Pride of Africa
Transcription
Pride of Africa
2016 & 2017 Exotic Land Tours & Cruises Including Our Two Train Journeys Aboard The Rovos Rail “Pride of Africa” Best Of South Africa & Victoria Falls With Game Drives Livingstone 3 u Victoria Falls OUR 5-STAR PACKAGE - INCLUDES MOST MEALS WITH LOCAL WINES Namibia Botswana Zimbabwe Messina u 44 Madikwe Reserve 3 JOHANNESBURG Cape South Winelands Africa 3 Knysna 1 Port Elizabeth 2 CAPE TOWN 4 u 24 Days - First Class Adventure February 3 - 26, 2016 Double Occupancy $12,995 Single Occupancy $16,495 Depart CANADA Johannesburg, SOUTH AFRICA Johannesburg, SOUTH AFRICA Johannesburg, SOUTH AFRICA Madikwe, SOUTH AFRICA Madikwe, SOUTH AFRICA Madikwe, SOUTH AFRICA Madikwe, SOUTH AFRICA Johannesburg, SOUTH AFRICA Victoria Falls, ZAMBIA Victoria Falls, ZAMBIA Victoria Falls, ZAMBIA Port Elizabeth, SOUTH AFRICA Knysna, SOUTH AFRICA Knysna, SOUTH AFRICA Cape Winelands, SOUTH AFRICA Cape Winelands, SOUTH AFRICA Cape Winelands, SOUTH AFRICA Cape Town, SOUTH AFRICA Cape Town, SOUTH AFRICA Cape Town, SOUTH AFRICA Cape Town, SOUTH AFRICA Depart CAPE TOWN for CANADA Hotel Overnight Hotel Overnight Hotel Overnight Safari Game Lodge Safari Game Lodge Safari Game Lodge Safari Game Lodge Hotel Overnight Hotel Overnight Hotel Overnight Hotel Overnight Hotel Overnight Hotel Overnight Hotel Overnight Hotel Overnight Hotel Overnight Hotel Overnight Hotel Overnight Hotel Overnight Hotel Overnight Hotel Overnight EXPO CRUISES SPECIAL TOUCH... Includes One Glass of Wine or Beer with Every Lunch and Two Glasses of Wine or Beer with Every Dinner on Our Tour DAY 1 - DEPART CANADA Meet your tour host and fellow group members at Toronto’s airport. Depart on a flight to Johannesburg, South Africa. (In-flight Meals) DAY 2 - JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA Welcome to “Joburg” - the heartbeat of the country. It's the economic and cultural centre of South Africa, where people work hard and play harder. On arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel in Johannesburg where you will check in for a three-night stay at the Sandton Sun. Elegant and legendary, the Sandton Sun offers guests a distinguished and memorable stay. Linked to the Sandton Convention Centre and the Sandton City Shopping Centre, this hotel combines business services, contemporary dining and fashionable shopping, appealing to both leisure and business travellers. The Sandton Sun’s illustrious history is enhanced by great staff, seamless service and world class facilities, including a luxurious spa and beautifully appointed dining venues. The accommodation offers the ultimate in creature comforts, emphasized by contemporary African style. SANDTON SUN HOTEL or similar - 3 nights. (In-flight Meals) DAY 3 - SOWETO, SOUTH AFRICA After breakfast you will be met by our local guide from the hotel and taken on a half-day sightseeing tour of the township of Soweto. Soweto is one of the most famous cities in the world. It played a very important role in the struggle against apartheid, which eventually led to our new democracy. The peaceful transition is regarded as one of the greatest achievements of humankind in the 20th century! Meet the ingenuitive, vibrant and warm residents. Highlights include: a fascinating glimpse of bustling neighbourhood life; two Nobel Prize winners previous residences; the Hector Peterson memorial; Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital and various community development projects. Then you will tour with a drive through Vilakazi Street, which is the only street in the world where two Nobel Prize winners lived: Nelson Mandela & Desmond Tutu. You will have the opportunity to explore Nelson Mandela’s house, which is now a museum. Hector Peterson Museum - In the neighbouring suburb of Orlando West, you will find the Hector Peterson Memorial. Here you can spend some time wandering through the museum, learning about the student uprising of 1976. Visit the fascinating museum, which is a state of the art multi media centre depicting scenes leading up to the student uprising of 1976 and the eventual transi- ALL PRICES ARE IN CANADIAN DOLLARS AND INCLUDE: Return airfare from TORONTO, OTTAWA and MONTREAL | 4 Nights first class hotel stay in Sandton/Johannesburg | 4 Nights first class stay in Madikwe Private Game Lodge | 3 Nights first class hotel stay in Victoria Falls | 1 Night first class hotel stay in Port Elizabeth | 2 Nights first class hotel stay in Knysna | 3 Nights first class hotel stay in Franschhoek, Cape Winelands area | 4 Nights first class hotel stay in Cape Town | Guided Tours as described in our day-by-day itinerary | All your tipping for your tour manager, local guides and drivers | All your transfers | All departure taxes (except for any local taxes) | Hosted by Expo Cruises and Tours Staff* | Initial Deposit of $1,500 per person is required | Final Payment is due by: NOVEMBER 1, 2015 | 2 Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com tion to democracy in South Africa. Lunch will be enjoyed en route at Sakhumzi Restaurant. Sakhumzi Restaurant commenced operation in (November) 2001 by founder & owner Mr Sakhumzi Maqubela who is Soweto-born himself. The Restaurant is situated on the popular & historic Vilakazi Street, in Orlando West suburb of Soweto in Johannesburg. Vilakazi Street is host to original homes of Nelson Mandela and Bishop Tutu, not least it also hosts the site upon which Hector Peterson (the 13yr old) as 1st victim of Soweto Student Uprisings was shot dead by Apartheid police. As a result of the restaurant's location on Vilakazi Street which is at the epicentre of tourism in Soweto/Johannesburg the restaurant caters primarily for foreign tourist market and blue-chip corporate (team-building) group bookings. This target market informs the nature of ambience & cuisine offered by the restaurant. The cuisine is African township whilst the ambience aspires to complement heritage tourism theme. After lunch you will move Into the Baragwanath area and stop at the huge taxi rank for a walk about. Soak up the sites, sounds and "smells" of Africa at close quarters informal open-air butcher shop, herbalists, barbers and market etc. After this one-of-a-kind cultural experience you will be transferred back to the hotel. You will have the remainder of the evening to relax and enjoy at leisure. You can use this time to do some shopping in Sandton City Shopping Centre, which is the shopping mall linked to your hotel. With over 300 leading retailers, this iconic destination boasts an ubundance of sophisticated and Afro-cosmopolitan experiences. Tonight we will have our Welcome dinner at one of the local restaurants situated in the heart of Sandton on the Nelson Mandela Square. (B, L, D) DAY 4 - PRETORIA, SOUTH AFRICA After breakfast you will enjoy a half-day city tour to Pretoria. Known informally as ‘Jacaranda City’, highlights of this half day tour include: the historic Voortrekker Monument, Church Square, the City Hall State Theatre / Opera House, the Union Buildings and the President’s office. The majestic Voortrekker Monument is situated in the northern part of South Africa in the Pretoria (Tshwane) region in a nature reserve. It is a unique Monument, which commemorates the Pioneer history of Southern Africa and the history of the Afrikaner and is situated in a beautiful setting. Today it is the most visited heritage site of its kind in Gauteng and one of the top ten cultural historical visitor attractions in the country. The Monument also manages the Erfenisstigting (Heritage Foundation) and various other monuments and cultural historical sites countrywide. You will enjoy lunch at the Blue Crane Restaurant in Pretoria. You will have the afternoon to enjoy at leisure. This will give you the opportunity to do some more shopping in Sandton City or relax next to the hotel swimming pool. Tonight we will meet our guide who will take us to the Moyo Melrose Arch for dinner this evening. (B, L, D) DAY 5 – JOHANNESBURG – MADIKWE PRIVATE RESERVE After breakfast check out and transfer to the lodge situated in the Madikwe Game Reserve and en route a stop will be made for our buffet style lunch at Kedar Country Hotel. We continue our drive after lunch. Upon arrival at the lodge you will proceed with check in formalities and enjoy a four-night stay. Tau Game Lodge is a South African luxury safari lodge situated on the far northern border of South Africa, in malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve, the 4th largest game reserve in the country. Twenty-seven major species of game roam this South African nature reserve, making Tau Game Lodge the ideal place for a safari holiday, offering Big 5 game and birdwatching safaris. Enjoy an authentic South African safari vacation in the midst of natural wildlife, complete with great game viewing and luxury private facilities. An afternoon game drive you will give you the opportunity to enjoy your first game drive. * Please note this activity is subject to arrival time at the lodge. Dinner will be served upon return from our first game drive at the lodge. TAU GAME LODGE or similar - 4 nights. (B, L, D) DAY 6 - 7 - 8 - MADIKWE PRIVATE GAME RESERVE, SOUTH AFRICA Each day starts as dawn breaks over the African bushveld and you are awakened up with coffee, tea & rusks served on the main deck overlooking the riverbed. Shortly after, you will depart in an open Land Rover with experienced Rangers and Trackers who will share their extensive knowledge of the bush with you. After an adventurous morning game drive, a sumptuous breakfast is served back at the camp. The rest of the day is spent at your discretion for other activities that the lodge has to offer. A delicious lunch will be served around midday. This afternoon you will depart the lodge on an afternoon game drive which will extend into the evening to view seldom seen nocturnal species by torchlight. Upon returning to the lodge a dinner will be served. (B, L, D) DAY 9 – MADIKWE - PRETORIA, SOUTH AFRICA You will have the opportunity of enjoying your final game drive in the Madikwe Game Reserve this morning. Breakfast upon return to the lodge. Check out of your lodge and settle all personal accounts. Thereafter, you will be met and transferred from the lodge back to Johannesburg with a lunch break along the way at the Kedar Country Hotel. Upon arrival in Johannesburg, you will be transferred to the deluxe five star D’Oreale Grande Hotel. Situated alongside OR Tambo International airport. This evening you will enjoy dinner at Aurelia’s Restaurant. D’OREALE GRANDE HOTEL or similar - 1 night. (B, L, D) DAY 10 – JOHANNESBURG - LIVINGSTONE, ZAMBIA After breakfast check out of the hotel. You will be transferred to airport where you will board your flight to Livingstone, Zambia. Upon arrival at Livingstone Airport you will be transfered to The Royal Livingstone where you will check in for three nights stay. On the forested banks of the great Zambezi River, is The Royal Livingstone. It is the pride of Zambian hospitality, The Royal Livingstone Hotel is a luxurious 5*plus hotel situated on the Zambian side of the Victoria Falls. The Royal Livingstone has 173 Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com 3 rooms and is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World. A magnificent sun deck overlooks the Zambezi as it flows relentlessly to the Falls. Named after Britain’s Queen Victoria, the Victoria Falls is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World with a magnificent backdrop on the banks of the Mighty Zambezi River. The Falls span the entire width of the river, a distance of 1,700 meters, and plunge 108 meters down the sheer rockface, creating a spectacle that leaves visitors from all over the world in awe of its power, grace and beauty. Afternoon you will be collected from the hotel to enjoy a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. The Zambezi River cruise is a superb way to relax and enjoy the beauty of the River. You may have the opportunity to see a variety of game; including hippo, crocodile, elephant and sometimes even rhino in their home environment, as well as enjoy the many different bird species. You will return to the hotel after the sunset cruise to enjoy a dinner. ROYAL LIVINGSTONE HOTEL or similar - 3 nights. (B, D) DAY 11 – LIVINGSTONE , ZAMBIA After breakfast you will depart the hotel for a tour of the falls. The Victoria Falls – in its 150 millionth fantastic year, reaches its zenith in about May each year. It’s a truly awe-inspiring experience – the sight, the sound, the smell; the humbling feeling that here indeed is Nature’s Supreme Masterpiece. No photograph can begin to depict the reality…and nothing prepares you for your first sight. This tour is conducted in the morning and afternoon with lunch included in a local restaurant. En route, you may be taken past the ‘Big Tree’ where you may stop and take photos. You will be accompanied through the Rainforest by one of our qualified guides who will give a brief history of the Falls themselves as well as detailing the flora, fauna, bird & wildlife and other points of interest. Guides are also happy to assist you with photographs whilst visiting this most spectacular of waterfalls. Raincoats are provided when needed. Lunch will be enjoyed at the hotel. Afternoon and evening is at your leisure. (B, L) DAY 12 – LIVINGSTONE, ZAMBIA Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Today you will have a full day at your leisure to enjoy this spectacular hotel or you may take an optional full day tour to the Chobe National Park in Botswana which is only a 1¾-hour drive from Livingstone. It is famous for the number of elephants that live there (entry visa is required for Canadian citizens into Botswana and it can be obtained at the border crossing for a fee). The other optional activity is to take a short walk over to Zimbabwe to view the falls and have lunch in the grand colonial style Victoria Falls hotel (entry visa is required for Canadian citizens into Zimbabwe and it can be obtained at the border crossing for a fee). There is a native village and craft market and even a casino near by the hotel. Another option is to take a helicopter flight over the falls, or take a round of golf. Tonight you will be treated to a very special dinner as part of Valentine’s Day. You will be collected in the late afternoon and transferred to the Royal Livingstone Express Train for dinner. The Dinner trip incorporates a classic steam expedition with fine dining through the heart of the 4 Zambezi River Valley in a most magnificent and romantic steam train. Welcome drinks will be served before the train sets off through Dambwa Township and on up the Mulobezi Line. The railway line runs parallel to the Zambezi River and the Sunset will be enjoyed while travelling through the Mosi-Oa-Tunya Game Park. Wines, beer and soft drinks are included, and there is a cash bar available for spirits. A set, four-course dinner will be served just after 7pm when the train stops for water at the 15 km peg. The loco will then back the train up to the runaround point, uncouple and move to the front of the train. The train will start its return journey around 8 pm and dinner will continue to be served whilst the train is in motion returning to Livingstone. (B, D) DAY 13 - LIVINGSTONE – PORT ELIZABETH, SOUTH AFRICA After breakfast you are to check out of the hotel . You will transfer to Livingstone Airport where you will board your flight to Port Elizabeth. You will be met in Port Elizabeth and transferred to the Protea Hotel Marine Hotel, where you will check in for one night. Protea Hotel Marine is among the superior hotels in the friendly city of Port Elizabeth. It overlooks the sun-drenched sands of Pollock Beach, with sweeping views of Algoa Bay. Dinner will be enjoyed at the hotel. PROTEA HOTEL MARINE or similar - 1 night. (B, D) DAY 14 – PORT ELIZABETH - KNYSNA, SOUTH AFRICA After breakfast you are to check out of your room. Depart to Knysna, exploring the Garden Route. Attractions include the Tsitsikamma Forest area (home to the Knysna Loerie), where photographic opportunities abound. After a break and lunch included we continue to Knysna. The Garden of Eden is an enchanting wet forest, near Knysna on the Garden Route. This is one of the most lush and beautiful parts of the Knysna forest and definitely a must-see when visiting this gorgeous region. This part of the Garden Route is characterized by fairytale forests, serene lakes, breathtaking golden beaches and marvellous rivers, making this the perfect place for a variety of outdoor activities. The Garden of Eden is situated in the middle of all it all, so take this opportunity for a break from your action packed holiday to experience a bit of paradise. Knysna is one of the Southern Cape coast's best-known holiday destinations, situated between lush forests and the shores of the peaceful lagoon - it offers many activities and attractions of a wide variety. The most well known attraction being the heads - two great sandstone cliffs guarding the mouth of the lagoon, which connects the estuary with the sea. A lookout has been erected on the Eastern Head, commanding spectacular views of the lagoon, Leisure Isle and Knysna. On arrival at the hotel you will be assisted with check in formalities. Protea Hotel Knysna Quays is one of the best hotel locations in Knysna. Enjoy a spectacular perspective of the popular coastal town of Knysna. It is set on the Knysna Quays Waterfront with the lagoon at your doorstep. The hotel is nestled in the heart of the Garden Route and offers you a unique guest experience with premium Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com accommodation accentuated with scenic beauty and natural surrounds. Dinner will be served at one of the Knysna Waterfronts restaurants. PROTEA HOTEL KNYSNA or similar - 2 nights. (B, L, D) DAY 15 – KNYSNA, SOUTH AFRICA After breakfast you will have the first half of this day to enjoy at leisure. Afternoon, you will be taken to Knysna Elephant Park to enjoy an up close and personal interaction with the gentle giants of Africa. Join the southern most elephants in the world where our resident family of African elephants and world-class guides will unravel the sad and mystical story of the Knysna Elephants. The park offers a rare and exciting opportunity to get close to these gentle giants, who live in a controlled, free-range environment in the heart of the famous Garden Route. This afternoon you will enjoy a relaxing sunset cruise on the famous Knysna Lagoon. The John Benn is a double-decker floating restaurant offering daily Lagoon cruises to the Knysna Heads. Cruise to the Knysna Heads, on a boat steeped in history and named after a legendary pilot of a by-gone era. The boat is comfortable and cozy with a classic wooden finish and the staff are friendly and offer hospitable service. The Sundowner cruise includes fresh Knysna oysters and local beer or sparkling wine. The boat is fully enclosed and thus the cruises are not dependent on the weather. Duration of the sunset cruise is 1½ hours. Dinner will be at one of the restaurants at the Waterfront. (B, D) DAY 16 - KNYSNA – FRANSCHHOEK , SOUTH AFRICA After breakfast you are to check out of the hotel and transfer to the gorgeous Cape Winelands via Oudsthoorn and Route 62. On arrival in Oudtshoorn you will visit a local ostrich farm for a tour. Oudtshoorn would just be a small sleepy town behind the mountains, if it wasn't for the two big ostrich show farms, which attracts tourists every day. In a profitable competition, the two venues, Highgate Ostrich Show Farm and Safari Farm, offer more or less the same program to the numerous visitors. In a two-hour turn, small groups are guided through the premises and, listening to short lectures, learn everything worth knowing about ostriches. It is the visitors who ensure the survival of the farms, which have economically seen much better times. In the years before the First World War, more than 100,000 ostriches were bred on the farms of the Oudtshoorn area. Their feathers were then highly desired fashion accessories. The feather barons of those days could afford to build themselves fabulous "Feather Palaces", some of which can still be admired in Oudtshoorn today. Lunch will be enjoyed at the farm. Travel on via Route 62. Route 62 is an area of magnificent landscapes and towering cliffs, crystal clear streams and the abundance of trees and indigenous flora - all contributing to make Paarl and Wellington, the Breede River Valley, the Klein Karoo and the Langkloof some of the Western Cape’s most diverse regions. The ever changing colors of the majestic mountains, scenic passes, rivers, vineyards and orchards, as well as the multitude of attractions, will offer you an unforgettable adventure - whether this is in the physical sense or simply a kaleidoscope of scenic tranquillity. Innovation and pride, combined with a terrain and mild climate that are harmoniously balanced, results in the prominence of this region’s wines. Upon arrival in Franschhoek you will be transferred to the Le Franschoek Hotel & Spa, which is set in the culinary capital of the Cape. The town of Franschhoek lies below the towering Franschhoek Mountains. With picturesque vineyards a stone’s throw away, the elegant, sophisticated charm of Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa is the perfect setting to explore the Cape wine route. Seventy nine en-suite, large, elegant bedrooms and suites, capture the essence of charm and sophistication, three restaurants, including the Le Verger outdoor dining venue and the on site spa, make this hotel the most unique property in the winelands. Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa won the wine list of the year award. Dinner will be enjoyed at the hotel restaurant this evening. LE FRANSCHHOEK HOTEL & SPA or similar - 3 nights. (B, L, D) DAY 17 - CAPE WINELANDS, SOUTH AFRICA After breakfast this morning you will enjoy a full day tour in the gorgeous Cape winelands. You will start the day with a visit to the Stellenbosch Museum as well as have some time to explore the town of Stellenbosch at your leisure. The town has a wide variety of boutiques, art galleries and curio shops for guests to enjoy. The Stellenbosch Village Museum currently comprises four houses of historical interest and their gardens. Each of these beautiful homes represents a different period in the architectural development of Stellenbosch. The houses, their interiors and their gardens have been wonderfully restored, furnished, planted and decorated to illustrate the particular style and taste of the time. At midday guests will be treated to a delicious lunch at La Petite Ferme Restaurant. A tradition built tirelessly by three generations, lunches at La Petite Ferme Restaurant are legendary. A feast of culinary delights that beguile and entertain, the food reflects the creative energy and raw talent of a dedicated staff combined with an abundance of fresh local ingredients. The restaurant has furthermore been listed by Conde Nast Traveller as one of the top 15 'Best Value' establishments in the world. Owners Mark and Josephine Dendy Young are supported an excellent team, all who have training in hospitality , culinary skills and wine education to enhance your overall experience at La Petite Ferme. After lunch you will return to the gorgeous town of Franschhoek, where you will have some time to stroll around the town before visiting Haute Cabriere Estate for a cellar tour and tasting experience. Franschhoek -The Gourmet Capital, surrounded by majestic mountains culminating in an awe-inspiring pass, provides added value to the food and wine experience. Franschoek is home to three of the country´s top ten restaurants, offering authentic French cuisine at its sophisticated best. Traditional South African cuisine, such as Waterblommetjie-bredie (a delicious dish made from water lily´s), potjiekos (usually made on open fire) and bobotie can be enjoyed at many of the fine restaurants found throughout the region. Maybe visit the Huguenot monument, which is constructed from granite and was inaugurated on the 250th anniversary of the Huguenots' arrival. The three arches simbolise the Holy Trinity. The woman in front holds a bible in her Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com 5 hand and the torn chain symbolizes the liberation from religious oppression. In the Huguenot Memorial Museum next to the monument the history of the Huguenots is documented. Cellar Tour & Wine Tasting at Haute Cabriere Estate. The Pierre Jourdan Tasting Cellar, situated adjacent to the Haute Cabrière Cellar Restaurant, offers guests an exclusive wine experience. An auditorium within the maturation cellar, as well as additional tasting facilities, ensure that visitors are able to enjoy Pierre Jourdan and Haute Cabrière wines in their natural habitat. The use of a famed French cavalry sabre, to open bottle after bottle of Pierre Jourdan Cap Classique, adds the perfect amount of dramatic flair to this exceptional adventure. After a gorgeous day in wine country you will be transferred back to you hotel where you will enjoy the evening at leisure. Tonight dinner will be enjoyed at the hotel’s restaurant. (B, L, D) DAY 18 - CAPE WINELANDS, SOUTH AFRICA After breakfast this morning you will have another great day exploring the Winelands. First, you will have Cheese & Wine Tasting at Fairview Estate you will have the opportunity to sample 6 cheeses blending with a selection of 6 of the estates’ locally produced wines. Followed by the visit to the Taal Monument. Paarl proudly bears the title of the third-oldest town in South Africa. Standing tall on Paarl Mountain and celebrating the birth of Afrikaans is the Afrikaans Language Monument and just outside Paarl is Drakenstein Prison, where Nelson Mandela spent his last years of captivity and started his walk to freedom. Later you will be transferred to Glen Carlou in Paarl for lunch. After a gorgeous day in wine country you will be transferred back to Franschhoek Country House where you’ll enjoy the remainder of the afternoon at your leisure. Dinner will be enjoyed at the hotel’s restaurant this evening. (B, L, D) DAY 19 FRANSCHHOEK – CAPE TOWN After breakfast you are to check out of the rooms. After breakfast guests are to check out of their rooms and settle all personal accounts. Thereafter, guests will be collected and en route to Cape Town will enjoy an African Cooking Safari Tour. This is a unique opportunity to get in touch with locals of the vibrant, urban township in areas such as Gugulethu or surrounding townships in the heart of the Cape Flats. Explore African food, beverages and culture on our hands-on cooking experience! This experience offers insight into the every-day life of locals living in areas such as Langa, Gugulethu and Khayelitsha as well as shares recipes and some cultural background of local culinary traditions. Visits to “Spaza Shops“ (informal stores), to inspiring township projects and to local hosts are some of the popular opportunities to exchange with locals. We will also stop along the way to purchase a couple of ingredients to offer our host for the cooking session to follow. The real highlight is the hands-on, fun-filled cooking session that takes place in a local family’s home or local restaurant in the township. There after we sit back, chat, relax and enjoy a typical meal with our hosts. This is a perfect 6 way of experiencing warm local hospitality and of learning more about local culture through the theme of food. One of the world's most picturesque tourist destinations and most beautiful cities in the world. Cape Town is situated amidst majestic mountains and is surrounded by pristine white beaches. Often called the 'cosmopolitan hub of Africa', it is home to a rich cultural and historical heritage, vibrant restaurants and nightlife and a multitude of activities - from extreme sports to leisurely scenic cruises and world-class shopping. Table Mountain After the African Cooking Safari Experience guests visit Table Mountain. Since the first person laid eyes on Table Mountain, it has exerted its powerful and charismatic pull, enchanting and drawing any and all who fall under its spell . The best views of Cape Town are seen from the top of Table Mountain. The Cableway summit is under 10 minutes and the cable car’s rotating floor ensures that all passengers have an aerial view of the city. After visiting Table Mountain you will be transferred to the hotel where you will check in for four nights. Table Bay Hotel is situated in one of the globe’s most cosmopolitan cities amongst world-famous landmarks such as Table Mountain and the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, is one of worlds most sought after holiday destinations. Cape Town, and The Table Bay Hotel, with its 5 star splendour that extends from its striking exterior and to its luxurious interior is arguable positioned as having the ‘The best address in the Cape’. Acclaimed by the international hospitality industry and the most elite of global travellers, the Table Bay Hotel is celebrated for its diverse and divine levels of luxury and service. The hotel is a proud member of ‘The Leading Hotels of The World’ and the choice of hotel for celebrities, VIP’s and visiting royalty. Enjoy dinner at the hotel. TABLE BAY HOTEL or similar - 4 nights. (B, L, D) DAY 20 – CAPE PENINSULA, SOUTH AFRICA This morning and every morning you will enjoy one of the most extravagant buffet breakfasts you have ever seen in your travels. Today enjoy a full day touring of the Cape Point. You will be collected from the hotel after breakfast and taken to Hout Bay for a quick look around. Next you will continue via the Chapmans Peak Drive to Simonstown (subject to road being open) and here enjoy a visit to Boulders Beach. This is followed with a drive to the Cape Point Nature Reserve. Travel with the funicular up to the lighthouse, from where you will have splendid views of the magnificent oceans (on clear sunny days). Visit the Cape of Good Hope, before travelling back to Simonstown for lunch. Lunch is served a lovely fish restaurant. Hout Bay is one of the most beautiful and popular places on the Cape Peninsula and a highlight of any visit to Cape Town. The access road that runs from Camps Bay, offers a beautiful drive all along the sea. The town lies picturesquely in a wind-protected bay, surrounded in the west by the Karbonkel Mountain, the famous Mount Sentinel as the outpost in the sea and in the east, by the Constantia Mountains and Chapman's Peak. You will enjoy a cruise to seal island. Chapman's Peak Drive is one of the most spectacular coastal roads in South Africa. It starts at the picturesque fishing Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com harbour of Hout Bay and then winds up to Chapman's Point, revealing breathtaking views of the sandy bays down below, until the road reaches sea level again at Noordhoek. Cape Point Nature Reserve: Situated at the junction of two of earth's most contrasting water masses - the cold Benguela current on the West Coast and the warm Agulhas current on the East Coast, the Cape of Good Hope is popularly perceived as the meeting point of the Atlantic and the Indian Oceans. Guests will take the funicular to the vantagepoint from where they will be able to witness the “meeting of the two oceans” (legendary). Geographically, however, the Indian Ocean joins the Atlantic Ocean at the Cape Agulhas. Take a return trip on the funicular to the top for breathtaking view. Lunch will be enjoyed en route in Simonstown. Boulders Beach: A special attraction is the colony of Jackass Penguins at Boulders Beach. For some years now, under the administration of Cape Nature Conservation these cute birds are quite friendly with humans, but they don't want to be touched. Jackass Penguins are the only species of penguin that colonize on the African continent. 100 years ago there were still many of them on the Cape West Coast with its cold waters. The overfishing of the sea and the loss of breeding spots resulted in near extinction of the species. The present stock is still threatened although the colony in Simon's Town has grown, in a few years, from 1500 to 3500 individuals. After this magnificent day guests will be returned to the hotel to relax and enjoy the evening at leisure. (B, L) DAY 21 – CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel. After breakfast you will make your way to the clock tower at the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront where the tour of Robben Island will commence. For nearly 400 years, Robben Island, 12 kilometers from Cape Town, was a place of banishment, exile, isolation and imprisonment. It was here that rulers sent those they regarded as political troublemakers, social outcasts and the unwanted of society. During the apartheid years Robben Island became internationally known for its institutional brutality. The duty of those who ran the Island and its prison was to isolate opponents of apartheid and to crush their morale. Some freedom fighters spent more than a quarter of a century in prison for their beliefs. Those imprisoned on the Island succeeded on a psychological and political level in turning a prison 'hell-hole' into a symbol of freedom and personal liberation. Robben Island came to symbolize, not only for South Africa and the African continent, but also for the entire world, the triumph of the human spirit over enormous hardship and adversity. Upon return to the waterfront you will enjoy lunch at Quay Four Restaurant. Where shiny seals play hide and seek and the sea gulls wheel joyously through salty air, you'll find Cape Towns legendary Quay Four. One of the oldest restaurants on the V&A Waterfront and now a famous landmark, the terrace of the world-renowned downstairs tavern buzzes with locals and visitors, virtually every day of the year. The terrace seats 360 people, and is a great place to meet and sip beer as the sun sets. Quay Four Tavern offers a variety of light meals and salads, as well as hearty pub fare for those of you with bigger appetites. Everyone enjoys the tavern's famous "fish & chips". After lunch guests enjoy an informative city orientation tour. A highlight of this tour is the District Six Museum. Return back to the hotel in the late afternoon and enjoy the rest of the evening at your leisure. (B, L) DAY 22 – CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA Enjoy breakfast at the hotel this morning. The day is at your leisure for you to enjoy as you wish. Tonight we meet for our Farewell Dinner at Gold restaurant. Gold Restaurant is a vibrant, eclectic Pan-African experience in the heart of Cape Town. You will enjoy a night of opulent feasting with a unique bouquet of live entertainment in a mystical African setting of trees and tents in an inner city courtyard steeped in ancient history and Gold. A typical evening at Gold restaurant starts off with the drumbeat of the djembe drum. An interactive drum circle offers you the opportunity to join in and learn how to play the djembe. Soon you will be pounding your drum to the rhythms and sounds of Africa. After pounding the skins of the drums, we will soothe your hands in a traditional hand washing ceremony as you are led into the ancient courtyards. Cuisine from our Cape Malay and African kitchen which is served by the magnificently adorned staff bearing your banquet in baskets perched on your heads. While enjoying the variety of different dishes, you will be captivated as the live extravaganza takes place around your table. (B, D) DAY 23 – DEPART CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA After breakfast you will check out of the hotel at 11 am and settle all your personal accounts. You can store your luggage with the hotel concierge. Free time to do your last minute shopping. Late lunch will be served at a local restaurant. Early evening around 7:30 pm you will be transferred from our hotel to Cape Town International Airport for your onward flight back to Canada via Amsterdam. (B, L, In-flight Meals) DAY 24 - AMSTERDAM - CANADA Upon arrival in Amsterdam you will connect with another flight bound for Canada, arriving early afternoon. (In-flight Meals) “Hamba Kahle Uphinde Ubuye” Please Note: Times are approximate and can not be guaranteed and are subject to change due to schedules of flights, motorcoaches and local conditions. Expo Cruises reserves the right to change hotels/lodges when necessary. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after your tour ends and you must have at least 4-6 blank pages in your passport. Your final itinerary will be provided with your final travel documents about 2-3 weeks prior to your departure. Yellow Fever vaccination is required for this trip. EXPO CRUISES SPECIAL TOUCH... Includes One Glass of Wine or Beer with Every Lunch and Two Glasses of Wine or Beer with Every Dinner on Our Tour Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com 7 Australia’s Outback, Great Barrier Reef & New Zealand Cruise/Tour 28 Days - Melbourne To Sydney February 6 - March 4, 2016 Hotel Overnight Hotel Overnight Hotel Overnight Embark 4:00 pm ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ 10:00 am 8:00 pm 9:00 am 8:30 pm 9:30 am 5:00 pm 8:00 am 6:00 pm 7:00 am 5:00 pm 7:00 am 5:00 pm 7:00 am 5:00 pm ~ ~ ~ ~ Disembark Ship Hotel Overnight Hotel Overnight Hotel Overnight Hotel Overnight Hotel Overnight Hotel Overnight Hotel Overnight Hotel Overnight Hotel Overnight Cairns Great Barrier Reef 3 Alice Springs 1 Ayers 1 Rock Australia u Depart CANADA Melbourne, AUSTRALIA Melbourne, AUSTRALIA Melbourne, AUSTRALIA Melbourne, AUSTRALIA Cruise Tasman Sea Cruise Tasman Sea Cruise Tasman Sea Auckland, NEW ZEALAND Tauranga/Rotorua, NEW ZEALAND Gisborne, NEW ZEALAND Wellington, NEW ZEALAND Gisborne, NEW ZEALAND Dunedin, NEW ZEALAND Cruise Milford Sound Cruise Tasman Sea Cruise Tasman Sea Melbourne, AUSTRALIA Cairns, AUSTRALIA Cairns, AUSTRALIA Cairns, AUSTRALIA Alice Springs, AUSTRALIA Ayers Rock, AUSTRALIA Sydney, AUSTRALIA Sydney, AUSTRALIA Sydney, AUSTRALIA Sydney, AUSTRALIA Depart SYDNEY for CANADA u New Zealand Auckland Tauranga SYDNEY 4 MELBOURNE 3 u Wellington Gisborne Akaroa Fiordland NP Dunedin ALL PRICES ARE IN CANADIAN DOLLARS AND INCLUDE: | Return airfare from TORONTO, OTTAWA and MONTREAL | 14 Day cruise aboard the GOLDEN PRINCESS with all your meals and entertainment | 3 Nights first class hotel stay in Melbourne | 4 Nights first class hotel stay in Sydney | 3 Nights first class hotel stay in Cairns | 1 Night first class hotel stay in Alice Springs | 1 Night first class hotel stay in Ayers Rock | Fully guided tours and meals as described in the day-byday itinerary with hotel stays | All your tipping for your tour manager, local guides and drivers on our land tour portion | All transfers to and from your cruise ship and hotel | All port and departure taxes (except for any local taxes) | All your shipboard gratuities on your cruise ship | Hosted by Expo Cruises and Tours Staff* | Initial Deposit of $1,750 per person is required | Final Payment is due by: OCTOBER 15, 2015 | INSIDE - Cat. ID INSIDE - Cat. IC OUTSIDE - Cat. OW* OUTSIDE - Cat. OC BALCONY - Cat. BD BALCONY - Cat. BC BALCONY - Cat. BB $13,995 $14,050 $14,195 $14,695 $15,195 $15,295 $15,395 MINI-SUITE - Cat. MD $15,995 MINI-SUITE - Cat. MB $16,095 SINGLE OCCUPANCY : INSIDE Cat. ID $17,195 OUTSIDE. Cat. OW* $17,595 BALCONY Cat. BD $20,495 EXPO CRUISES SPECIAL TOUCH... Includes One Glass of Wine or Beer with Every Lunch and Two Glasses of Wine or Beer with Every Dinner on Our Tour 8 Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com DAY 1 - DEPART CANADA Passengers from Eastern Canada meet our tour host at Toronto Airport for flight to Los Angeles. Passengers from Western Canada will meet our tour host in Los Angeles Airport before our Qantas flight to Melbourne, Australia. (In-flight Meals) DAY 2 - CROSS INTERNATIONAL DATELINE DAY 3 - MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA Welcome to Melbourne! Melbourne, capital of Victoria, is perhaps best known for its fine parks and gardens, gracious tree-lined streets, historic bluestone buildings and international restaurants. The city has a population of over 3,000,000 making it Australia's second largest city. Melbourne is also home to some of Australia's most famous sporting events including the Melbourne Cup - an annual horserace, the Formula 1 Grand Prix and the Australian Open Tennis. You will clear local Immigration and Customs formalities, exit and you will be met by our local guide. Today’s tour will take in the main highlights of Melbourne. Explore the cosmopolitan city with wide boulevards and fine historic buildings. View Bourke Street Mall and the tree-lined beauty of Collins Street – the ultimate shopping strip and business centre. View fine examples of Melbourne’s architectural splendour, including St. Paul’s Cathedral, Princess and Regent Theatres. See Melbourne Town Hall, the Royal Exhibition Buildings and Federation Square. Pass by Melbourne University, the Melbourne Cricket Ground, the National Tennis Centre, Parliament House. Visit the beautiful Fitzroy Gardens and explore Captain Cook’s Cottage, pay tribute to the soldiers of war at the historic Shrine of Remembrance. Lunch will be at a local restaurant. Later we arrive at our hotel for check-in. The Crown Promenade Hotel offers spacious rooms with views of Port Phillip Bay or the city and Yarra River. Guests have access to a restaurant, bar, indoor swimming pool and fitness centre. Each room at Crown Promenade Melbourne includes a luxury en suite bathroom, 42-inch flat-screen TV with cable channels and a minibar. High-speed Wi-Fi access is available, relax beside the indoor swimming pool with views of the city skyline. Located in Melbourne's vibrant Southbank entertainment precinct, Crown Promenade is directly linked to the Crown Casino and Entertainment Complex, offering worldclass restaurants, bars and shopping. Dinner will be at our hotel. CROWN METROPOL MELBOURNE HOTEL or similar - 3 nights. (B, L, D) DAY 4 - MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA Buffet breakfast is included at your hotel. Depart Melbourne for a full day tour and travel via the Princes Highway through Geelong and onto Torquay, where you will join the Great Ocean Road. The Great Ocean Road, carved into the cliff-side as a memorial to those who served Australia during World War 1, is one of the great coastal roads of the world. Further along, at Kennet River, take a detour and look for koalas in their natural environment. Arrive at the township of Apollo Bay for lunch. After lunch, continue your drive along the coast to Port Campbell National Park to view the Twelve Apostles where there are wonderful photo opportunities. A short drive further along the coast takes you to Loch Ard Gorge, the site of the most infamous shipwrecks along this coast. Return to Melbourne via the inland highway via Colac arriving approximately 6-7pm. This evening, join your local guide and coach driver for transfer to the Tramstop on Normandy Road, the departure point for your Colonial Tramcar Dinner. Dining in Melbourne can be a fabulous experience, especially aboard the fleet of historical trams that have become The Colonial Tramcar Restaurant. These glossy, burgundy restaurants on wheels are the first travelling tramcar restaurants in the world and ensure a delightful innovative approach to dining. Travel along the scenic streets of Melbourne, and enjoy dinner and some of the best Australian wines. Described by dinners as cozy and inviting. Appreciate the decor the colonial period these trams reflect. Your special Welcome dinner includes: 5-course dinner with wine and all beverages from the fully stocked bar. After dinner you will be transferred back to your hotel. (B, L, D) DAY 5 - MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel. Today you can choose either of the optional two tours available for your enjoyment, the choice is yours: Option One: YARRA VALLEY – with lunch. Late morning departure from your hotel. Enjoy the picturesque mountain villages scattered along the way and the spectacular views of Melbourne’s skyline. Beautiful Sherbrooke Forest is home to lyrebirds, crimson rosellas, cockatoos and kookaburras - look out for these native birds. Ride the restored Puffing Billy Steam Train through the towering mountain ash and beautiful lush fern gullies of Sherbrooke Forest. Lunch at one of the wineries in Yarra valley and visit Domain Chandon with tour and wine tastings. Option Two: PHILLIP ISLAND - with dinner. Early afternoon departure from your hotel to the Phillip Island Penguin Reserve. Approximately 2 hours drive from Melbourne, Phillip Island is an island adventure featuring wildlife reserves, wetlands, walking tracks and breathtaking coastlines. It is also home to Australia’s most popular natural wildlife attraction – the Penguin Parade. On arrival Phillip Island National Park Centre you will be escorted to the Penguins Plus Viewing Platform which is limited to 150 visitors per night and provides a closer viewing of the penguins while rangers provide full interpretation on their fascinating lives. At dusk, you will see the Fairy Penguins as they come out of the surf at Summerland Beach and waddle up the beach to their burrows in the sand dunes, not worried by the spotlights played on them for the benefit of spectators. Dinner tonight is at The Cape Kitchen Restaurant in Cowes township. After dinner, rejoin your coach for the 2 hour drive back to Melbourne city Tour concludes at your hotel approximately 11.00pm. (B, & L or D) DAY 6 - MELBOURNE - PRINCESS CRUISES Breakfast at your hotel. Morning is at your leisure before you will be transferred around 1 pm from your hotel to the ship's side to board the Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com 9 GOLDEN PRINCESS, our home for the next 14 days. (B, D) DAY 7 - 8 - 9 - CRUISE TASMAN SEA Enjoy three relaxing days at sea. Admire the beautiful sights from your cruise ship. Tonight enjoy Captain’s Welcome Party. (B, L, D) DAY 10 - AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND Straddling a narrow isthmus created by 60 different volcanoes, New Zealand's former capital boasts scenic beauty, historical interest and a cosmopolitan collection of shops, restaurants, museums, galleries and gardens. Rangitoto, Auckland's largest and youngest volcano, sits in majestic splendor just offshore. Mt. Eden and One Tree Hill, once home to Maori earthworks, overlook the city. Auckland served as New Zealand's capital from 1841 until 1865, when the seat of government moved to Wellington. (B, L, D) DAY 11 - TAURANGA, NEW ZEALAND New Zealand's natural bounty is always on display at the Bay of Plenty. It was Captain James Cook who in 1769 aptly named this bay after he was able to replenish his ship's provisions, thanks to the prosperous Maori villages of the region. Tauranga, the chief city, is a bustling port, an agricultural and timber center and a popular seaside resort. Tauranga is also the gateway to Rotorua - a geothermal wonderland that is the heart of Maori culture. A 90-minute drive from Tauranga, Rotorua is New Zealand's primary tourist attraction. Your ship docks near the foot of Mt. Maunganui, which rises 761 feet above the bay. The region boasts fine beaches, big-game fishing, thermal springs and resorts. (B, L, D) DAY 12 - GISBORNE, NEW ZEALAND New Zealand's largest national park was formed millennia ago by massive glacial flows that carved deep fiords into the coast of New Zealand's South Island. At the heart of Fiordland National Park lies Milford Sound. Lined by cliffs that soar nearly a mile above its surface, Milford Sound cuts into the heart of the Southern Alps. Rainforest clings to the cliffs and graceful waterfalls plummet into the void. Mile-high Mitre Peak dominates the upper reaches of the sound. Enjoy the unforgettable day exploring the land carved by ancient glaciers. (B, L, D) DAY 13 - WELLINGTON, NEW ZEALAND New Zealand's capital offers stunning views of forested peninsulas, dramatic cliff-side homes and fine Victorian buildings. Settled in 1840 by the London-based New Zealand Company, "wonderful, windy Wellington" is frequently buffeted by bracing winds funnelling through Cook Strait. The sophisticated metropolis boasts museums, winding streets and even a cable car. No wonder many travelers compare it to San Francisco. Despite its steep hills, the city can be easily explored on foot. Kelburn Cable Car, stairways and footpaths climb the slopes from the city center. (B, L, D) 10 DAY 14 - AKAROA, NEW ZEALAND On the eastern shores of New Zealand's South Island, Akaroa is a popular tourist destination with a distinctly French flair, its history steeped in legend. It lies on the volcanic Banks Peninsula, which the Maori believe was formed when a hero named Maui piled mountains upon a giant who threatened to eat his children. The same peninsula was purchased from the local Maori by a French whaler around 1838, and was later settled by both the French and the British, who had just signed the Treaty of Waitangi ensuring New Zealand's existence as a British colony. With French-named streets leading to restaurants serving French cuisine and colonial architecture all around, Akaroa's heritage as the only French-founded community in New Zealand is unmistakable. Akaroa harbour is home to a diverse array of marine life, including rare Hector's dolphins, and visitors are lured by the area's secluded beaches and boutiques. (B, L, D) DAY 15 - DUNEDIN, NEW ZEALAND Perched on the hills above one of New Zealand's loveliest harbors, Dunedin is a Kiwi city with a Scottish heart. Hailed as the "Edinburgh of New Zealand," Dunedin is proud of its heritage. A statue of famed Scottish poet Robert Burns graces downtown, and the presence of New Zealand's only kilt maker and whisky distillery - as well as many bagpipe bands keep Dunedin's ties to Scotland alive. The city also boasts a distinguished architectural and cultural history, a legacy of New Zealand's 1860s gold rush. Port Chalmers, gateway to Dunedin, is located eight miles from the city center. Dunedin is a planned city: its streets and suburbs fan out from the city's octagon. (B, L, D) DAY 16 - CRUISE FIORDLAND, NEW ZEALAND Thanks to their proximity to the International Dateline, residents of Gisborne love to claim their town is the first city in the world to greet the sun each day. Other towns in the South Pacific might disagree - but there's no denying that this popular vacation spot on New Zealand's North Island draws sun worshippers and surfers to its famous beaches. Located at the confluence of three rivers, Gisborne has won renown of late as one of New Zealand's fine wine regions, producing internationally acclaimed chardonnay and Pinot gris. The region also boasts one of the largest Maori populations in New Zealand - scenes from the awardwinning film "Whale Rider" was shot at the nearby Whangara Marae, a major Maori cultural center. On October 8, 1769, a lookout on HMS Endeavour spotted white chalk cliffs and sang out "Land ho!" Thus Captain James Cook was rewarded with his first sight of New Zealand. Cook named the headland after the young lookout - hence Gisborne's famous landmark Young Nick's Headg. (B, L, D) DAY 17 - 18 - CRUISE TASMAN SEA Enjoy your last two relaxing days at sea. (B, L, D) DAY 19 - MELBOURNE - CAIRNS, AUSTRALIA Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com After breakfast you will clear local Immigration and Customs formalities, exit and you will be met by our local guide. You are then assisted to your private air-conditioned to the airport for your flight to Cairns. Upon arrival you will be met and transferred to the hotel for check-in. This evening dinner is served at your hotel. Pullman Reef Hotel Casino is ideally located in Cairns City. Ideal for all your holiday needs the hotel is set amongst numerous shops and restaurants close to the Great Barrier Reef Terminal and entertainment venues, and overlooking the majestic Trinity inlet. Pullman Reef Hotel Casino is the most prestigious five star hotel and entertainment complex in Cairns. It offers 123 stunning rooms and suites featuring classic yet sleek decor, all equipped with spa baths. PULLMAN REEF HOTEL & CASINO CAIRNS or similar - 3 nights. (B, D) DAY 20 - CAIRNS, AUSTRALIA Early buffet breakfast is included at your hotel. Local guide will meet you in the hotel lobby. Join your driver and guide for private coach transfer to Freshwater Railway Station where you will board the Kuranda Scenic railway. Pass through sugarcane fields and commence ascent into the ranges, passing 15 tunnels, past Barron Gorge, Barron Falls and Stoney Creek Falls. The journey ends at Kuranda Railway Station - a cool tropical delight with its profusion of ferns and flowers. Arrive Kuranda were you will have some free time to browse the village. Visit the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary – admission included. BBQ Lunch included at the Trading Post Restaurant in Kuranda Village. After lunch depart Kuranda on the Skyrail. Skyrail the world's only rainforest cableway is a unique experience as you silently glide over the top of the rainforest canopy and enjoy spectacular views over Cairns and across the Coral Sea to Green Island. There are 2 stops along the way where you can experience the forest floor via boardwalks. Visit Tjapukai Cultural Park for 20min Didgeridoo Show. Tour concludes at your hotel and evening is at your leisure. (B, L) DAY 21 - CAIRNS, AUSTRALIA Enjoy your early buffet breakfast at your hotel. Depart the hotel with Quicksilver Coach for transfer to the marina in Port Douglas where you will board your boat for a cruise to the Outer Barrier Reef. Coach transfer from Cairns to Port Douglas tours along one of Australia's most scenic coastal drives. Quicksilver's high-speed wavepiercing catamaran will take passengers in air-conditioned comfort to a spacious reef activity platform moored in protective lagoons at the renowned Agincourt Reef, on the edge of the Great Barrier Reef. Quicksilver has facilities to enable both swimmers and non-swimmers to experience this stunning reef world. Passengers can explore the reef from the comfort of a semi-submersible, an underwater observatory or snorkel and dive. A range of optional activities are provided (at passengers own expense) including up to two dives for certified divers and novices can experience the magic of scuba with a qualified dive instructor or an Oceanwalker helmet dive, guided snorkeling tours with a marine biologist and scenic helicopter flights over the reef are also available. Lunch, morning and afternoon teas are included. Don’t forget to bring swimwear, towel, hat, and sunscreen! At conclusion of cruise you will be transferred back to your hotel by coach arriving back approximately 6 pm. Dinner at Ochre Grill within walking distance of hotel. (B, L, D) DAY 22 - CAIRNS - ALICE SPRINGS, AUSTRALIA Buffet breakfast at your hotel. Meet your guide in the hotel lobby and depart hotel by private coach to the domestic airport. Arrive Alice Springs where you will be met by your driver/guide for a Town Tour of Alice Springs enroute to your hotel. This afternoon you will visit the Old Telegraph Station; the School of the Air and the Royal Flying Doctor Service where you will learn how this facility takes care of people in the outback. Enjoy views of Alice Springs from Anzac Hill, and see the water hole - site of the original Alice Springs. Tour concludes at your hotel for check-in. Dinner will be served at the hotel. CHIFLEY ALICE SPRINGS RESORT or similar - 1 night. (B, D) DAY 23 - ALICE SPRINGS - AYERS ROCK, AUSTRALIA Buffet breakfast is included in Balloons Restaurant at your hotel. Depart Alice Springs aboard private coach and travel southwest, crossing three of Central Australia's largest river systems, the Hugh, Finke and Palmer. Travel on through cattle country, with a morning tea stop at a roadhouse enroute, before continuing on to view Mt Connor on Curtin Springs Cattle Station. Arriving Ayers Rock around lunchtime, you will have some time to relax before departing on this afternoon's tour to Uluru (Ayers Rock). Lunch enroute is included at Curtin Springs. This afternoon we tour around the base of this huge monolith. You will be able to explore some of 11 the caves, which comb the base of the Rock, and view Aboriginal paintings and carvings, some thousands of years old, which cover the walls of these caves. An opportunity to visit the Aboriginal Cultural Centre before we return to hotel. enjoy a glass of wine and some snacks as you enjoy the sunset at Uluru. After Sunset enjoy buffet dinner at hotel. SAILS IN THE DESERT HOTEL or similar - 1 night. (B, L, D) DAY 24 - AYERS ROCK - SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA Breakfast included at the hotel or breakfast boxes for those wishing to rise early and watch the sunrise. Please note: Checkout time is 10 am. Please have bags ready for collection prior to departing on tour. Your coach driver will advise you of timings for today. This morning you will tour the Olgas and you will be dropped back at the hotel at approximately 10 am. The Olgas are 28 massive domes of conglomerate rock, known to the Aborigines as "Katatjuta", which means, "head of the giants". Depart hotel for private coach transfer to the airport your flight to Sydney. On arrival you will be met by local guide and driver for transfer to your hotel. This evening buffet dinner in Cafe Opera at your hotel. There is a wealth of adventure waiting in Sydney - from its cosmopolitan city center to miles of beautiful beaches and the Blue Mountains. Australia's oldest and largest city was born in 1788 with the arrival of the "First Fleet" transporting 760 British convicts. Today, Sydney is the largest port in the South Pacific and is often voted the most popular destination in the South Pacific. After you will clear local Immigration and Customs formalities, exit and you will be met by our local guide. You are then assisted to your private air-conditioned coach to commence a city tour en-route to your hotel. Tour the historic Rocks area, Sydney's birthplace, and travel past old pubs, restored terrace houses and quaint shops. See Sydney's commercial and shopping heart, with its mixture of old and new buildings. See Chinatown and Darling Harbour before heading to historical Mrs Macquarie's Chair, where you can photograph the Opera House and Harbour Bridge together. Travel past St Mary’s Cathedral and east through the exclusive suburbs of Double Bay and Rose Bay and Watsons Bay and Bondi Beach. Enjoy your lunch at a local restaurant before we transfer to our hotel. InterContinental Sydney is a true expression in luxury. Positioned on the edge of the world’s most stunning harbour, just moments walk from the famous Opera House, Royal Botanic Gardens, the ferries from Circular Quay and exclusive shops. Built around the restored Treasury Building of 1851, the hotel’s 509 contemporary designed guest rooms each with a picture frame view, include a collection of 28 suites that have been home to world leaders and celebrities from across the globe for more than two decades. This hotel offers style and history on the edge of Sydney harbour. INTERCONTINENTAL SYDNEY HOTEL or similar - 4 nights. (B, D) DAY 25 - SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA Enjoy breakfast at your hotel. Local guide will meet you in the hotel lobby. This morning we cross the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and travel through the attractive residential areas of Neutral Bay and Mosman to Middle Harbour and over the Spit Bridge, enroute to Manly, one of Sydney's popular beaches. Visit North Head for spectacular views of the harbour and, travel past some of our beautiful surfing beaches before returning to the city. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant. After depart on a guided tour of the Sydney Opera House. 50 years ago a young Danish architect, dreaming of Bennelong Point, designed a masterpiece which pushed the boundaries of creativity and science – and put Sydney on the map forever. See inside the world’s most recognizable sails. Experience this miracle of architecture and engineering. A work of art that came into existence against impossible odds – to become one of the busiest performing arts centre in the world. At conclusion of the tour transfer back to your hotel. Tonight we will meet for our special Welcome dinner. (B, L, D) DAY 26 - SYDNEY - BLUE MOUNTAINS - SYDNEY Buffet breakfast is at the Café Opera. Meet your local guide in the hotel lobby. Depart Sydney and travel west. A visit will be made to the Featherdale Wildlife Park, where you will be able to feed kangaroos, emus and view many other species of Australian animal and birdlife, as well as cuddling a koala. Visit Katoomba, the major centre of the Blue mountains. Time is allowed for you to ride the Katoomba Railway in the world down to a lush and hidden valley. The 415 meters descent will lead you through a cliff side tunnel into ancient rainforest. Discover over 2 kilometers of boardwalk through the ancient rainforest including 380 meters boardwalk. Take the time to look around and find some fascinating facts about the local flora and history of the valley. Return via cable car on a 545 meters ride out of the World Heritage Listed rainforest of the Jamison valley. Lunch is included. View the Jamieson Valley, with its sheer sandstone cliffs of pink and rust colours. Visit Echo Point, where you will have a spectacular view of the Three Sisters - a giant rock formation. Visit the Leura village full of chic coffee houses, craft & gift shops; art galleries. It’s streets are tree-lined and elegant; its houses are attractive and commonly surrounded by English and European style gardens. (B, L) DAY 27 - SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA Buffet breakfast is at the Café Opera. Today you will have a full day at your leisure to enjoy this beautiful city. This evening we meet for our private cocktail reception and Farewell dinner. (B, D) DAY 28 - SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - CANADA After breakfast you will check out from the hotel. You are then assisted to your private air-conditioned coach to journey from hotel to the international airport to board your homebound flight. (B, In-flight Meals) EXPO CRUISES SPECIAL TOUCH... Includes One Glass of Wine or Beer with Every Lunch and Two Glasses of Wine or Beer with Every Dinner on Our Tour 12 Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com Sagaing Bagan Thantkyi u Mandalay u Amarapura Inwa 2 Inle Lake Yandabo Mt. Popa Salay 10 Thayetmyo Pyay Myanmar (Burma) u OPTIONAL POST TOUR 4 NIGHT EXTENSION TO SIEM REAP TO VISIT THE ANGKOR WAT TEMPLES IS AVAILABLE W ED N OI M I T OK S L BO CE I A SP Burma - The Golden Land u YANGON 4 Thailand u Bangkok Cambodia Siem Reap 4 19 Day - River Cruise/Tour March 13 - 31, 2016 Full Balcony Category “SD” from $11,695 Full Balcony Category “SC” from $11,895 All Single Fares Are Sold Out ALL PRICES ARE IN CANADIAN DOLLARS AND INCLUDE: | Return airfare from TORONTO, OTTAWA and MONTREAL | 11 Day River Cruise with AMA Waterways with all your meals excursions and entertainment | 4 Nights first class hotel stay in Yangon, MYANMAR | 2 Nights first class hotel/resort stay in Inle Lake, MYANMAR | Guided Local Tours as per Our Itinerary | All transfers to and from airport | All port and departure taxes (except for any local taxes) | All your shipboard gratuities on your river boat, and for local guides and drivers | Hosted by Expo Cruises & Tours Staff | Initial Deposit of $1,750 per person is required | Final Payment is due by: NOVEMBER 10, 2015 F OR C OMPLETE D ETAILS A ND I TINERARY P LEASE V ISIT O UR W EBSITE O R P LEASE C ALL U S F OR O UR F ULL B ROCHURE . Your journey begins in Yangon with a 4-night luxury hotel stay in Yangon, followed by a 10-night upstream cruise embarking in Pyay. Visit sacred sites, small villages, craftsmen’s workshops, markets and Buddhist monasteries, and enjoy a full-day tour of Bagan and its rich collection of stupas, temples and pagodas. Take in the stunning view from atop Mt. Popa and visit the Golden City of Mandalay. Followed by a 2-night luxury stay in the Inle Lake with daily sightseeing on local long-tail boats before returning to Yangon and flying back to Canada. Depart CANADA for MYANMAR Yangon, MYANMAR Hotel Overnight Yangon, MYANMAR Hotel Overnight Yangon, MYANMAR Hotel Overnight Yangon, MYANMAR Hotel Overnight Pyay, MYANMAR Embark River Boat Thayetmyo, MYANMAR River Cruise Minhla, MYANMAR River Cruise Magwe, MYANMAR River Cruise Salay, MYANMAR River Cruise Thantkyi, MYANMAR River Cruise Bagan, MYANMAR River Cruise Mt. Popa, MYANMAR River Cruise Yandabo, MYANMAR River Cruise Inwa, MYANMAR River Cruise Sagaing, MYANMAR River Cruise Mingun, MYANMAR River Cruise Amarapura, MYANMAR River Cruise Mandalay, MYANMAR Disembark Boat Inle Lake, MYANMAR Hotel Overnight Inle Lake, MYANMAR Hotel Overnight HONG KONG Hotel Day Room* Depart for CANADA Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com 13 Australia & New Zealand Cruise And Land Tour Australia u SYDNEY 4 AUCKLAND u 2 Tauranga Rotorua 2 Melbourne Wellington Picton Akaroa Hobart Tasmania Fiordland NP New Zealand Dunedin 25 Days - Sydney To Auckland February 10 - March 5, 2016 Depart CANADA Sydney, AUSTRALIA Sydney, AUSTRALIA Sydney, AUSTRALIA Sydney, AUSTRALIA Sydney, AUSTRALIA Cruise Tasman Sea Melbourne, AUSTRALIA Cruise Bass Strait Hobart, TASMANIA Cruise Tasman Sea Cruise Tasman Sea Cruise Milford Sound Dunedin, NEW ZEALAND Akaroa, NEW ZEALAND Picton, NEW ZEALAND Wellington, NEW ZEALAND Cruise Coast of New Zealand Tauranga, NEW ZEALAND Auckland, NEW ZEALAND Auckland, NEW ZEALAND Rotorua, NEW ZEALAND Rotorua, NEW ZEALAND Auckland, NEW ZEALAND Depart AUCKLAND for CANADA Hotel Overnight Hotel Overnight Hotel Overnight Hotel Overnight Embark 4:00 pm ~ ~ 8:00 am 6:00 pm ~ ~ 8:00 am 6:00 pm ~ ~ ~ ~ 7:00 am 5:00 pm 9:00 am 6:00 pm 8:00 am 5:00 pm 9:00 am 6:00 pm 7:00 am 6:00 pm ~ ~ 7:00 am 6:00 pm 7:00 am Overnight Disembark Ship Hotel Overnight Hotel Overnight Hotel Overnight EXPO CRUISES SPECIAL TOUCH... Includes One Glass of Wine or Beer with Every Lunch and Two Glasses of Wine or Beer with Every Dinner on Our Tour INSIDE - Category IC INSIDE - Category IB OUTSIDE - Category OW* OUTSIDE - Category OC 14 $10,595 $10,650 $10,795 $11,195 DAY 1 - DEPART CANADA Passengers from Eastern Canada meet our tour host at Toronto Airport for flight to Los Angeles. Passengers from Western Canada will meet our tour host in Los Angeles Airport before our Qantas flight to Auckland, New Zealand via Sydney, Australia. (In-flight Meals) DAY 2 - CROSS INTERNATIONAL DATELINE DAY 3 - SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA Welcome to Sydney, Australia! There is a wealth of adventure waiting in Sydney - from its cosmopolitan city center to miles of beautiful beaches and the Blue Mountains. Australia's oldest and largest city was born in 1788 with the arrival of the "First Fleet" transporting 760 British convicts. Today, Sydney is the largest port in the South Pacific and is often voted the most popular destination in the South Pacific. After you will clear local Immigration and Customs formalities, exit and you will be met by our local guide. You are then assisted to your private air-conditioned coach to commence a city tour en-route to your hotel. A short tour the historic Rocks area, Sydney's birthplace, and travel past old pubs, restored terrace houses and quaint shops. See Sydney's commercial and shopping heart, with its mixture of old and new buildings. See Chinatown and Darling Harbour before heading to historical Mrs. Macquarie's Chair, where you can photograph the Opera House and Harbour Bridge together. Travel past St. Mary’s Cathedral and east through the exclusive suburbs of Double Bay and Rose Bay and Watsons ALL PRICES ARE IN CANADIAN DOLLARS AND INCLUDE: | Return airfare from TORONTO, OTTAWA and MONTREAL | 16 Day cruise aboard the DIAMOND PRINCESS with all your meals and entertainment | 4 Nights first class hotel stay in Sydney | 2 Nights first class hotel stay in Rotorua, New Zealand | 1 Night first class hotel stay in Auckland | Fully guided tours and meals as described in the day-by-day itinerary with hotel stays | All your tipping for your tour manager, local guides and drivers on our land tour portion | All transfers to and from your cruise ship and hotel | All port and departure taxes (except for any local taxes) | All your shipboard gratuities on your cruise ship | Hosted by Expo Cruises and Tours Staff* | Initial Deposit of $1,750 per person is required | Final Payment is due by: OCTOBER 29, 2015 | BALCONY - Category BD BALCONY - Category BC BALCONY - Category BB MINI-SUITE - Cat. MD $11,795 $11,895 $11,995 $12,595 MINI-SUITE - Cat. MB SINGLE in INSIDE Cat. IC SINGLE in OUTSIDE. Cat. OW* SINGLE in BALCONY Cat. BD Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com $12,695 $12,595 $12,995 $15,895 Bay and Bondi Beach. Enjoy your lunch at a local restaurant before we transfer to our hotel. InterContinental Sydney is a true expression in luxury. Positioned on the edge of the world’s most stunning harbour, just moments walk from the famous Opera House, Royal Botanic Gardens, the ferries from Circular Quay and exclusive shops. Built around the restored Treasury Building of 1851, the hotel’s 509 contemporary designed guest rooms each with a picture frame view, include a collection of 28 suites that have been home to world leaders and celebrities from across the globe for more than two decades. This hotel offers style and history on the edge of Sydney harbour. Dinner will be at our hotel. INTERCONTINENTAL SYDNEY HOTEL or similar - 4 nights. (In-flight Meals, L, D) DAY 4 - SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA Local guide will meet you in the hotel lobby. This morning we cross the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and travel through the attractive residential areas of Neutral Bay and Mosman to Middle Harbour and over the Spit Bridge, enroute to Manly, one of Sydney's popular beaches. Visit North Head for spectacular views of the harbour and, travel past some of our beautiful surfing beaches before returning to the city. Depart on a guided tour of the Sydney Opera House. 50 years ago a young Danish architect, dreaming of Bennelong Point, designed a masterpiece which pushed the boundaries of creativity and science – and put Sydney on the map forever. See inside the world’s most recognizable sails. Experience this miracle of architecture and engineering. A work of art that came into existence against impossible odds – to become one of the busiest performing arts centre in the world. At conclusion of the tour transfer back to your hotel. Tonight we will meet for our special Welcome dinner. With one hour pre-dinner drinks (includes beer; wine and soft drinks) in private area, followed by a great dinner. After dinner transfer back to your hotel. (B, L, D) DAY 5 - SYDNEY - BLUE MOUNTAINS - SYDNEY Buffet breakfast is at the Café Opera. Meet your local guide in the hotel lobby. Depart Sydney and travel west. A visit will be made to the Featherdale Wildlife Park, where you will be able to feed kangaroos, emus and view many other species of Australian animal and birdlife, as well as cuddling a koala. Visit Katoomba, the major centre of the Blue Mountains. Time is allowed for you to ride the Katoomba Railway in the world down to a lush and hidden valley (own expense). The 415 meters descent will lead you through a cliff side tunnel into ancient rainforest. Discover over 2 kilometers of boardwalk through the ancient rainforest including 380 meters boardwalk. Take the time to look around and find some fascinating facts about the local flora and history of the valley. Return via cable car on a 545 meters ride out of the World Heritage Listed rainforest of the Jamison valley. Lunch is included at the local restaurant. View the Jamieson Valley, with its sheer sandstone cliffs of pink and rust colours. Visit Echo Point, where you will have a spectacular view of the Three Sisters - a giant rock formation. Visit Waradah Aboriginal Centre which will include a dance performance plus a short talk on the culture. Return to Sydney late afternoon. (B, L) DAY 6 - SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA Buffet breakfast is at the Café Opera. Today you will have a full day at your leisure to explore more of Sydney. Once again we meet tonight for our dinner at one of the local restaurants located at the Rocks area. After dinner transfer back to the hotel. (B, D) DAY 7 - PRINCESS CRUISES Enjoy your buffet breakfast in the Café Opera. Please ensure all checkout formalities have been completed and room keys handed in. Some free time in the morning for last minute shopping and around 2 pm our coach will transfer you to the ship's side to board the DIAMOND PRINCESS, our home away from home for the next 16 days. (B, D) DAY 8 - CRUISE TASMAN SEA Your first full relaxing day at sea. (B, L, D) DAY 9 - MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA Victoria may be Australia's smallest continental state, but Melbourne, its capital, is big on everything. With a population of 2.7 million people living in 59 separately named communities within 715 square miles, Melbourne is a sprawling city offering culture, art, fashion and friendly, sports-minded Australians. It is also an easy city to explore. At the heart of the city is the Golden Mile, the city's governmental and commercial center, home to hotels, shops, restaurants and theaters. The discovery of gold propelled Melbourne's growth to prominence and prosperity. (B, L, D) DAY 10 - CRUISE BASS STRAIT Enjoy another relaxing full day at sea. (B, L, D) DAY 11 - HOBART, TASMANIA Tasmania's capital has much in common with Sydney. Founded but a few years later, Hobart also owes its origins to the establishment of a penal colony - and its natural setting is just as impressive. Seen from its fine deepwater harbor, Hobart spills over the lower reaches of the Derwent Valley as Mt. Wellington towers in the background. Much of the city's heritage is centered on the historic waterfront. North of the city stretches the vast parkland of the Queen's Domain. Many of Tasmania's other attractions are within easy reach of Hobart. With more than 90 National Trust buildings, Hobart is Australia's second oldest city, founded in 1804, combines colonial character with a sophisticated metropolitan lifestyle. (B, L, D) DAY 12 & 13 - TASMAN SEA Enjoy two relaxing days at sea. (B, L, D) DAY 14 - CRUISE FIORDLAND Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com 15 New Zealand's largest national park was formed millennia ago by massive glacial flows that carved deep fiords into the coast of New Zealand's South Island. At the heart of Fiordland National Park lies Milford Sound. Lined by cliffs that soar nearly a mile above its surface, Milford Sound cuts into the heart of the Southern Alps. Rainforest clings to the cliffs and graceful waterfalls plummet into the void. Mile-high Mitre Peak dominates the upper reaches of the sound. Enjoy the unforgettable day exploring the land carved by ancient glaciers. (B, L, D) DAY 15 - DUNEDIN, NEW ZEALAND Perched on the hills above one of New Zealand's loveliest harbors, Dunedin is a Kiwi city with a Scottish heart. Hailed as the "Edinburgh of New Zealand," Dunedin is proud of its heritage. A statue of famed Scottish poet Robert Burns graces downtown, and the presence of New Zealand's only kilt maker and whisky distillery - as well as many bagpipe bands - keep Dunedin's ties to Scotland alive. The city also boasts a distinguished architectural and cultural history, a legacy of New Zealand's 1860s gold rush. Port Chalmers, gateway to Dunedin, is located eight miles from the city center. Dunedin is a planned city: its streets and suburbs fan out from the city's octagon. (B, L, D) DAY 16 - AKAROA, NEW ZEALAND On the eastern shores of New Zealand's South Island, Akaroa is a popular tourist destination with a distinctly French flair, its history steeped in legend. It lies on the volcanic Banks Peninsula, which the Maori believe was formed when a hero named Maui piled mountains upon a giant who threatened to eat his children. The same peninsula was purchased from 16 the local Maori by a French whaler around 1838, and was later settled by both the French and the British, who had just signed the Treaty of Waitangi ensuring New Zealand's existence as a British colony. With French-named streets leading to restaurants serving French cuisine and colonial architecture all around, Akaroa's heritage as the only French-founded community in New Zealand is unmistakable. Akaroa harbour is home to a diverse array of marine life, including rare Hector's dolphins, and visitors are lured by the area's secluded beaches and boutiques. (B, L, D) DAY 17 - PICTON, NEW ZEALAND Located at the head of Queen Charlotte Sound, Picton is your gateway to the South Island's famed Marlborough District. Once known primarily for its lush farm lands and many sheep stations, Marlborough came to international attention thanks to a new agricultural product - wine. The release of the 1985 Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc put New Zealand on the map and changed the world's focus on winemaking in the Southern Hemisphere. Today, the Marlborough region boasts dramatic sea and landscapes, fascinating wine country, excellent restaurants and a number of the nation's finest gardens. Military names abound in this corner of New Zealand - the region is named for the first Duke of Marlborough, while the largest town, Blenheim, is named after his most famous battle. Picton is named for Sir Thomas Picton, a favorite of another general, the first duke of Wellington. (B, L, D) DAY 18 - WELLINGTON, NEW ZEALAND New Zealand's capital offers stunning views of forested peninsulas, dramatic cliff-side homes and fine Victorian buildings. Settled in 1840 by the London-based New Zealand Company, "wonderful, windy Wellington" is frequently buffeted by bracing winds funnelling through Cook Strait. The sophisticated metropolis boasts museums, winding streets and even a cable car. No wonder many travelers compare it to San Francisco. Despite its steep hills, the city can be easily explored on foot. Kelburn Cable Car, stairways and footpaths climb the slopes from the city center. (B, L, D) DAY 19 - COASTAL CRUISING Enjoy your last relaxing day at sea. (B, L, D) DAY 20 - TAURANGA, NEW ZEALAND New Zealand's natural bounty is always on display at the Bay of Plenty. It was Captain James Cook who in 1769 aptly named this bay after he was able to replenish his ship's provisions, thanks to the prosperous Maori villages of the region. Tauranga, the chief city, is a bustling port, an agricultural and timber center and a popular seaside resort. Tauranga is also the gateway to Rotorua - a geothermal wonderland that is the heart of Maori culture. A 90-minute drive from Tauranga, Rotorua is New Zealand's primary tourist attraction. Your ship docks near the foot of Mt. Maunganui, which rises 761 feet above the bay. The region boasts fine Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com beaches, big-game fishing, thermal springs and resorts. (B, L, D) DAY 21 - AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND Welcome to Auckland! Straddling a narrow isthmus created by 60 different volcanoes, New Zealand's former capital boasts scenic beauty, historical interest and a cosmopolitan collection of shops, restaurants, museums, galleries and gardens. Auckland's largest and youngest volcano, sits in majestic splendor just offshore. Mt. Eden and One Tree Hill, once home to Maori earthworks, overlook the city. One of New Zealand's fine wine districts lies to the north of Auckland. Today you will enjoy two guided half-day tours in the morning city highlights with entrance to the Auckland museum. Return back to the ship for lunch. After lunch you will join another tour. Walk from the ship to the Waiheke Island ferry terminal (10 minutes) to take ferry to Waiheke Island where you will have a private Waiheke Wine Tour. On return you will walk back to your ship from the ferry terminal for about 10 minutes. You will stay overnight onboard the Diamond Princess in Auckland (B, L, D) DAY 22 - AUCKLAND - ROTORUA, NEW ZEALAND After breakfast you will clear local Immigration and Customs formalities, exit and you will be met by our local guide. You are then assisted to your private air-conditioned coach to journey from Auckland to Waitomo and transferred to a local Maori Marae, a traditional Maori meeting place, for your cultural experience. On arrival, a traditional Maori wero (challenge) and powhiri (welcome) takes place. Then, a concert of Maori songs with dances is performed, including the fearsome haka and the rhythmic poi dance. Afterwards, enjoy an authentic Maori hangi (dinner), whereby wellwrapped food is steam-cooked in an underground pit. The meal, consisting of wild pork, lamb, seafood and vegetables, is then lifted from the ground and ready for serving. At the end of a wonderful night of entertainment, you are transferred back to your hotel. (B, L, D) DAY 24 - ROTORUA - AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND Enjoy a buffet breakfast at hotel. Journey by private coach from Rotorua to Auckland via Matamata, where you will have a guided tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set. Followed by a lunch at the Green Dragon Inn. Arrive at the hotel for check-in. In the early evening make your way to the Sky City Lounge for our special Farewell reception and dinner with drinks (wine, beer, and soft drinks) and canapés. A set dinner menu will be at the Orbit Restaurant including free admission to Sky Observation Deck. Our hotel is centrally located in the heart of Auckland City; the 5-star Sky City Grand Hotel is an urban oasis of contemporary elegance and style. SKY CITY GRAND or similar - 1 night. (B, L, D) DAY 25 - AUCKLAND - CANADA After your early breakfast at the hotel. Our local guide will meet you in the hotel lobby. Please ensure all checkout formalities have been completed and room keys handed in. You will be transferred to the airport to board Rotorua, for a guided tour of to Waitomo Caves and Home-style lunch at your homebound flight. (B, In-flights Meals). Crosshills farm. On arrival we will check in o our hotel. Tonight dinner will be served at hotel restaurant. Millennium Hotel Rotorua - is centrally located in the city beside mystical Lake Rotorua and just a brief stroll to the Rotorua Museum of Art and History, Convention Centre and adjacent to Polynesian Spa. Restaurant Nikau offers fresh local tastes and "The Spa" provides relaxing massage, indulgent body treatments including Rotorua Mud wraps. MILLENNIUM HOTEL or similar - 2 nights. (B, L, D) DAY 23 - ROTORUA, NEW ZEALAND Enjoy a buffet breakfast at the hotel. This morning, depart your hotel by private coach on a sightseeing tour of Rotorua. First, visit the Agrodome for an entertaining and educational demonstration of New Zealand’s primary industry. Sheep shearing and working dogs are included in this one-hour agricultural show. After your visit, re-join your coach for transfer to Te Puia. Next, enjoy a guided tour of the model Maori pa (village site) and close by, the Institute where young Maori are taught the skills of traditional carving. From here, visit the Thermal Reserve to see boiling mud pools and geysers including “Pohutu” (“splashing”), the largest geyser, which erupts several times a day. On completion of sightseeing tour, you are returned to your hotel. This evening, you will be picked up from the hotel and are Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com 17 Buenos Aires To Santiago & Cape Horn Cruise/Tour u SANTIAGO 2 (Valparaiso) Amalia Glacier Argentina BUENOS AIRES 3 u Chile Montevideo Uruguay Puerto Montt Puerto Madryn Scenic cruising Strait of Magellan Beagle Channel Punta Arenas Stanley Ushuaia (Tierra del Fuego) Falkland Islands Cape Horn Scenic cruising 21 Days - Buenos Aires To Santiago January 29 - February 18, 2016 Depart CANADA for ARGENTINA Buenos Aires, ARGENTINA Hotel Overnight Buenos Aires, ARGENTINA Hotel Overnight Buenos Aires, ARGENTINA Embark Overnight Buenos Aires, ARGENTINA ~ 5:00 pm Montevideo, URUGUAY 8:00 am 5:00 pm Cruise Atlantic Ocean ~ ~ Puerto Madryn, ARGENTINA 7:00 am 5:00 pm Cruise Atlantic Ocean ~ ~ Stanley, FALKLAND IS. 8:00 am 6:00 pm Cruise By CAPE HORN ~ ~ Ushuaia, ARGENTINA 11:00 am 8:00 pm Cruise AMALIA GLACIER ~ ~ Punta Arenas, CHILE 7:00 am 7:00 pm Cruise STRAIT OF MAGELLAN ~ ~ Cruise BEAGLE CHANNEL ~ ~ Puerto Montt, CHILE 7:00 am 5:00 pm Cruise Pacific Ocean ~ ~ Valparaiso, CHILE Disembark Santiago, CHILE Hotel Overnight Santiago, CHILE Hotel Overnight Depart CHILE for CANADA EXPO CRUISES SPECIAL TOUCH... Includes One Glass of Wine or Beer with Every Lunch and Two Glasses of Wine or Beer with Every Dinner on Our Tour INSIDE - Category ID INSIDE - Category IC OUTSIDE - Category OW* OUTSIDE - Category OF 18 $5,995 $6,045 $6,295 $6,595 DAY 1 - CANADA - ARGENTINA Evening departure for Buenos Aires, Argentina. (In-flight Meals) DAY 2 - BUENOS ARIES, ARGENTINA Welcome to Buenos Aires! Founded in the early 16th century, Buenos Aires was transformed from a colonial port into a cosmopolitan metropolis - the "Paris of the South" - by the cattle boom of the 1880s. As in the American West, boom was followed by bust. But that did not stop Buenos Aires from becoming the city it is today. With its air of haunted grandeur, Buenos Aires is a place of icy intellect and smoldering passion. It is a city where the elegant Colon Theater, one of the world's great opera houses, stands in counterpoint to the working class barrios that gave birth to the tango. Perhaps the city's enigmas and contradictions are best embodied by its two most famous citizens - the reclusive librarian and literary genius Jorge Luis Borges and the showgirl turned First Lady, Evita Peron. The "Paris of the South" flaunts its European heritage. One of the pleasures of Buenos Aires is simply absorbing its charm and flavor, from Parisian-style confiterias - cafés - to the city's popular tango clubs. Meet and greet with our local representative and transfer to the hotel for accommodation. Tonight we will have our Welcome dinner at a local steakhouse. HOTEL INTERCONTINENTAL BUENOS AIRES or similar 2 nights. (D) ALL PRICES ARE IN CANADIAN DOLLARS PER PERSON AND INCLUDE: | Return airfare from TORONTO, OTTAWA and MONTREAL | 15 Day cruise aboard the STAR PRINCESS with all your meals and entertainment and activities | 2 Nights first class hotel stay in Santiago with sightseeing and most meals | 2 Nights first class hotel stay in Buenos Aires with sightseeing and most meals | All transfers airport-hotel-ship | All your shipboard gratuities $168 US per person | Tipping for local guides & drivers while in Santiago and Buenos Aires | All port and departure taxes (except for any local taxes) | Hosted by Expo Cruises and Tours Staff* | Initial Deposit of $1,500 per person is required | Final Payment is due by: OCTOBER 22, 2015 | PLEASE NOTE: Canadian citizens must pay a reciprocity tax before arriving in Argentina of $92.00 US per person. As well as Canadian citizens must also pay a reciprocity tax upon arrival in Chile of $132.00 US per person. All amounts are subject to change at any time. BALCONY - Category BD BALCONY - Category BC BALCONY - Category BB MINI-SUITE - Cat. MD $6,995 $7,095 $7,195 $7,695 MINI-SUITE - Cat. MB SINGLE in INSIDE Cat. ID SINGLE in OUTSIDE Cat. OW* SINGLE in BALCONY Cat. BD Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com $7,995 $7,695 $8,095 $10,395 DAY 3 - BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA Breakfast at the hotel. Breakfast. Today enjoy a city tour of Buenos Aires including San Telmo Market. A half day visit to Buenos Aires, a cosmopolitan city that shows the influence of the great number of immigrants that arrived to these shores. The tour commences at the historic Plaza de Mayo square, well known for its numerous political demonstrations. It is surrounded by the Government House, best known as the “Pink House”; the Cabildo (the old City Hall) and the Metropolitan Cathedral. The “Avenida de Mayo”, which starts in this square, is an interesting set of buildings of varied styles that reflect the diversity of its inhabitants. Wide avenues and green areas appear constantly trying to slow down the rhythm of this vertiginous city. A sample of this is the 9 de Julio Avenue, about 5 squares away from here, with its eight lanes divided by small green squares with old leafy trees and enriched by sculptures and fountains. In the middle of this avenue, in the “Plaza de la Republica”, the Obelisk arises as a symbol of the city. The visit continues towards San Telmo, one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Buenos Aires, which was also a center for immigrant settlers and still keeps most of its architectonic patrimony untouched: its colonial houses and cobbled streets. We take Balcarce street up to Humberto 1º, turn in Defensa and drive along Plaza Dorrego until we reach Bolivar; down along Av. San Juan to Av. Paseo Colon. Every Sunday, an antique fair is held in Plaza Dorrego. The area has also a lively night-life as there are many tango houses, restaurants and pubs. Southwards, we reach the picturesque and colourful port neighbourhood of La Boca with its famous street, “Caminito”, whose architectonic characteristics reflect the culture the European citizens that arrived to these shores at the end of the 19th century, mainly Genovese sailors. The visit continues towards the newest district of Puerto Madero; Palermo neighbourhood with its elegant residences framed by wide green areas; finally reaching the district of Recoleta, the most sophisticated neighbourhood in Buenos Aires. The Recoleta Cemetery, surprises the visitors for its rich architecture and the important personalities of the social and political Argentinean life, amongst whom are Eva Perón, whose remains lie there. Next to the cemetery is the church Nuestra Señora del Pilar, the Recoleta Cultural Center (previously a convent), Buenos Aires Design and the Palais de Glace. Return to the hotel. Afternoon at leisure. Evening, dinner and tango show at Senor Tango. The most outrageous of them all, Señor Tango is the closest you’ll get to a Las Vegas show in Buenos Aires. With dozens of performers, live horses, two tiers of balconies and over 1500 seats, this granddaddy of tango shows is – for good or bad – an unforgettable experience. (B, D) DAY 4 - BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA (EMBARKATION) After breakfast at the hotel. Breakfast. Full day Fiesta Gaucha at Estancia Santa Susana w/barbecue lunch (Luggage will transferred to the pier). Departure to Estancia Santa Susana which has belonged to the Rossiter family since 1860. Its 1200 hectares are devoted mainly to agriculture also to cattle and horse breeding. A couple of years ago the 'estancia' began welcoming visitors adapting its facilities to that purpose. Upon arrival a welcome drink with 'empanadas' (meat pastries) will be served at the ‘pulpería’. Later, you will taste a typical Argentine barbecue (grilled beef, chicken, pork sausages, salads, dessert and coffee) at the dinning-room. As lunch is finished you will enjoy a folklore show with live music and dancing and a tango demonstration. Return to the city for your cruise embarkation the STAR PRINCESS your home for the next 15 days. (B, L, D) DAY 5 - BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA Admire the beautiful sights from the beautiful ship. Tonight enjoy Captain’s Welcome Cocktail Party. (B, L, D) DAY 6 - MONTEVIDEO, URUGUAY Nestled between the continent's two giants, Brazil and Argentina, Uruguay is the second smallest country in South America. More than half of the nation's population of three million reside in the capital of Montevideo, located at Uruguay's southernmost point on the Rio de la Plata. Although small in size, Uruguay has proven to be big-hearted - the country is one of the most literate nations in the world while Montevideo is one of South America's most interesting and cosmopolitan capitals. Montevideo is a charming city made up of 19th-century Beaux Arts buildings, parks, and historical monuments. (B, L, D) DAY 7 - CRUISE ATLANTIC OCEAN Enjoy day at sea. Tonight enjoy Captain’s Welcome Party. (B, L, D) DAY 8 - PUERTO MADRYN, ARGENTINA Fleeing the economic devastation of England's Industrial Revolution, Welsh settlers immigrated to Argentina in search of cheap land. Led by Viscount Madryn, one group of settlers sailed for Patagonia, founding the small city of Puerto Madryn in 1865. Life in Patagonia, however, was not easy. There were lonely prairies, brutally cold winters, and unrelenting winds. Still the Welsh survived, and today visitors can still see their legacy in Puerto Madryn and its surrounding communities. Puerto Madryn is your gateway to one of South America's largest breeding grounds for birds and mammals - Tombo National Reserve. Note: Temperatures fluctuate widely in Patagonia. Dress in warm layers, wear sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots and bring a waterproof jacket, hat and bottled water. Roads outside Puerto Madryn are bumpy and dusty. (B, L, D) DAY 9 - CRUISE ATLANTIC OCEAN Enjoy another relaxing full day at sea. (B, L, D) DAY 10 - STANLEY, FALKLAND ISLANDS Magellan called it Tierra del Fuego, "the Land of Fire," having seen flames rising from the darkened islands. For over three centuries, the name Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com 19 struck fear in the hearts of mariners. Howling headwinds, mountainous seas and rocky coastlines spelled a sudden end to many voyages. Today, Ushuaia, a former Argentine penal colony, is your gateway to this wilderness where snow-capped mountains plummet to the icy waters of the Beagle Channel. (B, L, D) DAY 11 - CRUISE BY CAPE HORN Located on Chile's Isla Hornos in the Tierra del Fuego archipelago, Cape Horn is widely considered to be the southernmost tip of South America. The culmination of the Andes mountain range, the legendary Cape is prone to unpredictably strong winds, choppy waters, icebergs and rogue waves - none of which phase the Princess ships that sail here. Nevertheless, hazardous maritime conditions have protected the rocky region from human settlement, so you'll enjoy the same views as the earliest explorers discovered centuries ago. Unusual rock formations with deep grooves and granite cliffs covered in trees are its signature features. (B, L, D) DAY 12 - USHUAIA, ARGENTINA Capital of the Falklands since 1845, tiny Stanley lies on the windswept tip of East Falkland Island, long served as a way station for ships, particularly whalers, bound to and from Cape Horn. The islands' rigorous environment is immediately apparent: Stanley Harbor is dotted with the hulks of vessels that succumbed to the fierce winds and waves of the South Atlantic. While their strategic location led to important roles in both World Wars, the islands are best remembered as the cause of the 1982 war between Argentina and the United Kingdom. Today, travelers journey to the islands to view their rich assortment of bird and marine life. (B, L, D) DAY 13 - PUNTA ARENAS, CHILE Punta Arenas lies atop rolling hills, looking out over the Strait of Magellan. In the days before the Panama Canal, this was a major port as ships plied the waters of Cape Horn. Punta Arenas remains a prosperous town today, thanks to its rich natural resources. The city is also the gateway to Chilean Patagonia, a maze of fjords, rivers, steppes, and mountains to the north. To the south lies the great frozen mass of Antarctica. Adventure awaits in any direction at this port located near the end of the earth. Across the Strait of Magellan lies Tierra del Fuego, the lonely, windswept island discovered by Magellan in 1520. The region was settled by Yugoslavian and English sheep ranchers in the 19th century. (B, L, D) DAY 14 - CRUISE AMELIA GLACIER The Southern Patagonian Ice Field covered the entirety of southern Chile just 10,000 years ago. Today, this region gives way to the awe-inspiring channels and islands that comprise the fjords of southern Chile's Pacific Coast, which extend as far south as Tierra del Fuego and the Strait of 20 Magellan. While cruising through the sparkling waters of Chile's legendary inlets, you'll be graced by the presence of snowcapped mountain peaks, majestic forests and spectacular blue-tinged glaciers that will take your breath away. The unspoiled scenery is filled with dramatic rock formations and abundant wildlife known for making their homes here, including sea lions, Peale's dolphins and a variety of seabirds that soar amid the splendor. (B, L, D) DAY 15 - CRUISE PACIFIC OCEAN Enjoy another relaxing day at sea and all the activities. (B, L, D) DAY 16 - PUERTO MONTT, CHILE Puerto Montt is your gateway to Chile's magnificent Lake District. Here, snow-capped volcanoes gaze down on alpine valleys nestled among low hills. Glaciers carved out this terrain, leaving the jewel-like lakes in their wake. The Lake District was a magnet for German immigrants, and their legacy can be seen today in the manicured rose gardens of Puerto Varas, in Chile's "German Villages" like Frutillar and in Puerto Montt's gabled homes with elaborate balconies. Despite a population of more than 130,000, Puerto Montt retains the feel of a small town. For a simple introduction to the city, walk along its waterfront road lined with tempting artisan's stalls and small cafés. Note: Puerto Montt is an anchorage port. Transportation from the ship to shore will be via the ship's tender service. (B, L, D) DAY 17 - CRUISE PACIFIC COAST Last day at sea, tonight Captain’s Farewell Cocktail Party. (B, L, D) Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com DAY 18 - VALPARAISO, SANTIAGO, CHILE After breakfast, disembark the Star Princess. Before we transfer to Santiago, we will be Valparaiso and Viña del Mar. Arriving in Valparaiso pier; you pass by the main square where you can view the monument honouring the Naval Battle fought in 1879. Driving towards the southern side of the city and seeing the old funiculars you will drive up a hillside for a spectacular view of the bay seeing Valparaiso’s downtown district and its adjoining hills. Then proceed to the lower level of the city through the commercial heart of the port, where you’ll take the coastal highway that links Valparaiso with the resort city of Viña del Mar. Driving to the famous beaches of Salinas, Reñaca, Los Lilenes and Concón, you’ll have the opportunity to see Viña’s flower clock and the Casino and then pass rough scenery of rocks where the sea on windy days and high tides crashes fiercely against the coast. Reaching the Concón beach, you can admire various fish stands displaying a great variety of seafood. Summer homes and restaurants are spread out along the coast. Lunch will be served a local restaurant. Afterwards, visit Casas del Bosque winery to enjoy a wine tasting before you will drive to Santiago. HOTEL ATTON EL BOSQUE or similar - 2 nights. (B, L) DAY 19 - SANTIAGO, CHILE bustling Providencia shopping zone. Return to the hotel. Tonight we will Breakfast at the hotel. Santiago de Chile is a city of contrasts with have our Farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (B, D) DAY 20 - SANTIAGO, CHILE - CANADA Breakfast and morning is at your leisure. Check out at the hotel. Lunch will be served at local restaurant. After lunch, you will visit Concha y Toro winery. In 1883, Marqués de Casa Concha in the Spanish Court decided to exploit the winemaking potential of the Maipo Valley just as the industry in Chile became fashionable. Don Melchor Concha y Toro brought in French vine stock from Bordeaux and contracted eminent French enologist, Monsieur de Labouchere to prepare his first vines. Viña Concha y Toro rose from this entrepreneurial action at a time of keen interest in national wine production. Today it is one of the largest exporters of wines in Chile and has obtained countless prizes of quality both in Chile and abroad. The company has always been the leader in adopting new techniques, updating its equipment and facilities for vilifications processing, storage and bottling. During a walk through the beautiful park you will get to know the old Casona (from outside), the vineyards and then discover the “Devil’s legend” in the old & dark bodegas. Three different wines will be tasted. The tour will end at the airport before your flight back to Canada. (B, L, In-flight Meals) DAY 21 - ARRIVAL IN CANADA Early morning arrival back in Toronto. (In-flight Meals) remains of its Colonial past to the ultramodern, high-rise buildings of the EXPO CRUISES SPECIAL TOUCH... Includes One Glass of Wine or Beer with financial center; Chile’s capital city will surprise you. This tour offers you Every Lunch and Two Glasses of Wine or Beer with Every Dinner on Our Tour the possibility to see this eclectic mix for yourself. The tour begins by heading south through the downtown area, passing the Club Hípico, a beautiful horseracing track in the older residential area of the city. You then proceed alongside the Parque O’Higgins and the Cousiño Palace, built between 1870 and 1878 for the wealthy Cousiño family. From here you head along the famous Alameda, Santiago’s colourful main avenue, to the heart of the city, seeing the Chilean University, San Francisco Church and the Santa Lucia Hill, site of Santiago’s foundation in 1541. Then you will visit the Plaza de Armas and the cathedral. Just around the corner, you will visit the Pre-Colombian Art Museum, one of the most complete collections of ceramics, ancient textiles and relics of American culture (Mondays closed). Very nearby is the famous Central Market, which is the main market for fish and seafood, an interesting building, dating back to the end of the 19th century: It is a metal construction, built in London and brought by ship to Chile. Afterwards, you continue the tour by crossing the Mapocho River to reach the bohemian Bellavista district on the way to the San Cristóbal Hill. From one of the hill’s view points, you will have the finest views of Santiago and the Andes Mountains. To round off the tour, you will pass through the modern residential areas of the city with their daring architecture and, finally, the Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com 21 Iceland Circumnavigation - A Journey To The “Land Of Fire And Ice” 13 Days - June 8 to 20, 2016 UP TO $200 US SHIPBOARD CREDIT* Depart CANADA for ICELAND Reykjavik, ICELAND Hotel Overnight Reykjavik, ICELAND Hotel Overnight Reykjavik, ICELAND Embark 8:00 pm Stykkisholmur, ICELAND 9:00 am 6:00 pm Isafjördur, ICELAND 9:00 am 5:00 pm Siglufjördur, ICELAND 8:00 am 1:00 pm Akureyri, ICELAND 6:00 pm Overnight Akureyri, ICELAND ~ 10:00 pm Flatey, ICELAND 6:00 am 4:00 pm Seydisfjordur, ICELAND 8:00 am 8:00 pm Höfn, ICELAND 6:00 am 8:00 pm Westman Islands, ICELAND 9:00 am 8:00 pm Reykjavik, ICELAND Disembark Ship Depart REYKJAVIK for CANADA OUTSIDE - Cat. P OUTSIDE - Cat. O* OUTSIDE - Cat. D SUITE - Cat. B $6,495 $7,395 $8,495 $12,195 BALCONY - Cat. A $13,995 SINGLE OCCUPANCY FARES: OUTSIDE - Cat. P OUTSIDE - Cat. O* $9,595 $11,195 Experience an unforgettable journey around the island of fire and ice. Iceland is a country of contrasts and the diverse natural landscape provides the possibility for unique experiences like nowhere else on earth. This cruise reveals both natural wonders and the Icelandic way of living. A range of exciting shore excursions brings the unique character of Iceland closer to you. DAY 1 - CANADA - REYKJAVIK, ICELAND Meet your fellow travel members at the VIP Premium Plaza Lounge prior to your departure from Toronto to Reykjavik with Iceland Air. DAY 2 - REYKJAVIK, ICELAND Upon arrival in Reykjavik international airport we will transfer to our hotel for a buffet breakfast. Later, we will take our city tour of the capital we will see the old town center, the Parliament, the Cathedral, The Hallgrimskirkja – entrance to the tower included. The harbour and the National Museum. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant, after lunch we will proceed to check-in into our hotel (please note standard check-in time is at 3 pm). Afternoon and evening is at your leisure. Hotel Holt is located in the city center, with shops, restaurants and cultural attractions within easy reach. Each room has satellite TV and a tea/coffee maker. Here you will find a home-away-from-home in our amiable atmosphere. HOTEL HOLT or similar - 2 Nights. (B, L) DAY 3 - REYKJAVIK, ICELAND Breakfast at the hotel. We travel along the south shore stopping at Gullfoss, which means “Golden Waterfall”. Next we arrive in the geothermal area of Haukadalur Valley. Here lies the now dormant Great Geysir but you will have the chance to see Strokkur which erupts every 7 minutes. Our last stop is Pingvellir National Park where the ancient parliament of the country was established in 930. We arrive back in Reykjavik late afternoon. Dinner will be served at our hotel. (B, L, D) ALL PRICES ARE IN CANADIAN DOLLARS AND INCLUDE: | Return airfare from TORONTO for departures from OTTAWA and MONTREAL please add $250 per person | 10 Day cruise aboard the m/s OCEAN DIAMOND with all your meals | Onboard lectures and presentations | 2 Nights first class hotel stay with meals while in Reykjavik, ICELAND | Many shore excursions and zodiac expeditions | All transfers in Iceland | All port and departure taxes (except for any local taxes) | All your shipboard gratuities on the cruise ship and while touring in Reykjavik | Hosted by Expo Cruises and Tours Staff* | Initial Deposit of $1,750 per person is required | Final payment is due by: FEBRUARY 21, 2016 | 22 Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com DAY 4 - REYKJAVIK, ICELAND Breakfast at the hotel followed by check out from our hotel. We visit the famous Blue Lagoon for an opportunity to bathe in the mineral-rich geothermal pools. Entrance and towel included with lunch at the Lava restaurant in the Blue Lagoon. For those who wish to stay in town instead may do so with lunch included. After lunch we will meet and board our cruise ship the Ocean Diamond which is docked in the old harbor located in the heart of town. The ship will depart the harbour at 8 p.m. (B, L, D) DAY 5 - STYKKISHOLMUR, ICELAND Stykkisholmur is the starting point for our explorations of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, which juts out from Iceland’s west coast. Like a long arm with a clenched fist at its tip, the peninsula is in many ways a microcosm of the whole island. Boarding our Zodiacs, passengers will explore Breidafjördur Bay, known for its colorful bird life, unique basalt rock formations and stunning scenery. You also have an opportunity to join an adventurous snowcap expedition to the extinct volcano glacier Snaefellsjökull with our experienced guides. The glacier is one of the most famous sites in Iceland primarily because it featured in the novel Journey to the Centre of the Earth by Jules Verne in which the entrance to the mysterious interior of our planet is located on Snaefellsjökull. (B, L, D) DAY 6 - ISAFJÖRDUR, ICELAND Today's destination is the idyllic town of Isafjördur, capital of the Westfjords region. This secluded peninsula is connected to the rest of Iceland by only a narrow strip of land. Even by Icelandic standards, the area can be described as unusually isolated. The landscape is characterized by mesas and dramatic fjords that cut deep into the landscape. Enjoy silence and nature while sea fishing or bird watching on the small island of Vigur, or by visiting the Dynjandi Waterfall, the highest cascade in this area. (B, L, D) DAY 7 - SIGLUFJÖRDUR, ICELAND The next morning we reach the city of Siglufjördur, once the center of the Icelandic herring industry. Learn all about the golden age of Icelandic herring fishing at the award-winning Herring Museum. At lunchtime, we take a Zodiac excursion to Hedinsfjördur, an uninhabited inlet surrounded by the majestic mountains of the Tröllaskagi Peninsula. In the early evening we arrive in Akureyri, capital of the north. Go for a stroll through the beautiful town and visit the botanical garden. All native Icelandic flowers are represented here - an impressive variety, considering the location is almost on the Arctic Circle. (B, L, D) DAY 8 - AKUREYRI, ICELAND Today the Ocean Diamond remains in the port of Akureyri while we explore Iceland’s north shore. Around 90 minutes by road to the east of the city is the Lake Myvatn region, a schizophrenic landscape where it’s said that “heaven and hell” clash. One side of the lake is characterized by the rugged remnants of volcanic activity, while on the other you find fertile plains with lush greenery and a varied bird life. You have a choice between several exciting shore excursions. One possibility is the “Diamond Circle” tour which includes a visit to the massive Dettisfoss waterfall, the colorful Myvatn area and the lush Asbyrgi canyon. (B, L, D) DAY 9 - FLATEY , ICELAND Early in the morning we anchor off the island of Flatey, where we will board the Zodiacs for a whale watching tour in Skjalfandi Bay. During the journey enjoy views of the often snow-capped peaks of the Vik Mountains and be on the lookout for whales and dolphins. In the sheltered bay you can find up to 15 different species of whale, as well as dolphins and birds. After our zodiac tour we will visit the island of Flatey, a bird paradise with over 30 different types of birds and enjoy lunch on the island. (B, L, D) DAY 10 - SEYDISFJÖRDUR, ICELAND For our exploration of the Eastfjords, the ship docks in the port of Seydisfjördur. Characteristic of the region are the picturesque fishing villages, steep slopes and panoramic sea views. Spot seals while horseback riding, paddle kayaks in the idyllic fjords, take a hike and look out for wild reindeer or explore the town of Egilsstadir by bike. (B, L, D) DAY 11 - HÖFN, ICELAND The former fishing village of Höfn is a good starting point to explore Vatnajökull glacier. Go on a four-wheel-drive Jeep tour to the foot of the glacier and take a boat trip in the Jökulsarlon glacier lagoon. Icebergs in all shapes and sizes are floating in the water - an unforgettable adventure on a body of water that didn’t exist at the beginning of the last century, as the lagoon was recently formed by the retreat of the Breidarmerkurjökull glacier tongue. (B, L, D) DAY 12 - VESTMANNAEYJAR (WESTMAN ISLANDS), ICELAND Located about five miles off the coast of southern Iceland, the island group Vestmannaeyjar were formed by submarine volcanic eruptions around 10,000 years ago. The youngest of the islands only emerged from the sea in 1963. We go ashore in the harbor of Heimaey, the only inhabited island of the group. Residents here live with the constant threat of another violent eruption. In 1973, the entire population had to be evacuated after Helgafell volcano suddenly exploded. In many places in Heimaey one still sees the houses half buried by lava and ash. We circumnavigate the island in our Zodiacs and stop at places of interest where you will get to know the local bird life, visit caves and, if lucky, spot whales. There is also the opportunity to play an extraordinary round of golf in a sunken volcanic crater. (B, L, D) DAY 13 - REYKJAVIK, ICELAND - CANADA In the morning we return to the port of Reykjavik. After breakfast it’s time to bid farewell to the Ocean Diamond. Enjoy your free time in the city center before we meet for our lunch at a local restaurant. Later after lunch we will transfer to the airport for our flight back to Canada. (B, L) Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com 23 Canadian High Arctic Expedition Passage From Greenland To The Top Of Baffin Island 23 Days - August 19 to September 10, 2016 Depart CANADA for DENMARK Copenhagen, DENMARK Copenhagen, DENMARK Kangerlussuaq, GREENLAND Sissimiut, GREENLAND Ilulissat, GREENLAND Uummannaq, GREENLAND Upernavik, GREENLAND Cruise Baffin Bay Pond Inlet, Nunavut, CANADA Milne Inlet, Nunavut, CANADA Navy Board Inlet, Nunavut, CANADA Prince Leopold Is., Nunavut, CANADA Beechey Island, Nunavut, CANADA Cruise Baffin Bay Gibbs Fjord, Nunavut, CANADA Sam Ford Fjord, Nunavut, CANADA Kangiqsualujjuaq, Quebec, CANADA Isabella Bay, Nunavut, CANADA Cape Dyer, Nunavut, CANADA Cumberland Peninsula, CANADA Lady Franklin Island, CANADA Monumental Island, CANADA Cruise Davis Strait Kangerlussuaq, GREENLAND Copenhagen, DENMARK Depart DENMARK for CANADA CCumberla mb and m a d Pe Penin eninsula in Iq q qaluit t Nunavut Cape Cap a Dyeeer CANADA Monumental on mee ttaa Is and onume an ssabe be lla Ba Bay Qu c Quebec Q 24 FARES FOR THE CRUISE/TOUR EXPEDITION PORTION ONLY ARE IN US DOLLARS IN SELECTED SUITE CATEGORY BASED ON DOUBLE OCCUPANCY ARE PER PERSON: Adventurer Class SOLD OUT Explorer Class SOLD OUT View Class $16,150 Vista Suite $16,950 Veranda Suite w/French Balcony $19,950 Expedition Suite $24,850 Medallion Suite w/Full Balcony $28,850 Silver Suite w/French Balcony $30,850 COST FOR THE AIRFARE, HOTEL STAYS WITH CITY TOUR, SOME MEALS & TRANSFERS IS $3,520 IN CANADIAN DOLLARS BASED ON DOUBLE OCCUPANCY SINGLE OCCUPANCY FARES ARE AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST VENETIAN SOCIETY MEMBERS - (SILVERSEA PAST CLIENTS) WILL RECEIVE AN ADDITIONAL 5% SAVINGS FROM THE CRUISE FARE ONLY (AIRFARE/HOTEL/TAXES EXCLUDED) GREENLAND Up Upernavik Uumannaq Ilulissat Sissimiut Sis u KANGERLUSSUAQ SUAQ UAQ Ladyy FFra rankkl klin Island nd Kangiqsualuujjuaq Ka u Beeechey h y Isla la land a Resolute l te Prince Leopold Leo eo ldd Isla Is and Is a d Navy vvyy Boa Boarrdd Inlet nle Milnee Inlett Pond M n Inlet nd Baf n Issslaand Baffin nd Gibbs Fjord SSam m Fo FFord ord Fjord or j Hotel Overnight Hotel Overnight Embark 5:30 pm 11:00 am 5:30 pm 10:00 am 7:00 pm 12 Noon 5:00 pm 8:30 am 5:00 pm ~ ~ 8:30 am 7:00 pm 5:30 am 10:00 am 3:30 pm 7:30 pm 10:30 am 11:30 am 4:30 pm 8:00 pm ~ ~ 12:30 pm 9:00 pm 5:30 am 7:30 pm 6:00 am 8:00 pm 5:30 am 4:00 pm 2:00 pm 7:30 pm 6:30 am 7:00 pm 6:00 am 11:00 am 1:00 pm 5:00 pm ~ ~ Disembark Ship Hotel Overnight ALL OUR PRICES INCLUDE: | Return airfare from TORONTO, OTTAWA, MONTREAL, HALIFAX, EDMONTON, CALGARY and VANCOUVER | 19 Day cruise aboard the m/v SILVER EXPLORER with SILVERSEA CRUISES with all your meals, inclusive of all alcoholic beverages and fine wines 24 hours a day | Onboard lectures, presentations and entertainment | 3 Nights first class hotel stay with breakfast in Copenhagen, DENMARK | Guided shore excursions and expeditions | Winter parka, yours to keep at the end of your expedition | All transfers airport/hotel/cruise ship and return | All port and departure taxes (except for any local taxes) | All your shipboard gratuities on the cruise ship and ashore | Hosted by Expo Cruises and Tours Staff | Initial Deposit of 25% of the total value of the cruise portion per person is required | Final Payment is due by: APRIL 21, 2016 | Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com Expedition Highlights: • Cruise into deep fjords with active glaciers and icebergs • Learn of Greenland’s native Inuit • Soak in a natural hot spring • Explore ancient Norse and Viking sites • Discover the cultures of remote Greenlandic towns • Identify seabirds and watch for whales • Visit the world’s smallest capital and fastest moving glacier • Meet a sledge dog team and their owners • Cruise alongside spectacular icebergs and see one of the world’s fastest moving glaciers • See the winter camp and final resting place of the Franklin Expedition • Look for polar bears, musk ox, caribou and bears, as well as lemings and Arctic hares. • Observe large colonies of nesting seabirds and hopefully sight snowy owls, rough-legged hawks, gyrfalcons, and Peregrine falcons • Search the seas for whales and the shore for walrus haul-outs • Hunt for million-year-old fossils • Hike across barren tundra landscapes Detailed information with a day-by-day itinerary along with activities at each port of call is available on our website or please call us for a printed copy of this package. EXPO CRUISES VALUED PAST CLIENTS WILL SAVE $500 US PER PERSON* Spirit of Adventure Literally every moment can take your breath away. A wandering albatross lifting his enormous wings to take flight. A brilliant quetzal darting from tree to tree. As one of only 132 guests, you will not just visit incredible destinations, but explore regions where tourists rarely venture. Every day is unlike any that has come before. Although proposed timings can be viewed on our website, many itineraries are unstructured by design. Following only a tentative schedule allows for moment-by-moment flexibility. Stay longer at sites of particular interest, or make slight detours whenever weather, nature or mere curiosity dictate. Outstanding Expedition Team You’ll be accompanied by a team of eminent naturalists, geologists, biologists, historians and ornithologists — experts whose education, field research and personal accomplishments make them ideal companions for wilderness adventure. From lectures and briefings to guided field studies, they offer great insight for a far richer experience of your destination. And as one of the limited number of guests, you'll find it easy to exchange ideas with these enthusiastic educators. ZExpo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com 25 Expedition Cruising Meets Luxury Retreat Overseas adventure travel is elevated to a new and luxurious dimension thanks to Silversea Expeditions. When not off exploring nature’s marvels shoreside or cruising through serene waters by Zodiac, Silversea Expedition® cruise guests are treated to an onboard lifestyle that is as relaxing as it is stimulating. Settle into a quiet nook onboard your luxury cruise ship with a complimentary cocktail to exchange ideas with one of the knowledgeable Expedition Team guides and lecturers. Or join in intellectual conversations with other discerning world-travellers enjoying their luxury cruise. Silversea’s expedition cruises draw some of the most interesting people you’ll ever meet, and with just 132 guests, it’s easy to get to know your expedition cruise shipmates in an atmosphere that is unregimented and informal. Silver Explorer offers this convivial, cosmopolitan ambience as well as many special amenities usually found only on larger ships, including a spacious library with an Internet café, boutique shopping, a fullservice spa, beauty salon, fitness centre, sauna, live evening entertainment and two top-deck whirlpools. Savour an overseas adventure travel experience that blends authentic expedition cruising with the casual elegance and sophisticated service of Silversea. Expedition Cruise Lifestyle - By Day Silversea Expedition cruise guests awaken each morning like excited children, eager to know of the day’s adventures and the plans the Expedition Team has in mind for their entertainment. Days usually begin by noting the progress the ship has made during the night and by observing the sky for clues to the ever-changing weather. After breakfast, you may take a walk on deck before heading ashore in Zodiacs, or attend an enriching lecture in The Theatre. During lunch, the expedition cruise ship often repositions to the day’s second landing site or offers an array of interesting diversions such as photography workshops, presentations on the changing environment or seminars on how to make the perfect martini. Leisurely Pursuits and Traditional Pastimes - Afternoon Tea* - Boutique Shopping - Browsing the Library - Destination Briefings - Expedition Recaps - Fitness Centre Gourmet Dining - Internet Café - Photography Workshops - Spa Treatments - Whirlpool Soaks - Wildlife Viewing Expedition Cruise Lifestyle By Night On Silversea's expedition cruises nights are spent in the company of friends – your fellow expedition guests and staff members. A journey that reveals nature and her wonders in such a personal way is bound to bring all on board together like family. The camaraderie is instant and the conversations flow easily from tales of the day’s sightings to stories of past travels. There is much to share and no better setting than the intimate venues onboard your luxury cruise. Begin with cocktails in Observation Lounge before heading to 26 The Restaurant to dine in style with lavish place settings and superb cuisine prepared to the exacting standards of Relais & Châteaux and Silversea’s executive chef. Following dinner, guests typically enjoy a nightcap in the Panorama Lounge while listening to the pianist and watching the changing colours of the nighttime sky. Personalized Service Breeze through embarkation then step aboard your luxury cruise and into the warm welcome of a white-gloved staff. A flute of champagne is exchanged for your hand luggage as you are escorted to your suite. This is just the beginning of your experience in a world where your every wish is anticipated and fulfilled with earnest precision. No detail is too small. No request insignificant. All Silversea expedition cruise crew and staff offer genuine hospitality and the utmost in professional service – a fine art that is at once highly attentive yet never obtrusive. The Leading Hotel Schools of the World provides training for staff members, and to ensure the incomparable level of personalized attention Silversea guests deserve and have come to expect, all Silversea luxury cruise ships maintain a crew to guest ratio of nearly one to one. Gear Shop Whether traveling to the Polar regions of the Arctic and Antarctica or any destination in between, guests booked on polar voyages, will receive a complimentary parka (yours to keep after your adventure) that will be ordered for you before your departure from Canada. Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com 27 “Pride Of Africa” The Edwardian Train Safari With Rovos Rail - The Most Luxurious Train In The World 24-day Luxury Train & Land Tour Adventure From Dar es Salaam To Cape Town January 27 - February 19, 2017 Depart CANADA for TANZANIA Dar es Salaam, TANZANIA Dar es Salaam, TANZANIA Dar es Salaam, TANZANIA Dar es Salaam, TANZANIA Selous Game Reserve, TANZANIA Makambako, TANZANIA Chisimba Falls, TANZANIA Pass through Serenje, ZAMBIA Pass through Lusaka, ZAMBIA Victoria Falls, ZIMBABWE Victoria Falls, ZIMBABWE Gabarone, BOTSWANA Madikwe, SOUTH AFRICA Madikwe, SOUTH AFRICA Pretoria, SOUTH AFRICA Kimberley, SOUTH AFRICA Matjiesfontein, SOUTH AFRICA Cape Town, SOUTH AFRICA Cape Town, SOUTH AFRICA Cape Town, SOUTH AFRICA Cape Town, SOUTH AFRICA Cape Town, SOUTH AFRICA Depart SOUTH AFRICA for CANADA Hotel Stay Hotel Stay Hotel Stay Board the Train Train Journey Train Journey Train Journey Train Journey Train Journey Hotel Stay Train Journey Train Journey Safari Lodge Stay Safari Lodge Stay Train Journey Train Journey Train Journey Disembark Hotel Stay Hotel Stay Hotel Stay Hotel Stay O UR 7 TH G ROUP D EPARTURE 28 Begin your African adventure with a 3-night hotel stay in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania located right on the Indian Ocean shores. Next day take a city tour with lunch. The following day enjoy a relaxing day by the pool or the beach or once there, you may take an optional full day excursion with lunch to the exotic spice island of Zanzibar. The next morning we embark the most luxurious train in the world, Rovos Rail's `Pride of Africa`, we will depart from Dar es Salaam on this epic safari through Africa travelling a distance of 6,103 kilometers journey that will take 15 days. Guests will board at the Tazara Railway station the beautifully rebuilt Edwardian Train and travel in the footsteps of such illustrious adventurers as Livingstone, Speke, Stanley, Burton, Selous. Lord Delamere, Blixen and Finch-Hatten. This epic 15-day train journey travels through Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana and South Africa and is one of the most famous train journeys in the world. Starting in Tanzania, the train leaves the bustling station of Dar es Salaam and passes through the Selous Game Reserve – the largest on the continent and a vision of timeless Africa. Travel through the Rift Valley and witness spectacular scenery as the train negotiates the tunnels, switchbacks and viaducts of the escarpment. After passing the Tanzania/Zambia border – almost the midpoint between Africa’s two Great Rift Valley lakes – guests can enjoy a bush walk at Chisimba Falls before crossing the mighty Zambezi for an overnight stay at the colonial Victoria Falls Hotel. The train then travels through Botswana to the Madikwe Game Reserve for a two-night stay at a five-star lodge, then on to Pretoria, the capital city of South Africa. The journey will then take guests through the diamond-mining town of Kimberley and the historic little village of Matjiesfontein before this magnificent journey ends in Cape Town. End your African adventure with a 4-night stay at a luxurious 5-star Table Bay Hotel located right at the center of Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. Enjoy local sightseeing with cable ride to the Table Mountain, full day at the Cape Peninsula where the Indian Ocean meets the Atlantic Ocean and a full-day visit to the Cape Winelands with special meals and local wines. This is a trip of a lifetime, an authentic African adventure! Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com DOUBLE OCCUPANCY: PULLMAN SUITE DELUXE SUITE ROYAL SUITE SINGLE OCCUPANCY PULLMAN SUITE DELUXE SUITE $19,495 $23,495 $29,995 $24,995 $31,995 ALL PRICES ARE IN CANADIAN DOLLARS PER PERSON AND INCLUDE: Return airfare from TORONTO, OTTAWA and MONTREAL | 15-day train journey with off the train overnight excursions; 2-night stay at the Private Game Lodge, SOUTH AFRICA with safaris and 1-night stay in Victoria Falls, ZIMBABWE with all your meals | All your alcoholic beverages 24-hours a day while on board the train | 3-night first class hotel stay in Dar es Salaam, TANZANIA | 4-night first class stay in Cape Town, SOUTH AFRICA | Guided Tours as described in our day-by-day itinerary | All your gratuities for the train staff and local guides and drivers | All departure taxes | Hosted by Expo Cruises and Tours Staff | Initial Deposit of $2,500 per person is required at time of booking please note that is nonrefundable (which can be insured at time of your booking) | Second Non-Refundable deposit of 5,000 is due by MAY 18, 2016 | Final Payment is due by OCTOBER 26, 2016 | EXPO CRUISES VALUED PAST CLIENTS WILL SAVE $500 PER PERSON* PLUS ADDITIONAL SAVINGS OF 3% WILL APPLY TO EVERYONE IF PAYING BY CHEQUE - THAT’S SAVINGS OF UP TO $900 PER PERSON DAY 1 - DEPART CANADA Meet your tour host and fellow group members at Toronto Airport. Depart on a transatlantic flight with KLM* via Amsterdam to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. (In-flight Meals) DAY 2 - DAR ES SALAAM, TANZANIA Upon arrival late evening in Dar es Salaam, followed by local clear customs, transfer to your hotel for your 3 night stay. Located in the most affluent area of Dar es Salaam, we’re within walking distance of Slipway Arts and Crafts Center and Banks also close to restaurants, shops and clubs. The bright, modern design of a hotel that offers spacious common areas and beautiful views of the ocean. Unwind in a contemporary designed guest rooms. Offering terrace and bay views, our rooms include a mini-refrigerator, complimentary high-speed internet access, and a 32-inch LCD HD TV with cable. Enjoy Indian Ocean views while sipping freshly brewed coffee, stay at this beachfront location, just minutes away from snorkeling, fishing, diving and golfing activities. DOUBLETREE BY HILTON HOTEL or similar - 3 Nights. (In-flight Meals) DAY 3 - DAR ES SALAAM, TANZANIA Breakfast will be served at the hotel. Then proceed on a half day Dar es Salaam city guided tour visiting the city’s and highlights such as: Mnazi Moja Park, Mwenge Village museum, Tinga Tinga, State House and the National museum. Raised from the humble surroundings of a fishing village just over a century ago, Dar es Salaam, meaning "Heaven of Peace” blossomed into one of the great seaside capitals. We will enjoy lunch at the 29 Water Front Sunset Restaurant at the Slipway midway through the tour. Tonight we meet for our cocktail reception and a Welcome dinner served at the hotel. (B, L, D) DAY 4 - DAR ES SALAAM, TANZANIA Breakfast at the hotel. Today you will have a full day at your leisure. Or you may take an optional full-day excursion with lunch to the near by island of Zanzibar aka the “Spice Island”. Dinner will be served at the hotel. (B, D) DAY 5 - DAR ES SALAAM, TANZANIA After breakfast we will check out from the hotel. Private motorcoach will take us to the Tazara Railway station, where we will be met and greeted by the onboard staff of the train. At noon the train will depart Dar es Salaam. Guests may freshen up in their suites before joining other guests in the midway Lounge car or the Observation carriage at the rear of the train for cocktails. 1:00 pm Lunch will be served in the dining cars. 7:30 pm Dinner will be served in the dining cars. All meals and alcoholic beverages and wines whilst on board the train are included. (B, L, D) DAY 6 - SELOUS GAME RESERVE, TANZANIA 7:00 am Breakfast will be served in the dining cars until 10:00 am. Followed by Game viewing at the Selous Game Reserve. 1:00 pm Lunch will be served in the dining cars. During the late afternoon, the train will pass through the Selous Game Reserve, the largest in Africa. Near Kisaki station some southern Masai may be seen with their characteristic clothes. 7:30 pm Dinner will be served in the dining cars. (B, L, D) DAY 7 - TRAIN JOURNEY 7:00 am Breakfast will be served in the dining cars until 10:00 am. 12:20 pm. A lecture will be given during the course of the morning. Arrive at Makambako. 1:00 pm Lunch will be served in the dining cars. Another lecture will be given during the course of the afternoon. 7:30 pm Dinner is served in the dining cars. (B, L, D) DAY 8 - TRAIN JOURNEY 6:00 am Tanzanian Border formalities in Tunduma. Please ensure that the train manager is in possession of your passports and completed forms. 7:00 am Breakfast will be served in the dining cars until 10:00 am. Arrive in Nakonde for Zambian border formalities. 1:00 pm Lunch will be served in the dining cars. 2:30 pm Disembark the train at Kasama for an afternoon excursion to Chisimba Falls. Please note that comfortable clothing and walking shoes, suntan lotion and hats are strongly recommended. 6:00 pm Depart Kasama. 7:30 pm Dinner will be served in the dining cars. (B, L, D) DAY 9 - TRAIN JOURNEY 7:00 am Breakfast served in the dining cars until 10:00 am. A lecture will be given in the morning. 1:00 pm Lunch served in the dining cars. Another lecture will be given during the course of the afternoon. 7:30 pm 30 Dinner will be served in the dining cars. (B, L, D) DAY 10 - TRAIN JOURNEY 7:00 am Breakfast will be served in the dining cars until 10:00 am. Train stationary at Lusaka Station until 8:00 am. A lecture will be given during the course of the morning. The train passes through Kafue. 1:00 pm Lunch is served in the dining cars. A lecture will be given during the course of the afternoon. 7:30 pm Dinner is served in the dining cars. Victoria Falls - It would be a good idea if you familiarize yourself with the list of activities available at Victoria Falls. The following activities are for your own account and may be arranged before hand on the train and re payable in US funds by cash. 1) Tour of the Falls, 2) Elephant Back Safaris, 3) A Walk with the Lions, 4) Morning Round of Golf, 5) Zip-Lining or Bungi-jumping, 6) Helicopter Flight over the Falls. (B, L, D) DAY 11 - VICTORIA FALLS, ZIMBABWE 9:00 am Arrive in Livingstone for Zambian border formalities. Arrive at the Zimbabwe border for passport formalities. Please ensure that you have obtained your passport from the Train Manager. 10:00 am Arrival at Victoria Falls. Disembark from the train at Victoria Falls station with your overnight bag and assemble on the platform before walking down to the elegant and colonial style Victoria Falls Hotel to register. Your possessions will be safe in your suites. Please ensure that your passports are in your possession, as you will need them to change money or cross the border into Zambia. 12:00 pm Lunch and dinner today and breakfast and lunch tomorrow are taken in either the Jungle Junction. These meals are included in the overall journey price. All alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages consumed off the train are for your own account. Any meals taken in other venues are also for your own account. At 4:00 pm please be ready in the hotel foyer for the bus to take you to the Sunset Cruise on the Zambezi River. Light snacks and drinks are included in your cruise. 7:30 pm Enjoy traditional dances at the Jungle Junction prior to dinner. Dinner will be available at the buffet. Seating will be at tables reserved for Rovos Rail guests. Victoria Falls Hotel, populary known as "The Grand Old Lady of the Falls", is a luxurious 5-Star Hotel on a World Heritage site overlooking the magnificent Victoria Falls, one of the natural wonders of the world. Established in 1904, and recently redecorated. This gracious colonial style hotel is set in the lush tropical gardens and epitomizes the romance of grand travel, offering total relaxation. THE VICTORIA FALLS HOTEL or similar - 1 Night. (B, L, D) DAY 12 - VICTORIA FALLS, ZIMBABWE Buffet breakfast at the Victoria Falls hotel. Day at leisure in the Victoria Falls. Participate in the activities that you have selected while at the Victoria Falls. Lunch today may be enjoyed in either the Jungle Junction or the Stanley Room. These meals are included in the overall journey price. All alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages consumed off the Train are for Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com your own account. Any meals taken in other venues are also for your own account. 4:00 pm Meet on the Station platform. Please hand your passport to the Train Manager for border formalities with Zimbabwe and South Africa. 5:00 pm Depart Victoria Falls. 7:30 pm Dinner is served. (B, L, D) DAY 13 - TRAIN JOURNEY 7:00 am Breakfast will be served in the dining cars until 10:00 am. Bypass Bulawayo. 8:00 am Arrive at Plumtree for Zimbabwe border formalities. 11:20 am Continue to Tshesebe for Botswana border formalities. A lecture will Please consult your Lecture Sheet for times and venue. 1:00 pm Lunch is served in the dining cars. 6:20 pm Arrive in Francistown. Depart 7:15 pm. 7:30 pm During dinner the Train Manager will inform you about the game lodge visit planned for the following two days. (B, L, D) DAY 14 - MADIKWE PRIVATE RESERVE, SOUTH AFRICA 7:00 am Breakfast will be served in the dining cars until 10:00 am. Please pack a small overnight bag. Tog bags have been placed in your suite for your convenience for your two night stay at the game lodge. Comfortable clothes and shoes for hot days and cool evenings are essential. Sun tan lotion and hats are strongly recommended. It can get very cold during the game drives so please take along warm clothing. Your belongings will be safe inside your suites under the guard of the train staff. Upon arrival at Gabarone, Botswana guests are transferred by coach to Madikwe Game Reserve for a two night stay TAU Game Lodge. Please note Botswana/South Africa border formalities will take place en route. 1:00 pm Lunch served at the lodge. Please note that beverages, phone calls and laundry are for your own account. Bottled water and a limited wine selection will be available during Lunch and Dinner with the compliments of Rovos Rail. 4:00 pm Meet for afternoon Game Drive. 8:00 pm Dinner at the lodge. Tau is a South African luxury safari lodge situated on the far northern border of South Africa, in malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve, the 4th largest game reserve in the country. 27 major species of game roam this South African nature reserve, making Tau Game Lodge the ideal place for a safari holiday, offering Big 5 game safaris and bird-watching safaris. Privately owned Tau Game Lodge, situated in the North West Province, can accommodate up to 60 people and offers an ideal South African conference venue as well as an idyllic wedding venue overlooking a natural waterhole. Enjoy an authentic South African safari vacation in the midst of natural wildlife, complete with great game viewing and luxury private facilities at our South Africa luxury safari game lodge. TAU GAME LODGE or similar - 2 Nights. (B, L, D) DAY 15 - MADIKWE PRIVATE RESERVE, SOUTH AFRICA 6:00 am Early morning game drive. 9:30 am Breakfast at the lodge. Day at leisure. 1:00 pm Lunch at the lodge. 4:00 pm Afternoon game drive. 8:00 Pm Dinner at the lodge. (B, L, D) DAY 16 - MADIKWE PRIVATE RESERVE, SOUTH AFRICA 6:00 am Early morning game drive. 9:30 am Breakfast at the lodge. 11:00 am Depart the lodge and transfer to the train at Zeerust. 12:00 pm Depart for Pretoria. 1:00 pm Lunch is served in the dining cars. 7:30 pm Dinner will be served in the dining cars. (B, L, D) DAY 17 - PRETORIA, SOUTH AFRICA 7:00 am Breakfast is served in the dining cars until 10:00 am. 8:40 am Arrive in Centurion where one or two of our Rovos locomotives will collect us for the leg into Capital Park. 10:00 am Arrive at Capital Park Station, Pretoria. All passengers please disembark for your Pretoria City Tour and lunch. 2:15 pm Enjoy a walking tour of Capital Park Station and Locomotive Sheds. 3:00 pm Depart Pretoria for Cape Town. 7:30 pm Dinner is served in the dining cars. (B, L, D) DAY 18 - KIMBERLEY, SOUTH AFRICA 7:00 am Breakfast is served in the dining cars until 9:45 am. Ten minutes before arriving in Kimberley there is a shallow lake on the right hand side facing forward. On most occasions there are spectacular flocks of Flamingos (approx. 23,000). 9:45 am Arrive in Kimberley. Guests disembark and proceed by coach for a tour of the city and the ‘Big Hole‘ and the Mine Museum. 12:30 pm Depart Kimberley. 1:00 pm Lunch is served in the dining cars. 7:30 pm Dinner will be served in the dining cars. (B, L, D) DAY 19 - CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA 7:00 am Breakfast will be served in the dining cars until 10:00 am. There is an opportunity to disembark the Train at Whitehill siding and walk or jog the 5 kilometers into Matjiesfontein. The Train Manager or a member of staff will accompany you. Comfortable walking or running shoes are essential. 8:25 am The train arrives at Matjiesfontein where you will have a chance to stroll through this historic settlement. Of special interest is the museum on the platform and a collection of historic cars and railway carriages to the right of the Hotel. 11:00 am We depart Matjiesfontein passing through Tweedside and Touws River. At 12:00 pm we reach the first of four tunnels which take us through the Hex River Pass. The second tunnel is 13.5 kms long so please be careful if you are walking through the train. If you are in your suite you may wish to turn on a light. 1:00 pm Lunch will be served as we pass through the Hex River Valley and the town of Worcester. 6:00 pm Arrival at Platform 24 Cape Town Station where our Edwardian Safari journey ends. Disembark after the joyful Edwardian journey at Cape Town Railway Station. Meet and greet service by our representative and assistance with luggage transfer to the awaiting motor coach. Transfer to the Table Bay Hotel located in the magnificent Victoria and Alfred waterfront area. Check-in for a four night stay. The Table Bay Hotel in Cape Town is a 5 star, exceptionally excellent hotel with magnificent surroundings. It has a maritime flavour that extends to each of the exclusively designed rooms that are welcoming and inviting, representing the epitome of luxury and supreme comfort. During the day Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com 31 the cool Atlantic Ocean breeze eases the heat of Africa’s mother city: Cape Town. Cosmopolitan, gracious and relaxed The Table Bay is the sum of all that is good about its home town. At dusk the hum of V&A waterfront’s restaurants, bars and clubs beckon you from your luxurious room. Accommodation is crafted to be at once spacious and luxurious. Crisp linen sheets, beautifully appointed en-suite bathrooms and the latest telephonic and broadband technology allow you to escape into serenity and simultaneously stay in touch with the outside world. This hotel is a member of the Leading Hotels of the World. Time to freshen up, prior to our dinner which it will be served at the hotel. THE TABLE BAY HOTEL or similar - 4 Nights. (B, L, D) DAY 20 - CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA This morning and every morning you will enjoy one of the most extravagant buffet breakfasts you have ever seen in your travels. After breakfast you will meet our guide and walk over to the Mandela Gateway where you will board the ferry to Robben Island. Depart on a scheduled half hour boat trip across Table Bay to Robben Island. On arrival you will be met by a guide – an ex-political prisoner. You will be taken on a 45-minute bus ride with a guide providing commentary. Stop and visit the infamous Maximum Security Prison as well as the Murray's Bay Harbour precinct works with the memories of these experiences and with the history of attractions, such as the Muslim shrine, or kramat, and the Museum Shop. forced removals more generally. Cape Castle - Built by the Dutch in 1666 For nearly 400 years, Robben Island, 12 kilometres from Cape Town, was a after arrival, the Castle was erected as a 5 pointed star on the foreshore of place of banishment, exile, isolation and imprisonment. It was here that Cape Town. I t is today surrounded by a variety of other monuments and rulers sent those they regarded as political troublemakers, social outcasts places of historical interest. The Castle of Good Hope is the oldest surviving and the unwanted of society. During the apartheid years Robben Island building in South Africa. Built between 1666 and 1679, this pentagonal became internationally known for its institutional brutality. The duty of fortification replaced a small clay and timber fort built by Commander Jan those who ran the Island and its prison was to isolate opponents of van Riebeeck in 1652 upon establishing a maritime replenishment station apartheid and to crush their morale. Some freedom fighters spent more art the Cape of Good Hope for the Dutch East India Company, better than a quarter of a century in prison for their beliefs. Lunch - Returning known as the VOC (Verenigde Oos-Indische Compagnie). The Cape of back from Robben Island you will enjoy lunch at the Quay Four Restaurant Good Hope houses the regional headquarters of the South African Army in in the V&A Waterfront before departing on the afternoon sightseeing. Half the Western Cape, the famous William Fehr Collection of historic artworks, Day Cape Town City Tour and Table Mountain - Highlights of this tour the Castle Military Museum and ceremonial facilities for traditional Cape includes the District Six Museum, Cape Castle and Table Mountain Regiments. Table Mountain - Since the first person laid eyes on Table (Weather permitting). District Six Museum - District 6 was named the Mountain, it has exerted its powerful and charismatic pull, enchanting and Sixth Municipal District of Cape Town in 1867. Originally established as a drawing any and all who fall under its spell. The best views of Cape Town mixed community of freed slaves, merchants, artisans, labourers and immi- are seen from the top of Table Mountain. The Cableway summit is under grants, District Six was a vibrant centre with close links to the city and the 10 minutes and the cable car’s rotating floor ensures that all passengers port. By the beginning of the twentieth century, however, the history of have an aerial view of the city. Table Mountain is a sandstone plateau removals and marginalisation had begun. The first to be 'resettled' were rising up above the Cape Flats. The top is approximately 3km wide, and at black South Africans, forcibly displaced from the District in 1901. As the its highest point, Maclears Beacon, rises to 1085m. Over the centuries it more prosperous moved away to the suburbs, the area became the has become one of South Africa's most famous landmarks. The steep cliffs neglected ward of Cape Town. In 1966, it was declared a white area under and rocky outcrops of the mountain play home to a number of plants and the Group areas Act of 1950, and by 1982, the life of the community was animals. The mountain is home to approximately 1470 species of plants; over. 60 000 people were forcibly removed to barren outlying areas aptly more than the entire British Isles! Complimenting this vast array of flora is known as the Cape Flats, and their houses in District Six were flattened by a fauna, some, like the Table Mountain Ghost Frog, being found in no other bulldozers. The District Six Museum, established in December 1994, place in the world. Tonight dinner will be at the hotel. (B, L, D) DAY 21 - CAPE PENINSULA, SOUTH AFRICA After breakfast, we depart on a full day excursion visiting the famous Cape Peninsula. We will travel via the 12 Apostles and Hout Bay, as well as Chapmans Peak (dependant on the road being open) – one of the region’s most dramatic mountain drives offering amazing panoramic views over the city and environs. Chapmans Peak Drive: Chapman’s Peak Drive winds its way between Noordhoek and Hout Bay on the Atlantic Coast, at the south-western tip of South Africa. It is one of the most spectacular marine drives anywhere in the world. The 9km route, with its 114 curves, skirts the rocky coastline of Chapman's Peak, the 593m high southerly extension of Constantia Berg. The drive offers stunning 180° views over the ocean and mountains with Hout Bay in the distance. Cape Point: Continue to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, established in 1939 to protect 7750 ha of indigenous flora and fauna. Situated at the junction of two of earth's most contrasting water masses - the cold Benguela current on the West Coast and the warm Agulhas current on the East Coast, the Cape of Good Hope is popularly perceived as the meeting point of the Atlantic and the Indian Oceans. Guests will take the funicular to the vantage point from where they will be able to witness the “meeting of the 32 Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com two oceans”. Boulders Beach: Thereafter travel through the historic naval base of Simon's Town where we visit a colony of African Jackass Penguins in their natural environment at Boulders Beach. It is a popular stop because of a colony of African Penguins which settled here in 1982. Although set in the midst of a residential area, it is one of the few sites where this vulnerable bird can be observed at close range, wandering freely in a protected natural environment. We will enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants in the Simons Town area. Following our full day excursion we return to the hotel early in the evening. Balance of the day is to relax or explore Cape Town’s waterfront on your own. (B, L) DAY 22 - CAPE WINELANDS, SOUTH AFRICA Following a leisurely breakfast, depart for a full day Winelands guided tour. Depart on a scenic and historic drive through the local wine regions in Cape Town: Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Paarl. The day will also include stopping at a famous wine estate to enjoy 1 sample of the local wines produced in South Africa and time to explore Stellenbosch on your own with our guide. Stellenbosch - 45 minutes from Cape Town city centre, a warm welcome awaits you, the visitor, to the Stellenbosch Wine Route - the first in South Africa - founded in 1971. Stellenbosch consists of tree lined streets and historical architecture. Guests can explore the popular Dorp Street and Oom Samie se Winkel. Franschhoek -The DAY 24 - AMSTERDAM - CANADA Upon arrival in Amsterdam you will connect with another flight bound for Canada, arriving early afternoon. (In-flight Meals) “Hamba Kahle Uphinde Ubuye” PLEASE NOTE: All itineraries are “provisional and may be changed due to logistical practicalities”. All times are approximate and can not be guaranteed and are subject to change due to schedules of the train, flights, motorcoaches and local conditions. At time of print all Canadian citizens require entry visa for Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after your tour ends and you must have at least 4-6 blank pages in your passport. All information will be provided to everyone after the final payments are made. Additionally, everyone is required to have the Yellow Fever vaccination prior to departure from Canada. Expo Cruises & Tours reserves the right to change hotels and/or lodges when necessary. Your final train itinerary will be provided in your suite aboard the train. Air and hotel travel documents will be sent out to everyone about 2-3 weeks prior to your departure from Canada. Gourmet Capital, surrounded by majestic mountains culminating in an awe-inspiring pass, provides added value to the food and wine experience. Visit the Huguenot museum. Paarl - Only 56km from Cape Town, the "Pearl of the Cape" lies nestled in the Berg River Valley, guarded by the huge granite rocks from which it gets its name. It is well known for its Wine, cuisine, culture and is home of the Afrikaans language. We enjoy a picnic lunch at the Boschendal Wine estate after the outdoor wine tasting (weather permitting). After lunch guest have time at leisure in Stellenbosch to explore on their own to experience the shops and architecture before returning to the hotel after their leisure time in Stellenbosch. Tonight, we have our Farewell dinner at the “GOLD” Restaurant. A farewell to the Mother City culminates in a fun-filled dinner tonight at the vibrant, eclectic Pan-African Gold Restaurant, a befitting experience to our tour. (B, L, D) DAY 23 - CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA - CANADA After breakfast guests are to check out of their hotel at 11 am and settle all personal accounts. You can store your luggage with the hotel concierge. Free time to do your last minute shopping. Late lunch will be served at a local restaurant. Early evening around 7:30 pm you will be transferred from our hotel to Cape Town International Airport for your onward flight back to Canada via Amsterdam. (B, L, In-flight Meals) Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com EXPO CRUISES SPECIAL TOUCH... Includes One Glass of Wine or Beer with Every Lunch and Two Glasses of Wine or Beer with Every Dinner on Our Tour 33 Namibia “The Jewel Of Africa“ & South Africa Aboard The Rovos Rail The Most Luxurious Train In The World 22-day Luxury Train & Land Tour Adventure Travel by Train from Pretoria, South Africa via the Kalahari Desert to Swakopmund, Namibia March 30 - April 20, 2017 Depart CANADA for SOUTH AFRICA Johannesburg, SOUTH AFRICA Hotel Stay Johannesburg, SOUTH AFRICA Hotel Stay Johannesburg, SOUTH AFRICA Hotel Stay Madikwe, SOUTH AFRICA Safari Lodge Stay Madikwe, SOUTH AFRICA Safari Lodge Stay Madikwe, SOUTH AFRICA Safari Lodge Stay Pretoria, SOUTH AFRICA Board the Train Kimberley, SOUTH AFRICA Train Journey Upington, SOUTH AFRICA Train Journey Nakop, NAMIBIA Train Journey Fish River Canyon, NAMIBIA Train Journey Windhoek, NAMIBIA Train Journey Sossusvlei, NAMIBIA Safari Lodge Stay Windhoek, NAMIBIA Train Journey Etosha, NAMIBIA Safari Lodge Stay Tsumeb, NAMIBIA Train Journey Swakopmund, NAMIBIA Disembark Train Swakopmund, NAMIBIA Hotel Stay Swakopmund, NAMIBIA Hotel Stay Cape Town, SOUTH AFRICA Hotel Stay Cape Town, SOUTH AFRICA Hotel Stay Cape Town, SOUTH AFRICA Hotel Stay Depart CAPE TOWN for CANADA . . Madikwe Private Reserve . . . DOUBLE OCCUPANCY: PULLMAN SUITE $14,995 DELUXE SUITE $17,495 ROYAL SUITE $19,995 SINGLE OCCUPANCY PULLMAN SUITE $19,495 DELUXE SUITE $23,495 ALL PRICES ARE IN CANADIAN DOLLARS AND INCLUDE: Return airfare from TORONTO, OTTAWA and MONTREAL | 3 Nights first class hotel stay in Sandton/Johannesburg | 3 Nights first class lodge stay in Madikwe Private Game Reserve | 2 Nights first class hotel stay in Swakopmund, Namibia | 3 Nights first class hotel stay in Cape Town | 9 Day ROVOS RAIL Journey Package inclusive of all your accommodations, meals and sightseeing | 1 Night stay at the luxury lodge in SOSSUSVLEI | 1 Night stay at the ETOSHA National Park | All meals and alcoholic beverages and wines whilst on board the train | Guided Tours as described in our day-by-day itinerary | All your tipping for your train staff, local guides and drivers | All your transfers | All departure taxes (except for any local taxes) | Hosted by Expo Cruises and Tours Staff | Initial deposit of $2,500 per person is required (please note that $1,500 is non-refundable, which can be insured at time of your booking) | Second Non-Refundable deposit of $2,500 is due JUNE 23, 2016 | Final Payment is due by: DECEMBER 14, 2016 | EXPO CRUISES VALUED PAST CLIENTS WILL SAVE $500 PER PERSON* PLUS ADDITIONAL SAVINGS OF 3% WILL APPLY TO EVERYONE IF PAYING BY CHEQUE - THAT’S SAVINGS OF UP TO $675 PER PERSON 34 Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com In South Western Africa lies a land of compelling fascination, a land for those who worship at the shrine of Africa at its most resplendent, but also at its most unconventional. This is Namibia. Namibia is often described as “the Land God made in anger” rugged, fierce and unforgiving. Nature has been brutal and unrelenting. But as in all things God made, this cauldron of heat and unforgiving forces has created landscapes that are paralleled only in their beauty by the most exquisite diamonds that are found here. Namibia is a daytime destination. Each day brings more moments that will be forever treasured. The expanse of the country will thrill your senses, invigorate the soul, but tire the body. And as night replaces day, surrender to the achy physical pleasure that only complete satisfaction can bring. Some things cannot be explained; they must be experienced to be understood. DAY 1 - DEPART CANADA Meet your tour host and fellow group members at Toronto’s airport. Depart on a flight to Johannesburg, South Africa. (In-flight Meals) DAY 2 - JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA Welcome to “Joburg” - the heartbeat of the country. It's the economic and cultural centre of South Africa, where people work hard and play harder. On arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel in Johannesburg where you will check in for a three-night stay at the Sandton Sun. Elegant and legendary, the Sandton Sun offers guests a distinguished and memorable stay. Linked to the Sandton Convention Centre and the Sandton City Shopping Centre, this hotel combines business services, contemporary dining and fashionable shopping, appealing to both leisure and business travellers. The Sandton Sun’s illustrious history is enhanced by great staff, seamless service and world class facilities, including a luxurious spa and beautifully appointed dining venues. The accommodation offers the ultimate in creature comforts, emphasized by contemporary African style. SANDTON SUN HOTEL or similar - 3 Nights. (In-flight Meals) DAY 3 - SOWETO, SOUTH AFRICA After breakfast you will be met by our local guide from the hotel and taken on a half-day sightseeing tour of the township of Soweto. Soweto is one of the most famous cities in the world. It played a very important role in the struggle against apartheid, which eventually led to our new democracy. The peaceful transition is regarded as one of the greatest achievements of humankind in the 20th century! Meet the ingenuitive, vibrant and warm residents. Highlights include: a fascinating glimpse of bustling neighbourhood life; two Nobel Prize winners previous residences; the Hector Peterson memorial; Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital and various community development projects. Then you will tour with a drive through Vilakazi Street, which is the only street in the world where two Nobel Prize winners lived: Nelson Mandela & Desmond Tutu. You will have the opportunity to explore Nelson Mandela’s house, which is now a museum. Hector Peterson Museum - In the neighbouring suburb of Orlando West, you will find the Hector Peterson Memorial. Here you can spend some time wandering through the museum, learning about the student uprising of 1976. Visit the fascinating museum, which is a state of the art multi media centre depicting scenes leading up to the student uprising of 1976 and the eventual transition to democracy in South Africa. Lunch will be enjoyed en route at Sakhumzi Restaurant. Sakhumzi Restaurant commenced operation in (November) 2001 by founder & owner Mr Sakhumzi Maqubela who is Soweto-born himself. The Restaurant is situated on the popular & historic Vilakazi Street, in Orlando West suburb of Soweto in Johannesburg. Vilakazi Street is host to original homes of Nelson Mandela and Bishop Tutu, not least it also hosts the site upon which Hector Peterson (the 13yr old) as 1st victim of Soweto Student Uprisings was shot dead by Apartheid police. As a result of the restaurant's location on Vilakazi Street which is at the epi-centre of tourism in Soweto/Johannesburg the restaurant caters primarily for foreign tourist market and blue-chip corporate (team-building) group bookings. This target market informs the nature of ambience & cuisine offered by the restaurant. The cuisine is African township whilst the ambience aspires to complement heritage tourism theme. After lunch you will move Into the Baragwanath area and stop at the huge taxi rank for a walk about. Soak up the sites, sounds and "smells" of Africa This Kilometer journey takes the train from the savannahs of the Highveld to the Atlantic Ocean in the west. The Pride of Africa departs from Pretoria for Kimberley, centre of one of the world’s most famous diamond rushes where there is an opportunity to visit the Big Hole and savour the 1870s atmosphere of the mine museum and village. The railway line then traverses the stark vistas of the arid Northern Cape into Namibia at Ariamsvlei. There is an excursion to the Fish River Canyon – second in size to the Grand Canyon and truly a spectacular sight. The train continues across the Kalahari Desert to Namibia’s capital, Windhoek – a lively, cosmopolitan city with a strong German flavour – for a short city tour. Guests then fly to the world-famous Sossusvlei, a stunning pan in the Namib Desert surrounded by enormous red sand dunes. After a night’s stay with desert drives and a bush dinner, guests rejoin the train in Windhoek and continue overnight to Tsumeb. A night is spent at the Mokuti Game Lodge on the eastern edge of the game-rich Etosha National Park. The journey then continues on to Swakopmund, a perfectly preserved 19th-century German Hansa town set between the dunes of the Namib desert and the roaring Atlantic Ocean – an unforgettable end to a remarkable journey. EXPO CRUISES SPECIAL TOUCH... Includes One Glass of Wine or Beer with Every Lunch and Two Glasses of Wine or Beer with Every Dinner on Our Tour Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com 35 at close quarters - informal open-air butcher shop, herbalists, barbers and market etc. After this one-of-a-kind cultural experience you will be transferred back to the hotel. You will have the remainder of the evening to relax and enjoy at leisure. You can use this time to do some shopping in Sandton City Shopping Centre, which is the shopping mall linked to your hotel. With over 300 leading retailers, this iconic destination boasts an ubundance of sophisticated and Afro-cosmopolitan experiences. Tonight we will have our Welcome dinner at one of the local restaurants situated in the heart of Sandton on the Nelson Mandela Square. (B, L, D) DAY 4 - PRETORIA, SOUTH AFRICA After breakfast you will enjoy a half-day city tour to Pretoria. Known informally as ‘Jacaranda City’, highlights of this half day tour include: the historic Voortrekker Monument, Church Square, the City Hall State Theatre / Opera House, the Union Buildings and the President’s office. The majestic Voortrekker Monument is situated in the northern part of South Africa in the Pretoria (Tshwane) region in a nature reserve. It is a unique Monument, which commemorates the Pioneer history of Southern Africa and the history of the Afrikaner and is situated in a beautiful setting. Today it is the most visited heritage site of its kind in Gauteng and one of the top ten cultural historical visitor attractions in the country. The Monument also manages the Erfenisstigting (Heritage Foundation) and various other monuments and cultural historical sites countrywide. You will enjoy lunch at the Blue Crane Restaurant in Pretoria. You will have the afternoon to enjoy at leisure. This will give you the opportunity to do some more shopping in Sandton City or relax next to the hotel swimming pool. Tonight we will meet our guide who will take us to the Moyo Melrose Arch for dinner this evening. (B, L, D) DAY 5 – JOHANNESBURG – MADIKWE PRIVATE RESERVE After breakfast check out and transfer to the lodge situated in the Madikwe Game Reserve and en route a stop will be made for our buffet style lunch at Kedar Country Hotel. We continue our drive after lunch. Upon arrival at the lodge you will proceed with check in formalities and enjoy a three-night stay. Tau Game Lodge is a South African luxury safari lodge situated on the far northern border of South Africa, in malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve, the 4th largest game reserve in the country. Twenty-seven major species of game roam this South African nature reserve, making Tau Game Lodge the ideal place for a safari holiday, offering Big 5 game and bird-watching safaris. Enjoy an authentic South African safari vacation in the midst of natural wildlife, complete with great game viewing and luxury private facilities. An afternoon game drive you will give you the opportunity to enjoy your first game drive. * Please note this activity is subject to arrival time at the lodge. Dinner will be served upon return from our first game drive at the lodge. TAU GAME LODGE or similar - 3 Nights. (B, L, D) DAY 6 & 7 - MADIKWE RESERVE, PRIVATE RESERVE Each day starts as dawn breaks over the African bushveld and you are 36 awakened up with coffee, tea & rusks served on the main deck overlooking the riverbed. Shortly after, you will depart in an open Land Rover with experienced Rangers and Trackers who will share their extensive knowledge of the bush with you. After an adventurous morning game drive, a breakfast is served back at the camp. The rest of the day is spent at your discretion for other activities that the lodge has to offer. A delicious lunch will be served around midday. This afternoon you will depart the lodge on an afternoon game drive which will extend into the evening to view seldom seen nocturnal species by torchlight. Upon returning to the lodge a buffet dinner will be served. (B, L, D) DAY 8 – MADIKWE PRIVATE RESERVE - TRAIN JOURNEY Breakfast at the lodge. Check out of your lodge and settle all personal accounts. Thereafter, you will be met and transferred from the lodge back to Pretoria with lunch along the way. Following our lunch we will transfer to the train station to embark the “Pride of Africa”. At 3:00 pm the Pride Of Africa departs Rovos Rail’s Station in Capital Park. Guests may freshen up in their suites before joining fellow travellers in the midway Lounge car or Observation carriage at the rear of the train. Dinner is served in the dining car at 7:30 pm. All meals and alcoholic beverages and wines whilst on board the train are included. (B, L, D) DAY 9 - TRAIN JOURNEY Breakfast is served in the dining cars from 7:00 am until 9:45 am. Ten minutes before arriving in Kimberley there is a shallow lake on the right hand side where, on most occasions, there are spectacular flocks of Flamingos. At 9:45 am arrive in Kimberley. Guests disembark and proceed by coach/combi for a tour of the city, the “Big Hole “and the Mine Museum. At 12:30 pm depart Kimberley. At 1:00 pm lunch is served in the dining car. Dinner is served in the dining car at 7:30 pm. (B, L, D) DAY 10 - TRAIN JOURNEY The train arrives in Upington. Breakfast is served in the dining car from 6:00 am until 8:00 am. Disembark the train for a two hour walking tour of Upington. Please wear non-slip walking shoes and comfortable clothes. It will be hot so sun tan lotion and hats are strongly recommended. Lunch is served in the dining car at 1:30 pm. Arrive in Nakop at 1:30 pm for border formalities. Dinner is served in the dining car at 7:30 pm. The train arrives in the Holoog siding at 11:00 pm. (B, L, D) DAY 11 - TRAIN JOURNEY Breakfast is served in the dining car from 6:00 am until 8:00 am. Disembark from the train at 8:00 am for an excursion to the Fish River Canyon. Please wear non-slip walking shoes and comfortable clothes for both walking tours. It will be hot so sun tan lotion and hats are strongly recommended. After returning to the train around 11:00 am we depart Holoog for Keetmanshoop. Lunch is served in the dining car at 1:00 pm. At 3:00 pm disembark the train for a two hour walking tour of Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com Keetmanshoop. Dinner is served at 7:30 pm. (B, L, D) DAY 12 - SOSSUSVLEI - LODGE STAY Breakfast is served in the dining car from 7:00 am until 9:00 am. The train arrives in Windhoek at 9:00 am. Visit the train museum followed by a city tour. At 11:00 am depart in a light aircraft for a 1 hour flight to Sossusvlei. Enjoy lunch, a desert drive and a bush dinner. Overnight in the lodge. Please pack a small overnight bag. Tog bags have been placed in your suite for your convenience. Comfortable clothes and shoes for hot days and cool evenings are essential. It can get coll during the game drives so please take along warm clothing. (B, L, D) DAY 13 - TRAIN JOURNEY At 6:00 am enjoy a desert excursion with breakfast in the Sossusvlei. At noon depart Sossusvlei for in a light aircraft for a 1 hour flight to Windhoek. Lunch is served in the dining car at 1:30 pm as the train departs Windhoek. Dinner is served in the dining car 7:30 pm. (B, L, D) DAY 14 - TRAIN JOURNEY Breakfast is served in the dining car from 7;00 am until 10:00am. Arrive in Tsumeb at 10:45 am. Disembark for coach transfer to Mokuti Lodge. Arrive at Mokuti Lodge at 12:45 pm for lunch, an afternoon game drive and overnight stay at the lodge. Please pack a small overnight bag. Tog bags have been placed in your suite for your convenience. Comfortable clothes and shoes for hot days and cool evenings are essential. Sun tan lotion and hats are strongly recommended. It can get very cold during the game drives so please take along warm clothing. Lunch is served in the dining area at the lodge at 1:00 pm. Afternoon game drive at 3:00 pm. Dinner will be at the lodge around 7:00 pm. (B, L, D) DAY 15 - ETOSHA - LODGE STAY At 6:00 am morning game-drive into Etosha Pan. At 11:30 am depart by coach from Mokuti Lodge and rejoin the train in Tsumeb. Lunch is served in the dining car at 1:00 pm while we depart from Tsumeb. (B, L, D) DAY 16 - SWAKOPMUND, NAMIBIA Breakfast is served in the dining car from 7:00 am until 10:00 am. Our train will arrive in Swakopmund at 12:30 pm. After we disembark the train will have lunch at a local restaurant followed by a guided sightseeing tour of Swakopmund town. Later we arrive at our hotel. Dinner will be at the hotel. Swakopmund is better known as Namibia’s playground, this idyllic town is wedged between the sweltering Namib Desert and cold Atlantic Ocean. This desert town is a rhapsody of adventure, fun, exploration and relaxation. Graced with many beautiful, old buildings in a colonial, Bavarian style, the best way to experience this small town is on foot. You can embrace the relaxed pace of this idyllic coastal town whilst enjoying coffee and freshly baked pastries in one of the many street café’s or bakeries. SWAKOPMUND HOTEL or similar - 2 Nights. (B, L, D) DAY 17 - SWAKOPMUND, NAMIBIA After breakfast, our day’s adventure takes us 30km from Swakopmund to the town of Walvis Bay, sandwiched between the dunes of the Namib Desert, the ocean and an extensive lagoon, Walvis Bay is Namibia’s major port, the centre of the country’ fishing industry and a rapidly developing tourist destination. The Walvis Bay lagoon takes pride of place as regard to scenic attractions in the Walvis Bay area. The tranquil stretch of water, it’s natural beauty accentuated by thousands of flamingos gathering at the rich feeding grounds. We will explore this area as well as a city tour before enjoying lunch at one of the restaurants in Walvis Bay. Afterwards we will be travelling back to Swakopmund, we have the rest of the afternoon to our disposal to experience this coastal town of Namibia on our own by foot. In the evening dinner is at the hotel. (B, L, D) DAY 18 - CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA After early breakfast at the hotel, we will transfer to Walvis Bay international airport to take a short flight to Cape Town, South Africa. Upon arrival in Cape Town we meet our local guide and transfer to the awaiting motor coach. We then proceed on a half day Cape Town City Tour and Table Mountain Guided Tour. We will visit the District 6 Museum, Cape Castle and Table Mountain (weather permitting). District 6 Museum was named after the Sixth Municipal District of Cape Town in 1867. Originally established as a mixed community or freed slaves, merchants, artisans, labourers and immigrants, District 6 was a vibrant centre with close links to the city and the port. By the beginning of the 20th century, however, the history of removals and marginalization had begun. The District 6 Museum was established in December 1994, works with the memories of the past years experiences and with the history of forced removals generally. Followed our lunch at a local restaurant we will visit the Table Mountain. The best views of Cape Town are seen from the top of Table Mountain. The Cableway summit is under 10 minutes and the cable car’s rotating floor ensures that all passengers have an aerial view of the city. The top is approximately 3km wide, and at its highest point, MacLear’s Beacon, rises to 1085m. The steep cliffs and rocky outcrops of the mountain play home to a number of plants and animals. The mountain is home to approximately 1470 species of plants; more than the entire British Isles! Complimenting this vast array of flora is a stunning range of fauna, some, like the Table Mountain Ghost Frog, being found in no other place in the world. After we will be transfered to the Table Bay Hotel located in the magnificent Victoria and Alfred waterfront area. Check-in for a three night stay. The Table Bay Hotel in Cape Town is a 5 star, exceptionally excellent hotel with magnificent surroundings. It has a maritime flavour that extends to each of the exclusively designed rooms that are welcoming and inviting, representing the epitome of luxury and supreme comfort. Between Robben Island and Table Mountain you’ll discover the famed Table Bay hotel. During the day the cool Atlantic Ocean breeze eases the Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com 37 heat of Africa’s mother city: Cape Town. Cosmopolitan, gracious and relaxed The Table Bay is the sum of all that is good about its home town. At dusk the hum of V&A waterfront’s restaurants, bars and clubs beckon you from your luxurious room. Accommodation is crafted to be at once spacious and luxurious. Crisp linen sheets, beautifully appointed en-suite bathrooms and the latest telephonic and broadband technology allow you to escape into serenity and simultaneously stay in touch with the outside world. This hotel is a member of the Leading Hotels of the World. Time to freshen up, prior to our dinner which it will be served at the hotel. THE TABLE BAY HOTEL or similar - 3 Nights. (B, L, D) DAY 19 - CAPE PENINSULA, SOUTH AFRICA After breakfast, we depart on a full day excursion visiting the famous Cape Peninsula. We will travel via the 12 Apostles and Hout Bay, as well as Chapmans Peak (dependant on the road being open) – one of the region’s most dramatic mountain drives offering amazing panoramic views over the city and environs. Chapmans Peak Drive: Chapman’s Peak Drive winds its way between Noordhoek and Hout Bay on the Atlantic Coast, at the south-western tip of South Africa. It is one of the most spectacular marine drives anywhere in the world. The 9km route, with its 114 curves, skirts the rocky coastline of Chapman's Peak, the 593m high southerly extension of Constantia Berg. The drive offers stunning 180° views over the ocean and mountains with Hout Bay in the distance. Cape Point: Continue to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, established in 1939 to protect 7750 ha of indigenous flora and fauna. Situated at the junction of two of earth's most contrasting water masses - the cold Benguela current on the West Coast and the warm Agulhas current on the East Coast, the Cape of Good Hope is popularly perceived as the meeting point of the Atlantic and the Indian Oceans. Guests will take the funicular to the vantage point from where they will be able to witness the “meeting of the two oceans”. Boulders Beach: Thereafter travel through the historic naval base of Simon's Town where we visit a colony of African Jackass Penguins in their natural environment at Boulders Beach. It is a popular stop because of a colony of African Penguins which settled here in 1982. Although set in the midst of a residential area, it is one of the few sites where this vulnerable bird can be observed at close range, wandering freely in a protected natural environment. We will enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants in the Simons Town area. Following our full day excursion we return to the hotel early in the evening. Balance of the day is to relax or explore Cape Town’s waterfront on your own. Tonight dinner will be at the hotel. (B, L, D) DAY 20 - CAPE WINELANDS, SOUTH AFRICA Following a leisurely breakfast, depart for a Full day Winelands guided tour. Depart on a scenic and historic drive through the local wine regions in Cape Town: Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Paarl. The day will also include stopping at a famous wine estate to enjoy 1 sample of the local wines produced in South Africa and time to explore Stellenbosch on your own. Stellenbosch - 45 minutes from Cape Town city centre, a warm welcome awaits you, the visitor, to the Stellenbosch Wine Route - the first in South Africa - founded in 1971. Stellenbosch consists of tree lined streets and historical architecture. Guests can explore the popular Dorp Street and Oom Samie se Winkel. Franschhoek, the Gourmet Capital, surrounded by majestic mountains culminating in an awe-inspiring pass, provides added value to the food and wine experience. Visit the Huguenot park. Paarl - Only 56km from Cape Town, the "Pearl of the Cape" lies nestled in the Berg River Valley, guarded by the huge granite rocks from which it gets its name. It is well known for its Wine, cuisine, culture and is home of the Afrikaans language. We enjoy lunch en-route at the D’Ouwe Werf Restaurant. Returning to the hotel late afternoon. Tonight, we have dinner at the “GOLD” Restaurant. A farewell to the Mother City culminates in a fun-filled dinner tonight at the vibrant, eclectic Pan-African Gold Restaurant, a befitting experience to our tour. (B, L, D) DAY 21 - CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA - CANADA After breakfast guests are to check out of their hotel at 11 am and settle all personal accounts. You can store your luggage with the hotel concierge. Free time to do your last minute shopping. Late lunch will be served at a local restaurant. Early evening around 7:30 pm you will be transferred from our hotel to Cape Town International Airport for your onward flight back to Canada via Amsterdam. (B, L, In-flight Meals) DAY 22 - AMSTERDAM - CANADA Upon arrival in Amsterdam you will connect with another flight bound for Canada. We arrive back in Canada in the afternoon. (In-Flight Meals) “Hamba Kahle Uphinde Ubuye” PLEASE NOTE: All itineraries are “provisional and may be changed due to logistical practicalities”. All times are approximate and can not be guaranteed and are subject to change due to schedules of the train, flights, motorcoaches and local conditions. At time of print all Canadian citizens require entry visa for Zambia if Victoria Falls option is taken. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after your tour ends and you must have at least 3-4 blank pages in your passport. All information will be provided to everyone after the final payments are made. Expo Cruises & Tours reserves the right to change hotels and/or lodges when necessary. Your final train itinerary will be provided in your suite aboard the train. Air & hotel travel documents will be sent out to everyone about 2-3 weeks prior to your departure from Canada. OPTIONAL EXTENTION - Extend your ROVOS RAIL train and land/tour adventure by visiting the great VICTORIA FALLS for a 2/3-night stay at the grand colonial luxury 5★ THE VICTORIA FALLS HOTEL. Very popular place with our guests! 38 Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com ROVOS RAIL - Experience the extravagant elegance of rail travel on the most luxurious train in the world. Rovos Rail's unique train safaris through the heart of Africa combine some of the most magnificent scenery with the glamour and excitement of the golden age of rail travel. Since its establishment in 1989, Rovos Rail has earned an international reputation for its truly world-class travel experiences. Step aboard the wood-panelled coaches - classics remodelled and refurbished to mint condition - and enjoy fine cuisine in five-star luxury as some of the most varied scenery imaginable unfolds beyond the windows. Recapture the romance and atmosphere of a bygone era, when privileged travellers experienced the magic and mystery of Africa in a relaxed and elegant fashion. Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com 39 Accommodations Available Onboard The Pride Of Africa PULLMAN SUITES - Measuring 7 sq. meters (76 sq. feet) are equipped with a comfortable sofa-seat during the day, with a conversion to double or twin bed for the evening. They also have an en suite bathroom with shower. They offer passengers the opportunity to travel in privacy, comfort and luxury. All are equipped with a writing surface and a personal safe for valuables. There is also a bar fridge filled with beverages of the passengers’ choice and room service is available 24 hours a day. These suites are recommended just for single travellers or a couple, not suitable to share with friends. Pullman Suite DELUXE SUITES - Measuring 11 sq. meters in size (118 sq. feet) also accommodate two passengers in a queen size bed and have a lounge area and en-suite bathroom with shower, hairdryer and shaver point. The very spacious suites offer passengers the opportunity to travel in privacy, comfort and luxury, with fittings and facilities that are of the highest standard. All are equipped with a writing surface and a personal safe for valuables. There is also a bar fridge filled with beverages of the passengers’ choice and room service is available 24 hours a day. ROYAL SUITES - Each of which take up half a carriage, are spacious and elegant, measuring 16 sq. meters in size (172 sq. feet). Each has its own private lounge area and full bathroom with Victorian bath and separate shower. The very spacious suites offer passengers the opportunity to travel in privacy, comfort and luxury, with fittings and facilities that are of the highest standard. All are equipped with a writing surface and a personal safe for valuables. There is also a bar fridge filled with beverages of the passengers’ choice and room service is available 24 hours a day. Deluxe Suite Royal Suite Aboard the train there will also be available a: Doctor, Hairdresser*, Historical Lecturer*, Gift Shop, Train Manager and other Personnel THE SUITES World Class Comfort and Style - The rebuilt sleeper coaches contain the most spacious train suites in the world, offering every modern convenience and comfort. The epitome of luxury, with handsome wood paneling and period Edwardian features, the air-conditioned suites accommodate two people offering the option of twin or spacious double beds. All are equipped with a writing surface and, for valuables, a personal safe. There is also a bar fridge filled with beverages of the passengers’ choice and room service is available 24 hours a day. In the en suite bathrooms original fittings combine with the modern technology of hot showers, hair dryers and shaver plugs. The Royal Suites, each of which take up half a carriage, are spacious and elegant, measuring 16 sq meters in size (172 sq ft). Each has its own private lounge area and full bathroom with Victorian bath and separate shower. The Deluxe suites (11 sq meters/118 sq feet) also accommodate two passengers in either twin or double beds and have a lounge area and en-suite bathroom with shower. A third level of accommodation, the Pullman suite is 7 square meters (76 sq ft) in size and while it includes the identical bathroom to that of the deluxe suites, the bedroom is smaller with a one up one down bunk for twin requirements or a double bed for couples. During the day this can be converted into a comfortable couch. 40 Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com About Your Onboard Stay & Amenities Aboard The Trains THE COACHES - A Superb Collection of Restored Coaches Rovos Rail operates two classic 20-coach, 72 berth trains as well as a third 13-coach, 42-berth Edwardian train which is available year round for charter. Each one of these carriages, from kitchen cars to sleeper coaches and guards vans, has its own story. A few dating back to 1911 were constructed in Europe and shipped to South Africa in the first half of the last century. Some carriages have carried royalty, while others have ended up serving as restaurants or lying derelict and forgotten on sidings for decades. These coaches have been collected from the far corners of the country and are now cherished members of the Rovos fleet of 75 carriages. The coaches have been painstakingly rebuilt and the use fine wood paneling, traditional furnishings and period décor has ensured an atmosphere of elegance and grandeur. Exquisite pillared dining cars are a signature of the Rovos Rail trains. Each one has a proud history and has been meticulously restored from a derelict state. For example Dining Car No 195 ‘ Shangani ‘, which was built in 1924, was found parked in a siding in Alberton near Johannesburg before its acquisition by Rohan Vos in 1986. Three of the magnificent teak pillars had been removed and these were faithfully crafted, restoring the Victorian atmosphere. Each of the trains has two 42-seater dining cars to accommodate the maximum complement of 72 passengers in total comfort at one sitting. Each train has a non-smoking Observation Car at the rear of the train, while the coach next to it contains a small smoking lounge. A unique feature of the Observation Cars is the enlarged windows and open-air balconies. At the centre of the train we have, when numbers dictate, a non-smoking Lounge Car, which houses the Gift Shop. CUISINE and SERVICE - Simple Elegant & Entertaining An enthusiastic team of chefs is responsible for overseeing the very important task of ensuring guests every need is catered for, while considerable thought and meticulous planning goes into making up the menus. Unlike many of the great trains of the world, travellers are on board the trains for several days at a time, requiring a much wider selection of meals. There's an accent on fresh local ingredients, and traditional dishes such as game are a specialty. Every morning there's a full breakfast with dishes cooked to order. A selection of cold meats, croissants, pastries, fresh fruit, yogurts, cereals and preserves make up a tempting breakfast buffet. For lunch and dinner there is a starter and a choice of fish, meat or vegetarian dishes, followed by a tempting dessert and are complemented by a selection of excellent South African wines. All meals are served in one sitting only in the charming Victorian atmosphere of the Dining Cars. Many of the passengers aboard the Pride of Africa enjoy the formality of fine china, crisp linen and silver, and dress accordingly. During the day dress is more casual, with cool, comfortable clothes and hats recommended for the excursions, especially in the game reserves where it can be very hot. The Observation Car seats 32 passengers and is positioned at the rear of the train. At the centre of the train we have, when numbers dictate, a non-smoking Lounge Car, which seats 26 passengers in comfort. In maintaining the spirit of travel of a bygone era, there are no radios or television sets onboard. Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com 41 Directory Of Services Aboard The Rovos Rail Trains Air-conditioning - The air conditioning unit in your suite is operated by a hand held remote control. Please ensure your host/ess demonstrates the operation of the unit. A setting of 22°C or less is required for cooling and 23°C or more for heating. This machine reverses cycle to change its function and this process will take a few minutes. You are best advised to use the automatic setting as per enclosed instruction. This will keep your suite at 22°C (75°F). When the generators at the end of the train are switched for servicing, there is a momentary break in power and this is sufficient to turn your machine off. Press the start button and the unit will continue on its last setting. Bar Fridges and Tea Drawers - There are bar fridges and tea drawers beneath the table in your suite. Please ask your host/ess to fill them with your preference if not already included. Bathrooms - Every suite has a bathroom en suite. The showers have a water-mixing tap; it is advisable to open to the cold-water side a little before the hot water when wanting to shower, as the hot water can be very hot. A complete amenity bag is available in your cupboard. Please ask your host/ess for any replacement amenities that might be required. Credit Cards and Currency - Although Rovos Rail prices are all inclusive it is recommended that passengers have a small amount of Rands for onboard or off-train purchases. We do accept all major credit cards. Dietary Requirements - We will do our best to cater for special dietary requirements such as vegetarians, vegans, diabetics etc., provided a detailed request has been made at the time of your reservation. If a special request has not been made, the chefs will endeavour to prepare suitable meals with the ingredients available on board. We regret however that we are unable to provide meals requiring strict religious observance in the preparation. Dress Code - During the day, the dress is casual and comfortable. More formal attire is worn in the evening on the “Pride of Africa”. Collar & tie is a minimum requirement for men, please. Dressing Gown -We provide a one-size-fits-all gown plus slippers for each guest. Electrical Current - The electricity on the train is as follows: 220V AC 50Hz. The plugs are 3 point round pronged wall plugs. International adaptors are available – please ask your host/ess. There are 2 pin 110V plugs built in to the hairdryer. Excursions - Please note that off-train excursions cannot be guaranteed and will only be undertaken if time and circumstances permit. We do our best to fulfil our obligations, but it goes without saying that with many locomotive changes and other logistical permutations it is not uncommon to be delayed in Africa. It is advisable you to wear a hat and sunglasses and to use a high SPF block when exposed to the sun. If you are going on a game drive please dress warmly for an early morning game drive and please be advised that as an evening drive progresses the weather can cool down considerably so please also ensure that you take warm clothing. Rain capes will be available if required. Gift Shop -There is a small gift shop on board and at our station premises at Capital Park in Pretoria. Due to the varying exchange rates, the use of credit 42 cards is preferred. We accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express and Diners Club. The shop is situated in the centre lounge car and is open between meals. The host/ess on duty has a basic first aid kit and personal essentials (toothbrushes, razors, etc.). He/she will also fulfil any administrative requirements and check your onward arrangements. Hairdryer - Plug in hairdryers, in addition to your bathroom unit, are available on board. Please ask your host/ess. Housekeeping - Your suite is cleaned daily and there is a nightly turn down service. Should you require extra fresh towels, amenities etc please contact your host/ess. If you wish to have your towels changed please place them in the shower basin. Ice - Two small ice trays are placed in the freezer section of your fridge. Extra ice is available on request. Please ask your host/ess. Laundry - There is a LIMITED laundry service on board comprising of household washers, dryers and steam irons. The turn around is 48 hours so the staff are not able to handle a week’s worth of washing. Please complete the relevant laundry or pressing document and advise your host/ess if your clothing needs specialist attention. Please note that while we are providing a complimentary service we cannot be held responsible for items which may be damaged or lost in the process. Magazines, Maps and Games -There are maps and itineraries in your suite denoting times of meals, arrivals, etc. We do endeavour to maintain an accurate schedule (logistical gymnastics most times). If the maps supplied are not comprehensive enough you may purchase a detailed road map from the gift shop. There are board games, playing cards, a card table, books and magazines available for your use in the Lounge and Observation Cars whilst on board the train. Meals - Breakfast will be served between 07h00 and 10h00. Lunch will be served at 13h00. A formal dinner will be served at 19h30. All meals are served at one sitting only in the dining cars. Lunch and dinner are heralded by a gong. All meals will be served at the above times unless otherwise stated in your timetable. Mobile phones, Laptops and Electronic Devices -The reception is poor while the train is moving, but does improve when we are stationary or near main roads. Please note that the use of mobile telephones, laptop computers and other electronic devices is forbidden in all the public areas. You may use your mobile and computer (quietly) in the privacy of your suite. Money Exchange - Money might be exchanged at the Gift Shop if currency is available. It is not normally catered for. Passports - If passports are required the Gift Shop host/ess will provide the necessary forms to be filled in, and will endeavour to clear the borders without inconveniencing you (endeavour being the operative word). Postage - Stamps are available for sale from the Gift Shop. Postcards may be posted in the post box at the entrance to the observation car or at Capital Park Station in Pretoria. Safe - An electronic safe is provided in the cupboard in each suite. The safe is set on 4 zeros which may be reset with your own code. Please remember your code and also to leave the safe open at the end of your journey. Security - Please close shutters or preferably shutter and window if leaving your suite. If left open the temptation provided for anyone standing on the platform might be too great. Safes are provided in your suite for valuables. Please refer to the safety section of this folder. Service - There is a hook outside your door on which to hang the provided red or white tags for room service. If you might need service between 24h00 and 06h00 please ask your host/ess to indicate where she is billeted and what her telephone number is. (They enjoy being woken around 04h00). Please check your guest list for all the telephone numbers. Shoeshine - There is a shoe cleaning sponge in the amenity bag for your personal use. Should you wish to have your shoes cleaned by your host/ess please place them in the bag provided in the cupboard. Smoking - Smoking is allowed in the Club Car. Please do not throw flammable items such as cigarette butts off the train, as bush fires in Africa are a constant and dangerous hazard. Special Occasions - We would like to celebrate your special occasion with you. Please advise the train manager of any birthday, anniversary or other event upon boarding the train. Shaving Plugs - There are 110V 2 prong plugs for shavers and a 220V 2 pin plug for chargers. Telephone - There is an internal telephone system on board enabling calls to the train manager, host/ess, bars, kitchen and lounges. Please familiarize yourself with the relevant telephone numbers on your Guest list. Temperature - All the public cars are fitted with gas-filled air-conditioning systems. For the comfort of guests, each suite has an individual air-conditioner with individual temperature controls which range from 18 to 24°C (65 to 77°F). Fresh air intake is simply solved by opening a window! Please close all windows while operating the air-conditioning unit. During cold periods your air-conditioning unit can be set on heat mode. Electric under-blankets are fitted on the bed. The Track - The track over which we travel is inconsistently maintained. If you are a light sleeper and wake at night imagining the train is travelling at high speed, be assured it is the state of the track below that is creating that impression. We restrict the train to 60kmph and over the bad sections reduce speed to as little as 20kmph. A sleeping tablet or a wee bit more of your favourite tipple might be appropriate. Earplugs are available on request – not only for the train mind you! The Train - The make up of the train (generally) is as follows: Behind the locomotives there is a generator car, staff car, guest sleepers, a non-smoking lounge car, two non-smoking 42 seat dining cars (plenty of space for the maximum of 70 passengers carried) with the kitchen car in between (centre of the train), more guest sleepers, a smokers lounge and the Observation Car at the tail. Please do not remove anything from the Train. The staff are held responsible for their allocated areas and are obliged to report any shortages to the Manager. Water - Water inside the suites has been filtered and chlorinated; it is safe for bathing and brushing teeth only. Please use the bottled water provided in your bar fridge for drinking. Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com Explore South Africa, South-East Asia, India And Beyond With VOYAGES TO ANTIQUITY... Seven Unique Cruise/Tours To Choose From In Winter 2016 November 18, 2015 December 18, 2015 PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR COMPLETE ITINERARIES AND PRICING VOYAGE TO NAMIBIA & SOUTH AFRICA M ALAGA, SPAIN TO CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA M ALAGA TO CAPE TOWN VOYAGE TO SOUTHfeaturing: AFRICA 32-day cruise/tour 32-day cruise/tour featuring: Malaga, Tangier, Casablanca, Marrakesh*, Las Triangle Palmas, cultural and historical sites of India's Golden Dakhla, Praia, SaoofTome, Bom Island, Luanda, and theBay, mbeauty TajBom Mahal. (3 days in port). Walvis Luderitz,the Cape Town CHRISTMAS & NEW YEAR IN SOUTH AFRICA M ALAGA, SPAIN TO CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA NAMIBIA & CSOUTH APE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA - ROUND-TRIP VOYAGE TO AFRICA 19-day cruise/tour featuring: 32-day cruise/tour featuring: Cape Town (2historical days in port)of, Port Elizabeth, Richards cultural and sites India's Golden Triangle (overnight in port) , Mossel Bay, Luderitz, Bay and the mbeauty of the Taj Mahal. (overnight) , Cape Town, South Africa. Namibia GAME PARKS OF SOUTH AFRICA M ALAGA, SPAIN TO CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA CVOYAGE APE T OWN , SOUTH AFRICA - R OUND -T RIP TO SOUTHfeaturing: AFRICA 14-day cruise/tour 32-day cruise/tour featuring: Cape Town, Africa (2 of days in port) , Mossel cultural and South historical sites India's Golden Triangle (overnight in port) , Durban, Port Bay, Richards Bay and the mbeauty of the Taj Mahal. January 4, 2016 Elizabeth, Cape Town, South Africa. SOUTH AFRICA TO ASIA VIA THE INDIAN OCEAN M ALAGA, SPAIN TO CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA CVOYAGE APE T OWN T O C OLOMBO TO SOUTHfeaturing: AFRICA 26-day cruise/tour 32-day cruise/tour featuring: Cape Town, South Africa (2 of days in port) , PortTriangle cultural and historical sites India's Golden (overnight) , Mayotte, Mahe Elizabeth, Richards Bay and the mbeauty of the Taj Mahal. (overnight), Maldives, Colombo (2 nights hotel). January 16, 2016 February 5, 2016 February 20, 2016 March 2, 2016 BURMA & THE MALAY PENINSULA M ALAGA, SPAIN TO CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA CVOYAGE OLOMBO T O S INGAPORE TO SOUTHfeaturing: AFRICA 21-day cruise/tour 32-day cruise/tour featuring: Colombo (2 nights hotel) , Galle, Chennai/Madras, cultural and historical sites of India's Golden (overnight in port)Triangle , Port Blair, Yangon,ofBurma and the mbeauty the Taj Mahal. Phuket, Penang, Malacca, Singapore (2 nights hotel). PASSAGE TO SRI LANKA & INDIA M ALAGA, SPAIN TO CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA SVOYAGE INGAPORE T O M UMBAI & D ELHI TO SOUTHfeaturing: AFRICA 22-day cruise/tour 32-day cruise/tour Singapore (2historical nights featuring: hotel) ,ofMalacca, Penang,Triangle cultural and sites India's Golden (overnight) , Cochin, Mangalore, Mumbai Colombo and the mbeauty of the Taj Mahal. (overnight) , Jaipur*, Agra*, Delhi*. (* = hotel stays) INDIA & THE WONDERS OF THE RED SEA M ALAGA, SPAIN TO CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA D ELHI & M UMBAI T O A MMAN Free Airfare^ VOYAGE TO SOUTHfeaturing: AFRICA 26-day cruise/tour 32-day cruise/tour Delhi*, Agra*, Jaipur*,featuring: Mumbai (overnight in Triangle port) cultural and historical sites of India's Golden Porbandar, Muscatof(overnight in port), Salalah, and the Petra/Aqaba*, mbeauty theAmman*. Taj Mahal. (* = hotel stays) Luxor*, Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com 43 7 3 6 5 4 3 SUITE CATEGORIES OWNER’S SUITE ........................ GRAND SUITE........................... SILVER SUITE ............................ MEDALLION SUITE.................... EXPEDITION SUITE.................... 403 402 302 303 304 305 306 307 VERANDA SUITE ....................... The Bridge 405 407 404 VISTA SUITE ............................. 409 406 VIEW SUITE .............................. 411 E Observation Lounge E 408 413 500 501 410 415 502 503 412 417 310 311 312 313 314 315 414 419 316 317 416 421 318 319 418 423 320 321 420 425 322 323 422 427 Lobby/ Reception 700 505 ADVENTURER CLASS ................ SPECIFICATIONS The Theatre 702 504 701 E 703 REFURBISHED ...................... 2008 506 507 508 509 LLOYD’S REGISTER ICE-CLASS RATING................... 1A 510 511 CREW .................................... 117 512 513 704 705 OFFICERS ................. International GUESTS ................................. 132 Beauty Salon Launderette TONNAGE .......................... 6,072 E E E Fitness Centre Changing Room LENGTH ......................... 354 Feet WIDTH ............................. 52 Feet Library/ Internet Café SPEED............................ 14 Knots Boutique Medical Centre E EXPLORER CLASS ..................... E E 309 308 PASSENGER DECKS .................... 5 The Spa 3RD GUEST CAPACITY ............. Connoisseur’s Corner The Restaurant Outdoor Grill CONNECTING SUITES 702/704, 703/705, 500/502, 501/503, 504/506, 505/507, 510/512, 511/513 Panorama Lounge Whirlpool Whirlpool Viewing Deck REGISTRY ..................... BAHAMAS DECK 3 DECK 4 DECK 5 VERANDA SUITE VISTA SUITE VIEW SUITE DECK 6 DECK 7 230 SQ. FT. / 21.5 M 2 INCLUDING FRENCH BALCONY (15 SQ. FT. / 1.5 M 2) 230 SQ. FT. / 21 M 2 WITH LARGE PICTURE WINDOW 230 SQ. FT. / 21 M 2 WITH VIEW WINDOW Some Vista and View suites accommodate three guests. – French balcony with floor-to-ceiling glass doors (Veranda Suite) – Writing desk – View window (View Suite) – Flat screen television with interactive video, on-demand movies and music, and satellite news programming – Sitting area – Direct-dial telephone – Large picture window providing panoramic ocean views (Vista Suite) – Twin beds or queen-sized bed (Veranda Suites 512 and 513 have a fixed queen-sized bed) – Marbled bathroom with tub/shower combination EXPLORER CLASS ADVENTURER CLASS SILVER SUITE EXPEDITION SUITE 152 – 175 SQ. FT. / 14 – 16 M 2 WITH VIEW WINDOW 154 – 163 SQ. FT. / 14 – 15 M 2 WITH 2 PORTHOLES – View window (Explorer Class) – Sitting area – Flat screen television with interactive video, on-demand movies and music, and satellite news programming – Twin beds or queen-sized bed – Direct-dial telephone – Two portholes (Adventurer Class) – Marbled bathroom with tub/shower combination – Writing desk 460 SQ. FT./43 M2 INCLUDING 2 FRENCH BALCONIES (30 SQ. FT./3 M2) 460 SQ. FT./43 M2 WITH 2 VIEW WINDOWS OR TWO LARGE PICTURE WINDOWS Silver and Expedition Suites can accommodate three guests. – Two French balconies with floor-toceiling glass doors (Silver Suite) – Two view windows (Expedition Suite, Deck 3) – Two large picture windows (Expedition Suite, Deck 4) – Living room (with convertible sofa to accommodate an additional guest) – Writing desk – Two flat screen televisions with interactive video, on-demand movies and music, and satellite news programming – Direct-dial telephone – Laundry service (Silver Suite) – Afternoon canapés upon request (Silver Suite) – Dinner at officer’s table (Silver Suite) – Sitting area – Twin beds or queen-sized bed – Marbled bathroom with full-sized bath and separate shower LARGE PICTURE WINDOW: 47 in. x 43 in. / 120 cm x 110 cm VIEW WINDOW: 31.5 in. x 31.5 in. / 80 cm x 80 cm PORTHOLE: 15.75 in. diameter / 40 cm diameter Suite diagrams and deck plans are for illustration purposes only. 44 – Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe – Vanity table with hair dryer (Silver Suite) Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com Enjoy the breathtaking nature of Iceland and Greenland aboard the Ocean Diamond Thanks to two stabilizers that significantly reduce roll and an ice-strengthened hull, the super yacht Ocean Diamond is the ideal ship for expeditions in the Arctic region. Due to the ship’s compact size, we can take passengers to places off the traditional cruise routes to experience all the highlights of both Iceland and Greenland. Ship data: Flag: Bahamas Year of construction/renovation: 1986/2012 Crew: 106 Guests max.: 224 With a maximum of 224 passengers, the Ocean Diamond features a range of modern onboard amenities and is staffed with outstanding officers and crew, as well as bilingual expedition leaders and guides. The 109 cabins and suites, all of them elegantly designed, offer modern amenities and exterior views. The ship’s own Zodiacs are available for shore excursions. After a busy day of exploration, passengers can browse books or DVDs in the wellstocked polar library or enjoy views of the spectacular Arctic scenery from the panorama salon. Ice Class: 1D We look forward to welcoming you aboard the Ocean Diamond. Lifeboats: Cabins Amenities t"MMDBCJOTBOETVJUFTPGGFSQSJWBUFGBDJMJUJFTBOEFYUFSJPSWJFXT t4JOHMFDBCJOTIBWFPOFEPVCMFCFE t5XJODBCJOTIBWFPOFEPVCMFCFEPSUXPUXJOCFET t5SJQMFDBCJOTBSFJEFOUJDBMUPUXJODBCJOTCVUXJUIBQVMMEPXOUIJSECFSUI t"MMDBCJOTIBWFnBUTDSFFO57BOE%7%QMBZFS t1BTTFOHFSFMFWBUPS t$IFGQSFQBSFENFBMT t#BSTUBGGFECZBQSPGFTTJPOBMCBSUFOEFS t1PMBS-JCSBSZXJUIMBSHFDPMMFDUJPOPGQPMBSCPPLT%7%T t*OUFSOFUBDDFTT t5IFBUSFTUZMFBVEJUPSJVNXJUITUBUFPGUIFBSU"7FRVJQNFOU t1SFTFOUBUJPOTCZMPDBMFYQFSUT Length: 124 meters Width: 16 meters Draught: 4.9 meters Propulsion: 2 Wichmann Engines, 7375 horsepower Max Speed: 15 knots Voltage: Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com 220 4 fully enclosed 45 TERMS AND CONDITIONS: cruise lines will allow to request “air 1. All prices in this brochure are based on double occupancy and are deviation” up to 6 months prior to available at time of printing (January 2015). Single occupancy rates departure to request specific airline, for our packages are available upon request if not listed in our which is subject to cruise line’s final brochure. Please note that all our advertised prices, any special approval. These requests always promotions and itineraries are subject to change without notice will involve extra non-refundable and at any time. Expo Cruises and Tours Inc. reserves the right to charges and fees imposed by the correct errors and omissions. cruise lines/air lines. Please note ALL OUR PRICES 2. All our prices include your cruise with all your meals, entertainment and that, there may be also a “differen- INCLUDE AS FOLLOW: activities, round trip airfare from Toronto (where stated, other departial fare difference” on top of the ture cities may be available upon are request), transfers from airport to “deviation fee” to be added to the ALL YOUR TIPPING pier and/or hotel, all your shipboard gratuities (tipping) and all port and booking which are non-refundable. FOR LOCAL GUIDES & departure taxes (except for local taxes, that are payable by cash in person) Currently, many airlines now impose DRIVERS IS INCLUDED such as airport improvement fees or visa entry fee in some countries, extra charges and fees for checked ON EXPO CRUISES OWN which cannot be pre-collected in advance by the cruise line and/or airlines. baggage at airport check-in, these LAND TOUR PACKAGES* 3. Deposit requirements on our cruises, train and land/tour packages are fees vary from airline to airline and listed below each itinerary. A $250 per person non-refundable fee will are subject to change without Your cruise with all meals, be charged on all reservations that are cancelled prior to the final notice. Please note that “NO” seat entertainment and activities payment. A $500 per person non-refundable fee will be charged on all pre-assignments are allowed on river cruise/tour reservations that are cancelled prior to the final flights issued by the cruise lines Return airfare from Toronto payment. From time to time different and higher penalties do apply to and/or the tour operators booked on (where stated, other cities available upon request) some special cruise, land or train tour packages, please see the inclugroup block basis at any time. This is sion box under each applicable package for more details. After final totally beyond Expo Cruises and First class hotel stays payment is made further penalties will apply. In most cases final Tours’ Inc. control. For those who (where stated in the itinerary) penalties for our cruises and cruise/tours are as follow prior to depardon’t wish to fly on group basis, may ture (per person): 121 - 91 day - $500 penalty will apply, 90 - 76 days wish to arrange their own indepen- Return transfers between - 25% penalties will apply, 75 to 60 days - 50% penalties will apply, 59 dent flights for any of our packages airport and ship and/or hotel to 31 days - 75% penalties will apply and 30 days or less prior to deparin order to be able to pre-assign seats ture 100% penalties will apply, no refunds will be made for any portion to your preference. port and departure taxes of your package. Please Note: All our train journeys have different 9. A booking also can be made on a “guar- All(except for local taxes) penalty/cancelation structure, please see each tour for more details. antee basis”, means that a certain rate is All your shipboard gratuities 4. All prices are subject to any new port, departure taxes, fees and paid for a specific category. This guaransurcharges (e.g. new fuel surcharges) that may be imposed by the tees a stateroom by the cruise line at the Free Services of our Tour Host* airlines and/or the cruise lines at any time prior to your departure, category that it was paid for. The cruise And much more... even after your final payment has been made, these fees still can line will assign at their total discretion be applied to your invoice. that particular category or higher at no This is an all inclusive value additional cost at any time up to the day and is worth remembering 5. First class hotel stays (4 and 5 star equivalent or better) are included of sailing. No changes are allowed what- when comparing other offers with our packages (where stated) in our cruise/tour itineraries, train soever after your cabin has been and land tour packages offered by Expo Cruises and Tours Inc. assigned by the cruise line as part of the 6. Most of our cruise/tours in this brochure are fully hosted/escorted from “guarantee” booking process. Toronto. *A minimum number of 20 participants is required for all of our 10. Expo Cruises and Tours Inc. strongly recommends Travel Insurance cruises and cruise/tour departures in order to have an escort/host accomcoverage for trip cancellation and interruption, medical, baggage, flight pany the group from our office. If the number of participants falls below the delay, due to weather, mechanical, etc. All insurance premiums must be required minimum, the cruise/tour will not be escorted by one of our hosts, issued prior to final payments and are non-refundable after been issued. but the price and all the inclusions are still being protected at group pricing by Expo Cruises and Tours Inc. for your own benefit. For our own custom 11. Please be advised that your Passport must be valid for at least 6 months land tours and train adventures Expo host will always join our group. upon the return from your trip and have at least 2-3 full blank pages in for any visas you may need while travelling. Each person is responsible 7. Most cruise lines have adopted a new way of handling their docuto obtain any required entry visas and any necessary health vaccinamentation via internet. No longer will they provide printed docutions for countries visited, prior to your departure from Canada. mentation for their cruises in regards to shore excursions, preimmigration, electronic airline tickets, and travel summary of trans- 12. Our business hours are Monday to Friday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. fers, hotel stays etc. Under the new process everyone will be Our office is closed during the Statutory Holidays. We accept Visa, responsible and required to complete their own pre–registration Master Card, American Express*, cash and cheques, made payable to online directly with the cruise line via their web site. Which also “Expo Cruises and Tours Inc.” allows everyone to obtain the final cruise documents such as: 13. Expo Cruises and Tours Inc. is registered with the Travel Industry Cruise e-boarding pass, airline’s e-tickets and your travel summary. Council of Ontario (TICO), registration number is 50012993 and is also 8. If airfare for your cruise or cruise/tour is provided by the cruise a member of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) as well as line it is “entirely” at their discretion, as to the airline and flight is registered with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). schedule to be used. In most cases they are not assigned until about 3 to 4 weeks prior to your departure. Any special requests to change the schedule or airline from the one that has been assigned for you by the cruise line and/or tour operator will involve additional charges and fees imposed. Please note that Responsibility (Important, please read this carefully): Expo Cruises and Tours Inc., of 2 Gloucester Street, Suite 204, Toronto, Ontario, M4Y 1L5 Canada (hereinafter expressed as the Company), gives notice that all tickets and coupons issued by the Company and all arrangements for transport or conveyance or hotel accommodation are made by the Company as agent upon the expressed condition that the Company shall not be liable for any injury, damage, loss, accident, delay or irregularity which may be occasioned either by reason or by defect in any vehicle, or through the act or default of any company or person engaged in conveying the passenger, or in carrying out the arrangements of the tour(s), or otherwise in connection therewith or of any hotel proprietor or servant. The Company and/or associated companies accept no responsibility for any losses, additional expense, distress, disappointments or frustrations, whether physical or mental, resulting from delays due to mechanical breakdowns, changes in flight, train, ship or other services, passengers' failure to obtain necessary tourist visa(s), government refusal to issue you a visa, your health problems or your disabilities existing prior to, arising during or as a result of your travel, weather, strikes, political unrests, quarantine or other causes or acts of God. All tour itineraries and fares may be affected by alteration in cruise ship, air or railroad service of the various countries and by other causes. The right is reserved for the Company to withdraw any tour announced in this program, substitute hotels, and to make such alterations in the itineraries as may be found necessary for the convenience of the parties and the proper execution of the tour(s). Such right is also reserved to decline, to accept or to expel any person as a member of any cruise or tour at any time whose conduct is deemed incompatible with the interests of the cruise/tour group without any refunds. The Company also reserves the right to cancel the tour prior to departure. In such case, full refund of all payments will constitute full settlement with the passenger. The passengers' contract in use by the airlines concerned, when issued, shall constitute the sole contract between the airline and purchaser of these tours and/or passenger. Any and/or all transportation companies herein mentioned shall have or incur no responsibility or liability to any travellers aside from their liability as common carriers. The Company's associated parties reserve the right to make alterations or adjustments to the arrangements as may be necessary. Your reservation with us confirms that you have read, understood and agreed to each and all of the above conditions and limits on responsibility.