russia - FlipHTML5

RUSSIA &BEYOND

2016

FEATURING SCANDINAVIA Russia • Finland • Denmark Norway • Sweden • Georgia Belarus • Ukraine • China Mongolia • Central Asia

discover unique destinations SPECIAL JOURNEYS • ESCORTED TOURS • TAILOR MADE TOURS LEGENDARY RAIL JOURNEYS • CITY STAY PACKAGES

Discover unique destinations

ED

RUSSIA

SW

NO R

W AY

EN

WITH BEYOND TRAVEL • Arkhangelsk

FINLAND

•Yakutsk

Helsinki

Bergen • H Oslo

H

Stockholm

H

DENMARK

Yekaterinburg • • Omsk

LATVIA

CZECH REPUBLICSLOVAK REP.

Kyiv H Volgograd • UKRAINE AUSTRIA HUNGARY Odessa • CROATIA CASPIAN ITALY ROMANIA • Yalta• Sochi SEA SERBIA

Severobaikalsk• • Novosibirsk LAKE Krasnoyarsk• BAIKAL Irkutsk• •Ulan Ude Moron •

HAstana

POLAND

GERMANY

• Lviv

KAZAKHSTAN

Almaty•

GR

EECE

Ashgabat

Khabarovsk•

Vladivostok •

• Urumqi • Turpan Dunhuang•

TAJIKISTAN

• Jiayuguan

Beijing H

• Merv

AZERBAIJAN

H TURKMENISTAN

MEDITERRANEAN SEA

Komsomolsk-on-Amyr •

HUlaan Baatar

MONGOLIA

UZBEKISTAN HTbilisi KYRGYZSTAN Khiva• GEORGIA H • HBaku YerevanH Istanbul Bukhara• • Tashkent Samarkand H TURKEY ARMENIA

BULGARIA

•Tynda

•Karakorum

ARAL SEA

BLACK SEA

Magadan •

RUSSIA

UZBEKISTAN

• Veliky Novgorod • Pskov • Tver •Suzdal Nizhny Novgorod LITHUANIAMinsk • MoscowH • Kazan H BELARUS

Copenhagen

H

• St. Petersburg

ESTONIA

YELLOW SEA

• Xian

Tehran

JAPAN

CHINA

IRAN

Shanghai•

• Oulu

NORWAY

FINLAND

NORWEGIAN SEA

SWEDEN

BOT HNI

A

Trondheim •

Bergen •

• Balestrand • Flam •

SWEDEN

Turku Helsinki • •

Lillehammer

• Oslo

NORWAY

GUL

F OF

FINLAND

F

GUL

Stockholm •

AND

• St. Petersburg

INL OF F

RUSSIA

ESTONIA RUSSIA

•Gothenburg

BALTIC SEA

Sergiev Posad Suzdal • • • • Vladimir Moscow

LATVIA

DENMARK NORTH SEA

Roskilde • • Copenhagen

LITHUANIA RUSSIA

2

BELARUS

Contact our destination specialists today: [email protected] • www.beyondtravel.com.au

Welcome TO RUSSIA & BEYOND WITH OVER 21 YEARS EXPERIENCE, BEYOND TRAVEL IS YOUR EXPERT IN TRAVEL TO RUSSIA, SCANDINAVIA & BEYOND.

Join us on a discovery of this vast and historic region and choose from the widest available selection of escorted tours, exclusive small group Special Journeys, ferry packages, sightseeing, Trans-Mongolian & Trans-Siberian rail tours, city stay packages and hotels. As the specialists for the region our team travel extensively, personally evaluating hotels, tour operators and services on an on-going basis to offer you first-hand knowledge and ensure you get the most from your holiday. Over 21 years Beyond Travel has built a reputation as a leader in travel to the region and developed long term partnerships with reputable ground operators. We are a family owned Australian business, members of the Australian Council of Tour Operators and ATAS accredited by the Australian Federation of Travel Agents (AFTA), giving you the security and protection that any traveller expects.

CONTENTS SPECIAL JOURNEYS

TAILOR MADE TRAVEL 5–13

HIGHLIGHTS OF RUSSIA

6

ACROSS SCANDINAVIA BY LAND & BY SEA

8

HIGHLIGHTS OF RUSSIA & SCANDINAVIA

10

CENTRAL ASIAN ODYSSEY

12

ESCORTED TOURS

14–21

RUSSIAN CAPITALS and CZAR ROUTE

15

MOSCOW TO VIENNA

16

MOSCOW TO PRAGUE and LITTLE TOUR OF RUSSIA

17

FOUR CAPITALS and FOUR CAPITALS & THE NORWEGIAN FJORDS

18

GRAND TOUR OF SCANDINAVIA

19

BEST OF MONGOLIA

20

OTHER ESCORTED TOUR OPTIONS

21

RAIL JOURNEYS

30–48

INDEPENDENT TOURS

22-29

GRAND RUSSIA

31

ST. PETERSBURG VISA FREE

32

SCENIC TOUR OF SCANDINAVIA

33

NORWEGIAN PEARLS and OSLO, TRONDHEIM & THE HURTIGRUTEN

34

SCENIC SCANDINAVIA & THE HURTIGRUTEN

35

PEARLS OF UZBEKISTAN

36

SOUL OF GEORGIA

37

CITY STAYS MOSCOW

38

ST. PETERSBURG

40

GOLDEN RING

42

KYIV, LVIV, ODESSA and MINSK

43

HELSINKI

44

STOCKHOLM

45

COPENHAGEN

46

TRANS-MONGOLIAN Tailor-Made Rail Journey

23

OSLO

47

BEIJING, VLADIVOSTOK and ULAAN BAATAR

24

BERGEN and NORWAY IN A NUTSHELL

48

IRKUTSK, LAKE BAIKAL, KAZAN and YEKATERINBURG

25

THE TRANS-SIBERIAN Small Group Rail Journey

26

THE TRANS-MONGOLIAN Small Group Rail Journey

27

CZAR’S GOLD Private Rail Journey

28

GETTING AROUND TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Contact our destination specialists today: Australia 1300 363 554 • New Zealand 0800 550 065

49-50 51

3

2016 EARLY BIRD OFFERS di

ove r more...

uple per co

di

co

E TRAV ER CH VOU sc

ove

more...

ore...

Up to

1000L

$

ver

ver m

sc

di

o sc

2016 SPECIAL JOURNEYS & ESCORTED TOURS Discover More Travel Voucher

di s

r more...

Receive the following Discover More Travel Vouchers when you deposit by 31 December 2015: • • • • • • • • • •

sc

ove

r more...

di

more...

ver

E TRAV ER CH VOU

di

co

uple per co

r more...

600L

ove

$

di

sc

r more... ove sc Up to

Highlights of Russia (page 6): $500 per couple Across Scandinavia by Land & by Sea (page 8): $500 per couple Highlights of Russia & Scandinavia (page 10): $1000 per couple Central Asian Odyssey (page 12): $500 per couple Czar Route (page 15): $200 per couple Moscow to Vienna (page 16): $600 per couple Moscow to Prague (page 17): $400 per couple Little Tour of Russia (page 17): $400 per couple Baltic Revelation (page 21): $200 per couple Russian Capitals & the Golden Ring (page 21): $200 per couple

2016 SPECIAL JOURNEYS TIER 2 OFFER Discover More Travel Voucher

di s

Receive the following Discover More Travel Vouchers when you pay in full by 29 February 2016: • Highlights of Russia (page 6): $300 per couple • Across Scandinavia by Land & by Sea (page 8): $300 per couple • Highlights of Russia & Scandinavia (page 10): $600 per couple • Central Asian Odyssey (page 12): $300 per couple

Discover More Travel Vouchers Redeem your Discover More Travel Voucher against any additional Beyond Travel service featured in our four Beyond Travel brochures or on our website, such as: Pre & post hotel accommodation, stopovers, transfers, cruises, escorted tours, city stays and much more. Conditions apply, please see page 51 for details. Offers are non-combinable and are valid on selected Special Journeys, Escorted Tours when deposited or paid in full as stipulated above.

4


BEYOND TRAVEL’S SPECIAL JOURNEYS SAMARKAND

Beyond Travel is proud to offer you a series of exciting, small group SPECIAL JOURNEYS. Unlike large, multilingual coach tours, our English-only journeys provide an unrivalled travel experience as we offer unique features and inclusions that are not available on most standard tours. Built on our experience and knowledge, the itineraries aim at bringing you closer to the destination you are exploring and integrating you into its history and local culture. We invite you to join one of our SPECIAL JOURNEYS and embark on the travel experience of a lifetime!

SUZDAL

COPENHAGEN

Common FEATURES & BENEFITS of our SPECIAL JOURNEYS catering to the Australian & New Zealand traveller are: • Small group tours • Tours conducted in English only • Guaranteed departures • Two night stays in most cities • Comprehensive sightseeing included • Regional highlights e.g. visiting local families, wine tasting • Traditional meals and folklore shows • Gratuities and hotel porterage included • Arrival and departure transfers on any day • Mixed modes of transport e.g. chartered ships, high-speed trains Accommodation on our SPECIAL JOURNEYS has been selected based on the preferences of our Australian and New Zealand travellers. Therefore, most hotels will offer you the following standards: • Centrally located • Non–smoking rooms • Air-conditioned comfort • Complimentary internet access • Lift access • Tea & coffee making facilities For a detailed itinerary, bookings and questions contact our destination specialists, your local travel agent, or visit the Beyond Travel website today.

STOCKHOLM


5

ove

r more...

isc

ove

r more...

d

r more...

ove

d

r more...

ove

sc

di

sc

isc

di

MOSCOW

d

isc

ove

r more...

r more...

d

ove

CLU

us for Contact details

r more...

d

per couple

isc

d

SOLO ER TRAVELBL

d

TRAVEL ER VOUCHge 4 details pa

r more...

r more...

500

ove

ove

$

er more...

details pa

isc

ove

ple per cou

L TRAVE R E H C VOU ge 4

r more...

cov

300

d

ove

$

r more...

isc

d is

ove

isc

isc

isc

SMALL GROUP TOUR

d

HIGHLIGHTS OF RUSSIA EXCLUSIVE SPECIAL JOURNEY from only $3,795 MOSCOW – SERGIEV POSAD – SUZDAL – VLADIMIR – ST. PETERSBURG

10 days

Pre-tour Excursion: Tretyakov Gallery (4 hours) Benefit from our discounted hotel rates and arrive a day earlier to join our half day tour to the acclaimed Tretyakov Gallery to see its extensive collection of religious icons and prerevolutionary paintings. DAY 1 FRI MOSCOW Your tour commences with an arrival transfer to Hotel Intercontinental (5 star) or similar. This evening, meet your guide and fellow tour members for a welcome dinner followed by an evening walk to the heart of Moscow, the spectacular Red Square to see it beautifully illuminated at night. (D) DAY 2 SAT MOSCOW Today you will be introduced to the political and economic capital of the Russian Federation. On a city tour, see many of Moscow’s iconic landmarks such as the Bolshoi Theatre, KGB building and St. Basil’s Cathedral. Drive to Moscow University for a panoramic view of the city, then explore the 15th century Novodevichy Convent, as well as the magnificent Cathedral of Our Saviour. After lunch at a nearby restaurant, today’s highlight will be the formidable Kremlin, where you will have a tour of its

MOSCOW CIRCUS

6

grounds including two ancient cathedrals and the Armoury Museum - a stunning collection of royal artefacts including Faberge eggs, carriages and coronation dresses. This evening enjoy an entertaining performance of the Moscow Circus. (B, L) DAY 3 SUN MOSCOW After breakfast, experience Moscow’s famous Metro, Stalin’s architectural masterpiece, and marvel at the lavishly decorated stations. Finish your tour at Alexander Park for the Changing of the Guards, followed by free time at Red Square to enter Lenin’s Mausoleum, St. Basil’s Cathedral or Russia’s premier shopping arcade, GUM. Then, take in the sights of Moscow on a relaxing lunch cruise along the Mosvka River. The remainder of the day is at leisure, or join your guide for an excursion to the Izmailova Market where you can purchase unique Russian souvenirs or enjoy an optional theatre performance this evening. (B, L) DAY 4 MON MOSCOW – SERGIEV POSAD – SUZDAL Depart Moscow for a drive through the countryside to several of the ancient towns along Russia’s famed Golden Ring. First you visit the historic town of Sergiev Posad and its colourful, functioning St. Sergius Monastery, considered the holiest pilgrimage site of the Russian Orthodox Church. Here you will also experience the tradition of

SUZDAL


FINLAND

BALTIC SEA

4

St. Petersburg

ESTONIA

RUSSIA Sergiev Posad Suzdal • •1 •1 Moscow 3• Vladimir

LATVIA

BELARUS

BENEFITS & INCLUSIONS

UNIQUE HIGHLIGHTS

• Locally escorted in ENGLISH ONLY

• Tour of Moscow’s Kremlin and Armoury Museum, treasury of Russian czars

• Small group tour with maximum 20 participants

• Exploration of the famous Moscow Metro and iconic Red Square

• Accommodation in central, deluxe & first class hotels

• 3-day excursion to historic towns along the famed Golden Ring

• Meals: B = breakfast (9), L = lunch (6), D = dinner (5)

• Visit to a local family in Suzdal for a traditional Russian meal

• Arrival and departure transfers on any day

• Business Class travel on the high speed Sapsan train to St. Petersburg

• Sightseeing and entrance fees, as per itinerary

• Tour of the world-famous Hermitage Museum in the royal Winter Palace

• Transport by air-conditioned coach and Business Class rail

• Excursion to the imperial estates of Pushkin (Catherine Palace) and Petroverdets (Peterhof) • Private cruise along the canals of St. Petersburg

COACH RAIL

• Gratuities and hotel porterage included

• Tickets to the Moscow Circus and Russian Folklore Show

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES • SMALL GROUP TOUR Russian matroishka doll painting, and after a local lunch, continue to Suzdal. After check-in at Hotel Pushkarskaya Sloboda (4 star) or similar, enjoy an orientation walk on your way to dinner. (B, L, D) DAY 5 TUE SUZDAL – VLADIMIR Today you visit the unique Museum of Wooden Architecture, Suzdal’s 11th century Kremlin and take a horse carriage ride to beautiful St. Euthimius for a tour of the monastery and its Gold Room. You will then meet a local family and be served a traditional Russian lunch in their home, before driving to Vladimir, Russia’s former capital founded in 1108. On arrival, you will see the city’s Golden Gate and UNESCOlisted Assumption and Demetrius Cathedrals, followed by check-in at Park Hotel Voznesenskaya Sloboda (4 star) or similar and dinner at a local restaurant. (B, L, D) DAY 6 WED VLADIMIR – ST. PETERSBURG This morning, visit the historic 12th century town of Bogoluybovo before returning to Moscow to board your high-speed train to St Petersburg. Admire the scenery whilst enjoying dinner in 1st class comfort and on arrival, be met by your local guide and transferred to Hotel Domina Prestige (5 star) or similar. (B, D) DAY 7 FRI ST. PETERSBURG After breakfast, discover St. Petersburg on a city tour which will include Peter and Paul Fortress, the city’s first settlement which houses the burial vault of the Romanov dynasty, and the incredible Spilt Blood Cathedral featuring 7,000sqm of exquisite mosaics. After a local lunch, you will have a tour of Yusupov Palace, the opulent residence of St. Petersburg’s wealthiest family and sight of Rasputin’s infamous murder. This evening, enjoy an entertaining folklore performance at Nikolaevsky Palace. (B, L) DAY 8 THU ST. PETERSBURG Immerse yourself in St. Petersburg’s imperial past with a drive to the town of Pushkin, Tsarskoe Selo (Czar’s Village), where you will visit the magnificent Catherine Palace and its famous Amber Room. After lunch at Pushkin, continue your royal tour to Peter the Great’s grand summer estate, Petrodvorets (Peterhof). Here you will see its famous Grand Cascade of fountains and gold statues and take a guided walk through the lovely gardens. Your evening will be at leisure for an optional theatre performance. (B, L)

DAY 9 SAT ST. PETERSBURG Today you visit the renowned Hermitage Museum, located in the imperial Winter Palace, for an introduction to its immense collection of over 2.7 million items of art. After an orientation tour, return to your hotel for a free afternoon, stopping en-route at St. Isaac’s Cathedral. In the evening, join your private cruise along the canals and Neva River of St. Petersburg, followed by a farewell dinner to mark the conclusion of your journey. (B, D) DAY 10 SUN ST. PETERSBURG Your tour concludes with a departure transfer for your onward journey. (B) Post-tour Excursion – Across Scandinavia by Land & by Sea: Continue your exploration to Scandinavia on a 12 day adventure experiencing the Royal grandeur and history of the Scandinavian capitals of Stockholm, Copenhagen and Oslo. Immerse yourself in the Viking past and visit Roskilde, the ancient capital of Denmark. Take in the magnificent scenery of spectacular mountains and thundering waterfalls on the Flam Railway and sample delicious local foods along the way. For a full itinerary and details on this tour please see pages 8 & 9. Highlights of Russia Guaranteed Departure Dates

Per Person Twin Share

Single Supplement

3,795

1,095

Pre-tour Accommodation (Wed, Thu) Hotel Intercontinental, Moscow

120

75

Post-tour Accommodation (Sun, Mon) Hotel Domina Prestige, St. Petersburg May, Jun Jul, Aug, Sep

170 130

130 95

Pre-tour Excursion (Fri) Tretyakov Gallery (minimum 3 persons)

65

May 13, Jun 3, Jul 15, Aug 12, Sep 9

NIKOLAEVSKY PALACE


PETERHOF

7

r more...

.

r more... di

AURLANDSFJORD

d

isc

ove

r more...

ove

r more...

per couple

isc

cover more..

d is

ove

sc

isc

d

TRAVEL ER VOUilsCpaHge 4 deta

CLUB

Contact us for details

ove

500

isc

$

...

over more ...

er more... cov

over more

SOLO TRAVELLE R

d

details pa

disc

disc

ove

ple per cou

L TRAVE R E H C VOU ge 4

d is

r more...

d

r more...

300

ove

$

r more...

cover more. ..

ove

d is

isc

isc

d

SMALL GROUP TOUR

ACROSS SCANDINAVIA BY LAND & BY SEA

d

EXCLUSIVE SPECIAL JOURNEY from only $7,995 HELSINKI – TURKU – STOCKHOLM – DROTTNINGHOLM – COPENHAGEN – ROSKILDE – OSLO – FLAM – NORWEGIAN FJORDS – BERGEN

12 days DAY 1 SUN HELSINKI Your tour commences with an arrival transfer to Hotel Radisson Blu Plaza (4 star) or similar. This evening meet your guide and fellow tour members at a welcome dinner. (D)

harbour of Nyhavn and the famous Little Mermaid. Visit Christianborg Palace, seat of the Danish Parliament and the beautiful red brick Rosenborg Castle with its collection of tapestries, porcelain and Crown Jewels on display. This evening, meet a local family for a traditional meal in their home. (B, D)

DAY 2 MON HELSINKI – TURKU – STOCKHOLM After breakfast, embark on a tour of Helsinki featuring the historic city centre , Senate Square, Uspenskij Cathedral, Parliament House and the unique Rock Church. After free time for lunch, admire the scenery as you travel to Turku, the former capital of Finland to visit its Lutheran Cathedral. This evening, board the overnight ferry to Stockholm with dinner served on board. (B, D)

DAY 7 SAT COPENHAGEN – ROSKILDE – OSLO This morning, immerse yourself in the country’s Viking past and travel westwards to Roskilde, the ancient capital of Denmark. Pass farming country and small villages founded by Vikings more than a thousand years ago and on arrival visit the town square and twin-spired Cathedral, the traditional burial place of the Danish Royals. Continue to the Viking Ship Museum before returning to Copenhagen to board your overnight ferry to Oslo and taking dinner on board. (B, D)

DAY 3 TUE STOCKHOLM Take in the early morning views of the Stockholm archipelago as you cruise into port. On arrival, become acquainted with Sweden’s charming capital seeing the Royal Palace, Parliament and Gamla Stan (Old Town) with its narrow cobbled streets. Visit the impressive Vasa Museum and City Hall where the Nobel Prize banquet is held annually. Here you will also be treated to lunch before checking in at hotel Clarion Amaranten (4 star) or similar. (B, L)

DAY 5 THU STOCKHOLM – COPENHAGEN Travel by train across the Swedish countryside with views of small towns, forests and lakes. Cross the famous Oeresund bridge, the 16km link connecting Sweden and Denmark taking in breathtaking sea views to arrive in Copenhagen. Check in at Imperial Hotel (4 star) or similar and join your group on a walk to famous Tivoli Gardens for dinner. (B, D) DAY 6 FRI COPENHAGEN After breakfast, begin a comprehensive tour of the Danish capital to see the old

8

OSLO


Frithjof Fure - Visitnorway.com

DAY 4 WED STOCKHOLM / DROTTNINGHOLM Embark on a magnificent turn of the century ship through scenic Lake Malaren to Drottningholm Palace, the residence of the Royal Family. With your guide, visit its stately rooms and grounds before returning to Stockholm with the afternoon at leisure. This evening, meet your group for a lovely dinner in a local restaurant. (B,D)

• Balestrand • Flam

FINLAND

1

• Bergen 2

Helsinki •1

Turku •

SWEDEN

•1 Oslo Stockholm 2 •

1

F GUL

ND

INLA

OF F

ESTONIA

NORWAY 1

BALTIC SEA

NORTH SEA

LATVIA

COACH RAIL FERRY

DENMARK

Roskilde • •2 Copenhagen

STOCKHOLM


UNIQUE HIGHLIGHTS

• • • • • • •

• Excursion to charming Drottningholm Palace and lunch in Stockholm’s City Hall

Fully escorted in ENGLISH ONLY Small group tour with maximum 20 participants Accommodation in central, deluxe & first class hotels Meals: B = breakfast (11), L = lunch (1), D = dinner (10) Arrival and departure transfers on any day Sightseeing and entrance fees as per itinerary Transport by air conditioned coach, economy class rail, Seaview cabins on overnight ferries • Gratuities and hotel porterage included

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES SMALL GROUP TOUR

• Overnight ferry journeys in seaside cabins from Turku – Stockholm and Copenhagen – Oslo • Meeting a local Danish family for a traditional dinner in their home • Tours of Rosenborg Castle where the impressive Crown Jewels are on display and to the Viking Ship Museum in Roskilde outside of Copenhagen • Take the magnificent train journey through snow-capped mountains and thundering waterfalls on the Flam Railway • Overnight stay in spectacular Balestrand with fjord views from your hotel • Cruise along the Norwegian coast to its former capital, the picturesque city of Bergen

DAY 8 SUN OSLO A delicious buffet breakfast is served as you cruise along the enchanting Oslo Fjord to the Norwegian capital. On your city tour see the City Hall, the Royal Castle and impressive Vigeland sculpture park with over 200 unique pieces in bronze and granite. After, check in at Hotel Radisson Blu Plaza (4 star) or similar with the afternoon at leisure. This evening, join your group for a relaxed dinner at your hotel. (B, D)

DAY 11 WED BERGEN After breakfast, meet your guide for a walking tour of Bergen’s historic centre which will include the Fish and Flower Market, Old Bryggen Harbour and ancient Maria Church. Then, take the Floy funicular for fantastic views of the city. Your afternoon will be at leisure and in the evening, meet your group for a farewell dinner to mark the conclusion of your journey. (B, D)

DAY 9 MON OSLO – FLAM – BALESTRAND Travel through some of the most magnificent scenery to be found on the west coast of Norway and take in views of spectacular mountains and thundering waterfalls on the Flam Railway. Continue your journey by water travelling by express boat along the serene Aurlandsfjord and the Sognefjord to Balestrand. Check in at Hotel Kvikne’s (4 star) or similar and continue to delight in the scenery from your fjord view balcony room. Dinner and overnight at your hotel. (B, D)

DAY 12 THU BERGEN Your tour concludes with a departure transfer for your onward journey. (B)

DAY 10 TUE BALESTRAND – BERGEN Your day will be free to enjoy nature – you may take a walk, hire a bike or a row boat or simply marvel at the incredible landscape from the comfort of your hotel. In the afternoon, take the express boat travelling along the coast to Bergen with a dinner box on board. Arrive and check in at Hotel Scandic Ornen (4star) or similar for overnight. (B, D)

Across Scandinavia by Land & by Sea Guaranteed Departure Dates


Single Supplement

May 22; Jun 12; Jul 24; Aug 21

7,995

2,195

Pre-tour Accommodation (Mon) Radisson Blu Plaza

170

150

Post-tour Accommodation (Thu) Hotel Scandic Ornen

185

120

Post Tour Excursion: Hurtigruten Cruise - 7 Day Classic Voyage North: Extend your stay and cruise with the renowned Hurtigruten from Bergen to Kirkenes up the magnificent Norwegian coast discovering its ever changing landscapes, magnificent fjords and small coastal towns. Cruise into the breathtaking Geirangerfjord, enjoy the midnight sun and other wonders of the polar north on this incredible adventure. The Hurtigruten fleet includes comfortable ships departing daily from Bergen. For full itinerary details and prices please contact Beyond Travel.

COPENHAGEN


9

SMALL GROUP TOUR

BERGEN

ove

r more...

d is

cov

er more...

d

d

r more...

ove

r more...

r more...

ove di

d

HIGHLIGHTS OF RUSSIA & SCANDINAVIA EXCLUSIVE SPECIAL JOURNEY from only $11,790 MOSCOW – GOLDEN RING: (SERGIEV POSAD – SUZDAL – VLADIMIR) – ST. PETERSBURG – HELSINKI – TURKU – STOCKHOLM – DROTTNINGHOLM – COPENHAGEN – ROSKILDE – OSLO – BALESTRAND – BERGEN

21 days DAY 1 FRI MOSCOW Your tour commences with an arrival transfer to Hotel Intercontinental (5 star) or similar. This evening, meet your guide and fellow tour members for a welcome dinner followed by an evening walk to the heart of Moscow, the spectacular Red Square to see it beautifully illuminated at night. (D) DAY 2 SAT MOSCOW On a city tour, see many iconic landmarks such as the Bolshoi Theatre, KGB Headquarters and St. Basil’s Cathedral. You also visit the 15th century Novodevichy Convent and magnificent Cathedral of Our Saviour. This evening enjoy an entertaining performance of the famous Moscow Circus. (B, L) DAY 3 SUN MOSCOW Today you discover Moscow’s famous Metro and its lavishly decorated stations. Continue with a scenic lunch cruise along the Mosvka River with the remainder of the day free. An optional visit to the lively Izmailova Market or a theatre performance will be available. (B, L) DAY 4 MON MOSCOW – SERGIEV POSAD – SUZDAL Depart Moscow and drive to the ancient towns along Russia’s famed Golden Ring. First you have the opportunity to experience the tradition of Russian matroishka doll painting, followed by a visit to the historic town of Sergiev Posad and its functioning St. Sergius Monastery. After lunch, continue to Suzdal for check-in at Hotel Pushkarskaya Sloboda (4 star) or similar and an orientation walk on your way to dinner. (B, L, D) DAY 5 TUE SUZDAL - VLADIMIR Today you visit Suzdal’s unique Museum of Wooden Architecture, 11th century Kremlin and beautiful St. Euthimius Monastery. You will also meet a local family for a traditional lunch before driving to Vladimir, Russia’s former capital. See the UNESCOlisted Assumption and Demetrius Cathedrals, followed by check-in at Park Hotel Voznesenskaya Sloboda (4 star) or similar and dinner at a local restaurant. (B, L, D) DAY 6 WED VLADIMIR – ST. PETERSBURG This morning, visit the historic 12th century town of Bogoluybovo before returning to Moscow to board your high-speed train to St Petersburg. Admire the scenery whilst

10

enjoying dinner in 1st class comfort and on arrival, be met by your local guide and transferred to Hotel Domina Prestige (5 star) or similar. (B, D) DAY 7 THU ST. PETERSBURG Your St. Petersburg city tour will include Peter and Paul Fortress, which houses the burial vault of the Romanov dynasty and the magnificent Spilt Blood Cathedral. After lunch, you will tour the opulent palace of the Yusupov family where Rasputin was murdered. Tonight, enjoy an entertaining folklore show at Nikolaevsky Palace. (B, L) DAY 8 FRI ST. PETERSBURG Immerse yourself into St. Petersburg’s imperial past with an excursion to Tsarskoe Selo (formerly Pushkin) for a tour of Catherine Palace and its Amber Room. After lunch, continue to Peter the Great’s grand estate, Petrodvorets (Peterhof). Here you will see the Grand Cascade of fountains and gold statues and take a guided walk through the lovely gardens. Your evening will be at leisure for an optional theatre performance. (B, L) DAY 9 SAT ST. PETERSBURG The Winter Palace is now the renowned Hermitage Museum, here you will have an introduction to its immense collection of art. Then visit the remarkable St. Isaac’s Cathedral, followed by free time. In the evening, enjoy a cruise along the canals of St. Petersburg and dinner in a local restaurant. (B, D) DAY 10 SUN ST. PETERSBURG – HELSINKI This morning transfer to the train station to board your train to Helsinki. On arrival, check in at hotel Radisson Blu Plaza (4star) or similar and this evening meet your guide and fellow tour members at a welcome dinner to mark the beginning of your journey to Scandinavia. (B, D) DAY 11 MON HELSINKI – TURKU – STOCKHOLM After breakfast, embark on a city tour featuring the Senate Square, Uspenskij Cathedral, Parliament House and the unique Rock Church. Admire the scenery as you travel to Turku, the former capital of Finland to visit its historic Lutheran Cathedral. This evening, board the overnight ferry to Stockholm with dinner served on board. (B, D)


Øyvid Heen- Visitnorway.com

isc

sc

sc

di

ove

CLUB

us for Contact details

r more...

isc

d

SOLO LER TRAVEL

d

de

r more...

r more...

L TRAVE R HE C U O V tails page 4

ove

ove

ple per cou

isc

isc

600

d

d

details page 4

er more...

TRAVEL VOUCHER

$

r more...

r more...

cov

per couple

ove

ove

d is

1000

$

isc

ove

er more...

isc

cov

isc

d is

Bergen •2

•1 Balestrand • Flam

SWEDEN

11 Oslo

FINLAND

Turku Helsinki 1 • • F

Stockholm •3

1

1

•4 St. Petersburg

COACH RAIL FERRY

ESTONIA

NORWAY NORTH SEA

GUL

AND

INL OF F

BALTIC SEA

RUSSIA

Sergiev Posad Suzdal 1 • • 1 • •3 Vladimir Moscow

LATVIA

DENMARK LITHUANIA

Roskilde • •2 Copenhagen

BELARUS


UNIQUE HIGHLIGHTS

• • • • • • •

• Private tours of Moscow’s Palatial Metro and the Kremlin & Armoury Museum with collections of Faberge eggs and royal jewels • Business class travel on the high speed Sapsan train to St Petersburg • Excursions to imperial estates of Pushkin (Catherine Palace) and Peterhof Gardens • Visit the world-famous Hermitage Museum • Excursion to Drottningholm Palace and lunch in Stockholm’s City Hall • Overnight ferry journeys in seaview cabins from Turku – Stockholm and Copenhagen – Oslo • Visits to Rosenborg Castle with its collection of Danish Crown Jewels and Royal Regalia • Magnificent train journey through snow-capped mountains and thundering waterfalls on the Flam Railway • Overnight stay in spectacular Balestrand with fjord views from your hotel • Cruise along the Norwegian coast to its former capital, the picturesque city of Bergen

Locally escorted in ENGLISH ONLY Small group tour with maximum 20 participants Accommodation in central, deluxe & first class hotels Meals: B = breakfast (20), L = lunch (7), D = dinner (15) Arrival and departure transfers on any day Sightseeing and entrance fees as per itinerary Transport by air conditioned coach, high speed train and overnight ferry • Gratuities and hotel porterage included


DAY 12 TUE STOCKHOLM On arrival, become acquainted with Sweden’s charming capital seeing the Royal Palace, Parliament and Gamla Stan (Old Town) with its narrow cobbled streets. Visit the impressive Vasa Museum and City Hall where the Nobel Prize banquet is held annually. Here, be treated to lunch before checking in at Hotel Clarion Amaranten (4 star) or similar. (B, L)

DAY 16 SAT COPENHAGEN – ROSKILDE – OSLO Immerse yourself in the country’s Viking past and travel through farming country and small villages founded by Vikings to Roskilde, the ancient capital of Denmark. Visit its Town Square and twin-spired Cathedral, the traditional burial place of the Danish Royals and continue to the Viking Ship Museum. Return to Copenhagen to board your overnight ferry to Oslo with dinner on board. (B, D)

DAY 13 WED STOCKHOLM / DROTTNINGHOLM Embark on a magnificent turn of the century ship on scenic Lake Malaren to Drottningholm Palace, the residence of the Royal Family. Visit its stately rooms and grounds before returning to Stockholm. This evening, meet your group for dinner in a local restaurant. (B, D)

DAY 17 SUN OSLO A delicious buffet breakfast is served as you cruise along the enchanting Oslo Fjord to the Norwegian capital. On your city tour see the City Hall, the Royal Castle and impressive Vigeland Sculpture Park. Check in at Hotel Radisson Blu Plaza (4 star) or similar with the afternoon at leisure and join your group for a relaxed dinner at your hotel. (B, D)

DAY 14 THU STOCKHOLM – COPENHAGEN Travel by train across the Swedish countryside with views of small towns, forests and lakes. Cross the famous Oeresund bridge, the 16km link connecting Sweden and Denmark taking in breathtaking sea views to arrive in Copenhagen. Check in at Imperial Hotel (4 star) or similar and enjoy a walk to famous Tivoli Gardens for dinner. (B, D)

DAY 18 MON OSLO – FLAM – BALESTRAND Travel through some of the most magnificent scenery to be found on the west coast of Norway and take in views of spectacular mountains and thundering waterfalls on the Flam Railway. Continue your journey by water travelling by express boat along the serene Aurlandsfjord and the Sognefjord to Balestrand. Check in at Hotel Kvikne’s (4 star) or similar where you can continue to enjoy the scenery from your fjord view balcony room. Dinner and overnight at your hotel. (B, D)

DAY 15 FRI COPENHAGEN Join a comprehensive tour of the Danish capital to see the old harbour of Nyhavn and the famous Little Mermaid. Visit Christianborg Palace, seat of the Danish Parliament and the beautiful red brick Rosenborg Castle with its collection of tapestries and Crown Jewels. This evening, meet a local family for a traditional meal in their home. (B, D)

DAY 19 TUE BALESTRAND – BERGEN Your day will be free to enjoy a walk, hire a bike or a row boat or simply marvel at the incredible landscape from the comfort of your hotel. In the afternoon, take the express boat traveling along the coast to Bergen with a dinner box on board. Arrive and check in at Hotel Scandic Ornen (4star) or similar. (B, D) DAY 20 WED BERGEN After breakfast, join a walking tour of Bergen’s historic centre to see the Fish and Flower Market, Old Bryggen Harbour and ancient Maria Church. Then, take the Floy funicular for fantastic views of the city with the afternoon at leisure. This evening meet your group for a farewell dinner to mark the conclusion of your journey. (B, D) DAY 21 THU BERGEN Your tour concludes with a departure transfer for your onward journey. (B) Highlights of Russia & Scandinavia Guaranteed Departure Dates


Single Supplement

11,790

3,290

Pre Tour Accommodation (Wed, Thu) Hotel Intercontinental, Moscow

120

75

Post Tour Accommodation (Thu) Hotel Scandic Ornen, Bergen

185

120

May 13; Jun 3; Jul 15; Aug 12

MOSCOW


11

SMALL GROUP TOUR

d is

d is

cover more... d is

cover more...

r more...

cover more..

..

isc

ove

r more...

ove

.

cover more.

isc

CLUB

Contact us for details

...

details page 4

...

SOLO TRAVELLE R

over more

per couple

TRAVEL VOUCHER

over more

disc

300

$

disc

.

cover more...

ge 4 details pa

d

TRAVEL ER VOUCH

cover more..

d is

per couple

r more...

500

dis

d

ove

$

er more...

d is

cov

isc

d is

SAMARKAND

d

CENTRAL ASIAN ODYSSEY EXCLUSIVE SPECIAL JOURNEY from only $6,995 ALMATY – CHARYN CANYON – KARAKOL – JETY OGUZ – CHON KEMIN – BISHKEK – TASHKENT – SAMARKAND – SHAKHRISABZ – BUKHARA – KHIVA

17 days DAY 1 TUE ALMATY Your tour commences with an arrival transfer to Hotel Kazzhol (4 star) or similar. This evening, join your guide for a welcome dinner to celebrate your journey. (D) DAY 2 WED ALMATY After breakfast begin a comprehensive tour of lively Almaty visiting its bazaar, evocative Panfilov Park and the Central State Museum displaying Kazakhstan’s rich culture and history. After lunch, travel to Medeu Valley and ascend to the look out to view the world’s highest ice skating rink and panoramic views of the city’s mountains. Your evening is at leisure. (B, L) DAY 3 THU ALMATY – CHARYN CANYON – KARAKOL Today, admire the scenery as you travel to Kyrgyzstan with a stop for a walk and picnic lunch in breathtaking Charyn Canyon. Cross the border and continue to the northern shore of Issyk Kul Lake known as the “pearl of the Tien Shan”. Arrive in Karakol for check in at Hotel Amir (3 star) or similar. This evening, meet a local family to hear of life in this region and enjoy dinner in their home. (B, L, D) DAY 4 FRI KARAKOL / JETY OGUZ This morning travel to picturesque Jety Oguz to see its extraordinary formations of red sandstone cliffs before taking lunch on a local farm. Return to Karakol for an afternoon city tour which will include the town’s Orthodox Church and colourful Muslim mosque. (B, L) DAY 5 SAT KRAKOL – CHOLPON ATA – CHON KEMIN Depart Karakol and travel along Lake Issyk Kul to Cholpon Ata to visit its open-air museum of petroglyphs dating back to the 2nd millennium BC. Enjoy a stop for an optional lunch on the shores of the lake before travelling though small towns and villages to the beautifully remote Chon – Kemin Valley for check in at Guest House Ashu or similar for dinner and overnight. (B, D) DAY 6 SUN CHON KEMIN Immerse yourself in the serene surroundings of Chon Kemin valley with hiking and horse-riding opportunities to delight in the natural beauty of Kyrgyzstan. Today, learn the art of bread baking in a traditional Kyrgyz oven and enjoy typical Kyrgyz delicacies for dinner. (B, L, D)

12

DAY 7 MON CHON KEMIN – BISHKEK After breakfast, travel to the 11th century Burana Tower, the only remnant of an ancient city founded by the Karakhanid Khanate, before continuing to lively Bishkek for a tour of its city centre. Take lunch in a local restaurant and check in to Hotel Golden Tulip (4 star) or similar with the evening at your leisure. (B, L) DAY 8 TUE BISHKEK – ALA ARCHA – TASHKENT Travel to the rugged Ala Archa National Park in the Tian Shan mountains of Kyrgyzstan with time to explore the alpine beauty before returning to Bishkek to board your evening flight to Tashkent. Upon arrival, transfer to Hotel Gloria (4 star) or similar for dinner and overnight. (B, L, D) DAY 9 WED TASHKENT Embark on a city tour of the Uzbek capital vising the historic centre with its narrow lanes, mosques and madrasas (schools of learning) and the new modern centre with visits to the Independence and Amir Timur Squares and the Applied Arts Museum which houses exhibits of embroidery, local ceramics and wall hangings. Enjoy lunch in a local restaurant with the remainder of the day free for further exploration. (B, L) DAY 10 THU TASHKENT – SAMARKAND Depart by high speed train to the ancient city of Samarkand and check in at Hotel Emirkhan (4 star) or similar. On your tour of this 2,500 year old city marvel at its many outstanding architectural highlights including the breathtaking Ensemble of Registan framed by three exquisitely decorated madrasas. Continue to Gur Emir Mausoleum, the resting place of legendary Tamerlane before enjoying this evening’s dinner in a local restaurant. (B, D) DAY 11 FRI SAMARKAND Once called “the Pearl of the Muslim World”, continue your city tour to Bibi-Khonym Mosque, Ulughbek’s Observatory, Shakh-i-Zinda ensemble and the ancient settlement of Afrosiab, the birthplace of Samarkand. After lunch, your afternoon is free for further exploration. (B, L) DAY 12 SAT SAMARKAND – SHAKHRISABZ – BUKHARA After breakfast, admire the scenery as you travel via the Tahtakarach pass to Shakhrisabz, the birthplace of Tamerlane. Your visit in this charming town includes the ruins of Ak-Sarai Palace, the city’s bazaar and Gumbazi-Seidan mausoleum.


COACH RAIL AIR

Q

Urgench • •2 Khiva

Chon Almaty •2 Bishkek Kemin 1 • •2 • • Ala Archa Cholpon Ata

KAZAKHSTAN

Q

•3 Tashkent

UZBEKISTAN

Bukhara •2 TURKMENISTAN

•2 Samarkand • Shakhrisabz

CHINA

TAJIKISTAN

UNIQUE HIGHLIGHTS

• • • • • • •

• Picnic lunch in breathtaking surroundings of Charyn Canyon


•2 Karakol • Jety Oguz

LAKE ISSYK KUL

KYRGYZSTAN

BENEFITS & INCLUSIONS Locally escorted in English ONLY Small Group tour with maximum of 20 participants Accommodation in central & superior comfort class hotels Meals: B = breakfast (16), L = lunch (12), D = dinner (8) Arrival and departure transfers on any day Sightseeing and entrance fees, as per itinerary Transport by air conditioned coach, economy flights & business class rail • Gratuities and hotel porterage included

• Charyn Canyon

• Spectacular mountain scenery of Issyk Kul Lake • Experience the traditional way of life and dine with a local family in Karakol • Walking tour of the incredible Flower Valley in Jety Oguz • Learn the art of bread baking in a traditional Kyrgyz oven • Horse riding in picturesque Chon Kemin National Park • In-depth excursions of the legendary cities of the Silk Road: Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva • Visiting the birthplace of Tamerlane at Shakhrisabz • Traditional meals and folklore show in Bukhara

Continue to Bukhara for check in at Hotel Asia (4 star) or similar. This evening, join your group for dinner and a lively folklore show. (B, L, D) DAY 13 SUN BUKHARA Uncover the thousand year old history of this great Silk Road city still retaining its ancient charms and way of life. Your tour will take in the famous Kalyan Minaret towering over the city, the important 9th century Samanid Mausoleum, Kukeldash Madrasa and the Synagogue. Continue to lunch in the tranquil setting of Labi Hauz with the afternoon at leisure. (B, L) DAY 14 MON BUKHARA – KHIVA Embark on a full day journey across the Kara-Kum (black sands) and Kyzyl-Kum (red sands) deserts to the remote oasis city of Khiva. En route stop at the Amu Darya River before arrival to Khiva to check in at Hotel Malika Kheivak (3 star) or similar. This evening, dine at Toza Bog Palace, the summer residence of Mohammed Rakhim Khan II. (B, L) DAY 15 TUE KHIVA Khiva was a major centre on the Silk Road with caravans passing through its gates on their way to/from China. The core of the city is preserved within an unbroken fortified city wall encompassing madrasas, minarets and mausoleums all constructed entirely of mud brick. Take lunch at a local restaurant with the afternoon free for further exploration. (B, L)

DAY 16 WED KHIVA – TASHKENT After breakfast transfer to nearby Urgench for a flight back to Tashkent. Enjoy your free day to relax and unwind. This evening, celebrate the conclusion of your journey at a farewell dinner. (B, D) DAY 17 THU TASHKENT Your tour concludes after breakfast with a departure transfer for your onward journey. (B) POST-TOUR EXCURSION: TURKMENISTAN (4 days) Continue your exploration of Central Asia and journey to enigmatic Turkmenistan on a 4 day adventure. Depart from Khiva and travel through the Karakum Desert to “The Door to Hell”, the incredible Darvaza Crater. Continue to the Water & Mud craters and a typical desert village at Yerbent. The tour will end in the striking capital, Ashgabat where you will take in the sights on a guided tour and gain a greater sense of the incredible diversity that Turkmenistan offers. For full details on this tour extension please visit our website, contact Beyond Travel or see your Travel Agent. Central Asian Odyssey Guaranteed Departure Dates


Single Supplement

May 24, Aug 23, Sep 6, 20

6,995

855

145

90

1,920

325

Pre-tour Accommodation (Mon) Hotel Kazzhol, Almaty Post-tour Excursion (Wed) Turkmenistan (min 2 persons)

KHIVA


ALMATY

13

INTRODUCING OUR ESCORTED TOURS RUSSIA

Join us in 2016 on our comprehensive range of PREMIUM ESCORTED TOURS or GREAT VALUE TOURS and experience the best of Scandinavia, Russia and Mongolia in comfort and style! Explore these fascinating and diverse regions with Beyond Travel, featuring the major cities, plus many lesser known regional highlights and small charming towns.

FINLAND

MONGOLIA

Book Beyond Travel’s PREMIUM ESCORTED TOURS and be assured of a quality experience: • Guaranteed Departure Dates: offering you security when planning your dream holiday. • English Only: Professional English-speaking tour directors travel with you, plus local expert guides often join you to further enhance your experience. • Travel in Comfort: All tours use modern, state of the art airconditioned coaches. • Space as you Travel: Our standard tours average group sizes of 30-40 fellow travellers with plenty of room on board. • Small Group Tours: Look for the small group tour banner to enjoy the added comfort & benefits of small group travel with a maximum of just 22 in your group! • Quality Hotel Accommodation: Centrally located 4 or 5 star hotels in major cities, plus the best hotels available in smaller regional towns. • Meals: Your daily breakfast sets you up for the day, with many lunches, dinners and regional specialities also included in the tour price! • Discover More: Your tour includes comprehensive sightseeing in the major destinations, and also to regional highlights too! • Bonus Extras: Arrival and departure transfers & porterage are included. Also available is a selection of GREAT VALUE TOURS offering all the comfort and convenience of a fully escorted tour, with many meals, guides, 3 or 4 star hotels, transfers and sightseeing highlights all included at a great value price.

NORWAY

14

For a free quote, bookings and questions contact our destination specialists, your local travel agent, or visit the Beyond Travel website today.


RUSSIAN CAPITALS

THE CZAR ROUTE

ST. PETERSBURG – MOSCOW

HELSINKI – ST. PETERSBURG – MOSCOW

7 DAY GREAT VALUE ESCORTED TOUR


GUARANTEED DEPARTURES

THE CZAR ROUTE RUSSIAN CAPITALS

FINLAND


Helsinki • • St. Petersburg ESTONIA

RUSSIA

LATVIA

• Moscow

COACH

May 31; Jun 7, 14, 21, 28; Jul 5 Jul 12, 19, 26; Aug 2, 9, 16, 23, 30; Sep 6, 13, 20 Arrival Transfer by private vehicle (1-3 persons) Departure Transfer by private vehicle (1-3 persons)


Single Supplement

1,225 675 1,105 555 110 per transfer 125 per transfer

All optional tours and meals featured in the itinerary can be purchased during your tour. Full details and prices will be supplied with your travel documentation.

DAY 1 HELSINKI Your tour commences with an optional arrival transfer to Hotel Sokos Vasilievsky (4 star). This evening, join your fellow tour members and guide at a welcome meeting. DAY 2 HELSINKI Your Helsinki city tour includes the city’s lovely harbour, Parliament Building, Sibelius Monument and the famous “Church in the Rock.” In the afternoon, an optional tour is offered to Seurasaari Open-Air Museum. (B) DAY 3 HELSINKI – ST. PETERSBURG Today, continue east to quaint Vyborg for a tour of its 13th century castle. Arrive in St. Petersburg and overnight at Hotel Radisson Sonya (4 star). (B) DAY 4 ST. PETERSBURG You will become acquainted with the city’s foundations at Peter and Paul Fortress, then travel the Nevsky Prospekt, and see Kazan Cathedral, Church of the Spilt Blood, St. Isaac’s Cathedral and much more. This afternoon offers an optional tour to Peterhof for a tour of the palace and lavish gardens. In the evening, join an optional entertaining folklore show. (B) DAY 5 ST. PETERSBURG Today’s optional tours include Catherine

o v e r mor e. . .

o v e r mor e. ..

DAY 4 ST. PETERSBURG – MOSCOW Explore St. Petersburg on your own, or take an optional guided shopping tour, before boarding the afternoon high-speed Sapsan train to Moscow. Overnight at Hotel Holiday Inn Lesnaya (4 star). (B) DAY 5 MOSCOW On your morning sightseeing tour of the Russian capital, you will see Red Square, St. Basil’s Cathedral, the Bolshoi Theatre, Sparrow Hills with Moscow University, and take a tour of the Moscow Metro. In the afternoon, join an optional tour of the Kremlin grounds including one cathedral. In the afternoon, join an optional tour of the famous Moscow Metro, and in the evening, an optional cruise along the Moscow River will be offered. (B) DAY 6 MOSCOW Today, take an optional excursion to Sergiev Posad for a sightseeing tour of this 14th century city renowned as a centre of ancient Russian art and architecture. (B) DAY 7 MOSCOW Your tour concludes with an optional departure transfer for your onward journey. (B)

Russian Capitals Guaranteed Departure Dates

d isc

Fully escorted by MULTILINGUAL guide s page 4 star hotel accommodation 4 Meals as specified: B = breakfast City tours of Helsinki, Vyborg, St. Petersburg and Moscow Entrances to Church-in-the-Rock, Vyborg Castle, Peter & Paul Fortress and Moscow Metro • Transportation by air-conditioned coach • 2nd class rail: St. Petersburg to Moscow

.

DAY 1 ST. PETERSBURG Your tour commences with an optional arrival transfer to Hotel Sokos Vasilievsky (4 star). This evening, join your fellow tour members and guide at a welcome meeting. DAY 2 ST. PETERSBURG You will become acquainted with the city’s foundations at Peter and Paul Fortress, then travel the city’s main boulevard, Nevsky Prospekt, and see Kazan Cathedral, Church of the Spilt Blood, St. Isaac’s Cathedral, Alexander Nevsky Convent and much more. This afternoon offers an optional tour to the royal summer estate of Peterhof for a tour of the palace and lavish gardens. In the evening, join an optional visit to Nikolaevsky Palace for an entertaining folklore show. (B) DAY 3 ST. PETERSBURG Today’s optional tours include the aristocratic village of Tsarskoye Selo (Pushkin) for a tour of Catherine Palace and the world famous Hermitage Museum. In the evening, enjoy an optional dinner at a traditional Russian restaurant. (B)

• • • • •

re. .

Fully escorted by MULTILINGUAL guide 4 star hotel accommodation Meals as specified: B = breakfast City tours of St. Petersburg & Moscow Entrances to Peter & Paul Fortress, Moscow Metro & St. Sophia’s Cathedral • 2nd class rail: St. Petersburg – Moscow

per co uple

RAV VOUC EL detail HER

v e r mo

• • • • •

200 T

disco

INCLUSIONS

.

INCLUSIONS

discover more HELSINKI ..

$

disc

MOSCOW

RAIL BELARUS

Palace and the world famous Hermitage Museum. In the evening, enjoy an optional dinner at a traditional Russian restaurant. (B) DAY 6 ST. PETERSBURG – MOSCOW Explore St. Petersburg on your own, or take an optional guided shopping tour, before boarding the afternoon Sapsan train to Moscow. Overnight at Hotel Holiday Inn Lesnaya (4 star). (B) DAY 7 MOSCOW On a sightseeing tour of the Russian capital, you will see Red Square, St. Basil’s Cathedral, the Bolshoi Theatre and take a tour of the Kremlin grounds including one cathedral. In the afternoon, join an optional tour of the Moscow Metro, and in the evening, an optional cruise along the Moscow River will be offered. (B) DAY 8 MOSCOW Today, take an optional excursion to Sergiev Posad for a sightseeing tour of this 14th century city, renowned as a centre of ancient Russian art and architecture. In the evening, you may join an optional visit to the Moscow Circus. (B) DAY 9 MOSCOW Your tour concludes with an optional departure transfer for your onward journey. (B)

The Czar Route Guaranteed Departure Dates May 29; Jun 5, 12, 19, 26; Jul 3 Jul 10, 17, 24, 31; Aug 7, 14, 21, 28; Sep 4, 11, 18 Arrival / Departure Transfers by private vehicle (1-3 persons)


Single Supplement

1,700 1,580

835 715

125 per transfer

All optional tours and meals featured in the itinerary can be purchased during your tour. Full details and prices will be supplied with your travel documentation.


15

MOSCOW TO VIENNA MOSCOW – ST. PETERSBURG – TALLINN – RIGA – VILNIUS – WARSAW – KRAKOW – PRAGUE – VIENNA d

r more...

sc POLAND GERMANY

di

LITHUANIA RUSSIA

L TRAVE R E H C U VO s page 4 detail

r more...

ove

ple per cou

d

RUSSIA

Riga • LATVIA

600 ove

ESTONIA

$

d

r more...

• St. Petersburg

Tallinn •

r more...

ove

SWEDEN

ove

isc

FINLAND

isc

isc

20 DAY PREMIUM ESCORTED TOUR

• Moscow

• Vilnius BELARUS

Warsaw •

Prague •

• Krakow

Moscow to Vienna Little Tour of Russia Moscow to Prague

CZECH REP. SLOVAK REP. AUSTRIA

•

UKRAINE

Vienna

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES ENGLISH ONLY BENEFITS & INCLUSIONS • • • • • •

Fully escorted in ENGLISH ONLY 4 & 5 star hotel accommodation Meals as specified: B = breakfast, L = lunch, D = dinner Sightseeing as per itinerary Transportation by air-conditioned coach Arrival and departure transfers (first and last day only)

DAY 1 MOSCOW Your tour commences with an arrival transfer to Marriott Grand Hotel (5 star). This evening, join your fellow tour members and guide at a welcome dinner. (D) DAY 2 MOSCOW Your sightseeing begins at Red Square, dominated by the red walls of the Kremlin. After a tour of the Kremlin grounds, visit the famous Armoury Museum, treasury of the Russian czars. (B) DAY 3 MOSCOW - SERGIEV POSAD - MOSCOW Depart Moscow for Sergiev Posad for a sightseeing tour of this 14th century city renowned as a centre of ancient Russian art and architecture. Return to Moscow. (B, L) DAY 4 MOSCOW - ST. PETERSBURG Enjoy a relaxing morning in Moscow before departing to St. Petersburg by high-speed train. Overnight at Holiday Inn Moskovskye Vorota (4 star). (B, D) DAY 5 ST. PETERSBURG Spread over 100 islands linked by over 600 bridges, imperial St. Petersburg is often referred to as the “Venice of the North.” This morning, enjoy a guided city tour along the Nevsky Prospekt to St. Isaac’s Cathedral and Peter and Paul Fortress. (B) DAY 6 ST. PETERSBURG Today explore the world-famous Hermitage Museum with its immense collection of art including masterpieces by Leonardo da Vinci, Rafael, Rembrandt, Rubens and French Impressionists. (B, D) DAY 7 ST. PETERSBURG - TALLINN Depart for Tallinn with a stop in Narva on the Estonian border. Overnight at Hotel Meriton Grand (4 star). DAY 8 TALLINN - RIGA Tallinn boasts the best-preserved medieval town in Northern Europe. Your walking tour takes you to Toompea Castle, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and 14th century Gothic Town Hall. Travel to Riga and overnight at Radisson Blu (4 star). (B, D) DAY 9 RIGA A morning tour of Riga, often referred to as the “Paris of the Baltics”, explores the Old Town, Dome Cathedral, Powder Tower and the district of Art Nouveau houses. (B) DAY 10 RIGA - VILNIUS Depart on a scenic journey through the Baltic countryside to Vilnius. Arrive in the afternoon and overnight at Radisson Blu Hotel Astorija Centre (5 star). (B, D)

16

MOSCOW

DAY 11 VILNIUS A morning tour includes a walking tour of the Old Town to see such renowned sights as St. Stanislav’s Cathedral, Gediminas Tower, the baroque Peter and Paul Church and ruins of Vilnius Castle. (B) DAY 12 VILNIUS - WARSAW Depart the former Soviet Union and continue through the picturesque countryside to Warsaw. Arrive late afternoon, with overnight at Radisson Blu Hotel Centrum (5 star). (B, L, D) DAY 13 WARSAW On a morning tour of Warsaw, drive along the Royal Route from Castle Square to Wilanow Palace, the summer residence of Poland’s last king. Walk through the Old Town to see Market Square, the Ghetto Memorial and Chopin’s Monument. (B) DAY 14 WARSAW - KRAKOW Leaving Warsaw you head for Czestochowa, to visit Yasna Gora Monastery with its famous Black Madonna. In the afternoon, tour Auschwitz-Birkenau, the infamous concentration cams from WWII. Overnight Hotel Andel’s, Krakow (4 star). (B, D) DAY 15 KRAKOW Your sightseeing tour visits Wawel Hill to see the Royal Castle and Cathedral. Walk through the Old Town and visit Market Square, Cloth Hall and St. Mary’s Church. The afternoon is free to wander the city on your own. (B) DAY 16 KRAKOW – PRAGUE Drive through the Polish, Slovakian and Czech countryside to Prague with its baroque churches and medieval Old Town. Overnight at Hotel Angelo (4 star). (B, D) DAY 17 PRAGUE Your city tour of Prague starts with a drive to Wenceslas Square and Castle Square. You then walk to Hradcany Castle, St. Vitus Cathedral and the Royal Palace before crossing Charles Bridge to the Old Town and Jewish Ghetto. (B) DAY 18 PRAGUE - VIENNA Travel south to Vienna, the “city of waltzes”, and overnight at Hilton Vienna am Stadtpark Hotel (5 star). (B) DAY 19 VIENNA A sightseeing tour features the Hofburg Palace, Belvedere Palace, St. Stephen’s Cathedral and other reminders of the city’s imperial past. Your afternoon is at leisure before a farewell dinner. (B, D) DAY 20 VIENNA Your tour concludes with a departure transfer for your onward journey. (B)

Moscow to Vienna Guaranteed Departure Dates Apr 29; May 13, 27; Jun 17; Jul 1, 22; Aug 19; Sep 9, 16, 30


Single Supplement

4,680

1,905


MOSCOW TO PRAGUE

LITTLE TOUR OF RUSSIA

MOSCOW – ST. PETERSBURG – TALLINN – RIGA – VILNIUS – WARSAW – KRAKOW – PRAGUE

MOSCOW – ST. PETERSBURG



RIGA

ST. PETERSBURG

INCLUSIONS

INCLUSIONS

• • • • • •

• • • • • •

discover more

ITINERARY IN BRIEF:

DAY 3 MOSCOW / SERGIEV POSAD, RUSSIA (B, L)

DAY 4 MOSCOW - ST. PETERSBURG, RUSSIA (B, D)

DAY 4 MOSCOW - ST. PETERSBURG, RUSSIA (B, D)

DAY 5 ST. PETERSBURG, RUSSIA (B)

DAY 5 ST. PETERSBURG, RUSSIA (B)

DAY 6 ST. PETERSBURG, RUSSIA (B, D)

DAY 6 ST. PETERSBURG, RUSSIA (B, D)

DAY 7 ST. PETERSBURG – TALLINN, ESTONIA (B, D)

4

400

$

per couple

For a full itinerary refer to days 1 to 7 of the Moscow to Vienna itinerary.

..

TRAVEL VOUCHER details

d is

cover more...

... cover more.

page 4

cover more.. .

DAY 12 TVILNIUS – WARSAW, POLAND (B, L, D)

d is

DAY 11 VILNIUS, LITHUANIA (B)

over more

dis

DAY 10 RIGA – VILNIUS, LITHUANIA (B, D)

s page

DAY 7 ST. PETERSBURG, RUSSIA (B) disc

DAY 8 TALLINN – RIGA, LATVIA (B, D) DAY 9 RIGA, LATVIA (B)

d isc

DAY 3 MOSCOW / SERGIEV POSAD, RUSSIA (B, L)

per co uple

RAV VOUC EL detail HER

.

DAY 2 MOSCOW, RUSSIA (B)

re. .

DAY 2 MOSCOW, RUSSIA (B)

..

400 T

v e r mo

DAY 1 MOSCOW, RUSSIA (D)

disco

DAY 1 MOSCOW, RUSSIA (D)

$

.

o v e r mor e. . .

ITINERARY IN BRIEF:

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES • ENGLISH ONLY

o v e r mor e. ..

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES • ENGLISH ONLY


d isc


DAY 13 WARSAW, POLAND (B) DAY 14 WARSAW – KRAKOW, POLAND (B, D) DAY 15 KRAKOW, POLAND (B) DAY 16 KRAKOW – PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC (B, D) DAY 17 PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC (B) DAY 18 PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC (B) For a full itinerary refer to days 1 to 18 of the Moscow to Vienna itinerary. Moscow to Prague Guaranteed Departure Dates Apr 29; May 13, 27; Jun 17; Jul 1, 22; Aug 19; Sep 9, 16, 30


Single Supplement

4,580

1,830

MOSCOW

Little Tour of Russia Guaranteed Departure Dates Apr 29; May 13, 27; Jun 17; Jul 1, 22; Aug 19; Sep 9, 16, 30


Single Supplement

2,245

985


17

FOUR CAPITALS STOCKHOLM – HELSINKI – STOCKHOLM – COPENHAGEN – OSLO 9 DAY PREMIUM ESCORTED TOUR

NORWAY

FINLAND SWEDEN

Helsinki • Oslo •

NORTH SEA

Stockholm •

ND

LA

F FO

FIN

L

GU

ESTONIA

• Lake Vättern LATVIA

DENMARK

Copenhagen • Malmö •

BALTIC SEA

LITHUANIA

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES ENGLISH ONLY BENEFITS & INCLUSIONS • Fully escorted in ENGLISH ONLY • 4 star hotel accommodation • Seaview cabin with private facilities Stockholm-Helsinki-Stockholm & Copenhagen-Oslo ferries • Meals as specified: B = breakfast, L = lunch, D = dinner • City tours of Stockholm, Copenhagen, Oslo, & Helsinki • Entrance tickets to the Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen • Transportation by air-conditioned coach • Arrival and departure transfers (first and last day only)

DAY 1 STOCKHOLM Your tour commences with an arrival transfer to Hotel Clarion Sign (4 star). This evening, join your fellow tour members and guide at a welcome dinner. (D) DAY 2 STOCKHOLM Join your guide for a morning tour of beautiful Stockholm, the ‘Venice of the North.’ See the Royal Palace, Parliament Buildings, Djurgården and the Gamla Stan (Old Town), with its narrow cobbled streets. The highlight is a visit to City Hall with its famous Blue and Golden Rooms, setting for the annual Nobel Prize Banquet. Your afternoon is at leisure, we recommend a visit to the Vasa Museum or a canal cruise. (B) DAY 3 STOCKHOLM - HELSINKI A free morning is followed by a transfer to the port for the overnight ferry to Helsinki. Sail through the Stockholm archipelago as you settle into your cabin. Dinner will be served in one of the ferry’s many restaurants. (B, D) DAY 4 HELSINKI - STOCKHOLM Enjoy breakfast as you sail into Helsinki. On arrival, join your guide for a tour of the Finnish capital. Highlights include the beautiful harbour, Senate Square, Uspenski Cathedral, Finlandia Hall and the Sibelius Park & Monument. This afternoon is free for further exploring before embarking your overnight ferry to Stockholm. Note: your cabin for the Stockholm-Helsinki overnight sector will be retained for you. (B, D) DAY 5 STOCKHOLM - COPENHAGEN Arrive in Stockholm after breakfast and your tour continues by coach through the pleasant countryside of southern Sweden to Lake Vättern. After lunch at a local restaurant drive to Malmö where you will cross the Øresund Bridge into Denmark. Early evening arrival in Copenhagen with dinner and overnight at the Admiral Hotel (4 star). (B, L, D)

18

STOCKHOLM

DAY 6 COPENHAGEN Your day begins with a guided tour of wonderful Copenhagen during which you will see Amalienborg Palace, Christiansborg Palace, Hans Christian Andersen’s statue, the old harbour of Nyhavn and the famous Little Mermaid. During afternoon free time we recommend visiting the popular pedestrian street of Strøget, Rosenborg Palace, or the famous Tivoli Gardens. (entrance tickets to Tivoli are included). (B) DAY 7 COPENHAGEN - OSLO A free morning in Copenhagen for shopping or more sightseeing before an afternoon transfer to the port for your overnight ferry to Oslo. Enjoy a buffet dinner as you cruise along the Kattegat on your way to Oslo. (B, D) DAY 8 OSLO This morning cruise along the enchanting Oslo Fjord before arriving in the Norwegian capital. Join your guide for a city tour including the impressive Vigeland Sculpture Park and City Hall. This afternoon we recommend a visit to the Viking Museum or a stroll along Karl Johan Gate. Dinner and overnight at Radisson BLU Plaza Hotel. (B, D) DAY 9 OSLO Your tour concludes with a departure transfer for your onward journey. (B) Four Capitals Guaranteed Departure Dates Jun 28; Jul 5, 12, 19, 26; Aug 2, 9


Single Supplement

3,395

1,230

FOUR CAPITALS & THE NORWEGIAN FJORDS STOCKHOLM – HELSINKI – STOCKHOLM – COPENHAGEN – OSLO – EIDFJORD – BERGEN – BALESTRAND – GEIRANGER – OSLO

15 DAY PREMIUM ESCORTED TOUR Extend your exploration of Scandinavia with an additional 6 nights touring the scenic splendours of Norway. Highlights include the hanseatic city of Bergen, the spectacular Flam railway, the Norwegian fjords, the Briksdal Glacier and much more! Scandinavia’s Four Capitals & The Norwegian Fjords Guaranteed Departure Dates Jun 28; Jul 5, 12, 19, 26; Aug 2, 9


Single Supplement

5,895

1,695

For full tour details please visit our website or contact Beyond Travel.


GRAND TOUR OF SCANDINAVIA COPENHAGEN – OSLO – EIDFJORD – BERGEN – FLÅM – BALESTRAND – GEIRANGER – OSLO – STOCKHOLM – HELSINKI 15 DAY PREMIUM ESCORTED TOUR BENEFITS & INCLUSIONS Geiranger • Balestrand FINLAND SWEDEN BALTIC Flam •• SEA Geilo Helsinki • Lillehammer • • • • D Bergen AN NL • I F Stockholm Eidfjord Oslo OF LF U G •

ESTONIA

NORWAY NORTH SEA

DENMARK

Copenhagen •

LATVIA

COACH RAIL FERRY

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES ENGLISH ONLY

• Fully escorted in ENGLISH ONLY • 4 star, central hotel accommodation • Seaview cabin with private facilities: Copenhagen-Oslo & StockholmHelsinki ferries • Meals as specified: B = breakfast, L = lunch, D = dinner • City tours of Copenhagen, Oslo, Helsinki, Stockholm & Bergen including the Bergen Funicular to Mt. Fløien • Bergen and Flåm Railway journeys and Sogn & Nærøy and Geiranger Fjord cruises • Transportation by air-conditioned coach • Arrival and departure transfers (first and last day only)

DAY 1 COPENHAGEN Your tour commences with an arrival transfer to Admiral Hotel (4 star). This evening, join your fellow tour members and guide at a welcome dinner. (D) DAY 2 COPENHAGEN Your sightseeing tour includes the Royal Amalienborg Palace, Christiansborg Palace (Danish Parliament), Little Mermaid, and the old harbour of Nyhavn. During afternoon free time we recommend a visit to the famous Tivoli Gardens (entrance ticket included). (B) DAY 3 COPENHAGEN - OSLO Free morning followed by an afternoon transfer to the port for your overnight ferry to Oslo. Enjoy a buffet dinner as you cruise along the Kattegat on your way to Norway. (B, D) DAY 4 OSLO On arrival in the Norwegian capital you will join a guided tour including the impressive Vigeland Sculpture Park and City Hall. Afternoon at leisure with overnight at Radisson BLU Plaza Hotel (4 star). (B, D) DAY 5 OSLO – EIDFJORD This morning, visit the world-famous Viking Ship Museum before departing Oslo for Geilo. After lunch at the Bardøla Mountain Hotel travel across the wild Hardanger Plateau to Fossli, stopping to view the thundering Vøringsfoss Waterfall. Overnight at Quality Hotel & Resort Vøringfoss (4 star). (B, L, D) DAY 6 EIDFJORD – BERGEN Today, descend the amazing Måbødal Canyon to the idyllic Hardangerfjord and a scenic tour along this beautiful fjord. After lunch in Bergen, an afternoon tour includes a visit to the popular Fish and Flower Market, Bryggen Harbour with its gabled packhouses, and the old Hanseatic Quarter. You will also take the funicular to Mt. Fløien, for the best views of the city and fjords. Overnight Scandic Hotel Ørnen (4 star). (B, L)

HELSINKI

DAY 10 GEIRANGER – OSLO Following some of Norway’s most scenic drives you will arrive at the popular tourist town of Lillehammer. After lunch your journey continues alongside Lake Mjøsa, Norway’s largest lake, back to Oslo. Overnight at Radisson BLU Plaza (4 star). (B, L, D) DAY 11 OSLO - STOCKHOLM This morning, drive to Stockholm, passing through a varied landscape of forests, fertile farmland and blue lakes. Arrive in the Swedish capital in the afternoon and overnight Clarion Hotel Sign (4 star). (B, L, D) DAY 12 STOCKHOLM Stockholm is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful capitals in the world, built on 14 islands and protected from the sea by the Stockholm archipelago. Your sightseeing includes the Royal Palace, Parliament Buildings and the enchanting Old Town (Gamla Stan) with its narrow cobbled streets. Also visit the City Hall with its famous Blue and Golden Halls, where the Nobel Prize banquet is held each year. (B) DAY 13 STOCKHOLM - HELSINKI A free morning is followed by a transfer to the port for the overnight ferry to Helsinki. Sail through the Stockholm archipelago as you settle into your cabin for your journey to Finland. (B, D) DAY 14 HELSINKI On arrival in Helsinki, join your guide for a tour of the Finnish capital. Highlights include the beautiful harbour, Senate Square, Uspenski Cathedral, Finlandia Hall, Sibelius Park & Monument. Overnight at Haven Hotel (4 star). (B, D) DAY 15 HELSINKI Your tour concludes with a departure transfer for your onward journey. (B)

DAY 7 BERGEN – FLÅM – BALESTRAND This morning board the train to Myrdal, where you will join the amazing Flåm Railway, a masterpiece of engineering descending 865 metres to the fjord. Cruise along the picturesque Aurlands and Nærøy fjords before a drive through the amazing Stalheim Canyon and Nærøy Valley and taking the ferry to Balestrand. Overnight at Kvikne’s Hotel (4 star). (B, D) DAY 8 BALESTRAND An entire day free to enjoy breathtaking Balestrand on the Sognfjord, the longest and deepest fjord in the world. Soak up the grandeur, nature and spectacular scenery of this very special part of the world. (B, D) DAY 9 BALESTRAND - GEIRANGER A morning scenic tour of Sognfjord is followed by a visit to the world-famous Briksdal Glacier and a cruise along the Geirangerfjord. Possibly the most impressive of all Norwegian fjords, you will see magnificent waterfalls such as the Bridal Veil and Seven Sisters. Overnight at Union Hotel (4 star), Geiranger. (B, L, D)

COPENHAGEN

Grand Tour of Scandinavia Guaranteed Departure Dates


Single Supplement

Jun 25; Jul 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

5,775

1,685


19

BEST OF MONGOLIA ULAAN BAATAR – TERELJ NATIONAL PARK – KHONGOR SAND DUNES – BAYANZAG – KARAKORUM – TSENKHER HOT SPRINGS – KHUSTAIN NURUU NATIONAL PARK – ULAAN BAATAR 15 DAY GREAT VALUE ESCORTED TOUR RUSSIA

Khustain Nuruu National Park Karakorum • MONGOLIA

Terelj National Park • • • Ulaan Baatar • Baga Bazriin Chuluu • Bayanzag

CHINA

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES ENGLISH ONLY BENEFITS & INCLUSIONS • • • • • • • •

Fully escorted in ENGLISH ONLY 2 nights, 4 star hotel accommodation in Ulaan Baatar 12 nights modern tourist ger camp accommodation Meals as specified: B = breakfast, L = lunch, D = dinner 1 litre water per person per day Comprehensive sightseeing as per itinerary including entrance fees Transportation by air-conditioned 4 wheel-drive vehicle Arrival and departure transfers (first and last day only)

DAY 1 ULAAN BAATAR Your tour commences with an arrival transfer to Ramada Hotel (4 star). After checkin you have free time to start your exploration of the capital of Mongolia. DAY 2 TERELJ NATIONAL PARK After breakfast, drive to Terelj National Park and spend the day touring the area and enjoying the magnificent alpine scenery. Spend your day hiking, horse riding or you may visit a nomadic family to experience their unique lifestyle. (B, L, D) DAY 3 ULAANBAATAR - MIDDLE GOBI Early this morning, begin your journey to the unique rock formations of Baga Gazriin Chuluu, Visit the ruins of an ancient temple and explore the area whilst enjoying a picnic lunch. (B, L, D) DAY 4 TSAGAAN SUVARGA After breakfast visit the ruins of Sum Khukh Burd Temple and then continue on to the Tsagaan Suvarga, a fascinating white limestone cliff which resembles a stupa. (B, L, D) DAY 5 SOUTH GOBI / YOL VALLEY Driving further south you arrive at the Three Beauties Mountain range of the Gobi National Park. Spend the day on an excursion to the Yol Valley, hiking and enjoying stunning photographic opportunities. (B, L, D) DAY 6 KHONGOR SAND DUNES After breakfast drive to the Khongor Sand Dunes known as the Singing Dunes. A climb up the sand dunes will be rewarded with breathtaking views. This evening over dinner observe a spectacular sunset from the dunes. (B, L, D) DAY 7 SOUTH GOBI / BAYANZAG Drive to the world famous Flaming Cliffs of Bayanzag and explore the site of the first paleontological discoveries in Mongolia by Roy Chapman Andrews an American explorer, adventurer and naturalist. Visit a nomadic camel breeding family for a short camel ride and experience the hospitality of the Mongolian nomads. (B, L, D)

20

ULAAN BAATAR

DAY 8 SOUTH GOBI / ONGI MONASTERY After breakfast drive north to visit the ruins of the once great Ongi Monastery. Visit a local restored temple and take a walk in the surrounding area before dinner and overnight stay in a ger camp. (B, L, D) DAY 9 KARAKORUM - ERDENE-ZUU MONASTERY This morning continue to Karakorum, once the capital of the 13th century Great Mongol Empire. Visit Erdene-Zuu Monastery, which was the first and largest monastery in Mongolia, built on the ruins of the ancient capital. Tour the monastery and visit several temples with excellent 17th century examples of Buddhist Thangka paintings and statues. There will also be time to visit the interesting Karakorum Museum. (B, L, D) DAY 10 TSENKHER HOT SPRINGS This morning drive to the Tsenkher Hot Springs and spend the remainder of the day relaxing in the natural spa or walking in the surrounding forest. Dinner and overnight stay in a ger camp close to the springs. (B, L, D) DAY 11 TSENKHER HOT SPRINGS A day at leisure to enjoy the natural environment and the hot springs. For the more energetic your guide can advise on further walks in the area. (B, L, D) DAY 12 LAKE UGII Leaving the hot springs you drive to Lake Ugii in Arkhangai province. Your ger camp is located on the shore of Lake Ugii with magnificent views of the lake and the water birds that inhabit it. (B, L, D) DAY 13 KHUSTAIN NURUU NATIONAL PARK After breakfast drive to Khustain Nuruu National Park in search of Przewalski horses (takhi), a rare and endangered breed of wild horse native to the steppes of central Asia. Visit the parks’ museum to view a short documentary about the horses before dinner and overnight at a local ger camp. (B, L, D) DAY 14 KHUSTAIN NURUU NATIONAL PARK – ULAAN BAATAR After breakfast and a morning at leisure return to Ulaan Baatar to overnight at Ramada Hotel (4 star). (B) DAY 15 ULAAN BAATAR Your tour concludes with a departure transfer for your onward journey. (B) Best of Mongolia Guaranteed Departure Dates


Single Supplement

4,300

900

Jun 28*; Jul 9*

5,700

1,300

Aug 6

4,500

900

Jun 16; Jul 26

*Includes 2 full days at the Nadaam Festival


LAND OF THE FJORDS 6 DAY PREMIUM ESCORTED TOUR BERGEN – FLÅM – BALESTRAND – GEIRANGER – OSLO Discover breathtaking scenery on this little tour of Norway. Cruise the fjords, travel on the Bergen and Flåm Railways and explore quaint northern villages.

GEIRANGERFJORD

Guaranteed Departures Jun 9, 16, 23, 30; Jul 7, 14, 21, 28; Aug 4, 11, 18


Single Supplement

2,470

425

BALTIC REVELATION di

ove

co

ver

more...

more...

ver

EL TRAVHER C U VO ils page 4

VILNIUS – RIGA – TALLINN – HELSINKI – ST. PETERSBURG

di s

co

uple per co

deta


r more...

200

di

ove

$

r more...

sc

sc

di s

A comprehensive tour covering the Baltic States, Finland and Russia. From charming Vilnius and Riga, through medieval Tallinn, harbourside Helsinki and finally imperial St. Petersburg this tour features the highlights of this historic region.

Guaranteed Departures May 22, 29; Jun 5, 12, 19, 26 TALLINN

Jul 3, 10, 17, 24, 31; Aug 7, 14, 21, 28; Sep 4, 11

Per Person Twin Share 2,335

Single Supplement 1,075

2,215

955

RUSSIAN CAPITALS & THE GOLDEN RING re. .

per cou ple

TRAV VOUC EL HER d

ST. PETERSBURG – MOSCOW – GOLDEN RING MOSCOW

4

d isc

etails p age


.

200

$

o v e r mor e. . .

d isc

v e r mo

disc

over more

...

disco

o v e r mor e. ..

Combine the must-sees and highlights of Russia’s two iconic cities, Moscow and St. Petersburg with 3 days touring around the historic towns of Russia’s famed Golden Ring.

SERGIEV POSAD

Guaranteed Departures Jun 21; Jul 5 Jul 19, 26; Aug 2, 9

Per Person Twin Share 1,860 1,740

Single Supplement 955 795

FOR FULL DETAILS ON THESE TOURS VISIT OUR WEBSITE, CONTACT BEYOND TRAVEL OR SEE YOUR TRAVEL AGENT. Contact our destination specialists today: Australia 1300 363 554 • New Zealand 0800 550 065

21

INTRODUCING OUR LEGENDARY RAIL JOURNEYS LAKE BAIKAL

Welcome aboard the world’s great rail journeys: the Trans-Mongolian and Trans-Siberian. Experience fascinating destinations, rich traditions and diverse cultures as you journey across continents and time-zones on our legendary rail journeys. With over 21 years expertise Beyond Travel present a range of options suitable for independent travellers or those who prefer group travel; including PREMIUM PRIVATE RAIL JOURNEYS, SMALL GROUP RAIL JOURNEYS and TAILOR MADE RAIL TOURS. PREMIUM PRIVATE TRAIN JOURNEYS Board our private rail journeys and travel in style with dedicated tour directors, all on-board meals, extensive sightseeing with expert local guides, cabin attendants, educational lectures, all transfers and an on-board doctor! Featuring multiple stopovers en-route at 3, 4 and 5 star hotels with additional sightseeing and cultural programs also included. Choose from a range of cabins to suit different budgets, from the affordable Classic class to deluxe Bolshoi class with en-suite bathrooms. SMALL GROUP RAIL JOURNEYS An exciting adventure at an affordable price with the security and camaraderie of travelling in a group of like minded travellers. Your tour features a choice of first or second class cabins, stopovers en-route in centrally located 3 & 4 star hotels, sightseeing tours and transfers throughout. Our small group journeys depart regularly with the maximum group size being a very congenial 20 fellow travellers, although most departures average half that size! TAILOR-MADE RAIL TOURS The ideal option for independent travellers. Our expert team do the hard work for you, combining complicated rail schedules, visa letters and booking procedures with hotels, transfers and sightseeing along the way. We can tailor a tour to suit your travel preferences, with dozens of specialty services on offer such as: ger stays in Mongolia: Lake Baikal village packages: Kazan and Ekaterinburg stopovers and even farm stays in Siberia! Can’t find a rail journey to suit you? No problem, our expert team can build a rail package just for you, including special requests to far flung regions and extended stays. Plus, on all our rail journeys you have the security of access to our local partners en-route. For a quote, bookings and questions contact our destination specialists, your local travel agent, or visit the Beyond Travel website today.

22


TRANS-MONGOLIAN

TAILOR-MADE TRANS-MONGOLIAN RAIL JOURNEY BEIJING – ULAAN BAATAR – IRKUTSK – MOSCOW – ST. PETERSBURG or reverse 18 DAY GREAT VALUE TAILOR-MADE TOUR FINLAND

• St. Petersburg

TRANS-MONGOLIAN

RUSSIA

Moscow•

TRANS-SIBERIAN LAKE BAIKAL

•

Yekaterinburg

BELARUS

• Novosibirsk

UKRAINE

Irkutsk •

Khabarovsk• Ulan Ude

•

KAZAKHSTAN

• Ulaan Baatar MONGOLIA

Vladivostok•

GEORGIA

CHINA Beijing•

This tailor-made Trans-Mongolian is a suggestion only. It is FULLY FLEXIBLE so can be designed to suit your own particular needs. Decide on the duration of your journey, cities you want to visit (see pages 24 & 25 for ideas), excursions you wish to add and our destination specialists will package it all together for you. Give us a call today to begin the adventure of a lifetime! IRKUTSK

DAY 8

BENEFITS & INCLUSIONS • • • • • •

11 nights accommodation in 4 star hotels 1 night accommodation in a traditional ger tent 5 nights accommodation in 1st Class (2-berth) sleeper compartments Meals as specified: B = breakfast, L = lunch, D = dinner Comprehensive sightseeing as per itinerary 1st class rail tickets: Beijing-Ulaan Baatar, Ulaan Baatar-Irkutsk, Irkutsk-Moscow, Moscow-St. Petersburg • Arrival and departure transfers in each city • Services of local representatives DAY 1

BEIJING: Arrive in Beijing and transfer to Novotel Beijing Xin Qiao Hotel (4 star).

DAY 2

BEIJING: Full day CITY TOUR WITH FORBIDDEN CITY, TEMPLE OF HEAVEN & SUMMER PALACE. (B, L) .

DAY 3

BEIJING: Full day GREAT WALL OF CHINA & MING TOMBS TOUR. (B, L)

DAY 4

BEIJING – ULAAN BAATAR: Early morning transfer to the railway station for your overnight train to Mongolia. (B)

DAY 5

ULAAN BAATAR: Afternoon arrival in Ulaan Baatar with a transfer to Hotel Ramada (4 star). Afternoon NATIONAL MUSEUM TOUR and evening CONCERT WITH DINNER. (D)

DAY 6

ULAAN BAATAR: GANDAN MONASTERY and TERELJ NATIONAL PARK TOUR. Overnight at a traditional ger camp. (B, L, D)

DAY 7

ULAAN BAATAR – IRKUTSK: Return to Ulaan Baatar and transfer to the railway station for your overnight train to Russia. (B)

DAY 9

IRKUTSK: Arrival in Irkutsk with transfer to Courtyard by Marriott Hotel (4 star). Afternoon CITY WALKING TOUR with private guide. IRKUTSK: Full day privately guided LAKE BAIKAL & LISTVYANKA TOUR INCLUDING THE MUSEUM OF WOODEN ARCHITECTURE. (B)

DAY 10 IRKUTSK: Transfer with guide assistance to the railway station to commence your 3 day rail journey to Moscow. (B) DAYS 11-12 ON TRAIN: Admire the beautiful scenery and meet your fellow passengers whilst crossing five time zones and passing major Siberian cities such as Novosibirsk and Yekaterinburg. DAY 13 MOSCOW: Afternoon arrival in Moscow with transfer to Peter I Hotel (4 star). DAY 14 MOSCOW: Full day KREMLIN & ARMOURY MUSEUM, MOSCOW METRO & ARBAT STREET TOUR with private guide. (B) DAY 15 MOSCOW – ST. PETERSBURG: CITY TOUR WITH NOVODEVICHY CONVENT with private guide. Transfer to the railway station for a late afternoon highspeed train to St. Petersburg. On arrival, transfer to Petro Palace Hotel. (B) DAY 16 ST. PETERSBURG: Full day CITY TOUR WITH PETER & PAUL FORTRESS AND HERMITAGE MUSEUM with private guide (B) DAY 17 ST. PETERSBURG: PETERHOF PALACE AND GARDENS TOUR. Afternoon free time. (B) DAY 18 ST. PETERSBURG: Transfer to the airport or railway station. (B) Tour can commence between January & May on SATURDAYS Tour can commence between June & December on WEDNESDAYS Note: Rail schedules are based on 2015 and are subject to change at any time. Tailor-Made Trans-Mongolian Rail Journey


Single Supplement

Jan-Dec Prices are subject to seasonal adjustments.

from 5,000

from 2,700


23

SUGGESTED RAIL JOURNEY CITY PACKAGES

BEIJING

SPOTLIGHT ON BEIJING 4 days INDEPENDENT Both ancient and modern, Beijing is the ideal starting or ending point of the legendary Trans-Mongolian Railway. Our Beijing package includes return transfers, 3 nights accommodation in your choice of 3 or 4 star hotels with breakfast, sightseeing with lunch and entry fees, delivery of rail tickets, and the services of a local representative.

VLADIVOSTOK

Day 1: Arrival transfer to your hotel by private car Day 2: Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven & Summer Palace tours (B,L) Day 3: Great Wall & Ming Tombs tour (B,L) Day 4: Departure transfer with guide assistance to the train station (B) 3 star option from $630 per person 4 star option from $775 per person

SPOTLIGHT ON VLADIVOSTOK 3 days INDEPENDENT Russia’s largest port and gateway to the Pacific Ocean, Vladivostok is the starting or ending point of the legendary Trans-Siberian Railway. Our 3-day Vladivostok package includes private car transfers, 2 nights accommodation in your choice of 3 or 4 star hotels, daily breakfast, sightseeing with entry fees, delivery of rail tickets, and services of our local representative.

ULAAN BAATAR

Day 1: Arrival transfer to your hotel by private car Day 2: Walking tour of Vladivostok & visit to the Submarine Museum (B) Day 3: Departure transfer with guide assistance to the train station (B) 3 star option from $400 per person 4 star option from $530 per person

ULAAN BAATAR & TERELJ NATIONAL PARK 3 days INDEPENDENT This package is designed to fit rail schedules arriving from Beijing for a short stay before travelling on to Russia. Enjoy a night in a 3 or 4 star hotel, a ger stay in beautiful Terelj National Park, return transfers, most meals, privately guided sightseeing with entry fees, delivery of rail tickets, and services of our local representative.

Day 1: Greeting on arrival & transfer to your hotel; afternoon National Museum tour; evening concert with dinner (D) Day 2: Gandan Monastery & Terelj National Park tour; overnight at a traditional ger camp (B,L,D) Day 3: Return to Ulaan Baatar & transfer to the station (B) 3 star option from $760 per person 4 star option from $825 per person

MONGOLIA

MONGOLIA GER STAY & WILD HORSES 6 days INDEPENDENT This package suits train times for travellers arriving from Beijing and continuing on to Russia. Highlights include Ulaan Baatar, ger stays on the Mongolian steppes, wild horse watching and the ancient capital, Karakorum. Includes private guide and transport, hotel and ger accommodation, most meals, sightseeing with entry fees, delivery of rail tickets, and services of our local representative.

Day 1: Greeting on arrival & transfer to your hotel Day 2: Gandan Monastery tour; depart for Mongol Els Sand Dunes; overnight at a ger camp (B,L,D) Day 3: Excursion to ancient Karakorum & Erdene Zuu; overnight ger stay (B,L,D) Day 4: Travel to Kushtain Naruu National Park to view rare “Takhi” - Przewalski's wild horse; overnight ger stay (B,L,D) Day 5: Return to Ulaan Baatar, visiting local nomads en-route; afternoon visit to Bogd Khan Palace; traditional evening concert and dinner (B,L,D) Day 6: Free morning; afternoon transfer to the railway station (B) 3 star option from $1,625 per person 4 star option from $1,675 per person

ABOVE PRICES ARE INTENDED AS A GUIDE ONLY. FOR CURRENT RATES, TRAIN SCHEDULES AND DETAILED ITINERARIES PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE OR CONTACT BEYOND TRAVEL. 24


YEKATERINBURG

SPOTLIGHT ON YEKATERINBURG 2 days INDEPENDENT Yekaterinburg is associated with the execution site of Russia’s last czar and royal family, as well a being a unique location at the border between Asia and Europe. Our package includes return transfers, 1 night accommodation with breakfast, private sightseeing with entrance fees, delivery of rail tickets, and services of our local representative.

KAZAN

2 days INDEPENDENT Day 1: Greeting on arrival & transfer to your hotel Day 2: Private walking tour featuring the Kazan Kremlin; departure transfer with guide assistance (B) 3 star option from $200 per person 4 star option from $225 per person

IRKUTSK & LAKE BAIKAL 3 days INDEPENDENT Irkutsk is a major stop on the Trans-Siberian railway, known for its traditional wooden architecture and gate-way to spectacular Lake Baikal. Our package includes private car transfers, 2 nights accommodation in your selected hotel, daily breakfast, full day at Lake Baikal, delivery of rail tickets, and services of our local representative.

LAKE BAIKAL

3 star option from $300 per person 4 star option from $320 per person

SPOTLIGHT ON KAZAN The capital of Tartastan, Kazan bridges Central Asia and Europe and offers a unique blend of architectural and cultural styles. The UNESCOlisted Kremlin, built on the orders of Ivan the Terrible, overlooks the Volga River and contains Europe’s largest mosque. Our package includes private sightseeing with entrance fees, accommodation with breakfast, return transfers, delivery of rail tickets, and services of our local representative.

IRKUTSK

Day 1: Greeting on arrival & transfer to your hotel; private city walking tour Day 2: Romanovs in Yekaterinburg tour; departure transfer with guide assistance (B)

Day 1: Greeting on arrival & transfer to your hotel; Irkutsk walking tour Day 2: Private tour to Baikal, including Lystvyanka & Museum of Wooden Architecture (B) Day 4: Transfer with guide assistance to the train station (B) 3 star option from $520 per person 4 star option from $560 per person

LAKE BAKAL VILLAGE STAY 4 days INDEPENDENT This package starts in Irkutsk with extra time to explore Lake Baikal staying in the charming lake-side, wooden village of Bolshoe Koty, plus a night in the larger village of Lystvyanka. Includes hydrofoil tickets from Irkutsk, 3 nights hotel/chalet accommodation, sightseeing with entrance fees, transfers, meals as indicated, delivery of rail tickets, and services of our local representative.

Day 1: Greeting on arrival & transfer to your hotel; Irkutsk walking tour Day 2: Transfer to the pier; hydrofoil tickets to Bolshoe Koty; overnight chalet accommodation (B,L,D) Day 3: Free morning; hydrofoil to Lystvyanka; transfer to your chalet accommodation (B,L,D) Day 4: Lystvyanka and Wooden Architecture Museum tour; transfer to Irkutsk train station (B) 3 star option from $650 per person 4 star option from $660 per person Note: 3 or 4 star hotel options are for Irkutsk accommodation only. In Bolshoe Koty & Listvyanka your accommodation is 3 star. Available June to September only.

ABOVE PRICES ARE INTENDED AS A GUIDE ONLY. FOR CURRENT RATES, TRAIN SCHEDULES AND DETAILED ITINERARIES PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE OR CONTACT BEYOND TRAVEL.


25

TRANS-SIBERIAN

THE TRANS-SIBERIAN MOSCOW – IRKUTSK – LAKE BAIKAL – VLADIVOSTOK or reverse 13 DAY GREAT VALUE SMALL GROUP RAIL JOURNEY

SMALL GROUP TOUR

For travellers wanting to experience the classic Trans-Siberian and TransMongolian Railways but prefer not to travel independently these guaranteed departure journeys are the perfect answer. They offer travel with like-minded travellers, 2nd class rail, centrally located hotels and guided sightseeing with English-speaking local guides.

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES • SMALL GROUP TOUR

MOSCOW

DAY 6 IRKUTSK In the late evening arrive in Irkutsk where you will be met and transferred to Irkutsk Hotel (3 star).

BENEFITS & INCLUSIONS • 3 or 4 star hotel accommodation for 6 nights • 2nd class (4 berth) shared sleeper accommodation for 6 nights • Meals as specified: B = breakfast, L = lunch, D = dinner • Sightseeing as per itinerary with English-speaking local guides • Private vehicle arrival and departure transfers in each city

DAY 1 MOSCOW Welcome to Moscow. On arrival you will be met and transferred to the Holiday Inn Sokolniki (4 star). DAY 2 MOSCOW After breakfast, begin your exploration of Moscow. Enjoy a panoramic city tour to see some of Moscow’s highlights including the iconic ‘Seven Sisters’ buildings built by Stalin, Bolshoi Theatre, KGB Building, Russian "White House" and much more. In the afternoon visit some of the spectacular stations of the Moscow Metro ending at the iconic Red Square and Kremlin. Within the Kremlin you will visit one of its Cathedrals and the Armoury Museum with its ancient Russian regalia, Czar’s ceremonial robes, arms and armour and royal carriages. (B) DAY 3 MOSCOW After breakfast, check-out of your hotel for a transfer to the railway station for your afternoon train to Irkutsk. Settle in to your cabin as you travel through the suburbs of Moscow. (B) DAYS 4 & 5 ON-BOARD Two days on board when photo opportunities, making new friends and exchanging stories are part of the experience. On-board you can enjoy refreshments from the restaurant car or purchase food or souvenirs from the platform vendors during the frequent stops.

DAY 7 IRKUTSK – LAKE BAIKAL After breakfast, join your local guide for a city tour of Irkutsk to learn about the evolution of this Siberian city and see many interesting sights including Russian Orthodox churches and traditional wooden houses adorned with intricately carved wooden lacelike decorations. Continue to Listvyanka, on Lake Baikal, via lunch and a visit to an OpenAir Ethnographic Museum. The museum is a unique collection of the history and culture of Eastern Siberia and comprises more than 40 historical and architectural monuments and over 8,000 exhibits. On arrival in Listvyanka, check-in to Baikal Hotel (3 star). (B, L) DAY 8 LAKE BAIKAL – IRKUTSK Today meet your local guide for a short walking tour of Listvyanka to see the Observation Point, St Nikolas Church and Chersky View Point. This afternoon is at leisure before a transfer back to Irkutsk to board the late evening train to Vladivostok. (B) DAYS 9 & 10 ON BOARD Two days on board to relax, reflect upon the sights already seen and enjoy the Siberian scenery that will pass before you. DAY 11 VLADIVOSTOK After a final full day on board the train you will arrive in Vladivostok where you will be transferred to the Hyundai Hotel (4 star). Vladivostok is the last stop on the TransSiberian railway and is situated on a peninsula that extends into the Sea of Japan. Home to the Russian Pacific Fleet the city has large shipyards and is the chief cultural centre in the Russian Far East. DAY 12 VLADIVOSTOK After breakfast, meet your local guide for a city tour of Vladivostok to see all its major attractions. See the Vladivostok Railway Station, terminus of the Trans-Siberian Railway, the S-56 submarine on the harbour embankment, many historic, cultural and architectural buildings and the Oceanarium. (B) DAY 13 VLADIVOSTOK Your Trans-Siberian Rail Journey concludes after breakfast with a departure transfer for your onward journey. (B) 2016 GUARANTEED DEPARTURES Moscow-Vladivostok: Jan 15, 29; Feb 5, 19; Mar 11, 25; Apr 1, 15; May 13, 27; Jun 3, 17; Jul 1, 15; Aug 5, 19; Sep 9, 23; Oct 7, 21; Nov 11, 25; Dec 9, 23 Vladivostok-Moscow: Jan 12, 26; Feb 16; Mar 8, 22; Apr 12, 26; May 10, 24; Jun 14, 28; Jul 12, 26; Aug 16, 30; Sep 6, 20; Oct 18; Nov 8, 22; Dec 6, 20 The Trans-Siberian All Dates


Single Supplement (Hotels Only)

3,235

750

Upgrade to 1st Class (2-berth compartment) LAKE BAIKAL

26

1,050

For a map of this rail journey please see page 23.


TRANS-MONGOLIAN

THE TRANS-MONGOLIAN BEIJING – ULAAN BAATAR – IRKUTSK – LAKE BAIKAL – YEKATERINBURG – MOSCOW or reverse 16 DAY GREAT VALUE SMALL GROUP RAIL JOURNEY

SMALL GROUP TOUR

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES • SMALL GROUP TOUR BENEFITS & INCLUSIONS • • • • • •

3 or 4 star hotel accommodation for 8 nights Ger camp accommodation for 1 night 2nd class (4 berth) shared sleeper accommodation for 6 nights Meals as specified: B = breakfast, L = lunch, D = dinner Sightseeing as per itinerary with English-speaking local guides Private vehicle arrival and departure transfers in each city

DAY 1 BEIJING Welcome to Beijing. On arrival you will be met and transferred to the Hotel Dongfang (3 star). DAY 2 ON BOARD This morning you will be transferred to the railway station for the train to Ulaan Baatar. The remainder of the day is yours to relax on board as you embark on the first exciting leg of your journey along the world’s greatest railway. (B) DAY 3 ULAAN BAATAR – TERELJ NATIONAL PARK An afternoon arrival into the capital of Mongolia where your guide will be waiting to take you to Terelj National Park. The afternoon is then at leisure before spending the night in a traditional ger camp. (D) DAY 4 TERELJ NATIONAL PARK – ULAAN BAATAR Today experience the nomadic life-style of the parks’ inhabitants with a visit to a local family or you may hike to the famous Turtle Rock. This evening return to Ulaan Baatar, a city which is an interesting blend of Mongolian and Soviet-style architecture. Check-in at Hotel Platinum (4 star). ((B, L) DAY 5 ULAAN BAATAR Join your guide for a city tour which includes Gandan Monastery and its huge goldplated Buddha, a symbol of Mongolian national pride. Also visit the National History Museum, Bogd Khan’s Winter Palace, well known for its Gate of Peace, and Sukhbaatar Square. This evening, transfer to the railway station for your onward train into Russia. (B, L)

BEIJING

DAY 9 ON-BOARD A day when photo opportunities, making new friends and exchanging stories are part of the experience. DAY 10 YEKATERINBURG A full day on-board, before an early evening arrival in Yekaterinburg. Yekaterinburg, the gateway between European and Siberian Russia, was founded by Peter I and is infamous for being the place where the last Czar of Russia and his family were executed in 1918. Overnight at Hotel Marins Park (4 star). DAY 11 YEKATERINBURG Explore the wonderful sights of Yekaterinburg on a city tour including St. Katherine’s Chapel, Lenin Avenue, the Mineralogical Museum with its impressive collection of minerals, stones, and crystals and the Europe-Asia Border Obelisk, the place where east and west meet. (B) DAY 12 YEKATERINBURG Today is a free day for you to further explore the city before an afternoon transfer to the railway station for your train to Moscow. Board the train for a comfortable overnight journey through the beautiful Russian countryside. (B) DAY 13 MOSCOW This morning is yours to relax on board before the next and final exciting leg of your journey. On arrival in Moscow in the evening you will be met and transferred to Hotel Izmailovo (3 star). DAY 14 MOSCOW Begin your exploration of Moscow with a tour of some of the spectacular stations of the Moscow Metro. During a guided tour of the Kremlin you will visit one of its Cathedrals and the Armoury Museum with its ceremonial robes, gold and silverware by Russian, European and Eastern masters and royal carriages. (B) DAY 15 MOSCOW Today join a Hop-on, Hop-off bus tour of Moscow and see Moscow’s highlights including Red Square and the Kremlin, the iconic ‘Seven Sisters’ buildings built by Stalin, Bolshoi Theatre, KGB Building, Russian "White House" and much more. (B) DAY 16 MOSCOW Your Trans-Mongolian Rail Journey concludes after breakfast with a departure transfer for your onward journey. (B)

DAY 6 ON BOARD A full day on board to relax, make new friends and enjoy the new scenery that will pass before you.

2016 GUARANTEED DEPARTURES

DAY 7 IRKUTSK - LAKE BAIKAL An early morning arrival into Irkutsk where you will embark on a city tour and learn about the evolution of this Siberian city. Continue to Lake Baikal, with a stop at the Open-Air Ethnographic Museum which houses a unique collection of the history and culture of Eastern Siberia. Overnight at Baikal Hotel (3 star), Listvyanka.

Moscow-Beijing: Jan 15, 29; Feb 5, 19; Mar 11, 25; Apr 1, 15; May 13, 27; Jun 3, 17; Jul 15; Aug 5, 19; Sep 9, 23; Oct 7, 21; Nov 11, 25; Dec 9, 23

DAY 8 LAKE BAIKAL – IRKUTSK Today take a walking tour of Listvyanka to see the Observation Point, St Nikolas Church and Chersky View Point. This afternoon is at leisure before a transfer back to Irkutsk to board the late evening train to Yekaterinburg. (B)

Beijing-Moscow: Jan 12, 26; Feb 2, 16; Mar 8, 22; Apr 12, 26; May 10, 24; Jun 14, 28; Jul 26; Aug 16, 30; Sep 6, 20; Oct 4, 18; Nov 8, 22; Dec 6, 20

The Trans-Mongolian


All Dates

Single Supplement (Hotels Only)

5,225

Upgrade to 1st Class (2-berth compartment)

875 1,235

For a map of this rail journey please see page 23.


27

TRANS-MONGOLIAN

LAKE BAIKAL


CZAR’S GOLD PREMIUM PRIVATE RAIL JOURNEY MOSCOW TO BEIJING (16 DAYS) or BEIJING TO MOSCOW (15 DAYS)

This premium rail journey offers an exciting and comfortable adventure on the legendary Trans-Mongolian Railway at an affordable price. Travel 8,000 kilometres from Moscow’s Red Square to the imperial city of Beijing or vice versa on the journey of a lifetime!

YOUR PRIVATE TRAIN CABINS

NOSTALGIC COMFORT These newly built cabins (4 sqm) have been nostalgically furnished in Soviet-era style and offer two bunk beds, table and armchair. Two cabins share a small bathroom located in between with toilets and washrooms located at each end of the carriage.

CLASSIC

BOLSHOI

These 2-berth cabins (3.8 sqm) have single beds facing each other, a table below the window and ample storage space. Shared toilets are located at each end of the carriage with shared shower compartments in every second carriage.

These larger cabins (5.6 sqm) are equipped with two bunk beds (the lower being an extra wide berth), an armchair, table and wardrobe. Each cabin has an en-suite bathroom offering a wash basin, toilet and shower. Each carriage has 6 cabins.

SUPERIOR

BOLSHOI PLATINUM

These recently renovated 2-berth cabins (3.8sqm) have two single beds facing each other, a table below the window and ample storage space. Shared toilets are located at each end of the carriage and a shared shower compartment in every second carriage.

These newly introduced, deluxe cabins (7.2 sqm) feature the highest comfort on the Trans-Siberian Railway. Each cabin has facilities similar to the Bolshoi Class but with a full shower cabin, WC and wash basin. Each carriage has 5 cabins.

For a map of this rail journey please see page 23. 28


BENEFITS & INCLUSIONS • Dedicated Tour Director, professional group guides and knowledgeable local guides • Combined train and hotel accommodation with alternate nights taken either on-board or in 3, 4 or 5 star hotels* • Extensive sightseeing program accompanied by local guides • Educational lectures on local culture and history • All meals on-board served in the lovely restaurant carriage with the finest local cuisine • Dedicated carriage attendant serving snacks and drinks • Daytimes prioritised for sightseeing, with long-distance journeys travelled at night • Arrival and departure transfers (conditions apply) • Hotel transfers at intermediate destinations including porterage service • Border formalities organised on-board the train • Detailed travel documents, travel guides and personal log book MONGOLIA BEIJING

DAY 1 MOSCOW Welcome to Moscow! Your rail journey commences with an arrival transfer to your centrally located, 4-star hotel (conditions apply). Meet your Tour Director and fellow travellers as you discover the Russian capital wonderfully illuminated on a night tour of the city. Before dinner, stroll across Red Square and experience some of Moscow’s elaborate metro stations. (D)

DAY 11 MONGOLIAN ALPS After breakfast, a coach excursion reveals the beautiful countryside of the Mongolian Alps. Lunch will be served in a typical ger camp of nomadic herdsmen, and a horseback riding show will be performed for you. In the evening continue to the Chinese border. (B, L, D)

DAY 2 MOSCOW Your city tour includes the Kremlin and its magnificent cathedrals, St. Basil’s Cathedral, GUM department store, Lenin’s Mausoleum on Red Square, as well as the Bolshoi Theatre and KGB building. In the evening, board your private train, the Czar’s Gold, and depart for Kazan. (B, L, D)

DAY 12 GOBI DESERT Reach the Chinese border at lunch time where you will transfer to a modern Chinese train for the remainder of your rail journey. (Note: Cabins are standard 2 or 4 berth and the train does not have Nostalgic Comfort or Bolshoi carriages. Single and twin accommodation can not be guaranteed, except for those clients travelling in Nostalgic Comfort cabins or above.) (B, L, D)

DAY 3 KAZAN On arrival in Kazan, the ancient capital of Tartarstan, visit the city’s Kremlin and learn about the turbulent history of the Tartars, Cossacks and Russians. Your train resumes its journey in the evening. (B, L, D)

DAY 13 BEIJING After observing Chinese rural life from your cabin window, you arrive in Beijing in the morning. Check-in to your 4-star hotel and begin your exploration of the Chinese capital. (B, L)

DAY 4 YEKATERINBURG A short tour of Yekaterinburg visits the newly erected Cathedral on the Blood, built as a memorial to the last Russian Czar, Nicholas II, and his family who were executed here. Continue your journey through the vast steppes of Western Siberia. (B, L, D)

DAY 14 BEIJING A morning city tour will show you the Temple of Heaven as well as the huge expanse of Tiananmen Square. A guided tour through the interior of the Forbidden City follows in the afternoon. (B, L)

DAY 5 NOVOSIBIRSK As you reach Novosibirsk in the heart of Siberia, you will be welcomed by the Russian tradition of bread and salt. Your city tour includes a visit to Lenin Square and the Opera House. (B, L, D)

DAY 15 BEIJING Today’s highlight will be an excursion to the Great Wall of China. Your tour also includes a tour of a pearl cultivation farm and the ancient Ming Tombs, burial site of 13 emperors of the Ming Dynasty. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Peking duck at a farewell dinner. (B, L, D)

DAY 6 ON-BOARD Relax, chat with new friends and admire the scenery as your train travels through Siberia. Your on-board chefs demonstrate their skills with their speciality Czar’s Feast where you can enjoy caviar and vodka tasting. (B, L, D)

DAY 16 BEIJING Your Czar’s Gold rail journey concludes after breakfast with a departure transfer (conditions apply) to the airport. (B)

DAY 7 IRKUTSK Irkutsk is the capital of eastern Siberia and on a city tour you will discover the traditional wooden architecture the region is known for. After lunch, take an excursion to an open-air museum that highlights Siberian life in times past. Dinner in a local restaurant before checking-in to your 3-star hotel. (B, L, D) DAY 8 LAKE BAIKAL Drive to Listvyanka on the shores of picturesque Lake Baikal, the world’s largest freshwater lake. From here take a boat ride to Port Baikal where you will meet your train. A barbecue dinner will be served by the side of the lake. (B, L, D) DAY 9 ULAN UDE Travel along the shores of Lake Baikal and then through the mountain steppes towards the Mongolian border. A short stop is made in Ulan Ude for a tour of this interesting town which is home to the ethnic Buryat people. (B, L, D) DAY 10 ULAAN BATAAR Arrive in Mongolia’s capital and embark on a city tour. Visit the impressive Buddhist Gandan Monastery, the open-air railway museum and the Lama Museum. Spend the night in a centrally located, 3-star hotel. (B, L, D)

Note: The 15 day itinerary from Beijing to Moscow omits 1 night in Beijing. 2016 GUARANTEED DEPARTURES Moscow-Beijing (16 days): May 14; Jun 11; Jul 9; Aug 13; Sep 10 Beijing-Moscow (15 days): May 22; Jun 19; Jul 17; Aug 21; Sep 18 Moscow to Beijing Per Person Single Twin Share Supplement Classic* Superior Nostalgic Comfort Bolshoi Bolshoi Platinum High Season Surcharge

11,280 4,460 11,880 4,980 15,980 8,150 21,350 12,390 25,210 14,250 (Jul, Aug & Sep departures)

Beijing to Moscow Per Person Single Twin Share Supplement 11,070 4,300 11,670 4,820 15,780 7,980 20,960 12,200 24,800 14,070 350 per person

*Triple and Quad share cabins available. Please contact Beyond Travel for prices. Note: Bolshoi and Bolshoi Platinum guests will be accommodated in 5 star hotels in Moscow and Beijing and upgraded room categories in 4 star hotels in Irkutsk and Ulaan Baatar.


29

INTRODUCING OUR PACKAGES & TAILOR-MADE TOURS GEORGIA

Experience the best of Russia, Scandinavia & Central Asia on our carefully crafted range of PACKAGES and TAILOR MADE TOURS in comfort and style! With 21 years experience we offer the largest range of services and our expert team is ready to help you explore these diverse and fascinating destinations with ease. From a ferry and train package in Scandinavia or Russia and a private tour of Central Asia to city stays in Moscow, St Petersburg, Copenhagen & Helsinki, Beyond Travel has the region covered. TAILOR MADE TOURS Carefully researched and planned by Beyond Travel to show you the best of each destination, along with free time to explore at your own pace. RUSSIA

Enjoy the convenience of pre-booked rail, ferry or coach travel, carefully selected hotels, transfers, visa letters and sightseeing packaged into one easy and enjoyable tour. GRAND & SPOTLIGHT PACKAGES Explore fascinating cities and regional highlights. Take advantage of our expertise and let us do the work for you, packaging transfers, sightseeing and your choice of hotel into one great value and hassle free city stay. Look out for our exclusive bonus offers, including FREE dinners and performances available only when you book a Beyond Travel package. HOTELS, TOURS & TRANSFERS Beyond Travel offers you a great range of hand-picked hotels, transfers and sightseeing tours to choose from, with many more options available.

UZBEKISTAN

CAN’T FIND WHAT YOU NEED? All our packages and tailor-made tours are available in either direction and can be fully customised to suit your travel preferences with many other services available. CREATE YOUR OWN TOUR with Beyond Travel. Just let us know what you need and our expert team will assist you to build a tour or create a special package just for you. Also available are Bolshoi Theatre tickets, visa free St Petersburg by ferry packages, St Petersburg private tours for cruise passengers, high-speed ‘Sapsan’ train tickets, Baltic and Scandinavian ferry services, rail packages and so much more.

NORWAY

30

For a free quote, bookings and questions, contact our destination specialists, your local travel agent, or visit the Beyond Travel website today.


GRAND RUSSIA ST. PETERSBURG – VELIKY NOVGOROD – MOSCOW or reverse 9 DAY TAILOR-MADE TOUR

• St. Petersburg ESTONIA

• Novgorod

RUSSIA LATVIA BELARUS

Moscow• ST. PETERSBURG

DAY 3 ST. PETERSBURG After breakfast, visit the former Winter Palace on your Hermitage Museum Tour. Your guide will introduce you to its immense collection of over 2.7 million treasures from around the world. Free time, or spend the remainder of the afternoon at the Hermitage. (B)

BENEFITS & INCLUSIONS • Hotel accommodation in your preferred category • Early check-in at your hotel in Moscow

DAY 4 ST. PETERSBURG Today, take an excursion to Peterhof Palace and Gardens. This grand summer palace, built by Peter the Great, has a perfect location on the Gulf of Finland. See the many lavishly furnished staterooms and stroll through the beautiful gardens to see the wonderful fountains and gold statues of the Grand Cascade. Your evening is at leisure. (B)

• Meals as specified: B = breakfast • Sightseeing as per itinerary • Private vehicle transfer: St. Petersburg to Novgorod • 1st class (2 berth) overnight sleeper: Novgorod to Moscow • Private transfers between airport, hotels and railway stations • Services of local representatives

DAY 1 ST. PETERSBURG Your tour commences with an arrival transfer to Angleterre Hotel (4 star) or Cronwell Inn Stremyannaya (3 star). The rest of the day is at leisure to begin exploring Russia’s elegant ‘Window to the West.’ DAY 2 ST. PETERSBURG This morning, enjoy a guided St. Petersburg City Tour with Peter and Paul Fortress. Experience the city’s imperial 18th century architecture of palaces, mansions and cathedrals including a drive along the city’s main boulevard, Nevsky Prospekt. You will also visit Peter and Paul Fortress, foundation of the city in 1703 and burial place of the Romanov Dynasty. Afternoon and evening at leisure. (B)

DAY 5 ST. PETERSBURG – VELIKY NOVGOROD Meet your guide and depart on a Pushkin and Catherine Palace Tour. This former aristocratic town is home to the baroque Catherine Palace with its ornate façade and famed Amber Room. Then take a scenic 3 hour drive through the countryside to Veliky Novgorod and check-in at Park Inn Veliky Novgorod (4 star) or Hotel Volkhov (3 star). (B) DAY 6 VELIKY NOVGOROD - MOSCOW After breakfast embark on a Novgorod City Tour and discover this former capital of ‘Old Rus.’ See the ancient Kremlin, St. Sophia’s Cathedral, Yuriev Monastery and the Museum of Wooden Architecture. You have free time in the afternoon to further explore before an evening transfer to the railway station for your overnight journey to Moscow. (B) DAY 7 MOSCOW On arrival in Moscow, transfer to Marriott Tverskaya Hotel (4 star) or Hotel Budapest (3 star) for an early check-in. After breakfast, explore the political and economic capital on a Moscow City Tour with Novodevichy Convent. See the major sights of Moscow including Red Square, the Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral, Moscow University and Novodevichy Convent. Afternoon and evening at leisure. (B) DAY 8 MOSCOW Today your guide will take you on a Kremlin and Armoury Museum Tour. Visit Russia’s great seat of power with its Russian Orthodox cathedrals, Ivan the Great’s Bell Tower and the Armoury Museum, treasury of Russian czars. In the afternoon, explore Stalin’s grand underground rail system of marble, mosaics and sculptures, together with one of Moscow’s premier shopping districts, on a Moscow Metro & Arbat Street Tour. (B) DAY 9 MOSCOW Your tour concludes with a departure transfer for your onward journey. (B)

Grand Russia Departs Daily Jan-Apr / Nov-Dec May-Jul Aug-Oct VELIKY NOVGOROD

4 Star Hotels Per Person Single Twin Share Supplement 2,595 2,995 2,695

1,975 2,350 2,025

3 Star Hotels Per Person Single Twin Share Supplement 2,195 2,495 2,350

1,550 1,750 1,645

Prices are subject to seasonal adjustments. Special weekend rates may apply.


31

ST. PETERSBURG VISA FREE HELSINKI – ST. PETERSBURG – HELSINKI 5 DAY TAILOR-MADE TOUR

72 hours Visa Free to Russia!!

FINLAND

Helsinki • • St. Petersburg

ND F FINLA GULF O

ESTONIA

RUSSIA LATVIA

BENEFITS & INCLUSIONS • Hotel accommodation in your preferred category including breakfast • Overnight ferry – Helsinki-St. Petersburg-Helsinki – in a Category A cabin with private facilities • Arrival and departure private vehicle transfers in St. Petersburg • Sightseeing as itinerary • Services of a local representative

In accordance with Russian visa regulations passengers arriving and departing by ferry into St. Petersburg are able to stay in this majestic city for up to 72 hours visa free! Book this pre-arranged package and Beyond Travel will provide you with all the services and documentation to visit Peter the Great’s Imperial city without the need for a Russian visa. DAY 1 HELSINKI – ST. PETERSBURG Your tour commences as you depart Helsinki at 19.00 on the Princess Maria overnight ferry to St. Petersburg. Check-in to your cabin and then take advantage of the ships facilities. DAY 2 ST. PETERSBURG After a relaxing night’s sleep arrive in St. Petersburg at 08.30. Clear customs and immigration and meet your private vehicle and guide for a tour of this imperial city. Drive along Nevsky Prospect, the city's main boulevard, to the Winter Palace (now the Hermitage Museum). See Kazan Cathedral, the imposing St Isaac's Cathedral, Mariinsky Theatre and the Peter & Paul Fortress, site of the first settlement of St.

HERMITAGE

Petersburg in 1703. At the end of your tour check-in to Hotel Angleterre (4 star) or Cronwell Inn Stremyannaya (3 star) with the afternoon free for your own exploration. DAY 3 ST. PETERSBURG This morning take a tour of the Hermitage Museum, located in the former Winter Palace of the czars. The museum contains an immense collection of over 2.7 million pieces of art and your tour will give you an introduction to its astonishing collection of European, pre-historic, Egyptian and Oriental art. After the tour you may stay in the museum or make your own way back to your hotel. (B) DAY 4 ST. PETERSBURG – HELSINKI After breakfast check-out from your hotel and you have a free day to further explore St. Petersburg. Alternatively, pre-book a tour of Peterhof Palace on the Gulf of Finland or Catherine Palace in Pushkin. Details of both tours can be found on pages 40 & 41. In the evening transfer back to the port for your overnight ferry to Helsinki. Settle into your cabin as you cruise the Baltic Sea. (B) DAY 5 HELSINKI Your tour concludes on disembarkation in Helsinki. St. Petersburg Visa Free Departs May-Dec

4 Star Hotels Per Person Single Twin Share Supplement

3 Star Hotels Per Person Single Twin Share Supplement

May, Aug, Nov, Dec on EVEN dates Jun, Jul, Sep, Oct on ODD dates May-Jun Jul-Aug Sep-Dec

1,195 1,295 1,025

1,025 1,150 895

975 1,125 925

795 975 750

Prices are subject to seasonal adjustments.

PETERHOF PALACE

32


SCENIC TOUR OF SCANDINAVIA COPENHAGEN – OSLO – BERGEN – STOCKHOLM – KALMAR – MALMO – COPENHAGEN 14 DAY TAILOR-MADE TOUR • Flam

Bergen •

Q

SWEDEN

• Oslo

Stockholm •

NORWAY

BALTIC SEA

AIR RAIL FERRY/BOAT

• Kalmar

DENMARK NORTH SEA

Copenhagen • •

Malmö COPENHAGEN

BENEFITS & INCLUSIONS • • • • •

12 nights 3 & 4 star hotel accommodation Meals as specified: B = breakfast Overnight ferry: Copenhagen-Oslo in a seaview cabin 2nd class rail tickets: Stockholm – Kalmar – Malmo - Copenhagen Regular sightseeing tours: Copenhagen, Kronborg Castle, Oslo, Bergen & Stockholm • Norway in a Nutshell 1 day tour (Oslo – Bergen) • Services of local representatives

DAY 8 BERGEN Bergen has been a great centre of trade throughout the ages. The Hanseatic merchants operated in the Bryggen area, which is now included on UNESCO's World Heritage List. Join ‘The Bergen Express’, a sightseeing tour of the city, to see the Hanseatic Museum, Hansa Brewery, King Haakons Hall and the Rosenkrantz Tower and finally the wooden buildings of Bryggen and the fish market. (B) DAY 9 BERGEN - STOCKHOLM Make your own way to the airport for your flight (own expense) to Stockholm. Stockholm, with 750 years of history, is one of the most beautiful capitals in the world, built on 14 islands and connected by 57 bridges. Make your own way to Comfort Hotel Stockholm (3 star) or similar. (B)

DAY 1 COPENHAGEN Welcome to Copenhagen! On arrival make your own way to Hotel Alexandra (4 star) or similar. Copenhagen is one of Europe's oldest capitals and after settling into your room you may commence your exploration of the Danish capital.

DAY 10 STOCKHOLM Today join a regular Stockholm in a Nutshell sightseeing tour which combines a coach tour of the city with a cruise on the harbour. Pass all the city highlights such as Stockholm City Hall, Royal Palace, Gamla Stan (Old Town) and the Royal Djurgården. Follow this with a cruise along the Djurgården canal and around the island of the same name. (B)

DAY 2 COPENHAGEN Today, join a regular sightseeing tour which includes such landmarks as Tivoli Gardens, Christiansborg Palace, Little Mermaid and Amalienborg Palace to enjoy the changing of the guards. Continue with a cruise of the harbour passing Copenhagen’s many beautiful churches, castles, modern architecture and many other sights. (B)

DAY 11 STOCKHOLM - KALMAR Take the train from Stockholm to Kalmar, which was once an important Swedish town. Its historical past is an integral part of the character of the city and Kalmar Castle, the Old Town and Kvarnholmen tell the tale of mighty Kings and Queens. Overnight at First Hotel Witt (4 star) or similar. (B)

DAY 3 COPENHAGEN This morning join a regular sightseeing tour to Frederiksborg and Kronborg castles. At Frederiksborg visit the National History Museum s royal art collection, the Chapel of Orders and the Knight s Hall. Continue on to impressive Kronborg Castle, the setting of Shakespeare s ‘Hamlet.’ (B)

DAY 12 KALMAR – MALMÖ Another train journey today, this time to Malmo a charming city where a visit to Malmöhus Castle is recommended. In 1434 King Erik VII of Denmark had the castle of Myntergaarden built where the Malmöhus Castle stands today. Overnight at Comfort Hotel Malmö (3 star) or similar. (B)

DAY 4 COPENHAGEN After breakfast you have the day at leisure in Copenhagen. Alternatively, take an optional private tour to Odense, on the island of Funen, home town of Hans Christian Andersen. (B)

DAY 13 MALMÖ - COPENHAGEN Return to Copenhagen by train from Malmo where you will make your own way to Hotel Alexandra (4 star) or similar. Spend your day at leisure exploring the old harbour ‘Nyhavn’, or the pedestrian shopping streets of Strøget and its surroundings. (B)

DAY 5 COPENHAGEN - OSLO A free morning in Copenhagen before making your own way to the port for the overnight ferry to Oslo. This evening enjoy all the on- board facilities. (B)

DAY 14 COPENHAGEN Your tour ends after breakfast on check-out from your hotel. (B)

DAY 6 OSLO After breakfast your ferry docks in Oslo. On disembarkation join a half day sightseeing tour of Norway’s capital. Sights include Vigeland Sculpture Park, the ski jump at Holmenkollen and the Viking Ship Museum. Overnight at Comfort Hotel Børsparken (3 star) or similar. (B) DAY 7 OSLO – FLAM RAILWAY - BERGEN An early start to the day as you take the train from Oslo to Myrdal. From here take the scenic Flåm Railway down to the fjord enjoying views of the most magnificent mountain scenery in Norway. Continue your journey by boat from Flåm along the Aurlandsfjord and into the Naeroyfjord, the narrowest fjord in Europe. Arrive in Bergen in the early evening and check-in at Augustin Hotel Bergen (4 star) or similar. (B)

Scenic Tour of Scandinavia Departs Daily May-Sep


Single Supplement

3,995

1,665

Other Tailor-Made Tours Available: Four Capitals of Scandinavia - 12 Days: Copenhagen (2 nights) – Overnight Ferry (1 night) – Oslo (2 nights) – Bergen (2 nights) – Stockholm (2 nights) – Overnight Ferry (1 night) - Helsinki (1 night) from 3,150 per person Prices are subject to seasonal adjustments. PRICE EXCLUDES: Bergen to Stockholm flight.


33

NORWEGIAN PEARLS

OSLO, TRONDHEIM & THE HURTIGRUTEN

OSLO – FLAM – BALESTRAND (SOGNEFJORD) – BERGEN or reverse

OSLO – TRONDHEIM – HURTIGRUTEN CRUISE – BERGEN or reverse

5 DAY TAILOR-MADE TOUR

5 DAY TAILOR-MADE TOUR Norwegian Pearls Oslo, Trondheim & The Hurtigruten RAIL CRUISE

• Trondheim • Molde

Bergen • NORTH SEA

Balestrand • • Flam

NORWAY

SWEDEN

• Oslo

FLAM RAILWAY

AURLANDSFJORD



• • • • • • •

• 3 nights 4 star hotel accommodation

4 star hotel accommodation Meals as specified: B = breakfast, D = dinner 2nd class rail tickets: Oslo – Myrdal Flam Railway Fjord Cruise: Flam – Balestrand - Bergen Fjærland Fjord & Glaciers Tour Services of local representatives

• 1 night Hurtigruten cruise, outside cabin • Meals as specified: B = breakfast • 2nd class rail tickets: Oslo – Trondheim • Services of local representatives

DAY 1 OSLO Welcome to Oslo! On arrival make your own way to Thon Hotel Opera (4 star) or similar. After settling into your hotel start your exploration of the Norwegian capital. We recommend embarking on an Oslo city tour (details page 47) to visit the famous Vigeland Sculpture Park, Viking ship Museum and the Kon-tiki Museum.

DAY 1 OSLO Welcome to Oslo! On arrival make your own way to Thon Hotel Opera (4 star) or similar. After settling into your hotel start your exploration of the Norwegian capital. We recommend embarking on an Oslo city tour (details page 47) to visit the famous Vigeland Sculpture Park, Viking ship Museum and the Kon-tiki Museum.

DAY 2 OSLO – FLÅM RAILWAY – SOGNEFJORD – BALESTRAND An early start to the day as you take the train from Oslo to Myrdal. From here take the scenic Flam Railway down to the fjord passing spectacular scenery of cascading waterfalls, sheer mountain cliffs and snowclad peaks. Continue your journey by express boat along the Aurlandsfjord and Sognefjord, the world’s longest and deepest fjord to Balestrand. Dinner and overnight at Kvikne’s Hotel (4 star), superbly located on the banks of the fjord and surrounded by mountains. (B, D)

DAY 2 OSLO – TRONDHEIM After breakfast make your way to the railway station for the Dovrebanen train to Trondheim. This railway passes over the Dovre mountain plateau through historic towns and is Norway’s second highest line after the Bergen Railway. After check-in at Clarion Collection Hotel Bakeriet (4 star) or similar, take the rest of the evening to discover the sights of this medieval city. (B)

DAY 3 BALESTRAND After breakfast take a Fjærland Fjord & Glaciers tour which includes a cruise along the Fjærland fjord, a 30 kilometre long branch of the Sognefjord and a visit to the Norwegian Glacier Museum, with its interactive displays of glaciers and how they have sculptured the Norwegian landscape and fjords. Continue to the Supphellebreen and Bøyabreen Glaciers, both branches of the Jostedalsbreen Glacier, Europe’s largest which glides at a speed of 2 metres per day. Return to Balestrand for dinner. (B, D) DAY 4 BALESTRAND – BERGEN After breakfast depart by boat from Balestrand along the Sognefjord and the west coast of Norway to Bergen. The remainder of the day is at leisure in Norway’s charming second city. Overnight at Augustin Hotel (4 star) or similar. DAY 5 BERGEN Your tour ends after breakfast on check-out from your hotel. (B) Norwegian Pearls Departs Daily May-Sep


Single Supplement

1,725

395

DAY 3 TRONDHEIM - HURTIGRUTEN Make your own way from the hotel to the Hurtigruten pier for embarkation of your overnight cruise from Trondheim to Bergen. As you depart at 10.00am you pass the islands of Munkholmen and Hitra and stop at Kristiansand before crossing to Molde, known as the ‘city of roses’ with its unusually rich, lush plant life courtesy of its Gulf Stream location. Overnight in an outside cabin. (B) DAY 4 HURTIGRUTEN – BERGEN Breakfast is served on-board as you cruise through the Bergen archipelago before arriving in Bergen itself. With a 900 year-old history the city is well known as being a great centre of trade throughout the ages. The Hanseatic merchants operated in the Bryggen area, which is now included on UNESCO's World Heritage List. A short tour on the Bergen Express sightseeing train (not included) is recommended to give you an overall impression of the city. Overnight at Clarion Hotel Admiral (4 star) or similar. (B) DAY 5 BERGEN Your tour ends after breakfast on check-out from your hotel. (B) Oslo, Trondheim & the Hurtigruten Departs Daily


Single Supplement

from only 1,735

from only 265

Also Available: Bergen to Oslo or Bergen to Bergen

Jun-Sep


Prices are subject to seasonal adjustments. Cabin upgrades available on request.

34


SCENIC SCANDINAVIA & THE HURTIGRUTEN STOCKHOLM – COPENHAGEN – OSLO – KIRKENES – HURTIGRUTEN CRUISE – BERGEN – OSLO or reverse 18 DAY TAILOR-MADE TOUR Vardo • Kirkenes •

LOFOTEN ISLANDS

AIR RAIL CRUISE FERRY

• Tromso

• 11 nights 4 star hotel accommodation • 5 nights Hurtigruten cruise, outside cabin

NORWEGIAN SEA

• Meals as specified: B = breakfast, L = lunch, D = dinner

SEVEN SISTERS

Q

• Overnight ferry: Copenhagen-Oslo in a seaview cabin

Trondheim • FINLAND

• Bergen

Balestrand • • Flam

NORWAY


SWEDEN

• Oslo

DENMARK

NORTH Copenhagen • SEA

Stockholm •

BALTIC SEA

• 2nd class rail tickets: Stockholm Copenhagen • Regular sightseeing tours: Stockholm, Copenhagen & Oslo • Sognefjord in a Nutshell 2 day tour (Bergen – Balestrand - Oslo) • Private vehicle transfers as specified • Services of local representatives THE HURTIGRUTEN

DAY 1 STOCKHOLM Welcome to Stockholm! Your tour commences with an arrival transfer to Hotel Kung Carl (4 star) or similar. Stockholm, with 750 years of history, is one of the most beautiful capitals in the world, built on 14 islands and connected by 57 bridges.

DAY 11 CRUISE: NORTH CAPE - TROMSO Continue to Hammerfest, Norway’s former polar capital, and through the beautiful Lyngenfjord. Arrive in charming Tromsø, known as ‘the Paris of the North,’ where a number of optional tours will be offered. (B, L, D)

DAY 2 STOCKHOLM Today join a regular Stockholm sightseeing tour and harbor cruise. Pass all the city highlights such as City Hall, Royal Palace, Gamla Stan (Old Town) and the Royal Djurgården. Follow this with a cruise along the Djurgården canal. (B)

DAY 12 CRUISE: LOFOTEN ISLANDS The daylight-sailing through the Lofoten Islands is a highlight. The region is renowned for its natural beauty with steep mountains and small, picturesque fishing villages. (B, L, D)

DAY 3 STOCKHOLM A day at leisure in Stockholm. We recommend a visit to the royal palace of Drottningholm, home to Sweden's royal family. (B)

DAY 13 CRUISE: ACROSS THE ARCTIC CIRCLE Celebrate crossing the Arctic Circle with a traditional ‘rite of passage’ ceremony on-deck before sailing past the Seven Sisters mountain range. (B, L, D)

DAY 4 STOCKHOLM - COPENHAGEN Make your way to the railway station for the train to Copenhagen. On arrival make your own way to Admiral Hotel (4 star) or similar. Spend your day at leisure exploring the old harbour of ‘Nyhavn,’ or the pedestrian mall of Strøget. (B)

DAY 14 CRUISE: TRONDHEIM Today explore Trondheim before cruising into the majestic Trondheimsfjord and onto Kristiansund, famous for its fishing industry. (B, L, D)

DAY 5 COPENHAGEN Today, join a regular sightseeing tour which includes such landmarks as Tivoli Gardens, Christiansborg Palace, Little Mermaid and Amalienborg. Continue with a harbour cruise passing Copenhagen’s many beautiful churches, castles, modern architecture and many other sights. (B) DAY 6 COPENHAGEN - OSLO A free morning in Copenhagen before making your own way to the port for the overnight ferry to Oslo. (B) DAY 7 OSLO On disembarkation in Oslo join a half day sightseeing tour of Norway’s capital. Sights include Vigeland Sculpture Park, Holmenkollen and the Viking Ship Museum. Overnight at Grand Hotel Oslo (4 star) or similar. (B) DAY 8 OSLO After breakfast you have a full day at leisure to further explore the capital of Norway. (B) DAY 9 OSLO - KIRKENES Make your own way to the airport for your flight (own expense) to Kirkenes in northern Norway. On arrival meet your driver for a transfer to Thon Hotel Kirkenes (4 star) or similar. (B) Day 10 CRUISE: KIRKENES Transfer by private vehicle to the pier to join your Hurtigruten cruise ship. Cruise south to Vardø, Norway’s easternmost port, Båtsfjord and Berlevåg, the hometown of one of Norway’s most famous men’s choirs. (B, L, D)

DAY 15 CRUISE: BERGEN Cruise this morning into the Nordfjord and Sognefjord and then on through the Bergen archipelago. On arrival make your way to Clarion Collection Hotel No. 13 (4 star) or similar. (B) DAY 16 BERGEN - BALESTRAND After breakfast depart by express-boat along Norway’s west coast and into the Sognefjord to Balestrand. Dinner and overnight at Kvikne’s Hotel (4 star), superbly located on the banks of the fjord and surrounded by mountains. (B, D) DAY 17 BALESTRAND – SOGNEFJORD – FLÅM RAILWAY - OSLO Continue your journey along the Sognefjord, the world’s longest and deepest fjord, and the Aurlandsfjord to Flam. From here take the scenic Flam Railway up onto the plateau passing spectacular scenery of cascading waterfalls and sheer mountain cliffs. At Myrdal take the train to Oslo arriving in the late evening. Overnight at Grand Hotel Oslo (4 star) or similar. (B) DAY 18 OSLO Your tour concludes with a departure transfer for your onward journey. (B) Scenic Scandinavia & Hurtigruten Departs Daily


May-Sep from only 8,920 Price, based on high season, is a guide only and will depend on the departure date, Hurtigruten cruise ship and cabin type selected. Please contact us for a quote. PRICE EXCLUDES: Oslo to Kirkenes flight.


35

PEARLS OF UZBEKISTAN TASHKENT – SAMARKAND – BUKHARA – KHIVA – URGENCH – TASHKENT 8 DAY PRIVATELY GUIDED TAILOR-MADE TOUR AIR

ARAL SEA

CAR / MINIVAN RAIL

KAZAKHSTAN

Q

Urgench • Khiva•

• Tashkent

UZBEKISTAN

Bukhara• Samarkand •

N STA GYZ KYR

TURKMENISTAN TAJIKISTAN KHIVA

DAY 3 SAMARKAND Today your guide will take you on a tour of this remarkable city. Begin with Ulughbek’s Observatory and the Shakhi-Zinda ensemble, a collection of tombs and mausoleums dating from the 14th and 15th centuries. The day’s highlight is famous Registan Square, a vast open square flanked by three richly decorated madrasas. Continue to Bibi Khanum Mosque, one of the largest and most lavish ever built, and the 13th century Gur Emir Mausoleum. This evening enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. (B, D)

BENEFITS & INCLUSIONS • • • • • • • • •

Fully escorted by English speaking guide 3 or 4 star hotel accommodation Meals as specified: B = breakfast, D = dinner 1 litre of mineral water per day Sightseeing as per itinerary Business class rail tickets: Tashkent to Samarkand Transportation by private vehicle: Samarkand to Urgench Economy class flight including taxes: Urgench to Tashkent Arrival and departure transfers

DAY 4 SAMARKAND - BUKHARA This morning drive to Bukhara with stops en route at the 12th century Vabkent Minaret and the Gijduvan Ceramic Centre. Once the former capital of the powerful Emirate of Bukhara the city has more than 140 architectural monuments and is considered a ‘town museum,’ with a history dating back over 2,300 years. Check-in at Hotel Asia (4 star) or Hotel Lyabi House (3 star) with dinner at the Lyabi House restaurant. (B, D)

DAY 1 TASHKENT Your tour commences with an arrival transfer to Hotel Gloria (4 star) or Hotel Le Grand Plaza (3 star). After check-in embark on a city tour of the Uzbek capital. Visit the Museum of Applied Arts, with its exhibits of beautiful embroidery, local ceramics and wall hangings, and the Old Town with its narrow lanes, mud brick houses, mosques and madrasas. Next, explore the 16th century temples of Kukeldash and Abul Khassim Madrasa and the Chorsu Bazaar, a huge open market that draws people from the rural areas outside of the city. In the evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. (D) DAY 2 TASHKENT - SAMARKAND An early morning transfer to the railway station for your train to Samarkand, a journey time of just over 2 hours. On arrival transfer to Hotel Grand Samarkand Superior (4 star) or Hotel Malika (3 star) before beginning your exploration, with your guide, of this city which was founded 2,500 years ago. Once called the “Pearl of the Muslim World,” Samarkand rose to great glory as a major trading port from the 2nd to the 16th century. (B, D)

DAY 5 BUKHARA Today, discover Bukhara, a city with the greatest concentration of historic monuments in Central Asia. Visit the Chashma Ayub Mausoleum, 18th century BoloHauz Mosque and ancient Ark Fortress, the palace of the Emirs of Bukhara. Also see the magnificent Kalyan Mosque, the elegant blue-tiled Ulughbek Madrasa (Islamic school) and the summer palace of Bukhara’s last Emir, the Sitorai-Mokhi-Khosa (Palace of the Moon and Stars). You will also get to visit a local family to experience Uzbek lifestyle and hospitality; and participate in a master class of making plov – a national dish made from rice. (B, D) DAY 6 BUKHARA - KHIVA After breakfast, embark on a seven hour journey across the Kara-Kum (black sands) and Kyzyl-Kum (red sands) Deserts to Khiva. Check-in at Hotel Malika Khevak (3 star) or Hotel Malika Khiva (3 star) before dinner and a folklore show at the Toza Bog Palace, former summer residence of Mohammed Rakhim Khan II. (B, D) DAY 7 KHIVA – URGENCH - TASHKENT Khiva is one of the most remote oasis cities of the Silk Road and you will discover its highlights on a full day tour. Khiva’s Old Town is preserved within 2,200 metres of unbroken fortified city wall. The town is entirely constructed of mudbrick with delicate blue and white tiled decoration and features many familiar architectural highlights of Central Asia: Kunya-Ark Citadel, Tosh-Khovli Palace, Kalta Minor Minaret and Juma Mosque. At the end of your tour transfer by road to Urgench airport for a two hour flight to Tashkent, arriving in the late evening. Take an arrival transfer to Hotel Gloria (4 star) or Hotel Le Grand Plaza (3 star) for dinner and overnight. (B, D) DAY 8 TASHKENT Your tour concludes with a departure transfer for your onward journey. (B)

Pearls of Uzbekistan Departs Daily 1 Jan-31 Dec BUKHARA

36

3 Star Hotels Per Person Twin Share

4 Star Hotels Per Person Twin Share

1,695

1,850

Single prices on request.


SOUL OF GEORGIA TBILISI – TELAVI – GUDAURI – BAKURIANI – TBILISI 9 DAY PRIVATELY GUIDED TAILOR-MADE TOUR

BLACK SEA

GEORGIA

Bakuriani • Vardzia •

RUSSIA

Kazbegi• • Gudauri Gori • • Anauri Mtskheta •

TURKEY

• Telavi

• Tbilisi ARMENIA TBILISI

BENEFITS & INCLUSIONS • Fully escorted in ENGLISH ONLY • 3 or 4 star hotel accommodation (3 star outside Tbilisi) • Meals as specified: B = breakfast, L = lunch, D = dinner • 0.5 litre of mineral water per person per day • Sightseeing as per itinerary • Transportation by air-conditioned vehicle

DAY 5 GUDAURI – KAZBEGI - GUDAURI Visit the scenic mountain village of Kazbegi for a leisurely walk through the valleys and woodlands to the 14th century Gergeti Trinity Church. Return to Guadauri via the towering granite cliffs of Dariali Gorge. (B, D) DAY 6 GUDAURI – GORI - BAKURIANI Depart for Gori, the birthplace of Joseph Stalin, and visit the Stalin Museum. Continue to the cave town of Uplistsikhe, which contains many Iron Age structures and a main stopping point of the famed Silk Road. Dinner and overnight at Hotel Crystal (3 star) or similar, Bakuriani. (B, D)

• Arrival and departure transfers

DAY 7 BAKURIANI – VARDZIA - BAKURIANI Travel to the cave town of Vardzia, once a monastery with hundreds of cells carved out of the mountain accommodating over 3,000 people. Return to Bakuriani for dinner and overnight. (B, D)

DAY 1 TBILISI Your tour commences with an arrival transfer to Tiflis Palace Hotel (4 star) or Hotel Sharden (3 star) or similar.

DAY 8 BAKURIANI – TBILISI After breakfast, return to Tbilisi arriving in the mid afternoon. Enjoy an evening at leisure, overnight at Tiflis Palace Hotel (4 star) or Hotel Sharden (3 star) or similar. (B)

DAY 2 TBILISI Discover Tbilisi on a morning tour through the streets of the Old Town. Begin with a visit to the 13th century Metekhi Church, Sioni Cathedral and Anchiskhati Church, Tbilisi’s oldest church. Also visit Narikalal Fortress and the Treasury of the Georgian national Art Museum. (B)

DAY 9 TBILISI Your tour concludes with a departure transfer for your onward journey. (B)

DAY 3 TBILISI – KAKHETI REGION - TELAVI Travel to the famous wine-growing region in Kakheti to visit a local farmer and learn the Georgian art of wine making. In the afternoon arrive in Telavi for a traditional Georgian dinner and overnight at a family guesthouse. (B, L, D) DAY 4 TELAVI – MTSKHETA – GUDAURI Depart for Mtskheta, the ancient capital and religious centre of Georgia. Visit two fascinating UNSECO World Heritage sites – Jvari Monastery and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral. Afterwards drive to the scenic Great Caucasus Mountains to reach the resort town of Gudauri. Hotel Carpe Diem (3 star) or similar. (B, D)

Soul of Georgia Departs May-Dec 1 Jan-31 Dec

4 Star Hotels (In Tbilisi Only) Per Person Single Twin Share Supplement 2,465

1,495

3 Star Hotels Per Person Single Twin Share Supplement 1,895

980


KAZBEGI


37

RUSSIA

MOSCOW FREE rt Suppo

Visa ion entat docum hotel with gs. n booki

SPOTLIGHT ON MOSCOW

SIGHTSEEING PRIVATE TOURS

4 days

These tours are privately guided. Departure times can be scheduled to suit your requirements. Prices are based on minimum 2 people.

INDEPENDENT Explore the political and economic capital of the Russian Federation on this 4 day package. See the major sights and monumental architecture that Moscow is famous for and experience life as a Muscovite as you travel the city’s metro system.

City Tour with Novodevichy Convent Price: $160 per person A comprehensive tour of the Russian capital. Highlights include Red Square, Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral, KGB Building, Bolshoi Theatre and a visit to historic Novodevichy Convent. Departs: Daily except Tue and first Mon of month at 09.30 Duration: 4 hours

Day Day Day Day

City Tour with St. Basil’s Cathedral Price: $140 per person A complete city tour featuring all the major highlights plus a visit to Moscow’s most famous building, the ornately designed St. Basil’s Cathedral located right on Red Square. Departs: Daily except Tue and first Mon of month at 09.30 Duration: 4 hours

1: 2: 3: 4:

Airport transfer and hotel check-in. City Tour with St. Basil’s Cathedral. (B) Kremlin & Armoury Tour and Metro & Arbat St. Tour. (B) Transfer to the airport. (B)

City Tour with Novodevichy Convent & St. Basil’s Cathedral

Hotel Maxima Panorama (3 star): from $675* Marriott Tverskaya Hotel (4 star): from $765* Marriott Grand Hotel (5 star): from $795* Inclusions: Return transfers, 3 nights accommodation, daily breakfast (B), privately guided sightseeing as indicated, services of a local representative

City Tour with Novodevichy Convent, St. Basil’s Cathedral & Christ Our Saviour Cathedral

Price: $225 per person Combine a full city tour with historic Novodevichy Convent, the iconic onion-domed St. Basil’s Cathedral on Red Square and the recently rebuilt Cathedral of Christ Our Saviour. Departs: Daily except Tue and first Mon of month at 09.30 Duration: 7 hours

GRAND MOSCOW 5 days INDEPENDENT A longer stay in Moscow allows you to get a more in depth feel for this thriving metropolis and to experience the town of Sergiev Posad along the Golden Ring. Also included is an evening visit to the famous Nikulin Circus which has been entertaining people for over 120 years. Day 1: Airport transfer and hotel check-in. Day 2: City Tour with Novodevichy Convent. Evening performance of the Moscow Circus. (B) Day 3: Kremlin & Armoury Tour. (B) Inclu Day 4: Full day excursion to Sergiev Posad. (B) d Mosc es FREE Day 5: Transfer to the airport. (B) ow C Ticke ircus Hotel Maxima Panorama (3 star): from $910* ts Marriott Tverskaya Hotel (4 star): from $1,030* Marriott Grand Hotel (5 star): from $1,070*

BON

US

Inclusions: Return transfers, 4 nights accommodation, daily breakfast (B), privately guided sightseeing as indicated, services of a local representative * From prices are per person in AUD, based on twin share in low season.

38

Price: $195 per person Combine a comprehensive tour of the Russian capital, Red Square, the Kremlin and more, together with a visit to historic Novodevichy Convent and the iconic St. Basil's Cathedral. Departs: Daily except Tue and the first Mon of month at 09.30 Duration: 5 hours

Kremlin & Armoury Museum Price: $135 per person Take a tour inside the walls of the Kremlin, a potent symbol of Russian power. See the Assumption Cathedral and visit the Armoury Museum, the treasury of the czars. Tour does not include hotel transfers. Departs: Daily except Thu at 10.00 Duration: 4 hours Kremlin, Armoury Museum & Diamond Fund Price: $165 per person A tour of the Kremlin grounds with more time spent in the Armoury Museum and the State Diamond Fund, which houses the most valuable jewels of Russia including the Orlov Diamond. Tour does not include hotel transfers. Departs: Daily except Thu at 10.00 Duration: 4 hours Moscow Metro & Arbat Walking Tour Price: $70 per person Discover the grandeur of the station of Moscow’s metro system before visiting the pedestrian Arbat St. renowned for its artistic atmosphere. Departs: Daily at 10.00 Duration: 4 hours Metro & Bunker 42 Tour Price: $150 per person Combine a tour of the grand stations of the Moscow Metro with a chance to step back in time to the height of the Cold War on a visit to Bunker 42, a former nuclear bunker 65 metres below the streets of Moscow. Departs: Daily at 10.00 Duration: 4 hours


6

HIGHLIGHTS

3

• Discover a city where ancient and modern history sit side by side • The grand scale of Red Square, the iconic ‘heart’ of Moscow

5 9

2 4

1

• The Kremlin, all powerful seat of Russia’s rulers over the centuries • Stalin’s grand Metro system with its lavishly decorated stations • A cornucopia of museums to suit all, from fine arts to the recent history of the Cold War

Tretyakov Gallery

8 7

10

OUR RECOMMENDED HOTELS Tretyakov Gallery

Price: $85 per person An outstanding art museum which houses the world’s finest collection of Russian art including icons and pre-revolutionary paintings. Also see the restored church of St. Nicholas. Tour does not include hotel transfers. Departs: Daily except Mon at 10.00 Duration: 4 hours

Sergiev Posad Monastery Price: $205 per person Visit the historic monastery town of Sergiev Posad, the “Vatican” of the Russian Orthodox Church, founded in 1340, and one of the most important spiritual centres of Russia. Departs: Daily at 09.00 Duration: 7 hours Moscow Nikulin Circus

Price: from $35 - $110 per person Spend an enjoyable evening at one of Russia’s oldest circuses, established in 1880, and be entertained by the clowns, acrobats and other amazing performers. Departs: Daily at 19.00 Duration: approx. 2 hours

TRANSFERS Private Vehicle SVO-1, 2 Airport to Hotel or vice versa DME Airport to Hotel or vice versa Railway Station to Hotel or vice versa River Cruise Terminal to Hotel or vice versa

Per vehicle (1-2 pax) 90 100 70 75

1 HOTEL METROPOL HHHHH from $140* One of the oldest and most refined hotels in Moscow, ideally located opposite the Bolshoi Theatre and steps away from Red Square. Rooms feature Art Nouveau styling and large windows. 2 MARRIOTT ROYAL AURORA HOTEL HHHHH from $130* A grand international hotel with elegant interiors and featuring a butler service to every room. Located in the heart of Moscow, walking distance to Red Square and the Kremlin. 3 MARRIOTT GRAND HOTEL HHHHH from $120* The sister property to Marriott Royal Aurora offers tastefully decorated rooms with Art Deco touches. Situated on Tverskaya Street just 10 minutes walk to Red Square. 4 COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT MOSCOW CITY CENTRE HHHH from $120* Blending charm, modern elegance and an historic landmark location, this hotel is the perfect choice in central Moscow. Its modern, spacious guest rooms offer refined décor and comfortable furnishings. 5 HOTEL PETER 1 HHHH from $115* Housed in a renovated 19th century mansion this first class property offer classically furnished interiors and a central location within walking distance to Red Square. 6 MARRIOTT TVERSKAYA HOTEL HHHH from $110* A classic Western style hotel with cosy and elegantly furnished interiors. Centrally located on Tverskaya Street, ideal for shopping and a short metro ride to the Red Square. 7 APARTHOTEL ADAGIO HHHH from $105* Spacious, contemporary studios and apartments just 2 metro stops from Red Square. All modern conveniences are provided including kitchen facilities. 8 AQUAMARINE HOTEL HHHH from $90* A modern design hotel with spacious, light-filled rooms. Situated in a prestigious and historical area of Moscow, 20 minutes walk from Red Square. 9 HOTEL BUDAPEST HHH from $70* A traditional hotel with tastefully decorated rooms. Ideally located a short walk to Red Square, Kremlin and the Bolshoi Theatre. 10 HOTEL MAXIMA PANORAMA HHH (Superior Room) from $80* Brand new, quality tourist class option centrally located above a metro station just 3 stops (7-8 minutes) from Red Square. All rooms feature modern décor and conveniences. From prices are per person per night in AUD, based on twin share in low season, and include breakfast and taxes.

NOVODEVICHY CONVENT

Many more hotels available, many with instant confirmation. Contact Beyond Travel for details and prices.


39

RUSSIA

ST. PETERSBURG

SIGHTSEEING

SPOTLIGHT ON ST. PETERSBURG

PRIVATE TOURS These tours are privately guided. Departure times can be scheduled to suit your requirements. Prices are based on minimum 2 people.

4 days

City Tour With Peter & Paul Fortress

INDEPENDENT A comprehensive 4 day package to explore Peter the Great’s imperial city in depth. See the ‘must-see’ highlights of Spilt Blood Cathedral, St Isaac’s Cathedral, Nevsky Prospekt and the world famous Hermitage Museum, home to over 3 million works of art! Day Day Day Day

1: 2: 3: 4:

Airport transfer and hotel check-in. City Tour with Peter & Paul Fortress and Spilt Blood Cathedral. (B) Hermitage Museum Tour and Russian Folklore Show. (B) Transfer to the airport. (B)

Price: $110 per person A comprehensive tour of Peter the Great’s imperial city. See the Nevsky Prospekt, Hermitage, Kazan Cathedral, St Isaac’s Cathedral and Peter & Paul Fortress, site of the city’s first settlement. Departs: Daily except Wed and last Tue of month at 09.30 Duration: 4 hours

City Tour with Peter & Paul Fortress and Spilt Blood Cathedral

Price: $145 per person Combine a comprehensive tour of St. Petersburg with Peter & Paul Fortress, the site of the city’s first settlement and the impressive Spilt Blood Cathedral. Departs: Daily except Wed and last Tue of month at 9.30 Duration: 5 hours

City Tour with Peter & Paul Fortress, Spilt Blood Cathedral & St. Isaac’s Cathedral

Cronwell Inn Stremyannya (3 star): from $575* Hotel Golden Triangle (4 star): from $665* Hotel Astoria (5 star): from $860* Inclusions: Return transfers, 3 nights accommodation, daily breakfast (B), privately guided sightseeing as indicated, services of a local representative

Price: $205 per person A complete city tour covering all the major highlights including Peter & Paul Fortress, Spilt Blood Cathedral with its 7,000sqm of mosaics and the gold-domed St. Isaac’s Cathedral. Departs: Daily except Wed and last Tue of month at 9.30 Duration: 8 hours

Hermitage Museum

IMPERIAL ST. PETERSBURG 5 days INDEPENDENT A longer stay allows you not just to soak in the atmosphere of this magical city and all its well-known highlights, but also to venture out of the city to discover the summer palaces that surround St. Petersburg such as Catherine Palace and Peterhof Palace. Day 1: Airport transfer and hotel check-in. Day 2: City Tour with Peter & Paul Fortress and Hermitage Museum Tour. (B) Day 3: Excursion to Catherine Palace and Gardens and Russian Folklore Show. (B) Inclu Day 4: Excursion to Peterhof Palace. (B) Russi des FREE an Fo Day 5: Transfer to the airport. (B)

BON

US

Cronwell Inn Stremyannya (3 star): from $955* Hotel Golden Triangle (4 star): from $1,075* Hotel Astoria (5 star): from $1,170*

lkl Perfo rman ore ce

Inclusions: Return transfers, 4 nights accommodation, daily breakfast (B), privately guided sightseeing as indicated, services of a local representative *From prices are per person in AUD, based on twin share in low season.

40

Price: $70 per person Tour the renowned Hermitage Museum, located in the former Winter Palace, with its astonishing collection of pre-historic, Egyptian, Oriental and European art. Tour does not include hotel transfers. Departs: Daily except Mon at 10.30 Duration: 4 hours

Hermitage Museum & Treasure Gallery Price: $160 per person Extend your tour of the Hermitage Museum to include one of two special exhibits: The Gold Room with its magnificent collection of golden artefacts; or The Diamond Room showing the development of the diamond craft over the centuries. Tour does not include hotel transfers. Departs: Daily except Mon at 10.30 Duration: 5 hours Yusupov Palace & Rasputin Exhibition

Price: $90 per person An extensive tour of this 18th century mansion, with its world renowned art collection, and its Rasputin Exhibition detailing the monk’s life and infamous murder. Tour does not include hotel transfers. Departs: Daily at 12.00 Duration: 4 hours

St. Petersburg Canal Cruise

Price: $80 per person St. Petersburg is known as the “Venice of the North.” View the city’s stunning architecture from a different perspective, on its major canals and Neva River. Tour does not include hotel transfers. Departs: Daily at 10.00 (May-Sep) Duration: 2 hours

Peterhof Palace and Gardens Price: $195 per person Peter the Great’s grand summer palace on the Gulf of Finland. Discover its lavishly furnished staterooms and take a walk through the gardens to the gold fountains of the Grand Cascade. Departs: Daily except Mon and last Tue of the month at 09.30 Duration: 5 hours


Finland Railway Station

FREE

HIGHLIGHTS

Visa Sup port

ge

ita

H

va

a ay lsh St Isaac’s Bo Cathedral

• The impressive cathedrals of St Isaac’s and Spilt Blood

St. Petersburg Museum

6 4 2

ospect

Mariinsky Theatre

Pr Moskovsky

• Lavish gardens and summer palaces of Peterhof and Catherine’s Palace

3

1

5

Nevsky

Prospe

kt 8 Kazan Cathedral Pushkin Theatre 7

10

State Russian Museum

Prospekt

erm

Ne

• Discovery of the ‘Venice of the North’ on a canal cruise

Liteiny

Admiralty The Bronze Horseman

9

kt

s.

• Renowned Hermitage Museum with its incredible collection of art treasures

Our Saviour on the Blood Cathedral

Peter & Paul Fortress

booking

sky P rospe

• Magnificent European-inspired architecture, boulevards and tree-lined canals

Ligov

Madocumen laya tation Nehv h wit a otel

Moscow Station

Alexander Nevsky Monastery

Polkovo 1&2 Airports 17 km

OUR RECOMMENDED HOTELS Catherine Palace and Gardens Price: $180 per person Catherine Palace, a massive, baroque palace set in vast European-style gardens, with an ornate façade nearly 300 metres long, the palace contains the stunning Amber Room, now fully restored. Departs: Daily except Tue and last Mon of the month at 09.30 Duration: 5 hours

1 GRAND HOTEL EUROPE HHHHH from $195* Iconic Orient Express hotel on the Nevsky Prospekt renowned for its impressive facade. Rooms combine 19th century charm with modern luxury. Stay 3 / Pay 2 (1-30 Apr/1 Oct - 31 Dec) Stay 4 / Pay 3 (1-16 May/16 Jul - 31 Aug)

Catherine & Pavlovsk Palaces

2 HOTEL ASTORIA HHHHH from $165* Sophisticated Rocco Forte hotel overlooking St. Isaac’s Cathedral, combining traditional Russian character and modern luxury. Modern styled rooms with traditional features and oak flooring. Stay 3 / Pay 2 (1 Jan - 31 Mar) Stay 4 / Pay 3 (1 Apr - 31 Dec except 6 May - 15 Jul)

Price: $220 per person Combine Catherine Palace and Pavlosk Palace, smallest of the summer palaces built by Catherine the Great, set in English-inspired gardens and still retaining its original grandeur. Departs: Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun at 09.30 Duration: 7 hours

Folklore Show at Nikolaevsky Palace Price: $65 per person Enjoy a folklore show in the spectacular setting of the Nikolaevsky Palace. A varied itinerary includes classical folk songs, a Russian folk trio and an acrobatic Cossack song-and-dance group. Hotel transfers not included. Departs: Daily at 17.30 Duration: approx. 2 hours

TRANSFERS Private transfer Airport to Hotel or vice versa Railway Station / Coach Terminal / River Cruise Terminal to Hotel or vice versa St. Petersburg to Novgorod or vice versa (3 hours)

Per vehicle (1-2 pax) 80 70 350

PRIVATELY GUIDED SHORE EXCURSIONS FOR CRUISE PASSENGERS Beyond Travel offers passengers arriving by cruise liner the opportunity to explore St. Petersburg with a private guide. Below are three FULL DAY tour options on offer, however all day tours can be tailored to suit your requirements: ST. PETERSBURG CITY TOUR & HERMITAGE from $310 per person* ST. PETERSBURG CANAL CRUISE & PETERHOF PALACE from $290 per person* PUSHKIN & CATHERINE PALACE from $210 per person* *Tour prices based on minimum 2 passengers Please contact Beyond Travel for more details.

3 DOMINA PRESTIGE HOTEL HHHHH from $120* Luxury lifestyle hotel on the Moika Embankment close to St. Isaac’s Cathedral. All guestrooms are individually designed combining style, space and comfort. 4 ANGLETERRE HOTEL HHHH from $120* A Rocco Forte property with a long tradition of offering quality and service in the heart of the city. The hotel features elegantly styled, spacious rooms with parquet floors and soft colour schemes. Stay 3 / Pay 2 (1 Jan - 31 Mar) Stay 4 / Pay 3 (1 Apr - 31 Dec except 6 May - 15 Jul) 5 HOTEL GOLDEN TRIANGLE HHHH (Superior Room) from $100* Boutique property situated in the very centre of St.Petersburg. The hotel’s traditional architecture is complemented by its elegant interiors and individually designed, classically furnished rooms. 6 PETRO PALACE HOTEL HHHH from $95* A great value first class hotel featuring tastefully furnished rooms with modern amenities. Ideally located close to St. Isaac’s Cathedral and Hermitage Museum. 7 ROSSI BOUTIQUE HOTEL HHHH from $80* Situated on the Fontanka Embankment, this charming hotel offers well-appointed rooms with exposed wooden beams and brickwork for added character. 8 M HOTEL HHH (Superior Room) from $90* Basic, clean and comfortable hotel offering an inexpensive stay in the heart of St. Petersburg, very well located just behind Kazan Cathedral. 9 CRONWELL INN STREMYANNAYA HHH (Comfort Room) from $70* A renovated hotel located just off the Nevsky Prospekt. This budget property emphasises the classic style and atmosphere of historic St. Petersburg. 10 HOTEL ARBAT NORD HHH from $70* Small, tourist class hotel offering comfortable, well appointed rooms and a cosy atmosphere. Located 15 minutes walk to the city’s main attractions.


* From prices are per person per night in AUD, based on twin share in low season, and include breakfast and taxes.


41

GOLDEN RING EXPLORER

BEST OF THE GOLDEN RING



MOSCOW – SERGIEV POSAD – SUZDAL – BOGOLYUBOVO – VLADIMIR – MOSCOW

MOSCOW – SERGIEV POSAD – SUZDAL – BOGOLYUBOVO – VLADIMIR – KOSTROMA – YAROSLAVL – ROSTOV VELIKY – MOSCOW

• St. Petersburg • Veliky Novgorod Kostroma • Yaroslavl •

RUSSIA

Rostov • Alexsandrov • Sergiev Posad • • Moscow

Suzdal • • Bogolyubovo • Vladimir

VLADIMIR

SUZDAL



• • • • •

• • • • •

Fully escorted in ENGLISH ONLY 3 or 4 star hotel accommodation Meals as indicated: B = breakfast; D = dinner Transportation by air-conditioned vehicle Sightseeing as per itinerary

Fully escorted in ENGLISH ONLY 3 or 4 star hotel accommodation Meals as indicated: B = breakfast; D = dinner Transportation by air-conditioned vehicle Sightseeing as per itinerary

DAY 1 MOSCOW – SERGIEV POSAD – SUZDAL Meet your guide at your hotel and travel through the Russian countryside to the historic town of Sergiev Posad, home of to the functioning Holy Trinity St. Sergius Monastery and ‘Vatican’ of the Russian Orthodox Church. Walk amongst the bearded monks attired in their traditional black gowns and experience prayers and singing as you visit the colourful churches with their splendid gilded domes. In the afternoon travel a short distance to charming Suzdal, a picturesque ‘living museum,’ where you will visit the Museum of Wooden Architecture to see traditional log houses and churches. Dinner and overnight at Best Western Art Hotel Nikolaevsky Posad (4 star). (D)

DAY 1 MOSCOW –SERGIEV POSAD – SUZDAL Meet your guide at your hotel and travel through the Russian countryside to the historic town of Sergiev Posad, home of to the functioning Holy Trinity St. Sergius Monastery and ‘Vatican’ of the Russian Orthodox Church. Walk amongst the bearded monks attired in their traditional black gowns and experience prayers and singing as you visit the colourful churches with their splendid gilded domes. In the afternoon travel a short distance to charming Suzdal, a picturesque ‘living museum,’ where you will visit the Museum of Wooden Architecture to see traditional log houses and churches. Dinner and overnight at Best Western Art Hotel Nikolaevsky Posad (4 star). (D)

DAY 2 SUZDAL – BOGOLYUBOVO – VLADIMIR – SUZDAL After breakfast, tour the ancient town of Suzdal including the 11th century Kremlin and the Cathedral of the Nativity with its beautiful frescoes. Continue to the 14th century Monastery of St. Eufimius with its seven-domed cathedral and then onto the village of Bogolyubovo to see the famous Church of the Intercession-on the-Nerl. In the afternoon drive to Vladimir, founded in the 12th century, and once the former capital of Russia. Your tour includes such historic landmarks as the Golden Gate, Assumption Cathedral and St. Dimetrius Cathedral. Return to Suzdal for dinner and overnight. (B, D)

DAY 2 SUZDAL – BOGOLYUBOVO – VLADIMIR – SUZDAL After breakfast, tour the ancient town of Suzdal including the 11th century Kremlin and the Cathedral of the Nativity with its beautiful frescoes. Continue to the 14th century Monastery of St. Eufimius with its seven-domed cathedral and then onto the village of Bogolyubovo to see the famous Church of the Intercession-on the-Nerl. In the afternoon drive to Vladimir, founded in the 12th century, and once the former capital of Russia. Your tour includes such historic landmarks as the Golden Gate, Assumption Cathedral and St. Dimetrius Cathedral. Return to Suzdal for dinner and overnight. (B, D)

DAY 3 SUZDAL – MOSCOW Leave Suzdal late morning for the drive back to Moscow. You will arrive mid afternoon – perfect for connecting to the high-speed train to St Petersburg departing at 4.30pm. (B)

DAY 3 SUZDAL – KOSTROMA – YAROSLAVL After breakfast, leave Suzdal and drive to Kostroma, founded in 1152 on the banks of the Volga River. Here you will visit Ipatiev Monastery and Trinity Cathedral, from where the Romanov Dynasty began in 1613. In the afternoon your tour continues with a scenic drive to Yaroslavl for a tour of this 9th century town with its riverfront and impressive 16th century Monastery of the Saviour. Dinner and overnight at Hotel Yubeleinaya (3 star). (B, D) DAY 4 YAROSLAVL – ROSTOV VELIKY – MOSCOW Leave Yaroslavl in the late morning for Rostov Veliky and enjoy a tour of the Kremlin, a fortress complex with beautifully decorated churches and towers. Afterwards enjoy free time for lunch (own expense) before returning to Moscow, approximately 3 hours depending on traffic, arriving in the late afternoon. (B)

SERGIEV POSAD

Golden Ring Explorer Departs Daily Jan - Dec

42


Single Supplement

1,050

860

Best of the Golden Ring Departs Daily Jan - Dec


Single Supplement

1,675

1,395


UKRAINE

KYIV

SPOTLIGHT ON KYIV 4 days INDEPENDENT A wonderful 4-day stay in Kyiv will introduce to you the country’s vibrant capital city. Learn of the city’s rich history, see Kyiv’s top museums and beautiful cathedrals and stroll along the famous Khreshchatyk Street. *From prices are per person in AUD, based on twin share in low season

LVIV

Day Day Day Day

1: 2: 3: 4:

Airport transfer and hotel check-in. Kyiv City Walking Tour. (B) Pechersk Lavra Monastery. (B) Transfer to the airport. (B)

Hotel Rus (3 star): from $360* Hotel Ukraine (4 star): from $440* Hotel Premier Palace (5 star): from $800* Inclusions: Return transfers, 3 nights accommodation, daily breakfast (B), sightseeing as indicated, services of a local representative

SPOTLIGHT ON LVIV 3 days INDEPENDENT Uncover the splendor of Lviv, Ukraine’s western gateway and one of Central Europe’s most beautiful cities. Visit Castle Hill, stroll through the historic centre and see the wonderful architecture, a legacy from the city’s many different rulers including Poland, Austria and Russia.

Day 1: Airport transfer and hotel check-in. Day 2: Lviv City Walking Tour. (B) Day 3: Transfer to the airport. (B) Hotel George (3 star): from $210* Hotel Panorama (4 star): from $515* Inclusions: Return transfers, 2 nights accommodation, daily breakfast (B), sightseeing as indicated, services of a local representative

*From prices are per person in AUD, based on twin share in low season

ODESSA

SPOTLIGHT ON ODESSA 3 days INDEPENDENT The popular Ukrainian Black Sea resort town of Odessa is a wonderful blend of culture and history waiting to be discovered. Enjoy this 3 day stay exploring the tree-lined boulevards, French and Italian inspired palaces and the Black Sea beaches.

Day 1: Airport transfer and hotel check-in. Day 2: Odessa City Walking Tour. (B) Day 3: Transfer to the airport. (B) Hotel Chorne More (3 star): from $230* Hotel Mozart (4 star): from $330* Inclusions: Return transfers, 2 nights accommodation, daily breakfast (B), sightseeing as indicated, services of a local representative


BELARUS

MINSK

SPOTLIGHT ON MINSK 3 days INDEPENDENT Explore the interesting capital of Belarus on this 3 day package. A city that was all but destroyed during WWII, today boasts an eclectic mix of historic and modern architecture and a thriving cultural scene dominated by the famous Belarusian ballet.

Day 1: Airport transfer and hotel check-in. Day 2: Minsk City Walking Tour. (B) Day 3: Transfer to the airport. (B) Hotel Sputnik (3 star): from $400* Hotel Minsk (4 star): from $550* Inclusions: Return transfers, 2 nights accommodation, daily breakfast (B), sightseeing as indicated, services of a local representative



43

FINLAND nne

Finlandia Hall

rhe imi nti e

Temppeliaukio “Church of the Rock”

Railway 5 Station

Arkad ianka tu

i san Kai

6 4

Un ion ink atu

National Theatre 2

em enl eat u

HELSINKI

Ma

Helsinki Airport 18 km

Senate Square

Ateneum City Tourist Office 3 1

Fre dri kin atu

ert

n Lon

rot

sg

ina kat u

a hol Ruo Tallink Ferries

Alb

nk hde

Pohjio sespla nadi Etelaes planad i

Museum Foreign Art

SPOTLIGHT ON HELSINKI

HIGHLIGHTS

3 days INDEPENDENT

Day 1: Airport transfer and hotel check-in. Day 2: Helsinki City Audio Tour. (B) Day 3: Transfer to the airport.

•Walking this modern city with its Swedish and Russian influences

Sokos Hotel Vaakuna (3 star): from $440* Hotel Seurahuone (4 star): from $440* Hotel Kämp (5 star): from $610*

•The thriving harbour and its impressive sea fortress, Suomenlinna

Inclusions: Return transfers, 2 nights accommodation, daily breakfast (B), sightseeing as indicated, services of a local representative

•Senate Square and its Lutheran Cathedral which dominates the city skyline

Discover Helsinki, a modern city with world-renowned architecture, beautiful parklands and a laidback atmosphere. See the sights along the harbour, central city and entertainment district while enjoying the Nordic culture.

*From prices are per person in AUD, based on twin share in low season.

SIGHTSEEING

OUR RECOMMENDED HOTELS

Helsinki City Audio Tour Price: $65 per person A fantastic orientation to the city and its highlights by coach, including the historical centre with Senate Square, the Lutheran Cathedral, Presidential Palace, the Opera House, Finlandia Hall and the Temppeliaukio Church – the “Church in the Rock”. Departs: Daily at 11.00 (Jan-Dec) Duration: 1.5 hours Daily at 13.00 (May-Aug) Helsinki Hop-on, Hop-off Bus Price: $60 per person Hop-on and off as much as you like to explore this nordic capital. 14 stops including Senate Square, Finlandia Hall, Church in the Rock and much more. Departs: Daily 10.00 - 16.00 (May-Sep) Duration: 1 day ticket The Beautiful Canal Route

Price: $55 per person A different view of Helsinki - from the water! Cruise this historic city seeing sights such as Suomenlinna Fortress, Helsinki Zoo, impressive icebreakers and Degerö Canal. Departs: Daily at 10.30, 12.30 & 14.30 (May-Sep) Duration: 1.5 hours

Medieval Tallinn Excursion

Price: from $165 per person Journey across the Gulf of Finland by ferry to visit Tallinn, Estonia’s charming capital city. Explore the Old Town and see Toompea Castle, Dome Cathedral, the gothic 14th century Town Hall and Alexander Nevsky Church on a 3 hour walking tour. Afterwards, enjoy free time for your own exploration before returning to Helsinki. Tour does not include transfers in Helsinki. Departs: Daily at 07.30 Duration: 12 hours

Schedule and prices are based on 2015 – 2016 schedule to be available January 2016.

TRANSFERS Private transfer Airport to Hotel or vice versa Railway or Ferry Terminal to Hotel or vice versa

44

•Temppeliaukio Church, carved straight out of the rock

Per vehicle (1-3 pax) 175 110

1 HOTEL KÄMP HHHHH from $185* Helsinki’s top hotel, perfectly located in the heart of the city, exhibits luxury sophistication and European glamour. Spacious guest rooms combine elegant decor and top class amenities. 2 RADISSON BLU PLAZA HOTEL HHHH from $150* A charming historic exterior houses this stylish hotel featuring a mix of design styles from Nordic through to Classic. Situated in the city centre. 3 GLO HOTEL KLUUVI HHHH from $115* A stylish and modern hotel located in the heart of Helsinki, surrounded by cafés, bars and shopping. 4 HOTEL SEURAHUONE HHHH from $100* An elegant Art Nouveau building with rich tradition, ideally located opposite the Helsinki Central Station. Charming interiors create the perfect ambiance. 5 HOLIDAY INN HELSINKI CITY CENTRE HHHH from $100* A first-class modern hotel featuring Scandinavian style décor, located in the city centre next to Helsinki Central Station. 6 SOKOS HOTEL VAAKUNA HHH from $100* A modern Helsinki-style building, with direct access to the Sokos Department Store, offers comfortable rooms in the heart of Helsinki. * From prices are per person per night in AUD, based on twin share in low season, and include breakfast and taxes.



B IR R GE JA R

5

SWEDEN

N ATA LSG

STOCKHOLM

ÖSTERMALM KUNGSGATEN

R GE BIR

NORRMALM

G

KUN

TAN GA

NG TNI DRO

TEN SGA

HAMNGATAN

4

N

AT EN

ARSE

ST AL

LG

A AR KL

Central Rail Station

ALSG

.

6

2

N ATA LSG JAR

3

ST

SLE

DE

N

Stadshuset City Hall

National Museum

Parliament

ON BR AL TR

N CE

Riddarfjärden

BLASIE HOLMEN

RIDDARHOLMEN

Royal Palace GAMLA STAN

1 PSBRON

ND

STROMBR ON

RA

SPOTLIGHT ON STOCKHOLM

HIGHLIGHTS

3 day package

Day 1: Airport transfer and hotel check-in. Day 2: Stockholm Grand Tour. (B) Day 3: Transfer to the airport.

•Gamla Stan, discover charming cobblestone streets, the Royal Palace and Parliament

Comfort Hotel Stockholm (3 star): from $695* Clarion Hotel Sign (4 star): from $745*

•Cruising on the harbour with its myriad of islands

A great introduction to the fascinating capital of Sweden. Over 3 days uncover a city with over 750 years of history and a rich cultural life. Explore the Old Town of Gamla Stan and see the Royal Palace and Parliament and also cruise the harbour and canals for a different view of the city.

Inclusions: Return transfers, 2 nights accommodation, daily breakfast (B), sightseeing as indicated, services of a local representative *From prices are per person in AUD, based on twin share in low season.

SIGHTSEEING

•World class museums abound including the Vasa, ABBA and Nobel Museums


COACH TOURS Old Town Walking Tour Price: $40 per person A guided walking tour through the narrow cobbled streets of Gamla Stan, Stockholm's historic Old Town. Departs: Daily at 13.30 (Jul-Aug) Duration: 1.5 hours Stockholm Grand Tour Price: $90 per person Comprehensive sightseeing of Stockholm, by bus and by boat cruise, including such landmarks as the City Hall, Royal Djurgården Island and the Old Town. Departs: Daily at 11.30 & 13.30 (Jun-Sep) Duration: 3.5 hours Drottningholm Palace

Price: $75 per person* A scenic cruise across Lake Mälaren to explore the palace and gardens of the royal palace of Drottningholm, home to Sweden's royal family. Departs: Daily (May-Sep) Duration: circa. 5 hours Schedule and prices are based on 2015 – 2016 schedule to be available January 2016.

TRANSFERS Private transfer Arlanda Airport to Hotel or vice versa Railway or Ferry Terminal to Hotel or vice versa

•Drottningholm Palace & Gardens, a scenic cruise away from the city centre

Per vehicle (1-3 pax) 345 175


1 FIRST REISEN HOTEL HHHHH from $180* First class property located in Gamla Stan. The hotel is well known for its high service standards, waterfront location and mix of classical maritime features and modern design. 2 CLARION HOTEL WELLINGTON HHHH from $190* Located in the fashionable Östermalm neighbourhood, but close to Djurgården and the Gamla Stan. The hotel offers tastefully decorated, cosy guest rooms with modern furnishings. 3 CLARION HOTEL SIGN HHHH from $155* Located right in the heart of the city, this modern hotel combines the best of Scandinavian architecture and interior design featuring well planned rooms designed to ensure a comfortable stay. 4 NORDIC C HOTEL HHHH from $155* Modern design hotel situated next to the railway station and featuring the world’s only permanent icebar! Stylishly decorated rooms features images of Stockholm cityscapes by famous Swedish photographers. 5 BEST WESTERN KOM HOTEL HHH from $155* This central yet quiet hotel offers good-value accommodation and a welcoming and homely atmosphere. Spacious rooms are bright, comfortable and tastefully furnished. 6 COMFORT HOTEL STOCKHOLM HHH from $130* A budget hotel option directly in the city centre. Simple, yet stylish guest rooms feature modern decor and all the amenities required for a pleasant stay. * From prices are per person per night in AUD, based on twin share in low season, and include breakfast and taxes.


45

So

rte da

m

Sø

DENMARK

COPENHAGEN

DG AD E

NOR RE B ROG

ER

VO L

ADE

ED

OS T

Botanic Gardens

FR

Rosenborg Slot

ER

BO

GA

DE

Rosenborg Have

Amalienborg Palace

RR EV OLD

GA DE

LD

VE

SGA DE

STR

ØG

Kongens Nytorv

ET

NO

EN LO

KON

HER

STO RE

GOT

BRE DGA DE

GEN

Peb lin ge GY

SGA DE

RG

Sø

2

IKS

SG

AD

E

Nyh avn Nyh avn

ET

ØG

STR

JUEL D SGA

1

3

E

5

T

GE

RØ

ST

Christianborg Palace

4 T OR

H.

RP

STE

VE

E

AD OG

R RB


STE

VE

6

Tivoli Gardens

C.

GGE

AN

DE

NS

RS

SB

Concert Hall

BRY

CHRISTIANSHAVN

IA IST

EN

HR

C

OU

LE

TO R

VE

GA

DE

VA

RD

E

VESTERBRO

SPOTLIGHT ON COPENHAGEN

HIGHLIGHTS

3 day package

•Amalienborg Palace, home of the Danish Royal family and Christiansborg Palace, seat of the Danish Government

3 days to immerse yourself in this progressive, environmentally friendly city. Being a royal capital there is plenty to discover: Amelienborg Palace, Christiansborg Palace, the world famous Tivoli Gardens, the Little Mermaid, the old harbour of Nyhavn and more. And the best way to explore is to walk!

Day 1: Airport transfer and hotel check-in. Day 2: Copenhagen Sightseeing & Canal Tour (B) Day 3: Transfer to the airport. Comfort Hotel Vesterbro (3 star): from $545* Admiral Hotel (4 star): from $635* Inclusions: Return transfers, 2 nights accommodation, daily breakfast (B), sightseeing as indicated, services of a local representative *From prices are per person in AUD, based on twin share in low season

SIGHTSEEING Meet the Danes Walking Tour Price: $35 per person A guided walking tour through central Copenhagen where your guide will provide insights into the Danes and their way of life. Departs: Fri at 13.30 (May-Sep) Duration: 1.5 hours Panorama Sightseeing & Canal Tour Price: $80 per person Comprehensive tour of Copenhagen’s major sights including Tivoli Gardens, Christiansborg Palace, the Opera and Little Mermaid followed by a cruise along the city’s canals. Departs: Fri, Sat & Sun at 11.00 (Jan-Apr) Duration: 3 hours Daily at 11.00 (May-Sep) Fri, Sat & Sun at 11.00 (Oct-Dec) Castle Tour

Price: $170 per person An excursion to the spectacular castles north of Copenhagen including Kronborg Castle, setting for Shakespeare’s ‘Hamlet’ and Frederiksborg Castle. Departs: Daily at 10.30 (May-Sep) Duration: 6.5 hours Schedule and prices are based on 2015 – 2016 schedule to be available January 2016.

TRANSFERS Per vehicle (1-3 pax) 235 185 225


46

•A cruise around the harbour and along the city canals •The Nyhavn waterfront with its famous 17th and 18th century colourful townhouses


COACH TOURS

Private transfer Airport to Hotel or vice versa Railway Station to Hotel or vice versa Ferry Terminal to Hotel or vice versa

•Storget, one of Europe’s longest pedestrian malls

1 HOTEL SP34 HHHH from $185* Boutique hotel close to Town Hall Square and the Strøget features a rooftop terrace and laid back atmosphere. All rooms have designer wooden furnishings and quality amenities. 2 HOTEL KONG ARTHUR HHHH from $175* Dating back to 1882, Hotel Kong Arthur now offers stylish, modern rooms with wooden floors. The hotel offers a cosy, informal atmosphere in the heart of central Copenhagen. 3 ADMIRAL HOTEL HHHH from $160* First class property in a heritage-listed 1780s harbour side warehouse. Spacious rooms feature exposed wooden beams, brickwork and stylish Danish furnishings. Great location! 4 IMPERIAL HOTEL HHHH from $155* Large, centrally located modern four star property in the heart of the city. All rooms have contemporary décor, with Danish designed furnishings. 5 COPENHAGEN STRAND HOTEL HHH from $145* Cosy three-star hotel located in a beautifully restored, historic warehouse on Copenhagen’s harbour front. The hotel’s interior design welcomes visitors with a rustic style and maritime touches. 6 COMFORT HOTEL VESTERBRO HHH from $115* This newly renovated hotel offers great value accommodation close to the railway station. Comfortable guest rooms feature wooden floors and contemporary design. * From prices are per person per night in AUD, based on twin share in low season, and include breakfast and taxes.


OLSENS GATE ST. OLAVS GATE

Royal Palace

KR

AU

6

GU

KRI

STS

E AT

SG

GA TE

ER

EY

LM

STI

A

GR

AN

BE GA TA UB

SEN

SG

KR

City Hall

GG

A AT

BRU

R TO

EN

JOH

AN TZ

M

DA

KE

UN

M

2

GAT A

TA RGA STO

ATE

RO SEN

S

VN

AK

National Theatre

GR

OSLO

CA

ER SG AT A

NI Oslo V’S GA TE University

Oslo Cathedral

4

BISKOP

GU

TOL LB

SKIP

PER

KIR KEG

SG A TE GEN KON

Pipervika

MY

RAD HUS

NTG

AKERSH

ERU

SG

ATE

5 3

GAT A

ATA

BI

GLAC

ISGA TA

Bjøvika KONGENS GAT E

USKAIA

Akershus Castle

1 NN


ATA

UG ATE

NYL AND SVE IEN

NORWAY

ika

Forsvars Museum

ev

sp

Bi

Fiskehallen

SPOTLIGHT ON OSLO

HIGHLIGHTS

3 day package

Day 1: Airport transfer and hotel check-in. Day 2: Oslo All Inclusive Sightseeing Tour (B) Day 3: Transfer to the airport.

•A wander along Karl Johan’s Gat to the Royal Palace and its extensive gardens

Thon Hotel Munch (3 star): from $625* Thon Hotel Opera (4 star): from $695*

•The Viking, Fram and Kon-tiki Museums, showcasing Norway’s explorer traditions

Oslo is the hidden gem of Scandinavia’s capital cities. Often seen as the gateway to the fjords or scenic Norwegian coast a 3 day stay will reward and delight. Set at the head of the Oslo fjord the city offers many museums and attractions to explore during your stay.

Inclusions: Return transfers, 2 nights accommodation, daily breakfast (B), sightseeing as indicated, services of a local representative *From prices are per person in AUD, based on twin share in low season

SIGHTSEEING COACH TOURS Oslo Panorama Price: $45 per person A comprehensive panoramic tour of the Norwegian capital including a short walk through the Vigeland Sculpture Park. Departs: Daily at 10.30 Duration: 2 hours Oslo All Inclusive Price: $80 per person Enjoy Oslo by bus with this all inclusive tour which includes Vigeland Sculpture Park, Holmenkollen Ski Jump and the Viking Ship Museum. Departs: Daily at 10.30 Duration: 5 hours Oslo Grand Tour Price: $120 per person Extended ‘All Inclusive’ tour which includes a cruise through the narrow sounds and maze of islands that surround the Norwegian capital. Departs: Daily at 10.30 (Apr-Sep) Duration: 7 hours Schedule and prices are based on 2015 – 2016 schedule to be available January 2016.

•Holmenkollen ski jump, winter wonderland and fantastic views of the city •Medieval Akershus Fortress and the Vigeland Sculpture Park, the world’s largest!

OUR RECOMMENDED HOTELS 1 RADISSON BLU PLAZA HOTEL HHHHH from $135* Upscale, modern high-rise hotel in the heart of Oslo. The hotel’s rooms are decorated in a sleek, contemporary style, and offer spectacular views of the city and fjords. 2 HOTEL CONTINENTAL HHHH from $210* An elegant member of ‘Leading Hotels of the World,’ opposite the National Theatre. First opened in 1900 the hotel contains the legendary, Theatercafé. All rooms are individually designed in a classic contemporary style. 3 HOTEL THON OPERA HHHH from $155* Large, comfortable hotel with magnificent views of the Opera House and Oslo fjord. Guest rooms are pleasantly decorated with furnishings and amenities in line with expectations of a first class hotel. 4 CLARION HOTEL ROYAL CHRISTIANIA HHHH from $130* First class high-rise hotel located close to the railway station. Spacious rooms offer a relaxing environment and city views. 5 COMFORT HOTEL GRAND CENTRAL HHH from $140* Budget hotel in a carefully refurbished part of the 1874 Central Railway Station. No two rooms are the same size but each feature contemporary, modern Scandinavian decor and furnishings.

TRANSFERS Private transfer Per vehicle (1-3 pax) Gardermoen Airport to Hotel or vice versa 305 Railway Station or Ferry Terminal to Hotel or vice versa 205

6 THON HOTEL MUNCH HHH from $120* Newly renovated hotel in a quiet street in the middle of Oslo. Good value property providing a comfortable stay in contemporary guest rooms.


* From prices are per person per night in AUD, based on twin share in low season, and include breakfast and taxes.


47

NORWAY

NORWAY IN A NUTSHELL

BERGEN

OSLO – FLAM – BERGEN or reverse 2 DAYS from $720* Departs Daily: Jan-Dec Benefits & Inclusions: 1 night accommodation; breakfast (B) & dinner (D); 2nd class rail tickets: Oslo-Myrdal & Voss-Bergen; Flam railway tickets: Myrdal-Flam; fjord cruise: Flam-Gudvangen; coach tickets: GudvangenVoss; services of a local representative

Gaby Bohle - Visitnorway.com

HIGHLIGHTS • Harbour city, gateway to western Norway, the fjords and starting point of the Hurtigruten coastal ferry • Explore the historic waterfront Bryggen, a UNESCO World Heritage site with it 17th century timber warehouses

DAY 1 OSLO – FLAM Early departure from Oslo railway station for your adventure through some of the most magnificent scenery to be found in Norway. From Myrdal you will embark on the famous Flam Railway, a 20 kilometre train journey down to Flam deep in the fjords. During your journey you will have views of the magnificent mountain scenery and thundering waterfalls. Arrive in fjord side Flam in the early afternoon and walk to the Fretheim Hotel (4 star) for dinner and overnight. (D) DAY 2 FLAM - BERGEN This morning continue by ferry along the Aurlandsfjord and into the Naeroyfjord, the narrowest fjord in Europe. The Naeroyfjord is included on UNESCO’s World Heritage List and is surrounded by mountains of up to 1,800 metres high. On arrival in Gudvangen take a coach journey up the steep and spectacular hairpin bends of Stalheimskleiva for incredible views of Stalheimsfossen and Sivlefossen waterfalls at the top. On arrival in Voss you will take the train on to Bergen, arriving in the late afternoon, where the tour ends. (B)

• Ride the Floibanen funicular railway for breathtaking views of the city

OUR RECOMMENDED HOTELS CLARION HOTEL ADMIRAL HHHH from $195* Overlooking Vagan Habour and Bryggen this first class hotel offers quality and personal service. Rooms have a classic design and offer comfort and style. SCANDIC HOTEL ORNEN HHHH from $165* Recently opened modern four star property located in the city centre. Offers comfortable, spacious and modern rooms and a roof top restaurant with fantastic Bergen views. THON HOTEL BERGEN BRYGGE HHH from $135* Well located budget hotel on the historic Bryggen waterfront providing smart, simple and functional accommodation. *From prices are per person per night in AUD, based on twin share in low season, and include breakfast and taxes.

TRANSFERS Private transfer Airport to Hotel or vice versa

Per vehicle (1-6 pax) 390

FLAM RAILWAY

SOGNEFJORD IN A NUTSHELL OSLO – BALESTRAND – BERGEN or reverse 3 DAYS from $1,080* Departs Daily: May-Sep Benefits & Inclusions: 2 nights accommodation; breakfast (B) & dinner (D); 2nd class rail tickets: Oslo-Myrdal; Flam railway tickets: Myrdal-Flam; fjord cruise: Flam-Balestrand-Bergen; services of a local representative DAY 1 OSLO – FLAM – BALESTRAND Early departure from Oslo railway station for your adventure through some of the most magnificent scenery to be found in Norway. From Myrdal you will embark on the famous Flam Railway, a 20 kilometre train journey where you will have views of the magnificent mountain scenery and thundering waterfalls. Arrive in Flam in the early afternoon and after a short stop take the express ferry to Balestrand along the Aurlandsfjord and Sognefjord. the longest and deepest fjord in the world. Dinner and overnight at Hotel Kviknes (4 star). (D)

Øyvind Heen - Visitnorway.com

DAY 2 BALESTRAND - BERGEN This morning continue by express ferry west along the Sognefjord and then south along Norway’s west coast to Bergen. On arrival in Bergen in the late morning, make your own way to Thon Hotel Bergen Brygge (3 star) with the remainder of the day at leisure for you to explore Norway’s second city. (B) DAY 3 BERGEN Your tour concludes after breakfast on check-out of your hotel. (B)

NAEROYFJORD

48

*From prices are per person, based on twin share. The above itineraries are available in reverse. Hotels are quoted subject to availability. At least one pre night in Oslo is recommended due to the early starting times of both packages.


GETTING AROUND: FERRY SERVICES FINLAND

Helsinki •

NORWAY SWEDEN

• Oslo

F OF

GUL

Stockholm •

AND

St. Petersburg

FINL

Tallinn ESTONIA

BALTIC SEA

Riga

RUSSIA

LATVIA

DENMARK LITHUANIA

BELARUS

• Copenhagen

HELSINKI – TALLINN or vice versa

STOCKHOLM - RIGA or vice versa

Daily services 1 January – 31 December

Services 1 January – 31 December

Departs Helsinki

Departure

Duration

07.30, 10.30, 13.30, 16.30, 19.30

2 hours

Departs Tallinn 07.30, 10.30, 13.30, 16.30, 19.30

Time

City

Time

Stockholm

17.00

Riga

11.00+1

Jan, Apr, May, Aug, Nov and Dec departs on ODD dated days Feb, Mar, Jun, Jul, Sep and Oct on EVEN dated days

2 hours

PRICE PER PERSON one way / return

Riga

Star Class

Comfort Class

Business Class

65 / 80

95 / 155

175 / 310

Star Class: Deck ticket Comfort Class: includes snacks, non-alcoholic beverages and newspapers Business Class: includes buffet, beverages, newspapers and express check-in.

STOCKHOLM - HELSINKI / TALLINN or vice versa Daily services 1 January – 31 December Departure

Arrival

City

17.30

Stockholm

10.30+1

Jan, Apr, May, Aug, Nov and Dec departs on EVEN dated days Feb, Mar, Jun, Jul, Sep and Oct on ODD dated days PRICE PER CABIN one way Maximum Number Cabin Type of Occupants B CLASS (Inside) A CLASS (Outside) DELUXE CLASS (Outside)

1 Jan—23 Jun / 9 Aug-30 Dec

24 Jun-8 Aug

180 235 365

265 360 560

4 4 2

Arrival

City

Time

City

Time

COPENHAGEN - OSLO or vice versa

Stockholm Helsinki Stockholm Tallinn

17.00 17.00 17.45 18.00

Helsinki Stockholm Tallinn Stockholm

09.55+1 09.30+1 10.00+1 10.00+1

Daily services 1 January – 31 December

PRICE PER CABIN one way Maximum Number Cabin Type of Occupants B CLASS (Inside) A CLASS (Outside) DELUXE CLASS (Outside)

4 4 2

1 Jan—23 Jun / 9 Aug-30 Dec

24 Jun-8 Aug

230 305 470

330 440 685

Departure

Arrival

City

Time

City

Time

Copenhagen

16.30

Oslo

09.45+1

Oslo

16.30

Copenhagen

09.45+1

Prices on request Note: Copenhagen-Oslo ferry tickets are booked and delivered locally and must be purchased in conjunction with accommodation in the city of departure.

ST. PETERSBURG - HELSINKI or vice versa Daily services 1 May – 31 December Departure

Arrival

City

Time

City

Time

St. Petersburg

19.00

Helsinki

08.00+1

May, Aug, Nov and Dec departs on EVEN dated days Jun, Jul, Sep and Oct on ODD dated days Helsinki

18.00

St. Petersburg

09.30+1

May, Aug, Nov and Dec departs on ODD dated days Jun, Jul, Sep and Oct on EVEN dated days PRICE PER CABIN one way PORT OF TALLINN

Fares are per cabin one way including breakfast, except St. Petersburg to Helsinki ferry. All cabins are equipped with shower, private facilities and air-conditioning. Other cabin classes available on request.

Cabin Type

Maximum Number of Occupants

B CLASS (Inside Cabin)

4

from 260

A CLASS (Outside Cabin)

4

from 325

COMMODORE CLASS (Outside Cabin)

3

from 555

At the time of brochure printing, 2016 schedules and prices were unavailable. We have included 2015 schedules and prices as a guide to planning your journey.


49

GETTING AROUND: RAIL & COACH SERVICES ST. PETERSBURG TO HELSINKI

ST. PETERSBURG TO MOSCOW

The Allegro high-speed train service has cut travel time between St. Petersburg and Helsinki to just three and a half hours from city centre to city centre. Four daily services in each direction offer an efficient, first class service, Finnish-Russian staff and a restaurant car. From St. Petersburg

To Helsinki

06:40 10:25 15:25 19:25

10:15 14:00 19:00 23:00

Helsinki

St. Petersburg

06:12 11:00 15:00 20:00

09:48 14:36 18:36 23:36

1st Class from

2nd Class from

200

110

200

110

1st Class: Reclining seat, newspapers, snack and tea/coffee 2nd Class: Reclining seat only.

The Sapsan “Peregrine Falcon” is an appropriate name for this high-speed train, which can reach speeds of up to 250 kmph. With the introduction of this sleek, modern German built train the travel time between these two great cities has been cut to just 4 hours. From St. Petersburg

To Moscow

1st Class Class

2nd Class Class

06:40 07:00 13:30 15:10 19:30 19:50

10:20 11.15 17:40 19:15 23:20 23:15

245

170

Moscow

St. Petersburg

06:40 13:30 13:40 16:30 19:30 19:50

10:20 17:40 17:50 20:25 23:20 23:45

245

170

1st Class: Reclining seat, table, TV, newspapers, drinks and hot meal 2nd Class: Reclining seat and table.

SAPSAN HIGH-SPEED TRAIN

TRANS-SIBERIAN & TRANS-MONGOLIAN RAIL SECTORS From

To

Depart

Arrive

Moscow St. Petersburg Moscow Kazan Moscow Yekaterinburg Moscow Irkutsk Irkutsk Vladivostok Irkutsk Ulaan Baatar Ulaan Baatar Beijing

St. Petersburg Moscow Kazan Moscow Yekaterinburg Moscow Irkutsk Moscow Vladivostok Irkutsk Ulaan Baatar Irkutsk Beijing Ulaan Baatar

23:55 - Daily 23:55 - Daily 16:50 – Daily 19:45 – Daily 16:50 – Daily 10:12 – Daily 13:50 – Daily 18:45 – Daily 20:57 – Daily 22:30 – Daily 05:12 – Sat, Sun & Mon 13:50 – Tue & Fri 07:15 - Thu 11:22 – Tue (Jan-May) & Sat (Jun-Dec)

07:55+1 07:55+1 04:21 +1 07:10 +1 20:09 +1 09:23 +1 20:57 +3 17:43 +3 20:10 +3 18:12 +3 06:40 +1 14:38+1 14:04+1 14:20 +1

Note: Rail tickets are booked and delivered locally and must be purchased in conjunction with accommodation in the city of departure.

MOSCOW RAILWAY STATION

ST. PETERSBURG TO TALLINN or vice-versa From

To

St. Petersburg

Tallinn

Daily Services 6

Tallinn

St. Petersburg

6

Approx. Duration 7 hours

Price Per Person 95

7 hours

95

Coach tickets are booked and delivered locally and must be purchased in conjunction with accommodation in the city of departure.

LAKE BAIKAL

50

All prices are per person, one way. At the time of brochure printing, 2016 schedules and prices were unavailable. We have included 2015 schedules and prices as a guide to planning your journey.


TERMS & CONDITIONS OF TRAVEL BROCHURE VALIDITY, PRICES & GST This brochure is valid from 1 January – 31 December 2016, unless withdrawn or substituted earlier. All prices stated in this brochure are in AUD and based on tariffs and exchange rates as at 30 September 2015. Prices are subject to change without notice in the event of fluctuations in exchange rates or increases in airfares or supplier costs outside the control of Beyond Travel. However, no surcharges will apply once final payment has been received. Most overseas products featured in this brochure are exempt from a Goods and Services Tax. However, due to legislation, GST is applicable on all domestic services provided, such as cancellations, amendments, visa processing, etc.

SPECIAL JOURNEY SOLO TRAVELLER CLUB Our Solo Traveller Club is a Beyond Travel initiative designed to match solo travellers on our 2016 Special Journey tour series who are willing to share twin accommodation, saving on single supplements and offering an opportunity for companionship whilst travelling. Only travellers of the same gender will be matched and there are no guarantees that a match will be suitable or possible; if we are unable to find a match, single supplements will apply. To join, please complete the registration form available from our office or website and return it to Beyond Travel or your preferred travel agent. Special booking and payment conditions apply. Detailed conditions are outlined on the registration, and submission of the form is deemed consent to these terms.

HOW TO BOOK To book any service in this brochure, please contact your preferred travel agent or Beyond Travel.

TOUR CANCELLATION Beyond Travel and its principals reserve the right to cancel any tour up to 4 weeks before departure. Should a tour be cancelled, alternative arrangements of as close a standard as practicable will be recommended:- however if a suitable alternative is not found, a full refund will be offered. Should you accept an alternative that is at a cheaper price, we will refund the difference. Once a suitable alternative has been offered or the fare has been refunded, Beyond Travel accept no further liability.

DEPOSITS & BALANCE DUE To secure a booking, the following non-refundable deposits will be required for all services within 7 days upon receipt of a confirmation invoice: Czar’s Gold: 15% All other tours and services: 10%* *Minimum deposit is $100 per booking. Final payment is due 60 before the commencement of your travel arrangements.

1a: GUARANTEED DEPARTURE TOUR - In the unlikely event that a >>Guaranteed Departures