Africa

Asia Europe The Middle East North America South America The South Pacific

M aupintour.com

WHAT WILL YOU

Table of Contents

DISCOVER AFRICA

The Middle East

Zambia - Victoria Falls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5

United Arab Emirates - Dubai . . . . . . . . . 40-41 Dubai Say . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42-43 Highlights of Abu Dhabi Tour . . . . . . . . . 44-45 Jordan Journey Tour. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46-47

Zambia, Cape Town & Botswana Safari . . . . . 6-7 South Africa & Botswana Safari Tour . . . . . . . 8-9

Cairo, Alexandria & The Nile Tour . . . . . 10-11 Ancient Egypt Tour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-13

China - Beijing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-15 China Highlights Tour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16-17 Hong Kong Explorer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Experience China . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Thailand Adventure Tour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Discover Tokyo Tour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Vietnam Voyager Tour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22-23

Untied States of America - Hawaii . . . . . 48-49 Discover Hawaii Vacation Tour . . . . . . . . . . . 50 St Sonoma Wine Country Tour . . . . . . . . . . 51 New Orleans Tour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 San Francisco Stay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Quebec Stay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Seattle, Victoria & Vancouver . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Europe

South America

Germany - Munich . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24-25 St Romantic Germany Tour - Group . . . . . . 26 Discover Germany Tour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Classic Europe Tour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28- 29 Paris Escape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 London & Paris via the Chunnel . . . . . . . . . 31 Everything Italy Tour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32-33 Croatian Dreams Tour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Iceland - Fire & Ice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Beautiful Brussels Tour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Brazil - Rio de Janeiro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56-57 Brazil Highlights Tour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58-59 Enchanting Peru Tour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 Peru Highlights Tour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 St Classic Colombia Tour . . . . . . . . . . . . 62-63 Galapagos Island Journey Tour . . . . . . . 64-65 Everything Argentina Tour . . . . . . . . . . . 66-67

Northern Lights Adventure Tour . . . . . . . . . 38 Discover Norway Tour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Australia - Sydney . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68-69 Australia & Tasmania Adventure Tour . . . . 70

tasting at multiple Sonoma County wineries.

Prague, Vienna & Budapest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Sp

 -

 -T

O UR

onsor

 -T

O UR

Other Services Have You Discovered MCT? . . . . . . . . . . 76-77 Maupintour City Tours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78-79 Travel Protection Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80-81 Terms & Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82-83

Maupintour

 -

ed

Corkhopping: v. Enjoying wine

O UR

onsor

ed

do you speak Sonoma?

ed

onsor

 -T

Sp

North America

Sp

ASIA

Sensational Sydney Tour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 Australia Voyager Tour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72-73 Discover New Zealand Tour . . . . . . . . . . 74-75

 -

The South Pacific

Maupintour is dedicated to providing you with the vacation of your dreams. We offer many tours that are customizable to meet your unique specification in the effort of creating that prefect vacation package.

M aupintour.com is a luxury tour operator offering

escorted and independent tours worldwide to upscale travelers. The company has operated for over 60 years and has an active alumni that desires luxury vacations which include private sightseeing, fine dining and 4 and 5 star accommodations. Maupintour Extraordinary Vacation USA, Inc. 2690 Weston Road, Suite 200 Weston Florida 33331-3608 Contact us: 1-800-255-4266 Member: ARC, CLIA, IATA A Florida Seller of Travel Reg. No. ST35757

Maupintour Travel Book Designed by: Frank V Anderson

Speak a little Sonoma for the ultimate group tour. Because you’re more than a visitor, you’re a new friend. Get cash incentives up to $1,000 when you bring your group here! Use promo code: SCMTB14

1-800-255-4266

SonomaCounty.com/ grouptour onsor

 -T

ed

Sp

See our sponsored tour 1-800–576-6662 St O UR

 -

on page 51

Scan to learn more..

MAUPINTOUR Travel Book Developed by: Frank V Anderson ®

tion's a c a V y r a in d r xtrao veral e s r le e v Maupintour E a r t g e discernin h t r e ff tomized o s s u c m f a r o e g n prog a r distinctive a h it W . s e nt city g e a d n e p e advant d in 0 re than 40 o m d n a s m a intour r p u a prog M , e id w world you lp e h stays available n a c s n o ti Vaca reams. d Extraordinary r u o y f o n o ati design the vac you? lp e h e w y a m How

Elizabeth A. Horwitz Thank you very much for your assistance with the flight arrangements when US Air canceled the flight from Cincinnati to Philadelphia. Your help was very prompt and overall just wonderful. We really appreciated your jumping in to fix our problem.

Maupintour Testimonials

yS te d rli ng kn itho plan o u al w t ne b l th th th d th oth e lo at is e to s Th e s ver gis we ma end an erv y i tic ha il f y k y ic m s w d a ro ou ou e fr pre er w m y a so om sse e p on ou not m be d w erf der to e w uc g i ec fu le it h inn th t! l ti t y h o fo in th W m o r u ry g e ou to qu e w e an r h en ali ere d el d. ty o p. f

We enjoyed the trip very much and I have told lots of people about Maupintour’s independent vacations and given out the brochures.

w

Ha

veler Lollie - Maupintour Tra

Co

rk

Maupintour Traveler - Have you eve r thought of sharing your vacation memories with the world? Well now you can with Maupintour Testimonials, it's that simple. While you're having the time of your life on your dream vacation, take a moment to snap a photo of you and your love one. Then when you return send us your photo and testimonial to enter in a chance of being featured in our next Maupintour Trav el Book Issue. Send it to: [email protected]

Dear Miriam,

or and The Galapagos nderful trip to Ecuad wo r ou m beaches fro ed urn We just ret s hotel in Quito to the us. From our gorgeou for The hotel d d. ge cte an pe arr ex u yo we which re than anything mo s wa p tri the ry late , ve nd r even at ou on Santa Cruz Isla d fresh squeezed juice an els tow 's unique ld ito co Qu th wi of staff met us d us to some rning our guide treate mo nta Cruz xt Sa ne e the Th to ur. on ho d l arriva fly to Galapagos an to rt po air re the to of y for our party 4 we history on the wa de on the Santa Cruz ma u yo the nts to d me ge foo t an Ship. The arr . From the excellen board were fantastic even perfect. The 5 days on ember. The Naturalists rem all ll was a trip we wi I cannot it ! s, me ide ho gu ed on ch diti rea pe ex re waiting when we we t tha us us k for s too oto arranged. He took great ph in Ecuador which you ide gu extra r an ou d t ad ou to ab gh gh say enou s flexible enou to wear hoping to see and wa at re wh we en we ev d ere an wh s ery ev hts, photo His suggestions for sig l of Ecuador sight at our request. of the beautiful capita ge led ow kn his d An ct. ide was rfe gu pe l re na we rso and bring visited, our pe that everywhere we ing ents, ow hm Kn res . ng ref azi en ev am was ments, tickets and cu do ry ssa ce ne th waiting for us wi e. our d completely worry fre Thank you again for made our trip easy an cation. "once in a lifetime" va

2

, pecialist cation S a V & e Cruis llenor – Penny E ia r their Califo n r years.. tra fo Carlsbad r u o t x h Maupin go the e oking wit wledgeable and able trips for o b n e e r I have b ely kno nt d memo re extrem lity, flawless an clients on a rece a s t n e g a a y u q m f e o rovid one mile to p Comment from nd fabulous!" ! s t g n azin a my clie u! "..was am , ia d Thank yo In trip to

ks than I had r u o t at upin tion th at our ie a k n M a Pu the vac y th tell t to ettable ust sa one of ad. n a ly ro rg tw .Im I jus e unfo urope was tru ence ab h E i r t r for vering pe Tou expe e o disc ic Euro s I hav n s s o a Cl cati t va bes y Dall

Hi Miriam,

rked out very trip and the guides wo We had a wonderful s a good wa d an is in a good area well. The K & K Hotel interested, if d, an p tri a recap of the ote wr I y. sta to ce pla e report was k and download it. Th you can go to the lin ain, for another computer. Thanks, ag too long for my little nce. good Maupin experie Sincerely, Jim

3

Victoria Falls

Zambia

The Smoke that Thunders

D

iscover Zambia, a unique country that embodies all that is great about the African continent. Home to some of the most spectacular wildlife and rich culture in the world, a tour to Zambia will leave a lasting impression on both novice and experienced travelers. No trip to Zambia would be complete without a stop at one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, Victoria Falls, a bucket list item that is as magnificent as it is grand. Tour Zambia today with Maupintour, and discover the best of Africa.

China

Africa

Zambia

5

Africa Zambia, Cape Town and Botswana Safari Moremi of its status as one of Botswana's finest destinations. Day 5 On to Chobe National Park

B

This morning you will depart on a scheduled charter flight from Camp Moremi to Kasane Airport. Upon arrival at Kasane airport, you will be transferred by scenic road into Chobe National Park and further to Chobe Game Lodge. Enjoy two nights at Chobe Game Lodge, the only permanent lodge situated within the boundaries of Chobe National Park, on a fully inclusive basis. All rooms at the lodge are river facing and are air conditioned with overhead fans. Complimentary mini bar and en-suite bathrooms, each with tea and coffee making facilities. All rooms have their very own private terrace. When not on activities, relax around the pool or enjoy the lodge's gym and or treatments at the Well-being Centre (treatments not included in tour price). Accommodation is on a fully inclusive basis. Day 6 Explore Chobe

8 Day Tour From $5,100 Per Person, Land

E

xplore the vast diversity that southern Africa has to offer. From Cape Town's colorful Malay Quarter to the smoking thunders of Victoria Falls. Southern Africa is a place you will not want to leave off your vacation wish list. HIGHLIGHTS:

• A guided tour of Cape Town • Visit to Victoria Falls • Enjoy a stay at Moremi Wildlife Reserve • Explore the great outdoor on a 4X4 safari WHAT’S INCLUDED:

• Domestic flights • Full inclusive stay at Sussi Lodge • Private transfers - Hotel accommodations

Day 1 Arrive Cape Town

Meet and greet services upon arrival at Cape Town Airport and road transfer to the Table Bay Hotel, situated within the V&A Waterfront.

6

The afternoon and evening can be spent at leisure. The Table Bay Hotel, located on Cape Town's Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, straddles the antique breakwater and is an architectural masterpiece. Capturing the essence of the enchanting Cape, the Victorian elegance of yesterday, combined with the contemporary design of today. It is a perfect setting, with the backdrop of Table Mountain, the historic harbor and yacht bay. Day 2 Everything Cape Town After breakfast, your driver will meet you at your hotel at 8:30 am and then you're taken on a guided morning orientation tour of Cape Town. You will venture through streets that are crowded with history. Highlights includes The South Africa Museum, Company Gardens, The Parliament Buildings, The Castles of Good Hope, The Colorful Malay Quarter, District Six Museum, Green Market Square, Signal Hill, Camps Bay and Clifton. You will then be transported to the cable car station at Table Mountain. This visit to the top of Table Mountain is weather permitting and cable car fees are for clients own account. The rest of the day is free for you to relax and enjoy Cape Town at your own pace. Day 3 Safari Time - Camp Moremi After breakfast you will be met by your private car and transferred to Cape Town International Airport. Depart on an Air Botswana flight from Cape Town to Maun in Botswana. Upon arrival in Maun, you will be met by a representative who will assist you onto a scheduled charter flight to

the Xakanxa airstrip in Moremi Wildlife Reserve. A short and scenic transfer will get you to Camp Moremi. Enjoy two nights at Camp Moremi on a fully inclusive basis. Camp Moremi accommodates only 22 guests in East African-style safari tents, individually situated on raised teak platforms. Each tent is exquisitely furnished with an African teak wardrobe, luggage rack, dressing table, bedside pedestals and traditional director's chairs. Colorful woven rugs, designer linen and matching interior blinds complete your African hideaway. His and hers towel robes as well as tea and coffee making facilities are also provided to make your stay as comfortable as possible. Each tent has its own private bathroom situated adjacent to the tent. Activities include tracking big game on morning and afternoon game drives by open 4x4 safari vehicle, excellent bird-watching, exploring the Xakanaxa Lagoon and surrounding Okavango channels by motorboat. Day 4 Moremi Wildlife Reserve Enjoy morning and afternoon activities within Moremi Wildlife Reserve. Camp Moremi is situated on the beautiful Xakanaxa Lagoon in the heart of the Okavango Delta, within the Moremi Wildlife Reserve. Xakanaxa is renowned for being one of the best game viewing areas in Botswana. Shaded by giant ebony trees, the magnificent Moremi tree lodge is an elegant elevated thatch and timber structure consisting of a main lounge. Wildlife reference library, dining room and stylishly decorated cocktail bar cooled by overhead punkah-punkah fans. The large sun deck affords an unsurpassed view of Xakanaxa Lagoon. A secluded swimming pool, covered boma and elevated observation platform assures Camp

Escape the Ordinary

Enjoy your choice of land or water activities, and the most complete game experience in the Chobe area. Chobe is well known for its populations of elephant and buffalo, as well as many other species of wildlife. Game drives are conducted in open sided 4X4 vehicles ensuring maximum visibility, while game viewing on the Chobe River is conducted by small, shallow draft and highly maneuverable boats piloted by expert boatmen. This is a safari you will never forget. Day 7 Zambia - Victoria Falls Depart Botswana into Zambia by scheduled road transfer. The drive from Chobe Game lodge to Sussi Lodge should take about two hours inclusive of border crossing formalities. Enjoy a visit to Victoria Falls. One night accommodation at Sussi Lodge on a fully inclusive basis. Guest accommodation consists of 10 luxury tree-houses, built into the living canopy of giant ebony trees lining the bank. Each unit has a private view of the Zambezi from its own deck among the branches. The main lodge building features a spectacular raised bar/lounge deck, open air dining area, swimming pool and lawns sweeping down to the water's edge. Resident wildlife, such as hippopotamus and elephant, is likely to wander through the Lodge grounds at any time, since in the National Park they have priority. A wide choice of activities adds to the attractions of this elegant, secluded retreat. Day 8 Depart Zambia After breakfast and a choice of your activity, travelers will be collected at Sussi Lodge and transferred to the Livingstone Airport for their onward travel arrangements. »Booking Code: ZCBS

Contact us at 1-800-255-4266

M aupintour.com

7

Okavango Safari What will you discover up close?

B

South Africa & Botswana Safari Tour

Africa

E

xplore the great outdoors of southern Africa. Enjoy game viewing in Botswana at both Chobe National Park and the famous Okavango Delta, where a close view of Africa’s wildlife is never scarce. Then venture to Cape Town for another great outdoor adventure that will leave you with wanting for more. HIGHLIGHTS:

• Enjoy The Young Explorer Programs that are specially designed for safaris of all ages • Get up close and view some of Okavango Delta's local wild residence on a 4x4 adventure • Take a full day trip of either Cape Peninsula & Cape Point or Robben Island WHAT’S INCLUDED:

• Domestic flights • Half day tour of Cape Town City, Table Mountain & the Waterfront • Private transfers - Hotel accommodations

Day 1 Welcome to Johannesburg

You will be met in Johannesburg by your private driver and transferred to the Monidor Concorde Hotel for the night. The rest of the day is free for you to relax after your flight. Day 2 On to Chobe

Day 5 Explore the Okavango Delta

Today you will start your exciting safari! Enjoy a private transfer to the airport to catch your flight to Zambia. After landing, you will be welcomed off your flight and enjoy a scenic road transfer to the world's famous Chobe Game Lodge in Botswana. A host of activities awaits you, as you safari through one of the worlds most famous wildlife reserve. Day 3 Chobe Safari

Day 6 4x4 Adventure

Today enjoy a choice of land or water activities and the most complete game experience in the Chobe area. Chobe is well known for its populations of elephant and buffalo, as well as many other species of wildlife. The resident professional guides offer star gazing and guided walks within the game-fenced area if you choose to partake.

With the sunrise comes an introduction to driving large 4x4 vehicles, which are vital out in the bush. While touring today you are sure to bump into some of the many species of large mammals that inhabit the Okavango Delta including wild dogs, elephants, lions, buffaloes, cheetahs, wildebeest and impalas. Later, you may wish to try your angling skills Okavango style, either along the banks of lagoons and channels or, for the more adventurous from the mokoro.

Enjoy a morning activity and breakfast before being transferred to the airport for your scheduled charter flight to Young Explorers. You'll enjoy every minute of this exciting unique safari. The Young Explorer Programs are specially

Escape the Ordinary

designed safaris offering families and couples the opportunity to discover the wonders of the African wilderness together. One of the special attractions of the Young Explorer safaris are their exclusivity as each family has the sole use of a private camp, allowing the daily schedule to be flexible and to be tailored around the ages and interests of all family members.

The day begins before sunrise as we enjoy a light breakfast around the campfire before heading out to see what the bush has in store for us. Following the waters edge gives us the chance to examine some of the tracks left by overnight visitors, as well as identifying some of the multitude of animals, birds and insects that inhabit the forests. Today learn some traditional bush skills and later enjoy a mokora (dugout canoe) ride on the Delta.

Day 4 Okavango Delta

8

10 Day Tour From $6,250 Per Person, Land that you might use to survive in the bush. After this informal bush evaluation you will then be awarded your Okavango Delta Certificate making you an official member of a truly select group of bushrangers. Fly to Cape Town, where the rest of the day is yours to relax or explore at your own pace. Your new hotel is the Commodore. Day 8 Discover Cape Town Cape Town offers the visitor a great combination of scenic beauty, outdoors and cultural experiences for an unforgettable African holiday. After breakfast enjoy your choice of activities, either a full day trip of either Cape Peninsula & Cape Point or Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 27 years. Day 9 Table Mountain and the Waterfront After breakfast enjoy a half day tour including Cape Town City, Table Mountain & the Waterfront. Day 10 Depart Cape Town After your last breakfast in Cape Town you will be transferred back to the airport for your return flight home, bringing to an end an unforgettable adventure! »Booking Code: SABS

Day 7 Cape Town The morning is spent discussing your stay, your guides will ask you to identify several tracks, birds and animals, and to explain some of the skills

For more information please contact us at 1-800-255-4266

M aupintour.com

9

E

Africa Cairo, Alexandria & The Nile Tour

Cairo, Alexandria & The Nile Tour

Africa

E

xplore the majestic wonders of northern Africa. Embrace the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx. Take a memorable tour to Alexandria from Cairo and see one of the most important attraction the Egyptian Museum filled with famous treasures and Egyptian artifacts. HIGHLIGHTS:

• Visit the Giza Pyramids, Red Pyramid, Djoser's Step Pyramid & the Bent Pyramid • Attend the Sound & Light Show over looking the Sphinx and Giza Pyramids • A visit to Karnak Temple complex, Temple of Dendera Kom Ombo and many more WHAT’S INCLUDED:

• Domestic flights • 7 Day Nile River Cruise • A visit to the Egyptian Museum • Private transfers - Hotel accommodations

Day 1 Arrive Cairo Welcome to Cairo, jewel of the Nile! Your private driver will greet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel, the Mena House Oberoi. The rest of the day is free for you to relax. Day 2 Giza Pyramids and the Sphinx Take a camelback ride to the Giza plateau, where the amazing pyramids rise from the desert floor. In constructing the pyramids, consider the task of transporting and laying the three million two-ton blocks so perfectly in place. See the Solar Boat, found buried

14 Day Tour From $4,600 Per Person, Land/Cruise next to the Great Pyramid and believed to provide passage for the Pharaoh in the afterlife, and the mysterious Sphinx, to ponder the puzzle of its origin. This afternoon, travel to Memphis, the ancient capital of Egypt. Sightseeing includes the mastaba (tomb) of Mereruka and Djoser's Step Pyramid, the oldest freestanding stone structure in the world.

Roman times and filled with pharaonic art. Visit the Bibliotheca Alexandria, a modern reconstruction of one of the most celebrated centers of learning in human history. Your accommodations tonight are at the Helnan Palestine Hotel.

Day 3 Dahshur Pyramids

Return to Cairo and visit the Egyptian Museum. Guided by your Egyptologist, explore the enormous collection of over 100,000 artifacts, including the treasures of Tutankhamun's tomb, mummies ranging from the 18th to the 20th Dynasties, and wonderfully mysterious statues from ancient royal palaces. Accommodations tonight are at the Conrad Hotel.

Today enjoy seldom-seen pyramid treasures of Egypt. The Red Pyramid is often overlooked, but is just as impressive as its Giza counterparts. It is thought to be the "training ground" for the Giza Pyramids, being older in origin. Another is the Bent Pyramid, called "the shining pyramid" because it still possesses some of its smooth outer casing. This evening, attend the Sound & Light Show overlooking the Sphinx and Giza Pyramids. Day 4 Alexandria Set out across the desert to the Mediterranean seaport of Alexandria, founded in 331 BC by Alexander the Great. Visit the Alexandria National Museum of Antiquities and see Montazah Palace, the former summer residence of the royal family of Egypt. Tour the catacombs, dating from

10

Day 5 Egyptian Museum

in ancient times as Thebes, and step aboard a luxurious cruiser for a journey along the timeless Nile. Observe everyday life on the banks of the river as you sail the fine Oberoi Philae. Day 8 Nile River Cruise Explore the Temple of Dendera, dedicated to the Egyptian god Hathor, to see hieroglyphics chronicling the reigns of several pharaoh's. In the inner temple is a copy of the famous Dendera Zodiac. This afternoon your ship sails back to Luxor. Day 9 Nile River Cruise

Walk the streets of Old Cairo this morning to see the Mohammed Ali Mosque, the Ben Ezra Synagogue, and one of the old Coptic churches. Then enjoy a memorable shopping experience at the notorious bazaar of Khan El Khalili. Luncheon is included in the bazaar.

This morning tour the massive Karnak Temple complex at Luxor. Pass through a series of three small temples and step into the architectural masterpiece of the Hypostyle Hall, once considered the ultimate house of worship. Then visit the smaller Temple of Luxor, built by Amenhotep III and Rameses II, buried under desert sand for centuries and therefore now well preserved. There is free time to wonder the markets of Luxor.

Day 7 Fly to Luxor / Nile River Cruise

Day 10 Nile River Cruise

Fly south up the Nile Valley to Luxor, known

Enter the secluded Valleys of the Kings

Day 6 Bazaar / Old Cairo

Escape the Ordinary

and Queens on the west bank of the Nile, across from Luxor. The valley is home to 64 pharaoh's tombs plus those of queens and nobles. Visit the tomb of King Tutankhamun, discovered early last century and the only pharaonic tomb to remain unlooted over the millennia. See the colonnaded temple of Egypt's only female pharaoh, Queen Hatshepsut, and the famed Colossi of Memnon. Day 11 Nile River Cruise At Edfu visit the remarkably intact Temple of Horus, the falcon god. Later your ship calls at the Temple of Kom Ombo, consisting of two shrines - one for Sobek the crocodile god and the other for Horus the Elder, the god of war. Kom Ombo is beautiful at sunset when the light makes the stone especially colorful.

Day 13 Abu Simbel / Cairo Disembark the ship and fly over Lake Nasser to magnificent Abu Simbel, a stunning Nubian temple site built to honor Rameses II and his wife, Nefertari. Originally carved into the stone cliffs in 1250 BC, the temple was also relocated due to the High Dam construction. Twice a year, the sun is able to penetrate to the innermost sanctuary, to the statues of Rameses II and Amon Ra, the sun god. Relax on the return flight to Cairo. Accommodations tonight are at the Concorde El Salam. Day 14 Return Home Depart Cairo for your return home. Saida, as-salam alaikoom! »Booking Code: NILE

Day 12 Aswan In Aswan see one of the world's greatest engineering feats, the Aswan High Dam. It created Lake Nasser, at over 500 km long one of the world's largest man-made lakes. Visit Philae Temple, which was moved to its current island to rescue it from the rising waters of Lake Nasser. It features two pylons displaying all the ancient deities of Isis and Osiris.

For more information please contact us at 1-800-255-4266

M aupintour.com

11

E Africa Ancient Egypt Tour

the falcon god, built by Ptolemy III in 230 BC. After lunch, continue cruising up the Nile past small villages, palm trees, and farmers working in fields much the same as they did 2,000 years ago - with donkeys and camels. Dock at Kom Ombo to visit the twin temples dedicated to Horus and to Sobek, the crocodile god. The temples are a classic example of Egyptian symmetry and design in construction. M.S. ROYAL LILY.

L

ets venture back in time to a place that is filled with great structures. Ones that took many decades to complete and others that were carved by hand from a solid piece of stone. It's a place with one of the most magnificent river in the world, as bountiful as it is long.

Day 7 Nile River Cruise

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Camelback ride to the base of the Giza Pyramids • Enjoy a 4 night river cruise on the M.S. Royal Lily • Tour the Karnak Temple Comlpex WHAT’S INCLUDED:

• Private car tour of Cairo • Visit the Solar Boat Museum, Temple of Horus, Kom Ombo, Philae Temple, Temple of Hathor and the International Museum of Nubia • Private Transfers - Hotel accommodations

Day 1 Arrive Cairo Welcome to Cairo, jewel of the Nile! Your private driver will greet you at the airport and transfer you to the Conrad Hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to relax. Day 2 Sightseeing & Egyptian Museum Sightseeing in Cairo is by private car and an Egyptologist guide. Visit the Egyptian Museum, containing the largest artifact collection from pharaonic times, including the unparalleled treasures of the tomb of Tutankhamun—the “Boy King.” See the gold mask, toys, jewelry and throne, all

12

9 Day Tour From $2,950 Per Person, Land/Cruise found in the pharaoh’s tomb across the Nile from Luxor. Lunch is included out in the town. Then visit the Old City of Cairo, including the Mohammed Ali Mosque in the Citadel. Enjoy a walk through the bazaar of Khan el Khalili where stalls and shops overflow with jewelry, copper, brass, carpets, and spices. Day 3 Giza Pyramids / Sphinx / Saqqara Experience one the oldest forms of transportation - a camelback ride - to the base of the Giza Pyramids. Examine Cheop’s Great Pyramid, which is 4,500 years old and covers 13 acres at its base. The famous Giza plateau also includes Chephren and Mycerinus Pyramids and the Sphinx, protector of the pharaohs. A visit is included to the fascinating Solar Boat Museum, meant to transport the pharaoh in the afterlife. Lunch is included in Giza. This afternoon tour Memphis, the capital of ancient Egypt, and the necropolis at Saqqara to see Djoser’s Step Pyramid, the oldest freestanding stone structure in the world.

Embark on the M.S. Royal Lily, a deluxe river cruiser, for your four-night cruise up the legendary Nile. Shore excursions on the cruise are included. Visit the Karnak Temple Complex, built by generations of pharaohs and covering a total of 2 sq. km, then follow the partially buried two-mile Avenue of the Ram-headed Sphinxes to Luxor Temple, which was well-preserved by its cover of desert sand until discovery in the 19th century. Attend the Sound and Light Show this evening back at the Karnak Temple. M.S. ROYAL LILY. Day 5 Nile River Cruise Cross to the west shore of the Nile to the Valley of the Kings and Queens, the famed necropolis where tombs of 64 pharaohs have been found, including that of Tutankhamun, whose treasures were miraculously intact after 3,000 years. You visit the tomb, not normally seen by tourists. View the unique colonnaded temple of Queen Hatshepsut and the Colossi of Memnon before returning to the M.S. ROYAL LILY.

Day 4 On to Luxor, Start Nile River Cruise

Day 6 Nile River Cruise

Fly south, up the Nile Valley to Luxor, known as Thebes in pharaonic times.

This morning your ship sails to Edfu for a visit to the nearly intact Temple of Horus,

Escape the Ordinary

The M.S. Royal Lily docks in Aswan, location of the largest landfill dam in the world--the High Dam--which was built to control the annual flooding of the Nile and to provide electricity. Visit Philae Temple, relocated from another island to save it from the rising river waters when the dam was built, and see the granite quarry where an ancient obelisk lies cracked and unfinished. Late in the afternoon, visit the International Museum of Nubia which houses statues and monuments from the time of the Pharaohs, plus Coptic treasures. M.S. ROYAL LILY. Day 8 Back to Cairo Fly to Abu Simbel (a representative will accompany you from Aswan), the colossal temple that was carved from solid rock in 1235 BC. by the great Ramses II. Beside it stands the Temple of Hathor, built to honor the Pharaoh’s wife, Nefertari. In the 1960s, the temples were moved pieceby-piece 200 feet up the hill to preserve them from the rising waters of Lake Nasser. This evening, fly back to Cairo to stay the final night at a hotel near the airport. Your accommodations are at the Sonesta Heliopolis Hotel. Day 9 Return Home It’s time to return home with life-long memories and treasures from the land of the pharaohs. A private car transfer is provided to coincide with your flight schedule. Saida, as-salam alaikoom! »Booking Code: AEGY

Contact us at 1-800-255-4266

China

Beijing The Forbidden

City

C

ome explore China with Maupintour, and discover a country rich in culture and history. Our tours to China will take you to all of the major sites, as well as to some off the beaten path destinations where you can explore the past and see the future at the same time. Whether you want to see the Great Wall, visit the religious temples, or get a taste of authentic Chinese gastronomy, our travel experts can plan you a hassle free trip of a lifetime. Let us show you China, old and new.

Russia

Africa

China 15

T

Temple of Heaven

Asia China Highlights Tour

An Imperial

S

Sacrificial Altar in Beijing

ee China’s famous Three Gorges, the Great Wall, Beijing’s Forbidden City and Summer Palace, Xian and Shanghai. Learn about the vast history, art and culture of this amazing country. HIGHLIGHTS: • The Great Wall of China • Explore the Forbidden City and the Summer Palace • See the Terra-Cotta Warriors of Xian • 3-day Yangtze River Cruise WHAT’S INCLUDED:

• Domestic flights • A visit to the Temple of Heaven • Shanghai Tour - visit to the renowned Shanghai Museum • Private transfers - Hotel accommodations

Day 1 Arrive Beijing

Arrive in Beijing, where you will be greeted at the airport by your private car which will escort you to your hotel, the Peninsula Beijing. The rest of the day is free for you to relax. Day 2 The Great Wall and Ming Tombs Today you will journey past markets and towns to the foothills of the Yanshan Mountains. After the scenic drive, you will walk along the Great Wall of China, one of the most amazing structures in the world. In the afternoon, stroll along the Sacred Way past huge stone animals, warriors and Mandarin guards to the ancient Ming Tombs where China's past emperors lay to rest. Enjoy a traditional Peking Duck dinner this evening, after which you will be transferred back to the hotel. Day 3 The Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square Begin your day exploring China's history and culture in Tiananmen Square. Enter the Forbidden City, a 250 acre compound, now the Imperial Palace Museum which houses historic treasures from all over China. Afterwards, visit the Summer Palace, situated in a 700 acre garden encompassing Kunming Lake. Day 4 Hutong and Xian This morning, visit the Temple of Heaven, where the Emperor of China came to worship the god of heaven, followed by a Hutong tour to see the old quarters of Beijing by pedi-cab and then lunch with a local family. Later this afternoon, fly into Xian, where you will be greeted at the airport and transferred to your new hotel, the Sofitel Xian.

16

12 Day Tour From $4,399 Per Person, Land /Cruise The rest of the day is free for you to relax. Day 5 Terra Cotta Warriors Delve into the culture of the Qin Dynasty with a visit to the Qin Shi Huang Di Tomb, where over 8,000 life-sized terra cotta warriors and horses guard the entrance. These figures were grouped in battle order, rank by rank, and buried over 2,000 years ago in a huge pit covering more than three acres. This afternoon, visit the Great Mosque, which was built in traditional Chinese style and ranks among the largest Islamic mosques in China. Day 6 Xian / Chongqing / Yangtze Cruise This morning, travel to see the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a seven story Buddhist temple located on the grounds of the Temple of Good Will. This afternoon fly to Chongqing and visit the zoo to see the Giant Pandas, China's ambassadors to the world. This evening embark on your cruise on the mighty Yangtze River. Day 7 Yangtze Cruise - Shibaozhai As you cruise downstream, behold the vast mountainous hills with its rich vegetation and breathtaking sights. Learn about Chinese traditions with on board lectures and demonstrations. Visit Shibaozhai, an 11 story pavilion built during the 1700's, and considered a gem of Chinese architecture.

majestic cliffs. The Wu Gorge was the birthplace of numerous Chinese legends and mythical creatures. Xiling, with its many narrow curves and stretches, is the longest of the three gorges. Downstream from Qutang is Shennong Stream, where you board small boats to be pulled upstream by trackers. Explore Parrot Gorge and Dragon Boat Gorge. See ancient plank roads, cave coffins and aqueous caves along the way. Day 9 Shanghai Visit the Three Gorges Dam Project to learn about the dam and its influences. Then sail to Yichang and disembark your ship, and head to the airport for your flight to Shanghai. Some departures may drive to Wuhan to catch the flight to Shanghai. After landing, you will be escorted to your new hotel, Le Royal Meridien. The rest of the day is free for you to enjoy at your own pace. Day 10 Everything Shanghai Your tour of Shanghai this morning includes a visit to the renowned Shanghai Museum, a must for any traveler to Shanghai. Experience an authentic lunch at a local restaurant, then visit Yu Yuan Garden, which dates back to the 16th century of the Ming Dynasty. Day 11 A Day For You A free day for you to enjoy Shanghai at your own pace.

Day 8 Yangtze Cruise - The Three Gorges

Day 12 Depart Shanghai

A major highlight of your trip is passing through the Three Gorges, including the Qutang, Wu and Xiling, each of which has its own special characteristics. The Qutang is the shortest, but is considered the most beautiful for its sheer

A private car transfer is provided to the airport to catch your departing flight. »Booking Code: CHIN

Escape the Ordinary

M aupintour.com

17

S

HONG KONG

EXPLORER

7 Day Tour From $2,575 Per Person, Land/Cruise

T

Experience China Tour

ravel to Hong Kong and discover why it truly is the Pearl of the East. Whether you want to explore Macau, see one of the most amazing skylines in the world, or simply taste the local gastronomy, Hong Kong has something for everyone.

landmark of Macau (Ruins of St. Paul's), a church dating back to 1602 but damaged by fire in 1835. The fine art carvings and statues of the church miraculously can still be seen on the surviving facade. A visit to the Museum of Macau will be followed by the observation lounge of Macau Tower, standing at 223M above ground to view all the Macau's landmarks and historical sites. Then see the Temple of A-Ma which was built 400 years ago.

HIGHLIGHTS:

Day 4 Free Day

• Take in the view of Hong Kong on a Ngong Ping 360 cable car ride • Discover the Ruins of St. Paul's in Macau • See all of Macau's landmarks from 223 meters in the Macau Tower • Visit to the Great Buddha Statue WHAT’S INCLUDED:

• Cable car ride • Star Ferry ride • Private transfers - Hotel accommodation

Day 1 Arrive Hong Kong

After arriving in Hong Kong, you will be greeted at the airport and transferred to your 5 star hotel, the W Hong Kong. The W Hong Kong, has received numerous accolades from international media powerhouses such as TripAdvisor.com (Top 25 Hotels in Asia 2013). Apart from 2 restaurants and bars, the hotel also features an award-winning bliss spa, rooftop pool and fitness center. The rest of the day is free for you to relax. Day 2 Deluxe Hong Kong Island Tour with Dinner Hong Kong was once a simple fishing village. Today, it is one of the world's most cosmopolitan cities where east truly meets west. Today your tour will visit Victoria Peak and see the harbor and Kowloon Peninsula from the 373 meters vantage point. The tour will continue to Aberdeen Fishing Village, Repulse Bay and Stanley Market which are the most-visited beach in town and a shoppers paradise for all overseas visitors. Thereafter, you will be able to experience the famous star ferry ride from Central to Tsim Sha Tsui. After you disembark the ferry, there will be a short walk pass by the Clock Tower & Avenue of Star to the restaurant. Before dinner, you can enjoy "A Symphony of Lights" fireworks show.

A free day to enjoy Hong Kong at your own pace. Day 5 Lantau Explorer Tour Your Lantau Explorer tour gets underway after pick up from your hotel. You will first have a couple of warm up stops at the Avenue of Stars and a jewelry factory. You will then travel to Tung Chung Cable car station with the coach. Enjoy the best view of Hong Kong with Ngong Ping 360 cable car up to Ngong Ping. After that, you can walk around Tai O Fishing Village, also known as the "Venice of the East". And you will experience to take boat ride passing through the stilt house community to explore the traditional side of Tai O. Continue with a visit to the Great Buddha Statue, followed by a delicious vegetarian lunch served in the Po Lin Monastery. The tour will then take you to the Ngong Ping Village, a culturally themed village combining attractions, shopping, dining and entertainment. The final exploration trail of Lantau will take you for an amazing 20-25 minutes ride onboard the 5.7km Ngong Ping 360 cable car between Lantau and Tung Chung city. Day 6 Free Day Hong Kong

Day 7 Conclude Hong Kong Today your private driver will meet you at your hotel, and transfer you to the airport. »Booking Code: HONG

pend an adventurous week experiencing some of the best of Chinese culture. From visiting beautiful classical gardens to a unforgettable breathtaking view on the top of the Huangshan Mountain. The Experience China Tour will leave you captivated with China as a destination.

HIGHLIGHTS: • A chance to see the biggest inkstone in the world • Visit the Humble Administrators Garden • Tour Liuhe Pagoda & Meijiawu tea village • Be amazed by the Huangshan Mountain • Visit Lin Ying temple WHAT’S INCLUDED: • Cruise • A visit to Shanghai's World Financial Center • Private transfers - Hotel accommodations

Escape the Ordinary

which creates the illusion of an area that is much greater than its actual size. Lunch will be at a local restaurant followed by a Canal Cruise and a visit to the Suzhou No. 1 silk mill. Return to Shanghai in the evening. Day 4 Hangzhou & Huangshan

Upon landing in Shanghai, you will be greeted by your private driver and transferred to your hotel, the Renaissance Yu Garden. The rest of the day is free for you to relax.

Today, we will drive to Hangzhou (the capital of Zhejiang province) by private coach. With enchanting natural beauty and an abundant cultural heritage, the city is known as 'Heaven on Earth'. We will also visit Lin Ying temple. A premier showpiece in the West Lake environs and one of the ten most famous Buddhist temples in China and Fei Lai park. Visit to the West Lake Cruise. After lunch at a local restaurant, we will visit Liuhe Pagoda and Meijiawu tea village, then drive to Huangshan. Overnight at the Crown Plaza Huangshan Hotel.

After breakfast, you will be taken on a morning visit to Yu Yuan Gardens, and then to visit the Old Town Market and Nanjing road. The Old Town of Shanghai embodies the richness of Ming and Qing architecture and the vibrancy of traditional Shanghai street life. Some call this Shanghai's own "Chinatown" because of the traditional atmosphere, though the bright visages of Colonel Sanders and neon lights lining the narrow alleys add a modern touch. We will have lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, we will take a walk on the Bund to see the breath-taking skyline, and visit Shanghai's World Financial Center.

After breakfast, you will take a morning drive to Suzhou by private coach. The beautiful waterside City of Suzhou in Jiangsu Province in Southern China is most famous for its elegant classical gardens. We will visit the Humble Administrators Garden (a World Cultural Heritage site) and Master of Nets Garden. The smallest of the Suzhou residential gardens, yet it is arguably the most impressive because of its use of space

On this tour, you can experience the charm of the Chinese and Portuguese heritages embraced in an array of modernized architecture. After arriving in Macau from Hong Kong, you will be able to take a glimpse at the statue of Kun Iam which presides over the Macau waterfront. Then it is on to the

7 Day Tour From $2,825 Per Person, Land/Cruise

Day 1 Arrive Shanghai

Day 3 Suzhou Gardens

Day 3 A Day in Macau

18

S

Day 2 Everything Shanghai

A free day to relax or to explore Hong Kong.

Asia

Day 5 Huangshan Mountain After breakfast visit Huangshan Mountain. In 1990, it was listed as a World Cultural Heritage Site and World Natural Heritage Site. We will take Yungu cable car up the mountain and have lunch at a local restaurant. After lunch, you will visit Beginning-to-Believe Peak, Black Tiger Pine, Cloud-dispelling Pavilion, Flying-over Rock and Bright Summit. After a busy day, you will be taken to your new hotel, the Xi Hai Hotel.

lunch at a local restaurant. After lunch we will drive to Yixian and Hongcun Village. Which is known for it's representation of a beautiful Chinese picture because of its location at high altitude, and being shrouded by clouds and mist. It has about 137 Ming and Qing style residences. Next we will drive to Tunxi and visit Tunxi old street, Hukaiwen Ink-stick Factory. Along the street there are many shops that have existed for hundreds of years for you to browse through. Curios and knick-knacks including inkstones, brushes, local teas, and Mao badges can be found throughout the shops. It is a paradise for tourists to buy souvenirs rich in Chinese culture with comparatively low prices and is a must-see when you are traveling in Huangshan City. At the Ink-stick factory, you can find the biggest inkstone in the world, weighing over 27,500 pounds. After dinner, we will take the flight back to Shanghai. Day 7 Depart Shanghai Your morning is free for you to enjoy your last hours in China at your own pace. Your private car will transfer you to the airport in the afternoon to catch your flight home. »Booking Code: EXCT

Day 6 Huangshan, Yixian & Hongcun Be sure to catch the sunrise this morning, after which we will take you to visit Lion Peak, Stone Monkey Gazing at the Sea of Clouds, Dawn Pavilion, Refreshing Terrace and other sights. Next we will take the cable car down and have

For more information please contact us at 1-800-255-4266

M aupintour.com

19

T

Asia Thailand Adventure Tour

Discover Tokyo Tour

Asia

S

pend an enchanting week in the colorful peninsula of Thailand. Bask in the outdoor adventure as you enjoy a scenic train ride, luxury river retreat and local markets. HIGHLIGHTS:

• Visit the Hell Fire Pass Memorial • Train ride along Death Railway • Tour the ruins of Ayntthaya and the Summer Palace • Take a boat ride along Damnoen Saduak Floating Market WHAT’S INCLUDED:

• Visit Don Rak War Cemetery and the Thailand-Burma Railway Museum • A trip to the Float House River Kwai • Mon village - Elephant ride (optional) • Private transfers - Hotel accommodations

Day 1 Arrive Bangkok Today you arrive in Bangkok. You will be met by your private driver and taken to your hotel, the Anantara Bangkok Sathorn. The rest of the day is free for you to relax. Day 2 The River Kwai Today you will start your two day adventure, with a visit to the well-maintained Don Rak War Cemetery and the Thailand-Burma Railway Museum that vividly illustrates the history of the 'Death Railway'. Continue to the Bridge on the River Kwai, celebrated in the self-titled classic film. A long-tail boat delivers you to the Float House River Kwai, "Luxury River Retreat", in its natural setting. After lunch, visit the Mon village where there is an option to take an elephant ride. The Mon have been present in southern Burma and central Thailand long before the arrival of the Burmese or Siamese. After an authentic Thai dinner, we will experience a traditional Mon dance show.

8 Day Tour From $1,175 Per Person, Land Day 3 The River Kwai and Train Ride

Day 6 Pattaya

Today, visit the Hell Fire Pass Memorial, marking the most difficult cutting through rock along the Thailand-Burma Railway. Finally after lunch and check-out, take a scenic train ride along the notorious Death Railway (do not worry, it's much safer than it sounds!) before returning to Bangkok.

After breakfast, depart for Pattaya, the first seaside resort in Thailand, about two and half hours drive south east of Bangkok. Pattaya is well known for a variety of leisure activities, particularly its opportunities for water sports. (Optional) Offshore there are several tropical islands, fringed with palms and surrounded by sparkling sea. This excursion takes us to the largest of the islands, Koh Larn. You have time to laze on the beach or take a dip in the ocean. Koh Larn attracts both snorkelers and scuba divers and has all manner of water-borne recreation such as sea fishing, water skiing and banana boats. Return to Pattaya and have lunch. On the way back to the hotel stop by the Gems Gallery jewelry manufacturers for some incredible shopping.

Day 4 Ayutthaya / Bang Pa-In Today, you will visit the ruins of Ayutthaya and the restored Summer Palace. Phra Nakorn Sri Ayutthaya served as the Siamese capital from 1350 - 1767. It had been one of the most splendid cities of the Orient and was sacked by Burmese invaders and abandoned by the Siamese, who reestablished themselves first at Thonburi and then at Bangkok. Then, you will visit the Historical Park to view the still impressive ruins of Wat Yai Chai Mongkol, Wat Phanan Choeng and the distinctive triple chedis of Wat Phra Sri Sanphet. Also visit the Summer Palace at Bang Pa-In, about 6 miles south of Ayutthaya. Some of the earlier kings used this area as a summer retreat, but the present buildings date mainly from the 19th century when the habit of taking up residence there was revived. There are examples of European and Chinese architectural styles, as well as the Thai pavilion of Phra Thinang Aisawan Tippaya-art. Day 5 Free Day Today is yours to enjoy Bangkok at your own pace. Try visiting one of the many local markets, and be sure to taste the local gastronomy.

20

Day 7 The Floating Market and Kanchanaburi Depart for Ratchaburi province and the wellknown floating market. En route stop off at an orchid farm to marvel these well-loved exotic blooms. On arrival at Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, take a boat trip along the canals where farmers from the surrounding district paddle and peddle their produce fresh from the soil to the market wharf. Continue to Kanchanaburi for lunch. Day 8 Depart Bangkok Today, you will be taken to the airport by your private car and driver for your departure back home. »Booking Code: THAI

Escape the Ordinary

7 Day Tour From $3,450 Per Person, Land/Cruise

T

ravel to Tokyo and experience one of the world’s largest and most breathtaking cities. Explore the iconic Mount Fuji, ride the Shinkansen Bullet train, tour the Nara temples, shrines, gardens and marketplace. In Tokyo the possibilities are endless. HIGHLIGHTS: • Take in the view of Tokyo Bay on a 50 minutes cruise • Experience the speed of Tokyo on a fast Skinkansen Bullet Train ride • Enjoy an aerial cable car ride at Mount Komagatake WHAT’S INCLUDED: • Visit to Mount Fuji • Tour the Sanjusangendo Hall and the Kiyomizu Temple • Private transfers - Hotel accommodations Day 1 Tokyo Welcome to Tokyo, you will be met by your private guide and driver and taken to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to relax and enjoy. Your 5 star deluxe hotel, the Conrad Tokyo, is conveniently suited so that you can wander around the city should you wish to.

Day 2 Everything Tokyo Tour There's much to see in bustling Tokyo and this full-day tour is the perfect introduction to the city's sights. After breakfast at the hotel, you'll visit Japan's most famous Shinto shrine. Take a stroll around the gardens of the Imperial Palace and spend time at Tokyo's oldest Buddhist temple. Complete your comprehensive city tour with a relaxing 50-minute cruise on Tokyo Bay. Relax in the luxury of your hotel in the evening. Day 3 Mount Fuji and More Today, visit Japan's iconic Mount Fuji , then return to Tokyo by famous Shinkansen Bullet Train. You'll enjoy lunch on Mt Fuji, cruise Lake Ashi and ride the aerial cableway at Mount Komagatake for sweeping views of the celebrated Hakone National Park. Day 4 Free Day Today is a free day for you to wander around the city and enjoy a relaxing day.

magnificent structure strongly influenced by Chinese architecture. The Sanjusangendo Hall with its 1,001 impressive images of Buddha and the Kiyomizu Temple, famous for its wooden veranda. You will take the Shinkansen back to Tokyo station from Kyoto station. Day 6 Shinjuku and More Relax at your hotel this morning and in the evening, take a walk on the wild side with a tour through Shinjuku. Tokyo's famous entertainment district, and get a local's look into the best shopping and night life. Discover the Omoide Yokocho, an alley lined with tiny hole-in-the-wall restaurants serving delicious street food. Then tour the notorious red-light district of Kabukicho and more! Day 7 Return Home Today you will be picked up from your hotel and taken to the airport to board your flight back home. »Booking Code: TOKO

Day 5 Kyoto Tour Take a quick trip to Kyoto to see some highlights of Japan's ancient capital. You will be transferred to Tokyo station where you will take the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kyoto station. After arriving at Kyoto station, you will enjoy lunch, then the sightseeing starts. You will visit the Vermilion-Hued Heian Jingu Shrine, which is a

For more information please contact us at 1-800-255-4266

M aupintour.com

21

V Asia Vietnam Voyager Tour

E

port for the Dutch, Portuguese, Italian, Chinese, Japanese and other merchant vessels from the Far East. Visit a temple with partially gilded statues in the center. A pagoda dedicated to sailors and fishermen, and a chapel with origins in the 1700's that reflects the influences of Chinese and Japanese styles. Stop at the Sa Huynh Museum, located near the Japanese Covered Bridge, which contains exhibitions from the earliest period of Hoi An's history. There are some very old houses that depict fine carvings on the wooden walls and around the courtyard, and some houses where the families have been living for over eight generations. In the late afternoon, take a boat trip on the Thun Bon River to Kim Bing Village on Cam Kim Island to see the wood workers and shipbuilding families.

njoy a captivating week as you experience the best of the Vietnamese culture. From visiting beautiful classical gardens to a unforgettable view of Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam. Our Vietnam Voyager is the perfect introduction to this unique destination where culture of the world meet. HIGHLIGHTS:

• Cruise to Halong Bay • A visit to Vietnam Imperial City • Visit One Pillar Pagoda, The Temple of Literature, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Boa Tang Lich

Day 8 On to Saigon

WHAT’S INCLUDED:

• Domestic flights • A chance to visit Ho Chi Minh City • Private transfers - Hotel Accommodations

10 Day Tour From $2,399 Per Person, Land/Cruise

Day 1 Arrive Hanoi

Day 3 Halong Bay and Boat Trip

Arrive in Hanoi, where you will be transferred to the Sofitel Plaza Hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to relax.

Depart this morning for magnificent Halong Bay, a dedicated UNESCO Natural World Heritage site, to enjoy a boat cruise past the islands of Trong, Mai, Am, Chen and Cong Troi (Heaven Gates). As you cruise between the cliffs, note many of them look like fairy-tale castles. Stop at one of the islands to visit a famous cave. Next enjoy an authentic Vietnamese seafood lunch on board. Return to Hanoi with the rest of the afternoon and evening to relax.

Day 2 Everything Hanoi Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, is the ultimate blend of culture. It is a very attractive city with French-style architecture, yet still a South Asian feel. A full day of sightseeing includes a visit to One Pillar Pagoda, built by Ly Thai Tong who ruled from 1028 to 1054, and the Temple of Literature, founded by Emperor Ly Thanh Tong. Stop in the heart of Hanoi at Hoan Kiem Lake to view The Tiny Tortoise Pagoda. After lunch at a local restaurant, visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Opera House and St. Joseph Cathedral. Conclude the day with a visit to Bao Tang Lich, once the museum of l'Ecole Francaise d'Extreme Orient, including artifacts from Vietnam's turbulent history.

22

Day 4 On to Hue and the Old Imperial City

visit the complex of the Tomb of Emperor Minh Mang, built in 1840 and known for its magnificent architecture and elaborate decorations. It is considered one of Hue's most beautiful pagodas. After lunch, visit Tu Duc Tomb, built for meditation, reading and theater performances in a tranquil setting of forested hills and lakes. Your final stop is at Khai Dinh, the last monument of the Nguyen dynasty. It has a remarkable long staircase flanked by dragons, ceiling murals and ceramic frescoes. Day 6 On to Danang

Today fly to Hue, Vietnam's political capital from 1802 to 1945 under the 13 emperors of the Nguyen Dynasty. Traditionally, the city has been one of Vietnam's cultural, religious and educational centers. Visit the Imperial City, located in the Citadel. Modeled after the Forbidden City in Beijing, the Imperial City was built in the early 19th century. Its principal entrance, the Ngo Mon Gate, was reserved for use by the emperor, as was the bridge across the lotus pond. Explore the Thai Hoa Palace, with its spacious hall and ornate roof of huge timbers supported by 80 carved and lacquered columns. See the Halls of the Mandarins, the Nine Dynastic Urns and the site where the Forbidden Purple City once stood.

Today, journey south along Highway 1. past the Hai Van Pass and Land Co, over a spur of the Truong Son Mountain Range that juts into the South China Sea. A vast spectrum of breath taking views along the way. Upon arrival in Danang, visit the Cham Museum, featuring a fine collection of open-air sandstone carvings. Stop at China Beach, made famous in the American TV series of the same name. It stretches for many miles north and south of the Marble Mountains. This was a haven for many American soldiers on furlough. The Marble Mountains surrounding the area are five stone hillocks, once islands made of marble and each is said to represent one of the five elements of the universe. There are many natural caves in which Buddhist sanctuaries have been built over the centuries. Arrive at your beach resort and relax in comfort at the Furama.

Day 5 Thien Mu Pagoda & Tomb of Emperor Minh Man

Day 7 Hoi An and Thun Bon River

Just outside Hue, visit the Thien Mu Pagoda on the bank of the Perfume River. A hotbed of antigovernment protest during the early 1960s. Next,

Enjoy a full-day excursion to Hoi An, a major trading center, once known as "Faifo" to the earliest Western traders. It was also an important

Escape the Ordinary

Fly to Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City, the largest Vietnamese city. There are street markets, sidewalk cafes and sleek new bars throughout this thriving city. This teeming metropolis embodies 300 years of the timeless traditions of an ancient culture. To the west of the city is the huge Chinese neighborhood called Colon, which means "Big Market." Notre Dame Cathedral, in the heart of Saigon's government quarter, is of neoRomanesque architecture with two high square tower and iron spires. The Central Post Office is French-style and City Hall, known as "Hotel de Ville," is typical of the French architecture that would be seen in any village in France. You will also visit the War Remnants Museum, featuring collections of weapons and photographs from the two Indochina wars. Day 9 Everything Saigon Today takes you to My Tho, the capital of Tien Giang Province. Situated on the Mekong River, 75 kilometers southeast of Ho Chi Minh City. The city is surrounded by orchards and rice fields, which provide grain for the entire country. Visit one or two of the islands that produce traditional handcrafts, coconut candy and bee farms. Visit the Vinh Trang Pagoda, the oldest one in the delta on your boat trip on the Mekong River. Enjoy a farewell dinner before being escorted back to the hotel. Day 10 Ho Chi Minh City and Return Home There is time for a bit of relaxation and reflection before your return flight home. Those wishing to extend their visit to include Cambodia, should inquire about our 3 day program, which departs from Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Riep this morning. »Booking Code: VIET

Contact us at 1-800-255-4266

M aupintour.com

23

Germany

Munich

A Medieval City

G

ermany has become a European travelers delight for many reasons - with festivals, culture, history and food leading the way. From Berlin to Munich, each German destination offers its own unique feel, with the Northern part of the country being almost unrecognizable from the Southern Black Forest Region. Tour the remnants of the Berlin Wall, discover fairytale castles at Neuschwanstein, or enjoy the local beverages at Oktoberfest - whatever your preference, Germany has something for every traveler's taste.

United Kingdom

Germany

25

R

Europe Romantic Germany Tour - Group

onsor

Sp

St

 -T

O UR

A free day to enjoy Frankfurt at your own pace.

 -

Day 7 On to Berlin After breakfast your private car will take you to the train station, where you will board your first class train to Berlin. Upon your arrival your driver will meet you at the station and transfer you to your new 5 star hotel, The Pullman Berlin Schweizerhof. The hotel is situated just a few minutes from the very centre of Berlin. Its major attractions including the famous "Kurfüerstendamm" Boulevard and Europe's largest department store Kadewe. The rest of the day is free for you to relax.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Enjoy a cable car ride in Heidelberg • Have the chance of having the full Black Forest experience • Visit Neuschwantein Castle, Wieskirche Church and Ettal Benedictine Abbey • Explore the famous Marienplatz square

Day 8 Cold War Berlin Tour

WHAT’S INCLUDED:

• A sightseeing tour of Freiburg and Innsbruck Austria • Private transfers - Hotel accommodations

Day 1 Frankfurt After arriving at Frankfurt airport, you will be transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to spend at your leisure. We recommend to do an optional boat excursion on the Rhine from Rüdesheim to St. Goar (regular and private services available). Frankfurt is the financial and commercial heart of Germany. A city full of fascinating contrasts between modern development and historic landmarks. At 7 pm you will meet your guide at the welcome-dinner at the hotel. Accommodation at the Hotel Mövenpick Frankfurt City. Day 2 Frankfurt - Heidelberg - Freiburg In the morning we travel from Frankfurt to Heidelberg. Visit the famous castle ascending with the cable car and enjoy a sightseeing tour of its historic city center. Idyllically located on the shores of the Neckar River. Heidelberg is Germany’s oldest university town and one of

the most popular destinations in the country. If weather conditions allow it, we will take the scenic Schwarzwald Hochstrasse (Blackforest Road) to Freudenstadt. Our next stop is charming Freiburg. Accommodation at the Park Hotel Post.

highest peak, Zugspitze (2.962 m). Accommodation at the Rheinischer Hof.

Day 3 Freiburg - Lake Titisee - Lindau - Füssen

In the morning we enjoy a sightseeing tour of Innsbruck, Austria, located in the Inn valley, in the heart of the Alps. As an alternative excursion you may also ascend to the top of Zugspitze (instead of Innsbruck, not included). In the afternoon we travel to Munich and visit Linderhof Castle. This is one of the 3 castles built by King Ludwig II of Bavaria and the only one where the king actually lived for a significant amount of time. Accommodation at the Hotel Excelsior.

After breakfast we enjoy a sightseeing tour of lovely Freiburg, famous for its beautiful church tower known as the "Münster". Next we travel to Lake Titisee, nestled in the legendary Black Forest. We will have the full “Black Forest experience”: Make your own Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte and savor it afterwards with a cup of coffee and gaze at a short presentation on the cuckoo clock production. We continue the tour to the small island of Lindau in, which boasts spectacular views of the Alps. Depending on weather conditions we will take the Alpine road from Lindau to Oberstaufen and Immenstadt to our final destination Füssen. The southernmost point on our tour of Romantic Germany. Accommodation at the Hotel Hirsch.

We begin the day with a visit to Neuschwanstein Castle, built by Ludwig II, the notorious “Mad King“. In the afternoon we travel to Oberammergau, famous for its Passion Play and lovely crafts. Along the way we visit the Wieskirche Church before continuing the tour to the Ettal Benedictine Abbey. Taste the delicious cheese on a visit to the local cheese factory. Today‘s final destination is GarmischPartenkirchen, Germany’s winter sports capital and site of the 1936 winter Olympics. This mountainous region also features Germany’s

Day 5 Garmisch-Partenkirchen - Innsbruck - Munich

Day 6 Munich After breakfast we visit the city’s main attractions, concluding the tour at the Marienplatz square with its famous clock tower. The capital of Bavaria state, Munich, is famous for its Oktoberfest, which is annually celebrated in September. The afternoon is free to explore at your leisure. In the evening you enjoy a traditional Bavarian dinner. Accommodation at the Hotel Excelsior Day 7 Munich - Rothenburg ob der Tauber - Frankfurt After breakfast we travel to Rothenburg ob der Tauber, one of the oldest and most beautiful cities in Romantic Germany. Sightseeing tour of this lovely medieval town concluding with a Schneeballen (snow ball) tasting, a pastry considered the signature dish of Rothenburg. Next we travel to Frankfurt. The program ends at Frankfurt airport, around 6 pm. »Booking Code: RGTG

Escape the Ordinary

Enjoy a cruise along the Rhine! On your way to Bonn you will have beautiful views of the countryside along the banks of the river. You can return to Cologne by boat after having explored Bonn at your leisure.

The Berlin Wall, along with the Great Wall of China, was one of the longest structures ever built to keep people separated from one another. This tours follows the often ghost like trail of the Death-Strip and Wall, retracing some of the more intriguing fortifications of its border from guard towers to tank traps. It is designed to serve as a reminder of the Cold War, which kept the world in terror for forty years and came to an end not so long ago. Standing in the middle of 'No Mans Land', at the infamous Checkpoint Charlie where the Cold War powers formerly faced off just yards apart. We describe the routines and duties of Border Guards the Soviet and Allied forces, Stasi and CIA.

Day 3 Free Day

Day 9 Potsdam Excursion

A free day to enjoy Cologne at your own pace.

Enjoy this tour in our comfortable coach through old and new Potsdam. See the Dutch Quarter, St. Nicolas' Church, the Historic Town Hall, the old Royal Stables and Nauen gate. You will have leisure time to visit Sanssouci Palace with the marvellous gardens or the New Palace.

11 Day Tour From $2,475 Per Person, Land/Cruise

7 Day Group Tour From $1,550 Per Person, Land

Day 4 Neuschwanstein - South Germany

26

Europe

Day 6 Free Day

ed

E

scape to Germany on a group romantic luxury tour that is unforgettable. Venture back in time to magical landscapes and discover medieval towns and remarkable castles. Southern Germany has much to offer both new and repeat travelers to Europe.

Discover Germany Tour

E

xplore the history and mystery of Germany. From the ancient city of Cologne, to Heidelberg Castle and a Cold War Berlin Tour, this historic journey is sure to excite the mystical side of any traveler.

HIGHLIGHTS: • Enjoy a cruise along the Rhine River • Visit the world's famous Heidelberg Castle, the home of the world's largest wine barrel • Coach tour of the old and new Potsdam which is the capital city of the German federal state of Brandenburg WHAT’S INCLUDED: • Free Day to explore Cologne, Frankfurt and Berlin • First class train ride from Cologne to Frankfurt and Frankfurt to Berlin • Private transfers - Hotel accommodations Day 1 Arrive in Cologne Step off the plane where your private car awaits to take you to your 5 star hotel, the Pullman Cologne. The hotel is in the heart of the city and is well located for shopping and sightseeing. The rest of the day is free to rest and relax after your flight or take a first glimpse of the city on your own.

Day 2 Cruise Along the Rhine to Bonn

Day 4 On to Frankfurt After breakfast your private car will take you to the train station, where you will board your first class train to Frankfurt. Upon arrival your private driver will escort you to your new 5 star hotel, Le Meridien Park. The hotel is located in a small square, within walking distance from the city centre. The rest of the day is free for you to relax.

Day 10 Free Day A free day for you to enjoy Berlin at your own pace.

Day 5 Heidelberg Tour

Day 11 Depart Berlin

Romantic Heidelberg, regarded as one of Germany's most beautiful cities is located on the River Neckar. Visit the world's famous Heidelberg Castle, showpiece of German Romanticism. A complex of partially destroyed buildings in Gothic and Renaissance styles surrounded by beautiful gardens and containing the world's largest wine barrel. See the medieval town centre with the mighty Old Bridge and Germany's oldest University, the church of the Holy Spirit and the Knights House with its precious renaissance facade.

After breakfast your private car will take you to the airport to catch your departing flight.

For more information please contact us at 1-800-255-4266

»Booking Code: DGMT

M aupintour.com

27

Notre-Dame Cathedral One of the finest examples of French Gothic Architecture

E

Classic Europe Tour

Europe

C

reate lifetime family memories on this itinerary featuring highlights of England, France, Switzerland and Italy. Visit Shakespeare’s Globe Theater and ride the London Eye. Experience history and culture at the Louvre in Paris. HIGHLIGHTS:

• Visit Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben and Westminster Abbey • Take a cruise on the Thames River and ride the London Eye • See Michelangelo’s masterpiece David in the Galleria dell’Accademia • Tour the famous Roman Colosseum • Visit the Louvre and see the crown jewels and master paintings WHAT’S INCLUDED:

• High speed train ride from London to Paris via the Chunnel on the Eurostar Train • Private transfers - Hotel accommodations

Day 1 Arrive in London - Free Day Arrive in London, where your private driver will greet and escort you to your hotel, The Radisson Edwardian Berkshire. The rest of the day is free for you to relax. Day 2 Everything London See Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben and Westminster Abbey. Near London Bridge, visit the Globe Theater, the faithful reconstruction of the playhouse where Shakespeare wrote and worked. Then cruise on the Thames River and ride the London Eye, the ferris-wheel (the roomy capsules are enclosed) attraction affording terrific views of London town. Your afternoon is at leisure. A theater performance highlights the evening! Day 3 Chunnel to Paris Depart London aboard the high speed Eurostar Chunnel Train. On arrival in Paris, drive along the Champs-Elysees from the Arc de Triomphe to Place de la Concorde, where Marie Antoinette met her untimely end. See Sainte Chapelle and the dominating, yet graceful, Eiffel Tower. Then visit one of the great Gothic architecture, the Notre Dame Cathedral. Tonight your accommodations are at the Hotel Royal Saint Honore. Day 4 Today the Louvre Today visit the Louvre, a former palace and now a truly great art museum. See crown jewels and

28

Escape the Ordinary

11 Day Tour From $5,800 Per Person, Land/Cruise Master paintings. The Mona Lisa is here, as is the incomparable Nike of Samothrace. The afternoon is free; if you enjoy art, consider the Museee D'Orsay or a stroll in Montmarte to see artists at work. This evening, enjoy the "City of Light" on a Seine River cruise. Day 5 TGV Train to Geneva Travel across France and into Switzerland aboard a TGV high-speed train. Your arrival in Geneva is early in the afternoon and your Swiss guide is there to show you the city's highlights, including a walk through the Old Town medieval lanes. Tonight your accommodations are at the Hotel Bristol. Day 6 More Switzerland Explore the Alps today! Drive along Lake Leman on the scenic mountain drive to Chamonix, oldest of the French winter-sports resorts (it hosted the first winter Olympics in 1924). Take the world's highest cable car ride 12,000 feet up the Aiguille du Midi. Staggering views of the Alps await, including Mt. Blanc, the highest mountain in Europe at 15,700 feet and first ascended by Paccard in 1786. Day 7 A train to Florence Take the train south through more of Switzerland, the Bernese Oberland and the Alps. Enter Italy. At Milan, switch train lines for a late afternoon arrival in Florence. Accommodations tonight are at the Boscolo Hotel Astoria. Day 8 Everything Florence See Michelangelo's masterpiece David in the

For more information please contact us at 1-800-255-4266

Galleria dell'Accademia. Explore the enormous Cathedral (the Duomo) and see Giotto's Campanile and the Baptistry with its engraved bronze doors. Walk to Ponte Vecchio, the famous bridge over the Arno River. Then visit the Uffizi Gallery, founded in 1581, making it one of the oldest fine art museums in the world. Visit (June and July tours only) the Medici Chapel in the Church of San Lorenzo. Day 9 On to Rome Enjoy the Tuscan countryside en route to Rome. This afternoon, sightsee the magnificent Italian capital city. Toss a coin at Trevi Fountain; see Villa Medici, Navona Square and the Spanish Steps overflowing with summer flowers. Follow Via dei Fori Imperiali by Trajan's Forum to see the Arch of Constantine, the Pantheon, Palatine Hill and Circus Maximus, all remnants of the era when Rome ruled the western world. Visit the Colosseum, both the famous and infamous past home to the Roman games. Your hotel in Rome is the Empire Palace. Day 10 Everything Rome Visit Vatican City, a sovereign nation within Rome's boundaries. See the Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo painted his remarkable frescoes, and St. Peter's Basilica covering nearly 5 acres. Michelangelo's exquisite and moving sculpture, The Pieta, created when he was only 20, stands in St. Peter's. The afternoon is free for your own Roman adventures. Day 11 Return Home Transfer to the Rome airport for your flight home. We hope you join us again soon! »Booking Code: EURO

M aupintour.com

29

P Paris Escape

6 Day Tour From $2,381 Per Person, Land/Cruise

H

ere is the perfect opportunity for you to explore Paris. Visit the Louvre and enjoy excursions to Versailles, Notre Dame and Giverny, Claude Monet’s famous home of Waterlillies. Paris is a shopper’s dream and famous for its antiques. Bookstalls are perched against the parapets along the Seine River and flea markets abound. Come experience the city of light!

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Guided tour of the Notre Dame • Enjoy the view of Paris from the 2nd floor of the Eiffel Tower • A guided tour of Place du Tertre and Louvre • Tour the house of Monet and best of what Versailles have to offer WHAT’S INCLUDED:

• A Free Day to explore Paris on your own • Private transfers - Hotel accommodations

C'est heure de Paris! Day 1 Welcome to France

Arrive in Paris, where you will be greeted by your private driver and escorted to your hotel. Accommodations for your stay are at the 5 star Hotel Du Louvre.

London & Paris via the Chunnel

and enjoy a guided walking tour of the village and Place du Tertre. There is time to visit the Sacred Heart Basilica (unescorted). A guided visit to the Louvre is included, to admire its matchless art treasures, such as the Winged Victory, the Venus of Milo and Da Vinci's Mona Lisa. Day 4 Giverny and Versailles Claude Monet lived at Giverny from 1883 until his death in 1926. In the surroundings of his home, Monet created the famous flower and water garden with its Japanese bridge, which became his main source of inspiration. The tour will start with a visit to Monet's house to see his furnishings and collection of Japanese engravings. Naturally, the visit would not be complete without a lovely walk around the famous water lily gardens. In contrast, Versailles presents the grandeur of classical French architecture. The extravagant decoration and layout of the entire site reflects the character of King Louis XIV, the Sun King. Lunch is included today. Day 5 Free Day

7 Day Tour From $2,400 Per Person, Land

The day is free in Paris. You may want to visit the famous flea market, Marche aux Puces or explore more of the city's famous art museums. We would be happy to help with any of these arrangements. If shopping is your preference, where better to be than in Paris! Day 6 Return Home After breakfast you will be escorted to the airport by your private driver. Au revoir et à la prochaine fois! »Booking Code: PEFR

Day 2 Everything Paris

O

n this superb holiday, see two of the world’s most beautiful capital cities — London and Paris. Experience London’s great antique shops, traditional pubs and legendary theatre. In Paris, browse museums, cruise the Seine and enjoy the gourmet pleasures of Parisian cuisine.

HIGHLIGHTS: • Enjoy a full day tour of London • Visit Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace • First Class aboard the Eurostar to Paris • Vist the Notre Dame Cathedral, Place du Tertre and Louvre

Paris was created 2,000 years ago and began at the Cite Island (Ile de la Cite) on the River Seine. Notre Dame Cathedral is located here and you will enjoy a guided tour of this beautiful Gothic Cathedral famous for its flying buttresses. See the Marais District and the Latin Quarter. Discover Place de la Concorde, Avenue des Champs Elysees and the Arc de Triomphe. You will then be taken to a prestigious residential area near to the Bois de Boulogne, before enjoying a cruise on the River Seine. Finally, admire the superb panoramic views of Paris from the 2nd floor of the Eiffel Tower.

WHAT’S INCLUDED: • A cruise on the Thames River • Free Day in London and Paris • Private transfers - Hotel accommodations Day 1 Arrive in London

Day 3 The Louvre today

A private car will be waiting to transfer you to your well-located West End hotel. Situated in the heart of London, the Thistle Marble Arch Hotel is minutes away from Oxford Street's shopping paradise. Have the rest of the day to explore London.

The hill of Montmartre is the home of Parisian artists. Many (Picasso, Renoir, Van Gogh, etc) settled here with their families towards the end of the 19th century. Your coach will take you to the base of the hill, then take the funicular to the top

30 5

Europe

Escape the Ordinary

Day 2 Everything London Board a sightseeing coach for a full day tour of London. Drive through Westminster, past Downing Street, to the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben. Stop to visit Westminster Abbey, the site of many royal coronations. Then continue to Buckingham Palace for the colorful Changing of the Guard ceremony, and on through the busy streets to Piccadilly, home to London's theaters. After passing around Trafalgar Square and Nelson's Column. Afterward, head to the Thames River for a cruise to the Tower of London to see the Crown Jewels. Day 3 A Day for you Enjoy London at your leisure today. Perhaps you would like to browse the shops of Mayfair or visit Covent Garden. Day 4 Eurostar Chunnel Train / Paris After breakfast, you will be taken to Waterloo Station via private car to board the Eurostar Chunnel Train for your first-class ride to Paris. Upon arrival at Gare du Nord, a private car transfers you to your historic hotel, the majestic Regina, with the Louvre Museum on one side and the Tuilleries Gardens on the other. Enjoy the rest of the day soaking up the Parisian atmosphere as you orient yourself to "The City of Light."

the Cite Island (Ile de la Cite). The beautiful Gothic Notre Dame Cathedral is located here, famous for its flying buttresses. Visit is included to the Cathedral. Then explore the Marais District and the Latin Quarter. The Montmartre Hill is home to Parisian artists and many of them (Picasso, Van Gogh etc) settled here towards the end of the 19th century. Your coach will take you to the base of the hill, then take the funicular to the top and enjoy a guided walking tour of the village and Place du Tertre. Visit the Louvre to see its matchless art treasures, such as the Winged Victory, the Venus of Milo and Da Vinci's Mona Lisa. Day 6 A Day for you The day in Paris is at your leisure. You can spend some time re-visiting the Louvre's fabulous collections or shop in the fashion district. Watch artists at work in Montartre or take a seat in a cafe and sip a glass of wine while you people watch. Day 7 Return Home After breakfast, a private car takes you to the airport for your return flight home. A bientot! »Booking Code: LPVC

Day 5 Everything Paris Paris was created 2,000 years ago and began at

For more information please contact us at 1-800-255-4266

M aupintour.com

31

Venice The City of Water

V

Everything Italy Tour

Europe

T

ravel to a country whose history and city are painted by art. Embrace this dynamic culture filled with majestic cathedrals, breathtaking architecture and warm people. Your visit is like exploring the adventures from a storybook that comes to life. HIGHLIGHTS:

• Visit Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, the Colosseum and the Basilica of St. Paul's Outside the Walls • Tour of Galleria dell'Accademia • Private guided tour of Venice Island WHAT’S INCLUDED:

• Free Day to Explore Rome • First class train ticket to Florence & Venice • Private transfers - Hotel accommodations

Benvenuti in Italia! Day 1 Arrive in Rome "All roads lead to Rome", they say. And no wonder. The ancient Romans built many thousands of miles of roadways across the European continent, and far beyond. Laden with treasures from the ages since, modern Rome has more masterpieces per square foot than any other place on earth. The city that once ruled the world will rule your heart, and you will vow to return again and again because there is so much Rome to see! The rest of the day is yours to rest and relax or explore. Your accommodations in Rome are at the exquisite River Palace. Day 2 Everything Rome This full day tour is a combination of two tours; 'Artistic Rome' and 'Ancient Rome' and includes lunch with drinks in a local restaurant. We visit the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, the Colosseum and the Basilica of St. Paul's Outside the Walls. Day 3 Rome At Your Own Pace Today Rome is yours to explore on your own leisure.

32

Escape the Ordinary

8 Day Tour From $3,740 Per Person, Land/Cruise Day 4 Travel To Florence

gondola serenade, before returning to the hotel.

Your private driver will assist you to the train station for your first class tickets to Florence. Arrive in Florence and the rest of the afternoon is free to explore on your own. The Hotel Principe is located along the Arno River in a villa dated from 1860.

Day 7 Walking Venice

Day 5 Everything Florence On this morning's tour you will be taken along the romantic Viale dei Colli up to the Piazzale Michelangelo to admire the wonderful panorama. A short walk through the historic streets in the heart of Florence will then bring you to the renowned Galleria dell'Accademia. Here you can admire the famous David by Michelangelo and other works by the great artist. Enjoy a guided tour to Piazza dei Miracoli to find the celebrated Leaning Tower, the Cathedral, the Baptistery and other important monuments.

This morning join your private guide for a walking tour of Venice Island and learn some of the secrets of this mysterious city of canals. Day 8 Return Home We hope this is just the beginning of your love affair with all that is Italian. Private transfer to the airport for your departure flights home. Arrivederci a presto. »Booking Code: ITAL

Day 6 Travel To Venice Your private driver will assist you to the train station for your first class tickets to Venice. Welcome to Venice, truly one of the most romantic cities in all of Italy. Your hotel, The Aqua Palace, is located right in the heart of it all, very close to St. Marks Square. This evening enjoy a

For more information please contact us at 1-800-255-4266

M aupintour.com

33

D Europe Croatian Dreams Tour

Iceland - Fire & Ice

Europe

C

roatia and the magnificent dalmatian coastline awaits your welcomed arrival. Dubrovnik has forever been a favorite of world travelers! From unspoiled countryside vistas to the sparkling clear waters of the Adriatic, the charms and hospitality of this little country will delight you. HIGHLIGHTS:

• Visits include many UNESCO World Cultural or Natural Heritage sites • Visit the Diocletian’s Palace • Excursion into Montenegro • Take an island excursion to Hvar • Get to know historic Zagreb • Visit Trakoscan Castle WHAT’S INCLUDED:

• A visit to Maritime Museum • A tour of Zagreb, the capital of Croatia • Private transfers - Hotel accommodations

10 Day Tour From $5,599 Per Person, Land Day 4 Dalmatian Coast

Day 7 Plitvice

Welcome to Dubrovnik, centuries old fortified jewel on the clear blue Adriatic coast, included on the list of UNESCO World Cultural Heritage. Get to know your fellow travelers at this evening’s get-acquainted reception and dinner. Your accommodations are at the Hilton Imperial.

Drive along the magnificent Dalmatian Coast this morning to the popular and picturesque Adriatic port city of Split, home to another of Croatia’s abundance of official UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Sites. Discover the relics and significance of the 3rd century Diocletian’s Palace with the Peristyle, Jupiter’s Temple and the cathedral. Built by Emperor Diocletian as an imperial fortified residence, it is an intriguing maze of narrow cobblestone streets.

Take a walking tour in Plitvice Lake National Park, largest in Croatia and, also on the UNESCO list of World Natural Heritage Sites. Sixteen aquamarine lakes, each at different levels, are joined in a series of cascading waterfalls, a natural phenomenon of rare and unique beauty. You have a free afternoon to bask in the pristine setting.

Day 2 Dubrovnik

Day 5 Island of Hvar

This morning take a walking tour within the thick medieval walls of the carefully preserved and restored “old town”. Visit the Rector’s Palace, the Baroque Cathedral, the Dominican monastery with priceless collections, and the Franciscan monastery with Europe’s third oldest pharmacy. The remainder of the afternoon is free for your own pursuits.

Travel by ferry to the island of Hvar, an exquisite and celebrated resort for more than century. Take a short drive from the waterfront promenade bordered with palms. Then to the town of Hvar where the local guide will show you one of the oldest municipal theatres in Europe as well as the centuries old fortress walls, cathedral and Franciscan Monastery.

You are off to Croatia’s 900-year-old capital today for a tour of the fortified upper town, the city’s historical center, St. Mark’s church with its multicolored roof, the Croatian National Theatre and the University. Your accommodations tonight are at the Regent Esplanade.

Day 3 Dubrovnik

Day 6 Plitvice

Cross the border into tiny Montenegro, whose stunning natural scenery is sure to impress. On the fjord-like Bay of Kotor lies a village of the same name on UNESCO’s list of World Cultural Heritage, surrounded by sheer vertical mountains on three sides. Its ties go back to ancient Rome and the Byzantine Empire. Take a walking tour to examine the impressive city walls and visit the 12th century cathedral and Maritime Museum. You might like to go in search of fresh seafood tonight.

Continue along the ever-scenic coast, first to the UNESCO protected museum town of Trogir, on a small islet. Then, to the medieval city of Zadar with its distinctly Italian accents. A walking tour of the town reveals the layers of historic conquerors from its days as a Roman colony. Attacks by the Turks, rule by Austria, then Italy and finally to assault by Yugoslav forces in 1991. This afternoon turn inland across the valley to Plitvice, surrounded by dense woods and an abundance of natural beauty.

Day 1 Welcome to Dubrovnik

34

Day 8 Zagreb

Day 9 Zagreb Take an excursion into the castle country, where the delicate landscape of gentle rolling hills is dotted with vineyards, orchards and forests. You will visit the 13th century Trakoscan Castle. Croatian poet, Mihanovic, drew inspiration from this countryside for verses of their national anthem. Visit Kumrovec, birthplace of Marshall Tito, and known for its unique open-air museum.

E

6 Day Tour From $1,900 Per Person, Land

xplore a land of lush green meadows and magnificent waterfalls, a country of geysers, steam vents and lava flows. Soak in a mineral-rich naturally heated pool and enjoy the Viking Sagas and history. Iceland has this and more – a land of contrasts, of fire and ice, of volcanic mountains and glaciers.

HIGHLIGHTS: • Half day city tour of Reykjavik • Sightseeing to Thingvellir National Park, the geyser region and Gullfoss Waterfall • Jeep and Monster truck expedition to Langjokull Glacier • A day to relax & float in the Blue Lagoon WHAT’S INCLUDED: • Time to explore Reykjavik • Private transfers - Hotel accommodations

Day 10 Return Home

Day 1 Arrive Reykjavik

Return home today with fond memories to share with friends and family. Hvala, do videnja!

Depart on your overnight flight to Reykjavik, Iceland. Upon arrival, you will be transferred by private car to the Hilton Nordica Hotel.

Day 2 Everything Reykjavik Iceland, an island of tumbling waterfalls, clean air and stark mountain ridges. It has the largest glaciers in Europe and more geothermal activity than Yellowstone. Enjoy Reykjavik sightseeing to see the Parliament, Cathedral and bustling fishing harbor. Day 3 Golden Circle Attractions Sightseeing the classic Golden Circle attractions. Visit Thingvellir National Park, location for early Viking settler’s legislative sessions, and the geyser thermal area, where the world’s most active geyser (Strokkur) spouts every 7 minutes. See Gullfoss Waterfall, Iceland’s most beautiful as it double-falls into a deep gorge, and a water-filled, extinct volcanic crater.

suffer from skin diseases. The mineral contents of the water have been examined by experts who have declared the combination to be excellent for bathing, curing and relaxation, yours to enjoy on your own. Day 6 Return Home Day is free (depending on your flight schedule) before your early afternoon transfer to the airport and return flight home. »Booking Code: FIRE

Day 4 Glaciers, Falls and Lakes Super jeeps whisk you along a lakeshore and by powerful waterfalls. Go off-road and climb to Langjokull Glacier, the massive glacier resting on a mountainside massif. From the base of the glacier, monster truck sightseeing explores the Langjokull and three smaller glaciers adjacent. This is a fascinating adventure unique to Iceland. Day 5 The Blue Lagoon The Blue Lagoon has become world known for its healing properties, especially for people who

»Booking Ctode: CRCD

Escape the Ordinary

For more information please contact us at 1-800-255-4266

M aupintour.com

35

B

Europe Beautiful Brussels Tour

Imperial Cities - Prague, Vienna & Budapest

Europe

E

mbark to a multicultural city full of excitement that blends the old and the new. Brussels is known for its beautiful culture, art and fashion. Enjoy the city attractions, fantastic shopping and fine restaurants.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Learn how to make chocolate yourself through a fun workshop by a Master Chocolatier • Taste the different brews of Belgium with a beer tasting tour • Enjoy an evening guide tour to taste delicious Belgium gastronomy WHAT’S INCLUDED:

• Free Day to enjoy Brussels • Private transfers - Hotel accommodations

Day 1 Arrive Brussels

Arrive at the Brussels airport where you will be met by your private car and driver and taken to your hotel, the historic Metropole Hotel. The rest of the day is yours to relax. Day 2 Everything Brussels Your day begins with a short stroll in the old city centre. Our experienced guide provides information about the world-famous Grand Place with its unique city hall and splendid guild houses. We continue our adventure through the capital by coach. We pass by the magnificent St. Michaels Cathedral, the Congress Column, the Heizel district with the remarkable Atomium, Chinese Pavilion and the Japanese Tower. After visit the Court of Justice and the elegant Louiza Square, we drive to the stately Place Royale, the Royal Palace and the old Palace of the Nations. Day 3 A day for Myself Today is a free day just for you. Feel free to create your own tour with a Hop-on Hop-off service and enjoy the most important sights of Brussels. This is the ideal way to enjoy Brussels and to explore the city without effort! With this Hop-on Hop-off tour you can get on and off at any stop an unlimited number of times for a full day's sightseeing. Day 4 The Chocolate Experience There is no better country to learn about

36

9 Day Tour From $2,200 Per Person, Land chocolate than Belgium! You will be taught how to make chocolate yourself through a fun workshop by a Master Chocolatier. Later on, explore the Grand Place and meet the oldest citizen of Brussels, the Manneken-Pis. Then walk to Sablon square which is filled with antique shops. Eventually you will follow the Brussels Comic Strip Route, a series of giant comic murals and colourful statues that enliven alleys throughout the old city centre. Day 5 Ghent & Bruges After an hour's drive we arrive in Ghent, you will see all the important buildings from the Middle Ages, such as the Belfry, St Nicholas' Church and the Earl's Castle. We also get the chance to tour St. Bavo's Cathedral, home of the world famous 'Mystic Lamb' painting. In Bruges, we visit the Lake of Love and the Beguinage. Afterwards we start our walking tour and discover the Church of Our Lady with the statue by Michaelangelo. Then to the Market Square with its belfry and the Holy Blood Chapel. Day 6 Beer Tasting Belgium may be tiny, but its beers are big and bold. Your guide will help you to unravel some of Belgium's beer mysteries on this tour, giving great details of the different varieties of beer, their tastes and unique attributes. He will also provide you with tips of the do's and don'ts of the Belgian beers. Children are treated to Chocolate milk and cookies. The tour also includes a visit to the Royal Puppet Theater Toone and a guided walking tour past the Manneken Pis Statue, Ilot Sacre, Art Deco buildings, the Brussels fish market and the island

of Saint Gery, the oldest part of Brussels. Day 7 Mystical Brussels This voyage of discovery will lead you to secrets, hidden outdoors, but also in churches, temples and underground spaces. Explore the Grand Place in Brussels through different glasses. Find out why this place was built this way, the significance of the figure 7, find out the missing zodiac sign on a building and also explore the history of the Freemasons in Brussels. We will also visit the grave of one of the Freemasons in St Michiel Cathedral, and look for a legend in the colorful church windows. The tour will also take us uptown into the park across the Royal Palace, where we discover more signs and the meaning of hidden inscriptions. At the end of the tour, we will let you take part in some real magic! Day 8 A taste of Brussels The morning is yours to enjoy. In the evening, our guide will give you a taste of the local cuisine where your taste buds will be tantalized. This tour includes tasting of all Brussels' specialty gourmet dishes. You'll get an introduction to Brussels' most popular restaurants, and meet the chefs as we eat our way through the city while learning about our history & culture. Day 9 Return home - Tot Ziens!! After breakfast at the hotel, you will be taken by a private car to the airport for your flight back home. »Booking Code: BBRT

Escape the Ordinary

8 Day Tour From $3,659 Per Person, Land

T

our the cities of wonders and listen to tales of streets. Prague, Vienna & Budapest are the places to be. Enjoy the beautiful landscapes, enchanting castles, mesmerizing countryside. Take a relaxing stroll through the city while you shop; and be sure to see the collection at the Museum of Fine Art. Your visit will leave you with a lifetime of memories.

HIGHLIGHTS: • Visits St. Vitus Cathedral and Josefov • Tour Vienna's Imperial Hofburg Palace and Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna • Visit the Hungarian Parliament Building WHAT’S INCLUDED: • Local guide on a stroll to the Old Town and Prague Castle • Free Day to explore Budapest • Private transfers - Hotel accommodations Day 1 Arrive Prague Arrive in Prague, where a private car transfer is provided to your hotel, the Intercontinental Prague. Day 2 Discover Prague Join your local guide on a stroll to the Old Town and Prague Castle, a complex of medieval royal dwellings and chapels. St. Vitus Cathedral, a

Romanesque delight from the 14th century is here, and it’s a structure than can be perceived and interpreted from different angles. Later on, explore Josefov (the Old Jewish Quarter) with the oldest synagogue in Europe and to see the famous cemetery. Day 3 On to Vienna The morning is free in Prague, where ancient lanes and byways beckon, marked by wrought iron signs. Midday private car transfer is provided to the station for the train across the quaint Bohemian countryside. Enter Austria and arrive Vienna. Overnight in Radisson SAS Palais in Vienna. Day 4 Discover Vienna Tour Vienna's Imperial Hofburg Palace to see the Hapsburg Crown Jewels. Walk to St. Stephen's Cathedral and drive around the Ringstrasse. Visit Schonbrunn Palace to see a few of its 1411 rooms! Both Hofburg Palace and Marie Antoinette lived here, and Mozart began his career in its halls. Overnight in Radisson SAS Palais in Vienna.

Day 6/7 Explore Budapest A day is devoted to exploring Budapest, which sprawls majestically along both sides of the Danube. See Gellert Hill, Fisherman's Bastion, the Royal Palace, and Coronation Church. Then visit the Parliament, located along the river in a setting you'll never forget. Another day is free to enjoy as you wish and Budapest is made for strolling. You could head for the inner city's pedestrian shopping area or see the collection of Old Masters at the Museum of Fine Art. Overnight in Kempinski Hotel Corvinus Budapest. Day 8 Return Home After breakfast, transfer to the airport is included, to catch your flight home. »Booking Code: IPVB

Day 5 Now to Budapest The morning is at leisure in Vienna for time to stroll the pedestiran Karntnerstrasse in the heart of the city. Then take another fine European train, east through Hungary to Budapest, the "Queen of the Danube." Your hotel is renowned, a few steps from the Danube River and in the center of the shopping district. Overnight in Kempinski Hotel Corvinus Budapest.

For more information please contact us at 1-800-255-4266

M aupintour.com

37

L

Northern Lights Adventure Tour 6 Day Tour From $2,850 Per Person, Land

V

enture to Norway by the speed of light and experience a journey extraordinary. Capture the essence of Northern Lights; discover spectacular landscapes, remarkable ruins of castles and museums. Create memories that will last a lifetime.

drive your own team of huskies and set up a campsite in the snow with help of the guides. During this night in the wilderness there is a chance you might see the mysterious Northern Lights. This wilderness adventure will give you a good impression of the North-Norwegian nature. This adventure will be a memory for a lifetime! Lunch, dinner, breakfast and snacks and overnight equipment included.

HIGHLIGHTS:

Day 4 Return to Tromsø

• A day out on a snowmobile safari winter adventure, which takes you through the valley of Finn • Enjoy an adventurous dog sled expedition with a overnight stay in the arctic wilderness • Be memorized by the beauty of mother nature with her breathtaking light show WHAT’S INCLUDED:

• Free Day to explore Tromsø (Optional) • Private transfers - Hotel accommodation Four optional tour offers

Day 1 Arrive Tromsø

Arrival at Tromsø Airport and individual transfer (not included) to Tromsø centre, the arctic city. Check in at the Clarion Hotel Bryggen. For dinner we recommend “Emma’s Dream Kitchen”, located 5 minutes walking from the hotel, where you can go on a journey through the tastes of the arctic and let your senses be stimulated. Overnight at Clarion Collection Hotel. Day 2 Snowmobile and Northern Lights Enjoy a Scandinavian breakfast at the hotel. In the morning a snowmobile safari winter adventure starts, which takes you through the valley of Finn, to the lake of Tamok. Enjoy the Arctic surroundings and on flat land and frozen lakes you are in charge to speed up. During this excursion that lasts seven hours a hot meal is included. Return at around 16:00 to Tromsø city. In the evening you will enjoy an adventurous Northern Lights hunting tour. You will be picked up and taken to the best possible place to see the mysterious Northern Lights. If the sky north of Kvaløya is clear you will drive to a lavvo and spend the evening by the bonfire and enjoy coffee and cake. If you don't see any northern lights from this location – you will move to a mountain in a different area. Return at the hotel at around midnight. Overnight at Clarion Collection Hotel. Day 3 Dog Sledding and Overnight in the Wilderness Today is a day you will remember forever. Enjoy a breakfast at the hotel. In the morning you will start a tour to enjoy a dog sled expedition with overnight stay in the arctic wilderness. You will

38

Discover Norway Tour

grave of St. Olav. Next to the cathedral you will find the Archbishop’s Palace, the oldest secular building in Scandinavia. Other sights of interest are Kristiansten Fortress, the Monk’s Island, Trøndelag Open Air Museum and Stiftsgården – the Royal Residence in Trondheim. We also recommend a stroll in Bakklandet, located on the east bank of the river Nid. Here you will find old wooden buildings which were formerly worker’s dwellings but are now partly restored as homes or charming shops and restaurants. Overnight at the Scandic Solsiden.

Return from your exciting dog sledge expedition with arrival in Tromsø centre in the afternoon. Enjoy your night in comfort at Clarion Collection Hotel.

Day 4 Hurtigruten Cruise Breakfast at the hotel. Morning departure with Hurtigruten for a cruise along the spectacular Norwegian coastline. One night and one full day onboard this traditional postal steamer. Accommodation onboard Hurtigruten.

Day 5 Free Day or Your Choice of Excursion Enjoy a Scandinavian breakfast at the hotel. Today is a day at leisure. Optional: If you want to discover the arctic Tromsø, we recommend you to enjoy the Arctic city walk. Your guide will pick you up from the hotel and take you on a historical and cultural guided walk. During this walk you visit the Polar Museum. The walk ends at the Polaria aquarium and environmental centre. Optional: If you can’t get enough of the arctic wilderness we recommend you to do a Reindeer Sledge Tour. You will depart from Rica Ishavshotel to enjoy an ancient part of the Sami culture. This reindeer winter adventure takes you across the valley of Tamok and will give you the opportunity to try out lasso-throwing yourself! A Sami lavvo will be visited where you get a hot meal. Return to Tromsø centre at 16:00. Optional: In the evening join in on a Northern Lights hunt with the well known Kjetil Skogli. You and your guide will drive up to 150km, to find clear skies and chase the lights! It will be an unforgettable experience when you see the Aurora Borealis. If the weather conditions are suitable, an open fire will keep you warm whilst you await the appearance of the Northern Lights. Return to Tromsø around 02:00. *Early booking of this tour is recommended to ensure availability with Kjetil Skogli. Optional: instead of the Northern Lights hunt, enjoy a two course dinner outside under the open sky, with the possibility of the Northern lights to be part of your dinner party – the menu is based on local ingredients, and includes fish dishes. You can hear the sea from a short distance and watch out for the Northern Lights. Overnight at Clarion Collection Hotel. Day 6 Depart Tromsø Enjoy a Scandinavian breakfast buffet. Check out and individual transfer (not included) to the airport. »Booking Code: NLAT

Escape the Ordinary

Europe

Day 5 Arrival in Bergen

7 Day Tour From $1,750 Per Person, Land/Cruise

E

njoy Norway’s beautiful scenery: escape to Trondheim via train, cruise across the Norwegian coastline. Norway will leave you wanting to returning for more.

HIGHLIGHTS: • Visit Lillehammer by taking a scenic train ride from Oslo • Take a 5 hour journey on the Dovre Railway to Norway's third largest city, Trondheim • Enjoy a night and day cruise along the amazing Norwegian coastline WHAT’S INCLUDED: • Free time to explore Lillehammer • Train ride from Bergen to Oslo • Private transfers - Hotel accommodations

Day 1 Arrive Oslo Arrival in Oslo. The Norwegian capital is beautifully situated at the head of the Oslo Fjord and surrounded by forested ridges. Oslo offers many well-known sights such as the Vigeland Sculpture Park, the Viking Ship Museum and the Munch Museum. Accommodation at Rica Oslo Hotel.

Day 2 On to Lillehammer Breakfast at the hotel. Morning departure by train to Lillehammer. On your way you will pass Hamar and might be able to get a glimpse of the ‘’Vikingskipet’’. The well-known ice-skatingring was built for the 1994 Winter Olympics and has the shape of a turned-over Viking ship. You will have the afternoon in Lillehammer at your own leisure. We recommend a visit at Maihaugen Open Air Museum, which tells the story of people in the Gudbrandsdalen Valley the last 300 years, of life between the wars in the inland town of Lillehammer and of homes and domestic environments in the 20th century. Also recommendable is a visit at the Olympic Museum and the Olympic Arena (Lysgårdsbakken). If you overnight in Lillehammer on a Wednesday or Saturday night don’t miss the Huderfossen Winter Park, unique in Europe, located in Hunderfossen. Accommodation at Rica Victoria Hotel Day 3 Trondheim via Train

Breakfast onboard the Hurtigruten. Afternoon arrival in Bergen, Norway’s second largest city. We recommend a visit to some of Bergen’s many attractions as for example the Hanseatic Bryggen Harbour, the Fløibanen Funicular, which takes you up to a height of 320 metres above sea level where you are presented with a great view over the city, Grieg’s home Troldhaugen, the Fish and Flower Market or the Bergen Aquarium. Overnight at the Scandic Bergen City. Day 6 On to Oslo Breakfast at the hotel. Morning departure from Bergen by train. The trip from Bergen to Oslo is classed one of the finest train journeys in the world. The railway connects Norway's two largest cities and presents the variety of Norwegian scenery. Bergen is the only city in the world that is surrounded by seven mountains and seven fjords. Overnight at the Rica Oslo Hotel. Day 7 Depart Oslo After breakfast, depart Oslo. »Booking Code: DNOW

Breakfast at the hotel. Departure by train from Lillehammer to Trondheim. The 5 hour journey on the Dovre Railway will take you through the Gudbrandsdal Valley and across the Dovre Mountain to Trondheim, Norway’s third largest city. The city was founded by Viking King Olav Tryggvason in 997, and occupies a special place in Norwegian culture and history. Trondheim was Norway’s first capital and continues to be the coronation city where Norway's Kings from Harald Hårfagre (10th century) to King Harald V (1991) have been crowned and blessed. We recommend a visit at the Nidaros Cathedral, built over the

For more information please contact us at 1-800-255-4266

M aupintour.com

39

United Arab Emirates

Dubai

A Land of Great Architecture

D

ubai has become one of the most sought after travel destinations for a good reason the luxury you will find here goes above and beyond. Our travel experts will show you all the best sites in Dubai, while navigating you through a city with a multitude of culture and history. See some of the most unusual yet beautiful architecture in the world, and be pampered as you explore an area of the world that is booming with optimism. Travel with Maupintour and see why Dubai has become one of the most popular destinations for luxury travelers.

UAE Africa

41

Burj Khalifa

Dubai Stay

The Middle East

The Tallest Building in the World

D D

5 Day Tour From $2,100 Per Person, Land

ubai is an exotic city, full of mystery. It is a booming city, where islands are created off the gulf shore and where locals can snow ski in the midst of a desert land. Learn about the history and marvel at the present of this unique metropolis of the world. HIGHLIGHTS:

• Visit Emirates Palace & the Palace of Al Husn • Go sightseeing at the Burj Al Arab, Jumeirah Mosque and the Al Fahidi Fort • 4x4 drive through the Arabian Desert WHAT’S INCLUDED:

• A night out enjoying dinner with belly dancing around a warm bonfire • Private transfers - Hotel accommodation

42

Escape the Ordinary

ocean-themed Atlantis The Palm Dubai built on an island or the Kempinski Hotel Mall Of The Emirates, at the city center complex. Day 2 Souks & Sightseeing Meet your private guide and begin exploration of this exotic city. See traditional souks and modern shopping malls, which have combined to make Dubai a shoppers paradise. At The Mall of Emirates you can opt to go snow skiing on the ice in the desert. See the Dubai Islands, built in the gulf waters, each in the shape of a palm tree. One island is built for hotels, villas and cafes and another is for tourist attractions, such as a water theme park and six marinas. Stop at Burj Al Arab, the landmark of the city, the world renowned hotel in the shape of a sail. See Jumeirah Mosque, Al Fahidi Fort, and the old town where wind tower houses were built by wealthy merchants.

Day 1 Arrive in Dubai

Day 3 More Dubai & Desert Safari

Arrive at Dubai International Airport, where you are met and transferred to the hotel. For hundreds of years Dubai was known for its pearls and people herded sheep and goats, cultivated dates, or fished the bounty from the gulf waters. You will see the incredible changes resulting from the discovery of oil, just over the past 40 years. Choose from the new luxury,

Your morning is free. If you wish optional helicopter sightseeing over Dubai is available. This afternoon jump aboard the 4 wheel drive jeep for a thrilling ride through the silky sand dunes of the Arabian Desert. Stop at a camel camp, watch the sun set against the dunes and visit a Bedouin camp where a traditional Arabian welcome awaits you. Enjoy a crackling

For more information please contact us at 1-800-255-4266

bonfire, Arabic music, belly dancing and a traditional barbeque dinner. Day 4 On to Abu Dhabi Morning depart on an excursion to Abu Dhabi, capital of Arabia and another modern metropolis. Visit a craft center where traditional handiwork is produced and drive along the Corniche to a dhow yard, where the traditional wooden fishing boats are still built. See the heritage village, the Emirates Palace and the oldest building of the city, the Palace of Al Husn. Late afternoon return to Dubai. Day 5 Return Home After breakfast, transfer to the airport is included, to catch your flights home. »Booking Code: DSTY

M aupintour.com

43

D

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

The Middle East Highlights of Abu Dhabi Tour

W

elcome to Abu Dhabi a magical city in the desert. Explore its wonders from a day at Ferrari World, to the Enchanting mosques and an adventure in the desert. This city of gem leave you with memories to treasure for a lifetime. HIGHLIGHTS:

• Visit to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Mina Zayed Port and more • Enjoy a fun day at Ferrari World Theme Park • A 4x4 adventurous desert safari tour WHAT’S INCLUDED:

• Free Day to explore Abu Dhabi • Private transfers -Hotel accommodation

Day 1 Arrive Abu Dhabi

Arrive at Abu Dhabi International Airport and be greeted by your guide/driver who will take you to your hotel, the Bab Al Bahar. Here you can relax in the beautiful setting of the hotel for the rest of the day. Day 2 City Tour After breakfast , you will be picked up from the

A Stunning piece of Architecture

lobby of your hotel and taken on a city tour. Abu Dhabi, the capital of United Arab Emirates is an enchanting city bustling with activity. Abu Dhabi is the abode of the Ruling Emirates Family and a hub of oil business. The city entertains visitors with its spectacular landmarks, modern architecture, alluring shopping malls, the Old Souk, traditional crafts, carpets and much more. Start the tour with a visit to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, a stunning masterpiece to the late Sheikh Zayed that houses the largest Iranian carpet and chandelier in the world. A visit to the Mina Zayed Port markets to include fish, dates and vegetable markets. Head towards the Heritage Village, a man made project that beautifully reflects and showcases traditional crafts and the reality of the lifestyle of a Bedouin Village. To end up the tour, drive past the iconic Emirates Palace (Outside view only). Day 3 Desert Safari Spend a leisurely morning by the poolside after breakfast. Desert Safari is a must if you want to experience desert life. Go dune bashing on a heady four-wheel-drive across sand dunes... shrieking with delight against the golden sunset. While reaching our Bedouin campsite, briefly enjoy a thumping camel ride. Try out a henna design on hand or feet. Then relax on cosy carpets and cushions, savouring Arabian coffee and fresh barbecue dinner of Continental and Oriental dishes. Feel at home in the heart of the desert. Day 4 Free Day Enjoy a day of leisure and shop to your hearts content. Day 5 Ferrari World Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is the world’s first Ferrari theme park and largest attraction of its kind. The Park offers more than 20 Ferrari-inspired rides and attractions, including a diverse array of rides for all ages and interests. Visitors will enter a stunning world where the Ferrari passion, excellence, performance and technical innovation come vibrantly to life. Along with rides, the visitors can also browse and shop from the several retail outlets that are located throughout the park including the largest Ferrari Store in the world and a Ferrari boutique that specializes in creating personalized souvenirs for Ferrari lovers. The park provides you a true Italian dining experience to complete your fun filled visit to the park. Day 6 Return Home After breakfast, you will be taken by a private car and driver to the airport to catch your flight back home. »Booking Code: ABDT

44

~

6 Day Tour From $1,530 Per Person, Land

~

M aupintour.com

45

Al Khazneh The Treasury at Petra

J

Jordan Journey Tour

The Middle East

A

crossroads of cultures and eras, this fascinating city speaks for itself, and it speaks to everybody. The city’s location and religious value have tossed it from owner to owner, and a stroll through these ancient streets witnesses a past of suffering as well as the architecture of many nations’ prosperity.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Tour Wadi Mujib Reserve • Visit the ancient city of Petra on a full day tour • Enjoy a two hour Jeep Safari to Wadi Rum • Take a swim or just float in the famous salty Dead Sea • Explore the best that Amman has to offer WHAT’S INCLUDED:

• A visit to Madaba & Mt. Nebo • Private transfers - Hotel accommodations

Day 1 Arrive Jordan Welcome to Jordan! Upon arrival at the Queen Alia Airport, you will be greeted by your private driver and escorted to your hotel, the Metropolitan. The rest of the day is free for you to relax. Day 2 Tour Where Jesus, Mary and his Disciples Visited After breakfast you will leave the Hotel to visit Amman, the modern and yet ancient capital of Jordan. After you will be transferred to visit Jarash. The ancient city of Jerash boasts an unbroken chain of human occupation dating back more than 6,500 years. Its architecture, religion and languages reflect the process of how two powerful cultures affected the city. After our tour we will transfer you to Ajloun. The marvels of nature and the genius of medieval Arab military architecture have given northern Jordan the most important ecological and historical attraction in the Middle East. Next we will take a visit to Anjarah, a small village deep in the rolling hills of Ajloun. Here you will visit Our Lady of Mount Church and Shrine. This is where Mary, Jesus and his disciples passed through and rested in a cave. The church also runs an orphanage home to around 30 children, some of which are very talented young people. During certain parts of the year you will have a chance to visit the local olive oil press and catch a glimpse of how the oil is made - during the winter months they are in full operation. After a busy day tour you will return to Amman for Dinner at local Restaurant, to sample some of Jordan's amazing gastronomy.

46

Escape the Ordinary

7 Day Tour From $1,500 Per Person, Land Only Day 3 Amman, Madaba, Mount Nebo & the Dead Sea After the Breakfast you will checkout & leave the Hotel to visit Madaba & Mt. Nebo. The trip south of Amman along the 5,000 year old King’s Highway is one of the most memorable Journeys in the Holy Land, passing through a string of ancient sites. The first city along the way from the north is Madaba, “The City of Mosaics”, which has been intermittently inhabited for nearly 3,500 years. The chief attraction in this city is a wonderfully vivid, six-century Byzantine mosaic map showing Jerusalem and other holy sites. There are also literally hundreds of other mosaics scattered throughout Madaba is churches and homes. Ten minutes to the west is Mount Nebo, the memorial of Moses, and the presumed site of the prophet’s death and burial place. Then continue your trip down to the lowest point on Earth! The Dead Sea located in The Jordan Rift Valley which is over 400m (1,312 ft.) below sea level. The Dead Sea is flanked by mountains to the east and the rolling hills of Jerusalem to the west. Enjoy a swim in its warm salty waters, and notice your buoyancy as you float in the Sea these pictures will last a lifetime. Enjoy yourself as you rest and relax at your Dead Sea Hotel for the night, The War Wick Dead Sea. Day 4 Wadi Mujib & Petra After Breakfast we will tour Wadi Mujib Reserve, the lowest nature reserve in the world. It lies in a deep valley holding some of the most breath taking scenery in Jordan. Here you will have a chance to hike through one of the many trails and enjoy the wildlife and nature of the reserve. After your tour we will escort you to Petra for your stay at the Petra Moon.

for a full day tour. The ancient city of Petra was built from 800 BC to 100 AD by Nabataeans Arabs. Petra covers an area of about 100 square km, where over 800 monuments can be found. Today Petra is Jordan’s #1 tourist attraction, known as the “rose-red city half as old as time”. The Khazneh (The Treasury) was front and center in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. After a busy day you will be transferred to Wadi Rum Camp for Dinner and a traditional dancing show. Accommodations tonight are at the Jabal Rum Camp. Day 6 Wadi Rum - Amman After breakfast you will checkout & leave the Camp to visit Wadi Rum for a two hour Jeep Safari. Otherwise known as Valley of the Moon, the landscape of Wadi Rum is immense, with color and awe-inspiring shapes that create an almost supernatural atmosphere. This was the setting for the film Lawrence of Arabia and the actual location where T.E. Lawrence set his camp Lawrence's book “The Seven Pillars of Wisdom”. It was named after the seven natural columns varying in height located en route to Wadi Rum. Bedouin camps are evident in the Wadi, which is still home to a number of Bedouin families, who welcome visitors with the hospitality and generosity that Bedouins are so famous for. Later you will be transferred to back to Amman and the Metropolitan Hotel. Day 7 Depart Amman After breakfast, you will be taken to the airport by your private driver. »Booking Code: JPET

Day 5 Petra After the breakfast you will depart to visit Petra

For more information please contact us at 1-800-255-4266

M aupintour.com

47

Hawaii

United States of America

Spectacular by Nature

S

ometimes you don't have to travel far from home to find the vacation of a lifetime. The United States and Canada offer some of the most sought after travel destinations in the world, from relaxing destinations in Maui to exploring the Pacific Northwest in Vancouver. Our travel experts are ready to show you all the best wines in Sonoma County by hot air balloon, take you to all the hot spots in Quebec City, and unveil New Orleans as the locals have seen it for centuries. Whether it be a weekend getaway or a relaxing vacation stay, Maupintour will make your trip within the USA and Canada a trip to remember.

Alaska Canada

Hawaii

USA 49

W

North America Discover Hawaii Vacation Tour

Sonoma Wine Country Tour

North America

M

ark Twain called Hawaii, “That peaceful land, that beautiful land... the climate, one long delicious summer day, and the good that die experience no change, for they but fall asleep in one heaven and wake up in another.” Explore O'ahu and Maui and come back again to visit one of the six islands to find your own heavenly Hawaii experiences. HIGHLIGHTS:

• Take a tour of Pearl Harbor and visit the Arizona Memorial Museum • Hike through Puohokamoa Valley or the Makamaka’ole Valley WHAT’S INCLUDED:

Day 1 Arrive O'ahu Welcome to Honolulu! You will be met at the airport by your private driver and transferred to your hotel on Waikiki beach, the Outrigger Waikiki. The rest of the day is free for you to relax. Day 2 Pearl Harbor - Arizona Memorial - City Tour Step back into our Island history as we take you on an early morning tour that includes reliving the fateful morning of December 7, 1941. See rare footage of the attack on Pearl Harbor and visit the Arizona Memorial Museum built in honor of those who gave their lives that day. Then you'll embark on a short shuttle boat ride to the Arizona Memorial itself. After returning to the Pearl Harbor landing, you'll set out on a scenic city tour of Central O'ahu that includes Punchbowl

Crater and the National Memorial of the Pacific. You'll discover a world of contrast as you tour Honolulu's bustling Downtown area and historic Chinatown right next door. Cruise past Iolani Palace and the famous King Kamehameha statue, seen in many episodes of Hawaii 5-0. Honolulu City Hall and Kawaihao Hawaiian Church are also included on this great half-day tour of O'ahu. Day 3 Polynesia

Day 5 Maui Bound After breakfast, your private car will pick you up at the hotel in O'ahu and transfer you to the airport to board your non stop flight from O'ahu to Maui. Pick up your full size car at the airport and make your way to the hotel, the Aston Maui Kaanapali Villas. Day 6 Waterfalls and Rainforest Hike On this hike you will visit one of the following two valleys: Puohokamoa Valley on the Hana Highway or Makamaka’ole Valley in West Maui. An hour’s drive on one of Maui’s most scenic roads. View extensive bamboo and tropical rainforests. Follow along beautiful stream, ending at large swimming pools. Spectacular waterfalls will greet you along the way. Lunch is included to replenish those lost calories!

R

eady to tour California's best county and taste some amazing wines? Sonoma Valley’s scenic 17-mile span offers endless discovery for new and repeat visitors. The birthplace of the California wine industry, it continues to delight discerning palates and rack up awards for its dazzling vintages. HIGHLIGHTS: • Enjoy a six hour wine tasting tour aboard a replica of a late 1890's San Francisco cable car! • Take in the best of Wine Country from above on a memorable Hot Air Balloon Ride. WHAT’S INCLUDED:

Day 7 Free Day A full day to enjoy Maui on your own. Day 8 Return home Drive back to the airport to catch your flight back home. A hui hou!! (Goodbye until we meet again) »Booking Code: HWNA

A free day to enjoy O'ahu on your own.

Escape the Ordinary

• Free Day to explore Sonoma County • Private transfers - Hotel accommodation Day 1 Arrive Sonoma Arrive San Francisco. You will be met by your driver and taken to Sonoma. Enjoy this beautiful 45 minute drive passing fabled hills, valleys and lush vineyards. Check in to your hotel, the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn, and enjoy the rest of your day as you please.

Day 2 Segway Tour of Sonoma

Day 5 Up..Up..and away..

Come experience one of the most unique ways to tour Sonoma Valley! On the Segway Tour of Sonoma, you'll tour the majestic Sonoma Valley atop the newest in human transportation! You will experience quite a bit of what Sonoma Valley has to offer while riding the self-balancing Segway HT. Following hands-on instruction, the tour takes you past a few of Sonoma's well known wineries, visits one of the wineries, and also stops at one of Sonoma's best kept secrets - Vella Cheese Factory. You'll also receive a complimentary bottle of Sonoma Valley wine. This tour includes about 7 miles of Segway riding.

Balloon Ride in the Wine Country -- Experience the Romance of Ballooning. Come fly with us in a hot air balloon over the beautiful Sonoma Valley. Let the breeze usher you along the corridors of grape vines and between the mountains of one of the most magnificent valleys on earth. We inflate the balloon in the crisp pre-dawn air and launch at sunrise when the winds are soft and light. Once aloft and floating on a sea of tranquility, you will experience the spirit of flight. As you drift along, there is no movement of air, for you have become the wind. Above it all, your pilot and host will welcome questions and serve as your guide for points of local interest and the Valley's extraordinary beauty. Enjoy a champagne brunch with us.

Day 3 Wine Tasting Day Enjoy a six hour wine tasting tour through historic Sonoma Valley aboard a motorized, authentic replica of a late 1890's San Francisco cable car! The vintage open-air design of the early California Street Car offers a scenic view unmatched by any other touring vehicle. As you meet fellow wine enthusiasts and wine curious guests, you will learn about the rich local history of early California and what makes Sonoma Valley such a popular destination for wine lovers and foodies from all over the world.

Day 6 Farewell All too soon your holiday comes to an end. A private transfer will take you to San Francisco to catch your flight back home. onsor

St

 -T

ed

Today, Polynesia comes alive in a celebration of song, dance and culture at Hawaii's most popular attraction - Polynesian Cultural Center. Nestled along the island's scenic North Shore, this is one must-see event. Travel across the South Pacific in a day, as you journey through six authentic Polynesian island villages - Tahiti, Tonga, Fiji, Samoa, New Zealand and Old Hawaii. Meet real Polynesian Islanders and see them demonstrate the arts and crafts of their native lands. See the breathtaking IMAX film "The Coral Reef" and learn the story of how reefs are formed, as well as the steps being taken to preserve this delicate eco-system. Experience the regal spectacle of the "Rainbows of Paradise" Pageant of the Long Canoes. Shop for authentic Polynesian crafts and gifts at the Pacific Marketplace Shopping Plaza. Indulge in a sumptuous luau dinner buffet. The evening ignites with "HA! , The Breath of Life", an extravaganza of song and dance showcasing all the pride and color of the people of Polynesia. Day 4 Free Day

50

6 Day Tour From $2,245 Per Person, Land

8 Day Tour From $1,999 Per Person, Land

Sp

• Domestic flights • Rental car in Maui • Free Day to enjoy O'ahu and Maui • Private transfers - Hotel accommodations

O UR

 -

»Booking Code: WINE

Sponsored by

Day 4 Free Day Today is your day to relax and enjoy yourself. Enjoy the spas, golf courses, boutiques and scenic trail trails, wineries and restaurants that Sonoma County has to offer.

For more information please contact us at 1-800-255-4266

M aupintour.com

51

L

North America New Orleans Tour

San Francisco Stay

North America

E

njoy this short adventure and experience the essence of New Orleans. Discover the rich art, music, culture and history of New Orleans.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Visit the famous French Quarter, Garden District, cemeteries and more • Tour Laura Plantation and learn about its history • Enjoy an afternoon boat cruise through the Louisiana's swamplands WHAT’S INCLUDED:

• Private transfers - Hotel accommodation

Day 1 Arrive into New Orleans. You will be met at the airport by your private car and driver and taken to your hotel. Wyndham Riverfront New Orleans - 4 Star Superior First Class hotel - Twin room - Located in the historical Warehouse District. The Wyndham Riverfront Hotel is situated between Harrah's New Orleans Casino and the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. Within easy walking distance are the French Quarter, The Riverwalk, Canal Place shopping, the Aquarium of the Americas, the Arts District, riverboats and cruise ship dock. With views of the Mississippi, the Wyndham Riverfront Hotel offers 202 richly appointed rooms. Creole Queen Dinner Cruise: When night falls, the Paddlewheeler Creole Queen rises to the occasion. Step on board and cruise with us into the night where the sleepless activity of America's busiest port buzzes. The sounds of a lively jazz band fill the air as you enjoy a lavish Creole buffet in elegantly appointed dining rooms. The Creole Queen features outer decks with authentically patterned wrought iron trims inviting guests to stroll back in time as they settle into the mood of a bygone era. The interiors are richly appointed with plush Victorian style draperies, soft period lighting, wooden parquet dance floors, and Louisiana Cypress bars accented with brass railing for a warm and welcoming setting. After dinner, enjoy your favorite cocktails and sweet river breezes on the promenade deck as the city skyline slips by under a canopy of stars. This Dinner Jazz Cruise is pure New Orleans, pure pleasure! Menu includes such items as Caesars Salad, Creole Seafood Gumbo, New Orleans Jambalaya, Talapia in a Creole Sauce, Cajun Braised Beef Brisket, Green Bean Almondine, Cajun Potatoes, Paddlewheeler Bread Pudding with white chocolate sauce, Bread and Butter, New Orleans Dark Coffee and Iced Tea. Duration: 2 hours (Dinner)

52

5 Day Tour From $1,525 Per Person, Land/Cruise Day 2 Everything New Orleans Take this time to familiarize yourself with the history and culture of New Orleans. Absorb the sights and sounds of the famous French Quarter and historic Jackson Square. Your licensed guide presents the history, landmarks, legends and splendid architecture that made New Orleans famous. Walk through one of our unusual above ground 'Cities of the Dead' cemeteries and marvel at stories of voodoo and piracy on Bayou St. John. Enjoy a ride along Lake Pontchartrain's shore before travelling through mid-city en route to uptown New Orleans. Follow the clicketyclack of the St Charles Avenue Streetcars past universities, Audubon Park, stately mansions and the world-famous, exclusive Garden District. Then follow New Orleans into 21st Century as you pass under the shadows of towering skyscrapers in the Central Business District. Duration: 2 hours Day 3 Laura Plantation tour Join us as we enter the Creole world of Louisiana's storied past on the great River Road! Enjoy a panoramic view of Lake Pontchartrain as you cross the Bonnet Carre Spillway (the flood outlet of the Mississippi River). Travel back in time to Laura Plantation, an operating sugar farm built in 1805. Laura, a Creole Plantation, offers what has been called "the best history tour in the U.S." This tour is based upon 5,000 pages of documents found in the French National Archives and upon Laura's memories of the Old Plantation Home. Which she details 250 years of true-life stories of the Creole women, slaves and children who lived and worked here. Laura boasts 11 historic buildings on the National Register, including slave cabins in which

the West-African folktales of Compair Lapin (later known as Br'er Rabbit) were recorded over 140 years ago. Laura Plantation was awarded the "Top Travel Attraction in Louisiana" by the Louisiana Travel Promotion Association in 2007. It was also listed among "the top 25 most popular house museums in the U.S." by the American Academy of Architecture and Design. Notes: Due to the historic nature of the plantation, access to the second floor (the main living quarters) is by stairs only. Walking the grounds is an integral part of this experience. Duration: 4.45 hours Day 4 Relax then let take a Journey with us by boat Relax on your own this morning and wander the streets. In the afternoon, Journey with us by boat, Cajun style, through the heart of South Louisiana's swamplands. Experience a real-life adventure for the whole family from the comfort of our swamp boat. Tour back into the meandering bayous and into the past. A past filled with the daring exploits of pirates and Indians made famous through story and song. Now present filled with moss-draped cypress trees, fascinating plant life and the creatures who make their homes here. Your guide is a native of the area who will share with you the legends and the lore of Louisiana's still untamed wilderness. Duration 1.45 hours Day 5 Return Home Today, you will be picked up from your hotel and taken to the airport for your flight back home. Les Bon Ton Roule, See you soon! »Booking Code: NEWO

Escape the Ordinary

S

5 Day Tour From $1,800 Per Person, Land

ee the best of San Francisco from the air, land and sea. Relax and enjoy amazing sunsets, witness the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, history and enjoy a smattering of local cuisine. A short visit to San Francisco can create memories that will last a lifetime. HIGHLIGHTS: • Get a great panoramic view of the city from Twin Peaks • Enjoy California's wine country with a wine tasting tour of two wineries • Helicopter tour of San Francisco WHAT’S INCLUDED: • Private transfer - Hotel accommodation

Day 1 Arrive San Francisco Meet and Greet services upon arrival in San Francisco, with transfers to your 5 star hotel, The Omni Hotel. This 5 star deluxe class historic hotel, built in 1926, is only a short walk to Union Square, the San Francisco neighborhood that has become a mecca for high end shopping and art galleries. The hotel conveniently has a cable car stop located directly outside. All rooms have luxurious furnishings, plush beds, Chinese marble vanities in every bath, expansive ceilings and beautiful crown molding, all accented with 1920s and 1930s decor. The rest of the day if free.

Day 2 Deluxe City Tour

Day 4 Helicopter Tour

Discover America's most picturesque and culturally diverse city. Pass by the Civic Center, the new Main Library, Opera House, Davies Symphony Hall and Old Mission Dolores, the birthplace of the city. Stop atop Twin Peaks for a panoramic view of the city. Drive through the lush Golden Gate Park and stop to visit the elegant Japanese Tea Garden or Botanical Gardens. Drive along the Pacific Ocean and stop at the Cliff House to enjoy Seal Rock and the ocean air. View the former Presidio Army Base (now part of the Golden Gate National Recreation area). Cross the magnificent Golden Gate Bridge and stop at Vista Point North to enjoy a breathtaking view of the San Francisco Bay, the city's skyline, Angel Island and Alcatraz Island. Your tour concludes at Pier 39 at Fisherman's Wharf.

You will be transferred to the heliport for your exciting adventure above San Francisco. Musical background, choreographed to your flight, accompanies spontaneous narration by your professionally trained pilot. Take in the renowned hills of San Francisco and the striking cityscape. In the distance see the surrounding Bay Area communities. See the famous landmarks such as Alcatraz Island and the spectacular bridges spanning the Bay. Fly north over the Marin Headlands, a bit of California's craggy Pacific Coast and the artist town of Sausalito. After your thirty minute adventure you will be returned to your pick up location. The rest of the day is free for you to explore San Francisco at your own pace.

Day 3 California Wine Country Enjoy the sights and taste of the California wineries, known for innovative and awardwinning wine processing. Begin your day heading towards Napa Valley. Follow Highway 29 to your first winery and wine tasting. Enjoy complimentary tasting of various wines produced in this region. Spend time shopping or enjoying lunch (not included) in either Vintage 1870 in Napa or the Sonoma Town Square in Sonoma. After lunch, head over to your second winery for more tasting at another renowned winery.

For more information please contact us at 1-800-255-4266

Day 5 Return Home After breakfast you will be escorted to the airport by your private driver. »Booking Code: SFST

M aupintour.com

53

North America Quebec Stay

Seattle, Victoria & Vancouver

North America

Day 5 Vancouver, Canada

7 Day Tour From $1,700 Per Person, Land

E

5 Day Tour From $1,325 Per Person, Land

T

V

ake a trip to la belle province, culturally vibrant French-speaking Quebec and its two largest cities, cosmopolitan Montreal and historic Quebec City.

of Montreal. The hotel also features a fitness area. The rest of the day is free for you to relax. Day 2 Greater Montreal Tour

• Free Day to explore Montreal • Private transfers - Hotel accommodations

Discover Montreal's wide variety of sights in the largest French speaking city after Paris. You will stop to visit Old Montreal, Olympic Park, Mount Royal Park and Notre Dame Basilica. You will also see the following sites: Montreal Harbour, Chinatown, Bonsecours Market Building (the former City Hall), Place Jaques Cartier, Biodome, McGill University, Place Des Arts, Place Ville Marie, The Université de Montreal, City Hall, Botanical Gardens & Insectarium, St Helen's Island and Casino and the Molson Centre.

Day 1 Arrive Montreal

Day 3 Quebec City, Montmorency Falls & Ile D'Orleans

Meet and Greet services upon arrival in Montreal, with transfers to your 5 star deluxe modern hotel, Le Saint-Sulpice. This luxury boutique hotel offers access to many interesting stores, galleries and restaurants in Old Montreal. Additionally, the concierge can arrange everything from horse drawn carriage rides, to theatre tickets to evening dinner at any of the renowned restaurants

A full day excursion to Quebec City, the only walled city on the North American continent. You will visit the following sights: Place Royale – the birthplace of French civilization with great architecture and narrow streets, shop and lunch in de Petit Champlain district, visit Escalier Casse-Cou or the 'break neck staircase', Funicular, where we will board this elevator that

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Visit Old Montreal, Olympic Park, Mount Royal Park and Notre Dame Basilica • A full day excursion to Quebec City • See the 83 meters Montmorency Falls WHAT’S INCLUDED:

54

descends a cliff linking Upper and Lower Quebec. Visit Notre Dame Basilica, Price Building - Quebec's oldest skyscraper, Citadel, Parliament building, Grand Allee - also known as the Champs Elysees of Quebec, Chateau Frontenac, Sainte Petronille, Ile D'orleans, and Montmorency Falls -, 83 meters of falling water.

xperience three of the best cities in the Northwest, Seattle, Victoria & Vancouver. Visit Seattle’s famous fish market (Pike street market), ride to the top of the Space Needle or take a day trip to beautiful Mt. Rainier. Sample Victoria’s enchanting old world charm, visit the world famous Buchart Gardens and enjoy tea at the Empress Hotel. HIGHLIGHTS:

Day 4 Free Day A free day to enjoy the sights and sounds of Montreal at your own pace. Day 5 Return Home After breakfast you will be escorted to the airport by your private driver. End of services.

»Booking Code: QBCA

• Experience a full-day tour to Mt. Rainier(seasonal) or a half-day guided city tour of Seattle • Tour 50 acres of world-famous gardens • Deluxe Grand City Tour of Vancouver • Enjoy a Sunset Dinner Cruise WHAT’S INCLUDED: • A fast ferry ride to Victoria Vancouver • Private transfers - Hotel accommodations

Day 1 Arrive Seattle, WA Take a private transfer to the Hotel Edgewater, a 4-star property located on the waterfront in Seattle. The Pacific Northwest ambiance makes it the quietly-reserved alternative to the many urban Seattle hotels. The rest of the day is yours to relax and enjoy the city. Some

Escape the Ordinary

things you may like to do with your free time are walk up to Pike Street Market (Fisherman's Market) or just stroll along the pier and enjoy the quaint shops and people watching. or jump on one of the many boat tours around Puget Sound. All of this is easily accessible from your hotel. Day 2 Seattle Today you'll enjoy a full day tour to Mt. Rainier (seasonal) or a guided city tour of Seattle. Day 3 Victoria, BC Take a ride on one of the fastest ferries in the Northwest while enjoying a champagne breakfast. Arrive Victoria and transfer to The Fairmont Empress. A luxury resort situated on the spectacular Inner Harbor, capturing the grandeur and elegance of a bygone era. Guest rooms have views of the city, courtyard or Victoria's Inner Harbor.

Today you'll take a Ferry to Vancouver where you'll stay at The Fairmont Waterfront, within walking distance to Stanley Park and Historic Gastown. The deluxe property boasts fine views, either overlooking the harbor and distant majestic mountain peaks or splendid city skyline views of Vancouver. The hotel captures what is appealing of Vancouver, within the park-like setting of ponds, water fountains and seasonal gardens. The rest of your day is yours to enjoy at your leisure. In the evening (7PM), we have arranged a Sunset Dinner Cruise where an awe-inspiring West Coast sunset over the Pacific Ocean awaits you. Experience the wonder of Stanley Park as you sail underneath Lions Gate Bridge and cruise through the beauty of English Bay. With the sun setting in the background, the lights, sights and sounds of False Creek unfold as we sail past Granville Island, the Plaza of Nations or more. Day 6 Vancouver, Canada Enjoy a half-day city tour of Vancouver. The Deluxe Grand City Tour offers the very best of Vancouver's sights, sounds and spectacular scenery. Your tour will begin with a venture through Gastown and North America's second largest Chinatown. From there the tour enters the world famous 1,000 acre Stanley Park and stops at the Totem Poles and Prospect Point, where you'll have time to take some photos. After a leisurely drive along tranquil English Bay Beach and up to Little Mountain, Vancouver's highest viewpoint, you'll arrive at Queen Elizabeth Park where we make a stop. Day 7 Depart Canada Return home. Take a private transfer to the Vancouver airport. »Booking Code: BTNW

Day 4 Everything Victoria Today you'll enjoy a half-day city tour of Victoria. On your tour, you'll visit downtown Victoria and The Butchart Gardens. The gardens are a 30-minute drive from downtown. Take a self-guided tour of 50 acres of worldfamous gardens, including the Sunken Garden, Japanese Garden, Italian Garden, Star Pond, and elaborate fountains. Restaurants and a gift shop are on site.

For more information please contact us at 1-800-255-4266

M aupintour.com

55

Rio de Janeiro

Brazil

A Place with Breathtaking Landscape

T

he largest country in South America, Brazil has undergone a great deal of expansion in the last decade, and excitement is in the air. With the summer Olympics and World Cup scheduled for the coming years, travelers are flocking to a destination full of both adventure and relaxation at the same time. See the marvelous beaches of Rio, tour Sugar Loaf Mountain, visit Christ the Redeemer, and see the magnificent Iguazu Falls. Whether you are a first time visitor to South America or an experienced travelers to the region, Brazil has something to offer everyone.

North America

Africa

Brazil 57

Corcovado Mountain Christ the Redeemer

B

Brazil Highlights Tour

South America

F

eel the spray as a boat takes you right up beside the magnificent Iguazu Falls. See the architectural mastery of downtown Buenos Aires. Sip a cool drink on a sandy Rio beach, and enjoy some of the best landscapes in South America. HIGHLIGHTS:

• Enjoy an two-staged cable car ascent up to the famous Sugar Loaf Mountain. • See the magnificent Iguazu Falls and be captivated by the power of nature • Explore the great city of Salvador WHAT’S INCLUDED:

• Domestic flights • Free Day to explore Rio de Janeiro • Private transfers - Hotel accommodations Three optional tour offers

Day 1 Rio de Janeiro Arrive in Rio de Janeiro, where we will greet and escort you to your hotel. Lodging tonight is at either the Windsor Plaza Copacabana or the Windsor Excelsior. Day 2 Everything Rio Tour During a half day city tour the most important sights of Rio will be shown. Drive along Guanabara Bay and Flamengo Park as far as downtown. Visit of the downtown area, passing by the financial and business centre and by other attractions such as the Candelaria Church, Saint Sebastian Cathedral, Lapa Arches, Municipal Theatre, National Library, Fine Arts Museum, and by the Sambadrome, site of Rio’s famous Carnival parade. Proceed to the Urca District to board a cable car for a two-staged ascent up to the famous Sugar Loaf Mountain. The afternoon is free at leisure. Optional: Half day visit to the Corcovado. This afternoon starts a half day beach tour including a visit to the Corcovado statue. Leaving the hotel you proceed as far as Cosme Velho Station to board a cog-train for the ride through Tijuca Forest up to Corcovado Mountain. The train ride takes 20 minutes and is a wonderful opportunity for a closer look at the forest’s lush tropical vegetation and to enjoy scenic landscapes of the beaches and the city. Disembarking at the top of Corcovado and then proceeding up the steps will lead to the top lookout where the towering statue of Christ the Redeemer stands. After appreciating the breathtaking view unfolding below descend by train and continue passing by some of Rio’s beaches.

58

Escape the Ordinary

8 Day Tour Group From $1,829 Per Person, Land Day 3 Free Day Today enjoy a free day in Rio to explore this world capital at your own pace. Should you wish to take an optional excursion, we have two recommendations. Optional: Full day tour to Petropolis. Going on a scenic drive up Serra dos Orgaos Range across the Atlantic Forest's lush vegetation through mountains and valleys as far as 850m high Petropolis. Visit of the Summer Palace and the Cathedral, and touring along that charming city's highlights. (tour can also be booked including lunch) Optional: Rio by night – Show in the evening. Visit a folklore and Carnival show featuring skilled dancers, entertainers, samba bands and wonderful costumes in a wonderful display of Brazilian folklore and Carnival. Day 4 Iguazu Falls

which forms the border between Argentina & Brazil. Once in Argentina, tour takes a scenic highway up the Argentinean Iguazu National Park. Stopping at the Visitors’ Centre and proceeding from there the Superior Circuit. the up-river cascades. Then to the Inferior Circuit, the down-river falls. Afterwards take the Ecological Jungle Train that leads visitors to and from the most impressive observation point of the falls – The Devil's Throat. Return to the hotel after an amazing tour. Day 6 Salvador da Bahia Today, after breakfast, we will transfer you to the airport to catch your flight to Salvador da Bahia. Upon landing we will transfer you to your hotel, either the Hotel Portobello Ondina Praia, or the Hotel Pestana Bahia. Day 7 Salvador

It’s time to be memorized by one of the most spectacular wonders of nature in South America, the Iguazu Falls. In the morning you will leave Rio de Janeiro and take a quick flight to Iguazu. Upon arrival, we will transfer you to the hotel for check-in. Your tour begins from the hotel by coach to Iguazu National Park. Experience the best on the Iguazu Falls by taking a elevator to the bottom to the Devil’s Throat to enjoy magnificent views. Walk along the following cascade along the catwalk and be amazed by nature. After a long day you will be transferred to either the Hotel Viale Cataratas or the Mabu Foz.

In the morning we start with a sightseeing tour. This tour will give a good overall impression of Salvador and its principal historical landmarks. Departing from the hotel directly to Farol da Barra (Lighthouse) at Barra district. Continue to Municipal Square with a stop at the Lacerda Elevator for a breathtaking view of Baía de Todos os Santos (All Saints Bay). Walking through the cobblestone streets of the Pelourinho district, the city's historic old town, UNESCO world heritage. Visit the Baroque Cathedral, built by the Jesuits in 1672 and Sao Francisco Church, Brazil's most famous religious structure and also the Pelourinho Square. Return to the hotel after the tour. The afternoon is free for leisure.

Day 5 Iguazu

Day 8 Depart Brazil

Today visit the Argentinean side of the falls. Leaving from the hotel on the Brazilian side for a drive and a quick customs check, crossing the Tancredo Neves Bridge over the Iguazu River,

After breakfast, we will escort you to the airport to catch your return flight home. Meals Included: Breakfast. »Booking Code: BRHT

For more information please contact us at 1-800-255-4266

M aupintour.com

59

P

South America Enchanting Peru Tour

Peru Highlights Tour

P

of the city for photo enthusiasts. Afterwards visit the surrounding ruins. The afternoon is free for you to explore at your own pace, or simply relax.

eru is lively, mystical and magical! See the wonders of modern-day Lima and the ancient city of Cuzco. Visit the fortress ruins at Sacsayhuaman and Pisac. Discover the secrets of the Sacred Valley and explore the extensive ruins at Machu Picchu and experience the enigmatic Rain Forest, on this exceptional program of exploration.

Day 5 Cusco to Puno Today after breakfast we will embark upon a full day bus journey from Cusco to Puno. The trip leads us through the Peruvian highland along snow-covered peaks, passing up to 4,300 meters above sea level before returning down to Puno, which is located right on Lake Titicaca. During the trip we will visit the town of Andahuaylillas, the ruins of Racchi, and the small town of Pucara. Lunch in a typical restaurant en route is included. After arrival in Puno, we will transfer you to your hotel, either the Hotel Jose Antonio Puno or the Hotel Libertador Lago Titicaca.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Expert local guided sightseeing • Hike up to the ruins of Machu Picchu and admire a the breathtaking view • Visit the famous Basilica Cathedral in Lima • A twilight river crocodile excursion in Puerto Maldonado • River cruise to Monkey Island WHAT’S INCLUDED:

• Domestic flights • A scenic train ride to Machu Picchu • Night stay at Machu Picchu Pueblo • Private transfers - Hotel accommodations

Day 1 Arrival in Peru's capital city (Lima) Step off the plane and have one our representatives escort you to your private car service. You will be greeted with a “Bienvenidos a Lima” and transferred to your hotel, the JW Marriott Lima. The Miraflores and San Isidro districts offer excellent restaurants and nightlife options. We recommend you check with the concierge for expert advice on dining venues and nightlife. Day 2 Everything Lima Lima, known as The City of Kings, was once the city of the Spanish empire, now the capital of Peru. Today you will be introduced to the colonial and modern parts of Lima. Pass old streets filled with colonial houses with Moorish-style balconies. Visit the Basilica Cathedral and see San Francisco Church, San Martin Square, and Miraflores brimming with its shops, restaurants, cafes and wide avenues. At tiny Love Park, facing the ocean, see the sculpture featuring the love kiss of an Andean couple. Day 3 On to Cuzco Today board a flight bound for Cuzco, the oldest inhabited city in the Western hemisphere and gateway to the Incas treasures. The Incas laid

60

South America

Day 6 Puno

8 Day Tour From $2,239 Per Person, Land/Cruise out the city in the form of a puma. See the most important Cuzco landmarks from both the Inca and Spanish colonial times - Korikancha (the ancient temple of the sun) and the Colonial Cathedral. Then visit the wonderful ruins of Sacsayhuaman, the Inca fortress overlooking Cuzco, the nearby shrines of Kenqo (funeral worship), Tambomachay (cleansing water rituals), and the ancient Tambo of Pukapukara. Accommodations tonight are at the Novotel Cuzco. Day 4 Machu Picchu with overnight included Early morning departure transfer for the Ollanta train station. Once there board the train bounded for the Lost City of the Incas. You will ride along a flat patched landscape of vegetable orchards and cereal harvests. After dropping off the adventure hikers at km 104, enter the semi-tropical jungle that forms the natural threshold of Machu Picchu. The train ascends into the mountains, guided by the Urubamba River, until reaching a small village set in a narrow valley flanked by precipitous peaks, in a landscape of impossible beauty. Machu Picchu, the last refuge of the Inca Virgins of the Sun, the private retreat of the Inca Pachacutec, the lost city found by Hiram Bingham, sits on the saddle of a mountain overlooking the deep canyon. It is time to discover. Accommodations tonight are at the Machu Picchu Pueblo.

team will be waiting at the station to transfer you to your hotel, the Novotel Cuzco. Day 6 On to the jungle (Puerto Maldonado) Board a flight for Puerto Maldonado. Your rainforest experience begins with a river boat ride to the Rainforest lodge. This afternoon enjoy a guided walk through the jungle to see tropical trees, medicinal plants and butterflies. Stop at a lookout to observe toucans, macaws and other birds gathering about sunset. Then enjoy a twilight river excursion and search for caiman crocodiles that live on the river banks. Accommodations tonight are at the Reserva Amazonica Lodge. Day 7 Exploring the jungle (Puerto Maldonado) Rise early for the trek through more of the rainforest to a parrot clay-lick. Normally at least five bird species are present, creating a cacophony of sound, movement and color. After breakfast take a river cruise to Monkey Island and then to the Tambopata-Candamo National Reserve. The nature walk here includes giant trees and possible sightings of snakes, monkeys, birds and even the elusive jaguar. At Sandoval Lake watch for kingfishers, cormorants, hoatzins, howler monkeys and Giant River otters. Return to the lodge for a well-deserved dinner and overnight.

Day 5 Explore Machu Picchu

Day 8 Return Home

We let you decide your morning plans. Take as much time as you need to study the mysterious ruins, hike up Huayna Picchu, stroll to the Inca Bridge. Visit the orchid gardens, relax at the hot springs, or walk to the legendary Sun Gate. In the afternoon, board the comfortable Vistadome train for your ride back to Cusco. Upon arrival our local

Return this morning to Puerto Maldonado for a flight to Lima for your international connection and return home.

8 Day Tour From $1,999 Per Person, Land

T

ravel to a country known for its rich history, adventures and diversity. Discover the great Machu Picchu ruins, explore the Amazon rainforest and enjoy the nightlife of Lima. Tour through the street and experience the true essence of the Peruvian culture. HIGHLIGHTS: • Tour the ruin city of Machu Picchu • Ride through the Urubamba Valley aboard the panoramic Vistadome train • Full day excursion on Lake Titicaca to visit the Uros floating islands WHAT’S INCLUDED: • Domestic flights • A visit to the typical Pisac Market • Private transfers - Hotel accommodations

Day 1 Lima Arrive at the airport in Lima, where you will be welcomed by your tour guide. We will then transfer you to your hotel, the Hotel Jose Antonio or Casa Andina Private Collection Miraflores. The rest of the day is free for you to relax. Day 2 Cusco

»Booking Code: EPTP

Escape the Ordinary

This morning enjoy breakfast at the hotel. After, we will transfer you to the airport to catch your short flight to Cusco. Upon arrival you will be transferred to your hotel, located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. On the way you will visit the typical Pisac market which is fill with craftsmen

who exhibit and sell wide variety of fine crafts such as woven goods, Alpaca rugs, tapestry, sculptures, and jewelry. We will then continue to the ruin site of Ollantaytambo and visit the town, the shrines and the fortification with its stairs to the sky. After a busy day, you will be taken to your hotel in Yucar in the Urubamba Valley, either the Hotel Sonesta Posada del Inca Yucay or the Aranwa Sacred Valley Hotel and Wellness Center. Day 3 Machu Picchu Today after breakfast we will transfer by bus to the train station of Ollantaytambo. The tour starts by train that goes through the fertile plain of the Urubamba valley and on to Aguas Calientes. From there, small busses drive up the steep mountain to the ruin town Machu Picchu, called the Lost City of the Incas. This impressive stone city constructed by stone upon stone, fitted together perfectly without any cement, with impressive delicacy, exquisite detail and discrimination worthy of the world’s greatest palaces. Enjoy a guided visit of around 2 hours of the ruins and return by bus and train to Ollantaytambo station. After you will be transferred to your hotel in Cusco, either the Hotel Eco Inn or the Hotel Aranwa Cusco Boutique. Day 4 Cusco In the morning the half-day city tour begins. Today we will show you the center of the Inca Empire, the Plaza de Armas. You will explore the cathedral built on the ruins of the ancient Inca Palace, famous throughout South America. Our next stop will be the old town with its magnificent renovated colonial buildings; some of which are being used as hotels. Then proceed to Sacsayhuaman, a ruin located approx. 3 km above Cusco. Sacsayhuaman also offers a fabulous view

For more information please contact us at 1-800-255-4266

Full day excursion on Lake Titicaca to visit the Uros floating islands. The Aymara Indians build their houses over floating artificial islands that elaborate themselves on the waters of the Titicaca in which they inhabit in organizations and with ancestral customs. Continue to Taquile Island where you find numerous pre-Inca and Inca ruins and Inca terracing. The island is narrow, only about 1km wide, but 6-7km long. The people here still wear their traditional clothes and there is a co-operative shop on the Plaza where one can buy woollen goods of very fine quality. Day 7 Lima After breakfast, we will transfer you from your hotel to the airport of Juliaca. Catch your short flight to Lima, where upon landing we will transfer you to your hotel. In the afternoon you will explore the city on a sightseeing tour through Lima. Visit the Plaza de Armas with the beautiful buildings of the government Palace, the town hall, the Palace of the archbishop and the cathedral are still the most important places in town. After that you will visit the beautiful San Francisco monastery which displays the largest collection of religious art in South America. The highlight of this convent is the visit of the underground vaults known as “catacumbas” or catacombs. Proceed through the modern districts of San Isidro and Miraflores. Afterwards enjoy a guided visit of one of the Lima’s most noted museums, the Rafael Larco Herrera Archaeological Museum which houses the world’s largest private collection of Peruvian pre-Columbian Art. After a busy day of touring we will return to the hotel, either the Hotel Jose Antonio or the Casa Andina Private Collection Miraflores. Meals Included: Breakfast. Day 8 Depart Lima After breakfast at the hotel, you will be transferred to the airport to catch your return flight home. »Booking Code: PERU

M aupintour.com

61

E

South America Classic Colombia Tour

C

cloud forest to enjoy the biodiversity of the local flora and fauna. On the return journey, cross the River Quindio while walking along an ecological pathway which takes us past the tallest wax palms in the world. Learn why the indigenous people here worshiped this tree. On the way back, we will stop at a trout farm and enjoy a traditional meal of smoked trout. Enjoy some free time here. In the afternoon, continue 10km towards the traditional town of Salento. There you will enjoy a city tour that visits the Plaza de Bolívar with its colorful balconies, the calle real, the handicrafts shops and the Cocora viewpoint.

olombia is a fantastic country filled with history and culture. Experience the mixture of this land by visiting the Amazon jungle, the cosmopolitan city of Bogota and religious temples. Create memorable moments from whale watching, river rafting, and attractions from the coffee mansions. HIGHLIGHTS:

• Visit Plaza de Bolivar, Santuario de Monserrate Museo Botero or the Gold Museum • A unique tour visiting the famous coffee plantations in Pereira • Enjoy a cable car ride to the top of Monserrate

Day 5 Cartagena After breakfast your driver will escort you to the airport to catch your flight to Cartagena. Upon landing, you will be transferred by private car to your new hotel, the Hotel Boutique Ananda. The rest of the day is free for you to relax.

WHAT’S INCLUDED:

• Domestic flights • All day excursion by boat to the Archipielago del Rosario • Private transfers - Hotel accommodations

Day 6 Cartagena

Welcome to Bogota! Your private driver will greet you at the airport and transfer you to your 5 star hotel, the Hotel Sofitel Regia. The rest of the day is free for you to relax. Day 2 Bogota and Monserrate After breakfast, we will take you to the historical district of Bogota known as La Candelaria. The area is full of amazing architecture and cultural heritage, with French, Italian, British and Spanish influence in abundance. Visit the Plaza de Bolivar, where a statue of the great liberator Simon Bolivar is located. This Plaza, originally called the Plaza Mayor, was used for civil and military purposes, as a marketplace, a bullring and a gallows. The plaza is surrounded by the

8 Day Tour From $2,580 Per Person, Land Mayor's office, the Palacio de Justicia, the Capitol Building and the Archbishop Cathedral of Bogota originally built in 1539. Following our visit to the Plaza, we continue to the world famous Museo Botero. A colonial house filled with works of art done by and donated by Fernando Botero. In addition, the museum includes pieces by Picasso, Renoir, Dalí, Monet and Giacometti. After this amazing tour, we head to the Museo del Oro, or Gold Museum. Which has a permanent exhibition of some 32,000 pieces of gold, 20,000 stones, ceramics and textiles all precious to the Quimbaya, Calima, Tayrona, Sinu, Muisca, Tolima, Tumaco and Magdalena cultures. The Museo del Oro is considered as one of the most important museums of its type internationally and it has been functioning since 1939. In 2007 it underwent a complete overhaul to make this an interactive museum that would awake senses to the objects on display. Our tour today ends with a visit to Santuario de Monserrate, the most famous landmark in Bogotá. Ride the cable car to the top of Monserrate, which sits at 3,140 meters above sea level. The site offers an incredible panorama view of the city on one side and the Andes on the other. Day 3 Pereira

62

Day 4 Valle de Cocora After breakfast we will depart for the Valle de Cocora which is located in the central mountains of the province of Quindio. This makes up part of the Parque Nacional de los Nevados and is the ideal place to marvel at the “Quindian wax palm”, the national tree of Colombia. This tree can reach a staggering height of 60 meters tall. Enjoy the natural scenery, as a great number of species of birds live in the area, in particular some types of hummingbird and the palm parrot which is endangered. Upon arrival in the valley, either by hiking or on horseback, we will head into the

Escape the Ordinary

Day 7 Rosario Islands Today enjoy an all day excursion by boat to the Archipielago del Rosario, located approximately an hour from Cartagena. The national park is surrounded by coral reefs and clear blue waters. The area provides a habitat for a large variety of marine creatures and fauna. Enjoy free time today for snorkeling and relaxation at its finest. Lunch is included on this excursion, before returning to your hotel for the night. Day 8 Farewell to Colombia After breakfast, your private driver will greet you at the hotel and transfer you to the airport. End of services. »Booking Code: CCMT onsor

St

 -T

ed

Today after breakfast you will be met by your driver and escorted to the airport to catch your flight to Pereira. Upon landing your private driver will take you to your new hotel, the Hacienda San Jose. Today you will enjoy a unique tour visiting the famous coffee plantations along the steep hills typical of this area. On a secondary pathway view

the green carpet of coffee plants that spread out as far as the horizon, interrupted only by fincas and heliconia flowers. Break in the Alto de La Paz, a beautiful viewpoint close to the municipality of Chinchiná and enjoy a beautiful view of the coffee region that has been declared a world Heritage site by UNESCO. The visit continues on to one of the coffee haciendas to see the plantations and the production system in minute detail. Including the harvest, the drying of the plants and treatment in this land of volcanic terrain along the Central Andes Mountain range which is perfect for the crop. The visit to the property begins in the house with an introductory chat about coffee, its preparation, toasting, the characteristics of quality and the properties that allows for such a variety of coffees in the world. The tour continues through the grounds. Where you can meet some of the coffee makers and appreciate what goes into making some of the best coffee the world has to offer. Don't worry - samples are provided!

Sp

Day 1 Bogota

After breakfast, your Cartagena Tour starts with a visit to the city’s colonial district, starting in Bolivar Park, shaded by large trees and with four fountains. The park has a statue of the great Liberator Simon Bolivar at the center. Around the square is the Gold Museum, which exhibits a fine collection of archaeological objects dating back to the pre-Hispanic period; and the Inquisition Palace, easily recognized by its large baroque style door. The Inquisition held its meetings here and it was also the prison and torture chambers of presumed heretics, opponents of the Catholic Church. After our visit to the square, the tour continues to the Santo Domingo Church, the Cathedral, and ends at the Terraplenes and the Museum of the City’s Fortifications. Enjoy a free afternoon to explore Cartagena at your own pace.

O UR

Images courtesy of:

 -

Contact us at 1-800-255-4266

M aupintour.com

63

South America Galapagos Island Journey Tour

Galapagos Island Journey Tour

South America

in the lush scenery of the Santa Cruz highlands, where occasionally it is possible to see giant tortoises grazing in the pastures of local farms. Lunch at a typical restaurant. In the afternoon, we will pay a visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station where we can see giant tortoises in captivity and learn about the importance of this station for the survival of the archipelago. Later we will have free time to enjoy the small town of Puerto Ayora and maybe do some shopping. Day 8 Back to Quito Today, after a morning excursion, our Galapagos odyssey concludes and we return to the airport for our flight back to the continent. Back in Quito, you have a last opportunity to wander those ancient cobblestone streets and dine on Andean fare.

E

Day 9 Farewell to Quito Farewell Eco Voyagers! Today our local representative will be transferring you to the airport in time for your departing flight. We wish you a pleasant trip back home and hope to enjoy your company in another exciting adventure very soon.

9 Day Tour From $3,275 Per Person, Land/Cruise

V

isit the Ecuadorian highlands and unveil the rich historic and cultural heritage of this unique land: Walk along Quito’s historic district, observe the beautiful buildings from the colonial era and admire ornate churches and monasteries. Then depart for the Galapagos Islands, one of the top 10 destinations in the world for animal sightings and a paradise for photographers, snorkelers and birdwatchers. HIGHLIGHTS:

• Visit the Guayasamin House-Museum • Tour La Compañia Church and the Monastery of San Francisco • Hike through the Andean and discover some of Ecuador wildlife • Visit the Galapagos Island and meet sea lions, penguins, tortoises, iguanas and several species of marine birds WHAT’S INCLUDED:

• Domestic flights • Visit the Guayasamin House-Museum • Private transfers - Hotel accommodations

64

»Booking Code: GJTE

Day 1 Arrive in Ecuador’s capital city (Quito)

Day 3 Cotopaxi Volcano

Day 4 Galapagos Islands - Bartholomew

Welcome to Ecuador's capital city, Quito! Upon arrival you will be greeted by your personal driver, who will escort you to your gorgeous hotel in the heart of the city, the Swissotel Quito. Relax and enjoy the rest of your day at your own leisure.

Today we leave the city behind and head out for the highlands of Ecuador, a lovely blend of Indian markets, small villages, growling volcanoes and ancestral traditions. Following the steps of German explorer, Alexander Von Humboldt, we drive towards what he baptized as the Avenue of the Volcanoes, where the active Cotopaxi rules with its 19,547 feet. We visit the Cotopaxi National Park, an ecological sanctuary of 88,920 acres, especially attractive for nature lovers. A lovely hike through the Andean moorlands renders views of snowcapped peaks, mountain lakes and local and endemic animals such as llamas and perhaps deer, rabbits, frogs and lizards. Bird life includes the Andean gull, ducks, several species of hummingbirds and, with some luck, you may even spot the majestic condor. Lunch will be served at La Cienaga, a traditional hosteria from the highlands.

Early this morning a representative transfers us to the airport in time for the two-hour flight to Galapagos. This incredible archipelago is made up of 13 large islands, six smaller ones, and over 40 islets. Its wonders span from the most varied and incredible geological formations, lava flows, blowholes, spatter cones and lava tunnels, to beaches of olive, black, or white sand and the most diverse species of plant life. However the most surprising sight for visitors is perhaps the varied species of animals which inspired Charles Darwin on his visit in 1835: Sea lions, penguins, tortoises, iguanas, several species of marine birds, many of them endemic, and a rich underwater fauna. This afternoon we set sail and begin our explorations with a dry landing at Bartholomew Island. Arriving at this island seems as if you were walking on the moon, the volcanic formations on this island including lava bombs, spatter cones and cinder cones. There is a steep hike to the summit aided by wooden steps, from where you will have an impressive view of the archipelago, including Pinnacle Rock, an eroded tuff cone. On your way to the top admire a large colony of marine iguanas and lava lizards. Later on you may go snorkeling with the possibility of spotting Galapagos penguins, marine tortoises (January through March) and white-tipped sharks.

Day 2 Quito Tour Today we will take you on a unique visit to some of Quito's most precious treasures. Our first stop is at the Guayasamin House-Museum, the celebrated Ecuadorian artist who gained fame with his expressive paintings celebrating the culture and traditions of the Pre-Columbian man. We will spend some time browsing his private art collection and famous paintings. Then we continue to the recently revamped colonial district, the largest and most beautiful in Latin America. The old quarter is a rich mixture of architectural styles and decorative arts that transports visitors back to the time of the colonies. In the company of our knowledgeable guide we stroll around the quarter, learning about the fascinating history of Ecuador, admiring the rich colonial architecture and paying visits to two of the best representatives of Baroque art in the Americas: La Compañia Church and the Monastery of San Francisco. After the tour we will transfer you back to the hotel or you may continue your visit to the old quarter, have lunch in one of the trendy restaurants and visit the museums or hunt for handicrafts.

Day 5 Fernandina and Isabela Today we arrive in Fernandina Island with its black volcanic rocks draped with hundreds of marine

Escape the Ordinary

iguanas. We disembark at Punta Espinoza where we can observe sea lions dash in and out of the inlets and flightless cormorants walk tipsily along the beaches, joining pelicans and penguins. Later we continue our journey to Isabela, the largest island in Galapagos accounting for half of the total landmass of the archipelago. In Isabela we visit Tagus Cove, a protected natural harbor where centuries ago whalers safely spent the night. Isabela is famous for its large colonies of penguins, Galapagos hawks, frigate birds, flightless cormorants, marine iguanas, sea turtles, manta rays, hammerhead sharks, white tipped sharks, Galapagos sharks, eels, groupers and snappers.

- I CAN'T WAIT TO MEET YOU WHEN YOU VISIT -

Day 6 Isabela Islands After cruising through the Bolivar Channel for a possible observation of whales and dolphins, we board a dinghy and disembark at Moreno Point (dry landing). Here we take a medium-length walk in search of giant tortoises, brightly colored land iguanas, flamingos and oystercatchers. Later we can swim and snorkel where you can spot hammerhead sharks, white tipped sharks, Galapagos sharks, eels, groupers and snappers. Return on board for lunch. In the afternoon visit Urbina Bay (wet landing), a nesting site for the Brown Pelican and the Flightless Cormorant. Day 7 Galapagos Islands Santa Cruz is the second largest island of the archipelago, colonized in the 1920's. We will spend a full day in the island. In the morning enjoy a hike

For more information please contact us at 1-800-255-4266

M aupintour.com

65

Perito Moreno Glacier The Third Largest

Reserve of Fresh Water in the World

E 10 Day Tour From $4,999 Per Person, Land/Cruise

W

elcome to a country with breathtaking scenery, elegant architecture and rich culture. Outdoor adventurers can enjoy live glaciers at El Calafate, meet the penguins at Punta Tombo and search the waters and coastline for whales and elephant seals. Delight in the cultural food and top the day with a tango. HIGHLIGHTS:

• Meet a vast colony of penguins up close • See the living Perito Moreno and many more impressive glaciers • Visit the Iguazu Falls and witness the roaring waters cascading over the falls WHAT’S INCLUDED:

• Enjoy a dinner with an amazing live tango show performance • Visit the most important elephant seal reserve in the hemisphere • Private transfers - Hotel accommodations

Our morning explorations bring us to Puerto Piramide, a small fishing and tourist village and the only settlement in the Valdes Peninsula. From June to December, there is the possibility to board a special boat and depart in search of Southern Right Whales, who congregate in the area during their breeding season. We resume our overland exploration around the peninsula, eager to observe more fascinating creatures at close range. From a natural lookout we observe a colony of sea lions at Punta Piramide before continuing to Punta Delgada, where we visit the old lighthouse under the attentive watch of a colony of sea elephants. At Caleta Valdes we meet a colony of elephant seals as well as other regulars such as flamingos and guanacos. In Punta Norte we visit the most important elephant seal reserve in the hemisphere. There is also a big colony of sea lions and killer whales are regularly spotted. On the way back we drive through the inner part of the peninsula with the possibility of observing other mammals such as foxes, hares, guanacos, skunks and a large variety of birds. Day 5 To the land of glaciers

After clearing customs and immigration, proceed to the reception area, where our guide will be holding a board with your name on it. You will be greeted with a "Bienvenidos a Argentina" and transferred to your hotel, the Sofitel Buenos Aires. The rest of the day is free to rest and relax after the long haul flight and start exploring Buenos Aires on your own.

This morning depart for El Calafate which serves as the gateway to the impressive Glaciers National Park. The park protects a vast area covered by glacier tongues coming down from the Southern Patagonia Ice Cap. The 47 plus glaciers flow into the Argentino and Viedma Lakes creating a magnificent backdrop of ice tongues and turquoise water lakes crowned by snow-capped mountains. The rest of the day is free to walk around the town or head out on a horseback riding excursion. Your accommodations tonight are at the Design Suites El Calafate.

This morning, meet your guide for a comprehensive tour around some of Buenos Aires’ most emblematic neighborhoods, including Plaza de Mayo, San Telmo, the oldest district in the city, colorful Boca, or historic Recoleta. In the evening, attend a fabulous tango show in one of the best venues in the world, rounded up with a delightful dinner featuring traditional dishes and excellent Argentinean wines. Day 3 Meet the penguins at Punta Tombo People come to Central Patagonia to watch wildlife at close range. After your plane has landed you will then travel from Trelew, southwards for about two hours until reaching Punta Tombo. The spectacle of 700,000 Magellan Penguins from your prime spot at the top of the coastal cliff is too wondrous to be described. Follow our guide down the cliff and start walking along marked trails on the beach, among a sea of penguins. Indifferent to your presence they will continue with their daily routines: hatching, feeding and caring for the newborns. In the late afternoon we continue to Puerto Madryn for overnight accommodations at the Territorio Hotel.

Escape the Ordinary

Day 4 Animal House

Day 1 Arrive in Buenos Aires

Day 2 Mucho Tango

66

Everything Argentina Tour

Day 6 Upsala, king of glaciers Early this morning, our guide will pick you up at your hotel and transfer you to Puerto Bandera. Once there, you will board a catamaran and start navigating towards Upsala, the largest of the 13 glaciers that make up Los Glaciares National Park. You will sail along huge blocks of ice floating adrift, a clear indicator that you are very close. Finally reach the walls of the glacier, an endless mass of ice of an intense white color that reaches out to the line of the horizon. After some time at the glacier, the boat heads for Cristina Bay, where you will disembark and depart on Unimogs (special vehicles) towards the Upsala Lookout Point for an outstanding view of the bay. Return to Estancia Cristina where you will be treated to a succulent lunch featuring Patagonian lamb barbecue, home made breads and other local specialties. After lunch, an optional walk around the area will unveil the history and legends of the British pioneers and the hardships they had to endure in this inhospitable land at the beginning of the 20th century. In the evening, board the catamaran and return to El Calafate in reverse order.

For more information please contact us at 1-800-255-4266

South America

Day 7 Perito Moreno The sight of a living glacier is an unforgettable experience very few people will ever witness. Perito Moreno, one of the most charismatic symbols of Patagonia, has been "crawling" for thousands of years along the shores of magnificent Lake Argentino. The glacier is constantly growing and at any time during the year offers the breathtaking spectacle of the calving of huge chunks of ice that plunge into the waters of the lake with a thunderous splash. In the company of our expert guide, you will walk along special walkways on the peninsula, which afford frontal views and fabulous photo opportunities of the advancing giant. Day 8 Back to the Paris of South America Depending on your departing flight you may enjoy some free time to browse the local shops, exchange tales with other adventurers over a cup of hot chocolate or walk around the quiet streets. Then we travel back to the capital city. This evening, we recommend you stop by Puerto Madero, dine on one of the trendy restaurants or you may head for Corrientes Street and attend a show or play in the numerous theaters. Accommodations are at the Sofitel Buenos Aires. Day 9 The Big Water Iguazu is one of the most impressive natural monuments in the Americas. The roar and grandiosity of the falls contrasts with the tranquility of the surrounding national park, where coatimundis and other small mammals ramble at ease. The spectacle of almost 300 falls precipitating over the Iguazu River forming a myriad of rainbows is a memory to be cherished forever. Upon arrival in Puerto Iguazu, you will be transferred to the Sheraton Hotel, a beautiful property with commanding views of the famous falls. This afternoon, in the company of our local guide, walk along the numerous walkways and bridges with a chance to observe the myriad birds and butterflies that abound in the lush surroundings. After admiring the spectacular Bozetti and San Martin Falls at close range, board a picturesque train for a 30-minute ride through the forest. At the end of the trail is the belvedere overlooking the famous Devil’s Gorge, a thunderous, most impressive fall, which was immortalized in the movie “The Mission”. Day 10 More falls. Then depart Argentina Free morning to continue exploring the area on your own. We recommend wrapping up your stay with a thrilling boat tour to the foot of the falls or a fascinating helicopter ride over Iguazu National Park. In the afternoon, depart for the airport for your flight back home via Buenos Aires »Booking Code: TINA

M aupintour.com

67

Sydney

Australia

Live it up down under

C

ome to the land down under, and see why a trip to Australia is the tour of a lifetime. Maupintour's expert guides will show you all that this continent has to offer, from Ayers Rock and Tasmania to the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Take a catamaran out to the Great Barrier Reef and snorkel in one of the world's largest ecosystems, or simply relax with a glass of wine in this hot bed of gastronomy. Australia is a large country with much to offer, see it all with us and discover your next favorite destination.

Australia

New Zealand

69

S

The South Pacific Australia & Tasmania Adventure Tour

Sensational Sydney Tour

The South Pacific

F

rom it’s rich Indigenous history that dates back more than 50,000 years, to it’s legendary heroes and pioneers who forged the way, you’ll find insight into what makes Australia the vibrant, modern and multicultural nation it is today. HIGHLIGHTS:

• Get a tour of Tasmanian Devils, Kangaroos, Koalas and the village of Richmond • Experience the Tasmanian Salamanca Market • A chance to meet penguins up close WHAT’S INCLUDED:

• Discover the historic nature of Blue Mountains National Park • See the best of what Sydney has to offer • Private transfers - Hotel accommodations

Day 1 Your Australian Vacation Begins

11 Day Tour From $3,525 Per Person, Land/Cruise and the ultimate in private pampering suites. This is a world class deluxe property that you will no doubt enjoy to the fullest. After relaxing in your hotel, be mesmerized by St. Patrick's Cathedral, the Shrine of Remembrance in the Royal Botanic Gardens and the world heritage listed Royal Exhibition Building on this evening tour of this seductive city. Enjoy a night you will never forget with your own vehicle and knowledgeable driver. Includes Exclusive private tour and driver guide, dinner, and entry to Eureka Skydeck 88. After your night out you will be returned to your hotel.

Wellington, Battery point and the city landscape. The rest of the day is free for you to relax. Day 8 Everything Hobart

A free day to enjoy Melbourne at your own pace.

See the highlights of Hobart on a morning tram tour, which will stop at the Anglesea Barracks, the fudge factory and Rosny lookout. In the afternoon enjoy a tour of Tasmanian Devils, Kangaroos, Koalas and the village of Richmond. Overlooking the Brighton Valley, Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary offers close up experiences of Australian native animals. You will then continue onto Richmond, a Georgian style village resplendent with mellow stone cottages will take you back in time to the convict days.

Day 6 Penguin Parade Tour and Wine Tasting

Day 9 Salamanca Market

Discover the spectacular Blue Mountains and see native wildlife while you explore World Heritagelisted Blue Mountains National Park.

Tour in a small group and be truly enchanted as the stars of the show emerge from the surf and pass right before your eyes on their journey back to their homes. Visit the region's sweetest attraction, the Phillip Island Chocolate Factory for free samples and to marvel at the Amazing World of Chocolate. Meet the friendly locals at the famous Koala Conservation Centre and enjoy spectacular coastal views at the Nobbies. Finally, enjoy a tutored wine tasting at boutique regional winery.

Delight in a shopping experience at Hobart's most popular and colorful outdoor market place. Then join our Port Arthur tour and acquire a sense of the past convict era and early Australian settlement. Enjoy the sights, sounds, flavors, and color of the States best outdoor market. Over 300 stalls holders sell produce and crafts from all over Tasmania. Set between the mellow sandstone facades of historic warehouses, grab some great bargains before continuing to the historic Port Arthur.

Day 4 Depart for Melbourne and Night Tour

Day 7 Transfer to Tasmania

Day 10 Free Day

Today after breakfast, you will be taken to the airport to catch your flight to Melbourne. On arrival at Melbourne, you will be met by your private car and taken to your five star deluxe class hotel, the Crown Towers. Crown Towers is considered one of the very best hotels in Australia. The pinnacle feature is the Crown Spa located at Crown Towers which is undeniably Australia's finest, most exclusive and sophisticated day spa with tranquil surroundings, relaxing décor

Today transfer to Tasmania, where you will be greeted and taken to your new four star superior first class hotel, The Hobart Wrest Point Hotel. Located in Sandy Bay, on the Derwent River, the hotel is part of the Wrestpoint Casino complex. There is a shuttle to the city center which is approximately 5 minutes drive or about 15-20 minutes walk. The property has a range of different accommodation suitable for leisure travelers and families. Rooms have views over Mt

A free day for you to enjoy Tasmania at your own pace.

You will be met by your private car and driver and transferred to the four star superior Grace Hotel. At the hotel you will enjoy a lavish superior room with full breakfast included daily. The hotel is located in the heart of Sydney, with convenient access to the Rocks, Darling Harbour, Chinatown, and only a 5 minute walk to the Queen Victoria shopping centre. The rest of the day is free for you to relax. Day 2 Everything Sydney Tour Discover the best Sydney Highlights on this full day tour and see the historic Rocks area, the heads of the harbour, China Town, Darling Harbour, Double Bay & more. Enjoy a Captain Cook's cruise lunch on your tour today, before returning to your hotel. Day 3 Blue Mountain and Australian Wildlife Tour

70

Day 5 Free Day Melbourne

Day 11 Depart Tasmania Today you will be met at the hotel and transferred to the airport by your private driver. »Booking Code: ATAT

Escape the Ordinary

6 Day Tour From $1,879 Per Person, Land/Cruise

D

iscover the beautiful wilderness, climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge and embrace the renowned Opera House. This original visit will leave you with memories to cherish. HIGHLIGHTS: • Visit the Sydney Opera House, Darling Harbor, St Mary's Cathedral and more • Tour of Blue Mountain - Cable car ride • Enjoy a Captain Cook Cruise WHAT’S INCLUDED: • A Free Day to explore Sydney • Private transfers - Hotel accommodations Day 1 Sydney You will be met by your private car and driver and transferred to the four star superior Grace Hotel. At the hotel you will enjoy a lavish superior room with full breakfast included daily. The hotel is located in the heart of Sydney, with convenient access to the Rocks, Darling Harbour, Chinatown, and only a 5 minute walk to the Queen Victoria shopping center. The rest of the day is free for you to relax. Day 2 Introduction to Sydney Today’s tour is the ideal introduction to Sydney, it includes major highlights and a guided tour of Australia's most iconic building, the Sydney Opera House. Your tour highlights all the city's major landmarks - Darling Harbor, Chinatown, Sydney Opera House, The Rocks, Sydney's birthplace, Parliament House, Hyde Park, St Mary's Cathedral, Art Gallery of NSW and the Domain. You will visit

the famous Mrs. Macquarie's Chair for superb views of the harbour and city skyline before heading out of the city through Sydney's red light district Kings Cross. You will travel through the exclusive Eastern suburbs of Double Bay and Vaucluse to The Gap for stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the Heads before arriving at the famous Bondi Beach, one of Australia's favourite beaches. Finally, you will return to the city via the historic and trendy suburb of Paddington to the Opera House where you will join a comprehensive guided tour of this famous building. Day 3 Blue Mountain National Park Visit spectacular Blue Mountains and discover Leura village, a delightful blend of groomed gardens and quaint shops. Stop at Echo Point and see the Three Sisters rock formation and hear the ancient Aboriginal legends. Arrive at Scenic World and join the optional Blue Mountain rides - Scenic Railway, Cableway or Skyway. These rides are a great way to see the steep valleys and canyons. Enjoy a short stop at Narrowneck and Cahill Lookouts for lovely mountain scenery. In the afternoon a chance to see cuddly koalas, kangaroos, wombats, dingoes and fairy penguins. Last stop will be Homebush Bay, the venue of the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games. Then you will return to Sydney by coach. Day 4 Manly & Northern Beaches Leaving the city's CBD you will view Darling Harbour, Cockle Bay and then cross the famous Sydney Harbour Bridge onto to Milsons Point for a short stop. At this vantage point you will see spectacular views of the Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. Then you will enjoy views from Seaforth Lookout and stop at Arabanoo Lookout for a panoramic view of Manly Headland and beyond to the Pacific ocean. Next you will enjoy your time at Manly beach, stroll along The Corso

For more information please contact us at 1-800-255-4266

to see the beach that has made Manly famous before heading back to the city via the exclusive and trendy lower north shore suburbs of Mosman and Neutral Bay. You will be dropped off at the pier where you will board your Captain Cook vessel for your Luncheon Cruise. Unwind, relax and enjoy the splendour of Sydney Harbour from the water as you cruise past world famous landmarks such as the Opera House and some of Sydney's exclusive waterfront suburbs. Day 5 A Day for you Sydney is yours to explore at your leisure and have dinner at the highest restaurant in the southern hemisphere (88 stories or 305 meters above sea level). You will enjoy Sydney's best panoramic views from a unique rotating floor system, stretching from the Blue Mountains to Sydney Harbour. Your dinner tonight will be freshly prepared by an award winning culinary team. From their flavor full entrée to their scrumptious dessert your taste buds will be asking for more. The menu also offers a modern Australian cuisine with a French twist, which is not to disappoint. 360 Bar and Dinning is a venue that locals are proud of and which travelers must experience. Day 6 Return Home Your private transfer will take you to the airport to catch your flight back home. »Booking Code: SSTA

M aupintour.com

71

The Great Barrier Reef A National Treasure

V

Australian Voyager Tour

The South Pacific

C

ome embrace the sun, sand and clear blue waters of Australia. Tour the city’s most popular attractions: by sky Safari, outback safari and underwater exploring. HIGHLIGHTS:

• Enjoy a full day at Agincourt Reef • Visit Australian Butterfly Sanctuary, then take a cable car ride through the Australian Rainforest • Full day excursion on a grand vineyard • Sightseeing at Flinders Chase National Park • A visit to Taronga Zoo WHAT’S INCLUDED: • Domestic flights • Free Day to experience Sydney • A cruise on Sydney Harbour • Private transfers - Hotel accommodations

Day 1 Arrive Cairns

Day 5 All about Wines

G'day, mates! Arrive in Cairns, a tropical city with tree lined streets and great shopping. You will be met at the airport by your private driver and escorted to your five star hotel, the Shangri-La Hotel Cairns. The rest of the day is free to relax.

You have a private car for a full day excursion to enjoy the extensive vineyard country of Australia. Travel through the Torrens Gorge to the Barossa Valley, over Jacobs Creek for fine wine tasting at the world famous Peter Lehmann winery. Visit Torbreck wine cellars, a small winery with rustic charm and stop for a stroll in the German town of Tanunda. Lunch is alfresco under the vines or at Vintners restaurant outside of Angaston. The itinerary may change to accommodate special interest or seasonal highlights.

Day 2 Great Barrier Reef Join your Quicksilver cruise to the Agincourt Reef region of the Outer Great Barrier Reef for a full day cruise including a tropical smorgasbord lunch on board. Blue water and tropical fish surround you as you sail, and you will soon discover why the Reef is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Swim or snorkel in this stunning underwater world, or take a ride in the semi submersible for a close look at the coral and its residents. This is a day you will never forget! Day 3 Skyrail & Kuranda Train Enjoy a full day of touring today to Kuranda. Transfer to the vintage steam train for the ride to the town of Kuranda. Visit the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary and take the Skyrail cableway traveling over and through the Australian Rainforest, on the worlds longest gondola cableway. Then immerse yourself in Aboriginal culture at the Tjapukai Aboriginal Culture Centre. Following the day you will recieve a transfer by private car back to your hotel. Day 4 On to Adelaide Fly from Cairns to the southern coast of Australia and beautiful Adelaide. Transfer is included to your new hotel, the Adelaide Hilton, where the rest of the day you are free to relax.

72

Escape the Ordinary

11 Day Tour From $7,869 Per Person, Land/Cruise Grassdale, the secluded pools of the Rocky River, or a rugged South Coast cove. Either way today's tour will not disappoint. Day 8 Off to Sydney You are transferred to the airport for your flight returning to Adelaide. Connect to flight to Sydney, capital of New South Wales, maritime by nature and unsurpassed in beauty. Upon your arrival in Sydney, enjoy sightseeing en route to the ShangriLa Hotel Sydney, which includes the eastern beaches and harbor suburbs.

Day 6 Kangaroo Island

Day 9 Everything Sydney

You will be met on arrival at Kingscote Airport before following the track through tall Eucalyptus trees where koalas snooze overhead and walk in the bush in Lathami Conservation Park. Look for wallabies which are almost extinct on the mainland and kangaroos found only on Kangaroo Island. Break for lunch, which includes local seafood, fresh salads and fine South Australian wine at a private bush location. At Seal Bay Conservation Park walk among Australian sea lions on a sandy beach. After your busy day, we will head to your new hotel, the Stranraer Homestead.

Visit Taronga Zoo for the Wild Australia Experience, an exclusive tour led by a zookeeper and designed to encourage interaction between visitors and Australian animals. See koalas, kangaroos and echidnas, go underground to the world of the endangered Southern Hairy nosed Wombat and discover some of the mysteries of the platypus. Then cruise on Sydney Harbour, taking in all the highlights while you enjoy a sumptuous Australian BBQ lunch.

Day 7 Kangaroo Island

Today you have a free day to enjoy Sydney at your own pace. There are plenty of shopping opportunities or try the Sydney Bridge Climb.

Further sightseeing of the island includes Flinders Chase National Park, a vast wilderness which is home to kangaroos, wallabies, goannas, echidnas, koalas, platypus and many birds including rare Cape Barren Geese. Visit a fur seal colony which now number over 20,000 after being decimated by hunting in the early 1800s. The seals can be seen resting on the rocks or frolicking in the surf. Depending on the season, the afternoon includes

For more information please contact us at 1-800-255-4266

Day 10 Free Day

Day 11 Return Home A private car transfer is provided to escort you to the airport for your return flights home. Or consider extending your vacation with a visit to beautiful New Zealand. »Booking Code: AVMT

M aupintour.com

73

Auckland Pure Inspiration

T

Discover New Zealand Tour

The South Pacific

S

ee New Zealand’s exquisitely beautiful topographical glories, as featured in the Lord of the Rings films. Take a remarkable visit into the heart of Milford Sound, enjoy a peaceful day in Queenstown, and embarked on a journey of a lifetime.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Enjoy a Auckland Harbour Sailing Cruise • Visit the famous Waitomo Caves Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve • Tour the Milford Sound • An underground wine tasting tour WHAT’S INCLUDED: • Free Day to discover what Auckland and and Queenstown have to offer • Private transfers - Hotel accommodations

Day 1 Arrive Auckland

Day 4 Free Day

wet, or tranquil in the sunshine - it will inspire you.

Arrive in Auckland, where you will be greeted at the airport by your private driver and transferred to your four star deluxe hotel, The Rydges Auckland. Located In the central commercial area of Auckland, only a few minutes walk to Queen Street shopping and the waterfront area. A full breakfast is included daily at your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to relax after your flight.

A free day to enjoy Auckland at your own pace.

Day 8 Free Day

Day 5 Queenstown

A free day to enjoy Queenstown at your own pace.

After your transfer to Queenstown, arrive at your new four star first class hotel, Brown's Boutique Hotel. Enjoy a deluxe room with a full breakfast daily. Browns Boutique Hotel is located in the heart of Queenstown, in Southern Lakes District of New Zealand's South Island. The hotel features 10 deluxe guest rooms all with their own French doors opening onto Juliet balconies. The rest of the day is free for you to relax.

Day 9 Wine Tour

Day 2 Auckland Harbour Sailing Cruise Enjoy a magnificent tour through Auckland's Viaduct Harbour where tea or coffee and fresh muffins are served, accompanied by a commentary on the areas history, America's Cup activity and the super yachts currently moored within the area. After this, the sails are set for a sail under the Harbour Bridge, passing Westhaven Marina and City's waterfront. Guests are welcome to participate in sailing the yacht, or just sit back and relax. Day 3 Waitomo Caves and Rotorua Visit the famous Waitomo Caves with their ancient stalactites and stalagmites before lunch and an afternoon in Rotorua and a visit to the famous Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve. Lunch is included on this tour.

74

Escape the Ordinary

10 Day Tour From $2,525 Per Person, Land/Cruise

Day 6 Queenstown Tour Make the most of your time in Queenstown with this 5 'Must See' attractions tour in the area: Queenstown Hill, Kawarau Bridge and Bungy Dome, Gibbston Valley and Arrowtown.

Have a relaxing afternoon by visiting the vineyards and wineries in Central Otago, well-known for their award winning Pinot Noir. Enjoy wine tasting and an underground wine cave tour. You will love this tour even if you are a non-drinker!! Day 10 Depart Queenstown After breakfast, you will be greeted at your hotel by your private driver and escorted to the airport. »Booking Code: DNZT

Day 7 Milford Sound Tour Milford Sound is a world-renowned natural wonder. A luxuriant rain-forest clings to sheer rock walls and waterfalls tumble hundreds of meters to the sea below. Whatever the fiord's mood - brooding and

For more information please contact us at 1-800-255-4266

M aupintour.com

75

Where is your scene?

Traveling the world begins with one city

New York City

Las Vegas

New Orleans

Nice

Athens

Fiji

Nowhere else in the world will you find a city with more to offer then New York City! Let Maupintour be your private guide as we offer the best of this remarkable metropolis anyway that you choose.

The “City of Lights” has everything you could imagine and more. Let Maupintour brighten your getaway with a helicopter ride over Hoover Dam and the Grand Canyon.

Queen of the Riviera, Nice is a classic playground of the Mediterranean. Based just 60 miles from the base of the Alps you will find a beautiful retreat awaiting you.

4 days/3 nights From $1,375 per person, based on double occupancy

Travel to the land where Greek myths of gods and heroes began, where Olympic Games were first conceived. This amazing city of world renowned architecture boasts the slogan “Everything old is new again”.

Fiji is an idyllic paradise where you can escape the stress of modern living and relax amongst white coral sand beaches, panoramic views and amazing sunsets.

4 days/3 nights From $1,390 per person, based on double occupancy

Come south to the “Big Easy” for an enchanting change of pace where you can tour the homes of timeless Southern plantations. Enjoy Cajun style cuisine and Dixieland jazz while on your city getaway.

Includes:

Includes:

• 3 night hotel accommodations at Helmsley’s Park Lane Hotel • Breakfast daily • Round trip transfers to and from the airport • Half day private driver for sightseeing around New York • Tickets to a Broadway Show • Taxes and service charges

• 3 night hotel accommodations at the Bellagio Hotel • Breakfast daily • Round trip transfer to and from the airport • Helicopter ride over Hoover Dam and the Grand Canyon • Taxes and service charges

4 days/3 nights From $725 per person, based on double occupancy Includes: • 3 night hotel accommodations at the Omni Royal Orleans • Breakfast daily • Round trip transfers to and from the airport • Evening guided walking tour with dinner of downtown New Orleans • Taxes and service charges

San Francisco

Washington D.C.

Vancouver

San Francisco is one of the most interesting and enticing cities in the world, it is a tried and true destination. It’s the perfect recipe for a quick weekend getaway or privately tailored trip.

A visit to the nation’s capital would not be complete without a tour of George Washington’s home, with your hotel only being a few blocks from the White House.

Come and visit the Northwest corner of Canada, known for its cosmopolitan seaports with spectacular views.

4 days/3 nights From $1,145 per person, based on double occupancy

4 days/3 nights From $1,135 per person, based on double occupancy

Includes:

Includes:

• 3 night hotel accommodations at Hyatt Fisherman’s Wharf • Breakfast daily • Round trip transfers to and from the airport • Half day private driver for sightseeing around San Francisco • Taxes and service charges

78

• 3 night hotel accommodations at the Renaissance Mayflower • Breakfast daily • Round trip transfers to and from the airport • Guided tour of George Washington’s Estate • Half day private driver for sightseeing around Washington D.C. • Taxes and service charges

4 days/3 nights From $925 per person, based on double occupancy Includes: • 3 night hotel accommodations at the Hilton Metrotown • Breakfast daily • Round trip transfer to and from the airport • Capilano Suspension Bridge Tour • Half day private driver for sightseeing around Vancouver • Taxes and service charges

Escape the Ordinary

4 days/3 nights From $865 per person, based on double occupancy Includes: • 3 night hotel accommodations at Le Meridien • Breakfast daily • Round trip transfers to and from the airport • Half day tour of Nice • Half day excursion to Monte Carlo • Taxes and service charges

4 days/3 nights From $810 per person, based on double occupancy Includes: • 3 night hotel accommodations at Grande Bretagne • Breakfast daily • Round trip transfers to and from the airport • Half day private driver for sightseeing in Athens including the Acropolis • Taxes and service charges

4 days/3 nights From $835 per person, based on double occupancy Includes: • 3 night hotel accommodations at Sheraton Fiji on Denarau Island • Breakfast daily • Round trip transfers to and from the airport • Full day Fijian Islands Sailing cruise on the Whales Tale • Taxes and service charges

Barcelona

Jordan

Azores Escape

Spain’s second largest city the sparkling capital of Catalonia, Barcelona is one of Europe’s most beautiful cities. With two distinct parts to the city; the old city with its wealth of medieval buildings and the other built in the 19th century where Moderniste architecture is seen.

Explore Jordan, bridge between east and west, between sea and desert, full of history but embracing the modern. Take a visit to the rose red city in Petra or the Roman Theatre in Amman.

The Azores, the Portuguese Islands in the midst of the Atlantic Ocean, are a haven of peace. The climate is mild year-round. It is a destination visited far too little by Americans, with much to offer.

4 days/3 nights From $1,090 per person, based on double occupancy Includes: • 3 night hotel accommodations at Le Meridien • Breakfast daily • Round trip transfers to and from the airport • Half day private driver for sightseeing in Barcelona • Taxes and service charges

4 days/3 nights From $1,310 per person, based on double occupancy Includes: • 2 night hotel accommodations in Amman at the Grand Hyatt • 1 night hotel accommodation in either Petra’s Movenpick Nabatean Castle or Aqaba’s Movenpick • Breakfast daily • Round trip transfers to and from the airport • Private guide to take you around for local sightseeing daily • Taxes and service charges

For more information please contact us at 1-800-255-4266

4 days/3 nights From $549 per person, based on double occupancy Includes: • 3 night hotel accommodations at Terra Do Mar Paradise Resort • Meals included: 3 breakfasts and 3 dinners • Round trip transfers to and from the airport • Half day Atlantic Ocean whale watching cruise • Taxes and service charges

M aupintour.com

79

Tour the World

with the peace of mind of having travel insurance

P

Travel Protection Plan

M aupintour is pleased to offer you our comprehensive Travel Protection Plan to protect yourself against the unexpected and cover the costs of your tour and more. Our Travel Protection Plan includes: Important: This Travel Protection Plan applies only to those travel arrangements purchased through Maupintour. Any independent arrangements are the responsibility of the traveler. Certain exclusions and limitations apply to the Travel Insurance Benefits, and these are detailed in the “Description of Coverage” brochure which is sent to you and is also available, upon request, at any time prior to your purchase of the plan. Please review this document carefully. This plan does not cover a loss that results from an illness, disease, or other condition (of you, an immediate family member, traveling companion or business partner), or event or circumstance which occurs at a time when this plan is not in force for you. Note: If you purchase our Travel Protection Plan and send payment with your deposit, and you are not already disabled from travel, the exclusion for pre-existing medical conditions may be waived. The plan may not be purchased after final payment for your trip is made. Tour Cancellation and Interruption Protection: This benefit is provided by Maupintour and covers your land arrangements if you must cancel for a medical reason or interrupt your trip due to a medical issue. Additional airfare for return home in the event of an emergency is also covered. Your return flights must be arranged by Maupintour. Travel Insurance Benefits: Pre-departure Trip Cancellation coverage for airline, cruise line or rail arrangements included as a part of the tour, plus Post-departure Trip Interruption coverage for cruise line or rail arrangements included as part of the tour if you must either cancel or interrupt your trip for a covered reason. • $10,000 Medical Expense • $25,000 Accidental Death and Dismemberment • $20,000 Medical Evacuation • $500 Trip Delay • $1,000 Baggage/Personal Effects • $100 Baggage Delay 24-hour emergency service to provide help and advise with a medical or legal emergency.

Trip Valued Up To

$0 - $500 $501 - $1,000 $1,001 - $1,500 $1,501 - $2,000 $2,001 - $2,500 $2,501 - $3,000 $3,001 - $3,500 $3,501 - $4,000 $4,001 - $4,500 $4,501 - $5,000 $5,001 - $5,500 $5,501 - $6,000 $6,001 - $6,500 $6,501 - $7,000 $7,001 - $7,500 $7,501 - $8,000 $8,001 - $8,500 $8,501 - $9,000 $9,001 - $9,500 $9,501 - $10,000 $10,001 - $11,000 $11,001 - $12,000 $12,001 - $13,000 $13,001 +

Plan Cost Per Person

$30 $60 $90 $120 $150 $180 $210 $240 $270 $300 $330 $360 $390 $420 $450 $480 $510 $540 $570 $600 $660 $720 $780 Premiun on request

TRAVEL PROTECTION PLAN: Be sure to have adequate insurance to protect yourself from losses due to the risks of travel (luggage/personal effects, injury, health). Maupintour is not responsible for such losses. Travel protection is strongly recommended. Maupintour is pleased to offer you our Travel Protection Plan to protect yourself against such losses and to cover costs of your trip and more. A complete description of the plan is available upon request. Please note that the Travel Protection Plan rates are subject to change and the plan fees are non-refundable and valid for applicant only. Plan does not cover travel agent commissions.

80

Escape the Ordinary

For more information please contact us at 1-800-255-4266

M aupintour.com

81

Terms & Conditions PRICES, DEPOSITS & PAYMENTS: All prices are per person based on double occupancy and are quoted in US Dollars. Single rates apply as stipulated. Rates are subject to change without notice. Once your deposit is received, the land portion of your vacation price is guaranteed with the exception of potential fuel related surcharges as charged by our vendors. Maupintour Extraordinary Vacations (“MEV”) will always pass on these charges at cost in order to minimize the impact on the consumer. However, airfares are subject to change at any time. Deposits must be received at time of booking in the amount set forth in the “Dates & Rates” section of your tour. Tour Cancellation Protection and Travel Insurance Plan fee is also due with your deposit. Final payment must be received in our offices at least 90 days prior to tour departure. Bookings may be cancelled if deposit or final payment is not received by due dates. Reservations made within 90 days of departure require full payment. Tour documents are issued after final payment and sent approximately 3-4 weeks prior to departure. A minimum number of participants is required to operate all escorted programs. Guaranteed departures are based on meeting the minimum required number of participants, but can change subject to cancellations that result in the tour falling below the minimum participant level.

82

Terms & Conditions

To ensure a relaxed holiday for all participants, most hotel barges request that guests be at least 10 years of age. Exceptions are made for groups chartering the entire vessel. TOUR PRICE INCLUDES: Professional tour manager: On escorted tours only, your tour manager accompanies you for the length of your escorted tour, beginning at the hotel and including on-tour flight or cruise portions. Meals: Most meals are included as specified in the itinerary. Meals are a variety of a la carte, hotel table and buffet. Regional cuisines are frequently featured. NOT INCLUDED: Transportation to the tour departure point and from the tour ending point. Personal expenses such as passport, visas, room service, phone calls, laundry, alcoholic beverages and optional activities. Maupintour Tour Manager Gratuity: The traditional end-of-trip gratuity to your tour manager is not included. Such gratuity should be extended on a voluntary, individual basis and not as a group. Government fees which may include any and all fees, charges and taxes imposed by US and/or foreign government authorities – including customs fees, inspection fees, air taxes, departure taxes, immigration and naturalization fees and security taxes.

Taxes and fees are subject to change without notice. For MEV Waterway products, airfare, airport transfers, passport/customs fees, insurance, hot air balloon rides, golf fees, gratuities for the crew, laundry or other items of personal nature. TRANSFERS Scheduled group transfers on international tours are set up for guests who have purchased our air/land inclusive packages on our preferred carriers. If you have made your own air arrangements and purchased land only from MEV, you are responsible for providing your arrival/departure transfers. On USA and Canada tours, unless otherwise specified in the itinerary, you must make your own arrangements from the airport to the first hotel where the airport. Note: Private car transfers can be arranged. PRE OR POST HOTEL ARRANGEMENTS As a service, MEV will make reservations before or after your tour at most of our first and last night hotels, upon request. Reservations are on a space available basis and must be booked through MEV. Charges will be added to your tour cost. RESERVATION CHANGES

unless permitted under the terms of our cancellation policy, even if you transfer to another departure. CANCELLATION FEES Regardless of reason, cancellations are costly. To offset these costs, the following fees will apply. If you cancel, non-recoverable expenses of our suppliers will be charged, plus the following per person charge: Escorted & Customized tours

90 days & more

Waterways & River cruises

Forfeiture of deposit

89-30 days

50% of total package pp

100% of total package pp

29 days or less & no show

100% of total package pp

The purchase of MEV’s Travel Protection Plan is highly recommended. Ask your Reservation Specialist for details. TRAVEL & HEALTH DOCUMENTS

TRAVELERS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS OR DISABILITIES Must notify MEV. Failure to do so will result in a person’s inability to participate in a particular trip or tour. LIMITS ON MEV’S RESPONSIBILITY Maupintour Extraordinary Vacations, LLC is based in Weston, FL. It purchases transportation, hotel accommodations, restaurant and other services from various independent suppliers that are not subject to its control. MEV cannot therefore be liable for death, personal injury or any other loss that may occur (1) due to any act or omission of any such supplier, or (2) by any reason of any other event over which it has no control. Our Tour Membership Certificate issued to each client after a tour is purchased, contains a more detailed information statement concerning the further limitations

on the responsibilities of MEV. If you would like to have a copy of such statement mailed or faxed to you, please request it by calling 800-255-4266. Cruise itineraries and sightseeing excursions are subject to change without notice. In the event that flood, drought, inclement weather or canal maintenance requirement by local authorities cause a vessel to not be able to operate as advertised, a comparable cruise program will be substituted. On alternate weeks, some cruises operate in reverse direction, but may vary due to occasional closings on the waterways for unforeseen circumstances. The foregoing terms and conditions only briefly describe the terms and conditions applicable to MEV programs. You can review a complete version of all of the terms and conditions applicable to MEV at www.maupintour.com.

Passport and visa requirements, as well as vaccination certificates and other health requirements for travel between your home city and your tour destinations, may change from time to time. It is the sole responsibility of the passenger to determine if any visas and vaccinations are needed. Passengers who do not have proper documentation may be prevented from boarding a flight and will consequently lose 100% of total package price.

A $50 per person fee will be assessed for each change to a tour or air booking plus any additional fees that may be charged by our suppliers. Changes in departure date, itineraries or passengers are considered a cancellation and a new booking. No change will be made

M aupintour.com

83

2690 Weston Road Suite 200, Weston Florida 33331-3608 For more information please contact us at 1-800-255-4266 Visit our website at M aupintour.com