What’s Included
Sailing the Andaman Islands of Thailand. James Bond Island visit. Railay Beach visit. Snorkelling in Monkey Bay. Phang Nga Bay stop. Island visits included Krabi Islands, Koh Phi Phi Don, Southern Phuket Islands, Koh Yao Yai and Koh Khai Nai. Snorkelling equipment, and two kayaks.

Meals Included
6 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners

Group Leader
Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, skipper, assistant/cook

Group Leader Details
This sailing adventure is staffed by a qualified skipper, a local cook/first mate, and a G Adventures CEO. Your onboard team know the Thai Islands extremely well and are passionate about sharing their hidden secrets with their “crew”. They know the best-secluded beaches, snorkeling spots, coolest beach bars and where you can check your internet. Our Cook is very welcoming and more than happy to give informal Thai cooking classes while your delicious meals are being prepared in the ship’s galley.

Transport
25m (82 ft) sailing catamaran

Solo Travellers
We believe single travelers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travelers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and single travelers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.

Accomodation
2 deluxe double cabins, 6 standard twin/double cabins, all cabins air-con and en suite (6 nts).

Group Size
Max 16, avg. 10.

Day 1 Phuket/Phang Nga Bay(Dinner)
Meet in Phuket in the early afternoon. Enjoy sailing and stopping for a swim before an overnight stay in a remote location.

Day 2 Phang Nga Bay/Railay Beach(Breakfast | Lunch)
Visit Khao Phing Kan – popularly known as “James Bond Island.” Afterwards, set sail for idyllic Railay Beach. Enjoy free time and opt for dinner in Railay.

Day 3 Railay Beach/Koh Haa(Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner)
Depart for Koh Haa, part of a national park, early in the morning and enjoy time in this pristine location.

Day 4 Koh Haa/Koh Phi Phi(Breakfast | Dinner)
Set sail, go snorkeling at Monkey Bay, and check out its world-famous cliffs. Meet your new crew in Koh Phi Phi in the early afternoon. Enjoy sailing and stopping for a swim before an overnight stay in a remote location.

Day 5 Koh Phi Phi/Koh Raja Noi(Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner)
After a visit to iconic Maya Bay, sail to the remote island of Raja Noi and enjoy time for snorkeling amongst stunning marine life, kayaking, or swimming. Relax with a lunch break on the picturesque beach.

Day 6 Koh Raja Noi/Koh Yao Yai(Breakfast | Lunch)
Sail to the island of Koh Yao Yai. Opt to enjoy a group dinner on the island.

Day 7 Koh Yao Yai/Phuket(Breakfast)
Sail into the harbor just before lunch. The tour ends on arrival.

When arranging your transportation, such as flights, please take into consideration the below time restrictions for joining and departing from your group. With these times, we have taken into account travel time to/from the airport in the given destination and required time for check-in or baggage collection/immigration

Your flight must arrive by or before
01:00 p.m.

Your flight must depart no earlier than
03:00 p.m.

The post Sailing Thailand – Phuket to Phuket appeared first on Travel Vip.

Vacation Overview
If you want to see Western Europe’s main highlights but don’t have a lot of time, this European tour is the vacation for you! Visit England, Belgium, Germany, Austria, Italy, Switzerland, and France with overnights in London, Brussels, the Frankfurt area, the Innsbruck area, the Venice area, the Lucerne area, Dijon, and Paris.

One of the tour highlights is a drive along Germany’s Romantic Road, a trade route during the Middle Ages and now known for its charming villages, cobblestone streets, walled cities, half-timbered houses, and scenic countryside, with a stop in Rothenburg, a walled town that has retained its medieval character. Enjoy an included scenic cruise along the Rhine River, famous for its castle-crested hills, terraced vineyards, and pretty wine towns. Take a boat ride in Venice along the Giudecca Canal to St. Mark’s Square, allowing you to admire the palazzos and maze of streets. While in Venice, enjoy watching glassblowers create their works as they have done for centuries.

Another highlight of this Europe tour is your stay in the Lucerne area, one of Switzerland’s finest cities, situated on the shores of breathtaking Lake Lucerne and nestled within the snowcapped Swiss Alps. Here, visit the Old Town, with its famous Chapel Bridge. Stop in romantic Verona, the Italian city made famous by Romeo and Juliet; enjoy an orientation drive in Brussels, and see the most famous sights in Paris—including the Arc de Triomphe and Eiffel Tower— on the guided sightseeing tour.

In a short period of time, this affordable European tour offers it all—historic sights, big cities, quaint towns, and scenic beauty. It’s a marvelous vacation!

Itinerary

Day 1 ARRIVE IN LONDON, ENGLAND
Check into your hotel. Uniformed hosts are available to help you make the most of your stay.

Day 2 LONDON
A full day to savor our rich program of optional activities: take a panoramic tour of London’s landmarks, visit the Tower of London, or choose an excursion to Windsor Castle. Tonight, how about a leisurely cruise on the Thames River?

Breakfast
Day 3 LONDON–BRUSSELS, BELGIUM
Transfer to the railway station and board the EUROSTAR TRAIN to Brussels. Here, your Tour Director and comfortable coach wait to take you for an orientation drive.

Breakfast
Day 4 BRUSSELS–RHINE CRUISE, GERMANY–FRANKFURT AREA
Journey into Germany to the shores of the mighty Rhine to enjoy a scenic CRUISE. Then, on to the Frankfurt area for an overnight.

Breakfast
Dinner
Day 5 FRANKFURT AREA–ROMANTIC ROAD–INNSBRUCK AREA, AUSTRIA
Today’s highlight is a drive along the Romantic Road, through towns and villages with medieval towered gates and battlements, squares of half-timbered houses, and richly decorated fountains. Spend some time in the center of Rothenburg before heading to the Innsbruck area for an overnight.

Breakfast
Dinner
Day 6 INNSBRUCK AREA–BRENNER PASS–VENICE AREA, ITALY
Take in the breathtaking scenery of the Alps while crossing the Europa Bridge and Brenner Pass. Arrive in Venice, where a BOAT RIDE along the Giudecca Canal to Piazza San Marco allows you to admire the palazzos and maze of streets. Time at leisure to soak up the magical atmosphere of this unique city. At a GLASSBLOWING WORKSHOP, experience this Venetian art.

Breakfast
Dinner
Day 7 VENICE AREA–VERONA–LUCERNE AREA, SWITZERLAND
Stop in fascinating Verona and see Juliet’s legendary balcony. Cross the Swiss border and enjoy the idyllic views of Canton Ticino, then descend to the breathtaking beauty of Lake Lucerne.

Breakfast
Day 8 LUCERNE AREA–DIJON, FRANCE
Your visit this morning focuses on the Old Town in the heart of Lucerne. Also, there’s time for an optional excursion to Mount Stanserhorn. In the afternoon, journey into France for an overnight in the charming town of Dijon.

Breakfast
Day 9 DIJON–PARIS
Leave Dijon and travel on the autoroute to Paris, where included sightseeing with a local expert shows you many of the best-known Parisian sites.

Breakfast
Day 10 PARIS–LONDON, ENGLAND
Relax on your EUROSTAR journey back to London.

Breakfast
Day 11 LONDON
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.

Breakfast Breakfast
Vacation Highlights
Brussels orientation drive; Rhine cruise; visits to Rothenburg, Venice canal boat ride, Verona, Lucerne

Individual headsets
Rhineland, Romantic Road, Tyrolean Alps, Brenner Pass

Guides:
Host service in London; Local Guide for city sightseeing in Paris; professional Tour Director while touring

December 31 Departure–New Year’s in London

Hotels
LONDON Novotel London West (F)
BRUSSELS Ramada La Woluwe (ST) or Ibis St. Catherine (ST)
FRANKFURT AREA Mercure (ST) at Friedrichsdorf or Green hotel by Melia (F)
INNSBRUCK AREA Bon Alpina (ST) at Igls or Alpinpark (F) or Alphotel (F)
VENICE AREA Poppi (ST) at Mira or Antony Palace (F) at Marcon
LUCERNE AREA Ibis (ST) at Kriens or Drei Könige (ST)
DIJON Ibis Styles Central (ST)
PARIS Timhotel Berthier (ST) or Courtyard Arcueil (F)

Meals
Buffet breakfasts daily; 3 dinners

Dates and Prices
View the following dates and prices to find just the right date for your vacation. Below you’ll find, the date your vacation starts and the date your vacation ends.

The post Seven Countries, Venice & Paris with London Guided Tour appeared first on Travel Vip.

What’s Included
G Adventures for Good: Mi Cafecito Coffee Cooperative Tour, Sarapiquí
Hands-On: Cooking Demonstration, Sarapiquí Rainforest. Guided cloud forest night walk (Monteverde). Jungle lodge stay. Nature trail walk with swim (Sarapiquí). Free time in Quepos, Monteverde, La Fortuna, Tortuguero, and Puerto Viejo. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.

Meals Included
4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners

Group Leader
Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, local guides.

Group Leader Details
All G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our group leaders, a G Adventures representative, or an expedition team. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are traveling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it’s the best of both worlds.

Transport
Private vehicle, tractor, public bus, boat, walking.

Solo Travellers
We believe single travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and single travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.

Accomodation
Hotels (13 nts), jungle lodge (2 nts, multi-share).

Group Size
Max 16, avg 12

Day 1 San José
Arrive at any time.
Day 2San José/Quepos
Travel to Quepos and enjoy a few days of relaxing and exploring Manuel Antonio National Park.
Day 3Quepos
Enjoy a free day in the Manuel Antonio region to explore and relax. Opt go kayaking through mangroves, take a surf lesson or cruise along the coast on a dolphin-spotting sunset sailing excursion.
Day 4Quepos/Monteverde
Travel from Quepos to Monteverde and into the cool mountain air of the area. Take an included guided night walk to learn about nocturnal life in the cloud forest firsthand.
Day 5Monteverde
Enjoy a free day to explore the cloud forest region of Costa Rica. Opt to fly across canopy ziplines or tour a coffee plantation.
Day 6Monteverde/La Fortuna
Travel from Monteverde to La Fortuna. Enjoy free time for optional activities such as whitewater rafting, waterfall rappelling, or relaxing in local hot springs.
Days 7–8La Fortuna
Enjoy two free days in La Fortuna. Optional activities abound.
Day 9La Fortuna/Sarapiquí Rainforest(Lunch | Dinner)
Enjoy an included visit to a G Adventures-supported coffee cooperative with a local lunch before heading to a jungle oasis in the Sarapiquí Rainforest.
Day 10Sarapiquí Rainforest(Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner)
Enjoy a day in the beautiful Sarapiquí Valley. Optional activities (all included in our overnight package, weather-depending) include swimming in the river, night walks, an empanada-making lesson or lounging in a hammock.
Day 11Sarapiquí Rainforest/Tortuguero(Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner)
Head to Tortuguero. Opt to visit the nesting grounds of the green and leatherback turtles at night (seasonal).
Day 12Tortuguero(Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner)
Enjoy free time to explore Tortuguero. Opt to kayak through the canals and view the wildlife, wake up early and head to the beach to watch turtle eggs hatch (seasonal), or just wander through the town.
Day 13Tortuguero/Puerto Viejo de Talamanca(Breakfast)
Head to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca. Opt to snorkel in the Caribbean, hike in Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge, or rent a bike to hit the beach.
Day 14Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
With free time here, head out and explore. Don’t forget to try some fantastic Afro-Caribbean cuisine.
Day 15Puerto Viejo de Talamanca/San José
Enjoy free time in the morning before heading back to San Jose for the final night with the group.
Day 16San José
Depart at any time.

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Description
One of our most popular trips in the region for those looking to combine the cultural highlights of the Sacred Valley with the challenge of one of the world’s best known hikes. The four-day Inca Trail trek will reward you with a stunning combination of the region’s ruins, mountainscapes, and cloud forests. Because we run our own treks, we can ensure the fair treatment of our porters and the quality of food and equipment so you’re free to enjoy the beauty of the region.

What’s Included
G Adventures for Good: Ccaccaccollo Community and Women’s Weaving Co-op visit, Ccaccaccollo
G Adventures for Good: Parwa Community Restaurant the Sacred Valley, Lamay. Sacred Valley guided tour. Pottery making demonstration. Inca Trail guided hike with cooks and porters (4 days). Guided tour of Machu Picchu. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.

Meals Included
6 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners

Group Leader
G Representative in Cusco, specialist Inca Trail CEO on hike.

Group Leader Details
All G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our group leaders, a G Adventures representative, or an expedition team. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it’s the best of both worlds.

Transport
Train, private van, hiking.

Solo Travellers
We believe single travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travelers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and single travelers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.

Accomodation
Hotels (3 nts), camping (3 nts).

Group Size
Max 16, Avg 12

Day 1Cusco
Arrive at any time.
Day 2Cusco/Ollantaytambo(Breakfast | Lunch)
Enjoy a full-day guided tour of the Sacred Valley. Stop at the G Adventures-supported women’s weaving co-op before visiting a local pottery making community. Break for lunch at the G Adventures-supported Parwa community restaurant in Huchuy Qosco. After lunch, opt to head out on a hike to the Ollantaytambo storehouses and look out over the ruins. Or, wander around the cobblestone streets and visit a local Chicheria (corn beer bar).
Day 3Inca Trail(Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner)
Depart Ollantaytambo by van to km 82 where the Inca Trail begins. Ease into things with a straight forward day of hiking, the meandering streams, stunning Andean scenery, and ancient Incan ruins will give you plenty to look at.
Day 4Inca Trail(Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner)
Start early to climb the long steep path to Warmiwañusca, better known as Dead Woman’s Pass. This is the highest point of the trek at 4,198m (13,769 ft). Most hikers reach camp by early afternoon, with ample time to rest and relax.
Day 5Inca Trail(Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner)
Cross two more passes and ruins along the way. The first pass is Runquraqay at 3,950m (13,113 ft) where, on a clear day, hikers can catch a glimpse of the snow-capped Cordillera Vilcabamba. Hike through cloud forest on the gentle climb to the second pass of the day, walking through original Incan constructions. The highest point of the pass is 3,700m (12,136 ft). On a clear day, enjoy the spectacular views of the Urubamba Valley.
At 3,650m (11,972 ft), reach the ruins of Phuyupatamarca, the “town above the clouds.” Camp here or go another 1.5 hrs to the Wiñay Wayna ruins (“forever young”) located at 2,650m (8,694 ft).
Day 6Machu Picchu/Cusco(Breakfast)
The final day of the hike starts pre-dawn to reach the Sun Gate before sunrise. Catch the first views of the breathtaking ruins of Machu Picchu on a clear day. Hike down to Machu Picchu for a guided tour of the site and free time to explore until noon as permitted by the tourist ticket. Opt to visit the Inca Bridge, if time allows.
Catch the bus to Aguas Calientes to meet any non-hiking members of your group. Eat and relax before your train back to Cusco in the afternoon.
Day 7Cusco(Breakfast)
Depart at any time.

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Description
Lemurs, wild landscapes, village culture, beaches – Madagascar might be an island but there’s nothing small about it. For those who like to get remote, this isolated island is packed with wildlife, landscapes and people you’ll find nowhere else. (And everybody loves lemurs!) You’ll get to embrace local life and still have time to relax at the beach. Best of all, there’s always a local CEO there to lead the way and provide a link to the unusual and extraordinary.

What’s Included
Local Living: Community Guesthouse and Traditional Dinner, Fiadanana. Andasibe Indri Special Reserve guided walk. Artisan workshop visit. Traditional healer visit. Paper factory visits. Anja Reserve walk. Isalo National Park visit. Internal flight. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.

Meals Included
1 breakfasts, 1 lunches, 1 dinners

Group Leader
Chief Experience Officer (CEO), driver throughout, local guides.

Group Leader Details
Throughout the entire 10-day journey around Madagascar, you will be accompanied on your trip by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO). To round out the team, you will be joined by an expert driver. The Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will be the group manager and leader. He/she organizes the trip, and will be there to assist you when needed. He/she will be local to Madagascar, as G Adventures supports local employment, and will have a general knowledge base of the region, history, culture, and wildlife. He/she will take care of the small things so you can concentrate on enjoying your adventure. Your driver is a skilled and experienced driver, and is an integral part of the team. In addition, within the national parks, we engage in expert local guides to lead the hikes and forest walks, and he/she will be able to teach your specifics about the flora and fauna, and of course help to spot lemurs!

Transport
Private minibus, plane, walking.

Solo Travellers
We believe single travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and single travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.

Accomodation
Simple hotels (12 nts), community guesthouse (1 nt, multi-share).

Group Size
Max 16, avg 12

Day 1Antananarivo
Arrive at any time.

Day 2Antananarivo/Andasibe
Travel to Andasibe-Perinet National Park with scenic stops en route. Stay in a quiet area near Andasibe and explore the Indri Special Reserve section of this massive area.

Day 3Andasibe
Spend the day exploring this national park. Stay in a quiet area near Andasibe and explore the Indri Special Reserve section of this massive area.

Day 4Andasibe/Antsirabe
Travel to the colonial city of Antsirabe, stopping to see rice paddies along the way.

Day 5Antsirabe/Fiadanana(Lunch | Dinner)
Visit Lake Andraikiba before continuing to the small village of Fiadanana. Opt to explore this beautiful village. Listen to a ghost talker, enjoy a stay at a community guesthouse, and dinner with a local family.

Day 6Fiadanana/Ranomafana(Breakfast)
Hike back to the bus taking in the stunning views. Continue on to Ranomafana. Learn traditional rituals from the local villagers.

Day 7Ranomafana/Ambalavao
Opt for an early morning forest walk to get a feel for the incredible wildlife of the area, or explore on your own. In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic journey heading south through Madagascar’s wine-producing region.

Day 8Ambalavao/Ranohira
Stop at Anja Community Reserve, known for groups of ring-tailed lemurs. Continue on through the ever-changing landscape to Ranohira and Isalo National Park.

Day 9Ranohira
Spend a full day exploring Isalo National park on foot, stopping at a natural swimming pool and waterfalls.

Day 10Ranohira/Ifaty
Drive through the desert landscape, viewing Mahafaly tombs and giant baobab trees en route. Continue to the beautiful Mozambican Channel beaches of Ifaty.

Days 11–12Ifaty
Spend two full days enjoying this gorgeous area. Opt to do some hiking or hit the beach.

Day 13Ifaty/Antananarivo
Travel to Toliara for a flight to Antananarivo and an optional last night out on the town.

Day 14Antananarivo
Depart at any time.

The post Explore Madagascar appeared first on Travel Vip.

Welcome to Zurich! At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and traveling companions for a welcome dinner at your hotel.
Dinner

Day 2 ZURICH–VADUZ, LIECHTENSTEIN–ST. MORITZ, SWITZERLAND

Enjoy an orientation walk of Zurich’s well-preserved OLD TOWN with its medieval guild houses, and taste the traditional CHOCOLATE PRALINES at the famous Sprüngli Confectionery. Next, a scenic drive following Lake Zurich and Lake Walen through the high Alps to the tiny Principality of Liechtenstein. After a break in its capital, Vaduz, ascend the Rhine Valley into the mountainous Grisons, a canton where three of the country’s four languages are spoken. The 7,504-foot Julier Pass, an important Alpine road since Roman times, leads to the Engadine. This valley is considered by many as the most beautiful mountain area in the world, with deep-blue lakes, airy larch forests that turn golden in the fall, mountain peaks exceeding 12,000 feet, and quaint villages with massive white stone houses in the characteristic Grisons style. Afternoon arrival in ritzy St. Moritz.
Breakfast
Dinner

Day 3 ST. MORITZ–LAKE COMO, ITALY–LUGANO, SWITZERLAND

A gradual change of scenery as you descend towards the enchanting shores of Italy’s Lake Como and continue on to the southern tip of Switzerland. The vegetation south of the Alps is Mediterranean: chestnut groves, vineyards, and olive and fig trees make you forget that earlier today you were within walking distance of glaciers. Afternoon arrival in the popular subtropical resort town of Lugano allows time for shopping under the arcades of Via Nassa or an espresso on flower-festooned Piazza Riforma. To truly appreciate splendid Lake Lugano, an exciting optional boat ride is available, followed by dinner at a traditional “grotto” restaurant.
Breakfast

Day 4 LUGANO–STRESA, ITALY–TÄSCH, SWITZERLAND–ZERMATT

From Lake Lugano to the Italian shore of Lake Maggiore for a break in elegant Stresa. An optional boat ride to enchanting Isola Bella can be arranged. Continue over lofty Simplon Pass into the Swiss Valais, an area renowned for its excellent wines and great mountain resorts. To reach the most famous of them, leave the coach behind in Täsch and board a MOUNTAIN TRAIN to climb the last few miles up to car-free Zermatt, a picturesque cluster of rustic chalets beneath the Matterhorn.
Breakfast

Day 5 ZERMATT–LAKE GENEVA

This morning, you can join an exciting optional excursion to Klein Matterhorn for spectacular views of the surrounding Alps. Later, motor through the vineyards and apricot groves of the lower Rhône Valley, and arrive at beautiful Lake Geneva for your overnight stay.
Breakfast
Dinner

Day 6 LAKE GENEVA–BERNE–LUCERNE

In the stately capital of Berne, your guided tour starts at the BEAR PARK, followed by a panoramic view of the city from the Rose Garden. Next, enjoy a walking tour through the beautifully preserved medieval Old Town. Witness the hourly parade of painted figures at the Clock Tower and take pictures of ornate, flower-adorned fountains. The highlight of the day is a special lunch at a traditional Swiss WORKING FARM, to give you a chance to see how people live in rural Switzerland. Over Brünig Pass to picturesque Lucerne. An optional dinner excursion is available to a folklore party with yodeling for a first-hand impression of Alpine merrymaking.
Breakfast
Lunch

Day 7 Lucerne

On your walking tour this morning, admire Thorwaldsen’s impressive LION MONUMENT, dedicated to the Swiss Guards who protected the Royal House of France during the French Revolution, and ornate patrician houses of the walled Old Town, then cross the famous covered CHAPEL BRIDGE to the Jesuit Church. Afterwards, another true Swiss experience: a trip to the top of Mount Pilatus, the “Guard of Lucerne,” where you get a special SOUVENIR CAP to always remember this experience! Tonight, a special farewell dinner awaits you at your hotel for a proper auf Wiedersehen.
Breakfast
Dinner

Day 8 LUCERNE–ZURICH AIRPORT

Morning transfer to Zurich Airport in time for homebound flights leaving no earlier than 10 am. Extra nights are available in Zurich.
Breakfast
Vacation Highlights
ZURICH
Welcome dinner; orientation walk of the Old Town; [LF] taste Sprüngli chocolate pralines

VADUZ
Visit the capital of Liechtenstein

LAKE COMO
Picture stop

SWISS-ITALIAN LAKE DISTRICT

TÄSCH–ZERMATT–TÄSCH
By mountain train

BERNE
Guided walking tour, stop at the Bear Park and enjoy a panoramic view from the Rose Garden; [LF] lunch at a working farm

LUCERNE
Walking tour including the Lion Monument and Chapel Bridge; [LF] Mount Pilatus excursion including a souvenir cap; farewell dinner
Headsets throughout tour.

On arrival at Zürich Airport, a complimentary transfer by hotel shuttle bus is available

Meals
Full buffet breakfast daily; 1 special lunch; 4 three-course dinners with wine, including a welcome dinner in Zürich and a special farewell dinner in Lucerne.
Hotels

The post The Best of Switzerland appeared first on Travel Vip.

Vacation Overview
Highlighting Thailand’s rich history, fascinating culture, and religious monuments, this Thailand tour includes overnights in Bangkok, Kanchanaburi, Ayutthaya, Phitsanulok, Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai, and Phuket.

This tour through Thailand includes visits to some of the cities that have served as the country’s capital: Bangkok, Ayutthaya, and Sukhothai. In Bangkok—Thailand’s current capital—visit the Temple of the Golden Buddha; the Temple of the Reclining Buddha built in 1832; Phra Pathom Chedi, the world’s tallest Buddhist pagoda; and the Grand Palace, the royal residence begun in 1782 where you’ll see the Emerald Buddha, Thailand’s most sacred Buddhist sculpture. In Ayutthaya, Thailand’s ancient capital, your sightseeing includes a visit to Bang Pa-In Palace, which was built as a summer residence for the Kings of Ayutthaya. In Sukhothai, Thailand’s 13th-century capital, visit Sukhothai Historic Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with ruins of palaces, temples, and homes.

On this Thailand tour, you’ll also have an opportunity to learn about the Thai culture. In Bangkok, enjoy a Thai dinner accompanied by Thai classical music and dancers. Visit the legendary Damnoen Saduak floating market and see traders sell exotic fruits, vegetables, and more from their boats. In Chiang Mai, enjoy a traditional Kantoke dinner and dance show, as well as a visit to San Kampaeng to see local craftsmen make Thailand’s traditional lacquerware and antique wood furniture.

But that’s not all…visit the “Golden Triangle,” where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet, and take a train ride over the famous River Kwai Bridge, part of the infamous Death Railway built by prisoners during World War II. Visit Hellfire Pass Memorial, which houses a museum detailing the life of the Allied prisoners and Asian laborers who helped build the railway.

This Thailand vacation designed for value-minded travelers also includes three nights in Phuket, so you can relax and enjoy this popular beach destination. It’s a perfect vacation!

Itinerary

Day 1 BANGKOK, THAILAND
Welcome to Thailand’s capital city. Hotel rooms are available for mid-afternoon check-in.

Day 2 BANGKOK
Bangkok is an exhilarating blend of historic and religious monuments, chic modernity, exciting shopping and friendly culture. An exciting day of sightseeing is ahead, taking in the city’s principal landmarks such as the splendid TEMPLE OF THE GOLDEN BUDDHA and the spectacular TEMPLE OF THE RECLINING BUDDHA, the oldest and largest Buddhist temple in Bangkok. You will also visit the gleaming GRAND PALACE, Thailand’s most sacred monument; and the spectacular TEMPLE OF THE EMERALD BUDDHA. This evening, enjoy a special THAI DINNER, accompanied by Thai classical music and dancers.

Breakfast Breakfast
DinnerDinner
Day 3 BANGKOK
Visit the legendary DAMNOEN SADUAK FLOATING MARKET, where traders sell all manner of items from their boats, including exotic fruits, vegetables, silks, and toys. Later, visit the world’s tallest Buddhist pagoda, PHRA PATHOM CHEDI, before returning to Bangkok.

Breakfast Breakfast
Day 4 BANGKOK
Explore Bangkok at leisure, perhaps enjoying the great-value shopping, lively market, and delicious Thai cuisine.

Breakfast Breakfast
Day 5 BANGKOK–KANCHANABURI
Travel to Kanchanaburi on the banks of the Kwai River, famed for the River Kwai Bridge, built during WWII. Visit the ALLIED FORCES CEMETERY and spend time in the fascinating THAILAND-BURMA RAILWAY CENTRE. Today’s highlight is a TRAIN RIDE across the famous bridge to Wang Po Station. This afternoon, visit HELLFIRE PASS MEMORIAL, part of the Death Railway that cuts through the mountains. Today, it houses a museum detailing life of the Allied prisoners and Asian laborers who helped build the railway, and subsequently suffered or died at Hellfire Pass.

Breakfast Breakfast
LunchLunch
Day 6 KANCHANABURI–SAI YOK NATIONAL PARK–AYUTTHAYA
Start the day with a stop in SAI YOK NATIONAL PARK to see SAI YOK YAI WATERFALL. Then, head to Ayutthaya, ancient capital of Siam. Here, you will visit BANG PA-IN PALACE, which was built in the 18th century as a summer residence for the Kings of Ayutthaya.

Breakfast Breakfast
LunchLunch
Day 7 AYUTTHAYA–UTHAI THANI–PHITSANULOK
Depart Ayutthaya to Uthai Thani, a small town on the Sakaekrang River, and visit WAT THA SUNG, an impressive temple with its Crystal Hall and Golden Grand shrine. Take a 1-hour CRUISE along Sakaekrang River, enjoying the local life. Later, drive to Phitsanulok, one of Thailand’s oldest cities, founded over 600 years ago. This evening, consider an optional rickshaw ride to experience Phitsanulok’s colorful night market.

Breakfast Breakfast
LunchLunch
Day 8 PHITSANULOK–SUKHOTHAI–CHIANG RAI
Journey to Sukhothai, Thailand’s 13th-century former capital, and admire the atmospheric, moated Old Town. Here, you will visit SUKHOTHAI HISTORIC PARK, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore ruined temples and monasteries, including WAT SI CHUM with its stunning seated Buddha. Later, travel through rural countryside to Chiang Rai.

Breakfast Breakfast
LunchLunch
Day 9 CHIANG RAI. GOLDEN TRIANGLE EXCURSION
Enjoy breathtaking vistas as you journey to Doi Mae Salong and visit a TEA PLANTATION. Continue to Mae Sai, Thailand’s northernmost town, and on to the renowned GOLDEN TRIANGLE, where the borders of Thailand, Burma, and Laos meet. You may consider an optional boat tour on the Mekong River.

Breakfast Breakfast
LunchLunch
Day 10 CHIANG RAI–CHIANG MAI
Today’s journey takes you to Chiang Mai. Visit WAT RONG KHUN and the hot springs at MAE KA CHAN, which locals believe relieve a host of ailments. After lunch, continue through lush jungle to Chiang Mai, a fragrant mountain retreat known as the “Rose of the North” for its refreshing climate. Upon arrival, visit SAN KAMPAENG to see local craftsmen make Thailand’s traditional lacquerware and teakwood furniture. Tonight, enjoy a traditional KHANTOKE DINNER and DANCE SHOW.

Breakfast Breakfast
LunchLunch
DinnerDinner
Day 11 CHIANG MAI
Spend the morning at an ELEPHANT SANCTUARY, where over 30 elephants roam freely in a safe and sustainable environment and are not subjected to mistreatment (including rides). Here, you have the chance to touch, feed, photograph, and interact with the elephants at your leisure while you learn about their lifestyle and behaviors. You will also have a chance to interact with the Karen tribe, home to the PADAUNG LONG-NECKED WOMEN.

Breakfast Breakfast
LunchLunch
Day 12 CHIANG MAI
Today is free for you to enjoy this dynamic city. You may opt to join our optional Thai cooking class and learn the secrets of traditional dishes.

Breakfast Breakfast
Day 13 CHIANG MAI–PHUKET
Today, we transfer to Chiang Mai airport for your flight to Phuket. On arrival, you will be met by our local representative and transferred to your hotel.

Breakfast Breakfast
Days 14-15 PHUKET
Enjoy your days doing as little or as much as you wish. Visit fabulous beaches, treat yourself to a Thai massage, or simply relax by the pool.

BreakfastBreakfast daily
Day 16 PHUKET
Your tour ends with breakfast this morning.

Breakfast Breakfast
Vacation Highlights
In Bangkok, Kanchanaburi, Ayutthaya, Phitsanuloke, Sukhothai, Chiang Rai, and Chiang Mai.

Hellfire Pass, Sai Yok Yai Waterfall, Sakaekrang River, the Golden Triangle

Guides:
Services of a professional Tour Director

Hotels
BANGKOK Narai Hotel (MF)
KANCHANABURI Felix River Kwai Resort (F)
AYUTTHAYA Kantary Hotel, Ayutthaya (F)
PHITSANULOK Amarin Lagoon Hotel (MF)
CHIANG RAI Wiang Inn Hotel (F)
CHIANG MAI Empress Hotel (MF)
PHUKET Andaman Seaview Hotel (MF)

Meals
15 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 2 dinners

Dates and Prices

23-Mar-2018 24-Mar-2018 – 08-Apr-2018 80324 $2,455

04-Apr-2018 05-Apr-2018 – 20-Apr-2018 80405 $2,455

30-May-2018 31-May-2018 – 15-Jun-2018 80531 $2,445

12-Sep-2018 13-Sep-2018 – 28-Sep-2018 80913 $2,445
26-Sep-2018 27-Sep-2018 – 12-Oct-2018 80927 $2,445
03-Oct-2018 04-Oct-2018 – 19-Oct-2018 81004 $2,445
20-Oct-2018 21-Oct-2018 – 05-Nov-2018 81021 $2,445
27-Oct-2018 28-Oct-2018 – 12-Nov-2018 81028 $2,575

14-Nov-2018 15-Nov-2018 – 30-Nov-2018 81115 $2,595

28-Nov-2018 29-Nov-2018 – 14-Dec-2018 81129 $2,595

15-Dec-2018 16-Dec-2018 – 31-Dec-2018 81216 $2,595

PRICES ARE PER PERSON

The post Thailand Experience with Phuket appeared first on Travel Vip.

Your budget travel adventure to Iceland is an amazing 8-day journey that begins and ends in the capital city of Reykjavik. You’ll discover that Iceland is one of the most fascinating countries in Europe as you experience its unique, almost lunar landscapes, as well as the simple but interesting culture of its people.

You will start your journey along the rugged coastline to Snæfellsnes peninsula to see the famed 700,000-year-old Snæfellsjökull glacier-covered volcano. You’ll also visit small fishing villages, including Djúpalónssandur – known for its legendary lifting stones to test the strength of fishermen.

Eiríksstaðir includes a replica of the sod-roofed home of Norwegian Viking, Erik the Red – also the birthplace of his son, legendary explorer Leif Erikson.

Travel through the renowned “Valley of Horses” – Iceland’s abundant agricultural region. You’ll stop at The Goðafoss – “Waterfall of the Gods” – and follow the shores of Mývatn Lake for stunning vistas of the volcano, wetlands, and wildlife.

You’ll see Dimmuborgir – the “Catacombs of Hell” – with its bubbling mud, volcanic caves, lava formations, and glow of subterranean lava. Relax in the warm mineral waters of Mývatn Nature Baths for a relaxing soak.

Your affordable vacation in Iceland continues to the Deildartunguhver geothermal hot springs, and also takes you to Þingvellir National Park’s tremendous Gullfoss waterfall and erupting geysers.

Returning to Reykjavik, you’ll enjoy an excursion to the South Shore to capture photographs of awe-inspiring waterfalls. You’ll also learn about Icelandic architectural and engineering history in the Skógar Folk Museum.

Your Iceland budget travel adventure concludes with a priceless visit to the black-basalt beaches of Vik, ranked as one of the 10 most beautiful on Earth. The magical beauty of Iceland’s geology, nature, and culture is certainly a trip for the ages.

During the winter months, it will be likely for you to experience the spectacular natural wonder of the northern lights, or “Aurora Borealis.” The spectacular phenomenon of a stunning spectrum of light and shapes dancing against the backdrop of the night sky is sure to create indelible memories.

Itinerary

Day 1 ARRIVE IN REYKJAVÍK, ICELAND
Check into your hotel. The rest of the day is free to start exploring the world’s northernmost capital city. Tonight, meet your Tour Director and fellow travelers.

DinnerDinner
Day 2 REYKJAVÍK–SNÆFELLSNES–ARNARSTAPI–GRUNDARFJÖRÐUR
Rich fertile farmland and rugged cliffs greet you on your morning drive along the beautiful coastal road to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. See the SNÆFELLSJÖKULL VOLCANO, which can be spotted from Reykjavík on clear days, as well as the glacier that covers its summit. More than 4,700 feet (1446 meters) in elevation, the mountain gained notoriety as setting for Jules Verne’s Journey to the Center of the Earth. Arrive in the small fishing village of Arnarstapi and walk around the harbor area to enjoy the fresh sea air and watch the antics of circling birds. Later, arrive at the dramatic black-pebble Djúpalónssandur beach, where four lifting stones ranging from 50 to 340 pounds were once used to qualify men for work on fishing boats. Spend the night in quaint GRUNDARFJÖRÐUR, where picturesque Mount Kirkjufell stands sentry nearby.

Breakfast Breakfast
DinnerDinner
Day 3 GRUNDARFJÖRÐUR–EIRÍKSSTAÐIR–AKUREYRI
Iceland’s natural beauty unfolds as you drive through green pastures and meandering lava flows that have formed over the centuries. Via the colorful harbor town of Stykkishólmur, U.S. Marine landing site in the novel Red Storm Rising, reach the Haukadalur valley, home to some of the country’s most famous geothermal features. At Eiríksstaðir, visit a replica of Norwegian Viking ERIK THE RED’S ANCIENT SOD-ROOFED HOMESTEAD, where his son Leifur Eiríksson (explorer Leif Erikson) was born. This afternoon, head into Skagafjörður, the renowned “Valley of Horses” and one of Iceland’s most prosperous agricultural regions. Overnight in Akureyri, the “Capital of North Iceland.”

Breakfast Breakfast
Day 4 AKUREYRI. EXCURSION TO GOÐAFOSS & MÝVATN
First stop this morning is at GOÐAFOSS, the “Waterfall of the Gods.” Then, follow the shores of Mývatn Lake for vistas of the splendid volcano, peaceful wetlands, and abundant wildlife. Later, stop at Skútustaðir to see the intriguing volcanic pseudo-craters; DIMMU BORGIR, the “Catacombs of Hell,” with its bubbling mud pools, volcanic caves and lava tubes, and unusual rock formations; and the Krafla caldera with its ochre-colored glow of subterranean lava. Relax in the mineral-rich waters at the MÝVATN NATURE BATHS before returning to Akureyri for another overnight.

Breakfast Breakfast
DinnerDinner
Day 5 AKUREYRI–REYKHOLT
Today features an introduction to the spectacular geothermal hot springs at DEILDARTUNGUHVER. Here, you’ll find clusters of emerald-green deer ferns growing, a plant that grows nowhere else in the country. Next up is the tiny hamlet of Reykholt, former home of medieval Icelandic poet, historian, and politician Snorri Sturluson. Then, see the fascinating series of waterfalls at Hraunfossar before enjoying a stroll along the riverbanks to the BARNAFOSS waterfall, where the glacial cascade has carved out rock formations.

Breakfast Breakfast
DinnerDinner
Day 6 REYKHOLT–ÞINGVELLIR–GEYSIR–GULLFOSS–REYKJAVÍK
Some of Iceland’s most spectacular sights are on the agenda today as you visit ÞINGVELLIR NATIONAL PARK, a rift valley and boundary between the North American and Eurasian continental plates. See geysers as they erupt from the earth’s geothermal vents, and later, see the famed GULLFOSS waterfall before heading back to Reykjavík.

Breakfast Breakfast
Day 7 REYKJAVÍK. EXCURSION TO THE SOUTH SHORE
Explore the South Shore today, and have your cameras ready for the awe-inspiring SELJALANDSFOSS and SKÓGAFOSS waterfalls. Then, visit the tiny settlement of Skógar to admire turf farmhouses, a pioneer-era hydroelectric plant, and examples of many periods of Icelandic architectural history at the SKÓGAR FOLK MUSEUM. On to Vik, the southernmost village in Iceland, to see its black-basalt beach, counted as one of the 10 most beautiful beaches on Earth in Islands Magazine. The cliffs here are home to a large seabird population, including puffins. Finally, marvel and the Sólheimajökull glacier before enjoying a stop in the village of EYRARBAKKI.

The lovely thermal waters of Iceland’s understandably famous Blue Lagoon.
The geothermal power plant visible in the back supplies much of the power to Reykjavik, and of course the hot, rejuvinating waters of the Blue Lagoon itself.

Breakfast Breakfast
Day 8 REYKJAVÍK
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.

Breakfast Breakfast
Vacation Highlights
Visits to Arnarstapi, Eiríksstaðir, replica farmhouse of Eric the Red, Goðafoss waterfall, Skútustaðir pseudocraters, Dimmuborgir, Namaskand bubbling pools, Krafla, Mývatn Nature Baths, Deildartunguhver geothermal springs, Reykholt, Hraunfossar, Barnafoss waterfall, Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall, Reykyavík, Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, Skógar Folk Museum, Eyrarbakki village

Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Djúpalónssandur black beach, Grundarfjörður, Haukadalur Valley, Skógafjörður Valley, Akureyri, Lake Mývatn, Vik’s black beaches, Sólheimajökull glacier

Guides:
Local Guides; professional Tour Director while touring

Meals
Buffet breakfasts daily; 4 dinners

The post Idyllic Iceland appeared first on Travel Vip.