Itinerary

Treasures of Eurasia September 2023
Date:
September 09, 2023 - October 11, 2023
Meeting point:
Quebec City, Canada
Length:
33 days / 32 nights
Mileage:
11,500 NM
Day 1 - Saturday, September 09: Quebec City, Canada

Welcome to Quebec City!

Air Journey 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 exten-sive 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.

Hotel : Fairmont Le Château Frontenac
Welcome cocktail and Dinner included
Day 2 - Sunday, September 10: Quebec City, Canada (CYQB) → Kuujjuaq, Canada (CYVP) → Kangerlussuaq, Greenland (BGSF) (690+725nm)

We will fly over the immense forests and numerous lakes of Canada on our way to Kuujjuaq for a technical stop. 
 
Then continue over southern Greenland’s beautiful scenery before landing at Kangerlussuaq in western Greenland. The airport’s Kangerlussuaq Museum illustrates the town’s past as a U.S. airbase during WWII. 
 
Because we will be approaching the Arctic Circle and the “land of the midnight sun”, we will have an astonishing 20 hours of daylight! 

Hotel : Hotel Kangerlussuaq
Breakfast and Dinner included
Day 3 - Wednesday, September 11: Kangerlussuaq, Greenland (BGSF) → Reykjavik, Iceland (BIRK) (730nm)

Fly over ice-covered Greenland and then do our second water crossing.  
 
Upon  arrival, we will transfer to the Hotel Borg where we will enjoy luxury accommodations in the very center of Reykjavik. The Hotel Borg overlooks the beautiful square of Austurvöllur, and is situated across from Althingi, the Icelandic parliament and the cathedral. After dinner at the hotel, you may want to venture on your own to experience the local nightlife.  

Hotel : Hotel Borg
Breakfast and Dinner included
Day 4 - Tuesday, September 12: Reykjavik, Iceland (BIRK) → Gothenburg, Sweden (ESGG) (1,060 NM)

Our Journey continues to Gothenburg, Sweden. Upon arrival, we will transfer to the Upper House Hotel.Discover Gothenburg, Sweden's coastal gem, where history and innovation intertwine. Explore charming canals, marvel at captivating architecture, and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of this vibrant city.

Hotel : Upper House
Breakfast and Dinner included
Day 5 - Wednesday, September 13: Gothenburg, Sweden

Embark on an unforgettable city tour of Gothenburg, Sweden, where every corner unveils a new adventure. The tour begin with a navigation of the picturesque canals, relishing the captivating blend of historical charm and modern vibrancy. Explore the city's architectural marvels, from the grandeur of Gustav Adolfs Torg to the contemporary brilliance of Lilla Bommen. Delight in the rich cultural tapestry as you stroll through colorful neighborhoods, indulge in culinary delights at bustling markets, and soak in the artistic ambiance of the renowned Gothenburg Museum of Art. With each step, Gothenburg reveals its enchanting secrets, leaving you with memories to cherish long after the tour ends.

Hotel : Upper House
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included
Day 6 - Thursday, September 14: Gothenburg, Sweden

Today is at your leisure to explore or relax on your own.

Hotel : Upper House
Breakfast and Dinner included
Day 7 - Sunday, September 5: Gothenburg, Sweden (ESGG) → Skiathos, Greece (LGSK) (1,195 nm)

Fly to the lush island of Skiathos.
 
Renowned among returning guests for offering unparalleled Greek hospitality, Atrium Hotel Skiathos is a home away from home. All accommodations are inspired by nature, seamlessly blending wooden and stone elements to create a comfortable and modern ambience.  
 
The hotel masterfully combines style, tradition, and high-end, tailor-made service, with an emphasis on the guests’ personal needs and preferences. Its accommodations boast high-end facilities and stunning, panoramic views of the sea or the island’s idyllic natural landscape, making for an unrivalled and unforgettable Skiathos experience. 

Hotel : Atrium Hotel
Breakfast and Dinner included
Day 8 - Saturday, September 16: Skiathos, Greece

Skiathos presents an ideal combination for leisure and sea sports. There are more than 60 beautiful beaches with golden sand or white pebbles; a turquoise sea to swim or sail in; today we’ll go on a half day boat tour to the neighboring islands of skopelos and sail to the Pelion peninsula (Mainland Greece). 

Hotel : Atrium Hotel
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included
Day 9 - Sunday, September 17: Skiathos, Greece

Today is a day to relax or explore on your own. 

Hotel : Atrium Hotel
Breakfast and Dinner included
Day 10 - Monday, September 18: Skiathos, Greece (LGSK) → Cappadocia, Turkey (LTAZ) (515 NM)

We will transfer to the airport and fly to our next destination of Cappadocia in Turkey.

Upon arrival, we will transfer to Argos hotel. This unique property seamlessly blends ancient cave dwellings with modern luxury. Indulge in stylish accommodations, savor gourmet cuisine, and rejuvenate in the serene spa. With breathtaking views and a sense of tranquility, Argos Hotel offers an unforgettable experience in the heart of this captivating region. The quality of the cave rooms makes you feel cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Volcanic rock called "tufa" is perfect insulation material which keeps the temperature between 17-20 degrees Celsius throughout the year.

Hotel : Argos In Cappadocia
Breakfast and Dinner included
Day 11 - Tuesday, September 19: Cappadocia, Turkey

Weather permitting, we will have an early morning Balloon Adventure over Cappadocia's enchanting "lunar escape" to witness the rising sun. It's a once-in-a-lifetime experience to see the vast region's farthest "fairy chimneys" from above, resembling a fantasy lunar landscape. We will then return to the hotel for breakfast.

Our tour continues to Goreme, an open-air museum featuring rock-carved churches from the 9th and 10th centuries. These exceptional treasures of sacred art, along with other sites in Cappadocia, form one of the world's finest collections of medieval art.

Next, we will visit Kaymali's underground city, a marvel of the region. The enigmatic cellar villages, with over 40 discovered empty, are among Cappadocia's wonders.

Hotel : Argos In Cappadocia
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included
Day 12 - Wednesday, September 20: Cappadocia, Turkey

Today is at your leisure to relax or explore on your own.

Hotel : Argos In Cappadocia
Breakfast and Dinner included
Day 13 - Thursday, September 21: Cappadocia, Turkey (LTAZ) → Yerevan, Armenia (UDYZ) (470 NM)

Fly to Yerevan, Armenia. Upon arrival in Yerevan International airport, you will be met by our local guide and privately transferred to your hotel. Check-in at The Alexander Luxury Collection.

Introducing an exclusive new address to the city’s developing social landscape, The Alexander is heralded as the first luxury international hotel in the historic center of Yerevan. Each of the 114 non-smoking guestrooms and suites features scaled back, minimalist design, grand gold accents and hints of decorative Armenian motifs.

Hotel : Alexander Luxury Collection
Breakfast and Dinner included
Day 14 - Friday, September 22: Yerevan, Armenia

After breakfast, we will embark on a city tour of Yerevan, including sights like the Opera and Ballet Building, Presidential House, National Assembly, and Republic Square. We'll visit the Armenian Genocide Museum and Memorial, followed by a tour and Cognac tasting at the Yerevan Brandy Factory. Our itinerary also includes a visit to the Cascade Monument and modern art galleries. We'll end the day with a welcome dinner at Charles restaurant in Cascade.

Hotel : Alexander Luxury Collection
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included
Day 15 - Saturday, September 23: Yerevan, Armenia (UDYV) → Ashgabat, Turkmenistan (UTAA) (665 NM)

Our Journey continues to Ashgabat, Turkmenistan.

Upon arrival, we will transfer to Yyldyz hotel, a captivating oasis nestled in a vibrant cityscape. This exquisite hotel offers a haven of luxury and comfort, where guests can escape the bustling pace of everyday life. Immerse yourself in the sophisticated ambiance of the elegantly designed rooms, indulge in delectable cuisine at the on-site restaurant, and unwind in the serene spa and wellness facilities. With impeccable service and attention to detail, Yyldyz Hotel ensures a memorable stay, making it the perfect retreat for discerning travelers seeking an elevated experience.

Hotel : Yyldyz
Breakfast and Dinner included
Day 16 - Sunday, September 24: Ashgabat, Turkmenistan

After breakfast, there is an orientation tour of the city. You will see such monuments as the Monument and Park of Independence (looking like a white-marble “Eiffel Tower” standing in a beautiful park) and a rocket-like Arch of Neutrality, beautiful Ertoghrul Gazie Mosque (reminiscent of the Blue Mosque in Istanbul), and the unusual “Palace of Happiness” (the official name for the Wedding Palace).

In the evening you will enjoy a folk show of traditional Turkmen music and songs, see some of Turkmen customs and rituals.

Hotel : Yyldyz
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included
Day 17 - Monday, September 25: Ashgabat, Turkmenistan (UTAA) → Mary, Turkmeninstan (UTAM) → Samarkand, Uzbekistan (UTSS) (170 + 270 NM)

On our way to Samarkand, we will stop in Mary, Turkmenistan, to explore the ancient town of Merv, an UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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.

Hotel : Regency Amir Temur
Breakfast and Dinner included
Day 18 - Tuesday, September 26: Samarkand, Uzbekistan

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.

Hotel : Regency Amir Temur
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included
Day 19 - Wednesday, September 27: Samarkand, Uzbekistan

Today is at your leisure to relax or explore on your own.

Hotel : Regency Amir Temur
Breakfast and Dinner included
Day 20 - Thursday, September 28: Samarkand, Uzbekistan (UTSS) → Bukhara, Uzbekistan (UTSB) (115 NM)

Fly to Bukhara. On arrival, transfer to the Mercure Old Town Bukhara, Discover the allure of Mercure Old Town Bukhara, a charming hotel that seamlessly blends heritage and modern comfort. Immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of Bukhara's historic district as you unwind in stylish accommodations and savor delightful cuisine. With its prime location and impeccable service, Mercure Old Town Bukhara offers an unforgettable stay in this enchanting city.

One of Central Asia's oldest cities, Bukhara was a legendary stop on the ancient Silk Road, a network of trade routes between China and Europe. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its historic center, the city remains the best example of a well-preserved medieval Central Asian city.

Hotel : Mercure Old Town Bukhara
Breakfast and Dinner included
Day 21 - Friday, September 29: Bukhara, Uzbekistan

With our local guide, explore Bukhara's historic center. Experience a time when this ancient city was a fabled trading outpost on the Silk Road and an intellectual center for Islamic scholars. Take note of not only the impressive mosques, religious schools and shrines that represent the best of Islamic architecture, but also the careful urban planning that led to the city's UNESCO designation.

Hotel : Mercure Old Town Bukhara
Breakfast and Dinner included
Day 22 - Saturday, September 30: Bukhara, Uzbekistan (UTSB) → Baku, Azerbaijan (UBBB) (665 NM)

With our local guide, explore Bukhara's historic center. Experience a time when this ancient city was a fabled trading outpost on the Silk Road and an intellectual center for Islamic scholars. Take note of not only the impressive mosques, religious schools and shrines that represent the best of Islamic architecture, but also the careful urban planning that led to the city's UNESCO designation.

Hotel : Four Seasons Baku
Breakfast and Dinner included
Day 23 - Sunday, October 01: Baku, Azerbaijan

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.

Hotel : Four Seasons Baku
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included
Day 24 - Monday, October 02: Baku, Azerbaijan

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.

Hotel : Four Seasons Baku
Breakfast and Dinner included
Day 25 - Tuesday, October 03: Baku, Azerbaijan (UBBB) → Tbilisi, Georgia (UGTB) (240 NM)

Our Journey continues to Tbilisi, Georgia. Upon arrival we will transfer to Stamba Hotel, a captivating urban sanctuary where elegance meets innovation. Situated in the vibrant cityscape, this unique hotel is a harmonious blend of modern design and historic charm. Immerse yourself in the luxurious comforts of the thoughtfully curated rooms, indulge in culinary delights at the exceptional restaurants, and unwind in the chic ambiance of the rooftop bar. With its artistic flair and impeccable service, Stamba Hotel offers a truly unforgettable stay, inviting guests to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Hotel : Stamba Hotel
Breakfast and Dinner included
Day 26 - Wednesday, October 04: Tbilisi, Georgia

Today, we will embark on an immersive tour through the heart of Tbilisi, Georgia, where ancient traditions and modern delights collide. From the iconic Narikala Fortress to the charming cobblestone streets of Old Town, this full-day tour invites us to discover the city's rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking architecture. Delight in the flavors of traditional Georgian cuisine, stroll along the scenic Mtkvari River, and immerse yourself in the warm hospitality of this captivating capital. A day filled with unforgettable experiences awaits you in Tbilisi.

Hotel : Stamba Hotel
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included
Day 27 - Thursday, October 05: Tbilisi, Georgia (UGTB) → Bodrum, Turkey (LTFE) (845 NM)

Fly to Bodrum situated on the southern Aegean coast of Turkey. This fabled coastline is where Homer's heroes were born, where the ancient Greeks consulted their oracles and the Romans built magnificent temples to honor their gods.

Amanruya is set on a peaceful hillside, offering breathtaking views of the sea and a winding pathway leading to a sheltered pebble beach.

Hotel : Amanruya
Breakfast and Dinner included
Day 28 - Friday, October 06: Bodrum, Turkey

Today we will go for a half day boat tour to explore the ancient sites from Greek and Roman history dotted across the Aegean coastline.

For centuries the region has been a center of traditional artisan Turkish crafts. Built in the early 15th century, Bodrum castle remains a medieval relic, fortified with green volcanic stones and marble columns.

Hotel : Amanruya
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included
Day 29 - Saturday, October 07: Bodrum, Turkey

Today is at your leisure to relax or explore on your own.

Amanruya’s Spa is an intimate sanctuary dedicated to holistic wellness, offering an extensive spa menu inspired by traditional Turkish wellness practices. This includes a range of healing and relaxing massages and facial cleansing treatments. Treatments are also available in the comfort of Guest Pavilions.

Hotel : Amanruya
Breakfast and Dinner included
Day 30 - Sunday, October 08: Bodrum, Turkey (LTFE) → Prague, Czech Republic (LKPR) (965 NM)

Our Journey 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, architecture and engineering.

Hotel : Mandarin Oriental Prague
Breakfast and Dinner included
Day 31 - Monday, October 09: Prague, Czech Republic

This morning, we will depart with a private local guide for a walking tour of Prague Castle and Lesser Town.

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 will explore Prague's rich history, cultural treasures, and architectural heritage—a truly captivating destination in Europe. Aptly known as the "Heart of Europe," this city, situated on the banks of the river in the center of Bohemia, entices visitors from near and far.

Hotel : Mandarin Oriental Prague
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included
Day 32 - Tuesday, October 10: Prague, Czech Republic (LKPR) → Stavanger, Norway (ENZV) → Reykjavik, Iceland (BIRK) (605 + 845 NM)
TBM Journey to Europe | Air Journey

After breakfast, we will start our trek back home as we fly to Iceland. There will be a stop in Stavanger, Norway, for fuel before continuing on to Reykjavik.

Upon landing, we will transfer to the Hotel Borg. Tonight, we will come together for a heartfelt farewell dinner in the vibrant heart of downtown Reykjavik.

Hotel : Hotel Borg
Breakfast and Dinner included
Day 33 - Wednesday, October 11: Reykjavik, Iceland (BIRK) → Kangerlussuaq, Greenland (BGSF) → Home (730 NM)

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.

Breakfast included