hotels, rooms with private facilities
 Service charges and hotel taxes
 Breakfast daily, 1 lunch and 2 dinners
 2 wine tastings as per itinerary
 Horse carriage ride
 Touring by modern air-conditioned motor coach
 Arrival and departure transfers
 Professional Tour Director throughout

 Luggage handling

SIGHTSEEING TOURS INCLUDED:

 Vinkovci
 Vukovar
 IIok
 Osijek

Day 1, Sunday, to Vinkovci and Ilok

This morning (at 9 am), travel to mythical Slavonia, a
fertile region that has guarded its treasures for
centuries. Today, songs reverberates through the air,
precious folks costumes are taken out of old wooden
chests and age-old customs brought to life – all in
order to preserve the Slavonia as it used to be. Arrive
to Vinkovci and visit Town Museum, one of the most
beautiful museums of continental Croatia. After some
time at leisure we finish our day in Ilok. Get to know
warm welcome and friendship so typical of Slavonia
and its people. Dinner. (D)

Day 2, Monday, to Vukovar, Ilok

This morning drive to lovely Vukovar, called also the
Triumphal Gate of Croatia. Discover why this area is
considered the cradle of one of the oldest civilizations.
After the sightseeing tour, featuring the Franciscan
Monastery of St. John Capistrano, the Manorhouse
Eltz, the St. James and St. Nicholas churches as well
as the Ovcara Memorial, enjoy some time to stroll
around. Return to Ilok for sightseeing tour and visit
of ’Stari Podrum’ with wine tasting.
Dinner and overnight. (B, D)

Day 3, Tuesday, to Osijek, Karanac and Zagreb

Today, take a walk through the Old Town of Osijek.
Panoramic drive along the ‘wine road’ will take us to
Knezevi Vineyards, where we’ll visit wine cellar and
have a wine tasting. Following, we will visit
traditional villages of Baranja, including eco village
Karanac, where we enjoy horse carriage ride. Lunch
at the local restaurant and in the afternoon drive back
to Zagreb. The rest of the day is at leisure to explore
the winding streets of the old town of Croatian
Capital at your own pace. (B, L)

Day 4, Wednesday, depart Zagreb

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your
departure flight. (B)

HOTELS:

Ilok: Ilocki Podrumi (F)
Zagreb: Westin (DLX)

K905 ~ MOSCOW TO BALTIC STATES, POLAND, PRAGUE & VIENNA

19 days from Moscow to Novgorod, St. Petersburg, Tallinn, Riga, Vilnius, Warsaw, Krakow, Prague and Vienna

INCLUDED FEATURES:

First class hotels, rooms with private facilities
Service charges and hotel taxes
Breakfast daily, 1 lunch and 10 dinners
Airport transfers
Touring by modern motor-coach
Professional Tour Director throughout
Luggage handling

SIGHTSEEING TOURS INCLUDED:

 Moscow  Vilnius
 Novgorod  Warsaw
 St. Petersburg  Krakow
 Tallinn  Prague
 Riga  Vienna

Day 1, arrive Moscow, Saturday
Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel.
The rest of the day is free to relax. Welcome dinner this
evening. (D)

Day 2, in Moscow, Sunday
Moscow, one of the largest cities in the world, is the
symbolic heart and soul of the country. Sightseeing begins
at the Red Square, dominated by St. Basil’s Cathedral and
by the massive red walls of the Kremlin. Visit the Armory
Museum; proceed to see the Moscow University and the
popular Arbat shopping district. Continue with a drive
along the wide boulevards and then stroll through GUM,
Russia’s largest department store. Rest of the day is at
leisure. You may take part in an optional tour by night of
Moscow and its subway. (B)

Day 3, to Tver and Novgorod, Monday
After an early breakfast, depart for Tver, an ancient trading
port nestled on the banks of the Volga River. The city offers
fascinating treasures, including Putevoy Dvorets, built
for Catherine II as a resting place on her journeys from
Moscow to St. Petersburg. Enjoy a short sightseeing tour
of this remarkable city. End the day in historic Novgorod,
founded almost twelve centuries ago. (B, D)

Day 4, to St. Petersburg, Tuesday
A morning sightseeing tour of Novgorod starts at the
Kremlin with a visit to St. Sophia Cathedral. Then, cross
the river via a pedestrian bridge to visit the Yaroslav
Court. In the afternoon, travel north to St. Petersburg, the
former capital of the Romanov Czars. Upon arrival enjoy
a first sightseeing tour of the city starting with the visit
of Peter and Paul Fortress, quarter of the City museum
and its cathedral, which houses the crypt of the Russian
emperors. Next, visit St. Isaac’s Cathedral. (B, D)

Day 5, in St. Petersburg, Wednesday
There are not many cities in the world that can match the
grace of St. Petersburg. When Peter the Great founded the
city in 1703, he hired Europe’s best architects, craftsmen
and artists to build and decorate it. Spread over 100 islands
linked by over 600 bridges, it is often referred to as“Venice
of the North”. This morning sightseeing tour will feature
highlight: the world-famous Hermitage, which houses
many treasures from the Czarist era. The rest of the day is
free at leisure. (B)

Day 6, to Tallinn, Thursday
Journey to Estonia, where your first stop is Narva. Continue
to Tallinn, capital of Estonia and situated on the southern
coast of the Gulf of Finland. (B, D)

Day 7, to Riga, Friday
On a walking tour of the Upper and Lower Old Town, a
UNESCO World Heritage site, visit orthodox Alexander
Nevsky Cathedral. Next, visit Toompea Castle and see the
14th century gothic Town Hall. This afternoon, on to Riga,
the capital of Latvia. (B, D)

Day 8, in Riga, Saturday
During your sightseeing tour, see Riga Castle, the
magnificent Dome Cathedral, St. Jacobs Cathedral, St.
Peter’s Church, the Parliament building, Liberty Monument
and the district of Art Nouveau houses. Your afternoon is
free. (B)

Day 9, to Vilnius, Sunday
Morning departure for Vilnius, capital of Lithuania. The rest
of the day is at leisure. (B, D)

Day 10, in Vilnius, Monday
The city of Vilnius is located on the confluence of the Neris
and Velnele Rivers. In Old Vilnius, visit Peter and Paul
Church and St. Anna’s Church. View Vilnius University,
dating back to 1570, Gediminas’Tower in the Upper Town
and Vilnius Castle. The afternoon is free or you may take an
optional excursion to Trakai. (B)

Day 11, to Warsaw, Tuesday
Cross the border into Poland and reach Warsaw at day’s
end. (B, L, D)

Day 12, in Warsaw, Wednesday
This 700 year old capital of Poland is a symbol of
nationhood and the will to survive against great odds. A
sightseeing tour here includes a drive along the famous
Royal Route from magnificent Castle Square to Lazienki
Park and Palace, summer residence of the last king of
Poland. Pass by the Palace of Science and Culture (known
as a “wedding cake”), the Saxon Gardens, the Tomb of the
Unknown Soldier, Monument to the Heroes of the Warsaw
Ghetto and the Barbican. Continue with the walking tour of
the Old Town, Old Market Square and St. John’s Cathedral.
The rest of the day is free for relaxing, shopping, a stroll
through the city or an optional late afternoon Chopin
concert. (B)

Day 13, to Krakow, Thursday
This morning, journey to Czestochowa, known for the
blackened picture of St.Mary in the Yasna Gora Monastery,
popularly called the “Black Madonna”. In the afternoon,
there is time for an optional side trip to one of the most
somber memorials of the past, Auschwitz. End your day in
Krakow. (B, D)

Day 14, in Krakow, Friday
Your sightseeing tour starts with a visit to the Wawel Hill,
viewing the Royal Castle and visiting the Royal Cathedral.
Enjoy a walking tour of the OldTown where you will visit the
Main Market Square, Renaissance Cloth Hall and St. Mary’s
Church. The afternoon is free for a stroll around the city. (B)

Day 15, to Prague, Saturday
After a drive through the Polish countryside, cross the
borders of Slovakia and Czech Republic. Then, on to
Prague, with its Baroque churches, promenades, parks and
ancient city walls. (B, D)

Day 16, in Prague, Sunday
Built on the seven hills more than 1000 years ago and
situated on both banks of the Vltava River, Prague is
one of the most attractive cities in Europe. Your city tour
starts with a panoramic drive to the famous Wenceslas
Square, the Strahov Stadium and the Castle Square. On
a walking tour, visit the Royal Castle of Hradcany, St.
Vitus Cathedral, Royal Palace and Loretto Church. Cross
the Charles Bridge and walk through the old quarter
of Prague to view the Jewish Ghetto, Town Hall and the
world famous Astronomical Clock. The balance of the day
is free. An optional visit to a cultural performance will be
available. (B)

Day 17, to Vienna, Monday
Today’s destination is Vienna, the “City of Waltz”, and one
of Europe’s loveliest cities. (B)

Day 18, in Vienna, Tuesday
On your morning sightseeing tour, visit the Hofburg
Palace, once the seat of the Austro-Hungarian Empire,
and view the Belvedere Palace, Prater amusement park,
the UN buildings, St. Stephen’s Cathedral and other vivid
reminders of the city’s imperial history. Afternoon is at
leisure. Farewell dinner in a local restaurant. (B, D)

Day 19, depart Vienna, Wednesday
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight. (B)

HOTELS:

Moscow: Marriott Grand (SF)
Novgorod: Beresta (F)
St. Petersburg: Holiday Inn (F)
Tallinn: Meriton Grand (SF)
Riga: Avalon (SF) or Radisson BLU (SF)
Vilnius: Hotel Novotel (SF)
Warsaw: Holiday Inn (SF)
Krakow: Hotel Novotel Centrum (F)
Prague: Diplomat (F)
Vienna: Savoyen (F)

K905M ~ MOSCOW TO BALTIC STATES, POLAND & PRAGUE

17 days from Moscow to Novgorod, St. Petersburg, Tallinn, Riga, Vilnius, Warsaw, Krakow and Prague

INCLUDED FEATURES:

First class hotels, rooms with private facilities
Service charges and hotel taxes
Breakfast daily, 1 lunch and 9 dinners
Airport transfers
Touring by modern motor-coach
Professional Tour Director throughout
Luggage handling

SIGHTSEEING TOURS INCLUDED:

Moscow
Novgorod
St. Petersburg
Tallinn
Riga

Vilnius
Warsaw
Krakow
Prague

Day 1, arrive Moscow, Saturday
Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel.
The rest of the day is free to relax. Welcome dinner this
evening. (D)

Day 2, in Moscow, Sunday
Moscow, one of the largest cities in the world, is the
symbolic heart and soul of the country. Sightseeing begins
at the Red Square, dominated by St. Basil’s Cathedral and
by the massive red walls of the Kremlin. Visit the Armory
Museum; proceed to see the Moscow University and the
popular Arbat shopping district. Continue with a drive
along the wide boulevards and then stroll through GUM,
Russia’s largest department store. Rest of the day is at
leisure. You may take part in an optional tour by night of
Moscow and its subway. (B)

Day 3, to Tver and Novgorod, Monday
After an early breakfast, depart for Tver, an ancient trading
port nestled on the banks of the Volga River. The city offers
fascinating treasures, including Putevoy Dvorets, built
for Catherine II as a resting place on her journeys from
Moscow to St. Petersburg. Enjoy a short sightseeing tour
of this remarkable city. End the day in historic Novgorod,
founded almost twelve centuries ago. (B, D)

Day 4, to St. Petersburg, Tuesday
A morning sightseeing tour of Novgorod starts at the
Kremlin with a visit to St. Sophia Cathedral. Then, cross
the river via a pedestrian bridge to visit the Yaroslav
Court. In the afternoon, travel north to St. Petersburg, the
former capital of the Romanov Czars. Upon arrival enjoy
a first sightseeing tour of the city starting with the visit
of Peter and Paul Fortress, quarter of the City museum
and its cathedral, which houses the crypt of the Russian
emperors. Next, visit St. Isaac’s Cathedral. (B, D)

Day 5, in St. Petersburg, Wednesday
There are not many cities in the world that can match the
grace of St. Petersburg. When Peter the Great founded the
city in 1703, he hired Europe’s best architects, craftsmen
and artists to build and decorate it. Spread over 100 islands
linked by over 600 bridges, it is often referred to as“Venice
of the North”. This morning sightseeing tour will feature
highlight: the world-famous Hermitage, which houses
many treasures from the Czarist era. The rest of the day is
free at leisure. (B)

Day 6, to Tallinn, Thursday
Journey to Estonia, where your first stop is Narva. Continue
to Tallinn, capital of Estonia and situated on the southern
coast of the Gulf of Finland. (B, D)

Day 7, to Riga, Friday
On a walking tour of the Upper and Lower Old Town, a
UNESCO World Heritage site, visit orthodox Alexander
Nevsky Cathedral. Next, visit Toompea Castle and see the
14th century gothic Town Hall. This afternoon, on to Riga,
the capital of Latvia. (B, D)

Day 8, in Riga, Saturday
During your sightseeing tour, see Riga Castle, the
magnificent Dome Cathedral, St. Jacobs Cathedral, St.
Peter’s Church, the Parliament building, Liberty Monument
and the district of Art Nouveau houses. Your afternoon is
free. (B)

Day 9, to Vilnius, Sunday
Morning departure for Vilnius, capital of Lithuania. The rest
of the day is at leisure. (B, D)

Day 10, in Vilnius, Monday
The city of Vilnius is located on the confluence of the Neris
and Velnele Rivers. In Old Vilnius, visit Peter and Paul
Church and St. Anna’s Church. View Vilnius University,
dating back to 1570, Gediminas’Tower in the Upper Town
and Vilnius Castle. The afternoon is free or you may take an
optional excursion to Trakai. (B)

Day 11, to Warsaw, Tuesday
Cross the border into Poland and reach Warsaw at day’s
end. (B, L, D)

Day 12, in Warsaw, Wednesday
This 700 year old capital of Poland is a symbol of
nationhood and the will to survive against great odds. A
sightseeing tour here includes a drive along the famous
Royal Route from magnificent Castle Square to Lazienki
Park and Palace, summer residence of the last king of
Poland. Pass by the Palace of Science and Culture (known
as a “wedding cake”), the Saxon Gardens, the Tomb of the
Unknown Soldier, Monument to the Heroes of the Warsaw
Ghetto and the Barbican. Continue with the walking tour of
the Old Town, Old Market Square and St. John’s Cathedral.
The rest of the day is free for relaxing, shopping, a stroll
through the city or an optional late afternoon Chopin
concert. (B)

Day 13, to Krakow, Thursday
This morning, journey to Czestochowa, known for the
blackenedpictureofSt.MaryintheYasnaGoraMonastery,
popularly called the “Black Madonna”. In the afternoon,
there is time for an optional side trip to one of the most
somber memorials of the past, Auschwitz. End your day in
Krakow. (B, D)

Day 14, in Krakow, Friday
Your sightseeing tour starts with a visit to the Wawel Hill,
viewing the Royal Castle and visiting the Royal Cathedral.
Enjoy a walking tour of the OldTown where you will visit the
Main Market Square, Renaissance Cloth Hall and St. Mary’s
Church. The afternoon is free for a stroll around the city. (B)

Day 15, to Prague, Saturday
After a drive through the Polish countryside, cross the
borders of Slovakia and Czech Republic. Then, on to
Prague, with its Baroque churches, promenades, parks and
ancient city walls. (B, D)

Day 16, in Prague, Sunday
Built on the seven hills more than 1000 years ago and
situated on both banks of the Vltava River, Prague is
one of the most attractive cities in Europe. Your city tour
starts with a panoramic drive to the famous Wenceslas
Square, the Strahov Stadium and the Castle Square. On
a walking tour, visit the Royal Castle of Hradcany, St.
Vitus Cathedral, Royal Palace and Loretto Church. Cross
the Charles Bridge and walk through the old quarter
of Prague to view the Jewish Ghetto, Town Hall and the
world famous Astronomical Clock. The balance of the day
is free. An optional visit to a cultural performance will be
available. (B)

Day 17, depart Prague, Monday
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your departure
flight. (B)

HOTELS:

 Moscow: Marriott Grand (SF)
 Novgorod: Beresta (F)
 St. Petersburg: Holiday Inn (F)
 Tallinn: Meriton Grand (SF)
 Riga: Avalon (SF) or Radisson BLU (SF)
 Vilnius: Hotel Novotel (SF)

Warsaw: Holiday Inn (SF)
Krakow: Hotel Novotel Centrum (SF)
Prague: Diplomat (F)

K906 ~ WARSAW TO VIENNA

9 days from Warsaw to Krakow, Prague and Vienna

INCLUDED FEATURES:

 First class hotels, rooms with private facilities
 Service charges and hotel taxes
 Breakfast daily and 4 dinners
 Airport transfers
 Touring by modern air-conditioned motor coach
 Professional Tour Director throughout
 Luggage handling

SIGHTSEEING TOURS INCLUDED:

 Warsaw
 Krakow
 Prague
 Vienna

Day 1, arrive Warsaw, Tuesday

Upon arrival in Warsaw, the capital of Poland. You
will be met and transferred to your hotel. There is
plenty of time to relax before meeting your fellow
travelers and tour director. (D)

Day 2, in Warsaw, Wednesday

This 700 year old capital of Poland is a symbol of
nationhood and the will to survive against great odds.
A sightseeing tour here includes a drive along the
famous Royal Route from magnificent Castle Square
to Lazienki Park and Palace, summer residence of
the last king of Poland. Pass by the Palace of Science
and Culture (known as a “wedding cake”), the
Saxon Gardens, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier,
Monument to the Heroes of the Warsaw Ghetto and
the Barbican. Continue with the walking tour of the
Old Town, Old Market Square and St. John’s Cathedral.
The rest of the day is free for relaxing, shopping, and
a stroll through the city or an optional late afternoon
Chopin concert. (B)

Day 3, to Krakow, Thursday

This morning, journey to Czestochowa, known for
the blackened picture of St. Mary in the Yasna Gora
Monastery, popularly called the “Black Madonna”. In
the afternoon, there is time for an optional side trip
to one of the most somber memorials of the past,
Auschwitz. End your day in Krakow. (B, D)

Day 4, in Krakow, Friday

Your sightseeing tour starts with a visit to the Wawel
Hill, viewing the Royal Castle and visiting the Royal
Cathedral.EnjoyawalkingtouroftheOldTownwhere
you will visit the Main Market Square, Renaissance
Cloth Hall and St. Mary’s Church. The afternoon is
free for a stroll around the city. (B)

Day 5, to Prague, Saturday

After a drive through the Polish countryside, cross the
borders of Slovakia and Czech Republic. Then, on to
Prague, with its Baroque churches, promenades,
parks and ancient city walls. (B, D)

Day 6, in Prague, Sunday

Built on the seven hills more than 1000 years ago
and situated on both banks of the Vltava River,
Prague is one of the most attractive cities in Europe.
Your city tour starts with a panoramic drive to the
famous Wenceslas Square, the Strahov Stadium
and the Castle Square. On a walking tour, visit the
Royal Castle of Hradcany, St. Vitus Cathedral, Royal
Palace and Loretto Church. Cross the Charles Bridge
and walk through the old quarter of Prague to view
the Jewish Ghetto, Town Hall and the world famous
Astronomical Clock. The balance of the day is free.
An optional visit to a cultural performance will be
available. (B)

Day 7, to Vienna, Monday

Today’s destination is Vienna, the “City of Waltz”,
and one of Europe’s loveliest cities. (B)

Day 8, in Vienna, Tuesday

On your morning sightseeing tour, visit the Hofburg
Palace, once the seat of the Austro-Hungarian Empire,
and view the Belvedere Palace, Prater amusement
park, the UN buildings, St. Stephen’s Cathedral and
other vivid reminders of the city’s imperial history.
Afternoon is at leisure. Farwell dinner in a local
restaurant. (B, D)

Day 9, depart Vienna, Wednesday

Transfer to the airport for your departure flight. (B)

HOTELS:
Warsaw: Holiday Inn (SF)
Krakow: Hotel Novotel Centrum (SF)
Prague: Diplomat (F)
Vienna: Savoyen (F)

K982 ~ THE BEST OF RUSSIA, BALTIC STATES & WARSAW

13 d ay s f ro m M o s c ow to N ovg o ro d, S t . Pe te r s b u rg, Ta l l i n n , R i g a , Vi l n i u s a n d Wa r s aw

INCLUDED FEATURES:

First class hotels, rooms with private facilities
Service charges and hotel taxes
Breakfast daily, 1 lunch and 7 dinners
Airport transfers
Touring by modern air-conditioned motor coach
Professional Tour Director throughout

 Luggage handling

SIGHTSEEING TOURS INCLUDED:

Moscow
Novgorod
St. Petersburg
Tallinn
Riga
Vilnius
 Warsaw

Day 1, arrive Moscow, Saturday
Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your
hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax. Welcome
dinner this evening. (D)

Day 2, in Moscow, Sunday
Moscow, one of the largest cities in the world, is the
symbolic heart and soul of the country. Sightseeing
begins at the Red Square, dominated by St. Basil’s
Cathedral and by the massive red walls of the Kremlin.
VisittheArmoryMuseum,proceedtoseetheMoscow
University and the popular Arbat shopping district.
Continue with a drive along the wide boulevards and
then stroll through GUM, Russia’s largest department
store. Rest of the day is at leisure. You may take part in
an optional tour by night of Moscow and its subway.
(B)

Day 3, to Tver and Novgorod, Monday

After an early breakfast, depart for Tver, an ancient
trading port nestled on the banks of the Volga
River. The city offers fascinating treasures, including
Putevoy Dvorets, built for Catherine II as a resting
place on her journeys from Moscow to St. Petersburg.
Enjoy a short sightseeing tour of this remarkable city.
End the day in historic Novgorod, founded almost
twelve centuries ago. (B, D)

Day 4, to St. Petersburg, Tuesday
A morning sightseeing tour of Novgorod starts at the
Kremlin with a visit to St. Sophia Cathedral. Then,
cross the river via a pedestrian bridge to visit the
Yaroslav Court. In the afternoon, travel north to St.
Petersburg, the former capital of the Romanov Czars.
Upon arrival enjoy a first sightseeing tour of the city
starting with the visit of Peter and Paul Fortress,
quarter of the City museum and its cathedral, which
houses the crypt of the Russian emperors. Next, visit
St. Isaac’s Cathedral. (B, D)

Day 5, in St. Petersburg, Wednesday
There are not many cities in the world that can
match the grace of St. Petersburg. When Peter
the Great founded the city in 1703, he hired Europe’s
best architects, craftsmen and artists to build and
decorate it. Spread over 100 islands linked by over 600
bridges, it is often referred to as “Venice of the North”.
This morning sightseeing tour will feature highlight:
the world-famous Hermitage, which houses many
treasures from the Czarist era. The rest of the day is
free at leisure. (B)

Day 6, to Tallinn, Thursday
Journey to Estonia, where your first stop is Narva.
Continue to Tallinn, capital of Estonia and situated on
the southern coast of the Gulf of Finland. (B, D)

Day 7, to Riga, Friday
On a walking tour of the Upper and Lower
Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, visit
orthodox Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. Next,
visit Toompea Castle and see the 14th century
gothic Town Hall. This afternoon, on to Riga, the
capital of Latvia. (B, D)

Day 8, in Riga, Saturday
During your sightseeing tour, see Riga Castle, the
magnificent Dome Cathedral, St. Jacobs Cathedral,
St. Peter’s Church, the Parliament building, Liberty
Monument and the district of Art Nouveau houses.
Your afternoon is free. (B)

Day 9, to Vilnius, Sunday
Morning departure for Vilnius, capital of Lithuania.
The rest of the day is at leisure. (B, D)

Day 10, in Vilnius, Monday
The city of Vilnius is located on the confluence of the
Neris and Velnele Rivers. In Old Vilnius, visit Peter
and Paul Church and St. Anna’s Church. View Vilnius
University, dating back to 1570, Gediminas’ Tower in the
Upper Town and Vilnius Castle. The afternoon is free or
you may take an optional excursion to Trakai. (B)

Day 11, to Warsaw, Tuesday
Cross the border into Poland and reach Warsaw at
day’s end. (B, L, D)

Day 12, in Warsaw, Wednesday
This 700 year old capital of Poland is a symbol of
nationhood and the will to survive against great odds.
A sightseeing tour here includes a drive along the
famous Royal Route from magnificent Castle Square
to Lazienki Park and Palace, summer residence of
the last king of Poland. Pass by the Palace of Science
and Culture (known as a “wedding cake”), the
Saxon Gardens, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier,
Monument to the Heroes of the Warsaw Ghetto and
the Barbican. Continue with the walking tour of the
Old Town, Old Market Square and St. John’s Cathedral.
The rest of the day is free for relaxing, shopping, a
stroll through the city or an optional late afternoon
Chopin concert. (B)

Day 13, depart Warsaw, Thursday
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your
departure flight. (B)

HOTELS:

Moscow: Marriott Grand (SF)
Novgorod: Beresta (F)
St. Petersburg: Holiday Inn(F)
Tallinn: Meriton Grand (SF)
Riga: Avalon (SF) or Radisson BLU(SF)
Vilnius: Novotel Hotel (SF)
Warsaw: Holiday Inn (SF)

One hundred years ago, on July 24th 1911, the American historian Hiram Bingham arrived to the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, an architectural treasure that remained hidden for over four centuries under the lush vegetation of the Urubamba canyon, until the Yale professor unveiled it to the world.

Compact Travels has put together a special group departure that will visit Machu Picchu on the actual anniversary date of this majestic Inca citadel, to commemorate the 100th anniversary of its discovery and to celebrate with us the greatness of one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Writer and researcher Christopher Heaney, author of Cradle of Gold: The Story of Hiram Bingham, a Real-Life Indiana Jones and the Search for Machu Picchu (Palgrave Macmillan, 2010), will join and lead this special group departure allowing our guests to experience Machu Picchu in a very special way and to learn the most interesting and hidden facts about Machu Picchu, Hiram Bingham and his quest for the lost city of the Incas.

THE PROGRAM – JULY 2011

July 20: Arrival in Lima

July 21: Full day tour of the City of Kings

July 22: Flight to Cuzco and tour of the Capital city of the Inca Empire

July 23: Visit the Sacred Valley

July 24: Machu Picchu

July 25: Machu Picchu to Cuzco- in style

July 26: Return to Lima and tour of the surrounding valley.

INCLUDES

Ø  Escorted departure: includes local English speaking guides in each destination

Ø  Stays at Top High End hotels

Ø  2 day visit to Machu Picchu

Ø  Return from Machu Picchu on the luxurious Orient Express Hiram Bingham train

Ø  Wireless guiding system

Ø  A complimentary autographed copy of Cradle of Gold: The Story of Hiram

Ø  Bingham, a Real-Life Indiana Jones, and the Search for Machu Picchu

IMPORTANT NOTES:

1. Prices do not include air tickets or airport departure taxes.
2. Services to be provided in a private basis with local English speaking guides
3. The tour will be escorted by Mr. Christopher Heaney, author of The Cradle of Gold: the Story of Hiram Bingham a Real-Life Indiana Jones, and the search of Machu Picchu.
4. Meals to be provided as detailed above and do not include alcoholic beverages.
5. Early check-in/late check-outs are not included, nor extras or personal expenses.
6. To confirm bookings, it is mandatory: full names, passport number, nationality, date of birth and special diet restrictions.

The Republic of Kenya occupies an area of 582,644sq.kms. Kenya is bisected width-wise by the Equator and lengthwise by the Great Rift Valley and shares common borders with five other nations namely: – Tanzania to the south, Uganda to the west, Sudan to the north-west, Ethiopia to the north and Somalia to the east. The Indian Ocean coastline forms the eastern border and stretches for 400km.

Climate
The variation in altitude and terrain creates contrast in climate. The coast is hot and often humid. Mornings at the central highlands are cool while in the north and northeastern, the days are dry and very hot. There are two rainy seasons, the short rains occur from late October through November and the long rains from late March through early June. July and August are the coolest months.

MASAI MARA

“There is something about safari life that makes you forget all your sorrows…
One only feels really free when one can go in whatever direction one pleases over the plains, to get to the river at sundown and pitch one’s camp.”
– Karen Blixen From Out Of Africa

Covering an area of 1500sq.kms in the southwestern Kenya, the Masai Mara is bordered in the west by the Oloololo Escarpment of the Great Rift Valley and in the east by the Ngama Hills. The Masai Mara is predominantly a vast open savanna but there are actually seven distinct habitats including permanent marshes, riverine gallery forest, and dense shrubland. Lying to the north of, and forming part of the Great Mara-Serengeti ecosystem, abundant with Lion, Leopard, Cheetah, Black Rhino, Elephant, Giraffe, Hippo and Cape Buffalo as well as vast herds of Wildebeest, Kongoni, Zebra and Topi. The Mara is also home to six species of primates, and over 400 species of bird. En route to Masai Mara you will pass via many small-scale farms and then down the steep eastern escarpment of the Great Rift Valley.

The Great Migration

Originating on Tanzania’s short-grass plains of Ngorongoro and the southeastern Serengeti, the dwindling of available grass is the impetus for this primal trek. The horizon fills with 1 ½ million Wildebeest, 200000 Zebra, 18000 Eland and 500000 Thompson’s gazelle.

The great herds move north towards the lush long-grassed Masai Mara plains. By July, they have massed along the swollen Mara River. They have no choice but to cross the crocodile-studded waters, resulting in many drowning, ambushed by Crocodiles, or falling prey to opportunistic Lions. This dramatic life-and-death struggle is nature at her most theatrical – a once-in-a-lifetime experience for travelers to the Masai Mara.

IN MASAI MARA we offer accommodation at any of the following

THE MARA SOPA LODGE

The Masai Mara Sopa Lodge is a first-class lodge built in African architecture and with a lovely swimming pool and other amenities. Positioned just outside the Masai Mara Reserve by the Ololaimutiek Gate.

FIG TREE CAMP

Located by the Talek River just outside the Masai Mara Reserve, offering both tents and cabins.

KICHWA TEMBO CAMP

Found on the north-west border of the Masai Mara Reserve. The camps fall directly in the path of the famous annual Great Migration of the wildebeest and zebra from the Serengati National Park in Tanzania to the Masai Mara in Kenya.

MARA SAROVA CAMP

A luxury tented camp opened in 1984. The camp has 75 tents and is set amidst lush extensive gardens. Hot air balloon safaris from the camp are followed by champagne breakfast in the wilderness.

Lake Nakuru National Park

The Lake Nakuru National Park is world renowned for its large population of the Pink Flamingos, which sometimes number over a million. You will see large number of Waterbuck, Warthog, Impala, Buffalo, Cheetah and now Rhino, as Lake Nakuru National Park has been made into one of Kenya’s Rhino Sanctuary.

Three major rivers, the njoro, makalia and enderit drain into the lake, together with treated water from the town’s sewage works and the outflow from several springs along the shore.

Accommodation at
LION HILL LODGE

The lodge has- 67 chalets that all face Lake Nakuru. Lion Hill is also a birdwatcher’s paradise. Main attractions are The Flamingo Restaurant sports a patio overlooking the Rift Valley

# Rift Valley Bar with a spectacular view of the lake.
# Acacia bush lunches.
# Lawn dining on our well manicured gardens.
# Newly renovated deluxe rooms.
# Luxurious suites providing in-suite dining.
# Well appointed conference facilities boasting of the largest capacity in the      park.
# Curio shop sporting branded Sarova souvenirs.
# Game drives.
# Massage parlour.

Mt Kenya Safari Club

Mt. Kenya, the second highest mountain in Africa, sits on the equator at an elevation of 5199m (17,058ft). An invaluable natural resource for Kenya as the source of all of its major rivers, it is one of the most exotic, dangerous and frequently accepted mountaineering challenges on the planet.

Situated on the lush, lower slopes of Mt. Kenya, The Mount Kenya Safari Club offers a unique blend of comfort, relaxation and adventure. The Club has an unparalleled view of Mount Kenya. This club was started by film star William Holden and eccentric American Ray Ryan.

The ABERDARES NATIONAL PARK

The Aberdares are an isolated volcanic range that forms the eastern wall of the rift valley, running roughly 100km north south between Nairobi and Thomsons Falls. There are two main peaks, Ol Donyo Lesatima (3,999m) and Kinangop (3,906m) separated by a long saddle of alpine moorland at over 3,000m. The Aberdares are an important water catchment area providing water to the Tana and Athi rivers and part of Central Rift and Northern drainage basins.

Lion Hill Lodge

The National Park lies mainly above the tree line running along the 10,000ft contour with some forest and scrub at lower altitude in the ‘salient’ area near Nyeri with the boundary running down to the 7000ft contour.
Accommodation in
THE ARK

Set in the heart of the Aberdare National Park, The Ark comprises three decks from which numerous balconies and lounges provide superb vantage points for game viewing. This unique game lodge overlooks a floodlit waterhole and salt lick, which attracts a host of wildlife; Elephant, Rhino, Leopard, Bushbuck and occasionally an elusive Bongo Orgiant Forest Hog.

THE ABERDARE COUNTRY CLUB

Just a three – hour drive from Nairobi, on a good paved road, The Aberdare Country Club nestles on the slopes of Mweiga Hill.

The Club’s 1,300-Acre wildlife sanctuary abounds with Thomson and Grant’s Gazelle, Zebra, Giraffe and the more elusive Leopard.
Facilities:
# 48 En Suite Rooms
# Swimming Pool
# 9-Hole Golf Course
# Walking Safaris
# Horse Riding
# 2 Tennis Courts
# Game Drives in the Salient or Solio Ranch
# Trout Fishing
# Night Game Drives
# Gift Shop

SAMBURU NATIONAL PARK

Samburu National Park is located 325 kms north of Nairobi in the hot and arid northern region of Kenya and is 165 sq. km in extent. Altitude: 800 – 1200 meters. The reserve is placed within the ancestral lands of the Samburu, who are close relatives of the Masai. Among these are Grevy’s zebra, the reticulated giraffe and the beisa oryx, all of which are only found north of the equator. Game in the reserve includes elephant, cheetah, reticulated giraffe, oryx, vervet monkey, zebra, and crocodile.

The Samburu river has a large population of crocodiles which can be seen at virtually every bend on the river’s sandbanks. At its lower reaches, where permanent pools have formed, hippos are a common sight. Elephants roam the gaunt hills which punctuate the scrubland.

Accommodation in
SAROVA SHABA LODGE

Located on high above the Samburu river in the Shaba Game Reserve, this lodge offers the perfect base from which to explore the Shaba Reserve, as well as its sister reserve-Buffalo Springs to the west.

The trip to Greece, land of Homer, the gods, democracy, modern thought, and a cast of characters too numerous to list and many with names too difficult to pronounce. Greece is famous for its vivid lifestyle. It is also famous worldwide as the cradle of human civilization. All visitors may have an excellent stay and experience a lot of pleasant activities. Apart from getting to know the culture, the idyllic countryside, the Greek gastronomy, visitors should meet the tingling Greek lifestyle. To start with, a lot of theatres, music cafes, trendy shops, music stages, cinemas, bars, night clubs, dancing clubs, funky restaurants, classy meeting points, casinos and after hours are easy to access everywhere in Greece, all year round. Usually, all night clubs opening hours are from 10.00p.m. until dawn. Nevertheless, it is easy to find places for entertainment during the day light as well. People of all ages may find a suitable place to have fun and to get to know the famous Greek life style. Almost everywhere, visitors choose to go they will have the opportunity to discover their place of interest and feel warmly welcomed.

SHOPPING

Greece is a country where shoppers may have a wonderful time. A lot of shopping centers as well as nice classy or small family shops offer the opportunity to buy everything in reasonable prices. Shops are generally open 09.00-14.30 Monday to Wednesday, 0900-1330 and 1730-2030 Tuesday, Thursday and Friday and 0900-1500 Saturday. Sometimes small supermarkets – drugstores may stay open up to 2200 hrs.

GREEK FOOD- A MAGIC FOR YOUR TONGUE

Greek food has been mostly influenced by the modern part of greek history; you’ll therefore find hints of Levant in it.To sit at a greek table is more than what cheap, oil-soaked souvlakia may offer. Greek cuisine is a secret daughter of the mighty Othoman Empire, with hints of Venetian and a lot of great originality…

If you have any doubt about it, see how food is named: pacha (veal’s intestines) is same as in Turkish and Albanian; kokoretsi is the same as the Turkish kokorec and the Albanian kokoreç. And what to say about “pastitsio”? Isn’t it derived from Italian “pasticcio”? Its unique tastes are some of the things which set Greece apart. You are in for pleasant culinary surprises while in this country. Contrary to common belief you will soon discover that Greek cuisine does not solely consist of mousaka, souvlaki and horiatiki salata. Greek cuisine has a great variety of dishes and can be an extremely satisfying culinary adventure for both meat-eaters and vegetarians.

Greece has a culinary tradition of some 4,000 years. Nevertheless, like most national cuisines, the Greek cuisine has both influenced others and embraced ideas from its easterly and westerly neighbors. For the Greeks, sharing a meal with friends, either at home, in a restaurant or a taverma, is a deeply rooted social affair.

Greece Cuisine
Try having a glass of ouzo or wine, accompanied by barbecued octopus or any other Greek dish, while sitting beneath the shade of a tree, in a small tavern by the sea, on one of the Aegean islands. The Greek meal experience, namely the combination of what you eat and where eat it, cannot be repeated, exported or duplicated. It just something you can only find, taste and enjoy in Greece, like the blue of the Aegean Sea. Greeks put in it their vital spirit, and make of food not only something for the body, but something capable to heal your spirit, too: an enjoyable experience!!

WHEN TO VISIT GREECE

TEMPERATURE

July and August are fine if you are prepared. This is the time most people come to Greece because this is when most people have their holidays and what could be better than to be close to the sea during the hottest months of the year?

May-June and September-October the weather is perfect and the college kids are in school so it’s quieter on the more popular islands.

November to March can be cold and rainy but it can also be like Indian Summer. Athens comes alive during these months and there is nothing like a night out in the city. It does snow in Greece. Not more then once a season in Athens or the islands, in fact rare enough for it to be a major event. However it does snow in the mountains so much that you can ski there.

April is usually Easter time which is magical. If you are lucky enough to be on an island during Easter when all the wildflowers are in bloom and the smell of lamb roasting fills the air you will know what I mean. It is also a great time to be in Athens because there is no traffic since most people are out of town.

Finland is a fascinating country with vast green landscapes, sparkling blue lakes, and a labyrinth of islands that make the most beautiful archipelagos in the world where one can find unique sensation of peace and tranquility.

CLIMATE
Each of Finland’s four distinct seasons has its own charm. Summer is pleasantly warm. The highest daytime temperature often rises to +20°C or more, but rarely exceeds +30°C. The nights are warm too. Best time to visit is June – August

UNIQUE FEATURES

MIDNIGHT SUN:

During summer experience the endless sun for weeks on end.

POLAR NIGHT:

During winter there is a spell of winter darkness known as kaamos. The white snow cover provides a startling natural “light” of its own creating a very special atmosphere.

THE NORTHERN LIGHTS:

During the dark winter period in Lapland the sky is occasionally embellished by the Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis, a spellbinding light phenomenon particular to the region above the Arctic Circle.

CURRENCY
The currency used is the Euro.

GMT
Finland is 2 hours ahead of GMT.

CUISINE

Traditional Finnish cuisine is a combination of European, Fennoscandian and Western Russian elements. KARJALANPIRAKKA is a traditional Finnish pastry, commonly known as Karelian Pie made from a thin Rye crust with a filling of rice.

SHOPPING
Finland is known for Littala glass, Puukko knives, handwoven ryijy rugs and Lappish handicrafts.

MUSIC
Traditional Folk music is KALEVALAIC MUSIC and PELIMANNI MUSIC. Popular Finnish music includes Opera, Tango, Rock, Jazz and Military music.

MISCELLANEOUS FACTS
# Finland is home to the world’s leading mobile company, Nokia.

# Finland has more than 20,000 Spas.

# According to World Audit Study, Finland is the least corrupt and and most democratic country in the world as of 2006.

# The First day of the week is Monday, and the weekdays are maanantai, tiistai, keskiviikko, torstai, perjantai, lauantai, sunnuntai. Weekday names are not capitalized and may be abbreviated with the two first letters (i.e. ma, ti, ke, to, pe, la, su).

PLACES TO VISIT
Helsinki

Helsinki is situated on the Gulf of Finland and is dominated by the sea. The capital city an array of cultural attractions and architectural gems like THE OPERA HOUSE, the KIASMA MUSEUM, the SEA FORTRESS OF SUOMENLINNA, the TEMPPELIAUKIO CHURCH, hewn from a hole in the solid rock. Sightseeing opportunities like a tour on a pub tram or a boat cruise through islands lying off are galore.

Rovaniemi

Rovaniemi offers great opportunities to explore the snow-clad landscapes by snowmobile or in a sledge pulled by a dog team. Santa Claus has his workshop right on the Arctic Circle, where he meets visitors every day of the year. Not far from his village is a unique underground Christmas theme park, the SANTAPARK. The MIDNIGHT SUN can be seen in Rovaniemi at the height of the summer. One of the key attractions is the ARKTIKUM BUILDING housing the Arctic Centre and the REGIONAL MUSEUM of Lapland.

Turku

Turku is Finland’s most historic city, home to the nation’s most remarkable medieval monuments. Places to visit are the TURKU CATHEDRAL, Finland’s national shrine, TURKU CASTLE, the unique HANDICRAFTS MUSEUM and ABOA VETUS MUSEUM.

Tampere

Tampere is a city of waters, parks and ridges with nature always close at hand, a vibrant modern city where high tech and culture flourish side by side. The key attractions include TAMPERE CATHEDRAL, NÄSINNEULA OBSERVATION TOWER with a revolving restaurant, MOOMINVALLEY MUSEUM, and PYYNIKKI RIDGE rising between two large lakes, the METSO CITY LIBRARY and the KALEVA CHURCH.

Porvoo

Porvoo is well known as the city of culture and great atmosphere. Sightseeing includes Archipelago cruising, churches and chapels, Museums, and Manors.

Lappeenranta

Lappeenranta is in the bay area, with its HISTORICAL FORTRESS, WOLKOFF HOUSE MUSEUM, CHURCHES and linden trees that make for a perfect paradise. It is the commercial centre of Southeastern Finland with several shopping centre and specialized shops.

Nature
It is permanent and non-stop, neither commencing nor coming to an end: the feast of Nature.

“How is such beauty possible?” It seems obvious when you come face to face with the lguazu Falls in Parana State where the thundering cataracts plunge down over 60 metres. It is patent at the feet of Christ the Redeemer looking out over Guanabara Bay. It looks crystal clear in the dunes of Natal (Rio Grande do Norte State) and in Tocantins where scrubland, savannah and desert all come together to form the Jalapao ecosystem.

In rivers that resemble the sea in the Amazon Forest – the world’s largest. In the 230-thousand-square-kilometre expanse of the Mato Grosso Pantanal wetlands, an outstanding nature reserve listed as World Heritage.

Climate
The climate is predominantly tropical, varying according to region. The annual average temperature is 28 degree centigrade in the North and 20 degree centigrade in the South.

Cuisine

Brazilian cuisine is something special. With such a profusion of fruit, greens, vegetables,meat, colours, flavours, sauces, spices and seasonings at hand, Brazilian dishes could only be what they are: unbeatable. The most popular dish of all, feijoada, is quite a contradiction: created by the Negro slaves using scraps and leftovers from the

Portuguese masters’ meals, it must be served piping hot…. In a tropical climate. Don’t forget, of course, to wash it down with Brazil’s national beverage, cachaca or caipirinha (sugar and lemon added to the cachaca and sometimes other tropical fruits).

13 Reasons to Visit Brazil

# Tropical weather all year round.

# The Best carnival in the World.

# Beautiful white sandy beaches.

# The Rain Forest.

# The Mighty Iguazu Falls.

# Cruises on the Brazilian Coast.

# The unequalled Panatanal.

# Canyons and waterfalls.

# Endurance trips on 4x4’s.

# Sailing off Paraty.

# World Heritage and Historical Sites.

# Gastronomic Tours.

# The Amazon Jungle.

Places of Interest
Rio de Janeiro

Rio is the marvelous city, what other place in this planet will you find beaches, an intense cultural life, haute cuisine, miles of window shopping and an exotic people, all gathered at one single place at any time of the year. Brazil’s capital from 1763 to 1961, is nestled between the mountains and the sea. Its magnificient shoreline includes charming bays and beautiful beaches, dotted with islands up and down the coast. Precious and semi precious stones are also a specialty in Rio, where some of the world’s largest and most renowned jewelers are located.

Salvador

Salvador, the Bahia state capital is a place where, once you go there, you do not want to leave. It is a city that smells history it was the country’s first capital, dancing hips, African religious traditions and folklore and centennial dwellings. It has unending hills and charismatic characters, drums sounds, blessing of the salty waters of the Todos os Santos bay. Lots of white clothes and dark skin, centennial churches covered with gold in their baroque inside, which is covered with angels, saints and altars. And to top it all beaches with crystal clear waters, the food and the people.

Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is known as the gastronomic Capital of the World, as within its huge area you will be able to find every single type of food imagined, from all corners of the world. It is also a city that brings the most business and corporate events, also allowing for weekend golf getaways for those business people who enjoy the sport.

It als a great city for shopping, where you can find just about anything you set your heart in, and it also offers an intense artistic and cultural life. Take advantage of the nightlife and check out the bars, the quiet and the busy ones, discos and nightclubs, theatres, cinemas, performances, shows and everything else that you can imagine.

Iguasu Falls

A tropical and exuberant destination. That is to simplify this place, known worldwide for its awesome show of waterfalls. It is the largest worldwide set of waterfalls in volume and perhaps the most beautiful one as well, comprising 270 waterfalls with up to 70 meters in height. They can be seen from a wide range of places, both in the Brazilian and Argentine sides of this triple border town Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay as it is also known.

You can visit the falls on foot, by boat getting wet is a guarantee ! and flying over on a helicopter. However you choose to do it, you will be amazed by the incomparable beauty and majesty of the waters.

Manaus

Capital of Amazonas, the largest state in Brazil, is a modern city. It is also the ideal point of departure for visiting the rest of Amazon region. Tour boats leave Manaus to see the meeting of the waters, where the black waters of the Negro river meet the light waters of the Solimoes river, flowing side by side without mixing for several miles.

Visitors can also explore river banks and ‘igarapes’, swim and canoe in placid lakes or simply walk in the lush forest. The most adventurous may even choose to spend a night or two in the jungle in close contact with nature.

Austria is a small country, compact, easy to get to know, delightful to see. There is a spectacular scenery around every corner: vineyards, ancient castles and venerable abbeys overlooking the Danube, wooded hills rising out of the lush farmland, lakes dotted with sailboats and ringed by soaring mountains, Alpine peaks and their icy world of glaciers reaching for the sky.

CLIMATE
At a latitude of 47 North, the climate is moderate and generally agreeable. Summer days can be hot, with temperatures occasionally reaching 32 C / 89 F and more, summer evenings are usually cool. Rainfall is quite evenly distributed over the entire year, but May, September and the first half of October tends to be the driest, April and November the wettest periods. The winter snow cover lasts from late December through March in the valleys, from November through May at about 6,000 feet, and becomes permanent above about 8,500 feet. Warm clothes and shoes or boots with slip-proof soles are essential in winter. In spring and fall, a few warm pieces and a topcoat or raincoat are advisable.

Distance in Km/Miles

Austria’s capital, the former hub of a great empire, and a province in its own right, Vienna is one of Europe’s most beautiful cities. In this former seat of the once-powerful Hapsburg dynasty, you follow in the footsteps of Schubert, Strauss, Brahms, Mahler, Mozart, and Beethoven, among others.

Vienna

Of course, the Blue Danube (even if it’s not blue) cuts through the city that controlled a great deal of Europe for more than 6 centuries until it suffered humiliating defeats in both world wars of the 20th century.

Schonbrunn Palace

Schönbrunn, the former summer residence of the imperial family, is considered one of the most beautiful baroque palaces in Europe. The Habsburgs resided here the better part of the year in numerous rooms for the large imperial family in addition to representational rooms.

St. Stephen’s Cathedral

Austria’s most eminent Gothic edifice, it houses a wealth of art treasures, some of which can only be seen during a guided tour. Don’t forget to climb the 343 steps to the tower-keeper’s room of St. Stephen’s and enjoy a breathtaking view…

Spanish Riding School

The Spanish Riding School in Vienna is the only institution in the world where the classic equestrian skills (haute école) has been preserved and is still practiced in its original form. Many years of training fuse horse and rider into an inseparable unit. The audience is treated to an unforgettable experience by the precision of movement of the Lipizzan horses in perfect harmony with the music.

Around Vienna

One can take a cruise through the Wachau valley, an especially beautiful area along the Danube. The majestic Benedictine Abbey of Melk, towering above the river; the vintner’s villages Spitz, Dürnstein and Weissenkirchen; hills, on which exquisite wines are grown – all of this is part of the colorful kaleidoscope of profound impressions.

The Vienna Card

The Vienna Card allows visitors to discover the city with Unlimited free travel by underground, bus and tram for 72 hours. Reduction or benefits at museums and sights, theatres, concerts, shops, restaurants, cafés and Heurigen (wine taverns)… valid on day of issue and the following 3 days.

Salzburg

A city rich with the splendors of the baroque age and the melodies of Mozart, Salzburg is one of Europe’s premier architectural gems. It’s also the setting for Austria’s most prestigious music festival. Its natural setting is panoramichugging both banks of the Salzach River and “pinched” between two mountains, Mönchsberg and Kapuzinerberg.

Many travelers come here to follow in the footsteps of Julie Andrews in the fabled 1965 musical The Sound of Music. The von Trapps and Mozart have put Salzburg on international tourist maps.

Mozart’s Birthplace

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born in the house Getreidegasse Nr. 9. on January 27, 1756. Today the rooms once occupied by the Mozart family house a museum During the last few decades the museum was systematically renovated by the International Mozarteum Foundation and has become a cultural site attracting thousands of visitors from around the world to Salzburg year after year. Here one can see, among many other things the child’s-violin of the world famous music genius, as well as his concert violin, his clavichord, the hammer-piano, portraits and family letters.

Hellbrunn Palace & the Trick fountains

One of the finest examples of mannerist architecture, world-famous trick fountains. Admission only with a guided tour .Water was the central theme in the palace’s design. The numerous sources in Hellbrunn Mountain gave the estate effervescent life. Hidden in the shade of bushes and trees or jetting out from unexpected hiding places the world-famous Wasserspiele(water fountains) have been the main attraction at Hellbrunn for almost 400 years.

One approaches the grotto on a path, from which water jets squirt from both sides, they so form an archway, so that the visitors can walk right through. When leaving the grotto the guide turns on these water jets and the visitors jump fast, still dry, beneath the archway. But not without getting wet by further splashes which change their direction in unexpected ways, of course just then, when the visitors think that they are safe from a further wetting.

Fortress Hohensalzburg

The landmark of the city Salzburg offers a beautiful view over the roofs of the Mozart city Salzburg.The buildings dating from the 11th century cover an area of over 14.000 m² and is for each visitor an exceptional and impressive experience. Besides the fortress – walkthrough with audio and guide in 7 different languages through the unique premises, such as the prince room, fortress -, puppet and Rainer regiment museum. A visit to the catering trade enterprises of the fortress Salzburg is well worth while.

From the guest gardens of the fortress restaurant you can enjoy a wonderful view of the city Salzburg and the surrounding mountain world. The largest completely preserved castle in Central Europe. In order to save to the guests the steep trek up to the mountain fortress, an endless rope haulage system was established in 1892. A modern version of this unusual route is still functional today; the steep journey begins in the Festungsgasse.

Mirabell Gardens

The Mirabell Palace was built by Prince Arbishop Wolf Dietrich in 1606 for his mistress, Salome Alt, and her children. The central axis of the garden is aligned on Hohensalzburg, the castle on the other side of the River Salzach. It has a central fountain, an outdoor theatre and a marvellous sculpture collection. Mirabelle has a key position in the town, near the river and between the old town and the commercial new town. It is also, as Jellicoe observed, draws upon the surrounding landscape.

It is a beautiful place, always full of people and more redolent of the atmosphere of a Court Garden than most of old Europe’s extant Hofgartens. Mirabelle Palace is used as a registry office and elegantly dressed couples contribute to its courtly air. Mirabelle Garden and the summerhouse at Hellbrunn were used in the film of the Sound of Music about the von Trapp family.

Salzkammergut

The Salzkammergut is a popular holiday area to the east of Salzburg. The region is split between three provinces: Upper Austria, Styria and Salzburg Province. The region’s mountains and many lakes, including the Attersee and the Wolfgangsee, attract visitors for water sports and walking in summer. In winter, both downhill and cross-country skiing are on offer as well as some great walking opportunities.

At all times of the year, the scenery itself provides reason enough to spend time in this unique region. As its name suggests, the Salzkammergut is an important salt-mining area, and some of the tours down the mines provide an intriguing alternative to the more traditional over-ground holiday pursuits.

The Salzburg Card

With the Salzburg Card enjoy free admission to all the sights in the City of Mozart, free use of the public transport network and numerous other plus points and advantages. You will also be able to enjoy considerable discounts in various other sights and attractions.

Innsbruck

The capital of the Tirol and the most popular Austrian holiday destination, the city of Innsbruck lies at the very heart of the Austrian Alps.

Nestling in the valley of the Inn River, tucked between the northern Alps and the Tuxer mountain range, Innsbruck is famous for its winter sports and has twice been home to the Winter Olympics.

Swarovski Crystal World

An absolute must on every sightseeing tour! Crystal Worlds is shaped like a giant with a huge head. He is the guardian of the worlds and entrance to them is through his mouth. Colored deep blue, the main hall is dominated by a huge wall of crystals made up of 12 tons of glittering stones that almost overshadow a gigantic crystal of 300,000 carats, the largest ever produced. Since May 1 a special shuttle bus is operating between Innsbruck and the Crystal World in Wattens.

Ambras Castle

The focal point of a delightful English landscape garden, Ambras Castle is Europe’s oldest museum and towers high above Innsbruck. It’s divided into a lower and an upper castle set in the remains of a medieval fortress. This was Ferdinand’s favorite residence and the center of his court’s cultural life.

The lower castle was planned and constructed by the Archduke as a museum for his various collections, including arms and armor, art, and books, all of which can be seen today. The Wunderkammer (Gallery of Wonders) contains a display of exotic objects like coral, ivory, a rhinoceros’ horn and other artifacts brought back to Europe by the early explorers. The upper part of the palace houses the Habsburg’s Portrait Gallery, an awe-inspiring collection of works by the likes of Lukas Cranach, Anton Mor, Tizian, Van Dyck and Diego Velásquez. The Castle’s most striking and precious feature is the George’s Altar of Emperor.

Maximilian I
Nordpark

Seegrube

Hafelekar

The Nordkettenbahn Cableway whisks skiers and ramblers all the way up Nordpark-Seegrube, 1,905m above sea level. The view over the Inn Valley and Innsbruck is breathtaking, particularly from the Seegrube Restaurant. Should those heights not be dizzy enough, there is also the option of carrying on to the 2,334m high Hafelekar Top Terminal, from where there are uninterrupted panoramic views of the Zillertal, Stubai and Ötztal Alps. Superb views are provided northward into the Karwendel Alpine Park, the biggest Nature Preserve in the Eastern Alps.

Alpine Zoo

Situated 727m above sea level, Innsbruck’s Alpine Zoo is the highest zoo in Europe. A visit provides an invigorating experience for both young and old. Sheltered within are more than two thousand animals indigenous to the Alps and belonging to 150 different species

The Golden Roof

The Golden Roof was built by Archduke Friedrich IV in the early 15th century as the residence of the Tirolean sovereigns. The Golden Roof actually is the three-story balcony on the central plaza at the heart of the Old Town. The late Gothic oriels are capped with 2,738 gold-plated copper tiles. It was constructed for Emperor Maximilian I to serve as a royal box where he could sit in luxury and enjoy tournaments in the square below. Completed at the dawn of the 16th century, the Golden Roof was built in honor of Maximilian’s second marriage, to Bianca Maria Sforza of Milan (Maximilian was a ruler who expanded his territory through marriage, not conquest).

The New Bergisel Ski Jump

Towering high above Innsbruck on the wooded Bergisel Hill, the brand-new Bergisel Ski Jump is a sight to behold. The Tower stands 47 meters tall and provides spectacular views.

The new facilities now can hold 28,000 spectators. Each year, the refurbished Bergisel Stadium plays host to the annual Four Hills Tournament in January and to a Summer Grand Prix Jumping Event. All Bergisel Stadium facilities, including gondola, elevator, panoramic café, and vantage spot on the jumping platform are open to visitors. From the stylish Restaurant there are uninterrupted panoramic views of the lofty surrounding peaks of Patscherkofel, Nordkette, Hohe Munde and Serles

The Sun Plateau
Explore the scenic Sun Plateau high above Innsbruck: Tucked away in the folds of the gently rolling foothills you will find your quintessential Tirol in the picture-postcard villages of Aldrans, Lans, Igls, and Rinn, etc. Ellboegen, Igls, Lans, Patsch, Rinn and Sistrans. This relaxed combination of city flair and countryside idyll, with all the sporting possibilities that go with it, guarantees a summer holiday that the whole family will never forget. The sunny plateaus of Aldrans, Ampass, Ellboegen, Igls, Lans, Patsch, Rinn and Sistrans will bid you to go for a jaunt on Innsbrucks local mountain, the Patscherkofel. Here the “Zirbenweg”, a seven kilometre long, almost flat mountain promenade, leads you through stands of centuries old stone pine.

Stubai Valley

Take a stroll around Fulpmes before boarding the Tram again to get back to Kreith.

From there you will walk along a lovely high elevation trail until you reach the village of Mutters, that was twice rated as “The most beautiful village in Tirol”.

The Innsbruck Card

With the Innsbruck Card avail of admission to Innsbruck’s most important sights. Attractions such as the mint tower in Hall and the Swarovski Crystal Worlds are included as well. The Sightseer or the Crystal Worlds Shuttle take you everywhere. Moreover, the Innsbruck Card allows you to use all public transport. The Innsbruck Card is available for 24 hrs. 48 hrs and 72 hrs.
Graz

The district’s capital of Styria, it is one of the best-preserved medieval cores of any Austrian city. The colours of this pleasant medieval town will immediately strike the visitor: Green parks, red roofs, and the blue River Mur. Dominated by the Schlossberg, which rises up over the town centre, Graz has a great deal to offer and is a good start-off point for day excursions to a number of different destinations

Schlossberg

What other city can boast a tree-clad mountain right in its centre – wonderful to wander? The Schlossberg. A castle standing on a rock ledge of this hill more than 1,000 years ago gave the city its name. From the Slavic word gradec, meaning “little castle”, Graz derived. And the little castle was made a huge fortress. In 1809 it was blown up by Napoleon. The Bell Tower and the Clock Tower, the friendly landmark of the city, remain

Kunsthaus

Something extra-terrestrial in the World Heritage site of Graz? Like a huge bluish bubble the landmark of new Graz is hovering above the right bank of the river Mur. Since October 2003, Kunsthaus – affectionately called “a friendly alien” by its creators, Peter Cook and Colin Fournier.

1,066 acrylic glass elements form the skin of the friendly alien. At night it sends light signals or written messages from its “BIX façade” to the other side of the river. It sucks daylight from the north through its “nozzles” on top. The “needle” is a glazed viewing platform, stretching over Eisernes Haus and Kunsthaus on the eastern façade. Inside the Eisernes Haus there is the museum shop, the Kunsthaus administration and Camera Austria – an institution which in exhibitions and the eponymous magazine has devoted itself to photography.

Landzeughaus

Incredible 32,000 historical arms and military equipment on five floors. The Landeszeughaus (Provincial Armoury) in Herrengasse is reputed to be the most outstanding historical weapons collection in the world. On the ground floor – an exhibition explaining the historical background. And above it, an impressive arsenal of rifles, armours, staff and bladed weapons dating mainly from the 16th and 17th centuries.

Schloss Eggenberg

A journey into the Cosmos. A building portraying time. That is how one could describe Schloss Eggenberg, erected in 1625-56. The owner: Hans Ulrich von Eggenberg, political advisor of Emperor Ferdinand II. The architect: Giovanni Pietro the Pomis, who also planned Ferdinand’s Mausoleum in Graz. Today, Styria’s most splendid palace is used for cultural events. And sometimes as setting for films. The ground floor and the first floor house collections of the Provincial Museum Joanneum.

Klagenfurt

Klagenfurt, the Rose of Lake Wörthersee, reaches as far as the eastern bay of the warmest and largest alpine lake in Europe (drinking water quality / largest inland bathing beach), and it really doesn’t matter when you decide to visit Klagenfurt either. The climate is Mediterranean in the summer and there are bright, sunny days in the winter.

The autumn is golden and the spring is mild.Known as the ‘Austrian Riviera’, clear, warm Lake Wörthersee has something for everyone Getting around is easy with local buses, trains and, of course, boats to give you access to the villages that dot the lakeshore and the many attractions and activities on offer. We feature accommodation in two different resorts Pörtschach is a large bustling village on the northern shore.

Minimundus

A miniature world on Lake Wörthersee. Here you can travel around the world in just a few hours, or, if you are interested in the stars, you could go to the internationally renowned planetarium and observatory. What started on a small scale in 1958 has now been elevated to the art of perfection, as demonstrated in the 150 models on display of the most beautiful buildings from all five continents.

Australia is the sixth largest country in the world. Australia is a land of excitement, bursting with colour, friendly people and fabulous things to see and do. It’s a magical destination, full of unique natural wonders and an astounding variety of wildlife.

Wine lovers will also be spoilt for choice by the many acclaimed `wine road’ tours available. The `roads’ go through award winning wine growing areas such as Yarra Valley, the Barossa, Hunter Valley and Margaret River to name but a few Tastings can be informal cellar door affairs or world renowned expert-conducted experiences to talk about forever.

Accommodation includes beautiful spas, five star luxury resorts, fully serviced apartments and romantic rainforest hideaways as well as other categories.

Getting to Australia from India is easy, there are specially-trained Aussie Specialist agents who can tailor the itinerary as per your requirements. There are regular flights from India to all the key cities. By the time you enjoy the in-flight movies, a couple of meals and a quick stopover in Asia, you’ll be in Australia and ready for the adventure of a lifetime.

SHOPPING

Shopping fantasies spread wings in the Pitt Street Mall, the pedestrian plaza between King and Market streets in central Sydney. Running off the plaza are five multi-level malls, including such shopping sensations as the Mid-City Centre and Skygarden – a striking, futuristic complex that houses some of the most famous names in haute couture and accessories.

Double Bay reigns supreme for ‘posh’ designer labels, sandwiched between European-style pavement cafes. Castlereagh Street near King is the place to go for upmarket extras (Hermes, Louis Vuitton). Queen Street, Woollahra is the place to look for colonial antiques, or browse for bargains in the antique markets of Woollahra and Surry Hills. The Queen Victoria Building has the best of the chains (Esprit, Ralph Lauren, Country Road) and the most fetching facade.

Oxford Street is for clothes with a difference, cafes strong on modern Mediterranean flavours and cappuccino with attitude. Paddington markets on Saturday is for patchouli oil and tie-dyes from the past generation and clothes for the coming one.

A MUST BUY

Merino wool

Australia is known not only for its quantity of sheep, but the quality of wool they produce. Merino in particular yields the longest wool fibres in the world. When buying, always look for the Pure New Wool label to guarantee quality.

Akubra

The name Akubra in Australia has almost become the general term for hat. Over the years, Akubra hats have adorned the heads of prime ministers, US presidents, sporting greats and film stars. A piece of Australian history! The Akubra is available in most major department stores, retail outlets and online.

CITY GUIDES
SYDNEY

Sydney, capital of New South Wales, Australia’s largest and oldest city!
Sydney is arguably one of the most colourful, cosmopolitan and sophisticated cities in the world. For a remarkable eighth year in a row, she is voted the world’s number one tourist destination by Conde Nast Traveller.

Sydney Opera House

Sydney Opera House, a landmark building at Bennelong Point, is home to Australia’s opera, ballet and theatre companies and the Sydney Symphony Orchestra. Sydney Tower Observation Level is located in the AMP Centrepoint Tower. The tower provides compelling 360-degree views of Sydney from both the observation level and its revolving restaurant.

Darling Harbour is a place where Sydney celebrates. This modern waterside harbour, five minutes from the city centre is accessible by car, ferry, bus, lightrail and monorail. Browse through the 200 shops in the Harbourside

Manly is a seaside resort on the north eastern corner of Sydney Harbour with both ocean and harbour beaches.

With four national parks, Sydney offers a superb environment to get back to nature with opportunities for bushwalking, picnicking, and adventure activities, and are all easily accessible from the city.

Quay. The City of Penrith is located on the Nepean River at the foot of the Blue Mountains. Attractions include the Penrith Lakes, selected as the venue for the rowing for the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games. On the way to Penrith from Sydney, at Eastern Creek, is Australia’s Wonderland, a major fun and theme park for Sydney, together with the Australian Wildlife Park where visitors discover the beauty of Australia’s flora and fauna.

MELBOURNE

Melbourne is Australia’s most stylish capital. Beautiful architecture, a rich combination of arts, culture, good restaurants, shopping and its famous trams give the city a diverse charm and distinct cosmopolitan atmosphere. Melbourne, situated on the Yarra River, is an elegant, cosmopolitan city with diverse charms. It is generally regarded as Australia’s art capital and is host to many cultural festivals each year.

In the city of Melbourne, there are a number of fascinating places that one can visit and it will take a few days just to discover them all.

Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)

# Located just 1km east from the city centre

# Australia’s most famous sporting stadium

# Home of the Australian Gallery of Sport and Olympic Museum;

# Tours of the MCG leave regularly between 10am and 3pm from the Gallery Foyer (Members’ Entrance) on non-event days

# Operating hours – from 10am to 4pm daily except Christmas Day & Good Friday

# Public transport access via train and tram.

Melbourne Cricket Ground

BRISBANE

Brisbane, with an area of 1,220 sq km and a population of 1.6 million, is the state capital of Queensland and the 3rd largest city in Australia. It is known as the “Koala Capital of Australia”. Attractive tropical homes with wide verandahs stand alongside modern skyscrapers. It is also the starting point for tours to the nearby Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast resorts as well as other parts of the state.

The Treasury Casino

– a grand heritage building which offers more than 100 gaming table and 1,200 gaming machines.

The Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is set in tranquil bushland on the banks of the Brisbane River and is Australia’s largest koala sanctuary.

Mount Coot-tha
For a panoramic view of the city, Mt Coot-tha is THE place to go ! For a breath of fresh air, explore the Mount Coot-tha Botanical Gardens which is open daily from 8.30am – 5pm. You may also want to explore the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planeterium also known as the “Cosmic Skydome”, the largest planetarium in Australia.

CAIRNS AND GREAT BARRIER REEF
North Queensland is blessed by two of nature’s most magnificent ecosystems – the Great Barrier Reef and the Rainforest.
Both are awesome, tranquil and unspeakably beautiful Cairns is a cosmopolitan resort city catering to visitors from all over the World. It is an ideal setting-off point for reef cruises to the Reef, Green and Fitzroy Islands, white water rafting expeditions, as well as Four-Wheel-Drive safaris into the heritage rainforest.

GREAT BARRIER REEF
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It is approximately 2,900 individual coral reefs including 760 fringe reefs stretching over 2,000km along the Queensland coast and covering 350,000 sq km.
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It is the largest structure on earth made by living creatures.
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The Great Barrier Reef is regarded as the “eighth wonder of the world” and is on the World Heritage Listing of our planet’s unique and precious places.
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You can visit the Great Barrier Reef at any time of the year but June to August (winter) is the driest and least humid time, while September to October will have fewer trade winds.
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The hottest and wettest months are January to March. The coldest month is July with average temperatures of 17 C – 26 C.

PERTH

Flanked by the sparkling Indian Ocean and the tranquil waters of the Swan River, Perth, the cosmopolitan Capital City, is Australia’s Western Gateway.

It offers the perfect location from which to start your Western Australian holiday, with its al fresco cafe society, easily accessible beaches, seven days a week shopping and lively evening entertainment

Perth

Perth enjoys more hours of sunshine than any other Capital City in Australia, with an average of eight hours of sunshine per day. The winters are short and mild. Its warm sunny climate, clear blue skies, first-class golf courses, and casual friendliness of the people add the feeling of leisure and pleasure. In the spring months (August to November), the countryside is carpeted with delicate wildflowers. As a matter of fact, Western Australia is also known as the “Wildflower State”.

CANBERRA

Canberra

Home of government, parliament house and a host of diplomatic residences, Canberra is a stylish, modern city situated on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin. Set in the heart of glorious bushland and within reach of some of Australia’s most spectacular countryside, it is a city like no other.

The spacious planned streets, the imposing modern architecture and the advantages of its natural setting are immediately obvious.

THINGS TO SEE

AUSTRALIAN REPTILE CENTRE
Come face to face with some of Australia’s largest, deadliest and most colourful reptiles in the Australian Reptile Gallery with thematic exhibits encompassing the tropical, temperate and arid zones. In the Prehistory Gallery, the ‘Reptiles in Space and Time’ exhibition graphically portrays the evolution of reptiles through the fossil record. ‘Snake Tales’ educational programs in the Auditorium offer a hands-on opportunity to meet a friendly python close-up.

CANBERRA SPACE DOME
Planetarium and virtual reality star theatre. Explore the wonders of deep space, view magnificent star fields, or visit other planets.

NATIONAL CARILLON
The Carillon is one of the largest musical instruments in the world. The 53 bronze bells are controlled by hand batons and foot pedals on a keyboard. The Carillon was a gift from Great Britain to the people of Australia to mark Canberra’s 50th birthday in 1963.

THE CAMBERRA WINE COMPANY
Australia’s newest urban winery and the biggest ever new vine planting in the ACT. The Kamberra Wine and Tourism Complex is a focal point for the region’s wine industry. Facilities include the Cellar Door, the Meeting Place Winery Cafe, the Federation Centre Boardroom, a working Winery and vineyards.

ADELAIDE

Acknowledged as the Festival City and the Australian capital of Food & Wine, Adelaide offers much more if you are prepared to unlock and share its special secrets. It’s an exciting city for anyone who enjoys the good life – fine dining and wining, the arts, entertainment, or simply taking a stroll along the Terrace or an elegant boulevard.

Adelaide

TASMANIA

Wineglass Bay

Just an hour from mainland Australia, Tasmania is a land apart – a place of wild and beautiful landscapes; friendly welcoming people; pleasant, temperate climates and a rich history and relaxed island lifestyle.

And that’s not all. Tasmania’s deserved reputation as the clean and green Australian State (what more do you need to know than that Tasmania has the cleanest air in the world) has provided fertile soil, for food and wine producers. And the waters around Tasmania are home to some of the best fish in the world. Nothing beats a plate of Tasmanian oysters or salmon.

According to experienced travellers who’ve criss-crossed the globe in search of excellence, Tasmania has:
# one of the world’s ten best beaches (Wineglass Bay, US-based Outside Magazine),

# the best island in Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific (Travel + Leisure US-based Magazine)

# the world’s best little town (Strahan, Chicago Herald Tribune), and is rated as ‘the world’s best temperate island’ (Condé Naste Traveler).

HOBART
One of the most beautiful cities in the world, Hobart is nestled between Mount Wellington and the sea. White beaches on its outskirts, historic buildings at its heart, Australia’s 2nd oldest city has a lifestyle of its own.

Browse through antique stores, discover stunning arts and crafts, linger over a coffee in one of the street cafes, explore the fishing harbour but whatever you do, don’t miss Salamanca Market on Saturday morning. On Saturdays, the umbrellas go up and two blocks of stalls and shops are bustling with people and street buskers offering you some of the finest arts and crafts found in Tasmania.

The world is a beautiful place. It is also extremely delicate and fragile. The majesty of the African plains or a Caribbean reef is no match for a team of engineers with a lucrative corporate contract. As technology advances and the farthest reaches of the planet become more accessible, our capacity to affect the delicate balance of the ecosystem becomes more pronounced.

Employing 260 million people and generating over 10% of the world’s GDP, the tourism industry is a global juggernaut. An industry of such magnitude inevitably leaves a significant footprint in its wake. More focussed planning and management is imperative to control the tourism industry, and more importantly, to protect the natural and cultural integrity of tourist destinations.

Principles of Eco-tourism

Eco-tourism is about conserving resources, valuing the local culture and contributing to the local economy.

It focuses on local traditions, wilderness conservation, volunteering, personal growth and discovering constructive ways to experience our fragile planet. Recycling, energy efficiency and the creation of economic opportunities for local communities are integral elements of eco-tourism. Its purpose is to make the development of tourism ecologically supportable and sustainable Eco-tourism however involves more than providing suitable vacations for the “tree-hugging” traveller. Its objective is to preserve the diversity of the world’s natural and cultural resources. The International Eco-tourism Society defines eco-tourism as “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the welfare of local people.” It accommodates travellers in a way that limits their impact on the environment and cultural heritage while supporting the growth of local economies. Eco-tourism strives to maximize the economic, environmental and social benefits of tourism. According to the World Tourism Organization, eco-tourism is considered to be the fastest growing market in the tourism industry. .

Eco-tourism in India

In India, eco-tourism is still at a nascent stage but the potential is vast. India is a land of diverse geography and culture. Its topography boasts a varied range of flora and fauna. It is home to numerous rare and endangered species. There are currently about 80 national parks and 441 sanctuaries in India. Numerous botanical and zoological gardens are working towards the enhancement of the ecosystem. Poaching has been curbed to a large extent. There are severe punishments for poachers, hunters and illegal traders of flora and fauna. Several organisations work for the protection of the natural and cultural resources. Thenmala in Kerala was the first planned eco-tourism destination in India. There are also determined efforts to save the vulnerable Himalayan ecosystem as well as the heritage of its indigenous people. Resorts tucked deep within the jungles of Karnataka, the house-boats of Kerala and the varied wildlife of Assam all combine to make India one of the most diverse eco-tourism destinations on the planet.

PRINCIPLES OF ECO-TOURISM

• Regardless of your nationality, everyone is a stakeholder in this pursuit. Travelling could mean a long-haul flight to the opposite end of the world or hitchhiking across your state. As a traveller, you will undoubtedly have an impact on the people and environment of your destination. Here are some suggestions to make this impact more positive! Learn about your destination. Read guidebooks, travel articles, novels by local authors and pay particular attention to customs such as greetings, appropriate dress and eating behaviours. Being sensitive to these customs will increase local acceptance of you as a tourist and enrich your journey.

• Follow established guidelines. Ask your tour operator, guide or the local authorities what their guidelines are for limiting tourism’s impact on the environment and local culture.

• To minimize your impact in sensitive areas, stay on marked trails, properly dispose off waste material and remain set distances away from wildlife.

• Support locally-owned businesses. This ensures maximum benefit for the local community from your spending.

• Carry back all non-degradable waste such as empty bottles, tins and plastic bags. These must not litter the environment or be buried. These must be disposed of in municipal dustbins only.

• Observe the sanctity of holy sites, temples and local cultures. Respect local traditions.

• Reduce noise pollution. Do not blare aloud radios, tape recorders or other audio equipment in nature resorts, sanctuaries and wildlife parks.

• Respect people’s privacy while taking photographs. Ask for prior permission before taking a photograph.

• Do not remove flora and fauna in the forms of cuttings, seeds or roots. There are laws prohibiting this practice. Most ecosystems are extremely delicate and the protection of bio-diversity is imperative.

• Polythene and plastics are non-biodegradable and unhealthy for the environment. They must not be used.

• No littering. No exceptions.

• Do not use pollutants, such as detergent, in streams and springs while washing.

• Do not use wood as fuel to for cooking at campsites.

• Do not leave cigarettes butts or make open fires in the Forests.

• Do not tempt the locals, especially children by offering them foodstuff or sweets.