MASTERCLASSO N T H E

Mekong

...where stitching friends meet

www.inspirationsmagazine.com.au

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Join two of the finest master class embroidery tutors

of our time Jenny McWhinney and Susan O’Connor for a decadent

cruise on one of the world’s most exotic rivers – The Mekong.

20th–27th September, 2015 

As the Mekong winds through Cambodia and

Vietnam join us aboard the luxurious five star vessel

The RV Mekong Navigator. Gliding through the

winding waterways exploring villages and temples, we will

alternate cruising, touring and stitching time. Fiona Fagan,

Inspirations Travel Event Coordinator will accompany and

host you for all day to day needs as well as help in class. If

you have ever dreamt of seeing the Mekong or taking a class

with Susan or Jenny, this is the perfect opportunity for you!

There are alternative activities for non-stitching travelling

companions, or come along and meet new stitching friends

- we can organise a share cabin for you. 

Projects to choose from include the glorious ‘Reflections’

with Susan O’Connor or the sumptuous ‘Woodlands’ with

Jenny McWhinney. You will never experience stitching in

such an amazing environment.

Welcome...

PROJECTS AND TUTOR PROFILES

This magnificent design captures the true spirit

of an English hedgerow, featuring a red squirrel,

mother & baby hedgehogs, rabbit, hare, common

frog, blackbird and more. These lifelike creatures

are nestled in a vibrant garden of mushrooms,

hollyhocks and blackberries.

The design is stitched in a combination of fine

wools and silks on an oatmeal linen support. This

piece of artwork can be fashioned into a bolster

cushion, or framed for hanging.

The design is pre-printed on the fabric for your

convenience.

Level: All

Kit cost: USD$135.00 (Not included in Cruise Package)

Kit includes: Oatmeal fine embroidery linen,

stabiliser fabric, threads, wools, needles and

instructions, patterns & step-by-step diagrams

for the embroidery design. The finished design

measures 36" x 8".

Mirror frames were a popular subject for

embroidery in Elizabethan times as they were

both practical and pretty and they have just

as much appeal today. This beautiful frame

of colourful flowers is stitched using pure silk

thread onto silk fabric and would work just as

well as a surround for a favourite photograph.

Heartsease, cornflowers, roses, honeysuckle

and gilly flowers are just some of the gorgeous

blooms you will work using a combination

of stitch techniques. Stitches covered - chain

stitch, split stitch, long and short stitch (thread

painting), stem stitch, satin stitch padding, satin

stitch, straight stitch, blanket stitch, detached

chain, French knot, couching, fly stitch, outline

stitch.

Level: Intermediate

Kit cost: USD$70.00 (Not included in Cruise Package)

Kit includes: Silk fabric, silk threads, paillettes,

needles and full-colour instructions

Jenny McWhinney

As a self-taught artist whose work is predominantly influenced by nature, Jenny’s passion is to create artistic reflections of many different animals. She specializes in embroidered portraits that not only capture a physical likeness, but the essence of each creature’s spirit and personality.

WoodlandsJenny McWhinney’s newest threadpainted masterpiece.

ReflectionsA beautiful mirror frame of colourful flowers.

Susan O’Connor

Susan has devoted many years to exploring the world of embroidery and has become a renowned teacher with a particular love for Elizabethan embroidery. She is the chief editor of Inspirations magazine, author of Monograms: The Art of Embroidered Letters and Embroidered Flowers for Elizabeth, and her exquisite creations regularly feature in Inspirations.

“What a thoroughly wonderful experience! Not only amazing travel experiences but the fantastic learning

experience and wonderful companionship. A great holiday with a purpose. I hope I will have become a

much better embroiderer after this.” Sue, Morpeth, Australia

”I want to spend my life this way.

The company is marvellous, the

instruction superb and the ship is

absolutely perfect.”

Susanne, Amelia Island, FL

“This is the best trip full of exciting events around each and every corner. The embroidery classes

are very interesting with lots of great techniques, all done along the Mekong River and next to new

friends taught by fantastic teachers.” Charlotte, Nashville, Tennessee, USA

PACKAGES

CABIN OPTIONS

RV Mekong Navigator Cruise price includesMaster Class tuition over the 7 night cruise. • Complimentary drinks: coffee, water, tea,

soft drinks, local beer, local spirits and free

flowing house wine (wine with dinner only)

• Superb dining with all meals included (buffet

breakfast, lunch and dinner)

• Cocktail Reception, Welcome Dinner, Farewell

Dinner and Theme Dinners

• Wireless Internet in all public areas

• Cabin amenities include infotainment system,

flat screen TV‘s, in-cabin safe, individual climate

control and bottled water replenished daily

• Additional amenities for Grande & Prestige Suite:

daily butler service

• All shore excursions and group transfers as

specified in the itinerary

• Services of an experienced cruise director

throughout the cruise

• 7-night cruise accommodation in an outside

stateroom and all port taxes included

• All transfers

RV Mekong Navigator Price exclusions: • Overseas flights

• Beverages other than mentioned

• Any tipping (both on-board and ashore)

• Visa arrangements for Vietnam and Cambodia

• Insurances (Travel insurance is compulsory)

• Cost of Embroidery Kit (to be paid directly to

teachers in US Dollars)

SUPERIOR SUITESNo of cabin: 4Bed Type: Twin or Double Queen Size BedCabin Size: 24 sq.m or 256 sq.ftLocation: Jasmin deck (lower deck)Facilities: Porthole style window, Telephone, Safety Deposit Box, Air Conditioning, Desk, Seating Area, Shower, Bath, Hairdryer, Free toiletries, Toilet, Bathroom, Slippers, Tea/Coffee Maker, Minibar, Refrigerator, Wake Up Service/Alarm Clock, A Larger Sofa.

USD$2,750 per person twin share

VISTA SUITES

No of cabin: 10Bed Type: Twin or Double Queen Size BedCabin Size: 26 sq.m or 276 sq.ftLocation: Lotus deck (main deck)Facilities: French Balcony, Telephone, Safety Deposit Box, Air Conditioning, Desk, Seating Area, Shower, Bath, Hairdryer, Free toiletries, Toilet, Bathroom, Slippers, Tea/Coffee Maker, Minibar, Refrigerator, Wake Up Service/Alarm Clock, A Larger Sofa.

USD$3,250 per person twin share

CABIN OPTIONS

SIGNATURE SUITES

No of cabin: 16Bed Type: Twin or Double Queen Size BedCabin Size: 27 sq.m or 291 sq.ftLocation: Orchid deck (upper deck)Features: French Private balcony, large windows and sliding glass doorsFacilities: Balcony, View, Telephone, Safety Deposit Box, Air Conditioning, Desk, Seating Area, Shower, Bath, Hairdryer, Free toiletries, Toilet, Bathroom, Slippers, Tea/Coffee Maker, Minibar, Refrigerator, Wake Up Service/Alarm Clock, A Larger Sofa.

USD$3,550 per person twin share

PRESTIGE SUITES

No of cabin: 2Bed Type: Double King Size BedCabin Size: 36 sq.m or 387 sq.ftLocation: Orchid deck (upper deck)Features: French Private balcony, large windows and sliding glass doorsFacilities: Balcony, View, Telephone, Safety Deposit Box, Air Conditioning, Desk, Seating Area, Shower, Bath, Hairdryer, Free toiletries, Toilet, Bathroom, Slippers, Tea/Coffee Maker, Minibar, Refrigerator, Wake Up Service/Alarm Clock, A Larger Sofa.

USD$3,850 per person twin share

GRANDE SUITES

No of cabin: 2Bed Type: Double King Size BedCabin Size: 54 sq.m or 584 sq.ftLocation: Orchid deck (upper deck)Features: French Private balcony, Panorama windows and sliding glass doorsFacilities: Balcony, View, Telephone, Safety Deposit Box, Air Conditioning, Desk, Seating Area, Shower, Bath, Hairdryer, Free toiletries, Toilet, Bathroom, Slippers, Tea/Coffee Maker, Minibar, Refrigerator, Wake Up Service/Alarm Clock, A larger Sofa.

USD$4,550 per person twin share

”What a wonderful experience, floating down the Mighty Mekong chatting, laughing and stitching and

soaking up the luxury of the beautiful MV Mekong Navigator. We are having a delightful time and my

husband who has come along is having a great time also!“ Julien and Scott, Canberrra, Australia

Please enquire for single supplement pricing. Non-stitchers price less USD$500 per person twin share.

MASTERCLASS ON THE MEKONG 7 NIGHTS 20th–27th September, 2015

Our 7–night itinerary along the legendary Mekong

River, as listed below, starts with a land transfer between

Siem Reap and Kampong Cham, Cambodia, sailing

downstream to My Tho, Vietnam, and ending with a land

transfer into Ho Chi Minh City/Airport.

DAY 1 – 20 Sept 2015 - Siem Reap / Kampong Cham / Embarkation

This afternoon guests will enjoy a scenic drive from

Siem Reap Airport to Kampong Cham, where we will

board the luxurious Mekong Navigator. Following a

welcome reception and warm greeting from our crew

on-board we’ll enjoy a delicious Khmer Theme Dinner. 

Meet Susan, Jenny and Fiona who will be available to

answer any questions you may have.

(Welcome Reception and Theme Dinner included)

DAY 2 – 21 Sept 2015 Wat Hanchey / Kampong Cham

This morning Master class students will begin the first

part of their Embroidery class with Susan and Jenny,

stitching their chosen project at 9.30–12.00 in the

Dining room. Following lunch, we drive through the

city of Kampong Cham to visit the hills of Phnom Pros

(man hill) and Phnom Srei (woman hill), the incredible

Stupa, the 10–meter long reclining Buddha, and the

13-meter tall preaching Buddha. Today’s final visit is

to the 12th century, Angkorian-period complex of Wat

Nokor Bachey, which features several original statues of

Buddha and stone inscriptions. This evening we begin

sailing downstream.

(Breakfast, lunch and dinner included)

DAY 3 – 22 Sept 2015 Tonle Sap River Cruise / Kampong Chhnang

This morning whilst enjoying a full day sailing up the

scenic Tonle Sap River, Master class students will attend

their second embroidery class at 9.30–12.00 Venue–

Dining Room with Susan and Jenny. This very narrow,

winding river provides a rare, up-close glimpse of rural

river life in Cambodia. After lunch we board a private

excursion boat and experience a panoramic cruise of the

floating villages at Kampong Chhnang, with the chance

to observe the very friendly locals living, working, and

even shopping on the river. We then return to the ship

and set sail while enjoying the beautiful sunset and local

children on the riverbanks bidding us farewell as we

continue our journey down the Mekong. Upon our

return to the ship we will enjoy casual stitching in the

evening. Our evening stitching sessions will be in a

relaxed setting and a lovely way to get to know each

other. (During exceptionally high water, it may not be

possible to sail up the Tonle Sap River. In this case, a

visit to the ancient Khmer capital of Oudong may be

substituted.)

(Breakfast, lunch and dinner included)

DAY 4 – 23 Sept 2015 Phnom Penh / Overnight

After breakfast on board this morning, we meet our

cyclo drivers for an exciting morning city tour of Phnom

Penh. We are gently transported along the riverfront to

the Royal Palace complex, where we enjoy a leisurely

walk through the grounds, viewing Throne Hall and

Moonlight Pavilion before visiting the famous Silver

Pagoda, home of Cambodia’s Emerald Buddha and

Maitreya Buddha, encrusted with more than 9,000

diamonds. The cyclos then transport us to the National

Museum, ending the morning with a comprehensive

tour of the many Angkorian and pre-Angkorian artifacts

discovered in the Angkor Archaeological Area in Siem

Reap. The afternoon is at leisure, and you may choose

from a variety of optional excursions, including a visit to

Silk Island, or enjoy your time independently exploring

Phnom Penh, shopping at the locals markets or quaint

boutiques, or simply relaxing at one of the wonderful

restaurants and pubs the city offers. Before dinner,

children entertain guests on our Sun Deck with a cultural

performance including Apsara, Cambodia’s national

dance as well as local traditional folk dances. Master class

students will enjoy casual stitching continuing with their

projects after dinner with Jenny and Susan.

(Breakfast, lunch, dinner and cultural performance included)

DAY 5 – 24 Sept 2015 Phnom Penh

Master class students will have a full day stitching whilst

our ship will be anchored at Phnom Penh and will attend

the morning class at 9.30–12.00 Venue–Dining Room

with Susan and Jenny (Class 3). After lunch is served we

continue with an afternoon class at  2.00–4.00pm (Class

4). Alternative excursion is available for non-stitchers/

partners. Our Cruise set sails to anchor at the Cambodia/

Vietnam border this evening.

(Breakfast, lunch, dinner and cultural performance included)

ITINERARY

DAY 6 – 25 Sept 2015 Border Crossing / Chau Doc

Following clearing formalities and crossing the border,

guests witness a fascinating change in the architecture

along the riverfront as they are now in Vietnam. This

morning is our last formal Master class. We will be

stitching from 9.30–12.00 with Susan and Jenny in

the Dining Room. (Class 5) After lunch, guests board

beautiful sampans for a panoramic cruise of Chau

Doc harbor with its traditional Vietnamese floating

market. After visiting the main town of Chau Doc and

the colourful Tay An Pagoda, guests continue their

panoramic tour aboard sampans to visit a local family

fish farm or a visit to a Muslim Cham Minority Village

where textiles are woven on wooden looms. Master class

students will enjoy casual stitching in the evening after

dinner with Jenny and Susan on their projects and get in

those last minute questions and tips.

(Breakfast, cooking demonstration, lunch and dinner included)

DAY 7 – 26 Sept 2015 Sa Dec / Cai Be

Following breakfast we board traditional sampans and

navigate the narrow canals of the Mekong, where we

can observe daily routines of the villagers en route to

the historic town of Sa Dec. Along the way, we stop

at a local brick factory where guests can view the

complete process of brick-making by local men and

women utilizing clay from the Mekong. Upon arrival

to Sa Dec, we visit the home of Mr. Huynh Thuy Le,

who inspired Marguerite Duras’ novel, L’Amant (The

Lover), and take a fascinating walk through the town’s

market, experiencing the sights and sounds of the local

commerce. After lunch, we re-board our sampans

and sail through Cai Be’s floating market, passing the

city’s beautiful French gothic cathedral. We tour the

historic Anh Kiet House with its beautiful surrounding

gardens, then visit a traditional rice factory where workers

produce rice paper, rice wine, popped rice, and many

varieties of traditional candies. This evening, we enjoy

a cultural performance and our Vietnamese “Mekong

Delta” Farewell Dinner. Master class students will enjoy

their final casual stitching with their tutors this evening.

(Breakfast, lunch, farewell theme dinner and cultural

performance included)

DAY 8 – 27 Sept 2015 My Tho / Disembarkation / Ho Chi Minh City or Airport departure

This morning after breakfast, we say good-bye to the

Mekong Navigator and her crew, and transfer to Ho Chi

Minh City or transfer to the airport.

Accommodation – Ho Chi Minh City

CANCELLATION POLICY

No cancellations are possible once confirmations have

been issued. All bookings to be confirmed after the sale

closing date of July 15th.

ITINERARY

PRE TOUR - SIEM REAP 18th–20th SEPTEMBER, 2015 USD$550 per person twin share Single supplement available on request

2 nights at the Sofitel Angkor Phokkeethra Golf & Spa Resort and full day sightseeing tour of the

Ancient City of Angkor Thom.

18 September, 2015 – Siem Reap Arrival

Upon arrival Siem Reap international airport you will

welcome by your English speaking guide who will

accompany you to the hotel for check in. Siem Reap

is the base for exploring the fabled temples of Angkor,

the ancient capital of the Khmer empire.

Our hotel is the spectacular Sofitel Angkor. An award

winning resort with serene design reflecting French

colonial elegance, sophistication and yesteryear

refinement sitting amidst manicured gardens and

lake. A lavish swimming pool beloved by guests is

surrounded by lush and opulent landscaping.

After settling into our accommodation the rest of the

day free at your own leisure (No services provided)

Optional group dinner at local restaurant and visit

to Night Markets organised by Inspirations Team at

own expense.

Overnight in Siem Reap.

19 September, 2015 – Siem Reap – Tour

This morning, visit the ancient city of Angkor Thom.

Angkor Thom was the last capital of the Great Khmer

Empire under the reign of Jayavarman VII. This city

is surrounded by an 8 m high wall, drawing a perfect

square. Enter the city through the ancient South Gate,

an impressive stone gate carved with Elephants and

four giant faces. On each side of the entrance path a

row of 54 gods or demons is holding the sacred Naga

snake.

From here, continue to Bayon Temple in the exact

centre of the city. This 12th century masterpiece is a

study in grandeur and is well-known for its 54 towers

with enigmatic faces representing the 54 provinces

of the Great Khmer Empire. The Terrace of the

Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King are also

must-visits as they are both known for their intricate

bas-reliefs.

Lunch will be served at local restaurant.

After short relaxing in afternoon, you will visit the

famous Angkor Wat by bus. Angkor Wat Built during

the reign of King Suryavarman II in the early 12th

century, it is constructed following the model of

the temple mountain symbolizing the Mount Meru,

home of the gods. Inside the temple, the walls are

covered with stone carvings and bas-reliefs depicting

Hindu mythology and the wars Suryavarman II

fought during his reign. Moreover, Angkor Wat is

well known for the more than 2,000 Apsara dancers

decorating the temple. Construction is thought to

have taken around thirty years of intensive labor.

Today, Angkor Wat is figured on Cambodia's national

flag as the temple symbolizes the soul of the Khmer

people.

Return to your hotel, where you can enjoy the

evening at leisure.

Overnight in Siem Reap

(Breakfast and lunch included)

20 September, 2015 – Siem Reap – Kompong Cham – Departure

After your breakfast, transfer to Kompong Cham boat

jetty/meeting point for your embark on your Mekong

River Cruise. A packed lunch will be provided and we

will stop at Kampong Thom along the Way.

(Breakfast and lunch included)

ADDITIONAL PRE AND POST TOURS

POST TOUR HO CHI MINH CITY 27th–29th SEPTEMBER, 2015 USD$375 per person twin share Single supplement available on request

Our hotel for 2 nights is the Grand Hotel Saigon, one

of the oldest hotels in Ho Chi Minh City. Established

in 1930 and completely restored in 1997, the Grand

Hotel Saigon is nestled in Saigon's scenic riverside

area and is within walking distance of major

commercial and entertainment addresses, and still

retains its French colonial style.

27 September, 2015 – My Tho – Ho Chi Minh City

Upon arrival in My Tho, meet with your guide and

depart for 1.5 hour drive to your hotel in Ho Chi Minh

City. Check in time is 14:00.

Remainder of the day is at leisure to visit markets,

shop for fabric or swim in the hotel pool .

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City

Optional group dinner organised by Inspirations

Team at local restaurant at own expense.

28 September, 2015 – Ho Chi Minh Tour

Half Day Ho Chi Minh City Tour including

embroidery stores and galleries.

After breakfast, depart your hotel at 0800 for a half

day tour of vibrant Ho Chi Minh City. Your program

includes the Reunification Hall, formerly known as

the Presidential Palace it was towards this modern

building that North Vietnamese tanks seized on

the morning of April 30 1975, as Saigon fell. This

fascinating building is filled with history still fresh in

the minds of many. From there stroll (your vehicle

will be available at all times) to the major sights of

colonial Ho Chi Minh City: the Old Saigon Post

Office, Dong Khoi Street (formerly Rue Catinat),

Continental Hotel, Opera House and City Hall. After

this historical visit continue to visit Ben Thanh

Market where an incredible display of fresh produce

is offered. Simply stroll through the market, seeing

and enjoying the variety of goods for sale. Lunch will

be served at local restaurant.

After lunch we will visit the fascinating XQ

Embroidery Store and Mekong Quilt Shop

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City

Dinner at own expense.

(Breakfast and lunch included)

29 September, 2015 – Ho Chi Minh Departure

Check out of your hotel at 12:00 and transfer to the

airport for the departure flight.

(Breakfast included)

ADDITIONAL PRE AND POST TOURS

ACCOMMODATION:Grande Suite (Including Private Veranda): 2 Cabins - 584 Square Feet | 54 Square MetersPrestige Suite (Including Private Balcony): 2 Cabins - 387 Square Feet | 36 Square MetersSignature Suite (Including Private Balcony): 16 Cabins - 291 Square Feet | 27 Square MetersVista Suite (Including French Balcony): 10 Cabins – 276 Square Feet | 26 Square MetersSuperior Suite (Including 2 large portholes): 4 Cabins - 256 Square Feet | 24 Square Meters

All-suite accommodations aboard the Mekong Navigator embody the grace and style of the French Colonial era, incorporating modern conveniences and luxuries that rival the finest hotels of Asia. Spacious well-appointed suites provide individual climate control, fine bed linens, premium mattresses, your choice of pillow, duvets, flat-screen television with on-demand movie system, spa quality robes, slippers and bath amenities, daily housekeeping with turn-down service as well as daily international news.

SHIP SPECIFICATIONS:Length: 230ft | 70mWidth 42ft | 13mDraft: 6ft | 1.8mAirdraft: 36ft | 11mTotal Passenger Cabins: 32/2

CATEGORIES:

Grande Suite

Prestige Suite

Signature Suite

Vista Suite

Superior Suite

R.V. MEKONG NAVIGATOR

All Suites are outfitted with two twin-size beds convertible to one king-size bed as requested.Exception: Prestige and Grand Suites are outfitted with one king-size bed.

JA S M I N E D E C K

LOT U S D E C K

O R C H I D D E C K

S U N D E C K

S I D E E L E VAT I O N

For more information check out our website

www.inspirationsmagazine.com.auOr contact us at:

Email: fiona@inspirationsmagazine.com.au

Tel: within Aust: 08 8293 8600 outside Aust: +61 8 8293 8600

Mail: PO Box 10177 Adelaide Business Hub SA 5000

...where stitching friends meet