<<

ZEGRAHM EXPEDITIONS PRESENTS 2019 CULTURAL JOURNEYS Contents Dear Adventurer, Zegrahm Expeditions and Travcoa—two companies synonymous with immersive, 2 Ethiopia with the Timket Festival inventively crafted journeys—have created a lineup of distinct cultural experiences in the 4 Cultural Gems of world’s most exotic locales! We’re calling this collaboration Cultural Journeys Inspired 6 Intriguing Indochina by Travcoa, and are thrilled to share these adventures with you. Those of you who have traveled on Travcoa’s Escorted Journeys in the past can expect the same quality and 8 Cultural Treasures of Northern Vietnam & Laos services that Travcoa has cultivated over the past 60 years, with added benefits that guests have grown to love from Zegrahm. 10 DEARMystical Israel 12 Imperial Japan Continuing the Travcoa tradition of delivering meaningful, memorable, and valuable experiences, journeys are limited to 12 to 18 guests, allowing for an intimate experience 14 Morocco: Minarets & Medinas and the chance to get to know your fellow travelers. Exquisite accommodations are a 16 Bhutan: Journey Through hallmark of these journeys; you’ll stay in spacious rooms with stunning views, at the a Himalayan Kingdom ADVENTURER,world’s leading hotels and select boutique properties. You’ll also enjoy the services of 18 Along the Dalmatian Coast: an experienced Travel Director (your personal trip concierge), expert local guides, and Croatia & Slovenia the generous Dine-Around Program.* 20 Cultural Mongolia with the Naadam Festival In addition to all of these benefits, all Cultural Journeys Inspired by Travcoa will now 22 Uruguay & Argentina: Tango, include intra-tour airfare, gratuities to your Travel Director, an $80 per person gear credit, Vino & Patagonian Glaciers and medical expense coverage and emergency evacuation insurance in the upfront cost. 24 In the Footsteps of the Pharaohs This all-inclusive experience allows for less complexity while traveling and is the perfect setup to enjoy your journey without worrying about additional costs.

Within these pages you’ll discover tried-and-true Travcoa favorites, like Intriguing Indochina and Imperial Japan, along with exciting new itineraries like Cultural Gems of Sri Lanka and Ethiopia with the Timket Festival. I hope this catalog will inspire you to discover more of the fascinating world we live in on one (or more) of these carefully crafted journeys. To make your reservation, contact your travel consultant, or an Expedition Advisor at 844.482.6044 today. Warm regards,

Van Perry President

*Dine-Around Program Many years ago, Travcoa created the most generous and flexible travel dining plan imaginable: dine wherever you wish, and we’ll pick up the bill! It’s really that simple, with no limits on where you dine or the price of a meal. Enjoy any restaurant, inside or outside of the hotel and, with the exception of caviar and alcohol, it’s all included in the upfront tour price; even the service charges and gratuities. In that spirit, you can enjoy the flexibility of dining anywhere, giving you the peace of mind that comes with knowing the cost of your adventure before you even depart. Whether you make advance reservations for fine dining at a renowned, Michelin-starred restaurant or discover a small, family-run place for yourself, we believe it’s all about thoroughly enjoying the moment—without having to worry about unexpected costs. Meet Your Travel Directors Travcoa Travel Directors are renowned for their connections and ability to personalize journeys to the preferences of their travelers to create special, “WOW” moments. Whether setting up a private tour, or making reservations at a top restaurant, our Travel Directors are available to make all of your travel dreams come true.

Pamela Boudrot Pamela has been a Shirley Campbell Dr. Shirley Campbell Travel Director since 1991, and her career is a social anthropologist and Research has taken her all over the world. She has led Fellow at the Australian National University, tours to Dubai, China, Scandinavia, Greece, with a special interest in the indigenous Italy, Cuba, Croatia, Ireland, and all over the peoples of Australia, Melanesia, and the US and Canada. She has an obvious love of Pacific. Her impressive academic career history, culture, and travel. Pamela grew up in has led to a sound knowledge of many the Boston area and attended Emerson College. cultures and the theoretical foundations She was an instructor for over 15 years at the prestigious tour that human societies share. In addition to contributing to several management school, I.T.M.I. (International Tour Management academic publications, she has written a book recounting her time Institute), a school from which she herself is a graduate. Join Pamela in the Trobriand Islands, The Art of Kula. Join Shirley on Cultural on Dalmatian Coast (May) and Imperial Japan (October). Treasures of Northern Vietnam & Laos.

Harry Davis Harry has led journeys for Marta Luna A native of Buenos Aires, Travcoa for over 30 years. While he has Argentina, Marta speaks Portuguese, traveled the world over, his favorite destination French, Italian, and English. She’s an to share with fellow explorers is the Middle “insatiable traveler,” very interested in East—Harry has led over 60 tours to the history, art, and literature, and paints as region and lived in Egypt for over a year. a hobby. Marta became an American He believes that the birthplace of so many citizen in 1983 and the same year, began religions, coupled with ancient history and accompanying and translating for special modern development, offers the curious traveler an experience groups such as archaeologists and museum curators. She has found nowhere else. Join Harry on Mystical Israel, Morocco: served as a Travel Director for Travcoa since 1985, and lives in Minarets & Medinas, and In the Footsteps of the Pharaohs. both Argentina and Italy. Join Marta on Uruguay & Argentina.

Amber Medkiff Amber is a graduate Tese Neighbor After receiving her BA of the University of London, and prior to in Journalism and Political Science from entering the travel industry, lived in Florence Indiana University, Tese worked in Beijing working in fashion design. She also worked in the early 1980s as the English editor for an international incentive company, for China Pictorial magazine and taught taking care of top entertainers and CEOs English at Beijing University. In Hong from Fortune 500 companies. Amber Kong, she organized some of the first speaks French, Italian, and Spanish, and bicycle tours across China and worked is a member of the Italian Institute and the French Institute as a freelance writer/photographer for publications such of San Francisco, where she resides. Join Amber on Intriguing as the Asian Wall Street Journal. Tese received her MA in Indochina (February), Imperial Japan (April), and Dalmatian China Regional Studies and Seattle is now her home-base. Coast (September). Join Tese on Cultural Mongolia.

Jan Wheatley Jan was born in Logan, Gary Wintz Gary graduated cum Utah, and grew up in Newport Beach, laude from Michigan’s Duns Scotus California, where he studied political science College with a degree in philosophy. He and design. His travel career began in has spent the last 35 years outside the US 1977, escorting groups for the National researching, writing, and lecturing about Retired Teachers Association of America. distant lands and cultures, and has traveled His career advanced as he became associated to over 220 countries and territories. with People to People, leading political Gary was one of the first Westerners to delegations around the world. Working with Travcoa has been actually reside in Tibet since the communist Chinese occupation the highlight of his travel career, helping curious travelers discover and has met with His Holiness the Dalai Lama many times. exotic locales. Join Jan on Ethiopia with the Timket Festival, Join Gary on Bhutan: Journey through a Himalayan Kingdom. Cultural Gems of Sri Lanka, and Intriguing Indochina (November).

ZEGRAHM EXPEDITIONS | 2019 | CULTURAL JOURNEYS INSPIRED BY TRAVCOA 1 ETHIOPIA WITH THE TIMKET FESTIVAL January 10 – 21, 2019 | 12 Days | Travel Director: Jan Wheatley

RED Axum SEA Journey Highlights

Gondar • Attend the Timket Festival in Lalibela and witness exuberant songs, spontaneous dances, and colorful Bahir Dar Lalibela GULF OF ADEN processions. • Search for several endemic species—gelada baboons, Ethiopian wolves, klipspringers, and bushbucks—in Addis Ababa Simien Mountains National Park. • Visit some of the earliest churches known to Langano ETHIOPIA Christendom—the ancient rock-hewn churches of Bale Mountain Lalibela, Ethiopia’s “New Jerusalem.” Jinka Arba Minch National Park • Take a cruise on Lake Tana and step ashore on several Konso Main Tour Turmi Extension islands where you will find beautiful monasteries and MAP NOT TO SCALE churches, some dating back to the 14th century.

$9,980 per person, double occupancy Rates $11,980 per person, solo occupancy Limited to 12 guests. You will need to purchase airfare from your home city/Addis Ababa and Addis Ababa/home city. Domestic flights within Ethiopia are included in the cost of the journey. Please contact our in-house Air Department for fare quotes, reservations, or other air-related questions. A 25% per person deposit will secure your space on this journey.

OPTIONAL POST-TRIP EXTENSION TO THE OMO VALLEY GELADA BABOON LALIBELA January 20 – 28, 2019

2 TO LEARN MORE, VISIT ZEGRAHM.COM/TIMKET-FESTIVAL CHURCH OF OUR LADY OF ZION BLUE NILE FALLS

Wednesday, January 16 Itinerary GONDAR / SIMIEN MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK Based on the expeditionary nature of our trips, there may be ongoing This morning, travel to Simien Mountains National Park, enhancements to this itinerary. made up of several plateaus separated by broad river valleys, with many peaks soaring over 13,000 feet. This Thursday & Friday, January 10 & 11, 2019 UNESCO World Heritage Site offers three botanical areas, DEPART USA / ADDIS ABABA, ETHIOPIA a wide variety of flora, and some of Africa’s most dramatic Arrive in Addis Ababa early on Friday and transfer to your scenery. Search for the endemic gelada and more than executive level room in the Sheraton Addis with a morning at 50 species of birds. leisure. This afternoon, visit the National Museum and Mt. Entoto for breathtaking vistas over the metropolis. Gather at Thursday, January 17 GONDAR / AXUM the hotel this evening for a welcome cocktail party and dinner. After breakfast, fly to Axum, the ancient capital of Ethiopia. Begin your exploration with a visit to the 17th-century Saturday, January 12 ADDIS ABABA Cathedral of St. Mary of Zion, home of Ethiopian Orthodox Today’s tour includes the Ethnological Museum, set within Haile Christianity. Next, see the modern St. Mary’s of Zion cathedral, Selassie’s former palace at Addis Ababa University. Then visit built by Emperor Haile Selassie in the 1960s. In the afternoon, the beautiful baroque-style Trinity Cathedral to view crypts of the explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the imperial families and the coffin of Emperor Haile Selassie I. “Axum Stelae Field,” a pasture of more than 120 carved monoliths that date back 2,000 years. Check in to the Sabean Sunday, January 13 ADDIS ABABA / BAHIR DAR Hotel for dinner and overnight. Board our flight to Bahir Dar, a tropical city on the southern tip of Lake Tana, the largest lake in Ethiopia. Upon arrival, travel Friday, January 18 AXUM / LALIBELA to the small town of Tis Abay to visit the source of the Blue Nile Ethiopia was the first country to officially adopt Christianity as River and the Blue Nile Falls. In the afternoon, visit the colorful a state religion, and Lalibela (then known as Roha), was the marketplace in Bahir Dar before driving to the Bezawit Palace, capital. Fly to Lalibela and spend the rest of the day touring a former residence of Emperor Haile Selassie. Check in to your magnificent monolithic churches which are carved out of rock superior room at the Avanti Resort with a chance to enjoy the and believed to date from the 12th and 13th centuries. Check stunning lake views before dinner and overnight. in to the Roha Hotel for dinner and overnight.

Monday, January 14 BAHIR DAR Saturday, January 19 LALIBELA After breakfast board a private boat for a cruise on Lake Tana, Participate in the first day of Timket, one of Ethiopia’s oldest dotted with islands that harbor a number of historic churches and most beloved festivals. Commemorating the baptism of and monasteries. Disembark for a short hike through a local Jesus, this three-day celebration involves colorful processions, village and a coffee farm to visit Azwa Maryam Monastery. communal baptisms, feasting, singing, and dancing. Rise early this morning to witness a baptism ceremony, where the Tuesday, January 15 BAHIR DAR / GONDAR community, dressed in all white, gathers to be blessed and This morning depart overland for Gondar, traveling through sprinkled with holy water by priests decked out in colorful mountainous landscapes adorned with amethyst-colored peaks robes. Return to the hotel for a special farewell cocktail party and deep gullies. Upon arrival in Gondar, tour some of the and dinner. city’s 17th-century castles and palaces. Begin at Fasil Ghebbi, a fortress-city, and UNESCO World Heritage Site; and the Church Sunday & Monday, January 20 & 21 of Debre Birhan Selassie, with its intricately painted angels. In the LALIBELA / ADDIS ABABA / USA late afternoon, visit Four Sisters Traditional Restaurant to learn how This morning, board our flight for Addis Ababa and connect Ethiopian wine, tej, is prepared. Enjoy a traditional Ethiopian meal with your independent homeward flight, arriving in the USA at the restaurant, then check in to the Goha Hotel for overnight. the next day.

ZEGRAHM EXPEDITIONS | 2019 | CULTURAL JOURNEYS INSPIRED BY TRAVCOA 3 CULTURAL GEMS OF SRI LANKA February 2 – 16, 2019 | 15 Days Travel Director: Jan Wheatley

Tirappane Journey Highlights • Discover the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of , Polonnaruwa Sigiriya an ancient palace and fortress built atop a huge granite monolith; the ruins in Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka’s medieval capital; the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy; and Kandy the Golden Temple of Dambulla. SRI LANKA • Take a tour of a century-old tea plantation to learn Hatton about this fascinating industry. • Stroll through the historic center of Galle; its jumble of narrow lanes are graced with impressive Dutch-colonial buildings, ancient mosques, grand mansions, quirky boutiques, and stylish cafés. Galle MAP NOT TO SCALE

$17,980 per person, double occupancy Rates $22,480 per person, solo occupancy Limited to 14 guests. You will need to purchase airfare from your home city/Colombo and Colombo/home city. Domestic/charter airfare within Sri Lanka is included in the cost of the journey. Please contact our in-house Air Department for fare quotes, reservations, or other air-related questions. A 25% per person deposit will secure your space on this journey.

TEA PLANTATION KANDY

4 TO LEARN MORE, VISIT ZEGRAHM.COM/CULTURAL-SRI-LANKA HATTON SIGIRIYA WHALE WATCHING

in the Kings Pavilion Hotel, then tour the Temple of the Tooth. Itinerary Said to house a tooth of Buddha, this World Heritage Site Based on the expeditionary nature of our trips, there may be ongoing is one of the holiest places of worship and pilgrimage for enhancements to this itinerary. Buddhists around the world. Dinner tonight is accompanied by a private cultural show. Saturday & Sunday, February 2 & 3, 2019 DEPART USA / COLOMBO, SRI LANKA Saturday, February 9 KANDY Arrive in Colombo late on Sunday and transfer to The This morning, visit the impressive Royal Botanical Gardens. Wallawwa, a converted colonial manor, for overnight. Then travel to Gampola to visit with a local historian who will discuss the history and culture of the region over lunch in his Monday, February 4 COLOMBO / TIRAPPANE 18th-century Dutch-colonial home. Return to Kandy with the After breakfast, return to the airport for our short flight to afternoon to explore town on your own. Tirappane. Upon arrival, check in to your private chalet at the Ulagalla Resort. Just before sunset, transfer to the Sunday, February 10 KANDY / HATTON Runwanweliseya Stupa to witness the evening Buddhism After breakfast, board a local train for a scenic ride to Ceylon Festival, where you may mingle with devotees. Tea Trails, Norwood Bungalow. These lovingly restored planter’s bungalows are furnished with colonial-style furniture Tuesday, February 5 TIRAPPANE / and surrounded by sweeping lawns, manicured tea gardens, Depart overland for Mihintale, a mountain peak with a and colorful flower beds. number of sacred shrines and cave dwellings. A massive granite stairway leads to the summit, where Buddhism was Monday, February 11 HATTON introduced to Sri Lanka in the 3rd century BC. Continue to Today, visit a working tea factory to learn about the different the ancient city of Anuradhapura, from types of teas cultivated here. Return to your bungalow with the 4th century BC to the beginning of the 11th century AD. the rest of the day to explore the area on your own.

Wednesday, February 6 TIRAPPANE / RITIGALA / SIGIRIYA Tuesday, February 12 HATTON / GALLE This morning depart overland for the Ritigala Mountain, site of This morning, board our charter flight to Galle. After lunch a 1st-century monastery by the same name. Take a stroll around take a walking tour of Galle’s historic district, including Galle the grounds before participating in a traditional Alms Giving Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, built by the Dutch in Lunch ceremony for resident monks. Continue to Sigiriya and the 16th century. Check in to your ocean-view villa at Cape check in to your superior room at the Water Garden Resort, Weligama for dinner and overnight. our base for two nights. This afternoon, visit Sigiriya, or “Lion Rock,“a huge granite monolith rising out of the jungle. Wednesday, February 13 GALLE Return to Galle to visit the busy fish market, then board a Thursday, February 7 SIGIRIYA / POLONNARUWA local boat for a whale watching excursion off the coast. This morning, tour the magnificent ruined city of Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stop at a rural cafe for a Thursday, February 14 GALLE / COLOMBO traditional lunch prepared using a wood fire and clay pots. After breakfast, depart overland for Lunugana Estate, the After this, head to a nearby nature reserve and board jeeps country home of renowned Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey to search for painted storks, pelicans, little cormorants, and Bawa. Continue to Colombo and check in to the Shangri-La herds of wild Asian elephants. Hotel. Tonight attend a farewell cocktail party and dinner.

Friday, February 8 SIGIRIYA / DAMBULLA / KANDY Friday & Saturday, February 15 & 16 COLOMBO / USA After breakfast, depart overland for Kandy, making a stop at Spend the day touring Colombo. Board your independent the Dambulla Caves en route. Check in to your queen suite late evening flight, arriving in the USA the next day.

ZEGRAHM EXPEDITIONS | 2019 | CULTURAL JOURNEYS INSPIRED BY TRAVCOA 5 INTRIGUING INDOCHINA February 10 – 23, 2019 & November 2 – 15, 2019 | 14 Days Travel Director: Amber Medkiff (February); Jan Wheatley (November)

Hanoi Ha Long Bay Hai Phong Journey Highlights Luang Prabang • Photograph timeless scenes of rural life, lush jungles, Chang Mai grand boulevards, and golden temples as you explore Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia. LAOS • Visit the unique hill tribes of Chiang Mai. Da Nang THAILAND • Visit the temples of Angkor Wat at dawn, and marvel at the tangled jungle that enfolds the temples of Ta Prohm.

Bangkok • Visit the highlights of Phnom Penh, including the Royal Siem Reap CAMBODIA Palace and stunning Silver Pagoda. ADAMANMain Tour ExtensionSEA VIETNAM Phnom Penh • Attend a traditional Laotian Baci ceremony in Luang Prabang, and visit the famous caves of Pak Ou. Ho Chi Minh City MAP NOT TO SCALE

$8,480 per person, double occupancy Rates $11,380 per person, solo occupancy Limited to 14 guests. You will need to purchase airfare from your home city/Bangkok and Phnom Penh/home city. Internal airfare between Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia is included in the cost of this journey. Please contact our in-house Air Department for fare quotes, reservations, or other air-related questions. A 25% per person deposit will secure your space on this journey.

OPTIONAL POST-TRIP EXTENSION TO VIETNAM LUANG PRABANG © Allan White February 23 – March 2 & November 15 – 22, 2019.

6 TO LEARN MORE, VISIT ZEGRAHM.COM/INDOCHINA TA PROHM TEMPLE ANGKOR WAT © Paul Harris

at Pak Ou to visit the famous Buddhist caves of Tham Ting. Itinerary On the way back to Luang Prabang, stop at a local village Based on the expeditionary nature of our trips, there may be ongoing to learn about the production of Lao liquor (rice wine) and enhancements to this itinerary. witness daily life along the river. In the afternoon visit the National Museum, housed in the former Royal Palace. This Days 1 & 2 DEPART USA / BANGKOK, THAILAND evening enjoy a traditional Baci ceremony at the hotel. Arrive in Bangkok and transfer to the Shangri-La Hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure, with a welcome dinner and Day 9 LUANG PRABANG / SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA overnight at the hotel. Rise early this morning to watch as long lines of saffron-robed monks walk through the streets, collecting alms. Then visit the Days 3 & 4 BANGKOK Fresh Market where colorful produce and exotic delicacies Spend two full days exploring this cosmopolitan city. Highlights are sold. After breakfast at the hotel, visit the Traditional Arts include the breathtaking Grand Palace, which houses the and Ethnology Centre. Continue to some of the city’s many legendary Emerald Buddha; the wonderful Prasart Museum, pagodas and temples, including Vat Visoun and Vat Aham. with its vast collection of Thai antiques and artifacts; the After lunch, board your flight to Siem Reap and check in to the Temple of the Reclining Buddha; a cruise along the Thoburi luxurious La Residence D’Angkor for dinner and overnight. klongs, or canals; and the stunning Temple of Dawn. Days 10 & 11 SIEM REAP Day 5 BANGKOK / CHIANG MAI Begin your explorations at the World Heritage Site of Angkor This morning board your short flight to Chiang Mai. Check in Wat. The temple complex covers 200 acres, and is comparable to the Dhara Dhevi Hotel, and after lunch, visit 15th-century in size to the Imperial Palace in Beijing. Continue to wondrous Wat Chedi Luang, and Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, one of Angkor Thom, the 12th-century capital built by Jayavarman VI, Thailand’s most sacred temples. encompassing the Bayon temple, decorated with over 200 smiling faces. In the afternoon, take a cruise on Tonle Sap Lake to see Day 6 CHIANG MAI the photogenic floating and stilted villages. The next day, visit Ta This morning, take an unforgettable excursion to the hill tribe Prohm Temple built in 1186 AD by Jayavarman VII to honor his villages near Chiang Mai. Meet the one of the many hill tribes, family. Atmospheric and mystical, many of the temple monuments who live peacefully as small farmers, and still honor and follow are enveloped by the sinuous roots of soaring silk cottonwood trees. their traditional ways of life. Return to Chiang Mai with the afternoon to pursue your own interests. Day 12 SIEM REAP / PHNOM PENH This morning board your flight to Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s Day 7 CHIANG MAI / LUANG PRABANG, LAOS bustling capital city. Upon arrival, check in to the luxurious After a morning at leisure, board your flight to Luang Prabang, a Raffles Le Royal. Following lunch, visit the Killing Fields and Tuol UNSECO World Heritage Site and the ancient capital of the first Sleng Museum, the infamous S21 Khmer Rouge security prison. Lao Kingdom. Nestled below verdant mountains at the confluence of the Mekong and Khan rivers, Luang Prabang is a treasure-trove Day 13 PHNOM PENH of gilded temples and historic French colonial buildings. Check This morning tour the stunning Royal Palace complex, still the in to La Residence Phou Vao Hotel with a chance to settle in, then official residence of King Norodom Sihamoni. Continue to the visit a scenic viewpoint to watch the sunset. Make a stop at a local adjacent Silver Pagoda and the elegant National Museum. Return temple before heading to the lively night market to browse the to the hotel for a festive farewell cocktail party and dinner. vast selection of local handicrafts. Day 14 PHNOM PENH / USA Day 8 LUANG PRABANG Transfer to the airport this morning for your independent Embark on an early morning Mekong River cruise, with a stop homeward flight, arriving in the USA the same day.

ZEGRAHM EXPEDITIONS | 2019 | CULTURAL JOURNEYS INSPIRED BY TRAVCOA 7 CULTURAL TREASURES OF NORTHERN VIETNAM & LAOS March 23 – April 7, 2019 | 16 Days | Travel Director: Shirley Campbell

Haiphong Pu Luong Hanoi LAN HA BAY Journey Highlights Sam Nuea Tam Coc

Luang Prabang • Tour charming Hanoi, Vietnam’s bustling capital city. Phonsavan VIETNAM • Enjoy a two-night cruise through the breathtaking scenery of Lan Ha Bay. Vientiane • Shop for high-quality textiles in scenic Sam Neua.

LAOS • Discover thousands of megalithic stone urns at the mysterious Plain of Jars in Laos. THAILAND Fly Drive • Meet with people from the Tai Dam (White Thai) Cruise minority group in culturally diverse Pu Luong. • Join monks for morning prayers in Luang Prabang, the Bangkok center of Laotian culture. MAP NOT TO SCALE

$8,980 per person, double occupancy Rates $10,980 per person, solo occupancy Limited to 12 guests. You will need to purchase airfare from your home city/Hanoi and Bangkok/home city. Flights within Vietnam and Laos are included in the cost of this journey. Please contact our in-house Air Department for fare quotes, reservations, or other air-related questions. A 25% per person deposit will secure your space on this journey.

8 TO LEARN MORE, VISIT ZEGRAHM.COM/VIETNAM-LAOS HANOI PLAIN OF JARS

Sunday, March 31 PU LUONG / SAM NEUA, LAOS Itinerary Nestled in a scenic valley surrounded by rice fields and Based on the expeditionary nature of our trips, there may be ongoing mountains, Sam Neua is recognized for producing the enhancements to this itinerary. region’s finest textiles. Wander amidst its red-roofed homes before relaxing in your rustic, but gracious guesthouse. Saturday & Sunday, March 23 & 24, 2019 DEPART USA / HANOI, VIETNAM Monday, April 1 SAM NEUA Arrive in the late evening and transfer to the Sofitel Legend Visit some of the many ethnic villages around the Sam Neua Metropole Hotel for overnight. area, home to the Black Thai, Lue, Khum, Hmong Kho, and White Hmong tribes. This will be a great day to shop for Monday, March 25 HANOI local handicrafts, including high-quality textiles. Today, explore the Old Quarter, home to Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum and the 11th-century Temple of Literature. Tuesday, April 2 SAM NEUA / PHONSAVAN En route to Phonsavan, make a stop at one of the most Tuesday, March 26 HANOI / HAIPHONG / LAN HA BAY important prehistoric sites in Laos—Hintang Archaeological Halong Bay’s little sister, Lan Ha, is equally stunning, but with far Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is also known as fewer tourists. This morning, take a leisurely drive to Haiphong the “Asian Stonehenge.” Arrive in Phonsavan this afternoon and board the Orchid Cruise for a two-night journey. On board and check in to the Vansana Plain of Jars for a two-night stay. activities include swimming, kayaking, calligraphy demonstrations and possibly, squid fishing in the evening. Wednesday, April 3 PHONSAVAN Spend a full day visiting the UNESCO designated Plain Wednesday, March 27 LAN HA BAY of Jars, where giant megalithic stone urns lie scattered Greet the day with a Tai Chi session on deck as the ship about the hills. cruises past some of La Ha Bay’s 400 verdant islands. Stop for a bicycle tour of Viet Hai village and a dip in Ba Ham Thursday, April 4 PHONSAVAN / VIENTIANE / LUANG PRABANG Lake before an afternoon cooking class. Take a morning tour of Muang Khoun, ancient capital of the Xieng Khouang Province. After lunch, board our flight Thursday, March 28 LAN HA BAY / HAIPHONG / TAM COC to Luang Prabang via Vientiane, and check in to Sofitel Explore Toi (dark) and Sang (light) caves on a morning canoe Luang Prabang. Freshen up before enjoying a traditional Baci excursion, then return to the ship for brunch before disembarking ceremony, dance performance, and dinner. in Haiphong and heading out along the Red River. Check in to Tam Coc Garden Hotel for dinner and overnight. Friday, April 5 LUANG PRABANG Luang Prabang has long been considered the heart of Friday, March 29 TAM COC Laotian culture. The town received UNESCO status for its Encircled by paddy fields—which locals call “the green sea” distinctive blend of traditional colonial architecture. Today, and dotted with dramatic karstic formations, Tam Coc take a tour of the old town before hiking to Mount Phousi (Three Caves) is the terra firma version of Halong Bay. for gorgeous sunset views, then enjoy a dinner of exquisite Today, take a short cruise through Bird Valley to search for a French cuisine. variety of storks, herons, teals, and other waterfowl. Saturday & Sunday, April 6 & 7 Saturday, March 30 TAM COC / PU LUONG LUANG PRABANG / BANGKOK, THAILAND / USA Today, travel overland to Pu Luong, a landscape of jagged Join a community of monks for morning prayers before limestone mountains and terraced rice paddies dotted boarding your flight to Bangkok. Transfer to Novotel Bangkok with small villages. Check in to Pu Luong Homestay. In the Airport Hotel for dinner and overnight. The next day, board afternoon, visit a nearby White Thai settlement. your independent homeward flight.

ZEGRAHM EXPEDITIONS | 2019 | CULTURAL JOURNEYS INSPIRED BY TRAVCOA 9 MYSTICAL ISRAEL April 7 – 19, 2019 | 13 Days Travel Director: Harry Davis

Safed Tiberias Acre Golan Heights Journey Highlights • See Israel’s most important sights, including Tel Aviv, Haifa SEA OF Nazareth GALILEE Jerusalem, Nazareth, Bethlehem, Galilee, and the Beit She´an Dead Sea. Caesarea • Take a walk along the Via Dolorosa, the traditional Path of Jesus, marked by nine Stations of the Cross. • Photograph breathtaking scenery during a hike in the Tel Aviv Jerusalem Qumran Golan Heights.

Bethlehem • Visit the Israel Museum which houses the Dead Sea Scrolls, along with a spectacular collection of art and Masada artifacts dating from prehistory to present day. ISRAEL DEAD SEA • Participate in an archaeological project outside the MAP NOT TO SCALE walls of the City of David.

$11,480 per person, double occupancy Rates $14,780 per person, solo occupancy Limited to 14 guests. You will need to purchase airfare from your home city/Tel Aviv and Tel Aviv/home city. Please contact our in-house Air Department for fare quotes, reservations, or other air-related questions. A 25% per person deposit will secure your space on this journey.

GOLAN HEIGHTS DEAD SEA

10 TO LEARN MORE, VISIT ZEGRAHM.COM/ISRAEL WESTERN OLD JAFFA DOME OF THE ROCK WALL

and performed several miracles. A cruise across the Sea of Itinerary Galilee returns you to Tiberias. Based on the expeditionary nature of our trips, there may be ongoing enhancements to this itinerary. Saturday, April 13 TIBERIAS / GOLAN HEIGHTS Depart overland for a full-day excursion to the Golan Heights, Sunday & Monday, April 7 & 8, 2019 one of the most scenic areas in Israel. Explore along one of DEPART USA / TEL AVIV, ISRAEL the many hiking trails and enjoy a picnic lunch. Upon arrival in Israel’s cosmopolitan capital, transfer to the Dan Tel Aviv Hotel, and check in to your executive sea-view Sunday, April 14 TIBERIAS / BEIT SHE’AN / QUMRAN / DEAD SEA room. Gather with your fellow travelers this evening for a Beit She’an, or “House of Rest and Quiet,” offers an intriguing special welcome reception and dinner. glimpse of life in an ancient Roman city. Continue to Qumran to view the caves where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found. Tuesday, April 9 TEL AVIV / OLD JAFFA Next, travel through the Jordan Valley to the Dead Sea, the This morning, take a drive along the lovely Promenade to Old lowest point on earth. Throughout history, people have visited Jaffa, one of the world’s oldest ports. See the 17th-century St. this area to enjoy the sea’s therapeutic properties. Check in to Peter’s Church, then take a stroll along the winding cobblestone your premium room at Herods Dead Sea Hotel. streets lined with handicraft shops and art galleries. After lunch, visit the Carmel Market, the largest marketplace in Tel Aviv. Monday, April 15 DEAD SEA / MASADA / BETHLEHEM / JERUSALEM Masada sits at the top of an isolated rock on the edge of the Wednesday, April 10 TEL AVIV / CAESAREA / HAIFA Judean Desert. Isolated from its surroundings by deep gorges Explore the fascinating ruins of Caesarea, including the on all sides, this was the last stronghold of the Jewish zealots Roman theater still in use today. After lunch, continue to in their war against the Romans in 73 AD. Ascend by cable Haifa and ascend the slopes of Mount Carmel for breath- car and explore the rock fortress, Herod’s Palace, storerooms, taking views of the city. Continue to the 19th-century Stella watchtowers, and the synagogue. Continue to Bethlehem to visit Maris Carmelite Monastery. Check in to your deluxe room the Church of the Nativity, and the cave where tradition holds at the Dan Carmel Haifa for dinner and overnight. that the virgin birth occurred. This evening, check in to your deluxe old city view room at the King David Jerusalem Hotel. Thursday, April 11 HAIFA / ACRE / NAZARETH / TIBERIAS More history unfolds in Acre; a subterranean city and former Tuesday – Thursday, April 16 – 18 JERUSALEM capital of the Crusader kingdom, today it is one of Israel’s seven Spend three full days exploring Jerusalem and the surrounding UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Visit Al Jazar Mosque, the crypt area. In the City of David, catch a rare glimpse of the excavations of St. John, and the British fortress; then explore the Turkish that are revealing new discoveries every day. Visit the Garden Baths and the colorful bazaar. After lunch visit Nazareth and of Gethsemane, the Church of All Nations, and Mt. Zion. the Church of the Annunciation. Check in to your antique lake Discover the treasures of ancient Jerusalem on a tour of the view room at Scots Hotel. Old City, including the Dome of the Rock. Walk along the Via Dolorosa to see the Stations of the Cross, and explore the city’s Friday, April 12 TIBERIAS / SAFED / SEA OF GALILEE Jewish Quarter including the Western Wall. You’ll also visit the This morning, drive to the historic city and artist colony of Holocaust History Museum and the Israel Museum to see the Safed, famous since the Middle Ages as a center of Jewish Dead Sea Scrolls. On your last day, enjoy a special farewell mysticism (kabbalah). Visit the Citadel (Metsuda) with ruins cocktail party and dinner at our hotel. dating back to the time of the Crusades. After lunch, continue overland to Galilee to visit the Mount of Beatitudes, the site Friday, April 19 JERUSALEM / TEL AVIV / USA where Jesus delivered the “Sermon on the Mount.” Next, visit Transfer to the airport in Tel Aviv for your independent the Church of the Multiplication of the Loaves and Fishes homeward flight. and make a stop at Capernaum, where Jesus preached

ZEGRAHM EXPEDITIONS | 2019 | CULTURAL JOURNEYS INSPIRED BY TRAVCOA 11 IMPERIAL JAPAN April 16 – 28, 2019 & October 7 – 19, 2019 | 13 Days Travel Directors: Amber Medkiff (April); Pamela Boudrot (October)

Journey Highlights Shirakawa-go JAPAN • Spend three full days in Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital, and Kanazawa enjoy an exclusive geisha experience with a local expert. Takayama • Cruise on Lake Ashi, which lies in the caldera of Mt. Tokyo Hakone, and enjoy spectacular views of Mt. Fuji. Mt. Fuji Hiroshima Kyoto • Experience the excitement of riding first-class in Japan’s Hakone Nara famed bullet trains. Miyajima • Pay your respects at the solemn Atomic Bomb Dome and Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima. Train Travel Land Travel • Stroll through serene Kenroku-en Garden, regarded to be one of Japan’s most beautiful gardens. MAP NOT TO SCALE

KYOTO UDON $15,480 per person, double occupancy Rates $18,780 per person, solo occupancy Limited to 14 guests. You will need to purchase airfare from your home city/Tokoyo and Hiroshima/home city. Please contact our in-house Air Department for fare quotes, reservations, or other air-related questions. A 25% per person deposit will secure your space on this journey.

12 TO LEARN MORE, VISIT ZEGRAHM.COM/IMPERIAL-JAPAN © Jamison Surguy© GOLDEN PAVILION KENROKU-EN GARDEN

Day 7 TAKAYAMA / SHIRAKAWA-GO / KANAZAWA Itinerary Travel to the remote mountain village of Shirakawa-go, a Based on the expeditionary nature of our trips, there may be ongoing UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its traditional enhancements to this itinerary. gassho-zukuri farmhouses with their steeply pitched, thatched roofs. Continue to Kanazawa, a hub of historical arts and Days 1 & 2 DEPART USA / TOKYO, JAPAN culture, and stop at the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Upon arrival in Tokyo, transfer by private car to the Conrad Art. Tonight, enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the city from your deluxe Tokyo and enjoy sweeping views of the city’s magnificent room at the Nikko Kanazawa Hotel. skyline from your executive bay-view room. Day 8 KANAZAWA Day 3 TOKYO Explore the nearly 300-year-old Omicho Market, home to more This morning, visit the Meiji Shrine, dedicated to the deified than 200 stalls. Continue to Kenroku-en Garden, also known as spirit of Emperor Meiji. Stroll to nearby Omotesando shopping “Garden of the Six Sublimities.” Later, witness a centuries-old street, home to some of the world’s top fashion brands, and Yuzen silk painting demonstration, followed by a visit to the visit the Samurai Museum. After lunch, enjoy a bird’s-eye historic Nomura Samurai House. view of the city from the 781-foot-tall Mori Tower. Continue to Asakusa, Tokyo’s old town, and visit the city’s oldest temple, Day 9 KANAZAWA / KYOTO Asakusa Kannon. Tonight, enjoy a welcome dinner at the hotel. Board the train to Japan’s former capital—Kyoto. Walk through the city’s atmospheric Higashiyama district, one of Kyoto’s Day 4 TOKYO / HAKONE best-preserved historic districts. Experience a traditional Japanese Travel to Hakone by private coach and, depending on weather, tea ceremony at the Gesshin-in Temple, which was founded in catch glimpses of iconic Mt. Fuji along the way. Board a boat 1617. Afterwards, stroll through Kyoto’s famous geisha district, in Hakonemachi and cruise across Lake Ashi, which lies in an Gion. In the evening, enjoy dinner and conversation with enormous volcanic crater, to Togendai. Continue to the volcanic geishas and a local expert. Tonight, relax in your deluxe room valley of Owakudani where steam vents and bubbling pools at the stylish, five- Hyatt Regency Kyoto. abound. Tonight, enjoy your deluxe room at the Hyatt Regency Hakone and take a dip in the on-site onsen (hot spring). Day 10 KYOTO Today, visit Nijo Castle, finished in 1603. Continue to gold-leaf Day 5 HAKONE / TAKAYAMA covered Kinkakuji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, one Board the famous Shinkansen bullet train to Nagoya, then of Kyoto’s most famous Buddhist temples. Dine on Buddhist transfer to the Limited Express Hida for one of the most scenic vegetarian cuisine at a temple in Arashiyama. train journeys in Japan. Explore the narrow streets and wooden buildings of Takayama which date back to the end of the 16th Day 11 KYOTO / NARA century. Tonight, enjoy the outstanding mountain views from Travel to Nara, Japan’s capital during the 8th century and your deluxe room at the Associa Takayama Hotel. home to many ancient temples and shrines. Visit the Todai-ji Temple, the world’s largest wooden structure, and see Japan’s Day 6 TAKAYAMA largest Buddha. Witness the beauty of the Kasuga Taisha Today, explore the bustling Miyagawa Morning Market and taste Shrine, and finish off the day with a visit to the Fushimi Inari some of the region’s delicacies. Visit Takayama Jinya, the only Shrine, famous for its thousands of red tori gates. surviving government office building remaining from the Edo Period (1603 – 1868), which now serves as a museum. Later, Days 12 & 13 KYOTO / HIROSHIMA / MIYAJIMA / USA stroll through old town Takayama on the way to the Festival Travel via bullet train for Hiroshima to visit the Peace Memorial Floats Museum and see intricately carved ornamental floats Park. After lunch, board a ferry to Miyajima to photograph dating back to the 17th century. the famous “Floating Torii Gate.” Board your independent homeward flight on Day 13.

ZEGRAHM EXPEDITIONS | 2019 | CULTURAL JOURNEYS INSPIRED BY TRAVCOA 13 MOROCCO MINARETS & MEDINAS April 20 – May 1, 2019 & September 14 – 25, 2019 | 12 Days | Travel Director: Harry Davis

ATLANTIC OCEAN Journey Highlights • Explore the Roman ruins of Volubilis and dine on Rabat Volubilis ancient Roman recipes paired with local wines. Fez

Casablanca Meknes • Sip traditional Moroccan mint tea in the home of a Berber family in the High Atlas Mountains. MOROCCO • Spend two full days in magical Marrakech, famous for its intact medieval architecture and bustling souks, packed with vendors touting everything from fresh produce to high-quality leather goods.

Marrakech • Visit the highlights of cosmopolitan Casablanca, including the impressive Hassan II Mosque.

HIGH ATLAS MOUNTAINS MAP NOT TO SCALE

$10,990 per person, double occupancy Rates $13,980 per person, solo occupancy Limited to 14 guests. You will need to purchase airfare from your home city/Rabat and Marrakech/home city. Please contact our in-house Air Department for fare quotes, reservations, or other air-related questions. A 25% per person deposit will secure your space on this journey.

HASSAN II MOSQUE MEDINA

14 TO LEARN MORE, VISIT ZEGRAHM.COM/MOROCCO © Jim Wilson

TEA TIME HIGH ATLAS MOUNTAINS

samples before continuing on to the fabled city of Casablanca. Itinerary Check in to your club floor room at the Hyatt Regency. Based on the expeditionary nature of our trips, there may be ongoing enhancements to this itinerary. Day 7 CASABLANCA / HIGH ATLAS MOUNTAINS A morning tour includes the majestic and impressive Hassan Days 1 & 2 DEPART USA / RABAT, MOROCCO II Mosque and Place Mohammed V, a busy shopping street Arrive in Rabat on Day 2 and transfer to your deluxe room and Casablanca’s main square. See United Nations Square at the Sofitel Rabat. This evening, attend a welcome reception and the League of Arab States Park, built in 1925. Enjoy lunch with dinner at our hotel. before continuing on to the High Atlas Mountains. Arrive at the village of Asni, and check in to Sir Richard Branson’s Day 3 RABAT / FEZ luxurious and intimate retreat, Kasbah Tamadot. Your tour of Rabat begins at the Kasbah of the Udayas, whose alleyways are reminiscent of a whitewashed Andalusian village. Day 8 HIGH ATLAS MOUNTAINS Visit the well-preserved 12th-century Hassan Tower that stands In the Berber village of Ouirgane, spend time browsing on the hill overlooking the Wadi Bou Regreg, as well as the the weekly souk; these mobile markets travel from village beautiful Mohamed V Mausoleum. After lunch in the heart of to village and are still the mainstay of rural Morocco. Sip the medina, enjoy free time to browse the souk for exotic trea- traditional Moroccan mint tea in the home of a local Berber sures. In the afternoon head inland to Fez and check in to your family before returning to our retreat for lunch. junior suite at Palais Faraj Suites, your home for three nights. Day 9 HIGH ATLAS MOUNTAINS / MARRAKECH Day 4 FEZ Make the short drive to La Pause, an exquisite oasis along This morning, explore the ancient Fez Medina, a UNESCO the Ouad riverbed. Lunch is served in Berber tents with World Heritage Site. Within the medina you will also see the fresh salads from the garden and extra virgin olive oil from Karaouine Mosque, as well as the 18th-century Foundouk the resort’s olive grove. Continue to Marrakech, founded in Nejjarine. Formerly a way-station inn, today it is a UNESCO 1062, at the crossroads of Arab, Berber, and Sudanese World Heritage Site and an excellent museum housing civilizations. Check in to the Four Seasons Resort Marrakech various period artifacts. After lunch at a local riad, view the for dinner and overnight. seven impressive bronze gates of the Dar el Makhzen (Royal Palace), then continue to Fez Mellah (the Jewish quarter). Days 10 & 11 MARRAKECH A morning tour of the city’s most important monuments Day 5 FEZ / VOLUBILIS includes the stately 12th-century Koutoubia Minaret and This morning, explore Volubilis, an imposing Roman ruin and Mosque and the aristocratic El Bahia Palace. After lunch at UNESCO World Heritage Site. A highlight today is a special a local restaurant, visit the lush Majorelle Garden designed lunch of ancient Roman dishes taken from Latin texts of Apicius by the French painter Jacques Majorelle in 1924. Explore and Cato. You will also sample some of Morocco’s delicious the colorful souks, overflowing with exotic spices, carpets, wines. Tonight, enjoy a special Moroccan dinner at a local jewelry, enamel, copper, brass, and cedar. Today’s grand restaurant in the medina. finale is frenetic Jemaa el Fnaa, the greatest square in all of Africa. The next morning enjoy a special culinary lesson Day 6 FEZ / MEKNES / CASABLANCA on the preparation of traditional Moroccan tagine (slow- En route to Casablanca, stop to visit imperial Meknes, the third cooked stew). Gather in the evening for a special dinner at of Morocco’s Imperial Cities. View the Royal Stable that once an exclusive riad. housed the Sultan’s 12,000 horses and the palace/tomb of Moulay Ismail. Explore the Meknes medina before lunch at Day 12 MARRAKECH / USA a local restaurant. Then visit an olive oil farm for a tour and Board your independent homeward flight.

ZEGRAHM EXPEDITIONS | 2019 | CULTURAL JOURNEYS INSPIRED BY TRAVCOA 15 BHUTAN JOURNEY THROUGH A HIMALAYAN KINGDOM May 12 – 29, 2019 | 18 Days | Travel Director: Gary Wintz

Journey Highlights • Visit Tiger’s Nest, Bhutan’s most famous monastery. • Spend a full day in Thimphu—the main residence of the King of Bhutan—and visit the National Library and Bumthang Textile and Folk Heritage Museum. Trongsa • Explore the deeply spiritual Bumthang region and Paro Phobjikha Valley nearby Tang Valley, an area of open countryside dotted Thimphu Punakha BHUTAN with forests and tiny villages. • Meet the hearty local people who preserve the age-old traditions of Bhutanese life. To/From Bangkok • Hike through Phobjika Valley, a conservation area where you may view muntjak (barking deer), wild boar, MAP NOT TO SCALE sambar, and more.

YOUNG MONK PRAYER WHEELS $12,980 per person, double occupancy Rates $15,980 per person, solo occupancy Limited to 14 guests. You will need to purchase airfare from your home city/Bangkok/Paro and Paro/Bangkok/home city. Flights within Bhutan are included in the cost of the journey. Please contact our in-house Air Department for information on the charter flight, fare quotes, reservations, or other air-related questions. A 25% per person deposit will secure your space on this journey.

16 TO LEARN MORE, VISIT ZEGRAHM.COM/BHUTAN ARCHER HIMALAYAS MASKED DANCERS

Monday, May 20 PHOBJIKHA Itinerary Today visit Gangtey Gompa, a lovely Buddhist monastery over- Based on the expeditionary nature of our trips, there may be ongoing looking the verdant valley below. Take a hike from the monastery enhancements to this itinerary. down into the valley, keeping an eye out for resident wildlife.

Sunday – Tuesday, May 12 – 14, 2019 Tuesday & Wednesday, May 21 & 22 PHOBJIKHA / PUNAKHA DEPART USA / BANGKOK, THAILAND After a scenic drive into the Punakha Valley, check in to the Arrive in Bangkok in the late evening on May 13 and check in to Densa Boutique Resort in time for lunch. In the afternoon, visit the Novotel Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel for overnight. the Punakha Dzong, the “Palace of Great Happiness,” one The next day is at leisure to relax or explore on your own. Gather of Bhutan’s most majestic structures. The next day take a hike at the hotel this evening for a welcome cocktail party and dinner. through semitropical forest where wild orchids flourish.

Wednesday, May 15 BANGKOK / PARO, BHUTAN Thursday, May 23 PUNAKHA / THIMPHU After breakfast transfer to the airport for your flight to Paro. Time This morning, visit Chimi Lhakhang, a temple dedicated to permitting, visit the Ta Dzong, originally built as a watchtower, fertility and built by Lama Drupka Kunley—nicknamed “The and the National Museum. Check in to Zhiwa Ling Hotel. Divine Madman,” for his eccentric behavior. Then set out for a spectacular drive through the mountains with a stop at Thursday, May 16 PARO / BUMTHANG Dochu-la Pass, one of the most scenic spots in Bhutan. Arrive Rise early this morning for your flight to Bumthang, a deeply in Bhutan’s lively capital this evening and check in to the Le spiritual region, shrouded in religious legend. Check in to Meridien Thimphu for the next three nights. Hotel Wangdicholing, your base for two nights. After lunch, visit Wangdicholing Palace, the former home of the second Friday & Saturday, May 24 & 25 THIMPHU king of Bhutan. Continue up the valley to visit Kurjey Lhakhang Spend two full days exploring Thimphu, the main residence of and Jambay Lhakhang, then cross the lovely Bumthang River the king. Cultural attractions include the National Library, Folk to visit the Tamshing Monastery, founded in 1501. Heritage Museum, and the Painting School. If time permits, visit the handicraft emporium. Friday, May 17 BUMTHANG Today venture into the Ura Valley, a lovely area of open Sunday, May 26 THIMPHU / PARO countryside dotted with forests and tiny villages surrounded by Today, visit Ta Dzog, which houses the National Museum and lush pastures. At Ura-la Pass enjoy splendid views of Bhutan’s Rinpung Dzong, the administrative and religious headquarters highest peak, Mt. Gangkhar Puensum, over 24,800 feet high. of Paro. After lunch tour Kyuchu Lhakhang, one of the oldest Visit Ura Village and a temple dedicated to Guru Rinpoche. and most sacred shrines in Bhutan built in the 7th century. Dinner and overnight at Zhiwa Ling Hotel. Saturday, May 18 BUMTHANG / TRONGSA After breakfast, drive across the 11,000-foot-high Yutong-la Pass Monday, May 27 PARO to the Chumey Valley, famous for Yathra (woolen fabric) weaving. Today set out for a full-day trek to Tiger’s Nest. Perched on a Continue to Trongsa and check in to the Yangkhil Resort in time cliff above the Paro Valley, it is the most famous of Bhutan’s for lunch. An afternoon birding tour may reveal emerald dove, monasteries. large niltava, and russet bush warbler, among others. Tuesday & Wednesday, May 28 & 29 Sunday, May 19 TRONGSA / PHOBJIKHA PARO / BANGKOK, THAILAND / USA This morning visit the impressive Trongsa Dzong. Built in 1648, Board your afternoon flight to Bangkok and transfer to it is the largest fortress in Bhutan. Then depart for the glacial- Novotel Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel. Board your carved Phobjikha Valley, a stunning wide-open grassland. independent homeward flight the next day. Check in to the Dewachen Hotel for the next two nights.

ZEGRAHM EXPEDITIONS | 2019 | CULTURAL JOURNEYS INSPIRED BY TRAVCOA 17 ALONG THE DALMATIAN COAST CROATIA & SLOVENIA May 18 – 29, 2019 & September 21 – October 2, 2019 | 12 Days Travel Directors: Pamela Boudrot (May) & Amber Medkiff (September)

SLOVENIA Lake Bled Ljubljana Journey Highlights Opatija Zagreb Postojna • Ring the wishing bell at the Church of the Assumption Porec CROATIA Plitvice of Mary on tiny Bled Island. Rovinj National Pula Park • Take a train ride through the stunning caverns at Postojna, and sit spellbound during a private choral concert against a backdrop of illuminated stalactites and stalagmites. Split Trogir • Sample the distinctive wines of the Peljesac Peninsula. Ston Dubrovnik • Explore the narrow, twisting lanes of the picture-perfect, medieval-walled city of Dubrovnik, and attend a private performance of the Sorkocevic Quartet. • Stroll along forested paths to discover the crystal-clear MAP NOT TO SCALE lakes and cascading waterfalls of Plitvice National Park.

$8,890 per person, double occupancy Rates $10,680 per person, solo occupancy Limited to 14 guests. You will need to purchase airfare from your home city/Zagreb and Dubrovnik/home city. Please contact our in-house Air Department for fare quotes, reservations, or other air-related questions. A 25% per person deposit will secure your space on this journey.

LAKE BLED

18 TO LEARN MORE, VISIT ZEGRAHM.COM/DALMATIAN-COAST DUBROVNIK PLITVICE NATIONAL PARK

features 16 beautiful lakes connected by 32 spectacular Itinerary cascades and waterfalls. After a delightful lunch, continue Based on the expeditionary nature of our trips, there may be ongoing to the Degenija Hotel. This afternoon, take a guided walking enhancements to this itinerary. tour of the lush national park.

Days 1 – 3 DEPART USA / ZAGREB, CROATIA Day 9 PLITVICE NATIONAL PARK / TROGIR / SPLIT Arrive in Zagreb on Day 2 and check in to the Esplanade Delight in the beauty of the Adriatic coastline as you Zagreb for a festive welcome dinner of regional specialties. travel south to Split, stopping in the ancient city of Trogir On Day 3, join a city tour which includes the Croatian Naïve which boasts stunning beaches and marinas. Explore the Art Museum. 13th-century Venetian Cathedral of St. Lovro which towers over Trogir and is one of the most important architectural Day 4 ZAGREB / LJUBLJANA, SLOVENIA / LAKE BLED monuments in Dalmatia. Continue to Split and check in A drive through pristine alpine scenery takes us into Slovenia to the Hotel Atrium, then join a brief city tour, including and its charming capital, Ljubljana. Your guided tour takes Diocletian’s Palace and St. Dominus Cathedral. you along the riverfront and through the city’s beautiful cultural monuments. After lunch, continue to one of Europe’s Day 10 SPLIT / STON / DUBROVNIK most fascinating and beautiful cities, Bled. Check in to the Today, embark on one of the world’s most scenic drives along Grand Hotel Toplice for dinner and overnight. the Croatian coastline to Dubrovnik. Stop in the village of Ston on the Peljesac Peninsula, known for its storied stone houses, Day 5 LAKE BLED for wine tasting. This afternoon, arrive in Dubrovnik, the “Pearl This morning, explore the oldest castle in Slovenia, then board of the Adriatic,” and check in to the Hotel Excelsior. Your a traditional pletna boat for a cruise to the tiny island in the afternoon is free to explore this pedestrian-friendly city. This center of Lake Bled. A cable car carries you to ’s evening, attend a private concert by Dubrovnik’s renowned highest point to rub the church’s wishing bell for good luck. Sorkocevic Quartet at St. Saviour Church in the Old Town. Enjoy lunch in the medieval town of Radovljica, then continue to Bohinj Lake, the deepest and largest lake in Slovenia. Day 11 DUBROVNIK This morning, take a walking tour through Dubrovnik, a Day 6 LAKE BLED / POSTOJNA / OPATIJA, CROATIA UNESCO World Heritage Site considered one of the most Another day of splendid natural wonders begins with a trip beautiful stone-built cities in the world. Begin with a stroll to the caves at Postojna, where spectacular limestone shapes along the Stradun, a promenade that begins at the city’s form the background for a once-in-a-lifetime event—a private gate and ends at the clock tower where mechanical knights choral concert within the caves. After lunch, continue to hammer out each quarter-hour. Visit the splendid cloister at Opatija and check in to the Hotel Navis. the Franciscan Monastery, next view the Orlando Column and Sponza Palace, and the Church of St. Blasius, the patron saint Day 7 OPATIJA / PULA / ROVINJ / POREC of Dubrovnik. Delight in the artistic treasures at the Baroque Drive to Pula to view a stunning 2nd-century Roman amphi- Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin; the main altar theater, then continue to the cultural mecca of Rovinj for a visit features a painting of “The Assumption of the Virgin” by Titian. to the St. Euphemia Church and lunch. The next stop is Porec, Your last stop this morning is to visit the Rector’s Palace and renowned for its outstanding religious architecture. Return to the 14th-century Dominican Monastery. After time for lunch, Opatija for an evening at your leisure. walk along Dubrovnik’s ancient walls. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure before our festive cocktail party and farewell dinner. Day 8 OPATIJA / PLITVICE NATIONAL PARK Depart Opatija to a land of scenic wonders—stunning Plitvice Day 12 DUBROVNIK / USA National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Park Transfer to the airport for your independent homeward flight.

ZEGRAHM EXPEDITIONS | 2019 | CULTURAL JOURNEYS INSPIRED BY TRAVCOA 19 CULTURAL MONGOLIA WITH THE NAADAM FESTIVAL July 2 – 16, 2019 | 15 Days | Travel Director: Tese Neighbor

Journey Highlights • Be among the first to travel on this new itinerary that focuses on Mongolia’s unique culture and breathtaking Ulaanbaatar MONGOLIA landscapes. Karakorum • Attend the annual state and local Naadam Festivals to

HUSTAI witness the traditional Mongolian sports of wrestling, NATIONAL PARK archery, and horseback riding.

Flaming Cliffs • Stay in peaceful ger camps, supremely situated in areas of great natural beauty, and meet with traditional nomadic families to learn about their ancient customs and daily life. Dalanzadgad • Explore the Gobi Desert by camel-back and visit the GOBI GURVANSAIKHAN NATIONAL PARK Flaming Cliffs, a hauntingly beautiful landscape where sandstone canyons have yielded an amazing collection MAP NOT TO SCALE of dinosaur fossils.

$14,980 per person, double occupancy Rates $16,960 per person, solo occupancy Limited to 14 guests. You will need to purchase airfare from your home city/Ulaanbaatar and Ulaanbaatar/home city. Domestic air transportation within Mongolia is included in the price of the journey. Please contact our in-house Air Department for fare quotes, reservations, or other air-related questions. A 25% per person deposit will secure your space on this journey.

GANDAN MONASTERY

20 TO LEARN MORE, VISIT ZEGRAHM.COM/MONGOLIA HORSE RACE FLAMING CLIFFS

Wednesday, July 10 KARAKORUM / ULAANBAATAR Itinerary After an early breakfast, drive to Ulaanbaatar. Along the way, Based on the expeditionary nature of our trips, there may be ongoing make a stop at Hui Doloo Khudag on the outskirts of enhancements to this itinerary. Ulaanbaatar to watch a horse race. Check in to the Shangri-La Hotel for dinner and overnight. Tuesday – Thursday, July 2 – 4, 2019 DEPART USA / ULAANBAATAR, MONGOLIA Thursday, July 11 ULAANBAATAR (STATE NAADAM FESTIVAL) Arrive in Ulaanbaatar on July 3 and transfer to the Shangri-La Today is dedicated to the splendid, national Naadam Festival. Hotel for overnight. On July 4, tour Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia’s Attend the opening ceremony at the Mongolian State Academic energetic capital. Highlights include the 19th-century Gandan Theatre featuring fantastic performances by dancers, athletes, Monastery and the National History Museum, followed by a horse riders, and musicians. After the ceremony, watch visit to the Institute of Archaeology. Return to the hotel for a Mongolia’s top athletes compete at the “three games of men.” welcome reception, a cultural performance, and dinner. Friday, July 12 ULAANBAATAR / DALANZADGAD / Friday, July 5 ULAANBAATAR / HUSTAI NATIONAL PARK GOBI GURVANSAIKHAN NATIONAL PARK After a leisurely breakfast, depart overland to Hustai National Transfer to the airport for our short flight to the Gobi Desert. Park. En route, stop at a ger camp to learn about the lives of After landing in Dalanzadgad, travel overland to our ger desert nomadic herders. Check in to the Hustai Ger Camp, your base camp, Three Camel Lodge, arriving in time for lunch. In the for two days of exploration. afternoon, visit a local herder family and learn how to make the traditional cookie locally known as “boortsog.” Saturday, July 6 HUSTAI NATIONAL PARK Spend a full day in the park, searching for steppe gazelles, Saturday, July 13 GOBI GURVANSAIKHAN NATIONAL PARK marmots, and other plains species, including Przewalski’s This morning, travel into the park to scenic Yol Valley, a rare horses. You will also have a special opportunity to visit a local swath of green in the middle of the desert. Explore the valley herding family and watch a fascinating Felt Making Ceremony. on foot to search for resident wildlife. Make a stop at the local Natural History Museum to learn more about the desert’s Sunday, July 7 HUSTAI NATIONAL PARK / KARAKORUM surprisingly diverse array of bird and animal life. Today, travel overland to Karakorum. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was the ancient capital of Genghis Khan’s vast Sunday, July 14 FLAMING CLIFFS empire. Meet with monks to learn more about the temple, as After a leisurely breakfast, drive to the Flaming Cliffs site, a well as Buddhism in Mongolia. Continue to Dream Land Ger hauntingly beautiful landscape of red sandstone canyons, Camp for dinner and overnight. eroded by wind and time. You will also make a stop at Moltsog Sand Dune to visit with a family that breeds camels. Monday, July 8 KARAKORUM (LOCAL NAADAM FESTIVAL) Here, you have the opportunity to ride on a bactrian camel Today attend the inauguration ceremony of Naadam. Known (Mongolian two-humped camel) through the massive dunes. as “the three games of men,” the festival consists of wrestling, horse racing, and archery tournaments. Enjoy traditional foods Monday & Tuesday, July 15 & 16 GOBI GURVANSAIKHAN and beverages, and mingle with locals. NATIONAL PARK / ULAANBAATAR / USA This morning, return to the airport for our flight to Ulaanbaatar. Tuesday, July 9 KARAKORUM Upon arrival, board local vehicles to the Tuul Riverside Lodge, After breakfast, visit Erdene Zuu Monastery. Founded in 1586 an intimate and fully sustainable traditional Mongolian ger by Altai Khaan, Erdene Zuu (Hundred Treasures) is the earliest camp set amidst rolling hills above the Tuul River, located at surviving Buddhist monastery in Mongolia. In the late after- the border of Gorkhi-Tereij National Park. After lunch, attend noon, attend the closing ceremony of the Naadam Festival. an archery lesson and learn about the construction of bows. This evening, enjoy a private concert of traditional song and On July 16, board your independent homeward flight. dance at our camp.

ZEGRAHM EXPEDITIONS | 2019 | CULTURAL JOURNEYS INSPIRED BY TRAVCOA 21 URUGUAY & ARGENTINA TANGO, VINO & PATAGONIAN GLACIERS October 19 – November 2, 2019 | 15 Days | Travel Director: Marta Luna

URUGUAY Mendoza Carmelo Journey Highlights Buenos Punta Valle Aires del Este de Uco • Explore the renowned Uco Valley’s Wine Road and PACIFIC Montevideo Colonia del savor the intense aromas and rich flavors of Argentina’s OCEAN Sacramento ARGENTINA world-class wine. • Visit Casa Pueblo, home and atelier of Uruguayan artist Carlos Paez Vilaro, and view some of his work. • Cruise through Argentina’s Los Glaciares National Park ATLANTIC and see spectacular blue glaciers up close. OCEAN • Visit two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the historic quarter of the City of Colonia del Sacramento and the Museum of the Industrial Revolution. El Calafate

Bahia • Immerse yourself in the history and enticing tradition of Tranquila MAP NOT TO SCALE the tango in Uruguay and Argentina.

MONTEVIDEO LA BOCA $16,980 per person, double occupancy Rates $19,980 per person, solo occupancy Limited to 14 guests. You will need to purchase airfare from your home city/Montevideo and Buenos Aires/home city. Domestic airfare within Argentina is included in the cost of the journey. Please contact our in-house Air Department for fare quotes, reservations, or other air-related questions. A 25% per person deposit will secure your space on this journey.

22 TO LEARN MORE, VISIT ZEGRAHM.COM/ARGENTINA-URUGUAY MENDOZA ARGENTINIAN DINNER TANGO DANCERS

Saturday, October 26 UCO VALLEY Itinerary Join local guides to visit world-class vineyards and wineries Based on the expeditionary nature of our trips, there may be ongoing where you will learn about growing techniques and sample a enhancements to this itinerary. variety of vintages accompanied by perfectly paired snacks. Your day ends with a typical Argentine asado among the vineyards. Saturday & Sunday, October 19 & 20, 2019 DEPART USA / MONTEVIDEO, URUGUAY Sunday, October 27 UCO VALLEY / MENDOZA Arrive in Uruguay’s capital on October 20, and check in to your This morning, return to Mendoza and check in to your “Andes” river-view room at the Hyatt Centric. Join fellow travelers at the room at the Mendoza Park Hyatt. An afternoon city tour takes you Tango Museum La Cumparsita. Enjoy wine tasting followed by to the Franciscan ruins, various plazas, and San Martin Park. Your a welcome dinner and a private tango presentation. tour ends at the delightful Zampa Restaurant for a dinner of tapas.

Monday, October 21 MONTEVIDEO / PUNTA DEL ESTE Monday, October 28 MENDOZA / BUENOS AIRES / This morning, embark on a walking tour of the city’s historic EL CALAFATE / BAHIA TRANQUILA / GLACIER CRUISE center. Continue to the Estancia La Baguala, located on the Today, board your flight for El Calafate via Buenos Aires. Upon shores of the La Plata River, for wine tasting. Afterwards drive arrival, transfer to Bahia Tranquila and embark the elegant M/V to Punta del Este, known as the St. Tropez of Uruguay. Check Santa Cruz for a cruise to the Southern Patagonian Glaciers. in to your ocean-view room at the Grand Hotel. Tuesday, October 29 GLACIER CRUISE Tuesday, October 22 PUNTA DEL ESTE After breakfast, disembark for a scenic hike. Back on board, At Portezuelo and Punta Ballena take in sweeping views of the the ship will cruise toward the spectacular Spegazzini Glacier coast, then visit the Museum Casa Pueblo, home and atelier and Upsala Glacier where you will be able to view a flotilla of of the famous Uruguayan artist Carlos Paez Vilaro. Our lunch icebergs. The final stop of the day is Bahía Toro at Seno Mayo venue—Restaurant Lo de Tere—offers seasonal products and where you will disembark for a hike to view a lovely waterfall. a selection of the most prestigious Uruguayan wines. Wednesday, October 30 Wednesday, October 23 BAHIA TRANQUILA / DISEMBARK / EL CALAFATE PUNTA DEL ESTE / COLONIA DEL SACRAMENTO / CARMELO Today make stops at the Mayo and Black Glaciers. Navigate Depart overland for Colonia del Sacramento. Founded in 1680 through the Canal de los Tempanos to the Perito Moreno by the Portuguese, take a tour of the historic center. Afterward, Glacier, one of the few advancing glaciers in the world. check in to your bungalow at the Hotel Carmelo Resort & Spa. Disembark and transfer to El Calafate, and check in to your superior room at Hotel Kosten Aike. Thursday, October 24 CARMELO / FRAY BENTOS Today, take a scenic drive to the small town Fray Bentos, once Thursday, October 31 EL CALAFATE / BUENOS AIRES called the “Kitchen of the World.” At the Museum of the Today, visit the Glaciarium Museum before lunch at Il Industrial Revolution, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, view Macchiatto Restaurant. Transfer to the airport for your flight the machinery used to process meat that fed generations of to Buenos Aires. Check in to the Alvear Palace Hotel with the Europeans. This evening, go to Finca Narbona, for a tasting of chance to settle in before a grand farewell wine tasting and their exclusive wines and homemade cheese. dinner at Casa Coupage, a “closed door” restaurant.

Friday, October 25 CARMELO / COLONIA DEL SACRAMENTO / Friday & Saturday, November 1 & 2 BUENOS AIRES / USA BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA / MENDOZA / UCO VALLEY Explore the birth of the tango in the 19th century in La Boca, Board the ferry for your journey to Buenos Aires. Enjoy lunch then, at an authentic Tango Salon, share a modern tango with before your flight to Mendoza. Check in to your deluxe villa at a champagne toast of farewell to Argentina. Transfer to the The Vines Resort & Spa, nestled at the base of the Andes. airport this evening for your independent homeward flight.

ZEGRAHM EXPEDITIONS | 2019 | CULTURAL JOURNEYS INSPIRED BY TRAVCOA 23 IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF THE PHARAOHS October 24 – November 4, 2019 | 12 Days | Travel Director: Harry Davis

MEDITERRANEAN SEA Journey Highlights • Visit the iconic and legendary Sphinx in Giza, and Cairo witness the awe-inspiring enormity of the great pyramids. • Meander down the sphinx-lined entrance and bask in EGYPT the grandeur of the Luxor Temple at twilight.

NILE RIVER • Photograph magnificent Abu Simbel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, carved out of a rock cliff during the reign of Ramses II. Esna Luxor Edfu RED • Walk through the Valley of the Kings, and visit the Kom Ombo SEA Aswan rock-hewn tomb of King Tut. • Take a 4-night cruise along the Nile aboard the

Abu Simbel luxurious Sonesta St. George, and soak in magnificent MAP NOT TO SCALE river views from the comfort of your suite.

$10,990 per person, double occupancy Rates $13,980 per person, solo occupancy Limited to 14 guests. You will need to purchase airfare from your home city/Cairo and Cairo/home city. Domestic airfare within Egypt is included in the cost of the journey. Please contact our in-house Air Department for fare quotes, reservations, or other air-related questions. A 25% per person deposit will secure your space on this journey.

SPHINX TUTANKHAMUN’S THRONE

24 TO LEARN MORE, VISIT ZEGRAHM.COM/EGYPT

FELUCAS ABU SIMBEL

burial ground of the pharaohs and a UNESCO World Heritage Itinerary Site. For a period of 500 years, beginning in the 16th century Based on the expeditionary nature of our trips, there may be ongoing BC, tombs were built along this valley for pharaohs and nobles, enhancements to this itinerary. including that of “the boy king,” Tutankhamun. Found in 1922 by British archaeologist and Egyptologist Howard Carter, the Thursday – Sunday, October 24 – 27, 2019 tomb of Tutankhamun is yours to discover, as you set foot inside DEPART USA / CAIRO, EGYPT / GIZA its 3,500-year-old walls. Board your independent flight to Egypt. Arrive in Cairo on October 25 and transfer to the Mena House Hotel with the Thursday, October 31 NILE CRUISE / EDFU / KOM OMBO rest of the day at leisure. The next day, embark on a full day of Cruise to Edfu to view the Temple of Horus, falcon-headed exploration in the company of an expert Egyptologist. Begin at god of the sky. This stunningly well-preserved and colorful the Giza Plateau, site of the pyramids of Mycerinus and Chefren, structure reveals what temple worship in ancient Egypt was like. as well as the Great Pyramid. In the Solar Boat Museum view After lunch on board, disembark at Kom Ombo (hill of gold) a “solar barge,” which was found buried near the tomb of the to visit the Greco-Roman temple dedicated to Haroeris (the pharaoh and reconstructed from 1,224 small pieces. Gain god) and Sobek (the crocodile god). exclusive access to the Sphinx and stand between the paws of this iconic monument for fantastic up-close photography. Return Friday, November 1 NILE CRUISE / ASWAN to the hotel for a welcome cocktail reception and dinner. On Spend the morning cruising down the Nile, and enjoy lunch October 27, travel to the Dahshur area, the necropolis of the on board. Disembark in Aswan and ride a motorized boat to great capital city of Memphis. Here admire the 120-ton statue Philae Temple on the island of Agilika. This sacred complex of Ramses II and the stunning 80-ton Alabaster Sphinx. Then was dedicated to the Goddess Isis and reflects a fusion of explore nearby Saqqara to see the Step Pyramid—the oldest three great civilizations—Egyptian, Greek, and Roman. The pyramid, the “bent pyramid,” due to the bottom being built at temple was dismantled and painstakingly reassembled when a 52 degree angle, while the top is a more gradual 43 degree the Aswan High Dam was constructed. angle, and the Red Pyramid, the first true pyramid in Egypt, which the famous pyramids of Giza were modeled after. Saturday, November 2 DISEMBARK / ASWAN This morning, board a traditional felucca for a cruise around Monday, October 28 CAIRO / LUXOR the Aswan Islands. Afterward check in to the Sofitel Old After breakfast, transfer to the airport for our short flight to Cataract Hotel. In the afternoon, visit the Nubian Museum Luxor. Upon arrival, check in to the Hilton Luxor Resort & which contains thousands of artifacts spanning pre-historic to Spa. This afternoon, explore Luxor, the site of the ancient city modern times. of Thebes. Begin at the Temple of Karnak, walk through the Great Hypostyle Hall, and admire the striking Temple of Luxor. Sunday & Monday, November 3 & 4 ASWAN / ABU SIMBEL / CAIRO / USA Tuesday, October 29 LUXOR / EMBARK SONESTA ST. GEORGE I After breakfast, board our flight to Abu Simbel. There, Today, visit the Temple of Hathor at Denderah, which is one discover the commanding twin temples of Ramses II and his of the best-preserved temples in Egypt. Then, step aboard the wife, Queen Nefertari. The former’s façade is dominated by Sonesta St. George I for lunch. The rest of the day is at leisure four statues of the pharaoh, each nearly 70 feet tall. In the to enjoy passing scenery and to take advantage of the ship’s afternoon, fly to Cairo and check in to the Four Seasons Nile many amenities. Plaza Hotel, then join a local expert for a guided tour of the Egyptian Museum. This evening, gather for a private farewell Wednesday, October 30 NILE CRUISE / ESNA dinner at the famous Naguib Mahfouz Café. On November 4, Today, disembark on the west bank of the Nile to explore the board your independent homeward flight. Necropolis of Thebes, and continue to the Valley of the Kings,

ZEGRAHM EXPEDITIONS | 2019 | CULTURAL JOURNEYS INSPIRED BY TRAVCOA 25 844.482.6044 | 206.743.9808 | FAX 206.285.5037 3131 Elliott Avenue | Suite 250 | Seattle, WA 98121 THERE’S www.zegrahm.com | [email protected] LOTS MORE TO EXPLORE ONLINE.

Watch videos, read

expedition reports, listen to

webinars, review our Terms

& Conditions and more.

Visit www.zegrahm.com

or find us on social.

ZEGRAHM EXPEDITIONS PRESENTS 2019 CULTURAL JOURNEYS