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A refined worldwide escorted touring
experience
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 Specially-priced
Air Rates
Available: YES
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Prices
are
per person based on double occupancy and are land only. We also offer
competitive group-based airfares from your home city airport that fit
with this particular touring program.
We
provide an additional "Thank You!" for
all Collette
tour programs. Call or Email us for details about our "Thank You!"
Promotion for all first-time tour
clients. Offer subject
to availability and change without notice.
We will check your requested tour program and accommodations for the date range that you may specify in the boxes below and reply back to you as soon as possible. Of course the more information that you can provide us, the closer we will be in matching your needs and preferences. We will not knowingly sell or pass along your information that you provide to any third party for any reason (see Liabilities and Privacy Policy). And we use SSL Technology to safeguard your information on our tour request forms that we have posted throughout our website. We are available to answer your inquiries in person Monday - Friday (except holidays) from 8:30am until 5:30pm CST (1-877-510-4653 | 817-788-5210). We are available from time to time on the weekends via email to answer your questions. Our typical response time for your email request ranges from 3 hours to as many as 72 depending upon the availability of onsite resources and those of the tour companies and resorts/lodging establishments, as well as any variations you may request from our listed programs. We will respond to your requests as quickly as possible and as soon as we have all components of your package confirmable. All tour program rates are based upon double occupancy unless otherwise specified. Thank
you for
your interest in this quality tour by COLLETTE Vacations!
 Randy C. Gardner President Gardner Travel Service, Inc.  |
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PASSPORT
& VISA INFORMATION
The
Collette
DifferenceCertain countries require a minimum of 6 months passport validity. You are strongly urged to contact the appropriate consulate for details. Visit www.travel.state.gov for the U.S. State Department for the latest details about passports and visa requirements. IMPORTANT: We recommend that our clients traveling abroad take a photocopy of their passport and applicable visas. It should be packed separately from your actual passport and visa. We also recommend leaving a copy at home with your emergency contact. DESTINATION FACTS & STATS Time Zone New Zealand is 16 hours ahead; Cairns is 14 hours ahead; Melbourne and Sydney are 15 hours ahead; Alice Springs/Ayers Rock are 14.5 hours ahead of EST. Electricity Australia and New Zealand use 230 Volts. Both are Type I plugs. An adaptor (which changes the physical plug) and/or converter (which changes the electric current) are necessary if you plan to use an appliance with voltage different from the standard within the country you are visiting. Please note, if your appliance has dual voltage you may still need an adaptor for the plug. When packing your electronic items for travel, please review the converter electric current level to make sure it is the same or greater than the items you are planning on using. If you plan on utilizing or transporting a sleep apnea machine, please remember to pack an extension cord and adapter plug to ensure proper function. The highest point on this tour is 2,500 feet above sea level.
Plan Ahead, Reserve Now! Add a touch of personalization to your vacation by selecting from our well-researched list of options. While Collette is known for our many inclusions, we also want to be sure you have adequate free time and options to enhance your vacation – your way. And now, you can reserve your options in advance of your tour! Availability is limited and reservations are on a first come, first serve basis. Payment must be received no later than 15 days prior to departure. Prices are subject to change. Children under the age of 18 MUST be accompanied by an adult. The Outer Reef Experience - $150 City: Cairns Jump in and explore the vibrant, colorful world teeming with life at the outer Great Barrier Reef. This massive reef system, the largest in the world, can actually be seen from space. Cruise across the water by catamaran to the Outer Reef pontoon where a diverse, bountiful ecosystem is yours to discover. See the kaleidoscopic underwater sea life from up close as you snorkel along the reef and board a semi-submersible. Many other fascinating activities await you on the Outer Reef. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even take an introductory scuba dive along the reef. You’re sure to have a once-in-a-lifetime experience exploring one of the seven natural wonders of the world. Your transportation is included. Important Note: This option is recommended for strong swimmers and those comfortable in an ocean environment. Scuba diving is an additional cost and some medical restrictions and a waiver of liability will apply. Duration: approximately 7 hour(s). Kuranda Scenic Railway - $50 City: Cairns After your morning in Kuranda, return to Cairns via the famous Kuranda Scenic Railway. Constructed to bring supplies to the remote mining settlement of Herberton, this amazing railway (built between 1886-1891) draws travelers from around the world. Your two-hour journey takes you far above the dramatic Barron River valley, over dozens of bridges and through 15 tunnels before gracefully returning you to the central Cairns train station, a short stroll from your hotel. Heritage Class service includes seating in the restored original carriages, along with a souvenir trip guide. Your transportation is included. Duration: approximately 2 hour(s). Tivua Island Day Cruise - $130 City: Nadi Seize the chance to set sail upon the legendary waters of the South Pacific. Board your sailing ship (the Ra Marama or Fiji One) and let the winds carry you to the coral atoll of Tivua Island, home to 500 acres of coral gardens. Once you arrive, enjoy a full day in paradise. Savor the beautiful combination of sun, sand, turquoise water and music. This excursion also includes guided snorkeling and glass-bottomed boat tours. Experience a little of the local culture during a kava ceremony or guided medicine walk. Soak up the tropical atmosphere in a hammock, view a coconut husking demonstration and even sip morning and afternoon tea on board. All the while indulge in a buffet lunch and included beer, wine and soft drinks on the island. This is as good as it gets. Your transportation is included. Duration: approximately 8 hour(s). Garden of the Sleeping Giant Island Tour - $75 City: Nadi This popular half-day tour takes you into Nadi's scenic hinterland to the Garden of the Sleeping Giant. This garden, begun by Hollywood actor Raymond Burr, now houses one of the largest and most varied orchid collections in the world with over 2,000 different varieties. The Vuda Lookout affords a 360 degree bird's-eye-view of the West's mountain ranges, Nadi Bay and the beautiful Yasawa Group of islands. Travel to Viseisei Village, the legendary landing site of the first Fijians, where you will enter the village and have a chance to explore the local handicraft displays. You will also make a stop in the bustling township of Nadi to experience the modern style of Fiji living. Your transportation is included. Duration: approximately 5 hour(s). A Camel Ride, the Rock and a Sunrise - $130 City: Yulara Experience the majesty of sunrise on Ayers Rock from a unique vantage point - the back of a camel! A peaceful one-hour camel ride brings you across the red sand dunes in the cool, clear morning air. Watch the sunrise over Ayers Rock bring the warm hues of the monolith alive. Learn about the flora and fauna of this UNESCO World Heritage site from your friendly cameleer. After the ride, enjoy fresh-baked damper bread and hot, fresh tea and coffee. Your transportation is included. Duration: approximately 2 hour(s). Outback Ballooning in Alice Springs - $285 City: Alice Springs Drift over the Outback on the gentle winds in the welcome cool of the morning. The landscape erupts into color as the sun’s rays strike the MacDonnell mountain ranges. Watch as balloons slowly inflate and gracefully rise into the sky. Gently float aloft and enjoy the spectacular Outback scenery below you. Kangaroos and wallabies love the early mornings, so keep your eyes open for them as you glide over the bush. Return to the ground and enjoy a delightful Aussie-style breakfast complete with a champagne toast! Actual balloon flight time is 30 minutes. This option operates on a weather permitting basis only. Your transportation is included. Duration: approximately 3 hour(s). A Sydney Foodie Safari - $150 pp City: Sydney Join your expedition leader for a tasty experience and come to know the culinary culture of one of the world’s great food cities. Explore some of the iconic restaurant venues that have made Sydney a foodie favorite and learn how international influences continue to transform local cuisine. Meet the families behind local businesses and see first-hand how they are a part of the fabric of life here. When you return from your ‘safari,’ your thirst for a truly unique foodie experience will be satisfied (both literally and figuratively). Your transportation is included. Duration: approximately 5.5 hour(s). Gold Seeker – Metal and Movie Discovery Tour - $150 pp City: Queenstown Embark on a 4WD adventure through the primeval, mystical landscapes of the New Zealand high country. In the vastness of an unspoiled wilderness, become lost in the grandeur of New Zealand’s South Island – a world immortalized on film in the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Trek to the place where the word “otherworldly” was tailor-made, the Remarkable Mountains, and the entrance to Skipper Canyon. Across roads created by pioneers 150 years ago, follow the miner’s old wagon trail along the Arrow River, and stop to try your hand at panning gold. Discover something incredible around every dramatic turn, narrow and twist of this thrilling safari tour. Please Note: If you choose to cancel this option within 48 hours of the excursion date, payment is non-refundable. Your transportation is included. Duration: approximately 4 hour(s). Take a Steamship to Dinner - $130 City: Queenstown Step back in time when you board the TSS Earnslaw, the beloved steamship that has been transporting goods and people on Lake Wakatipu since 1912. Nicknamed "The Lady of the Lake," she is the only coal-fired steamship still in operation in the southern hemisphere. Embark on a leisurely cruise across the lake to Walter Peak High Country Farm. Enjoy the hospitality of the Colonel’s Homestead at an impressive buffet where you can indulge in the best of New Zealand meats and seafood, fresh vegetables and garden salads. You are sure to find the house dessert specialties hard to resist! An after dinner visit to the farm provides an entertaining glimpse into farming life in the high country. Cruise back to Queenstown, relaxing or joining in the revelry of the lively sing-along. Your transportation is included. Duration: approximately 4 hour(s). A Blaze of Glory on the Shotover River! - $125 City: Queenstown Zoom through the sheer canyons of the Shotover River on this thrilling ride. Shotover Jet boats race along in mere centimeters of the glacial water which flows down from the Southern Alps, providing an exhilarating, but safe and enjoyable ride for all ages. You may get a little wet, but it is a unique and fun way to enjoy the spectacular scenery of the South Island of New Zealand and absorb a little of the spirit that has made Queenstown a world center for adventure tourism. Many people think adventure is only for the young. Guests on these jet boats consistently illustrate otherwise – this adventure is perfect for the young at heart! Weather may be cold (boat has heated handlebars) and you may get wet during this option. Actual high speed boating time is 25 minutes. Your transportation is included. Duration: approximately 1 hour(s). Antarctica - $45 City: Christchurch Did you know that New Zealand is one of the primary departure points for Antarctica? Well, this makes it the perfect place to learn about the 7th continent! Step inside and be transported to the “white continent!” The awesome and magical beauty of Antarctica is recreated with an interactive, fun and exciting experience of the “Great White South.” See the seasons change before your eyes. Feel the chill of winter and watch daylight return as the Antarctic summer approaches. They’ll outfit you to experience the Polar Room, where you’ll find real snow and ice. Explore the snow cave or brave the wind chill machine. Every half hour an Antarctic storm blows through the Polar Room, with lightning, authentic Antarctic storm audio and 25 mile per hour winds. The Aquarium features amazing creatures found in McMurdo Sound. Experience the internationally acclaimed 4-D experience that takes you on a simulated journey through the notoriously rough Drake Passage to the shores of Antarctica. Get up close and personal with the amazing little blue penguin. This is as close to the seventh continent as you can get without going! Your transportation is included. Duration: approximately 2 hour(s). Dinner with the Maori - $90 City: Rotorua Tonight, immerse yourself in the fascinating culture of the Maori as you travel to a traditional village nestled in the rainforest. Learn about the warm-hearted Maoris and their lives before European colonists arrived in Aotearoa (New Zealand) and since. Enjoy an in-depth experience featuring authentic Maori entertainment such as the poi dance and the famous “Haka” war challenge. Finish your evening with an authentic Hangi dinner, pulled from the cooking pits right before your eyes. Come away with an appreciation of a unique culture, thousands of years in the making. Your transportation is included. Duration: approximately 4 hour(s). Collette Vacations is a global leader of world travel and Escorted Tours, offering 150 vacation choices on all seven continents. We are a family-owned business, now in our third generation of Sullivan-family ownership.
IT'S IN THE DETAILS Our NO WORRIES cancellation waver means you can cancel anytime prior to the day of departure and receive a full cash refund. Add up the cost of hotels, transportation, meals, sightseeing and entertainment and you'll find what an incredible savings a tour offers. On a tour, you'll find yourself saying, "I never would have thought to try that!" We work everyday to uncover those gems that make your vacation special. Let our experience work for yours. Don't worry about planning the details, getting directions, picking great hotels, or purchasing sightseeing tickets - we do that! Our tour managers are with you from start to finish, taking care of every detail - and brightening your vacation with history and anecdotes that bring the destination to life. A Collette Tour means less time planning and more time enjoying. You pack the bags - we'll lug them around! That's right - when you're on tour with us, we take care of all luggage handling... including the tip!
Why Travel on an Escorted Tour? We take the hassle out of travel, so you have all the fun. Here's how. Our buying power gets you unbeatable value. Our tours include your sightseeing, entertainment, admissions to museums and parks, great hotels and many meals, making it a hassle free experience for you from start to finish. Our hotels are centrally located, so you won't waste a second of your free time in buses or cabs. Even your luggage is managed for you. We planned ahead, so Europe with us is still a bargain. We can provide a vacation to Europe, for example, at 15% less than you would pay if you planned it on your own. There is no better time than now to buy a packaged vacation. Imagine seeing Thailand for less than $90 a day, and that includes your hotel. On our Thailand - Ancient Capitals and Countryside tour, you'll ride an elephant and cruise the Mekong River into Laos, just two unforgettable included experiences among 14 days worth of discoveries You'll also enjoy 26 meals on tour, including a dinner cruise on a rice barge. See the Golden Buddha, the ruins of Ayutthaya and Sukhothai, the colorful pageantry of a Hill Tribe cultural show - it's all included! It's like traveling with a friend who knows the area. Your tour manager will be with you every step of the way, handling the tedious details of travel, while you relax and enjoy the trip. They are seasoned professionals with in-depth knowledge about your destination and a passion for sharing it. Our tour developers personally scout out the best for you. They search for accommodations, restaurants, attractions and entertainment to assemble not only a fantastic trip, but create an entire experience that captures the spirit of your destination. Learn the secrets of Tuscan cuisine from a Florentine chef in Italy. Fly a kite in China. Feed a kangaroo in Australia. Our tour developers love creating those unforgettable moments that make your trip uniquely yours. We've got something for everyone, from Branson to Beijing. Collette Vacations travels to more than 150 destinations on all seven continents. We also offer Explorations by Collette, small-group tours with a maximum of only 16 - 24 passengers that wander off the beaten path. Explorations tours feature boutique hotels, outdoor activities and interaction with local people. No Worries Protection Plan What exactly is your cancellation waiver? We have the best cancellation waiver in the industry-period. You can cancel your trip up until the day prior to departure for any reason - sickness, change of heart or any reason whatsoever-and you will receive a full refund, minus the small cost of the insurance. That's a cash refund, not a voucher or certificate. There's no risk when you book with Collette. But isn't it expensive? Not at all! Let's say you were planning to take our Italian Vistas tour for 13 days. The land-only waiver is just $170 per person. That breaks down to about $13.07 a day-just a little over eight euros! The land and air waiver is only $30 more. That's airplane peanuts compared to the peace of mind you'll enjoy. Plus, you're covered on tour. Our cancellation waiver and insurance plan covers you on tour. If you have to stop your trip or return home early, need medical assistance or evacuation, suffer a baggage loss or delay; or are delayed on tour for 12 hours or more, you're covered. Testimonials: My husband had an accident in New Zealand…He subsequently had to be transferred by ambulance to Invercargill (Southland Hospital) to have surgery on his leg. He spent one week in the hospital. I am so glad we always take out the insurance. This is our third trip with Collette and we always take out the insurance…In spite of the accident, we had a wonderful time in Australia and New Zealand up to Queenstown and we are very glad we took the trip. Genevieve Gallagher, Clifton Park, NY We had one unfortunate problem; one traveler broke her ankle…Thank goodness I insist that my passengers take the insurance. Virginia Gratton, Greenport, NY
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Fly to Uluru (the Aboriginal name for Ayers Rock) in the
heart of the Australian Outback. Tour the sandstone domes known as Kata
Tjuta and the beautiful area surrounding the base of “The Rock.” Later,
witness a stunning sunset over a glass of champagne as the Rock’s hues
change dramatically with the setting sun.
Brace yourself for
the Tasmanian Devil! Visit the Tasmanian Devil Conservation Center and
learn about this unique marsupial, its fight for survival, and the
efforts in place to save it from extinction. Later, take a guided tour
of the Port Arthur Historic Site, the best-preserved example of
Australia’s original penal colonies and home to stabilized ruins and
restored buildings dating back to 1833. En route, witness the
spectacular coastal rock formations known as Tasman Arch, Devil’s
Kitchen and the Blow Hole.
Enjoy a day at
leisure. Marvel at the scenic vistas of the harbour showcasing Sydney’s
magnificent skyline, the iconic Sydney Opera House and the Harbour
Bridge.
Set out for the beautiful turn-of-the-century gold rush
settlement of Arrowtown. Take time to explore independently and stroll
its quaint, historic streets. Next, follow the Kawarau River and cross
Lindis Pass before arriving in New Zealand’s most famous national park,
Mt. Cook. There will be time to enjoy the Alpine paradise of Mt. Cook –
a larger-than-life experience. You may choose to take a nature walk,
enjoy an optional glacier flightseeing tour (weather permitting) or
simply meditate on the beauty of the Southern Alps.
Travel to the
historic city of Christchurch, the “Garden City”. Enjoy some free time
to explore. Perhaps you’ll stroll the city’s magnificent gardens or
learn about its more recent history at the Quake City exhibition at the
Re:Start Mall.
