LUXURY RAIL JOURNEYS
®
2021-2022
Escape the ordinary and take the luxury route with Railbookers
If you’re looking to indulge in a holiday of a lifetime then look no further than our range of luxury rail experiences. These are journeys that will live long in the memory travelling through spectacular landscapes to iconic destinations all while enjoying world class cuisine, impeccable service and optimum comfort onboard. With the option to customise your holiday in any number of ways, these holidays are yours and yours alone. Handcrafted just for you by our team of rail experts.
It’s time to start planning your incredible journey. It’s time to experience luxury with Railbookers.
2 I To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent
Contents Top 8 Luxury Rail Journeys
4-5
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express 6-7
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express to Venice
8-9
Venice Simplon-Orient- Express, Lake Garda & Lake Como
10-11
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express from Venice with the Bernina Express and Glacier Express
12-13
Rome and Florence to Paris on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
14-15
Glacier Express -
Excellence Class
16-17
Grand Glacier Express- Excellence Class 18-19 The Blue Train
20-21
Deluxe South Africa with the Blue Train 22-23 The Maharajas Express
The Maharajas Express Treasures of India
24-25 26-27
Belmond Royal Scotsman
28-29
Royal Scotsman Scotland’s Classic Splendours with Edinburgh and the Jacobite Steam Train
30-31
Royal Scotsman Western Scenic Wonders with Edinburgh and the Highlands 32-33 The Golden Eagle
Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Moscow to Vladivostok
34-35 36-37
Golden Eagle Danube Express Balkan Explorer from Rome to Istanbul 38-39 Rocky Mountaineer
40-41
Trans-Canada and Rockies Adventure with Rocky Mountaineer
42-43
Canadian Rockies with Rocky Mountaineer from Vancouver
44-45
Grand Circle of the Canadian Rockies
46-47
Eastern and Oriental Express 48-49
Eastern and Oriental Express from Bangkok to Singapore
50-51
Eastern and Oriental Express from Singapore to Bangkok
52-53
Terms and Conditions
54-55
To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent I 3
Top 8 Luxury Rail Journeys
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
4 I To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent
LUXURY RAIL EXPERIENCES WITH RAILBOOKERS Indulge in some of the Worlds most luxurious rail journeys with the added freedom and flexibility to make it personal. It’s your holiday, we help you have it your way.
1
2
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
3
Glacier Express Excellence Class
1. Venice SimplonOrient-Express
2. Glacier Express Excellence Class
The very definition of an iconic and luxury train journey, the Venice SimplonOrient-Express transports you back to the golden age of travel in grand style, with opulent interiors, fine dining and personalised service.
Take an unforgettable panoramic journey onboard the legendary Glacier Express in Excellence Class. A train journey through the Swiss Alps has truly never been more luxurious.
5
6 Royal Scotsman
5. Belmond Royal Scotsman Experience the heart of the Highlands on a journey aboard the Belmond Royal Scotsman, where you travel through landscapes of pine-clad mountains, reflected in mirror-still lochs. Life on board is relaxed yet indulgent.
4 The Blue Train
3. The Blue Train Travel aboard South Africa’s Blue Train on a luxurious, breath-taking journey between Cape Town and Pretoria. Experience the beautiful countryside and take in panoramic vistas while relaxing in five-star accommodations.
7 Golden Eagle
The Maharajas Express
4. The Maharajas Express The Maharajas Express is not just a train, it’s a luxury palace on wheels which has redefined the luxury travel experience; a wonderful way to explore fabled destinations and the cultural heritage of incredible India.
8 Rocky Mountaineer
6. The Golden Eagle
7. Rocky Mountaineer
From private, elegant ensuite accommodations to fine dining and personalised, First-class service in luxurious comfort. No detail is spared on one of the world’s greatest train journeys.
Synonymous with true luxury, breath-taking adventures, delicious food, inspiring landscapes and unparalleled service - Canada’s Rocky Mountains await, aboard the famed navy blue and gold carriages of the Rocky Mountaineer.
Eastern and Oriental Express
8. Eastern and Oriental Express Experience relaxed sophistication onboard as you travel between vibrant cities, quaint villages and ancient monuments. Be pampered onboard with luxurious accommodation and 5-star cuisine with fascinating cultural tours along the way.
To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent I 5
Venice SimplonOrient-Express
6 I To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent
Venice SimplonOrient-Express Arguably the most famous train in the world, and dating back to 1883, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is everything you want in a luxury rail journey. Experience pure comfort, opulent interiors, fine dining and convivial company along the tracks as you experience a forgotten age of travel in the modern world. Your Journey
Step onto the luxury carriages and you are instantly transported to the 1920s and the Art Nouveau period. With Lalique glass panels, and fine wood marquetry, you are surrounded by style and comfort as you travel through magnificent scenery and ever-changing landscapes.
Your Cabin
Throughout your journey your every need will be taken care of by your personal steward and you’ll be escorted to your private cabin upon boarding. Plush sofas provide the perfect spot to watch the scenery unfold and whilst you dine, your steward will transform your cabin ready for a relaxing and comfortable sleep. Looking to travel in ultimate style? Upgrade to a Grand Suite for pure indulgence and grandeur.
Your Culinary Experience
The First class standard of travel is certainly matched with First class food throughout your journey. You’ll be treated to the finest classic French cuisine with local, seasonal produce the star of the dining show all while enjoying the unique surroundings of the luxurious dining cars, each celebrating a different style. Ask your steward to reserve your seats in a different dining car for lunch and dinner for the full culinary experience onboard.
To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent I 7
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Grand Suite
Venice
8 I To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent
Venice Simplon-OrientExpress to Venice
5 days from
£3,199 per person
London ➞ Venice
HOLIDAY INCLUDES:
•O ne night aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express in a private Twin Cabin •D edicated steward service, welcome glass of sparkling wine, three-course lunch, afternoon tea, four-course dinner and Continental breakfast on board •3 -night hotel stay with breakfast in Venice •W alking Tour and Gondola Tour in Venice •P rivate transfer from hotel to airport in Venice •F light from Venice to UK (train return option available)
LUXURY TIP Celebrating a special occasion you missed last year? Why not make the journey truly spectacular and upgrade to a Grand Suite onboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express? Sina Centurion Hotel
DAY 1 - VENICE SIMPLON-ORIENTEXPRESS TO VENICE As you board the British Pullman at London Victoria station, your steward will show you to your reserved seat. Sit back and enjoy lunch as you travel throughout the Kentish countryside. After crossing the Channel, board the blue and gold carriages of the Continental Wagons-Lits. Throughout your journey on the Venice SimplonOrient-Express you will be attended by your own personal steward. After you have settled into your private compartment, you will be served a fourcourse dinner. When you are ready, retire to your compartment, which has now been transformed into a bedroom. (Overnight on the VeniceSimplon-Orient-Express) Usual departure time from London Victoria: 10:45am
DAY 2 - VENICE Breakfast is served on the Venice-SimplonOrient-Express in the comfort of your compartment as you travel through the Swiss Alps. Spend the morning in the Bar Car chatting to fellow guests over coffee. Lunch will be served in one of the restaurant cars. Relax in your compartment and admire the passing scenery as the Orient Express train travels through the Italian Dolomites. Afternoon tea is served in your compartment as you travel through the Brenner Pass. Finally prepare to disembark as the Orient Express train crosses the Venetian Lagoon and
pulls into Venice Santa Lucia station, where a shared taxi transfer service will take you to your hotel. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel for a three-night stay. Usual arrival time in Venice Santa Lucia: 6:00pm
DAY 3 - VENICE Start today with a short walking tour with a local guide for some stories of the city’s labyrinthine streets and campos (squares), then enjoy a gondola ride down the Grand Canal. A visit to Venice is not complete without a ride on a Gondola, a mode of transport that has been in existence in Venice for over 1000 years! Soak up the vibrant atmosphere in St. Mark’s Square, while marvelling at the beautiful mosaics that adorn the Basilica and maybe visit the Doge’s Palace, with its origins dating back to the 14th century. It is advisable to take a tour of this important Venetian landmark to fully understand its extensive history.
DAY 4 - VENICE After breakfast this morning, spend another day exploring the canal-side sanctuary of Venice at your own pace. Why not take a water taxi to the Lido and soak up the sunshine on the pristine, sandy beach? Alternatively, indulge your inner culture vulture and head to the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, boasting a large collection of modern art. For tasty treats and souvenirs to take back home, perhaps search for local specialities at the Rialto Markets.
DAY 5 - VENICE TO UK After breakfast, enjoy the beautiful journey via private boat transfer to the airport and check in for your flight back to the UK. Prefer the train to flying? Speak to one of our Travel Consultants for details on taking the train for your return to London instead.
To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent I 9
Lake Como
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Bar
10 I To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent
Venice Simplon-OrientExpress, Lake Garda & Lake Como
9 days from
£4,339 per person
London ➞ Venice ➞ Sirmione ➞ Como ➞ Milan HOLIDAY INCLUDES:
•O ne night aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express in a private Twin Cabin •D edicated steward service, welcome glass of sparkling wine, three-course lunch, afternoon tea, four-course dinner and Continental breakfast on board •2 -night hotel stay with breakfast in Venice •W alking Tour and Gondola Tour in Venice •2 -night hotel stay with breakfast in Sirmione Lake Garda •2 -night hotel stay with breakfast in Como Lake Como •1 -night hotel stay with breakfast in Milan •F light Milan to UK
LUXURY TIP Looking to enjoy your holiday with a little more privacy? Speak to one of our Rail Experts to make your tours and excursions just for you and those you are travelling with. Sirmione
DAY 1 - LONDON TO VENICE Your journey begins at London’s Victoria Station, where you will board the delightful carriages of the Belmond British Pullman and begin your journey to Italy! Savour an expertly prepared lunch as you roll through verdant English countryside, briefly boarding a luxury coach to travel through the Channel Tunnel to Calais. Here, you will be greeted by the Continental Wagons-Lits of the world-famous Venice Simplon-Orient-Express train, a timeless icon in the world of rail travel and one of the most luxurious journeys imaginable. Settle into your private compartment and dress for dinner, a formal affair featuring exquisite fine dining. Spend the rest of the evening relaxing in the Champagne car before retiring to your cabin, which will have been transformed into comfortable sleeping accommodation. (Overnight onboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express)
DAY 2 - VENICE Breakfast served in your cabin at a time of your choice. A three-course lunch is served in one of the beautiful restaurant cars. Then while away the afternoon enjoying the scenery. Later a selection of pastries will be served in your cabin.
Then all too soon prepare to disembark as the train crosses the Venetian Lagoon and pulls into Santa Lucia.
DAY 3 - VENICE No visit to Venice would be complete without a gondola ride along the labyrinth of narrow canals. Enjoy your included ride and discover the secrets of the city as you pass beneath bridges and experience palazzos and popular sites. Later, use your skip-the-line admission to Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica.
DAY 4 - VENICE TO LAKE GARDA Catch a Trenitalia train directly to Lake Garda. Make your way to your hotel in Sirmione a picturesque town on the south shore of the lake.
DAY 5 - LAKE GARDA A day of leisure visit to roam the small streets of Sirmione with lots of shops, cafes and restaurants or take a boat ride on Lake Garda
DAY 6 - LAKE GARDA TO LAKE COMO Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before departing on your train to Lake Como via Milan. After making your way to your chosen hotel your evening is free to explore.
DAY 7 - LAKE COMO One of the deepest lakes in Europe and the third largest in Italy, Lake Como is a stunning destination famed for its luxury villas, sparkling waters and pure tranquility away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The town of Como itself is over 400 years old with many ancient churches and historic monuments as well as beautiful gardens, and of course tasty antipasti.
DAY 8 - LAKE COMO TO MILAN After breakfast depart Lake Como for your direct train to Milan your afternoon is free to make use of the Milan City hop on hop off tours.
DAY 9 - MILAN After breakfast make your way to the airport for your flight back to the UK where your tour concludes.
To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent I 11
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Bar
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
12 I To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent
Excellence Class, Glacier Express
Venice Simplon-OrientExpress from Venice with the Bernina Express and Glacier Express
9 days from
£4,999 per person
London ➞ Zermatt ➞ St Moritz ➞ Venice ➞ London HOLIDAY INCLUDES:
•O ne night aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express in a private Twin Cabin •S eat reservations on the Glacier and Bernina Express •7 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast •D ay trip on the Gornergrat cog railway •S mall group tour of the Doges Palace and Golden Basilica and walking tour in Venice • UK to Zurich airfare
LUXURY TIP Travelling on the Glacier Express is truly unforgettable but enjoy the journey in true style by opting for Excellence Class onboard. You won’t regret it! Swiss Alps Riffelalp
DAY 1 - LONDON TO ZERMATT
DAY 4 - ST MORITZ
DAY 7 - VENICE
Flight to Zurich and from the airport take a train to Zermatt via Visp, then head to your hotel for a two-night stay.
From May - October your included Engadin card can be used for the funicular and cable-car ride to the vantage point of Piz Nair and some spectacular views across the Engadin valley. If you would prefer something a little more relaxed, take a scenic stroll around the lake and enjoy the fresh alpine air.
Spend a day at leisure in Venice today and explore at your own pace. Speak to any of our Travel Consultants should you like a trip out to the islands of Murano and Burano, or perhaps take a ride out to the Lido to relax on the beach.
DAY 2 - GORNERGRAT DAY TRIP At a time of your choosing take a ride up to 3090m above sea level on the historic Gornergrat cog railway. As the train climbs over bridges and through a fragrant forest of fir trees passengers are awarded a spectacular view of the iconic Matterhorn mountain. At the top, there are some gentle walking trails where you might catch a glimpse of a wild Chamois or Marmot, and when you are ready take the train back down the mountain and enjoy dinner in one of Zermatt’s great local restaurants.
DAY 3 - THE GLACIER EXPRESS After breakfast at your hotel make your way to the station for a journey aboard the slowest express train in the world. The Glacier Express takes you over 291 bridges and through 91 tunnels. The views from the panoramic windows you pass mountain peaks, deep gorges and idyllic mountain villages are often breath-taking. The eight hours onboard will fly by before you pull into Zermatt for a two-night stay.
DAY 5 - THE BERNINA EXPRESS Climb aboard the famous Bernina Express train from St. Moritz through the Swiss Alps as it makes its way to Tirano. From Tirano, catch a local train to Milan then a high-speed train to magical Venice. Along the way, you will experience why this journey is loved by so many travellers.
DAY 6 - VENICE Discover the rich history of Venice this morning with a skip the line tour of the Doges Palace and beautiful Golden Basilica. In the afternoon perhaps watch the world go by on St Mark’s Square or treat yourself to a drink in Harry’s Bar the home of the Bellini.
DAY 8 - VENICE SIMPLON-ORIENTEXPRESS Take your included transfer from your hotel in Venice to the train station and board the luxurious Venice Simplon-Orient-Express for your overnight journey to London! Enjoy a delicious lunch and a welcome cocktail as the train passes through beautiful landscapes. Have your afternoon tea before being shown to your private compartment and in the evening, you will be served a wonderful four-course dinner. Retire to your cabin, now transformed into a cosy bedroom, for a good night’s rest. (Overnight on board the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express)
DAY 9 - YOUR HOLIDAY ENDS IN LONDON Wake up to breakfast served in your cabin, then spend the remainder of your time relaxing onboard this historic train and watch the French countryside pass by. Enjoy a fine afternoon tea service on the British Pullman train before pulling into London Victoria and the end of your journey.
To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent I 13
Grand Suite - Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
Rome
14 I To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent
Rome and Florence to Paris on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
8 days from
£3,399 per person
Rome ➞ Florence ➞ Paris HOLIDAY INCLUDES:
Florence St Michele
•R ail travel as per the itinerary •2 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast in Rome •2 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast in Florence •2 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast in Paris •1 night in a twin cabin onboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express from Florence to Paris •S mall group skip the line tour of the Colosseum and Roman Forum in Rome •S mall group city tour in Florence including the Accademia gallery and Florence Duomo •S mall group afternoon skip the line tour of the Uffizi Gallery •3 -day Paris sightseeing pass •S eine River cruise •P rivate transfer from airport to hotel in Rome •P rivate transfer from station to hotel in Paris •U K to Rome airfare
DAY 1 - ROME
DAY 4 - FLORENCE
DAY 7 - PARIS
Welcome to Rome! Following your flight, you will be met on arrival and transferred to your hotel to check-in for a 2-night stay. That evening head out to get your bearings. Rome is very walkable, and the Trevi Fountain really is best viewed at night, as is the ancient Pantheon. Piazza Navona is a beautiful setting for dinner.
A full day of sightseeing lies ahead today with a small group morning tour led by a local is a brilliant way to learn the vast history of this ancient city. You will visit the Accademia Gallery to see first had Michelangelo’s David, then on to visit Florence’s beautiful Cathedral. Relax for lunch in one of the cities many fine restaurants, then in the afternoon make your way to the Uffizi gallery for a90min tour. Speak to any of our Travel Consultants if you might prefer a private tour perhaps.
A great day of sightseeing lies ahead today with a plethora of famous museums and sights to visit and see. Make use of the travel card included to cross the city by metro or take the scenic route via a Hop-on Hop-off tour and enjoy the stories behind the famous streets and boulevards of Paris. If you would rather get out of the city, take the metro out to Versailles to visit the breathtaking Palace and its vast gardens. Speak to any of our knowledgeable Travel Consultants if you might prefer a private guide, a visit to the Eiffel Tower or a trip out to Giverny’s Gardens perhaps.
DAY 2 - ROME Enjoy a leisurely morning today, perhaps with a stroll up the Spanish Steps then around the beautiful Borghese Gardens. In the afternoon join a very small group and skip the line into the unmistakable Colosseum and tread in the footsteps of Gladiators, then learn all there is to know about the fantastic Roman Forum - the centre of the Roman Empire! Let us know if you would like to visit the unbelievable Vatican Museum, Sistine Chapel and St Peter’s Basilica early morning is best to avoid the crowds.
DAY 3 - FLORENCE Following breakfast make your way to the station for your high-speed train to Florence. In just over 1.5hrs you will be pulling to the train station, and from here make your way to the hotel for a 2-night stay.Florence is surprisingly compact and a stroll along the banks of the Arno to the gorgeous Ponte Vecchio is a lovely way to work up an appetite for dinner.
DAY 5 - FLORENCE AND THE VENICE SIMPLON-ORIENT-EXPRESS Enjoy breakfast at your hotel then some more sightseeing before being making your way to the station for a departure to remember! Once onboard and settled into your cabin you will be shown the way one of the opulent restaurant cars for a spectacular 4-course dinner, then perhaps a night cap in the bar before bed. (Overnight onboard)
DAY 8 - END OF TOUR Following breakfast and if time allows enjoy some last-minute sightseeing and souvenir shopping before making your to Gare du Nord for your journey back to the UK.
DAY 6 - THE VENICE SIMPLON ORIENTEXPRESS TO PARIS The train pulls into Paris in late morning, and here you bid farewell to your cabin and are driven to your hotel for a 2-night stay. Once refreshed head out to enjoy the city and make use of your great sightseeing pass. An evening cruise along the river is a lovely way to spend your first night in the city of light!
To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent I 15
Glacier Express Excellence Class
16 I To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent
Glacier Express Excellence Class A panoramic trip through the Swiss Alps aboard the Glacier Express is now even more spectacular. The new Excellence Class sets standards that are as high as the mountain peaks along the legendary route. Your Journey
One of Switzerland’s most scenic rail journeys, the Glacier Express’ reputation no doubt precedes it. Connecting Zermatt, nestled peacefully in the shadow of the Matterhorn, and resort-town-extraordinaire St Moritz, the train rolls at a remarkable 24 miles per hour, giving you ample time to soak up the views from the panoramic windows.
Your Onboard Experience
Excellence class really is an exclusive way to travel with one carriage of just 20 seats, all of which are tables for two next to a window. As well as the service of a concierge, you’ll enjoy a private cocktail bar and complimentary five-course lunch with accompanying wine as you glide through the majestic Swiss Alps.
To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent I 17
Excellence Class
Gornegrat View
18 I To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent
Excellence Class
Grand Glacier ExpressExcellence Class
6 days from
£2,699 per person
London ➞ Zurich ➞ Zermatt ➞ St Moritz ➞ London
HOLIDAY INCLUDES:
•R ail travel as per itinerary in First Class •1 night hotel accommodation with breakfast in Zurich •2 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast in Zermatt •2 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast in St. Moritz •D ay trip to Gornergrat •E ngadin Card in St Moritz •S eat reservations in Excellence Class on the Glacier Express between Zermatt and St. Moritz •F lights from the UK to Zurich and return
LUXURY TIP Extend your say and add in additional destinations in Switzerland or travel down into Italy St Moritz
DAY 1 - UK TO ZURICH Welcome to Zurich, Switzerland’s most cosmopolitan and elegant city, situated on the banks of the River Limmat. After checking into your hotel, spend the evening by the lake in the old town district of Niederdorf, famous for its bars, restaurants, lounges and boutique shops.
DAY 2 - ZURICH TO ZERMATT Catch a train from Zurich to Visp then change onto the mountain train in Visp direct to Zermatt. The entire trip to Zermatt is very scenic, passing by vineyards, lakes and mountains.
DAY 3 - GORNERGRAT DAY TRIP Take the Gornergrat Cog Railway, which climbs more than 10,000 feet in just 33 minutes! From the top, enjoy expansive panoramic views of the landscapes below, including Matterhorn and glaciers. Back in town, explore on your own.
DAY 4 - GLACIER EXPRESS: EXCELLENCE CLASS Prepare for one of the most luxurious train journeys in Switzerland, if not the world. Being a passenger onboard the Glacier Express has always been a very special experience but traveling in Excellence Class is something a little more extraordinary. In addition to being absolutely pampered throughout the full length of the Glacier Express Line with breath-taking, panoramic views from your guaranteed window seat, in Excellence Class you’ll also enjoy a personal concierge, luggage service, comfortable seating, in-depth knowledge of the route, a fivecourse menu including accompanying wines, and the Glacier Bar for an aperitif. A train journey through the Swiss Alps has truly never been more luxurious. Now you can sit back and delight in traveling across 291 bridges and through 91 tunnels en route to St Mortiz. On check-in at your hotel if staying between May and Oct collect your Engadin Card from the front desk for free use of the local cable-cars and mountain railways throughout your stay.
DAY 5 - ST. MORITZ Make use of your Engadin card today with a ride on the local funicular and cable-car to Piz Nair (May-Oct only). This mountain peak rewards all visitors with some spectacular views of Graubünden and beyond. If you’d rather simply relax and enjoy the town, spend some time strolling around the gorgeous lake or dining in one of the many restaurants or grabbing high tea in the lobby at Badrutt’s Palace Hotel, visit the Kulm Country Club and Segantini Museum, shop along Via Serlas, or try your luck at the St Mortiz Casino.
DAY 6 - YOUR HOLIDAY ENDS IN ST. MORITZ Check out of your hotel and travel from St. Moritz to Chur, then Chur to Zurich airport for your flight back to the UK.
To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent I 19
The Blue Train
20 I To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent
The Blue Train The Blue Train offers far more than just a journey. It is an all-inclusive experience offering a combination of unsurpassed luxury travel, five star-accommodation, fine cuisine, personalised butler service and routes that offer breath-taking views of the glorious South African countryside. Your Journey
The route between Pretoria and Cape Town is a 31-hour journey of 1 600 kilometres (994 miles), through some of the most diverse and spectacular scenery offered by the African sub-continent. Onboard, relax in the comfort of the Club Car Lounge and Lounge Car.
Your Suite
Onboard The Blue Train your De Luxe Suite or Luxury Suite awaits. Both are like a luxury hotel on wheels offering a lounge area by day converted into a comfortable bedroom by night. The Luxury Suites are larger and are the premier suites of The Blue Train - the way to travel if you’re looking for the ultimate in comfort and indulgence.
Your Dining Experience
The Blue Train prides itself on the fine cuisine it offers its guests with meals that are accompanied by a wide selection of award-winning South African wines sourced only from some of the finest boutique vineyards.
To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent I 21
The Blue Train
Sabi Sands Game Reserve
22 I To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent
Deluxe South Africa with the Blue Train
8 days from
£6,199
Johannesburg ➞ Sabi Sands Game Reserve ➞ Cape Town
per person
HOLIDAY INCLUDES:
The Blue Train
DAY 1 - JOHANNESBURG - SABI SAND PRIVATE GAME RESERVE Take a flight to Arathusa Safari Lodge. Check-in to your Bush Facing Suite with private plunge pool within the Sabi Sand Reserve and adjacent to the unfenced Kruger National Park. Enjoy afternoon tea and coffee followed by your first safari game drive in search for Africa’s Big Five.
DAY 2 - SABI SAND PRIVATE GAME RESERVE Enjoy your safari experience at the lodge with morning and afternoon game drives on offer.
DAY 3 - JOHANNESBURG This morning enjoy your final safari game drive followed by breakfast and check-out for your flight to Johannesburg. Upon arrive check in to the Fairlawns Boutique Hotel.
DAY 4 - THE BLUE TRAIN This morning meet with your local guide for a private, guided tour of Soweto. Next, transfer to Pretoria Station and check-in at the Blue Train Lounge ready to depart on the luxury Blue Train from Pretoria to Cape Town. Once onboard afternoon tea is served. Then you have time to change for dinner which is followed by post dinner drinks cognacs and Cuban cigars.
DAY 5 - THE BLUE TRAIN After breakfast there is an off-train excursion to Kimberley Open Mine Museum before returning to the train for aperitifs and lunch. Then you have time to admire the great views before afternoon tea and dinner
•2 safari game drives and guided bush walk •3 days onboard The Blue Train •P rivate guided Soweto Tour with entrance fees for Nelson Mandela’s House and Hector Pieterson Museum •H alf day city orientation tour with visit to Bo Kaap and Table Mountain, includes Table Mountain Return ticket •F ull day Cape Peninsula Tour with entrance fees for Boulders Beach and Cape Point National Park •H alf day Cape Winelands tour with visit to Franschhoek and Stellenbosch and 2 wine tastings at two different wine estates. •M eet & Greet assistance off aircraft for immigration and customs at OR Tambo International Airport •A irport Transfers •T ransfers to stations as listed •T wo nights accommodation in Arathusa Safari Lodge in a Bush Facing Suite with private plunge pool on a fully inclusive basis: Accommodation, meals, selected beverages •O ne night’s accommodation at Fairlawns Boutique Hotel and Spa Johannesburg inclusive of a 3-course dinner and breakfast •T wo nights accommodation Dock House Boutique Hotel Cape Town
DAY 6 - CAPE TOWN Arrive at Cape Town Station and enjoy a private, guided city tour of Cape Town. The tour will include a walk through the beautiful Bo-Kaap and a visit to Table Mountain.
DAY 7 - CAPE TOWN Today enjoy a private, guided awe-inspiring tour to the towering headland known as Cape Point. Travel along the Atlantic Seaboard, stopping at a Llandudno look-out point before continuing to the quaint Hout Bay and on to Cape Point, the meeting point of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. Next it’s on to historic Simon’s Town, a village with charming Victorian architecture, with its’ large penguin colony at the beautiful Boulders Beach.
LUXURY TIP If you’d like us to take care of booking your flights to Johannesburg and from Cape Town, just ask one of our team of experts to add these into your trip with us.
DAY 8 - CAPE TOWN Enjoy a visit to Franschhoek and Stellenbosch before being taken to the airport for your flight home.
To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent I 23
The Maharajas Express
24 I To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent
The Maharaja Express Winning many luxury train awards, The Maharaja Express is the ideal way to see India in complete luxury. Experience regal elegance, whilst traversing this beautiful country. Your Onboard Experience
The dining car is where amazing world class cuisines are served with silver service surrounded by the elegant décor of the train. The chefs at Maharajas’ Express will be more than delighted to treat you with range of Indian and international cuisine whilst The Safari Bar awaits for your relaxation.
Your Cabin
The Maharaja Express is all about a highly professional butler Service, spacious cabins, King Size jewel studded comfortable beds with attached bathrooms. The high ratio of staff to guests onboard ensures attentive service throughout. Choose from a Deluxe Cabin with twin or double bed and to make your stay lavish and relaxed, amenities such as bathrobe, slippers, hairdryer and a range of luxury toiletries made of essential oils are provided Alternatively opt for a Junior Suite with the added feature of large panoramic windows, so that you can savour every bit of magnificent India on your journey.
To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent I 25
The Maharajas Express
The Taj Mahal
26 I To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent
The Taj Palace Hotel
The Maharajas Express - Treasures of India
7 days from
£5,299 per person
Delhi ➞ Agra ➞ Ranthambore ➞ Jaipur ➞ Delhi
HOLIDAY INCLUDES:
•P rivate Tour of Delhi •V isit to the Taj Mahal •A fternoon spa or local Agra city tour •V isit to Agra Fort •R anthambore National Park safari •D inner at the Rambagh Palace Hotel •3 nights hotel stay with breakfast in Delhi •3 nights aboard the famous Maharajas’ Express •T ransfers as per the itinerary
LUXURY TIP Ask one of our Rail Experts to upgrade your onboard experience to a Junior Suite - the perfect way to indulge on this trip of a lifetime. The Maharajas Express
DAY 1 - DELHI Arrive at Delhi International Airport and your representative will meet you in the arrival area. Depart for your hotel in a private transfer where you will check in for your stay. India’s capital and a major gateway to the country, contemporary Delhi is a bustling metropolis, which successfully combines in its folds - the ancient with the modern
DAY 2 - DELHI After breakfast, proceed for the full day city tour of Old & New Delhi including a visit to the 17th century Jama Masjid and enjoy a rickshaw ride through the narrow, winding lanes of colourful and bustling Chandni Chowk. Also stop in front of the Mughal Empire’s most opulent fort, the Red Fort for a photo stop. In the afternoon you proceed to New Delhi where you will be taken for the Drive past of The Presidential Palace, the one-time imperial residence of the British viceroys. Also visit the 16th century Humayun’s tomb, a precursor to the Taj Mahal. Later, proceed for a city tour including visits to Prince of Wales Museum and Mani Bhawan (Gandhi’s Bombay home)
DAY 3 - JOIN MAHARAJAS EXPRESS DELHI TO AGRA Today after breakfast, your representative will meet you in the lobby area of the hotel. They will be assisting you and will transfer you to Safdarjung railway station where you will Board, The Maharajas’ Express - Treasures of India.
Enjoy brunch on board as you arrive into Agra. As you reach the ‘City of Mughal Splendour’, visit the world famous Taj Mahal (one of the Seven Wonders of the World), this incomparable marvel is constructed entirely out of white marble and is an architectural masterpiece with beautiful inlay work and marble screens.
DAY 4 - MAHARAJAS EXPRESS AGRA TO RANTHAMBORE Early this morning, disembark to visit the exquisite Agra Fort. Later, enjoy a relaxed breakfast on board as you travel to your next destination Ranthambore. Lunch shall be served onboard. Arrive into Ranthambore and proceed for an exciting game drive in the Ranthambore National Park. Originally the private hunting ground of the Maharajas of Jaipur, Ranthambore was declared a National Park in 1973. The Park is famous for its open sightings of tigers, sambar, chital, nilgai, chinkara, wild boar, sloth bear, hyena, jackal and leopard.
DAY 6 - DELHI This is where your journey on the Maharajas Express ends. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast on board before arriving into to Delhi, where you will be transferred to you hotel for your final nights stay. Spend the rest of the day and evening at your leisure.
DAY 7 - DEPART DELHI Today after breakfast your tour concludes, you will be assisted & transferred in a private car to Delhi International airport for your flight home.
DAY 5 - MAHARAJAS EXPRESS - JAIPUR Following disembarkation and a grand traditional welcome, begin your exciting tour of the pink city with a visit to The Amber Fort. The Amber Fort, set in picturesque and rugged hills is a fascinating blend of Hindu and Mughal architecture. That evening proceed for an exclusive dinner at the Rambagh Palace Hotel, residence of the Maharaja of Jaipur from 1925 to 1957.
To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent I 27
Belmond Royal Scotsman
28 I To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent
Belmond Royal Scotsman From the moment you board, relax into comfort, luxury and the timeless Scottish landscapes as you travel. Be sure to visit the Observation Car for the best vantage point of the Highlands and Glens of this truly magical scenery. With impeccable service and elegant accommodation, visiting Scotland has never been so luxurious. Your Cabin
Lined with rich marquetry, each cabin features plush beds fitted with soft Scottish wools and tartans. An elegant dressing table and en-suite add to the indulgence. Let your mind wander as you gaze through the generous picture window—they’re made for daydreaming.
Your Culinary Experience
Dining on board the Belmond Royal Scotsman is one of the world’s most unique dining experiences, celebrating local Scottish produce, accompanied perfectly with a selection of fine wines, liqueurs and malt whiskies. Meals are served in dining cars with mahogany panels, whilst the train travels through awe-inspiring valleys and peaks.
Your Excursions
All holidays on the Royal Scotsman come with a wide range of fantastic excursions as part of your trip. Whether that’s the historic castles and battlefields, distillery visits or the natural beauty of the Highlands, it’s a once in a lifetime way to experience the very best of Scotland.
To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent I 29
Belmond Royal Scotsman Cabin
The Jacobite
30 I To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent
Royal Scotsman Scotland’s Classic Splendours with Edinburgh and the Jacobite Steam Train
9 days from
£6,649 per person
Edinburgh ➞ Royal Scotsman ➞ Fort William HOLIDAY INCLUDES:
•R ail Travel as per the itinerary •T win Cabin onboard the Belmond Royal Scotsman Taste of the Highlands journey •A seal-watching boat trip •A trip to Ballindalloch Castle •A visit to Rothiemurchus Estate with a choice of country pursuits •A guided tour of Glamis Castle and gardens •A return journey onboard the Jacobite Steam Train from Fort William to Mallaig •2 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast in Edinburgh and in Fort William/Glencoe •G uided walking tour of Edinburgh and Skip the line entrance to Edinburgh Castle.
Belmond Royal Scotsman Lounge
DAY 1 - EDINBURGH Welcome to Edinburgh! Make your way to your hotel for a 2-night stay.
DAY 2 - EDINBURGH Enjoy exploring this beautiful city today. Perhaps a morning stroll to Arthurs Seat for an amazing view across the city, but in the afternoon learn the secrets of the city’s’ ancient centre with a guided walk, then make your way to Edinburgh Castle for a journey through Edinburgh’s vast history.
DAY 3 - OVERNIGHT ONBOARD THE BELMOND ROYAL SCOTSMAN Today board the luxurious and iconic Belmond Royal Scotsman for a four-night journey to remember. Travelling north, you will cross the Forth Railway Bridge and enjoy afternoon tea and lunch as the train passes through Arbroath, Montrose, and Aberdeen before arriving in Keith. This evening, an informal dinner will be served in the Observation Car with accompanying entertainment.
DAY 4 - OVERNIGHT ONBOARD THE BELMOND ROYAL SCOTSMAN
DAY 6 - OVERNIGHT ONBOARD THE BELMOND ROYAL SCOTSMAN
This morning, the train departs Keith and travels toward Inverness. Around lunchtime you will approach Kyle of Lochalsh (Arguably the most scenic route in the UK) and you will disembark the train in the picturesque village of Plockton. You can choose from a seal watching boat excursion or a visit to the crowd-pleasing Eilean Donan Castle. Back onboard, enjoy a formal dinner followed by coffee or cocktails in the Observation Car. Spend the night on the train in Kyle of Lochalsh.
Visit the Rothiemurchus Estate in Cairngorms National Park with your choice of either fishing, clay pigeon shooting, or touring the estate. Enjoy lunch on the train as it travels south to Dunkeld, where you’ll disembark and visit the Glamis Castle and gardens. A formal dinner is served on the train as you enjoy onboard entertainment. Spend the night on the train in Dundee.
DAY 5 - OVERNIGHT ONBOARD THE BELMOND ROYAL SCOTSMAN The train departs Kyle of Lochalsh this morning and relax as the train travels through beautiful landscapes. You will disembark in Garve to visit and tour the Glen Ord Distillery (founded in 1838) as well enjoy a private tasting and nosing session. Back on the train, you will venture south to Carrbridge where you will get to explore Ballindalloch Castle on Speyside. Optional excursions include a private castle tour, a nine-hole round of gold on the castle’s course, or an exclusive visit to Scotland’s only single estate distillery. Following an informal dinner onboard the train, a Highlander will share stories and culture with guests. Spend the night on the train at Boat of Garten on the private Strathspey Railway.
DAY 7 - EDINBURGH TO FORT WILLIAM In the morning bid farewell to your fellow travels and take the train west to Fort William via a change in Glasgow. You will be met on your arrival and transferred to your hotel for a 2-night stay.
DAY 8 - JACOBITE STEAM TRAIN Today enjoy what some say is the most beautiful rail line in all Great Britain. The Jacobite winds its way through breath-taking Scottish scenery. You will pass lochs and mountains, across the impressive Glenfinnan Viaduct and on until reaching Mallaig. Explore this charming coastal community before returning to Fort William.
DAY 9 - END OF TOUR The package includes the travel back to Edinburgh but how about an exciting overnight journey on the Caledonian Sleeper train perhaps?
To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent I 31
Belmond Royal Scotsman Double Cabin
Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh - The Caledonian
32 I To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent
Royal Scotsman Western Scenic Wonders with Edinburgh and the Highlands
8 days from
£5,149 per person
Edinburgh ➞ Royal Scotsman ➞ Inverness HOLIDAY INCLUDES:
•R ail Travel as per the itinerary, •T win Cabin onboard the Belmond Royal Scotsman Taste of the Highlands journey •A n excursion to Morar Sands •A choice between a visit to Glenfinnan Monument or a walk to Steall Waterfall •A guided tour of Mount Stuart on the isle of Bute •2 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast in Edinburgh and Inverness •G uided walking tour of Edinburgh and Skip the line entrance to Edinburgh Castle. •S mall group tour to Isle of Skye and Eilean Donan Castle
Glen Affric
DAY 1 - EDINBURGH Welcome to Edinburgh! Make your way to your hotel for a 2-night stay.
DAY 2 - EDINBURGH Enjoy exploring this beautiful city today. Perhaps a morning stroll to Arthurs Seat for an amazing view across the city, but in the afternoon learn the secrets of the city’s’ ancient centre with a guided walk, then make your way to Edinburgh Castle for a journey through Edinburgh’s vast history.
DAY 3 - BOARD BELMOND ROYAL SCOTSMAN Following breakfast at your hotel board the luxurious and iconic Belmond Royal Scotsman for a three-night journey! Traveling west, the train heads through Falkirk to Craigendoran, which is the starting point for the West Highland Line. Enjoy afternoon tea while gazing out of your window as the train approaches Loch Lomond. After climbing Glen Falloch, you will arrive in Spean Bridge for the night for an informal dinner onboard the train and entertainment in the Observation Car.
DAY 4 - OVERNIGHT ONBOARD BELMOND ROYAL SCOTSMAN Your incredible journey continues west through Fort William. Keep an eye out for views of Ben Nevis. You will disembark at Arisaig and stroll along Morar Sands to take in views of the majestic Cuillin Mountains. Back on the train, enjoy lunch as you travel back toward Fort William. Then, visit Glenfinnan Monument with a Highlander and enjoy tea at Inverlochy Castle. You have the option of walking to Steall Waterfall in Glen Nevis. Back on the train, enjoy an informal dinner as you travel south to the village of Bridge of Orchy.
DAY 5 - OVERNIGHT ONBOARD BELMOND ROYAL SCOTSMAN Today’s highlight and destination is the Isle of Bute, where you will visit Mount Stuart. Back on the train, return to Wemyss Bay for a formal dinner en route to Kilmarnock for the evening.
DAY 6 - INVERNESS Bid farewell to your fellow Royal Scotsman passengers as the train pulls into Edinburgh, and from here take the Scotrail train north to Inverness. On arrival into the historic capital of the Scottish Highlands check-in to your hotel for a 2-night stay, then take a stroll along the River Ness perhaps and enjoy exploring the town centre.
DAY 7 - ISLE OF SKY DAY TRIP After an early start, travel along the Great Glen Fault Line towards Loch Ness. Here, you have a chance to spot the monster and admire lovely Castle Urquhart from afar. Next continue through dramatic Highland scenery to the west coast and Eilean Donan Castle ‘the most photographed castle in Scotland’. Cross over to the breathtaking Isle of Skye and travel along island’s east coast past the stunning Red Cuillin Mountains to Sligachan, where you stop for a photo of the clear mountain waters. Following a stop in Porttree for lunch your tour continues to the most famous scenery of the island at the Trotternish Peninsula. The Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock, and the Quiraing are all unforgettably beautiful. You venture to Kyleakin for refreshments and a chance to view the dramatic ruin Castle Moil or the Skye Bridge and Eilean Ban. Travelling over the bridge, you journey back to Inverness. The route you take back is different from the morning, so you get even more opportunities to enjoy the Highland scenery.
DAY 8 - END OF TOUR The package includes the travel back to Edinburgh but how about an exciting overnight journey on the Caledonian Sleeper train perhaps?
To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent I 33
The Golden Eagle
34 I To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent
The Golden Eagle Take the train journey of a lifetime onboard the luxurious Golden Eagle with luxury cabins and gourmet dining, no detail is spared to ensure an unforgettable experience that you will cherish forever. Your Onboard Experience
The Golden Eagle is your hotel on wheels for the duration of your trip. Unpack just the once and settle into your comfortable en-suite cabin as you begin this once in a lifetime adventure. Attentive stewards look after your every need throughout the journey.
Your Dining Experience
Tempting dishes and regional specialities are freshly prepared and cooked on board by experienced chefs using local and seasonal ingredients. Menus are composed with care to ensure they appeal to all tastes. There is also a lounge car for refreshments and relaxation.
To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent I 35
Trans-Siberian
Lotte Hotel, Vladivostok
36 I To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent
Golden Eagle TransSiberian Moscow to Vladivostok
15 days from
£13,049 per person
Moscow ➞ Kazan ➞ Yekaterinburg Novosibirsk ➞ Irkutsk ➞ Lake Baikal ➞ Ulan ➞ Ude Ulaanbaatar ➞ Vladivostok DAY 1 - ARRIVE IN MOSCOW
DAY 7 - IRKUTSK
Upon your arrival in Moscow, take your included transfer from the airport to the five-star Four Seasons Hotel Moscow and check in for your overnight stay. Enjoy the 5-star hotel’s sophisticated ambience and its city centre location - just a short walk to Red Square and the Bolshoi Theatre. In the evening, enjoy a champagne reception and an exclusive welcome dinner.
Welcome to Irkutsk, the “Paris of Siberia.” You will spend the day touring Irkutsk’s most significant sites and museums. You will tour the Volkonsky House Museum, which is dedicated to the memory of the aristocrats who were exiled to this remote outpost after the failed Decembrists uprising of 1825. After touring this fascinating museum, you will be treated to a recreation of that time along with a champagne reception and private concert. Later today, you will get the option to cook some traditional Russian dishes with a local chef and prepare your own lunch. Or, you can visit a traditional Russian Dacha (summer house) to get an insight into the everyday life of an average Russian family.
DAY 2 - MOSCOW During your time in Moscow today, enjoy guided visits to the Kremlin and Red Square as well as an exclusive private viewing of the treasures of the Tsars in the Armoury Chamber. Lunch will be served in Café Pushkin, a legendary Moscow restaurant. Upon arrival at Moscow Kazansky Station in the late afternoon, you will be greeted in the ornately decorated Imperial Waiting Room with a cold glass of Russian Champagne and canapes. The excitement in the waiting room audibly mounts and, 30 minutes before departure, your car attendants will escort you to Platform 1 where the Golden Eagle awaits ready for departure.
DAY 3 - KAZAN Today, you will tour the picturesque and historic city of Kazan. Situated on the River Volga, this capital of Tatarstan is a rich tapestry of history and culture. One of the many sites you will see today is Kremlin Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you will explore its stunning mosque and picture-perfect onion-domed cathedral. Later in the day, you will be treated to a private concert featuring the music of Russia’s most famous opera singers, Feodor Chaliapin.
DAY 4 - YEKATERINBURG Yekaterinburg is a fascinating city. Founded in 1723 by Peter the Great, Yekaterinburg is the capital of the Urals and known as the Great Divide where the continents of Europe and Asia come together. You will embark on a city tour that includes the heart-breaking site where the Romanov, Tsar Nicholas II of Russia was executed with his family by the Bolsheviks in 1918 following 78 days of imprisonment.
DAY 8 - LAKE BAIKAL Lake Baikal is a major highlight of your TransSiberian journey. Known as the “Pearl of Siberia,” Lake Baikal is the deepest lake in the world and holds 20 percent of the world’s freshwater. It is also home to a unique breed of freshwater seal and over 50 species of fish, including omul. You will spend a full five hours winding your way through tunnels along cliff-hugging tracks above the lake with a vista of snow-capped mountain peaks along the shore. For the brave hearted, there is time for a refreshing swim in the crystal clear and ice-cold waters of Baikal. Travelling onwards to the end of the Baikal branch line, we leave the train and travel by boat on the lake to Listvyanka, a small Baikal settlement nestling at the base of the surrounding hills and visit the Lake Baikal Museum and Aquarium where you can learn about the flora and fauna of the lake. We will enjoy a delicious barbecue prepared by our own chefs, including freshly smoked omul fish, in the delightful covered dining area on the shore of Lake Baikal to complete a memorable day.
DAY 9 - ULAN UDE Gain a unique insight into the heritage of Ulan Ude during your city tour. You will also get a chance to explore the Old Believers’ Village and learn about the culture and history of these religious people. Your tour also includes a special concert featuring local traditions and folk singing.
DAY 5 - NOVOSIBIRSK
DAY 10 - ULANBAATAR
Experience the life and character of Novosibirsk’s rich culture. The city is in the heart of Russia and is situated on both banks of the River Ob. Your city tour includes a stop in Lenin Square where the imposing Opera House is located. An architectural marvel, it houses two permanent ballet and opera companies and is one of the largest opera houses in the world. Later today time permitting, you will have the option to visit Novosibirsk’s excellent Railway Museum. The museum displays locomotives and rolling stock from the late 1800s through the Soviet era, including carriages of the Tsars,
Welcome to Mongolia’s capital Ulaanbaatar! Tour Gandan Monastery and the central monument to Genghis Khan in Chinggis Square. Later today, you will have the option to take a drive out of the city to Gorkhi-Terelj National Park to soak in the beautiful scenery of wild Mongolia. Here, you will also have the opportunity to visit a traditional Ger and meet a nomadic family or try your hand at horse-riding, an intrinsic part of Mongolian life. Tonight, before hopping back onboard the Golden Eagle, you will enjoy a performance of traditional Mongolian throat singing and contortionists.
DAY 6 - ONBOARD THE GOLDEN EAGLE
DAY 11 - ONBOARD THE GOLDEN EAGLE
Enjoy a relaxing day on the train as it makes its way to Irkutsk. Take in the gorgeous scenery of Russia’s interior along the way.
Spend a relaxing day onboard the Golden Eagle.
HOLIDAY INCLUDES:
•C hampagne drinks reception and welcome dinner in Moscow •E xclusive tour of the treasures of the Tsars in the Armoury Chamber in the Kremlin, Moscow •L unch at legendary Café Pushkin in Moscow •C ity Tour of Kazan with Private opera concert in Kazan •C ity Tours Yekaterinburg, Novosibirsk and Irkutsk •B BQ on Lake Baikal •V isit to Old Believers Village Ulan Ude •D ay sightseeing Ulaan Baatar •T ransfer from airport to hotel in Moscow, and from hotel to airport in Vladivostok •P orterage is included between hotels and stations •1 2 nights onboard the Golden Eagle with 24-hour onboard service •2 night hotel stay •A ll meals are included starting with Dinner on Day 1 and finishing with breakfast on Day 15
DAY 12 - ONBOARD THE GOLDEN EAGLE Today, you will enjoy another relaxing day onboard the Golden Eagle. Perhaps listen to a lecture on Russian history or learn about the construction of the Trans-Siberian Railway.
DAY 13 - ONBOARD THE GOLDEN EAGLE Spend your last day onboard the train unwinding and reflecting on the many sights and sounds you have experienced on your journey.
DAY 14 - VLADIVOSTOK The last stop of your Russian adventure is Vladivostok, a military port located on the western shores of the Sea of Japan. During your tour, you will also see the iconic suspension bridge that spans over Golden Horn Bay. Tonight, you will enjoy a farewell dinner featuring selected international wines. The hotel in Vladivostok is the five-star Lotte Hotel.
DAY 15 - DEPART VLADIVOSTOK After breakfast this morning, check out of your hotel and take your included transfer to the airport where you tour concludes.
To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent I 37
Danube Express
The Blue Mosque
38 I To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent
Golden Eagle Danube Express Balkan Explorer from Rome to Istanbul
14 days from
£13,789 per person
Rome ➞ Venice ➞ Dubrovnik ➞ Istanbul DAY 1 - ROME Welcome to Rome! On arrival at the airport, you will be transferred to your hotel for a 2-night stay.
DAY 2 - ROME It is an early start today, but worth it once you find yourself exploring the treasures of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel before the crowds arrive. This afternoon enjoy a small group tour of the Roman Forum and Colosseum.
DAY 3 - ROME TO VENICE On check-out you are taken by private car to the station where you board the train to Venice. Enjoy the scenery from the comfort of your 1st class seat. On arrival you will be transferred to the luxurious 5* Hotel Daniele for a 2-night stay.
DAY 4 - VENICE Today enjoy a walking tour where you will learn the unique history of this unrivalled and captivating city. Enjoy some free time this afternoon with a gondola ride perhaps or do speak to our sales consultants if you might be interested in a small group visit to the spectacular Golden Basilica and riveting Doges Palace. This evening is the opportunity to meet your fellow travellers for the journey ahead, whilst enjoying a welcome reception and dinner.
DAY 5 - BOARDING THE GOLDEN EAGLE DANUBE EXPRESS TRAIN/TRIESTE After breakfast you will be whisked by boat to Venice Santa Lucia station where you board your private train. After a short ride the train pulls into the port of Trieste where you will enjoy an afternoon tour and if you have the energy, climb the hill to the famous Church of San Giusto built around a medieval complex that dates back to the 13th century.
DAY 6 - LJUBLJANA Enjoy a morning tour of lovely Ljubljana which charms all visitors with its delightful Dragon Bridge and Preseren Square. In the afternoon head to the Inner Carniola region of Slovenia where you’ll explore Predjama Castle, dramatically perched high on a cliff edge. After learning the myths and legends of Erazem of Predjama, ride an underground train deep into the otherworldly Postojna Cave and tour its network of magnificent halls, myriad of cave formations and mysterious animals.
DAY 7 - SARAJEVO AND MOSTAR The train pulls into the Bosnian capital early in the morning, and the history of this ancient city will be brought to life for you by your local guide. They will lead you on a poignant tour exploring the mosques and minarets of the cities ancient centre, as well as the physical and mental scars of modern warfare and Sarajevo’s more recent history. Following lunch in Sarajevo the train follows a very scenic line to the small city of Mostar, which was once one of the most important cities in the Ottoman Empire and renowned for its stone arch bridge linking the Christian and Muslim areas. The bridge was
destroyed in the war but rebuild in 2004 and now a symbol of unity. From here, it’s a luxury coach ride to Dubrovnik for an overnight stay.
DAY 8 - DUBROVNIK Famed as one of the most beautiful cities of the Mediterranean, Dubrovnik surpasses all expectations as a destination. A short tour giving you in-depth knowledge about some of the key buildings and historical points prior to enjoy some free time to explore the narrow streets. In the afternoon its back to the train which is now in Capljina, a small town near the border, where you will enjoy dinner and depart from Serbia.
DAY 9 - BELGRADE Arrive this morning at the former capital of Yugoslavia, Belgrade which is located at the meeting point between the Danube and Sava rivers. A full day is spent here taking in this cosmopolitan city’s rich history, including medieval tombs, Turkish baths and the mausoleum of Josip Tito.
DAY 10 - SKOPJE AND THESSALONIKI Skopje is a Macedonian city full of Ottoman influences, and rarely visited. There’s time to wander through the Old Bazaar and marvel at the 15th century Stone Bridge before returning to the train for lunch. The train crosses into Greece in time for an early evening tour of vibrant Thessaloniki, and this evening you’ll enjoy a wonderful al-fresco fresh seafood dinner.
DAY 11 - SOFIA AND PLOVDIV The golden domed Alexander Nevksy Cathedral in Sofia is one of the worlds larges Eastern Orthodox churches, and truly a sight to behold. Your morning tour of Sofia takes this in, together with sections of the Roman wall still standing, as well as the ancient church of St George and the Turkish Bashi Mosque. Lunch is enjoyed on the train prior to arriving in Plovdiv, Bulgaria’s second city. ‘The City of Seven Hills’ is one of the oldest cities in Europe and your afternoon is spent exploring the Roman Forum and Amphitheatre, Ottoman baths and medieval walls.
DAY 12 - ISTANBUL This morning you will arrive in the great city of Istanbul, where you will stay for 2-nights. A city that defies your imagination in its cultural riches and beauty, Istanbul has been a focal point for humanity for millennia. It has been both the centre of the Christian and Muslim worlds and spread over the busy Bosporus Straits spanning both Europe and Asia. Very few cities in the world can match it for its historical importance. You’ll visit the breath-taking Hagia Sophia, (a 6th century Church that was converted to a mosque after the Ottoman conquest) as well as the Sultan Ahmet Mosque (the Blue Mosque) which is one of the most famous monuments in the Islamic world. Also included is a visit to the stunning Topkapi - the world’s largest and oldest palace which was the primary home of the Ottoman Sultans from 1465 to 1853.
HOLIDAY INCLUDES:
•E arly tour of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel •A fternoon tour of the Roman Forum and Colosseum in Rome •W alking tour of Venice •C ity tours of Trieste, Ljubljana, Sarajevo, Mostar, Dubrovnik, Belgrade, Skopje, Sofia and Plodiv •T our of Predjama Castle and Postojan Cave in Slovenia •C ity tour of Al-fresco seafood dinner in Thessaloniki •T our of Istanbul including visits to Hagia Sofia, The Blue Mosque and Topkapi palace •7 nights 5* hotel accommodation with breakfast •6 nights all-inclusive accommodation onboard The Golden Eagle Danube Express in Deluxe class including: •2 4-hour onboard service •A ll Meals and accompanying drinks •G uided off train excursions as listed •P ersonal headsets with audio commentary •A ll gratuities •F irst class rail from Rome to Venice •A ll necessary transfers •F lights from UK to Rome and Istanbul to UK
DAY 13 - ISTANBUL Today is to enjoy at your leisure. Relax in at your 5* hotel editing your photos perhaps or head out and enjoy some more of Istanbul. Cross the Bosphorus to the Asian side perhaps and take a look at the impressive Haydarpasa station or if you are feeling fit enough climb to the top of the byzantine Galata Tower for breath-taking views. If you’d like to try your hand at bartering head over to the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s largest and oldest covered markets where you could spend hours shopping for souvenirs. This evening head out for your final night and enjoy any of this city’s great restaurants. Be it fresh seafood or a classic kebab or lahmacun, there is something for everybody here.
DAY 14 - END OF TOUR On checking out of your hotel, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight home, together with some amazing memories.
To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent I 39
Rocky Mountaineer
40 I To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent
Rocky Mountaineer Experience luxury with a journey through the Canadian Rockies aboard the carriages of the Rocky Mountaineer. Complete with incredibly comfortable seating, fine dining and impeccable service, it’s a trip of a lifetime. Your Onboard Experience
Choose from SilverLeaf and GoldLeaf onboard this all daylight luxury journey. SilverLeaf gives you everything you need and more to experience the majesty of the Rocky Mountains in luxury: panoramic views, delicious meals and beverages brought right to your seat, friendly hosts and complimentary baggage transfers. And miles and miles of memories. The custom-designed glass-dome coaches give you a truly panoramic view of your surroundings, sporting oversized windows as well. The chairs recline so you can enjoy the trip in comfort. There is also an outdoor viewing area. GoldLeaf is the premium service, highlighted by the fact that the carriages are double-decker and therefore offer better views, the menu is more extensive and you also have an open-air viewing platform for a more “out-there” experience.
To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent I 41
Rocky Mountaineer
Lake Louise
42 I To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent
Onboard Cuisine
Trans-Canada and Rockies Adventure with Rocky Mountaineer
13 days from
£4,299 per person
Toronto ➞ Jasper ➞ Lake Louise ➞ Banff ➞ Kamloops ➞ Vancouver HOLIDAY INCLUDES:
Prestige Class
DAY 1 - ARRIVE IN TORONTO Welcome to Toronto! Explore the City!
DAY 2 - NIAGARA DAY TOUR FROM TORONTO Today, you will experience one of the wonders of the natural world: Niagara Falls! Take a guided tour from Toronto, with transport included, and marvel at the thundering cascades of Horseshoe Falls, or speak to one of our Rail Experts about organising trips, tours or excursions while you are there.
DAY 3 - OVERNIGHT ONBOARD VIA RAIL After breakfast, make your way to the station and board Via Rail, settling in for a thrilling and comfortable journey across Canada to Jasper.
DAY 4-5 - OVERNIGHT ONBOARD VIA RAIL Spend two days on board the train! With fantastic food, gorgeous views and convivial company in the viewing car, it’s the perfect way to travel. Watch glittering lakes, verdant farmland and sweeping plains roll past your window, and keep a look out for wildlife too! There truly is no better way to immerse yourself in the stunning scenery of the heart of Canada.
DAY 6 - JASPER After enjoying the last leg of your rail journey through the heart of the mountains, arrive in Jasper today and check in at your hotel for an overnight stay. Spend the day enjoying the fresh mountain air and tranquil scenery of Jasper, deep in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Use your admission to the Jasper Skytram.
DAY 7 - JASPER TO LAKE LOUISE Enjoy both of Canada’s oldest and largest national parks on the way to Lake Louise today! Connected by the Icefields Parkway, Jasper and Banff National Parks are home to alpine glaciers, turquoise lakes and a variety of mountain wildlife.
At the Columbia Icefield, experience an allterrain Ice Explorer that travels onto the mighty Athabasca Glacier. Complete your adventure with a visit to the Glacier Skywalk and gain a unique perspective of nature at its finest as you stand 280 metres (918 ft) above the Sunwapta Valley. A hot lunch is included at the Columbia Icefield Glacier Discovery Centre. Once in Lake Louise, check in at your hotel for an overnight stay.
DAY 8 - LAKE LOUISE TO BANFF Pick up your transfer and make your way from Lake Louise to beautiful Banff. Begin exploring the immense natural beauty, boutique shops and traditional restaurants of this Rocky Mountain town.
DAY 9 - BANFF
•S ightseeing tour of Niagara Falls from Toronto •A dmission to the Jasper Skytram •S ightseeing tour of the Icefields Parkway and the Canadian Rockies •S ightseeing tour of Banff National Park •A dmission to the Banff Gondola •O ne-way VIA Rail® in Economy accommodations from Toronto to Jasper on The Canadian® •R ocky Mountaineer from Banff to Vancouver in SilverLeaf Class • 9 nights hotel stay; 3 nights onboard VIA Rail •T ransfer from Jasper to Lake Louise and Lake Louise to Banff
LUXURY TIP Crossing Canada Coast to Coast will be something you’ll remember forever. Why not enhance your onboard experience and travel in Prestige Class on VIA Rail?
DAY 11 - ROCKY MOUNTAINEER FROM KAMLOOPS TO VANCOUVER
Unearth the geological and cultural secrets of Banff with an included tour today. Admire some of the most amazing scenery in the whole of the Canadian Rockies. Travel up the Banff Gondola to the summit of Sulphur Mountain to enjoy 360-dregree panoramas of no less than six mountain ranges. Wander along the summit trail before visiting Bow Falls, Surprise Corner and the Hoodoos. Make your way down to Lake Minnewanka and embark on a scenic lake cruise - the perfect way to end the tour before travelling back to the town.
Depart Kamloops for Vancouver today, reboarding the Rocky Mountaineer for another exquisite journey. Leave the Interior and wind past rushing rivers, dramatic canyons and evergreen forests as you make your way to the Coast and Cascade Mountains. Views of the rushing Hell’s Gate in Fraser Canyon are a truly wonderful sight, and keep your eyes peeled for the craggy slopes and rock sheds along the Thompson River. On arrival in Vancouver, check in at your hotel for a two-night stay.
DAY 10 - ROCKY MOUNTAINEER FROM BANFF TO KAMLOOPS
Enjoy a full day at leisure in Vancouver! Use your included hop-on, hop-off tour to navigate the city with ease, creating your own personalized sightseeing itinerary. Get the best views of the surrounding North Shore Mountains from Prospect Point, discover the vibrant markets of Granville Island, travel to the top of the Vancouver Lookout for unparalleled city panoramas or unearth the treasures of Vancouver’s established Chinatown.
Board the iconic blue and gold carriages of the Rocky Mountaineer for a scenic journey through Canada’s breath-taking mountainous vistas. Settle into your SilverLeaf accommodation and gaze out of the panoramic windows as you go. The journey from Banff to Kamloops will take you past snow-capped peaks and glaciers as you traverse mountain passes. Arrive in Kamloops in the evening and transfer to your hotel for an overnight stay.
DAY 12 - VANCOUVER
DAY 13 - DEPART VANCOUVER After any last exploring in Vancouver today, check out of your hotel
To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent I 43
Rocky Mountaineer
Moraine Lake, Banff National Park
44 I To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent
Jasper Hotel
Canadian Rockies with Rocky Mountaineer from Vancouver
10 days from
£4,999 per person
Vancouver ➞ Kamloops ➞ Jasper ➞ Banff ➞ Calgary HOLIDAY INCLUDES:
Rocky Mountaineer
DAY 1 - ARRIVE IN VANCOUVER Welcome to Canada! Arrive in Vancouver today, and check in at the Comfort Inn Downtown for a three night stay. Get a good night’s rest in preparation for your exciting journey tomorrow.
DAY 2 - VANCOUVER Spend the day exploring Vancouver, a cosmopolitan coastal paradise boasting sleek skyscrapers, harbourside vistas and a stunning mountain backdrop. Your included Vancouver Trolley hop-on, hop-off tour will help you experience the best of the city. Create your own sightseeing tour, visiting the green swathes of Stanley Park, historic Gastown, Granville Island and Vancouver’s famous Chinatown on the way.
DAY 3 - VICTORIA TRIP FROM VANCOUVER Your adventure in Vancouver continues with a tour to Victoria. Sweep across the Ocean and enjoy aerial views of Vancouver as you begin your day with a floatplane flight over to Vancouver Island. Arrive in Victoria Harbour and enjoy free time exploring the historic downtown area. Your holiday also includes a guided tour to Butchart Gardens, one of the world’s most famous family estates. Admire the wonderful flora and fauna, and perhaps even stop off for afternoon tea.
DAY 4 - ROCKY MOUNTAINEER FROM VANCOUVER TO KAMLOOPS This morning, board the famous navy and gold carriages of the Rocky Mountaineer itself. Settle into the luxurious confines of SilverLeaf Class, or speak to one of our Rail Experts about upgrading. As you relax, watch dramatic scenery evolve as your train makes its way through western Canada. Spot the verdant vistas of Fraser Valley, wind through lush forests and along river canyons, all the while admiring the surrounding peaks of the Coast and Cascade Mountains. Enjoy sumptuous meals on board before spending the night in Kamloops.
DAY 5 - ROCKY MOUNTAINEER FROM KAMLOOPS TO JASPER Re-board the train this morning and settle in for another day of simply stunning scenery. Snake through the Canadian Rockies into Alberta, keeping your eyes peeled for Mount Robson, the mountain range’s highest peak, the mighty Pyramid Falls and the mountainous Yellowhead Pass on the brink of Jasper’s fabulous National Park. Disembark the Rocky Mountaineer and check in at the Chateau Jasper for a two night stay.
•A dmission to the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park •A dmission to the Vancouver Lookout •A dmission to the Jasper Sky Tram •S ightseeing tour of the Icefields Parkway and the Canadian Rockies •S ightseeing tour of Banff National Park •R ocky Mountaineer from Vancouver to Jasper in SilverLeaf Class •9 nights accommodations •5 meals included (3 Breakfasts and 2 lunches) •T ransfer from Jasper to Banff •T ransfer from Banff to Calgary airport
LUXURY TIP If you’d like to extend your stay in Calgary, or perhaps continue your journey across Canada to Toronto, just speak to one of our Rail Experts
DAY 6 - JASPER Spend the day discovering the delights of Jasper on an ‘Explore Jasper’ tour. The guided excursion will introduce you to some of the world’s most wondrous natural beauty, including the vast depths of Maligne Canyon, the crystalline Medicine Lake and the panoramas of Athabasca Lookout. Be sure to have your camera at the ready! Spend the afternoon exploring Jasper at your own pace.
DAY 7 - JASPER TO BANFF Transfer from Jasper to Banff today, checking in at the Elk + Avenue hotel for a two night stay. Immerse yourself in more of the Rockies’ magic with an Icefields Parkway and Rockies Discovery Tour. Soak up the wonderful scenery of Canada’s two oldest and largest national parks, spotting turquoise lakes, alpine glaciers and wildlife along the way. Enjoy a trip to the Glacier Skywalk and gain a different vantage point some 280 metres above the Sunwapta Valley. Enjoy lunch at the Columbia Icefield Glacier Discovery Centre en route.
DAY 8 - BANFF Continue your sightseeing adventures with a Mountains, Lakes and Waterfalls Tour from Banff, which will see you head deep into the mountains in search of the best scenery around. Be amazed by the clear waters of Lake Louise, Victoria Glacier and Moraine Lake, and wonder at the crashing Takakkaw Falls, reaching heights of 302 metres. Enjoy an included lunch and make your way across the Great Divide to Yoho National Park before making your way back to Banff for an evening at leisure.
DAY 9 - BANFF TO CALGARY Pick up your shuttle transfer today and make your way to Calgary. Nicknamed “Cowtown”, the city is ingrained in popular culture thanks to its annual stampede, but is a fantastic place to visit at any time. Take a trip to Fort Calgary, visit one of the city’s myriad museums or venture to the top of the Calgary Tower for 360-degree views over the rooftops and excitement below.
DAY 10 - DEPART CALGARY Finish your sightseeing in Calgary before continuing your onward journey. If you’d like to extend your stay in Calgary, or perhaps continue your journey across Canada to Toronto, just speak to one of our Rail Experts.
To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent I 45
Dining car onboard VIA Rail
Rocky Mountaineer
46 I To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent
Grand Circle of the Canadian Rockies
9 days from
£3,099 per person
Vancouver ➞ Kamloops ➞ Banff ➞ Lake Louise ➞ Jasper ➞ Vancouver
HOLIDAY INCLUDES:
•S ightseeing tour of Banff National Park and Lake Louise •A dmission to the Banff Gondola •S ightseeing tour of the Icefields Parkway •R ocky Mountaineer from Vancouver to Banff in SilverLeaf class •O ne-way VIA Rail® from Jasper to Vancouver on the Canadian® •7 nights hotel accommodations; 1 night onboard VIA Rail •T our transfer from Banff to Lake Louise •T our transfer from Lake Louise to Jasper •5 meals (2 breakfasts, 3 lunches)
LUXURY TIP Travel in Gold Leaf on the Rocky Mountaineer for premium views and the utmost comfort ask us for more details. Lake Louise
DAY 1 - ARRIVE IN VANCOUVER
DAY 5 - BANFF TO LAKE LOUISE
DAY 8 - VANCOUVER
Welcome to Vancouver! Spend some time exploring this nature lover’s paradise with its serene coast and a majestic mountain backdrop.
This morning, depart Banff on a scenic tour throughout Banff and Yoho National Parks full of emerald lakes and breathtaking waterfalls. End your tour in Lake Louise, one of the most photographed landscapes in the Canadian Rockies where you will spend the evening.
The train arrives in Vancouver early this morning giving you the full day to explore this friendly metropolis. Check in to your hotel before enjoying all that Vancouver has to offer. Walk across the Capilano Suspension Bridge into a West Coast rainforest park, hike up Grouse Mountain, shop on Granville Island or visit the weekly Chinatown Night Market. Don’t forget to take the lift to the top of the Vancouver Lookout for spectacular panoramas.
DAY 2 - ROCKY MOUNTAINEER FROM VANCOUVER TO KAMLOOPS This morning, board the famous Rocky Mountaineer itself. Settle into the luxurious accommodations and relax onboard soaking in the spectacular scenery. Travel through British Columbia with views of the Cascade Mountains and along the spectacular Fraser Canyon and River.
DAY 3 - ROCKY MOUNTAINEER FROM KAMLOOPS TO BANFF Enjoy another day of striking scenery today as you make your way to Banff, Alberta. Travel through the heart of the Canadian Rockies and wind through the snow-capped peaks.
DAY 4 - BANFF Today you will explore the mountain town of Banff and journey to the top of Sulphur Mountain on the Banff Gondola. From the summit, you’ll have a birds-eye view of Banff National Park and the Canadian Rockies!
DAY 6 - LAKE LOUISE TO JASPER Today, travel along the world-famous Icefields Parkway as you head to Jasper. You’ll make a stop along the way to visit the natural wonder of Columbia Icefield, one of the largest expanses of ice and snow south of the Arctic Circle. There you board the Ice Explorer and venture out to Athabasca Glacier where you’ll have one of the best vantage points.
DAY 9 - DEPART VANCOUVER After breakfast depart on your onward travels or alternatively ask one of our experts to extend your stay in Vancouver perhaps.
DAY 7 - OVERNIGHT ONBOARD VIA RAIL Today you will board VIA Rail’s Canadian to continue your journey through the majestic Canadian Rockies reliving train travel in the days of old as you are rocked to sleep tonight in your private accommodations. Enjoy dinner as the train whisks you past Moose Lake and the peaks of Mt. Robson and the Monashee Mountains. Relax in the dome car and experience stunning 360-degree views of the mountain scenery all around you.
To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent I 47
Eastern and Oriental Express
48 I To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent
Eastern and Oriental Express This exotic rail journey is simply the best way to experience all of the wonders of the Far East travelling between Singapore and Bangkok in glamour, comfort and style. Your Cabin
Relax in the comfort and privacy of your cabin with your very own window the world as you travel across this magical landscape. All cabins offer en-suite facilities. Choose from the Pullman Cabin with daytime seating and upper and lower berths for the evening or the State Cabin with 2 beds at ground level with armchair. To make this journey extra special consider the extra space and facilities of the Presidential Cabin.
Your Culinary Experience
The world-renowned chefs onboard treat travellers to first class cuisine from around the globe. Enjoy the opulent surroundings of the Restaurant Car for lunch and dinner with breakfast served in the comfort of your cabin each day.
Your Excursions
Experience the heart of the destinations with a range of handpicked excursions arranged just for you.
To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent I 49
Onboard Eastern and Oriental
Singapore
50 I To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent
Ubudiah Mosque
Eastern and Oriental Express from Bangkok to Singapore
8 days from
£4,239 per person
Bangkok ➞ Singapore HOLIDAY INCLUDES:
•F light from London to Bangkok; Singapore to London •1 night hotel stay with breakfast in Bangkok •3 nights onboard the Eastern & Oriental Express in a Pullman Cabin •2 nights hotel stay with breakfast in Singapore •G uided cruise along the River Kwai in Thailand •W ar museum and optional war cemetery visit in Thailand •T our of Ubudiah Mosque, Kuala Kangsar in Malaysia •V isit to the Royal Museum of Perak and the Sultan Shah Gallery in Malaysia
LUXURY TIP Hotels don’t come much more iconic than the legendary and historic Raffles Hotel in Singapore. Speak to one of our experts to include a stay here in your holiday. Onboard Eastern and Oriental
DAY 1 - FLIGHT FROM LONDON TO BANGKOK
DAY 4 - GUIDED CRUISE ALONG RIVER KWAI
DAY 2 - ARRIVE BANGKOK Welcome to Bangkok! Upon arrival, check in at your hotel for an overnight stay and begin exploring this fascinating city. Perhaps visit the iconic Wat Arun temple, with its towering spires and glazed porcelain façade. Or head to Chinatown Market for the city’s best tasting and most reasonably priced cuisine. Or for a more extravagant experience, once the sun goes down, visit one of the many rooftop bars for spectacular drinks and 360 degree views of the glittering skyline.
Early risers will catch the excitement of the train making its way along the trestle viaduct from Wang Po. Later, the train arrives at River Kwai Bridge Station, where you will disembark for a river cruise on board a local raft. During the cruise, a local historian provides a brief overview of the history of the Thailand-Burma railway and the bridge. Disembark for a visit to the Thailand Burma Railway Centre and, for those who wish, the Don Rak War Cemetery. Re-join the train for lunch and a relaxing afternoon followed by dinner and a further night on board.
DAY 3 - ONBOARD EASTERN & ORIENTAL EXPRESS
DAY 5 - TOUR OF UBUDIAH MOSQUE, KUALA KANGSAR
DAY 8 - FLIGHT FROM SINGAPORE TO LONDON
Enjoy breakfast in your cabin as the train enters Malaysia and journeys through the picturesque landscape. Lunch is served before arriving in Kuala Kangsar for your guided tour of this fascinating royal town. You’ll visit the Ubudiah Mosque, the Royal Museum of Perak and the Sultan Shah Gallery. After the tour, return to the train, perhaps visiting the observation car before another spectacular dinner and a final night on board.
After a final breakfast this morning, check out of your hotel and make your way to the airport for your flight back to London.
After breakfast in your hotel this morning, enjoy more of Bangkok’s sights before being transferred to Hualamphong Station to begin your journey on the Eastern & Oriental Express. After being welcomed aboard the gold and green-liveried carriages, settle into your compartment. Dinner is served as the train leaves the city behind and travels into the Thai countryside of rice-fields and villages. After a delicious meal, retire to your compartment, now transformed into a comfortable bedroom by your personal steward.
DAY 6 - ARRIVE SINGAPORE Arrive in Singapore today and bid farewell to the train. Transfer from the station to your hotel for a two-night stay. Set out to explore this bustling, culturally diverse city, perhaps enjoying dinner at one of the fine restaurants the city is known for.
DAY 7 - SINGAPORE Enjoy discovering Singapore at your leisure today, or if you prefer, one of our Rail Specialists can help you book a half-day sightseeing tour, with visits to the Padang, Cricket Club, Parliament House, Supreme Court, City Hall, Thian Hock Keng Temple and the National Orchid Garden.
To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent I 51
Onboard Eastern and Oriental
Wat Arun Temple, Bangkok
52 I To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent
Eastern and Oriental Express from Singapore to Bangkok
8 days from
£3,889 per person
Singapore ➞ Bangkok HOLIDAY INCLUDES:
•F light from London to Singapore; Bangkok to London •2 nights hotel stay with breakfast in Singapore •2 nights on board the Eastern & Oriental Express in a Pullman Cabin •2 nights hotel stay with breakfast in Bangkok •T our of Ubudiah Mosque, Kuala Kangsar in Malaysia •V isit to the Royal Museum of Perak and the Sultan Shah Gallery in Malaysia •G uided cruise along the River Kwai in Thailand •W ar museum and optional war cemetery visit in Thailand
LUXURY TIP For the ultimate luxury experience onboard, upgrade to the Presidential Cabin taking your journey to new heights of comfort and indulgence. Onboard Eastern and Oriental
DAY 1 - FLIGHT FROM LONDON TO SINGAPORE DAY 2 - ARRIVE SINGAPORE Welcome to Singapore! Upon arrival, check in at your hotel for a two-night stay and begin exploring this fascinating city, perhaps enjoying dinner at one of the fine restaurants the city is known for.
DAY 3 - SINGAPORE Enjoy discovering Singapore at your leisure today, or if you prefer, one of our Rail Specialists can help you book a half-day sightseeing tour, with visits to the Padang, Cricket Club, Parliament House, Supreme Court, City Hall, Thian Hock Keng Temple and the National Orchid Garden.
DAY 4 - TOUR OF UBUDIAH MOSQUE, KUALA KANGSAR After breakfast in your hotel this morning, enjoy more of Singapore’s sights before being transferred to the train station to begin your journey on the Eastern & Oriental Express. After being welcomed aboard the gold and greenliveried carriages, settle into your compartment as the train enters Malaysia and journeys through the picturesque landscape. Lunch is served before arriving in Kuala Kangsar for your guided
tour of this fascinating royal town. You’ll visit the Ubudiah Mosque, the Royal Museum of Perak and the Sultan Shah Gallery. After the tour, return to the train, perhaps visiting the observation car before another spectacular dinner.
DAY 5 - GUIDED CRUISE ALONG RIVER KWAI After a delicious breakfast on board, the train arrives at River Kwai Bridge Station, where you will disembark for a river cruise on board a local raft. During the cruise, a local historian provides a brief overview of the history of the ThailandBurma railway and the bridge. Disembark for a visit to the Thailand Burma Railway Centre and, for those who wish, the Don Rak War Cemetery. Re-join the train for lunch and a relaxing afternoon followed by dinner and a further night on board.
DAY 7 - BANGKOK After breakfast this morning, spend the day exploring Bangkok at your leisure. Perhaps visit the iconic Wat Arun temple, with its towering spires and glazed porcelain façade. Later in the day, head to Chinatown Market for the city’s best tasting and most reasonably priced cuisine.
DAY 8 - DEPART BANGKOK After a final breakfast this morning, check out of your hotel and make your way to the airport for your flight back to London.
DAY 6 - ARRIVE BANGKOK Arrive in Bangkok today and bid farewell to the train. Transfer from the station to your hotel for a two-night stay. Set out to explore this vibrant city, perhaps enjoying dinner at one of the fine restaurants the city is known for, or visiting one of the many rooftop bars for spectacular drinks and 360 degree views of the glittering skyline.
To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent I 53
TERMS AND CONDITIONS The following booking conditions and any other written information we brought to your attention before we confirmed your booking, form the basis of your contract with Railbookers UK Trading Ltd, trading as Railbookers of 1 -2 Bolt Court Fleet Street London EC4A 3DQ (“we” or “us”). Please read them carefully as they set out our respective rights and obligations. By asking us to confirm your booking, we are entitled to assume that you have read these booking conditions and agree to them. References to “you” and “your” means all persons named on the booking (including anyone who is added or substituted at a later date), or any of them as applicable. References to “holiday”, “booking” or “arrangements” means the holiday arrangements which we agree to make, provide or perform (as applicable) as part of our contract with you, unless otherwise stated.
3. YOUR CONTRACT
8. CHANGES MADE BY US
English law (and no other) will apply to your contract and to any dispute, claim or other matter of any description which arises between us (“claim”) except as set out below. We both also agree that any claim must be dealt with under the ABTA Arbitration Schemes (if the Scheme is available for the claim in question - see clause 12) or by the Courts of England and Wales only unless, in the case of Court proceedings, you live in Scotland or Northern Ireland. In this case, proceedings must either be brought in the Courts of your home country or those of England and Wales. If proceedings are brought in Scotland or Northern Ireland, you may choose to have your contract and any claim governed by the law of Scotland or Northern Ireland as applicable (but if you do not so choose, English law will apply).
It is very unlikely that we will have to make any changes but occasionally it may be necessary to change your hotel to one of a similar category or change the time of your train ticket due to circumstances beyond our control. We will let you know as soon as possible about this type of change but we are unable to pay compensation. If we have to make what we consider to be a major change to your booking such as an alteration to the departure time by more than 12 hours or a change of accommodation to a lower category we will inform you immediately and offer you the choice of a full refund or an alternative package. If you prefer to go ahead with the changed booking, you will receive compensation of up to £25 per person, except infants
By making a booking, the first named person on the booking (“lead passenger”) agrees on behalf of all persons detailed on the booking that:
4. INSURANCE
1. He/she has read these terms and conditions and has the authority to and does agree to be bound by them; 2. He/she consents to our use of information in accordance with our Privacy Policy 3. He/she is over 18 years of age and where placing an order for services with age restrictions declares that he/she and all members of the party are of the appropriate age to purchase those services; and 4. He/she accepts financial responsibility for payment of the booking on behalf of all persons named on the booking
1. MAKING YOUR BOOKING You may book with us by telephone, e-mail or via one of our authorised travel agents. Once we (or your authorised travel agent) have received all appropriate payments, we will, subject to availability, acknowledge your holiday over the telephone (where you or your travel agent make the booking by telephone) or by emailing or otherwise sending a booking confirmation letter/ invoice to the lead passenger. We reserve the right to return your deposit and decline to issue a confirmation at our absolute discretion. Where you book through one of our authorised travel agents, the booking confirmation letter/invoice and all other communications will be sent to your agent and you should also contact us through the agent. The acknowledgement of your booking is not a confirmation of it and does not create a legally binding contract. A binding contract between you and us only comes into existence once we have issued you with a booking confirmation that will confirm the details of your booking and will be sent to you or your travel agent. All references in these booking conditions to the confirmation of your booking means the booking confirmation letter/invoice. If your confirmed arrangements include a flight, we (or if you booked via an authorised agent of ours, that agent) will also issue you with an ATOL Certificate. Upon receipt, if you believe that any details on the ATOL Certificate or booking confirmation or any other document are wrong you must advise us immediately as changes cannot be made later and it may harm your rights if we are not notified of any inaccuracies in any document within ten days of our sending it out (five days for tickets). We will do our best to rectify any mistake notified to us outside these time limits but you must meet any costs involved in doing so. The only exception to this requirement to meet costs is where the mistake in question was made by us and there is good reason why you did not tell us about it within these time limits.
2. PAYMENT You are required to send us the appropriate deposit per person or full payment if booking within 90 days of departure at the time of booking. In addition to the deposit applicable to the holiday, a further additional deposit is required equal to at least the minimum of the additional cost for any non-refundable booking variations including flight, rail and hotel upgrades. Please note, deposits and all additional deposits are not refundable except where expressly stated in these booking conditions. Full payment is due 90 days prior to travel. If you paid your deposit by credit or debit card, full payment will automatically be applied to your booking using the card you used for your deposit. If you prefer to pay your balance differently, please notify your travel consultant. If a cheque payment is declined by your bank for any reason, an administration charge of £30 will be made. If you return your payment counterfoil before the date that payment is due, this authorises us to take payment early. If we do not receive all payments in full and on time, we are entitled to assume that you wish to cancel your booking. In this case, we will be entitled to keep all deposits paid or due at that date. If we do not cancel straight away because you have promised to make payment, you must pay the cancellation charges shown in clause 7 depending on the date we reasonably treat your booking as cancelled. Except for flight inclusive bookings, all monies you pay to one of our authorised travel agents for your holiday with us will be held by the agent on your behalf until a contract between us comes into existence. After that point, your agent will hold the monies on our behalf until they are paid to us. For flight inclusive bookings, all monies paid to any authorised travel agent of ours for your holiday with us will be held on behalf of and for the benefit of the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust subject to the travel agent’s obligation to pay such monies to us in accordance with our trading terms unless we fail. In the unlikely event of our financial failure, all monies then held by the travel agent or subsequently paid by you to the travel agent will be held by the agent on behalf of and for the benefit of the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust without any obligation on the agent to pay such monies to us.
It is a condition of your contract with us that you have adequate travel insurance cover, including healthcare cover for travel from 1 January 2021 onwards. Such insurance should ensure that you are properly covered against unexpected cancellation charges, unexpected costs that might be incurred while you are away, loss of money, or belongings, or personal liability claims.
5. HOLIDAY PRICES Advertised prices are subject to availability and change, and are based on two people sharing a standard twin or double room. Single occupancy supplements will apply for solo travellers. Hotel and room facilities vary and may be subject to additional fees. Some will require payment of local city taxes on arrival. Please contact us for details. Please note changes and errors occasionally occur. We reserve the right to increase/decrease and correct errors in advertised prices at any time before your holiday is confirmed. Before you make a booking, we will give you the basic price for your chosen holiday. You should check all details before you make your booking. Upgrades or any other variations which you have requested are on a request basis with our suppliers and subject to availability, and prices for these will only be confirmed once the prices and availability has been confirmed by our suppliers. For all holidays, once you have accepted the basic price and a booking has been confirmed, that price is fully guaranteed and will not be subject to any surcharges.
6. IF YOU CHANGE YOUR BOOKING If after your holiday has been confirmed you wish to alter your booking, we will try to make the necessary arrangements provided we receive written confirmation of the change from the person who signed the booking form, or your travel agent, before the date on which the final balance of the cost of your holiday is due. Whilst we will do our best to assist, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to meet your requested change. There is no refund permitted on rail tickets once they have been issued. Transfer of Booking: If you or any member of your party is prevented from travelling, that person(s) may transfer their place to someone else (introduced by you and satisfying all the conditions applicable to the arrangements) providing we are notified not less than 28 days before departure and you pay an amendment fee of £25 per person transferring, meet all costs and charges incurred by us and/or incurred or imposed by any of our suppliers and the transferee agrees to these booking conditions and all other terms of the contract between us. If you are unable to find a replacement, cancellation charges as set out will apply in order to cover our estimated costs. Otherwise, no refunds will be given for passengers not travelling or for unused services. Note: Certain arrangements may not be amended after they have been confirmed and any alteration could incur a cancellation charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements.
7. BOOKING CHANGES AND CANCELLATIONS: To make a change or cancel your vacation, contact your travel agent or call Railbookers directly. Coronavirus COVID-19 The safety and security of our guests and employees is our top priority. Given the current UK and foreign government national emergencies and circumstances beyond our control, we have revised our terms and conditions. Customers booking travel during this period until 31 March 2021, will receive maximum flexibility to travel to any destination, on any date, or length of trip. Reschedule or cancel your trip up to 5 days prior to departure without any change or cancellation fees. Revised Policies Cancellations, Changes and Refunds for all Packages Customers have maximum flexibility to cancel or change their trip up until 5 business days prior to departure. Customers can postpone their trip and rebook up to 24 months in advance. If the future date of travel is unknown at the time of the change or cancellation, customers will receive a refund in the form of a Refund Credit Note. The Refund Credit Note will be banked, financially protected, and can be used for travel with any of our family of brands within 24 months of the date of issue. Currently, you must book your travel by 31 March 2021, which may be subject to change by the Government authorities. If you choose not to use your Refund Credit Note, or you only use part of your Refund Credit Note, you will be refunded for any unused portion on or before the expiry date. For customers choosing not to travel the option of rebooking the holiday up to 24 months in advance will be given and funds transferred to a new holiday will be based on supplier ticketing conditions. Depending on the reason for your cancellation, you may be able to reclaim these cancellation charges (less any applicable excess) under the terms of your own travel insurance policy. Claims must be made directly to the insurance company concerned.
9. EVENTS BEYOND OUR CONTROL - FORCE MAJEURE Except where otherwise expressly stated in these booking conditions we will not be liable or pay you compensation if our contractual obligations to you are affected by any event which we or the supplier(s) of the service(s) in question could not, even with all due care, foresee or avoid. These events can include but are not limited to war, threat of war, civil strife, terrorist activity and its consequences or the threat of such activity, riot, the act of any government or other national or local authority including port or river authorities, industrial dispute, lock closure, natural or nuclear disaster, fire, chemical or biological disaster and adverse weather, sea, ice and river conditions and all similar events outside our or the supplier(s) concerned’s control. Advice from the Foreign Office to avoid or leave a particular country may constitute Force Majeure. We will follow the advice given by the Foreign Office.
10. OUR LIABILITY TO YOU (1) We will accept responsibility for the arrangements we agree to provide or arrange for you as an “organiser” under the Package Travel, Package Holidays and Package Tours Regulations 1992 as set out below. Subject to these booking conditions, if we or our suppliers negligently perform or arrange the services which we are obliged to provide for you under our contract with you, as set out on your confirmation invoice, we will pay you reasonable compensation. The level of such compensation will be calculated taking into consideration all relevant factors such as but not limited to, following the complaints procedure as described in these conditions and the extent to which ours or our employees’ or suppliers’ negligence affected the overall enjoyment of your holiday. Please note that it is your responsibility to show that we or our supplier(s) have been negligent if you wish to make a claim against us. (2) We will not be responsible for any injury, illness, death, loss (including loss of possessions and loss of enjoyment), damage, expense, cost or other sum or claim of any description whatsoever which results from any of the following: a) the act(s) and/or omission(s) of the person(s) affected or any member(s) of their party b) the act(s) and/or omission(s) of a third party not connected with the provision of your holiday and which were unforeseeable or unavoidable or c) “force majeure” as defined in clause 9 above. (3) Please note we cannot accept responsibility for any services which do not form part of our contract. This includes, for example, any additional services or facilities which your hotel or any other supplier agrees to provide for you where the services or facilities are not advertised in our brochure or on our website and we have not agreed to arrange them as part of our contract and any excursion you purchase during your holiday. Please also see clause 15 “Excursions, Activities and Brochure/Website Information”. (4) We limit the amount of compensation we may have to pay you if we are found liable under this clause as follows: (a) Loss of and/or damage to any luggage or personal possessions and money, The maximum amount we will have to pay you in respect of these claims is an amount equivalent to the excess on your insurance policy which applies to this type of loss per person in total because you are assumed to have adequate insurance in place to cover any losses of this kind. (b) Claims not falling under (a) above and which don’t involve injury, illness or death The maximum amount we will have to pay you in respect of these claims is twice the price paid by or on behalf of the person(s) affected in total. This maximum amount will only be payable where everything has gone wrong and you or your party has not received any benefit at all from your booking. (c) Claims in respect of international travel by air, sea and rail, or any stay in a hotel i) The extent of our liability will in all cases be limited as if we were carriers under the appropriate Conventions, which include The Warsaw/Montreal Convention (international travel by air); The Athens Convention (with respect to sea travel); The Berne/Cotif Convention (with respect to rail travel) and The Paris Convention (with respect to hotel arrangements). You can ask for copies of these Conventions from our offices. In addition, you agree that the operating carrier or transport company’s own ‘Conditions of Carriage’ will apply to you on that journey. When arranging transportation for you, we rely on the terms and conditions contained within these international conventions and those ‘Conditions of Carriage’. You acknowledge that all of the terms and conditions contained in those ‘Conditions of Carriage’ form part of your contract with us, as well as with the transport company and that those ‘Conditions of Carriage’ shall be deemed to be included by reference into this contract.
54 I To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent
TERMS AND CONDITIONS ii) In any circumstances in which a carrier is liable to you by virtue of the Denied Boarding Regulation 2004, any liability we may have to you under our contract with you, arising out of the same facts, is limited to the remedies provided under the Regulation as if (for this purpose only) we were a carrier. iii) When making any payment, we are entitled to deduct any money which you have received or are entitled to receive from the transport provider or hotelier for the complaint or claim in question.
material alterations to destination/area information and/or such outside activities or excursions which can be reasonably expected to affect your decision to book a holiday with us, we will pass on this information at the time of booking. Activities referenced in the itinerary during free time are for suggested purposes only and are not included. During the off-season, some included activities may not be available. In this case, a similar activity will be substituted.
16. FLIGHTS
Many of the services which make up your holiday are provided by independent suppliers. Those suppliers provide these services in accordance with their own terms and conditions. Some of these terms and conditions may limit or exclude the supplier’s liability to you, usually in accordance with applicable international conventions or EU regulations (see clause 10(4) (c)). Copies of the relevant parts of these terms and conditions are available on request from us or the supplier concerned.
In accordance with EU Directive (EC) No 2111/2005, we are required to bring your attention the existence of a “Community List” which contains details of air carriers that are subject to an operating ban within the EU Community. The Community List is available for inspection at http://ec.europa.eu/transport/air-ban/ list_en.htm. We are also required to advise you of the carrier(s) or, if the carrier(s) is not known, the likely carrier(s) that will operate your flight(s) at the time of booking. Where we are only able to inform you of the likely carrier(s) at the time of booking, we will inform you of the identity of the actual carrier(s) as soon as we become aware of this. Any change to the operating carrier(s) after your booking has been confirmed will be notified to you as soon as possible. We are not always in a position at the time of booking to confirm flight timings which will be used in connection with your flight. Where flight timings are given at the time of booking or detailed on your confirmation letter/invoice these are for guidance only and are subject to alteration and confirmation. The latest timings will be shown on your tickets which will be dispatched to you approximately two weeks before departure. You must accordingly check your tickets very carefully immediately on receipt to ensure you have the correct flight times. It is possible that flight times may be changed even after tickets have been dispatched. We will contact you as soon as possible if this occurs. Any change in the identity of the carrier(s), flight timings, and/or aircraft type (if given) will not entitle you to cancel or change to other arrangements without paying our normal charges except where specified in these conditions. Regardless of any information given in good faith, operational changes may be made by an airline at any point and we cannot be responsible for these. If the carrier(s) with whom you have a confirmed reservation becomes subject to an operating ban as above as a result of which we/the carrier(s) are unable to offer you a suitable alternative the provisions of clause 8 (Changes and Cancellations by Us) will apply. Prices quoted in our brochures and on our website are based on special airfares offered to us by the airlines. These represent a reduction on the normal IATA fares which entitle passengers to privileges and flexibility that our clients do not normally require as part of the holiday. Tickets at our special fare are valid only on the airline and dates shown and do not automatically entitle passengers to switch to another carrier in case of a flight cancellation, delay or technical problems with the aircraft or the reservation. Many airlines charge additional fees for various services such as checked baggage, meals and drinks, seat assignments, and other amenities. Please note that such additional fees are not included in the fares quoted and included in your total price unless advised otherwise. You must make sure you have valid, acceptable passports which from 1 January 2021 need to have at least 6 months validity remaining and be less than 10 years old (even if they have 6 months or more left). Additionally, you must have any required visas or other documentation for both the final destination and any applicable calling points en-route. To find out whether you need a visa please contact The Foreign and Commonwealth Travel Advice Unit. Visit: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice.
14. SPECIAL REQUESTS
17. DENIED BOARDING REGULATIONS
Any special requests must be advised to us at the time of booking e.g. diet, room location, a particular facility at a hotel etc. You should then confirm your requests in writing. Whilst every effort will be made by us to try and arrange your reasonable special requests, we cannot guarantee that they will be fulfilled. The fact that a special request has been noted on your confirmation invoice or any other documentation or that it has been passed on to the supplier is not confirmation that the request will be met. Failure to meet any special request will not be a breach of contract on our part unless the request has been specifically confirmed in writing. We do not accept bookings that are conditional upon any special request being met.
If you or any member of your party misses your flight or other transport arrangement, it is cancelled or you are subject to a delay of over 3 hours for any reason, you must contact us and the airline or other transport supplier concerned immediately. If your flight is cancelled or delayed, your flight ticket is downgraded or boarding is denied by your airline, depending on the circumstances, the airline may be required to pay you compensation, refund the cost of your flight and/or provide you with accommodation and/ or refreshments under EC Regulation No 261/2004 - the Denied Boarding Regulations 2004. Where applicable, you must pursue the airline for the compensation or other payment due to you. All sums you receive or are entitled to receive from the airline concerned by virtue of these Regulations represent the full amount of your entitlement to compensation or any other payment arising from such cancellation, delay, downgrading or denied boarding. This includes any disappointment, distress, inconvenience or effect on any other arrangements. The fact a delay may entitle you to cancel your flight does not automatically entitle you to cancel any other arrangements even where those arrangements have been made in conjunction with your flight. We have no liability to make any payment to you in relation to the Denied Boarding Regulations as your entitlement to any compensation or other payment (as dealt with above) is covered by the airline’s obligations under the Denied Boarding Regulations. If for any reason, we make any payment to you or a third party which the airline is responsible for in accordance with the Denied Boarding Regulations, you must, when requested, assign to us the rights you have or had to claim the payment in question from the airline. If the airline does not comply with these rules you should complain to the Civil Aviation Authority at www.caa.co.uk/passengers. Please note, your rights under clause 8 (“Changes and Cancellations by Us”) and clause 10 (“Our Liability to You”) of these booking conditions are not affected by the above Denied Boarding Regulations except that we are entitled to argue that the amount you receive or are entitled to receive from the airline is sufficient to meet any compensation obligation we may have to you as your tour operator as a result of any such cancellation, delay, downgrading or denied boarding.
(5) Please note, we cannot accept any liability for any damage, loss, expense or other sum(s) of any nature or description (a) which on the basis of the information given to us by you concerning your booking prior to our accepting it, we could not have foreseen you would suffer or incur if we breached our contract with you or (b) which did not result from any breach of contract or other fault by ourselves or our employees or, where we are responsible for them, our suppliers. Additionally, we cannot accept liability for any business losses or expenses including, without limitation, selfemployed loss of earnings
11. COMPLAINTS AND PROBLEMS In the unlikely event that you have any reason to complain or experience any problems with your holiday whilst away, you must immediately inform us by contacting us by telephone on our 24-hour emergency helpline. Until we know about a problem or complaint, we cannot begin to resolve it. Most problems can be dealt with quickly. If you remain dissatisfied, however, you must write to us within 28 days of your return to the UK giving your booking reference and full details of your complaint. Only the lead passenger should write to us. If you fail to follow this simple complaints procedure, your right to claim the compensation you may otherwise have been entitled to may be affected or even lost as a result. Please note that we offer an Alternative Dispute Resolution service through our ABTA membership. Please see clause 12 for further details.
12. ARBITRATION We are a Member of ABTA, membership number Y6401. We are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you by ABTA’s Code of Conduct. We can also offer you ABTA’s scheme for the resolution of disputes which is approved by the Chartered Trading Standards Institute. If we can’t resolve your complaint, go to www. abta.com to use ABTA’s simple procedure. Further information on the Code and ABTA’s assistance in resolving disputes can be found on www.abta.com. You can also access the European Commission Online Dispute (ODR) Resolution platform at http://ec.europa.eu/ consumers/odr/. This ODR platform is a means of registering your complaint with us; it will not determine how your complaint should be resolved.
13. CONDITIONS OF SUPPLIERS
15. EXCURSIONS, ACTIVITIES AND BROCHURE/ WEBSITE INFORMATION The information contained in our brochure and on our website is correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of the brochure going to print or at the time of publication on our website. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the brochure and prices at the time of printing or publication, regrettably, errors do occasionally occur. You must therefore ensure you check all details of your chosen holiday (including the price) with us at the time of booking. We may provide you with information (in our brochure, on our website and/or when you are on holiday) about activities and excursions which are available in the area you are visiting but cannot be pre-booked with us. We have no involvement in any such activities or excursions which are not run, supervised, controlled, inspected or endorsed in any way by us. They are provided by local operators or other third parties who are entirely independent of us. They do not form any part of your contract with us. We cannot accept any liability on any basis in relation to such activities or excursions and the acceptance of liability contained in clause 10(1) of our booking conditions will not apply to them. We do not however exclude liability for the negligence of ourselves or our employees resulting in your death or personal injury. We cannot guarantee accuracy at all times of information given in relation to such activities or excursions or about the area(s) you are visiting generally (except where this concerns the services which will form part of your contract) or that any particular excursion or activity which does not form part of our contract will take place as these services are not under our control. If you feel that any of the activities or excursions mentioned in our brochure or on our website which are not part of our contract are vital to the enjoyment of your holiday, write to us immediately and we will tell you the latest known situation. If we become aware of any
18. RAIL RESERVATIONS Although we do our best to follow the routes noted on the itinerary there might be occasions when a different routing and/ or departure time is necessary due to timetable variations or seat availability. Prices quoted are based on special fares negotiated with our rail partners. Should you wish to travel on any Eurostar or other rail service, other than those included as part of your holiday,
a rail variation charge of £25 per person per service plus any additional cost will apply. Any change involving sleeper services will be quoted on an individual basis.
19. YOUR FINANCIAL PROTECTION The Package Travel, Package Holidays and Package Tours Regulations 1992 require us to provide security for the monies that you pay for the package holidays booked from this brochure or our website and for your repatriation in the event of our insolvency. We provide this security by way of an ATOL (ATOL number 7579) administered by the Civil Aviation Authority for packages which include a flight and a bond held by ABTA (ABTA number Y6401) for packages that do not include a flight (www.abta.com). When you buy an ATOL protected flight or flight inclusive holiday from us, you will receive an ATOL Certificate*. This lists what is financially protected, where you can get information on what this means for you and who to contact if things go wrong. We, or the suppliers identified on your ATOL Certificate, will provide you with the services listed on the ATOL Certificate (or a suitable alternative). In some cases, where neither we nor the supplier are able to do so for reasons of insolvency, an alternative ATOL holder may provide you with the services you have bought or a suitable alternative (at no extra cost to you). You agree to accept that in those circumstances the alternative ATOL holder will perform those obligations and you agree to pay any money outstanding to be paid by you under your contract to that alternative ATOL holder. However, you also agree that in some cases it will not be possible to appoint an alternative ATOL holder, in which case you will be entitled to make a claim under the ATOL scheme (or your credit card issuer where applicable). If we, or the suppliers identified on your ATOL certificate, are unable to provide the services listed (or a suitable alternative, through an alternative ATOL holder or otherwise) for reasons of insolvency, the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust may make a payment to (or confer a benefit on) you under the ATOL scheme. You agree that in return for such a payment or benefit, you assign absolutely to those Trustees any claims which you have or may have arising out of or relating to the non-provision of the services, including any claim against us, the travel agent or your credit card issuer where applicable. You also agree that any such claims may be re-assigned to another body if that other body has paid sums you have claimed under the ATOL scheme. *The flights and flight-inclusive holidays we arrange are ATOL protected providing they are made available in the UK. For further information visit the ATOL website at www.atol.org.uk. If your holiday does not include flights, ABTA will financially protect your holiday by ensuring you receive a refund or, if your arrangements include return travel to the UK (other than flights), you are returned to the UK in the event that your holiday cannot be provided as a result of our insolvency. Please go to www.abta.com for a copy of the guide to ABTA’s scheme of financial protection. If you book arrangements other than an ATOL protected flight or package holiday from us, your monies will not be financially protected. Please ask us for further details.
20. DATA PROTECTION Railbookers UK Trading Ltd is a data controller for the purposes of the Data Protection Act 1998. Please be assured that we have measures in place to protect the personal information you give us. This information will be passed on to the relevant suppliers of your travel arrangements. It may also be provided, either by us or by the suppliers of your travel arrangements, to third parties and public authorities such as banks and credit card companies, customs or immigration if required by them, or as required by law. Certain information may also be passed on to security or credit checking companies or insurance providers. The above applies to any sensitive information that you give to us such as details of any disabilities, medical conditions, or dietary/religious requirements but we will obviously only pass these on where necessary to do so to provide the service you have requested. If we cannot pass on this information as set out above, we may be unable to provide your booking or other services you have requested (for example, travel insurance). In making your booking, you consent to this information being passed on to the relevant persons who may be outside the EU/ European Economic Area. If you travel outside the EU/European Economic Area, controls on data protection may not be as strong as the legal requirements in the UK. We would like to use your details for marketing purposes (e.g. sending you our brochures) and to pass them on to other companies within our group who may also contact you for marketing purposes. If you do not wish to receive any further information from us or other companies in our group please let us know this at the time you give us your details or, if you do not do so then, at any time subsequently. You are generally entitled to ask us (by letter or e-mail) what details of yours are being held or processed, for what purpose and to whom they may be or have been disclosed. We will charge a fee to respond to such a request. We promise to respond to your request within 40 days of receiving your written request and fee. In certain limited circumstances, we may be entitled to refuse your request. To improve our service, calls may be recorded for training and quality purposes.
21. NAMES All names, titles and initials of those travelling must be correctly given at the time of booking. Name changes cannot be made at a later date without extra charges being incurred. If you are purchasing or arranging a holiday on behalf of someone else you must ensure you have each passenger name as per their passport. If you provide us with incorrect passenger names, name changes will not be permitted and you will have to purchase a new ticket subject to availability. 7579
ABTA No.Y6401
To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent I 55
OUR RAIL PARTNERS
HOW TO BOOK Call 020 3780 2222 Visit www.railbookers.co.uk Call your local Travel Agent
7579
Y6401