26 DAY CULTURAL TOUR RUSSIA, CHINA & …...O RI A AL L Churchill once described Russia as “a riddle, wrapped in a mystery, inside an enigma”. And while that still rings true, the

Offer available for a limited time or until sold out. TRIP A DEAL PTY LTD: 50149240433

Churchill once described Russia as “a riddle, wrapped in a mystery,

inside an enigma”. And while that still rings true, the same can also be

said of China and Mongolia… but not for much longer. On this 26 day

journey taking in the ancient wonders of China, the ruined

monasteries of Mongolia, and the remote cities of Eastern Russia,

these three enigmatic countries are now yours to discover.

Explore the stunning gardens and canals of historic Suzhou, long

known as the ‘Venice of the East’; step back in time at the beautiful

Forbidden City in Beijing; and tick off the bucket list with a walk along

the Great Wall of China. In Mongolia, take in the exotic streets of

Ulaanbaatar; enjoy a camel ride through the Khongor Sand Dunes;

meet nomadic peoples living in the rolling steppe; explore the ruins of

long-forgotten monasteries and more! In Russia, experience a short

cruise on Lake Baikal, the world’s largest freshwater lake; and see the

famed Lenin Head Monument in Irkutsk. This spectacular tour

includes return international flights, two additional international

flights, 23 nights hotel and ger (yurt) accommodation, an overnight

sleeper train, 46 meals, English-speaking guides and more!

RUSSIA, CHINA & MONGOLIA

BEIJING • ULAANBAATAR • IRKUTSK • SHANGHAI • ULAN-UDE

THE OFFERRUSSIA, CHINA & MONGOL.

$5999*

PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

$ 5999*TYPICALLY $7699

26 DAY CULTURAL TOUR


Day 1 Australia - Suzhou, China (via Shanghai)

Today depart from Sydney, Melbourne or *Brisbane for Suzhou, China via Shanghai. Fly with China Southern, China Eastern, Air China or Hainan Airlines (subject to availability). Upon arrival you will be transferred to the hotel.

Overnight: Suzhou Hotel

Meals included: In-Flight

Day 2 Suzhou - Hangzhou

Suzhou, which dates back to 514 BC, is sometimes called the ‘Venice of the East’. Today you will visit the famous Lingering Garden, recognised with other classical Suzhou gardens as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. China is renowned for its exquisite silk, so, naturally, a visit to a Silk Spinning Factory is in order. Take the opportunity to cruise along the Grand Canal (not included) to view life along China’s ancient waterway. Afterwards drive to Hangzhou (approx. 2 hours).

Overnight: Hangzhou Hotel

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 3 Hangzhou - Shanghai

Hangzhou is hailed as the tea capital of China. A visit to the city just isn’t complete without a trip to a local tea house. Make a special visit to the Tea House at Meijiawu Tea Village in the hinterland of West Lake Park, which is one of the most important Longjing Tea productions in China. Enjoy the natural environment and beautiful village scenery while learning more about their special tea culture.

At the Tea House, learn how to make the Longjing Tea - from picking and frying to tasting the finished product. Then, enjoy

a small boat ride on the UNESCO World Heritage listed West Lake, enjoying the ethereal beauty of the lake’s willow draped islands.

Next, drive to Shanghai (approx. 2 hours) to visit the famous Bund. Shanghai is divided by the Huangpu River into eastern and western sections. Modern mega high rises can be seen on the eastern side ,while traditional European style architecture may be seen on the western side. The Bund is a five-block riverfront promenade home to many of Shanghai’s banks and trading houses.

Tonight there is also an optional activity to watch a superb and thrilling Chinese Acrobatic Show ‘ERA: The Intersection of Time’ (not included).

Overnight: Shanghai Hotel


Day 4 Shanghai Museum - Free Afternoon

This morning, step back in time at the Shanghai Museum - home to more than 120,000 objects and artworks. Enjoy some free time at leisure this afternoon or join an optional half-day tour of Shanghai (not included) including Yu Garden, believed to have been built in the Ming Dynasty, more than 400 years ago. The exquisite layout, beautiful scenery, and the artistic style of the garden architecture have made the garden one of the highlights of Shanghai. Other attractions include Xintiandi, Old Town and Nanjing Road. In the evening, take the opportunity to join the optional ‘Night Cruise on the Huangpu River’ (not included).

Please note: If Shanghai Museum is closed, a visit to Suzhou Museum will be provided in place of this visit on Day 2 of the tour.

THE ITINERARY

26 DAY CULTURAL TOUR | RUSSIA, CHINA & MONGOLIA


Overnight: Shanghai Hotel


Day 5 Shanghai - Beijing (high-speed train experience)

Today transfer to Shanghai Station for the high-speed train journey to Beijing. Upon arrival transfer from Beijing train station to the hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Overnight: Beijing Hotel


Day 6 Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City

After breakfast, your exploration of Beijing begins with a visit to Tiananmen Square, one of the largest public squares in the world, followed by the Imperial Palace in the Forbidden City. The Forbidden City, also known officially as the Imperial Palace Museum, was originally constructed by the third Emperor of the Ming Dynasty, Emperor Yong Le, where 24 emperors once lived successionally. The palace was built between 1406 and 1420, but was burnt down, rebuilt, sacked and renovated countless times, so most of the architecture you can see today dates from the 1700s and onwards. Afterwards, visit a pearl factory to gain a little knowledge of fresh pearls.

Tonight, take the opportunity to attend an optional large scale dramatic musical, ‘The Golden Mask Dynasty’ (not included).



Day 7 Great Wall of China

Following breakfast, depart for the Great Wall. Along the way, stop at a Jade Museum to learn the history of jade. In Chinese,

jade is pronounced as “Yu” and it has a history in China of at least four thousand years. Observe the skilled artisans at work as they create their intricate designs.

Afterwards take a scenic drive through the mountains and countryside to reach China’s most renowned monument—the Great Wall. You will visit the less-touristy and more original Juyong Pass, avoiding other sections which are the most accessible and consequently most crowded. The Great Wall meanders through China’s northern mountain ranges from the Yellow Sea to the Gobi Desert - a distance of more than 3500 miles.

In the afternoon, take the opportunity to join an optional tour (not included) to see Beijing’s 700 year old Hutong’s (narrow lanes) area by old fashioned pedicab. You will also visit a local family living in a courtyard style home to experience the local customs including a delicious home-cooked dinner. The optional tour also includes a visit to Shichahai, a historic scenic area consisting of three lakes (Qianhai, meaning Front Sea; Houhai, meaning Back Sea and Xihai, meaning West Sea), surrounding places of historic interest and scenic beauty and remnants of old-style local residences, Hutong and Courtyard.


Meals included: Breakfast;Lunch

Day 8 Beijing Zoo, China - Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia

After breakfast visit Beijing Zoo to see the giant pandas. Then make a stop at ‘Tongrentang’ to learn more about traditional Chinese medicine. This evening, transfer to the airport for your international flight to Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. Upon arrival, be met and transferred to the hotel.

Overnight: Ulaanbaatar Hotel


THE ITINERARY



Day 9 Ulaanbaatar Free Day

Enjoy today at leisure to relax or begin exploring the treasures of Mongolia, or you can take the opportunity to join an optional sightseeing tour (included). The optional tour will visit the biggest Buddhist monastery ‘Gandan’. Hear monks chanting and visit temples within the monastery.

Afterwards, visit Zaisan Memorial, here you can choose to climb to the top of the hill and enjoy a great panoramic view of the whole city. If you choose not to climb the view is still spectacular. Continue the journey east and explore the Chinggis Khan Equestrian Statue Complex, home to museums and an impressive 40m tall statue of a mounted Genghis Khan. You can climb inside the monument and take in a fascinating panoramic view of the steppes from the head of the horse.

Tonight enjoy a traditional Mongolian concert (approx. 1 hour). The concert showcases throat singing, folk dance and music, contortion, traditional long song and Buddhist mask dance. The tour guide will escort you to and from the concert hall.


Meals included: Breakfast;Dinner

Day 10 Ulaanbaatar - Middle Gobi (approx. 260km day)

Surrender to this magical land today with the first taste of Mongolia’s fascinating landscape. Venture into the Middle Gobi, a semi-arid steppe full of rare wildlife. Stop for lunch at the stunning mountainside granite rock formation of Zorgol Khairkhan. Continue on to Baga Gazriin Chuluu, another iconic granite formation, and pass by the pristine waters of Lake Hairhan. Upon arrival, hike into camp where you’ll have the

opportunity to take photographs on the way.

The next eight nights will be in traditional Ger Camps. A Ger is a Mongolian traditional round shaped dwelling that has been used since the Mongols started nomadic life with animal husbandry. A ger consists of felt covers, wooden columns, and a round window at the top, thin wooden poles and floor, wall (wooden lattice attached together with animal hide, ropes) and ropes. Two people will share a ger with two single beds, with showers and bathrooms in a separate building.

Overnight: Traditional Ger Camp

Meals included: Breakfast;Lunch;Dinner

Day 11 Limestone Cliff Tsagaan Suvarga (approx. 240km day)

Journey through Tsarina Suvarga, an area full of 30m high white limestone formations, and feast your eyes on the mind-blowing colours of the desert floor below. The hike is of moderate difficulty (approx. 3km).



Day 12 Hiking in the Yolyn Am ‘Ice Valley’ (approx. 270km day)

Breathe in the crisp, cool air of Vulture Valley (Yolyn Am) with a stunning hike along a flowing stream. The hike is of moderate difficulty (approx. 5km). Following the stream, journey to an ice-filled gorge and marvel at the metres thick ice that lines the valley. Visit a small museum displaying a collection of dinosaur eggs, bones and exotic stuffed animals.



THE ITINERARY



Day 13 Gobi Desert & Khongor Sand Dune (approx. 280km day)

Leaving Vulture Valley this morning, prepare for an incredible journey through the Gobi Desert to Khongor Sand Dune. Let the mind wander as you travel through the spectacular landscape full of extremes. From the 300m high sand dunes and tropical oasis to luscious grasslands, the varied climates are home to camels. Enjoy a ride on a Bactrian camel through the desert.



Day 14 Land of Dinosaurs, Bayanzag (approx. 180km day)

Head to Bayanzag today and learn about the incredible site known as Flaming Cliff. The area is also renowned for its dinosaur bones and eggs, which were first excavated from the desert rock and sand in 1922.



Day 15 Ongi Monastery (approx. 170km day)

Travel to the heart of the desert today and marvel at the Ongi Monastery. Once one of the biggest Buddhist monasteries in Mongolia, Ongi was ruined during a period of political repression. Hike through the fascinating ruins and enjoy the scenery of Ongi River, which runs past the ancient site.



Day 16 Karakorum Ruins & Erdene Zuu Monastery (approx. 300km day)

After breakfast this morning you will drive to Karakorum, the site of the 13th century Mongolian capital. Visit Karakorum Museum to learn of the Great Mongol, Stone Age, Bronze Age, and Ancient periods. Tour through the ancient city before moving on the beautiful ruins of Erdene Zuu Monastery. Surrounded by huge 400m x 400m walls built from the ruins of Karakorum, the Erdenezuu was the first and the biggest Buddhist monastery of the 16th century.



Day 17 Tsenkher Hot Springs (approx. 150km day)

Take the chance to unwind today with a trip to the Tsenkher Hot Springs. Settle into the Ger camp and enjoy a natural hot spring bath. Enjoy some complimentary alcohol with dinner tonight to celebrate the final night of your Mongolian desert adventure. Tonight’s camp is in a deluxe Ger camp with improved facilities.

Overnight: Deluxe Traditional Ger Camp


Day 18 Tsenkher Hot Springs - Ulaanbaatar (approx. 460km day)

This morning travel to the Hustai National Park and visit a small museum displaying a collection of photos and videos about wild horses. Then take a small hike to discover approx. 400 wild horses that are adapting to the re-introduced landscapes and wildlife. Drive back to Ulaanbaatar and check into the hotel for the night.


THE ITINERARY




Day 19 Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia - Depart for Ulan-Ude, Russia

Enjoy this morning at leisure. This afternoon you will be transferred to the train station for your train journey across the Mongolian/Russian border to Ulan-Ude in Eastern Siberia. The train will take around 10 to 11 hours, so relax and enjoy the ever-changing scenery.

Please note:

- The seating will be in an economy class twin share sleeper cabin.

- The facilities on the train are basic.Overnight: Ulan-Ude Hotel


Day 20 Ulan-Ude City Tour - Depart for Irkutsk

Arrive in the early hours of the morning (approx. 2:00am) and be transferred to the hotel for check in. Later this morning enjoy a city tour through Ulan-Ude, a small city in Eastern Siberia, Russia.

Visit the main square which features the huge Lenin Head Monument and Ivolginsky Datsan Buddhist Temple. You will also learn about the Buryat People, the largest indigenous group in Siberia. They are a nomadic herding people of who practice Tibetan Buddhism and share many customs with other Mongols. They are known for their wrestling. After the city tour, enjoy dinner with the group before taking an overnight train to Irkutsk.

Overnight: Rossiya Train (Economy Class: Twin Share Sleeper Cabin)


Day 21 Irkutsk - Lake Baikal - Listvyanka

Arrive early this morning into Irkutsk and disembark the train. Enjoy an excursion to Lake Baikal with a visit to the Limnological Museum and Chersky Peak which you will reach by chairlift. Lake Baikal is the world’s largest freshwater lake and one of the oldest known lakes. Enjoy lunch in a local café (not included) and then take in the beauty of the lake on a one hour Baikal boat tour. Visit a local fish and souvenir market on the way to the hotel in Listvyanka.

Overnight: Listvyanka Hotel


Day 22 Listvyanka - Irkutsk Tour

After breakfast this morning, drive back to Irkutsk. Along the way enjoy an excursion to a Talci Wooden Architecture Museum, home to a great collection of original Siberian wooden houses. Here you will learn about the traditional lifestyle of Siberian farmers.

After lunch (not included) take an excursion to the Decembrists Museum, followed by a city walking tour. Walk along Kirov Square, the heart of the city, a little green island circled by numerous cars. You will pass various sights such as the magnificent Governor’s house, Irkutsk Linguistic University and the astonishing Roman Catholic Cathedral. You will also walk along Karl Marx and Lenin streets, the two main streets of Irkutsk that feature many signs of the city’s historical past.

Overnight: Irkutsk Hotel


THE ITINERARY



Day 23 Irkutsk, Russia - Evening transfer to the airport

After breakfast, check out and spend the rest of the day at leisure before transferring to the airport late this evening for your early morning flight to Beijing, China tomorrow. You can store your bags at the hotel after check out.



Day 24 Beijing Free Day

Upon arrival into Being in the early hours of the morning, you will be transferred to the hotel for check in. The rest of today is free to spend at leisure in the bustling city of Beijing.



Day 25 Beijing, China - Australia

Enjoy your final breakfast this morning before transferring to the airport for your return flight back to Australia.

Meals included: Breakfast;In-Flight

Day 26 Arrive in Australia


THE ITINERARY


HIGHLIGHTS

Visit Suzhou, Hangzhou, Shanghai and Beijing in China

Explore the UNESCO listed Lingering Garden in Suzhou

Admire exquisite silks at a silk spinning factory

Learn about Longjing Tea at Meijiawu Tea Village

Enjoy a boat ride on Hangzhou’s scenic West Lake

Witness stunning views of Shanghai from The Bund promenade

Delve into the history of China at the inspiring Shanghai Museum

Explore the UNESCO listed Forbidden City

Be awe-struck by the scale of Tiananmen Square

Marvel at the incredible Great Wall of China

See adorable Giant Pandas at the Beijing Zoo

Explore Beijing on a day free at leisure

Learn about pearls at a Freshwater Pearl Centre

Visit a local Jade Museum and see artisans at work

Learn about traditional Chinese medicine at ‘Tongrentang’

Explore historic Ulaanbaatar with a day at leisure

Enjoy a free day at leisure to explore Ulaanbaatar

Witness a traditional Mongolian concert

See the stunning landscape of the Middle Gobi Desert

Visit the sacred mountain of Zorgol Khairkhan

Explore the white limestone formations of Tsagaan Suvarga

Go hiking in the magical Yolyn Am ‘Ice Valley’

Enjoy a Bactrian camel ride in the Khongor Sand Dunes

See the Flaming Cliffs in Bayanzag, Mongolia’s dinosaur graveyard

Witness the fascinating ruins of Ongi Monastery

Explore the ruins of Karakorum, the 13th century Mongolian capital

Relax in the soothing waters of Tsenkher Hot Springs

Learn about wild horses in the Hustai National Park

Enjoy a taste of the traditional Mongolian nomadic lifestyle

Witness the vast Mongolian and Russian landscape

See the Lenin Head Monument and more on an Ulan-Ude city tour

Cruise Lake Baikal, the largest freshwater lake in the world

Learn about the lifestyle of Siberian farmers at the Talci Wooden Architecture Museum

Walk along historic Karl Marx and Lenin Streets on a walking tour in Irkutsk

Enjoy a day at leisure in Irkutsk, known for its architecture and eateries

FLIGHTS

Return international flights (economy class) departing SYD/MEL/*BNE

1 x international flight (economy class) Beijing, China to Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia

1 x international flight (economy class) Irkutsk, Russia to Beijing, China

ACCOMMODATION

15 nights quality hotel accommodation

7 nights traditional Ger (yurt) camp accommodation

1 night deluxe traditional Ger (yurt) camp accommodation

1 overnight Russian sleeper train (economy class): Ulan-Ude to Irkutsk

DINING

Enjoy 46 meals including 3 meals daily at the Ger camp

TOUR INCLUSIONS



TOUR ESSENTIALS

English-speaking tour guides (China)

English-speaking tour leader/guide (Mongolia & Russia)

All sightseeing and entrance fees as per itinerary

Airline taxes and surcharges

Bottled drinking water daily (Mongolia & Russia only)

TRANSPORT

Transportation by private A/C vehicles (China)

Transportation by 4WD vehicles (Mongolia & Russia)

1-way high-speed train (economy class): Shanghai to Beijing

1-way train ticket (economy class): Ulan-Ude to Irkutsk

1-way train ticket (economy class): Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia to Ulan-Ude, Russia

TRANSFERS

Return airport and rail transfers

TOUR INCLUSIONS



IMPORTANT INFORMATION*Please note: All information provided in

this brochure is subject to both change and

availability. Prior to purchase please check

the current deal for up-to-date information.

If you have already purchased this deal,

the terms and conditions on your Purchase

Confirmation apply and take precedence over

the information in this brochure.

BOOKING INFORMATION

After purchase, you will receive a receipt and a Purchase Confirmation, directing you to an online Passenger Information Form. The Passenger Information Form must be completed within 72 hours of purchase.

Any special requests, preferences and optional extras MUST be clearly stated in your Passenger Information Form. Any change requested after submitting your Passenger Information Form cannot be guaranteed, is strictly subject to availability and will incur surcharges as outlined in the Schedule of Fees below.

On purchasing this Travel Offer you are bound by the General Terms and Conditions, in addition to the specific terms and conditions outlined in this Important Information.

*Mandatory service fee:

A mandatory service fee is not included in the tour price, and is required for the services of the tour leader (when available) and driver throughout the tour. The mandatory service fee for the tour leader and driver is $12 AUD per person/per day where tour or transfer services are provided (day 1-8), which will be collected whilst on tour (this will include day of arrival and departure, and covers both the tour leader and driver).

Please note: all additional charges are payable direct to your Travel Consultant in AUD (unless otherwise stated).

OFFER ESSENTIALS

Travel offer is valid for travel on selected dates until the 4th September 2020.

This travel offer is priced for one person

based on twin share.

Single Traveller Supplement

For solo travellers a mandatory single supplement of $1180 applies.

Departure Dates (2020)

Please see the TripADeal website for current departure dates.

Surcharges

Please note: dates/months with a * incur a land high season surcharge of $220 per person.

Departure Cities

Sydney, Melbourne or *Brisbane

Departure City Surcharges

*Brisbane: $220 per person

FLIGHTS

Full Service Airline(s) Used

Australia to China & China to Australia

China Southern, China Eastern, Air China or Hainan Airlines plus any codeshare partners (subject to availability).

Additional International Flights - China to Mongolia & Russia to China

Hahn Air Lines, Miat Mongolian Airlines, Serbia Airlines, Air China plus any codeshare partners (subject to availability)

Please note: One way flights can not be accommodated. Travellers must take all included flights within the package, and any flights intentionally forfeited will result in later flights being subject to cancellation.

Arrive Early

Not available.

Stay Behind

Not available.

Stopover Packages

Not available.

Flight Class Upgrades

Not available.

ACCOMMODATION

Accommodation Used

China

4 Star (self-rated)

- Suzhou: Snowy Sea Hotel / Jincheng Hotel / Berkesy Residence Gusu / Vienna International Hotel /China Garden Hotel OR Nanya Hotel

- Hangzhou: Pujing Garden Hotel / Holiday Inn Hangzhou Airport Zone / Yuandong Hotel /Yuandong Hotel OR Hai Wai Hai Bai Na Hotel

- Shanghai: Holiday Inn Express / Howard Johnson Hong Qiao / Lin Yin Art Hotel Shanghai / Crowne Plaza Shanghai Xiayang Lake / Mercure Hotel Hongqiao South / Garden View Hotel OR Regal Plaza Hotel & Residence

- Beijing: Friendship Hotel / Feitian Hotel / Jianguo Hotel Qianmen / Jingdu Guilong Hotel / North Star Continental Grand Hotel / Ramada Parkside / Gehua New Century / Chang An Grand Hotel /Novotel Sanyuan / Beijing Nanyueyuan Hotel /Rosedale Hotel & Suites / Century Huatian Hotel / Beijing Riverside Hotel / Beijing GuanTong Jianhui Hotel / Schonbrunn Hotel/ Chunhuiyuan Resort and West International Trade Grand Hotel OR Chunhuiyuan Resort

Mongolia

4 Star (self-rated)

- Ulaanbaatar: Novotel Ulaanbaatar / Ramada Ulaanbaatar City Center or similar

No star rating

- Traditional Ger camp & deluxe Ger camp (toilet and shower facilities are communal)

Russia

4 Star (self-rated)

- Ulan-Ude: Baikal Plaza / Sagaan Morin or similar


- Irkutsk: Hotel Central / Armat Hotel / Baikal Business Center Hotel or similar

3 Star (self-rated)

- Listvyanka: Mayak Hotel / Legend of Baikal or similar

No star rating

- Train: Rossiya Train (economy class twin share cabin)

Please note: Accommodation/rooms offered are based on a lead-in room type, and are subject to availability based on seasonality. Properties will be confirmed, no later than two weeks prior to travel.

Extra Nights

Not available.

Maximum Room Capacity

2 people.

Child Policy

- No child discounts. Full price applies for all children travelling with their parents.

- Valid for Children/infants 12 years old and over.

Please note: Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult 18 years old and over to travel. No unaccompanied minors allowed.

Triple Share

Not available.

Bedding Configuration

Twin or double bedding (subject to availability).

Adjoining / Interconnecting Rooms

Subject to availability and at the hotels discretion. Please enquire on booking if you require this option.

GENERAL TOUR INFORMATION

Minimum group size 12, maximum group size 20 per vehicle.

Optional Tours / Activities

- Suzhou: Day 2: Grand Canal Cruise -

190 RMB

- Shanghai: Day 3: ERA and The Intersection of Time - 380 RMB

- Shanghai: Day 4: Half day city tour - 180 RMB

- Shanghai: Day 4: Huangpu River Night Cruise - 240 RMB

- Beijing: Day 6: The Golden Mask Dynasty - 330 RMB

- Beijing: Day 7: Tour 700 year old Hutong with Dinner - 300 RMB

Please note:

- prices are based on per person, are subject to availability, time permitting and weather conditions, and are payable direct to the tour operator in the currency specified.

- Some tours require minimum numbers to operate.

EXCLUSIONS

- Visa fees and requirements (A tourist visa for China, Mongolia & Russia are strict requirements if travelling on an Australian passport)

- Meals/beverages not stated in the itinerary

- Mandatory service fee: $12 AUD per person/per day in China where tour or transfer services are provided (this includes day of arrival and departure).

- Gratuities/tipping:

- ^ Mongolia & Russia: Recommended at $8 USD (approx. $12 AUD) per person/day.

- Optional activities/tours

- Personal expenses

- Travel insurance (Mandatory)Please note: A comprehensive travel Insurance policy must be organised BEFORE all details can be finalised.

OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Recommended Things to Bring (Mongolia):

Large backpack, warm coat/jacket, raincoat, trekking shoes, a swimsuit for the hot spring, rubber thongs, sunglasses, scarf, hat, gloves, LED head torch. Avoid bulky aerosol cans, use roll-on deodorant and shaving cream in a hard stick or a

tube. Toilet paper is important to have with you as Mongolian toilets are very basic, and lack toilet paper.

Traditional Mongolian Ger Camps:

The accommodation in Gers is for 2 people. There are public facilities in a separate building on the territory of the camp.

Mongolia/Russia Border Crossing:

Please note: The train will stop at the Mongolian border for about 1 hour and 40 mins and also at the Russian border for about 2 hours. During the stops, customs will check passengers coming onto the train.

TOUR GUIDE VS. TOUR LEADER

Tour Guide:

Often locals with intimate knowledge of an area, its culture, and history. Their role entails providing commentary, routing the tour, and seeing that people have a good time. They are a licensed, qualified expert who supplies specific information on history, art, architecture and culture of the city/village/attraction in which he or she is guiding the tour. The guide meets the group at the required place and leaves the group at the end of the tour, they do not travel with the group.

Tour Leader:

An experienced person tasked with ensuring the smooth operation of tours, as well as providing practical support to passengers throughout the whole trip. Their role primarily includes assisting with accommodation, transportation between locations, and communication with tour guides in each stop. A tour leader may provide general guidance around a city or village, and offer information on the place visited on the bus, however they are not required to have specific knowledge on art, architecture, or history. They are not allowed to provide a guided tour or commentary of a city/village/attraction once there and if caught doing so, can be

IMPORTANT INFORMATION


fined.

Please note: Tour leaders/guides are not a standard inclusion in all travel offers. Tour leaders/guides will only be made available when particularly required to enhance the experience of the destination featured.

CLIMATE & AVERAGE TEMPERATURES

China:

- Beijing has a temperate and continental monsoon climate, with four distinct seasons and big differences in temperature between day and night. The seasons: summer in Beijing is hot and humid, while winter is cold and dry. Spring and autumn are short and cool. The coldest month is January at an average of -4 °C, and the hottest month is July at an average of 26 °C.

- Shanghai weather is generally mild and moist, with four distinctive seasons - a pleasant warm spring, a hot rainy summer, a comfortable cool autumn, and an overcast cold winter. The weather of Shanghai in July and August is the hottest, with more than 10 days’ high temperatures above 35°C. The coldest period is from late January to early February. The springtime from March to May is recommended as the best time to pay a visit, while October to November, with pleasant autumn climate, is also a wise choice.

Mongolia:

Although June to September is summer in Mongolia, the weather is unpredictable, and nights have been known to dip below freezing even in the summer in some regions. Therefore, multiple layers are always recommended.

Russia:

Typical high temperatures in the warm months of June, July and August are around 23°C, but during heat waves, which can occur anytime from May to September, daytime temperature highs often top 30 °C for sometimes one or two weeks.

FLIGHTS

Seat Selection & Frequent Flyer Points:

At TripADeal we do not arrange seat selection. It is important to highlight that some Airlines do not allow pre-selected seats. We strongly suggest you contact the Airline directly with seating allocation requirements and or arrive at the airport earlier to arrange your seating. While we do not add frequent flyer member details to bookings, you can do this directly with the Airline once you have your flight information.

Passport Validity:

Customers are required to provide valid passport details either at the time of purchase, or no later than 45 days prior to departure date. Failure to do so may result in cancellation of the booking. In this instance customers will be responsible for any costs and fees incurred.

COACH TOUR

Meals:

46 meals are included in the tour, for all other meals; lunches and dinners the tour leader (when available) will offer assistance with reservations, suggestions and directions to local restaurants. It is your responsibility to notify TripADeal of any dietary requests/requirements. Please note; we will do our best to meet your requests/requirements, however cannot guarantee that we will always be able to.

Luggage:

You will be responsible for all your personal belongings whilst on the tour. With regards to luggage, you must carry your own luggage from the coach to the hotel room and back to the coach. The driver will assist with the uploading and off-loading of the luggage from the coach.

OTHER

Fitness Level Required / Mobility:

Our vehicles are not equipped with wheelchair access, so unfortunately our tours are currently not suitable for wheelchair users and those less mobile.

Please note: a moderate level of fitness will be required. If you have any concerns please consult your healthcare provider prior to purchase/travel.

Yellow Fever:

A valid international certificate of vaccination against Yellow Fever is required in many countries. You may need to present this on arrival at the airport or border crossing. Some countries will refuse entry if you are unable to present your certificate. It’s also quite common for your home country to request a Yellow Fever certificate on your arrival back home. It is your responsibility to check with your doctor well in advance of leaving home about the Yellow Fever requirements for the countries you’ll be visiting.

GRATUITIES/TIPPING

Mongolia & Russia

Land

- Gratuities (tips) are not included in the tour price for services of the tour leader (when available) and driver throughout the tour. The recommended tip is $8 USD per person per day this covers the guide/leader and the driver, which will be collected whilst on tour.

- Tipping for all services provided on tour is always a matter of personal discretion, however please be aware that tipping is considered by many locals to be a part of their normal remuneration and they may approach you for payment and there is no need to be intimidated by the request.

Sightseeing:

Please note: In the event entrance to a site is affected by changes in operating hours or public holiday closures, your itinerary will



be adjusted to ensure you do not miss out on the experience.

Shopping:

- Shopping overseas can be a daunting and confusing experience, especially when there is a language barrier. Please be very cautious when foreign currencies and prices are involved. If paying by credit card, please pay close attention to the amount you are being charged and keep all of your receipts.

- Do not make any purchases you are not comfortable with or feel pressured into. If you are uncertain or need assistance with the language barrier, please seek assistance from your Tour Guide/Leader.

- Please refer to our Terms and Conditions in regards to shopping for further information.

VISAS

China (Double Entry required)

A double entry tourist visa for China is a strict requirement if travelling on an Australian Passport.

TripADeal offers a fast, secure and easy service to obtain a visa for this China. This visa can take approximately 2 weeks to complete. Alternative you may apply directly through the Chinese Consulate in Australia.

Mongolia

A tourist visa is a strict requirement for Mongolia if travelling on an Australian passport.

Russia

- The visa is valid for 30 days for double entry and the final exit date must be no more than 30 days from the date of first entry.

- A valid voucher and official confirmation letter issued by a registered Russian tour agency will be provided to you through TripADeal. Please contact your nearest Russian Embassy or Consulate for instructions on how to apply in person or via post.

- TripADeal will provide you with

further information in your Travel Pack.

- * This tour requires a multi-destination visa, which may mean that your passport may need to be submitted for processing for up to three months prior to your tour departure date from Australia. TripADeal will provide you with further information in your Travel Pack.

Important: Please start arranging your visa at least 3 months prior to departure to account for any delays due to consulate operating hours.

Please note: Passengers who are not Australian citizens must check with the respective consulate or visa agency to determine what their visa requirements are and what personal identification is required. It is also important to note, some areas of employment such as journalism, government authorities and charity organisations may have additional restrictions in applying for Visas. This may in turn affect the type of application required.

INSURANCE

We are proud to offer a range of travel insurance products - please ask your Travel Consultant for more information.

SCHEDULE OF FEES

Please note: Due to limited availability, passenger name and date changes are strictly prohibited for this offer. This overrides the Schedule of Fees in our standard Terms & Conditions. No refunds will be issued once offer has been purchased.


Documents

26 DAY CULTURAL TOUR RUSSIA, CHINA & …...O RI A AL L Churchill once described Russia as “a riddle, wrapped in a mystery, inside an enigma”. And while that still rings true, the