Download Report

2015
3 Journeys of a Lifetime
Best Villages
of France
Eastern Europe
and Russia
Vietnam Laos
Cambodia
Welcome to our World
Travelling on one of our small group holidays is a wonderful compromise between
‘doing your own thing’ and joining a 50-seater coach tour. Just 16 travellers will
be taken on a journey of discovery to our favourite places in the world. We limit
our city stays to include the ‘must see’ sights, however our main focus is visiting
those special villages that we know so well. Our 3 night stays give you the
opportunity to ‘live like a local’, allowing ample time to explore at your own pace.
Steve Caunter & Brian McCrory
Dolomites
Our People
Steve Caunter & Brian McCrory, owners of 3 Journeys, started their travel
careers together 35 years ago when working for Westpac Bank’s Travel
Service. For the last decade Steve & Brian have been travelling, designing
and escorting small group tours to the best destinations on the globe.
Brian was a foundation owner & director of the House of Travel group.
When the Travel Agents Association ran a competition to find New
Zealand’s best travel agent, Brian was the inaugural winner. He is an
advocate of ‘slow travel’ and loves to ‘live like a local’ in the small villages
of Europe. Favourite 3 places: Cesky Krumlov, Collioure & Hoi An.
Steve’s career followed a similar path, in both the Travel and Airline
Industry, allowing him to regularly explore all corners of the world,
including many of the destinations featured in this brochure. Having worked
in Europe for a number of years, Steve’s passion is to showcase those
delightful villages and hidden secrets that he knows so well. Now based in
Australia, Steve loves the outdoors and enjoys both cycling and walking the
back roads & trails of Europe and Asia. Favourite 3 places: Siem Reap, Lake
Bled and St. Petersburg.
We work very closely with our people overseas, including the owners of
our family-run hotels, guides and local tourist offices, to ensure you have a
trouble free, memorable holiday. With only 16 people on our holidays, we offer a variety of transport, ranging from trains
and charter coaches, to overnight cruises and local buses. We believe ‘the journey’ is a big
part of the overall adventure and our favoured mode of transportation is by train.
On trains you enjoy a local experience and see so much more with wide-open viewing
areas. Trains are spacious, offer generous leg-room, better all round facilities and are an
eco-friendly fun way to travel.
You will be safely looked after by an experienced tour leader, usually Steve or Brian,
perhaps both. They have been to the places you visit first and will share their local
knowledge on the best walks, inexpensive family-run restaurants and sightseeing.
From time to time we use qualified local guides for our walking tours.
We like our holidays to be relaxed, so we avoid early morning departures, where possible.
Our Hotels
On a 3 Journeys holiday, where we stay is every bit as important as the places
we visit. Our hotels are generally smaller in size, family-run and either traditional
or unique to the region that we are visiting. Daily breakfast is included and every
room has its own private facilities.
When inspecting our hotels, we select where you stay based on six key components:
safety, value, character, cleanliness, location and ambiance.
Our accommodation often gives you an insight into the destination itself:•
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700 years of tradition in a family-run hotel in the Dolomite Mountains
Roof-top courtyard hotel overlooking St Petersburg’s most famous attraction
Remote rustic lodge built on the banks of the upper Mekong River
Overnight on a traditional sailing junk in Halong Bay
Vietnamese riverside resort in Hoi An
Charming 17th Century family mansion in the Loire Valley
A 500 year old traditional Slovenian Family House (Hotel)
Catalan family hotel in a Mediterranean coastal village
Our Customers
The average age on each holiday will vary, however we do expect the
majority of your travelling companions to be in their 50’s and 60’s. Some
tours will appeal to a younger age bracket, whilst others will attract a few
active seniors. Our approach is that you need to be reasonably ‘young at
heart’ and fit enough to enjoy your holiday. You need to be fully mobile and
able to walk comfortably for an hour each day. Our small family-run hotels
often have no lifts, so being able to walk up and down stairs is essential.
Generally, you will be responsible for your own bags and this does take a
little effort, especially when getting on and off trains. The fitter you are, the
more you will enjoy your holiday. Our baggage allowance is one medium
size suitcase per person, plus one piece of hand luggage, preferably a
small day backpack. We do provide you with a handy list of ‘packing hints’
that you will find invaluable.
As a 3 Journeys customer, we would be happy to assist you with additional
holiday suggestions. These optional tours could be:Villages of France: 7 days Morocco including Fez, Marrakech and a
Kasbah in the Atlas Mountains.
Eastern Europe & Russia: Croatia, 7 days Cavtat, Dubrovnik, the island
of Hvar & Split.
Cambodia, Vietnam & Laos: Thailand, 7 days Chiang Mai, the famous
River Kwai and either time at the beach in Hua Hin or exploring Bangkok.
Best Villages of France
Brittany, Loire Valley, Bordeaux, Dordogne & Pyrenees
plus Barcelona
Paris
3
Germany
Dinan
Rochefort-en-Terre
3
St Pierre des Corps
Chinon
Switzerland
France
Bergerac Sarlat
Carennac
2
St Emilion 3
4
Domme
St Cirq Lapopie
Carcassonne
Perpignan
Collioure 3
Spain
Barcelona 3
St Cirq Lapopie
Italy
Fully escorted, 22 days - Departs 12 May 2015
Dinan (3) Chinon (3) St Emilion (3) Domme (4) Saint Cirq Lapopie (2) Collioure (3) Barcelona (3)
Overnight stays ( )
Tue 12 May - Paris - Dinan. Bonjour! Welcome
to our favourite villages in France. Meet your tour
leader and then travel from Paris on board the TGV
fast train through beautiful Normandy to Rennes,
before transferring by coach to Dinan, Brittany’s best
medieval town. Brimming with character, half-timbered
houses and cobblestone streets, you have 2 days to
discover its charm. Tonight, get to know your travelling
companions over an included local meal.
Wed 13 May - Dinan. Free day. This morning
amble down the narrow streets to Dinan’s lower
village of ‘Port Dinan’ on the Range River and cycle
along the flat canal pathways, passing locks, villages
and farms. Cycle hire is available at the port, including
electric bikes. Alternatively take a canal cruise, or
perhaps an optional tour to the famous Gothic IslandAbbey of Mont St Michel, just 58 kms away.
Thur 14 May - Dinan. Free day. It’s market day
and the town is yours to enjoy. Tonight an included
meal has been arranged at a local restaurant to
savour the gourmet delights of this region.
Fri 15 May - Chinon. Today we bid farewell to
Brittany and travel by coach into the picturesque Loire
Valley, known as ‘The Garden of France’ due to its
abundance of fine vineyards, orchards and meadows.
En route, we stop at one of France’s prettiest villages
– ‘Rochefort-en-Terre’, before continuing up the Loire
Valley to Chinon, nestled between the hilltop castle
with its ‘Joan of Arc’ history & the River Vienne below.
Sat 16 May - Chinon. Free day to ‘live like a local’
in this fascinating town. In the afternoon take time to
join your tour leader for a gentle bike ride through
the countryside of the Loire Valley - cycle hire is extra.
Plenty to see in Chinon, visit the castle, take in a café,
or simply relax in the garden of your charming hotel.
Sun 17 May – Chinon. Morning free to enjoy and
embrace the weekly local markets, before we set off
for a visit to the stunning Chateau d’ Usse, located on
the edge of Chinon forest overlooking the Indre River.
You may have seen the Chateau before, as it is the
castle where Sleeping Beauty was filmed!
Mon 18 May - St Emilion. This morning we
transfer to St Pierre des Corps to board our TGV fast
train and in less than 3 hours we will be in the heart
of Bordeaux’s vintage wine country. Our dream stay
for the next 3 nights is in the village of St Emilion,
surrounded by the oldest vineyards in the Bordeaux
region and a UNESCO listed site. A stunning location,
in one of the most beautiful places in France, set
amongst vines dating back to the 2nd Century.
Tue 19 & Wed 20 May - St Emilion. Free days
to relax and enjoy picture post card walks through
beautiful vineyards. Explore inside the stone village
walls, tracing its many nooks and crannies through
steep, cobbled streets, or just soak up the serenity of
this lovely setting. Tuesday evening, we meet at our
favourite tapas wine bar for some included local taste
treats.
Thu 21 May - Bergerac - Domme. Today our
journey continues by coach into the Dordogne region,
known as the ‘Land of 1001 Chateaux’. This morning
we visit Bergerac, sitting peacefully on the edge of the
Dordogne River. Famous for its legendary local food
and wines, Bergerac is a wonderful combination of the
new and the old and ample time has been set aside
to explore the picturesque old town. Early afternoon,
we continue to Domme, where our hotel awaits, with
breathtaking views over the valley and river below.
Tonight an evening meal is included.
Fri 22 May - Domme. Weathered in history from
days gone by, Domme is enchanting with its ancient
ramparts, flower-filled narrow lanes and honeycoloured stone houses. Today is a free day to explore,
perhaps include a visit to the caves in the centre of
town, previously used as a secret hideout in World
War 2.
Sat 23 May - Sarlat Markets. This morning it’s
off to Dordogne’s most famous markets, located inside
the medieval walls of Sarlat. In the morning it is a
food-lovers delight and later transforms into clothing
bargains galore. Even for non shoppers, the markets
are a must see, if only to view and sample the fine
gourmet delicacies of the region: duck, goose, walnuts,
cheese, honey and great wine to name but a few.
You’ll be bargaining with the locals as this is where
they shop! We return back to our hilltop haven, later
in the day.
Sun 24 May - Domme. A wonderful way to
experience the region is to lazily drift down the gentle
Dordogne River by canoe! Today we do just that,
as we travel the 17 kms from Grolejac to La Roque
Gageac, past spectacular cliffs and villages perched
on rocks high above the river. Stop along the way
and enjoy lunch at one of the quaint riverside villages.
This slow and peaceful day is suitable for all ages and
totally safe. We leave our canoes at the downstream
port of La Rogue and return mid afternoon by mini
coach to our hotel.
Mon 25 May - St Cirq Lapopie. This morning
we commence a short coach journey into the MidiPyrenees, first stopping at one of our favourite villages
Carennac. Founded in the 11th century, this village
with a population of just 400, oozes charm. We then
continue to our 2 night stay at St Cirq Lapopie, as
featured in the photo on the opposite page of this
brochure. Tonight a traditional meal is included in the
restaurant of our delightful hotel.
Tue 26 May - St Cirq Lapopie. Free Day in this
masterpiece of medieval architecture. Many artists
and writers reside here during the summer months,
consequently a number of galleries and boutique
shops can be found scattered throughout the village’s
tiny lanes and alleyways.
Wed 27 May - Carcassonne – Collioure.
An early start, as we head by coach through the
mountains to visit Europe’s greatest fortress city,
Carcassonne.The massive walls surrounding the old
town are nearly two miles around, with 52 towers,
making a spectacular setting for our lunch break. After
a guided tour of the town, we continue to the romantic
seaside fishing village of Collioure. Tonight a Catalan
meal is included.
Thu 28 & Fri 29 May - Collioure. Just 26 kms
from the Spanish border, you have 2 free days to relax
and savour the many delights of this Mediterranean
coastal village: lovely beaches, great seafood, sweet
wines, Catalan music, local artists and scenic walking
trails around the coast to Port Vendres. The old quarter
is a tangle of narrow alleys, brightly painted houses,
tumbling bougainvillea & boutique stores.
Sat 30 May - Barcelona. Farewell to France as
we make our way to Perpignan, the departure point
for our final high speed train trip to the famous city
of Barcelona. This evening we take a stroll down La
Rambla, Barcelona’s most famous promenade.
Sun 31 May - Barcelona. Often described as
a city of culture, style and harmony, Barcelona is
world renowned and admired for its blend of old
architecture with the new. This morning, with our local
guide we take in the must see sights, including the
Gothic Quarter, Gaudi’s famous church of Sagrada
Familia and his quirky Park Guell. Lots to see, so
we make use of local transport between the major
attractions.
Mon 01 Jun - Barcelona. Free day. Tonight, a
final dinner is included and a chance to reflect on the
wonders of this amazing journey.
Tue 02 Jun - Adios Barcelona! Time to farewell
your travelling companions as they depart for the
airport or railway station to continue their holiday or
return home.
For flights to and from the tour, inclusions and
conditions, please refer to the back three pages of
the brochure.
NZD 8,900.00
Cost based on share twin accommodation &
excludes international airfares to and from the tour
Slovenia, Hungary
Czech Republic
Poland, Russia
Prague
Fully escorted, 22 days - Departs 04 June 2015
Dolomites (2) Lake Bled (3) Budapest (3) Cesky Krumlov (2) Prague (2) Stramberk (1) Krakow (3) Moscow (2) St Petersburg (3)
Overnight stays ( )
Thu 04 Jun - Venice - Dolomites. Welcome!
Meet your tour leader, then travel by train from Venice
to the historic border of the Hungarian Empire - ‘The
Dolomite Mountains’, one of Europe’s best kept secrets.
Tonight, in the picturesque alpine village of Kastelruth
you will have the opportunity to get to know your
travel companions during an included meal.
Fri 05 Jun - Dolomites. Breathtaking beauty as
we take the chairlift to the Aple di Siusi plateau. Your
day is then free to either hike the trails, walk amongst
spring flowers, or take the local bus around alpine
villages. Return to our family-run hotel in Kastelruth
later in the day.
Sat 06 Jun - Slovenia. Travel by charter coach
through the Dolomite Mountains via Cortina to
Slovenia. We stay in a 9-room traditional Slovenian
‘family house’ (our hotel) in the pedestrian village
of Radovljica. Tonight’s meal in the hotel’s delightful
restaurant is included. Later, soak up the atmosphere
with a stroll around this 700 year old market town.
Sun 07 Jun - Lake Bled. The serenity and beauty
of this region will captivate you as we visit Lake
Bled, just 20 minutes away by local bus. We start the
morning with a magical trip by boat on the pristine
waters of the lake, then the day is all yours to swim,
walk or cycle the 6.5 km scenic path around the
waters edge, or just relax in Bled.
Mon 08 Jun - Ljubljana. Late morning, we take a
train to Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia. After a short
walk to the ‘old town’, the afternoon is free to wind
your way around the streets of this historic city. Explore
by foot, hire bikes or take the ‘noddy train’ to discover
its many nooks and crannies. An hourly train service is
available back to our village which you can take at
your leisure.
Tue 09 Jun - Budapest. This morning our coach
transfers us across the border to the Austrian town
of Villach, where we catch our train to Budapest, the
capital of Hungary.
Wed 10 Jun - Budapest. Budapest is divided by
the mighty Danube River into Buda & Pest. Our hotel
is located on the ‘Pest’ side, just a block away from
the Opera House and the famous Andrassy Road
district, well known for its museums, exhibition halls
and fine architecture. This morning our local guide
brings this amazing city alive on a 4 hour walking tour,
concluding at the famous Matthias Church in the heart
of Buda’s Castle district.
Thu 11 Jun - Budapest. Free day
Fri 12 Jun - Cesky Krumlov. Today we travel
by direct train through Hungary and Austria to Linz,
where our coach awaits to take us across the Czech
The Dolomites
border to the UNESCO World Heritage village of
Cesky Krumlov. The village, a favourite of ours, will be
one of the highlights of your holiday and this evening
we stroll the cobblestone streets and discover this
incredibly unique town.
Sat 13 Jun - Cesky Krumlov. Free day to take in
the historic inns, cafes and shops or visit the castle, the
centrepiece of Cesky Krumlov. The town is built along
the winding Vltava River, so for the more adventurous,
canoe hire is a great half-day activity.
Sun 14 Jun - Prague. This morning we travel by
coach through the Bohemian countryside to Prague,
one of Europe’s most popular and architecturally
stunning cities. With our local tour guide we discover
its history, including Prague’s famed Astronomical
Clock, Charles Bridge & Prague Castle.
Mon 15 Jun - Prague. Free day
Tue 16 Jun - Stramberk. Today we take a train to
Ostrava in the Czech Republic where our coach will
transfer us to our overnight stay in the peaceful village
of Stramberk, set in the Moravian Mountains. Tonight
a traditional baroque meal is included. Later, amble
through lanes of old timbered houses to the castle
ruins for magnificent views over the valley below.
Wed 17 Jun - Krakow. This morning our coach
crosses the border into Poland where we include
a visit to the world renowned Wieliczka Salt Mine.
After exploring its hidden treasures, we continue onto
Krakow, the cultural capital of Poland. This evening,
wander around Europe’s largest medieval town square,
which showcases wonderful architecture, markets,
entertainment and vibrant cafes.
Thu 18 Jun - Krakow. Free day to enjoy the
pedestrian friendly ‘old town’, cycle the trails along the
Vistula river, or slow down and savour Market Square.
This evening, we go by tram to the Jewish Quarter
and explore its quaint streets, an ideal location for a
drink or meal before walking back to our hotel.
Fri 19 Jun - Krakow. For those interested, we take
an early tram to Oscar Schindlers Factory Museum
(optional), immortalized in the film ‘Schindlers List’. A
very moving and worthwhile visit that highlights the
struggles of the Jewish & Polish people during World
War 2.
Auschwitz Optional Tour - Mid afternoon, tour to the
most infamous site of the Holocaust. A local guide will
walk us through Auschwitz concentration camp, now a
memorial to the tragedy.
Sat 20 Jun - Moscow. Today we fly from Krakow
to Moscow, the capital of Russia.
Sun 21 Jun - Moscow. Meet our local guide for
a morning tour of this impressive Russian city. We start
in iconic Red Square, lined with Moscow’s landmark
buildings: St Basil’s Cathedral, The Kremlin, Lenin’s
Mausoleum & the grand GUM Dept store. We explore
Moscow’s famed underground, as we ride the subway,
stopping at the city’s most beautiful Metro Stations.
Our guide will offer suggestions on sightseeing for this
afternoon and time is yours to explore the mystique
of Moscow. Visit galleries like the ‘Tretyakov’, shop,
or take a cruise on the Moskva River, meandering
through the city. Tonight, perhaps experience a show
at one of the best theatres in the world - The Bolshoi,
early bookings are essential.
Mon 22 Jun - Sapsan Train. This afternoon we
travel on Russia’s high speed train. In just under 4 hours
we reach St Petersburg, travelling at speeds of up to
200km per hour. Sapsan trains were introduced in
2009, transforming a once two day expedition over
snow and hills to a mere morning train trip - Sit back,
relax and enjoy the journey.
Tue 23 Jun - St Petersburg. Back in the USSR
days, the former capital of Imperial Russia was known
as Leningrad, however today it is one of the world’s
most romantic cities. Dominated by the river Neva,
with its islands, canals and bridges, the entire city
centre is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Our
hotel is located within walking distance of the major
attractions and this morning our local guide takes us
on a walking tour. Highlights include Church of our
Savior on Spilled Blood, State Hermitage Museum and
the Winter Palace. Afternoon free to explore at your
own pace.
Wed 24 Jun - St Petersburg. Free day for
shopping or sightseeing. Tonight, a final dinner is
included and a chance to reminisce on the wonders of
your Eastern European holiday.
Thu 25 Jun - Farewell St Petersburg. Time to
say farewell to your travelling companions as they
depart for the airport or railway station to continue
their holiday or return home.
For flights to and from Europe, tour inclusions and
conditions, please refer to the back three pages of
the brochure.
NZD 8,700.00
Cost based on share twin accommodation &
excludes international airfares to and from the tour
Vietnam
Cambodia, Laos
plus Mekong Cruise & Thailand
Hanoi
Mekong
Cruise
2
Chiang Rai
1
2
3 Luang
1
Halong
Bay Cruise
Prabang
Laos
Hue
4 Hoi An
Thailand
Angkor Wat
Siem Reap 3
Vietnam
Cambodia
3
Mekong Delta
Mekong Delta
Saigon
Fully escorted, 20 days - Departs 30 July 2015
Siem Reap (3) Saigon (3) Hoi An (4) Halong Bay (1) Hanoi (2) Luang Prabang (3) Mekong Cruise (1) Chiang Rai (2)
Overnight stays ( )
Thu 30 Jul - Siem Reap. Welcome To Cambodia!
You will be met at Siem Reap International Airport
and transferred to your hotel, just a short stroll from
the centre. Early evening, we take an orientation walk
of this charming riverside town, with its tree-lined
boulevards and old French shop-houses. Tonight, a
chance to meet your travelling companions during an
included meal at a local Khmer restaurant.
Fri 31 Jul - Angkor Wat. After breakfast, explore
the world’s largest and most famous temple complex,
Angkor Wat. With our local guide, we tour this World
Heritage wonder by motorbike with carriage (Tuk Tuk).
Be inspired by the 12th century temple of ‘Bayon,’
the centrepiece of the complex, or ‘Ta Prohm’, where
nature intertwines with stone. Angkor Wat is a ‘must
see’, it’s simply amazing!
Sat 01 Aug - Siem Reap. Free day to explore,
perhaps visit the local markets, or take a trip to the
nearby floating village of Chong Kneas. For those
interested in returning to Angkor Wat, a great way to
embrace this incredible National Park, is to hire a bike
and cycle around the flat, sealed roads.
Sun 02 Aug - Saigon. This morning we fly to
Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) in Vietnam. On arrival, we
transfer to your centrally located hotel, including a
city sights tour en-route. Tonight, we walk to one of
our favourite local restaurant areas where a meal has
been included.
Mon 03 Aug - Mekong Delta. A Day in the life
of the Mekong Delta! A tour highlight, as we wind
our way with our local guide through the rivers and
canals of this vast waterway known as the ‘rice bowl
of Vietnam’. See an array of boats, barges, trawlers
and floating markets, as we navigate our way through
this lifeline of the region. Lunch is included in a local
farmers village and our return to Saigon is later in
the day.
Tue 04 Aug - Saigon. Free day. Perhaps take a
visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels or immerse yourself in the
bustling metropolis where it seems there are more
motor bikes than people! Within walking distance
of our hotel is the War Remnants Museum, a sad
reminder about the atrocities of Vietnam’s recent
history.
Wed 05 Aug - Hoi An. Late morning flight to Da
Nang. On arrival, transfer to the enchanting town
of Hoi An, one of our favourite places. Our hotel is
superbly located on the banks of the Thu Bon River,
only a few minutes walk from town.
Thu 06 Aug - Hoi An. Hoi An, once a thriving port
town, is now a quaint World Heritage village and your
time is free to relax and enjoy its charm. Plenty to see
and do: take in a cooking class, cycle around the old
town, visit a local school, or simply wander the shops.
Hoi An is also a haven of tailors and one of the best
places to have clothing made in Asia.
Fri 07 Aug - Hue. Morning transfer to Danang
Railway Station to board the ‘Reunification Express’
for one of the great scenic rail journeys through the
spectacular Hai Van pass. On arrival at Hue station,
a team of cyclo bikes and drivers will take us for a
short tour of the city before we explore the fascinating
Imperial Citadel with a local guide. Then, free time in
Hue before returning to Hoi An by coach.
Sat 08 Aug - Hoi An. Free day.
Sun 09 Aug - Halong Bay. Morning flight to
Hanoi where we transfer from the airport to one of the
natural wonders of the world, Halong Bay. Here, we
board our traditional wooden junk for our overnight
cruise. All meals are included as we sail among the
stunning, limestone islands rising dramatically from the
Gulf of Tonkin. Booked exclusively for ‘3 Journeys’,
our comfortable Chinese-style sailing junk contains
individual cabins, complete with private facilities and
air conditioning.
Mon 10 Aug - Hanoi. Around noon, we disembark
and transfer to Hanoi where a city sights tour has
been included. Our hotel is located in the bustling
area of the ‘Old Quarter’, a pulsating haven of
activity, complete with exotic smells, market stalls and
speciality shops. In the evening, enjoy the flavours and
spices of local cuisine in the narrow alleyways, all
within a short walk from our hotel.
Tue 11 Aug - Hanoi. As Hanoi wakes, be intrigued
as Vietnamese of all ages assemble for their early
morning exercise beside Hoan Kiem Lake. Watch
locals practise Tai Chi, whilst others play the popular
shuttlecock game of ‘da cau’. After breakfast, a free
day to explore this exciting city.
Wed 12 Aug - Luang Prabang. This morning we
farewell Vietnam and fly to Luang Prabang in Laos.
Our three night stay is in the heart of the old town
where you will love the laid back ambience and a
step back in time. Tonight we enjoy scrumptious Lao
cuisine for our included dinner.
Thu 13 Aug - Luang Prabang. Rise early to
witness the ancient ritual of monks, dressed in their
orange robes, collecting alms at dawn. Today is free to
roam, it’s impossible to get lost as 80% of the village is
bound by two rivers, the Mekong and the Nam Khan.
Enjoy the french colonial architecture as you wander
the streets, visit a Lao temple or take an elephant ride
(optional). This evening, the night markets are a must.
Fri 14 Aug - Luang Prabang. After breakfast,
we have arranged a morning tour to the spectacular
Kuang Si Waterfalls, just 45 minutes away by coach.
Return to town around lunchtime.
Sat 15 Aug - Mekong River Cruise. This morning
we embark on a two day expedition on one of the
great rivers of the world. Be amazed as we journey
on this mighty waterway, past lush mountains, rustic
villages, elephants and wildlife, all from the comfort of
our spacious boat. Lunch is included each day, as is
the evening meal at our overnight accommodation at
Pakbeng, set high above the Mekong River.
Sun 16 Aug - Mekong River Cruise. After
breakfast, we continue our journey upstream on
this magical river, arriving late afternoon at the Lao
border town of Hua Xai, where we cross the river into
Thailand. After clearing customs, travel by coach to
our accommodation at Chiang Rai, where an evening
meal has been included.
Mon 17 Aug - Chiang Rai. Our Thai style resort,
set amongst tropical lush gardens is located a few
minutes by shuttle bus from ‘casual’ Chiang Rai. Today
has been left free to enjoy our beautiful resort, for last
minute shopping, or perhaps a take a tour to the White
Temple or the Golden Triangle. Tonight a final dinner
is included and a chance to reflect on the wonders of
this great journey.
Tue 18 Aug - Farewell Chiang Rai. Time to say
farewell to your travelling companions as they depart
for the airport or continue their holiday in Thailand.
For flights to and from Asia, tour inclusions and
conditions, please refer to the back three pages of
the brochure.
Independent Weekly Departures
This holiday can be undertaken on an
independent basis, departing Siem Reap
weekly on Thursdays. The schedule will change
slightly for your Halong Bay Cruise, so please
request details from us to receive an updated
itinerary. Although not fully escorted, our local
guides, agents and friendly hotel staff, will
ensure that you are well looked after, so you
can have a relaxing and memorable holiday.
Our weekly departures are ideal for couples
who are unable to travel with one of our small
groups, yet would still like the security and
safety of having everything booked for them.
NZD 4,990.00
Cost based on share twin accommodation &
excludes international airfares to and from the tour
Tour Inclusions
•
•
•
•
•
•
Arrangements as per itinerary unless specified as (optional) or free day
Economy class flights as specified within Europe and Asia
Accommodation featuring share twin rooms with private facilities
Rail in both first & economy class, depending on the country
Tours, sightseeing & entrance fees, unless specified as (optional) or free day
Airport transfers where specified
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Port charges and Airline taxes
Daily breakfast
Meals as specified
Qualified local guides as specified
Tips are included for hotel staff, coach drivers & local guides
Services of a tour escort
Ticket wallet & full pre-departure information including hotel details
Three of our hotels
Baggage
allowance and
suggestions
Slovenia - www.lectar.com
Of all the travel skills you acquire, travelling light is the one
most likely to assist you in having an enjoyable & stress free holiday!
3 Journeys have a baggage allowance of one suitcase per
person with dimensions not exceeding 66cm in height, 28cm
depth and 46cm width. In addition to your suitcase you are
permitted to bring one piece of hand luggage usually in the
form of a small backpack. (Make sure your backpack has
an outside pouch for your water bottle.)
Often your hotel will be located along
a cobble street
A medium suitcase would have dimensions of 65cm
height, 26cm depth and 44cm width - A bag this
size with wheels and extended handle would
weigh approximately 4.5kgs empty.
A smallish suitcase that would fit all of our
recommended items to pack would have
dimensions of 63cm height, 23cm depth and
38cm width. Empty, this bag with wheels &
extended handle would weigh 3.5kgs.
Wheels should be on the
outer edge of your bag
Hoi An - www.vinhhungresort.com
The only bag to consider taking on a 3 Journeys
holiday is one with wheels and extended handle,
similar to our suitcase example shown.
A well balanced bag like this model is
perfect - note the side handle, essential
for travel on European trains and airports.
Our tips on wheeled luggage
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The most expensive bag is not always the best
Fabric bags are easier to travel with & last longer than solid bags
When purchasing a bag make sure it is not too heavy when empty
Don’t buy a bag where the wheels are not on the extreme outside
Preferably buy a bag with a side handle
The bigger the wheels the easier to pull over uneven surfaces
Krakow - www.hotelws.pl
Flights made easy
With more people choosing to book their own flights, international airfares before and after the tour have not been included as part of your holiday.
We believe this gives you greater flexibility on both flight options and pricing.
However, we do offer 3 easy ways to book your international flights.
Self Booking: You arrange your own reservations, either online (via the internet) or direct with the airlines
3J Bookings: 3 Journeys arrange flights on your behalf - simply phone us
Travel Agency: Book flights direct with your own Travel Agent How to Book
Booking with 3 Journeys is simple and easy. Our booking form is provided
below, so please take the time to carefully complete each section and
post this to us, together with your deposit cheque of $750.00 per person
($1,500.00 per couple). Alternatively, the deposit can be paid by internet
banking into our “Customer Funds Account”. Please ask for details.
Your place on the tour can not be allocated or confirmed until the booking
form and deposit have been received by 3 Journeys. Remember, book early
to avoid disappointment.
Details entered must be EXACTLY as shown on your passport.
Name
Accompanying Partner
Mr Mrs Miss Ms
Mr Mrs Miss Ms
Surname
Given Names (as per Passport)
First Name (Name you use day to day)
Contact details
Address
Home phone
Mobile phone
Email
Passport Details
Nationality
Passport Number
Date of birth
Place and date of issue
Expiry date
Departure date of tour
Special requirements
(twin beds, meals, etc)
Pre-existing medical conditions
(please list)
Have you previously visited any of the
places in this brochure? (please list)
I/We enclose a non refundable
registration deposit of $750.00 p.p.
Signature
Today’s date
/
/
Today’s date
/
/
Signing this booking form acknowledges that you have fully read the brochure,
including the booking conditions and agree to abide by them.
!
New Zealand
4 Wakatu Avenue
Redcliffs, Christchurch 8081
New Zealand
Telephone: 03 384 3323
Email: [email protected]
Australia Contact
PO Box 393
Rosny Park, Hobart, TAS 7018
Australia
Telephone: 0439 632 824
Website: www.3journeys.co.nz
Brochure obtained from:
Booking Conditions
Please read these booking conditions carefully as they form an important part of the contract for your holiday
How to Book
We have taken care to make booking with 3 Journeys simple and easy.
A booking form is provided in the brochure and we would ask that you
carefully complete each section of the registration form and post this to us
together with your deposit cheque of $750.00 per person ($1,500.00 per
couple). Your place on the tour can not be allocated until this has been done.
On receipt of your deposit & completed registration form you will be advised
in writing that your booking has been confirmed. At the same time we will
forward the first of our tips and hints for your holiday, together with baggage
requirements and packing suggestions.
Deposits and Final Payment
A deposit of $750.00 per person is required at the time of booking.
Final payment is due 60 days prior to the date of your tour departure.
Group Numbers & Guaranteed Departure
Group departures are restricted to 16 passengers and subject to a minimum
of 14 people travelling. Once 14 deposits have been received, you will be
advised that the tour is a guaranteed departure and the tour will proceed on
an escorted basis. Up until 31 December 2014, we will accept bookings for
18 passengers to cover any cancellations during 2015. Only an unforeseeable
“event” would alter our guaranteed departure commitment. Any directive or
recommendation from the Government not to travel could negate this guarantee
and/or change the itinerary accordingly.
Costing & Price Guarantee
All prices are based on rates & conditions as at 01 March 2014 and are
subject to change that could alter the final price of your holiday. Payment of
half of your holiday cost to 3 Journeys would guarantee the cost as published
in the brochure. Final payment of your tour 60 days before departure also
guarantees the price will not increase.
Responsibility
3 Journeys are responsible for making arrangements specified in this brochure,
including transportation, sightseeing and accommodation. We include the
services of independent contractors such as airlines, hotels, shipping & coach
companies, local rail and bus services, plus other operators whose staff are not
agents, employees or servants of 3 Journeys. Although we make every effort to
ensure that your tour is a holiday of a life time, we can not take responsibility
for the conduct, nor be held responsible for the actions of people or agents that
are not employees of 3 Journeys. The international carriage of passengers is
subject to international conventions and treaties, where applicable. If after your
departure, the services included in the tour cannot be supplied, or there are
changes in an itinerary for reasons beyond our control, 3 Journeys will arrange
for the provision of comparable services. Any resulting additional expense will
be payable by travellers and any resultant savings will be refunded to holiday
participants on their return home. Itineraries may be subject to alteration due
to hotel availability, timetable adjustments, operational requirements, weather,
strikes, or other reasons beyond our control. We reserve the right to amend any
holiday where we feel the change will be beneficial to our customers. Every
effort however, will be made to provide arrangements as per the brochure. By
signing the booking form and paying the $750.00 deposit, passengers agree to
all booking conditions and accept arrangements as per the brochure.
Accommodation
All hotels and lodgings have rooms with ensuite facilities (your own shower &
toilet). Due to the boutique nature of our small family-run hotels, room size &
room locations vary greatly. We do our best to ensure that guests receive a
variety of room types throughout their holiday.
Helpful Hints
Prior to departure we forward to you a series of ‘Tips & Hints’ that will prepare
you well for your holiday.
Tipping
3 Journeys take care of tips for hotel staff, drivers and local guides, so for the
arranged part of your holiday you will not be required to tip. Tipping however,
is an accepted practice in much of the world for taxis & restaurants etc and our
helpful tips and hints guide will brief you fully on this prior to departure.
Participation
For the benefit of all parties, we reserve the right to accept or reject any
person as a tour participant and to remove any person from the tour whose
conduct is deemed disruptive or incompatible with the interests of the other tour
participants. We will not refund, nor cover any costs or expenses you incur if we
have to terminate your holiday, due to unacceptable behaviour.
Special Requests
It is essential that any specific requirements such as dietary or health needs, be
included on your booking form. Where possible, we will do our best to assist
with individual requests but there can be no guarantee of this service, except in
the case of a single room supplement where an additional charge is levied. In
the case of our prepaid meals, it is not possible to adjust the menu around the
needs of any one individual as often a local chef from the village will simply
prepare his or her speciality of the day. Your dietary request will be passed on
to the appropriate staff.
Baggage Allowance
Our baggage allowance is one medium size bag with wheels and pull handle
plus one piece of hand luggage. On confirmation of your booking we will send
our requirements & recommendations for the best type of suitcase for your
holiday, as well as our tips on what to pack. On a 3 Journeys holiday you are
responsible for your own luggage and we recommend that you take note of
our tips - Let our experience be your guide when it comes to travelling light!
Passports & Visas
A valid passport is required for your holiday and your passport must be valid
for at least 6 months after your last flight home. Should any visa be necessary,
we will advise you of the requirements. Visa fees are not included in the cost of
your holiday.
Credit Card Payment
Most major Credit Cards are accepted except American Express or Diners Should you wish to pay by credit card a 3% surcharge will apply.
Travel Documents & E-tickets
We will keep you updated with our regular tips and hints once your reservation
has been confirmed. Tickets, travel documents, pre-departure information, hotel
details and travel vouchers will be forwarded to you 21 days prior to your
departure.
Travel Insurance & Cancellation Fees
Cancelled bookings will incur charges and it is important that you take out
appropiate Travel Insurance to cover such fees. Most travel policies will cover
cancellation fees if you are forced to cancel your holiday due to circumstances
beyond your control. Please check with your insurance provider for full details.
We recommend cancellation insurance be taken out at the same time as you
pay your deposit. You will not be able to participate on a 3 Journeys holiday
unless you have suitable travel insurance.
3 Journeys Cancellation Fees are:
The deposit of $750.00 is non refundable
60 days prior to departure a 50% cancellation fee applies
30 days prior to departure a 100% cancellation fee applies
After departure no refund is available on any unused portion of your holiday