Contrasts of Australia & New Zealand
19 Days
Tour Code: ANZ
Overview
Come and experience the contrasts between Australia and New Zealand. These two countries “down under” are extremely diverse and cover every landscape imaginable. Australia & New Zealand are worth the trip!
Begin in Auckland, city of sails. This city is based on the water and you will cruise Waitemata Harbor and stop at Viaduct Harbor, home to the 2000 America’s Cup. From Auckland, on to Rotorua, New Zealand’s thermal wonderland. En-route stop to visit the incredible Waitomo Glow Worm Grotto on a guided boat tour. Upon arrival in Rotorua visit Te Puia Thermal reserve and gaze at the countries biggest geyser while wandering the pathways from one bubbling mud geyser pool to the next. With dinner enjoy a traditional Maori Hangi show. After a visit to the Agrodome Sheep show fly to Christchurch, on the South Island.
To cross the Southern Alps you will board the TranzAlpine train. Enjoy spectacular scenery as you cross over Arthur’s Pass to the Western coastline, continuing south to Franz Josef. Here you will have the opportunity to walk to view the glaciers and perhaps, even take a scenic flight! Continue south, winding via Mount Aspiring National Park and Lake Wanaka to the adventure capital, Queenstown. An included Milford Sound Excursion will thrill you before having the balance of your time free to enjoy this picturesque town.
Head back to Christchurch by way of Mount Cook National Park. Along the route visit Lake Tekapo, and the Church of the Good Shepherd. Upon arrival in Christchurch one of the highlights of the trip; visit with a local Kiwi family and tour their historic home and gardens before a delicious 3-course dinner. What a wonderful way to end your time in this amazingly diverse country.
After enjoying time in the sparsely populated New Zealand, fly to bustling Melbourne, Australia. Enjoy your first afternoon at leisure before included sightseeing of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Queen Victoria Market and much more. A short flight brings you to Cairns, jump off point to the Great Barrier Reef. Visit Rainforestation Nature Park for a “be my guest” lunch and learn about the indigenous Aboriginal culture along with Australia’s host of wildlife. The next day take a high speed catamaran and cruise the Great Barrier Reef, observing the coral and tropical fish from the underwater observatory. You have the opportunity to snorkel and a highlight lunch is included.
On to Sydney, Australia’s captivating city on the water. Your included sightseeing includes Sydney Harbor, and the world famous Opera House. Board your luxury cruise boat and enjoy a highlight lunch while enjoying the views of the city from the water. Later, plenty of time at leisure to shop for Opals or perhaps take an optional tour into the Blue Mountains. As you enjoy your Farewell Dinner, think back on all you’ve seen and done in these two diverse, but magnificent countries.
Stay in a fantastic selection of First Class accommodations throughout the tour as well as 26 meals, including 16 Buffet Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 4 Highlight Lunches, 3 Three-Course Dinners with tea or coffee, 1 Highlight Dinner and 1 Farewell Dinner.
To ensure a comfortable travel experience, our motorcoaches are equipped with large panoramic windows, reclining seats, air-conditioning and restroom facilities.
Tour price is per person and is based on two people sharing a twin bedded room. Single rooms are available at a supplement or you can choose to participate in our room share program
***This tour is operated by our sister company.
Your Tour Price Includes
VIP Door-to-Door TransferTransfers you from your door step to select airports. Start your vacation in style with our outbound VIP Door-to-Door Town Car airport transfer service available on every tour from over 40 cities throughout the USA. Our service will collect your from you home and transfer you to your departure airport. We will arrange a pick-up time from your home that suits you, and your driver will meet you at your front door and assist with your bags before transporting you to the airport with ample time for check-in. |
Travel DocumentsTravel wallet, travel planner & map. $100 Frequent Traveler Discount upon return for a future tour. |
| Inter-Tour Flights |
First Class HotelsHotels are an expensive element of any tour and certainly one of the most important. For our tours we reserve First Class Hotels (or best available) and all hotel rooms feature a private bathroom. You’ll enjoy our selection of hotels such as Radisson, Hilton and Sheraton. |
TransportationLuxury motorcoach with A/C, panoramic windows, reclining seats & emergency restroom. Airport arrival and departure transfers as noted in itinerary included with the purchase of combined air and land package. |
26 MealsWelcome Drink, 16 Buffet Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 4 Highlight Lunches, 3 Dinners, 1 Highlight Dinners and 1 Farewell Dinner. |
Professional Tour DirectorYour tour will be conducted by the most experienced Tour Directors in the business and will be with you throughout the tour. |
Included Tour Highlights
| Auckland sightseeing | Milford Sound |
| Glow Worm Grotto and Te Puia Thermal Reserve | Lake Tekapo |
Rainbow Springs and Agradome Sheep ShowVisit Te Puia Thermal Reserve, Rainbow Springs and the Agrodome Sheep Show. |
Melbourne sightseeingMelbourne sightseeing includes the Royal Botanic Gardens and Queen Victoria Market. |
| Christchurch sightseeing |
Visit Rainforestation Nature ParkExperience indigenous culture and Australian native wildlife in a World Heritage listed rainforest setting. Visit the Wildlife Park to see Australian animals including kangaroos, koalas and crocodiles. |
| Ride the TranzAlpine Train | Great Barrier Reef |
| Visit Arrowtown |
Sydney sightseeingSydney sightseeing includes views of the Harbor Bridge, Opera House and Darling Harbor and a cruise on Sydney Harbor. |
Optional Excursions
Optional excursions can be purchased upon arrival.
The list below is a sampling of excursions that may be offered by your tour director.
Rotorua - Heli Pro: Lake Views Scenic FlightThis flight takes in Lakes Rotorua, Okataina, Tarawera, Green and Blue Lakes, returning via Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve and Rotorua City. Approx. 15 Minutes
|
Melbourne - Colonial Tramcar RestaurantDine and see the sights aboard the famous colonial Tramcar Restaurant. The restored 1927 trams are amongst the oldest in Melbourne. Included in your fare is a delicious meal, full bar service-including wine, beer, spirits and liqueur with dessert. |
Rotorua - Heli Pro: Mt. Tarawera DirectOne of our most popular flights. Breathtaking views of the craters formed by the eruption of 1886, returning via Whakarewarewa Thermal Village and Rotorua City. Approx. 25 minutes. |
Cairns - Crocodile ExplorerEnjoy a calm water cruise on Trinity Inlet, while discovering the secrets of the mangroves, wildlife, history and culture of the harbour and its trade. See crocodiles and a variety of native birds in their natural habitat, and then get close up to crocodiles during the Crocodile Farm Tour on Australia’s largest commercial crocodile farm. Enjoy a delicious morning or afternoon tea, while cruising back to Cairns via the sugar cane fields. |
Rotorua - Float Plane Scenic Air ToursChoose from five different float-plane flights that showcase Rotorua with spectacular views, departing from Lake Rotorua itself. Take a short journey over Rotorua City, Sulphur Bay, and the geysers of Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve, or journey further afield, landing at the Hidden Valley of Orakei Korako. |
Cairns - Great AdventuresNo experience is necessary to take a fully supervised introductory dive and explore the reef and its amazing marine life. Snorkel tours are a great way to maximize your experience on the Great Barrier Reef with many magnificent sites to capture the excitement. Age and medical restrictions may apply to diving. |
Queenstown - Rafting Kawarau River4 hours of rafting including a transfer to Cavell’s rafting lodge to collect your wetsuit and other rafting equipment. Transfer to Kawarau River for extensive safety instructions and training in paddling techniques. Then raft the mighty Kawarau River! Hot showers, sauna and complimentary tea/coffee await you at the end of this adventure. Return transfer to your hotel. (Rafting not available for children under 13 years.) |
Cairns - Cairns Night ZooEnjoy a delicious Aussie barbeque dinner of steak, sausages, chicken, fish, baked potatoes, fresh prawns and a selection of salads followed by dessert. Relax with a drink from our licensed bar. After dinner, our guides will provide you with a torch and lead you into the darkness to meet the creatures of the night. On clear nights our guides will take you star gazing. Follow our guides as they lead you safely through the crocodiles’ lair. See the croc eyes glow in your torchlight. In the Aussie bush, there’s always a chance you will cross paths with a ’Swaggie’ (an original Australian bushman). Join our hospitable Swaggie for billy tea and damper by the campfire. After complimentary cold beer or wine, join in the fun of some famous Aussie Bush Dances. Return hotel transfers included. |
Queenstown - Shotover Jet (30-minute ride)Enjoy a 30 minute jet boat ride down the mighty Shotover River and through the Shotover Canyon with the only company permitted to operate in this area. Once aboard, your driver puts the famous big red jet boat through its paces, speeding past rocky outcrops with only inches to spare and twisting through narrow canyons. A major highlight is experiencing the famous ’Shotover Jet Turn’ where your boat spins through a full 360 degrees turn. Includes transfers from your hotel. Duration 1.5 hours in total. |
Cairns - Cape Tribulation Day TourTravel to the Daintree River, crossing the river by vehicular ferry. Travel through dense rainforest before arriving at the Daintree Discovery Centre. Here you can take a closer look at life in the rainforest from the Rainforest Canopy Tower. There is time to walk along Cape Tribulation Beach before enjoying lunch. Enjoy a cruise through mangroves along the Daintree River before returning to your hotel. |
Queenstown - Dart River Jet RideThe Wilderness Safari takes you on a spectacular 1.5 hour jet boat journey through the Dart’s ever-changing braided river system, followed by an easy 30-40 minute guided walk through the ’Heritage Trail’. After this enjoy the journey back to Queenstown onboard a 4WD coach via a scenic back-road route, stopping to view scenery that has formed the epic backdrop for many international films including ’The Lord of the Rings’. Includes return transfers from your hotel. Duration 6 hours in total. |
Cairns - Kuranda Rail, Skyrail & Tjapukai Day TourJoin the famous Kuranda Railway for a breathtaking journey on one of the world’s most scenic railways to the village of Kuranda. Stroll through the famous Kuranda markets. Return to the lowlands by the Skyrail Cableway which takes you above the rainforest canopy. Visit the award-winning Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, meet your indigenous guide and learn about this ancient culture through theatres, stage shows and demonstrations. You are then transferred back to your hotel. |
Queenstown - Walter Peak DinnerRelive the elegance of turn-of-the-century travel with a cruise on Queenstown’s iconic vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw. Launched in 1912, the TSS Earnslaw is the largest and grandest vessel ever to sail Lake Wakatipu. Today, the TSS Earnslaw is believed to be the only coal-fired passenger-carrying vessel still operating in the southern hemisphere. The TSS Earnslaw makes several trips daily across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak High country Farm on the western shores, A cruise on this gracious heritage vessel is the perfect way to experience Queenstown’s magnificent alpine scenery. Upon reaching Walter Peak High Country Farm, you can disembark for an insight into New Zealand’s farming lifestyle. Enjoy an evening dining at the Colonel’s Homestead followed by an entertaining Sheep Show! |
Cairns - Flames of the Forest Rainforest DinnerThe evening features two local indigenous brothers sharing some of their remarkable culture with you in a setting where they adventured as children. The rainforest setting is the natural, authentic backdrop for this spiritual and mystic culture, a performance unique to the Flames of the Forest, where you will learn about their timeless oral traditions in an intimate and personal setting. This evening of theater, tropical dining, authentic aboriginal culture explored through story telling and music is a must do for anyone interested in history, Aboriginal culture, the rainforest, meeting new people and great Australian food. |
Queenstown - Skyline RestaurantRide on the Gondola cableway, which whisks you smoothly up 450 meters as Queenstown drops away below. Breathtaking views from the top extend almost full circle, from Coronet Peak to the Remarkables and on to Cecil and Walter Peak on the other side of beautiful Lake Wakatipu. Enjoy a buffet dinner in a restaurant where you’re guaranteed stunning views from every table. |
Cairns - Hot Air BallooningDeparting Cairns daily, enjoy a spectacular balloon flight over the Atherton Tablelands - the hot air ballooning capital of the southern hemisphere! See kangaroos and enjoy some of the most reliable and best priced ballooning in the world. After the flight enjoy a full hot and cold breakfast buffet and champagne. |
Queenstown - Kiwi HakaRide on the Gondola cableway to the Skyline Restaurant. Enjoy a spiritual journey of Maori cultural and customs as told through traditional song and dance. Set in an intimate theater surrounded by traditional decorations and mythical carved legends of the Wakatipu and surrounding areas. Up to 8-10 performers will be on stage for group song and dance. |
Cairns - Ochre Restaurant and CateringOchre Restaurant and Catering has created a whole new Australian Cuisine utilizing the abundant and, until recently, untapped traditional native fruits, berries, game meats and seafood, as well as the best of Australian Wines and Beers.
|
Queenstown - Skyline Restaurant & Kiwi Haka ComboWhy not combine both activities and enjoy a sumptuous dinner followed by a dazzling cultural performance at the Skyline Restaurant. |
Cairns - Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural ParkVisit the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park where the legends of the Dreamtime are brought to life. Three theaters, a museum, art gallery and a traditional Aboriginal camp combine to give a fascinating glimpse of the rich and ancient culture of the traditional inhabitants of the region. Try your hand at boomerang and spear throwing too! |
Queenstown - Nomad 4WD SafariBe amazed by both the man-made and natural features on this 4 hour 4WD safari from Queenstown. The tour incorporates some of the major scenes in ’Lord of the Rings’ trilogy movies as well as an excellent overview of the diversity of scenery available in the Wakatipu district. A must do for all scenery and photgraphy enthusiasts and ’Lord of the Rings’ lovers. Operated by Outback New Zealand. |
Cairns - Tjapukai by NightJourney into dreamtime legend and discover the magic of Australia’s ancient indigenous culture. Immerse yourself in the traditions of Tjapukai ’The people of the rainforest’ through traditional and contemporary cultural performances. Includes a welcome drink and face painting upon arrival to ’initiate’ you into the Tjapukai tribe, solemn didgeridoo blessing, cultural performances, lake side fire making ceremony and an international buffet dinner. |
Queenstown - Garden ToursThe Queenstown area offers a dramatic and beautiful landscape and is an ideal environment for garden lovers. The rich soils and distinct four seasons are ideal growing conditions for gardens, which offer a unique fusion of both New Zealand natives and the more traditional English style plants. Let the private garden owners open your eyes to the splendor of their gardens. |
Sydney - The Blue Mountains & Wildlife DinnerTravel to the spectacular Blue Mountains. Opportunity to ride the Scenic Railway, Skyway Cable Car or the new Sceniscender (own expense). View the Three Sisters, a giant rock formation of Aboriginal legend. Visit Featherdale Wildlife Park, home to native Australian wildlife and birds. Travel through Homebush, the site of the 2000 Sydney Olympics on your return to Sydney. |
Queenstown - Queenstown Wine TrailYour tour begins by traveling to the Gibbston Valley Winery for a light lunch followed by a guided tour and tasting in the underground cellar. Experience the cheese factory tour and tasting before continuing on to your second winery of the day. Transfers included. |
Sydney - Hunter Valley Wine TastingDepart the city via the Harbour Bridge and travel through the spectacular Hawkesbury district, stopping in historic Wollombi for morning tea. Enjoy private wine tastings at Lindeman’s Winery. Increase your knowledge of wine with an introductory DVD about the wine making process. Learn about styles, techniques and how to blend your own wine. Visit the home of Bluetongue Beer and enjoy a tasting paddle of available varieties (own expense). A smorgasbord lunch of tasting platters offering you a range of dishes is included, while the cellarmaster shows you how food ’marries’ with the wines. Enjoy boutique wine at its best with a tasting at Oakvale, one of Australia’s oldest working wineries. Enjoy the quaint village of Hunter Valley Gardens. View lush rolling hills and small wineries dotted across the landscape as you journey back to Sydney. |
Queenstown - Remarkable ExperienceTake part in a 3 hour journey aboard a grand old 1937 Chevrolet bus, lovingly restored to all her former glory. Traveling with the unique, convertible top down enjoy a complete circuit of Queenstown through to picturesque Arrowtown. The final stop overlooks Lake Hayes and here you can taste wines from grapes grown onsite and indulge in mouth watering cuisine in the cozy gallery or dine al fresco. Wine tasting, Mediterranean platter tasting and hot drink included. |
Sydney - Captain’s DinnerCruise, dine and dance aboard Sydney’s flagship, MV Sydney 2000. This is a most popular Dinner Cruise and a must for special occasions, visitors to Sydney or for those who love a great night out. |
Queenstown - Queenstown Heritage: Skippers Canyon TourOption 1: Skippers Canyon Vista Tour |
Sydney - Sydney Tower RestaurantIconic Sydney tower restaurant is the highest revolving restaurant in the southern hemisphere. It’s the ideal location to enjoy all Sydney has to offer from over three-hundred meters above the city center. Taking a leisurely seventy minutes to complete a full revolution, you are treated to a three-hundred and sixty degree panoramic view of Sydney whilst enjoying quality local and international cuisine from the self-select buffet. |
Queenstown - Sail QueenstownCome aboard NZL 14 and experience the magic of sailing on an America’s Cup racing yacht. Take the helm, exert energy on the grinders or simply enjoy the stunning views of Queenstown from the pristine waters of Lake Wakatipu. No experience is necessary. |
Sydney - Italian VillageWith amazing service and some of Sydney’s best modern cuisine, Italian Village is at the forefront of Australian dining. Ideally located in the Rocks, the restaurant is surrounded by 360 degree views of Sydney Harbour, the Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. This price includes a 2 course set menu. |
Melbourne - Penguins with Kangaroos & KoalasSee Port Phillip Bay and the prestigious bayside suburbs on your way to Phillip Island. Visit the Koala Conservation Centre, then observe the nightly ritual of the world famous Penguin Parade. Every day at dusk you can experience the natural wonder of the Little Penguins returning from a day of fishing. This unique scene is viewed from elevated stands under subdued floodlights. Koalas can be seen in their natural environment, and there is the opportunity to inspect the Visitor Information Centre to learn about the animals that inhabit Phillip Island. |
Itinerary
Day 1 - 2 USA - Auckland

VIP Door-to-Door Transfer to your local airport for your flight over the international date line to Auckland, New Zealand.
Day 3 Arrive Auckland

On arrival in Auckland, you are
transferred to your hotel, with a
guaranteed early check-in. The afternoon is free for you to explore Auckland. You could visit the Sky Tower for amazing views of the city, Viaduct Harbour and the surrounding volcanic hills. Perhaps visit the Auckland Museum or go shopping in stylish Parnell. This evening,
meet your Tour Director and fellow
travelers for a Welcome Drink
and dinner.
Stamford Plaza
Dinner Included
Day 4 Auckland

Start the day with a sightseeing tour of the city. You’ll see Bastion Point, the War Memorial, Viaduct Harbour, the Auckland Harbour Bridge and more. Later, board your cruise on Auckland’s Waitemata Harbour. Sit back and relax – the time is yours – it’s the best way to see Auckland, the City of Sails!
Stamford Plaza
Buffet Breakfast
Day 5 Auckland - Rotorua

Trace the Waikato River to the Waitomo Caves. Tour the amazing Glow Worm Grotto by boat with a Local Guide and walk through the limestone caves. From here your journey continues to Rotorua, where you’ll visit Te Puia (New Zealand’s Maori culture and geothermal experience). A Local Maori Guide will escort you through the Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve with its mud pools and geysers. This evening enjoy a Maori Hangi highlight dinner accompanied by local wine and followed by a concert, to experience traditional Maori culture.
Millennium Hotel Rotorua
Buffet Breakfast and Highlight Dinner Included
Day 6 Rotorua - Christchurch - Darfield

Your morning sightseeing tour includes a visit to Rainbow Springs Nature Park, where with a Local Guide you will discover native bush, ferns and trees that grow around the crystal clear mineral water springs. You may even spot a kiwi, New Zealand’s national icon! Then you’ll visit the Agrodome Sheep Show, the multi-award-winning stage show where you’ll gain an informative and exciting insight into agriculture in New Zealand. You’ll see the art of sheep shearing, sheepdog demonstrations, cow milking, bottle-feeding of lambs and an exciting sheep auction. In the afternoon you’ll fly to Christchurch (flights to depart after 12pm).
Terrace Downs
Buffet Breakfast Included
Day 7 Darfield - TranzAlpine - Franz Josef

Board the TranzAlpine train in
Darfield for your journey over the
Southern Alps to Arthur’s Pass.
At Hokitika you’ll visit a New
Zealand greenstone (jade) factory. Travel
along the coastal
road to Franz Josef Glacier for
a short walk to view the glacier
and perhaps take an optional
scenic flight (weather permitting).
Scenic Hotel Franz Josef
Buffet Breakfast and Dinner Included
Day 8 Franz Josef - Queenstown

Enjoy a coastal drive with views
of the Tasman Sea. Climb over
the Haast Pass winding through
Mount Aspiring National Park.
Then your journey takes you past
Lakes Wanaka and Hawea and
heads along the Kawarau River
through the Kawarau Gorge.
Finally you will visit the historic
village of Arrowtown on the
Arrow River, previously one of
the world’s richest rivers, before
arriving in Queenstown.
Millennium Hotel Queenstown
Buffet Breakfast Included
Day 9 Queenstown (Milford Sound Excursion Included)

Journey over the Devil’s Staircase
along the shore of Lake Wakatipu
to Te Anau. You’ll drive through
the Homer Tunnel before reaching
Milford Sound. Enjoy a Highlight
Lunch and cruise with Mitre
Peak and Bowen Falls high above
you. Later, return to Queenstown.
Millennium Hotel Queenstown
Buffet Breakfast and Highlight Lunch Included
Day 10 Queenstown - Free Day
A full day to explore Queenstown
at your leisure.
Millennium Hotel Queenstown
Buffet Breakfast Included
Day 11 Mount Cook - Darfield

You may wish to take an optional
scenic flight over Mt. Cook
(weather permitting). Later in the
day continue on to see Lakes Pukaki
and Tekapo, where you stop to
view the Church of the Good Shepherd.
Join us for a visit to Morelea
Farm, where you are welcomed
into the home of your hosts Angie
and Stan to enjoy a Highlight
Lunch in their 750 acre garden.
Travel over the colorful Canterbury
Plains to Darfield.
Terrace Downs
Buffet Breakfast, Highlight Lunch and Dinner Included
Day 12 Darfield - Melbourne

This morning you will board your
flight to Melbourne, Australia. The
remainder of the day is at leisure.
Crowne Plaza Melbourne
Buffet Breakfast Included
Day 13 Melbourne

See the Royal Botanic Gardens,
Queen Victoria Market, Parliament
House and much more on a
sightseeing tour. Afterwards enjoy
time at leisure to perhaps explore
further or relax back at the hotel.
Crowne Plaza Melbourne
Buffet Breakfast Included
Day 14 Melbourne - Cairns

Board your flight to Cairns.
On arrival visit Rainforestation
Nature Park for lunch. Experience
indigenous culture and Australian
native wildlife in a World Heritage
listed rainforest setting. Visit the
Wildlife Park to see Australian
animals including kangaroos,
koalas and crocodiles.
Hilton Cairns Hotel
Buffet Breakfast and Lunch Included
Day 15 Cairns (Great Barrier Reef Excursion Included)

Board a high speed catamaran and
cruise out to the Great Barrier
Reef. See coral and tropical fish
from the underwater observatory
and semi-submersible craft.
There is the opportunity to go
snorkeling and view this natural
living wonder up close (equipment
provided). Enjoy a Highlight
Lunch then return to Cairns in the
late afternoon.
Hilton Cairns Hotel
Breakfast and Highlight Lunch Included
Day 16 Cairns - Sydney

It’s a late morning flight to Sydney,
where you’ll spend the afternoon
and evening at leisure.
Four Points by Sheraton
Buffet Breakfast Included
Day 17 Sydney

This morning enjoy a guided
tour of the Sydney Opera House
and a cruise on Sydney Harbor.
Board your coach to see the
Royal Botanic Gardens, Mrs.
Macquarie’s Chair, Watson’s Bay
and the Gap. Our destination is
famous Bondi Beach for an iconic
Australian experience. You’ll be
greeted by a local surf lifesaver
before a Highlight Lunch at an
Aussie institution, the Returned
Servicemen’s Club, with its
amazing views over the Pacific
Ocean. Your host will take you
on an exclusive tour through
Australia’s oldest surf lifesaving
club to learn about the history
of Bondi and surf lifesaving.
When you return to the city you will have the opportunity to
learn about Australia’s national
gemstone – the opal.
Four Points by Sheraton
Buffet Breakfast and Highlight Lunch Included
Day 18 Sydney - Free Day

A full day at leisure in this
harbor city. Gather together
this evening for a Farewell
Dinner with your Tour Director and newfound friends.
Four Points by Sheraton
Buffet Breakfast and Farwell Dinner Included
Day 19 Sydney - USA

Transfer to the airport for your
flight home.
Buffet Breakfast Included
Dates & Prices
of $300 per couple when you book by
June 15, 2012.
| Depart Return |
Land Only Price | Price includes savings of: | International Airfare |
|---|---|---|---|
Wed 05/30/12 |
$7,420 | $150 |
Call 1-877-622-9109 |
Wed 06/20/12 |
$7,420 | $150 |
Call 1-877-622-9109 |
$7,420 | $150 | ||
$7,420 | $150 | ||
$7,420 | $150 | ||
$7,420 | $150 | ||
$7,695 | $150 | ||
$7,695 | $150 | ||
$7,695 | $150 | ||
$7,695 | $150 | ||
$7,695 | $150 | ||
$7,695 | $150 | ||
$7,695 | $150 | ||
$7,695 | $150 | ||
$7,695 | $150 | ||
$7,695 | $150 | ||
$7,695 | $150 | ||
$7,695 | $150 | ||
$7,695 | $150 | ||
$7,695 | $150 | ||
$7,695 | $150 | ||
$7,695 | $150 | ||
$7,695 | $150 | ||
$7,695 | $150 |
Departure Details
Departures are available May 2012 through March 2013.
Pricing Details
The prices above are for the land only portion of the tour and include the Early Booking Discount of $150 per person. In order to qualify for the discounts you must book and deposit by June 15, 2012.
Airfare is available at an additional cost from over 60 departure cities, call for an up-to-the-minute air quote from your hometown. When you book your Air & Land package together by you’ll save an additional $1,025 per person!
Tour price is per person and is based on two people sharing a twin bedded room. Single rooms are available at a supplement or you can choose to participate in our room share program.
Single Room Supplement: from $1,975
At times we offer discounted departures where the price has been discounted to reflect savings. Discounted rates are valid for new bookings only and are not combinable with any other offers.
Note: All inter-tour air related charges in economy class are included in the Land Only price shown based on accurate airfare as of April 6, 2012. At the time you purchase your tour the inter-tour air prices may be higher.
Please Note: Visa required for this tour, please call for details.
Please Note: This tour is operated by our sister company.
Accomodations
Day |
City |
Hotel |
|||||||||||||||
| 3,4 | Auckland | Stamford Plaza | |||||||||||||||
Stamford PlazaFirst Class Stamford Plaza Location: Located in the heart of the city, just a short stroll from the Viaduct harbor and Auckland’s premier shopping and nightlife district. Hotel Amenities
Location: Located in the heart of the city, just a short stroll from the Viaduct harbor and Auckland’s premier shopping and nightlife district. |
|||||||||||||||||
| 5 | Rotorua | Millennium Hotel Rotorua | |||||||||||||||
Millennium Hotel RotoruaFirst Class Millennium Hotel Rotorua Location: Located on the shores of Lake Rotorua and a brief walk from the central business and shopping districts. Hotel Amenities
In-Room Amenities
Location: Located on the shores of Lake Rotorua and a brief walk from the central business and shopping districts. |
|||||||||||||||||
| 6 | Windwhistle | Terrace Downs | |||||||||||||||
Terrace Downs
Terrace Downs Location: Winner of the 2010 , and New Zealand's leading golf resort, twenty minutes from the Mt Hutt access road and within an easy hour's scenic drive of Christchurch International Airport. Perched on the edge of the spectacular Rakaia River, the Resort boasts stunning views up to Mt Hutt and is within close proximity to various ski fields. Hotel Amenities
In-Room Amenities
Location: Winner of the 2010 , and New Zealand's leading golf resort, twenty minutes from the Mt Hutt access road and within an easy hour's scenic drive of Christchurch International Airport. Perched on the edge of the spectacular Rakaia River, the Resort boasts stunning views up to Mt Hutt and is within close proximity to various ski fields. |
|||||||||||||||||
| 7 | Franz Josef | Scenic Hotel Franz Josef | |||||||||||||||
Scenic Hotel Franz JosefFirst Class Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Location: The Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier is situated on the very edge of the Westland World Heritage Park. Hotel Amenities
In-Room Amenities
Location: The Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier is situated on the very edge of the Westland World Heritage Park. |
|||||||||||||||||
| 8-10 | Queenstown | Millennium Hotel Queenstown | |||||||||||||||
Millennium Hotel QueenstownFirst Class Millennium Hotel Queenstown Location: In the heart of Queenstown minutes away from central shopping, entertainment and outdoor activities area. 20 minutes away from Coronet Peak ski area. Hotel Amenities
In-Room Amenities
Location: In the heart of Queenstown minutes away from central shopping, entertainment and outdoor activities area. 20 minutes away from Coronet Peak ski area. |
|||||||||||||||||
| 11 | Windwhistle | Terrace Downs | |||||||||||||||
Terrace Downs
Terrace Downs Location: Winner of the 2010 , and New Zealand's leading golf resort, twenty minutes from the Mt Hutt access road and within an easy hour's scenic drive of Christchurch International Airport. Perched on the edge of the spectacular Rakaia River, the Resort boasts stunning views up to Mt Hutt and is within close proximity to various ski fields. Hotel Amenities
In-Room Amenities
Location: Winner of the 2010 , and New Zealand's leading golf resort, twenty minutes from the Mt Hutt access road and within an easy hour's scenic drive of Christchurch International Airport. Perched on the edge of the spectacular Rakaia River, the Resort boasts stunning views up to Mt Hutt and is within close proximity to various ski fields. |
|||||||||||||||||
| 12,13 | Melbourne | Crowne Plaza Melbourne | |||||||||||||||
Crowne Plaza MelbourneFirst Class Crowne Plaza Melbourne Location: On the banks of the Yarra River, this hotel is a relaxed walk from the city center, the Southbank Entertainment Complex, Melbourne Aquarium, Etihad Stadium and city shopping. Hotel Amenities
In-Room Amenities
Location: On the banks of the Yarra River, this hotel is a relaxed walk from the city center, the Southbank Entertainment Complex, Melbourne Aquarium, Etihad Stadium and city shopping. |
|||||||||||||||||
| 14,15 | Cairns | Hilton Cairns Hotel | |||||||||||||||
Hilton Cairns HotelFirst Class Hilton Cairns Hotel Location: Nestled in the heart of Cairns, it is the perfect base from which to explore the world's most diversely beautiful tropical region. Situated at the beginning of Cairns' scenic boardwalk, close to the shopping, tourist and business districts, Hilton Cairns is only 10 minutes from Cairns International Airport. Hotel Amenities
In-Room Amenities
Location: Nestled in the heart of Cairns, it is the perfect base from which to explore the world's most diversely beautiful tropical region. Situated at the beginning of Cairns' scenic boardwalk, close to the shopping, tourist and business districts, Hilton Cairns is only 10 minutes from Cairns International Airport. |
|||||||||||||||||
| 16-18 | Sydney | Four Points by Sheraton | |||||||||||||||
Four Points by SheratonFirst Class Four Points by Sheraton Location: Located in Sydney’s central business district and overlooking Darling Harbour, we’re just a short walk from the major entertainment and shopping districts including Pitt Street Mall, Queen Victoria Building, and Chinatown. Take a stroll and explore! Hotel Amenities
In-Room Amenities
Location: Located in Sydney’s central business district and overlooking Darling Harbour, we’re just a short walk from the major entertainment and shopping districts including Pitt Street Mall, Queen Victoria Building, and Chinatown. Take a stroll and explore! |
|||||||||||||||||
Tools & Tips
Travel Tools
| Country | Currency | Tips | City | Weather | Time |
| Australia |
|
|
Alice Springs |
|
|
| Ayers Rock | |||||
| Cairns |
|
||||
| Melbourne |
|
|
|||
| Sydney |
|
|
|||
| New Zealand |
|
|
Auckland |
|
|
| Christchurch |
|
||||
| Franz Josef (Islands) |
|
||||
| Milford Sound |
|
||||
| Queenstown |
|
||||
| Rotorua |
|
Terms and Conditions
After selecting your tour and departure date, simply call 1-800-552-5545 and a Travel Specialist will take your reservation over the phone. You can pay your $350.00 deposit by credit card, or alternately you can mail a check made payable to Grand European Tours to the following address: GRAND EUROPEAN TOURS 6000 Meadows Road, Suite 520 Lake Oswego, OR 97035 USA. Please make your reservations as early as possible since many of our tours are completely filled 4 to 6 months before departure.
Upon receiving the $350.00 deposit per person, you will be sent a confirmation. VISA, MASTERCARD, American Express and DISCOVER CARD may be used for this deposit amount, however, final payment is preferred by check or money order and is due in our Oregon office 60 days prior to the departure date. If reservations are made less than 60 days prior to departure, payment in full is required at the time of booking. If final payments are not received on time, Grand European Tours (2003) Inc. may cancel the reservation and invoke the cancellation fee. For Highlights of South Africa tour and all River Cruises final payment is due 90 days prior to departure.
Land prices printed in this catalog are per person based on double occupancy. The Operator reserves the right to adjust prices due to fluctuations in foreign exchange rates, imposed fuel surcharges, taxes, charges and levies imposed by any third party including government and its agencies. Should these change the price of your tour by more than 10% you may cancel without penalty within 7 days after we notify you of the increase.
If a cancellation in writing is received by Grand European Tours (2003) Inc. 30 days or less after your reservation has been made, your $350.00 deposit will be FULLY REFUNDED. *See Air Reservations section for specific change fee information for air reservations. For cancellations or changes thereafter but more than 61 days prior to departure there will be a $350.00 per person fee assessed. If you must withdraw or make a change 60 days or less prior to departure (90 days or less for River Cruises and Highlights of South Africa), the following fees will apply:
| Number of Days Prior to Departure | Cancellation/Change Land Tours – Per Person |
| 31 - 60 Days | 25% of tour cost |
| 15 - 30 Days | 50% of tour cost |
| Less than 15 Days | 100% of tour cost |
| Number of Days Prior to Departure | Cancellation/Change River Cruises – Per Person |
| 89 – 60 Days | 35% of the cost |
| 59 – 30 Days | 50% of the cost |
| 100% of the cost |
Air Add-On prices listed in this catalog were effective on April 6, 2012 and their availability is limited. At the time you purchase your tour, air prices may be higher. Air Add-On prices shown include September 11th Security fee, government fees, taxes and airline fuel surcharges based on destination and routing. The total price at time of purchase may vary slightly due to fluctuations in currency exchange. For the most competitive and up to date pricing from your departure city call our toll free number at 1-800-552-5545. Quoted air reservation prices are inclusive of all taxes and fees and are subject to change before payment is made in full. Air transportation is in economy class by scheduled airlines. Business class is available upon request. Some tours are not available from all of the airports. Requests for specific airlines, non-stop or direct flights and/or seat assignments are accepted as preferences only and cannot be guaranteed. Frequent flyer programs are under the control of the respective airlines. Your airline tickets will be electronically issued in lieu of paper tickets. Please note that your airline tickets and other tour documentation must bear your FULL name as it appears on your passport. Please note that airline reservations can only be made for dates less than 331 days out.
The following charges apply for cancellations or changes to airline arrangements made by Grand European Tours: • Prior to Airline Ticketing: service fee of $50 per person • After Airline Ticketing: service fee of $75 per person plus any airline imposed penalties which may be up to 100% of the airline ticket value.
The Department of Transportation requires us to inform you of the following conditions. The package price is subject to change as a result of increases in fuel surcharges and/or government taxes until it has been paid in full. You must consent to the possibility that, until you pay for your package in full, your price could go up. Once you have paid in full we would only pass along increases in government taxes if applicable at that time. You have 7 days from receipt of the first invoice to revoke your consent and request a refund, at which time we would cancel your booking.
A valid U.S passport is required for traveling outside of the U.S.; including to Canada & Mexico. Passport application forms may be obtained from your local post office. All passports must contain at least 3 blank visa pages and must be valid for 6 months after the completion of your tour. Entry visa application forms will be sent prior to your departure for U.S. passport holders visiting the following countries: Russia ($218*), China ($193*), Brazil ($220*) and Vietnam & Cambodia ($283*). An entry fee is required upon arrival at the airport in Egypt ($15*), Turkey ($20*) and Zimbabwe ($30*), these countries prefer payment in U.S. dollars rather than local currency. A per person Departure Tax is required at Costa Rica ($26*) and Peru ($31*) paid at the airport. A onetime Reciprocity Tax is required upon entry at the airport in Buenos Aires, Argentina ($140*) and Santiago, Chile ($131*); the fee can be paid in local currency, US Dollars, credit card or traveler check; the tax is valid for multiple entries for 10 years or until your passport expires. Australia requires an electronic visa ($0*) which is obtained at the time of airline ticket purchase. *All visa costs and entry/exit requirements can change at any time. Please visit travel.state.gov for current information. Individuals who do not hold a U.S. passport should contact CIBT/ZVS at 1-866-788-1100 to see if visas are required.
Approximately 15 days prior to the departure date you will receive a travel information package that will include your airline itinerary, travel tips, hotel list, baggage tag, travel wallet, etc. Visas, when required, will be distributed as soon as they are issued by the countries involved. Please note that your airline tickets and other tour documentation must bear your FULL name as it appears on your passport.
These tours require a blend of adventuresome spirit, physical fitness, walking ability, mental alertness, and a capacity for accepting situations as they exist and not, necessarily, as we would find them in America. If you have health concerns, we suggest that you contact your physician to help determine the suitability of one of these tours for you. We regret that we are unable to accept requests for special diets or itinerary variations. Disabled travelers requiring special attention or treatment on any tour must be reported when reservations are made. A companion who is able to provide the required assistance must accompany any person who is unable to travel independently or who needs any type of assistance.
Due to limited motorcoach storage capacity, each tour member is permitted one large suitcase not to exceed 50 pounds in weight nor 30”x22”x10” in dimension on European tours. Handling of this bag by hotel porters is included in the tour price. In addition, each person is allowed one small piece of carry-on size luggage that does not exceed the dimensions of 12”x11”x6” and is the complete responsibility of the tour member and must be taken on the motorcoach with you. Carryons with telescopic handles and wheels will not fit in the overhead compartments and therefore cannot be accepted as carry-on luggage for safety reasons. Please note, North America, Mexico and Egypt tours have smaller baggage dimensions which are noted in your pre-tour documentation. Grand European Tours (2003) Inc. does not assume any responsibility for loss or damage to baggage or passengers’ belongings. Please note: It is your responsibility to verify the baggage weight restrictions for the individual airlines that you will be traveling on as in some instances baggage is restricted. Airline baggage charges collected at check-in are not included and are at passengers own expense.
The VIP Door-to-Door Transfer service is available for all customers departing from the 41 airports highlighted on page 12 and living within a 25 mile radius from point of departure to your chosen airport. It is an outbound service only. Maximum passengers in one car can not exceed four. For bookings with more than four people, further vehicles may be necessary and further supplementary charges will apply. For any journeys greater than 25 miles a supplementary cost for additional mileage will apply and will be advised within 48 hours of booking if necessary. Mileage is based on journey information from www.mapquest. com. Should you not use the VIP Door-to-Door Transfer we will deduct $50 per person from your tour price (this must be advised at time of booking). Cancellation of service or changes must be made 72 hours before scheduled pick-up.
If you wish to depart early or extend your stay in Europe, flight and hotel arrangements can be made by contacting our Oregon office. Airport transfers are not included but may be purchased through GET. On most tours you can reserve up to 3 additional nights at the hotel where your tour starts and ends, however space may be limited and is subject to availability. Please call for our low cost rates and availability. Luggage handling and breakfast is not included on North American tour extensions.
If you wish to make independent flight arrangements, you may still reserve the land portion of a tour. Hotel-airport transfers are subject to availability and flight details must be provided in writing at least 45 days prior to departure. See tour page for specific transfer times.
Complimentary airport arrival and departure transfers are included in the tour price when you purchase our land/air package and operate at Terms and Conditions 91 xed times on the rst and last day of your tour. See the individual tour pages for details. For those making their own ight arrangements or extending at GET hotels, transfers can be purchased; please call for details. London Heathrow Airport Arrivals: For tours commencing in London, we have included a free group shuttle to/from LHR for clients that have booked our combined land/air packages. For clients that have made their own ight arrangements GET has negotiated special rates for shuttle transfers from LHR to your London hotel (which must be booked through GET) at a price of $40 per person per single trip to/from LHR. London Gatwick Airport Arrivals: Clients arriving at LGW who have booked our combined land/air packages are provided with a Gatwick Express train voucher to Victoria Station, and will need to make their own way from Victoria Station to the tour hotel. For clients that have made their own ight arrangements we suggest you visit www.gatwickexpress. com for transfer information.
Please note that we do not permit smoking on our motorcoaches, however, frequent stops are made while touring.
Ground arrangements are provided by Grand European Operations Ltd., a separate company, and include inter-city travel by private motorcoach with air-conditioning and an emergency restroom*, ferry, train, and ship as per the itinerary. Activities on days indicated in the itinerary as being “at leisure or optional” are le to your discretion. *Some exceptions apply.
During local or national holidays some museums, restaurants or sightseeing may be limited or not available. Alternatives will be offered wherever possible. At times, some itineraries may be operated in reverse; you will be advised at the time of booking. Nile River Cruises: due to the unreliability of domestic air scheduling, religious festivals and other unforeseen circumstances, the order of some itineraries may need to change at short notice; on occasion an alternative cruise boat of equal standing may be used.
The hotels reserved for our tours are rated as European Standard First Class. All hotel rooms provide a private bath (and/or shower) and toilet. ese hotels are clean, comfortable and located so as to best facilitate guided sightseeing of the area. Hotels reserved for each tour are indicated in the Day-By-Day Itinerary. If, for any reason, it becomes necessary to use other hotels, they will be of a similar standard, where possible. We only contract non-smoking rooms. All accommodations, meals and services have been designated as rst class in Russia, Eastern Europe and provincial areas though some tourism facilities are less developed than what might normally be expected in this category. Tours in North and South America use Standard First Class hotels.
A limited number of single rooms are available at the supplement shown for each tour. While single rooms provide privacy, they are o en smaller than twin-bedded rooms. We do o er the option to join our non-smoking Room Share Program (see page 13 for details). e Room Share Program is not available on tours/cruises to Greece, Egypt, Mexico, Hawaii, Costa Rica, Peru, South America, South Africa, China, Select London & Paris, Select London, Paris & Rome, all European River Cruises and all pre or post tour extensions.
Triple room accommodations are available on a limited basis at a reduced price. Triple rooms usually consist of a twin-bedded room with an additional folding bed or cot for the third person. ey may not be comfortable for three adults. Triple rooms are not available on cruises.
WR=Welcome Reception. Breakfasts are served as: B=Breakfast, BB=Bu et Breakfast, CB=Continental Breakfast, SB=Scandinavian Bu et Breakfast, FB=Full Breakfast. Lunches (L) and three-course table d’hote (set menu) dinners (D), (FD) farewell dinners and (BD) bu et dinners are shown in the itinerary for each tour and are generally catered by the hotel in which you are residing. (HD)Highlight Dinner and (HL) Highlight Lunch will be catered at a local restaurant or special venue. (DA) Dine- Around dinners are catered at a selection of restaurants pre-selected by Grand European Tours. Please note in cases of early morning departures, FB may not be available. We are unable to accept requests for special menus to meet dietary or religious requirements.
Beverages and meals not detailed in the itinerary. Personal expenses including passport and visa fees, alcoholic beverages, optional sightseeing tours, laundry, phone calls, traditional end of the tour gratuity to your Tour Director and Motorcoach Driver, tips to local city guides, crew tips and all other items of a personal nature, airport tax, service & security charges and port taxes. (Subject to change.) Travel Insurance is also not included but is highly recommended.
Please read the Terms and Conditions carefully, as your deposit and payment for a trip constitutes consent to all conditions and general information contained in this brochure.
These trips are arranged by Grand European Operations Ltd. (“Operator”) in conjunction with Grand European Tours (2003) Inc. It has made the travel arrangements as agent for the transportation carriers and other suppliers of services connected with the tour (“suppliers”) all of which are independent contractors. The Operator in no way owns or operates the vehicles or facilities to be used during the trip, and does not guarantee or assume responsibility for the acts and/or omissions of suppliers, their employees, agents, etc. Transportation companies, airlines etc. are not to be held responsible for any act, omission or event during the time passengers are not on board planes, transportation or conveyances. We rely on international convention which may apply to the services provided by us, our suppliers or agents with respect to any claim of any nature brought by you against us as a result of the provision of those services. International conventions which apply may include: Warsaw Convention 1929, (as amended by Hague Protocol and Montreal Protocol) in relation to air travel, or Montreal Convention; 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. We are to be regarded as having all bene t of these conventions on limiting our liability in relation to any claim for death, injury, loss, damage and delay to passengers and luggage. Enrollment in and payment for a tour shall constitute agreement and acceptance by the passenger of the terms and conditions set forth in this brochure which cannot be varied except in writing by an officer of the Company.
All bookings are accepted subject to the conditions imposed by suppliers and Operator, including airline, cruise line, rail, coach, hotel, restaurants, insurance and other companies, firms or persons concerned with the trip, and the Operator will make no refund in the event of their delay, cancellation, overbooking, strike, force majeure or for elements of the package not used by customer. If there is a difference between the Operator’s Conditions and those published by a supplier, the conditions of supplier shall apply. e Operator reserves the right to cancel a trip or change the itinerary whenever in its sole judgment conditions warrant, or if the Operator deems it necessary for your comfort, convenience or safety. Trips outside the USA require a valid passport. You are responsible for, and release the Operator from, passport, visa, vaccination requirements, and safety conditions in travel destinations. e Operator strongly recommends you purchase appropriate cancellation/medical/baggage insurance for the trip, which is available from the Operator. For medical information, call the Center for Disease Control at 800- 232-4636 or visit www.cdc.gov/travel, and for U.S. State Department travel advisories, call 202-647- 5225. e Operator reserves the right to decline to accept any person as a member of the tour, or to require any participant to withdraw from the trip at any time who presents a significant risk to the health or safety of himself or others which can not be eliminated or reduced to an acceptable level by the Operator’s reasonable accommodation. e Operator reserves the right to correct an error in the advertised price prior to your departure. Prices in this brochure are accurate at the time of printing and are subject to change without notice due to changes in market factors including but not limited to foreign currency and supplier cost fluctuations. Prices set forth in future brochures shall supersede the prices in this brochure. Airfare quotes, and Air Add-ons in this brochure are subject to airline capacity limitations and higher airfares may apply depending on seat availability at the time of reservation. A contract is made when your reservation and payment are accepted by the Operator at its office, and any dispute shall be governed by Oregon law and subject to the jurisdiction of Portland, Oregon. In calculating the cost of your trip, Operator has relied on your consent to these terms and in the absence of this release, the trip cost would have been higher. Operator reserves the right to substitute hotels of similar quality at any time or to make changes in itinerary of similar quality. Operator will not be responsible to any person for expense, loss of time, money or other circumstance resulting from a change in itinerary or change of tour arrangements. Operator also reserves the right to cancel a tour prior to departure, and in such cases all payments made to date will be refunded and shall constitute full settlement. If you purchase an airline ticket separately, ensure that your travel agent explains the conditions under which the ticket is issued, as the Operator assumes no responsibility for such airline ticket cancellation fees. Please understand that not all museums and attractions are open every day of the year. Operator reserves the right to vary the sequence of sightseeing and/ or to re-route the order of cities if that will enable you to visit all listed excursions. In either case, the itinerary content will be maintained to the extent possible and there are no refunds for any unused or unavailable excursions. Promotional offers subject to change. is brochure supersedes any other current brochure on the market.
Occasionally we make portions of our mailing lists available to carefully selected companies. If you would prefer not to have your name and mailing address made available, please call us at 1-800-552-5545. To review our full privacy policy, visit our website at www.getours.com/privacypolicy.




















