AVALON WATERWAYS® 2019 ASIA COLLECTION
RIVER CRUISING FROM A UNIQUE POINT OF VIEW
AVALONWATERWAYS.COM.AU IT’S ALL IN THE DETAILS 4 Included Just for You 6 Avalon Choice 8 “You First” Service 10 Inspired Dining 12 Superior Hotels INSPIRING ASIA & SOUTHEAST ASIA 14 Intimate Cruising at its Best THE AVALON ADVANTAGE. 16 Live the Suite Life MEKONG RIVER 18 Welcoming Vietnam & Cambodia 20 The Mekong Experience 22 Fascinating Vietnam, Cambodia & the Mekong River ® A journey with Avalon Waterways along the legendary rivers of Asia is an WHS | 13 days | Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap WSH | 13 days | Siem Reap to Ho Chi Minh City unforgettable fusion of distinctive sights, colourful cultures, and ancient 28 The Heart of Cambodia & Vietnam traditions. Inspired by cruisers, our ships and itineraries stand out from WSI | 18 days | Siem Reap to Hanoi WIS | 18 days | Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi the crowd. And because bigger isn’t always better, we focus on intimate 34 Ultimate Southeast Asia & the Majestic Mekong WBS | 21 days | Bangkok to Hanoi experiences with exceptional personalised service on our Suite ShipsSM in WSB | 21 days | Bangkok to Hanoi 40 Mekong Discovery Southeast Asia and the Ganges Voyager in India. With a maximum of 36 WSH0 | 8 days | Phnom Penh to Ho Chi Minh City WHS0 | 8 days | Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh and 56 guests, respectively, we get you closer to the must-see sights and IRRAWADDY RIVER introduce you to the unique stories and people in each destination. An expert 42 Captivating Myanmar 44 On the Irrawaddy Cruise Director and carefully selected Certified Local Guides accompany 46 Golden Myanmar & the Alluring Irrawaddy WBK | 14 days | Yangon to Yangon you throughout your adventure, ensuring no detail is overlooked. So, come WKB | 14 days | Yangon to Yangon 52 NEW! Burmese Days: Along the Irrawaddy River discover the magic of Asia—and the Avalon advantage. WYG | 11 days | Yangon to Yangon WGY | 11 days | Yangon to Yangon INDIA 56 Cruising in Style 58 Deluxe Suites Avalon is proud to partner with Tourism Cares and Landmine Designs to support GANGES RIVER 60 Incredible India two great causes in Southeast Asia. 62 The Ganges & Beyond 64 NEW! Colourful India & the Ganges River The ChildSafe Network and WDK | 13 days | Delhi to Kolkata its Kaliyan Mith program provide outreach services ADDITIONAL INFORMATION and educational programs for impoverished children in 70 Mekong Cruise Extensions Siem Reap, Cambodia. Visit TourismCares.org 72 Irrawaddy Cruise Extensions 73 Ganges Cruise Extensions 74 Avalon Siem ReapSM & Avalon SaigonSM Founded to break the cycle 75 Avalon MyanmarSM of poverty, Landmine Design 76 Ganges Voyager teaches women jewellery 77 Avalon Travellers Icons: Cambodia Project 78 Avalon Gives You More Value making skills so they can earn a living working from 79 What You Need To Know On Board the safety of their own homes. Visit landminedesign.org 80 Terms & Conditions
2 AvalonWaterways.com.au 3 INCLUDED JUST FOR YOU.
THE RIGHT INCLUSIONS ON BOARD AND ON SHORE.
Onshore excursions with Certified Local Guides and unique activities
designed to immerse you in the culture. Complimentary wine and
beer with lunch and dinner. Special onboard entertainment. An
exclusive experience features all the right inclusions, yet still leaves
room for your own personalisation. In addition to little luxuries
like complimentary Wi-Fi and around-the-clock beverage service,
including local beer and spirits, Avalon gives you the greatest luxury
of all—freedom to relax and customise your cruise experience.
INCLUDED FOR EVERY AVALON GUEST • Spacious outside suite with • Complimentary Wi-Fi in lounge • Bar serving premium spirits, wine Comfort Collection BedsSM areas (where signal is available) & complimentary coffee, tea, soft drinks & local beer/spirits • Enjoy included sightseeing with • Large private bathrooms with • Breakfast, lunch & dinner on throughout the day headsets and Certified Local hairdryer, premium bath amenities board daily indicated by breakfast Guides to explore CLASSIC sights, & full shower with glass door (B), lunch (L) & dinner (D) on the • Professional Cruise Director to help embark on ACTIVE excursions, itinerary pages throughout your cruise and make a new DISCOVERY • Spacious 3-door closets with through hands-on cultural and shelves for ample storage & in- • Complimentary wine, local beer/ • Friendly, English-speaking crew artistic experiences shared by room safe spirits, soft drinks, coffee & tea at local residents and experts. You’ll lunch & dinner • Bottled water on all excursions • Minibar with complimentary local also enjoy a selection of Guided beer, soft drinks & bottled water • Fresh fruit & a refreshing drink Optional Excursions and free time after all ship excursions suggestions to explore on your own where applicable.
4 AvalonWaterways.com.au 5 NORTH, SOUTH CHART YOUR COURSE AND MAKE YOUR & YOUR WAY. CRUISE YOUR OWN WITH AVALON CHOICESM.
Want to explore more of Southeast Asia or India? Avalon offers a selection of extensions so you can get the most out of your holiday. With over 50 different itinerary options we are sure to have something that fits your needs perfectly!
Avalon has designed included excursions and onboard activities for a choice of experiences. We invite you to select the included tours, adventures, and events that interest you most, so you can enjoy your cruise your way.
CLASSIC Your local expert is ready to guide you through the history and heritage of local destinations. You’ll marvel at the legends, lore, and spectacular architecture of iconic and historic sites.
DISCOVERY We’ve found inspiring and interactive activities designed to speak to your interests—from cooking classes to blessing ceremonies—making it easy to immerse yourself in each culture you explore.
ACTIVE Embark on energetic excursions to keep you in motion and on the go— with guided walking, biking, or kayaking through scenic locales.
In addition, a selection of guided optional excursions allow you to personalise your experience. Or, enjoy free-time opportunities for independent adventures. We are there to help with suggestions, and our exclusive AvalonGO mobile app brings it all to life—right at your fingertips.
SM
6 AvalonWaterways.com.au 7 THE ART OF MAKING YOU FEEL AT HOME.
We don’t just reserve the warmth and comfort for your suite on an
Avalon Asia river cruise—we carry our welcoming spirit throughout
the entire ship and spill it onto shore. From the reception staff and
Cruise Director to your cabin steward and wait staff, we deliver
exquisite service that’s professional and friendly—never stuffy. But
it doesn’t stop there. Our informative Local Guides are on hand
throughout your cruise with engaging tales that bring you closer
to your destination. Whether you’re on board or on shore, you’re
perfectly taken care of every step of the way.
“YOU FIRST” SERVICE.
8 AvalonWaterways.com.au 9 SAVOUR THE LOCAL FLAVOURS.
ON BOARD: With Avalon, every dining experience brings your
destination to life. We start with fresh, quality ingredients and delectable
recipes crafted by our talented chefs. Try authentic regional dishes—
or more familiar Western alternatives. Start your day off right with a
selection of hot and cold dishes at the breakfast buffet, and don’t miss
our made-to-order egg station. Lunch features a buffet and a live
cooking station showcasing local specialties served by our Head Chef. In
the evening, a four-course à la carte dinner awaits with choice of salads,
soups, mains, and desserts. Vegetarian options are available at all meals.
ON LAND: Start your day with breakfast at your hotel. Where we include
lunch or dinner, we have selected some of the best local restaurants
to further enhance your experience. We even include special dining
experiences like a hands-on cooking class in Vietnam, a private dinner
with dance performance in India, and lunch at one of the few wineries in
Myanmar with stunning views over Inle Lake.
INSPIRED DINING.
10 AvalonWaterways.com.au 11 SUPERIOR HOTELS.
2
3
1 4
Every Avalon hotel has been carefully selected by our regional experts. With high-quality service, desirable amenities, spacious guestrooms, and central locations, each is sure to exceed your expectations.
Ho Chi Minh City— Agra— — Yangon— 1 2 3 Siem Reap 4 The Reverie Saigon The Oberoi Amarvilas Park Hyatt Siem Reap Sule Shangri-La Located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, The Reverie Saigon is The world-renowned Oberoi Amarvilas, enjoys an unrivalled position The Park Hyatt Siem Reap is the city’s most prestigious address Located in the heart of the city, the Sule Shangri-La blends unquestionably the finest hotel in the city. Inspired by the desire just a short distance from the iconic Taj Mahal. Each room offers and perfect base to explore the Temples of Angkor. Located in elegance and true hospitality, creating a distinctive and pleasing to excite the imagination of guests, the hotel features luxurious uninterrupted views of this ancient monument, while elements of the heart of the city, this award-winning hotel blends elegant atmosphere. The well-appointed guestrooms are spacious and facilities and amenities. Bright and airy, each room defines a the layout and design pay homage to its Mughal splendour. and contemporary design elements to create an enlivening offer great views of the city. decidedly glamorous take on urban chic, highlighted by fantastic atmosphere. From the second you arrive, you will be welcomed views through the floor-to-ceiling windows. by true Cambodian hospitality and superb service.
VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR A FULL LIST OF HOTELS AND AMENITIES.
12 AvalonWaterways.com.au 13 INTIMATE CRUISING AT ITS BEST. THE “JUST RIGHT” SIZE.
Our incredible Suite ShipsSM accommodate just 36 guests for a more SM AVALON SUITE SHIP FEATURES exclusive experience. Each ship has been meticulously crafted to • Air-conditioned Panorama Lounge offer all the modern features you expect, while retaining the unique • Open-air observation lounge with shade system & premium lounge chairs character and charm of your destination. • Spacious, open-seating dining room • Bar serving premium spirits, wine, complimentary coffee, tea, soft drink & local beer/spirits throughout the day While the maximum number of guests may be small, our ships are • Complimentary Wi-Fi access in lounge areas (where signal is available) not. Built as long and wide as other ships that carry twice as many • Spa treatment room • Fitness room guests, our onboard common areas never feel congested. From the
• Library & games air-conditioned Panorama Lounge to the open-air observation lounge, • Non-smoking interior there is plenty of seating with inviting spots to relax. Plus, our lounges
are located at the front of the ship, not the back, so no matter where
you choose to relax, you’ll always have a great view.
Avalon Siem ReapSM (2015) Avalon MyanmarSM (2015) & Avalon SaigonSM (2018) Its pioneering design allows us to cruise the The only ships cruising from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom spectacular untouched Upper Irrawaddy on each Penh (or vice versa), eliminating hours of motorcoach departure—a feat not possible on any other ship. travel time, which means you enjoy more cruising! See page 75 for deck plan. See page 74 for deck plan.
14 AvalonWaterways.com.au 15 LIVE THE SUITE LIFE.
OUR VISION. YOUR VIEW.
Welcome to our innovative Panorama SuitesSM. Designed from the
ground up with your comfort in mind—no compromises. With an
expansive 245 square feet of living space and a massive wall-to-
wall window measuring 14 feet across, you’ll never feel cramped or
crowded. The window opens a full 9 feet, creating river cruising’s
only Open-Air BalconySM. Even the bed faces the window, ensuring
you won’t miss a single passing riverscape. You’ll feel right at home
in this spacious, well-appointed retreat.
AMENITIES LIST • Comfort Collection BedsSM, • Nightly turn-down service • Large private bathroom featuring • In-house telephone featuring premium mattress • Bedside tables with reading full shower with rain shower • Bathrobes & slippers covers lamps head & glass door, hairdryer & L’Occitane® bath products • Minibar with complimentary • Egyptian super-combed cotton • Wall-to-wall, 14-foot-wide local beer, soft drinks & bottled linens, blankets & European-style panoramic window that opens to • Spacious closets with shelves for water duvets ample storage transform the living space into a • In-room safe • Soft & firm pillows large Open-Air BalconySM • Easy under-bed luggage storage • Individual climate control • Choice of bed configuration • Comfortable sitting area with • Writing desk/vanity with mirror & (two twins or one king) couch & chair comfortable chair
16 AvalonWaterways.com.au 17 Over the past 30 years, “change” has been a constant for Vietnam and Cambodia as they diligently forge paths to the future while maintaining ancient traditions.
Extending from the mountainous north to the verdant flood plains of the Mekong Delta, Vietnam boasts a rich and fascinating culture, striking beauty, and tantalising cuisine. A palpable energy buzzes throughout the country, arousing your curiosity and elevating your senses. City streets set the stage for a symphony of zipping motorbikes. Bustling local markets paint a picture of daily life. The breathtaking highlands around Sapa and the golden beaches of Hoi An provide perfect serenity. And remarkable geological formations—like stunning Ha Long Bay—present panoramas you’ll never forget. While reminders of the war remain, it is firmly in the country’s past. The people of Vietnam are eager to welcome you and share their country, stories, and gracious smiles.
Bordering Vietnam, the remarkable Kingdom of Cambodia intrigues, beguiles, and fascinates all who are fortunate enough to make her acquaintance. During its peak from the 9th to 15th centuries, the powerful kings of the Khmer Empire erected the most extensive concentration of temples in the world—the magnificent Angkor complex. Since those days, the country has seen its share of troubled times—from invasion and occupation to civil war, and the appalling reign of the Khmer Rouge from 1975 to 1979. Through it all, the spirit of the Cambodian people triumphed, and in the early 1990s, the country began a renaissance. Today, it beckons with its hospitable people, unforgettable sights, and ancient architectural wonders. WELCOMING VIETNAM & CAMBODIA.
18 AvalonWaterways.com.au 19 THE MEKONG EXPERIENCE.
Pulsing through the heart of Vietnam and Cambodia, the mighty Mekong River provides a lifeline for millions of people. Along this vibrant “Mother of Water,” you’ll be mesmerised by scenes of everyday life— from fishermen hauling in their daily catch, to the devotion of chanting monks, to merchants’ boats crisscrossing the life-giving river.
Cruise the massive Mekong Delta, which covers some 15,000 square miles. This picturesque area accounts for over half of Vietnam’s rice production, prompting it to be nicknamed the “rice bowl” of the country. One of the highlights is a visit to a local workshop to see how traditional candy and rice wine are made before sampling some yourself. Explore a colourful local market, visit a local sampan builder, and relish other fascinating activities. Explore French-influenced Phnom Penh, the spectacular Silver Pagoda, and learn about the sobering era of the Khmer Rouge regime. Interact with friendly Cambodian people at work and at play as you explore villages and visit with local schoolchildren, a skilled silversmith, and a farmer to learn about daily life today. You will also partake in a traditional water blessing ceremony with local area monks.
Beyond the Mekong, you will explore great sights on land. In Ho Chi Minh City, enjoy a walking tour of the city’s highlights, partake in a cooking class, and visit the Cu Chi Tunnels, a network of tunnels used by the Viet Cong during the war. In charming Siem Reap, enjoy a traditional Apsara dance performance and explore the spectacular Angkor temple complex, whose architectural grandeur is inarguably unmatched among the world’s ancient ruins. See a variety of temples, including spectacular Angkor Wat and the mesmerising faces of Bayon. Researchers now believe Angkor was the largest pre-industrial city in the world, and the remaining temples stand as a testament to the wealth and power of the Khmer Empire.
By the end of your journey, you will have a better understanding of life along the river and the friendly people who depend on it.
20 AvalonWaterways.com.au 21 13 DAYS | HO CHI MINH CITY TO SIEM REAP or SIEM REAP TO HO CHI MINH CITY † (visit our website for full reverse itinerary) PRICED FROM $6,182
VIETNAM SIEM REAP 2 CAMBODIA
KAMPONG TRALACH WAT HANCHEY KONPONG LOUANG ANGKOR BAN FASCINATING PHNOM PENH Mekong River CHAU DOC 3 HO CHI MINH CITY CU LAO GIENG VIETNAM, CAMBODIA VINH LONG 7 ALWAYS INCLUDED • Complimentary wine, local beer/spirits, soft drinks, and coffee/tea at lunch and dinner on board • Included sightseeing with headsets and expert local guides • Onboard meals daily, including four-course à la carte dinners with choice of & THE MEKONG appetisers, soups, salads, mains, and desserts • Complimentary coffee, tea, soft drinks, and local beer/spirits throughout the day • Complimentary Wi-Fi in the lounges RIVER FOR A COMPLETE LIST OF STANDARD INCLUSIONS AND FEATURES, SEE PAGE 4. YOUR CHOICE Avalon knows there is more than one way to explore new destinations. In addition to included CLASSIC , DISCOVERY and ACTIVE excursions and activities, we offer select Guided Optional Excursions and free time suggestions to help you get the most out of FROM THE BUZZ OF HO CHI MINH CITY, every adventure. TO THE SERENE TEMPLES OF ANGKOR, DISCOVER THE CHARMS OF THE MEKONG HOTELS Ho Chi Minh City The Reverie Saigon (D) Siem Reap Park Hyatt Siem Reap (D) AND THE PEOPLE WHO CALL IT HOME
CRUISE WHS Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap AU$ CRUISE WSH Siem Reap to Ho Chi Minh City AU$ 2019 DEPARTURES FROM* 2019 DEPARTURES FROM* Jan 7 14 21 28 7682 Jan 7 14 21 28 7702 Feb 4 11 18 25 7682 Feb 4 11 18 25 7702 Mar 4 11 18 25 7412-7682 Mar 4 11 18 25 7422-7702 Apr 1 8 7412 Apr 1 8 7422 Jul 8 22 29 6212 Jul 15 22 29 6182 Aug 5 12 19 26 6212-7102 Aug 5 12 19 26 6182-7132 Sep 2 9 16 23 30 7102-7682 Sep 2 9 16 23 30 7132-7702 Oct 7 14 21 28 7682 Oct 7 14 21 28 7702 Nov 4 11 18 25 7682 Nov 4 11 18 25 7702 Dec 2 9 16 23 30 7102-7862 Dec 2 9 16 23 30 7132-7882 2020 DEPARTURES FROM* 2020 DEPARTURES FROM* Jan 6 13 20 27 7982 Jan 6 13 20 27 8002 Feb 3 10 17 24 7982 Feb 3 10 17 24 8002 Mar 2 9 16 23 30 7682-7982 Mar 2 9 16 23 30 7712-8002 Apr 6 7682 Apr 6 7712 † From price based on Jul 15 departure. *All prices are per person based on double room occupancy including intra-holiday air and taxes. Cruise price based on Category B in an Panorama Suite on Mekong Deck. To upgrade to a Category A on Tonle Deck, add $530 per person or $1,060 in single occupancy. Sailing on Avalon Suite ShipsSM Siem Reap or Saigon. Gratuities for Local Guides & drivers are included (excludes extensions which are to be paid locally). Gratuities for Cruise Director and crew may be added for $213. Extra nights in Ho Chi Minh City, Siem Reap, Bangkok, and Hanoi are available, see our website for more information. Avalon offers the opportunity for solo travellers to sail with no single supplement (subject to availability). Please call for single accommodation details and prices. Triples not available. For full terms & conditions see pages 80-83. Add flights to your holiday. Competitive prices without the hassle.
BAYON TEMPLE | ANGKOR WAT
22 AvalonWaterways.com.au 23 CRUISE WHS
TA PROHM ROYAL PALACE
WAR REMNANTS MUSEUM
FASCINATING VIETNAM, CAMBODIA & THE MEKONG RIVER
DAY 1 HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM DAY 3 HO CHI MINH CITY. EXCURSION TO CU CHI TUNNELS DAY 5 VINH LONG–CU LAO GIENG DAY 7 PHNOM PENH Welcome to Ho Chi Minh City, still known as Saigon (B) Secret Passageways and Underground Hideouts (B,L,D) Sweets, Sampans, and Spires (B,L,D) Bonjour! French Charm Lives in Cambodia’s Capital City to many. Hotel rooms are available for mid-afternoon check-in. CLASSIC Drive out of the city for a Guided Visit to the DISCOVERY Board a sampan this morning for a local CLASSIC Take a City Tour by private cyclo to visit the Cu Chi Tunnels—an extraordinary network Workshop Visit in Vinh Long to see how Royal Palace with the spectacular Silver of tunnels more than 120 miles in length— rice paper, rice wine, and traditional candies Pagoda, and the National Museum featuring used as a hideout and secret village by are made. an outstanding display of Khmer artifacts. the Viet Cong. DAY 2 HO CHI MINH CITY DISCOVERY This afternoon, enjoy scenes of daily life The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy the city at (B,L,D) Motorbikes, Monuments, and Mouthwatering Cuisine with a Guided Excursion along the river near your leisure. Consider a Guided Optional Tour of a local Enjoy free time this afternoon and evening. Consider Cu Lao Gieng via sampan. Stop at a local brewery with free-flowing local beer! CLASSIC Take a Walking Tour of Ho Chi Minh City’s stopping for a drink at the famous rooftop bar at the home, where a skilled family hand-crafts historic landmarks, including a stop at the Caravelle Hotel. sampan boats. Then, ride a motor cart to one Just before dinner, children from a local orphanage will Rex Hotel for a refreshing drink at the rooftop of Vietnam’s oldest churches for a special perform a show featuring local song and dance. bar where the U.S. Military held the infamous interaction with a catholic priest. “Five O’Clock Follies” during the war. Then visit the War Remnants Museum and bustling DAY 4 HO CHI MINH CITY (EMBARKATION) AFTERNOON/EVENING CRUISE TO CHAU DOC Ben Thanh Market. (B,L,D) Your Suite ShipSM is Ready for Boarding DAY 8 PHNOM PENH (B,L,D) Shining a Light on a Dark History DISCOVERY For lunch, participate in a hands-on Transfer to the port on the Saigon River for embarkation. Vietnamese Cooking Class. Learn to prepare Get acquainted with the ship and relax before your DAY 6 CHAU DOC–LONG KHANH A–BORDER CROSSING, CLASSIC This morning, a Guided Visit of the Tuol Sleng several local dishes and how to recreate welcome reception this evening. (B,L,D) CAMBODIA Genocide Museum and one of the Killing them at home. Last, but not least, sample Colourful markets, Charming Locals, and Cotton Weavers Fields offers a glimpse into the atrocities your delicious creations! AFTERNOON/EVENING CRUISE TO VINH LONG inflicted on the Cambodian people by the DISCOVERY In Chau Doc take a Guided Walk through Explore the city further during free time this afternoon. Khmer Rouge regime. the local market and absorb the atmosphere This evening join your travelling companions for a special as locals are busy buying and selling fish, After lunch, depart Phnom Penh and enjoy some time at welcome dinner at a local restaurant. meat, and produce. Then embark on a leisure on the ship. River Excursion down the backwaters of the Mekong. Along the way, see traditional AFTERNOON/EVENING CRUISE TO WAT HANCHEY floating homes, speedboat merchants, religious sites, a market selling dried goods, and more. DISCOVERY After lunch, a sampan brings you to the village of Long Khanh A for a Cotton- Weaving Demonstration of a well-preserved artisan’s tradition. Return to the ship to set sail for the Cambodian border. EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO PHNOM PENH
24 AvalonWaterways.com.au 25 CRUISE WHS
TA PROHM NATIONAL MUSEUM
FISHERMAN
DAY 9 WAT HANCHEY–ANGKOR BAN DAY 11 PHNOM PENH (DISEMBARKATION)–SIEM REAP DAY 12 SIEM REAP (B,L,D) Water Blessings and Back To School Adventures (B,L) A Pilgrimage of Inspirational Beauty (B,D) Roots Carved in Stone and Celebrated in Dance REVERSE COURSE
DISCOVERY Visit Wat Hanchey, a hilltop temple dating Fly to Siem Reap, home to the Temples of Angkor, CLASSIC Continue your Guided Sightseeing of the CRUISE WSH—SIEM REAP TO HO CHI MINH CITY back to the 8th century. Climb or be driven considered by many to be the most spectacular Angkor Temples at Ta Prohm. Tree roots cover Day 1, Arrive Siem Reap; Day 2, Siem Reap; Day 3, Siem to the top where you will enjoy stunning architectural ruins on Earth! the ruin walls, allowing you to experience Reap; Day 4, Siem Reap–Phnom Penh (Embarkation); Day views of the surrounding area and partake the temple with the same wonder as early 5, Wat Hanchey–Angkor Ban; Day 6, Kampong Tralach– CLASSIC After lunch, begin your Sightseeing Tour in a traditional water blessing given by explorers. Then visit Banteay Srei, a unique Konpong Louang–Phnom Penh; Day 7, Phnom Penh; Day by tuk-tuk to explore the temples. Start local monks. temple built on a small scale from red 8, Border Crossing–Chau Doc; Day 9, Long Khanh A–Cu at the best preserved and most famous sandstone, which can be carved like wood. Lao Gieng; Day 10, Ben Tre; Day 11, Ho Chi Minh City DISCOVERY After lunch, enjoy a Walking Tour through the of all the temples: Angkor Wat. Featuring En route stop at a local village famous for (Disembarkation); Day 12, Ho Chi Minh City; Day 13, Ho rural village of Angkor Ban. Here, you will visit five trademark towers, it is the symbol of making Khmer noodles by hand. Chi Minh City, your holiday ends this morning. a traditional Khmer house and interact with Cambodia. Then, visit Angkor Thom, where children at a local school. you will explore Bayon Temple with its Spend the afternoon at your leisure. You may choose a For full itinerary details, visit our website. EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO KONPONG LOUANG 200 striking faces carved in 54 towers and Guided Optional Excursion to further explore Siem Reap impressive bas-relief sculptures, OR: or the temple complex by tuk-tuk. ACTIVE Visit Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, and Bayon DISCOVERY This evening, a private Apsara Dance Temple by bike. DAY 10 KONPONG LOUANG–KAMPONG TRALACH Performance brings ancient Khmer culture to STAY LONGER (B,L,D) Calm in the Cambodian Countryside The evening is yours to explore charming Siem Reap, stay life through music, song, and dance. ADD HANOI & HA LONG BAY BEFORE YOUR HOLIDAY to witness the sunset at Angkor Wat, or consider a Guided FROM $7,659 LAND/CRUISE ONLY DISCOVERY Start your Guided Sightseeing at the Optional Excursion to the Cambodian circus. silversmith village in Konpong Louang. Cruise WHSH: 16 days from Hanoi to Siem Reap Cruise WSHH Reverse Course: 16 days from Hanoi to Ho Here, see talented craftsmen use age-old DAY 13 SIEM REAP Chi Minh City techniques to turn pure silver into works of (B) Your holiday ends with breakfast this morning. art. In Kampong Tralach board an ox cart ADD BANGKOK AT THE END OF YOUR HOLIDAY FROM for a ride through the beautiful Cambodian $7,501 LAND/CRUISE ONLY countryside. Along the way, stop to meet a Cruise WHSB: 16 days from Ho Chi Minh City to Bangkok local farmer and learn about his daily life. Cruise WSHB Reverse Course: 16 days from Siem Reap to This afternoon, enjoy scenic cruising on the Tonle River. Bangkok EVENING CRUISE TO PHNOM PENH ADD HANOI, HA LONG BAY & BANGKOK FROM $8,959 LAND/CRUISE ONLY Cruise WHSN: 19 days from Hanoi to Bangkok Cruise WSHN Reverse Course: 19 days from Hanoi to Bangkok See page 70 for more details or visit our website for full itineraries.
26 AvalonWaterways.com.au 27 HANOI 2 2 HA LONG BAY 1 VIETNAM
18 DAYS | SIEM REAP TO HANOI or HO CHI MINH CITY TO HANOI LAOS † (visit our website for full reverse itinerary) PRICED FROM $8,479
HANOI 2 2 HA LONG BAY 1 VIETNAM
LAOS
CAMBODIA SIEM REAP 3 THE HEART OF 7 KAMPONG TRALACH WAT HANCHEY KONPONG LOUANG ANGKOR BAN PHNOM PENH CHAU DOC 2 HO CHI MINH CITY CU LAO GIENG Mekong River CAMBODIBEN TRE A CAMBODIA & SIEM REAP 3 ALWAYS INCLUDED 7 • Complimentary wine, localKAMPONG beer/spirits, TRALACH soft drinks,WAT andHANCHE coffee/teaY at lunch and dinner on board KONPONG LOUANG ANGKOR BAN PHNOM PENH • Included sightseeing with headsetsCHAU and DOC expert local2 guidesHO CHI MINH CITY • Onboard meals daily, including four-courseCU LAO GIEN Gà la carte dinners with choice of VIETNAM BEN TRE Mekong River appetisers, soups, salads, mains, and desserts • Complimentary coffee, tea, soft drinks, and local beer/spirits throughout the day • Complimentary Wi-Fi in the lounges
FOR A COMPLETE LIST OF STANDARD INCLUSIONS AND FEATURES, SEE PAGE 4. EXPERIENCE THE GRACEFUL BEAUTY OF CAMBODIA AND VIETNAM FROM YOUR CHOICE THE MEANDERING MEKONG TO THE Avalon knows there is more than one way to explore new destinations. In addition to included CLASSIC , DISCOVERY and ACTIVE excursions and activities, we offer select MYSTERY OF HA LONG BAY Guided Optional Excursions and free time suggestions to help you get the most out of every adventure. HOTELS Siem Reap Park Hyatt Siem Reap (D) Hanoi InterContinental Westlake (D) Ho Chi Minh City The Reverie Saigon (D) Ha Long Bay Cruise Paradise Elegance
CRUISE WSI Siem Reap to Hanoi AU$ CRUISE WIS Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi AU$ 2019 DEPARTURES FROM* 2019 DEPARTURES FROM* Jan 7 14 21 28 9999 Jan 7 14 21 28 10009 Feb 4 11 18 25 9999 Feb 4 11 18 25 10009 Mar 4 11 18 25 9719-9999 Mar 4 11 18 25 9739-10009 Apr 1 8 9719 Apr 1 8 9739 Jul 15 22 29 8479 Jul 8 22 29 8479 Aug 5 12 19 26 8479-9429 Aug 5 12 19 26 8479-9429 Sep 2 9 16 23 30 9429-9999 Sep 2 9 16 23 30 9429-10009 Oct 7 14 21 28 9999 Oct 7 14 21 28 10009 Nov 4 11 18 25 9999 Nov 4 11 18 25 10009 Dec 2 9 16 23 30 9429-10169 Dec 2 9 16 23 30 9429-10189 2020 DEPARTURES FROM* 2020 DEPARTURES FROM* Jan 6 13 20 27 10399 Jan 6 13 20 27 10409 Feb 3 10 17 24 10399 Feb 3 10 17 24 10409 Mar 2 9 16 23 30 10109-10399 Mar 2 9 16 23 30 10109-10409 Apr 6 10109 Apr 6 10109 † From price based on Jul 15 departure. *All prices are per person based on double room occupancy including intra-holiday air and taxes. Cruise price based on Category B in an Panorama Suite on Mekong Deck. To upgrade to a Category A on Tonle Deck, add $530 per person or $1,060 in single occupancy. Sailing on Avalon Suite ShipsSM Siem Reap or Saigon. Gratuities for Local Guides & drivers are included (excludes extensions which are to be paid locally). Gratuities for Cruise Director and crew may be added for $285. Extra nights in Siem Reap, Hanoi, Danang, and Luang Prabang are available, see our website for more information. Avalon offers the opportunity for solo travellers to sail with no single supplement (subject to availability). Please call for single accommodation details and prices. Triples not available. For full terms & conditions see pages 80-83. Add flights to your holiday. Competitive prices without the hassle.
HA LONG BAY
28 AvalonWaterways.com.au 29 CRUISE WSI
ANGKOR WAT CHAU DOC MARKET
SILVERSMITH
THE HEART OF CAMBODIA & VIETNAM
DAY 1 SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA DAY 3 SIEM REAP DAY 6 KAMPONG TRALACH–KONPONG LOUANG DAY 8 BORDER CROSSING–CHAU DOC, VIETNAM Welcome to Siem Reap, home to the Temples of (B) Root-Covered Ruins and Native Noodles (B,L,D) Calm in the Cambodian Countryside (B,L,D) Good Morning, Vietnam! Angkor, considered by many to be the most spectacular architectural ruins on Earth! Hotel rooms are available for CLASSIC Continue your Sightseeing Tour of the Angkor DISCOVERY Your Guided Sightseeing starts in Kampong DISCOVERY Take a Village Walk through the Chau Doc mid-afternoon check-in. temples at Ta Prohm. Tree roots cover the ruin Tralach with an Ox-Cart Ride through the market, and absorb the atmosphere as locals walls, allowing you to experience the temple beautiful Cambodian countryside. Along the are busy buying and selling fish, meat, and with the same wonder as early explorers. Then way, stop to meet a local farmer and learn produce. After lunch, embark on a Guided visit Banteay Srei, a unique temple built on a about his daily life. At the silversmith village in Excursion down the backwaters of the DAY 2 SIEM REAP small scale from red sandstone, which can be Konpong Louang, see talented craftsmen use Mekong. Along the way, see traditional floating (B,L,D) The Tranquil Temples of Angkor and Joyful Dances carved like wood. En route, stop at a village age-old techniques to turn pure silver into homes, speedboat merchants, religious sites, a famous for making Khmer noodles by hand. works of art. market selling dried goods, and more. CLASSIC Explore the temples by tuk-tuk. Start at the best preserved and most famous of Spend the afternoon at your leisure. Sail to the capital city of Phnom Penh this afternoon. EVENING CRUISE TO LONG KHANH A all the temples: Angkor Wat. Featuring PHNOM PENH five trademark towers, it is the symbol of Shining a Light on a Dark History Cambodia. Then, continue your Guided DAY 4 PHNOM PENH (EMBARKATION) DAY 9 LONG KHANH A–CU LAO GIENG Excursion to visit Angkor Thom, where CLASSIC After lunch, a Visit to the Tuol Sleng Genocide (B,L,D) Your intimate Suite ShipSM Awaits! (B,L,D) Cotton Weavers & Sampan Makers you will explore Bayon Temple with its Museum and one of the Killing Fields provides 200 striking faces carved in 54 towers and Fly to Phnom Penh and transfer to the port where your a glimpse into the atrocities inflicted on the DISCOVERY This morning, a sampan brings you to the impressive bas relief sculptures, OR: ship’s crew will be waiting to welcome you onboard. Get Cambodian people by the Khmer Rouge village of Long Khanh A, for a Cotton- ACTIVE Visit Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, and Bayon acquainted with the ship and relax before your welcome regime. Weaving Demonstration of this well- Temple by bike. reception this evening. This evening, spend some free time exploring the city on preserved tradition. DISCOVERY This afternoon, enjoy scenes of daily life Enjoy some time at your leisure this afternoon to explore AFTERNOON/EVENING CRUISE TO WAT HANCHEY your own. Perhaps follow the riverfront promenade to the along the river near Cu Lao Gieng via Siem Reap’s shops for local artisan crafts. historic Foreign Correspondents Club (FCC). sampan. Join a Guided Excursion to a local DISCOVERY This evening, a private Apsara Dance home, where a skilled family hand-crafts Performance brings ancient Khmer culture to DAY 5 WAT HANCHEY–ANGKOR BAN sampan boats. Then, ride a motor cart to one life through music, song, and dance. (B,L,D) Water Blessings and Back-to-School Adventures DAY 7 PHNOM PENH of Vietnam’s oldest churches for a special (B,L,D) Bonjour! French Charm in Cambodia interaction with a catholic priest. DISCOVERY Visit Wat Hanchey, a hilltop temple dating back to the 8th century. Climb or be driven to the CLASSIC Join a Guided Tour of the city by private EVENING CRUISE TO BEN TRE top where you will enjoy stunning views of the cyclo with visits to the Royal Palace with the surrounding area and partake in a traditional spectacular Silver Pagoda, and the National water blessing given by local monks. Museum featuring an outstanding display of DAY 10 BEN TRE Khmer artifacts. DISCOVERY After lunch, enjoy a Walking Tour through the (B,L,D) Sweets and Sampans rural village of Angkor Ban. Here, you will visit The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure. DISCOVERY Board a sampan this morning and Visit a Local a traditional Khmer house and interact with Consider a Guided Optional Tour of a local brewery with Workshop in Ben Tre to see how rice paper, children at a local school. free-flowing local beer! rice wine, and traditional candies are made. EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO KAMPONG TRALACH Just before dinner, children from a local orphanage will Continue on to a local garden, where several perform a show, featuring local song and dance. types of fruit indigenous to the area are grown. EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO VIETNAM/CAMBODIA BORDER This afternoon, enjoy time on board the ship as we sail to exciting Ho Chi Minh City. AFTERNOON CRUISE TO HO CHI MINH CITY
30 AvalonWaterways.com.au 31 CRUISE WSI
WATER PUPPETS BAYON TEMPLE
VIETNAMESE COOKING CLASS
DAY 11 HO CHI MINH CITY (DISEMBARKATION) DAY 14 HANOI DAY 16 HA LONG BAY (B,L) Motorbikes, Monuments, and Mouthwatering Cuisine (B,L,D) Historic Hanoi and Water Puppets (B,L,D) Caves, Kayaks, and Scenic Climbs STAY LONGER
CLASSIC Take a Walking Tour of Ho Chi Minh City’s CLASSIC First, join a Guided Visit of the mausoleum DISCOVERY Visit Titop Island, for a Guided Excursion for ADD SAPA TO YOUR HOLIDAY historic landmarks, including a stop at the and the humble cottage from which “Uncle a swim, or climb 400 steps to the top of the FROM $9,779 LAND/CRUISE ONLY Rex Hotel for a refreshing drink at the rooftop Ho” ruled Vietnam until his death in 1969. island for stunning views. You can also visit Cruise WSIS: 22 days from Siem Reap to Hanoi bar where the U.S. Military held the infamous Next, see iconic sites, including One Pillar Luon Cave by boat, and explore Dark & Bright Cruise WISS Reverse Course: 22 days from Ho Chi Minh “Five O’Clock Follies” during the war. Then, Pagoda, the Presidential Palace, and the Cave by bamboo raft, OR: City to Hanoi visit the War Remnants Museum and bustling infamous “Hanoi Hilton.” Lastly, visit the ACTIVE Explore Luon Cave and Dark & Bright Cave by ADD HUE & DANANG TO YOUR HOLIDAY Ben Thanh Market. 900-year-old Temple of Literature, Hanoi’s Kayak Ride. FROM $10,492 LAND/CRUISE ONLY DISCOVERY For lunch, participate in a hands-on first university. After a day of exploring, consider a spa treatment or Cruise WSID: 22 days from Siem Reap to Danang Vietnamese Cooking Class. Learn to prepare Enjoy lunch at Koto, a non-profit restaurant and simply relax for happy hour prior to dinner! Cruise WISD Reverse Course: 22 days from Ho Chi Minh several local dishes and how to recreate hospitality program that trains local street children in City to Danang them at home. Last, but not least, sample restaurant skills they can use to become employed for a your delicious creations! ADD LUANG PRABANG TO YOUR HOLIDAY more stable life. FROM $9,442 LAND/CRUISE ONLY Enjoy time at your leisure this afternoon and evening for DAY 17 HA LONG BAY–HANOI Cruise WSIL: 20 days from Siem Reap to Luang Prabang CLASSIC After lunch, enjoy an Electric Cart Ride independent exploration. Maybe stop for a drink at the (B) Surprising and Amazing Beauty through the fascinating Old Quarter—with its Cruise WISL Reverse Course: 20 days from Ho Chi Minh famous rooftop bar at the Caravelle Hotel. 36 ancient streets where peddlers trade as This morning, relax onboard your ship, or visit Sung Sot City to Luang Prabang they have for centuries. Cave, considered one of the most beautiful in the area ADD SAPA, HUE & DANANG TO YOUR HOLIDAY with its magnificent formations. Afterwards, return to DISCOVERY An early dinner this evening is followed by FROM $11,762 LAND/CRUISE ONLY Hanoi and check in to your hotel. The remainder of the DAY 12 HO CHI MINH CITY. EXCURSION TO CU CHI TUNNELS. a fascinating Live Performance of Hanoi’s Cruise WSIA: 26 days from Siem Reap to Danang day is yours to spend at your leisure. (B,D) Secret Passageways and Underground Hideouts renowned water puppets, a traditional 11th- Cruise WISA Reverse Course: 26 days from Ho Chi Minh century artform. City to Danang CLASSIC Drive out of the city for a Guided Visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels—an extraordinary network of ADD SAPA & LUANG PRABANG TO YOUR HOLIDAY tunnels more than 120 miles in length—used as DAY 18 HANOI FROM $10,722 LAND/CRUISE ONLY (B) Your holiday ends with breakfast this morning. a hideout and secret village by the Viet Cong. DAY 15 HANOI–HA LONG BAY Cruise WSIP: 24 days from Siem Reap to Luang Prabang (B) Island Shapes and a Floating Village Cruise WISP Reverse Course: 24 days from Ho Chi Minh City to Luang Prabang Explore the city further during free time this afternoon. Travel from Hanoi through the fertile countryside to Ha This evening, join your travelling companions for a special Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The bay is See pages 70-71 for more details or visit our website for dinner in a local restaurant. dotted with more than 3,000 limestone islands carved REVERSE COURSE full itineraries. into fanciful shapes. Board the luxurious Paradise CRUISE WIS—HO CHI MINH CITY TO HANOI Elegance for a Two-Night Cruise on the bay. Day 1, Arrive Ho Chi Minh City; Day 2, Ho Chi Minh City; Day 3, Ho Chi Minh City; Day 4, Ho Chi Minh City DAY 13 HO CHI MINH CITY–HANOI DISCOVERY Visit the Cua Van Floating Village, home to (Embarkation); Day 5, Vinh Long–Cu Lao Gieng; Day 6, (B) Today, transfer to the airport and fly to Hanoi. Upon more than 700 people, by bamboo raft, OR: Chau Doc–Long Khanh A; Day 7, Phnom Penh; Day 8, arrival, transfer to your hotel for the night. ACTIVE Take a Kayak Ride to visit Cua Van Village. Phnom Penh; Day 9, Wat Hanchey–Angkor Ban; Day 10, Enjoy scenic sailing for the remainder of the day before Konpong Louang–Kampong Tralach; Day 11, Phnom Penh anchoring for the night. (Disembarkation)–Siem Reap; Day 12, Siem Reap; Day 13, Siem Reap–Hanoi; Day 14, Hanoi; Day 15, Hanoi–Ha Long Bay; Day 16, Ha Long Bay; Day 17, Ha Long Bay–Hanoi; Day 18, Hanoi, your holiday ends this morning. For full itinerary details, visit our website.
32 AvalonWaterways.com.au 33 HANOI 2 2 HA LONG BAY 1 VIETNAM
LAOS
21 DAYS | BANGKOK TO HANOI † (visit our website for full reverse itinerary) PRICED FROM $9,666
THAILAND HANOI 2 2 HA LONG BAY 1 VIETNAM
LAOS BANGKOK 3 CAMBODIA SIEM REAP 2 7
KAMPONG TRALACH WAT HANCHEY ULTIMATE KONPONG LOUANG ANGKOR BAN PHNOM PENH THAILANDCHAU DOC 3 HO CHI MINH CITY CU LAO GIENG VINH LONG Mekong River
ALWAYS INCLUDED BANGKOK 3 CAMBODIA SOUTHEAST ASIA SIEM REAP 2 • Complimentary wine, local beer/spirits, soft drinks, and coffee/tea7 at lunch and dinner on board KAMPONG TRALACH WAT HANCHEY • Included sightseeing with headsetsKONPONG and expert LOUANG local guidesANGKOR BAN PHNOM PENH • Onboard meals daily, including four-course à la carte dinners with choice of CHAU DOC 3 HO CHI MINH CITY appetisers, soups, salads, mains, and dessertsCU LAO GIENG VINH LONG & THE MAJESTIC • Complimentary coffee, tea, soft drinks, and local beer/spirits Mekongthroughout River the day • Complimentary Wi-Fi in the lounges
FOR A COMPLETE LIST OF STANDARD INCLUSIONS AND FEATURES, SEE PAGE 4. MEKONG YOUR CHOICE Avalon knows there is more than one way to explore new destinations. In addition to included CLASSIC , DISCOVERY and ACTIVE excursions and activities, we offer select Guided Optional Excursions and free time suggestions to help you get the most out of every adventure. FROM COSMOPOLITAN CITIES TO RURAL VILLAGES, DISCOVER HOTELS Bangkok InterContinental Bangkok (D) Hanoi InterContinental Westlake (D) THE TREASURES OF THAILAND, Ho Chi Minh City The Reverie Saigon (D) Ha Long Bay Cruise Paradise Elegance VIETNAM, AND CAMBODIA Siem Reap Park Hyatt Siem Reap (D)
CRUISE WBS Bangkok to Hanoi AU$ CRUISE WSB Bangkok to Hanoi AU$ 2019 DEPARTURES FROM* 2019 DEPARTURES FROM* Jan 4 11 18 25 11106 Jan 4 11 18 25 11199 Feb 1 8 15 22 11106 Feb 1 8 15 22 11199 Mar 1 8 15 22 29 10836-11106 Mar 1 8 15 22 29 10929-11199 Apr 5 10836 Apr 5 10929 Jul 5 19 26 9666 Jul 12 19 26 9759 Aug 2 9 16 23 30 9666-10616 Aug 2 9 16 23 30 9759-10709 Sep 6 13 20 27 10616-11186 Sep 6 13 20 27 10709-11279 Oct 4 11 18 25 11186 Oct 4 11 18 25 11279 Nov 1 8 15 22 29 10976-11256 Nov 1 8 15 22 29 11069-11349 Dec 6 13 20 27 10676-11426 Dec 6 13 20 27 10769-11519 2020 DEPARTURES FROM* 2020 DEPARTURES FROM* Jan 3 10 17 24 31 11546 Jan 3 10 17 24 31 11639 Feb 7 14 21 28 11546 Feb 7 14 21 28 11639 Mar 6 13 20 27 11236-11546 Mar 6 13 20 27 11329-11639 Apr 3 11236 Apr 3 11329 † From price based on Jul 5 departure. *All prices are per person based on double room occupancy including intra-holiday air and taxes. Cruise price based on Category B in an Panorama Suite on Mekong Deck. To upgrade to a Category A on Tonle Deck, add $530 per person or $1,060 in single occupancy. Sailing on Avalon Suite ShipsSM Siem Reap or Saigon. Gratuities for Local Guides & drivers are included (excludes extensions which are to be paid locally). Gratuities for Cruise Director and crew can be added for $313. Extra nights in Bangkok, Hanoi, Danang, and Luang Prabang are available, see our website for more information. Avalon offers the opportunity for solo travellers to sail with no single supplement (subject to availability). Please call for single accommodation details and prices. Triples not available. For full terms & conditions see pages 80-83. Add flights to your holiday. Competitive prices without the hassle.
RECLINING BUDDHA
34 AvalonWaterways.com.au 35 CRUISE WBS
ANGKOR WAT BANTEAY SREI
TEMPLE OF THE EMERALD BUDDHA
ULTIMATE SOUTHEAST ASIA & THE MAJESTIC MEKONG
DAY 1 BANGKOK, THAILAND DAY 5 HO CHI MINH CITY DAY 8 VINH LONG–CU LAO GIENG DAY 10 PHNOM PENH Welcome to Thailand! Hotel rooms are available for mid- (B,L,D) Motorbikes, Monuments, and Mouthwatering Cuisine (B,L,D) Sweets, Sampans, and Spires (B,L,D) Bonjour! French Charm in Cambodia afternoon check-in. CLASSIC Take a Walking Tour of Ho Chi Minh City’s historic DISCOVERY Board a sampan this morning for a Local Visit to CLASSIC Join a Guided Tour of the city by private cyclo landmarks including a stop at the Rex Hotel for a a workshop in Vinh Long to see how rice paper, with visits to the Royal Palace with the spectacular refreshing drink at the rooftop bar where the U.S. rice wine, and traditional candies are made. Silver Pagoda, and the National Museum, featuring DAY 2 BANGKOK Military held the infamous “Five O’Clock Follies” DISCOVERY This afternoon, enjoy scenes of daily life along an outstanding display of Khmer artifacts. (B,L) during the war. Then visit the War Remnants Canals, Temples, and the Buddhas of Bangkok the river near Cu Lao Gieng via Sampan. Visit The remainder of the day is at your leisure to enjoy the city, Museum and bustling Ben Thanh Market. a Local Home, where a skilled family hand- CLASSIC This morning, your Guided Sightseeing begins Consider a Guided Optional Tour of a local brewery with free DISCOVERY For lunch, participate in a hands-on Vietnamese crafts sampan boats. Then, ride a motor cart to flowing local beer! with a boat ride on the klongs, Bangkok’s Cooking Class. Learn to prepare local dishes and one of Vietnam’s oldest churches for a special famous canals. Visit the stunning Grand Palace how to recreate them at home. Last, but not interaction with a Catholic priest. Just before dinner, children from a local orphanage will featuring the Temple Of The Emerald Buddha. least, sample your delicious creations! perform a show, featuring local song and dance. Also, visit the Temple Of The Reclining Buddha, AFTERNOON/EVENING CRUISE TO CHAU DOC the oldest and largest Buddhist temple in Explore the city further during free time this afternoon. Bangkok. It houses more than 1,000 Buddha This evening join your travelling companions for a special images, including the 49-foot-high by 151-foot- DAY 11 PHNOM PENH welcome dinner at a local restaurant. DAY 9 CHAU DOC–LONG KHANH A–BORDER CROSSING, long massive Reclining Buddha. (B,L,D) Shining a Light on a Dark History (B,L,D) CAMBODIA Colourful markets, Charming Locals, and Cotton Weavers The remainder of the day is at your leisure. CLASSIC A Guided Visit to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and one of the Killing Fields provides DAY 6 HO CHI MINH CITY. EXCURSION TO CU CHI TUNNELS DISCOVERY In Chau Doc, take a Guided Walk through the a glimpse into the atrocities inflicted on the (B) Secret Passageways and Underground Hideouts local market and absorb the atmosphere as Cambodian people by the Khmer Rouge regime. locals are busy buying and selling fish, meat, DAY 3 BANGKOK CLASSIC Drive out of the city for a Guided Visit to the and produce. Then embark on an excursion After lunch, depart Phnom Penh and enjoy some time at (B) Enjoy a full day at your leisure. Cu Chi Tunnels—an extraordinary network of down the backwaters of the Mekong. Along the leisure on the ship. tunnels more than 120 miles in length—used as way, see traditional floating homes, speedboat AFTERNOON/EVENING CRUISE TO WAT HANCHEY a hideout and secret village by the Viet Cong. merchants, religious sites, a market selling dried goods, and more. DAY 4 BANGKOK–HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM Enjoy free time this afternoon and evening. Consider DISCOVERY After lunch, take a Sampan Ride to the village (B) Today, fly to Ho Chi Minh City, still known as Saigon to many. stopping for a drink at the famous rooftop bar at the of Long Khanh A for a Cotton-Weaving DAY 12 WAT HANCHEY–ANGKOR BAN The remainder of the day is at your leisure. Caravelle Hotel. Demonstration of this well-preserved tradition. (B,L,D) Water Blessings and Back-to-School Adventures
Return to the ship and head for the Cambodian border. DISCOVERY Visit Wat Hanchey, a hilltop temple dating back EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO PHNOM PENH to the 8th century. Climb or be driven to the DAY 7 HO CHI MINH CITY (EMBARKATION) top where you will enjoy stunning views of the (B,L,D) SM Your Suite Ship is Ready for Boarding surrounding area and partake in a traditional Transfer to the port on the Saigon River for embarkation. water blessing given by local monks. Get acquainted with the ship and relax before your welcome DISCOVERY After lunch, enjoy a Walking Tour through the reception this evening. rural village of Angkor Ban. Here, you will visit a traditional Khmer house and interact with AFTERNOON/EVENING CRUISE TO VINH LONG children at a local school. EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO KONPONG LOUANG
36 AvalonWaterways.com.au 37 CRUISE WBS
TA PROHM HANOI’S OLD QUARTER HA LONG BAY
PRESIDENTIAL PALACE | HANOI
DAY 13 KONPONG LOUANG–KAMPONG TRALACH DAY 15 SIEM REAP DAY 18 HA LONG BAY (B,L,D) Calm in the Cambodian Countryside (B,D) Root-Covered Ruins and Native Noodles (B,L,D) Island Shapes and a Floating Village REVERSE COURSE CRUISE WSB—BANGKOK TO HANOI Travel from Hanoi through the fertile countryside to Ha DISCOVERY Start your Guided Sightseeing at the silversmith CLASSIC Join a Sightseeing Excursion to the Angkor Day 1, Arrive Bangkok; Day 2, Bangkok; Day 3, Bangkok; Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The bay is dotted village in Konpong Louang. Here, see talented temples at Ta Prohm. Tree roots cover the ruin Day 4, Bangkok–Siem Reap; Day 5, Siem Reap; Day 6, Siem with more than 3,000 limestone islands carved into fanciful craftsmen use age-old techniques to turn pure walls, allowing you to experience the temple Reap; Day 7, Siem Reap (Embarkation); Day 8, Kampong shapes. Board the luxurious Paradise Elegance for a Two- silver into works of art. In Kampong Tralach, with the same wonder as early explorers. Then, Tralach–Konpong Louang; Day 9, Phnom Penh; Day 10, Wat Night Cruise on the bay. board an ox cart for a ride through the beautiful visit Banteay Srei, a unique temple built on a Hanchey–Angkor Ban; Day 11, Border Crossing–Chau Doc; Cambodian countryside. Along the way, stop to small scale from red sandstone, which can be DISCOVERY Visit the Cua Van Floating Village, home to more Day 12, Long Khanh A–Cu Lao Gieng; Day 13, Ben Tre; Day meet a local farmer and learn about his daily life. carved like wood. En route, stop at a village than 700 people—by bamboo raft, OR: 14, Ho Chi Minh City (Disembarkation); Day 15, Ho Chi Minh famous for making Khmer noodles by hand. This afternoon, enjoy scenic cruising on the Tonle River. ACTIVE Take a Kayak Ride to visit Cua Van Village. City; Day 16, Ho Chi Minh City–Hanoi; Day 17, Hanoi; Day 18, Hanoi–Ha Long Bay; Day 19, Ha Long Bay; Day 20, Ha Long EVENING CRUISE TO PHNOM PENH Spend the afternoon at your leisure. You may choose a Guided Optional Excursion to further explore Siem Reap, or Enjoy scenic sailing for the remainder of the day before Bay–Hanoi; Day 21, Hanoi, your holiday ends this morning. anchoring for the night. visit the temple complex by tuk-tuk. For full itinerary details, visit our website. DISCOVERY This evening, a private Apsara Dance DAY 14 PHNOM PENH (DISEMBARKATION)–SIEM REAP Performance brings ancient Khmer culture to (B,L) Fly to Siem Reap, home to the Temples of Angkor, life through music, song, and dance. DAY 19 HA LONG BAY considered by many to be the most spectacular architectural (B,L,D) Caves, Kayaks, and Scenic Climbs ruins on Earth! STAY LONGER DISCOVERY Visit Titop Island for a Guided Excursion to take a ADD SAPA TO YOUR HOLIDAY CLASSIC After lunch, begin your Sightseeing Tour by tuk- swim, or climb 400 steps to the top for stunning DAY 16 SIEM REAP–HANOI FROM $10,976 LAND/CRUISE ONLY tuk. Start at the best preserved and most famous views. You can also visit Luon Cave by boat, and (B) Today, transfer to the airport and fly to Hanoi. Upon arrival, Cruise WBSS: 25 days from Bangkok to Hanoi of all the temples: Angkor Wat. Featuring five explore Dark & Bright Cave by bamboo raft, OR: trademark towers, it is the symbol of Cambodia. transfer to your hotel for the night. Cruise WSBS Reverse Course: 25 days from Bangkok to Hanoi ACTIVE Explore Luon Cave and Dark & Bright Cave by Then, visit Angkor Thom, where you will explore Kayak Ride. ADD HUE & DANANG TO YOUR HOLIDAY Bayon Temple with its 200 striking faces carved in FROM $11,679 LAND/CRUISE ONLY After a day of exploring, consider a spa treatment or simply 54 towers and impressive bas relief sculptures, OR: DAY 17 HANOI Cruise WBSD: 25 days from Bangkok to Danang relax for happy hour prior to dinner!. ACTIVE Visit Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, and Bayon (B,L,D) Historic Hanoi and Water Puppets Cruise WSBD Reverse Course: 25 days from Bangkok to Temple by bike. Danang CLASSIC First, join a Guided Visit of the mausoleum and The evening is yours to explore charming Siem Reap, stay the humble cottage from which “Uncle Ho” ruled ADD LUANG PRABANG TO YOUR HOLIDAY to witness the sunset at Angkor Wat, or consider a Guided Vietnam until his death in 1969. Next, see iconic DAY 20 HA LONG BAY–HANOI FROM $10,629 LAND/CRUISE ONLY Optional Excursion to the Cambodian circus. sites, including One Pillar Pagoda, the Presidential (B) Surprising and Amazing Beauty Cruise WBSL: 23 days from Bangkok to Luang Prabang Palace, and the infamous “Hanoi Hilton.” Lastly, This morning, relax onboard your ship, or visit Sung Sot Cruise WSBL Reverse Course: 23 days from Bangkok to visit the 900-year-old Temple of Literature, Cave, considered one of the most beautiful in the area with Luang Prabang Hanoi’s first university. its magnificent formations. Afterwards, return to Hanoi and ADD SAPA, HUE & DANANG TO YOUR HOLIDAY Enjoy lunch at Koto, a non-profit restaurant and hospitality check in to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to FROM $12,949 LAND/CRUISE ONLY program that trains local street children in restaurant skills spend at your leisure. Cruise WBSA: 29 days from Bangkok to Danang they can use to become employed for a more stable life. Cruise WSBA Reverse Course: 29 days from Bangkok to Danang ADD SAPA & LUANG PRABANG TO YOUR HOLIDAY CLASSIC Enjoy an Electric Cart Ride through the fascinating Old Quarter—with its 36 ancient streets. DAY 21 HANOI FROM $11,909 LAND/CRUISE ONLY (B) Cruise WBSP: 27 days from Bangkok to Luang Prabang DISCOVERY An early dinner this evening is followed by Your holiday ends with breakfast this morning. Cruise WSBP Reverse Course: 27 days from Bangkok to a fascinating Live Performance of Hanoi’s Luang Prabang renowned water puppets, a traditional 11th- century artform. See pages 70-71 for more details or visit our website for full itineraries.
38 AvalonWaterways.com.au 39 8 DAYS | PHNOM PENH TO HO CHI MINH CITY or HO CHI MINH CITY TO PHNOM PENH † (visit our website for full reverse itinerary) PRICED FROM $4,269
CRUISE WSHO
DAY 1 PHNOM PENH, CAMBODIA (EMBARKATION) DAY 4 PHNOM PENH (L,D) Welcome to Cambodia. Your intimate Suite ShipSM Awaits! (B,L,D) Bonjour! French Charm Lives in Cambodia
Get acquainted with the ship and relax before your CLASSIC Join a Guided Tour of the city by private MEKONG welcome reception this evening. cyclo with visits to the Royal Palace with the spectacular Silver Pagoda, and the National AFTERNOON/EVENING CRUISE TO WAT HANCHEY Museum, featuring an outstanding display of Khmer artifacts. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure, DAY 2 WAT HANCHEY–ANGKOR BAN Consider a Guided Optional Tour of a local brewery with DISCOVERY (B,L,D) Water Blessings and Back-to-School Adventures free flowing local beer! DISCOVERY Visit Wat Hanchey, a hilltop temple dating Just before dinner, children from a local orphanage will back to the 8th century. Climb or be driven perform a show, featuring local song and dance. to the top where you will enjoy stunning EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO VIETNAM/CAMBODIA BORDER FOLLOW THE MIGHTY views of the surrounding area and partake in a traditional water blessing given by MEKONG RIVER TO local monks. DISCOVER THE GIFTS OF DISCOVERY After lunch, enjoy a Walking Tour through the DAY 5 BORDER CROSSING–CHAU DOC, VIETNAM rural village of Angkor Ban. Here, you will visit (B,L,D) Good Morning Vietnam! THIS “MOTHER OF WATER” a traditional Khmer house and interact with children at a local school. DISCOVERY Take a Village Walk through the Chau Doc FLOWING THROUGH market, and absorb the atmosphere as locals EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO KONPONG LOUANG are busy buying and selling fish, meat, and COLOURFUL CAMBODIA produce. After lunch, embark on a Guided AND VIBRANT VIETNAM Excursion down the backwaters of the Mekong. DAY 3 KAMPONG TRALACH–KONPONG LOUANG–PHNOM Along the way, see traditional floating homes, (B,L,D) PENH speedboat merchants, religious sites, a market Calm in the Cambodian Countryside selling dried goods, and more. EVENING CRUISE TO LONG KHANH A DISCOVERY Your Guided Sightseeing starts in Kampong Tralach with an Ox-Cart Ride through the beautiful Cambodian countryside. Along the way, stop to meet a local farmer and learn DAY 6 LONG KHANH A–CU LAO GIENG about his daily life. At the silversmith village in (B,L,D) Cotton Weavers & Sampan Makers Konpong Louang see talented craftsmen use DISCOVERY This morning, a sampan brings you to the ROYAL PALACE | PHNOM PENH age-old techniques to turn pure silver into works of art. village of Long Khanh A, for a Cotton- Weaving Demonstration of this well- Sail to the capital city of Phnom Penh this afternoon. preserved tradition. PHNOM PENH DISCOVERY This afternoon, enjoy scenes of daily life CRUISE WSH0 Phnom Penh to Ho Chi Minh City AU$ CRUISE WHS0 Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh AU$ Shining a Light on a Dark History along the river near Cu Lao Gieng via CAMBODIA 2019 DEPARTURES FROM* 2019 DEPARTURES FROM* sampan. Join a Guided Excursion to a local VIETNAM Jan 10 17 24 31 5709 Jan 10 17 24 31 5689 CLASSIC After lunch, join a Guided a Visit to the Tuol home, where a skilled family hand-crafts Sleng Genocide Museum and one of the KAMPONG TRALACH Feb 7 14 21 28 5709 Feb 7 14 21 28 5689 sampan boats. Then, ride a motor cart to one WAT HANCHEY Killing Fields for a glimpse into the atrocities KONPONG LOUANG Mar 7 14 21 28 5429-5709 Mar 7 14 21 28 5419-5689 of Vietnam’s oldest churches for a special ANGKOR BAN inflicted on the Cambodian people by the PHNOM PENH interaction with a Catholic priest. Mekong River Apr 4 11 5429 Apr 4 11 5419 Khmer Rouge regime. 7 Jul 18 25 4269 Jul 11 25 4289 EVENING CRUISE TO BEN TRE HO CHI MINH CITY CHAU DOC Aug 1 8 15 22 29 4269-5139 Aug 1 8 15 22 29 4289-5109 This evening, spend some free time to explore the city on CU LAO GIENG your own. Perhaps follow the riverfront promenade to the Sep 5 12 19 26 5139-5429 Sep 5 12 19 26 5109-5419 BEN TRE historic Foreign Correspondents Club (FCC). Oct 3 10 17 24 31 5709 Oct 3 10 17 24 31 5689 DAY 7 BEN TRE Nov 7 14 21 28 5709 Nov 7 14 21 28 5689 OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN PHNOM PENH (B,L,D) Sweets and Sampans Dec 5 12 19 26 5139-5429 Dec 5 12 19 26 5109-5419 DISCOVERY Board a sampan this morning to Visit a Local ALWAYS INCLUDED 2020 DEPARTURES FROM* 2020 DEPARTURES FROM* Jan 2 9 16 23 30 5889-5929 Jan 2 9 16 23 30 5859-5899 Workshop in Ben Tre to see how rice paper, • Complimentary wine, local beer/spirits, soft drinks, and rice wine, and traditional candies are made. Feb 6 13 20 27 5929 Feb 6 13 20 27 5899 coffee/tea at lunch and dinner on board Continue on to a local garden, where several Mar 5 12 19 26 5639-5929 Mar 5 12 19 26 5609-5899 • Included sightseeing with headsets and expert local types of fruit indigenous to the area are grown. Apr 2 9 5639 Apr 2 9 5609 guides This afternoon, enjoy time on board the ship as we sail to (Southbound) Arrive Phnom Penh for embarkation between 12 pm and 1 pm. Depart Ho Chi Minh City upon disembarkation at 8 am. • Onboard meals daily, including four-course à la carte (Northbound) Arrive Ho Chi Minh City hotel by 10:30 am for transfer to ship. Depart Phnom Penh upon disembarkation at 8 am. exciting Ho Chi Minh City. dinners with choice of appetisers, soups, salads, mains, † From price based on Jul 18 departure. AFTERNOON CRUISE TO HO CHI MINH CITY and desserts *All prices are per person based on double room occupancy including intra-holiday air and taxes. Cruise price based on Category • Complimentary coffee, tea, soft drinks, and local beer/ B in an Panorama Suite on Mekong Deck. To upgrade to a Category A on Tonle Deck, add $530 per person or $1,060 in single occupancy. spirits throughout the day Sailing on Avalon Suite ShipsSM Siem Reap or Saigon. Gratuities for Local Guides & drivers are included. Gratuities for Cruise DAY 8 HO CHI MINH CITY (DISEMBARKATION) • Complimentary Wi-Fi in the lounges Director and crew can be added for $157. Extra nights in Ho Chi Minh City are available, see our website for more information. (B) Your holiday ends with breakfast this morning. Avalon offers the opportunity for solo travellers to sail with no single supplement (subject to availability). Please call for single FOR A COMPLETE LIST OF STANDARD INCLUSIONS AND accommodation details and prices. Triples not available. For full terms & conditions see pages 80-83. FEATURES, SEE PAGE 4. Add flights to your holiday. Competitive prices without the hassle.
40 AvalonWaterways.com.au 41 To travel to Myanmar, formerly Burma, is to step back in time…to a place that has changed little since the British colonial era. Ruled by the British starting in 1885, Myanmar regained its independence in 1948. In the 1960s, the country essentially shut its borders to the Western world after the sitting government was overthrown and socialist policies were instituted by the new regime.
Seeds of change were planted in the late 1980s as Aung San Suu Kyi, a national hero and Nobel Peace Prize recipient, helped form the National League for Democracy. In 1990, the first multi-party elections since 1960 were held, but the sitting government refused to accept the results. Aung San Suu Kyi was placed under house arrest, where she remained for 15 of the next 20 years. Mounting international pressure and democratic reforms finally led to her release in 2010, followed by a dramatic shift by the government to a more democratic style of rule. While there is still work to be done, Myanmar is carving a peaceful and more prosperous path to the future.
Along with these changes, the borders were reopened to Western visitors for the first time in more than 50 years. While Yangon, formerly Rangoon, is growing rapidly, much of the rest of the country is virtually unchanged and traditions remain the way of life. Young women wear fragrant thanaka to protect their faces from the sun, horse- and ox-carts transport goods to the market, and the monastery is still the centre of the village. The culture is as diverse as it is colourful with more than 130 ethnic groups calling Myanmar home.
CAPTIVATING MYANMAR.
42 AvalonWaterways.com.au 43 ON THE IRRAWADDY.
The majestic Irrawaddy River meanders peacefully through Myanmar’s jungle-shrouded highlands and sun-seared plains to its mangrove- dotted delta at the Andaman Sea. This “Road to Mandalay” is a gateway to untouched villages, ancient cities, remarkable culture, and captivating panoramas.
In addition to the must-see sights, Avalon delivers a host of hands- on activities and encounters with the locals for a truly immersive experience. Cruise north of Mandalay on the spectacular Upper Irrawaddy, where remote villages see very few, if any, Western visitors. Interact with schoolchildren, visit a nunnery, and wander through a pottery-making village to see the process from start to finish. Present alms to local monks and observe their daily lunch ritual, explore a local market, and visit a farmer’s home to learn more about his work and life.
More than 90% of the Burmese population follows the Buddhist religion, so it’s unsurprising that the graceful form of the pagoda is a natural part of the landscape. In Mandalay, visit Mahamuni Pagoda, as well as Shwenandaw Monastery, the only surviving building from the original royal palace complex. You will also explore some of the 2,300 majestic temples that dot the plains of Bagan—like Ananda, one of the most beautiful of all the remaining temples—and you’ll ascend to the top of a temple for an unforgettable view of the sunset.
Beyond the Irrawaddy, you will visit Yangon, formerly known as Rangoon, the country’s largest city. Take a walking tour of the city’s monuments, mix with locals at a tea shop, and stop at stunning Shwedagon Pagoda, the national symbol of Myanmar and considered by many to be the oldest pagoda in the world. Here, watch as monks gather and the sun sets on the magnificent goldenstupa .
Visiting this “Golden Land” is an incomparable opportunity to experience Myanmar before Western influence alters the culture, land, and people.
44 AvalonWaterways.com.au 45 14 DAYS | YANGON TO YANGON † (visit our website for full reverse itinerary) PRICED FROM $8,501
Second Defile KYUN DAW KATHA BHAMO TIGYANG KYA HNYAT KYAUK MYAUNG Irrawaddy River MANDALAY SAGAING GOLDEN MYANMAR AMARAPURA SHWE PYI THAR BAGAN 10
MYANMAR & THE ALLURING (BURMA)
2 1 IRRAWADDY YANGON ALWAYS INCLUDED • Complimentary wine, local beer/spirits, soft drinks, and coffee/tea at lunch and dinner on board • Included sightseeing with headsets and expert local guides • Onboard meals daily, including four-course à la carte dinners with choice of FIND ENCHANTMENT AND AWAKEN appetisers, soups, salads, mains, and desserts THE SENSES THROUGH CAPTIVATING • Complimentary coffee, tea, soft drinks, and local beer/spirits throughout the day CUSTOMS AND COLOURS OF THE • Complimentary Wi-Fi in the lounges MYSTICAL WORLDS OF THE IRRAWADDY FOR A COMPLETE LIST OF STANDARD INCLUSIONS AND FEATURES, SEE PAGE 4. YOUR CHOICE Avalon knows there is more than one way to explore new destinations. In addition to included CLASSIC , DISCOVERY and ACTIVE excursions and activities, we offer select Guided Optional Excursions and free time suggestions to help you get the most out of every adventure.
CRUISE WBK Yangon to Yangon AU$ CRUISE WKB Yangon to Yangon AU$ 2019 DEPARTURES FROM* 2019 DEPARTURES FROM* Jan 17 9441 Jan 7 27 9441 Feb 6 26 9441 Feb 16 9441 Mar 18 9021 Mar 8 28 8501-9021 Apr 7 8501 Apr 17 8671 Sep 6 26 8711 Sep 16 8711 Oct 30 9691 Oct 6 9691 Nov 19 9691 Nov 9 29 9691 Dec 23 9691 † From price based on Apr 7 departure. *All prices are per person based on double room occupancy including intra-holiday air and taxes. Cruise price based on Category B in a Panorama Suite on Irrawaddy Deck. To upgrade to a Category A on Mandalay Deck, add $530 per person or $1060 in single occupancy. Sailing on Avalon Suite ShipSM Myanmar. Gratuities for Local Guides & drivers are included (excludes extensions which are to be paid locally). Gratuities for Cruise Director and crew may be added for $224. Extra nights in Yangon and Bangkok are available, see our website for more information. Avalon offers the opportunity for solo travellers to sail with no single supplement (subject to availability). Please call for single accommodation details and prices. Triples not available. For full terms & conditions see pages 80-83. Add flights to your holiday. Competitive prices without the hassle.
KUTHODAW PAGODA
46 AvalonWaterways.com.au 47 CRUISE WBK
SULE PAGODA OX CART RIDE
LACQUER WORKSHOP
GOLDEN MYANMAR & THE ALLURING IRRAWADDY
DAY 1 YANGON, MYANMAR DAY 4 BAGAN DAY 5 SHWE PYI THAR DAY 7 MANDALAY Welcome to Yangon, formerly known as Rangoon, the (B,L,D) Temples and Shrines—From Sunrise to Sunset (B,L,D) Rural Life in Myanmar Comes to Life (B,L,D) The Golden Tapestries of Mandalay country’s largest city and former capital. Hotel rooms are Today, explore Bagan, capital of Myanmar from the available for mid-afternoon check-in. DISCOVERY This morning, partake in a Walking Tour CLASSIC In the morning, visit Local Workshops to see 9th to the 13th centuries. During this time over 13,000 through Shwe Pyi Thar, a typical village along skilled artisans at work making tapestries, temples, monasteries, and pagodas were built in the the Irrawaddy. Here, visit a farmer’s home to woodcarvings, and gold-leaf. Also visit plains surrounding the city—an area of about 40 square learn more about daily life and see the locals Mahamuni Pagoda to see its impressive DAY 2 YANGON miles. Many of these structures have been lost over time, making palm candy—a sweet and smoky gold-leaf Buddha—reported to be covered (B,L,D) Historic Landmarks, Hot Tea, and Harmonious Living but around 2,300 still stand today, making this one of the confection—from the sap of the toddy palm. in six inches of gold leaf from continuous world’s greatest archaeological sites. DISCOVERY Enjoy time onboard your ship this afternoon. application. CLASSIC A Guided Walk introduces you to the city’s Join your Local Guide for a presentation on CLASSIC This afternoon, take a Guided Tour of famous and historic landmarks, including DISCOVERY Early risers can make an Escorted Visit to one of the temples with a Local Guide to witness the Burmese language. Kuthodaw Pagoda and Shwenandaw old colonial buildings and Sule Pagoda, built Monastery, the only WWII bombing remnants a glorious sunrise. AFTERNOON/EVENING CRUISING during the time of Buddha. Along the way, of former King Mindon’s “Golden City” and CLASSIC Start your Morning Excursion at a local stop for a cup of tea or coffee with the locals. extravagant teak palace. Next, stop at Chaukhtatgyi to see the massive market selling handicrafts, fabrics, and DISCOVERY This evening, enjoy a traditional Dance Reclining Buddha measuring 213 feet. longyis. Then, stop at Shwezigon Pagoda, Performance featuring local song and dance. Later in the day, visit Shwedagon Pagoda, a one of the country’s most important shrines. DAY 6 SAGAING–EXCURSION TO AMARAPURA (B,L,D) national symbol. Here, an enchanting scene Lastly, visit a lacquer workshop to learn more Relaxation and Revelations OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN MANDALAY unfolds as the sun sets on the golden stupa, about this ancient craft. Relax this morning and take in the sights from one of the and locals come to pay their respects. CLASSIC After lunch, your Afternoon Sightseeing ship’s lounges or from your suite. centres on the Bagan archaeological zone. Tonight, dine in one of Yangon’s best restaurants for a Highlights include Ananda, considered CLASSIC Take a Guided Excursion this afternoon DAY 8 KYAUK MYAUNG delicious welcome dinner. by many to be the most beautiful temple, to visit the important religious site of (B,L,D) Glazed and Amazed Sagaing with countless pagodas dotting and Dhammayangyi, the best preserved Join your Local Guide for a longyi and thanaka the surrounding hillsides. Stop to see monument left standing. Also, stop to see the presentation this morning. Kaunghmudaw Pagoda with its unique DAY 3 YANGON–BAGAN (EMBARKATION) exquisite and well-preserved fresco paintings (B,D) Beautiful Bagan and Your Suite ShipSM Beckon at Sulamani. golden egg-shaped dome and a silversmith DISCOVERY This afternoon, join a Guided Walk through workshop. Lastly, explore Soon U Ponya DISCOVERY End the day with a traditional Ox-Cart Ride to the captivating pottery-making village of Late in the morning, fly to Bagan. Upon arrival, transfer a temple, where you can ascend to the top Shin Pagoda for stunning views across the Kyauk Myaung to learn more about and see to the port for embarkation. A welcome reception starts as the sun sets. Irrawaddy to Mandalay. Then, travel to nearby the pottery-making process. Most interesting your evening. Amarapura, former capital of Myanmar. Your is the eye-catching 50-gallon variety, often OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN BAGAN visit focuses on the famous U Bein Bridge, referred to as Martaban or Ali Baba jars. DISCOVERY After dinner, a traditional Puppet Show will be a 3/₄-mile-long bridge built in 1783. Take a presented in one of the lounges. These pots could transport large quantities of sampan ride on the lake for unforgettable goods and have played an important part of OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN BAGAN views of the sunset behind the iconic bridge. maritime trade throughout Asia for centuries. OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN SAGAING AFTERNOON CRUISE TO KYA HNYAT
48 AvalonWaterways.com.au 49 CRUISE WBK
MAHAMUNI PAGODA U BEIN BRIDGE BAGAN
DAY 9 KYA HNYAT DAY 11 KATHA DAY 12 KYUN DAW–SECOND DEFILE–BHAMO (B,L,D) Giving Alms and Blessings in Return (B,L,D) Burmese Days & Minority Culture (B,L,D) Engaging Local Encounters REVERSE COURSE CRUISE WKB—YANGON TO YANGON DISCOVERY Interact with the monks at a Monastery DISCOVERY Start your Guided Sightseeing at the local wet DISCOVERY Explore the island village of Kyun Daw, where Day 1, Arrive Yangon; Day 2, Yangon; Day 3, Yangon–Bhamo Visit in Kya Hnyat. This is a truly memorable market, where you will see locals buying and over 7,000 stupas surround the monastery. (Embarkation); Day 4, Kyun Daw; Day 5, Katha–Tigyang; experience as you present alms to the monks selling fish, meat, produce, and more. Next, Your Guided Excursion includes a visit to a Day 6, Kya Hnyat; Day 7, Kyauk Myaung; Day 8, Mingun– and witness their lunch ritual. learn more about life during British rule at fisherman’s home and a school where you Amarapura; Day 9, Mandalay; Day 10, Sagaing; Day 11, Shwe the former British Club, featured in George will interact with the children. You will also Join your Local Guide this afternoon and learn more Pyi Thar; Day 12, Bagan; Day 13, Bagan (Disembarkation)– Orwell’s novel, “Burmese Days.” Lastly, meet visit a nunnery to present the nuns with food about the popular Burmese tea leaf and ginger salad. Yangon; Day 14, Yangon, your holiday ends this morning. with the Jingpo, one of over 100 ethnic purchased the day before at the market in AFTERNOON/EVENING CRUISE TO TIGYANG minority groups in Myanmar. Here, you will Katha. Unlike monks, they have to collect and For full itinerary details, visit our website. learn about their culture, traditional dress, cook their own food. and unique method of making rice wine. This afternoon, spend time at leisure as you sail through DAY 10 TIGYANG As you sail north this afternoon, with some luck, you may the dramatic Second Defile with its magnificent cliffs (B,L,D) Buddha with a View catch a glimpse of the rare Irrawaddy dolphin, with its reaching down the narrow channel. STAY LONGER distinctive round forehead. START YOUR HOLIDAY IN BANGKOK DISCOVERY Explore the village of Tigyang on a Walking Continue to Bhamo, the northernmost point ships can Tour through its narrow lanes and visit the AFTERNOON CRUISE TO KYUN DAW navigate the Irrawaddy. FROM $9,650 LAND/CRUISE ONLY Cruise WBKQ: 17 days from Bangkok to Yangon Reclining Buddha on a hilltop with stunning AFTERNOON CRUISE TO BHAMO views, OR: Cruise WKBQ Reverse Course: 17 days from Bangkok to Yangon ACTIVE Take the normal Walking Tour and add a steep climb to reach the Reclining Buddha. ADD INLE LAKE TO YOUR HOLIDAY DAY 13 BHAMO (DISEMBARKATION)–YANGON FROM $9,559 LAND/CRUISE ONLY AFTERNOON CRUISE TO KATHA (B) Farewell to the Irrawaddy Cruise WYB: 16 days from Yangon to Yangon After breakfast, disembark the ship and explore Bhamo by Cruise WBY Reverse Course: 16 days from Yangon to local trishaw and by foot. Afterward, transfer to the airport Yangon for your flight to Yangon. The remainder of the day is at ADD BANGKOK & INLE LAKE TO YOUR HOLIDAY your leisure. FROM $10,679 LAND/CRUISE ONLY Cruise WYBQ: 19 days from Bangkok to Yangon Cruise WBYQ Reverse Course: 19 days from Bangkok to Yangon DAY 14 YANGON (B) Your holiday ends with breakfast this morning. See page 72 for more details or visit our website for full itineraries.
50 AvalonWaterways.com.au 51 11 DAYS | YANGON TO YANGON † (visit our website for full reverse itinerary) PRICED FROM $6,789
KYAUK MYAUNG 7 MINGUN MANDALAY SAGAING Irrawaddy River AMARAPURA : SHWE PYI THAR BURMESE DAYS BAGAN MYANMAR ALONG THE (BURMA) 2 1 IRRAWADDY RIVER YANGON ALWAYS INCLUDED • Complimentary wine, local beer/spirits, soft drinks, and coffee/tea at lunch and dinner on board • Included sightseeing with headsets and expert local guides • Onboard meals daily, including four-course à la carte dinners with choice of THE ARTISTRY, ANCIENT appetisers, soups, salads, mains, and desserts AESTHETICS, AND TIMELESS • Complimentary coffee, tea, soft drinks, and local beer/spirits throughout the day • Complimentary Wi-Fi in the lounges TRADITIONS OF LIFE IN FOR A COMPLETE LIST OF STANDARD INCLUSIONS AND FEATURES, SEE PAGE 4. MYANMAR ARE REVEALED ON THE IRRAWADDY YOUR CHOICE Avalon knows there is more than one way to explore new destinations. In addition to included CLASSIC , DISCOVERY and ACTIVE excursions and activities, we offer select Guided Optional Excursions and free time suggestions to help you get the most out of every adventure.
CRUISE WYG Yangon to Yangon AU$ CRUISE WGY Yangon to Yangon AU$ 2019 DEPARTURES FROM* 2019 DEPARTURES FROM* Aug 30 6789 Aug 23 6789 Oct 23 7459 Oct 16 7459 Dec 16 7119 Dec 9 7119 † From price based on Aug 30 departure. *All prices are per person based on double room occupancy including intra-holiday air and taxes. Cruise price based on Category B in an Panorama Suite on Irrawaddy Deck. To upgrade to a Category A on Mandalay Deck, add $530 per person or $1060 in single occupancy. Sailing on Avalon Suite ShipSM Myanmar. Gratuities for Local Guides & drivers are included (excludes extensions which are to be paid locally). Gratuities for Cruise Director and crew may be added for $157. Extra nights in Yangon and Bangkok are available, see our website for more information. Avalon offers the opportunity for solo travellers to sail with no single supplement (subject to availability). Please call for single accommodation details and prices. Triples not available. For full terms & conditions see pages 80-83. Add flights to your holiday. Competitive prices without the hassle.
MINGUN
52 AvalonWaterways.com.au 53 CRUISE WYG
SAGAING DAY 5 MINGUN DAY 9 BAGAN (B,L,D) A Robust Bell and Prominent Pagoda (B,L,D) Temples and Shrines—from Sunrise to Sunset
CLASSIC This morning, take a Guided Walk through Today, explore Bagan, one of the world’s greatest the village of Mingun to see its bronze bell— archaeological sites. From the 9th to the 13th centuries considered the largest working bell in the over 13,000 temples, monasteries, and pagodas were world—and see the famed unfinished pagoda. built in the plains surrounding the city—an area of about 40 square miles. Many of these structures have been lost Afterward, sail a short distance to Mandalay. over time, but around 2,300 still stand today. MANDALAY–EXCURSION TO AMARAPURA DISCOVERY Early risers can visit one of the temples with a A Bridge to the Sun Local Guide to witness the sunrise. CLASSIC This afternoon, travel to nearby Amarapura, CLASSIC Start your Morning Excursion at a local market former capital of Myanmar. Your Escorted selling handicrafts, fabrics, and longyis. Visit focuses on the famous U Bein Bridge, Then, stop at Shwezigon Pagoda, one of the a 3/₄-mile-long bridge built in 1783 from country’s most important shrines. Lastly, visit reclaimed teakwood from the old royal palace a lacquer workshop to learn more about this in Inwa. Take a sampan ride on the lake for ancient craft. memorable views of the sunset. CLASSIC After lunch, your Guided Sightseeing centres OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN MANDALAY on the Bagan archaeological zone. Highlights include Ananda, considered by many to be the most beautiful temple, and Dhammayangyi, the best preserved monument left standing. Also, DAY 6 MANDALAY stop to see the exquisite and well-preserved (B,L,D) The Golden Tapestries of Mandalay fresco paintings at Sulamani. DISCOVERY End the day with an Ox-Cart Ride to a temple, CLASSIC In the morning, join a Guided Visit to local where you will ascend to the top as the sun sets. workshops to see skilled artisans at work making tapestries, woodcarvings, and gold- leaf. Lastly, visit Mahamuni Pagoda to see DAY 10 BAGAN (DISEMBARKATION)–YANGON its impressive gold-leaf Buddha. Due to the (B) Farewell to the Irrawaddy continual application of gold leaves, officials note the gold is six inches thick! Transfer to the airport for your flight to Yangon. The BURMESE DAYS: ALONG THE IRRAWADDY RIVER CLASSIC This afternoon, visit Kuthodaw Pagoda and remainder of the day is yours to spend at your leisure. Shwenandaw Monastery, the only remnants of former King Mindon’s “Golden City” to survive the bombing of World War II. Today, DAY 1 YANGON, MYANMAR DAY 4 KYAUK MYAUNG the original gilding has faded, but the DAY 11 YANGON (B) Welcome to Yangon, formerly known as Rangoon, the (B,L,D) Glazed and Amazed intricate wood carvings endure. Your holiday ends with breakfast this morning. country’s largest city and former capital. Hotel rooms are DISCOVERY This evening, enjoy a traditional Dance available for mid-afternoon check-in. DISCOVERY Take a Guided Walk through the captivating pottery-making village of Kyauk Myaung to Performance featuring local song and dance. learn more about and see the pottery-making OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN MANDALAY process. Most interesting is the eye-catching REVERSE COURSE DAY 2 YANGON 50-gallon variety, often referred to as Martaban CRUISE WGY—YANGON TO YANGON (B,L,D) Historic Landmarks, Hot Tea, and Harmonious Living or Ali Baba jars. These pots could transport Day 1, Arrive Yangon; Day 2, Yangon; Day 3, Yangon– large quantities of goods and have played an DAY 7 SAGAING Bagan (Embarkation); Day 4, Bagan; Day 5, Shwe Pyi CLASSIC A Guided Walk introduces you to the city’s important part of maritime trade throughout (B,L,D) Revelations and Relaxation Thar; Day 6, Sagaing–Amarapura; Day 7, Mandalay; Day famous and historic landmarks, including Asia for centuries. 8, Mingun; Day 9, Kyuak Myaung–Sin Kyun; Day 10, old colonial buildings and Sule Pagoda, built CLASSIC Enjoy a Morning Visit to Sagaing with countless DISCOVERY As you sail to Sin Kyun, join your Local Guide Mandalay (Disembarkation)–Yangon; Day 11, Yangon, your pagodas dotting the hillside. Stop to see during the time of Buddha. Along the way for a presentation on the Burmese language. holiday ends this morning. stop for a cup of tea or coffee with the locals. Kaunghmudaw Pagoda with its unique egg- shaped dome and a silversmith workshop. Lastly, For full itinerary details, visit our website. Next, stop at Chaukhtatgyi to see the massive SIN KYUN explore Soon U Ponya Shin Pagoda for stunning Reclining Buddha measuring 213 feet. Later in Striking Straw Creations the day, visit Shwedagon Pagoda, a national views across the Irrawaddy to Mandalay. symbol. Here, an enchanting scene unfolds as DISCOVERY Later in the day enjoy a Guided Excursion Join your Local Guide for a longyi and thanaka the sun sets on the golden stupa and locals to hat-making village of Sin Kyun. Here, presentation this afternoon. STAY LONGER come to pay their respects. farmers supplement their income by weaving intricate straw hats. AFTERNOON/EVENING CRUISING START YOUR HOLIDAY IN BANGKOK Tonight, your welcome dinner is in one of Yangon’s best FROM $8,028 LAND/CRUISE ONLY restaurants. OVERNIGHT DOCKING NEAR MINGUN Cruise WGYQ: 14 days from Bangkok to Yangon Cruise WYGQ Reverse Course: 14 days from Bangkok to DAY 8 SHWE PYI THAR Yangon (B,L,D) Rural Life in Myanmar DAY 3 MANDALAY (EMBARKATION) ADD INLE LAKE TO YOUR HOLIDAY (B,D) The Road to Mandalay and Your Suite ShipSM Await Enjoy time onboard your ship this morning. FROM $7,860 LAND/CRUISE ONLY Cruise WGYE: 13 days from Yangon to Yangon Fly to Mandalay this morning and transfer to the port for DISCOVERY This afternoon, partake in a Walking Tour Cruise WYGE Reverse Course: 13 days from Yangon to embarkation. This afternoon, get acquainted with the ship through Shwe Pyi Thar village. Here, visit a Yangon and relax prior to your welcome reception this evening. farmer’s home to learn more about daily life and see the locals making palm candy. After the ADD BANGKOK & INLE LAKE TO YOUR HOLIDAY sap is collected, it is cooked in an iron pan over FROM $9,070 LAND/CRUISE ONLY an open wood fire until it thickens and can be Cruise WGYY: 16 days from Bangkok to Yangon formed into small pieces by hand. Cruise WYGY Reverse Course: 16 days from Bangkok to DISCOVERY After dinner, a traditional Puppet Show will be Yangon presented in one of the lounges. See page 72 for more details or visit our website for full AFTERNOON/EVENING CRUISE TO BAGAN itineraries.
54 AvalonWaterways.com.au 55 CRUISING IN STYLE.
GANGES VOYAGER FEATURES
• Air-conditioned indoor lounge • Outdoor lounge with COMFORT AND ELEGANCE. shade system & lounge chairs • Spacious, open-seating dining room • Bar serving premium spirits, wine, complimentary coffee, tea, soft drinks, and local beer/spirits throughout the day The pioneering Ganges Voyager carries just 56 • Complimentary Wi-Fi access in lounge areas (where signal is available) guests and offers a warm and relaxed experience. • Spa treatment rooms The ship takes you back in time with the grace and • Fitness room
• Library & games style of the colonial era with wood furniture and • Non-smoking interior See page 76 for deck plan. hand-stenciled murals.
From the air-conditioned indoor lounge to the
outdoor lounge, you’ll find plenty of seating and
spots to relax. You’ll never feel cramped or crowded.
Plus, the indoor lounge features large windows, so no
matter where you sit, you’ll always have a great view.
56 AvalonWaterways.com.au 57 DELUXE SUITES.
IT’S ALL ABOUT THE VIEW.
Welcome to your private sanctuary, featuring 260 square feet
of living space. A comfortable sitting area, highlighted by floor-
to-ceiling windows, is the perfect place to watch the passing
scenery or relax after a sightseeing excursion. As night falls,
reflect on the day’s fascinating local encounters and wake up,
in your window-facing bed, eager for what lies ahead. There is
simply no better way to experience the Ganges.
AMENITIES LIST • Premium mattresses • Large French balcony with floor- • Spacious closets with shelves for • Bathrobes & slippers • Fine linens & duvets to-ceiling glass doors ample storage • Minibar with complimentary • Soft & firm pillows • Comfortable sitting area with • Luggage rack local beer, soft drinks & bottled two chairs water • Choice of bed configuration • Flatscreen television with (two twins or one king) • Large private bathroom featuring selection of on-demand movies • In-room safe full shower with rain shower • Nightly turn-down service • Writing desk/vanity with mirror & • Individual climate control head & glass door, hairdryer & comfortable chair • Bedside tables with reading premium bath amenities lamps • In-house telephone
58 AvalonWaterways.com.au 59 India has a long and colourful history dating back thousands of years. From medieval times and the Mughal Empire to British rule and independence, there are countless stories to tell. In more recent times, the lasting influence of iconic figures like Mahatma Gandhi and Mother Teresa have helped shape modern India.
Today, the country continues to add chapters to the history books. Modern civilisation crowds ancient buildings, weaving a unique tapestry. Cars jostle with motorbikes and rickshaws to move masses of people. Remarkable architectural monuments show the wealth of former rulers while “Bollywood” pushes back against conventional traditions. The striking contrasts will fascinate you.
Away from the big cities, life continues for many as it has for centuries. Local markets are the centre of villages, and craftsmen and craftswomen continue traditions passed on by their ancestors. The sun sets along the Ganges as farmers tend to their fields, and riveting religious rituals call pilgrims from all corners of the world. Each day, remarkable scenes of life unfold before your eyes, arousing your curiosity.
India is a land of extremes, one that will leave a lasting impression from the moment you arrive.
INCREDIBLE INDIA.
60 AvalonWaterways.com.au 61 THE GANGES & BEYOND.
The holy river of Hinduism, the Ganges, slowly courses through one of the world’s most fertile and populated areas. Along its banks, human life is connected to its waters and life away from India’s big cities moves at a more relaxed pace.
Cruise north from Kolkata and explore small villages and meet with the locals. Interact with goldsmiths, visit pottery makers, and take an electric rickshaw to see saree weaving up close. A highlight is a visit to the fascinating Hare Krishna headquarters in Mayapur, where worshippers from around the world come to study and pray. In Kolkata, visit Mother Teresa’s former home and the Victoria Memorial Museum.
On land, discover the capital city of Delhi with visits to Humayun’s Tomb, Gurudwara Bangla Sahibm, and more. Tour the massive Amber Fort towering over Jaipur and witness a private cultural performance. No visit to India would be complete without a stop at the country’s most iconic site, the Taj Mahal, for stunning views at sunrise and sunset.
All of this and more await you on this gripping voyage through the heart of India.
62 AvalonWaterways.com.au 63 13 DAYS | DELHI TO KOLKATA PRICED FROM $8,316†
DELHI 2
2 2 AGRA COLOURFUL INDIA JAIPUR
Ganges River & THE GANGES RIVER MURSHIDABAD MATIARI 6 INDIA MAYAPUR KALNA GUPTIPARA RENEW THE SPIRIT ON THE KOLKATA LEGENDARY GANGES RIVER AND ENTER A VIBRANT ALWAYS INCLUDED WORLD OF STUNNING • Complimentary wine, local beer/spirits, soft drinks, and coffee/tea at lunch and HORIZONS TO DISCOVER dinner on board • Included sightseeing with headsets and expert local guides • Onboard meals daily, including four-course à la carte dinners with choice of appetisers, soups, salads, mains, and desserts • Complimentary coffee, tea, soft drinks, and local beer/spirits throughout the day • Complimentary Wi-Fi in the lounges
FOR A COMPLETE LIST OF STANDARD INCLUSIONS AND FEATURES, SEE PAGE 4. YOUR CHOICE Avalon knows there is more than one way to explore new destinations. In addition to included CLASSIC , DISCOVERY and ACTIVE excursions and activities, we offer select Guided Optional Excursions and free time suggestions to help you get the most out of every adventure. HOTELS Delhi Oberoi The Oberoi, New Delhi (D) Jaipur Taj Jai Mahal Palace (D) Agra The Oberoi Amarvilas (D)
CRUISE WDK Delhi to Kolkata AU$ 2019 DEPARTURES FROM* 2019 DEPARTURES FROM* Feb 3 27 9436 Oct 4 23 31 9226-9436 Sep 8 8316 Nov 27 9436 † From price based on Sep 8 departure. *All prices are per person based on double room occupancy including intra-holiday air and taxes. Cruise price based on Category B in a Deluxe Suite on Main Deck. See below for upgrade pricing. Cruise Only option available for above departures from $5,270: Arrive Kolkata Day 7 for embarkation by 12 pm. Depart Kolkata Day 13 upon disembarkation at 8 am. Sailing on Ganges Voyager. Port charges $111 are included. Gratuities for Local Guides & drivers are included (excludes extensions which are to be paid locally). Gratuities for Cruise Director and crew may be added for $199. Extra nights in Delhi, Cochin, and Kathmandu are available, see our website for more information. Avalon offers the opportunity for solo travellers to sail with no single supplement (subject to availability). Please call for single accommodation details and prices. Triples not available. For full terms & conditions see pages 80-83. Add flights to your holiday. Competitive prices without the hassle. CATEGORY/DECK UPGRADE PRICE CATEGORY/DECK UPGRADE PRICE B Main Deck ----- Viceroy Suite Upper Deck $1,590 A Upper Deck $530 Maharaja Suite Upper Deck $2,110 Heritage Suite Upper Deck $1,060
TAJ MAHAL
64 AvalonWaterways.com.au 65 CRUISE WDK
RED FORT QUTUB MINAR
JAMA MASJID
COLOURFUL INDIA & THE GANGES RIVER
DAY 1 DELHI, INDIA DAY 3 DELHI–AGRA DAY 5 AGRA–JAIPUR DAY 7 JAIPUR–KOLKATA (EMBARKATION) Welcome to India’s capital city! Hotel rooms are available (B,L) Monuments of Worship and Remembrance (B,L) Palaces and Rare Printings in the Pink City (B,L,D) Welcome to West Bengal. Your Ship Awaits. for mid-afternoon check-in. CLASSIC This morning, take a Guided Excursion to Travel to Jaipur—the “Pink City” that was painted pink for Fly to Kolkata this morning to transfer to your ship. This visit Qutub Minar, the world’s tallest brick the Prince of Wales’ 1876 visit. afternoon, get acquainted with the ship prior to your minaret, dating back to the 11th century. welcome reception. CLASSIC This afternoon, take a Guided Tour of the City Next, visit Humayun’s Tomb and Gurudwara DAY 2 DELHI Palace and the adjoining museum, which AFTERNOON/EVENING CRUISE TO KALNA (B,L,D) Bangla Sahib, Delhi’s largest and most Saris, Spices, and Silver houses a collection of rare manuscripts. Also, prominent Sikh gurudwara (house of stop at Jantar Mantar and the famous Hawa CLASSIC Today’s Guided Sightseeing starts with an worship). orientation to see the Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Mahal (Palace of the Winds). After lunch, drive to Agra and settle in at your hotel DAY 8 KALNA India Gate, and the Presidential Palace. The evening is at your leisure. Afterward, take a rickshaw ride through overlooking the Taj Mahal. (B,L,D) Rituals, Rickshaws, and a Weaver’s Wares Chandni Chowk, a captivating local bazaar— DISCOVERY Ride on cycle rickshaws during your Guided with its ancient alleyways lined with quaint Tour of Kalna. Along the way visit the historic shops offering everything from silver and DAY 6 JAIPUR DAY 4 AGRA terracotta temple complex and receive saris to spices and electronics. (B,D) A Maharaja’s Marble Palace (B,D) Love’s Crowning Achievement blessings from the temple priest. Also visit a After lunch in a local restaurant, enjoy a bit of leisure CLASSIC Today, join a Guided Excursion to Jaipur’s muslin-weaver’s home. CLASSIC Start your day with a Sunrise Excursion time. Tonight, your Tour Director hosts a lavish welcome spectacular Amber Fort, built entirely of to the incomparable Taj Mahal—Moghul Enjoy a free afternoon on board your ship. dinner at your hotel. white marble and red sandstone, and Emperor Shah Jahan’s memorial to his featuring intricate mosaics, carvings, AFTERNOON/EVENING CRUISE TO MATIARI beloved wife—more than 20 years in the paintings, and mirror works. making. CLASSIC Later, take a Guided Tour to Agra Fort, Spend the afternoon at leisure. built by the Moghul Emperor Akbar. This DISCOVERY Tonight, enjoy a festive dinner with a formidable fortress of red sandstone Cultural Performance. conceals the imperial city of the Moghul rulers and its many palaces. For those interested, an excursion to the Taj at sunset is included.
66 AvalonWaterways.com.au 67 CRUISE WDK
ISKCON TEMPLE AMBER FORT
HAWA MAHAL
DAY 9 MATIARI DAY 11 MAYAPUR–GUPTIPARA DAY 12 KOLKATA (B,L,D) Shining Brass and Sweet Shops (B,L,D) A Holy Pilgrimage on the Ganges (B,L,D) Flowers, Faith, and Victorian Art STAY LONGER
DISCOVERY Join a Morning Walk in the brass-making CLASSIC Join a Morning Walk through the pilgrim’s CLASSIC This morning, take a Guided Walk through ADD SOUTHERN INDIA & VARANASI village of Matiari to see and interact with the bazaar and visit the ISKCON temple, and the colourful flower market. Afterward, stop FROM $10,745 LAND/CRUISE ONLY craftsmen there. You’ll also see traditional meet and interact with a Krishna leader. You’ll to see Mother Teresa’s former home and the Cruise WDKQ: 18 days from Cochin to Kolkata sweets being made. also visit a goshala (rescue shelter for cows). Calcutta rescue. ADD KATHMANDU Enjoy a free afternoon onboard your ship. DISCOVERY This afternoon, take a Rickshaw (Toto) Ride, CLASSIC After lunch, join a Guided Visit to the Victoria FROM $9,639 LAND/CRUISE ONLY and explore the village of Guptipara to see Memorial Museum. Built to commemorate Cruise WDKE: 16 days from Delhi to Kathmandu AFTERNOON/EVENING CRUISE TO MURSHIDABAD pottery and idol-making. You’ll also take Queen Victoria, the museum houses a an Escorted Visit to a farmer’s home and beautiful collection of paintings, textiles, ADD SOUTHERN INDIA, VARANASI & KATHMANDU interact with the family there. weapons, and other artifacts from the FROM $11,948 LAND/CRUISE ONLY Victorian era. Cruise WDKY: 21 days from Cochin to Kathmandu AFTERNOON/EVENING SAILING TO KOLKATA DAY 10 MURSHIDABAD. EXCURSION TO AZIMGANJ & Tonight, a farewell Dance Performance is presented on See page 73 for more details or visit our website for full (B,L,D) JIAGANJ itineraries. the ship. Silversmiths, Tea Service, and Saree Weaving
DISCOVERY Enjoy a short Guided Walk through Azimganj to see the local gold and silversmith workshops. You’ll also visit a local DAY 13 KOLKATA (DISEMBARKATION) landlord’s mansion for authentic Indian tea, (B) Your holiday ends with breakfast this morning. then travel by electric richshaw in Jiaganj to see the art of Baluchari saree weaving. Relax this afternoon onboard your ship. AFTERNOON/EVENING SAILING TO MAYAPUR
68 AvalonWaterways.com.au 69 MEKONG RIVER CRUISE EXTENSIONS Visit our website for full itinerary details and pricing.
ADD BANGKOK TO YOUR CRUISE AVAILABLE ON CRUISE WHS AND WSH DAY 1 HO CHI MINH CITY OR SIEM REAP—BANGKOK, THAILAND (B) Fly to Bangkok from Ho Chi Minh City or Siem Reap. Hotel rooms are available for mid-afternoon check-in.
DAY 2 BANGKOK (B,L) This morning, your Guided Sightseeing begins with a boat ride on the klongs, Bangkok’s famous canals. Stop at the stunning Grand Palace featuring the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Also, visit the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, the oldest and largest Buddhist temple in Bangkok. It houses ADD HANOI & HA LONG BAY TO YOUR CRUISE more than 1,000 Buddha images, including the 49-foot-high ADD SAPA TO YOUR CRUISE ADD HUE & DANANG TO YOUR CRUISE and 151-foot-long massive Reclining Buddha. The remainder AVAILABLE ON CRUISE WHS AND WSH of the day is at your leisure. AVAILABLE ON CRUISE WSI, WIS, WBS, AND WSB AVAILABLE ON CRUISE WSI, WIS, WBS, AND WSB
DAY 1 HANOI, VIETNAM DAY 1 HANOI–SAPA DAY 1 HA LONG BAY–HANOI–HUE Welcome to Vietnam! Hotel rooms are available for mid- (B) Today, transfer to the hill-station town of Sapa known for its (B) This morning, drive to Hanoi and board your flight for Hue. afternoon check-in. DAY 3 BANGKOK mountain scenery, rice fields, and colourful ethnic minority Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. (B) Enjoy a full day at your leisure. cultures. This afternoon, join a Walking Tour of this small town and visit the local market.
DAY 2 HANOI DAY 2 HUE (B,L,D) This morning, your Guided Sightseeing takes a look at the life DAY 4 BANGKOK (B,L) One of Vietnam’s former capitals, Hue is a beautiful, of Ho Chi Minh, the father of modern Vietnam. First, visit the (B) Your extension ends with breakfast this morning. DAY 2 SAPA welcoming city that remains a cultural and religious centre. mausoleum and the humble cottage from which “Uncle Ho” (B,L) Your Guided Sightseeing starts with a visit to Ta Van and Lao Start your Guided Sightseeing with a visit to the Imperial ruled Vietnam until his death in 1969. Next on the agenda: Chai villages, to see the traditional way of life of the Zay and Citadel and the Thien Mu Pagoda, the unofficial symbol of One Pillar Pagoda, the Presidential Palace, and the infamous Black Hmong ethnic groups. These ethnic groups live together the city. In the afternoon, your excursion provides a unique “Hanoi Hilton.” Also visit the ancient Temple of Literature, here under the watch of Fansipan Mountain. The Zay live a window into Vietnam and its dynastic past. Visit the tombs over 900 years old and Hanoi’s first university. Lunch is sedentary lifestyle and choose land near the valley’s bottom of the Nguyen Emperors: the Khai Dinh Mausoleum and the at Koto, a non-profit restaurant and hospitality program ADD LUANG PRABANG TO YOUR CRUISE for growing wet rice. The Hmong have historically preferred Royal Tomb of Tu Duc. higher elevations for corn farming but recently they’ve started that trains local street children in restaurant skills they can AVAILABLE ON CRUISE WSI, WIS, WBS, AND WSB use to find a job and build a stable life. After lunch, enjoy gradually moving to lower land and learning from others like the Zay. After lunch, visit the beautiful Silver Waterfall an electric cart ride through the fascinating Old Quarter, DAY 1 HA LONG BAY–HANOI–LUANG PRABANG, LAOS and ascend the highest road in Vietnam to Heaven Gate for DAY 3 HUE–DANANG with 36 ancient streets where peddlers trade as they have (B) This morning, drive to Hanoi and board your flight for Luang stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valley. (B,L) Today, drive south over spectacular Hai Van Pass (weather for centuries. An early dinner this evening is followed by a Prabang. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. fascinating performance of Hanoi’s renowned water puppets, permitting), considered to be one of the most scenic in all a traditional art form dating back to the 11th century. of Vietnam. In Danang, stop to Visit the Cham Museum and ascend Monkey Mountain to see the Lady Buddha and for panoramic views. Continue on to your resort for the evening. DAY 2 LUANG PRABANG DAY 3 SAPA (B,L) Today, enjoy a full day of Guided Sightseeing in this UNESCO (B,L) This morning, your Guided Tour includes one of the famous DAY 3 HANOI–HA LONG BAY World Heritage Site. Begin your morning by ascending Mount Weekly Markets. Here, the local ethnic minority groups wear (B,L,D) Travel from Hanoi through the fertile countryside to Hon Gai, Phousi for beautiful views over the city and Mekong River. their most beautiful costumes as they sell and trade their gateway to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. DAY 4 DANANG. EXCURSION TO HOI AN Then walk through the historic town centre stopping at Wat homemade products. The Flower Hmong group is most (B) Located in the Gulf of Tonkin, the bay is dotted with more Hoi An is Vietnam’s active trading centre and a town that Mai, famous for its 5-tiered roof built in the traditional style recognisable with their colourful dress. After a quick photo has been largely preserved, with architecture that reflects than 3,000 limestone islands carved into fanciful shapes by of Luang Prabang. You will also visit the National Museum stop at the China border, visit Taphin village, home of the the action of the water. Tunnels, caves, and weirdly shaped the influence of Chinese, Japanese, Portuguese, French, and Wat Xieng Thong, often thought to be the most beautiful Red Dao people who migrated from China starting in the and British traders. Hoi An is also where French missionary outcroppings with imaginative names can be found on many wat, or monastery, in the city. The remainder of the day is 12th century. The Dao women are recognisable by the bright of the small islets sprinkled across the bay. Board a Cruise Alexandre de Rhodes introduced Catholicism and Roman at your leisure to explore further. Perhaps consider a sunset red turban they wear and, in some cases, shaved eyebrows. script to Vietnam. Start with a Cruise on the Thu Bon River, Excursion to explore the caves, and admire the beauty and cruise on the Mekong! Tonight, consider exploring Sapa and stop at the famous “Love scale before stopping at one of the many secluded bays. where you will meet a local fisherman to see how to throw Market,” where local Hmong and Dao come from their villages and retrieve a traditional round fishing net called a ro. Next, for the chance to see one another and perhaps go on a date! enjoy a Walking Tour of Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Along the way, visit an old merchant DAY 3 LUANG PRABANG house, the Hoi An Museum, a Chinese assembly hall, and the DAY 4 HA LONG BAY–HANOI–HO CHI MINH CITY OR SIEM (B) Enjoy a full day at your leisure. (B) Japanese Covered Bridge. Then, enjoy some time at your REAP DAY 4 SAPA—HANOI leisure. This morning, drive to Hanoi and board your flight for Ho Chi (B) Today, transfer back to Hanoi and check in to your hotel for Minh City or Siem Reap to join Day 1 of Cruise WHS or WSH. the evening. DAY 4 LUANG PRABANG (B) Your extension ends with breakfast this morning. DAY 5 DANANG (B) A full day at leisure to further explore the area or relax at your beach resort! DAY 5 HANOI (B) Your holiday ends with breakfast this morning.
DAY 6 DANANG (B) Your holiday ends with breakfast this morning.
70 AvalonWaterways.com.au 71 IRRAWADDY RIVER CRUISE EXTENSIONS GANGES RIVER CRUISE EXTENSIONS Visit our website for full itinerary details and pricing. Visit our website for full itinerary details and pricing.
ADD SOUTHERN INDIA & VARANASI TO YOUR CRUISE AVAILABLE ON CRUISE WDK DAY 1 ARRIVE IN COCHIN, INDIA Welcome to Cochin, the “Gateway to Kerala.” Located on the Arabian Sea in Kerala, India’s southernmost state, Cochin is the perfect starting point to explore the region’s natural beauty. Your hotel room is available for mid-afternoon check-in.
DAY 2 COCHIN (B,L) Your Guided Tour starts with the Chinese Fishing Nets that are the livelihood of many fishermen in the area and a walk through the Jewish quarter. Next, visit the Kerala Folklore Museum which aims to preserve and educate people about ADD BANGKOK TO YOUR CRUISE ADD INLE LAKE TO YOUR CRUISE the unique culture and heritage of South India. This afternoon, ADD KATHMANDU TO YOUR CRUISE AVAILABLE ON CRUISE WBK, WKB, WYG, AND WGY AVAILABLE ON CRUISE WBK, WKB, WYG, AND WGY enjoy an unforgettable Cruise on the backwaters of Kerala. AVAILABLE ON CRUISE WDK Explore and witness local life along these serene waterways surrounded by lush palm trees and paddy fields. DAY 1 BANGKOK, THAILAND DAY 1 BAGAN OR BHAMO–HEHO–INLE LAKE DAY 1 KOLKATA–KATHMANDU, NEPAL (B) Welcome to Bangkok! Hotel rooms are available for mid- (B,L,D) Transfer to the airport and fly to Heho, gateway to Inle Lake, (B) Today, fly to Nepal. The remainder of the day is at your afternoon check-in. a tranquil body of water surrounded by mountains. Pause at leisure. Red Mountain Estate to bask in the beautiful scenery as you DAY 3 COCHIN–MUMBAI enjoy a lunch of authentic fare and wine produced from the (B) Today, fly to Mumbai, a multicultural metropolis with a vineyards here. Continue to your lakeside resort, where you colourful history. This vibrant city is now India’s premier DAY 2 BANGKOK DAY 2 KATHMANDU will spend the next two nights. seaport, center of culture and industry, and home to the (B,L) This morning, your Guided Sightseeing begins with a boat (B,L) Today, your Guided Sightseeing starts with a visit to “Bollywood” movie industry. ride on the klongs, Bangkok’s famous canals. Stop at the Hanuman Dhoka, the historic seat of royalty. Then, visit the stunning Grand Palace featuring the Temple of the Emerald Temple of Kumari, residence of the Living Goddess and said Buddha. Also, visit the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, the DAY 2 INLE LAKE to be constructed from the wood of a single tree. Enjoy the oldest and largest Buddhist temple in Bangkok. It houses (B,L,D) Today, join a fascinating Guided Excursion to see scenes DAY 4 MUMBAI afternoon at leisure in Kathmandu. more than 1,000 Buddha images, including the 49-foot-high of life around the lake. Stilted houses dot the shorelines, (B,L) Your Guided Tour starts at the Gateway of India, Mumbai’s and 151-foot-long massive Reclining Buddha. The remainder and the local Intha people use the famous one-legged most famous monument commemorating the visit of Queen of the day is at your leisure. (B,L) rowing technique to fish and tend their floating gardens of Mary. Then, drive along Marine Drive, a seafront promenade, DAY 3 KATHMANDU tomatoes, cucumbers, aubergine, and more. These clever and see a traditional Dhobi Ghat (open-air laundromat). You (B,L) Start your Sightseeing Tour at Bouddahanath, one of the gardens are made from weeds lashed together and mud will also visit the Hanging Gardens, Mumbai Museum, and largest stupas in the world and a focal point of Tibetan from the lake bottom, then anchored using bamboo poles, Mani Bhavan, the former residence of Mahatma Gandhi. The DAY 3 BANGKOK Buddhism in Nepal. Then, continue to Patan, formerly known allowing them to rise and fall with the water level of the lake. remainder of the day is at your leisure. (B) Enjoy a full day at your leisure. Along the way, stop at a silk workshop, where they use the as Lalitpur (“City of Beauty”). Here, stop in Durbar Square, the fibres of the lotus plant to weave garments. You will also city’s centre of business and home to several Buddhist and visit a silversmith workshop and a cheroot workshop, where Hindu sites. The remainder of the day is free. young girls roll the cigars at a dizzying pace. Before dinner, DAY 5 MUMBAI–VARANASI DAY 4 BANGKOK–YANGON, MYANMAR attend a music and dance performance by the Padaung (B,D) Fly to Varanasi, the holiest of Hindu pilgrim cities, situated (B) Today, fly to Yangon and join day 1 of cruise WBK, WKB, long-necked women who live in this part of the country. on the banks of the sacred Ganges River. Early this evening, WYG, or WGY. DAY 4 KATHMANDU witness the Ganga Aarti (spiritual worship) on the ghats Your holiday ends with breakfast this morning. (steps) leading down to the Ganges.
DAY 3 INLE LAKE–HEHO–YANGON (B,L,D) Today, transfer to Heho for your flight back to Yangon for an overnight stay. DAY 6 VARANASI–DELHI (B,L) Around dawn, board a Boat and watch a striking religious ritual—the Hindus’ devotional bathing in the Ganges. You’ll observe hundreds of pilgrims gathered at the river’s edge, DAY 4 YANGON some practicing yoga, others meditating, and still others (B) Your extension ends with breakfast this morning. bathing fully clothed. Return to your hotel for breakfast. Afterwards, a Guided Excursion takes you to nearby Sarnath, the “Cradle of Buddhism,” where Buddha first spoke of his philosophy. Later fly to Delhi.
72 AvalonWaterways.com.au 73 CRUISING ON THE MEKONG RIVER CRUISING ON THE IRRAWADDY RIVER AVALON SIEM REAPSM (2015) & AVALON SAIGONSM (2018) AVALON MYANMARSM (2015)
Passengers: 36 | Crew Members: 28 | Panorama SuitesSM: 18 (245 sq. ft.) Passengers: 36 | Crew Members: 28 | Panorama SuitesSM: 18 (245 sq. ft.) Length: 195 ft. | Decks: 2 Length: 200 ft. | Decks: 3
SIDE VIEW SIDE VIEW SKY DECK
2 1 4 3
TONLE DECK
MANDALAY DECK
7 9 5 10 6 8
November 8th, 2013 MEKONG DECK IRRAWADDY DECK
DECK PLAN CATEGORIES DECK PLAN CATEGORIES 1 Open-air observation 3 Bar 7 Galley Cat. A Tonle Deck | Panorama Suites 1 Navigation Bridge 5 Open-air observation 7 Bar Cat. A Mandalay Deck | Panorama Suites lounge with premium 4 Reception 8 Navigation Bridge 2 Spa treatment rooms lounge with premium 8 Reception lounge chairs Cat. B Mekong Deck | Panorama Suites lounge chairs Cat. B Irrawaddy Deck | Panorama Suites 5 Spa treatment room 9 Fitness Center 3 Fitness Center 9 Dining Room 2 Panorama Lounge 6 Panorama Lounge 6 Dining Room 4 Premium lounge chairs 10 Galley
PANORAMA SUITES PANORAMA SUITES
245 SQ. FT. 245 SQ. FT. TONLE & MEKONG DECKS IRRAWADDY & MANDALAY DECKS Category A & B Category A & B
Wall-to-Wall Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Window Panoramic Window Creating an Open-Air Creating an Open-Air BalconySM BalconySM
King-Size King-Size Bed Bed
AMENITIES AMENITIES • Comfort Collection BedsSM, featuring premium • Bedside tables with reading lamps • Writing desk/vanity with mirror & comfortable chair • Comfort Collection BedsSM, featuring premium • Bedside tables with reading lamps • Writing desk/vanity with mirror & comfortable chair mattress covers • 14’ Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Window that opens to • In-house telephone mattress covers • 14’ Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Window that opens to • In-house telephone SM • Egyptian super-combed cotton linens, blankets & create a large Open-Air Balcony • Bathrobes & slippers • Egyptian super-combed cotton linens, create a large Open-Air BalconySM • Bathrobes & slippers European-style duvets • Large private bathroom featuring full shower with blankets & European-style duvets • Complimentary bottled water • Large private bathroom featuring full shower with • Complimentary bottled water • Soft & firm pillows glass door, hairdryer & premium bath products • Soft & firm pillows glass door, hairdryer & premium bath products • In-room safe • In-room safe • Choice of bed configuration (two twins or one king) • Spacious closets with shelves for ample storage • Choice of bed configuration (two twins or one king) • Spacious closets with shelves for ample storage • Individual climate control • Individual climate control • Nightly turn-down service • Easy under-bed luggage storage • Nightly turn-down service • Easy under-bed luggage storage
74 AvalonWaterways.com.au 75 CRUISING ON THE GANGES AVALON TRAVELLER ICONS: GANGES VOYAGER (2015)
Passengers: 56 | Crew Members: 35 | Length: 185 ft. | Decks: 3 CAMBODIA PROJECT Maharaja Suite: 1 (400 sq. ft.) | Viceroy Suites: 2 (360 sq. ft.) | Heritage Suites: 2 (280 sq. ft.) | Deluxe Suites: 23 (260 sq. ft.) Kaliyan Mith program Siem Reap; part of the ChildSafe Network
PROFILE
SUN DECK
UPPER DECK
All suites on this deck have french balconies. Suite 301 & 302 have juliette balconies.
MAIN DECK
All suites on this deck have french balconies.
Visiting Cambodia can be a life-changing experience. Two things Friends-International, this powerful, proven program enlists the Main Deck | Deluxe Suites Upper Deck Cat. B Heritage Suite Maharaja Suite Upper Deck that visitors remember are the amazing archaeological treasures tourism community, both local and international, to support the CATEGORIES Cat. A Upper Deck | Deluxe Suites Viceroy Suite Upper Deck and the Cambodian people. Their warm, friendly personalities truly welfare, advancement, and safety of children. leave a lasting impression—as do their touching stories. Today, there In Siem Reap, the ChildSafe Network is run by the Friends- is no story more important to tell than the growing number of International program Kaliyan Mith, which offers a comprehensive children living in poverty. range of services and projects. This includes outreach to children Siem Reap, with its proximity to the temples of Angkor, has and youth living on the streets, providing a safe space for young developed into a major tourism centre in Cambodia. In 2013, people through drop-in centres, an educational centre and school Cambodia saw 4.2 million tourists and over half of these visitors re-integration, vocational training and employment for youth and
DELUXE SUITE (CAT. B & A) HERITAGE SUITE VICEROY SUITE MAHARAJA SUITE arrived through Siem Reap. This recent growth in tourism has their parents, and the provision of temporary accommodation brought a good deal of wealth to the city, which has led a growing through a transitional home. The program also includes awareness- number of impoverished families to move to the city from raising campaigns in areas where child begging is especially AMENITIES surrounding villages in hopes of a better life. Often unprepared and prominent as well as a 24/7 ChildSafe Emergency Hotline. with few employable skills, the hope for economic opportunities • Premium mattresses • Large French balcony with floor-to- • Spacious closets with shelves for • In-house telephone Avalon is a firm believer in this mission. Education is the key—not has instead increased the number of children, families, and mothers • Fine linens & duvets ceiling glass doors ample storage • Bathrobes & slippers only for the children but for all visitors, and we do all we can to with small babies begging or selling souvenirs to tourists on the • Soft & firm pillows • Comfortable sitting area with two • Luggage rack • Minibar with complimentary local ensure that the begging lifestyle is not promoted on our journeys chairs streets and around the temples. • Choice of bed configuration • Flatscreen television with selection beer, soft drinks & bottled water including Siem Reap and throughout the rest of Asia. (two twins or one king) • Large private bathroom featuring of on-demand movies • In-room safe To respond to these challenges, Avalon, in partnership with Tourism full shower with rain shower head & Visit TourismCares.org for more information on this non-profit • Nightly turn-down service • Writing desk/vanity with mirror & • Individual climate control Cares, is proud to help fund the ChildSafe Network. Initiated by glass door, hairdryer & premium bath comfortable chair initiative. • Bedside tables with reading lamps amenities
76 AvalonWaterways.com.au 77 AVALON GIVES YOU MORE VALUE WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ON BOARD
ACCURATE, DETAILED DESCRIPTIONS ON BOARD GRATUITIES Read our descriptions and you’ll understand the true value of our holidays. The Some gratuities for Mekong, Irrawaddy & Ganges cruise holidays are included agenda for each day is spelt out so that you know exactly what is included in for services during the land stay of your holiday. This includes local guides and the price. Our descriptions are unusually specific. With Avalon you don’t have drivers during the cruise portion of your holiday, wait staff at included meals, to guess. hospitality staff at hotels for nights purchased through Avalon, and porterage at hotels for one suitcase per person. Gratuities for your Cruise Director and ship’s MYACCOUNT crew are not included in the holiday price however can be pre-paid prior to Avalon offers our travellers the opportunity to pre-purchase select optional departure. excursions via our MyAccount feature. Please note that excursions purchased via MyAccount must be paid in full 4 days prior to the commencement of BEFORE YOU GO tour services and are not refundable within 4 days of departure. For a listing of Avalon will send you a set of travel documents, which includes a wallet to hold optional excursions available for pre-purchase by cruise, visit our website. your passport, baggage tags, a copy of your itinerary, and, where applicable, information on your tour hotels and optional excursions. YOUNG TRAVELLERS We do not accept children under eight years old because we’ve found that they SAFETYNET PROTECTION are too young to enjoy these cruises. There are no special arrangements or Avalon Waterways is dedicated to ensuring your trip is worry and hassle free, activities for children on Avalon Waterways cruises. even when booking. Should you be uncertain what your commitments will be leading up to your departure, Avalon Waterways offer a SafetyNet Protection SINGLE ROOM SUPPLEMENT policy, for $75 per person. For single travellers who prefer the privacy of their own room and stateroom, single accommodation can, of course, be requested. Call for single room The SafetyNet Transfer Protection enables Avalon Waterways passengers to supplements. amend their cruise up to 24 hours prior to the commencement of services to another cruise departing in 2019, “(once only)” without any applicable EXTRA NIGHTS/CRUISE ONLY cancellation charges or penalties imposed by Avalon Waterways OR The If you’d like to add extra hotel nights, we will try to make arrangements for you SafetyNet Cancellation Protection* enables Avalon Waterways passengers to at our contracted rates, provided you request them at the time you book. Rates cancel their cruise in full-up to 30 days prior to the commencement of service are per person, per night, and include room with private bath, breakfast, service AIR-CONDITIONING & HEATING LAUNDRY date in 2019 without any applicable cancellation charges or penalties imposed charges and taxes. Extra hotel nights are only available immediately prior to or All rooms on the ships are air-conditioned and heated. All ships have individual Laundry service is available on board for a modest fee. Price lists will be available in by Avalon Waterways. after your cruise. If your cruise includes a hotel stay, every effort will be made controls in the staterooms. your stateroom. Please note that clothes cannot be dry cleaned on board. For safety to reserve extra nights at the hotel where your cruise stays. If space at the reasons, we ask that you do not iron clothing in your cabin. For a small fee, the BEVERAGES hotel is not available, alternative accommodation will be reserved at a hotel of onboard laundry service is available to iron clothing. Regular coffee, tea & iced tea are available free of charge throughout the day from equivalent standard. When this is the case, the transfer to and from the included CONDITIONS OF THE SAFETYNET PROTECTION POLICY LIBRARY The $75 SafetyNet Protection must be paid at the time of deposit and is payable per person per booking (not per the self service coffee stations as well as complimentary beer/spirits and soft drinks hotel is at our expense. During particularly busy periods, hotel space in certain You may check out books from the ship’s library free of charge. We ask that you cruise) and is non-refundable. from the bar. Complimentary wine is served with lunch and dinner and there is a cities can become so tight that we may be unable to sell extra nights. return them before your cruise ends. The SafetyNet Transfer Protection and SafetyNet Cancellation Protection applies to the cruise, associated pre/post non-alcoholic alternative. SAVE BY FORMING YOUR OWN GROUP accommodation and transfers booked directly with Avalon Waterways. The SafetyNet Protection does not apply to MAIL SERVICE If you form your own group, you’ll receive the following rebates: On all Avalon any airfares booked and ticketed via Avalon Waterways, or any products purchased via another wholesale or retail CLOTHING Stamps and postcards are available for purchase on board. Mail is sent from each Waterways river cruises, one person travels free in a group of 16. The group supplier. The SafetyNet Protection does not apply to any service charge or cancellation fee charged to you by your Dress aboard and on shore is “casual and comfortable”. We kindly request that major port. Travel Agent. Passengers can only use “one” of the two SafetyNet Protection Policies; choose either the SafetyNet rebate is based on the double occupancy rate of the lowest cabin category shorts not be worn in the restaurant or lounge in the evenings. Bathing suits are Transfer Protection, or the SafetyNet Cancellation Protection, not both. For example: if a passenger uses the SafetyNet MEDICAL SERVICES booked and does not include supplements or additional services. Single room Transfer Protection to amend their 2019 cruise (say 48 hours prior to the commencement of services) to a later 2019 not appropriate in the lounge or restaurant at any time. You may wish to wear Should you fall ill, please contact your ship’s reception at once. Due to the proximity and stateroom supplements have to be paid in full. These group rebates do not Avalon Waterways cruise departure date, they then cannot use the SafetyNet Cancellation Protection to cancel their something a little dressier for the Captains Dinner. We recommend that for shore to land, medical services can be called from shore when necessary. apply to any international or intra-tour flights. Avalon Waterways cruise in full without incurring the applicable cancellation charges or penalties – as per the 2019 excursions you wear comfortable shoes and don’t forget a sun hat! Avalon Waterways Terms and Conditions. NEWSLETTER DELUXE, SUPERIOR FIRST-CLASS & FIRST-CLASS HOTELS CRUISE DIRECTOR If the SafetyNet Transfer Protection is applied, and the booking is subsequently cancelled by the passenger, the A daily newsletter is produced on each ship and features information about daily NEARLY EVERYWHERE original booking and transfer date will be reviewed, the transfer date of the original booking will then be taken as the A professional, experienced, English-speaking Cruise Director accompanies every activities, shore excursions, tour departure times, and more. Avalon Waterways is proud to be associated with some of the finest cancellation date. Cancellation penalties that apply to the original booking will be compared with the cancellation departure. establishments worldwide. Many of them belong to famous chains such as penalties to that of the transferred booking, the higher penalties will be applied. ONBOARD LANGUAGE Westin, InterContinental and Hilton. The specific hotels we have selected for Please Note: The SafetyNet Protection must be purchased for each individual passenger and the purchase covers CUISINE The language on board is English. All staff, crew, and Tour Directors speak English. you are listed separately for each holiday. The vast majority of them are deluxe an individual passenger’s Avalon Waterways cruises booked at the same time the SafetyNet Protection is purchased. All meals on board are prepared by accomplished chefs and consist of local food All announcements and commentary will be in English. SafetyNet Protection does not apply to group bookings. (D), superior first-class (SF), or first-class (F) establishments. In a few overnight adjusted to suit the tastes of international passengers. Western alternatives are also ONBOARD SHOP places, where there is no hotel in these categories, we choose the best available available. There are no gift shops on the Mekong, Irrawaddy & Ganges ships. (BA) hotels. CURRENCY & CREDIT CARDS PAYMENT DURING THE CRUISE Avalon Waterways hotel ratings follow the standards set by the independent Although, each country has its own currency including the Riel (Cambodia), Dong A cashless system operates on the vessels. Purchases and shipboard services are Hotel & Travel Index and by national tourist boards. The specific rating for each (Vietnam), Bhat (Thailand), Kip (Laos), Burmese Kyat (Myanmar), Rupee (India), credited to your account (see “Shipboard Account”). contract hotel is determined by our quality controllers. U.S. dollars are widely accepted in each country. ATMs are available in most large cities and will dispense the local currency. The currency on board is the U.S. dollar. SAFES We reserve the right to substitute hotels listed on the itinerary pages with hotels Although it is recommended that you leave valuables at home, all staterooms are of equivalent standard. With your Avalon Waterways travel documents you’ll Shipboard accounts can be settled by credit card (Visa or Mastercard) or with cash. Traveller’s cheques are not accepted. equipped with a safe. Any items that exceed the size of the safe can be checked into receive a list of hotel addresses, telephone numbers, and fax numbers for your the ship’s reception desk. holiday. DINING SMOKING Meals are served in the dining room in a single sitting. There is open seating so you EARLY PAYMENT DISCOUNT – SAVE 2.5% Smoking is permitted in designated areas only. Book your Avalon Waterways cruise, pay in full four months before the may sit at different tables for each meal if you wish to meet other fellow passengers. departure date of your first cruise, and get a 2.5% discount on your total (land/ All meals on board the ship are included. SPECIAL OCCASIONS cruise) tour purchase. Passengers celebrating special occasions such as anniversaries or birthdays should ELECTRICITY alert ship personnel upon boarding the ship. EXTRA TOUR DISCOUNT – SAVE UP TO $150 PER COUPLE Electricity on board is 220v. Bathrooms have a dual 220v/110-120v plug for shavers Our cruises are designed and scheduled so you can combine them with other and small appliances. You will need an adapter or converter to use in other outlets TELEPHONES There are no phones in the suites but one is available at reception if needed. Any touring products offered by the Globus Family. Choose a second or subsequent in the stateroom for any small personal items such as a razor, curling iron or an charges are placed on your shipboard account. Avalon Waterways cruise or tour and you will save up to $75 per person off your alarm clock. additional cruise/tours. This discount does not apply if one of the holidays is a TELEVISION single city stay Monograms holiday. EMAIL, INTERNET & FAX On the Mekong and the Irrawaddy there is no TV on board the ship. Complimentary Wi-Fi access is available in lounge areas (when signal is available). AIRPORT TRANSFERS Wi-Fi may also be available in hotels. YOUR SHIPBOARD ACCOUNT Avalon Waterways offers airport transfers at an additional cost on the first and For your convenience, all purchases and extra services on board (after your last day of the river cruise program and where extra nights pre or post cruise HAIRDRYERS authorisation) are billed to your personal shipboard account. At the end of your have been booked. For prices please contact us. Each stateroom is equipped with a hair dryer. Please contact Reception if there is no cruise, you will receive a total which can be paid with cash or charged to a major hairdryer in your room. credit card.
78 AvalonWaterways.com.au 79 TERMS & CONDITIONS CONT.
24. The following age restrictions apply to land tours and cruises: Standard Cancellation Fees for escorted and independent holidays: TERMS & CONDITIONS PLEASE READ CAREFULLY a) Globus and Cosmos escorted holidays: children aged 8 years and over are eligible to travel. Travellers 37. 45-22 days prior to scheduled departure: 20% of total price (including SafetyNet Protection) aged 8-17 receive a 10% discount on the base land holiday price, not including internal air travel. 38. 21-8 days prior to scheduled departure: 30% of total price (including SafetyNet Protection) The purchase of any travel services offered by Circuit Travel Pty Ltd (ABN 12 001 268 257), authorised Travellers Who Need Special Assistance on Tours and/or Cruises b) Monograms independent holidays: children of all ages are eligible to travel. Land arrangements 39. 7-1 days prior to scheduled departure: 50% of total price (including SafetyNet Protection) to trade as The Globus Family of Brands (which includes the authorisation to trade as Globus, Cosmos, 13. You must report to The Company any disability requiring special attention while on tour or on cruise for infants under two years of age are free of charge, providing parents pay hotels directly for special 40. On scheduled departure day and later: 100% of total price (including SafetyNet Protection arrangements (eg. Food, cot etc). In Europe, children aged 11 and under receive a 25% discount on Monograms and Avalon Waterways) (“The Company”) constitutes a contractual arrangement between you at the time the reservation is made. The Company will make reasonable efforts to accommodate 41. Note: Pre-paid gratuities are not subject to cancellation fees. the land tour price when sharing with an adult (not including internal air). Children aged 12-17 receive (also referred to in these conditions as “traveller”) and The Company, and represents your acceptance of The the special needs of disabled travellers, but is not responsible in the event it is unable to do so a 10% discount off the land tour price (not including internal air travel) when sharing accommodation Standard Cancellation Fees for cruise holidays: Company’s Terms & Conditions as set out herein. Please ensure that you carefully read and understand these nor responsible for any denial of services by air carriers, hotels, restaurants, or other independent with an adult. In South America, children aged 2-17 receive a 10% discount off the land tour price (not 42. 90-60 days prior to scheduled departure: 35% of total price (including SafetyNet Protection) Terms & Conditions prior to booking. As the lead traveller, you represent and warrant that you are authorised suppliers. The Company does not provide personal services (such as pushing a wheelchair, assisting including internal air travel) when sharing accommodation with an adult. 43. 59-30 days prior to scheduled departure: 50% of total price(including SafetyNet Protection) to accept The Company’s Terms & Conditions on behalf of everyone named in your booking, and you will be with walking, etc.) and The Company does not provide individual assistance to a holiday participant for deemed to have accepted The Company’s Terms & Conditions on behalf of everyone named in your booking. walking, dining, getting on and off coaches, cruise ships, and other vehicles, or other personal needs. A c) River cruises: children aged 8 years and over are eligible to travel. 44. 29-1 days prior to scheduled departure: 80% of total price (including SafetyNet Protection) You are advised to check The Company’s websites or to request the latest version of the Terms & Conditions qualified and physically able companion should accompany travellers who need such assistance. 25. Young traveller discounts are based on the age of the traveller at the scheduled departure date. 45. On scheduled departure day and later: 100% of total price (including SafetyNet Protection from your Travel Agent or The Company prior to booking your holiday. 14. If we are not notified at time of reservation of any disability requiring special attention, The Company 26. Due to heightened security, many countries have adopted practices to prevent international abductions 46. Note: Pre-paid gratuities and Port Charges are not subject to cancellation fees. Additional Terms and Conditions apply to group reservations. For group reservations, please call 1300 330 reserves the right to cancel your booking or terminate your holiday if your special needs or disabilities of children. If a person under the age of 18 years will be travelling with an adult other than his/her Exceptions to the standard cancellation fees: 334 or see the Travel Agent section on the website. are not suitable for the holiday, pose a threat to the health and safety of other participants or personnel parents, or with only one parent, it is recommended that a notarised letter be written by the parents, or 47. Other cancellation fees may apply to holidays listed in this brochure. Please check with your Travel non-travelling parent, granting authorisation to travel, including the dates of travel. We suggest that you BEFORE YOU MAKE A BOOKING on board the vessel, are incompatible with other travellers, or if you are not travelling with a companion Agent or the Company prior to booking for the latest Terms & Conditions. who provides all the assistance you require. The Company will not refund or cover any costs or also contact the appropriate consulate and airlines because they may have additional requirements or Deposit and Final Payment recommendations 48. Cancellation fees may also apply to any additional services reserved prior to, during, and after the expenses incurred for cancellation, booking, or termination of the holiday. Cancellation penalties, as 1. Except as provided in clause 5, a non-refundable, non-transferable deposit of $250 per person per holiday. If flight changes (including but not limited to flight cancellations or name changes) are above, apply. Not Included in the Holiday Price requested, revision fees, change fees, or airline cancellation fees will apply in addition to the above land tour and $500 per person per cruise is required for The Company to reserve space for you, with 27. Airfares & airport taxes and fees (unless specified); passports; visas; vaccinations; tips to your Cruise/ 15. Not all sightseeing stops/sites accommodate wheelchairs, and some locations and sightseeing activities cancellation fees (see “Revision Fees” below). some limited exceptions as noted below. The deposit must be received within 7 days of booking. On Tour Director, local city guides and other ship personnel (unless specified); gratuities on ferries, trains require extensive standing, sitting, or walking—sometimes on unpaved or cobblestone streets. The 49. Airline revision or change fees may be up to 100% of the ticket price. Cancellation penalties will be certain departures, deposits and/or passport details may be required at time of booking to hold or to and cruise ships (except for European cruises, where gratuities to Cruise Director and ship’s crew quoted at the time of cancellation. If an air travel inclusive holiday is cancelled after air tickets have confirm space for you. Your reservation will be automatically cancelled if the deposit is not received by Company will not refund or cover any cost or expense incurred for any missed activities due to a and port charges are included); laundry; telephone; minibar; alcohol; beverages and food not on the been issued, any applicable refunds will be processed after air tickets are returned to The Company. The Company by the deposit due date. Your booking is not confirmed and payment is not deemed made participant’s inability to fully participate with the group. Most transportation services, including the contracted Avalon, Globus or Monograms menu (these extra items will be billed to you before leaving until the deposit is received by The Company and The Company sends a confirmation invoice to you. touring motorcoaches and cruise ships, are not equipped with wheelchair ramps. Although some of our the hotel, ship or restaurant); optional excursions; porterage at airports and train stations; SafetyNet 50. Cancellation fees relating to insurance policies will be subject to the Terms and Conditions of the Any bookings made within 21 days of your departure from Australia will incur a late booking fee of $30 ships have elevators, many of our small ships do not. Passengers requiring ship elevators should inquire Protection; insurance of any kind; baggage fees; and all other items of personal nature. Some South insurance provider and will incur the standard Revision Fee (see “Revision Fees” below). per transaction. For cruise departures that feature Intra Air flights, a non-refundable, non-transferable before making reservations. America countries (Argentina and Chile) require international travellers to pay entry and/or exit fees at Insurance deposit of $1000 per person per cruise is required within 7 days of booking. 16. Most stateroom and bathroom doors as well as restrooms are not wide enough to allow access by the airport. These fees will be collected by the local government and are payable by the traveller at time 51. The above cancellation charges will be applied in all cases. The Company strongly recommends you 2. Payment of the deposit confirms you have read and accepted these Terms and Conditions. standard wheelchairs, and bathrooms and other doorways may be fitted with coamings. Motorised of travel. Your confirmation booking will contain information about these fees. For more information take out comprehensive travel insurance, including coverage for medical expenses, loss of luggage, and 3. Payment of the balance in full must be received by The Company not less than 45 days before a scooters and motorised wheelchairs are not permitted on Avalon cruises. Arrangements cannot be please see your Travel Agent. land content and airfare charges that may arise, including due to cancellation. scheduled land tour departure, and not less than 90 days before a scheduled cruise departure, or made to carry or use these on tour or cruise and if you bring one, you will be asked to make alternate Acceptance of Risk Revision Fees earlier if specified for the particular holiday. For bookings made within these periods, payment in full is arrangements for transporting the scooter to your end destination at your expense. Collapsible 28. Please be aware that during your participation in holidays operated by The Company, certain risks 52. A fee of $30 per transaction will be charged for any alteration or revision made to a reservation after required at the time of booking. If final payment is not received by The Company by the due date, your wheelchairs are permitted on board, but for safety reasons, the number The Company can accept is and dangers may arise beyond our control, including but not limited to: the hazards of travelling in the deposit is made. Any revision to an air travel reservation may result in the loss of confirmed airline reservation will be cancelled and your full deposit, including SafetyNet Protection payments, will be limited and wheelchair maximum size must not exceed 1030mm/40.55in length x 555mm/21.85in undeveloped areas; travel by boat, train, automobile, aircraft, or other means of transportation; forces reservations or increased airfare which will be payable by you. Additional airline and hotel charges retained by The Company. wide. You must notify The Company at the time of booking of your intention to bring a wheelchair to of nature; political unrest; acts of lawlessness or terrorism; and accident or illness in remote regions may also apply and may be up to 100% of the full price. A change of traveller name, holiday date, or 4. The Company accepts payment via Bpay, electronic fund transfer (EFT), Paypal, cheque, Visa, ensure The Company can accommodate within safety regulations. Otherwise, you or your wheelchair without means of rapid evacuation or medical facilities. The Company will not be liable for the provision itinerary after the final payment date will be treated as a full cancellation and new reservation; holiday MasterCard and American Express. Merchant fees apply to purchases made by credit card. Please may not be permitted on board. There is no separate storage for wheelchairs; it must be kept in your of medical care or the adequacy of any care that may be rendered. While The Company will use its cancellation fees (as above) apply. best efforts to ensure that adequate measures are taken, by agreeing to participate in a holiday and/ review and verify your booking invoice thoroughly and contact your Travel Agent or The Company stateroom. For safety reasons, passengers in wheelchairs cannot be carried on ramps in ports where Refunds immediately if your invoice appears to be incorrect or incomplete, as it may not be possible to make the ship is at anchor. or optional excursions you agree that you will hold The Company harmless regarding any provision of 53. Please note that any request for refunds is subject to these Terms & Conditions. No refund will be made medical care or the adequacy of any care rendered. changes later. The Company cannot accept responsibility if it is not notified of invoice inaccuracies Visas & Passports for unused services (including early or enforced disembarkation), for unused transportation where within 5 days of sending out the invoice. In the case of billing errors, The Company reserves the right to 17. You are responsible for obtaining and paying for all visas and entry documents, for meeting all health Acceptance of Risk – Dietary requirements group activity tickets are involved, or for voluntary modifications made by the traveller. re-invoice you with correct pricing. and other requirements, and for any documents required by the laws, regulations, orders, and/or 29. The Company will use its best efforts to cater for your special dietary requirements and allergies. 54. The Company reserves the right to cancel or reschedule any holiday departure in accordance with If you have any special dietary requirements please inform The Company at the time of making 5. Subject to clause 6 below, you have a cooling-off period of seven (7) days during which you may requirements of the countries you will visit. The Company is not responsible for providing specific operational requirements or circumstances beyond its control. If a holiday is cancelled prior to the your reservation. However, The Company cannot guarantee that certain products will not be in food cancel your holiday. Your cancellation must be made in writing to The Company within the cooling-off visa and passport information or documentation, and The Company cannot accept liability for any scheduled departure date, The Company’s only responsibility will be to refund the amount received for served. The Company will not accept any liability in relation to any medical conditions, special dietary period. The cooling-off period will commence on the first day following the day on which you book your traveller refused entry onto any transport or into any country due to failure of the traveller to carry the reservation. Wherever possible, The Company will offer the same holiday with a different departure requirements and/or allergies of travellers, even if such conditions are listed in the Emergency Contact holiday. If you cancel your holiday during the cooling-off period your deposit will be refunded and no correct documentation. All travellers travelling internationally are required to have a passport. Most date, or an alternative similar holiday. If there is a difference in cost, it will be your expense. For air cancellation fee will apply. If you do not cancel your holiday during the cooling-off period, then all other Details provided by the traveller. You must make your own decisions when selecting meals. The inclusive holidays, The Company will try to confirm air schedules for the selected new dates, subject countries require that the passport be valid for at least six (6) months beyond the conclusion of the Company’s comments are only to assist you in making an informed decision. of these Terms and Conditions apply. trip. It is recommended you have a minimum of three blank pages in your passport when travelling, to availability. The Company is not responsible for any additional costs or fees relating to the issuance Exceptions as many countries require blank pages. Multiple-entry visas are required for some holidays. It is your Photographs or Pictures and/or cancellation of air tickets or other travel arrangements not made through The Company. 30. Photographs or pictures appearing in this brochure / website should be used solely as an indication of 6. No cooling-off period will apply to holidays booked less than 45 days before a scheduled land tour responsibility to verify all visa and passport requirements. The process of obtaining a visa and/or 55. The accommodation listed in our websites/brochures is intended to be used on all departures. facilities and attractions. Actual facilities and attractions may vary according to itinerary. Maps shown departure, and less than 90 days before a scheduled cruise departure, or earlier if specified for the passport can take up to three months or more. However, if a change becomes necessary for any reason, substitute accommodation will be equivalent on the holiday pages are current at the time of printing and may not reflect the actual holiday routing in standard to that shown. No refunds are provided for accommodation variations and full cancellation particular holiday. For bookings made within these periods, payment in full is required at the time of Hotels should the itinerary change. penalties as noted above apply. booking. 18. Air-conditioning in European hotels is not guaranteed and dependent upon local and national laws and Motorcoach Safety 7. The following deposit and/or final payment dates apply to these holidays. Please see your invoice regulations. Though hotels may have air-conditioning as a listed amenity, the usage of air-conditioning 31. Many local laws require the use of seatbelts while travelling. When seatbelts are provided, you are BEFORE YOU LEAVE ON YOUR HOLIDAY for more information on deposit and/or final payment dates. Other final payment dates may apply to is often not available at night or from October-May. Other restrictions may apply. The Company has no responsible for wearing your seatbelt. The Company is not liable, nor are our service providers, for any Baggage Allowance Monograms and Globus holidays listed in this brochure. Please check with your Travel Agent or the control over air-conditioning restrictions and regulations. injury, loss, damage, claims or death resulting from any accident or incident if you were not wearing 56. Porterage at hotels for one suitcase per person is included in the holiday price. Airport/train station Company prior to booking for the Terms and Conditions of those holidays. Frequent Flyer & Hotel Reward Programs your seatbelt at the time of the accident or incident when the motorcoach is equipped with them. porterage is not included, unless otherwise specified in your travel documents. Be prepared to carry Air Travel Inclusive Holidays 19. Frequent Flyer mileage accrual is at the discretion of the airline(s), and is not always granted for airfare Safety your own suitcase on and off airplanes and trains and through airports and train stations. Regulations 8. Additional taxes and fees may apply to your holiday price if your tour/cruise includes an intra air purchased through The Company. You will need to contact the airline(s) directly for information on 32. No weapons of any type are permitted on Avalon Waterways cruises at any time. This includes, but is within most airports require travellers to handle their own luggage through customs. portion. These taxes and fees may vary depending on your itinerary. Please ask your Travel Agent or a Frequent Flyer Programs and any applicable reward mile accrual. The Company cannot assist with this not limited to, firearms, knives, mace, brass knuckles and other weapons of any type. 57. Avalon Asia cruises with Intra-holiday Air have a baggage weight limit of 20kg (44lbs) per person. representative of The Company at time of reservation for more information. process. Cancellation penalties, as noted above, will apply to all airfare, regardless of accrual grants. Monograms Independent Holidays Baggage over this limit will incur additional fees which are not included in the holiday price and are Price Policy Take this into consideration before purchasing airfare. 33. Please note that full details and information pertaining to Monograms independent holidays will be payable at the airport to the airline directly. 9. All holiday prices are based on rates (including foreign exchange rates) known at the time of 20. Hotel rewards/points cannot be earned or redeemed with hotels used by The Company. confirmed no earlier than October 2018. 58. Your single bag should have dimensions not exceeding 30”x21”x11” and weight not exceeding 50lbs publication, are expected to be in effect at the time of departure and do not include airfare except (23kg). We regret that we are unable to accept a second suitcase or any luggage exceeding these where specified. Prices are subject to increase without notice if such rates change prior to departure. English How To Make Your Reservation 21. All Cruise Directors, Local Hosts, Local Guides, and ships’ crews speak English, and all holiday 34. To make your reservation or for enquiries see your Travel Agent or call 1300 230 234. limits on any Avalon holiday outside of Europe. Some holidays have more restrictive regulations than Holiday prices are per person, based on double occupancy. Single room supplements are listed where those listed above. Refer to your Travel Documents for more information. applicable. Please call us for more information on rates. Not all accommodation types are available on commentary and instructions are conducted in English only. For your safety and enjoyment, you must Agreement to Terms & Conditions all holidays. be able to read, understand and speak English. 35. Booking and payment for a tour/cruise shall constitute agreement and acceptance by the passenger of 59. Air carrier restrictions may vary from the limitations listed above. Size and weight limitations for carryon and checked baggage vary from airline to airline and even according to destination. While making an Pregnant Travellers these terms and conditions which cannot be varied except in writing by an officer of the Company. 10. Prices will be confirmed at the time of reservation. Prices are subject to increase without notice, subject air-inclusive booking, you will be provided with baggage fee information should the fare paid not include to the guarantees set forth below. 22. The Company does not have specialised facilities and/or treatments for childbirth, prenatal or early IF YOU WANT TO CHANGE OR CANCEL YOUR HOLIDAY checked baggage. After booking an air-inclusive booking, up-to-date information on carrier-specific 11. Once The Company has received your full deposit for any holiday departing 01 January 2019 to 31 infant care on board its cruise ships, nor may those facilities be available at ports of call or on land standard checked baggage allowance (including size and weight limitations), the standard allowance stays. The Company strongly urges pregnant travellers to consider the risks of travelling where Cancellations and Cancellation Fees December 2019, that price (excluding air travel) is guaranteed, and any subsequent land/cruise cost 36. If cancellation is received in writing by The Company before the final payment due date of your holiday, (and fee, if applicable) for carry-on baggage, and the standard fee for the first and second checked necessary medical care for pregnancy may not be available and may not be reachable in a timely increases are at The Company’s expense, not including surcharges, energy cost increases, air travel the non-refundable deposit and SafetyNet Protection payments will be retained in addition to any bag, along with the information about additional discounts that may apply depending on flyer- specific manner to address potential medical complications, problems and emergencies that can occur during whilst on tour and/or any government tax increases. Air travel tickets booked via The Company are airline imposed fees or cancellation charges. If cancellation is received in writing by The Company factors (e.g., frequent flyer status, credit card used for purchase, or early purchase over the Internet, pregnancy. Pregnant passengers past their sixth month of pregnancy cannot be accommodated. guaranteed once full payment has been received. This guarantee does not include any government/ after the final payment due date of your holiday, the below specified per person cancellation fees apply etc.), can be found on the carrier’s website. The Company is not responsible for additional fees airport tax increases and currency fluctuations. Young Travellers for individual reservations. The total price specified below does not include discounts, promotions, or imposed by air carriers for baggage, and these fees are not included in the air-inclusive holiday price. 12. 2020 departures are subject to price and itinerary modifications. Full details will be available in 23. Travellers under 18 years old on the scheduled departure date must be accompanied by an adult and special incentives. (For group reservations, refer to the Group Policy. SafetyNet Protection does not You will be required to pay these fees directly to the airline at check-in. February 2019. Travellers have the right to cancel their reservation without penalty within 7 days of share the adult’s accommodation for the duration of the holiday. There are no connecting staterooms apply to Group Bookings). No cancellation fee will apply to holidays cancelled within the cooling off 60. No responsibility is accepted by The Company for loss of or damage to baggage or any of the traveller’s notification in the event of a price increase for departures in 2020. on Avalon Waterways. period (see clause 5). belongings throughout the duration of the holiday. Travellers are strongly encouraged to not bring
80 AvalonWaterways.com.au 81 TERMS & CONDITIONS CONT. TERMS & CONDITIONS CONT.
valuables such as jewellery and large amounts of cash. Any such valuables should not be left in 74. Optional shore excursions may be purchased 90 days in advance of travel via MyAccount. Booking European Christmas Markets 100. Notwithstanding anything contained in these conditions, The Company shall continue to be subject to baggage out of the control of the traveller. Baggage insurance is highly recommended. conditions apply (refer to MyAccount Terms & Conditions) 86. Please note that markets generally operate from late November until the third week of December. This any guarantees provided by the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 and the Australian Consumer Law 61. Carry-on bags should not exceed the dimensions of 12”x11”x 6”. For safety reasons, wheeled carryon Medical And Health is dependent on location and may vary from year to year. No alternatives will be offered if a Christmas (the Act) if and to the extent that the Act is applicable to these conditions and prevents the exclusion, bags are not suitable as hand luggage on motorcoaches and mini- buses. Carry-on bags must be 75. No medical personnel is present onboard the Avalon vessels. Avalon cannot guarantee the availability market is not operating. restriction and modification of such guarantees. small enough to store in overhead bins or under the seat in front of you on motorcoaches and other of medical facilities or for the quality of the care or services. Any medical attention you require while Smoking & Illegal Drugs 101. The Company excludes all liability including liability for any loss, damage, costs and expenses transportation. travelling with Avalon must be sought through a local medical facility, if/when available, for diagnosis. 87. Smoking is not allowed on transportation that is exclusively provided by Avalon. On cruise ships, All related charges are at your expense. whatsoever (including personal injury, death, and property loss) that may arise in connection with or Emergency Contact Details smoking is restricted to certain areas of the vessel. Smoking includes cigarettes, e-cigarettes, cigars, arising out of your holiday and liability under implied conditions, and warranties and guarantees except 62. All passengers must provide emergency contact details, passport and travel insurance information 76. Avalon reserves the right to remove or quarantine any passenger who show signs of illness, or who e-cigars or any other smoking device. poses a threat to the safety and health of other passengers. Removal or quarantine of passengers any guarantees, the exclusion of which would cause this Clause to be void, such guarantees being PRIOR TO TRAVEL. This includes a “Local” contact so that The Company can get in touch with friends 88. Many hotels, restaurant and other venues are smoke-free or have non-smoking regulations in public or family in the rare case of an emergency as well as an “On Tour” contact, i.e. mobile number or for any health, safety or behaviour related assessment is at the sole discretion of Avalon or the Ship’s referred to in these conditions as “non-excludable guarantees”. Operator or the captain. Any costs incurred for medical assessments, diagnosis and/or any other spaces. Smoking may be restricted to certain areas or not allowed. You are responsible to abide by all email address, for use by the Tour or Cruise Director. Emergency contact details should be provided by medically related charges are your responsibility to pay and are due at time of services. Passengers third party smoking policies. 102. The Company limits its liability to you for breach of any non-excludable guarantees to the supplying of creating a customer MyAccount at www.globusfamily.com.au and following the instructions given. will be allowed to re-join Avalon with confirmed medical certification from a licensed health practitioner 89. Any carriage or possession of illegal drugs will result in immediate termination of the Avalon holiday. the service again or the payment of the cost of having the service supplied again, as determined by The Travel Documents indicating fitness to travel without causing harm or posing a safety threat to other passengers. You are responsible for knowing and observing the Licensing Laws for drug possession for all countries Company. 63. Travel Documents, including e-ticket itineraries, are available by post approximately four weeks prior Exclusion of Liability for Optional Excursions & Activities and states you are visiting. Repatriation is at your expense. to departure provided full payment, emergency contact details and passport information have been 103. You agree that neither The Company nor its affiliates shall be liable for any damage, loss (including 77. These tours include the services of operators other than The Company, for example accommodation Force Majeure received, and passengers have acknowledged the Globus family of brands Terms and Conditions, via personal injury, death, and property loss) or expense occasioned by any act or omission of any Supplier providers, airlines, other carriers, and optional tour operators (“the Suppliers”). In making your travel 90. The Company assumes no liability for any loss, damage, or entry of any nature in whole or in part their customer MyAccount. A service charge will be applied where multiple copies of documentation are providing services, or of any insurer or insurance administrator, or of any other person. arrangements The Company acts only as an agent for the Suppliers who are independent contractors resulting from an Act of God or any other force majeure condition including without limitation: fire, requested. Alternatively, e-documentation may be issued. and are not agents, employees, or servants of, or in joint venture with, The Company or its affiliates. volcanic eruption, environmental pollution or contamination, inclement weather, earthquake, low or 104. Legal proceedings against The Company may be instituted only in a court within the State of New From time-to-time, and for the purpose of identifying those independent third-party suppliers of 64. Acceptance on the holiday is subject to presentation of your Tour / Cruise Member Certificate, which high water levels, flood, water or power shortages or failures, tropical storms or hurricanes, riots or civil South Wales, and any claim involved in such proceedings shall be decided in accordance with the laws details the services you have purchased from The Company and which will be available in your final services as the provider of a component or part of an Avalon cruise, package or tour, some or all commissions or disturbances, and any other acts of a similar nature, sabotage, arrests, strikes or labor of the State of New South Wales. Neither The Company nor any affiliate shall in any case be liable for Travel Documents. of those entities may utilize the name “Avalon” on promotional media, signage, or attire. Although you may see the name “Avalon” on vehicles, signs, apparel, or elsewhere during your cruise, tour, disruptions, restraint of rulers or peoples, expropriations, acts of terrorism, war, insurrection, quarantine other than compensatory damages, and you hereby waive any right to punitive or aggravated damages. WHILE ON HOLIDAY or excursion, its use by third-party suppliers is solely for the purpose of identification and does not restrictions, government health advisories, or warnings or alerts of any kind of nature, government No person, other than an authorised representative of The Company by a document in writing, is Air Travel Arrangements represent or signify in any way ownership, management, supervision, or control by the Company seizures, refusal or cancellation or suspension or delay of any government authority or any license, authorised to vary, add, or waive any term or condition in this brochure/website, including any term or permit or authorization, damages to its facilities or the travel supplier and its facilities, or any other 65. Airfare may be purchased through The Company for travel originating from Australia. All carriers are of services that are provided by independent third party suppliers or of the employees, servants, or condition set forth in the preceding provisions. independent operators and are not owned, managed, or operated by The Company. Your airline ticket agents of the third-party suppliers. All certificates and other travel documents for services issued by unforeseen circumstances or any other factors unforeseen by The Company that impacts negatively on, Data Protection is a contract between you and the air carrier only, even if you purchase through The Company. By The Company are subject to the terms and conditions specified by the Supplier, which are available on or hampers, its ability to fulfil any of its contractual conditions. In the event that any of these conditions purchasing your air services through The Company you waive all liability for The Company for such air request, and to the laws of the countries in which the services are supplied. While The Company takes apply, The Company shall be excused, discharged, and released from performance to the extent such 105. Some Australian and foreign government agencies require The Company to collect and pass on all reasonable care in selecting the Suppliers, to the fullest extent permitted by law, it does not accept services. performance is so limited or prevented, without liability of any kind. in advance of travel certain personal and other details related to you, including but not limited to responsibility for any act or omission of the Suppliers that takes place outside of the Company’s control. 66. The Company is not responsible if an airline cancels, reschedules, or delays a flight for any reason. If Wi-Fi government-issued identification and passport details. If you fail to supply the details, as requested, 78. Your contract for the Services will be with the Supplier and will be subject to its Terms and Conditions, you purchased air through The Company, we will try to assist in making new arrangements, providing 91. Wi-Fi connectivity is provided by an independent third party with separate Terms & Conditions of usage fully and accurately, your trip may be interrupted or cancelled. There are no refunds for failure to which may contain exclusions or limitations of liability. The Company has no liability for any such activity you have not already checked in with your airline for your first flight segment. After check-in, you must and acceptance thereof. These can be found online or will be made available upon request. provide documentation or failure to provide documentation by the time required. or excursion or for any act(s) or omission(s) of the Supplier or for any of its employees or agents or any work with the airline directly to reach your destination or to make any alternate arrangements, including other person(s) connected with the Service. Any advice or assistance on or with the Service provided AFTER YOUR HOLIDAY 106. We will use your personal data secured during your booking or during online check-in to process your amendments to return services. Airline fees often apply for modifications to air schedules not related by any local representative does not mean or imply that the Service is sold, supervised, or controlled by Service Inquiries after the Holiday and Complaints booking with our suppliers. These details include your full name, address, date of birth, passport to airline-imposed flight cancellations, reschedules, or delays. These fees will be payable to the airline The Company or that any such advice or assistance is given on behalf of The Company. Travellers are 92. After returning from your holiday, if you wish to inquire about any services provided, please ensure that number and expiration date, occupation, credit/debit card information and any disability, medical directly at time of request. asked to check with the Supplier and the applicable Terms and Conditions before booking. all correspondence relating to those services is received by Avalon Waterways, Client Relations, Circuit conditions or dietary restrictions disclosed to The Company for you and all your travelling party. 67. If you miss your departure flight or connection, it is your responsibility to work with the airline on which Exclusion of Liability for Cruise Itinerary Changes, Cancellations & Double Docking Travel Pty Ltd. you are ticketed to reach your destination. No refunds will be provided by The Company for portions 79. The Company will do everything it reasonably can to make sure everything goes according to plan, 107. It may be necessary to transfer these details to other countries or authorities in which the data of trips missed due to cancelled, rescheduled, or delayed flights after airport check-in, nor is The however, sometimes changes can happen which may affect your holiday experience. In the event of 93. Should you have a complaint in respect of your holiday, you should inform your Tour/Cruise Director protection and privacy laws are less stringent than ours. This may include requirements to pass details Company responsible for any additional expenses you may incur prior to joining your trip if you miss water level problems on stretches of any waterway, severe flood, fire, drought, earthquake, explosion, immediately so they may attempt to rectify the matter. Any complaint or claim involving the holiday to our suppliers as well as certain governments or government appointed bodies, or agencies in the services offered must be notified to The Company within 30 days of the holiday completion date. your departure flight or flight connection. peril of navigation, mechanical difficulties, industrial action, civil unrest, war, government order or interest of security or because we are obliged to by law. By making a booking with The Company, you act, operational requirements, or any circumstances beyond reasonable control of The Company, The Itinerary Variations GENERAL INFORMATION agree to The Company storing, using and passing on this data to other third parties for reasons as 68. After departure, if the services included in the holiday cannot be supplied, or there are changes in an Company may cancel or vary your holiday. In some circumstances it may be necessary to operate all or 94. Subject to clauses 77 to 82 above, The Company is responsible for providing the services described stated above and hold The Company not liable for the usage and loss of protection of that data. itinerary for reasons beyond the control of The Company, The Company will arrange for the provision of part of the itinerary by a substitute vessel or by motor coach and hotel accommodation, or to otherwise cancel or alter the holiday. The Company is committed to protecting your health and safety at all times. in this brochure, including arranging transportation, sightseeing, and accommodation as described. All comparable services wherever possible. Any resulting additional expense will be payable by travellers TRADE NAME: references to The Company include its agents and employees. and any resulting savings will be refunded by The Company to travellers. 80. In the event of charters of the vessels, strikes, lockouts, riots or stoppage of labour for whatever cause or for any other reason whatsoever, The Company may at any time cancel, advance or postpone any AVALON WATERWAYS, and other AVALON formative marks, are trade and service marks owned and/or 69. Every effort is made to reserve only twin-bedded rooms. Occasionally, some hotels will only provide 95. These tours include the services of operators other than The Company, for example accommodation scheduled sailing and may, but is not obliged to, substitute another vessel and shall not be liable for applied for and/or registered by Avalon Waterways Inc., in the Australian Trademarks Registry and in other double-bedded rooms. These rooms will be allocated to couples where possible. Room and bed providers, airlines, other carriers, and optional tour operators (“the Suppliers”). In making your travel any loss whatsoever to tour/cruise participants by reason of any such cancellation, advancement or arrangements The Company acts only as an agent for the Suppliers who are independent contractors global jurisdictions. Circuit Travel Pty Ltd., is an authorised user of the trade and service mark AVALON preferences may be requested, but are not guaranteed. Please note that check-in times vary worldwide postponement. and The Company cannot control or guarantee check-in times. Triple-room configuration is at the and are not agents, employees, or servants of, or in joint venture with, The Company or its affiliates. WATERWAYS and other AVALON formative marks owned by Avalon Waterways Inc. 81. The Company reserves the right to cancel, advance or postpone any scheduled tour and/ or sailing discretion of individual hotels. Payment for a single supplement ensures your own room, not necessarily All certificates and other travel documents for services issued by The Company are subject to the date in accordance with operational requirements or circumstances beyond itscontrol and may, but Our Australian Address: a twin bedded room. On cruises, staterooms are subject to change and are finalised upon embarkation. terms and conditions specified by the Supplier, which are available on request, and to the laws of the is not obliged to, substitute another vessel and shall not be liable for any loss whatsoever to holiday countries in which the services are supplied. While The Company takes all reasonable care in selecting 70. In exceptional cases where private bath or single rooms as reserved by us are not available, refunds Avalon Waterways participants by reason of any such cancellation, advancement or postponement. In the event of the Suppliers, it does not accept responsibility for any act or omission of the Suppliers. will be made by the Cruise Director, Tour Director, or Local Host. Claims for such refunds will not be cancellation by The Company, tour/cruise participants’ only right of recourse shall be to a refund of Circuit Travel Pty Ltd accepted after the holiday has been completed. monies paid to The Company in connection with such tour/cruise. 96. The international carriage of passengers is subject to international conventions and treaties. These Level 5, 309 Kent Street international conventions and treaties limit and, in some events, exclude the carrier’s liability to Conduct During Your Holiday 82. Docking positions at each port are assigned by local authorities, and river cruise companies have no Sydney NSW 2000 Australia travellers. Where any claim or part of a claim (including those involving death or personal injury) 71. For the benefit of everyone on your holiday, The Company has the right to accept or reject any traveller. control over where they can dock. This can sometimes result in double-docking, when more than GPO Box 3436 concerns or involves any travel arrangements (including the process of getting on or off the transport Behaviour or conduct which is for example (but not limited to) offensive (physically or verbally), one ship is assigned to the same dock and the ships are rafted together, temporarily obstructing the Sydney NSW 2001 Australia dangerous to yourself or others, criminal, discriminatory, or incompatible with the interests of other view. Double docking may also make access to the ship more difficult. Avalon Waterways will not be concerned) provided by any air, sea, inland waterways, rail, or road carrier or any stay in a hotel, The travellers or the crew will not be tolerated. You must comply with all directions of the Company and its responsible for any inconvenience or access problems caused by reasons of such assignment. Company’s maximum liability is the maximum which would be payable by the carrier or the hotel keeper E-mail: [email protected] concerned under the applicable international convention or treaty applicable to the travel arrangements representatives, the Captain and the crew. The Company and the Captain have the absolute right to Prepaid Gratuities Telephone: 1300 230 234 disembark any traveller whose behaviour or conduct infringes these rules, who does not comply with 83. If you have prepaid your gratuities to your Tour/Cruise Director and Driver or if they are already or hotel stay. International conventions and treaties that may apply include: the Montreal Convention directions or whose presence on the holiday affects the safety, enjoyment or well-being of any person. included in the price of the holiday, this will be detailed within your Tour/Cruise Member Certificate (1999), the Convention for the Unification of Certain Rules Relating to International Carriage by Air, Agent Reservations Only: In such circumstances, the Company:- and vouchers will be included within your Tour Documentation. Please note that included gratuities for signed at Warsaw, 12 October 1929 (the Warsaw Convention), the Warsaw Convention as amended Sydney Metro: (02) 8259 1110 at The Hague on 28 September 1955 and the Warsaw Convention as amended at The Hague and a) May contact and hand you over to any relevant authority; Avalon Europe cover the cruise director, crew, local guides and local drivers and the cruise portion only; Interstate: 1300 130 134 by Additional Protocol No. 1, 2 or 4 of Montreal (1975) and the EU Regulation on Air Carrier Liability prepaid gratuities cover only the land portion operated by The Company of the tour itinerary. Where Facsimile: (02) 8259 1120 b) Is not liable to make any refunds; The Company sources other leading operators for cruising or rail elements of your holiday, the option to for air carriers with an operating license granted by an EU country, in relation to air travel; the Berne E-mail: [email protected] c) Has no liability whatsoever to you; prepay local gratuities is not available. Convention for rail travel; Athens Convention 1974 for carriage by sea; the Geneva Convention for d) Has no obligation to assist you with any onward travel or accommodation; Transfers carriage by road and the Paris Convention 1962 for hotels. Agent Online Reservations available at: e) Is entitled to recover from you any cost or expense incurred. 84. Unless otherwise specified, transfers arranged by The Company are provided by independent 97. Booking and payment for a tour shall constitute agreement and acceptance by the passenger of these www.globusfamily.com.au/onlinebookings transportation suppliers and are group transfers operated by motorcoach and may have pre-set terms and conditions which cannot be varied except in writing by an officer of the Company. Waivers departures times. The Company is not responsible for flight delays, delays in immigration or customs, Feedback and/or Service Enquiries 72. Signing of a Liability Release is required on Active Discovery cruises. On the first day of the cruise, the delays due to lost baggage, or delays for any reason beyond our control if you miss your transfer. 98. After departure, if the services included in the holiday cannot be supplied, or there are changes in an After your Holiday: Cruise Director will ask you to sign this Liability Release. You can view a copy of the Liability Release by Missed transfers are non-refundable. itinerary for reasons beyond the control of The Company, The Company will arrange for the provision of Should you wish to contact Avalon Waterways accessing the following link: Avalonwaterways.com.au/waivers. comparable services wherever possible. Any resulting additional expense will be payable by travellers Holidays after returning from your holiday, please contact and any resulting savings will be refunded by The Company to travellers. Optional Shore Excursions 85. During local or national holidays or special events, on Sundays and religious occasions, certain facilities us at: 73. For operational reasons, not all optional shore excursions listed in the cruise itinerary, in print, online, or such as museums, places of worship, restaurants, sightseeing tours, and shopping may be limited or 99. The Company reserves the right to make changes in the itinerary whenever The Company considers E-mail: [email protected] in travel documents may be available during your holiday. Your Cruise Director will advise of availability not available. Alternatives will be offered whenever possible. The Company will not be held responsible it necessary for the comfort, convenience or safety of travellers, and to cancel a holiday at any time in while on cruise. for any closures or curtailments in circumstances beyond its control. accordance with operational requirements or circumstances beyond its control. ABN 12 001 268 257
82 AvalonWaterways.com.au 83 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO BOOK A CRUISE: CALL 1300 230 234 | VISIT AVALONWATERWAYS.COM.AU | CONTACT YOUR TRAVEL AGENT
FOR GROUPS OF 8 OR MORE PASSENGERS: CALL 1300 330 334 | EMAIL [email protected] Pantone 1805
91M 100Y 23K
37C 2M 82Y
Brochure Code: AW19ASIA - AU