Itinerary
Welcome to Quebec City! Air Journey staff will greet you at the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac. Situated in the heart of historic Old Quebec, the hotel sits high on a bluff overlooking St. Lawrence River.
All participants will meet for introductions and attend an extensive briefing covering the general procedures of our journey as well as details for tomorrow's departure. Afterwards, we will gather for a welcome cocktail before dinner.
We will fly over the immense forests and numerous lakes of Canada on our way to Goose Bay for a technical stop.
Then, continue over southern Greenland’s beautiful scenery before landing at Kangerlussuaq in western Greenland. Upon arrival we will transfer to Hotel Kangerlussuaq, where we will enjoy an overnight stay to prepare ourselves for our tomorrow’s flight.
After breakfast, we will board our airplanes and fly to Reykjavik, Iceland.
Upon arrival we will transfer to the Hotel Borg. Enjoy luxury accommodations in the very center of Reykjavik. The Hotel Borg overlooks the beautiful square of Austurvollur and is situated across from Althingi, the Icelandic parliament and the cathedral.
Fly southeast toward the British Isles for our next stop, Stavanger, to refuel.
Our flight continues to the Czech Republic to discover the beautiful city of Prague. One of the most beautiful and visited cities of Europe, this capital of 1.2 million has an incredible mix of Gothic, Romanesque, Baroque and Art Nouveau architecture. The Vltava River winds through this "city of a hundred spires", its riverbanks and the surrounding hills contrasting with the compact, winding cobblestone streets of the old city center. Prague is lively and sophisticated, drawing on its centuries-old tradition of breakthrough thinking in literature, music, and architecture.
Today, we will depart for a full day tour to discover the highlights of this beautiful city.
The largest ancient castle in the world, Prague Castle sits on the highest hill in the city. Gigantic St. Vitus Cathedral, part of the castle, towers over the city and took 600 years to build. The crown-jewels of the Bohemian Kings and relics of St. Wenceslas, the 10th-century Duke of Bohemia, are on display.
We'll explore the history and precious cultural and architectonic heritage of Prague. It is one of the most attractive sites in Europe and not only for its geographic location is called "Heart of Europe". It lies in the center of the Bohemia on the river.
Today is at your leisure to relax at the property or explore this historical city on your own.
We will leave Prague behind as today we will fly to Baku, Azerbaijan. Straddling the Middle East, Europe and Asia, the enigmatic capital of Azerbaijan sits on the coast of the opal-blue waters of the Caspian Sea, with the Caucasus Mountains to the west. Upon arrival, we will transfer to the beaux-arts-style Four Seasons Hotel perched along the waterfront in the heart of central Baku.
Today we will go for a full day city tour of Baku. Step into the history and see the wonders that lie inside the 12th- century walls of Icheri Sheher, or The Inner City, during our guided tour of this UNESCO World Heritage site. On the way we will stop to savor layered Baklava stuffed with walnuts and spices and pick up jars of homemade jam.
We then stroll along New Boulevard; seaside streets lined with charming teahouses and cafes, and see the cultural insights at the Yarat Contemporary Art Centre and Azerbaijan Stone Museum.
Today, we will visit the Ateshgah Fire Temple and Fire Mountain.
We will learn about the Zoroastrians of Azerbaijan and visit the unique 17th-century pilgrimage point. Then, we will get a peek at the infamous natural gas fire, which burns continuously overlooking the Caspian Sea.
Fly to Samarkand.
Known as one of the most ancient cities with history dating back to more than 2,500 years ago, Samarkand used to be the capital of Uzbekistan in the 19th century before it lost its status to Tashkent, the current capital of Uzbekistan. Samarkand was blessed with a strategic geographical location which made it a pivotal part of the Great Silk Road. With such a rich history and culture, it is no wonder that Samarkand is also known as the heart of the great Silk Road.
Our exploration today begins with a visit to the tomb of Tamerlane who made Samarkand his capital. He set about making it the richest city on earth by pillaging and destroying all other cities and removing their wealth and skilled traders to Samarkand. There will be a visit to Ulugbek observatory - one of the most advanced observatories of the ancient world.
We will then take in the sights of the Registan complex, the remarkable market place of ancient Samarkand. It is enclosed by spectacular medressas on three sides. These huge buildings with domes and minarets covered in a mosaic of azure tiles were built in the 1400s. The Registan is one of the wonders of the ancient world. We visit another highlight of Samarkand - the huge Bibi-Khonum mosque.
Later, visit a workshop where handcrafted paper is made according to traditions handed down from the 8th-century, when paper making began in Samarkand.
Our flight for today takes us to Amritsar, India. Upon arrival we will transfer to Taj Swarna Amritsar, where we will enjoy an overnight stay to prepare ourselves for our flight for tomorrow.
We will fly to Chiang Mai and transfer to the delightful Four Seasons hotel.
Chiang Mai is a great city to visit but it doesn’t mean you have to stay in the heart of it - especially when the Four Seasons sits on 20 breathtaking acres of tropical gardens and rice paddies in the Mae Rim Valley. It can be hard to drag yourself away from your polished teak floors, double vanity, oversized bathtub and spacious veranda for a visit to the fully equipped fitness club and tennis courts or the ultimate spa for indulging every one of your senses.
The rest of the day is free to relax and enjoy this beautiful setting.
Today we will meet and feed elephants on an elephant sanctuary tour. We will watch these majestic creatures up close and we will learn about them from specialists. The experienced guide will provide information about the elephants' behavior and how to provide proper care for them. Then, prepare food and healthy treats for the elephants and feed them afterward.
Then, we will walk with the elephants to play in the mud and sand spa. During this time, we will have a chance to observe their behavior, in beautiful natural surroundings. After our time with the elephants, we will enjoy an authentic Thai buffet lunch.
Today is at leisure. You may be interested by an optional cooking class, orchids plantation, shopping or experience your first Thai Massage.
Fly to Nha Trang. Upon arrival we will transfer to Amanoi, our home for the next threee nights. Claiming a spectacular stretch of Vietnam’s coastline within the verdant embrace of Nui Chua National Park and UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Amanoi is a natural paradise overlooking Vinh Hy Bay. From its remote location - a rich and diverse mosaic of ecosystems – the resort’s clifftop restaurants and pool, lakeside Aman Spa and private golden sand beach, offer limitless opportunities for outdoor exploration, cultural immersion and serene time out.
Today is at your leisure to relax at the beautiful property or explore on your own. One hotel activity per day is included.
Today is at your leisure to relax at the beautiful property or explore on your own. One hotel activity per day is included.
Our Journey continues to Bandar Seri, Brunei. Upon arrival, we will transfer to the Empire Hotel & Country Club, our home for the next two nights.
The Empire Brunei welcomes discerning travellers with its sumptuous luxury, warm hospitality and pure serenity. The prestigious five-star resort comprises stunning private beaches, lagoons, five pools, a championship golf course, six restaurants and a cinema, offering a host of guest experiences.
We will venture in a half-day tour to discover the wonders of the country’s beloved capital city, Bandar Seri Begawan. This 4-hour tour offers you an insight into Brunei’s rich history, religious culture and the everyday life of local people. The rest of the day is at your leisure to relax at the beautiful hotel or explore on your own.
We will leave Bandar Seri behind as today we will make our way to Darwin, Australia. We will have a short technical stop at Makassar, Indonesia.
Upon arrival, we will transfer to Hilton Darwin, where we will enjoy an overnight stay to prepare ourselves for our tomorrow’s flight.
Our Journey continues to Hayman Island, Australia. Before our arrival, we will have two stops: one in Cairns, Australia and the other one in Hamilton Island, Australia.
From Hamilton Island, we wil trake a helicopter transfer that will take us to our final destination: Hayman Island. Upon arrival we will transfer to the beautiful Hayman Island Resort, which is ideally situated in the Great Reef Barrier.
After breakfast, we will enjoy a catamaran excursion to explore the well-known Great Barrier Reef. We will discover all the beauty of this natural wonder, while we snorkel with a huge array of tropical fish, and see coral formations that don’t exist anywhere else on the planet.
Enjoy the many ways to experience the reef even if you don't want to get wet. Take a tour on Reefworld’s semi-submarine, or look out from the underwater viewing chamber.
Today is at your leisure to explore or relax on your own.
Fly Noumea, New Caledonia.
Noumea fusions the French flair and South-Pacific culture. It oozes tranquillity and serenity with long white sandy stretches, clear waters and blue lagoons that brim with a marvel of tropical marine life. Upon arrival we will transfer to Le Meridien Hotel, where will enjoy luxurious accommodations for the next two nights.
Today, we will discover the sundrenched island roads and sandy lanes in our own Mini Moke -a retro inspired open sided electric vehicle- to discover Noumea in a very unique way. We will beat the crowds, feel the breeze in our hair while driving around, and we can stop wherever and whenever we want. Each Mini Moke feature a GPS including all the highlights of the city, to make sure not to miss a thing.
Our flight for today takes us to Nadi, Fiji.
We will take a helicopter transfer to COMO Laucala Island. This is a resort where space is luxury: 25 Residences spread out on private beaches, above lagoons, atop hills and amidst jungle. Each tropical home is designed in harmony with Fiji’s extraordinary natural heritage, with menus thoughtfully conceived around the bounty of field and ocean. Every imaginable activity is part of the Laucala experience, including golf, scuba-diving, sailing and surf.
Today is at your leisure to relax or explore on your own. One hotel activity per day is included.
Today is at your leisure to relax at the beautiful property or explore on your own. One hotel activity per day is included.
Today is at your leisure to relax at the beautiful property or explore on your own. One hotel activity per day is included.
We will take a helicopter transfer back to Nadi’s airport, as we will board our airplanes and fly to New Zealand’s most cosmopolitan city, known as the “city of sails.” Auckland is a multi-cultural hub of food and wine, music, art and culture.
Upon arrival, we will transfer to our hotel, the new Park Hyatt Auckland. Overlooking Waitemata Harbour and Auckland City, Park Hyatt Auckland is a sophisticated hotel enriching guests with a seamless journey, exquisite local dining and unique relaxing experiences. This evening, we will enjoy dinner at one of Auckland’s premier restaurants to celebrate the New Zealand leg of our
Journey.
Today we will visit the Museum of Transport and Technology (MOTAT). The Aviation Hall is a multi-award-winning space which hosts a large collection of recreational, military, topdressing, and commercial aircraft. The collection celebrates the evolution of New Zealand aviation since February 1911 when Vivian Walsh achieved sustained and controlled flight in a British Howard Wright biplane.
The rest of the day is ay your leisure to relax or explore on your own.
We will transfer to Auckland Airport this morning to board our aircrafts and fly to Blenheim. Afterwards, we will enjoy a privately guided tour of the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre.
Omaka is a world-class destination for the appreciation of historic aircraft. The centre tells the story of aviation during two World Wars, the time in which the most intense period of aviation development took place. Human stories from World Wars one and two come to life in a theatrical treatment, both innovative and visually stunning. Omaka has one of the world's largest collections of aircraft and rare memorabilia and highlights Sir Peter Jackson’s own collection, including a unique range of classic and warbird aircraft capable of taking passengers for joy flights and aerial tours of Marlborough.
You will have the option to enjoy a flight on one of Omaka’s three aircrafts, to experience what it was like for the young aircrews who went out day after day to take the fight to the enemy, whether it be chasing submarines in the North Sea or bombing Hitler’s invasion barges in the French ports.. (Not included in the price and must be pre booked). The airplanes available are:
- 455HP Boeing Stearman - WW2 Trainer
- Russian WW2 Fighter - Yakovlev Yak-3
- Mk.1 Avro Anson:
At the end of our tour, we will reboard our aircrafts for a short flight to Masterton. On arrival we will be transferred to our hotel, Wharekauhau Lodge, based on a 5,000 acre working sheep station overlooking the spectacular Palliser Bay.
Today, we will enjoy a tour of the surrounding Wharekauhau’s farm. Behind Wharekauhau’s achingly beautiful farmland surroundings is a hugely successful farming operation that put it on the map in the mid-1800s. Bordered by the Rimutaka Ranges and Pacific Ocean, this classic New Zealand Romney sheep station features all the activities that have created New Zealand’s legendary farming heritage, including sheep shearing demonstrations, sheep dogs in action and daily farm events.
Spend the rest of your day being as active or relaxed as you choose. We recommend a relaxing treatment in the Huora Day Spa or a round of clay target shooting, which tests the reflexes like no other sport, and what better place to enjoy a shoot than Wharekauhau’s
own clay-target field.
Wharekauhau Lodge offers a variety of experiences included during your stay, such as, croquet, tennis, hiking, mountain biking or relax in the swimming pool and hot tub.
Our Journey continues to Queenstown, New Zealand. Known as the adventure capital of the world, this resort town is home to a range of outdoor experiences, from the world's first and most famous bungy jumps - the Kawarau Bridge Bungy - to jet boat thrills through the rugged beauty and unspoilt grandeur of the white-water rapids of the Shotover River.
Upon arrival we will transfer to the Matakauri Lodge. On splendid, mysterious Lake Wakatipu, the cradle of ancient Maori legends and one of the most serene landscapes in the world, Matakauri Lodge offers stunning views of the mountain ranges. A magnificent spa with pool, sauna and fitness centre all combine to make this the ideal retreat.
No trip to New Zealand is complete without visiting Milford Sound, often described as the eighth wonder of the world. Today we will explore Milford Sound’s stunning fiord from a helicopter. We will enjoy an exhilarating flight past spectacular rivers, valleys, and mountains with blue-green ice falls, in the heart of Fiordland National Park before landing at Carrick Estate for lunch.
Carrick was founded in 1994 by Barbara and Steve Green who planted on a rabbit infested block of land in Bannockburn, on the shores of Lake Dunstan. Today the 24ha of vines are certified Organic through Biogro and the company is Certified Sustainable by Sustainable Winegrowing New Zealand (SWNZ). Carrick Winery have an underground barrel on site, which is a key component in many of their wines to provide further layers and complexity.
Afterwards, we will transfer to MondilloWines. A passion for his vineyard, an inherent love of the environment, and a desire to produce exquisite wines year after year - these are the driving forces behind Domenic Mondillo. We will enjoy tastings at Mondillo before returning to Queenstown via road this afternoon.
Our Journey continues to Brisbane, Australia, after a short technical stop in Norfolk Island, Australia. Upon arrival we will transfer to The Incholm, where we will enjoy an overnight stay to prepare ourselves for our tomorrow’s flight.
Fly to Sydney. The most populous city in Australia, Sydney is located on the southeast coast along the Tasman Sea and surrounding one of the world’s largest natural harbors.
Situated directly on Sydney Harbour in the city's historic Rocks area, Park Hyatt Sydney is just a short walk from Sydney's major shopping and business districts and provides dramatic views of the famous Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Enjoy a full-day tour of Sydney with a local guide, including an Aboriginal walk, a tour of the Sydney Opera House and a visit to Icebergs at Bondi Beach for lunch.
Today is at leisure to relax or explore on your own. Hotel’s concierge will be available to help you plan your day. An optional performance at the opera may be offered following what is playing on our dates.
Fly to Hobart, Australia. Upon arrival we will transfer to The Freycinet Lodge.
Connect with the stunning natural environment in this secluded, stylish and comfortable property. Water, mountain and bushland views combine with grounded elegance to bring you a truly relaxing tasmanian escape.
Today, we will experience Tasmania’s whisky, gin and wine in a unique way with a top shelf helicopter tour. We will truly relax and take in the stunning scenery as we will be flown to each destination to indulge in the tastes and tales of the best whisky & gin distilleries in Tasmania. Locations include Lark Distillery or Killara Distillery in the Southern Midlands and McHenry Distillery on the Tasman Peninsula.
In between the distilleries, we will fly to Frogmore Creek Restaurant and Cellar Door in the Coal Valley Wine Region, Cambridge, for lunch inspired by local seasonal produce accompanied with their cool climate wines.
This morning will be at your leisure to relax or explore on your own.
In the late afternoon, we will venture in a tour to encounter Bicheno Penguins in the wild. A short ride will take us to the private penguin rookery. The penguin rookery has been established over 30 years through rehabilitating farmland back to penguin friendly habitat. From here, we will explore the penguin rookery with our guide, who will teach us some interesting facts about penguins and what steps we can all take to improve the life of these little birds.
Fly to Yulara and transfer to Sails in the Desert. Enjoy a wilderness experience at a luxury retreat in the outback!
In the late afternoon we will drive into the dual World Heritage–listed National Park begins the evening, followed by a leisurely walk through the Cultural Centre where the informative and interactive displays provide insight into the spiritual and cultural meanings of Uluru (formerly Ayers Rock) and Kata Tjuta. Continue on to the twilight viewing area where you can take in the iconic sunset over Uluru.
Experience the remarkable changing colors of the desert landscape and the spectacular sight of Uluru as day breaks over Australia’s heartland.
A walk to peaceful Mutitjulu Waterhole offers a unique insight into the sheer physical and spiritual enormity of Uluru. During the walk your guide will point out cave paintings and other relevant sites important to Anangu and the early explorers. They also share the Anangu creation story of Kuniya and Liru, adding greater depth to Uluru’s striking features.
To climb the world’s largest monolith is against the wishes of traditional owners because the path otherwise followed is the traditional route taken by their ancestral Mala (rufous hare-wallaby men) on their arrival at this sacred place. A walk along the base offers a deeply personal, moving and lasting experience.
Our Journey continues to Tambolaka, Indonesia. Upon arrival, we will transfer to Nihi Sumba Resort. This luxurious retreat offers guests a unique and immersive experience on the beautiful island of Sumba. Located on a pristine stretch of beach, the hotel boasts stunning ocean views and a serene, tropical setting.
Nihi Sumba hotel also offers a range of recreational activities and experiences, including surf lessons, horseback riding, and cultural excursions.
Today is at your leisure to explore or relax on your own.
Today is at your leisure to explore or relax on your own.
Our flight for today takes us to Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia and one of the fastest growing cities in Asia.
Upon arrival, we will transfer to the stunning Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur. Set between the flowering gardens of the KLCC Park and the dramatic heights of the Petronas Twin Towers, Mandarin Oriental, Kuala Lumpur offers impressive views. Delight your senses with an array of cuisines showcased in eight innovative outlets. Escape Kuala Lumpur's urban bustle at The Spa with rejuvenating facials, body treatments and award-winning Signature Therapies for holistic wellbeing. Take a dip at the infinity edge pool overlooking the spectacular city skyline or watch the magnificent display of KLCC Lake Symphony Fountain at the Esplanade KLCC.
Today we will get a bird’s-eye view over Kuala Lumpur from the Observation Deck of the 88-story Petronas Twin Towers. During our visit, we will ride up to the observation deck, located about 557 feet (170 meters) above ground, and take unforgettable photos while we marvel at the cityscape from the Skybridge.
Next, we will be driven around this spectacular city to visit its historical sights such as Merdeka Square (Independence Square) the National Mosque, the shop at Central Market and the Royal Selangor Visitor Centre.
Then, we will head to the magnificent Batu Caves. This 100-year-old temple features idols and statues erected inside the main caves and around it. Incorporated with interior limestone formations said to be around 400 million years old, the temple is considered an important religious landmark by Hindus.
Fly to Mattalla. Upon arrival we will transfer to Wild Coast Tented Lodge. This spectacular luxury tented camp is situated on a rugged, empty beach, overlooking the Indian Ocean, and is adjacent to Yala National Park, renowned for its leopard population.
Today we will enjoy a scenic game drive in the Yala National Park to track leopards, bears and elephants. Our ranger will showcase the entire spectrum of biodiversity found in the park. He will interpret the signs of the wild to deliver a fascinating narrative to make our game drives a distinct experience.
Today is at leisure to relax on your own.
The excitement of game drives at Wild Coast Lodge is ideally complemented by the soothing treatments offered at the Sanctuary Spa. Its comprehensive menu includes classics like Swedish massages alongside more exotic treatments like the Island Spice Scrub that comprises of Cinnamon and tea – both known for their health benefits.
Today, we will fly to Udaipur, India. Better known as the City of Lakes and Palaces, this regally romantic city has always stood out from Rajasthan’s other desert cities with its network of manmade lakes. The jewel of the city’s crown is sparkling Lake Pichola with the illusory floating Taj Lake Palace, which will be our home for the
next three nights.
The ethereal Taj Lake Palace affords guests the pleasures of India's bygone princely era. Over the centuries, it has played host to royalty, poets and writers and the Maharana's guests. Trappings like a welcoming vintage car ride to the charming city of Udaipur, the Jiva Spa boat, royal butlers, recipes from traditional Mewari cuisine and arrival by boat - all little facets that make this former pleasure palace the celebrated luxury hotel it is today.
This late afternoon, we will enjoy a sunset cruise on the Lake Pichola
This morning, we will discover the marvels of Udaipur with a full day tour. We will visit the City Palace, Crystal Gallery and the Maharana’s Vintage & Classic car collection.
Late afternoon we will enjoy a Heritage walk with our professional guide, who will escort us through Udaipur’s lesser visited narrow lanes revealing stories of folk deities and fabled heroes along the way.
After breakfast, we will venture in an excursion to Delwara, coupled with a visit to Eklingji Temple and Nagda ruins. Delwara was once known as town of the gods. With over 1500 temples it was an important cultural and religious center. Our guide, a Delwara local, will take us around town, showing us step wells, temples, and other historic buildings.
Afterwards, we will head out to Eklingji to visit the fascinating temple site of Rajasthan. The tour guide will show us its remarkable features: a four-faced 50 ft high idol of Lord Shiva made of black marble, a huge Mandap (pillared hall), Nandi sculpture, idol of Goddess Saraswati and Yamuna, silver doors, kunds (water tanks), etc.
Next, we will be driven to Nagda, where we will explore the rustic ruins of ancient Sahasra (aka Sas) Bahu temples and Jain temple of Adbhudji. Finally we will be driven back to Udaipur, and the remaining of the afternoon will be free for shopping and independent activities.
Our flight for today will take us to the beautiful Muscat, Oman.
After clearing customs, we will transfer to the Jumeirah Bay Muscat, a serene retreat set between the dramatic Al Hajar mountains and the sparkling Arabian Sea.
This morning's tour of Muscat begins with a drive through the beautiful embassy quarter en route to Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, a massive complex that can hold up to 20,000 worshippers.
Not many westerners visit the Mosque and Islamic dress standards must be observed. After a visit at the Omani Museum, it's on to Muttrah - a charming seaside quarter of Muscat, complete with traditional bazaar and fish market. In Muscat Old Town you proceed on foot, strolling around the palace of Sultan Qaboos and the 16th-century Portuguese Jalali and Mirani Forts.
Today is at your leisure to relax at the beautiful hotel or explore on your own. Your Journey Director will be available to help you plan your day.
Today we will fly to Manama, Bahrain.
This little island state is a truly hidden gem in the middle east. Manama, gives us the chance to experience the modern and luxurious Arab way of life, but in a more relaxed and less crowded way than neighbouring Dubai.
Upon arrival, we will transfer to the Four Seasons Bahrain Bay. Settled up on a private island this hotel offers elegant accommodations with views of the Arabian Gulf. It features a white sandy beach and includes a fitness center, 4 restaurants, and 5 swimming experiences.
Today we’ll discover the best that Bahrain has to offer as we’ll embark on a guided sightseeing tour. We will visit several top landmarks including the Great Mosque, the National Museum, local souks, and an ancient fort.
We will leave Manama behind as today we will make our way to Al-Ula, Saudi Arabia.
Upon arrival, we will transfer to the stunning, and brand new Banyan Tree Al-Ula. Situated in the magical surrounds of AlUla in Saudi Arabia, our all-villa resort is a desert retreat located in one of the world’s most mysterious and exciting travel destinations, inspired by the natural surroundings of the Ashar Valley.
Embark on a multi-sensory experience at Banyan Tree AlUla. Be stunned by the stillness, peacefulness, the stunning rock formations, the sheer force of nature, and feel as if time and space were suddenly suspended, allowing the senses to fully awaken.
Today we will visit Hegra and experience Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here we will explore over 110 remarkably well-preserved tombs set in a desert landscape, while learning about the ancient people and culture of AlUla.
Our flight for today takes us to Montenegro - the pearl of the Mediterranean.
Upon arrival, we will transfer to the One & Only Portonovi. Situated just off the open Adriatic coastline at the entrance to Boka Bay in Herceg Novi, the One&Only Portonovi is the jewel of Montenegro's flourishing new Riviera. Experience pristine beaches, sun-soaked sailing, and forest hiking.
Today, we will cruise the Bay of Kotor. Shades of the Norwegian fjords and Lake Como come to mind as we meander through the serpentine bay lined with the ancient fortified towns of Kotor, Risan, Tivat, Perast, Prcanj, and Herceg Novi. Dotted with Romanesque churches and quaint fishing villages, this is a land where time appears to stand still.
We will head to the Blue Cave as we go around the famous former prison Mamula and reach the open sea. There will be time for a swim inside the Blue Cave - a natural phenomenon that is been created by waves crashing for thousands of years at the Lustica peninsula. Iridescent lightning manifests itself on the water due to the Sun's radiance through small cave cracks.
On the way back we will visit the famous Yugoslavian military tunnels where they were hiding their ships and submarines.
Today is at your leisure to relax at the beautiful hotel, or explore on your own.
Our Journey continues to Bruges, the Venice of the north as they call it.
After our landing, we will transfer to Hotel Dukes’ Palace. This property is the former residence of the Burgundian aristocracy. It is a very unique hotel in Flanders, located in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage city of Bruges.
Today, we will enjoy a walking tour with our local guide as we begin our exploration of Bruges. We will visit the famous Minnewater
(Lake of Love), one of the most delightful corners of the city. Next, we will explore the Lady's Church — home to Michelangelo’s magnificent 16th-century marble statue, Madonna of Brugge — and the Market Square with its grand Belfry.
Our tour continues to the center of Bruges where we will admire Bruges’ beautiful Town Hall Square (Burg) and the ornate façade of
the Basilica of the Holy Blood. The basilica was originally constructed in the 12th century as the residence of the Count of Flanders. After lunch we will visit the Groeninge Museum (‘The city museum of Fine Arts’). The collection in the museum spans several centuries (from the 14th to the 20th century) and focuses primarily on works by painters who lived and worked in Brugge.
After breakfast, we will start our way back home as we fly to Iceland.
There will be a stop in Glasgow, Scotland, for fuel before continuing on to Reykjavik. Upon landing, we will transfer to the Hotel Borg. Tonight, we will gather for a farewell dinner in downtown Reykjavik.
After breakfast, we will head west to return home. Two technical stops have been arranged in Kangerlussuaq, Greenland and then in Goose Bay, Canada for refueling before continuing onwards to Bangor, Maine, to clear US Customs.
For those based on the west coast of the United States, an alternate stop to clear US customs can be arranged. Afterwards, we will all go our separate ways home.