Best of Touring 2021

Best of Touring 2021

HAND - P I CKED OF F ERS & EXCLUS I VE HOL I DAYS Best of Touring

It’s time to rediscover the world From the waterways of Venice to the base of Everest, and everything in between

Take your first tour New to touring page 18

You, somewhere new Solo traveller touring page 44

Respecting cultures Responsible & sustainable travel page 52

AUTUMN / WINTER 2021 EDI T ION

Perhaps you’ve been thinking about taking the trip of a lifetime, or simply heading out to see a new part of the world that you’ve never seen before. One thing is for sure, after such a long wait you will want to make sure you make the very most of being away, and what better way to do that than with tour travel? The biggest draw of tour travel is that it gives you a structured trip, ensuring you see all of the best sights, but you’ll also be given plenty of free time to yourself in order to enjoy the trip exactly how you’d like. Our expert guides will be on hand to give you insider tips to make sure your free time is as rewarding and enriching as can be. We’ll take care of the hard work for you. There’s no need to search for flights, accommodation or planning experiences. Just turn up on the day and we’ll take care of the rest! At times like these, when people are eager and anxious to travel again, you will always want to guarantee that your next trip will be a good one. Tour travel grants you the security and structure, as well as the insight and free time to ensure that you’ll enjoy a trip you’ll talk about for years to come. An exciting time for travellers This first edition of Best of Touring comes as the world is opening up for you once more.

9 Luxury touring

18 New to touring

34 What to expect &pack

52 Responsible & sustainable travel 56 Myth busting 3 1 2

We hope you enjoy this edition and it gives you the inspiration you need.

Advertised offers based on 2 adults sharing a standard room unless otherwise stated. Single supplements apply. All offers subject to availability and can change without notice and may go up or down in price. All offers requiring a flight will be inclusive of return flights and overseas transfers form the UK unless otherwise stated and is based on the cheapest UK departure airport and travel date. All information is correct at time of print, Itineraries can be changed and amended without notice and will be confirmed at time of booking. Selected advertised offers are not combinable with any current promotion(s) unless otherwise stated. Any supplier promotion(s) advertised in this mailer are subject to their terms and conditions and may be withdrawn at any time. COVID: Select suppliers will require guests to be fully vaccinated before travel. Proof of vaccination and the dates given may be required at the airport prior to boarding. Failure to provide this evidence may result in denial of boarding at the guest’s own expense, however current government guidelines at the time of booking may change prior to departure resulting in a change to this information. Due to evolving health protocols, some imagery and messaging may not accurately reflect current destination offerings, or the public health standards and government requirements that modify or limit these offerings. Experiences, features, itineraries, and guest conduct rules vary by supplier and destination and are subject to change without notice. Supplier terms and conditions apply please contact your local Hays Travel branch for the most up to date information.

2

4

GRAND TOURS

10 FOOD & CULTURE

16 ACTIVE & ADVENTURE

22 WILDLIFE

28 BEST SELLERS

36 NATURAL WONDERS

42 SOLO TOURS

48 UK TOURS

44 Going solo 3

54 TOURS UNDER £1,000

58 HAYS EXCLUSIVE

GRAND TOURS

Once-in-a-lifetime experiences unfold one-by-one on our Grand Tours; from seeing the Leaning Tower of Pisa and Niagara Falls to a journey along Route 66 and encountering the Big Five.

St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican City

4

Statue of Julius Caesar Augustus, Rome

Cathedral of Santa Maria della Salute, Venice

Ruins of the Ancient Greek Theater, Taormina

15 day tour Grand Tour of Italy

Optional afternoon excursion to the Uffizi Gallery and/or a night at the Montecatini opera Festival Day 6: Orvieto - Rome Stop off to marvel at the powerful architecture of the fortress town of Orvieto on the way to Rome, where you’ll stay in the centre of Rome. Days 7-8: Rome Take a guided tour of Rome’s famous sights including the Spanish Steps and the Trevi Fountain. Your evening and your second day in Rome are free for you to spend as you please. Optional guided tour of the Vatican and Sistine Chapel. Days 9-11: Pompeii - Sorrento Peninsula Explore the beautiful Montecassino Abbey in the morning, followed by a guided walking tour through the volcanic ruins of Pompeii. This evening takes you to the Sorrento Peninsula, where you’ll be free to enjoy two days as you wish. Optional excursions to the isle of Capri and the Amalfi Coast. Day 12: Pizzo Calabro - Sicily Stop off for lunch in Calabria before heading across the sea to Sicily and dinner in Taormina. Days 13-14: Taormina Enjoy a morning walking tour of this stunning cliffside city, and a free afternoon and second day to explore at leisure. Optional Excursion to Mt Etna volcano and/or 16 seater Jeep adventure. Day 15: Catania and return home From Catania airport you’ll fly back to the UK, where your private chauffeur will be waiting to pick you up for your journey home.

Physical rating: Max group size:

● ● ● ● ●

From £2,299

With

35 people Return fights from: Selected airports

/person

Holiday of a lifetime, every time.

Fly from UK

Bologna

Pisa

Orvieto

Pompeii

Sicily

Giardini Naxos

Fly to UK

Venice

Montecatini

Florence

Rome

Sorrento

Taormina

Catania

Days 1-2: Venice Today your Private Chauffeur Service will collect you from home for your flight to Venice. Upon arrival in Venice you’ll check in to your hotel. Once you’re settled, enjoy a welcome dinner of Venetian food. The next day you’ll explore sights such as St Mark’s Square and the Rialto Bridge, before heading to beautiful Treviso in the evening. Day 3: Bologna - Montecatini A trip through the gorgeous Tuscan countryside includes a stop off in Bologna; where you can sample a delicious ice cream from the famous Sorbetteria Castiglione after a sightseeing tour. Day 4: Pisa It wouldn’t be an Italian tour without taking in the country’s most unique landmark, the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Snap your classic Leaning Tower photo and then enjoy a free afternoon! Optional afternoon excursion to the renaissance city, Lucca. Day 5: Florence Florence is Italy’s “art city”, with amazing galleries and museums; but the city itself is a work of art, with beautiful architecture and stunning facades everywhere. Take a tour in the morning, with an afternoon and evening free.

Reasons to love this ♥ Tour the extraordinary floating city of Venice ♥ Travel through Tuscany’s beautiful countryside ♥ Discover iconic landmarks, such as the Colosseum, in Rome ♥ Take a guided tour of the ancient city of Pompeii ♥ Explore the scenic Sorrento Peninsula Your holiday includes ✓ FREE Private Chauffeur Service in the UK ✓ Local Flavour - Enjoy a buffet of local specialities of the Veneto region ✓ Portable audio headset system on excursions ✓ 14 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 8 dinners & welcome drink ✓ Tour manager, international flights, hotels and overseas transportation

There’s more to love , more included and more to add . Contact us today for details.

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

2022

-

-

-

-

£2,299

£2,349

£2,349

£2,349

£2,349

£2,299

-

-

2023

-

-

-

-

£2,399

£2,449

£2,449

£2,449

£2,449

£2,399

-

-

Visit your Hays Travel branch | Call 0800 412 5278 | Click haystravel.co.uk

5

Downtown Toronto

Moraine lake in Banff National Park

Niagara Falls

17 day tour Grand Canadian Coast to Coast

returning to Toronto in the evening. Optional Hornblower boat trip Day 7-9: Toronto - Banff

Fly from Toronto to Calgary and transfer to Banff, a beautiful entry point to the Rocky Mountains with breathtaking scenery, including Lake Louise. From your hotel you’ll be able to savour stunning panoramic views of the Lake and the Victoria Glacier, and enjoy a free day in Banff. Day 10: Columbia Icefield - Jasper An unforgettable day lies ahead as you can take a ride with an experienced Ice Explorer. After this white-knuckle journey, you’ll head to Jasper; which lies between verdant forests and snowy mountains. Day 11: Jasper Jasper and its surrounding areas are simply breathtaking. The National Park includes Maligne Lake, one of the most photographed locations in the world, as well as Medicine Lake, named because of its supposed healing powers. At dinner, enjoy an interpretative talk to learn more about the region. Day 12: Sun Peaks A resort town set among gorgeous mountains, forests, and lakes; Sun Peaks is another scenic stop on your journey. Day 13-16: Vancouver Vancouver is Canada’s most vibrant city. Enjoy a morning tour, then you’re free to explore as you please. On the last day, you’ll be transferred from Vancouver to the airport for your overnight flight to the UK. Day 17: Return home Upon arrival at the airport, your private vehicle will be waiting to take you home.

Physical rating: Max group size:

● ● ● ● ●

From £3,699

With

49 people Return fights from: London Heathrow

/person

Fly from UK

Québec City

Toronto

Calgary

Lake Louise

Jasper

Vancouver

Montréal

Ottawa

Niagara Falls

Banff

Columbia Icefield

Sun Peaks

Fly to UK

Day 1: Montreal Your VIP travel-service will pick you up from your home to take you to the airport for your flight to Montreal, where you’ll check into your hotel. Day 2: Montreal-Quebec City Take a guided tour of Montreal with its beautiful architecture and interesting historical sights; then head to Quebec City in the evening. Day 3: Quebec City Quebec is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and North America’s only fortified city. Take a tour in the morning and enjoy a free evening to yourself. Day 4: Ottawa Discover Canada’s capital with an afternoon city tour followed by an evening at leisure. Day 5: Toronto Your Toronto city tour will take in stunning views across Lake Ontario and St Lawrence River. In the afternoon you can explore as you wish. Day 6: Niagara Falls Niagara Falls is one of the world’s most spectacular water features, and needs to be seen up close to be fully comprehended. You’ll spend a day in Niagara before

Reasons to love this ♥ Witness the mighty Niagara Falls ♥ Tour the vibrant city of Toronto ♥ Experience French colonial grandeur in Québec City ♥ Enjoy a scenic drive through the Rocky Mountains ♥ Take an unforgettable ride on an Ice Explorer ♥ Gaze at the snow-capped peaks surrounding pretty Lake Louise ♥ Discover the scenic city of Vancouver Your holiday includes ✓ VIP door-to-door travel service in the UK ✓ 3 breakfasts & 1 dinner ✓ Tour manager, international flights, hotels and overseas transportation

There’s more to love , more included and more to add . Contact us today for details.

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

2022

-

-

-

-

£3,699

£3,849

-

£3,799

£3,899

-

-

-

2023

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

6

Visit your Hays Travel branch | Call 0800 412 5278 | Click haystravel.co.uk

Cattle Ranch, Oklahoma

23 day tour Cowboys, Indians and All That Jazz

unique lifestyle of the Osage nation, civil rights history making, and the wealth of 1920’s Oklahoma. Days 14 - 15: Tahlequah and Choctaw, Oklahoma A view of the people that made Oklahoma; such as Will Rogers and Merle Haggard as well as famous Route 66 drive-through Waylans Ku Ku. Immerse yourself in frontier history and culture. Days 16 - 17: Shreveport, Louisiana Shreveport offers beautiful lakes, alligator parks, family fun, and adventure and is a focal point of American and European art. Try a backstage music tour where Elvis, Hank Williams, and Johnny Cash played. Days 18 - 19: Alexandria, Louisiana Insights into different times of American history. Look into Creole lifestyle, civil war and World War II history, and also some time for retail therapy. Days 20 - 23: New Orleans, Louisiana Whatever you want to see and do in an atmosphere of entertainment and fun! Live music, southern cuisine, art and culture, and a million ways to enjoy yourself in this perfect final destination before you fly home!

Physical rating: Max group size:

● ● ● ● ●

From £2,499

With

N/A Return fights from: London Heathrow

/person

Fly from UK

Fort Worth

Sulphur

Oklahoma City

Tahlequah

Shreveport

New Orleans

Grapevine

Dallas

Lawton

Tulsa

Choctaw

Alexandria

Fly to UK

Day 1: Arrive Dallas Fort Worth and Transfer to Grapevine Collect your car and explore the historic town of Grapevine. Days 2 - 4: Grapevine, Texas Indulge in Texan life, food, history, sports, shopping. Every day will be a full one! Day 5: Fort Worth, Texas An encounter with cowboy culture and its history. Day 6 - 7: Dallas, Texas Cattle drives, JFK museum, Southfork ranch visit. Food, beers, and cocktails. Just some of the things you can do! Days 8 - 9: Sulphur and Lawton, Oklahoma First American culture and country music stronghold. Visit cattle ranches and wildlife refuge in the prairies where Bison and Longhorn roam. Days 10 - 11: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma Oklahoma City is full of great eateries. Add adventure and culture over your two days with river sports and First American history in Smithsonian affiliated museums. Days 12 - 13: Tulsa, Oklahoma Marvel at stories of First American leaders and the

Reasons to love this ♥ Take in four states along the historic Route 66

♥ Learn about the life of the modern Cowboy ♥ Experience the native culture and learn their history ♥ Absorb the musical heritage these fantastic states have to offer ♥ Explore the culinary delights of the states as you pass through Your holiday includes ✓ Intermediate car ✓ International flights and hotel accommodation ✓ Based on 2 people sharing

New Orleans

There’s more to love , more included and more to add . Contact us today for details.

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

2022

£2,635

£2,519

£2,499

£2,639

£2,609

£2,739

£2,755

£2,655

£2,829

£2,819

£2,569

£3,035

2023

£2,765

£2,645

£2,625

£2,769

£2,739

£2,875

£2,895

£2,789

£2,969

£2,959

£2,695

£3,185

Visit your Hays Travel branch | Call 0800 412 5278 | Click haystravel.co.uk

7

Cango Caves

Cape Town

African Elephant

12 day tour Cape Town, the Garden Route and Big Five Safari

Day 6: Little Karoo & Cango Caves At Little Karoo you’ll learn about ostriches, where they’ve been farmed for over 130 years. Enjoy a barbecue lunch before exploring the stalactites and stalagmites of the famous Cango Caves. Day 7: Knysna Lagoon & Garden of Eden Cruise Knysna Lagoon and explore its surroundings in a 4x4, with a guided tour, before lunch in the shadow of milkwood trees. Later, you’ll take a guided tour of the Garden of Eden, before returning to your hotel for a traditional barbecue. Day 8-9: Garden Route Game Lodge At the Garden Route Game Lodge; you’ll enjoy three game drives across two days, and be able to see lions, rhino, elephants, leopards, and buffalo, among others. You’ll also enjoy free time and dinner by campfire under the stars.

Physical rating: Max group size:

● ● ● ● ●

From £2,409

With

40 people Return fights from: Selected airports

/person

Fly from UK

Cape Point

Oudtshoorn

Knysna

Hermanus

Fly to UK

Cape Town

Franschhoek

Mossel Bay

Albertinia

Cape Town

Day 1: Fly to Cape Town From your chosen airport, you’ll fly to Cape Town via Johannesburg Day 2-3: Cape Town Your first day in Cape Town will be at leisure. Take some time to explore this beautifully located city and check out museums such as the Zeitz Museum or the National Gallery. Your second day will begin with a tour of the city, including the Castle of Good Hope, the House of Parliament, and more, followed by a free afternoon. Optional Tour to Robben Island Day 4: Cape Peninsula & Table Mountain Be entranced with the region’s natural beauty on this full-day tour. First you’ll visit the infamous Cape Point, then the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, Hout Bay, and Chapman’s Peak Drive. Finally you’ll conquer Table Mountain in its rotating cable cars, with 360-degree panoramas. Day 5: Winelands Tour & Stellenbosch Sample delicious wines in the famously beautiful Franschhoek Wine Valley, before heading to Stellenbosch, where you’ll sample a glass of bubbly and some local nougat and enjoy a free evening.

Reasons to love this ♥ Discover spectacular Cape Town, set beneath Table Mountain

♥ See rugged Indian Ocean-washed shores ♥ Search for the Big Five – leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino, and lion ♥ Sample some of South Africa’s finest wines ♥ Visit the world-renowned Cango Caves ♥ Cross the arid plain of the Little Karoo ♥ Travel to the famous whale-watching resort, Hermanus ♥ Enjoy a traditional South African braai (barbeque) Your holiday includes ✓ Breakfast each day, 3 lunches & 4 dinners ✓ Tour managers, international flights, hotels and overseas transportation

Whale in Hermanus

Day 10: Hermanus If the game drives have whetted your appetite for wildlife; then you’ll love the whale-watching available in Hermanus from September to November. Otherwise, enjoy the gorgeous seafront and a fantastic dinner with a view at La Pentola restaurant. Day 11: Cape Town & Return flight After a morning spent descending from Sir Lowry’s Pass to the Cape Flats, you’ll see the penguin colony at Stony Point Nature Reserve, and eventually return to Cape Town airport for your flight home via Johannesburg. Day 12: Return home This morning you’ll arrive back in the UK.

There’s more to love , more included and more to add . Contact us today for details.

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

2022

£2,835

£2,699

£2,689

£2,625

£2,409

£2,439

-

-

£2,719

£2,809

£2,879

-

2023

£2,765

£2,665

£2,709

£2,559

£2,419

£2,419

-

-

£2,775

£2,915

£2,885

-

Visit your Hays Travel branch | Call 0800 412 5278 | Click haystravel.co.uk

8

T o u r i n g

Luxury and boutique tour travel is an amazing way to celebrate special anniversaries, events or birthdays - that’s if you need the excuse!

With a luxury tour, you’ll stay in incredible hotels, be treated to unique and authentic cultural experiences and travel with our best-rated tour guides. We’ll take care of all of the booking, all you have to do is turn up on the day. Foodies will be well catered for on these tours, as you’ll enjoy a fascinating and heady mix of fine-dining at your destination’s best restaurants, as well as exploring traditional ways of cooking and eating that you may never have seen before. Local families and guides will treat you to authentic and delicious meals, and may even teach you how to cook them for yourself! When it comes to your accommodation, why settle for anything less than the best? On our tours you’ll spend your nights in luxury, whether that’s a modern hotel or a mid-century mansion with a fascinating history all of its own. Our luxury tours also allow special, after- hours access to some of the most incredible landmarks and attractions, with exclusive talks and tours hosted by expert guides. Enjoy the

best your destination has to offer, without the hustle-and-bustle of tourist crowds, get the best photos without jostling for position, and make memories that will last a lifetime. Our luxury tours aren’t just holidays, they are immersive experiences that are sure to give you a new insight into your destination.

You can experience this for yourself with an eight day Premium Mexico Yucatan Highlights Tour from £2,447 per person, departing from London Heathrow with Intrepid Travel.

Contact Hays Travel today for more information to book.

9

FOOD & CULTURE

Discover the very heart of each destination through its food and culture; from exploring local markets and tasting delicious cuisine to experiencing iconic sites and ancient history.

Traditional spices and dry fruits in local bazaar in India

10

Registan, Samarkand

11 day tour Uzbekistan - the Heart of the Silk Route

Day 6-7: Bukhara There’s so much to see in Bukhara that you’ll spend two days exploring. Your first day will be a full-day tour including the UNESCO-listed historic centre, the Jewish Quarter, and more. Take puppet and miniature painting workshops, sip teas, and pick up a bargain at the local markets. Your next day is more free; but includes a morning tour of the grisly Zindan jail and the ancient Fortress Ark and Samanid’s Mausoleum. Optional Bahauddin Naqshbandi tour.

Physical rating: Max group size:

● ● ● ● ●

From £1,999

With

30 people Return fights from: Regional airports

/person

Holiday of a lifetime, every time.

Fly from UK

Samarkand

Bukhara

Tashkent

Tashkent

Shakhrisabz

Khiva

Fly to UK

Kyzylkum desert

Day 1: UK - Tashkent Today your Private Chauffeur Service will collect you from home for your overnight flight to Tashkent.. Day 2: Tashkent Relax in the hotel after your morning arrival; then you’ll be taken on a city tour in the afternoon, including a ride on the local metro, Central Asia’s oldest and most beautiful transport line. Later enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Day 3-4: Samarkand Take a high-speed train to Samarkand, an ancient city founded 2750 years ago. Visit the Mosque Bibi-Khanum, Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis, and the grave of Tamerlane, a famous Turkic ruler. The next day you’ll tour Registan Square and join a local family to learn how to make delicious local breads. Optional Meros Silk Paper Factory, Ulugh Beg Observatory, and Tomb of Prophet Daniel. Day 5: Samarkand - Bukhara Today you’ll drive the scenic Takhta Karacha Pass, and follow the Silk Route to Shakhrisabz; where you’ll explore the Ak Saray Palace, Kok Gumbaz Friday Mosque, and Dorut Tilavat and have lunch at a local teahouse. After this, you’ll drive to Bukhara, Central Asia’s holiest city.

Reasons to love this ♥ Immerse yourself in traditional cuisine in the heart of the incredible Silk Road ♥ Travel across soaring mountain ranges and endless deserts ♥ Visit ancient cities overflowing with eye- popping architecture ♥ Learn about centuries-old traditions, from dining to dancing

Day 8: Bukhara - Khiva Take it easy today as you cross the Kyzylkum Desert in your comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. Day 9: Khiva Explore the UNESCO-listed Ichan Kala, with ancient buildings, mosques, and more in this beautiful city. This evening you’ll enjoy dinner and a performance from local dancers in incredible traditional costumes. Day 10: Tashkent After flying back to Tashkent, you’ll take a city tour; taking in some of the city’s most famous sights such as Khast Imam Square and Amir Temur square, among others. Tonight you’ll enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. Day 11: Tashkent and Return flight Enjoy a free morning before your transfer takes you to the airport for your return flight. In the UK, your private chauffeur will take you home.

♥ Explore the holy city of Bukhara Your holiday includes

✓ FREE Private Chauffeur Service in the UK ✓ Local Flavour - Sample traditional exotic teas ✓ 9 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 7 dinners & welcome drink ✓ Tour manager, international flights, hotels and overseas transportation

There’s more to love , more included and more to add . Contact us today for details.

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

2022

-

-

-

£1,999

£2,099

£2,199

-

-

£2,199

£2,199

-

-

2023

-

-

-

£2,099

£2,199

£2,249

-

-

£2,249

£2,249

-

-

Visit your Hays Travel branch | Call 0800 412 5278 | Click haystravel.co.uk

11

The palace of winds, Jaipur

Taj Mahal

Bengal Tiger in Rathambore National Park

10 day tour India Golden Triangle with Ranthambore National Park

Day 5: Fatehpur Sikri - Rathambore Once the capital of the Mughal Empire, Fatehpur Sikri has now been abandoned for hundreds of years, meaning it acts as an open-air time capsule. Step back in time and see the palaces and pavilions up close. This afternoon, head to Rathambore National Park by road and rail; famous for its overgrown fort and its Bengal tiger reserve. Day 6: Rathambore After spending days in the packed cities of India; today you’ll get to experience the country’s wilder side up close and personal. Take a morning and afternoon game drive, where you’ll see leopards, monkeys, birds, and - if you’re lucky - a Bengal tiger. Day 7: Rathambore - Jaipur After one final game drive this morning, it’s off to Jaipur; known as the Pink City because of its stunning rose- coloured palaces. Day 8: Jaipur There’s so much to see in Jaipur that today’s tour takes up the whole day. You’ll be driven to the Amber Fort, on a hilltop that looks over the city. If you’re lucky you might see elephants bathing in the nearby lake too. In Jaipur, you’ll explore Rajasthani and Mughal palaces, as well as the fascinating Jantar Mantar observatory. Day 9: Delhi Today you’ll take the coach back from Jaipur to Delhi, where you’ll be able to enjoy one last night in India before your flight home. Day 10: Delhi - UK After breakfast in the hotel, you’ll be taken to the airport for your flight back to the UK, where your driver will be waiting to drop you home.

Physical rating: Max group size:

● ● ● ● ●

From £1,799

With

32 people Return fights from: London Heathrow

/person

Fly from UK

Agra

Ranthambore

Delhi

Delhi

Fatehpur Sikri

Jaipur

Fly to UK

Day 1: In flight Today, your door-to-door travel service will collect you from your home and take you to the airport for your overnight flight to Delhi. Day 2: Delhi This morning you’ll arrive in Delhi. After a little free time to relax and get settled; you’ll take an afternoon sightseeing tour of New Delhi, then a trip to Qutab Minar, the tallest brick minaret in the world. Day 3: Delhi - Agra Today you’ll discover Old Delhi, including the Jama Masjid - one of India’s biggest mosques and the memorials to both the Mughal emperor Humayun and Mahatma Gandhi. In the afternoon you’ll make your way to Agra, the riverside city home to the Taj Mahal. Day 4: Agra You might need to pinch yourself as you stand in front of the Taj Mahal on this morning’s tour, it truly is that magnificent. After a morning tour, you’ll move onto Agra Fort; an impressive and imposing edifice including mosques, palaces, and more.

Reasons to love this ♥ Feast on India’s cultural highlights in Delhi ♥ Marvel at the Taj Mahal in Agra Fort ♥ Head on three game drives in Ranthambore ♥ Go in search of the elusive Bengal tiger ♥ Witness the pink-hued palaces of Jaipur ♥ Also look out for leopards, monkeys, and birdlife Your holiday includes ✓ VIP-door-to-door travel service in the UK

✓ 8 breakfasts, 2 lunches & 8 dinners ✓ Tour manager, international flights, hotels and overseas transportation

There’s more to love , more included and more to add . Contact us today for details.

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

2022

-

£1,899

£1,949

£1,899

-

-

-

-

£1,799

£1,799

£1,799

-

2023

£1,799

£1,799

£1,799

£1,799

-

-

-

-

£1,899

£1,899

£1,899

-

12

Visit your Hays Travel branch | Call 0800 412 5278 | Click haystravel.co.uk

13 day tour Sri Lanka Tour Sri Lanka is a feast for the senses; from its beautiful countryside and exotic cuisine to mystical temples, rich culture and heritage, ancient sites, and natural wonders.

Temple of the Tooth, Kandy

Physical rating: Max group size:

● ● ● ● ●

From £1,749

With

37 people Return fights from: London Heathrow

/person

Fly from UK

Dambulla

Sigiriya

Nuwara Eliya

Galle

Columbo

Columbo

Habarana

Kandy

Yala National Park

Kalutara

Fly to UK

Sigiriya Rock

Reasons to love this ♥ Explore four incredible UNESCO World Heritage Sites ♥ Visit Kandy and see the Temple of the Tooth

Your holiday includes ✓ 11 breakfasts & 8 dinners ✓ Tour manager, international flights, hotels and overseas transportation

Why not add + Room upgrade at 5* Anantara Kalutara Resort from £129pp

♥ Climb to the top of Sigiriya Rock ♥ Tour Nuwara Eliya and enjoy a Ceylon tea tasting

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

2022

£2,199

£2,299

£2,199

£2,099

-

£1,749

-

-

£1,999

£2,099

£2,149

-

2023

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

8 day tour Jordan with Ancient Petra

Epic desert landscapes, astounding monuments, and the wonderfully restorative Dead Sea make the tiny kingdom of Jordan a truly rewarding destination to explore.

Wadi Rum

Physical rating: Max group size:

● ● ● ● ●

With

From £1,849

34 people Return fights from: London Heathrow

/person

Fly from UK

Ajloun

Desert Castles

Mt Nebo

Shobak

Wadi Rum

Amman

Amman

Jerash

Amman

Madaba

Petra

Dead Sea

Fly to UK

Al Khazneh, Petra

Reasons to love this ♥ Visit historic desert castles ♥ Enjoy a delicious lunch in the heart of Wadi Rum

Your holiday includes ✓ VIP door-to-door travel service in the UK ✓ Single-entry tourist visa

♥ Explore the desert where much of ‘Lawrence of Arabia’ was filmed ♥ Walk the streets of the city of Petra

✓ 7 breakfasts, 1 lunch & 4 dinners ✓ Tour manager, international flights, hotels and overseas transportation

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

2022

-

-

£1,949

£1,949

£1,949

-

-

-

£1,899

£1,849

£1,849

-

2023

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

Visit your Hays Travel branch | Call 0800 412 5278 | Click haystravel.co.uk

13

Bassano Del Grappa

6 day tour Hidden Italy

Day 3: Vicenza After breakfast you’ll head to Vicenza, and take a guided walking tour through its historic centre. Vicenza’s architectural style includes Palladian villas and mansions on almost every corner, as well as references to Greek and Roman gods and marble temples and theatres. Enjoy a free afternoon, and you’ll be given a museum pass to enjoy the city’s various attractions for free. Day 4: Mantova Today you’ll head to the beautiful medieval city of Mantova, near Lake Garda, and famous for its appearance in Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Take a guided tour of its old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and visit the Palazzo Ducale - once Europe’s largest palace. Optional Visit Parco Sigurta Gardens, home to tulips, roses, lilies and more, with ornamental parks and lakes and even a maze!

Physical rating: Max group size:

● ● ● ● ●

From £679

With

50 people Return fights from: Selected airports

/person

Fly from UK

Brenta

Vicenza

Bassano del Grappa

Castelfranco Veneto

Padova

Mantova

Fly to UK

Day 1: Castelfranco Veneto You’ll fly into Venice and be taken by coach to Castelfranco Veneto and your hotel. Today is a free day, so take some time to wander the historic centre of Castelfranco Veneto. Find Giorgione’s masterpiece, the Madonna and Child, in the town’s stunning cathedral. Day 2: Brenta Canal Cruise & Padova Today you’ll head to Brenta Canal for a leisurely cruise past Venetian villas, which were once holiday homes for the elite, including an 18th century villa which was once home to the composer Stravinsky. Later you’ll head to Padova, to enjoy a free afternoon. See medieval frescoes at the Baptistry of the Duomo or the Cappella degli Scrovegni; visit the Basilica di Sant Antonio, a popular pilgrimage site in Italy; or relax with a coffee at one of the city’s bustling cafes.

Reasons to love this ♥ Taste the cuisine that this fascinating country is known for ♥ Visit ancient Padova boasting an array of architectural styles ♥ See the famed university where Galileo once taught ♥ Experience the ancient and modern city of Vicenza ♥ Find the best place to view Palladio’s architectural masterpieces ♥ Witness the enchanting riverside town of Bassano del Grappa Your holiday includes ✓ Breakfast each day ✓ Tour manager, international flights, hotels and overseas transportation

Palazzo Ducale

Day 5: Bassano Del Grappa & Villa Sandi This morning you’ll head to Bassano Del Grappa, where the Alps reflect in the waters upon which the town is built. Take a guided tour of a Grappa distillery then head to Villa Sandi, a famous Prosecco producer nearby. Tour the underground cellars and sample some of Italy’s tastiest prosecco in the gorgeous villa. Day 6: Return to UK After enjoying one last hotel breakfast, you’ll be taken to the airport for your return flight.

There’s more to love , more included and more to add . Contact us today for details.

The square of Prato della Valle in Padova

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

2022

-

-

-

£849

£819

£829

-

-

£849

£729

£679

-

2023

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

14

Visit your Hays Travel branch | Call 0800 412 5278 | Click haystravel.co.uk

Camel ride in Mezouga

Jamaa el-Fna market, Marrakech

Chefchaouen

12 day tour Morocco Real Food Adventure

being prepared this evening. Day 6: Midelt

Travel via the Middle Atlas Mountains towards Midelt. Discover local farming life at nearby Bremmen, before a special meal made using native aromatic herbs. Day 7: Merzouga Drive to the Sahara Desert; admire kasbahs, palm groves, and frontier towns en-route to Merzouga. Watch a medfouna demonstration and later ride camels at sunset to the edge of the desert. Day 8: M’Goun Valley The route to M’Goun Valley passes kasbah ruins, colonial military outposts, mountains, and palm-tree lined valleys. Dinner is a Berber tagine prepared in a traditional clay pot on an open fire. Day 9: M’Goun Valley Morning options include: visiting Kelaat M’gouna village souk or watching Moroccan bread-making. Explore the Moroccan backcountry with a local guide to encounter Berber villages and local people. Day 10: Marrakech Call at a women’s Argan oil-producing co-operative en-route to Marrakech. Take an orientation walk and tasting trail through the city with a local guide. Perhaps have dinner at Djemaa el Fna square and visit the street food bazaar. Day 11: Marrakech Learn to make Moroccan salads at Amal Women’s Cooking Centre. Perhaps explore the city’s Koutoubia Mosque or Bahia Palace. Later, return to the medina or join your group for a farewell dinner. Day 12: Marrakech Your tour comes to an end this morning when you bid farewell to your guide and group members.

Physical rating: Max group size:

● ● ● ● ●

From £1,388

With

12 people Return fights from: Selected airports

/person

Fly from UK

Meknes

Chefchaouen

Midelt

M’Goun Valley

Fly to UK

Casablanca

Moulay Idriss

Fes

Merzouga

Marrakech

Day 1: Casablanca Your adventure starts when you join your tour leader and fellow travellers at the 18:00 welcome meeting; followed

Reasons to love this ♥ Relish Moroccan flavours of a home-cooked meal ♥ Savour ‘ras el hanout’ spice aromas at a Marrakech souk ♥ Explore market stalls in incredible Jemaa el-Fna ♥ Try delectable ‘mechoui’ cooked in an underfloor pit ♥ Take a guided ‘tasting trail’ through Fes ♥ Learn to make ‘bastilla’ pastry parcels Your holiday includes ✓ 1 night in guesthouse ✓ 2 nights in a gite ✓ 1 night in desert camp ✓ 11 breakfasts, 3 lunches & 8 dinners ✓ Tour manager, international flights, various accommodation and overseas transportation There’s more to love , more included and more to add . Contact us today for details.

by a traditional Moroccan dinner. Day 2: Meknes to Moulay Idriss

After a street food breakfast; take the train to Meknes for an orientation walk and lunch at the medina. Visit a local olive press in Moulay Idriss; before the evening’s hand- rolled couscous display and Moroccan meal. Day 3: Chefchaoeun Chefchaouen’s medina of blue and white houses, red- tiled roofs, and artistic doorways beckons. This evening’s home-cooked dinner gives you an insight into Moroccan cuisine. Day 4: Fes Explore the medina’s sights, sounds, and smells and taste local goat’s cheese. Travel to Fes for a visual and aromatic feast for the senses; try Moroccan specialities

like harira. Day 5: Fes

Take a walking tour of Fes el Bali: visit the medina, souk, Medersa Bou Inania, and a ceramics factory; and enjoy a ‘tasting trail’. Watch Fes’ signature pastilla pastry parcels

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

2022

-

£1,388

£1,482

£1,507

£1,452

£1,525

£1,573

£1,612

£1,554

£1,609

£1,659

£1,639

2023

-

£1,535

£1,629

£1,529

£1,599

£1,599

£1,715

£1,757

£1,575

£1,609

£1,659

£1,639

Visit your Hays Travel branch | Call 0800 412 5278 | Click haystravel.co.uk

15

ACT I VE & ADVENTURE

Awaken your inner adventurer as you embark on a trek to Everest’s Base Camp, marvel at Macchu Pichu and the Amazon, or fall in love with Italy on a cycling trip through Tuscany.

View of Mount Everest from Kala Patthar

16

Buddhist prayer flags and view of Mt Everest from Kala Patthar

Everest Base Camp

On the way to Everest Base Camp near Tengboche, Nepal

15 day tour Everest Base Camp

Day 5: Phortse Gaon (3810m) Gain an insight into sherpas’ life and culture at Phortse, which also boasts views of Amadablam. Day 6-7: Dingboche (4360m) Climb above the tree-line and trek to Dingboche where you’ll stay the night. To acclimatise, the group can take day hikes to Amadablam BC, Nagarjun Hill, or Chukkhung. Day 8: Lobuche (4990m) Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche; via flat fields, lunch by Khumbu Glacier, follow a rocky trail, and arrive early afternoon. Day 9: Gorak Shep – Everest Base Camp (5364m) Walk to the moraines of Changri Nup Glacier and over a rocky trail to the glacial sands of Gorak Shep. Grab some food and trek past lakes, caves, and the Everest Ice Fall to Base Camp; before returning to Gorak Shep. Day 10: Kala Pattar – Pheriche or Orsho Trek from Gorak Shep to Kala Kala Pattar to reveal the best views of Everest. It’s all downhill to Everest Base Camp; where you’ll eat breakfast and then set off to Pheriche via a lunch stop in Thugla. Day 11: Tengboche (3840m) Trek via the Orsho and Shomare settlements, Lower Pangboche, and Imja Khola River’s suspension bridge to Trek through beautiful forests; across the Dudh Kosi River and down to Trashinga; through Namche Bazaar and along the trail through Jorsale for a night in Monjo. Day 13: Lukla Trek to Lukla via Benkar, where you’ll bid farewell to your Sherpas. Day 14: Kathmandu Take a 45-minute morning flight from Lukla to Kathmandu and stay overnight. Enjoy your final day with the group; reliving the trek and your extraordinary achievements. Day 15: Depart No activities planned and you’re able to depart the hotel at any time. Tengboche’s Monastery. Day 12: Monjo (2860m)

Physical rating: Max group size:

● ● ● ● ●

From £1,836

With

16 people Return fights from: London Heathrow

/person

Kala Pattar Pheriche or Orsho

Fly from UK

Phakding

Phortse Gaon

Lobuche

Monjo

Kathmandu

Kathmandu

Namche Bazaar

Dingboche

Gorak Shep (Everest Base Camp)

Tengboche

Lukla

Fly to UK

Day 1: Kathmandu Join the welcome meeting at 14:00 to meet your guide and fellow travellers. Day 2: Phakding (2610m) Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla. After breakfast and a safety talk, you’ll gear up and trek along the Dudh Kosi River to Phakding. Day 3-4: Namche Bazaar (3440m) Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar and spend two days acclimatising. Hire any gear you need and join the optional walk above the Bhote Khola River Valley.

Reasons to love this ♥ Get your first glimpses of the mighty Himalayan range on your flight from Kathmandu to Lukla ♥ Witness immense rugged mountains, still alpine lakes, and glacial plains ♥ Marvel at frothy rivers and valleys covered in pink blossoms, depending on the season Your holiday includes ✓ 12 nights in teahouses

✓ English speaking local leader ✓ Team of guides and porters

✓ Tour manager, international flights and overseas accommodation & transportation Why not add + Hire or purchase various specialist equipment and clothing in Kathmandu

There’s more to love , more included and more to add . Contact us today for details.

View of Namche village

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

2022

£1,912

£1,912

£1,912

£1,836

£1,870

-

-

-

-

-

£2,099

£2,126

2023

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

Visit your Hays Travel branch | Call 0800 412 5278 | Click haystravel.co.uk

17

If you’ve never travelled as part of a tour before, then perhaps you’ve got a few questions; as learning about an entirely different way to travel can be a lot to take in at the beginning! N e w T o T o u r

The first and most important thing to remember is that there isn’t a defined tour template; and that every single tour we offer is uniquely designed to fit the destination and to appeal to distinct types of travellers. Depending on the type of trip you wish to take, you’ll be able to enjoy one of a range of different transport options. You may find yourself walking and hiking between destinations, enjoying the open road, or sailing down pristine waters. All of our trips have a designated fitness level, which helps inform you of how active they will be. If you’re looking to relax and would rather avoid long hikes in nature or walking tours through the city, then choose a tour with a lower fitness level. However, if your idea of the perfect vacation involves getting active, then be sure to check out our tours with a higher fitness level for something more your speed. And don’t worry, as things like bike helmets or any other safety equipment will be provided to you at your destination, so you won’t need to make space in your luggage for them!

18

One of the biggest draws of tour travel is the knowledge that you won’t miss out on your destination’s best sights, sounds, and experiences. Our local guides are experts and will be on-hand to lead you through the day, giving you unique insights into the local history and culture. Tour travel is structured, but that doesn’t mean that it’s completely rigid and inflexible. Our tours have optional extra experiences, and plenty of free time for you to enjoy your destination as you please. Your guide will be on-hand to offer the best possible advice for where to eat and drink or what to see, so you can make the most of your free time. Our tours have different group sizes depending on the type of experiences you’ll have; from large groups where you’ll meet lots of new people, to more intimate and smaller tours with just a handful of others. Either way, you’re sure to meet amazing and interesting people; who you can share wonderful dinners, drinks, and experiences with, and they’ll be able to help make sure you get the best holiday photos too! Tour travel is a simple way to travel, as you won’t have to worry about booking flights, accommodation, or meals, and all of your experiences will be guided by an expert. It’s also an immersive and educational experience, and a great way to get a feeling for a destination. Taking in the sights, sounds, tastes, and culture of somewhere, and creating lasting memories of your trip. i n g ?

i

The first and most important thing to remember is that there isn’t a defined tour template; and that every single tour we offer is uniquely designed to fit the destination and to appeal to distinct types of travellers.

19

View of Machu Picchu

Puerto Maldonado

12 day tour Inca Trail and Amazon Adventure

Day 8: Cusco Enjoy a free day to explore all Cusco has to offer. From grabbing a coffee from a cafe at Plaza de Armas to mountain biking in the nearby hills. Day 9 to 10: Amazon Jungle Take a flight to the Amazon Jungle’s Puerto Maldonado; where you’ll pack a small duffle bag with clothing and other items needed for two days in the jungle. Stow the rest of your luggage and travel by a motorised canoe to your eco-lodge in the Madre de Dios region. Settle in before a short orientation walk, as you get acquainted with the sights and sounds of the jungle. Day 11: Lima Leave the Amazon’s wonders and return to Puerto Maldonado for a flight back to Lima. Representatives will meet you at the airport and accompany you back to your Lima hotel. The rest of the day is free to explore Lima’s sights and maybe one last night out on the town with your group.

Physical rating: Max group size:

● ● ● ● ●

From £2,746

With

16 people Return fights from: London Heathrow

/person

Fly from UK

Cusco

Ollantaytambo

Machu Picchu

Amazon Jungle

Fly to UK

Lima

Sacred Valley

Inca Trail

Cusco

Lima

Day 1: Lima Join the welcome meeting at 14:00, and go on a walking tour of downtown Lima where you can enjoy an optional

Reasons to love this ♥ Visit Machu Picchu thanks to Inca Trail, Quarry Trail, and train options ♥ Experience the untouched, evergreen splendour of the Amazon Jungle ♥ Explore rainforest trails, looking out for monkeys, parrots, and medicinal plants ♥ Travel through the Sacred Valley, known for its steep and soaring scenery and mystical significance Your holiday includes ✓ Local English-speaking Amazon jungle guide ✓ 3 nights camping ✓ 2 nights jungle lodge ✓ 11 breakfasts, 6 lunches & 5 dinners ✓ Tour manager, international flights and overseas accommodation & transportation

dinner with your group. Day 2: Cusco (3450m)

Fly from Lima to Cusco, where you’ll meet your tour leader and fellow travellers at 14:00. A guided walking tour will reveal Cusco’s highlights. Day 3: Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo (2792m) Enjoy a two-hour private bus through the Sacred Valley. Stop for lunch and shop in a local community before exploring the archaeological sites at Ollantaytambo. Day 4 to 7: Inca Trail (3100m) or Quarry Trail (3700m) or Cusco Trek the famous Inca trail to Machu Picchu over the next four days. You’ll cross mountain passes up to 4200m above sea level, witness breathtaking mountain vistas, visit ancient archaeological sites, and enjoy nourishing meals at campsites; before entering Machu Picchu through the Sungate. For a less challenging route to Machu Picchu; there’s the Quarry Trail which has a much shorter trek and also the option to take private/public transport the whole way.

The Basilica Cathedral of Lima

Day 12: Lima There are no planned activities today, as the adventure comes to an end after breakfast.

There’s more to love , more included and more to add . Contact us today for details.

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

2022

£2,746

£2,746

£2,746

£2,821

£3,091

£2,897

£2,932

£3,182

£2,927

£3,008

£2,848

£3,090

2023

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

20

Visit your Hays Travel branch | Call 0800 412 5278 | Click haystravel.co.uk