2 0 1 6 A V A L O N A S I A C O L L E C T I O N
R IVER CRU I S INGFROM A UNIQUE POINT OF VIEW
A journey with Avalon Waterways® along the legendary rivers of Asia is an
unforgettable fusion of distinctive sights, colorful cultures, and ancient traditions.
Inspired by cruisers, our ships and itineraries stand out from the crowd. And because
bigger isn’t always better, we focus on intimate experiences with exceptional
personalized service on our new Suite Ships® in Southeast Asia and our Small-Group
Discoveries in China. With a maximum of 36 and 20 passengers, respectively, we
get you closer to the must-see sights and deliver a more enriching experience with
Local FavoritesSM, designed to introduce you to the unique stories and people in each
destination. An expert Cruise Director and carefully selected Certifi ed Local Guides
accompany you throughout your adventure, ensuring no detail is overlooked.
So, come discover the magic of Asia—and the Avalon advantage.
INSPIRINGASIA
& T H E A V A L O N A D V A N TA G E
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Avalon is proud to partner
with Tourism Cares to help
provide outreach services
and educational programs for impoverished
children in Cambodia. See page 75 for details on
this important initiative.
AVALON AMBASSADORPG 4 Deborah Hutton
MEKONG RIVERPG 6 Vietnam, Cambodia & the Mekong RiverPG 8 Included is the Name of the GamePG 10 The Mekong ExperiencePG 12 Intimate Cruising at its Best PG 14 Live the Suite LifePG 16 Inspired Dining PG 18 Extend Your CruisePG 19 Superior Hotels PG 20 Fascinating Vietnam, Cambodia
& the Mekong River— Ho Chi Minh City to Siem ReapWHS ........................13 days — Siem Reap to Ho Chi Minh City WSH ........................13 days
IRRAWADDY RIVERPG 26 Myanmar & the Irrawaddy RiverPG 28 Included is the Name of the GamePG 30 On the IrrawaddyPG 32 Small Ship, Big Experiences PG 34 Live the Suite LifePG 36 Taste the Culture PG 38 Extend Your CruisePG 39 Superior Hotels PG 40 Golden Myanmar &
the Alluring Irrawaddy— Yangon to Yangon WBK ........................14 days
— Yangon to Yangon WKB ........................14 days
YANGTZE RIVERPG 46 China & the Yantgtze RiverPG 48 Included is the Name of the GamePG 50 The Yangtze & BeyondPG 52 Cruising in Style PG 54 Spacious Deluxe StateroomsPG 56 Savory Cuisine PG 58 Extend Your CruisePG 59 Superior Hotels PG 60 Magical China & the Yangtze River
— Beijing to Shanghai WYC ........................12 days
PG 64 Cultural China & Tibet with Yangtze River Cruise— Shanghai to Beijing WXY .........................16 days
PG 68 Enchanting China & the Yangtze River— Beijing to Shanghai WCY ........................16 days
SHIP DETAILSPG 72 Avalon Siem ReapSM
PG 73 Avalon MyanmarSM
PG 74 Century Legend & Century Paragon
ADDITIONAL INFORMATIONPG 75 Avalon & Tourism Cares
Cambodia ProjectPG 76 Avalon Gives you More ValuePG 77 What You Need To Know On BoardPG 78 Terms & Conditions
A V A L O N W A T E R W A Y S . C O M . A U 3
DEBORAHHUTTON
AVALON AMBASSADOR
A S U I T E D I S C O V E R Y W I T H
What impressed me most was the thought and innovation Avalon has put in to its suite ships.
They have been designed with their travellers in mind – spacious and stylish, sleek and
contemporary, friendly and relaxed. They’ve thought of the important things like turning the bed
to face the view, while also remembering the little things like making sure there’s good coff ee on
standby in the morning. This is really a superb way to travel.
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“As a fi rst-time river cruiser it was easy to see why this has become such a
popular way to travel. You can wake up each day to a completely diff erent
view, grab a coff ee and then steal a little more time in bed to enjoy the
scenery. That’s before you even set out for the day’s exploring.
”5
V I E T N A M , C A M B O D I A & T H E
MEKONG RIVER
Over the past 30 years, “change” has been a constant for Vietnam and
Cambodia as they diligently forge paths to the future. Today, these captivating
countries are achieving a successful balance between modernization and
ancient traditions.
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Extending from the mountainous north to the verdant fl ood plains of the
Mekong Delta, Vietnam boasts a rich and fascinating culture, striking beauty,
and tantalizing 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. Breathtaking temples provide the perfect escape to serenity.
And remarkable geological formations—like stunning Ha Long Bay—present
panoramas you’ll never forget. While reminders of the war remain, it is fi rmly
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 magnifi cent 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.
Pulsing through the heart of Vietnam and Cambodia is the mighty Mekong
River. From its source high up in the Tibetan Plateau, the river courses for
over 3,000 miles through several countries, providing a lifeline for millions
of people. Along this vibrant “Mother of Water,” scenes of everyday life will
mesmerize you—from fi shermen hauling in their daily catch and chanting
monks to boats crisscrossing the river.
Embark on this inspiring journey and fall in love with the people, the
landscapes, and everything that makes Vietnam and Cambodia extraordinary.
A V A L O N W A T E R W A Y S . C O M . A U 7
INCLUDEDI S T H E N A M E O F T H E G A M E
At Avalon, “included” is one of our favorite words. Spacious outside Avalon Suites with
sitting area and huge 14-foot wall-to-wall window—included. Unique Local FavoritesSM,
designed to immerse you in the culture—included. Complimentary local beer/spirits and
soft drinks throughout the day—included. The most shore excursions, led by Certifi ed
Local Guides and complete with audio headsets—included. VIP entrance into the
must-see sites—included. Expansive panoramic views throughout the ship—included.
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INCLUDED FOR EVERY AVALON GUEST
• Intimate cruise experience on the all-suite Avalon
Siem ReapSM with no more than 36 passengers
• Spacious outside Avalon Suite measuring 245 square feet
• Large closets with shelves for ample storage &
in-room safe
• Comfort Collection BedsSM with premium mattress toppers
• Large private bathrooms with hairdryer, premium bath
amenities & full shower with glass door
• Large desk with convenient power outlets
• Individual climate control
• Minibar with complimentary local beer, soft drinks
& bottled water
• Plush bathrobes & slippers
• Professional Cruise Director and staff to help throughout
your cruise
• Included sightseeing accompanied by Certified
Local Guide
• Selection of Local FavoritesSM offering unique cultural
activities & interactions with locals
• Fascinating destination talks and demonstrations by your
Cruise Director, Local Guides, and ship’s crew
• Headsets for all guided shore excursions
• Bottled water on all excursions
• Fresh fruit & refreshing drink after all ship excursions
• Complimentary wine, local beer/spirits, soft drinks, coffee
& tea at dinner
• Bar serving premium spirits, wine & complimentary coffee,
tea, soft drinks, and local beer/spirits throughout the day
• Fitness Center
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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 as the
“rice bowl” of the country. One of the highlights is
a visit to see how traditional candy and rice wine
are made before sampling some yourself. Explore
a colorful local market, take a sampan ride to visit
a brick factory, visit a fi sh farm, and relish other
fascinating activities. Explore French-infl uenced
Phnom Penh, the spectacular Silver Pagoda, and
learn about the sobering Khmer Rouge regime.
Interact with friendly Cambodian people at
work and play as you explore villages to see silk
weavers, silversmiths, and local schoolchildren.
Other highlights include an oxcart ride through
the countryside and a visit to the home of a
farmer to learn about his daily life. You will also
partake in a traditional water blessing ceremony
with 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, a cooking class, and
visit the Cu Chi Tunnels, a network of tunnels
used by the Viet Cong in the war. In charming
Siem Reap, enjoy a traditional Apsara dance
performance and explore the spectacular Angkor
temple complex, whose architectural grandeur is
arguably unmatched among the world’s ancient
ruins. See several of the temples, including
spectacular Angkor Wat and the mesmerizing
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.
T H E M E K O N G
EXPERIENCE
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The all-suite Avalon Siem ReapSM, one of our incredible Suite Ships®, was designed to provide an intimate
experience for a maximum of 36 passengers, so you can truly immerse yourself in the culture, people,
and sights along the Mekong River. Built by local craftsmen, the ship has modern features yet retains the
colonial charm fi tting to Vietnam and Cambodia. Time on board delivers a refreshing outdoor experience,
as all suites open to the outside and the two lounges o� er great panoramic views.
The design also allows her to be the only ship in the industry cruising all the way from Ho Chi Minh City to
Siem Reap* (or vice versa). This eliminates over 7 hours of motorcoach travel time to and from your ship,
which means you get to enjoy more cruising!
See page 72 for deck plan.
INTIMATE CRUISING
AT I T S B E S T
CRUISE ALL THE WAY FROM HO CHI MINH CITY TO SIEM REAP*
*Cruising to Siem Reap is dependent on water levels.
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AVALON SIEM REAPSM FEATURES:
• Launched in 2015
• Air-conditioned Panorama Lounge
• Open-air observation lounge with shade
system & premium lounge chairs
• Spacious, open-seating dining room
• Bar serving premium spirits, wine &
complimentary coff ee, tea, soft drinks, and
local beer/spirits throughout the day
• Complimentary Wi-Fi access in lounge
areas (where signal is available)
• Spa treatment room
• Fitness Center
• Library & games
• Non-smoking interior
Panorama Lounge
Open-air observation lounge
A V A L O N W A T E R W A Y S . C O M . A U 13
AMENITIES
• Comfort Collection Beds, featuring
premium mattress covers
• Egyptian super-combed cotton linens,
blankets & European-style duvets
• Soft & fi rm pillows
• Choice of bed confi guration
(two twins or one king)
• Nightly turn-down service
• Bedside tables with reading lamps
• Wall-to-Wall Panoramic window
measuring 14-feet wide, that opens to
transform the living space into a large
Open-Air Balcony
• Large private bathroom featuring full
shower with glass door, hairdryer, and
premium bath amenities
• Spacious closets with shelves for ample
storage
• Easy under-bed luggage storage
• Alarm clock
• Writing desk/vanity with mirror &
comfortable chair
• In-house telephone
• Bathrobes & slippers
• Minibar with complimentary local beer,
soft drinks & bottled water
• In-room safe
• Individual climate control
Designed with you in mind, our well-appointed Avalon Suites each feature an
expansive 245 square feet of living space, and attractive decor that exudes the
charm and grace of Southeast Asia. While other river cruise ships use valuable
space on tiny balconies, we off er an experience suitable for any weather
condition—that doesn’t sacrifi ce your indoor space. Our innovative Open-Air
Balcony® is a fl oor-to-ceiling, wall-to-wall panoramic window measuring 14 feet
across. The doors slide open a full 9 feet, creating the feeling of sitting outside.
Relax in your private sitting area, complete with love seat, chairs, and table,
as you cruise past one enthralling riverscape after another.
Your Avalon Suite delivers another remarkable feature: a bed that faces the
window, so the passing scenery is the fi rst thing you see in the morning and the
last thing you see at night. Our amazing Comfort Collection BedsSM are topped by
premium mattress covers, Egyptian super-combed cotton linens, European-style
duvets, and soft and fi rm pillows.
You’ll also appreciate the large private bathroom, featuring a full shower with
glass door and premium bath products. There is even sound-dampening
insulation, so it’s less likely you’ll hear your neighbors.
L I V E T H E
SUITE LIFE
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A V A L O N W A T E R W A Y S . C O M . A U 15
INSPIREDD I N I N G
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ON BOARD With Avalon, every dining experience brings your
destination to life. We start with fresh, quality ingredients...
and delectable recipes that are crafted by our culinary
experts. Try authentic dishes from Vietnam and
Cambodia—or more familiar Western alternatives. The
breakfast buff et off ers a wide variety of dishes to ensure
you start your day off right. Lunch features a buff et 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, entrées,
dessert or cheese, and complimentary wine, local beer/
spirits, soft drinks, coff ee & tea. Vegetarian options are
available with 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.
You’ll even participate in a hands-on cooking class, where
a local chef will teach you how to make some popular
Vietnamese dishes. With take-home instructions, you’ll be
able to recreate these delicious recipes at home—and be
reminded of your amazing trip!
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EXTEND Y O U R C R U I S E
You can customize your vacation with one, two, or all of our optional extensions. Hanoi is a remarkable
city seemingly unfazed by its history. Here, take a cyclo ride through the Old Quarter and travel to
Ha Long Bay for a scenic cruise. In Laos, you’ll quickly understand why the entire town of Luang
Prabang has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the major highlights as well as a
local village to learn how sa paper is made from the pulp of mulberry trees. Bangkok bustles with
activity, and visits to the Grand Palace and the huge Reclining Buddha won’t disappoint.
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S U P E R I O R
HOTELSEvery 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.
1Ho Chi Minh City -InterContinental Asiana Saigon
Located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, the InterContinental Asiana Saigon is one of the city’s leading hotels and a great base for exploring the city. The hotel features deluxe amenities, while the elegantly appointed guestrooms off er a spacious retreat.t.
2 Siem Reap - Park Hyatt Siem Reap
The Park Hyatt Siem Reap is the city’s most prestigious address and perfect base to explore the Temples of Angkor. Located in the heart of the city, this award-winning hotel blends elegant and contemporary design elements to create an enlivening atmosphere. From the second you arrive you will be welcomed by true Cambodian hospitality and superb service.
3Hanoi extension - InterContinental Hanoi Westlake
Built entirely over the serene waters of historic West Lake, the InterContinental Hanoi Westlake features contemporary Vietnamese design and exceptional service for an unforgettable visit to the “City of Peace.”
4Laos extension - Maison Souvannaphoum
With its location in the heart of Luang Prabang, the Maison Souvannaphoum is the perfect base to explore this historic town. Once the residence of Prince Souvannaphouma, the hotel exudes a distinct colonial style with a local touch.
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A V A L O N W A T E R W A Y S . C O M . A U 19FOR A FULL LIST OF HOTELS AND AMENITIES, VISIT AVALONWATERWAYS.COM.AU
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PHOTOGRAPHY: (Left to right) Angkor Wat; merchants at Mekong fl oating market
FASCINATING VIETNAM, CAMBODIA & THE MEKONG RIVER
INCLUDED FEATURES
CRUISE
Deluxe 7-night cruise in an outside suite with Avalon’s exclusive Comfort Collection BedsSM. Enjoy an intimate all-suite river cruise experience with a maximum of 36 passengers on board.
SIGHTSEEING
Your day-by-day itinerary indicates in UPPERCASE all inside visits, special features, and guided sightseeing. All included guided sightseeing is conducted by a Certifi ed Local Guide.
LOCAL FAVORITESSM
Special experiences by local entertainers, artisans, and experts, designed to enrich your experience.
• VIETNAMESE COOKING CLASS• DANCE SHOW BY CHILDREN FROM LOCAL ORPHANAGE• TRADITIONAL WATER BLESSING BY MONK• VISIT A LOCAL FARMER’S HOME AND LEARN ABOUT HIS DAILY LIFE• PRIVATE APSARA DANCE PERFORMANCE
Personalize your onshore experiences by choosing from a selection of optional excursions. Go online to customize your cruise experience.
MEALS
• B: American breakfast daily L: 9 lunches D: 9 dinners including a welcome dinner in Ho Chi Minh City and a farewell dinner in Siem Reap
• Hanoi & Ha Long Bay Extension: breakfast (B) daily, 2 lunches (L), 2 dinners (D)
• Luang Prabang Extension: breakfast (B) daily, 1 lunch (L)
• 3-night Bangkok Extension: breakfast (B) daily, 1 lunch (L)
• 1-night Bangkok Extension: breakfast (B) daily
SUPERIOR HOTELS
Ho Chi Minh City InterContinental Asiana Saigon (D) Siem Reap Park Hyatt Siem Reap (D) Bangkok Extension InterContinental Bangkok (D) Luang Prabang Extension Maison Souvannaphoum (SF) Hanoi & Ha Long Bay Extension: Hanoi InterContinental Hanoi Westlake (D) Ha Long Bay Novotel Ha Long Bay (BA)
OTHER INCLUDED FEATURES
• Complimentary wine, local beer/spirits, and soft drinks with all dinners on board
• Complimentary co� ee, tea, soft drinks, local beer/spirits on board throughout the day
• Audio headsets on all shore excursions
• Bottled water on all shore excursions
• Fresh fruit and refreshing drink after all shore excursions
PRICED FROM $4,991
CAMBODIAAAAAVIETNAM
THAILAND
Mekong River
KAMPONG TRALACHKONPONG LOUANG
PHNOM PENHCHAU DOC
SA DECCAI BE
Tonle Sap
HO CHI MINH CITY
SIEM REAP
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ANGKOR BANWAT HANCHEY
LUANG PRABANGLAOS HANOI HA LONG BAY
Extension
Extension
ExtensionBANGKOK
Extension
Start/End City
CRUISE WHS - NORTHBOUND13 DAYS • HO CHI MINH CITY TO SIEM REAP
DAY CITY / HIGHLIGHT
1 Arrive Ho Chi Minh City: welcome to Vietnam
2-3 Ho Chi Minh City: walking tour of the city’s landmarks; visit the famous Rex Hotel for a drink, War Remnants Museum, and Ben Thanh Market; cooking class; welcome dinner; Cu Chi Tunnels excursion
4 Ho Chi Minh City (Embarkation): begin your cruise
5 Cai Be–Sa Dec: visit a cathedral and see how rice paper, rice wine, and traditional candy are made in Cai Be; visit a brick factory, local market, and the ancient house of Mr. Huynh Thuy Le in Sa Dec
6 Chau Doc–Cambodian Border Crossing: visit a local fi sh farm and the religious sites at Sam Mountain; see a local market
7 Phnom Penh: sightseeing by private cyclo, including the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, and the National Museum; afternoon at leisure; show by children from a local orphanage
8 Phnom Penh–Prek Bang Kong: visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and one of the Killing Fields in Phnom Penh; walking tour of Prek Bang Kong with silk-weaving demonstration
9 Wat Hanchey–Angkor Ban: visit Wat Hanchey and partake in a traditional water blessing by local monks; walking tour through Angkor Ban village with school visit
10 Konpong Louang–Kampong Tralach: visit the silversmith village of Konpong Louang; oxcart ride through the countryside and visit a local farmer’s home in Kampong Tralach
11 Siem Reap (Disembarkation): visit Angkor Wat & Banteay Srei
12 Siem Reap: visit Angkor Thom, Bayon Temple, Ta Prohm, and Les Artisans d’Angkor; Apsara dance performance
13 Siem Reap: end of vacation
CRUISE WSH - SOUTHBOUND 13 DAYS • SIEM REAP TO HO CHI MINH CITY
DAY CITY / HIGHLIGHT
1 Arrive Siem Reap: welcome to Cambodia
2-3 Siem Reap: visit Angkor Wat, Banteay Srei, Angkor Thom, Bayon Temple, Ta Prohm, and Les Artisans d’Angkor; Apsara dance performance
4 Siem Reap (Embarkation): begin your cruise
5 Kampong Tralach–Konpong Louang–Prek Bang Kong: oxcart ride through the countryside and visit a local farmer’s home in Kampong Tralach; visit the silversmith village of Konpong Louang; walking tour of Prek Bang Kong with silk-weaving demonstration
6 Wat Hanchey–Angkor Ban: visit Wat Hanchey and partake in a traditional water blessing by local monks; walking tour through Angkor Ban village with school visit
7 Phnom Penh: sightseeing by private cyclo, including the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, and the National Museum; afternoon at leisure; show by children from local orphanage
8 Phnom Penh: visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and one of the Killing Fields
9 Vietnam Border Crossing–Chau Doc: visit a local fi sh farm and the religious sites at Sam Mountain; see a local market
10 Sa Dec–Cai Be: visit a brick factory, local market, and the ancient house of Mr. Huynh Thuy Le in Sa Dec; visit a cathedral and see how rice paper, rice wine, and traditional candy are made in Cai Be
11 Ho Chi Minh City (Disembarkation): walking tour of the city’s landmarks; visit the famous Rex Hotel for a drink, War Remnants Museum, and Ben Thanh Market; cooking class
12 Ho Chi Minh City: Cu Chi Tunnels excursion; farewell dinner
13 Ho Chi Minh City: end of vacation
Add Hanoi & Ha Long Bay to Your Vacation: visit Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum, One Pillar Pagoda, Ho Chi Minh Museum, and Temple of Literature; lunch at Koto; take a cyclo ride through the Old Quarter; water puppets performance; cruise on Ha Long Bay
Add Luang Prabang to Your Vacation: participate in morning almsgiving ceremony; visit the morning market, National Museum, Wat Mai, Wat Visoun, Wat Xieng Thong, and Ban Xang Khong; weaving and sa paper-making demonstrations
Add Bangkok to Your Vacation: boat ride on klongs; visit the Grand Palace, Temple of the Emerald Buddha, and the Temple of the Reclining Buddha
A V A L O N W A T E R W A Y S . C O M . A U 21FOR FULL ITINERARY DETAILS FOR CRUISE WSH, VISIT AVALONWATERWAYS.COM.AU
22
DAY 1 Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Welcome to Ho
Chi Minh City, still known as Saigon to many. Hotel rooms are available
for mid-afternoon check-in.
DAY 2 Ho Chi Minh City. This morning, enjoy a WALKING TOUR
of the city’s famous and historic landmarks as you stroll through the
heart of the city along Dong Khoi Street (formerly Rue Catinat) past Ho
Chi Minh Square, the Municipal Theatre, the Central Post O¦ ce, and
Notre Dame Cathedral. Stop at the Rex Hotel for a refreshing DRINK at
the popular ROOFTOP BAR where the U.S. Military held the infamous
“Five O’Clock Follies” during the war. Next, visit the WAR REMNANTS
MUSEUM, followed by BEN THANH MARKET, the largest and oldest in
the city. For lunch, participate in a hands-on VIETNAMESE COOKING
CLASS. Head into the classroom and learn how to prepare di© erent
local dishes and the techniques necessary to recreate them once you
return home. Last but not least, sample your delicious creations! The
afternoon is at your leisure to explore this lively city. Tonight, enjoy a
special welcome dinner. (B,L,D)
DAY 3 Ho Chi Minh City. Excursion to Cu Chi Tunnels. This morning, leave the city and drive through vast expanses of rice
paddies to visit the CU CHI TUNNELS, an extraordinary network of
tunnels more than 120 miles in length that was used by the Viet Cong
as a hideout and secret village during the war. Here you will learn about
how the tunnels were constructed and have a chance to walk through
a section to experience what life would have been like underground.
Return to Ho Chi Minh City and enjoy the rest of the afternoon and
evening at your leisure. Maybe stop at the famous rooftop bar at the
Caravelle Hotel for a drink. (B)
DAY 4 Ho Chi Minh City (Embarkation). This morning,
transfer to the port on the Saigon River and board your river cruise
vessel to start your CRUISE up the Mekong River through Vietnam and
Cambodia. Get acquainted with the ship and relax before your welcome
reception this evening. (B,L,D)
DAY 5 Cruising: Cai Be–Sa Dec. This morning, board a sampan
for a scenic cruise through Cai Be Harbor, passing the city’s beautiful
French Gothic cathedral. First stop is a local establishment to see how
rice paper, rice wine, and traditional candies are made. Then, take a
walk through town to visit the beautiful CATHEDRAL. After lunch on
the ship, reboard a sampan and enjoy scenes of daily life along the river
near Sa Dec. Stop at a BRICK FACTORY to see workers forming the
clay bricks that fi ll the local landscape. Here, you will also learn about
the importance of the rice husk in fueling the brick kilns. Next, visit the
ancient HOUSE OF MR. HUYNH THUY LE, the lover of French novelist
Marguerite Duras and inspiration for the fi lm L’Amant (The Lover),
directed by Jean-Jacques Annaud. Afterward, walk through the LOCAL
MARKET and absorb the atmosphere as locals are busy buying and
selling fi sh, meat, and produce. (B,L,D)
DAY 6 Cruising: Chau Doc–Cambodian Border Crossing. Board a sampan for sightseeing around Chau Doc.
Along the way you will see scenes of local life, including traditional
Vietnamese fl oating markets and villages. Learn about some of the
di© erent species of fi sh living in the Mekong and see how traditional
fi shing nets are thrown at a LOCAL FISH FARM. Then, continue down
the backwaters of the Mekong to the religious sites at the base of SAM
MOUNTAIN. You will also stop to see a LOCAL MARKET, where shop
owners sell a variety of dried goods. Return to the ship for lunch and
head for the Cambodian border. (B,L,D)
DAY 7 Cruising: Phnom Penh. The capital city of Phnom Penh
retains its French charm to this day. This morning, your sightseeing
tour by private cyclo includes visits to the ROYAL PALACE with the
spectacular SILVER PAGODA and the NATIONAL MUSEUM, featuring an
outstanding display of Khmer artifacts. The remainder of the day is at
your leisure to enjoy the city. Just before dinner, children from a local
orphanage will put on a SHOW featuring local song and dance. (B,L,D)
DAY 8 Cruising: Phnom Penh–Prek Bang Kong. Sightseeing this morning provides a glimpse of the atrocities infl icted
on the Cambodian people by the Khmer Rouge regime. Visit the TUOL
FASCINATING VIETNAM, CAMBODIA & THE MEKONG RIVERFASCINATING VIETNAM, CAMBODIA & THE MEKONG RIVER - WHS
PHOTOGRAPHY: (Clockwise from bottom left) Local village; traditional fishing net; Ta Prohm; Royal Palace, Phnom Penh; floating village; Apsara dancer
SLENG GENOCIDE MUSEUM, a former high school that housed over
17,000 prisoners. Of this number, it is believed that fewer than 15
survived the torture and avoided being sent to the Killing Fields. You will
also visit one of the KILLING FIELDS, where over 200,000 people were
killed by the Khmer Rouge. After lunch, visit the village of PREK BANG
KONG, where silk weaving is a well-preserved tradition. Spend time at
one house for a SILK-WEAVING DEMONSTRATION and to learn more
about how silk is produced. (B,L,D)
DAY 9 Cruising: Wat Hanchey–Angkor Ban. This morning,
visit WAT HANCHEY, a temple dating back to the 8th century and
the Chenla Empire. Located on a hilltop, enjoy stunning views of the
surrounding area and partake in a TRADITIONAL WATER BLESSING
given by local monks. After lunch, enjoy a WALKING TOUR through the
rural village of Angkor Ban. Here you will see traditional Khmer houses
and visit a LOCAL SCHOOL. (B,L,D) NOTE: The climb to Wat Hanchey
features a steep incline. If you feel you are unable to make the climb,
you will be driven to the top by car.
DAY 10 Cruising: Konpong Louang–Kampong Tralach. Today, start your sightseeing at the SILVERSMITH VILLAGE of Konpong
Louang. Here you will see talented craftsmen use age-old techniques to
turn pure silver into works of art. Continue on to Kampong Tralach for
an OXCART RIDE past rice paddy fields and the beautiful Cambodian
countryside. Along the way, stop to MEET A LOCAL FARMER and learn
about his daily life. Return to the ship for lunch. This afternoon, cruise
up the Tonle River to Tonle Sap (Great Lake). After the rainy season, this
massive body of water can cover around 10,000 square miles and is the
perfect breeding ground for fish, which play a vital role in providing food
for people living on the lake. (B,L,D) NOTE: During low water conditions,
generally mid-December to August, we will not be able to cruise up the
Tonle River to Tonle Sap. Low water conditions vary from year to year,
depending on rainfall, so this will be evaluated on a cruise-by-cruise basis.
DAY 11 Cruising: Siem Reap (Disembarkation). This
morning, arrive in Siem Reap and start your sightseeing of the TEMPLES
OF ANGKOR, considered by many to be the most spectacular
architectural ruins on Earth! Constructed between the 9th and 13th
centuries, the temples were built around the Khmer interpretations
of Indian religious and political beliefs that ultimately evolved from
Hinduism to Buddhism. The complex architectural grandeur of the
Angkor temples is arguably unmatched among ancient ruins anywhere
in the world. First, visit the best preserved and most famous of all the
temples: ANGKOR WAT, honoring the Hindu god Vishnu. Featuring five
trademark towers and stunning bas reliefs, it has become a symbol of
Cambodia. Then, visit BANTEAY SREI, a unique temple dedicated to
the Hindu god Shiva. Unlike other temples, it is built on a small scale
from red sandstone, which can be carved like wood. This evening is
at leisure to explore charming Siem Reap—or stay to witness sunset at
Angkor Wat! (B,L) NOTE: During low water conditions, generally mid-
December to August, we will not be able to cruise across Tonle Sap to
Siem Reap. In these cases, we will fly from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap
and sightseeing will begin in the afternoon. No included sightseeing will
be missed. Low water conditions vary from year to year, so this will be
evaluated on a cruise-by-cruise basis.
DAY 12 Siem Reap. Today, continue your sightseeing of the Angkor
temples by tuk-tuk. Start at ANGKOR THOM, where you will explore
BAYON TEMPLE. One of the few Buddhist temples in Angkor, it features
some 200 striking faces carved in 54 towers and impressive bas reliefs.
Next stop is TA PROHM, which, unlike the other temples, has been
left relatively untouched. Tree roots grow over and through the ruin
walls, allowing you to experience the temple with the same wonder
as the early explorers who discovered it. Next, stop at LES ARTISANS
D’ANGKOR, a development project teaching young adults traditional
handicraft techniques. The rest of the afternoon is at your leisure. This
evening, enjoy a PRIVATE APSARA DANCE PERFORMANCE, where the
ancient Khmer culture is brought to life by talented dancers, singers,
and musicians. (B,D)
DAY 13 Siem Reap. Your vacation ends with breakfast this
morning. (B)
A V A L O N W A T E R W A Y S . C O M . A U 23
24
START YOUR VACATION IN HANOI & HA LONG BAY
CRUISE WHSH—16 DAYS FROM HANOI TO SIEM REAP
DAY 1 Arrive Hanoi, Vietnam. Welcome to Vietnam! Hotel rooms
are available for mid-afternoon
check-in.
DAY 2 Hanoi. This morning, take
time to look at the life of Ho Chi Minh, the father of modern Vietnam.
First, visit the MAUSOLEUM and the humble cottage from which “Uncle
Ho” ruled Vietnam until his death in 1969. Next on the agenda: ONE
PILLAR PAGODA, the HO CHI MINH MUSEUM, and the Presidential
Palace. Stop at the infamous “Hanoi Hilton” before continuing to
mystical Hoan Kiem Lake, where you will enjoy a brief guided walk.
Also visit the ancient TEMPLE OF LITERATURE, over 900 years old and
Hanoi’s first university. Lunch is at KOTO, a non-profit restaurant and
hospitality program that trains local street children in restaurant skills
they can use to find a job and build a stable life. After lunch, enjoy a
CYCLO ride through the fascinating Old Quarter, 36 ancient streets
where peddlers trade as they have for centuries. An early dinner this
evening is followed by a fascinating performance of Hanoi’s renowned
WATER PUPPETS, a traditional art form dating back to the 11th century.
(B,L,D)
DAY 3 Hanoi–Ha Long Bay. Travel from Hanoi through the fertile
countryside to Hon Gai, gateway to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World
Heritage Site. Located in the Gulf of Tonkin, the Bay is dotted with
over 3,000 limestone islands carved into fanciful shapes by the action
of the water. Tunnels, caves, and weirdly shaped outcroppings with
imaginative names can be found on many of the small islets sprinkled
across the bay. Board a CRUISE that explores the caves, and admire the
beauty and scale before stopping at one of the many secluded bays.
(B,L,D)
DAY 4 Ha Long Bay–Hanoi–Ho Chi Minh City. This morning,
drive to Hanoi and board your flight for Ho Chi Minh City to join Day 1 of Cruise WHS. (B)
ADD LUANG PRABANG TO YOUR VACATION
CRUISE WHSL—17 DAYS FROM HO CHI MINH CITY TO BANGKOK
DAYS 1 TO 12 Like Cruise WHS.
DAY 13 Siem Reap–Luang Prabang, Laos. Today, fly to Luang
Prabang. (B)
DAY 14 Luang Prabang. Today,
enjoy a full day of sightseeing in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Begin your morning by witnessing the Tak Bat (almsgiving ceremony),
with a visit to a local market. Each morning before dawn, Buddhist
monks don their distinctive sa©ron-colored robes and walk through
the streets to collect alms (o©erings of food). This is a truly memorable
sight you will not soon forget as you personally present alms to the
monks and receive their blessings. Afterward, walk through the colorful
morning market on the banks of the Mekong River in the center of
town and watch as locals buy and sell their produce and meats. Then,
visit the NATIONAL MUSEUM, formerly the Royal Palace. Nearby is WAT
MAI, famous for its 5-tiered roof built in the traditional style of Luang
Prabang. You will also visit WAT VISOUN and WAT XIENG THONG, often
thought to be the most beautiful wat, or monastery, in the city. This
afternoon, visit the village of BAN XANG KHONG. Here you will witness
a WEAVING DEMONSTRATION and learn about how sa paper is made
by hand from the pulp of mulberry trees. (B,L)
DAY 15 Luang Prabang. Enjoy a full-day at your leisure. (B)
DAY 16 Luang Prabang–Bangkok, Thailand. Today, transfer to
the airport and fly to Bangkok. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for the
night. (B)
DAY 17 Bangkok. Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
ADD 3 NIGHTS IN BANGKOK TO YOUR VACATION
CRUISE WHSB—16 DAYS FROM HO CHI MINH CITY TO BANGKOK
DAYS 1 TO 12 Like Cruise WHS.
DAY 13 Siem Reap–Bangkok, Thailand. Today, transfer to the
airport and fly to Bangkok. Upon
arrival, transfer to your hotel for the
night. (B)
PHOTOGRAPHY: (Left to right) Typical street vendor, Hanoi; One Pillar Pagoda; Temple of the Reclining Buddha, Bangkok
DAY 14 Bangkok. This morning, your 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 more than 1,000 Buddha images, including the
49-foot-high and 151-foot-long massive Reclining Buddha. The
remainder of the day is at your leisure. (B,L)
DAY 15 Bangkok. Enjoy a full day at your leisure. (B)
DAY 16 Bangkok. Your vacation ends with breakfast this
morning. (B)
ADD 1 NIGHT IN BANGKOK TO YOUR VACATION
CRUISE WHSG—14 DAYS FROM HO CHI MINH CITY TO BANGKOK
DAYS 1 TO 12 Like Cruise WHS.
DAY 13 Siem Reap–Bangkok, Thailand. Today, transfer to the airport and fl y to Bangkok. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for the night. (B)
DAY 14 Bangkok. Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
ADD MULTIPLE EXTENSIONS TO YOUR CRUISE
ADD LUANG PRABANG & 3 NIGHTS BANGKOK CRUISE WHSU—19 DAYS FROM HO CHI MINH CITY TO BANGKOK
ADD HANOI, HA LONG BAY & LUANG PRABANG CRUISE WHSA—20 DAYS FROM HANOI TO BANGKOK
ADD HANOI, HA LONG BAY & 3 NIGHTS BANGKOK CRUISE WHSN—19 DAYS FROM HANOI TO BANGKOK
ADD HANOI, HA LONG BAY & 1 NIGHT BANGKOK CRUISE WHSK—17 DAYS FROM HANOI TO BANGKOK
ADD HANOI, HA LONG BAY, LUANG PRABANG & 3 NIGHTS BANGKOK CRUISE WHSP—22 DAYS FROM HANOI TO BANGKOK
A V A L O N W A T E R W A Y S . C O M . A U 25
Ship Dept.#
Start Ho Chi Minh City
Land/Cruise*
Siem Reap 0104 Mon Jan 04 5,981 Siem Reap 0118 Mon Jan 18 5,981 Siem Reap 0201 Mon Feb 01 5,981 Siem Reap 0215 Mon Feb 15 5,981 Siem Reap 0229 Mon Feb 29 5,981 Siem Reap 0314 Mon Mar 14 5,981 Siem Reap 0620 Mon Jun 20 5,001 Siem Reap 0704 Mon Jul 04 5,001 Siem Reap 0718 Mon Jul 18 5,001 Siem Reap 0801 Mon Aug 01 5,001 Siem Reap 0815 Mon Aug 15 5,001 Siem Reap 0829 Mon Aug 29 5,561 Siem Reap 0912 Mon Sep 12 5,561 Siem Reap 0926 Mon Sep 26 5,981
Ship Dept.#
Start Ho Chi Minh City
Land/Cruise*
Siem Reap 1010 Mon Oct 10 5,981 Siem Reap 1024 Mon Oct 24 5,981 Siem Reap 1107 Mon Nov 07 5,981 Siem Reap 1121 Mon Nov 21 5,981 Siem Reap 1205 Mon Dec 05 5,981 Siem Reap 1219 Mon Dec 19 5,981
2017Siem Reap 0102 Mon Jan 02 6,221 Siem Reap 0116 Mon Jan 16 6,221 Siem Reap 0130 Mon Jan 30 6,221 Siem Reap 0213 Mon Feb 13 6,221 Siem Reap 0227 Mon Feb 27 6,221 Siem Reap 0313 Mon Mar 13 6,221
DATES & PRICES AU$
CRUISE WHS - FROM $5,001 LAND/CRUISE ONLY* - HO CHI MINH CITY TO SIEM REAPCRUISE WHSH - FROM $6,212 LAND/CRUISE ONLY* - HANOI TO SIEM REAP
CRUISE WHSL - FROM $6,557 LAND/CRUISE ONLY* - HO CHI MINH CITY TO BANGKOKCRUISE WHSB - FROM $6,407 LAND/CRUISE ONLY* - HO CHI MINH CITY TO BANGKOKCRUISE WHSG - FROM $5,687 LAND/CRUISE ONLY* - HO CHI MINH CITY TO BANGKOKCRUISE WHSU - FROM $7,329 LAND/CRUISE ONLY* - HO CHI MINH CITY TO BANGKOK
CRUISE WHSA - FROM $7,714 LAND/CRUISE ONLY* - HANOI TO BANGKOKCRUISE WHSN - FROM $7,564 LAND/CRUISE ONLY* - HANOI TO BANGKOKCRUISE WHSK - FROM $6,864 LAND/CRUISE ONLY* - HANOI TO BANGKOKCRUISE WHSP - FROM $8,474 LAND/CRUISE ONLY* - HANOI TO BANGKOK
CRUISE WSH - FROM $4,991 LAND/CRUISE ONLY* - SIEM REAP TO HO CHI MINH CITYCRUISE WSHB - FROM $6,415 LAND/CRUISE ONLY* - BANGKOK TO HO CHI MINH CITYCRUISE WSHG - FROM $5,695 LAND/CRUISE ONLY* - BANGKOK TO HO CHI MINH CITYCRUISE WSHL - FROM $6,549 LAND/CRUISE ONLY* - BANGKOK TO HO CHI MINH CITYCRUISE WSHU - FROM $7,309 LAND/CRUISE ONLY* - BANGKOK TO HO CHI MINH CITY
CRUISE WSHH - FROM $6,192 LAND/CRUISE ONLY* - SIEM REAP TO HANOICRUISE WSHN - FROM $7,594 LAND/CRUISE ONLY* - BANGKOK TO HANOICRUISE WSHK - FROM $6,874 LAND/CRUISE ONLY* - BANGKOK TO HANOICRUISE WSHA - FROM $7,706 LAND/CRUISE ONLY* - BANGKOK TO HANOICRUISE WSHP - FROM $8,466 LAND/CRUISE ONLY* - BANGKOK TO HANOI
Ship Dept.#
Start Siem Reap
Land/Cruise*
Siem Reap 0111 Mon Jan 11 6,011 Siem Reap 0125 Mon Jan 25 6,011 Siem Reap 0208 Mon Feb 08 6,011 Siem Reap 0222 Mon Feb 22 6,011 Siem Reap 0307 Mon Mar 07 6,011 Siem Reap 0321 Mon Mar 21 6,011 Siem Reap 0627 Mon Jun 27 4,991 Siem Reap 0711 Mon Jul 11 4,991 Siem Reap 0725 Mon Jul 25 4,991 Siem Reap 0808 Mon Aug 08 4,991 Siem Reap 0822 Mon Aug 22 4,991 Siem Reap 0905 Mon Sep 05 5,601 Siem Reap 0919 Mon Sep 19 5,601 Siem Reap 1003 Mon Oct 03 6,011
Ship Dept.#
Start Siem Reap
Land/Cruise*
Siem Reap 1017 Mon Oct 17 6,011 Siem Reap 1031 Mon Oct 31 6,011 Siem Reap 1114 Mon Nov 14 6,011 Siem Reap 1128 Mon Nov 28 6,011 Siem Reap 1212 Mon Dec 12 6,011 Siem Reap 1226 Mon Dec 26 6,011
2017Siem Reap 0109 Mon Jan 09 6,261 Siem Reap 0123 Mon Jan 23 6,261 Siem Reap 0206 Mon Feb 06 6,261 Siem Reap 0220 Mon Feb 20 6,261 Siem Reap 0306 Mon Mar 06 6,261 Siem Reap 0320 Mon Mar 20 6,261
ALL DEPARTURES ARE GUARANTEED.
*Land/Cruise price includes intra-vacation air and taxes (applicable to extensions only).Port charges of $102 are included.Price is per person, based on double room occupancy.Gratuities to Cruise Director and crew may be added for $168. Gratuities to Local Guides and drivers are included in pricing above.Please call for single accommodation price. Triples not available.Prices shown above include cruise in Category B in an Avalon Suite on Mekong Deck. To upgrade to a Category A on the Tonle Deck, add $480 per person in double occupancy Extra Nights per person in Ho Chi Minh City: in single room $304; in twin room $158Extra Nights per person in Siem Reap: Jan.-Apr. & Sep.-Dec. : in single room $338; in twin room $176May-Aug.: in single room $325; in twin room $169 Extra Nights per person in Bangkok: Jan.-Dec. 18: in single room $320; in twin room $167Dec. 19-31: in single room $380; in twin room $198Extra Nights per person in Hanoi: in single room $283; in twin room $148
ADD INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS TO YOUR VACATION! COMPETITIVE PRICES WITHOUT THE HASSLE.
To travel to Myanmar, formerly Burma, is to step back in time…to a place that
has changed little since the British colonial era.
M YA N M A R & T H E
IRRAWADDY RIVER
26 26
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 fi rst 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 fi nally 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 fi rst 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 oxcarts transport goods to market,
and the monastery is still the center of the village. The culture is as diverse as
it is colorful, with more than 130 ethnic groups calling Myanmar home.
At the center of it all is the majestic Irrawaddy River. Flowing for more than
1,300 miles through the country from its glacial origins in the Himalayas, it
meanders peacefully through 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.
Visiting this “Golden Land” is an incomparable opportunity to experience
Myanmar before Western infl uence alters the culture, land, and people.
A V A L O N W A T E R W A Y S . C O M . A U 27
INCLUDEDI S T H E N A M E O F T H E G A M E
At Avalon, “included” is one of our favorite words. Spacious outside Avalon Suites with
sitting area and huge 14-foot wall-to-wall window—included. Unique Local FavoritesSM,
designed to immerse you in the culture—included. Complimentary local beer/spirits and
soft drinks throughout the day—included. The most shore excursions, led by Certifi ed
Local Guides and complete with audio headsets—included. VIP entrance into the
must-see sites—included. Expansive panoramic views throughout the ship—included.
28 28
INCLUDED FOR EVERY AVALON GUEST
• Intimate cruise experience on the all-suite
Avalon MyanmarSM with no more than 36 passengers
• Spacious outside Avalon Suite measuring 245 square feet
• Large closets with shelves for ample storage &
in-room safe
• Comfort Collection BedsSM with premium mattress toppers
• Large private bathrooms with hairdryer, premium bath
amenities & full shower with glass door
• Large desk with convenient power outlets
• Individual climate control
• Minibar with complimentary local beer, soft drinks &
bottled water
• Plush bathrobes & slippers
• Professional Cruise Director and staff to help throughout
your cruise
• Included sightseeing accompanied by Certified
Local Guide
• Selection of Local FavoritesSM offering unique cultural
activities & interactions with locals
• Fascinating destination talks and demonstrations by your
Cruise Director, Local Guides, and ship’s crew
• Headsets for all guided shore excursions
• Bottled water on all excursions
• Fresh fruit & refreshing drink after all ship excursions
• Complimentary wine, local beer/spirits, soft drinks,
coffee & tea at dinner
• Bar serving premium spirits, wine & complimentary coffee,
tea, soft drinks, and local beer/spirits throughout the day
• Fitness Center
29
O N T H E
IRRAWADDY 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. With Avalon, you’ll visit some of the
most important pagodas in the country, including
golden Shwezigon in Bagan. You will 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 will ascend to the
top of a temple for an unforgettable view of sunset.
In Mandalay, visit Mahamuni Pagoda, as well
as Shwenandaw Monastery, the only surviving
building from the original royal palace complex. In
Amarapura, visit U Bein Bridge for a sampan ride
at sunset. Beyond the must-see sights, Avalon
delivers hands-on activities and encounters with
local people for a truly immersive experience.
Cruise north of Mandalay on the most scenic part
of the river—past traditional riverside villages, teak
forests, and lavish shrines. You may even catch a
glimpse of the rare Irrawaddy dolphin.
As you cruise along, each day is a tapestry of
exotic fl avors, captivating panoramas, and bustling
river activity. Watch villagers make candy from the
sap of the toddy palm tree, and wander through
a pottery-making village to see the process from
start to fi nish. Visit a monastery to present alms
to the monks and observe their daily lunch ritual,
interact with children at a village school, and visit
a farmer’s home to learn more about his work and
life. You’ll even have a chance to ride an elephant!
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 magnifi cent golden stupa.
All this and more await on this incredible adventure.
30 30
31
Joining our family of remarkable Suite Ships®, the meticulously crafted all-suite Avalon MyanmarSM carries
a maximum of just 36 passengers so you can truly engage the locals, experience their culture, and revel
in the unique sights along the majestic Irrawaddy. Built by local craftsmen, the ship refl ects the character,
symbols, and traditions of Myanmar while off ering all the modern features today’s travelers expect. Time
on board centers around a refreshing outdoor experience, as all suites open to the outside and the large
Panorama Lounge and open-air lounge off er a variety of expansive views.
The innovative design also allows the Avalon Myanmar to cruise the spectacular Upper Irrawaddy
throughout the season—a feat not possible on a larger ship.
See page 73 for deck plan.
S M A L L S H I P, B I G
EXPERIENCES
CRUISE ALONG THE SCENIC UPPER IRRAWADDY
32
AVALON MYANMARSM FEATURES:
• Built in 2015
• Air-conditioned Panorama Lounge
• Open-air observation lounge with shade
system & premium lounge chairs
• Spacious, open-seating dining room
• Bar serving premium spirits, wine &
complimentary coff ee, tea, soft drinks,
and local beer/spirits throughout the day
• Complimentary Wi-Fi access in lounge areas
(where signal is available)
• Spa treatment room
• Fitness Center
• Library & games
• Non-smoking interior
Panorama Lounge
Open-air observation lounge
NOTE: Artist renderings are correct as of the publication date but are subject to change.
A V A L O N W A T E R W A Y S . C O M . A U 33
AMENITIES
• Comfort Collection Beds, featuring
premium mattress covers
• Egyptian super-combed cotton linens,
blankets & European-style duvets
• Soft & fi rm pillows
• Choice of bed confi guration
(two twins or one king)
• Nightly turn-down service
• Bedside tables with reading lamps
• Wall-to-Wall Panoramic window
measuring 14-feet wide, that opens to
transform the living space into a large
Open-Air Balcony
• Large private bathroom featuring full
shower with glass door, hairdryer, and
premium bath amenities
• Spacious closets with shelves for
ample storage
• Easy under-bed luggage storage
• Alarm clock
• Writing desk/vanity with mirror &
comfortable chair
• In-house telephone
• Bathrobes & slippers
• Minibar with complimentary local beer,
soft drinks & bottled water
• In-room safe
• Individual climate control
Our well-appointed Avalon Suites were designed with you in mind. Decorated to
exude the very spirit of Myanmar, each suite is a spacious 245 square feet. While
others use valuable space on tiny balconies, we off er an experience suitable for
any weather condition—that doesn’t sacrifi ce your indoor space. Our innovative
Open-Air Balcony® is a fl oor-to-ceiling, wall-to-wall panoramic window
measuring 14 feet wide. The doors slide open a full 9 feet, creating the feeling of
sitting outside. Relax in your private sitting area, complete with love seat, chairs,
and table, as you cruise past fascinating scenes of daily life.
Your Avalon Suite delivers another remarkable feature: a bed that faces the
window, so the passing scenery is the fi rst thing you see in the morning and the
last thing you see at night. Our amazing Comfort Collection BedsSM are topped by
premium mattress covers, Egyptian super-combed cotton linens, European-style
duvets, and soft and fi rm pillows.
You’ll also appreciate the large private bathroom, featuring a full shower with
glass door and premium bath products. There is even sound-dampening
insulation, so it’s less likely you’ll hear your neighbors.
L I V E T H E
SUITE LIFE
34
NOTE: Artist renderings are correct as of the publication date but are subject to change.
35
TASTET H E C U LT U R E
36 36
ON BOARDWith Avalon, every dining experience brings your
destination to life. We start with fresh, quality ingredients...
and delicious recipes that are crafted by our culinary
experts. Try authentic cuisine from Myanmar—or more
familiar Western alternatives. The breakfast buff et off ers
a wide variety of dishes to ensure you start your day off
right. Lunch features a buff et 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, entrées, dessert or cheese, and
complimentary wine, local beer/spirits, soft drinks, coff ee,
& tea. Vegetarian options are available with all meals.
ON LAND Your day starts with breakfast at your hotel. You will
also join your traveling companions for a welcome
dinner at one of Yangon’s fi nest restaurants. If you
choose to join our Inle Lake extension, we even include
a meal at one of the few wineries in Myanmar, featuring
a relaxing atmosphere and stunning views over the lake.
37
EXTENDY O U R C R U I S E
Customize your cruise with optional extensions before, after—or both! Bangkok bustles with activity,
and a boat ride through the klongs and visits to the Grand Palace and the huge Reclining Buddha
won’t disappoint. Home to many diff erent native tribes, freshwater Inle Lake is a fascinating destination
where you’ll enjoy an indigenous music and dance performance, an excursion on the lake to see
scenes of daily life, and visits to the beautiful fl oating gardens and a variety of workshops.
38 38
S U P E R I O R
HOTELSEvery 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.
1Yangon - Sule Shangri-La
Located in the heart of the city, the Sule Shangri-La blends elegance and true Myanmar hospitality, creating a distinctive and pleasing atmosphere. The well-appointed guestrooms are spacious and off er great views of the city.
2 Bangkok extension - InterContinental Bangkok
Located in the heart of the commercial district, the hotel is walking distance from shops and restaurants, and is adjacent to the BTS Skytrain station for easy access to the rest of the city. You will appreciate the impeccable service and authentic Thai hospitality.
3Inle Lake extension - Villa Inle Resort & Spa
The resort enjoys an idyllic setting on the eastern shore of Inle Lake. With local farmers working their fi elds nearby, this is perfect for those seeking a serene escape. Each secluded lakeside bungalow features a private deck with lake view, sitting area, and a spacious bathroom with separate shower and tub.
1 23
A V A L O N W A T E R W A Y S . C O M . A U 39
FOR A FULL LIST OF HOTELS AND AMENITIES, VISIT AVALONWATERWAYS.COM.AU
PHOTOGRAPHY: (Left to right) Plains of Bagan; Soon U Ponya Shin Pagoda, Sagaing
GOLDEN MYANMAR & THE ALLURING IRRAWADDY
INCLUDED FEATURES
CRUISE
Deluxe 10-night cruise in an outside suite with Avalon’s exclusive Comfort Collection BedsSM. Enjoy an intimate cruise experience with a maximum of 36 guests on board.
SIGHTSEEING
Your day-by-day itinerary indicates in UPPERCASE all inside visits, special features, and guided sightseeing. All included guided sightseeing is conducted by a Certifi ed Local Guide.
LOCAL FAVORITESSM
Special experiences by local entertainers, artisans, and experts, designed to enrich your experience.
� VISIT A LOCAL TEA SHOP FOR TEA WITH THE LOCALS� TRADITIONAL PUPPET SHOW� VISIT A FARMER’S HOME TO LEARN ABOUT HIS DAILY LIFE� INTERACT WITH LOCAL MONKS� RIDE AN ELEPHANT
Personalize your onshore experiences by choosing from a selection of optional excursions. Go online to customize your cruise experience.
MEALS
• B: American breakfast dailyL: 10 lunchesD: 11 dinners including a welcome dinner in Yangon
• Bangkok Extension: breakfast (B) daily,1 lunch (L)
• Inle Lake Extension: breakfast (B) daily, 1 lunch (L), 2 dinners (D)
SUPERIOR HOTELS
Yangon Sule Shangri-La (D)Bangkok Extension InterContinental Bangkok (D)Inle Lake Extension Villa Inle Resort & Spa (SF)
OTHER INCLUDED FEATURES
• Complimentary wine, local beer/spirits, and soft drinks with all dinners on board
• Complimentary coff ee, tea, soft drinks, local beer/spirits on board throughout the day
• Audio headsets for all shore excursions
• Bottled water on all shore excursions
• Fresh fruit and refreshing drink after all shore excursions
40
PRICED FROM $7,883
IrrawaddyRiver
MANDALAYAMARAPURA
SAGAINGKYAUK MYAUNG
TIGYANGKYA HNYAT
KATHA
BHAMO
Second DefileKYUN DAW
2 1
MYANMAR(BURMA)
YANGON
BAGANSHWE PYI THAR
THAILAND
10
Andaman Sea
ExtensionBANGKOK
INLE LAKEExtension
Extension
Start/End City
CRUISE WBK - NORTHBOUND14 DAYS • YANGON TO YANGON
DAY CITY / HIGHLIGHT
1 Arrive Yangon: welcome to Myanmar
2 Yangon: walking tour of the city’s landmarks; visit a local tea shop, Chaukhtatgyi, and Shwedagon Pagoda; welcome dinner in local restaurant
3 Yangon–Bagan (Embarkation): fl y to Bagan; welcome reception with ship’s crew; traditional puppet show
4 Bagan: watch sunrise from temple; sightseeing including a local market, Shwezigon Pagoda, lacquer workshop, Ananda Temple, Dhammayangyi Temple, Upali Thein, Sulamani Temple; oxcart ride to temple for sunset
5 Shwe Pyi Thar: walking tour through this typical river village to visit a farmer’s home and see palm candy being made
6 Sagaing–Amarapura: visit Kaunghmudaw Pagoda, a silversmith workshop, and Soon U Ponya Shin Pagoda in Sagaing; visit U Bein Bridge and take a sampan ride at sunset in Amarapura
7 Mandalay: sightseeing including Mahamuni, Kuthodaw and Shwenandaw Pagodas; visit tapestry, woodcarving, and gold leaf workshops; traditional dance performance
8 Kyauk Myaung: walking tour through a pottery-making village
9 Kya Hnyat: visit a monastery and present alms to the monks and see their lunch ritual
10 Tigyang: walking tour through village and walk to hilltop pagoda
11 Katha: visit to local market; excursion to elephant camp with elephant ride
12 Kyun Daw–Second Defi le: visit a fi sherman’s home, local school, and nunnery in Kyun Daw; cruise through the dramatic Second Defi le
13 Bhamo (Disembarkation)–Yangon: explore Bhamo by trishaw and foot; fl y to Yangon
14 Yangon: end of vacation
CRUISE WKB - SOUTHBOUND 14 DAYS • YANGON TO YANGON
DAY CITY / HIGHLIGHT
1 Arrive Yangon: welcome to Myanmar
2 Yangon: walking tour of the city’s landmarks; visit a local tea shop, Chaukhtatgyi, and Shwedagon Pagoda; welcome dinner in local restaurant
3 Yangon–Bhamo (Embarkation)–Second Defi le: fl y to Bhamo and explore the town by trishaw and foot; cruise through the dramatic Second Defi le; welcome reception with ship’s crew
4 Kyun Daw: visit a fi sherman’s home, local school, and nunnery
5 Katha–Tigyang: visit a local market and excursion to elephant camp with elephant ride in Katha; walking tour through village and walk to hilltop pagoda in Tigyang
6 Kya Hnyat: visit a monastery and present alms to the monks and see their lunch ritual
7 Kyauk Myaung: walking tour through a pottery-making village
8 Mingun–Mandalay–Amarupura: see unfi nished pagoda & bronze bell in Mingun; visit U Bein Bridge and take a sampan ride at sunset in Amarapura
9 Mandalay: sightseeing including Mahamuni, Kuthodaw, and Shwenandaw Pagodas; visit tapestry, woodcarving, and gold leaf workshops; traditional dance performance
10 Sagaing: visit Kaunghmudaw Pagoda, a silversmith workshop, and Soon U Ponya Shin Pagoda
11 Shwe Pyi Thar: walking tour through this typical river village to visit a local farmer’s home and see palm candy being made; traditional puppet show
12 Bagan: watch sunrise from temple; sightseeing including a local market, Shwezigon Pagoda, lacquer workshop, Ananda Temple, Dhammayangyi Temple, Upali Thein, Sulamani Temple; oxcart ride to temple for sunset
13 Bagan (Disembarkation)–Yangon: fl y to Yangon
14 Yangon: end of vacation
Add Bangkok to Your Vacation: boat ride on klongs; visit the Grand Palace, Temple of the Emerald Buddha, and the Temple of the Reclining Buddha
Add Inle Lake to Your Vacation: dinner at Red Mountain Estate winery; boat excursion to see life on the lake; visit silk, silversmith, and cheroot cigar workshops; performance by Padaung long-necked women
A V A L O N W A T E R W A Y S . C O M . A U 41FOR FULL ITINERARY DETAILS FOR CRUISE WKB, VISIT AVALONWATERWAYS.COM.AU
DAY 1 Arrive in Yangon, Myanmar. Welcome to Yangon,
formerly known as Rangoon, the country’s largest city and former
capital. Hotel rooms are available for mid-afternoon check-in.
DAY 2 Yangon. This morning, take a WALKING TOUR of the
city’s famous and historic landmarks, including the High Court, City
Hall, Central Railway Station, and Sule Pagoda, built during the time
of Buddha. Stop along the way at a LOCAL TEA SHOP for a cup of
tea/co© ee with the locals. Next, stop at CHAUKHTATGYI to see the
massive reclining Buddha measuring in at 213 feet. Later in the day,
visit SHWEDAGON PAGODA, the most important religious site in the
country and a national symbol. Here, a truly enchanting scene unfolds
as the sun sets on the golden stupa and locals come to pay their
respects. Tonight, your welcome dinner is in one of Yangon’s best
restaurants. (B,L,D)
DAY 3 Yangon–Bagan (Embarkation). Today, transfer to
the airport for your fl ight to Bagan, where you will embark the Avalon
Myanmar to begin your CRUISE up the Irrawaddy. Get acquainted with
the ship before your welcome reception this evening. After dinner, a
TRADITIONAL PUPPET SHOW will be presented in one of the lounges.
(B,D)
DAY 4 Bagan. Today, explore Bagan, capital of Myanmar from the
9th to the 13th centuries. It is estimated that during this time over
13,000 temples, monasteries, and pagodas were built in the plains
surrounding the city—an area of about 40 square miles. Many of
these structures have been lost over time, but around 2,300 still stand
today, making this one of the world’s greatest archaeological sites.
Early risers can visit one of the temples with a Local Guide to witness
sunrise. After breakfast, your morning excursion starts with a visit to
a LOCAL MARKET selling handicrafts, fabrics, and longyis—a versatile
sheet of cloth worn around the waist by most local men and women.
Then, stop at the ornate SHWEZIGON PAGODA, one of the country’s
most important shrines. You will also visit a LACQUER WORKSHOP
to learn more about this ancient craft. After lunch, your sightseeing
centers 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
stop to see the exquisite and well preserved fresco paintings at UPALI
THEIN and SULAMANI. Your day ends with an OXCART RIDE to a
temple, where you will ascend to the top as the sun sets. (B,L,D)
DAY 5 Shwe Pyi Thar–Cruising. This morning, take a WALKING
TOUR through Shwe Pyi Thar, a typical village along the Irrawaddy.
Here you will visit a FARMER’S HOME to learn more about daily life and
see the locals making palm candy, a sweet and smoky candy, from the
sap of the toddy palm. To harvest the sap a climber scales the toddy
palm and hangs an earthen pot under a slit he cuts in the tree. The sap
is then cooked in an iron pan over an open wood fi re until it thickens
and can be formed into small pieces by hand. This afternoon, enjoy
time on board the ship as we sail north for Mandalay. (B,L,D)
DAY 6 Sagaing–Amarapura. Relax this morning and take in the
sights from one of the ship’s lounges or your suite. In the afternoon,
visit Sagaing, an important religious site with countless pagodas
dotting the surrounding hillsides. Here, stop to see KAUNGHMUDAW
PAGODA with its golden egg-shaped dome—unique among
GOLDEN MYANMAR & THE ALLURING IRRAWADDYGOLDEN MYANMAR & THE ALLURING IRRAWADDY - WBK
42
PHOTOGRAPHY: (Clockwise from bottom left) Martaban jars in Kyauk Myaung; local market in Katha; Shwedagon Pagoda, Yangon; local women working on hand-embroidered tapestry; elephant ride; Chaukhtagyi reclining Buddha
more traditional pagodas in Myanmar. Next, on to a SILVERSMITH
WORKSHOP to learn how the local artisans turn silver into beautiful
works of art. Lastly, explore SOON U PONYA SHIN PAGODA at the
top of Sagaing Hill for stunning views of the Irrawaddy and across
to Mandalay. Cross the Ava Bridge to Amarapura, former capital of
Myanmar. Your visit focuses on the famous U BEIN BRIDGE, a three-
quarter-mile-long bridge built in 1783 from reclaimed teakwood from
the old royal palace in Inwa. The bridge is still a cornerstone of the
community as locals and monks use it daily to cross Taungthaman
Lake while fishermen and farmers go about their daily work below.
Take a SAMPAN RIDE on the lake for memorable views of the sunset
behind the iconic bridge. (B,L,D)
DAY 7 Mandalay. This morning, visit a TAPESTRY &
WOODCARVING WORKSHOP to learn more about these cottage
industries and see the skilled artisans at work. Then, stop at a GOLD
LEAF WORKSHOP to see how it is made. Lastly, visit MAHAMUNI
PAGODA, the most revered shrine in Mandalay, to see its impressive
gold-leaf Buddha. Due to the continual application of gold leaves,
o¦cials estimate the gold is approximately six inches thick.
This afternoon, visit KUTHODAW PAGODA and SHWENANDAW
MONASTERY, the only remnant of former King Mindon’s “Golden City”
to survive the bombing of World War II. Originally the king’s living
quarters, the building was moved after his death to its current location
and converted into a monastery. Today, the original gilding has faded,
but the intricate wood carvings endure, giving you a sense of how
extravagant the original teak palace complex was. This evening, enjoy
a TRADITIONAL DANCE PERFORMANCE featuring local song and
dance. (B,L,D)
DAY 8 Kyauk Myaung. Today, take a WALKING TOUR through
the captivating pottery-making village of Kyauk Myaung. Here you
will learn more about the pot-making process and see how they
are formed, fired, and glazed. Most interesting is the eye-catching
50-gallon variety, often referred to as Martaban or Ali Baba jars in
colonial times. These pots could transport large quantities of liquor,
fish sauce, peanut oil, and more, and have played an important part of
maritime trade throughout Asia for centuries. (B,L,D)
DAY 9 Kya Hnyat. This morning, visit the village of Kya Hnyat with
its many Buddhist monasteries. Here you will INTERACT WITH THE
MONKS at a local monastery. Each morning they don their distinctive
sa©ron-colored robes and walk through the streets to collect alms,
o©erings of food, like cooked rice and curry. This is a truly memorable
experience as you present alms to the monks and witness their lunch
ritual. (B,L,D)
DAY 10 Tigyang. Visit the small village of Tigyang for a WALKING
TOUR through its narrow lanes and to visit the pagoda and reclining
Buddha on a hilltop with stunning views. (B,L,D)
DAY 11 Katha. This morning, visit a LOCAL MARKET, where you will
see the locals buying and selling fish, meat, produce, and more. Then,
journey a short distance outside the city to an ELEPHANT CAMP in the
teak forest. Skilled mahouts will show you how they have worked with
elephants for centuries, and you will have the opportunity to RIDE AN
ELEPHANT through the forest. As you sail north this afternoon, with
some luck, you may catch a glimpse of the rare Irrawaddy dolphin
with its distinctive round forehead. (B,L,D)
A V A L O N W A T E R W A Y S . C O M . A U 43
DAY 12 Kyun Daw–Second Defile–Bhamo. This
morning, visit the fascinating island village of Kyun Daw, where over
7,000 stupas surround the monastery. Take a WALKING TOUR for
memorable encounters with the villagers. Visit a FISHERMAN’S HOME
to learn more about daily life here and a SCHOOL to interact with the
children. You will also visit a NUNNERY to present the nuns with food
purchased the day before at the market in Katha. Unlike monks, they
have to collect and cook their own food. This afternoon, sail through
the DRAMATIC SECOND DEFILE with its magnificent cli©s reaching
down the narrow channel. Continue to Bhamo, the northernmost
point ships can navigate the Irrawaddy. Tonight, join your Cruise
Director and ship’s crew for a FAREWELL RECEPTION and special
FAREWELL DINNER. (B,L,D)
DAY 13 Bhamo (Disembarkation)–Yangon. After breakfast,
disembark the ship and EXPLORE BHAMO by local trishaw and
by foot. Afterward, transfer to the airport for your flight to Yangon.
The remainder of the day is at your leisure. (B)
DAY 14 Yangon. Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
START YOUR VACATION IN BANGKOK
CRUISE WBKQ—17 DAYS FROM BANGKOK TO YANGON
DAY 1 Arrive in Bangkok, Thailand. Welcome to Bangkok!
Hotel rooms are available for mid-
afternoon check-in.
DAY 2 Bangkok. This morning, your sightseeing begins with a
BOAT RIDE through the klongs, Bangkok’s canals, to see family
homes, temples, and the way of life that give this city the nickname
“Venice of the East.” 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 more than 1,000 Buddha images, including
the 49-foot-high and 151-foot-long massive Reclining Buddha.
The remainder of the day is at your leisure. (B,L)
DAY 3 Bangkok. Enjoy a full day at your leisure. (B)
DAY 4 Bangkok–Yangon, Myanmar. Today, fly to Yangon to join
Day 1 of Cruise WBK. (B)
ADD INLE LAKE TO YOUR VACATION
CRUISE WBKE—16 DAYS FROM YANGON TO YANGON
DAYS 1 TO 12 Like Cruise WBK.
DAY 13 Bhamo (Disembarkation)–Yangon–Heho–Inle Lake. Transfer to
the airport and fly to Heho (via
Yangon), the gateway to Inle Lake, a tranquil lake surrounded by
mountains. Pause at Red Mountain Estate to bask in the beautiful
scenery as you enjoy a dinner of authentic fare and wine produced
from the vineyards here. Continue to your lakeside resort, where you
will spend the next two nights. (B,D)
PHOTOGRAPHY: (Clockwise from bottom left) Local schoolchildren; temples in Bagan; Demon Guardian, Emerald Buddha Temple, Grand Palace, Bangkok; Inle Lake fisherman
44
DAY 14 Inle Lake. Today, a fascinating excursion to see scenes
of life around the lake. Stilted houses dot the shorelines and
the local Intha use the famous one-legged rowing technique
to fi sh and tend their fl oating gardens of tomatoes, cucumbers,
aubergine, and more. These clever gardens are made from
weeds lashed together and mud from the lake bottom, then
anchored using bamboo poles, allowing them to rise and fall
with the water level of the lake. Along the way you will stop at a
SILK WORKSHOP, where they use the fi bers of the lotus plant to
weave garments. You will also visit a SILVERSMITH WORKSHOP
and a CHEROOT WORKSHOP, where young girls roll the cigars
at a dizzying pace. Before dinner, attend a MUSIC & DANCE
PERFORMANCE by the Padaung long-necked women who live
in this part of the country. (B,L,D)
DAY 15 Inle Lake–Heho–Yangon. Today, transfer to Heho
for your fl ight back to Yangon for an overnight. (B)
DAY 16 Yangon. Your vacation ends with breakfast this
morning. (B)
ADD BANGKOK & INLE LAKE TO YOUR VACATION
CRUISE WBKY—19 DAYS FROM BANGKOK TO YANGON
A V A L O N W A T E R W A Y S . C O M . A U 45
DATES & PRICES AU$
CRUISE WBK - FROM $7,883 LAND/CRUISE ONLY* - YANGON TO YANGONCRUISE WBKQ - FROM $9,224 LAND/CRUISE ONLY* - BANGKOK TO YANGON
CRUISE WBKE - FROM $9,452 LAND/CRUISE ONLY* - YANGON TO YANGON
CRUISE WBKY - FROM $10,763 LAND/CRUISE ONLY* - BANGKOK TO YANGON
Ship Dept.# Start Yangon End Yangon Land/Cruise*
Myanmar 0107 Thu Jan 07 Wed Jan 20 8,203 Myanmar 0127 Wed Jan 27 Tue Feb 09 8,203 Myanmar 0216 Tue Feb 16 Mon Feb 29 8,203 Myanmar 0307 Mon Mar 07 Sun Mar 20 8,203 Myanmar 0327 Sun Mar 27 Sat Apr 09 7,883 Myanmar 0416 Sat Apr 16 Fri Apr 29 7,883 Myanmar 0830 Tue Aug 30 Mon Sep 12 7,883 Myanmar 0919 Mon Sep 19 Sun Oct 02 7,883 Myanmar 1009 Sun Oct 09 Sat Oct 22 8,513 Myanmar 1029 Sat Oct 29 Fri Nov 11 8,513 Myanmar 1118 Fri Nov 18 Thu Dec 01 8,513 Myanmar 1208 Thu Dec 08 Wed Dec 21 8,513 Myanmar 1228 Wed Dec 28 Tue Jan 10 8,513
2017Myanmar 0117 Tue Jan 17 Mon Jan 30 8,583 Myanmar 0206 Mon Feb 06 Sun Feb 19 8,583 Myanmar 0226 Sun Feb 26 Sat Mar 11 8,583 Myanmar 0318 Sat Mar 18 Fri Mar 31 8,263 Myanmar 0407 Fri Apr 07 Thu Apr 20 8,263
CRUISE WKB - FROM $7,883 LAND/CRUISE ONLY* - YANGON TO YANGONCRUISE WKBQ - FROM $9,224 LAND/CRUISE ONLY* - BANGKOK TO YANGON
CRUISE WKBE - FROM $9,266 LAND/CRUISE ONLY* - YANGON TO YANGON
CRUISE WKBY - FROM $10,577 LAND/CRUISE ONLY* - BANGKOK TO YANGON
Ship Dept.# Start Yangon End Yangon Land/Cruise*
Myanmar 0117 Sun Jan 17 Sat Jan 30 8,203 Myanmar 0206 Sat Feb 06 Fri Feb 19 8,203 Myanmar 0226 Fri Feb 26 Thu Mar 10 8,203 Myanmar 0317 Thu Mar 17 Wed Mar 30 7,883 Myanmar 0406 Wed Apr 06 Tue Apr 19 7,883 Myanmar 0909 Fri Sep 09 Thu Sep 22 7,883 Myanmar 0929 Thu Sep 29 Wed Oct 12 8,513 Myanmar 1019 Wed Oct 19 Tue Nov 01 8,513 Myanmar 1108 Tue Nov 08 Mon Nov 21 8,513 Myanmar 1128 Mon Nov 28 Sun Dec 11 8,513 Myanmar 1218 Sun Dec 18 Sat Dec 31 8,513
2017Myanmar 0107 Sat Jan 07 Fri Jan 20 8,583 Myanmar 0127 Fri Jan 27 Thu Feb 09 8,583 Myanmar 0216 Thu Feb 16 Wed Mar 01 8,583 Myanmar 0308 Wed Mar 08 Tue Mar 21 8,583 Myanmar 0328 Tue Mar 28 Mon Apr 10 8,263 Myanmar 0417 Mon Apr 17 Sun Apr 30 8,263
ALL DEPARTURES ARE GUARANTEED.
*Land/Cruise price includes intra-vacation air and taxes.Port charges of $102 are included.Gratuities to Cruise Director and crew may be added for $168. Gratuities to Local Guides and drivers are included in pricing above.Price is per person, based on double room occupancy.Please call for single accommodation price. Triples not available.Prices shown above include cruise in Category B in an Avalon Suite on Irrawaddy Deck. To upgrade to a Category A on the Mandalay Deck, add $480 per person in double occupancy or $960 in single occupancy.Extra Nights per person in Yangon: in single room $446; in twin room $230Extra Nights per person in Bangkok: Jan.-Dec. 18: in single room $320; in twin room $167Dec. 19-31: in single room $380; in twin room $198
ADD INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS TO YOUR VACATION! COMPETITIVE PRICES WITHOUT THE HASSLE.
C H I N A & T H E
YANGTZE RIVER
The world’s most populous nation, the People’s Republic of China is the
ultimate synthesis of East and West, old and new. Boasting one of the world’s
earliest civilizations, China’s empire grew around its powerful dynasties. It
was during imperial rule that some of the country’s greatest achievements
occurred, including construction of the inimitable Great Wall, the Forbidden
City, and the impressive legion of Terracotta Warriors.
46 46
In the early 20th century, communism gained a foothold as
revolution led to abdication of China’s last emperor after two
millennia of sovereign rule. From the late 1920s to the end of the
1940s the country was embroiled fi rst in civil war and then World
War II. A new party, led by Mao Zedong, gained power in 1949 and
is still in power to this day. Under Mao’s rule, China was closed to all
but selected foreign visitors. Forty years after his death, it is one of
the most visited destinations in the world, where ancient traditions
blend with the modern world, and skyscrapers rise above ancient
temples. It is a place of profound culture and graceful beauty—from
Beijing Opera and traditional tea ceremonies to colorful festivals and
unique cities trying to preserve ancient treasures.
At the heart of it all is the Yangtze River, the most important river
in the history, culture, and economy of China. At more than 3,900
miles, it is the longest river in Asia and the third-longest river in
the world. It fl ows from the glaciers of the Tibetan Plateau across
China before emptying into the East China Sea at Shanghai. With
the completion of the Three Gorges Dam there have been changes
along the river, but glimpses of the past remain as farmers ply their
fi elds, ancient temples await exploration, and the forest-covered
mountains of Wu Gorge beckon.
As you encounter countless treasures, some of the world’s most
breathtaking scenery, and ancient cultures, China will leave you
longing to return...again and again.
A V A L O N W A T E R W A Y S . C O M . A U 47
INCLUDEDI S T H E N A M E O F T H E G A M E
When it comes to enjoying the unique history and cultures of China, an Avalon
Small-Group Discovery is the perfect way to travel. We never allow more than 20 travelers on
our Cruise & Tour vacations, meaning you get more personalized service from beginning to
end. In Beijing, Xi’an, and Shanghai, all sightseeing includes a headset so you don’t miss any
of the fascinating stories told by our Tour Directors and Certifi ed Local Guides. In addition, on
the Yangtze, Avalon has arranged a host of exclusive features just for you.
48 48
INCLUDED FOR EVERY AVALON GUEST
• Spacious outside deluxe stateroom
• Large closets with shelves for ample storage &
in-room safe
• Comfortable beds with premium mattress toppers
• Large private bathroom featuring full shower and separate
bathtub, hairdryer, and premium bath amenities
• Large desk with convenient power outlets
• Individual climate control
• Plush bathrobes & slippers
• Professional Cruise Director and staff to help throughout
your cruise
• Included sightseeing accompanied by Certified
Local Guide
• Selection of Local FavoritesSM offering unique cultural
activities & interactions with locals
EXCLUSIVE AVALON CRUISE FEATURES
• Welcome reception with cocktails & snacks
• Priority check-in and check-out
• Breakfast & lunch buffets featuring Western and Chinese
cuisine in VIP restaurant on the Sun Deck
• Dinner in VIP restaurant featuring à la carte menu of Western
& Chinese cuisine (except the Captain’s farewell Chinese
banquet in the main dining area)
• Complimentary wine, beer & soft drinks with all
onboard dinners
• Complimentary soft drinks with all onboard lunches
• 24-hour access to the Executive Lounge with
complimentary coffee, tea & snacks
• Complimentary Wi-Fi access in the Executive Lounge
(where signal is available)
• Reserved seating for evening entertainment
• Private guided shore excursions
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THE YANGTZE
& B E Y O N D
Sail more than 600 miles through the most
impressive stretch of the Yangtze River—the
famed Three Gorges. Walk through the village
of Shibaozhai to see its 400-year-old, 12-story,
red pagoda perched on a cliff side. Take a boat
excursion down the Shennong Stream, where
you will see the mysterious hanging coffi ns, and
enjoy a sampan ride surrounded by emerald-
green waters and forested hills. Also visit the
awe-inspiring Three Gorges Dam, the largest
hydroelectric dam in the world. Cruising the
Yangtze is a truly unforgettable journey.
Beyond the Yangtze, you will discover more of
China’s treasures. Visit the Great Wall, Beijing’s
illustrious Forbidden City, and take a rickshaw ride
through the hutongs, the city’s ancient alleyways.
In Xi’an, marvel at the life-sized Terracotta
Warriors, participate in a calligraphy class, and
see the colorful “Tang Dynasty” show. Walk along
the Bund in Shanghai and visit bustling Yu Yuan
Gardens. Depending on which vacation you
choose, your journey may take you to other
amazing locales...like Guilin for a cruise on the Li
River, Lijiang’s ancient town to see local life and
stop at Black Dragon Pool for stunning views of
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, or Tibet to visit
Potala Palace, former residence of the Dalai Lama,
and spend time at the home of a local family to
learn more about their life.
This is just a small sampling of what you will
experience on your Avalon journey through China.
50 50
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Cruise in style and comfort aboard two of the newest ships on the Yangtze. As you embark your contemporary,
elegant ship, a friendly, English-speaking crew and stunning 7-story atrium lobby welcome you aboard.
The Century Paragon and Century Legend—launched in 2013—are charting a new course for Yangtze
River cruising. Each ship features a state-of-the-art propulsion system that reduces vibration and decreases
emissions to minimize environmental impact. Other innovations include a pillarless multi-function lounge with
unobstructed views of evening entertainment, and a large indoor swimming pool—both fi rsts on the Yangtze—
as well as two bars, a large sun deck, game room, cinema, fi tness center, and spa.
See page 74 for deck plan.
C R U I S I N G I N
STYLE
52 52
SHIP FEATURES:
• English-speaking staff
• 7-fl oor atrium lobby
• Non-smoking interior
• Two restaurants
• Two bars
• Multi-functional lounge
• Large sun deck
• Wi-Fi access
• Fitness Center
• Spa & massage facilities
• Indoor swimming pool
• A variety of shops
• Cinema room
• Game room
• Well-stocked library
• 24-hour laundry service
• Two elevators
Large indoor swimming pool
VIP restaurant
NOTE: Artist renderings are correct as of the publication date but are subject to change.
A V A L O N W A T E R W A Y S . C O M . A U 53
AMENITIES
• Comfortable beds with premium
mattress cover
• Super-combed cotton linens &
European-style duvets
• Soft & fi rm pillows
• Choice of bed confi guration
(two twins or one queen)
• Nightly turn-down service
• Bedside tables with reading lamps
• Floor-to-ceiling sliding-glass door leading
to large balcony
• Large private bathroom featuring full
shower and separate bathtub, hairdryer,
and premium bath amenities
• Spacious closets with shelves for
ample storage
• Easy under-bed luggage storage
• Flatscreen satellite TV with movie channels
• Alarm clock
• Writing desk/vanity with mirror &
comfortable chair
• Wi-Fi access
• Room-to-room phone service
• Bathrobes & slippers
• Well-stocked minibar
• Complimentary bottled water
• In-room safe
• Individual climate control
Your Deluxe Stateroom is a spacious retreat with 266 square feet of living space—
the largest on the Yangtze today. Comfortable beds wrapped in premium mattress
covers, super-combed cotton linens, European-style duvets, and both soft and
fi rm pillows will ensure you are well rested. You’ll also appreciate your large
private bathroom with full shower and separate bathtub. Floor-to-ceiling sliding-
glass doors lead to your private balcony, adding an extra 35 square feet of space.
Combined with the comfortable interior sitting area, this is the perfect place
to watch the passing scenery or relax after a day of sightseeing. Other features
include fl atscreen satellite TV with movie channels and Wi-Fi access.
S P A C I O U S
DELUXE S TAT E R O O M S
54
NOTE: Artist renderings are correct as of the publication date but are subject to change.
55
SAVORY C U I S I N E
56
ON BOARDWith Avalon, every dining experience brings your
destination to life. All meals are served in the exclusive
VIP restaurant (except the Captain’s farewell dinner). Try
authentic cuisine from China—or more familiar Western
alternatives. The breakfast buff et off ers a wide variety
of dishes to ensure you start your day off right. Lunch
features a buff et with salad, soup, and over 20 main
dishes. In the evening, a four-course à la carte dinner
awaits with choice of salads, soups, entrées, and desserts.
ON LAND Each day starts with breakfast at your hotel. Where we
include lunch or dinner, we have carefully selected each
local restaurant either in or outside your hotel. We also
include several authentic experiences to help round
out your vacation. Sample succulent Peking Duck at an
award-winning restaurant in Beijing, relish a traditional
dim-sum lunch in Shanghai, and dine with a local family
in Tibet.
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EXTENDY O U R C R U I S E
Customize your vacation with an optional extension. In Hong Kong, tour the city and visit the famous
Stanley Market and Victoria Peak, followed by free time for independent discoveries. In Guilin, cruise
on the tranquil Li River and visit a tea farm to learn more about the tea-making process and for a
traditional tea ceremony. For the more adventurous, you can even journey to Mongolia to explore the
capital city of Ulaanbaatar and the remote Gobi Desert, where you will stay in a traditional ger.
See itinerary pages for specifi c off erings.
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S U P E R I O R
HOTELSEvery 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.
1Beijing - Fairmont Beijing
Close to the Imperial Palace and Tian’anmen Square, this luxurious hotel is ideally located. O� ering a mix of contemporary and traditional Chinese styles, the Fairmont Beijing boasts impeccable service, spacious guestrooms, and a host of amenities for a comfortable stay.
2 Hong Kong extension - Kowloon Shangri-La
This deluxe hotel is located in the bustling Tsim Sha Tsui district, the liveliest and most popular shopping and entertainment area in Hong Kong. Enjoy the city’s most spacious guestrooms, with fl oor-to-ceiling windows, and world-class service amidst tranquil surroundings.
3Guilin - Shangri-La Hotel, Guilin
Located on the banks of the scenic Li River, the hotel sets the standard for luxury and service in Guilin. From the moment you arrive you will be treated to true Asian hospitality, while each elegantly appointed guestroom feels like a home away from home.
4Shanghai - Fairmont Peace Hotel
This landmark hotel once served as a glamorous playground for the elite. Just steps from the famous Bund promenade and unrivaled shopping on Nanjing Road, it is still the perfect place to play, relax, and explore Shanghai’s spectacular scenery and vibrant lifestyle.
A V A L O N W A T E R W A Y S . C O M . A U 59FOR A FULL LIST OF HOTELS AND AMENITIES, VISIT AVALONWATERWAYS.COM.AU
PHOTOGRAPHY: (Clockwise from left) Forbidden City, Beijing; Terracotta Warrior, Xi’an; practicing Tai Chi; Shibaozhai Pagoda
SMALL-GROUP DISCOVERY • Never more than 20 passengers in a group
CRUISE WYC • 12 DAYS • BEIJING TO SHANGHAI
MAGICAL CHINA & THE YANGTZE RIVER
INCLUDED FEATURES
CRUISE
Deluxe 3-night cruise from Chongqing to Yichang in a Deluxe Stateroom with two lower beds, private facilities, and balcony
SIGHTSEEING
Below is a summary of your sightseeing plus the day-by-day itinerary indicates in UPPERCASE all inside visits, special features, and guided sightseeing. All included guided sightseeing is conducted by a Certifi ed Local Guide.
Beijing: sightseeing including headsets; visit the Forbidden City, Imperial Palace, Tian’anmen Square, Great Wall, and Temple of Heaven; Peking Duck welcome dinner; Peking Opera performance or Legend of Kung Fu Show; hutong tour by rickshaw
Xi’an: sightseeing including headsets; visit the Terracotta Warriors including the VIP viewing area and Dayan Pagoda; noodle-making demonstration; calligraphy class; “Tang Dynasty” dinner show
Chongqing: visit a local zoo to see pandas; hot pot dinner; begin your Yangtze cruise aboard the Century Paragon; private welcome reception
Shibaozhai: walking tour
Shennv Stream: boat excursion down one of the Yangtze’s lesser gorges
Three Gorges Dam Site: sightseeing of the impressive dam site
Shanghai: sightseeing including headsets; visit the Bund, Yu Yuan Gardens, a silk factory, and the Shanghai Museum; dim sum lunch; walking tour of the French Concession; see an acrobatic show
Hong Kong Extension: cable-car ride up Victoria Peak; sampan ride on harbor; visit Stanley Market; Host service during your stay
Guilin & Hong Kong Extension: Guilin - Li River cruise; visit Reed Flute Cave and a tea farm; Host service during your stay Hong Kong - cable-car ride up Victoria Peak; sampan ride on harbor; visit Stanley Market; Host service during your stay
LOCAL FAVORITESSM
Special experiences by local entertainers, artisans, and experts, designed to enrich your experience.
• PEKING OPERA OR KUNG FU SHOW• RICKSHAW RIDE THROUGH HUTONGS• DIM SUM LUNCH
Personalize your onshore experiences by choosing from a selection of optional excursions. Go online to customize your cruise experience.
MEALS
• B: American breakfast daily L: 7 lunches D: 7 dinners including a Peking Duck welcome dinner in Beijing and a farewell dinner in Shanghai
• Hong Kong Extension: breakfast (B) daily • Guilin & Hong Kong Extension:
breakfast (B) daily, 2 lunches (L)
SUPERIOR HOTELS
Beijing Fairmont Beijing (D) Xi’an Shangri-La Hotel (D) Yangtze Cruise Century Paragon Shanghai Fairmont Peace Hotel (D) Hong Kong Extension Kowloon Shangri-La (D) Guilin & Hong Kong Extension: Guilin Shangri-La Hotel (D) Hong Kong Kowloon Shangri-La (D)
60
PRICED FROM $5,239
DAY 1 Arrive in Beijing, China. Welcome to China’s capital
city. Hotel rooms are available for mid-afternoon check-in.
DAY 2 Beijing. Your full-day sightseeing starts with a visit to the
FORBIDDEN CITY and its IMPERIAL PALACE, once the home of
China’s great emperors. Nearby is 100-acre TIAN’ANMEN SQUARE,
the largest public square in the world. After lunch, enjoy some time at
your leisure. This evening, enjoy a special PEKING DUCK WELCOME
DINNER in an award-winning restaurant in your hotel. (B,L,D)
DAY 3 Beijing. The GREAT WALL OF CHINA once stretched 4,000
miles across China’s barren northern terrain from the Bohai Sea to
the Gobi Desert. Head north to a village where the Great Wall is well
preserved, and walk along the wall to enjoy sweeping vistas of this
mammoth fortress. Tonight, attend a performance of the PEKING
OPERA, a traditional form of Chinese theater, including a behind-the-
scenes look at the colorful makeup being applied to the performers.
Alternatively, you may choose to attend the LEGEND OF KUNG
FU SHOW. Here, performers use a fusion of kung fu, dance, and
acrobatics to tell the story of a monk who studies Buddhism and kung
fu his whole life and eventually becomes a Zen master. (B,L)
DAY 4 Beijing–Xi’an. This morning, visit the TEMPLE OF HEAVEN
and enjoy a rickshaw ride through one of Beijing’s HUTONGS, the
city’s ancient alleys. Experience life in this historic neighborhood as
you are invited into the courtyard of a family’s home for tea. Later, fl y
to Xi’an. (B,D)
DAY 5 Xi’an. One of the largest and wealthiest cities in the world
when China dominated the silk trade, Xi’an today is an archaeological
treasure trove. Sightseeing begins with the enormous tomb of China’s
fi rst emperor, Qin Shi Huangdi, accidentally discovered by local
farmers in 1974. Marvel at the legion of TERRACOTTA WARRIORS
that has been guarding the burial site for 2,000 years. You will also
enter the VIP VIEWING AREA for an up-close view of these life-size
statues. During lunch, enjoy a NOODLE-MAKING DEMONSTRATION
by a master chef and learn how Chinese noodles are made by hand.
Next, visit the DAYAN PAGODA, built in 652 AD. This evening, enjoy
the “Tang Dynasty” DINNER SHOW, featuring a colorful assemblage of
classical performances. (B,L,D)
DAY 6 Xi’an–Chongqing (Embarkation)–Yangtze River Cruise. This morning, visit the Xi’an City Wall South Gate and learn to
write like a local during a traditional Chinese CALLIGRAPHY CLASS; you
may even see some locals practicing their morning Tai Chi. Next, fl y to
Chongqing, China’s capital during World War II. Visit a local ZOO to see
pandas and eat dinner at a local HOT POT restaurant before boarding
the Century Paragon for a 3-night cruise through the breathtaking
Three Gorges of the Yangtze. Join your traveling companions for a
PRIVATE WELCOME RECEPTION including cocktails and snacks. (B,D)
DAY 7 Cruising: Shibaozhai. The morning is at your leisure
to enjoy a variety of onboard activities. You may choose to start your
day with a Tai Chi session on the Sun Deck, take a swim in the pool,
or simply relax and enjoy the scenery. After lunch, take a WALKING
TOUR of Shibaozhai with its 400-year-old, 12-story, red wooden
pagoda perched high on a cli© side. This evening, the Captain hosts a
welcome party, followed by dinner and a special performance by the
ship’s crew. (B,L,D) NOTE: Depending on river conditions, an alternate
shore excursion may be o� ered.
DAY 8 Cruising: Qutang Gorge–Wu Gorge–Shennv Stream. Again, enjoy the morning at your leisure on the ship. You
may choose to take an optional shore excursion to Baidi Cheng,
known as the “White Emperor City,” to see the Baidi Temple. Later
in the morning, sail downstream through the fi rst and second of the
three gorges—Qutang Gorge, the shortest but most dramatic gorge,
and Wu, known for its quiet beauty and forest-covered mountains. You
can nearly touch the perpendicular walls rising from the riverbanks
as your Captain negotiates this narrow gap. After lunch, disembark
for a BOAT EXCURSION down Shennv Stream. Along the way, see
picturesque scenery and the mysterious hanging wooden co¦ ns.
Before returning to your ship you will also board a wooden boat on a
smaller section of the stream, where the crew will sing songs as you
Yangtze River
3
BEIJINGGreat Wall
SHANGHAI
XI’AN
CHONGQING
YICHANG
3
CHINA
3
2
Three Gorges
Dam
SHIBAOZHAI
HONG KONGGUILINExtension
Extension
Post-Extension
Start/End City
Pre-Extension
A V A L O N W A T E R W A Y S . C O M . A U 61
glide across the stunning deep emerald-green waters surrounded
by densely forested hills. This evening, join the Captain for a special
Chinese-style farewell banquet. (B,L,D) NOTE: Depending on river
conditions, the boat excursion may be on the Daning River.
DAY 9 Cruising: Three Gorges Dam Site–Xiling Gorge–Yichang (Disembarkation)–Shanghai. This morning,
visit the THREE GORGES DAM SITE, the largest dam of its kind in
the world. Afterward, sail through Xiling Gorge, the last of the three
gorges, before bidding farewell to your ship’s crew in Yichang. After
lunch in Yichang, transfer to the airport for your flight to Shanghai,
China’s most populous city and center of trade and industry. (B,L)
DAY 10 Shanghai. Start your day with a stroll along the Bund, the
city’s riverfront boulevard lined with historic buildings, housing, banks,
and trade houses. Then, visit YU YUAN GARDENS, dating back to the
Ming Dynasty, and a SILK FACTORY to learn about the silk-making
process. For lunch, a traditional DIM SUM feast awaits. Meaning “to
touch your heart,” dim sum was originally a snack but has transformed
into a full meal with a wide variety of steamed dumplings, spring
rolls, and more. Afterward, enjoy time at leisure. This evening, be
entertained by a spectacular ACROBATIC SHOW. (B,L)
DAY 11 Shanghai. This morning, visit the SHANGHAI MUSEUM,
featuring stunning displays of ancient bronze, jade, and ceramics.
Then, take a WALKING TOUR of the former French Concession, once
Shanghai’s leading residential and retail area. Today, the qualities that
made the area so popular endure—from quaint, tree-lined streets and
exquisite architecture to charming shops and fashionable restaurants
and bars. Along the way, see the famous Art Deco Cathay Theatre,
explore the narrow lanes of Xintiandi, and visit Fuxing Park, where
locals play chess, dance, practice tai chi, and more. The afternoon
is at your leisure. This evening, your Tour Director hosts a special
farewell dinner at your hotel. (B,D)
DAY 12 Shanghai. Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
ADD HONG KONG TO YOUR VACATION
CRUISE WYCE—15 DAYS FROM BEIJING TO HONG KONG
DAYS 1 TO 11 Like Cruise WYC.
DAY 12 Shanghai–Hong Kong. Today, fly to exciting Hong Kong. (B)
DAY 13 Hong Kong. This
morning’s sightseeing begins with a CABLE-CAR RIDE up Victoria Peak
for panoramic vistas of this one-of-a-kind port city. Drive by Repulse
Bay, a popular beach area, then to the Aberdeen fishing village for
a SAMPAN RIDE on the harbor. Next stop is STANLEY MARKET, a
narrow street jammed with stalls o©ering clothing, arts, and crafts. The
afternoon and evening are free for independent exploration. Tonight,
consider an optional sunset cruise on Hong Kong’s magnificent
harbor. (B)
DAY 14 Hong Kong. Take advantage of a full free day to explore this
exciting city. You may wish to join our optional excursion to view the
giant Buddha on the island of Lantau. Shopping is a highlight of Hong
Kong with markets, malls, and shops to fit any taste and budget. Your
host will be happy to suggest ways to make the most of your day. (B)
DAY 15 Hong Kong. Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
ADD GUILIN & HONG KONG TO YOUR VACATION
CRUISE WYCG—17 DAYS FROM BEIJING TO HONG KONG
DAYS 1 TO 11 Like Cruise WYC.
DAY 12 Shanghai–Guilin. Today, fly to Guilin, one of China’s
most beautiful areas. (B)
PHOTOGRAPHY: (Clockwise from bottom left) Shanghai; dim sum; Shanghai acrobatsi; Yangtze River
62
DAY 13 Guilin. Limestone mountains, their needle peaks
hidden in mist, rise from the green plain surrounding Guilin.
The scene conveys a sense of mystery that artists have tried
to capture for centuries. Savor unique vistas during a leisurely
CRUISE on the Li River and enjoy a light lunch. Tonight, you may
choose to join our optional trip to see trained cormorants dive
for fi sh, the traditional Lijiang fi shing method. (B,L)
DAY 14 Guilin–Hong Kong. Enjoy the morning at leisure
in this charming town. Sightseeing begins with the famous
REED FLUTE CAVE with its unusual stalactite and stalagmite
formations. Then, visit a local TEA FARM for a hands-on
demonstration of the tea-making process, followed by a tea
ceremony. Later, fl y to Hong Kong. (B,L)
DAY 15 Hong Kong. This morning’s sightseeing begins with
a CABLE-CAR RIDE up Victoria Peak for panoramic vistas of this
one-of-a-kind port city. Drive by Repulse Bay, a popular beach
area, then to the Aberdeen fi shing village for a SAMPAN RIDE
on the harbor. Next stop is STANLEY MARKET, a narrow street
jammed with stalls o© ering clothing, arts, and crafts. Tonight,
consider an optional sunset cruise on Hong Kong’s magnifi cent
harbor. (B)
DAY 16 Hong Kong. Take advantage of a full free day to
explore this exciting city. You may wish to join our optional
excursion to view the giant Buddha on the island of Lantau.
Shopping is a highlight of Hong Kong, with markets, malls, and
shops to fi t any taste and budget. Your host will be happy to
suggest ways to make the most of your day. (B)
DAY 17 Hong Kong. Your vacation ends with breakfast this
morning. (B)
A V A L O N W A T E R W A Y S . C O M . A U 63
DATES & PRICES AU$
CRUISE WYC - FROM $5,239 LAND/CRUISE ONLY* - BEIJING TO SHANGHAICRUISE WYCE - FROM $6,629 LAND/CRUISE ONLY* - BEIJING TO HONG KONG
CRUISE WYCG - FROM $7,309 LAND/CRUISE ONLY* - BEIJING TO HONG KONG
Ship Dept.# Start Beijing End Shanghai Land/Cruise*
Century Paragon 0407 Thu 07 Apr Mon 18 Apr 5,269 Century Paragon 0414 Thu 14 Apr Mon 25 Apr 5,269 Century Paragon 0421 Thu 21 Apr Mon 02 May 5,269 Century Paragon 0505 Thu 05 May Mon 16 May 5,429 Century Paragon 0512 Thu 12 May Mon 23 May 5,429 Century Paragon 0519 Thu 19 May Mon 30 May 5,429 Century Paragon 0526 Thu 26 May Mon 06 Jun 5,429 Century Paragon 0602 Thu 02 Jun Mon 13 Jun 5,239 Century Paragon 0609 Thu 09 Jun Mon 20 Jun 5,239 Century Paragon 0707 Thu 07 Jul Mon 18 Jul 5,239 Century Paragon 0811 Thu 11 Aug Mon 22 Aug 5,239 Century Paragon 0818 Thu 18 Aug Mon 29 Aug 5,239 Century Paragon 0825 Thu 25 Aug Mon 05 Sep 5,239 Century Paragon 0901 Thu 01 Sep Mon 12 Sep 5,429 Century Paragon 0908 Thu 08 Sep Mon 19 Sep 5,429 Century Paragon 0915 Thu 15 Sep Mon 26 Sep 5,429 Century Paragon 0922 Thu 22 Sep Mon 03 Oct 5,429 Century Paragon 1006 Thu 06 Oct Mon 17 Oct 5,429 Century Paragon 1013 Thu 13 Oct Mon 24 Oct 5,429
*Land/Cruise price includes intra-vacation air and taxes.Price is per person, based on double room occupancy.Gratuities to Tour Director may be added for $137Gratuities to ship’s crew, Local Guides, and drivers are included in pricing above.Single Room Supplement: WYC $1664 to $1803; WYCE $2273 to $2743; WYCG $2445 to $2959Triple Room Reduction: WYC $89 to $114; WYCE $127 to $248; WYCG $127 to $260Extra Nights per person in Beijing:Mon. - Thu. : in single room $300; in twin room $157; in triple room $146Fri. - Sun. : in single room $245; in twin room $130; in triple room $128Extra Nights per person in Shanghai:Mon. - Thu. : in single room $283; in twin room $149; in triple room $128Fri. - Sun. : in single room $326; in twin room $170; in triple room $143Extra Nights per person in Hong Kong:Apr. 18-30 & Oct. 11-31 : in single room $586; in twin room $300; in triple room $246May-Sep. 10 : in single room $386; in twin room $200; in triple room $180Sep. 11-Oct. 10 : in single room $432; in twin room $223; in triple room $196Cruise pricing is based on Deluxe staterooms. Upgrades are available. Please call for prices.
ADD INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS TO YOUR VACATION! COMPETITIVE PRICES WITHOUT THE HASSLE.
PHOTOGRAPHY: (Clockwise from left) Potala Palace; Yangtze River; Jokhang Temple; prayer beads in monk’s hand
SMALL-GROUP DISCOVERY • Never more than 20 passengers in a group
CRUISE WXY • 16 DAYS • SHANGHAI TO BEIJING
CULTURAL CHINA & TIBET WITH YANGTZE RIVER CRUISE
INCLUDED FEATURES
CRUISE
Deluxe 4-night cruise from Yichang to Chongqing in a Deluxe Stateroom with two
lower beds, private facilities, and balcony
SIGHTSEEING Your day-by-day itinerary indicates in UPPERCASE all inside visits, special features, and guided sightseeing. All included guided sightseeing is conducted by a Certifi ed Local
Guide.
Shanghai: sightseeing including headsets; visit the Bund, Yu Yuan Gardens, a silk factory, and the Shanghai Museum; dim sum lunch; walking tour of the French Concession; see an acrobatic show
Yichang: begin your Yangtze cruise aboard the Century Legend; private welcome reception
Three Gorges Dam Site: sightseeing of the impressive dam site
Shennv Stream: boat excursion down one of the Yangtze’s lesser gorges
Shibaozhai: walking tour
Chongqing: visit a local zoo to see pandas
Lhasa: visit the Summer Palace, a Tibetan’s home including lunch, a Tibetan monastery, a Tibetan hospital, Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and a local bazaar; cultural show with traditional Tibetan music and dance
Xi’an: calligraphy class; sightseeing including headsets; visit the Terracotta Warriors including the VIP viewing area and Dayan Pagoda; noodle-making demonstration; “Tang Dynasty” dinner show
Beijing: hutong tour by rickshaw; sightseeing including headsets; visit the Temple of Heaven, Forbidden City, Imperial Palace, Tian’anmen Square, Great Wall; Peking Opera performance or Legend of Kung Fu Show; Peking Duck farewell dinner
Hong Kong Extension: cable-car ride up Victoria Peak; sampan ride on harbor; visit Stanley Market; Host service during your stay
Mongolia Extension: Ulaanbaatar - visit the National History Museum, Bogd Khan Winter Palace, and the Gandan Monastery; Mongolian folklore performance Gobi Desert - visit Eagle Valley National Park, sand dunes, Cemetery of Dinosaurs, and a camel-breeders camp
LOCAL FAVORITESSM Special experiences by local entertainers, artisans, and experts, designed to enrich your experience.
• DIM SUM LUNCH• LUNCH IN TIBETAN’S HOME• RICKSHAW RIDE THROUGH HUTONGS• PEKING OPERA OR KUNG FU SHOW
Personalize your onshore experiences by choosing from a selection of optional excursions. Go online to customize your
cruise experience.
MEALS • B: American breakfast daily
L: 10 lunches D: 11 dinners including a welcome dinner in Shanghai and a Peking Duck farewell dinner in Beijing
• Hong Kong Extension: breakfast (B) daily • Mongolia Extension: breakfast (B) daily,
3 lunches (L), 4 dinners (D)
SUPERIOR HOTELSShanghai Fairmont Peace Hotel (D) Yangtze Cruise Century Legend Lhasa Shangri-La Hotel (D) Xi’an Shangri-La Hotel (D) Beijing Fairmont Beijing (D) Hong Kong Extension Kowloon Shangri-La (D) Mongolia Extension: Ulaanbaatar Shangri-La
Hotel (D), Gobi Desert Dream Gobi Ger Camp (BA)
NOTES: • This trip is for travelers who are fi t. You will
visit regions reaching almost 14,000 ft. in elevation.
• Accommodations in the Gobi Desert are in traditional Mongolian gers with private bathroom and shower facilities.
64
PRICED FROM $6,759
YICHANG
CHONGQING
XI’AN
4LHASA
Great Wall
SHANGHAI
CHINA
MONGOLIA
Yangtze River3
Extension
Three Gorges Dam
SHIBAOZHAI
ULAANBAATAR
BEIJING3
2
3
HONG KONGExtension
GOBI DESERTExtension
Post-Extension
Start/End City
Pre-Extension
DAY 1 Arrive in Shanghai, China. Welcome to China’s most
populous city and center of trade and industry. Hotel rooms are
available for mid-afternoon check-in.
DAY 2 Shanghai. Start your day with a stroll along the Bund, the
city’s riverfront boulevard lined with historic buildings, housing, banks,
and trade houses. Then, visit YU YUAN GARDENS, dating back to the
Ming Dynasty, and a SILK FACTORY to learn about the silk-making
process. For lunch, a traditional DIM SUM feast awaits. Meaning “to
touch your heart,” dim sum was originally a snack but has transformed
into a full meal with a wide variety of steamed dumplings, spring rolls,
and more. Afterward, enjoy time at leisure. This evening, your Tour
Director hosts a special welcome dinner at your hotel. (B,L,D)
DAY 3 Shanghai. This morning, visit the SHANGHAI MUSEUM,
featuring stunning displays of ancient bronze, jade, and ceramics.
Then, take a WALKING TOUR of the former French Concession, once
Shanghai’s leading residential and retail area. Today, the qualities that
made the area so popular endure—from quaint, tree-lined streets and
exquisite architecture to charming shops and fashionable restaurants
and bars. Along the way, see the famous Art Deco Cathay Theatre,
explore the narrow lanes of Xintiandi, and visit Fuxing Park, where
locals play chess, dance, practice tai chi, and more. The afternoon
is at your leisure. This evening, be entertained by a spectacular
ACROBATIC SHOW. (B)
DAY 4 Shanghai–Yichang (Embarkation)–Yangtze River Cruise. Today, fl y to Yichang and board the Century Legend
for a 4-night CRUISE through the breathtaking Three Gorges of the
Yangtze. Join your traveling companions for a PRIVATE WELCOME
RECEPTION including cocktails and snacks. (B,D)
DAY 5 Cruising: Xiling Gorge–Three Gorges Dam Site. This morning, perhaps wake up early for a Tai Chi session on the Sun
Deck. Later, cruise through the Xiling Gorge, the fi rst of the Three
Gorges. Then, visit the THREE GORGES DAM SITE, the largest dam of
its kind in the world. After lunch, sail through the Three Gorges ship
locks, and enjoy time at your leisure on the ship. Take a swim in the
pool or simply enjoy the passing scenery. This evening, the Captain
hosts a welcome party, followed by dinner and a special performance
by the ship’s crew. (B,L,D)
DAY 6 Cruising: Wu Gorge–Shennv Stream–Qutang Gorge. This morning, sail upstream through the second of the
three gorges—Wu, known for its quiet beauty and forest-covered
mountains. You can nearly touch the perpendicular walls rising
from the riverbanks as your Captain negotiates this narrow gap.
Then, disembark for a BOAT EXCURSION down the Shennv Stream.
Along the way, see picturesque scenery and the mysterious hanging
wooden co¦ ns. Before returning to your ship you will also board a
wooden boat on a smaller section of the stream, where the crew
will sing songs as you glide across the stunning deep emerald-green
waters surrounded by densely forested hills. After a late lunch on
the ship, sail through Qutang Gorge, the shortest but most dramatic
gorge and the last of the famed three gorges. The remainder of the
afternoon is at your leisure. You may choose to take an optional shore
excursion to Baidi Cheng, known as the “White Emperor City,” to see
the Baidi Temple. (B,L,D) NOTE: Depending on river conditions, the
boat excursion may be on the Daning River.
DAY 7 Cruising: Shibaozhai. After breakfast, take a WALKING
TOUR of Shibaozhai with its 400-year-old, 12-story, red wooden
pagoda perched high on a cli© side. After lunch, the afternoon is at
your leisure to enjoy the ship and its many amenities. This evening,
join the Captain for a special Chinese-style farewell banquet. (B,L,D)
NOTE: Depending on river conditions, an alternate shore excursion
may be o� ered.
DAY 8 Cruising: Chongqing (Disembarkation)–Lhasa, Tibet. After breakfast, bid farewell to your ship’s crew in Chongqing,
China’s capital during World War II. The city sits high on a hill
overlooking the Jialing and Yangtze Rivers. Visit a local ZOO to see
pandas before boarding your fl ight to the holy city of Lhasa, capital of
the mystical Buddhist kingdom of Tibet. The rest of the day is free to
rest and adjust to the 14,000-foot altitude. (B,D)
DAY 9 Lhasa. This morning, take a brief city tour, then visit the
SUMMER PALACE of the Dalai Lama, featuring the largest man-made
garden in Tibet. Next, take a special trip to a TIBETAN’S HOME that
includes lunch before visiting a typical TIBETAN MONASTERY. The
fi nal stop today is a TIBETAN HOSPITAL, where you will learn about
traditional Tibetan medicine and therapy. (B,L,D)
DAY 10 Lhasa. Today, visit the imposing POTALA PALACE, once the
center of the Tibetan government and the former winter residence
of the Dalai Lama. Also visit one of Tibet’s oldest shrines, JOKHANG
TEMPLE, then spend time in the local BAZAAR. The rest of the day is at
your leisure. Tonight, venture out to a local restaurant for dinner and a
CULTURAL SHOW featuring traditional Tibetan music and dance. (B,L,D)
DAY 11 Lhasa–Xi’an, China. Today, fl y to the city of Xi’an in
central China. This evening, enjoy the “Tang Dynasty” DINNER SHOW,
featuring a colorful assemblage of classical performances. (B,D)
A V A L O N W A T E R W A Y S . C O M . A U 65
DAY 12 Xi’an. One of the largest and wealthiest cities in the world
when China dominated the silk trade, Xi’an today is an archaeological
treasure trove. Sightseeing begins with the nearby DAYAN PAGODA,
built in 652 AD. Next, visit the enormous tomb of China’s first
emperor, Qin Shi Huangdi, accidentally discovered by local farmers in
1974. Marvel at the legion of TERRACOTTA WARRIORS that has been
guarding the burial site for 2,000 years. You will also enter the VIP
VIEWING AREA for an up-close view of these life-size statues. During
lunch, enjoy a NOODLE-MAKING DEMONSTRATION by a master
chef and learn how Chinese noodles are made by hand. Then, visit
the Xi’an City Wall South Gate and learn to write like a local during a
traditional Chinese CALLIGRAPHY CLASS. (B,L,D)
DAY 13 Xi’an–Beijing. Today, fly to Beijing, China’s capital city.
Enjoy a rickshaw ride through one of Beijing’s HUTONGS, the city’s
ancient alleys. Experience life in this historic neighborhood as you are
invited into the courtyard of a family’s home for tea. You will also visit
the TEMPLE OF HEAVEN. (B,L)
DAY 14 Beijing. Your full-day sightseeing starts with a visit to the
FORBIDDEN CITY and its IMPERIAL PALACE, once the home of
China’s great emperors. Nearby is 100-acre TIAN’ANMEN SQUARE,
the largest public square in the world. After lunch, enjoy some time at
your leisure. Tonight, attend a performance of the PEKING OPERA, a
traditional form of Chinese theater including a behind-the-scenes look
at the colorful make-up being applied to the performers. Alternatively,
you may choose to attend the LEGEND OF KUNG FU SHOW. Here
the performers use a fusion of kung fu, dance, and acrobatics to tell
the story of a monk who studies Buddhism and kung fu his whole life
and eventually becomes a Zen master. (B,L)
DAY 15 Beijing. The GREAT WALL OF CHINA once stretched
4,000 miles across China’s barren northern terrain from the Bohai Sea
to the Gobi Desert. Head north to a village where the Great Wall is
well preserved and walk along the wall to enjoy sweeping vistas of this
mammoth fortress. This evening is the perfect finale to a great touring
adventure as you’re hosted to a special PEKING DUCK FAREWELL
DINNER in an award-winning restaurant in your hotel. (B,L,D)
DAY 16 Beijing. Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
START YOUR VACATION IN HONG KONG
CRUISE WXYQ—19 DAYS FROM HONG KONG TO BEIJING
DAY 1 Arrive in Hong Kong, China. Welcome to exciting
Hong Kong! Hotel rooms are
available for mid-afternoon check-
in. (B)
DAY 2 Hong Kong. This morning’s sightseeing begins with a
CABLE-CAR RIDE up to Victoria Peak for panoramic vistas of this one-
of-a-kind port city. Drive by Repulse Bay, a popular beach area, then
to the Aberdeen fishing village for a SAMPAN RIDE on the harbor. Next
stop is STANLEY MARKET, a narrow street jammed with stalls o©ering
clothing, arts, and crafts. Tonight, consider an optional sunset cruise
on Hong Kong’s magnificent harbor. (B)
DAY 3 Hong Kong. Take advantage of a full free day to explore this
exciting city. You may wish to join our optional excursion to view the
giant Buddha on the island of Lantau. Shopping is a highlight of Hong
Kong with markets, malls, and shops to fit any taste and budget. Your
local host will be happy to suggest ways to make the most of your
day. (B)
DAY 4 Hong Kong–Shanghai. Fly to Shanghai and join Day 1 of
Cruise WXY. (B)
ADD MONGOLIA TO YOUR VACATION
CRUISE WXYE—21 DAYS FROM SHANGHAI TO BEIJING
DAYS 1 TO 15 Like Cruise WXY.
DAY 16 Beijing–Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. Today, fly to
Ulaanbaatar, capital of Mongolia. After some time in the hotel, enjoy
a city tour that includes Sukhbaatar Square and Zaisan Hill, o©ering
sweeping views of the city. Next, visit the NATIONAL HISTORY
MUSEUM with a rich collection of exhibits covering the history and
people of Mongolia. (B,D)
DAY 17 Ulaanbaatar–Gobi Desert. Early this morning, fly
to the Gobi Desert. Covering most of southern Mongolia, the Gobi is
PHOTOGRAPHY: (Clockwise from bottom left) The Forbidden City, Beijing; noodle-making demonstration; Peking Opera; Chinese calligraphy; Great Wall of China
66
the world’s fourth-largest desert. Visit EAGLE VALLEY NATIONAL PARK
and marvel at stunning mountain scenery and the Gobi Glacier. The
Gobi supports more than 300 varieties of fl ora and fauna and several
endangered species, including the Snow Leopard and the Bactrian
Camel. (B,L,D)
DAY 18 Gobi Desert. This morning, stop at the largest SAND DUNES
in the region en route to Bayan Zag. Here, explore the CEMETERY OF
DINOSAURS, where the world’s best-preserved dinosaur skeletons and
their petrifi ed eggs were excavated. Then, visit a CAMEL BREEDERS
CAMP to learn about the nomadic lifestyle and culture, and to try some
traditional food. (B,L,D)
DAY 19 Gobi Desert–Ulaanbaatar. Fly back to Ulaanbaatar early
this morning. Upon arrival, visit the BOGD KHAN WINTER PALACE
and the GANDAN MONASTERY. With more than 150 monks in
residence and numerous temples, it is the most important Buddhist
monastery in Mongolia. This evening, enjoy a MONGOLIAN FOLKLORE
PERFORMANCE featuring traditional musical instruments, throat
singing, and dances. (B,L,D)
DAY 20 Ulaanbaatar–Beijing, China. Today, return to Beijing and
enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. (B)
DAY 21 Beijing. Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
ADD HONG KONG & MONGOLIA TO YOUR VACATION
CRUISE WXYY—24 DAYS FROM HONG KONG TO BEIJING
ACCOMMODATIONS IN THE GOBI DESERT
In the Gobi you will be staying in
a traditional ger, a round dwelling
with a wooden frame. Your ger
is comfortably furnished with
modern twin beds and furniture,
yet it retains traditional décor. A
natural ventilation system helps
it stay cool in the heat of the day, and a stove provides heat at night.
A private bathroom & shower with hot water is located in a room
adjoining your ger.
A V A L O N W A T E R W A Y S . C O M . A U 67
DATES & PRICES AU$
CRUISE WXY - FROM $6,759 LAND/CRUISE ONLY* - SHANGHAI TO BEIJINGCRUISE WXYQ - FROM $8,019 LAND/CRUISE ONLY* - HONG KONG TO BEIJING
CRUISE WXYE - FROM $11,109 LAND/CRUISE ONLY* - SHANGHAI TO BEIJING
CRUISE WXYY - FROM $12,339 LAND/CRUISE ONLY* - HONG KONG TO BEIJING
Ship Dept.# Start Shanghai End Beijing Land/Cruise*
Century Legend 0514 Sat 14 May Sun 29 May 6,969 Century Legend 0528 Sat 28 May Sun 12 Jun 6,759 Century Legend 0604 Sat 04 Jun Sun 19 Jun 6,759 Century Legend 0716 Sat 16 Jul Sun 31 Jul 7,039 Century Legend 0820 Sat 20 Aug Sun 04 Sep 7,039 Century Legend 0827 Sat 27 Aug Sun 11 Sep 7,039 Century Legend 0903 Sat 03 Sep Sun 18 Sep 7,229 Century Legend 0910 Sat 10 Sep Sun 25 Sep 7,229 Century Legend 0917 Sat 17 Sep Sun 02 Oct 7,229 Century Legend 0924 Sat 24 Sep Sun 09 Oct 7,229 Century Legend 1001 Sat 01 Oct Sun 16 Oct 7,229
*Land/Cruise price includes intra-vacation air and taxes. Price is per person, based on double room occupancy.Gratuities to Tour Director may be added for $183.Gratuities to ship’s crew, Local Guides, and drivers are included in pricing above. Single Room Supplement: WXY $1861 to $2229; WXYQ $2470 to $2908; WXYE $2565 to $2934; WXYY $3175 to $3543 Triple Room Reduction: WXY $32 to $108; WXYQ $70 to $171; WXYE $32 to $108; WXYY $70 to $146 Extra Nights per person in Shanghai: Mon.-Thu. : in single room $283; in twin room $149; in triple room $128Fri.-Sun. : in single room $326; in twin room $170; in triple room $143Extra Nights per person in Beijing: Mon.-Thu. : in single room $300; in twin room $157; in triple room $146Fri.-Sun. : in single room $245; in twin room $130; in triple room $128Extra Nights per person in Hong Kong: Apr. 18-30 & Oct. 11-29 : in single room $586; in twin room $300; in triple room $246May 1-Sep. 10 : in single room $386; in twin room $200; in triple room $180Sep. 11-Oct. 10 : in single room $432; in twin room $223; in triple room $196Cruise pricing is based on Deluxe staterooms. Upgrades are available. Please call for prices.
ADD INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS TO YOUR VACATION! COMPETITIVE PRICES WITHOUT THE HASSLE.
SMALL-GROUP DISCOVERY • Never more than 20 passengers in a group
CRUISE WCY • 16 DAYS • BEIJING TO SHANGHAI
ENCHANTING CHINA & THE YANGTZE RIVER
PHOTOGRAPHY: (Clockwise from left) Black Dragon Pool in Lijiang; Dongba priest; Tang Dynasty Show; Terracotta Warriors
INCLUDED FEATURES
CRUISE
Deluxe 3-night cruise from Chongqing to Yichang in a Deluxe Stateroom with two lower beds, private facilities, and balcony
SIGHTSEEING
Your day-by-day itinerary indicates in UPPERCASE all inside visits, special features, and guided sightseeing. All included guided sightseeing is conducted by a Certifi ed Local Guide.
Beijing: sightseeing including headsets; visit the Forbidden City, Imperial Palace, Tian’anmen Square, Great Wall, and Temple of Heaven; Peking Duck welcome dinner; Peking Opera performance or Legend of Kung Fu Show; hutong tour by rickshaw
Xi’an: sightseeing including headsets; visit the Terracotta Warriors including the VIP viewing area and Dayan Pagoda; noodle-making demonstration; calligraphy class; “Tang Dynasty” dinner show
Lijiang: walking tour of ancient Lijiang town; visit Black Dragon Pool, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, and the Museum of Naxi Dongba Culture including a Dongba character lesson with a priest; Lijiang Impression Show
Guilin: Li River cruise; visit a tea farm
Chongqing: visit a local zoo to see pandas and the Stillwell Museum; hot pot lunch; begin your Yangtze cruise aboard the Century Legend; private welcome reception
Shibaozhai: walking tour
Shennv Stream: boat excursion down one of the Yangtze’s lesser gorges
Three Gorges Dam Site: sightseeing of the impressive dam site
Shanghai: sightseeing including headsets; visit the Bund, Yu Yuan Gardens, a silk factory, and the Shanghai Museum; dim sum lunch; walking tour of the French Concession; see an acrobatic show
Hong Kong Extension: cable-car ride up Victoria Peak; sampan ride on harbor; visit Stanley Market; Host service during your stay
LOCAL FAVORITESSM
Special experiences by local entertainers, artisans, and experts, designed to enrich your experience.
• PEKING OPERA OR KUNG FU SHOW• RICKSHAW RIDE THOUGH HUTONGS• WALKING TOUR IN OLD TOWN LIJIANG• VISIT A TEA FARM FOR HANDS-ON DEMONSTRATION OF TEA-MAKING PROCESS AND TEA CEREMONY• DIM SUM LUNCH
Personalize your onshore experiences by choosing from a selection of optional excursions. Go online to customize your cruise experience.
MEALS
• B: American breakfast daily L: 11 lunches D: 8 dinners including a Peking Duck welcome dinner in Beijing and a farewell dinner in Shanghai
• Hong Kong Extension: breakfast (B) daily
SUPERIOR HOTELS
Beijing Fairmont Beijing (D) Xi’an Shangri-La Hotel (D) Lijiang Crowne Plaza Lijiang Ancient Town (MD) Guilin Shangri-La Hotel (D) Yangtze Cruise Century Legend Shanghai Fairmont Peace Hotel (D) Hong Kong Extension Kowloon Shangri-La (D)
68
PRICED FROM $7,309
DAY 1 Arrive in Beijing, China. Welcome to China’s capital
city. Hotel rooms are available for mid-afternoon check-in.
DAY 2 Beijing. Your full-day sightseeing starts with a visit to the
FORBIDDEN CITY and its IMPERIAL PALACE, once the home of China’s
great emperors. Nearby is 100-acre TIAN’ANMEN SQUARE, the largest
public square in the world. After lunch, enjoy some time at your leisure.
This evening, enjoy a special PEKING DUCK WELCOME DINNER in an
award-winning restaurant in your hotel. (B,L,D)
DAY 3 Beijing. The GREAT WALL OF CHINA once stretched 4,000
miles across China’s barren northern terrain from the Bohai Sea to
the Gobi Desert. Head north to a village where the Great Wall is well
preserved, and walk along the wall to enjoy sweeping vistas of this
mammoth fortress. Tonight, attend a performance of the PEKING
OPERA, a traditional form of Chinese theater, including a behind-the-
scenes look at the colorful makeup being applied to the performers.
Alternatively, you may choose to attend the LEGEND OF KUNG FU
SHOW. Here the performers use a fusion of kung fu, dance, and
acrobatics to tell the story of a monk who studies Buddhism and kung
fu his whole life and eventually becomes a Zen master. (B,L)
DAY 4 Beijing–Xi’an. This morning, visit the TEMPLE OF HEAVEN
and enjoy a rickshaw ride through one of Beijing’s HUTONGS, the
city’s ancient alleys. Experience life in this historic neighborhood as
you are invited into the courtyard of a family’s home for tea. Later, fl y
to Xi’an. (B,D)
DAY 5 Xi’an. One of the largest and wealthiest cities in the world
when China dominated the silk trade, Xi’an today is an archaeological
treasure trove. Sightseeing begins with the enormous tomb of China’s
fi rst emperor, Qin Shi Huangdi, accidentally discovered by local
farmers in 1974. Marvel at the legion of TERRACOTTA WARRIORS
that has been guarding the burial site for 2,000 years. You will also
enter the VIP VIEWING AREA for an up-close view of these life-size
statues. During lunch, enjoy a NOODLE-MAKING DEMONSTRATION
by a master chef and learn how Chinese noodles are made by hand.
Next, visit the DAYAN PAGODA, built in 652 AD. This evening, enjoy
the “Tang Dynasty” DINNER SHOW featuring a colorful assemblage of
classical performances. (B,L,D)
DAY 6 Xi’an–Lijiang. This morning, visit the Xi’an City Wall
South Gate and learn to write like a local during a traditional Chinese
CALLIGRAPHY CLASS; you may even see some locals practicing their
morning Tai Chi. This afternoon, fl y to Lijiang, home to the Naxi people,
one of China’s minority ethnic groups. (B)
DAY 7 Lijiang. This morning, take a WALKING TOUR through
Lijiang’s medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
surrounded by 16,000-foot-plus mountains. Then, visit the MUSEUM
OF NAXI DONGBA CULTURE to learn about the ancient culture, or
Dongba, of the Naxi people, which consists of hieroglyphs, scripture,
paintings, music, and dance. Here you will also have a SPECIAL
INTERACTION WITH A DONGBA PRIEST who will provide insight on
the Naxi culture and give a brief lesson on their hieroglyph language.
Lastly, stop at BLACK DRAGON POOL with stunning views of Jade
Dragon Snow Mountain. Dinner tonight is a fascinating experience at
a local Old Town restaurant. (B,D)
DAY 8 Lijiang–Guilin. This morning, take a short trip outside of
Lijiang to the 18,464-foot-high Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Here
you will witness the impressive LIJIANG IMPRESSION SHOW, created
by the co-director of the 2008 Beijing Olympics Opening Ceremony.
The show features over 100 horses and 400 costumed actors,
representing 10 ethnic groups, performing folk songs, dances, and
local rituals. Afterward, hike to a mountain meadow for a closer view
of the mountain. Late in the day, fl y to Guilin (via Kunming), one of
China’s most beautiful areas. (B,L)
DAY 9 Guilin. Limestone mountains, their needle peaks hidden in
mist, rise from the green plain surrounding Guilin. The scene conveys
a sense of mystery that artists have tried to capture for centuries. Savor
unique vistas during a leisurely CRUISE on the Li River and enjoy a light
lunch. Then, visit a local TEA FARM for a hands-on demonstration of
YICHANG
CHONGQING
XI’AN2
LIJIANG 2
3
CHINA
Great Wall
SHANGHAI
BEIJING
Yangtze River
3
3Three Gorges
Dam
SHIBAOZHAI
2HONG KONGExtension
GUILIN
Post-Extension
Start/End City
Pre-Extension
A V A L O N W A T E R W A Y S . C O M . A U 69
the tea-making process, followed by a tea ceremony. Tonight, you may
choose to join our optional trip to see trained cormorants dive for fish,
the traditional Lijiang fishing method. (B,L)
DAY 10 Guilin–Chongqing (Embarkation)–Yangtze River Cruise. Today, take a morning flight to Chongqing, China’s
capital during World War II. Upon arrival, eat lunch at a local HOT
POT restaurant, then visit a local ZOO to see pandas as well as the
STILLWELL MUSEUM. After dinner, board the Century Legend for a
3-night cruise through the breathtaking Three Gorges of the Yangtze.
Join your traveling companions for a PRIVATE WELCOME RECEPTION
including cocktails and snacks. (B,L,D)
DAY 11 Cruising: Shibaozhai. The morning is at your leisure
to enjoy a variety of onboard activities. You may choose to start your
day with a Tai Chi session on the Sun Deck, take a swim in the pool,
or simply relax and enjoy the scenery. After lunch, take a WALKING
TOUR of Shibaozhai with its 400-year-old, 12-story, red wooden
pagoda perched high on a cli© side. This evening, the Captain hosts a
welcome party, followed by dinner and a special performance by the
ship’s crew. (B,L,D) NOTE: Depending on river conditions, an alternate
shore excursion may be o�ered.
DAY 12 Cruising: Qutang Gorge–Wu Gorge–Shennv Stream. Again, enjoy the morning at your leisure on the ship. You
may choose to take an optional shore excursion to Baidi Cheng,
known as the “White Emperor City,” to see the Baidi Temple. Later
in the morning, sail downstream through the first and second of the
three gorges—Qutang Gorge, the shortest but most dramatic gorge,
and Wu, known for its quiet beauty and forest-covered mountains.
You can nearly touch the perpendicular walls rising from the
riverbanks as your Captain negotiates this narrow gap. After lunch,
disembark for a BOAT EXCURSION down the Shennv Stream. Along
the way, see picturesque scenery and the mysterious hanging wooden
co¦ns. Before returning to your ship you will also board a wooden
boat on a smaller section of the stream, where the crew will sing
songs as you glide across the stunning deep emerald-green waters
surrounded by densely forested hills. This evening, join the Captain for
a special Chinese-style farewell banquet. (B,L,D) NOTE: Depending on
river conditions, the boat excursion may be on the Daning River.
DAY 13 Cruising: Three Gorges Dam Site–Xiling Gorge–Yichang (Disembarkation)–Shanghai. This
morning, visit the THREE GORGES DAM SITE, the largest dam of
its kind in the world. Afterward, sail through Xiling Gorge, the last
of the three gorges, before bidding farewell to your ship’s crew in
Yichang. After lunch in Yichang, transfer to the airport for your flight
to Shanghai, China’s most populous city and center of trade and
industry. (B,L)
DAY 14 Shanghai. Start your day with a stroll along the Bund, the
city’s riverfront boulevard lined with historic buildings, housing, banks,
and trade houses. Then, visit YU YUAN GARDENS, dating back to the
Ming Dynasty, and a SILK FACTORY to learn about the silk-making
process. For lunch, a traditional DIM SUM feast awaits. Meaning “to
touch your heart,” dim sum was originally a snack but has transformed
into a full meal with a wide variety of steamed dumplings, spring
rolls, and more. Afterward, enjoy time at leisure. This evening, be
entertained by a spectacular ACROBATIC SHOW. (B,L)
DAY 15 Shanghai. This morning, visit the SHANGHAI MUSEUM,
with stunning displays of ancient bronze, jade, and ceramics. Then,
take a WALKING TOUR of the former French Concession, once
Shanghai’s leading residential and retail area. Today, the qualities that
made the area so popular endure—from quaint, tree-lined streets and
exquisite architecture to charming shops and fashionable restaurants
and bars. Along the way, see the famous Art Deco Cathay Theatre,
explore the narrow lanes of Xintiandi, and visit Fuxing Park, where
locals play chess, dance, practice tai chi, and more. The afternoon
is at your leisure. This evening, your Tour Director hosts a special
farewell dinner at your hotel. (B,D)
PHOTOGRAPHY: (Clockwise from left) Panda; tea farm in Guilin; Yu Yuan Gardens, Shanghai; cormorant fisherman on the Li River
70
DAY 16 Shanghai. Your vacation ends with breakfast this
morning. (B)
ADD HONG KONG TO YOUR VACATION
CRUISE WCYE—19 DAYS FROM BEIJING TO HONG KONG
DAYS 1 TO 15 Like Cruise
WCY.
DAY 16 Shanghai–Hong Kong. Today, fl y to exciting
Hong Kong. (B)
DAY 17 Hong Kong. This morning’s sightseeing begins with
a CABLE-CAR RIDE up Victoria Peak for panoramic vistas of
this one-of-a-kind port city. Drive by Repulse Bay, a popular
beach area, then to the Aberdeen fi shing village for a SAMPAN
RIDE on the harbor. Next stop is STANLEY MARKET, a narrow
street jammed with stalls o© ering clothing, arts, and crafts. The
afternoon and evening are free for independent exploration.
Tonight, consider an optional sunset cruise on Hong Kong’s
magnifi cent harbor. (B)
DAY 18 Hong Kong. Take advantage of a full free day to
explore this exciting city. You may wish to join our optional
excursion to view the giant Buddha on the island of Lantau.
Shopping is a highlight of Hong Kong, with markets, malls, and
shops to fi t any taste and budget. Your local host will be happy
to suggest ways to make the most of your day. (B)
DAY 19 Hong Kong. Your vacation ends with breakfast this
morning. (B)
A V A L O N W A T E R W A Y S . C O M . A U 71
DATES & PRICES AU$
CRUISE WCY - FROM $7,309 LAND/CRUISE ONLY* - BEIJING TO SHANGHAICRUISE WCYE - FROM $8,699 LAND/CRUISE ONLY* - BEIJING TO HONG KONG
Ship Dept.# Start Beijing End Shanghai Land/Cruise*
Century Legend 0428 Thu 28 Apr Fri 13 May 7,739 Century Legend 0512 Thu 12 May Fri 27 May 7,519 Century Legend 0519 Thu 19 May Fri 03 Jun 7,519 Century Legend 0526 Thu 26 May Fri 10 Jun 7,309 Century Legend 0825 Thu 25 Aug Fri 09 Sep 7,519 Century Legend 0901 Thu 01 Sep Fri 16 Sep 7,519 Century Legend 0908 Thu 08 Sep Fri 23 Sep 7,519 Century Legend 0922 Thu 22 Sep Fri 07 Oct 7,519
*Land/Cruise price includes intra-vacation air and taxes. Price is per person, based on double room occupancy.Gratuities to Tour Director may be added for $183.Gratuities to ship’s crew, Local Guides, and drivers are included in pricing above. Single Room Supplement: WCY $2223 to $2565; WCYE $2832 to $3175 Triple Room Reduction: WCY $133 to $210; WCYE $171 to $248 Extra Nights per person in Beijing: Mon. - Thu. : in single room $300; in twin room $157; in triple room $146Fri. - Sun. : in single room $245; in twin room $130; in triple room $128Extra Nights per person in Shanghai: Mon. - Thu. : in single room $283; in twin room $149; in triple room $128Fri. - Sun. : in single room $326; in twin room $170; in triple room $143Extra Nights per person in Hong Kong: Apr. 18-30 & Oct. 11-29 : in single room $586; in twin room $300; in triple room $246May 1-Sep. 10 : in single room $386; in twin room $200; in triple room $180Sep. 11-Oct. 10 : in single room $432; in twin room $223; in triple room $196Cruise pricing is based on Deluxe staterooms. Upgrades are available. Please call for prices.
ADD INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS TO YOUR VACATION! COMPETITIVE PRICES WITHOUT THE HASSLE.
King-SizeBed
Wall-to-WallPanoramic WindowCreating an Open-Air Balcony
Technical Data
Built: 2014
Length: 195 ft.Crew members: 24Staterooms: 18
Deck Plan 1 Open-air observation lounge with
premium lounge chairs2 Panorama Lounge3 Bar4 Reception5 Spa treatment room6 Dining Room7 Galley8 Navigation Bridge9 Fitness Center
November 8th, 2013
Side View
Tonle Deck
Mekong Deck
Cat. A
Cat. B
Tonle Deck
Mekong Deck
Categories
AVALON SIEM REAPSM
AVALON SUITESTONLE & MEKONG DECKS - Category A & B
AMENITIES• Comfort Collection BedsSM, featuring
premium mattress covers
• Egyptian super-combed cotton linens,
blankets & European-style duvets
• Soft & fi rm pillows
• Choice of bed confi guration
(two twins or one king)
• Nightly turn-down service
• Bedside tables with reading lamps
• 14’ Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Window
that opens to create a large Open-Air
Balcony®
• Large private bathroom featuring full
shower with glass door, hairdryer, and
premium bath products
• Spacious closets with shelves for ample
storage
• Easy under-bed luggage storage
• Alarm clock
• Writing desk/vanity with mirror &
comfortable chair
• In-house telephone
• Bathrobes & slippers
• Complimentary bottled water
• In-room safe
• Individual climate control
CRUISING ON THE MEKONG RIVER
245sq. ft.
72
Side View
Sky Deck
Irrawaddy Deck
4
3
2
Mandalay Deck
10 9
8
7
65
AVALON MYANMARSM
CRUISING ON THE IRRAWADDY RIVER
King-SizeBed
Wall-to-WallPanoramic WindowCreating an Open-Air Balcony
AMENITIES• Comfort Collection BedsSM,
featuring premium mattress covers
• Egyptian super-combed cotton linens,
blankets & European-style duvets
• Soft & fi rm pillows
• Choice of bed confi guration
(two twins or one king)
• Nightly turn-down service
• Bedside tables with reading lamps
• 14’ Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Window
that opens to create a large Open-Air
Balcony®
• Large private bathroom featuring full
shower with glass door, hairdryer, and
premium bath products
• Spacious closets with shelves for ample
storage
• Easy under-bed luggage storage
• Alarm clock
• Writing desk/vanity with mirror &
comfortable chair
• In-house telephone
• Bathrobes & slippers
• Complimentary bottled water
• In-room safe
• Individual climate control
Technical DataBuilt: 2015
Length: 200 ft.Crew members: 24Staterooms: 18
Deck Plan 1 Navigation Bridge2 Spa treatment room3 Fitness Center4 Premium lounge
chairs5 Open-air observation
lounge with premium lounge chairs
6 Panorama Lounge7 Bar8 Reception9 Dining Room10 Galley
Cat. A
Cat. B
Mandalay Deck
Irrawaddy Deck
Categories
NOTE: Artist renderings are correct at the time of publication but are subject to change.
1
AVALON SUITESMANDALAY & IRRAWADDY DECKS - Category A & B245
sq. ft.
A V A L O N W A T E R W A Y S . C O M . A U 73
Bat
hroo
mBat
htub
Sho
wer
Bed Bed
Bal
cony
Deluxe Cabin
301
sq.f
t.
CENTURY LEGEND & CENTURY PARAGON
CRUISING ON THE YANGTZE RIVER
DELUXE STATEROOMS
AMENITIES• Comfortable beds with premium
mattress cover
• Super-combed cotton linens &
European-style duvets
• Soft & firm pillows
• Choice of bed configuration
(two twins or one queen)
• Nightly turn-down service
• Bedside tables with reading lamps
• Floor-to-ceiling sliding-glass door
leading to large balcony
• Large private bathroom featuring full
shower and separate bathtub, hairdryer,
and premium bath products
• Spacious closets with shelves for ample
storage
• Easy under-bed luggage storage
• Flatscreen satellite TV with movie
channels
• Alarm clock
• Writing desk/vanity with mirror &
comfortable chair
• Wi-Fi access
• Room-to-room phone service
• Bathrobes & slippers
• Well-stocked minibar
• Complimentary bottled water
• In-room safe
• Individual climate control
SHIP FEATURES• English-speaking sta�
• 7-floor atrium lobby
• Non-smoking interior
• Two restaurants
• Two bars
• Multi-functional lounge
• Large Sun Deck
• Wi-Fi access
• Fitness Center
• Spa & massage facilities
• Indoor swimming pool
• A variety of shops
• Cinema room
• Game room
• Well-stocked library
• 24-hour laundry service
• Two elevators
Technical DataBuilt: 2013Length: 465 ftDeluxe Staterooms: 156Executive Suites: 34Junior Suites: 4Presidential Suites: 2
CategoriesPresidential Suite
Executive Suite
Junior Suite
Deluxe Stateroom
Sun Deck
Observation Deck
Bridge Deck
Promenade Deck
Upper Deck
Main Deck
Bottom Deck
Upgrades to Junior Suite, Executive Suite, and Presidential Suite are available. Please call for pricing.
* 301 sq. ft. including balcony
266*
sq. ft.
74
AVALON TRAVELER ICONS: CAMBODIA PROJECTKaliyan Mith program Siem Reap; part of the ChildSafe Network
Visiting Cambodia can be a life-changing experience. Two things that
visitors remember are the amazing archaeological treasures and the
Cambodian people. Their warm, friendly personalities truly leave a
lasting impression—as do their touching stories. Today, there is no story
more important to tell than the growing number of children living in
poverty.
Siem Reap, with its proximity to the temples of Angkor, has developed
into a major tourism center in Cambodia. In 2013, Cambodia saw
4.2 million tourists and over half of these visitors arrived through
Siem Reap. This recent growth in tourism has brought a good deal of
wealth to the city, which has led a growing number of impoverished
families to move to the city from surrounding villages in hopes of a
better life. Often unprepared and with few employable skills, the
hope for economic opportunities has instead increased the number
of children, families, and mothers with small babies begging or selling
souvenirs to tourists on the streets and around the temples.
To respond to these challenges, Avalon, in partnership with Tourism
Cares, is proud to help fund the ChildSafe Network. Initiated by
Friends-International, this powerful, proven program enlists the tourism
community, both local and international, to support the welfare,
advancement, and safety of children.
In Siem Reap, the ChildSafe Network is run by the Friends-International
program Kaliyan Mith, which o©ers a comprehensive range of services
and projects. This includes outreach to children and youth living on
the streets, providing a safe space for young people through drop-in
centers, an educational center and school re-integration, vocational
training and employment for youth and their parents, and the provision
of temporary accommodation through a transitional home. The
program also includes awareness-raising campaigns in areas where
child begging is especially prominent as well as a 24/7 ChildSafe
Emergency Hotline.
Avalon is a firm believer in this mission. Education is the key—not only
for the children but for all visitors, and we do all we can to ensure that
the begging lifestyle is not promoted on our journeys including Siem
Reap and throughout the rest of Asia.
Visit TourismCares.org for more information on this non-profit initiative.
A V A L O N W A T E R W A Y S . C O M . A U 75
AVALON GIVES YOU MORE VALUE
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Accurate, Detailed DescriptionsRead our descriptions and you’ll understand the true value of our holidays. The agenda for each day is spelt out so that you know exactly what is included in the price. Our descriptions are unusually specific. Sightseeing with Local Guides is clearly listed. Inside visits and special features are spelt out in UPPERCASE. With Avalon you don’t have to guess.
MyAccountAvalon offers our travelers the opportunity to pre-purchase select optional excursions via our MyAccount feature. Please note that excursions purchased via MyAccount must be paid in full 10 days prior to the commencement of tour services and are not refundable within 10 days of departure. For a listing of optional excursions available for pre-purchase by cruise, visit our website.
All passengers traveling on an Avalon cruise may purchase a future cruise discount voucher valid for three years after the initial cruise. Passengers purchase the voucher via MyAccount on the Avalon Waterways website. This may be done either during their cruise or within 30 days after the end of the cruise. For full terms and conditions see MyAccount on the Avalon Waterways website.
Young TravelersWe do not accept children under eight years old because we’ve found that they are too young to enjoy these holidays. There are no special arrangements or activities for children on Avalon Waterways holidays.
Single Room SupplementFor single travellers who prefer the privacy of their own room and stateroom, single accommodation can, of course, be requested. Call for single room supplements.
Extra Nights/Cruise OnlyIf you’d like to add extra hotel nights, we will try to make arrangements for you at our contracted rates, provided you request them at the time you book. Rates are per person, per night, and include room with private bath, breakfast, service charges and taxes. Extra hotel nights are only available immediately prior to or after your holiday. If your holiday includes a hotel stay, every effort will be made to reserve extra nights at the hotel where your holiday stays. If space at the hotel is not available, alternative accommodation will be reserved at a hotel of equivalent standard. When this is the case, the transfer to and from the included hotel is at our expense. During particularly busy periods, hotel space in certain cities can become so tight that we may be unable to sell extra nights.
Save by Forming Your Own GroupIf you form your own group, you’ll receive the following rebates: On all Avalon Waterways river cruises, one person travels free in a group of 16. The group rebate is based on the double occupancy rate of the base tour and cruise and does not include supplements or additional services. Single room and stateroom supplements have to be paid in full. These group rebates do not apply to any international or intra-tour flights.
Journeys ClubPast Globus family of brands travellers can join our Journeys Club and save 5% on all future vacations*, as well as receive exclusive Avalon on board benefits, email deal alerts, and special partner discounts. If you have travelled with us, become a member; simply enrol at GlobusFamily.com.au *Must be a Journeys Club member at the time of booking to receive 5% discount. For full Terms & Conditions please see the back of the brochure or visit AvalonWaterways.com.au
Deluxe, Superior First-Class & First-Class Hotels Nearly EverywhereAvalon Waterways is proud to be associated with some of the finest establishments worldwide. Many of them belong to famous chains such as Westin, Inter-Continental and Hilton.
The specific hotels we have selected for you are listed separately for each holiday. The vast majority of them are deluxe (D), superior first-class (SF), or first-class (F) establishments. In a few overnight places, where there is no hotel in these categories, we choose the best available (BA) hotels.
Avalon Waterways hotel ratings follow the standards set by the independent Hotel & Travel Index and by national tourist boards. The specific rating for each contract hotel is determined by our quality controllers.
We reserve the right to substitute hotels listed on the itinerary pages with hotels of equivalent standard. With your Avalon Waterways travel documents you’ll receive a list of hotel addresses, telephone numbers, and fax numbers for your holiday.
Early Payment Discount – SAVE 2.5%Book your Avalon Waterways holiday, pay in full four months before the departure date of your first holiday, and get a 2.5% discount on your total holiday (land/cruise) tour purchase.
Extra Tour Discount – SAVE $150 per coupleOur cruises are designed and scheduled so you can combine them with other touring products offered by the Globus Family. Choose a second or subsequent Avalon Waterways cruise or tour and you will get an instant $75 per person off your additional cruise/tours. This discount does not apply if one of the holidays is a single city stay Monograms holiday.
Airport TransfersAvalon Waterways offers airport transfers at additional cost on the first and last day of the river cruise program and where extra nights pre or post cruise have been booked. For prices please contact us.
On Board GratuitiesSome gratuities for Mekong & Irrawaddy cruise holidays are included for services during the land stay of your holiday. This includes local guides and drivers during the cruise portion of your holiday, wait staff at included meals, 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 crew are not included in the holiday price however can be pre-paid prior to departure.
Some gratuities for China cruise holidays are included for services during the land stay of your holiday. This includes local guides and drivers during the cruise portion of your holiday, wait staff at included meals, hospitality staff at hotels for nights purchased through Avalon, and porterage at hotels for one suitcase per person. Not included are gratuities for the Tour Director during the land content of your holiday. These gratuities are discretionary whilst on tour, or can be pre-paid prior to departure. During the cruise portion of your holiday Gratuities for the ship’s crew (with the exception of the ship’s Cruise Director) are included. Gratuities to your Cruise Director should be paid directly whilst on board and your tour documentation and Tour Director will provide suggested amounts.
Before You GoAvalon will send you a set of travel documents, which includes a wallet to hold your passport, baggage tags, a copy of your itinerary, and, where applicable, information on your tour hotels and optional excursions.
SafetyNet ProtectionAvalon Waterways is dedicated to ensuring your trip is worry and hassle free, even when booking. Should you be uncertain what your commitments will be leading up to your departure, Avalon Waterways offer a SafetyNet Protection policy, for $75 per person.
The SafetyNet Transfer Protection enables Avalon Waterways passengers to amend their cruise up to 24 hours prior to the cruise departure date to another cruise departing in 2015, “(once only)” without any applicable cancellation charges or penalties imposed by Avalon Waterways OR The SafetyNet Cancellation Protection* enables Avalon Waterways passengers to cancel their cruise in full-up to 30 days prior to the cruise departure date in 2015 without any applicable cancellation charges or penalties imposed by Avalon Waterways.
Conditions of the SafetyNet Protection Policy The $75 SafetyNet Protection must be paid at the time of deposit and is payable per person per booking (not per cruise) and is non-refundable.
The SafetyNet Transfer Protection and SafetyNet Cancellation Protection applies to the cruise, associated pre/post accommodation and transfers booked directly with Avalon Waterways. The SafetyNet Protection does not apply to any airfares booked and ticketed via Avalon Waterways, or any products purchased via another wholesale or retail supplier. The SafetyNet Protection does not apply to any service charge or cancellation fee charged to you by your Travel Agent. Passengers can only use “one” of the two SafetyNet Protection Policies; choose either the SafetyNet Transfer Protection, or the SafetyNet Cancellation Protection, not both. For example: if a passenger uses the SafetyNet Transfer Protection to amend their 2015 cruise (say 48 hours prior to the original cruises departure date) to a later 2015 Avalon Waterways cruise departure date, they then cannot use the SafetyNet Cancellation Protection to cancel their Avalon Waterways cruise in full without incurring the applicable cancellation charges or penalties – as per the 2015 Avalon Waterways Terms and Conditions.
If the SafetyNet Transfer Protection is applied, and the booking is subsequently cancelled by the passenger, the original booking and transfer date will be reviewed, the transfer date of the original booking will then be taken as the cancellation date. Cancellation penalties that apply to the original booking will be compared with the cancellation penalties to that of the transferred booking, the higher penalties will be applied.
Please Note: The SafetyNet Protection must be purchased for each individual passenger and the purchase covers an individual passenger’s Avalon Waterways cruises booked at the same time the SafetyNet Protection is purchased. SafetyNet Protection does not apply to group bookings.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ON BOARDAir-Conditioning & Heating All rooms on the ships are air-conditioned and heated. All ships have individual
controls in the staterooms.
Beverages Wine and beer are included with all dinners and there is a non-alcoholic
alternative. Soft drinks are included with lunch. On the Mekong & on the
Irrawaddy, regular coffee, tea & iced tea are available free of charge throughout
the day from the self service coffee stations. On the Yangtze coffee, tea & soft
drinks are included at lunch and dinner.
ClothingDress aboard and on shore is “casual and comfortable”. We kindly request that
shorts not be worn in the restaurant or lounge in the evenings. Bathing suits
are not appropriate in the lounge or restaurant at any time. You may wish to
wear something a little dressier for the Captains Dinner. We recommend that for
shore excursions you wear comfortable shoes and don’t forget a sun hat!
Cruise Director A professional, experienced, English-speaking Cruise Director accompanies
every departure.
CuisineAll meals on board are prepared by accomplished chefs and consist of local
food adjusted to suit the tastes of international passengers. On the Mekong
and Irrawaddy, a great choice of local cuisine is offered as well as Western
alternatives; on the Yangtze, a mix of Western and Chinese dishes are offered.
Currency & Credit CardsIn China: U.S. dollars are widely accepted on shore. The local currency is the
Yuan. ATM machines will dispense yuan or they can be purchased on board the
ship using U.S. dollars. The currency on board is the Yuan. Shipboard accounts
can be settled in cash, traveller’s cheques or most major credit cards.
In Southeast Asia: Although, each country has its own currency including the
Riel (Cambodia), Dong (Vietnam), Bhat (Thailand), Kip (Laos), and Burmese Kyat
(Myanmar) 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. Shipboard accounts can be settled by credit card (Visa or
Mastercard) or with cash. Traveller’s cheques are not accepted.
DiningMeals are served in the dining room in a single sitting. There is open seating so
you may sit at different tables for each meal if you wish to meet other fellow
passengers. All meals on board ship are included.
ElectricityElectricity on board is 220v. In Asia the bathrooms have a dual 220v/110-120v
plug for shavers and small appliances. You will need an adapter or converter
to use in other outlets in the stateroom for any small personal items such as a
razor, curling iron or alarm clock.
Email, Internet & FaxOn the Mekong and the Irrawaddy cruises, Complimentary Wi-Fi access in
lounge areas (when signal is available). Wi-Fi may also be available in hotels. On
the Yangtze River cruises the internet is a flat rate charge.
HairdryersEach stateroom is equipped with a hair dryer. Please contact Reception if there
is no hairdryer in your room.
Laundry Laundry service is available on board for a modest fee. Price lists will be
available in your stateroom. Please note that clothes cannot be dry cleaned on
board. For safety reasons, we ask that you do not iron clothing in your cabin.
For a small fee, the onboard laundry service is available to iron clothing.
Library You may check out books from the ship’s library free of charge. We ask that you
return them before your cruise ends.
Mail ServiceStamps and postcards are available for purchase on board. Mail is sent from
each major port.
Medical Services Should you fall ill, please contact your ship’s reception at once. Due to the
proximity to land, medical services can be called from shore when necessary.
NewsletterA daily newsletter is produced on each ship and features information about
daily activities, shore excursions, tour departure times, and more.
Onboard LanguageThe language on board is English. All staff, crew, and Tour Directors speak
English. All announcements and commentary will be in English.
Onboard ShopThere is no gift shop on the Mekong and Irrawaddy ship.
Payment During the CruiseA cashless system operates on the vessels. Purchases and shipboard services
are credited to your account (see “Shipboard Account”).
Safes Although it is recommended that you leave valuables at home, all staterooms
are equipped with a safe. Any items that exceed the size of the safe can be
checked into the ship’s reception desk.
SmokingOn the Avalon Siem Reap, Avalon Myanmar, Century Paragon and Century
Legends, smoking is permitted in designated areas only.
Special OccasionsPassengers celebrating special occasions such as anniversaries or birthdays
should alert ship personnel upon boarding the ship.
TelephonesIn China, ship-to-shore calls must be made from reception. On the Mekong and
Irrawaddy there are no phones in the suites but one is available at reception if
needed. Any charges are placed on your shipboard account.
TelevisionOn the Mekong and the Irrawaddy there is no TV on board the ship.
Your Shipboard AccountFor your convenience, all purchases and extra services on board (after your
authorisation) are billed to your personal shipboard account. At the end of
your cruise, you will receive a total which can be paid with cash, charged to
a major credit card or paid in traveller’s cheques (there is a processing fee).
Travellers cheques are not accepted in Southeast Asia. Personal cheques are not
accepted. On the Mekong and Irrawaddy only cash, Visa, and Mastercard are
accepted for payment.
A V A L O N W A T E R W A Y S . C O M . A U 77
TERMS & CONDITIONS - PLEASE READ CAREFULLY
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The purchase of any travel services offered by Circuit Travel Pty Ltd (ABN 12 001 268 257), authorised to trade as The Globus Family of Brands (which includes the authorisation to trade as Globus, Cosmos, Monograms and Avalon Waterways) (“The Company”) constitutes a contractual arrangement between you (also referred to in these conditions as “traveller”) and The Company, and represents your acceptance of The Company’s Terms & Conditions as set out herein. Please ensure that you carefully read and understand these Terms & Conditions prior to booking. You represent and warrant that you are authorised to accept The Company’s Terms & Conditions on behalf of everyone named in your booking, and you will be deemed to have accepted The Company’s Terms & Conditions on behalf of everyone named in your booking. You are advised to check The Company’s websites or to request the latest version of the Terms & Conditions from your Travel Agent or The Company prior to booking your holiday.
Additional Terms and Conditions apply to group reservations. For group reservations, please call 1300 330 334 or see the Travel Agent section on the website.
BEFORE YOU BOOK
Deposit and Final Payment
1. Except as provided in clause 5, a non-refundable, non-transferable deposit of $250 per person per land tour and $500 per person per cruise is required for The Company to reserve space for you, with some limited exceptions as noted below. The deposit must be received within 7 days of booking. On certain departures, deposits and/or passport details may be required at time of booking to hold or to confirm space for you. Your reservation will be automatically cancelled if the deposit is not received by The Company by the deposit due date. Your booking is not confirmed and payment is not deemed made until the deposit is received by The Company and The Company sends a confirmation invoice to you. Any bookings made within 21 days of your departure from Australia will incur a late booking fee of $30 per transaction. For cruise departures that feature Intra Air flights, a non-refundable, non-transferable deposit of $1000 per person per cruise is required within 7 days of booking.
2. Payment of the deposit confirms you have read and accepted these Terms and Conditions.
3. Payment of the balance in full must be received by The Company not less than 45 days before a scheduled land tour departure, and not less than 90 days before a scheduled cruise departure, or earlier if specified for the particular holiday. For bookings made within these periods, payment in full is required at the time of booking. If final payment is not received by The Company by the due date, your reservation will be cancelled and your full deposit, including SafetyNet Protection payments, will be retained by The Company.
4. The Company accepts payment via Bpay, electronic fund transfer (EFT), cheque, Visa, MasterCard and American Express. Merchant fees apply to purchases made by credit card. Please review and verify your booking invoice thoroughly and contact your Travel Agent or The Company immediately if your invoice appears to be incorrect or incomplete, as it may not be possible to make changes later. The Company cannot accept responsibility if it is not notified of invoice inaccuracies within 5 days of sending out the invoice. In the case of billing errors, The Company reserves the right to re-invoice you with correct pricing.
5. Subject to clause 6 below, you have a cooling-off period of seven (7) days during which you may cancel your holiday. Your cancellation must be made in writing to The Company within the cooling-off period. The cooling-off period will commence on the first day following the day on which you book your holiday. If you cancel your holiday during the cooling-off period your deposit will be refunded and no cancellation fee will apply. If you do not cancel your holiday during the cooling-off period, then all other of these Terms and Conditions apply.
Exceptions
6. No cooling-off period will apply to holidays booked less than 45 days before a scheduled land tour departure, and less than 90 days before a scheduled cruise departure, or earlier if specified for the particular holiday. For bookings made within these periods, payment in full is required at the time of booking.
7. The following deposit and/or final payment dates apply to these holidays. Please see your invoice for more information on deposit and/or final payment dates. Other final payment dates may apply to Monograms and Globus holidays listed in this brochure. Please check with your Travel Agent or the Company prior to booking for the Terms and Conditions of those holidays.
Air Travel Inclusive Holidays
8. Additional taxes and fees may apply to your holiday price if your tour/cruise includes an intra air portion. These taxes and fees may vary depending on your itinerary. Please ask your Travel Agent or a representative of The Company at time of reservation for more information.
Price Policy
9. All holiday prices are based on rates (including foreign exchange rates) known at the time of publication, are expected to be in effect at the time of departure and do not include airfare except where specified. Prices are subject to increase without notice if such rates change prior to departure. Holiday prices are per person, based on double occupancy. Single room supplements are listed where applicable. Triple or quad room reductions for land holidays are also listed, but are not available on cruises. Please call us for more information on rates. Not all accommodation types are available on all holidays.
10. Prices will be confirmed at the time of reservation. Prices are subject to increase without notice, subject to the guarantees set forth below.
11. Once The Company has received your full deposit for any holiday departing 01 January 2016 to 31 December 2016, that price (excluding air travel) is guaranteed, and any subsequent land/cruise cost increases are at The Company’s expense, not including surcharges, energy cost increases, air travel whilst on tour and/or any government tax increases. Air travel tickets booked via The Company are guaranteed once full payment has been received. This guarantee does not include any government/airport tax increases and currency fluctuations.
12. 2017 departures are subject to price and itinerary modifications. Full details will be available in April 2016. Travellers have the right to cancel their reservation without penalty within 14 days of notification in the event of a price increase for departures in 2017.
Travellers Who Need Special Assistance on Tours and/or Cruises
13. You must report to The Company at the time of reservation any disability requiring special attention while on tour or on a cruise. The Company will make reasonable attempts to accommodate the special needs of disabled travellers, but is not responsible in the event it is unable to do so; nor is The Company responsible for any denial of services by air carriers, hotels, restaurants, or other independent suppliers. The Company cannot provide individual assistance to a holiday participant for walking, dining, getting on and off motor coaches, cruise ships and other vehicles, or other personal needs. A qualified and physically able companion must accompany travellers who need such assistance and must assume full responsibility for their well-being.
14. Some locations and sightseeing activities may not accommodate wheelchairs and may require extensive standing, sitting or walking. The Company is not responsible for any missed activities due to a traveller’s inability to participate with the group. Most transportation services, including the touring motor coaches and cruise ships, are not equipped with wheelchair ramps.
15. Some river cruise vessels do not have elevators. Travellers requiring ship elevators should inquire before making reservations. Most doors to cabins, staterooms and restrooms are not wide enough to allow access by standard wheelchairs, and bathrooms and other doorways may be fitted with coamings. For safety reasons, travellers in wheelchairs cannot be carried on ramps in ports where the ship is at anchor. Motorised scooters are not typically suitable on international tours or cruises.
Visas & Passports
16. You are responsible for obtaining and paying for all visas and entry documents, for meeting all health and other requirements, and for any documents required by the laws, regulations, orders, and/or requirements of the countries you will visit. The Company is not responsible for providing specific visa and passport information or documentation, and The Company cannot accept liability for any traveller refused entry onto any transport or into any country due to failure of the traveller to carry correct documentation. All travellers travelling internationally are required to have a passport. Most countries require that the passport be valid for at least six (6) months beyond the conclusion of the trip. It is recommended you have a minimum of three blank pages in your passport when travelling, as many countries require blank pages. Multiple-entry visas are required for some holidays. It is your responsibility to verify all visa and passport requirements. The process of obtaining a visa and/or passport can take up to three months or more.
Pregnant Travellers
17. The Company does not have specialised facilities and/or treatments for childbirth, prenatal or early infant care on board its cruise ships, nor may those facilities be available at ports of call or on land stays. The Company strongly urges pregnant travellers to consider the risks of travelling where necessary medical care for pregnancy may not be available and may not be reachable in a timely manner to address potential medical complications, problems and emergencies that can occur during pregnancy.
Young Travellers
18. Travellers under 18 years old on the scheduled departure date must be accompanied by an adult and share the adult’s accommodation for the duration of the holiday. Interconnecting rooms are not guaranteed.
A V A L O N W A T E R W A Y S . C O M . A U 79
19. The following age restrictions apply to land tours and cruises: a) Globus escorted Family Travel holidays: children aged 5 years and over are eligible to travel. b) Globus and Cosmos escorted holidays: children aged 8 years and over are eligible to travel. Travellers aged 8-17 receive a 10% discount on the base land holiday price, not including internal air travel. c) Monograms independent holidays: children of all ages are eligible to travel. Land arrangements for infants under two years of age are free of charge, providing parents pay hotels directly for special arrangements (e.g. food, cot, etc). d) Monograms Europe holidays: children aged 2 years and over are eligible to travel. Children aged 2-11 receive a 50% discount off the land tour price and children aged 12-17 receive a 10% discount off the land tour price (not including internal air travel) when sharing accommodation with two adults. e) River cruises: children aged 8 years and over are eligible to travel.
20. Young traveller discounts are based on the age of the traveller at the scheduled departure date.
21. Due to heightened security, many countries have adopted practices to prevent international abductions of children. If a person under the age of 18 years will be travelling with an adult other than his/her parents, or with only one parent, it is recommended that a notarised letter be written by the parents, or non-travelling parent, granting authorisation to travel, including the dates of travel. We suggest that you also contact the appropriate consulate and airlines because they may have additional requirements or recommendations.
Journeys Club (Repeat travellers)
22. Journeys Club members can save 5% on any 2016 Avalon Waterways cruise. This is on top of other great member benefits including a complimentary welcome drink aboard your cruise, a commemorative ship pin and deal alerts throughout the year. If you have travelled with us since 2005, become a member; simply enrol at Globusfamily.com.au
Must be a Journeys Club member (must present member number prior to making full payment) to receive a 5% discount based on Category E (European cruises), Category B (Mekong & Irrawaddy cruises), Category D (Yangtze cruises), Category FD (Amazon cruises), Category BA (Egypt cruise) and Category CC (Galapagos cruises) twin share price, excluding extra night accommodations, extension programs, port charges, upgrades and single supplements. Booking must be made for travel commencing by 31 December 2016. Applies to new bookings only and subject to changes and amendments. Full cancellation penalties will apply. Additional restrictions may apply.
Not Included in the Holiday Price
23. Airfares & airport taxes and fees (unless specified); passports; visas; vaccinations; ips to your Cruise/Tour Director, local city guides and other ship personnel (unless specified); gratuities on ferries, trains and cruise ships (except for European cruises, where gratuities to Cruise Director and ship’s crew and port charges are included); laundry; telephone; mini-bar; alcohol; beverages and food not on the contracted Avalon, Globus or Monograms menu (these extra items will be billed to you before leaving the hotel, ship or restaurant); optional excursions; porterage at airports and train stations; SafetyNet Protection; insurance of any kind; baggage fees; and all other items of personal nature.Some South America countries (Argentina and Chile) require international travellers to pay entry and/or exit fees at the airport. These fees will be collected by the local government and are payable by the traveller at time of travel. Your confirmation booking will contain information about these fees. For more information please see your Travel Agent.
Acceptance of Risk
24. Please be aware that during your participation in holidays operated by The Company, certain risks and dangers may arise beyond our control, including but not limited to: the hazards of travelling in undeveloped areas; travel by boat, train, automobile, aircraft, or other means of transportation; forces of nature; political unrest; acts of lawlessness or terrorism; and accident or illness in remote regions without means of rapid evacuation or medical facilities. The Company will not be liable for the provision of medical care or the adequacy of any care that may be rendered. While The Company will use its best efforts to ensure that adequate measures are taken, by agreeing to participate in a holiday and/or optional excursions you agree that you will hold The Company harmless regarding any provision of medical care or the adequacy of any care rendered.
Acceptance of Risk – Dietary requirements
25. The Company will use its best efforts to cater for your special dietary requirements and allergies. If you have any special dietary requirements please inform The Company at the time of making your reservation. However, The Company cannot guarantee that certain products will not be in food served. The Company will not accept any liability in relation to any medical conditions, special dietary requirements and/or allergies of travellers, even if such conditions are listed in the Emergency Contact Details provided by the traveller. You must make your own decisions when selecting meals. The Company’s comments are only to assist you in making an informed decision.
Photographs or Pictures
26. Photographs or pictures appearing in this brochure / website should be used solely as an indication of facilities and attractions. Actual facilities and attractions may vary according to itinerary. Maps shown on the holiday pages are current at the time of printing and may not reflect the actual holiday routing should the itinerary change.
Monograms Independent Holidays
27. Please note that full details and information pertaining to Monograms independent holidays will be confirmed no earlier than October 2015.
BOOKING & PAYING FOR YOUR HOLIDAY
How To Make Your Reservation
28. To make your reservation or for enquiries see your Travel Agent or call 1300 230 234.
Agreement to terms & conditions
29. Booking and payment for a tour/cruise shall constitute agreement and acceptance by the passenger of these terms and conditions which cannot be varied except in writing by an officer of the Company. F YOU WANT TO CHANGE OR CANCEL YOUR HOLIDAY
Cancellations and Cancellation Fees
30. If cancellation is received in writing by The Company before the final payment due date of your holiday, the non-refundable deposit and SafetyNet Protection payments will be retained in addition to any airline imposed fees or cancellation charges. If cancellation is received in writing by The Company after the final payment due date of your holiday, the below specified per person cancellation fees apply for individual reservations. The total price specified below does not include discounts, promotions, or special incentives. (For group reservations, refer to the Group Policy. SafetyNet Protection does not apply to Group Bookings). No cancellation fee will apply to holidays cancelled within the cooling off period (see clause 5).
Standard Cancellation Fees for escorted and independent holidays:
31. 45-22 days prior to scheduled departure: 20% of total price (including SafetyNet Protection)
32. 21-8 days prior to scheduled departure: 30% of total price (including SafetyNet Protection)
33. 7-1 days prior to scheduled departure: 50% of total price (including SafetyNet Protection)
34. On scheduled departure day and later: 100% of total price (including SafetyNet Protection)
35. Note: Pre-paid gratuities are not subject to cancellation fees.
Standard Cancellation Fees for cruise holidays:
36. 90-60 days prior to scheduled departure: 35% of total price (including SafetyNet Protection)
37. 59-30 days prior to scheduled departure: 50% of total price plus (including SafetyNet Protection)
38. 29-1 days prior to scheduled departure: 80% of total price plus (including SafetyNet Protection)
39. On scheduled departure day and later: 100% of total price (including SafetyNet Protection)
40. Note: Port Charges are not subject to cancellation fees.
Exceptions to the standard cancellation fees:
41. Other cancellation fees may apply to holidays listed in this brochure. Please check with your Travel Agent or the Company prior to booking for the latest Terms & Conditions.
42. Cancellation fees may also apply to any additional services reserved prior to, during, and after the holiday. If flight changes (including but not limited to flight cancellations or name changes) are requested, revision fees, change fees, or airline cancellation fees will apply in addition to the above cancellation fees (see “Revision Fees” below).
43. Airline revision or change fees may be up to 100% of the ticket price. Cancellation penalties will be quoted at the time of cancellation. If an air travel inclusive holiday is cancelled after air tickets have been issued, any applicable refunds will be processed after air tickets are returned to The Company.
44. Cancellation fees relating to insurance policies will be subject to the Terms and Conditions of the insurance provider and will incur the standard Revision Fee (see “Revision Fees” below).
Insurance
45. The above cancellation charges will be applied in all cases. The Company strongly recommends you take out comprehensive travel insurance, including coverage for medical expenses, loss of luggage, and land content and airfare charges that may arise, including due to cancellation.
Revision Fees
46. A fee of $30 per transaction will be charged for any alteration or revision made to a reservation after the deposit is made. Any revision to an air travel reservation may result in the loss of confirmed airline reservations or increased airfare which will be payable by you. Additional airline and hotel charges may also apply and may be up to 100% of the full price. A change of traveller name, holiday date, or itinerary after the final payment date will be treated as a full cancellation and new reservation; holiday cancellation fees (as above) apply.
Refunds
47. Please note that any request for refunds is subject to these Terms & Conditions. No refund will be made for unused services (including early or enforced disembarkation), for unused transportation where group activity tickets are involved, or for voluntary modifications made by the traveller.
TERMS & CONDITIONS - PLEASE READ CAREFULLY
80
IF YOUR HOLIDAY HAS BEEN CHANGED OR CANCELLED
48. The Company reserves the right to cancel or reschedule any holiday departure in accordance with operational requirements or circumstances beyond its control. If a holiday is cancelled prior to the scheduled departure date, The Company’s only responsibility will be to refund the amount received for the reservation. Wherever possible, The Company will offer the same holiday with a different departure date, or an alternative similar holiday. If there is a difference in cost, it will be your expense. For air-inclusive holidays, The Company will try to confirm air schedules for the selected new dates, subject to availability. The Company is not responsible for any additional costs or fees relating to the issuance and/or cancellation of air tickets or other travel arrangements not made through The Company.
49. The accommodation listed in our websites/brochures is intended to be used on all departures. However, if a change becomes necessary for any reason, substitute accommodation will be equivalent in standard to that shown. No refunds are provided for accommodation variations and full cancellation penalties as noted above apply.
BEFORE YOU LEAVE ON YOUR HOLIDAY
Baggage Allowance
50. Porterage for one suitcase per person travelling is included in the holiday price. Airport and train station porterage is not included. Your single bag should not exceed the dimensions of 76x53x28cm (30”x21”x11”) and weight of 22kg (50lbs). We are unable to accept a second suitcase or any luggage exceeding these limits except on Avalon Europe holiday itineraries. Some holidays have more restrictive regulations than these listed above. Please refer to your Travel Documents for applicable regulations.
51. Size and weight limitations for carry-on and checked baggage vary from airline to airline and even according to destination, and are becoming more restrictive. Most airlines charge fees for checked baggage and these fees are not included in the airfare or the holiday package price. Please check with your airline(s) directly for baggage information, regulations and fees. The Company is not responsible for additional fees imposed by air carriers for baggage. Regulations within most airports require that travellers handle their own luggage through customs.
52. Carry-on baggage on tour is limited to one bag per person travelling and must not exceed the dimensions of 30x28x14cm (12”x11”x6”). For safety reasons, wheeled carry-on bags are not suitable and will not be permitted as hand luggage on motorcoaches and mini-buses. Carry-on bags must be small enough to store in overhead bins or under the seat in front of you on motorcoaches and other transportation.
53. The Company will not accept responsibility for loss of or damage to baggage or any of the traveller’s belongings throughout the duration of the holiday. The Company recommends that you ensure loss of or damage to baggage is included in your comprehensive travel insurance.
Emergency Contact Details
54. All passengers must provide emergency contact details PRIOR TO TRAVEL so that The Company can get in touch with friends or family in case of an emergency. Emergency contact details should be provided by creating a customer MyAccount at www.globusfamily.com.au and following the instructions given.
Travel Documents
55. Travel Documents, including e-ticket itineraries, are sent by post approximately four weeks prior to departure provided full payment, emergency contact details have been received, and passengers have acknowledged the Globus family of brands Terms and Conditions, via their customer MyAccount.
56. Acceptance on the holiday is subject to presentation of your Tour / Cruise Member Certificate, which details the services you have purchased from The Company and which will be available in your final Travel Documents.
WHILE ON HOLIDAY
Air Travel Arrangements
57. The Company is not responsible if an airline cancels, reschedules, varies or delays a flight for any reason. After check-in, you must work with the airline directly to reach your destination or to make any alternate arrangements including amendments to return services. Airline fees often apply for modifications to air schedules not related to airline imposed flight cancellations, reschedules, variations or delays. These fees will be payable to the airline directly on request. If you miss your departure flight or connection, it is your responsibility to work with the airline on which you are ticketed to reach your destination. No refunds will be provided by The Company for portions of trips missed due to cancelled, rescheduled, varied or delayed flights after airport check-in, nor is The Company responsible for any additional expenses you may incur prior to joining your trip if you miss your departure flight or flight connection.
Itinerary Variations
58. After departure, if the services included in the holiday cannot be supplied, or there are changes in an itinerary for reasons beyond the control of The Company, The Company will arrange for the provision of comparable services wherever possible. Any resulting additional expense will be payable by travellers and any resulting savings will be refunded by The Company to travellers.
59. Every effort is made to reserve only twin-bedded rooms. Occasionally, some hotels will only provide double-bedded rooms. These rooms will be allocated to couples where possible. Please note that check-in times vary worldwide and The Company cannot control or guarantee check-in times. Triple-room configuration is at the discretion of individual hotels. Payment for a single supplement ensures your own room, not necessarily a twin bedded room. On cruises, staterooms are subject to change and are finalised upon embarkation.
60. In exceptional cases where private bath or single rooms as reserved by us are not available, refunds will be made by the Cruise Director, Tour Director, or Local Host. Claims for such refunds will not be accepted after the holiday has been completed.
Conduct During Your Holiday
61. For the benefit of everyone on your holiday, The Company has the right to accept or reject any traveller. Behaviour or conduct which is for example (but not limited to) offensive (physically or verbally), dangerous to yourself or others, criminal, discriminatory, or incompatible with the interests of other travellers or the crew will not be tolerated. You must comply with all directions of the Company and its representatives, the Captain and the crew. The Company and the Captain have the absolute right to disembark any traveller whose behaviour or conduct infringes these rules, who does not comply with directions or whose presence on the holiday affects the safety, enjoyment or well-being of any person. In such circumstances, the Company:-
a) May contact and hand you over to any relevant authority;
b) Is not liable to make any refunds;
c) Has no liability whatsoever to you;
d) Has no obligation to assist you with any onward travel or accommodation;
e) Is entitled to recover from you any cost or expense incurred.
Exclusion of Liability for Optional Excursions & Activities
62. Carriers, accommodation, and other suppliers (“the Suppliers”) (including but not limited to trains, cruises, ferries, motor coaches, hotels, and restaurants) providing optional activities and excursions (“the Services”) available for booking are not run, supervised, or controlled in any way by The Company. These Services are provided by local operators or other third parties that are entirely independent of The Company, which has no control and has no right of control over the operations of these independent contractors. Such Services do not form any part of the product or services sold by The Company, even where The Company suggests particular operators/other third parties and/or assists in booking such Services.
63. Your contract for the Services will be with the Supplier and will be subject to its Terms and Conditions, which may contain exclusions or limitations of liability. The Company has no liability for any such activity or excursion or for any act(s) or omission(s) of the Supplier or for any of its employees or agents or any other person(s) connected with the Service. Any advice or assistance on or with the Service provided by any local representative does not mean or imply that the Service is sold, supervised, or controlled by The Company or that any such advice or assistance is given on behalf of The Company. Travellers are asked to check with the Supplier and the applicable Terms and Conditions before booking.
Exclusion of Liability for Cruise Itinerary Changes and Cancellations
64. The Company will do everything it reasonably can to make sure everything goes according to plan, however, sometimes changes can happen which may affect your holiday experience. In the event of water level problems on stretches of any waterway, severe flood, fire, drought, earthquake, explosion, peril of navigation, mechanical difficulties, industrial action, civil unrest, war, government order or act, operational requirements, or any circumstances beyond reasonable control of The Company, The Company may cancel or vary your holiday. In some circumstances it may be necessary to operate all or 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.
65. 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 scheduled sailing and may, but is not obliged to, substitute another vessel and shall not be liable for any loss whatsoever to tour/cruise participants by reason of any such cancellation, advancement or postponement.
66. The Company reserves the right to cancel, advance or postpone any scheduled tour and/or sailing date in accordance with operational requirements or circumstances beyond its control and may, but is not obliged to, substitute another vessel and shall not be liable for any loss whatsoever to holiday participants by reason of any such cancellation, advancement or postponement. In the event of cancellation by The Company, tour/cruise participants’ only right of recourse shall be to a refund of monies paid to The Company in connection with such tour/cruise.
A V A L O N W A T E R W A Y S . C O M . A U 81
Prepaid Gratuities
67. If you have prepaid your gratuities to your Tour/Cruise Director and Driver or if they are already included in the price of the holiday, this will be detailed within your Tour/Cruise Member Certificate and vouchers will be included within your Tour Documentation. Please note that included gratuities for Avalon Europe cover the cruise director, local guides and local drivers and the cruise portion only; prepaid gratuities cover only the land portion operated by The Company of the tour itinerary. Where The Company sources other leading operators for cruising or rail elements of your holiday, the option to pre-pay local gratuities is not available.
Holidays
68. During local or national holidays or special events, on Sundays and religious occasions, certain facilities such as museums, places of worship, restaurants, sightseeing tours, and shopping may be limited or not available. Alternatives will be offered whenever possible. The Company will not be held responsible for any closures or curtailments in circumstances beyond its control.
Christmas Markets
69. Please note that markets generally close the third week of December.
Smoking
70. In Europe and in the Galápagos, all ships have non-smoking interiors. Smoking is only permitted on the Sky Deck. On the Avalon Siem Reap, smoking is permitted on the Mekong Deck only. On the Century Legend, Century Paragon and MS Mayfair, smoking is limited to specific areas.
AFTER YOUR HOLIDAY
Service Inquiries after the Holiday and Complaints
71. After returning from your holiday, if you wish to inquire about any services provided, please ensure that all correspondence relating to those services is received by Avalon Waterways, Client Relations, Circuit Travel Pty Ltd (see address under “Responsibility”).
72. Should you have a complaint in respect of your holiday, you should inform your Tour/Cruise Director immediately so they may attempt to rectify the matter. Any complaint or claim involving the holiday services offered must be notified to The Company within 30 days of the holiday completion date.
GENERAL INFORMATION
73. Subject to clauses 62 to 66 above, The Company is responsible for providing the services described in this brochure, including arranging transportation, sightseeing, and accommodation as described. All references to The Company include its agents and employees.
74. These tours include the services of operators other than The Company, for example accommodation providers, airlines, other carriers, and optional tour operators (“the Suppliers”). In making your travel arrangements The Company acts only as an agent for the Suppliers who are independent contractors and are not agents, employees, or servants of, or in joint venture with, The Company or its affiliates. All certificates and other travel documents for services issued by The Company are subject to the terms and conditions specified by the Supplier, which are available on request, and to the laws of the countries in which the services are supplied. While The Company takes all reasonable care in selecting the Suppliers, it does not accept responsibility for any act or omission of the Suppliers.
75. The international carriage of passengers is subject to international conventions and treaties. These international conventions and treaties limit and, in some events, exclude the carrier’s liability to travellers. Where any claim or part of a claim (including those involving death or personal injury) concerns or involves any travel arrangements (including the process of getting on or off the transport concerned) provided by any air, sea, inland waterways, rail, or road carrier or any stay in a hotel, The Company’s maximum liability is the maximum which would be payable by the carrier or the hotel keeper concerned under the applicable international convention or treaty applicable to the travel arrangements or hotel stay. International conventions and treaties that may apply include: the Montreal Convention (1999), the Convention for the Unification of Certain Rules Relating to International Carriage by Air, signed at Warsaw, 12 October 1929 (the Warsaw Convention), the Warsaw Convention as amended at The Hague on 28 September 1955 and the Warsaw Convention as amended at The Hague and by Additional Protocol No. 1, 2 or 4 of Montreal (1975) and the EU Regulation on Air Carrier Liability for air carriers with an operating license granted by an EU country, in relation to air travel; the Berne Convention for rail travel; Athens Convention 1974 for carriage by sea; the Geneva Convention for carriage by road and the Paris Convention 1962 for hotels.
76. Booking and payment for a tour shall constitute agreement and acceptance by the passenger of these terms and conditions which cannot be varied except in writing by an officer of the Company.
77. After departure, if the services included in the holiday cannot be supplied, or there are changes in an itinerary for reasons beyond the control of The Company, The Company will arrange for the provision of comparable services wherever possible. Any resulting additional expense will be payable by travellers and any resulting savings will be refunded by The Company to travellers.
78. The Company reserves the right to make changes in the itinerary whenever The Company considers it necessary for the comfort, convenience or safety of travellers, and to cancel a holiday at any time in accordance with operational requirements or circumstances beyond its control.
79. Notwithstanding anything contained in these conditions, The Company shall continue to be subject to any guarantees provided by the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 and the Australian Consumer Law (the Act) if and to the extent that the Act is applicable to these conditions and prevents the exclusion, restriction and modification of such guarantees.
80. The Company excludes all liability including liability for any loss, damage, costs and expenses whatsoever (including personal injury, death, and property loss) that may arise in connection with or arising out of your holiday and liability under implied conditions, and warranties and guarantees except any guarantees, the exclusion of which would cause this Clause to be void, such guarantees being referred to in these conditions as “non-excludable guarantees”.
81. The Company limits its liability to you for breach of any non-excludable guarantees to the supplying of the service again or the payment of the cost of having the service supplied again, as determined by The Company.
82. You agree that neither The Company nor its affiliates shall be liable for any damage, loss (including personal injury, death, and property loss) or expense occasioned by any act or omission of any Supplier providing services, or of any insurer or insurance administrator, or of any other person.
83. Legal proceedings against The Company may be instituted only in a court within the State of New South Wales, and any claim involved in such proceedings shall be decided in accordance with the laws of the State of New South Wales. Neither The Company nor any affiliate shall in any case be liable for other than compensatory damages, and you hereby waive any right to punitive or aggravated damages. No person, other than an authorised representative of The Company by a document in writing, is authorised to vary, add, or waive any term or condition in this brochure/website, including any term or condition set forth in the preceding provisions.
Trade Name:
AVALON WATERWAYS, and other AVALON formative marks, are trade and service marks owned and/or applied for and/or registered by Avalon Waterways Inc., in the Australian Trademarks Registry and in other global jurisdictions. Circuit Travel Pty Ltd., is an authorised user of the trade and service mark AVALON WATERWAYS and other AVALON formative marks owned by Avalon Waterways Inc.
Our Australian Address:
Avalon Waterways
Circuit Travel Pty Ltd
Level 5, 309 Kent Street
Sydney NSW 2000 Australia
GPO Box 3436
Sydney NSW 2001 Australia
E-mail: [email protected]
Telephone: 1300 230 234
Agent Reservations Only:
Sydney Metro: (02) 8259 1110
Interstate: 1300 130 134
Facsimile: (02) 8259 1120
E-mail: [email protected]
Agent Online Reservations available at:
www.globusfamily.com.au/onlinebookings
Feedback and/or Service Enquiries After your Holiday:
Should you wish to contact Avalon Waterways
after returning from your holiday, please contact us at:
E-mail: [email protected]
ABN 12 001 268 257
Licence No: 2TA000637
84
91M 100Y 23K
37C 2M 82Y
Pantone 1805
Brochure Code: AVAEP16 - CABrochure Code: AVAEP16 - US
CONTACT YOUR TRAVEL AGENT I CALL AVALON AT 1-300-230-234 I VISIT AVALONWATERWAYS.COM.AU
Brochure Code: AVAS16 - AU
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