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Palace Tours − Luxury Tours Collection Cape Winelands Adventure Cape Winelands Adventure

This 4−day tour in the Cape Winelands is a wonderful extension to any of our journeys starting or ending in . This tour offers you an authentic taste of 's fabulous wines from several of South Africa's most acclaimed vintners, while also giving you time to explore the history and scenic beauty of the region.

ITINERARY

• Day 1 − Welcome to Cape Town and drive to the Winelands

You are met upon arrival at Cape Town International Airport and transferred to your hotel in the heart of the Cape Winelands (either in or , depending on which tour class you select). The rest of the day is yours at leisure to explore the town. Stellenbosch is located just 45 minutes from Cape Town city center and is home to the first wine route in South Africa, founded in 1971. Here you can explore the popular Dorp Street and Oom Samie se Winkel. Franschhoek, also known as "the Gourmet Capital", is surrounded by majestic mountains culminating in an awe−inspiring pass, providing added atmosphere to any food and wine experience.

• Day 2 − Historical tour and wine tasting

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel followed by an unforgettable Cape Winelands tour starting at 9:00 this morning. Embark on a scenic and historic drive through the local wine regions of Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and , including visits to two of the famous wine estates where you may sample the local wines produced here.

Your first stop is the Huguenot Memorial Museum in Franschhoek, followed by a visit to the Taal monument on Paarl rock, which is one of the most famous monuments erected in South Africa and dedicated to the Afrikaans language. Also visit the , comprised of four wonderfully restored houses of historical interest and their gardens. A relaxing picnic lunch at rounds off the experience. After your tour, return to your hotel around 17:00 this afternoon and spend the evening at leisure. (B, L)

• Day 3 − Your day at leisure in the Winelands

Today is yours at leisure to relax at the hotel or explore the surrounding area on your own. (B)

• Day 4 − Farewell, Cape Town

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel before it is time to check−out and meet your guide for a departure transfer to Cape Town International Airport. (B)

DESTINATION INFORMATION

• Cape Town

Cape Town is the most beautiful and popular tourist destinations in South Africa due to its good climate, natural setting, and relatively well−developed infrastructure. It is the provincial capital of the , as well as the

1 legislative capital of South Africa, where the National Parliament and many government offices are located. Also famous for its harbor as well as, its natural setting in the Cape floral kingdom, including such well−known landmarks as Table Mountain and Cape Point. Many tourists visit Cape Town's beaches, which are popular with local residents.

• Franschhoek

Tightly hemmed in by mountains, the Franschhoek valley is named after the French Huguenots in 1688, who brought the knowledge of viniculture. The valley has one main street, lined with wine estates and a few antique shops, cafés and restaurants. At the far end there is a Huguenot Memorial and museum set in rose gardens. Franschhoek is the ideal area for a day of estate touring and wine tasting, and most farms warmly welcome visitors to sample some of South Africa's top wines. It is also known as the gourmet capital of the Cape with a number of acclaimed restaurants introducing delicious Cape country fare and sublime French cuisine.

• Paarl

The bustling town of Paarl lies in its own secluded valley between the second−largest granite outcrop in the world and the towering Du Toit's Kloof Mountains. Its scenic beauty of mountains, rivers, flowers, and open spaces together with its architectural heritage attracts both fascinated architects and tourists from around the world. When in Paarl it's hard not to be taken in by the relaxed pace of countryside life. You should not resist enjoy Paarl in your own time, go on a wine−tasting tour and relax at one of the town's comfortable accommodations.

• Stellenbosch

Stellenbosch is the centre of the country's wine industry and has a rich heritage which is reflected in its Cape Dutch, Georgian &Victorian archictecture. Vineyards cover the beautiful Franschoek Valley, where French Hugenots settled in 1685. The village has wonderful crafts, art, antique shops and galleries, the main street is lined with coffee shops and restaurants. The third major destination in the Cape Winelands is Paarl, the town takes its name from the granite domes of Paarl Mountain, which looms above the town Paarl is Dutch for Pearl.

Price Chart

All prices quoted in U.S. Dollars ($) per person PLEASE NOTE: The above rates are calculated based on the local currency (ZAR) and are subject to change based on exchange rate fluctuations. Your balance payment will be due and payable based on the exchange rate at that time. An option to pay in full and lock in today's exchange rate is also available; please contact us for details.

This tour is available in three classes. The service in all classes is the same; the only difference is the hotels utilized.

1. Diamond class includes accommodation at Franschhoek Country House or similar as per the itinerary 2. Gold class includes accommodation at Protea Hotel Franschhoek or similar as per the itinerary

2 3. Silver class includes Protea Hotel Stellenbosch or similar as per the itinerary

Tour cost includes:

• 03 Nights accommodation at your selected hotel as per the itinerary (Standard category) • Meals as specified in the itinerary (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner) • Arrival and departure airport transfers • All sightseeing and activities as per the itinerary with the services of an English−speaking guide • Entrance fees to places specified in the itinerary • Private transport by air−conditioned vehicle • Porterage for one reasonably sized piece of luggage per person per point • levies where applicable

Tour cost excludes:

• Any international or domestic airfare • Airport departure taxes • Visa fees and travel insurance • Meals except where specifically mentioned as "included" • Additional optional tours / excursions • Beverages, laundry, telephone calls, tips/gratuities or any items of a personal nature • Any other item not specifically mentioned as "included"

Please call for details regarding our child policy/rate.

HOTELS AND RESORTS

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3 This 17−day journey offers an amazingly comprehensive view of the region, taking in the internationally−renowned great sights and attractions unique to South Africa, from Johannesburg to Kruger National Park to Cape Town. As the train traverses the length and breadth of the easterly corner of this subcontinent, travelers have the opportunity to see as well as to explore − by train, by land, and even from the sky − the multitude of landscapes, shorelines, cultures and lifestyles that the "Rainbow Nation" has to offer.

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TRAVEL TIPS & FAQ's

What are the visa and passport requirements? All visitors to South Africa must be in possession of a valid passport in order to enter the country, and in some cases, a visa. The passport shall contain at least three consecutive unused pages when presenting the passport for endorsements, and needs to be valid for a minimum of 6 months after your departure date from South Africa. To determine whether you require a visa to enter South Africa, visit the comprehensive South African Home Affairs Department website at: http://home−affairs.pwv.gov.za. For South African missions abroad, visit http://www.dfa.gov.za/foreign/sa_abroad/index.htm.

What type of vehicle transport is utilized for the tour? The type of transport provided depends on your group size, and all transfer and excursion vehicles utilized are air conditioned.

What is the weather like? South Africa enjoys a temperate and pleasant climate, with lovely warm sunny days most of the year. The seasons of the southern hemisphere are opposite to those in the northern hemisphere so our summers run from November to February, when most of the country is characterized by hot weather with afternoon thunderstorms. Winters are generally mild and dry. South Africa enjoys one of the world's highest average daily hours of sunshine − 8.5 compared with 3.8 in London, 6.4 in Rome and 6.9 in New York.

Average temperatures in ºC Summer Winter Cape Town 20 12.6 Durban 23.6 17 Johannesburg 19.4 11.1 Pretoria 22.4 12.9 For daily and long−term forecasts for South Africa, visit www.weathersa.co.za.

Is there recommended clothing to wear? South Africa enjoys long hot summers and clothing is generally informal. In the more upscale hotels, evening entertainment venues and gala dinners, smart−casual attire is often required. For the summer months (October−March) pack lightweight clothing but include a jacket for the occasional chilly night. Neutral colors and sensible walking shoes are best for safaris. As most of the country is in the summer−rainfall region, it is best to carry an umbrella or raincoat. The South African sun is strong, with a high ultraviolet rating, so do not forget sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15. Warm clothing is suggested for the winter months.

What type of cuisine is served on the tour? Are there vegetarian options available?

4 South Africa is multicultural country, so cuisine from all around the world is available. If you have any special meal requirements or dietary requests (vegetarian, kosher, etc.) please advise upon booking and upon arrival in Africa so that the necessary arrangements can be made.

Is the drinking water safe? In the major cities and towns and most game reserves, tap water is purified and 100% safe to drink; however, bottled water is readily available.

Is there internet or telephone access? Telephones and internet access is available countrywide at the majority of hotels and lodges. Cellular telephones are easily available at all airports as well as at cellular outlets. To call internationally out of South Africa, dial 09 and then the country code.

What is the recommended currency? Recommended currency for travel in South Africa is the South African Rand (ZAR) and currency exchange facilities are readily available countrywide. The best exchange rates are usually given at banks and Bureau de Change at airports, but it is also possible to exchange money at hotel receptions. Major credit cards and travelers checks are widely accepted.

What is the recommended gratuity? It is customary to tip waiters, wine stewards, taxi drivers, porters and caddies. Depending on the service, the amount should be around 10−15% of the bill, unless a service fee has already been included (usually done for groups− enquire with the establishment). At game lodges, ZAR150 per day is customary to be given to the Lodge reception when departing, which will be evenly distributed amongst the ranger / tracker and lodge staff. You can leave extra for the ranger if you think he is fantastic. Porterage at airports is approximately ZAR15 per person. At hotels and lodges, expect to tip ZAR35 per person. For guides on excursions, tip at your discretion, or minimum ZAR10 for driver if big groups and ZAR20 for tour guide.

What languages are spoken in South Africa? There are 11 officially recognized languages, most of them indigenous to South Africa. The two most widely used are English and Afrikaans. Everywhere you go, you can expect to find people who speak and understand English. French, German and Italian are also spoken at some of the larger hotels.

What types of electric outlets are there? Do I need to purchase converters? 220/230 volts, 50Hz, single phase. Adaptors can either be brought with you, but they are also readily available countrywide at all luggage shops.

Is travel insurance required to take the tour? Although South Africa has some of the finest medical facilities available, it is highly recommended that you purchase travel insurance for any trip undertaken, to protect against unforeseen circumstances and emergencies.

Are there any health requirements for entering the country? It is your responsibility to obtain vaccinations and medical precautions wherever necessary. Malaria is endemic to Northern KwaZulu Natal, Mpumalanga and the Northern Province and anti−malaria prophylactics are highly advisable year−round; please seek recommendations from local health departments. Visitors arriving from a yellow fever zone require a valid international yellow fever inoculation certificate. Any medical conditions or special requirements such as a wheelchair must be advised to our office at the time of booking.

Palace Tours Contact Information

IndiaTours.com is a brand of Palace Tours, a leader in tours to India, Spain and South Africa.

If at any time you have questions, concerns or feedback, please do not hesitate to contact us via any of the below methods:

On the Web: www.indiatours.com or www.palacetours.com

By e−mail: [email protected]

By phone: 1−800−724−5120 India Desk : 1−877−GO−INDIA (877−464−6342)

5 USA: Princeton, NJ: 609−683−5018 New York, NY: 212−920−2543 Houston, TX: 832−446−2709

International: United Kingdom: 800−8456−201 Hong Kong: (852) 30518159 South Africa : (+27)11−46133299 Australia: 1800−156−671 New Zealand: 0800−442−510

By FAX: 1−609−683−9772

By postal mail: Palace Tours Ltd. 20 Wall Street Princeton, New Jersey 08540 USA

DIRECTIONS TO OUR CORPORATE OFFICE Please call ahead for hours and appointments!

By Car:

From Princeton area: Our office is located on the north side of Route 206 in Princeton, New Jersey. We are in the Research Park office complex, directly opposite from the Princeton Airport.

From points North: Via Route 1: Take Route 1 South towards Trenton. After you pass Forrestal Village Campus, you will begin to see signs for "Downtown Princeton &Shopping". Turn right on Washington Road. Follow Washington Road for approximately 1.5 miles. Turn left on Nassau Street (Route 27). Turn right on Stockton Street (Route 206 North) &follow for approximately 4 miles. Turn right onto Wall Street.

Via Route 287: Take Route 287 South towards Somerville. Take exit 17 for Route 206 South (Somerville). You will pass through a traffic circle follow signs for Route 206 South. Follow Route 206 South for approximately 12 miles. Turn left onto Wall Street.

From points South: Via the Garden State Parkway: Take the Parkway North/South to exit 98 for Route 138 West toward Trenton. Route 138 West becomes Route 195 West. Follow 195 West for approximately 17 miles. Merge onto Route 295 North toward Trenton. Follow directions below.

Via Route 95/ 295: Take Route 95 North until it becomes Route 295 North toward Trenton. Take exit 67A and merge onto Route 1 North. Follow Route 1 North for approximately 5 miles. Take the exit for Washington Road. Turn right on Washington Road. Follow Washington Road for approximately 1.5 miles. Turn left on Nassau Street (Route 27). Turn right on Stockton Street (Route 206 North) &follow for approximately 4 miles. Turn right onto Wall Street.

By train: Princeton Junction is the main train station along the Northeast Corridor for Amtrak and New Jersey Transit. Visitors can take a cab from here to Princeton or transfer to a one−car train to Princeton called the "Dinky". The train ride takes about 5 minutes, and drops you at Place across from McCarter Theatre. If you choose this option, be sure to purchase a rail ticket to "Princeton" for presentation upon boarding the Dinky.

Our office is a 10−minute cab ride from Princeton station (approx. 4.5 miles).

By bus: Several buses arrive and depart daily from Princeton Research Park (i.e., New Jersey Transit's 605 Montgomery Line). From the bus station, walk into the Research Park office complex. We are located at #20 Wall Street.

6 For emergencies while traveling within India, you may contact our Jaipur office. Details will be provided in your travel vouchers, which are issued upon full payment.

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