JAYWeber s AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND. November 26 - December 8th, 2016 with Optional Australia Rail Extension

Transcription

1 JAYWeber s T R I P O F A L I F E T I M E AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND November 26 - December 8th, 2016 with Optional Australia Rail Extension

2 TRIP OF A LIFETIME MAP AYERS ROCK THE GHAN RAILROAD AUSTRALIA ALICE SPRINGS ADELAIDE INDIAN PACIFIC RAILROAD CAIRNS 3 GREAT BARRIER REEF SYDNEY AUCKLAND 3 INTERNATIONAL DATE LINE 1 Overnight Stay *Number Indicates Length of Stay Flight Main Tour Optional Extension Overnight Rail QUEENSTOWN 3 1 CHRISTCHURCH MT. COOK - FARM STAY NEW ZEALAND

3 The Jay Weber Show Weekdays 6AM - 10AM Dear Jay Weber WISN Traveler, 2016 is a milestone year for my Trip of a Lifetime. It s hard for me to fathom, thinking back TEN YEARS, just how many amazing sights I would come to see over the next decade. And more importantly, how many great Wisconsinites I would travel with and become friends. We snorkeled in the Galapagos together. We explored ancient ruins in Egypt, China, and Peru. We ve river cruised Europe twice and wined and dined our way through Italy. We chartered our very own yacht in the Greek Isles. We even safaried in Tanzania, which might just be the highlight to date. So when I sat down and thought about my 10th Trip of a Lifetime I knew it would have to be big. Ladies and gentlemen, we re going down under to Australia and New Zealand! Our journey of discovery through Australia and New Zealand is packed with included sightseeing. From a jet boat safari through the shallow channels of the Dart River to a relaxing ride aboard a classic steam ship and the gourmet BBQ that follows; your time in Queenstown is sure to be unforgettable. We ve included an authentic farm stay in MacKenzie country where you ll stay for a night at a real working farm - a classic New Zealand experience. There s an outstanding afternoon at the Christchurch Botanical Gardens complete with a romantic gondola ride. In Auckland we ve included a city tour, a trip up the famous Sky Tower and an afternoon of wine tasting on Waiheke Island. And last but certainly not least, we have a full day exploring one of the great metropolises of the world, Sydney. One thing I have learned over 10 years of doing these tours is that one size doesn t always fit all. That is why we have built in three full days completely free for you to explore (or relax) on your own. One each in Queenstown, Auckland and Sydney. There are so many amazing things to do in each of these cities, I couldn t possibly name them all here, but let me mention a few. In Queenstown, take a scenic bus ride to Milford Sound and a helicopter ride back with a glacier landing along the way! In Auckland, I just may take in the Auckland Museum (you know I m a history buff). In Sydney, tour the Opera House, or climb the Sydney Harbor Bridge for breathtaking views of the city. Along the way we have handpicked hotels and restaurants for their quality and location. If you ve been with us before, you know we do these trips with class and style. If you haven t, you ll soon find out that Cruise & Tour painstakingly plans out every detail to ensure a seamless and worry free travel experience. My 10th Trip of a Lifetime is going to be special. It s an area of the world I have always dreamed of going to and if you re reading this, I imagine you feel the same way. Won t you join me? For reservations and additional information, call Cruise & Tour at They ve arranged all of my Trips of a Lifetime and Great Escapes and nobody does it better. Best regards, Jay Weber PS: Want to see more while you re down under? If you have the time, and especially if you re a rail buff, the Australia extension Cruise & Tour has put together is not to be missed!

4 ITINERARY DAY 1 & 2 DEPART USA - IN TRANSIT Today, board your widebody jet for your overnight transpacific flight across the International Date Line en route to Queenstown, New Zealand. DAY 3 ARRIVE QUEENSTOWN, NZ On arrival at Auckland International Airport we ll complete customs formalities, be met and transfer to the domestic terminal for our short flight to Queenstown, NZ. The internationally famous resort of Queenstown rests beside Lake Wakatipu at the foot of the Remarkable Ranges. Swathes of forest decorate the area between town and mountaintop. A more scenic location would be difficult to find. Queenstown town center has everything within walking distance, including retail shops and over 100 places to dine, with something to suit every taste. Queenstown is renowned for its outdoor entertainment, shopping, dining and nightlife. Tonight, after settling into our hotel, get to know your fellow WISN travelers at our Welcome Dinner hosted by Jay Weber. Queenstown Accommodations: Crowne Plaza Queenstown DAY 4 QUEENSTOWN This morning after breakfast, we ll explore every aspect of this magnificent area through a combination of exciting wilderness jet boating, informative guided walk and picturesque back-country drive. Surrounded by breathtaking snowcovered peaks, hidden valleys, waterfalls and glacial valleys frozen in time, this thrilling journey is sure to be a highlight of your tour. Early this afternoon return to Queenstown where the rest of the afternoon is free to explore the city center or relax. This evening step aboard the TSS Earnslaw and enjoy a cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak Station where a gourmet BBQ dinner awaits. The menu includes an expansive array of New Zealand cuisine and local produce, succulent meats cooked on the outdoor rotisserie or grill, along with a selection of delicious vegetables and salads. Following dinner you have the option to attend an entertaining brief farm show or relax in the bar before returning to Queenstown for a restful nights sleep. DAY 5 QUEENSTOWN Today is at leisure in Queenstown with optional activities available including a helicopter journey to famed Milford Sound. There are options galore on this free day in paradise. DAY 6 MOUNT COOK - FARM STAY This morning we depart Queenstown and travel via the Kawarau River and the Central Otago wine region to Mount Cook. Spectacular panoramic views will accompany our sumptuous buffet lunch. This afternoon continue north along beautiful Lake Tekapo to the heart of the MacKenzie Country to meet your hosts for tonight s farm stay. Here you ll experience New Zealand country hospitality at its best. Enjoy this relaxing tradition and take a guided tour of the property with farms in the area including cattle, deer and sheep. DAY 7 CHRISTCHURCH AUCKLAND After saying farewell to your farm stay hosts, rejoin the rest of your group for a scenic drive to Christchurch across the Canterbury Plains. On arrival in Christchurch, enjoy lunch at The Curator s House in the Botanical Gardens. After lunch, glide along the peaceful Avon River, as a skilled boatperson propels you through a romantic wonderland in a flat-bottomed boat. Admire trailing willows and the botanical gardens in relaxed and comfortable style. This afternoon

5 fly from Christchurch to Auckland where we ll be met, assisted and transferred to Auckland city. Auckland Accommodations: Crowne Plaza Auckland DAY 8 AUCKLAND AND WAIHEKE ISLAND This morning enjoy a tour of the city with a ride up the Auckland Sky Tower for 360 degree panoramic views of the city. Next enjoy a scenic drive along the waterfront to Bastion Point for great views of the harbour and the many islands of Auckland s Hauraki Gulf. Later this morning we ll board a ferry to Waiheke Island, known for it s breathtaking scenery and excellent vineyards. Your tour will commence with a scenic drive through Matiatia Estate, an excellent vantage point for a view of Auckland s skyline. Along the way we ll stop at a vineyard to taste some locally grown wines including Viognier, Chardonnay, Syrah and Bordeaux varieties. Our tour concludes at Batch Winery where you will be met by a local Kapa Haka Group for a traditional Maori welcome followed by lunch at the vineyard. The balance of your afternoon and evening is at leisure. DAY 9 AUCKLAND Today is at leisure in Auckland with optional activities available, or check in with our hospitality desk to explore on your own. This evening we will say goodbye to our New Zealand friends with a Churrasco (grilled meats) farewell dinner. DAY 10 SYDNEY This morning we ll fly from Auckland to Sydney where we ll be met, assisted and transferred to our hotel in Sydney, Australia. Tonight after settling into our well appointed hotel, located just minutes from some of Sydney s most popular attractions, join fellow WISN tour members for a Welcome to Sydney dinner. Sydney Accommodations: Parkroyal Darling Harbour DAY 11 SYDNEY Today is a full day exploring Sydney. First we stop at The Rocks - Sydney's birthplace - to see fascinating relics and buildings of the city's turbulent past. Next we ll stop for views of the Sydney Opera House, a masterpiece in late modern architecture. Then it s back to the city s commercial centre, Darling Harbour and Chinatown before traveling through Kings Cross and the exclusive suburbs of Double Bay, Rose Bay and finally, Watson s Bay for a view of the Pacific Ocean from The Gap. Sydney has more than 70 sparkling beaches. We ll stop at the famous Bondi Beach, before returning to the city via Paddington to view its restored 19th century colonial terraces. This afternoon we ll cruise aboard Sydney's flagship, MV Sydney Enjoy stunning harbour views, a comprehensive commentary and a delicious seafood buffet lunch. The remainder of your day is at leisure. DAY 12 SYDNEY Today enjoy a free day to take in this lively city. Tour options include a guided tour of Sydney s Famous Opera House or choose to climb the Harbour Bridge. Tonight we ll dine at The Rocks and say farewell to our new Aussie friends as well as our WISN group mates. DAY 13 HOMEWARD BOUND Arrive home the same day having g a i n e d a d ay recro s s i n g t h e International Date Line.

6 OPTIONAL AUSTRALIA EXTENSION DEPART SYDNEY ON DAY 12 Step aboard the Indian Pacific this afternoon and acquaint yourself with the friendly staff and facilities on board. Relax in your cabin or mingle with fellow travelers in the Outback Explorer Lounge while enjoying the scenery as you leave Sydney behind and travel through the majestic Blue Mountains. Dinner will be served in the classically styled Queen Adelaide Restaurant. Indian Pacific Accommodations: Gold Class Twin or Single Cabin DAY 13 ARRIVE ADELAIDE Wake up with a coffee as you arrive in Broken Hill, a classic mining town, for an early morning off-train excursion and discover the history and artistic culture of this mining town. Visit the Pro Hart Gallery and learn about one of Australia's most iconic artists. Step back on board for breakfast in the Queen Adelaide Restaurant as the journey continues towards Adelaide. Watch the outback scenery change to the green and gold fields of South Australia. Arrive in Adelaide mid-afternoon. Adelaide Accommodations: Majestic Roof Garden Hotel DAY 14 BAROSSA VALLEY Today we ll discover Australia s finest wine country visiting two premium Barossa Valley wineries: Jacob s Creek and Wolf Blass. Enjoy two unique wine experiences complete with tasting and an informative tour by cellar experts. Later, stop at Vintners Restaurant and Bar for a delicious lunch before returning to Adelaide. DAY 15 ADELAIDE Today enjoy a free day to take in Adelaide s city center. This area is surrounded by parklands with a charming blend of historic buildings, wide streets, groovy shops and a huge variety of street cafes and restaurants. Or you may choose to tour famed Kangaroo Island. DAY 16 THE GHAN Step aboard the legendary Ghan and enjoy the passing scenery as the rolling pastoral lands of South Australia merge into rugged mallee scrub and the Flinders Ranges disappear into the horizon. Lunch and dinner are served in the classically styled Queen Adelaide Restaurant. The Ghan Accommodations: Gold Class Twin or Single Cabin DAY 17 ARRIVE ALICE SPRINGS Wake up with a coffee or juice and witness an unforgettable outback sunrise at an early morning stop in Marla located in the remote reaches of South Australia. Brunch will be served onboard in the Queen Adelaide Restaurant. Enjoy the incredible outback scenery as the journey continues towards Alice Springs, arriving early afternoon. Tonight it s an experience not to be missed, set to the scene of a fading sun. Enjoy mouth watering prime Australian beef, cold beer, Aboriginal tales, and the most unbelievable stars you have ever seen. Alice Springs Accommodations: DoubleTree by Hilton Alice Springs DAY 18 ULURU (Ayers Rock) This morning we ll journey by coach through the MacDonnell and James Ranges to Uluru (Ayers Rock). Uluru, the true Aboriginal name for what many people know as Ayers Rock, rises from the broad desert plain in the deep center of Australia and is one of the country's most recognizable natural icons. After a stop for morning tea, you ll arrive at Ayers Rock Resort. Later this afternoon, travel to an Uluru sunset viewing area to witness and photograph the striking color changes that can occur on the world s largest monolith in the desert plain. Enjoy a complimentary glass of champagne and canapés before returning to the resort. Uluru Accommodations: Voyages Ayers Rock Resort

7 DAY 19 ULURU - CAIRNS This morning our coach will depart just prior to sunrise and travel to the viewing area of Uluru to see the Red Center come alight by the first rays of the morning sun. Watch as the gradual rising sun changes the color of Uluru. After breakfast our guide will give us a tour of the rock s base. Nothing can give a sense of it s size, except standing beneath this towering 348 meter wall of rock. You ll view Aboriginal rock paintings and learn about flora, fauna and Aboriginal history. Later this afternoon we ll fly from Ayers Rock to Cairns on the Pacific coast where we w i l l b e m e t a n d transferred to our hotel. Cairns Accommodations: Pacific Hotel Cairns DAY 20 CAIRNS Lying at the center of a tropical paradise on the shores of Trinity Bay, Cairns is the gateway to some of Australia s greatest natural attractions. Sitting offshore and shaping the city s character is the World Heritage listed Great Barrier Reef, one of the world s most popular diving sites. To the north of the city lies the ancient and also World Heritage listed, tropical rainforest s of the Daintree National Park. Today is free to do as you choose and we hope you ll enjoy it to the fullest. Tonight we ll say good by to our Aussie friends with a farewell dinner at the Bushfire Flame Grill. DAY 21 BACK TO USA After breakfast this morning, we ll transfer to the airport arriving home on the same day having gained a day recrossing the International Date Line.

8 Trip of a Lifetime Inclusions: Travel Insurance Milwaukee to Chicago transfers All domestic and international airfare in economy class. (Ask about upgrades) Hotel accommodations outlined in the itinerary Full breakfast daily and other meals as outlined in the itinerary Hotel porterage Modern, air conditioned coach transportation Admission fees and sightseeing included in your itinerary Professional drivers and guides Q&A session with Jay Weber Complete services of Cruise & Tour Government goods and services tax of 10% in Australia - 15% New Zealand All other taxes and fees as of 11/1/15 Australia Extension Inclusions: (In addition to Trip of a Lifetime Inclusions) Gold Class rail accommodations on the Ghan and Indian Pacific Airfare from Ayers Rock to Cairns Not Included: Tips for drivers and guides Increase in taxes, fees, or surcharges after 11/1/15 Beverages or meals other than those specified Optional tours Items of a personal nature Cancel For Any Reason Insurance TOUR PRICING PER PERSON DOUBLE OCCUPANCY SINGLE SUPPLEMENT TRIP OF A $7859 $1199* LIFETIME AUSTRALIA $3959 $1359* EXTENSION *Limited Availability RESERVE YOUR PLACE BY CALLING SPACE IS LIMITED