D I S T A N T M A S T E R SL I F E L E S S O N S O N H E A L T H , L O N G E V I T Y

A N D S P I R I T U A L I T Y B Y P R I V A T E J E T

JANUARY 27 – FEBRUARY 16, 2018

DISCOVER THE COLLECTIVE WISDOM OF ASIA IN A SINGLE JOURNEY.

Designed by TCS World Travel founder T.C. Swartz, Distant Masters is an incredible

opportunity to learn life lessons on health, longevity and spirituality. In T.C.’s own words,

“People are similar, but have different answers to key questions: What is sacred? What

values are most important? How do I live a healthy and meaningful life?”

FRONT COVER: Traditional Chinese herbs THIS PAGE: Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Bhutan

COLOMBO, S r i L a n k a

AMR ITSAR , In d i a

KATHMANDU & DHUL IKHEL ,

Ne p al

PARO,B h u ta n

C H I ANG MAI OR C H I ANG RA I ,

T h a i l a n d

KHAJURAHO, In d i a

LUANG PRABANG ,

L a os

EMBARK ON A JOURNEY THAT BLENDS ENRICHMENT, ADVENTURE AND REJUVENATION

Distant Masters is an all-inclusive, small-group journey, linking the spiritual

thought-centers and remote corners of Asia rarely experienced together. Compare

the varying approaches of Eastern and Western medicine, and learn health and

longevity secrets from distant lands. Uncover the common denominators between

the major Asian religions—Buddhism, Hinduism, Sikhism and Confucianism—and

what they hold sacred. Enjoy unprecedented access to the collective wisdom of

places, concepts and people across the continent, and engage in a lively symposium

of ideas with accomplished experts throughout the journey.

OKINAWA, Jap a n | E N D

To reserve your space, call 8 0 0 . 4 5 4 . 4 1 4 9 , email I n f o @ T C S Wo r l d Tr a v e l . c o m or visit T C S Wo r l d Tr a v e l . c o m

2 1 D AY S | L I M I T E D T O 1 4 G U E S T S | A L L - I N C L U S I V E

January 27 – February 16, 2018

$ 79 ,9 50 p e r p e rs o n , d o u b l e o c c up a n c y$9 ,9 50 s i n g l e s up p l e m e n t

D I S T A N T M A S T E R SL I F E L E S S O N S O N H E A L T H , L O N G E V I T Y

A N D S P I R I T U A L I T Y B Y P R I V A T E J E T

H O S T E D B Y T C S W O R L D T R A V E L F O U N D E R T . C . S W A R T Z A N D N O T E D A S I A E X P E R T B A R R Y T I L L

S i n g ap o re | B E GI N

P R E PA R E T O L E A R N I N C O M F O R T

Redefine your expectations of air travel. For this intimate, small-group journey, we fly on a long-

range Gulfstream G550 with seating for just 14 guests. Traveling by private jet means we can fly

direct routes not available to commercial airlines, giving you more time to immerse yourself in each

destination. We eliminate hassles such as airport layovers and lengthy security lines by accessing

smaller, private airports where possible. An experienced crew will ensure the highest comfort and

convenience. As we fly from country to country with ease, enjoy onboard lectures from our experts.

T H E W O R L D O F H E A L T H A N D W E L L N E S S

Join us on a unique learning expedition that focuses on health, wellness and well-being. Our goal is

to introduce ideas, share information and spark dialogue to supplement your own goals of physical

wellness and health. Throughout the journey, stay at accommodations where spa treatments and

other health activities are available.

“When I travel, what I learn is more important than what I see. This journey is a

synopsis of my 40 years of learning through exploration. A team of wise and insightful

“teachers” will impart their wisdom and understanding during our expedition.”

- T . C . S W A R T ZTCS WORLD TRAVEL FOUNDER

Opposite Page: Plush leather seats on the jet This page: Women practicing yoga, India

L E A R N A S Y O U E X P L O R E

Knowledge is travel’s greatest reward. This journey will introduce you to different philosophies, beliefs, living habits and

points of view. TCS World Travel Founder T.C. Swartz and noted Asia expert Barry Till will accompany you throughout

the trip and lead stimulating discussions on dozens of interesting topics. Explore, learn—and find inspiration.

T.C . S WA RT ZT.C. Swartz, founder of TCS World Travel, develops innovative, creative and educational

expeditions to remote parts of the world. Swartz brings more than four decades of

experience and global exploration to every itinerary he curates. He will guide this unique

journey filled with meaningful experiences and lead discussions on health and longevity.

B A R RY T I L LBarry Till, a renowned expert on the culture and history of Asia, is the Curator of

Asian Art at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria. He has traveled widely across Asia and

published numerous works on Asian art. Till speaks fluent Chinese, holds degrees in Far

Eastern Studies, and studied at Oxford University and Nanjing University in China.

U N C O V E R T H E S E C R E T S O F H E A LT H , L O N G E V I T Y A N D S P I R I T U A L I T Y

F R O M D I S T A N T M A S T E R S

Opposite Page: Exploring temples in Khajuraho , India This Page: Golden Temple of Amritsar, India

JANUARY 27 – 28 Cosmopolitan Singapore has evolved into one of the world’s safest, most vibrant and innovative cities in less than two generations. Uncover the factors that transformed Singapore from an underdeveloped nation into an economic powerhouse, and explore the connections between its rapid growth and the deep Confucian values held by Singapore’s founder.

Visit a traditional Chinese medicine facility to understand the goals and methods of this ancient practice. Enjoy a private guided tour of the National Gallery Singapore, which

showcases the country’s history and culture through art, and get a sense of the country’s multicultural tapestry as you stroll through Chinatown.

ACCOMMODATIONS Located in the heart of Marina Bay, Mandarin Oriental, Singapore is a luxurious urban retreat with excellent international dining and an outstanding spa. Recharge in elegant guest rooms that combine contemporary comforts with dramatic views of the Lion City.

Clockwise from top left: Chinese herbs; Gardens by the Bay; Pagoda detail Opposite page: Aerial view of Singapore

S I NGA P O R E

Seek to understand why Singapore’s cultural and economic model works—and how this island city-state has balanced modern innovation with its ancient values.

YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS...

S R I L A N KA N H I GH L A N DS

Venture into Sri Lanka’s interior—a lush landscape punctuated by waterfalls and tea estates—and learn about Buddhism at some of the country’s most sacred sites.

SINGAPORE COLOMBO, SRI LANKA: 4H

JANUARY 29 – 31 Sri Lanka is home to eight UNESCO World Heritage sites, many of them sacred to Buddhism. Introduced to the island in the third century B.C., this ancient religion encompasses a variety of core traditions, including meditation and the search for spiritual liberation. At the well-preserved ruins and monasteries of Anuradhapura, gain insight into Theravada Buddhism, a religious school that draws from the oldest record of the Buddha’s teachings.

Marvel at the massive rock sculptures in Polonnaruwa, a royal capital in the 12th and 13th centuries, or travel to Sigiriya, a hilltop fortress that contains magnificent frescoes of ancient Sinhalese texts. Admire the colossal, recumbent Buddha

carved out of living rock in the Golden Temple of Dambulla, which is also famous for its richly painted caves. Sample Sri Lanka’s Ceylon tea, considered one of the world’s finest.

ACCOMMODATIONS Set amid lush paddy fields in Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle, Jetwing Vil Uyana is a luxurious eco-resort that combines rural simplicity with modern comforts. Relax in unique dwellings designed to blend in with the natural surroundings of the hotel’s private nature reserve, and opt for early morning yoga led by a master.

Clockwise from top: Dambulla Cave Temple; Kiri Vehera stupa, Polonnaruwa; Women picking tea Opposite page: Ancient city of Sigiriya

FEBRUARY 1 Fly to the northern Indian city of Amritsar, home to the Golden Temple and the spiritual center of the Sikh religion. Surrounded by water, this majestic gold-plated temple blends Hindu and Islamic architectural styles. Join Sikhs from around the world as you explore this sacred space, and gain an understanding of the religion’s basic tenets, including the code of conduct, five articles of faith and required daily prayers. In keeping with Sikhism’s emphasis on brotherhood and equality, everyone is welcome within the temple, regardless of religious beliefs.

The next morning, fly to Khajuraho for a day of exploration. In this remote part of Central India, the Chandela kings built elaborate temples dedicated to two different

religions—Jainism and Hinduism. The most famous of these architectural masterpieces were inspired by tantric principles, which are reflected in the ornate, sensual sculptures that adorn the temples.

ACCOMMODATIONS Taj Swarna, Amritsar showcases the vibrant culture and rich history of the Punjab region with spacious rooms that blend contemporary style with traditional elegance. Choose from an array of dining options, enjoy the fitness center or try one of the spa’s signature wellness experiences.

Clockwise from left: Sikh pilgrims gathering for worship; Temple sculptures, Khajuraho; Golden Temple detail Opposite page: Woman praying at the Golden Temple

A M R I TSA R a n d K H A J U RA H O, I N DI A

COLOMBO, SRI LANKA AMRITSAR, INDIA: 4H KHAJURAHO, INDIA: 1H 30M

Learn about Sikhism at the religion’s holiest shrine, the Golden Temple of Amritsar, and embark on a day trip to Khajuraho to marvel at the nearly thousand-year-old temples.

DH U L I K H E L a n d KAT H M A N DU, N E PA L

Draw on the mystique of the Himalayas at a renowned wellness center and explore the rich cultural heritage of Nepal’s capital, Kathmandu.

KHAJURAHO, INDIA: KATHMANDU, NEPAL: 1H

FEBRUARY 2 – 4 After landing in Kathmandu, visit the medieval royal capital of Bhaktapur, which boasts captivating temples, palaces, squares and pagodas, before our short journey to Dhulikhel. Here, amid a stunning panorama of snowcapped peaks, find your balance at a holistic lifestyle retreat. Explore how yoga’s spiritual traditions derive from Hindu teachings, examine its symbiotic relationship with meditation, and learn about its effects on longevity and health. Explore the foothills on a gentle hike, and savor meals prepared with local produce from the resort’s organic farm and the area’s farmers.

The next morning, weather permitting, embark on a thrilling helicopter flight to ascend the holy mountain of Kongde Ri as the sun rises. Enjoy breakfast at Kongde Lodge, the highest of its

type in the world, and take in breathtaking views of the majestic Himalayas and the picturesque valley below. Return to Kathmandu and visit the massive Boudhanath Stupa, the center of the Tibetan community in Nepal.

ACCOMMODATIONS Set on over 20 acres overlooking the Himalayas, Dwarika’s Resort Dhulikhel features tranquil guest rooms designed with local materials and the Pancha Kosha Himalayan Spa, which offers a range of treatments. Dwarika’s Hotel Kathmandu takes its inspiration from the Kathmandu Valley’s rich cultural heritage. Guest rooms in this centrally located hotel have handwoven linen and handcrafted artisan furniture.

Clockwise from top: Himalayan peak Ama Dablam; Morning yoga session; Traditional temple bells Opposite page: Monk at Boudhanath Stupa

FEBRUARY 5 – 7 In the 1970s, Bhutan began welcoming visitors to discover its ancient monasteries and intriguing traditions. Around the same time, this secluded kingdom, tucked high in the Himalayas, began charting “gross national happiness” to measure economic progress. Meet with an expert on Bhutan’s history and culture to understand how this visionary philosophy has shaped the country’s development and policy.

As you take a scenic ride through the unspoiled panoramas of the Paro Valley, watch daily life unfold in what many consider the last true Shangri-La. See monks in worship at working monasteries and meet a local family in their farmhouse. Hike to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, one of Bhutan’s most sacred and

spectacular sites. Visit Paro Dzong, a hillside fortress home to large monastic community, for a glimpse into how Buddhist tenets have shaped this secluded country over centuries.

ACCOMMODATIONS Uma by COMO, Paro is a sleek, sophisticated mountainside retreat with awe-inspiring views of the surrounding valley. Contemporary comforts and traditional Bhutanese style come together in each room, and the luxurious amenities include a tranquil spa and award-winning cuisine.

Clockwise from left: Prayer wheels; Monk crossing bridge, Rinpung Monastery; Paro Dzong Opposite page: Tiger’s Nest Monastery

PA RO, B H U TA N

Discover why this remote Himalayan kingdom—filled with hilltop monasteries, massive fortresses and ancient temples—is known as Asia’s happiest country.

KATHMANDU, NEPAL PARO, BHUTAN: 1H

Explore the bustling markets, enduring rituals and picturesque villages of Northern Thailand—a lush jungle region that maintains its unique traditions.

C H I A NG M A I o r C H I A NG RA I , T H A I L A N D

PARO, BHUTAN CHIANG MAI, THAILAND: 2H

FEBRUARY 8 – 10 Immerse yourself in the rituals of rural Northern Thailand. Far from the hustle of modern city life, witness how people have preserved traditional handicrafts, and observe the interdependent relationship between humans and animals. Cruise on a tuk-tuk to see Chiang Mai’s old city walls and visit the ancient temple of Chedi Luang, once home to the famous Emerald Buddha. Participate in a popular water-pouring ritual at a nearby temple, and choose from a variety of yoga sessions each day.

Alternatively, upgrade to a two-night stay in Chiang Rai, followed by one night in Chiang Mai. Trek through the bamboo jungles with an elephant, take a custom-designed

traditional long-tail boat down the Mekong River into the heart of the Golden Triangle, and experience the timeless quality of local village markets.

ACCOMMODATIONS Located in a jungle garden, Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai features architecture inspired by ancient Thai tradition and an award-winning spa. Or travel to Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle, which features just 15 luxurious tented accommodations in the bamboo jungles of Chiang Rai.

Clockwise from top: Rice fields; Cooking class at Four Season Resort Chiang Mai; Chedi Luang, Chiang Mai Opposite page: Elephant trek, Chiang Rai

FEBRUARY 11 – 12 Located at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers, Luang Prabang is filled with sacred temples, elegant colonial architecture and traditional markets untouched by time. Visit Buddhist temples and the Royal Palace, home to the sacred Phra Bang, a golden Buddha given as a gift to mark the introduction of Buddhism to Laos.

Opt for a sunrise excursion to see the morning almsgiving, a holy ceremony in which locals offer sticky rice to monks. Compare these Buddhist traditions to the animist religion of the Hmong people, an ethnic minority who have maintained

their unique customs, culture and language. Learn how plants are used as natural cures in traditional Lao medicine at a botanical garden.

ACCOMMODATIONS With impressive mountain views and tropical gardens, Belmond La Résidence Phou Vao is a serene retreat reflecting authentic Laotian culture. Polished rosewood accents and rich linens decorate rooms, which emphasize local styles and materials.

Clockwise from left: Praying at Pak Ou Caves; Buddha statue; Hmong child in traditional dress Opposite page: Procession of monks

LUA NG P RA BA NG, L AOS

Witness how timeless Buddhist traditions influence modern life in Luang Prabang, designated a UNESCO World Heritage site for its fusion of European and Lao architecture.

CHIANG MAI, THAILAND LUANG PRABANG, LAOS: 45M

O K I NAWA , JA PA N

Uncover the reasons why Okinawans live longer, healthier lives by examining their eating habits and lifestyle.

LUANG PRABANG, LAOS OKINAWA, JAPAN: 4H

FEBRUARY 13 – 16 Residents of Okinawa have one of the highest life expectancies in the world—many of them live to be more than 100 years old. Scientists have long studied the Okinawan diet, genetics and lifestyle to understand why this region is home to such a high concentration of centenarians. Contemplate the keys to longevity and good health on a visit with Okinawan elders in their village to hear what they eat, how they work, what they believe and how they structure their society. Witness how ancient and modern customs intersect in everyday life as you sample contemporary cuisine, witness centuries-old rituals and listen to traditional music.

Toast to new memories with new friends at a festival farewell dinner on our last night, before returning home on your independent flight the next day.

ACCOMMODATIONS Designed to embody the landscape and architecture of the region, The Ritz-Carlton, Okinawa boasts elegant and tranquil rooms. Indulge in a spa treatment inspired by the region and dine at one of the resort’s modern restaurants.

Clockwise from top: Elderly woman in Okinawa; Healthy Okinawan cuisine; Shuri Castle Opposite page: Ryukyu Dancers