9
Holi festival & TIGER TOUR An exciting 26-day escorted, catered & accommodated Global Gypsies adventure! February 16 March 12, 2020 INDIAwhat an amazing, mysterious, vibrant & diverse country! The cast of The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel fell in love with it & we know you will, too! Particularly as we’ve scheduled our third tour to this wonderful destination to coincide with the colourful & exciting Holi Festival ! Join us for 26 wonderful days as we celebrate Holiin a desert village in Rajasthan; search for tigers in Ranthambhore Sanctuary; spot birds in Bharatpur; tend retired working elephants in a rehabsanctuary; visit Agra & the Taj Mahal; exlore historic Jaipur; admire spiritual Varanasi where you’ll be awestruck by “Mother Gangescelebrations at sunset & dusk; tour bustling Delhi; cruise leisurely through the waterways of Kerala in traditional houseboats & more. There are local bazaars, restaurants, markets & cultural performances to enjoy as well as lots of fun activities including optional yoga, turban-tying, cooking or Bollywood dance classes; a visit to the “Marigold” film set & a night with the locals at a Bollywood movie. Immerse yourself in the traditional lifestyle, learn about the fascinating history, crafts & architecture, enjoy the delicious cuisine & be charmed by the friendly people. We’ll travel by coach, train, 4WD’s, rickshaws, houseboats - even camels & elephants if you wish! We’ll stay in quality 4 5 star accommodation (some hotels are former palaces!) on a twin/share basis with most meals included. And if you have special dietary requirements we’ll do our best to cater for them, even if you’re a ‘curry coward’! Personally Escorted by Global Gypsies This exotic adventure to one of our favourite destinations will be personally escorted by Jeremy & Jan of Global Gypsies with local English-speaking guides. India has a vitality, rhythm & fascination all its own & is a must-see destination. Yes, some situations can be a bit confronting but it’s all part of the social & cultural fabric of this fascinating ancient land. Inoculations & Health Please consult your GP about any specific inoculations & personal medications you may require. Participants need to have a good level of fitness & be able to walk three kms & climb steps unassisted. If you have any health concerns or serious pre-existing conditions, we may ask you for a medical certificate. Security As with many countries, visitors to India should exercise caution. However, when you join a Global Gypsies tour you’ll be in the capable, caring & professional hands of an award-winning company with over 40 years’ combined travel experience. Don’t miss this opportunity to share the wonder & excitement of India with a small group of like- minded travelers led by expert guides! Passports & Visas Ensure that your passport is current & valid & has an expiry date at least six months ahead of your arrival date. Australians must obtain a visa before travelling to India. You can apply on-line for a single-entry e- Tourist Visa for visits of 30 days or less ; the fee is approximately USD$60/AUD$85. Obtain your visa in advance but sure to use only the official visa site recommended by the Indian Government: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/tvoa.html Air Fares & Travel Insurance Please note that the tour package does not include international air fares to/from India. For budgeting purposes allow about AUD$2500 return for economy air fares ex-Australia). Clients should make their own arrangements to arrive in Delhi by 5:00 p.m. on February 16, 2020 (or earlier if you want to have a rest or recover from jet lag). Please note that travel insurance is compulsory & should cover you for evacuation. Check the wording carefully for age limits & pre-existing conditions.

Holi festival & TIGER TOUR - Global Gypsies › docs › TOUR.FLYER.INDIA.2020.pdfHoli festival & TIGER TOUR An exciting 26-day escorted, catered & accommodated Global Gypsies adventure!

  • Upload
    others

  • View
    3

  • Download
    0

Embed Size (px)

Citation preview

Page 1: Holi festival & TIGER TOUR - Global Gypsies › docs › TOUR.FLYER.INDIA.2020.pdfHoli festival & TIGER TOUR An exciting 26-day escorted, catered & accommodated Global Gypsies adventure!

Holi festival & TIGER TOUR An exciting 26-day escorted, catered & accommodated Global Gypsies adventure!

February 16 – March 12, 2020

INDIA…what an amazing, mysterious, vibrant & diverse country! The cast of The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel fell in love with it & we know you will, too! Particularly as we’ve scheduled our third tour to this wonderful destination to coincide with the colourful & exciting Holi Festival! Join us for 26 wonderful days as we celebrate ‘Holi’ in a desert village in Rajasthan; search for tigers in Ranthambhore Sanctuary; spot birds in Bharatpur; tend retired working elephants in a ‘rehab’ sanctuary; visit Agra & the Taj Mahal; exlore historic Jaipur; admire spiritual Varanasi where you’ll be awestruck by “Mother Ganges” celebrations at sunset & dusk; tour bustling Delhi; cruise leisurely through the waterways of Kerala in traditional houseboats & more. There are local bazaars, restaurants, markets & cultural performances to enjoy as well as lots of fun activities including optional yoga, turban-tying, cooking or Bollywood dance classes; a visit to the “Marigold” film set & a night with the locals at a Bollywood movie. Immerse yourself in the traditional lifestyle, learn about the fascinating history, crafts & architecture, enjoy the delicious cuisine & be charmed by the friendly people. We’ll travel by coach, train, 4WD’s, rickshaws, houseboats - even camels & elephants if you wish! We’ll stay in quality 4 – 5 star accommodation (some hotels are former palaces!) on a twin/share basis with most meals included. And if you have special dietary requirements we’ll do our best to cater for them, even if you’re a ‘curry coward’!

Personally Escorted by Global Gypsies This exotic adventure to one of our favourite destinations will be personally escorted by Jeremy & Jan of Global Gypsies with local English-speaking guides. India has a vitality, rhythm & fascination all its own & is a must-see destination. Yes, some situations can be a bit confronting but it’s all part of the social & cultural fabric of this fascinating ancient land.

Inoculations & Health Please consult your GP about any specific inoculations & personal medications you may require. Participants need to have a good level of fitness & be able to walk three kms & climb steps unassisted. If you have any health concerns or serious pre-existing conditions, we may ask you for a medical certificate. Security As with many countries, visitors to India should exercise caution. However, when you join a Global Gypsies tour you’ll be in the capable, caring & professional hands of an award-winning company with over 40 years’ combined travel experience. Don’t miss this opportunity to share the wonder & excitement of India with a small group of like-minded travelers led by expert guides!

Passports & Visas Ensure that your passport is current & valid & has an expiry date at least six months ahead of your arrival date. Australians must obtain a visa before travelling to India. You can apply on-line for a single-entry e-Tourist Visa for visits of 30 days or less; the fee is approximately USD$60/AUD$85. Obtain your visa in advance but sure to use only the official visa site recommended by the Indian Government: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/tvoa.html

Air Fares & Travel Insurance Please note that the tour package does not include international air fares to/from India. For budgeting purposes allow about AUD$2500 return for economy air fares ex-Australia). Clients should make their own arrangements to arrive in Delhi by 5:00 p.m. on February 16, 2020 (or earlier if you want to have a rest or recover from jet lag). Please note that travel insurance is compulsory & should cover you for evacuation. Check the wording carefully for age limits & pre-existing conditions.

Page 2: Holi festival & TIGER TOUR - Global Gypsies › docs › TOUR.FLYER.INDIA.2020.pdfHoli festival & TIGER TOUR An exciting 26-day escorted, catered & accommodated Global Gypsies adventure!

What to Pack/Luggage Dress will be informal. Bring lightweight, quick dry, non-crushable fabrics, a few warm things, comfy walking shoes & a couple of nice outfits for special occasions. Ladies, please remember to bring a pashmina or shawl as you will be expected to cover up in a number of situations. We recommend using soft suitcases with wheels & carrying a maximum of 15-20 kgs – please bring only what you can carry & handle yourself!

Pre-Departure Workshop & Kit We’ll give you lots more information about what to expect, what to pack & how to prepare for your adventure at the Pre-Departure Workshop. We will hold this in late 2019 at our home/office in Scarborough. You will also receive a special Pre-Departure Kit at the workshop – don’t worry if you can’t attend, we’ll post or email you a copy then phone you to go through it.

MEET YOUR TOUR ESCORTS & TOUR GUIDES

Your Tour Escorts will be Jeremy Perks and Jan Barrie, Directors of Global Gypsies Tours & Training, assisted by local English-speaking guides. Established in 1997, the company offers a range of self-drive eco-adventures in outback Australia as well as escorted tours to such destinations as Antarctica, Borneo, Botswana, China, Kenya, Northern Lights, Silk Road, Russia, Tanzania and North and South America. Our clients come back to us again and again and are like part of our family! Global Gypsies has won the Tourism Council WA Gold Award for Adventure Tours and the Bronze Award for Tour Guide Training. They have also published a popular book, How to Be an Award-Winning Tour Guide.

Born in South Africa, Jeremy is a professional Tour Guide and a former Tour Guide of the Year. In his youth he served as an Officer in the elite South African Defence Force (similar to the SAS) where he learned bush survival and leadership skills.

He is a qualified mechanic and an experienced four-wheel-driver who loves flora and fauna and holds a certificate in remote area first aid. In addition to leading Australian and overseas tours, he also teaches four-wheel-driving, caravan towing and tour guiding. Prior to establishing Global Gypsies, Jeremy was the Managing Director of a major advertising agency in Johannesburg and managed a safari camp in Kenya’s Rift Valley. He immigrated to Australia over 20 years ago.

Jan is a former journalist, travel writer and communications manager who is responsible for the administration, marketing and customer relations aspects of Global Gypsies. She was born in England, has lived in Africa, America and the UK, has travelled extensively and has called Australia home for over 30 years.

Our Delhi-based partners coordinating & leading the tour are Kipling Travel, a long-established & highly experienced touring & travel company. General Manager, Sanjay Pant (second from left, front row) will accompany us throughout our journey assisted by local English-speaking guides.

Kipling Travel specialises in organising customised tours through India, Nepal & surrounds for private interest groups such as ours as well as photographers, birders, wildlife enthusiasts & more. They will also be organising a range of pre/post tour options to such exotic destinations as Goa, Nepal, Sri Lanka & the Maldives.

Page 3: Holi festival & TIGER TOUR - Global Gypsies › docs › TOUR.FLYER.INDIA.2020.pdfHoli festival & TIGER TOUR An exciting 26-day escorted, catered & accommodated Global Gypsies adventure!

Proposed ITINERARY

Holi festival INDIA TOUR 2020

Day 1: Sunday, 16 February 2020 Arrive Delhi Group arrives in Delhi independently. You will be met at the airport & transferred to your hotel – look for the Global Gypsies welcome sign! Please book your flights to ensure that you arrive by 5:00 p.m. at the latest in order for you to rest, relax & be bright eyed & bushy-tailed for the next day’s activities. There are no plans for tonight & there will be no group meal. Optional dinner can be enjoyed in the hotel restaurant at your leisure. (own expense). If you would like to arrange an optional activity today (such as a bicycle tour or other, please let us know in advance & we will advise what is available). Overnight at Jaypee Vasant Continental Hotel (no meals) https://www.jaypeehotels.com/vasant-continental-new-delhi Day 2: Monday, 17 February 2020 Delhi - New & Old Delhi Tour Namaste! After breakfast at the hotel your tour escorts will host an important briefing - then we go exploring! Over the next two days we’ll tour New & Old Delhi visiting such attractions as the Community Kitchen at Gurudwara Bangla Sahaib, an historic Sikh shrine in central Delhi where everybody is welcome to a meal! At the busy ‘langar’ (free kitchen) housed within the golden-domed complex, we will help prepare & later eat (!) the same meal which will be fed that day to hundreds of homeless & disadvantaged people. We will also visit Qutab Minar, Bhai Temple, India Gate, Sikh Temple & more. Tonight we enjoy a special Welcome Dinner at Pind Balluchi Punjabi Traditional Restaurant. Overnight at Jaypee Vasant Continental Hotel (B, L, D) Day 3: Tuesday, 18 February 2020 Delhi - New & Old Delhi Tour

After breakfast, we continue our sightseeing to Old Gandhi Museum & Memorial & Bhai (Lotus) temple. This afternoon we take a guided heritage & bazaar walk (please save shopping for another day!), ride in a rickshaw & sample delicious street food in Old Delhi & the Chandi Chawk area. Tonight we enjoy a fabulous traditional dinner in a haveli – a private residence owned & occupied by a local family for generations. Overnight at Jaypee Vasant Continental Hotel (B, L, D) Note that you can store excess luggage at the hotel until we return at the end of the tour if you wish.

Day 4: Wednesday, 19 February 2020 Delhi – Varanasi (Flight) After breakfast we drive to Delhi airport to catch our midday flight to the spiritual water city of Varanasi with lunch en-route. We are met on arrival at Varanasi airport by our local guide & transferred to our hotel. Afternoon at leisure. Dinner at hotel. Overnight at Madin Hotel (B, L, D) http://www.hotelmadin.com

Day 05: Thursday, 20 February 2020 Varanasi We take a sunrise boat cruise on the Ganges River to see devoted Hindus bathing & offering prayers. We return to the hotel for breakfast then visit Banaras Hindu University, Golden Temple & Bharat Mata Temple. After lunch at a local restaurant, we visit Sarnath (The Deer Park) where Buddha preached his first sermon, Sarnath Museum & Kashi Vishwanath Temple which holds special significance in the spiritual history of India. Later we take a drive into the countryside to Chiraigaon to experience life in a small village. After lunch, we drive to the Sarai mohana villages, well known for their silk weaving. This evening we take rickshaws to the banks of the Ganges where we witness the fascinating 1000-year-old Aarti Ceremony during which worshippers pray & chant near the water by the light of candles & lanterns. Overnight at Madin Hotel (B, L, D) Day 06: Friday, 21 February 2020 Varanasi – Cochin (Flight) After breakfast. we are transferred to Varanasi airport to board our flight to Cochin via Bangalore (1145/1715 hrs). We are met on arrival & transferred to our hotel. After a brief rest, we meet for drinks & dinner at the hotel. Overnight at Le Meridien Hotel (B, L, D) https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/cokmd-le-meridien-kochi

Page 4: Holi festival & TIGER TOUR - Global Gypsies › docs › TOUR.FLYER.INDIA.2020.pdfHoli festival & TIGER TOUR An exciting 26-day escorted, catered & accommodated Global Gypsies adventure!

Day 07: Saturday, 22 February 2020 Cochin After breakfast we spend a full day exploring Fort Cochin with a local guide. We follow the footprint left centuries ago by Dutch, Portuguese, British, Arab & Chinese visitors & soak up the cultural atmosphere as we stroll along the quaint narrow lanes. We visit the Dutch Palace, St. Francis Church (the oldest Protestant church built by the Portuguese in 1510 & the final resting place of Vasco da Gama) & India’s oldest Jewish Synagogue in ‘Jew Town’. A special local seafood lunch will be provided at local restaurant. Later we walk to the harbour where local fishermen still use the old Chinese fishing nets introduced centuries ago. Remainder of the afternoon is free to do some shopping in the busy market area featuring both traditional & modern stores or just go for a wander. There is also an optional activity at 5:00 p.m. for keen cultural enthusiasts - Kerala's signature performance of ‘Kathakali’, a classical form of dance, drama & music that is more than 400 years old. Please let us know if you would like to attend this event & we will arrange tickets for you in advance (USD$10). Because everyone will be exploring independently this afternoon, dinner & a taxi back to the hotel are at your own expense this evening. There are many good restaurants in the Fort Cochin area or enjoy Le Meridien’s excellent cuisine. Please pack an overnight bag for your Kerala cruise & store your main suitcase in the hotel’s luggage area tonight - avoid the morning rush! Overnight at Le Meridien Hotel (B, L) Day 8: Sunday, 23 February 2020 Cochin – Alleppey (Drive 60 Kms – 1½ Hours) After breakfast we drive to Allepey (60kms/1½ hours) & board houseboats (4 - 6 people per boat) for an enchanting & leisurely cruise through the tranquil waterways of Kerala. (Please take ONLY your overnight bag & any medication you may require for two days and one night!). We stop at a ‘grog shop’ en-route to purchase wine, beer or spirits as these are not available on board so please bring some local currency. Overnight & meals on houseboats (B, L, D) http://lakeslagoons.com/index.php Day 09: Monday, 24 February 2020 Alleppey - Cochin - Udaipur We pack our overnight bags & then enjoy breakfast on the houseboats. We return to port & are met by our coach. We drive to Cochin airport (1½ hours) stopping only BRIEFLY at Le Meriden Hotel to collect our stored luggage. We board our flight for Udaipur (1245/1730 hrs via Mumbai) & are met on arrival by our local guide & transferred to our hotel. After a brief rest we meet for dinner & drinks at the hotel. Overnight at Lakend Resort https://www.lakend.co.in/index.html Day 10: Tuesday, 25 February 2020 Udaipur

Optional – early morning yoga Class for 1 hour (USD$10 per person - minimum 6 participants; or smaller groups share the $60 fee).

This morning after breakfast we wander through the markets & bazaars to visit the Jagdish Temple followed by a visit to the City Palace. Then relax on a one-hour motorboat ride on Lake Pichola (no food or drinks allowed) then visit the Garden of the Maids of Honour & Folk Art Museum & drive past Fatehsagar Lake.

Udaipur City Palace is one of the architectural marvels of Rajasthan, located peacefully on the banks of Lake Pichola. This majestic City Palace is the most-visited tourist attraction of Udaipur & often distinguished as the largest palace complex in Rajasthan. Initially, Maharana Udai Singh built this superb wonder, but the present form of the Palace is the result of subsequent additions by his successors.

Large & limpid Lake Pichola reflects the cool grey-blue mountains on its rippling mirror-like surface. It was enlarged by Maharana Udai Singh II, following his foundation of the city by flooding Picholi village, which gave the lake its name. It’s the perfect place to enjoy an amazing view of the Palace at sunset .(Please note that eatable / drinks items are not allowed during the boat ride)

Garden of the Maids of Honour: (also called "Saheliyon Ki Bari") is a small, quaint ornamental garden which created for the enjoyment of 48 women attendants who came as part of a princess' dowry. It has beautiful, well-maintained fountains, kiosks, marble elephants & a delightful lotus pool.

Dinner at Upre Restaurant . Overnight at Lakend Resort

Page 5: Holi festival & TIGER TOUR - Global Gypsies › docs › TOUR.FLYER.INDIA.2020.pdfHoli festival & TIGER TOUR An exciting 26-day escorted, catered & accommodated Global Gypsies adventure!

Day 11: Wednesday, 26 February 2020 Udaipur – Jaipur After breakfast we are transferred to the airport for our flight to Jaipur (1130/1325 hrs). We are met on arrival by our local guide & transferred to our hotel in time for lunch. Afternoon free to relax until the cool of the evening. Or, for the more energetic.... Optional – Bollywood Dance Class – USD$20 per person (minimum 10 participants; or smaller groups share the $200 fee) Tonight we enjoy an evening walking tour of the Old City incorporating architecture, artisans, temples, arts school & vegetable market before finishing at Troponia Gate. Here we will take a street tea (chai) break before travelling in tangas (rickshaws) to the famous Theatre Rajmandir where we enjoy a Bollywood movie! Overnight at Alsisar Haveli (B, L, D) http://www.alsisarhaveli.com/home.php Day 12: Thursday, 27 February 2020 Jaipur Optional – early morning yoga Class for 1 hour (USD$10 per person - minimum 6 participants; or smaller groups share the $60 fee).

After breakfast we visit Amer Fort where we can take an optional elephant ride to the top of the hill (US$10). We then visit City Palace before embarking on a wonderful & most unusual eco-experience! We visit the Elefantastic Rehabilitation Centre which although just a 45-minute drive from the city, is situated in dense jungle surrounded by peaceful hilltops.

Our three-hour visit will begin with a warm welcome from the team of Elefantastic followed by lunch. We will yjrm be taught the basics of ‘elephant language’ spoken by the mahout, or caretakers, which will help us to communicate with the animals during our time with them. We will then feed the ellies, learn about their eating habits & favourite foods & have the opportunity to try traditional elephant body painting with natural colours. We will then help to water & bathe the animals. At the end of our fabulous elephant interaction, we’ll return to Jaipur stopping at one of Rajasthan’s best carpet showrooms. Evening free to relax & have dinner at your leisure (own expense). Overnight at Alsisar Haveli (B, L)

Day 13: Friday, 28 February 2020 Jaipur Today is Marigold Day! We visit several film sets used in the Exotic Marigold films including the flower market, bazaar & bus station, then take a fun ride in open jeeps to Kanota Fort & hotel where the ‘country club’ scenes were filmed & the cast & crew stayed. Lunch at Kanota Fort. Later we drive up a steep hill to enjoy sunset at Nahargarh Fort with a photo stop overlooking the Water Palace en-route. We drive back to town to we enjoy folk entertainment & a mouth-watering al-fresco Rajasthani buffet at our hotel. Overnight at Alsisar Haveli (B, L, D) Day 14: Saturday, 29 February 2020 Jaipur – Ranthambhor After breakfast we drive to Ranthambhore National Park & Tiger Sanctuary (160kms – 4 hours) to begin our exciting jungle safari! After checking into our lodge, we have a free afternoon to catch up on our sleep, stroll through the town or relax in the garden. We enjoy dinner in the hotel anticipating the next day’s adventures! (Don’t be surprised if there’s a wedding happening somewhere!) Overnight at Ranthambhore Regency Hotel. (B, L, D) http://www.ranthambhor.com/ Day 15: Sunday, 01 March 2020 Ranthambhore Today we go in search of the elusive & endangered tiger in private 4WD safari vehicles! We enjoy an exciting morning of game-viewing then return to the lodge for breakfast & a rest. After lunch we go on our second game drive in the park. Overnight at Ranthambhore Regency Hotel (B,L,D) Day 16: Monday, 02 March 2020 Ranthambhore We continue our morning and afternoon private game drives in search of tigers & other wildlife. All meals & overnight at Ranthambhore Regency Hotel (B,L,D)

Page 6: Holi festival & TIGER TOUR - Global Gypsies › docs › TOUR.FLYER.INDIA.2020.pdfHoli festival & TIGER TOUR An exciting 26-day escorted, catered & accommodated Global Gypsies adventure!

Day 17: Tuesday, 03 March 2020 Ranthambhor – Agra After breakfast we drive to Agra (260kms – 6 Hours). Upon arrival we check into our hotel, then relax for a few hours before we watch the sunset at a surprise location. Evening free; dinner at own expense. There is also the option to enjoy a famous live show this evening - “Mohabbat the Taj” (Expression of Love), which brings the Indian heritage alive (USD$25 per person – transport provided). Overnight at Four Points by Sheraton (B, L) Day 18: Wednesday, 04 March 2020 Agra Today is Taj Mahal day! We make an early start to explore this amazing iconic attraction then return to the hotel for breakfast (sorry, no video cameras are allowed at the Taj). Later we visit Agra Fort & Palace rich with Mughal architecture & situated on the West Bank of the river Jamuna. We also visit the Mother Teresa Charity Home & Orphanage which is solely reliant on private donations to support their work. (If you would prefer not to visit the orphanage, we have arranged an optional three-hour guided heritage walk in Agra at a cost per person of USD$25). Overnight at Four Points by Sheraton (B, L, D) Day 19: Thursday, 05 March 2020 Agra – Bharatpur

After breakfast we drive to Bharatpur (60 kms – 1½ hours). We check into our hotel (a maharajah’s palace!), have lunch in the grand dining room. Remainder of the day is at leisure relaxing, resting or swimming in the fabulous hotel pool. Lunch & dinner at the hotel. Overnight at Laxmi Villas (B, L, D) http://laxmivilas.com/

Day 20: Friday, 06 March 2020 Bharatpur Optional – early morning yoga Class for 1 hour (USD$10 per person - minimum 6 participants; or smaller groups share the $60 fee). After breakfast we take a guided tour of the famous Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary returning to the hotel for lunch. After a siesta we take a second tour of the Bird Sanctuary to see the wildlife at dusk. Dinner & overnight at Laxmi Villas (B, L, D) Day 21: Saturday, 07 March 2020 Bharatpur – Neemrana After breakfast we drive 180 kms (5 hours) through the countryside to the incredible Neemrana Fort Palace with a boxed lunch served en-route. Neemrana is one of India’s oldest heritage resorts perched high on a hill overlooking the nearby town (it has lots of steps so wear comfy shoes!). Afternoon free to explore the fort, visit the shops at the base of the hill (there’s a fantastic jewellery shop!), relax or swim in the pool. Don’t miss the sunset views from the hotel bar! Overnight & dinner at Neemrana Fort Palace (B, L, D) https://www.neemranahotels.com/fort-palace-neemrana Day 22: Sunday, 08 March 2020 Neemrana Optional – early morning yoga Class for 1 hour (USD$15 per person - minimum 6 participants; or smaller groups share the $90 fee).

After breakfast we go on a fascinating heritage/market walk in Neemrana town. Rest of day & evening free to relax, explore or swim in the pool. Lunch & dinner at own cost. Overnight at Neemrana Fort Palace (B) Day 23: Monday, 09 March 2020 Neemrana – Mandawa

After breakfast we drive to the desert village of Mandawa (170 kms - 5 hours) & check into our traditional hotel, a former fort. After lunch in the hotel restaurant served by dignified ‘rajput’ waiters, we take an escorted walking tour though the cobblestoned streets of the ancient town, stop to by some school supplies at a small village shop before visiting a local school, admire havelis & temples, shop at local bazaars for traditional arts, crafts & souvenirs & are invited to visit a traditional local home where we enjoy ‘chai’ & henna hand painting. Tonight beneath a full moon we join local villagers beginning their celebrations for the annual Holika Dahan festival. Overnight at Castle Mandawa (B, L, D)

Page 7: Holi festival & TIGER TOUR - Global Gypsies › docs › TOUR.FLYER.INDIA.2020.pdfHoli festival & TIGER TOUR An exciting 26-day escorted, catered & accommodated Global Gypsies adventure!

Day 24: Tuesday, 10 March 2020 Mandawa Today is Holi Festival! This very special Hindu festival celebrated in spring in India & Nepal is also known as the "festival of colours" or the "festival of love". There will be singing, dancing, fireworks, a party atmosphere & the traditional beats of ‘dhol’ (double-headed drums). In courtyards & grounds throughout the village, young men - many of them dressed in women’s outfits - will dance to joyous tunes played by musicians & drummers. A local brew of “bhang” (a cannabis-based drink) is served. The revelry goes on late into the night only to commence again in the morning! Bring your earplugs if

you don’t want to party! And if you DO want to join in the fun, purchase an inexpensive ‘kurta’ (cotton Gandhi-style wrap) or ‘paijamas’ (white cotton trousers & long white shirt) in advance to wear on the night & to keep as a souvenir of your magical time in Mandawa. Special Farewell Dinner in the courtyard of our hotel beneath the stars. Overnight at Hotel Castle Mandawa (B, L, D) http://castlemandawa.com Day 25: Wednesday, 11 March 2020 Mandawa – Delhi After breakfast we return to Delhi (230 Kms - 6 Hours) & check into our hotel. Remainder of day is at leisure to pack, catch up on last-minute shopping, collect your luggage if you left it in store or just recover from Holi! Lunch at own expense. Farewell drinks in the bar at 6:00 p.m. - the first drink is on us – before we enjoy our last group meal in the hotel restaurant. Overnight at Jaypee Vasant Continental Hotel (B, D) https://www.jaypeehotels.com/vasant-continental-new-delhi Day 26: Thursday, 12 March 2020 Delhi Departure After breakfast you will be transferred to the airport for your onward journey. END OF TOUR. (Please note that hotel check-out time is 12:00 noon - optional late check-out can be arranged on request at own expense.)

COST PER PERSON: USD$7700 * Based on two persons sharing a twin room with single beds (double bed MAY be available if requested in advance but we cannot

guarantee this). Please note that prices are subject to change if local costs are subsequently affected by government taxes,

exchange rate difference, increase in fuel prices and/or any other influence beyond our control.

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: Solo travelers are always welcome & we will do our best to find you a ‘traveling buddy’. If we are unable to do so, or if you would prefer a private room, there is a single supplement charge of USD$2000. TIP KITTY: Please note that to cover tips & gratuities for tour guides, drivers, waiters etc (excluding hotel porters) for the duration of the tour, rather than asking for individual daily contributions, we will organise a ‘Tip Kitty’ in advance. Your tour escorts will then distribute tips as appropriate on behalf of the group as we travel. Tip kitty contribution is USD$250 per person which will be payable just prior to the Pre-Departure Workshop.

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE TOUR PACKAGE:

Meet & greet at Delhi Airport & transfers to hotel

Other transfers as described in the itinerary

Ground transport in air-conditioned buses & other vehicles as required

Internal airfares as indicated

Twin/share accommodation in quality hotels

Meals as listed in the itinerary

Activities & entrance fees as listed in the itinerary (note that ‘optional’ activities incur an additional charge)

Game viewing opportunities as mentioned in the itinerary

Accompanying English-speaking tour escort throughout tour

Two Australian tour escorts throughout the tour

Local English-speaking guides as per the itinerary

Drinking water: two bottles of mineral water per person per day supplied in the vehicle.

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE TOUR PACKAGE:

International airfares

Internal airfares once tour is completed

Visa fees

Items of a personal nature (such as room service, internet charges, laundry, drinks, telephone calls, & camera fees in monuments)

Meals, activities & services not mentioned above

Beverages

Wifi in most hotels

Travel insurance (compulsory)

Excess baggage charges

Tips - please note that to cover tips & gratuities for the duration of the tour, rather than asking for individual daily contributions we will organise a ‘Tip Kitty’ in advance. Your tour escorts will then distribute tips as appropriate on behalf of the group as we travel. The Tip Kitty contribution of USD$250 per person will be payable at the Pre-Departure Workshop.

Page 8: Holi festival & TIGER TOUR - Global Gypsies › docs › TOUR.FLYER.INDIA.2020.pdfHoli festival & TIGER TOUR An exciting 26-day escorted, catered & accommodated Global Gypsies adventure!

.

Terms & Conditions

The “Holi Festival & Tiger Tour” is being operated and conducted by Delhi-based Kipling Tours (KT) under local laws, conditions and

regulations. Global Gypsies Pty Ltd of Western Australia (GG) is marketing the safari and providing two tour escorts.

KT/GG reserve the right to cancel the tour if there are insufficient participants.

Deposits are non-refundable (unless the tour is cancelled by the operators in which case all moneys will be refunded in full). All

cancellations by clients are subject to an administration fee from 90-180 days prior to departure. A cancellation fee of 50% of total tour cost will apply within 89 days of departure. No refunds will be made if tour is cancelled within 60 days of departure. No refund

will be given in the event clients fail to join the tour or leave it early.

Travel insurance is compulsory and should cover most circumstances of cancellation as well as luggage loss and medical cover.

Whilst all care is taken, KT/GG do not accept liability for loss or damage to baggage, sickness or injury, or additional expenses caused by factors beyond their control.

Participants need to have a reasonable level of fitness to participate & be aware that a significant amount of walking is involved.

Please be advised that in many countries there is no free health service and that local vehicle insurance is of limited value.

The client accepts that this tour is of an adventurous nature and involves an element of personal risk, and that neither KT/GG nor

their agents can be held liable for any injury, damage to property or loss of life caused. The client accepts responsibility for all risks involved.

Most visitors (including Australians) require visas for India. It is the client’s responsibility to ensure that they are in possession of valid travel documents including passports (with sufficient blank pages & six months’ validity), visas, health certificates etc. Refer to

page one of this document for information on how to obtain visas on-line. KT/GG cannot accept any liability for incorrect documentation.

The itinerary is subject to alteration without notice and is intended as a guide only. Alterations may occur due to road conditions,

flooding, mechanical defect or other reasons. Any additional expenses incurred by passengers are not KT/GG’s responsibility.

KT/GG and/or its agents and employees are unable to guarantee exact arrival and departure times, and will not be liable for failure

to make connections with any other service.

In the event of breakdown or other unforeseen circumstances, KT/GG reserve the right to substitute vehicles other than those

specified.

Properties used may change, however the same or similar standard is guaranteed. Hotels are twin/share basis.

There is no single supplement charge applicable if we can arrange a ‘buddy’ for solo travellers.

The client agrees to comply with the laws and regulations of the country visited and to comply with all reasonable instructions of the

Tour Escorts & local guides relating to the safety and organisation of the tour.

This agreement to participate in the tour between the client and KT is made subject to and shall be interpreted and construed in an

Indian court of law. Any legal conflict with GG shall be resolved in the jurisdiction of Western Australia.

Please keep luggage to a minimum packed in soft bags with wheels which you can carry & handle yourself (maximum 15-20 kg).

I am aware of inclusions/exclusions in the tour package & understand that ALL prices are quoted in USD. The price is based on

costs prevailing in 2018 and are therefore subject to change if consequently affected by Indian government taxes,increase in fuel prices and/or any other influence beyond our control.

To book your place on this exciting tour, please complete & return the booking form on the following page

with your deposit. For more information please contact:

GLOBAL GYPSIES PTY LTD

PO Box 123, Scarborough, WA. 6922. Phone: (08) 9341 6727

[email protected] www.globalgypsies.com.au

Page 9: Holi festival & TIGER TOUR - Global Gypsies › docs › TOUR.FLYER.INDIA.2020.pdfHoli festival & TIGER TOUR An exciting 26-day escorted, catered & accommodated Global Gypsies adventure!

BOOKING FORM : HOLI FESTIVAL & TIGER TOUR 2020

Please book ……… place(s) on the Holi Festival & Tiger Tour at USD$7700 per person.

Please phone us on 08-9341-6727 to determine current USD exchange rates BEFORE making your payment! Thanks!

Name …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..............................

Address: ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………….............................

Phone: ……………………............ Mobile: ………………………………............................................................

e-mail: …………………………………….......................................................................................................................................

Nationality: ..............................................................Passport Number: .....................................................................................

PAYMENT

I wish to pay my 10% non-refundable deposit (USD$770 per person) to GLOBAL GYPSIES PTY LTD. by:

Visa …….. MasterCard……. EFT .............

EFT payments to Westpac - GLOBAL GYPSIES - BSB 036 051 - Account No. 155007

Name on Card: ……………………………………………………………………………………………………….............................

Number: ………………………………………………………… Expiry Date: …………………………............................

Signed: ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..............................

Please note than final payment will be due on October 15, 2019. Pre-Departure Workshop will be held in November 2019.

THANK YOU! WE LOOK FORWARD TO TAKING YOU ON TOUR! GLOBAL GYPSIES PTY LTD PO Box 123, Scarborough, WA. 6922. Phone: (08) 9341 6727 e-mail: [email protected]

web: www.globalgypsies.com.au