WHISPERS TRAVEL INSPIRATION FROM THE AWARD-WINNING TOUR SPECIALIST

NEW Destinations & Tours Mystical Egypt and Magical Antarctica – two of our new destinations of discovery

¡Vamos a Latinoamerica! Why we love sensational Latin America

Going Solo The Road More than 50 solo only departures on our most popular tours Less Travelled Discover Central Asia – a land of age-old romance and myths China's Top 10 Our team's pick of the best attractions in China

TRAVEL SAFE WITH US IN 2021 AND BEYOND Covid insurance cover included | Flexible booking guarantee and £99 deposit | Travel Safe Protocols To enquire or book please call Thorne Travel on 01294 559949 or email [email protected] WW CONTENTS BOOK & TRAVEL WITH

4-5 Our new brochure range for 2021-22 18-19 Traveller Tales – Myanmar with CONFIDENCE has arrived! David Beadling From the tip of Chile to the Great Wall of China, Wendy Wu customer, David Beadling, relives rediscover the world with our brand new collection. the Myanmar Explorer. To help you book with confidence we are happy to offer some of the most flexible 6-7 Discover the road less travelled – 20-21 Our top 10 China attractions booking conditions around coupled with our Travel Safe protocols. Central Asia China is a country full of wonders – ancient, • Pay a deposit of just £99pp The lands of age old romance, camel caravans, cultural, natural, man-made…how could you legends and ancient empires. possibly choose just ten? • No need to pay the balance until 6 weeks before departure • One free travel date change should you need it 8-9 New for 2021, Ancient Egypt & the 22-23 Traveller Tales – Wonders of China White Continent with Robert Thornton • Travel with Confidence, pioneering protocols to keep you safe whilst Mystical Egypt and Magical Antarctica, two of Wendy Wu customer, Robert Thornton shares travelling with us our new destinations of discovery. his memories of China. You book the tour – we'll cover the Travel Insurance Your safety and well-being will always be our Number 1 priority and with that in 10 Going solo, but never alone 24-25 Lonely Planet author Bradley Mayhew Welcome to the Autumn We’ve expanded our range of Solo tours to 17 on Central Asia mind we are delighted to offer Staysure's award winning-travel insurance with with over 50 dedicated departure dates! Renowned travel writer Bradley Mayhew talks edition of Whispers every tour booked by 31 December.* to us about the hidden gem that is Central Asia. magazine Key features include: 11 New tours for the Indian Subcontinent Explore the peaceful backwaters of Kerala, or the 26 Travelling Safe – our pioneering Within our magazine we are delighted to • COVID -19 cover including cancellations, medical expenses and diversity of Sri Lanka with our 2 new tours. protocols to keep you safe be able to share our love of travel and repatriation if you or a family member are diagnosed with coronavirus. Our commitment to keeping you safe on tour. adventure with you, our customers! • Pre-existing medical condition cover 12-13 Our new experiences in Japan 2020 has been a year like no other, Our touring range in Japan just got even better, 27 Traveller Tales – Vietnam with but we look to 2021 and beyond with • Unlimited medical emergency & repatriation find out how! Michele Wisener optimism and hope that together we can • Up to £15,000** cancellation cover Vietnam at a Glance with Wendy Wu customer begin to rediscover the world with you. Philippines, Thailand and the Michele Wisener. 14-15 With this in mind, we’ve launched our • 24 hour medical emergency helpline Victoria Mekong Hope in the forest new collection of brochures for 2021-22, • No upper age limit on policies Sky Emery gives the inside track on what’s 28-29 pawcked with your favourite tours plus Read why we are proud to work with these vital new for us in Southeast Asia. exciting new tours and destinations • Various activities covered on the standard policy charities in Borneo. including the Middle East and Antarctica • Add gadget cover to your policy that will cover you for up to £1,000 16-17 ¡Vamos a Latinoamerica! for the very first time. Why we love sensational Latin America. Details of how and when to organise your travel insurance will be shared Our team have put together pioneering with you when you book your tour. Covid-safe protocols to keep you safe whilst on tour. We are also offering Covid *Please note that this offer covers policies up to the value of £100 per person. In addition, Wendy Wu Tours customers receive insurance cover included with our tours a 15% discount off the price of their Staysure policy. The discount applies to the base premium of the travel insurance policy and does not apply to any medical screening additional premium where relevant.**Available on Comprehensive policies when you book by 31st December 2021.* only, subject to medical screening and not available online.

8 14 Celebrating 26 years of Wendy Wu Tours FREE RETURN FLIGHTS on our 26 best-selling tours! Book by 11 2021 & 2022 departures 24 Japan. Cover Image: Mt. Fuji, 30 Nov and SAVE UP TO All holidays featured in this magazine are fully ABTA and ATOL protected and you will £800pp be provided with certification of this when you book. You’ll find further information about financial protections on our website. All prices listed are per person and based on two adults TRAVEL AWARDS 2020 sharing standard accommodation and return flights from London Heathrow on selected departure dates. Prices correct as of 26th October 2020 and are subject to change. Booking WINNER conditions apply, please see our website for details – www.wendywutours.co.uk/help-and- advice/booking-conditions

2 To enquire or book please call Thorne Travel on 01294 559949 or email [email protected] To enquire or book please call Thorne Travel on 01294 559949 or email [email protected] 3 Travel inspiration to free the mind, body and soul!

Get ready to rediscover the world with us in 2021 and beyond

The less said about 2020 the better in our opinion, as you may well agree! With the world in flux we’ve kept our eyes firmly fixed towards a bright and better future where we can freely feel, see, explore and experience the best of our world, our history, cultures and natural wonders.

We have been busy planning, designing, improving and building an even better portfolio of touring experiences for you to enjoy in 2021 and 2022. Unlike many travel companies that have decided to “hunker-down” we have worked tirelessly to tailor our tours for the changing world. Our pioneering Travel Safe protocols (see page 26) will give you the reassurance and confidence to travel with Wendy Wu again. We’ve introduced a new flexible booking guarantee, with a special low deposit, included a free date amendment option as standard, and balance payments can now be made as little as six weeks prior to departure.

We are proud to have launched our new brochure range covering our most popular tours as well as new destinations that include Israel, Jordan, Egypt, Ecuador and the Philippines. We are also offering Antarctica expedition cruises, a first for Wendy Wu Tours, with the unique opportunity to experience the rare Total Solar Eclipse in Antarctica in 2021.

In response to you, our customers, we have added 50 new dedicated solo departures across 17 of our tours to Japan, China, Vietnam, Cambodia, India and Sri Lanka.

Get ready to rediscover the world with the brand-new Wendy Wu Tours' brochure collection. We're looking forward to welcoming you on tour with us very soon.

4 To enquire or book please call Thorne Travel on 01294 559949 or email [email protected] To enquire or book please call Thorne Travel on 01294 559949 or email [email protected] 5 The Road Less Travelled Central Asia is proving one of the hottest destinations for 2021-2022 and it's easy to see why. With fascinating ancient cities full of magnificent architecture and jaw-dropping scenery to soak up in between, there's

no better place to delve into the history and traditions of the old Silk Road. WW

Central Asia is a land of age-old romance, NEW for 2021 NEW for 2021 where loaded camel caravans wound their way across steppe and desert, and the vibrant skylines of the past still stand stark against the mountains, all long entwined with the myth and lore of the Silk Road. Here you can explore ancient cities that have not only earned a place in history, but in legend, whilst the names of warriors, emperors and great deeds litter the epic landscapes.

An area stretching from the borders of China and Mongolia in the east over to Road to Samarkand Journey through Central Ultimate Uzbekistan Gems of Georgia Georgia, Armenia & the Caspian Sea in the west, Central Asia Asia Azerbaijan remains an enigmatic and undiscovered 22 days | Go Beyond Group Tour 12 days | Classic Group Tour 11 days | Classic Group Tour region, often bypassed for the treasures from £5,090pp 27 days | Go Beyond Group Tour from £3,090pp from £2,490pp 23 days | Go Beyond Group Tour of the Orient, but bursting at the seams This adventure-packed tour takes from £6,690pp Central Asia’s cultural hub for more With one foot in Europe, the other in from £4,260pp with gems of its own. So, if the stark you right to the heart of Central Asia, An epic journey straight from the golden than two millennia, Uzbekistan is Asia and years spent behind the Iron This tour explores three nations with beauty of endless plains, limitless skies exploring Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan. age of exploration, this extraordinary tour the proud home of a mesmerising Curtain, as well as a history rooted in a rich and complex shared history but and dramatic mountains sound good, Whilst you’ll find yourself amongst the encompasses the ‘5 Stans’. Crossing the collection of ancient cities and timeless ancient empires, Georgia offers up a numerous charms of their very own. and wandering time-worn streets to desolate beauty of the desert, sailing the mountains, desert and the vast steppe architecture, all deeply infused with the rich and unique heritage to those who With plenty of dramatic landscapes admire exquisite mosques and madrassas vivid waters of Issyk Kul, and wandering of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, history of the Silk Road. On this tour explore it. In the shadow of the mighty to feast your eyes on as you go, the the atmospheric streets of Bukhara and you’ll stroll fragrant bazaars, admire the Caucasus Mountains, on this wonderful or exploring ancient hilltop monasteries Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan, you’ll delights of Georgia, Armenia and Samarkand, we’ll take you so much discover the unique culture of the area, architectural wonders of the illustrious tour you’ll ascend to ancient fortresses, Azerbaijan come from their perfect appeal, let us introduce you to our deeper into these unique destinations. from the architecture and ideas of the cities of Khiva, Bukhara and Samarkand reflect in age-old spiritual centres, balance of enigmatic, old world allure Central Asia collection. Experiences include meeting the ancient Silk Road, to the influence of and cross vast and unforgettable explore fascinating cave towns and and vibrant, modern sensibilities, magnificent eagle hunters of the Kyrgyz the Soviet era. In each new ‘Stan’ you’ll landscapes. You’ll also get a taste of wander the charming and cosmopolitan plus their wonderfully friendly locals. highlands, calling in on a local family delve into the national psyche, exploring authentic Uzbek culture with a cooking capital, Tbilisi. You’ll also discover Experiencing traditional life in the for a delicious dinner and meeting both cities and sights and the incredible class, wine tasting and a visit to Georgia’s wine – as one of the world’s mountains of Azerbaijan, sampling the the women of a co-operative keeping culture. Unmissable experiences include a ceramics workshop. oldest wine producers, it would be rude delicious food and wine of Georgia and traditional handicrafts alive. meeting local eagle hunters, spending not to have a delicious glass or two at discovering the beauty of Armenia’s the night in a traditional yurt camp the end of a day of explorations! spectacularly-located churches and and a visit to a stud farm of the famous monasteries are just some of the Akhal Tekes. reasons to visit this captivating region.

6 To enquire or book please call Thorne Travel on 01294 559949 or email [email protected] To enquire or book please call Thorne Travel on 01294 559949 or email [email protected] 7 Dreams of Egypt A mythical destination on the wishlist of travellers since antiquity, we’re delighted to help Antarctica Cruising you discover Egypt the Wendy Wu Tours way from 2021. Here’s our guide to the highlights of this astounding country from top to bottom. “You are about to have an experience of a lifetime” David Attenborough

We're absolutely delighted to bring you Antarctic expedition cruising from 2021. This pristine wilderness remains an adventurer’s wonderland, remote and untamed, from the stunning ethereal beauty of a gigantic iceberg to the abundance of wildlife and tales of explorers from a bygone era. Antarctica is an awe-inspiring destination unlike any other. Life on an expedition cruise is a world away from regular cruising. Time on deck is spent admiring icebergs sailing by or whales breaching, whilst exploring is done by Zodiac excursions, on foot, by sea kayaking or even paddle boarding. There’s the chance to camp out overnight on some voyages and time at sea can be spent enjoying lectures and workshops from the onboard team of Antarctica experts. Antarctic Peninsula Alexandria The Antarctic Peninsula is a 1,300 kilometre stretch of land and Alex, as it's affectionately known, has been a cosmopolitan ice extending northward from the Antarctic continent towards gateway to Egypt for centuries and today retains a charming air South America. An ice-bound world of towering, sculpted icebergs with its old cafes and bustling corniche. Ancient history can still and shimmering glaciers, this ethereal landscape is home to be found in the Roman theatre and renowned Catacombs of Kom countless penguins, graceful seals, a host of whale species including el Shoqafa, whilst the more recent WWII battlefields of El Alamein minke, humpback, right, blue, sperm and orcas, and vast flocks of are just a short drive away. sea birds. Cairo South Georgia Perhaps the greatest Islamic city in the world, Cairo is home to South Georgia is home to astonishingly abundant wildlife including the incredible Pyramids of Giza, the Great Sphinx and the thousands of king penguins, Antarctic fur seals and giant petrels. renowned Egyptian Museum, a treasure trove of ancient wonders. The stunning landscape of gigantic mountains and dramatic fjords Cheek by jowl with the modern city lie grand mosques, historic is also home to abandoned whaling stations and is the final resting Coptic churches and bustling souqs full of life and colour. place of the legendary polar explorer, Sir Ernest Shackleton. Luxor Falkland Islands Luxor boasts such a huge array of historic monuments it’s often The Falklands are renowned for their wildlife and their dramatic referred to as the world’s greatest open-air museum. On the recent history. The startling white beaches are home to vast east bank of the Nile lies the vast temple complex at Karnak rookeries of penguins and the largest black browed albatross and exquisite Luxor Temple, whilst to the west are the colony in the world, whilst the quirky capital Stanley boasts mysterious tombs of the Valley of the Kings and the striking a quintessentially British character and fascinating reminders Temple of Hatshepsut. of the recent conflict.

The Nile NEW for 2021 NEW for 2021 Egypt is often said to be the gift of the Nile and a cruise from Dreams of Egypt Luxor upriver to Aswan is a supremely relaxing way, not only to Antarctic Explorer discover some awe-inspiring ancient sites, but also to watch the 11 days | Classic Group Tour from £3,090pp timeless scenes of river life drift by as you sail. 11 days | Go Beyond Group Tour Egypt has hosted many ancient wonders through its illustrious from £9,799pp Aswan history and remains a country steeped in mystery and legend, all waiting to be explored. This tour offers famous monuments Embark on an extraordinary voyage, exploring some of the Laidback Aswan occupies an undeniably romantic setting perched and temples, a cruise along the world’s longest river and many wildest and most remote places on earth. This is a classic between the sparkling waters of the Nile and soaring sand dunes. bazaars to perfect your bargaining skills. voyage through the wild beauty of the Antarctic Peninsula, Home to the famous Philae Temple, relocated stone by stone to featuring abundant wildlife and spectacular scenery. avoid the rising waters of the Aswan High Dam, it’s a wonderful Including: International flights, accommodation, visa fees, place to relax and watch traditional feluccas ply the waters of the all transportation, 5-star Nile cruise, all meals, touring with Including: Accommodation, visa fees, all transportation, great river. Egyptologists and entrance fees. all meals, expedition leaders and daily tours.

8 To enquire or book please call Thorne Travel on 01294 559949 or email [email protected] To enquire or book please call Thorne Travel on 01294 559949 or email [email protected] 9 Going Solo, but Never Alone New Dedicated Departures for Solo Travellers

NEW Itineraries for the Indian Subcontinent If you’ve not yet seen our latest India brochure, let us introduce you to the wonderful new tours you can enjoy for 2021 and 2022, expertly put together to give you a more in-depth look into some of the Indian Subcontinent’s most fascinating and beautiful regions.

Kerala Northern Sri Lanka Travelling solo doesn’t have to mean travelling alone and that’s their homeland and they will welcome you as they would certainly the case for anyone embarking on one of our sociable, a lifelong friend. Our superb guides are the ones who add that Known for its peaceful backwaters and stunning tea-covered hills, The diversity of Sri Lanka’s impressive landscapes is irresistible escorted group tours. Not only do our tours allow you to travel sprinkling of magic to every tour and no one will bring the serene South Indian state of Kerala feels a world away from for travellers. From rainforest-rich peaks to untrodden beaches, totally carefree without the hassle of organising it yourself, but a group of solo travellers together better than they can. the bustle of India’s inner cities. This 9-day tour provides the and over 2,000 years of culture to explore in between, the allure of perfect glimpse into the region’s wonderful wilderness, delicately the scenery, wildlife and historical offerings is simply too much to we’ve tailored some of our finest itineraries specifically with the Let’s not forget about the extraordinary experiences. Our solo solo traveller in mind. spiced cuisine, and laidback way of life, with a round trip starting ignore, and this 11-day itinerary showcases the very best that the tours also include a whole host of fun, immersive experiences and ending in Kochi – the gateway to Kerala. north and east of the island has to offer. As always, solo travellers are more than welcome on any Wendy so you can get hands-on in a workshop, cook up a feast, or even Wu group tour but for those who want to travel in a ready-made create music together as a group! That could be anything from After a stop at the cascading Athirapally Waterfalls, spend a day Beginning and ending in the capital, Colombo, the trip starts with group of like-minded individuals, we’ve reserved dedicated learning the ancient ritual of a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, journeying through emerald forests and wildlife reserves bursting a fantastic jeep safari through Wilpattu National Park where you departures on some of our most popular tours especially for you. to trying your hand at block printing in India. And with delicious, with vibrant birds and fascinating animals, before reaching the can spot sloth bear, mongoose, leopards and even elephants. So if you’ve ever dreamed of trekking China’s Great Wall or seeing authentic dining in local restaurants, you’ll find plenty of time to lush tea plantations of Munnar. Explore the delights of Thekkady, Before heading further north, explore the historical wonders of the silhouette of Angkor Wat against the golden sunset, you can mingle in a relaxed, informal setting – there’s no better way to one of Kerala’s most nature-rich areas, including Periyar Lake UNESCO World Heritage-listed Anuradhapura, the first capital of experience it all and more in the company of solo travellers with reflect on the day’s activities. where you may even be lucky enough to spot the herd of wild ancient Ceylon and home to the 2,250-year-old sacred Bo Tree. elephants that come to bathe in the waters. a shared passion for exploring. If you’re a solo traveller eager to explore and want to enjoy your Time on Sri Lanka’s northern tip in the cultural hub of Jaffna is Brand new for 2021 and 2022, our dedicated solo tours not adventure with others just like you, take a look at our dedicated A signature Kerala experience and a highlight of the entire trip spent visiting Buddhist and Hindu temples, hot springs and vibrant only let you share your wonderful experiences with other solo solo departures below. is the time spent onboard a kettuvalam, a traditional Keralan markets. Then, after travelling along the northeastern coast, travellers, but also include a whole host of exclusive perks to houseboat. As you meander through the backwaters, soak up discover one of the world’s finest natural harbours, Trincomalee, make your trip even more special. the stunning surroundings passing lush paddy fields, towering where you’ll find even more sacred and religious sites, and can palms and pleasant lakeside villages – an experience that’s No Single Supplement Dedicated Solo Departures soak up the slow-paced lifestyle of this pretty seaside city. And soul-soothing in every way. no trip to Sri Lanka would be complete without a visit to the With no single supplement to pay, you can enjoy the privacy Japan: A Week in Japan from £5,190, Jewels of Japan from UNESCO-listed Temple of the Tooth Relic – heart of Sri Lanka's of your own room throughout the entire trip without the £6,790, Discover Japan from £7,390, Japan Uncovered cultural capital Kandy and its most sacred Buddhist temple. additional cost. from £8,990 Travel in Style China: In Pursuit of Pandas from £2,690, A China Start and end your adventure in true style with complimentary Experienced from £2,790, Glories of China from £3,590, chauffeur transfers to and from your UK airport. Majestic Yangtze from £3,790, Wonders of China from VIP Flyer £4,290, Magnificent China from £3,990 Enjoy exclusive UK airport lounge access where you can indulge Southeast Asia: Vietnam at a Glance from £2,790, Vietnam and fully unwind before your flight. Panorama from £3,190, Around Cambodia from £2,790, Small Group Size Angkor to the Bay from £3,590, Classic Mekong from £4,290 Whereas our regular group tours take a maximum of 28 travellers, India: Golden Triangle from £2,690, Inspiring India from our new dedicated solo departures escort a maximum of just £3,090, Highlights of Sri Lanka from £3,690 18, making it much easier for everyone to get to know each other and enjoy the benefits of a smaller, close-knit group. Warm Welcome Want to join a regular group tour? NEW for 2021 NEW for 2021 On arrival, you’ll also enjoy a welcome drinks reception with Pay No Single Supplement with our complimentary cocktails - the perfect opportunity to become acquainted with fellow group members. ‘Happy to Share’ option Kerala Experience Northern Sri Lanka Explorer If you’re a solo traveller joining one of our regular group tours, 9 days | Classic Group Tour from £1,990pp 11 days | Go Beyond Group Tour from £2,490pp As with all Wendy Wu tours, on our dedicated solo tours you’ll you can pay no single supplement by selecting our ‘Happy to be accompanied every step of the way by one of our friendly Share’ option. That means we will buddy you Including: International flights, accommodation, visa fees, Including: International flights, accommodation, visa fees, and knowledgeable National Escorts. They’ll be with you from up in a twin room with someone of the same gender. If that’s all transportation, all meals, touring with guides and all transportation, meals as specified, touring with guides beginning to end to ensure your trip is everything you expected not possible, you’ll have the room to yourself! entrance fees. and entrance fees. and so much more. It is their passion to show you the delights of

10 To enquire or book please call Thorne Travel on 01294 559949 or email [email protected] To enquire or book please call Thorne Travel on 01294 559949 or email [email protected] 11 WW

2020 was a year full of promise and excitement for Japan, BIG IN JAPAN a fascinating and unique country, pulsating and bright, mysterious and mythical. As we know, 2020 didn’t work out how we, or Japan quite imagined, with the Tokyo Olympics a high profile fallout from the global pandemic. Now, the Government in Japan are more determined than ever to get the show back on, with the rescheduled games now taking place next summer. The Government also recently announced its intention to re-open for tourism in early 2021. Like the 1980’s German synth-pop hit, Big in Japan, we at Wendy Wu Tours like to think of ourselves as Big in Japan. We are the No 1 tour escorted tour operator to Japan from the UK and our programme of tours are something we are truly proud of, with 11 hand-crafted touring itineraries including 2 completely new tours, Experience Japan and

Japan by Rail, we feel we are Big in Japan! WW

Experience Japan An 11-day tour which lives up to its name, packing in authentic Japanese experiences throughout. Whilst in Kyoto, you can experience the ancient ritual of a Japanese tea ceremony with a tea master, later try your hand at the art of origami. After lunch, your immersive experience continues with a fan painting class where you will learn the techniques of this highly refined and sought-after visual art. Further highlights follow, such as a demonstration of the making of miso, the famous Japanese seasoning. An afternoon brewery visits allows you to enjoy a tipple or two of locally made sake. Concluding in Tokyo, your final evening is a dinner cruise across NEW for 2021 Tokyo bay a perfect way to enjoy the supercharged city lights. Experience Japan Oh, and we almost forgot to mention you’ll take the bullet train to Nagano before heading to Jigokundani Yaen-Koen to 11 days | Classic Group Tour from £5,590pp see the famous Japanese macaques, commonly know as the Including: International flights, accommodation, snow monkeys. all transportation, all meals, touring with guides and entrance fees.

Japan by Rail A 3-week tour of Japan, only with Wendy Wu Tours! This epic tour covers all three islands in one trip and as the name suggests, many of the journeys are by train, both bullet and limited express trains. As you’d expect of a 21-day tour, we’ve packed in the sights, sounds and experiences for you to enjoy throughout. A Momiji manju, (maple leaf bean buns) cooking experience, sushi making and sake tasting, lessons in traditional arts such as fan painting are just some of the memories you will take away. During the tour you visit Osaka and Nara, the temples and forests in and around Kyoto, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Shirakawago Village NEW for 2021 for a taste of rural life. Ascend 2,400 meters to the 5th station for magnificent views of Mount Fuji, a city tour of Tokyo and Japan by Rail sightseeing in Sapporo…. 21 days | Classic Group Tour from £8,890pp New and exclusive to Wendy Wu Tours, Japan by Rail is the Including: International flights, accommodation, ultimate tour of Japan. all transportation, all meals, touring with guides and entrance fees.

12 To enquire or book please call Thorne Travel on 01294 559949 or email [email protected] To enquire or book please call Thorne Travel on 01294 559949 or email [email protected] 13 Thailand & Mekong Experience NEW Tours for Southeast Asia CHIANG MAI (3N) Take in the highlights of Vietnam, Cambodia We’re thrilled to announce three new Southeast Asia tours for 2021-22. Discover the and Thailand in one three-week adventure.  Begin in historic Saigon, exploring the city’s natural beauty of our latest destination, the Philippines, combine the very best of Vietnam, French colonial centre and the intriguing Cu Cambodia and Thailand on Thailand & Mekong Experience, or enjoy a two week cruise and THAILAND Chi Tunnel network of the Viet Cong. Travel to Can Tho to board the 4* Victoria Mekong beach break on the Mekong River Cruise & Beach Holiday. ship, and spend four nights cruising KANCHANABURI (1N) BANGKOK (2N) upriver in style. Disembark in Cambodia’s

 VIETNAM  charming capital, Phnom Penh, and journey SIEM REAP (3N) Mekong Cruise & Beach to Siem Reap to explore the jungle-swathed HUA HIN (2N) CAMBODIA Experience the delights of the Mekong ruins of Angkor. From here, head west for a Delta with our new Mekong River cruise  PHNOM PENH (1N) OVERNIGHT FLIGHT week exploring the highlights of Thailand. & Phu Quoc Beach Holiday. This private  Discover the secrets of New Latitude wines two-week break combines the best of all TAN CHAU  SAIGON (3N) at one of Thailand’s only vineyards, go wild worlds; four days of premium small ship  CAN THO elephant-spotting in Kui Buri National Park, river cruising, the cultural corners of the VICTORIA MEKONG SHIP (4N) and end with a culinary cooking class in the Mekong, and a 5* resort stay beside the northern city of Chiang Mai. sugar-soft sands of the island of Phu Quoc. As the ship makes its way down the NEW for 2021 Mekong from Phnom Penh, enjoy cocktail Thailand making demonstrations, cultural excursions & Mekong Experience and classical Apsara performances, and 21 days | Victoria Mekong while away your evenings in the infinity Go Beyond Tour pool or sky deck as the sun sets over the delta. Fine dining menus have been from £4,490pp designed by an executive chef and can be Including: International flights, enjoyed in the Claypot Restaurant or accommodation, visa fees, all outside al fresco, with all meals, local beers transportation, most meals, touring and house wines included on board. with guides and entrance fees. Disembark in Can Tho and fly to Phu Quoc island, where you’ll enjoy nine nights at leisure in a 5* resort with breakfast included. Choose from the European-style Philippines Discovery  LAOAG architecture and upbeat atmosphere of VIGAN (1N) From crater lakes to ribboning rice terraces, Vinpearl Resort & Spa, home to the BANAUE (3N) tarsier sanctuaries and picture-perfect

largest swimming pool in Phu Quoc,    hills, this adventure welcomes you into or the neoclassical Asian style of the BAGUIO (1N) this Pacific archipelago’s wild heart. This quieter VinPearl Resort & Golf with its  two-week itinerary encompasses the islands extensive gardens. Both are award- PAMPANGA(2N) of Luzon, Bohol and Cebu. From Manila, winning resorts sitting on Bai Dai, MANILA (1N+1N) a private stretch of Ganh Dau beach, one travel north and enjoy relaxed hikes on the of the best strips of sand on the island. UNESCO-listed Hapao Rice Terraces, ascend Each resort is home to six restaurants and Mt Pinatubo to view its phenomenal blue crater lake, and explore the Spanish

bars, a 24/7 clinic and a relaxing pool  and spa. Deluxe rooms, suites and 2-4 colonial city of Vigan. Fly south to the bedroom villas are available. island paradise of Bohol to discover its stunning Chocolate Hills, relax on a Loboc NEW for 2021 jungle cruise, and visit the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary, home and refuge of the second CEBU (1N) Mekong River Cruise smallest primate in the world. The tour ends  BOHOL (2N) & Beach Holiday in Cebu, with options for private extensions 14 days | Victoria Mekong to the scenic beaches of Boracay or El Nido. Combined Holiday NEW for 2021 from £1,999pp Including: International flights, Philippines Discovery a 3-night Mekong River cruise and 14 days | Go Beyond Group Tour 9 nights in Phu Quoc. All meals are from £3,390pp included on the ship; breakfast is Including: International flights, included at your beach resort. Extra accommodation, visa fees, all nights, upgrades to suites, villas with transportation, all meals, touring private pools, or full board catering are with guides and entrance fees. bookable via our Reservations team.

14 To enquire or book please call Thorne Travel on 01294 559949 or email [email protected] To enquire or book please call Thorne Travel on 01294 559949 or email [email protected] 15 Treasures of South America The perfect introduction to this vibrant continent, on Treasures of South America ¡VAMOS A you’ll encounter just that, its very best treasures! Starting in Peru, your explorations will include uncovering the secrets of the Inca in Cusco and the incredible Machu Picchu. Travelling LATINOAMERICA! through the picturesque Sacred Valley by train, you’ll spend a day wandering We love Latin America, it’s a sensational destination with this enigmatic mountain-top city. Take a cruise on Lake Titicaca before jetting so much to offer even the most seasoned traveller. off to country number two, the vivacious Argentina! No visit to charming capital Packed with all the vibrant culture, fascinating history, epic landscapes and Buenos Aires is complete without a tango delicious food you could ask for, where else could you flit from cosmopolitan class and show. You’ll also venture out into cities to dramatic volcanoes to nature-filled rainforest to desert to beaches the Pampas grasslands to learn more about to archaeological sites? We’re sure you get the picture! Our selection of Argentina’s folkloric hero, the gaucho, and tours showcase a whole lot of the continent, but we felt there were a take a day trip into country number three – couple of things needed to make it complete – feast your eyes on our Uruguay. Head due north for a stop at the brand new tours for 2021/2022. colossal Iguazu Falls, which straddles the border with country number four, Brazil. NEW for 2021 Before flying over to the effervescent Rio de Janeiro, there is an exciting adventure Treasures of South America into the rainforest to meet an indigenous community. Ending the trip with a bang, 21 days | Classic Group Tour you’ll have two full days exploring Rio, from £7,490pp including all the highlights from Christ the Including: International flights, Redeemer to Copacabana Beach, plus accommodation, all transportation, an evening of dancing at a samba club. all meals, touring with guides and entrance fees.

Ecuador Highlights Ecuador, thanks to its compact size, is South America’s most explorable destination...fortunately it’s also one of the most exciting! Straddling the equator it is packed full of fascinating history, indigenous culture and incredible nature – what’s not to love? Starting high in the Andes in capital city Quito, you’ll explore its gorgeous UNESCO-listed historic centre, ascending to the dome of La Compania Church for magical views before hopping between the hemispheres at the Equatorial Monument. Travel over to Otavalo, the heart of Ecuador’s indigenous culture and famous for its textiles, continuing to the edge of the Amazon Rainforest to wallow in the thermal waters of Papallacta. You’ll then take the dramatic Avenue of the Volcanoes to the infamous Cotopaxi and its surrounding nature reserve, to spot highland wildlife. Discover the magnificent Incan ruins of NEW for 2021 Ingapirca and the beautiful colonial city of Cuenca where you’ll step back in time on Ecuador Highlights the cobbled streets of the old town. Last 13 days | Classic Group Tour but certainly not least, you’ll venture to the tropical coast, stopping at a family-run from £3,090pp cacao plantation and the vibrant city of Including: International flights, Guayaquil for your final explorations. accommodation, accommodation, Of course, the trip doesn’t have to end there, all transportation, all meals, touring why not create the holiday of a lifetime by with guides and entrance fees. adding on a trip to the Galapagos?

16 To enquire or book please call Thorne Travel on 01294 559949 or email [email protected] To enquire or book please call Thorne Travel on 01294 559949 or email [email protected] 17 WW Traveller Tales Myanmar Explorer

Wendy Wu Tours customer David Beadling gives us the lowdown on our Myanmar Explorer tour – a wonderful journey that takes in all of Myanmar’s highlights, showcasing the magical culture, golden temples and magnificent scenery of Yangon, Bagan, Mandalay and Inle Lake.

No one can bring our tours to life better published itinerary he made several saw the real Myanmar, and got to mix with The provincial airports are like something from than those who have seen, done and unscheduled stops for photo opportunities, the Burmese people rather than other the 1940s. Arriving at Bagan Airport we experienced it all first-hand, so we’ve including getting pilgrims to take photos tourists. The guides always allowed us input headed for the baggage reclaim area, when we dedicated a few pages to our wonderful at the top of Mount Popa, impromptu into what we ate and the level of spice, got there, there was no carousel, just an empty customers who want to share their shopping and staying later than anticipated which meant we enjoyed the experience room. Then two men arrived dragging a cart amazing Wendy Wu adventures! to enable us to finish our evening meal. more; in doing so we were able to sample with all our cases on and we just had to grab our own! Similarly, when departing we went to At one point I asked about his family and authentic dishes, like traditional Burmese Dreaming of Myanmar check in, no computers were involved we he told me he had a three year old curry with tamarind and food with wonderful At a relatively early age I had a small merely gave our names, we were ticked off a daughter, so I apologised for keeping him fresh flavours exuding a fusion of Indian, encyclopaedia which contained a picture list and given a colour-coded sticker depending away from her, his reply was that whilst Thai and Vietnamese. of the Shwedagon Pagoda in what was on flight and destination. we were in Bagan we were his priority – then Burma. I must have been drawn to it customer service par excellence. subconsciously because once I had visited Any regrets? China and it piqued my interest in the Far Great Hotels I would have loved an extra day in Bagan to perhaps take the opportunity to enjoy a dawn East, my thoughts moved to Myanmar. Accommodation is key to enjoying a tour, balloon ride over the plains and see the walled Once I had seen video footage of Mount and this did not disappoint. In Yangon and old city centre. But, as always, we have to Popa I was sold. On a selfish note, it gave Mandalay the hotels were of international balance obtaining a full itinerary with a finite me the opportunity to visit somewhere my standards, not bad for a country that is timeframe, which Wendy Wu always manage well-travelled sister hadn’t, but it was a supposedly third world. At Lake Inle we to do with style! However, no matter how good mesmerising destination irrespective stayed in a lakeside hotel which we the itinerary is, a tour can be made by the of who had visited it previously, unspoiled, accessed exclusively by boat and were people you travel with. And we were fortunate unique and absolutely unforgettable provided with a lodge bigger than many enough to travel with a small group who gelled Myanmar. homes. Our favourite was the Thazin Unforgettable Memories Having researched the tour, I had what immediately and made the tour complete. Garden Hotel, a small hotel situated in Excellent Guides I thought was a reasonable knowledge of old Bagan with the two-storey David travelled with us on the Myanmar So, what made it a great tour? Firstly, many of the sights we were to visit, accommodation set around beautiful Explorer Tour in 2018. fantastic local guides. All our guides were however nothing prepares you for the gardens which featured a gorgeous, cool supremely knowledgeable, adaptable, beauty of Lake Inle, the scale of the swimming pool and some original stupas. customer-centric, and nothing seemed too temples on the plains of Bagan and the Real Myanmar was on our doorstep! It was much trouble. majesty of the Shwedagon Pagoda. a world away from the international chain In Yangon this included retrieving a camera hotels, a real tonic. However, sometimes it is the things that left by one of our group at the Shwedagon surprise you that impress the most. Sailing Pagoda, allowing us time for cocktails in Delicious Dining down the Irrawaddy was like a scene from the Strand Hotel, and even changing my Food is also important and with Wendy Wu A Passage to India. The views of and from remaining Kyats for US$ at the airport. In you can’t go wrong, a cooked breakfast, the top of Mount Popa, together with the "Nothing prepares you for the Mandalay, in addition to helping me with a several course lunch and the same at climb of 777 steps, and barefoot! Great my longyi, on quite a few occasions, our dinner. It’s not for the faint-hearted or for memories we weren’t expecting, and ones beauty of Lake Inle, the scale guide added a chance to see Ava, an those wanting to diet! Breakfast consisted that we will treasure forever. ancient capital, which was fantastic and of a mix of local and western dishes, most my personal favourite memory from that hotels had an egg station where delicious My Myanmar Top Tips Myanmar Explorer of the temples on the plains of part of the tour. At Lake Inle our guide fresh omelettes could be obtained, but this What you need to remember when touring 11 days | Classic Group Tour also allowed us to set our own pace, was combined with noodles, rice and many Myanmar is that it is a developing country, Bagan and the majesty of the and introduced us to the magnificent other typically Asian dishes which were particularly in terms of tourism, but for me from £2,890pp Indein Pagodas. interesting to try and made the experience that adds to the charm. Including: International flights, Shwedagon Pagoda." However, my personal favourite was more authentic. When boarding boats on the Irrawaddy accommodation, all transportation, William, our guide in Bagan. Clearly his Unlike many tours we didn’t eat exclusively there were no quaysides to help you step all meals, touring with guides and sole aim was to provide us with the best in hotels, we ate in local restaurants to onto them gracefully. No, you walk down entrance fees. experience possible. In addition to the obtain a more authentic feel and meant we a mud (albeit dry) bank and clamber in.

18 To enquire or book please call Thorne Travel on 01294 559949 or email [email protected] To enquire or book please call Thorne Travel on 01294 559949 or email [email protected] 19 realistic features and intricate detail. The Grand Buddha of Leshan army surrounds the burial mound of Qin Shi 8 Around two hours from Chengdu, CHINA'S TOP 10 ATTRACTIONS Huang, the emperor who first united China in the magnificent Grand Buddha of Leshan Now we know this is going to be controversial – China is a country full of wonders – ancient, 221BC and the man the terracotta soldiers sits peacefully at the confluence of three were made to protect in the afterlife; rivers. At 71 metres tall, he was carved cultural, natural, man-made…how could you possibly choose just ten? although the tomb has never been excavated, from the rock face 1,200 years ago on the it’s thought to be full of untold treasures! orders of a Buddhist monk, who felt that the presence of the Buddha would calm There’s been some heated discussion here a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987 home so this is the best place to see them. the river currents and protect the boats at Wendy Wu Towers about what got left there is no better place to imagine the life Chengdu Panda Research Base, located plying the waters. It worked, but whether out. How could we not include the of an imperial emperor. just 10 kilometres from the centre of the that was down to the will of Buddha or Lijiang beautiful water town of Suzhou, the epic city, is easily reachable. Here you can see because of the large amount of stone that 10 Huddled amongst the forests ancient walled city of Pingyao or the pandas of all ages enjoying life in went into the river is up to you! and fields at the foot of Jade Dragon Snow ethereal beauty of Wulong National Park? surroundings that are very similar to their Mountain, Lijiang is a charming town in natural habitat in the nearby mountains. a spectacular setting. Once the capital of What we do know is every attraction that For a more rural, less busy encounter, try the Naxi, the indigenous people of the made the list will knock your socks off. So Dujiangyan Panda Reserve, just over an Himalayas and the northern reaches of if you are planning a holiday to China, hour from Chengdu. Yunnan province, Lijiang’s rich 800-year here’s our list of absolute must sees. For history is plain to see on the labyrinthine even more sensational attractions, check streets of the UNESCO-listed old town. out our China webpages. Flanked by bubbling streams, trailing willows and picturesque stone bridges, The Great Wall of China Li River Shanghai wandering along them is a delightful step 1 China’s most iconic sight, of course the 3 The magical scenery of the Li River 7 China’s largest city and financial back in time. Make sure you stroll down Great Wall had to be on the list! Stretching has long been the muse of many an artist heart, Shanghai is where the East and to Black Dragon Pool for views of Jade from Shanhaiguan on the Bohai Sea to Lop and poet; in fact, it is so beloved that it West collide in a metropolis of gleaming Dragon Snow Mountain in all its glory. Lake in the Gobi Desert – around 4,000 even appears on the 20-yuan bank note! skyscrapers. Sat on the mouth of the Longji Rice Terraces Swirling their way across an miles, many sections of the wall are easily The lush countryside, dotted with Yangtze, it was long a thriving port 9 already undulating landscape, the Longji accessible from Beijing. Whether you want towering limestone peaks, is best admired before becoming one of the world’s Rice Terraces, also known as Dragon’s an easy walk on well-preserved wall, or a on a river cruise between the city of Guilin largest financial hubs in the 1990s. Backbone, are a spectacular example of slightly wilder, snaking-through-the-barren- and the charming town of Yangshuo. From The city is a place of doing rather than Yangtze River man and nature working in harmony. The hills type experience, the Great Wall can the water you’ll glimpse a different side to seeing, with luxury hotels, shopping 5 A Yangtze River cruise is high on the centres and entertainments galore, but aspect of the terraces changes with the be one of the most exciting, magnificent and China, where the pace of life is slow, list of many China explorers thanks to the seasons; in the spring waters reflect the unbelievable things you’ll ever see. there are still plenty of treasures to be conical hatted farmers tend to their paddy magnificent landscapes of the Three moods of the sky, in summer they are full fields and water buffalo sit contentedly found for those who want to find them. Gorges, but there is so much more to it. Stroll down the Bund for beautiful Art Deco of fresh green shoots, in the autumn in the shallows. Explore the area further One of the world’s longest rivers, the architecture, wander the alleys of the old bursting with lush rice plants, and in the from Yangshuo on foot, by bike or by raft. Yangtze has played a hugely important role winter grey and steely. Close to Guilin, it town to find lovely old temples or cruise NEW for 2021 in China’s historical, cultural and economic the waters of the Huangpu River for the is a spectacular area to hike, giving you development for millennia; it was on its perfect overview. an ever-changing view of its beauty. China in Style banks that some of the first Chinese cultures were born. Today, its shoreline is 15 days | Classic Group Tour an endless tapestry of rural, agricultural from £5,290pp and urban – a fascinating glimpse at a little seen side of the nation. Enjoy a relaxed-paced tour and many special experiences as you journey Forbidden City Terracotta Warriors through China indulging in a deluxe Yangtze River cruise. 2 At the very heart of Beijing, the vast 6 The discovery of the Terracotta complex of the Forbidden City is one of the Warriors is a charming tale of pure luck, Including: International flights, capital’s most extraordinary sights. Home to Giant Pandas a group of farmers digging a well and 5 star accommodation, 5 star cruise China’s emperors and out of bounds to the 4 The world’s most celebrated bear stumbling across the greatest archaeological on the Yangtze River, UK airport public for 500 years, this labyrinth of and at the heart of a huge conservation find of the century. Today, three pits of chauffeur transfers, visa fees, all exquisite traditional architecture, perfectly effort, the giant panda is China’s loveable about 8,000 soldiers, horses and chariots transportation, all meals, touring symmetrical, covers 180 acres and is the mascot. Around 80% of the world’s stand in ranks in huge hangers 25 miles with guides and entrance fees. world’s largest palace complex. Declared population of pandas call Sichuan province outside of Xian, wowing visitors with their

20 To enquire or book please call Thorne Travel on 01294 559949 or email [email protected] To enquire or book please call Thorne Travel on 01294 559949 or email [email protected] 21 Traveller Tales Wonders of China

Wendy Wu Tours customer Robert Thornton gives us the inside story on one of our most popular tours to China, Wonders of China.

No one can bring our tours to life better So, we walked the Great Wall. Came face to than those who have seen, done and face with the Terracotta warriors. Explored experienced it all first-hand, so we’ve the Forbidden City. Got close-up and dedicated a few pages to our wonderful personal with pandas. Lazed around on customers who want to share their rivers snaking through dramatic landscapes amazing Wendy Wu adventures! and picturesque countryside. But it was the experiences away from the tourist hotspots that enchanted us the most.

Sharing the Experience Don’t get me wrong, the iconic places were amazing. They absolutely have the wow factor. The sheer scale of the Great Wall and the Terracotta Army are breathtaking. But China, like everywhere in the world, is as much about the people as it is about the "China is vast, places. As this was a group tour, we joined eleven other people on arrival in Beijing. with treasures in And a nicer bunch of folk you couldn’t wish to find. They made the holiday what it was. Seeing It All Outstanding! To this day, we are in touch every corner." China is an extraordinary and fascinating and even held a reunion dinner in London’s country, where tranquillity and clamour, Chinatown to re-live the experience! ancient and modern, natural and man- made co-exist in perfect harmony. A quick Were Afraid To Ask!’, because of the rain, Seeing the speed hit 430 kmph on the look at a map of the world tells you China gave us all a good laugh. Well, we had to carriage monitor, and to experience the is vast, with treasures in every corner. For keep dry somehow! sensation when two trains pass at that the visitor, the challenge is finding a way speed, is to behold a technological marvel. Someone I won’t forget in a very long to ‘see it all’ when you have only 14 days While people still practice the ancient art time was the acupuncture doctor up the to do it! of tai chi in local parks and parents search Yangtze – no, that’s not a euphemism, we for suitable partners for their children, We solved this problem by booking Wendy really did meet him on the river! He was these ultra-fast trains rocket past. It was Wu’s ‘Wonders of China‘ tour. The guided the resident star turn on board our river almost surreal, but a lasting impression of tour criss-crossed the country taking in Lasting Impressions cruise and, as it transpired, I was to be a land rich in ancient history and tradition Beijing, Xian, Chongqing, Yangshou, and We ate as a group for most meals and the his accomplice! He gave an acupuncture conviviality the group brought to the table that is not afraid to embrace the future. Shanghai. The ‘we’ in this case was me, demonstration and used my leg to stick The Ming Emperors would approve. Wonders of China resulted in some delightful evenings. my wife Susan, and our best friends Judy the needles into! It turned out to be a 16 days | Classic Group Tour So, as we said goodbye to China we took and Ray. Yet it was the local people we encountered Then there were the people you never met priceless experience. Not because of the with us a kaleidoscope of memories. from £3,460pp who contributed so much to the success who, by their effort, left indelible memories needles, but because of the look on the Not just the iconic sites, the hutongs, the Inspiring Icons of our holiday. One example of this was a for us to take home. And nowhere was this faces of our group. Seeing them squirm This hugely popular tour journeys rivers, and the people, but all the other The itinerary meant we would visit the lady living in the hutongs whom we truer than in Yangshou. Despite pouring in their seats at the sight of the needles through some of China’s most things we had seen and done. Pagodas, iconic sites you dream about seeing, visited for lunch one day. The hutongs are rain we watched a spellbinding show disappearing into my calf made my day! iconic sights from Beijing’s temples, palaces, caves, museums, including the Great Wall, the Forbidden a collection of houses in Beijing, where that boasted a cast of over six hundred Great Wall, Xian’s warriors, and City, the Terracotta Army, beautiful giant narrow alleys pass for streets and Technological Treasures gardens, even a ghost city! We loved picturesque Guilin to the mighty performers! Set on the water, it was, every minute of it! pandas, and the Bund in Shanghai. residents share communal toilet blocks. without doubt, the most spectacular live Another lasting memory of the trip was Yangtze River. Expect a busy but But it gave us more. It included a four-day The housing style, with four houses theatre I have ever seen. People we never most unexpected. It occurred toward the Robert travelled with us on the Wonders fun-filled tour. cruise on the Yangtze River, a day trip on sharing a common courtyard, was created end of our journey when we reached actually met, but people we will always of China Tour in 2016. Including: International flights, the stunning Li River, and a whole lot more in the 13th century, so it was a privilege to Shanghai. It was the Maglev train, the remember putting on an unforgettable show! accommodation, all transportation, besides! To cover this much ground, we go inside someone’s home. Our host served world’s fastest. At 430 kilometres per all meals, touring with guides and had to take four internal flights, the quality us authentic Chinese home-cooked food, The fact that we were dressed like extras hour, the train operates between the entrance fees. and comfort of which rivalled anything to tasty and plentiful. An enchanting glimpse of from Woody Allen’s film, ‘Everything You centre of Shanghai and the airport. be found in Europe. what traditional life in China was, and is, like. Always Wanted To Know About Sex But And we got to go on it!

22 To enquire or book please call Thorne Travel on 01294 559949 or email [email protected] To enquire or book please call Thorne Travel on 01294 559949 or email [email protected] 23 What is it about Central Asia that you love so much? For me, it’s the epic sweep of history that appeals so much. Central Asia is an amphitheatre of empires, conquered by Alexander the Great, Genghis Khan and Tamerlane; traversed by Silk Road Central Asia Q&A traders; and ruled by everyone from robed emirs to Soviet party secretaries. Moreover, it’s an incredible melting pot, of both settled and nomadic cultures, and also the Turkic and Persian worlds, set astride some of the most enigmatic cities of the Silk Road. with Bradley Mayhew You can still see the result of all this interaction in the region’s vibrant bazaars, the diverse range of faces and in the jaw-dropping We talked to Bradley Mayhew, co-author of the Odyssey Guide to Uzbekistan, architecture. It’s a very addictive part of the world. as well as the Lonely Planet guide to Central Asia and the Insight Guide to the What are your favourite places in Central Asia? Silk Road, on why this spectacular region is so close to his heart. The Silk Road cities of Uzbekistan are truly remarkable. Samarkand has some of the world’s most sublime Islamic architecture, thanks to the epic legacy of Tamerlane and his Timurid descendants. Bukhara also has incredible architecture, notably the old fortress of the Emir and the Kalon Minaret that so impressed Genghis Khan 800 years ago, but it also has winding, lived-in backstreets full of atmospheric Sufi shrines, disused madrassahs and caravanserais that allow you to catch a flavour of the infamous emirate. Khiva is an immaculately preserved, walled medieval town in the desert, and walking its blue-tiled palaces, ornate shrines and madrassah courtyards is really special. What makes Kyrgyzstan so great? The short journey from Uzbekistan to Kyrgyzstan takes you from settled and civilised oasis cities into a wilder landscape of steppe and mountains. The scenery here is epic, with high green pastures and deep, forested valleys studded with turquoise lakes and seasonal yurt camps. Magnificent Issyk-Kul Lake is essentially an inland sea, fringed by the snow-capped peaks and alpine valleys of the Tian Shan mountains. It is simply stunning. Kyrgyzstan still has a vibrant nomadic culture, and you can easily ride a horse, stay overnight in a yurt and drink fermented mare’s milk for a completely different taste of Central Asia. Why is Uzbekistan the destination of the moment? For much of the last 20 years since independence, Uzbekistan has been a pariah state, notable for its political repression and human rights abuses. Since the death of President Karimov in 2016, however, the new government has really turned a corner, opening up the country, simplifying visa and money exchange processes and creating a dramatically more open and welcoming atmosphere. Excellent accommodation and comfortable high-speed trains have also made travel much more comfortable than in the past. Bloggers have been pouring into the country in recent years, and even Joanna Lumley filmed here during her Silk Road Adventures TV series. With tourism due to restart before too long, 2021 will be a great time to visit Uzbekistan. Where do you want to explore next? I’ve not yet visited the Caucasus, so Georgia is one place I want to explore when the world gets back to a semblance of normality. The combination of dramatic mountain backdrops, traditional stone villages and Orthodox monasteries, topped off with wonderful food and wine are really drawing me. I’d particularly love to explore the former capital and Unesco World Heritage Site of Mtsketha.

Road to Samarkand 22 days | Go Beyond Group Tour from £5,090pp Including: International flights, accommodation, visa fees, all transportation, meals as specified, touring with guides and entrance fees.

24 To enquire or book please call Thorne Travel on 01294 559949 or email [email protected] To enquireOur new or 2021 book-22 pleasebrochure call collection Thorne is now Travel available. on 01294 Order your 559949 personal or copy email at wendywutours.co.uk/brochures [email protected] 25 Our Travel Safe Protocols Traveller Tales Keeping you safe on tour

We know how important it is, now more than ever, for you to feel completely safe whilst on tour. As always, our customer’s wellbeing is our utmost priority, which is why every Wendy Wu tour now features our pioneering Travel Safe protocols featuring stringent COVID health and safety measures to ensure you can travel with ease and enjoy your adventure to the full. Vietnam at a Glance

Wendy Wu Tours customer Michele Wiesner travelled to Vietnam on our Vietnam at a Glance tour. Here, Michele tells us about her highlights and just getting to see Halong Bay before global travel halted.

As we continue to monitor the situation in each destination, Your guides will assess the situation on the ground to avoid we develop our protocols to ensure our customers and staff are large crowds – where possible, alter timings and potentially No one can bring our tours to life better Towards the end of the tour though, protected at all times whilst following local guidelines. Here split the group into smaller sizes. than those who have seen, done and COVID-19 was really taking off. A lot of is a summary of the steps we have implemented to ensure you experienced it all first-hand, so we’ve restaurants and tourist attractions were will be safe, secure and satisfied when travelling with us. dedicated a few pages to our wonderful closing down. We were the last tour group Accommodation customers who want to share their to go through Halong Bay before they Wendy Wu Tours will only offer hotels and accommodation amazing Wendy Wu adventures! shut it down. I count my lucky stars! I Guides and that have undergone a detailed hygiene assessment, have absolutely loved Vietnam! The history, Vietnam had been on my bucket list for specific COVID-19 protocols in place and comply with the food, the sights and the beautiful as long as I could remember, so when National Escorts government standards. Vietnamese people who made me feel Our National Escorts and local guides will conduct a Health and I booked it in October last year, I was so welcome in their country. Simply amazing! We will ensure these protocols include staff adhering to social excited and was already counting down the Safety briefing before the tour begins and will help everyone Our tour guide Tuan was awesome! Very distancing and wearing appropriate PPI, regular cleaning, days! As a solo traveller, Wendy Wu Tours ensure that adhere to social distancing, hygiene practises and knowledgeable and always on hand to give and disinfection of high frequency touch points in all areas was the perfect choice. local regulations. and food safety. advice and ideas of where to go and what They will carry a supply of face masks and hand sanitiser for you As the time was getting closer, I was to do in our spare time. to use free of charge and will, of course, observe the highest level starting to feel some nerves. COVID-19 I left a little piece of my heart in Vietnam of personal hygiene at all times. Dining was emerging and my family and friends and I can’t wait to go back! All the restaurants we visit will be researched and inspected were a bit apprehensive about me going. Should anyone on your tour fall ill, your National Escort will Other highlights included: ensure the individual receives swift medical attention and can regularly to ensure that they follow the strictest health, I was keeping a very close eye on the only return to the group once cleared to do so. cleanliness and safety guidelines. travel warnings and praying it would still • Learning to cross the road while All waiting staff will wear face masks and gloves, and be safe to travel to Vietnam by the time doing my best to dodge the traffic I was ready to go. self-service buffets will be avoided in favour of a la carte • Riding a bicycle through the rice dining, waiter-served meals or waiter-assisted buffets. Transport and Sightseeing Come March and off I went! I left a very fields outside Hoi An Vehicles will be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected after each Hand sanitiser will be provided to the group before and cool morning at home and landed in a very • Walking through the ancient town excursion, overnight and between different groups. after every food and beverage service. hot Ho Chi Minh City eight hours later. The in Hoi An and being completed You will always have at least one seat between you and your heat literally felt like a slap in the face, and mesmerised by this gorgeous fellow travellers. Hand sanitiser will be given to the group on each COVID Cover Travel I loved it! place. Tasting my first egg coffee Vietnam at a Glance embarkation and vehicles will be thoroughly ventilated prior to in Hanoi and loving it passengers boarding. First day, after meeting my fellow travellers 12 days | Classic Group Tour Insurance on us and our tour guide Tuan, I embarked on • Sailing up the Mekong River Drivers will always embark vehicles after clients, disembark the from £2,490pp We are delighted to offer Staysure’s award-winning travel what would be an amazing 12-day journey vehicle prior to customers disembarking, and maintain social • Cruising overnight in Halong Bay insurance, including COVID-19 cover, with every tour through Vietnam.So many amazing Including: International flights, distancing and a high level of personal hygiene at all times. and just enjoying the peace and booked by 31 December. Read more on Page 2. highlights, however the things that stood accommodation, all transportation, tranquillity Only front facing microphones will be used on vehicles and out for me was the amazing food! I tried all meals, touring with guides and headsets or speaker systems will be used whilst sightseeing. my first Pho in Saigon and it was delicious! This is just to name a few! entrance fees. Vietnamese food is yummy, fresh and vibrant.

26 To enquire or book please call Thorne Travel on 01294 559949 or email [email protected] To enquire or book please call Thorne Travel on 01294 559949 or email [email protected] 27 Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre How We’re Helping Wendy Wu Tours is proud to introduce travellers to Sepilok In order to ensure Wendy Wu Tours can better support the rural Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre in eastern Borneo, one of two Sepilok area and community, which has been badly hit by the orangutan rescues featured on our Best of Borneo itinerary. Many absence of tourist income in 2020, we’re adjusting our of the red apes in this reserve were rescued as orphaned babies or accommodation for our Sepilok visits. Rather than overnighting in victims of the illegal pet trade. Over the years, many of them have the coastal city of Sandakan 26 kilometres east, we will be staying been brought here to experience a ‘re-wilding’ process in which they in wooden chalets on the jungle’s edge itself, at Sepilok Nature are nurtured and protected as they learn to thrive independently. Resort. This small eco-resort’s lush gardens border the rainforest’s edge, and it is not unusual for inquisitive orangutans to swing The aim of this facility is to truly rehabilitate and release these through the resort’s trees out of curiosity (don’t be too surprised to rescued apes, who go on to live in freedom in 43 square kilometres find one perched on your chalet terrace!) The lodge also offers quiet of reserve, mostly foraging for themselves. It is for this reason that guided walks through the reserve in the early morning and the sightings, although common, cannot be guaranteed. This makes evening, when orangutans, rare birds, flying squirrels and slow loris each experience special and unique. You may spot a mature male can sometimes be spotted. orangutan who hasn’t visited the sanctuary in a decade; a recently- released adolescent who needs to top up his diet, or a particularly The Future of Rehabilitation friendly older resident who just enjoys stopping by. Along with Sepilok, wildlife rescues all over Asia are suffering Even on a quiet day, there is plenty to learn at Sepilok. Travellers without visitors, but two others in Borneo are particularly close to are often drawn here by the famous outdoor nursery, where visitors our heart; the Sun Bear Conservation Centre and Semenggoh can observe young orangutans who are still ‘learning the ropes’. Nature Reserve, both also featured on our Best of Borneo itinerary. Visitors to these centres remain not just a vital source of funding for Wild orangutans often stay with their mothers until the age of six or these organisations, but also an opportunity for the rescuers to even eight years; sadly, the young rescues are typically orphans, educate the public on conservation and how our personal choices and it is therefore up to the staff to fulfil the role of both mother and can have an impact from anywhere in the world. teacher until the youngsters are ready to go it alone. Where possible, the younger rescues are paired up with more confident Wendy Wu Tours are truly proud to work with these vital charities in orangutans in a ‘buddy system’, to help them learn the climbing Borneo and hope that we can one day introduce you to their crucial skills and foraging techniques they need to thrive in the wild. work in person.

Hope in the Forest

A moment of connection with the rich, deep black eyes of a wild “Looking into the calm, orangutan, red fur glistening in the rainforest’s dappled morning light, is a rare and special privilege. It leaves an everlasting, unblinking eyes of an deep-rooted memory in the hearts of the lucky few who travel far to experience it. orangutan we see, as Moments like this are getting rarer. Once found throughout Asia, wild orangutans can now only be found in Borneo and Indonesia. Vulnerable to deforestation, unsustainable palm oil corporations, through a series of mirrors, poaching and the illegal pet trade, the Bornean orangutan population has declined by 60% in the past 70 years, leading the not only the image of our IUCN to classify them as ‘critically endangered’. It is thought that they may disappear from the wild in as little as 50 years. own creation, but also a Nonetheless, there is hope. Thanks to the ongoing efforts of international wildlife charities, fundraisers, and awareness Best of Borneo reflection of our own souls campaigners, many orangutans whose rainforest homes have been destroyed, or who have been stolen from their families to be 16 days | Go Beyond Group Tour illegally kept as pets, have now been offered a second chance at from £4,190pp and an Eden that once life in the wild. Including: International flights, 4 star accommodation and was ours.” Here we shine a spotlight on the crucial work of one of our friends eco lodge, all transportation, all meals, touring with guides in Borneo – the Sepilok Rehabilitation Centre. and entrance fees. – Dr. Biruté Mary Galdikas, Reflection of Eden.

28 To enquire or book please call Thorne Travel on 01294 559949 or email [email protected] To enquire or book please call Thorne Travel on 01294 559949 or email [email protected] 29

WE OFFER TOURS AND TAILORMADE TRAVEL THROUGHOUT ASIA & LATIN AMERICA

 Antarctica  Argentina  Armenia  Azerbaijan  Bhutan  Bolivia  Borneo  Brazil  Cambodia  Chile  China  Colombia  Costa Rica  Ecuador & Galapagos  Egypt  Georgia  Hong Kong  India  Indonesia  Israel  Japan  Jordan  Kazakhstan  Kyrgyzstan  Laos  Mongolia  Myanmar  Nepal  Oman  Peru  Philippines  South Korea  Sri Lanka  Taiwan  Tajikistan  Tibet  Thailand  Turkmenistan  Uzbekistan  Vietnam

To enquire or book please call Thorne Travel on 01294 559949 or email [email protected]