BE INSPIRED Winter 2017

BE INSPIRED

Winter 2017

Call your personal Travel Counsellor today

Welcome

Welcome to the latest edition of Be Inspired, a gateway to the world of global travel created by the team from Travel Counsellors just for you.

Within the pages of this travel guide you’ll ﬁnd all the inspiration needed

to get you thinking about your next trip. Filled with travel ideas for everyone from active adventurers to culture connoisseurs, luxury lovers and beyond, this guide is guaranteed to inspire wanderlust in travellers from all walks of life.

Whether it’s enjoying Peru’s ﬁrst luxury sleeper train experience,

discovering the geological wonders of Iceland, chasing the sun on Thailand’s beaches or touring the world-famous wine regions of New Zealand, there is something for every traveller within these pages.

Including an in-depth guide to some of the USA’s emerging and established travel hotspots, this guide demonstrates the incredible array of experiences the United States has to offer. Whether you’re a return visitor to the USA or thinking about ticking it off your travel list

for the very ﬁrst time, the sheer variety of experiences on offer in the

USA make it a popular destination for everyone from honeymooners to retirees, families with teens and small groups. Fancy sipping wine and tasting cheese in the Sonoma Valley? Or maybe you’d prefer hiking and kayaking the summer away at Lake Tahoe? Perhaps the monuments and museums of Washington DC are calling? Either way, be sure to read up

on the USA – you might be surprised to soon ﬁnd it at the top of your

travel list! Wherever you decide to go, this guide is just the starting point. Once ideas have been sparked, simply speak to your Travel Counsellor to get the ball rolling on your next trip. Here to take care of all your plans, bookings, amendments and arrangements, your Travel Counsellor will make the trip of your dreams come true.

Happy travels!

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Contents

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Signs you’ve booked a holiday with Travel Counsellors

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10 destinations to captivate you 5 reasons to book with us Europe’s enchanting christmas markets America the beautiful

27 29 31 45 47 49 50

Great train journeys 48 hours in Singapore 55 travel resolutions for 2017 myTC app

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Signs you’ve booked a holiday with

You didn’t plan your trip

We believe that holidays are personal. That’s why you’ll have your own travel expert to plan your perfect trip.

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You didn’t check-in for your ﬂights

Your Travel Counsellor is your travel personal assistant. They’ll check you in and even let

you know if your ﬂight’s delayed.

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You didn’t conﬁrm your hotel reservation

There’s no need to conﬁrm your hotel

reservation, your car hire or your return

ﬂight. That’s your Travel Counsellor’s job.

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You didn’t worry about your money

Everything that you book with your Travel
Counsellor is completely protected. All you need to worry about is what you’re going to pack!

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You were surprised by your tickets

Delivered by hand? With a guide book?
With treats for the plane journey?
Your Travel Counsellor will constantly surprise you.

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You arrived at the hotel and found…

A room upgrade. A bottle of ﬁzz. A note

wishing you a wonderful trip… It’s the little things your Travel Counsellor does to make your holiday the one of your dreams.

You didn’t panic

You called your Travel Counsellor.
They’re always here for you, no matter where you are in the world, 24/7.

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Destinations to captivate you

From tropical beaches to brilliant green rainforests to snow-topped mountains, there are so many places to see in the world.

If you’re pondering where to travel next, here are
10 destinations to add to your travel wish list...

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PERU

High in the Andean mountains lies an ancient city that had been lost for hundreds of years. Mysteriously abandoned in the 16th century, it remained a secret from the Spanish conquerors, and it seemed as though it was destined to remain shrouded in mist, forgotten to the world forever. But it was biding its time, waiting… until in 1911 it was discovered once again, and the world’s love affair with the ancient Inca wonder began.

The ancient citadel was a centre for worship, astronomy observation and a retreat for the Inca royalty. Nestled high in a cloud forest at the end of an ancient mountainous pathway leading from UNESCO World Heritage Centre Cusco, it is the one of the most awe-inspiring archaeological sites on earth. What more does

one need to ﬁre the imagination and spirit of adventure in every

human being? Transport yourself to a different setting. In a desert plain south

of Lima there rests over 300 vast geometric ﬁgures and drawings

of mammals, insects and deities each spanning between 50 and

1200 feet in length. These are the Nazca Lines, one of the world’s

greatest enigmas in purpose and even date of creation (thousands of years to be sure). It is yet another example in our world of how incredible human races of the past were, leaving legacies that cannot be matched today in raw beauty and their ability to evoke astonishment and reverence simultaneously.

Lima is the capital of Peru, and one of the most culturally rich and vibrant places in South America. A melting pot of ancient traditions and evolved culture, a mix of textures and colour found in the buildings and on the streets, and a famed gastronomic culture, makes Lima a city well worth exploring. Lima is a chaotic and sophisticated blend of experience.

Cusco, the ancient Incan capital will give travellers the authentic Peruvian experience. Wander through the striking network of cobbled paths and discover the grand churches, temples and architecture that were once at the heart of the Incan Empirial city. Cusco is also well known for its vibrant night life and dining culture, so an overnight trip to the city is a must.

Immerse yourself in the historical landscape of the ancient Inca

cities, with a trek to Machu Picchu, a magniﬁcent stone complex

built by the Incas in 1450. The ancient city ruins are built along the mountain ridges in Cusco Region and offer travellers an aweinspiring and incredible experience. Here, history, art, culture and

nature are at one’s ﬁngertips. A blend of the old and the new, the

ancient and the mysterious, Peru has the ability to transport you to a world unlike anything you’ve ever experienced before.

Take me there

SACRED LAND OF THE INCAS

Embark on a 15 day adventure with Intrepid and be astounded by the magic and mystery of Peru’s sacred ruins, natural wonders

and people. From Lima to La Paz, wander along the trails of Amazon rainforest, witness Machu Picchu, visit the ﬂoating reed

islands of Uros on Lake Titicaca and marvel at the Spanish colonial architecture.

From $4,035* per person.

Price based on twin share for 14 nights (tour only), departing 2nd November 2017.

* Price is in AUD, per person based on twin share and correct as of 25 July 2017. Price subject to change without notice and strictly subject to availability. Flights not included. Deposit of $400 per person required upon booking and full payment required a minimum 56 days prior to departure. If booking within 56 days of departure, full payment is due immediately. Standard booking conditions apply as per Intrepid website www.intrepidtravel.com

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NEW ZEALAND

Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city is a creative harbour metropolis. The culinary scene takes a progressive and producefocused approach by providing gourmet food that is locally sourced. Explore the nation’s history at the many museums, cycle along the harbour, and chill out at the funky hole in the wall bars. Take a trip to the Northland’s beautiful beaches like Ninety Mile Beach for surf and sand dunes, or Bay of Islands for a swim and kayak around the clustered tropical isles. Other islands to explore are the volcanic Rangitoto Island, and the pristine Waiheke Island. Reach the country’s most northerly tip at Cape Reinga, and learn

its spiritual signiﬁcance to the Maori people.

From Auckland, embark on a road trip, and head up the scenic

Paciﬁc Coast Highway towards Napier, and explore the coastal and

country delights. As you head ninety minutes from Auckland, make a stop at Coromandel Peninsula, and check out the Cathedral Cove and serene hot water beach. Also nearby is Mount Maunganui,

where two different beaches collide, one made for surﬁng and

the other for paddling. For a more relaxing experience, travel to Hawke’s Bay to dine and wine at the many wineries, including the country’s oldest. New Zealand’s western north island region is home to diverse landscapes, from unique volcanic reserves, thermal baths, and snowy ski mountains to lush gardens and urban hubs. Smoking geysers and bubbling mud set the scene of the volcanic terrain, while thermal baths provide mineral-laden mud pools for visitors to relax in. At Tongariro National Park is where

skiers and snow boarders can ﬁnd thrilling ski slopes across the

stunning mountain scenery, including Mt Ruapehu – the north island’s highest mountain. The west north region is also home to the magical Hobbiton movie set, where The Lord of the Rings

trilogy was ﬁlmed. Wellington, the nation’s capital, is rich in culture,

culinary wonders and arts, as well as beaches and regional parks.

Learn about ‘Wellywood’ New Zealand’s ﬁlm industry at Middle of Middle-Earth, test run the coffee from local roasters, and ﬁnish

the day with some craft beer, and the city’s delicious culinary feats. Take a drive to the Wairarapa wine region, cycle through the quaint Martinborough Village, test the wines, many made in family-owned wineries. Here they produce the world-class pinot noir.

New Zealand’s other major city Christchurch is also worth a visit for its heritage spots and the trails of boutique shops, bars and restaurants. The west is also home to Lake Tekapo, a milky-looking turquoise body of water that fringes the Southern Alps. Stargaze

the dancing night sky, and dip in the Tekapo springs to the

backdrop of peaking mountains. Offering yet another stark

contrasting landscape, is the Franz Joseph Glacier. Travellers can

hike through the extraordinary valley of glaciers on guided tours,

or get a birds-eye view via scenic flights.

Take me there

A BETTER WAY TO FLY…

Air New Zealand offers more than 200 ﬂights per week across

the Tasman, from over 45 destinations in Australia to over 20 destinations in New Zealand. With a focus on true product

innovation and a commitment to delivering a world-class ﬂight

experience to every customer, discover for yourself why

Air New Zealand is a better way to ﬂy.

From $400* per person.

*Fare correct as of 23 June 2017. Price is per adult and includes applicable taxes and charges except where local airport departure fees are collected at departure. Price based on Melbourne

to Auckland ﬂight. Standard booking conditions apply as per Air New Zealand website www. airnewzealand.com.au

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THE KIMBERLEY

The vast Kimberley region is located in the northwest part of

Western Australia and is home to many magniﬁcent natural charms. Travel along the Gibb River Road to ﬁnd the most famous Kimberley

gorges perfect for hiking, swimming and waterfall spotting. Well known ones include the Lennard Gorge, Geikie Gorge, Windjana Gorge and Sir John Gorge.

Another great site to hike and swim is along the Fitzroy River. Staying in the outback town of Fitzroy Crossing will open travellers up to

the history and Indigenous culture. The Mimbi Caves, located 90

kilometers south of Fitzroy Crossing, is an ancient underground

system made of limestone formations and ancient reefs. The beautiful freshwater pools loop through the caves exposing the fossil remains of the Devonian Great Barrier Reef formed 350 million years ago. Travellers can explore the caves with Girloorloo, the local indigenous tour group, and embark on a ride through the pools while learning the history of the rock formations, and the cave’s

spiritual signiﬁcance to the Gooniyandi People.

The Windjana Gorge is where red earthy ranges meet lush vegetation and lagoons. Here, travellers can encounter ancient limestone walls and search for freshwater crocodiles. An incredible site to visit is the Bungle Bungle Ranges. The ranges are made up of hundreds of huge sandstone domes, 30 metres high. Their beehiveshaped turrets formed in the Red Basin a whopping 375-350 million

years ago. To get an excellent birds-eye view, take a scenic ﬂight or,

better yet a close-up 4WD land tour. One of the best ways to see the Kimberley is to cruise it. Along the many available routes guests will get to experience island hopping, swimming in waterholes,

lazing on beautiful sandy beaches and witnessing ancient Aboriginal

rock art. The coastline is also home to various bird species, whales, saltwater crocodiles and dolphins. Cruise to the remote islands of Buccaneer Archipelago, and anchor in the pristine ocean water. On

land, discover the rich wild ﬂora and fauna, and look for the remains

of Aboriginal rock art.

Halls Creek, a town in the Eastern Kimberley is the perfect launchpad for exploring the many nearby attractions like the China Wall – a

6-metre tall white quartz structure, Old Halls Creek – the discovery

site of a 870 gram gold nugget, and Wolfe Creek Crater. The Wolfe

Creek crater (that featured in the Australian horror ﬂick ‘Wolf Creek’)

is an impressive 875-metre wide, and 60-metre deep crater that formed around 300,000 years ago. The Kimberley Ranges will take travellers through the remote and exciting parts of Australia, to explore the untouched beauty of nature’s most incredible wonders.

Take me there

AUSTRALIA’S LAST FRONTIER

Travel with no more than 20 guests aboard customized 4WD

vehicles and stay at APT’s privately owned Wilderness Lodges on this 15 day tour. With all sightseeing experiences, meals, National Park fees and airport transfers included, your Kimberley tour will be unforgettable.

From $9695* per person – Travel 2018 at 2017 Prices for a limited time.

Price based on twin share for 14 nights (tour only), departing

19th May 2018.

* Price is in AUD, per person based on twin share and correct as of 25 July 2017. A limited number of SuperDeal offers are available on select itineraries and departures. All pricing and saving amounts are in

Australian currency. All offers are limited to the ﬁrst 100 bookings. All offers are strictly limited and may

be withdrawn at anytime without notice. Only one offer applies per person and cannot be combined

with any other offer unless speciﬁed. Available for new bookings only. www.aptouring.com.au

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PHUKET, THAILAND

Phuket is Thailand’s largest island and a place that encapsulates

both the region’s enchanting tropical landscape and the buzz of

South East Asian culture. Phuket is well known for its tropical beaches, and there are many to explore. Journey south to Nai Harn Beach, a popular location that still holds its original natural beauty. For a little luxury, head to Surin

Beach, aka ‘Millionaires Row’. The afﬂuent beach strip is lined with

expensive resorts, wine bars and restaurants overlooking the scenic view of mountain peaks dotted across the ocean. The spectacular Phang Nga Bay carved by blue ocean waters and roughly forty towering lush isles sets the ultimate landscape of a tropical nirvana. Cruise around the majestic islands and discover the hidden caves or swim in the secluded lagoons. Look out for the famous James Bond Island that made its tourist debut when it starred in the James Bond

ﬁlm The Man with the Golden Gun.

In the south east of Phuket is Chalong Bay, Phuket’s major boat harbour and launching pad to explore the Phi Phi Islands. The bay area is much less touristy and gives visitors an authentic feel for the Thai lifestyle. The Phi Phi Islands, two large rock formations, are a sublime tropical wonder. Phi Phi Don is the paradise island of the two, and is home to idyllic beaches, bungalows and resorts. For stunning island views, trek up the Nakkerd Hills to bear witness to the 45-metre tall Buddha statue, made from Burmese marble and the incredible panoramic views across the isles. The Karon View Point located just south of Kata Noi Beach is worth the hike, as the lookout spans over the Andaman Sea, and the curving traces of white sandy beaches.

Patong is the party capital, and as the sun sets, the famous Bangla road roars with life, from entertainment venues, bars, shops and restaurants. If the downtown nightlife is not your thing, head to the beach clubs and sunset bars in locations like Patong Beach, Layan Beach and in the hills of Kata Noi Beach. For a taste of the local Thai culinary culture, check out the Naka Night Market, tucked away near Phuket Town. Here, visitors can trail the isles that present a plethora

of tantalizing treats and foodie goodness.

Take me there

THE LAND OF SMILES

Amidst green ﬁelds and frangipani trees, discover Club Med - the perfect playground for an unforgettable family holiday in Phuket’s most beautiful bay. This stunning package includes 7 nights, gourmet dining and premium open bar, with a wide range of activities and programs for the kids.

Price based on twin share for 7 night stays, departing

1 November 2017 – 30 April 2018.

*Sun Holidays Early Bird Offer is valid for new bookings by Australian residents only and is subject to availability and may change without notice. Minimum 5 nights consecutive stay required. Promotion for sale until 13 September 2017. Prices based on departures 1 Nov 2017 – 30 Apr 2018. Offer subject to variation per date of departure with higher rates over peak holiday periods. For full terms and conditions visit www.clubmed.com.au

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RAJASTHAN, INDIA

Rajasthan ‘Land of Kings’ is located in the arid west of India and home to major historical sites and ancient wonders. The state’s capital, Jaipur is a vibrant historical city, founded by a famous warrior and astronomer in the 16th century. Embark on a time travelling escapade, and wander through the large Amber Fort boasting beautiful city views, learn about Rajasthani architecture

at the magniﬁcent royal City Palace, and discover the many

unique temples that stand nearby.

Visit Jaipur’s bazaar, an animated hub of activity with a ﬂowing atmosphere of food, ﬂowers, trinkets and music - it is also

common to be invited back to locals’ parties too. Not far from

Jaipur is the Dausa District, where travellers will ﬁnd the maze-

like imperial structure of the Abhaneri Step Well that was used to harvest rainwater in ancient times. The Dausa District is where the

city of Jodhpur lies, where bazaars selling textiles, leather goods,

carpets and antiques are intertwined around the palaces, temples and forts.

Set on the shores of the sparkling Lake Pichola is the romantic city of Udaipur. The culturally rich city is home to markets, festivals, temples and luscious gardens. Feast on the local cuisine to the backdrop of beautiful sunsets of the lake, and for the adventurous kind, rent a boat and explore beyond the majestic coastline.

To fuel your adrenalin, Rajasthan offers a range of adventurous activities. Head to the desert for camel rides and sand dune bashing. For a desert night experience, stay at one of the few camping sites that offer glamping tents, authentic meals, and the opportunity to see incredible stars. During winter, trekking is a popular activity. Trek through the stunning Alwar hills and Mount

Abu. Stay in Alwar to go zip lining from the city’s Neemrana and

Mehrangarh Forts.

For a thrilling experience, hop in a hot air balloon and soar through the Rajasthan skies to get a unique perspective of the buildings that lie beneath. Hot air ballooning is available in Pushkar, Jaipur and Ranthambore. While you are in Alwar, embark on the region’s wildlife highlight of the Sariska Tiger Reserve. The exciting safari takes travellers through the dense park in search of tigers and other exotic animals like peacocks and monkeys.

Perfect for the adventurous souls, but also the cultural explorers, Rajasthan is a unique place offering an experience that takes travellers into the realms of the nation’s vibrant history through its festivals, temples, and nature’s many excitements.

Take me there

LAND OF KINGS

This 11 day journey showcases India’s culture, heritage, art, architecture and wildlife. Enjoy a rickshaw ride through Old Delhi, marvel at the shimmering domes of the Taj Mahal, visit the towering fortress of Amber Fort and explore Jaipur with Travel World Experiences.

Price based on twin share for 10 nights (tour only), departing 1 October 2017 – 31 March 2018.

*Price is in AUD, per person based on twin share with all prices, itineraries and inclusions

correct as of 23 June 2017, Price may ﬂuctuate if surcharges, fees, taxes or currency change.

Prices based on for departures between 1 October 2017 and 31 March 2018 departures. Excludes tipping, gratuities and visas.

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TANZANIA

Located on the coast of East Africa, Tanzania is where the

bewildered wildlife beautifully collides with human culture. From

the exotic tropical nirvana of Zanzibar, to the natural exuberance of Serengeti, Tanzania is the ultimate travel experience. A must do for

all travellers is a safari through the wilderness of Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater and Selous Game Reserve. Immerse yourself in the habitats of various exotic wildlife including lions, cheetahs, leopards and jackals.

The incredible landscape of the Ngorongoro Crater is a mix of grasslands, swamps, lakes and forest. The prehistoric crater

is home to hippos, elephants, ﬂamingos, and, the last of the

endangered black rhino. The largest and most protected wildlife

reserve, the Selous Game Reserve in Southeastern Tanzania

inhabits elephants, buffalo, crocodiles and tropical bird species.

Embark on a safari cruise down the Ruﬁji River to get up close to