Far East

Thompsons Holidays Far East

2008

www.thompsons.co.za

Why you should insist on a Thompsons Holiday The Leading Travel Companies of The World

At the Merlion, in Singapore

Thompsons Holidays is a proud member of “The Leading Travel Companies of The World”, a collection of quality International travel and tourism companies offering an extensive selection of holiday options across the globe. All members of this group offer superior quality, value for money and the highest levels of service..

Getting to know Thompsons Holidays This Thompsons brochure has been designed especially for you, our valued client. We have gone the extra mile to ensure that all your travel needs are covered and are confident that after reading it, you’ll insist on a Thompsons holiday. The Thompsons website is a one-stop shop for a variety of exciting holidays. Simply visit www.thompsons.co.za and discover a wealth of travel opportunities.

Your Link to Thompsons Thompsons Holidays has dealings with more than 1 500 travel agencies across South Africa so you’ll have no difficulty booking the holiday you deserve. Just pop into a travel agency near you and request a Thompsons holiday.

Price Guarantee Once full payment is received from you, the price paid is guaranteed, irrespective of any subsequent changes in airfare or fluctuations in the exchange rate.

Awards Speak Volumes

Far East

With 30 years experience in the travel industry, we have built a reputation for providing excellent service, specialist knowledge and value for money tailor-made packages. Our efforts have not gone unnoticed and for five consecutive years, Thompsons has been voted Best International Tour Operator and Best African Tour Operator in the Diners Club ASATA Travel Awards.

Thompsons Value for Money As one of the largest Tour Operators selling the UK and Europe, Thompsons Holidays enjoys excellent rates and booking conditions with our partner airlines, hotels, transfers, excursion and attraction suppliers. This translates into the best possible value for you, our valued customer.

Travel Pack Prior to departure, your travel documents will be presented to you in a durable Thompsons travel wallet. Each pack contains valuable information, as well as re-usable luggage labels and other surprises, depending on your destination. In the event of an emergency, a Thompsons staff member is contactable by phone, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Thompsons Top-Up’s Stretch your Rands and Top-Up your Thompsons package with additional excursions to enhance your holiday experience. Pre-book car hire, sightseeing tours, admission tickets and more.

Pricing All prices are from a starting price per person sharing, are an estimate and are subject to change wthout prior notice. Our “What Things Cost” prices are an estimate and are to be used as a guideline only. Prices correct at time of going to print. Thompsons terms and conditions apply. Refer to our website www.thompsons.co.za for more information.

Thompsons travel tips 2

• Avoid drinking tap water and stick to

cooked vegetables instead of raw salads and lettuce. These might also have been washed in water.

Dream the destination... Live the journey.

body, mind and soul • byRevitalize including an aromatherapy treatment at a spa whilst in the East.

Enticing...irresistible places! Contents: 2-3

The Far East with Thompsons 4-7

Malaysia 8-10

Singapore 11

Star Cruises 12-14

Bali

15-17

Hong Kong 18-20

China

21-22

Vietnam 23-24

Cambodia 25

Far East Combo’s 26 27

Booking Conditions

Steeped in a rich and unique history, it offers visitors an insight into a very different world with carefully preserved cultures, religious beliefs and a completely different way of life.

Hotel Grading Please note that the hotels in this brochure are the official star ratings from the hotels themselves. All hotels have all been given the Thompsons’ stamp of approval. This means that wherever you choose to stay, you have our personal guarantee of comfort and service.

Far East

Hotel Features List

Discover the unique charm of the Far East

With the Far East being one of the best sellers at Thompsons Tours there are new and exciting destinations to follow this year.

What to wear in the Far East Clothes should be light and loose for most parts in the Far East, yet for China and Hong Kong warm clothes should be part of your luggage. The Far East has lots of different cultures and beliefs so long sleeved clothes that cover your arms and legs are a must when visiting Temples. Make sure you take a comfortable pair of walking shoes, which are vital for sightseeing. Ensure that you pack plenty of sunblock and any medication you may need.

Learn about the different • cultures, beliefs and lifestyles

Shopping in the East is a thrilling • and exciting experience but

Although languages might sometimes • pose a problem, a friendly smile, gestures

through our vast variety of destination guided tours.

prepare to haggle for the best price.

and facial expressions will often get you what you want

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3

Thailand

Dedicated Thailand Brochure Thailand, famous for its white beaches, excellent shopping, gilded temples, hill tribes and unforgettable islands, has quickly become Thompson’s most popular and highly requested destination in the Far East. Therefore this year we have introduced a separate 16-page brochure, featuring this ultimate chill-out, memorable, holiday making magic destination. This allows us to bring you a wider selection of products ranging from new cities and island destinations, various newly acquired hotels and

resorts as well as more tours and sightseeing ideas. With a variety and mix from islands and beaches to urban delights and the huge, chaotic metropolis of Bangkok which has become a shopper’s paradise, this destination has long since charmed visitors senseless with its energy and cultural treasures. For more information, don’t forget to collect a copy of our Thailand brochure from your nearest travel agent, or for ease and convenience, go online to www.thompsons.co.za download it to your computer.

Malaysia

i CAPITAL CITY: Kuala Lumpur LANGUAGE: Bahasa. English is spoken. CURRENCY: Local - Malaysian Ringitt (MYR) MYR100 = ZAR245 VISA: Not required for SA Passport Holders AREA: 329,750 km2 TIME DIFFERENCE: SA Time + 6 hours

Traditional dance

Malaysia

HEALTH REQUIREMENTS: None

what things cost These prices are an average price and may vary according to areas, hotels and season. (MYR Malaysian Ringitt) Glass of wine: Local Beer: Tea / Coffee: Soft drinks: Water: Lunch:

MYR MYR MYR MYR MYR MYR

18-35 15 5 7 5 30

BEST TIME TO TRAVEL Malaysia is hot and humid all year round with temperatures rarely dropping below 20C, even in the evenings. It has two not very marked seasons, a moderately wet and moderately dry season. Humidity hovers around 90% but on the Peninsula you can escape this by retreating to hillside resorts. Thunderstorms are frequent during the wetter months from November – February, with brief outbursts, which seldom interrupt the sunshine and outdoor activities.

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Malaysia is one of the most pleasant, hassle-free countries to visit in Southeast Asia, with its interesting fusion of Malay, Chinese, Indian and indigenous cultures and customs - comprising of the Peninsula of Malaysia and two states of Sabah and Sarawak. A beautiful characteristic of Malaysia, other than all it has to see and do, is the fact that it is truly Asian. You can travel from a Malay village through an Indian neighborhood to Chinatown and feel that you have been to three different countries.

Aside from the gleaming skyscrapers of the 21st century in Kuala Lumpur’s bustling metropolis, it also boasts some of the most superb beaches. Sarawak is the heart of the rainforest and the national parks offering wildlife, beaches and rivers. Sabah has the lively Kota Kinabalu, Mount Kinabalu and the Sepilok Orang-Utan Rehabilitation centre. Malaysia is a compelling mixture of uneven mountains, seaside resorts and picturesque fishing villages, historical towns and national parks

Dream the destination... Live the journey.

Malaysia - Kuala Lumpur SIGHTSEEING

Kuala Lumpur - The capital and also the largest city with a history spanning more than 150 years. It’s grown quickly to a modern city with a blend of old colonial and new buildings that exist side by side and is home to the KLCC Petronas Towers – one of the tallest buildings in the world. It consists of a population of over two million people. The city is known for some of the best shopping in Asia, with many air-conditioned shopping centers selling everything at competitive prices and should therefore be considered as a stopover must for a few days.

Petronas Towers ★HHPLUS

Kuala Lumpur Half Day City Tour

TIP: Good value hotel ideally suited to families, in an excellent location.

Chinatown Night Tour

from MYR122 pp

TIP: Indulge in an ancient Balinese massage at the Samsara Spa.

TIP: Spacious room, huge swimming pool in a convenient location

Shop ‘till you Drop’ Add-on

from MYR480 pp



from MYR 269 per room per night

Renaissance Hotel

Location: Jalan Ampang next to the light rail for easy access to the rest of the city. Walking distance of the Petronas Towers. Accommodation: There are two separate wings, the contemporary 4-star East Wing and the more classic 5-star West Wing. Air-conditioned rooms with fridge and mini-bar, in room safes, tea/coffee, satellite TV as well as movies on demand, IDD telephone, internet, Inter- connecting rooms. Facilities: 5 restaurants, 4 bars, entertainment, rooms for those with disabilities, swimming pool with poolbar, tennis courts, gym and spa.

from MYR 320 per room per night

★HHH The Westin Kuala Lumpur Location: The city’s newest deluxe hotel situated in the heart of the Golden Triangle surrounded by restaurants and entertainment, as well as shopping centres.

3 Days/ 2nights Kuala Lumpur is an ideal stopover and home to great value markets and many shopping centres. From local arte-facts to the latest designer labels, your stay is set to be a very busy one... Package includes: Return transfers from the airport to your hotel, 2 night’s accommodation including breakfast and local taxes, as well as a half day city tour

Swiss Garden Hotel

Location: Situated in the heart of bustling Kuala Lumpur, on the Golden Triangle, between the well known shopping haven in the city, Accommodation: The 310 air-conditioned and newly refurbished rooms offer satellite TV/IDD phone, tea/coffee making and internet facilities. Facilities: For outdoor dining, the Garden Terrace Coffee House or The Pool Bar, both offer a variety of delicacies. The stylish Blue Chip Lounge is a cocktail of style and elegance.

★HHH

Countryside Tour A fascinating insight into the bustling city with the countryside right outside it’s footsteps where quaint Kampung Houses stand beside palatial homes. Visit cottage industries including the Royal Selangor Pewter and Batik Centre. Included in the tour is also a visit to Embassy Row, kampongs and the limestone cluster caves of Batu. from MYR56 pp

from MYR 295 per room per night

★HHH

from MYR55 pp

Visit the bustling night markets of Chinatown, where you can try your skills at bargaining. Enjoy a delicious Malay dinner in a typical local restaurant, followed by a traditional Malay cultural performance.



Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur has an exciting blend of both colonial and modern architecture, with its colonial roots along the river to mosques, palaces and modern buildings along wide boulevards. Visit places like the Malayan Railway Station, Merdeka Square, Chinatown and the King’s Palace.

Dorsett Regency

Location: A popular hotel, located at the start of Bintang walk in the heart of the Golden Triangle close to shops and entertainment. Accommodation: Good size rooms, some with 2 double beds make this ideal for families. Rooms are air-conditioned with refrigerator and mini-bar, in room safes, free tea/coffee, satellite TV, movies on demand, IDD telephone, internet, Inter-connecting rooms. Facilities: 2 Restaurants, 1 bar, entertainment, rooms for those with disabilities, swimming pool, kids pool, gym and day spa .

Accommodation: Rooms are decorated in a contemporary style with a Heavenly bed and either twin tower or city views. Facilities: These include a fine selection of restaurants with a Latin grill and even a Cuban cigar bar. An ideal hotel for families offering a kids club as well as a children’s pool. TIP: Excellent location with all the comforts of a 5* property



from MYR 564 per room per night

Other top selling hotels, available on request : Istana Hotel, JW Marriot, Ritz Carlton, Impiana KLCC Hotel & Spa, Coronade Hotel, Federal Hotel, Crowne Plaza Mutiara KUL, Grand Continental, Shangri-la Kuala Lumpur and many others.

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Malaysia - Langkawi & Pangkor Laut SIGHTSEEING

The 99 islands of the Langkawi group are situated at the northern end of Peninsula Malaysia, bordering Thailand. Idyllic, tropical islands with powdery white beaches and crystal clear waters only one hours flight from Kuala Lumpur. A destination for honeymooners and an ideal place to relax. Enjoy the excellent cuisine, water sports and many interesting attractions such as Mahsuri’s Tomb. Telaga Tujuh (the seven wells), Pulau Dayang Bunting, Galleria Perdana, Underwater world and many others. A duty free shopping haven for visitors, with many complexes in the main town. In less tourist areas, still a rural Malay island with small villages, rice paddies, water buffaloes and natural beauty.

Diving in Langkawi ★HH

Malaysia

Langkawi Highlights Half Day Tour Highlights include the Mahsuri Tomb where the sad legend of a beautiful princess will be related to you, a fishing village and the capital Kuah, where you will have time to do some shopping.

TIP: Large pool and good leisure facilities set on spacious grounds.

★HH

from MYR 70 pp

Sunset Dinner Cruise Transfer to the Porto Malai jetty and board the 40 passenger catamaran. Set sail around the scattered tropical islands of the Langkawi Archipelago. Enjoy a free flow of drinks from the bar whilst the crew prepares your BBQ dinner. Bring along your bathing suit and a change of clothes for this cruise as after dinner, you can take a dip in the boat’s jacuzzi of salt water & feel refreshed. Transfer back to your hotel at the end of cruise. Adult: MYR 359 pp Duration: 3 hours.

TIP: The newly built over water suites offer good value.

Mix Business with Pleasure Kuala Lumpur / Langkawi - 9 nights Extend a business trip to include a 7 night stay at one of the most beautiful island destinations in Asia. Combine 2 nights in Kuala Lumpur, one of Asia’s most bustling cities, with a 7 night Langkawi stay. includes: • Return airport - hotel transfers • 2 nights in Kuala Lumpur with an Evening Chinatown tour • Breakfast daily. • 7 nights in Langkawi with a ‘Highlights of Langkawi half day island tour’ and local taxes from MYR 2 228 pp

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TIP: Good value with facilities for both adults and children alike.



from MYR 474 per room per night

Sheraton Langkawi Beach

Location: Located along a beautiful section of the Andaman coastline, set in the rainforest. Accommodation: 238 recently fully renovated, air-conditioned spacious rooms designed in chalet style are ideal for families with a bedding configuration of 2 doubles. Rooms have spacious balconies, offering either sea or rainforest views, a refrigerator with mini-bar, in room safes, IDD telephone, tea/coffee facilities, as well as internet access. Facilities: 24 hour room service, laundry, 4 restaurants, 3 bars, evening entertainment, a swimming pool, pool bar and kids club & pool, day spa, water sports, tennis courts, gym and baby-sitting services. from MYR 653 per room per night ★HHHH

TIP: Previously voted best Spa Resort in the world

Berjaya Langkawi Beach & Spa Resort

Location: Situated on Burau Bay, surrounded by tropical rainforest. Accommodation: Typically Malaysian styled rooms, chalets and suites each with either their own balcony or terrace. All 500 rooms are air-conditioned with a refrigerated mini-bar, Satellite TV, IDD telephone and tea/coffee making facilities. Facilities: 24 hour room service, laundry, shops, 5 restaurants, 4 bars, a swimming pool with a pool bar and separate kid’s pool, tennis courts and a gym. ★HHH

Child: MYR 205 pp

Holiday Villa Beach & Spa Resort

Location: : On Pantai Tengah, situated on 13 acres, right on the beach. Close to popular eating and shopping areas. Accommodation: All 258 air-conditioned rooms, those seafacing offer private balconies or terraces. Rooms are comfortable offering the usual IDD telephone, satellite television, refrigerator with mini-bar, tea & coffee making facilities and in room safes. Facilities: 3 restaurants, 2 bars, 24 hour room service, computers with internet access, shops, a swimming pool with pool bar and kids pool, day spa, water sports, tennis courts, gym, and baby-sitting services on request. from MYR 333 per room per night

Pangkor Laut Resort

Location: A short ferry trip from KL to Pangkor Laut, a privately owned island which was voted the best Spa Resort in the world. Accommodation: 148 air-conditioned villas with private balconies, offering all the necessary amenities such as IDD telephones, refrigerated mini-bars Facilities: This resort provides guests with unforgettable memories. Not only is it situated in a magnificent location, but facilities offer 2 swimming pools, a gymnasium, 3 tennis and a squash court, a spa, library, restaurants and much more. from MYR 1024 per room per night

Other hotels also available on request are the : Langkawi Lagoon Resort, Rebak Island Resort, Westin Langkawi Resort, Mutiara Burau Bay Resort, Tanjung Rhu Resort, Paradise Sandy Beach Penang, Shangri-la Golden Sands and many others.

Dream the destination... Live the journey.



Malaysia - Penang SIGHTSEEING

Situated on the North Western coast, the island of Penang is the oldest British settlement in Malaysia and one of the country’s premier resort areas. Aside from beautiful beaches there are also excellent hawker restaurants, colonial buildings of nearby Georgetown and hundreds of market stalls. Try a rickshaw ride around old Chinese chop houses or take a cool retreat up Penang Hill where spectacular views await and a lavishly decorated Hindu temple Sri Mariamman await you at the top.

Malay delicacies ★HH

Round the Island Tour

Accommodation: 366 Spacious air-conditioned rooms with radio, TV, mini-bar, tea/coffee and IDD telephone.

TIP: Comfortable rooms make this a good value resort in a great location.

TIP: Up to 2 kids under 12 years of age, sharing with 2 adults, stay free

(Excludes International & internal flights)

Facilities: 2 Restaurants and 2 bars with evening entertainment, 24 hour room service, shops, swimming pool with kids pool area, tennis courts, gym, and kids club. from MYR 320 per room per night ★HHH

Park Royal Penang

Location: On the beach front, in the middle stretch of Batu Ferringhi beach with access to all restaurants and night bazaars for best shopping and dining opportunities in Penang. Accommodation: All the in room facilities of a 4-star hotel.

City To Island Getaway Kuala Lumpur / Penang - 9 Nights

from MYR 1616 pp



Accommodation: All 358 air-conditioned, spacious guest rooms include suites, kid suites and triple rooms offering a TV, mini-bar, tea/ coffee facilities, telephone. Safety deposit boxes are available to guests and located at reception.

from MYR 73 pp

includes: • Return transfers • 2 nights in Kuala Lumpur with an Evening Chinatown tour • 7 nights in Penang with a Historical Georgetown Tour and local taxes • Breakfast daily.

Holiday Inn Resort

Location: In the heart of Batu Ferringhi, close to restaurants, night markets and shops. This resort is right on the beach.

Historical Georgetown

For an interesting cocktail of shopping, mixed with relaxation, why not combine a 2 nights Kuala Lumpur stay, with 7 nights in Penang? A short flight from KL, Penang is famous for its beaches and tropical lifestyle as well as the colonial buildings of Georgetown.

Facilities: These include a business centre, laundry service, free parking, 24 hour room service, 3 restaurants, 3 bars a swimming pool with pool bar and kids pool area, day spa, water sports, tennis courts, a gym, kids club and baby-sitting services on request. from MYR 256 per room per night ★HHH

from MYR 73 pp

Step back in time as you venture into the historical streets of Penang that hold the religious abodes reflecting the 4 dominant religions of Hinduism, Buddhism, Christianity and Islam. Visit the Sri Mariamman Temple (the oldest Hindu temple), Masjid Kapitan Keling (the oldest Indian Muslim mosque), Saint Georges Anglican Church (1818) and the Kuan Yin Temple, built by the first Chinese settlers more than a century ago.



Malaysia

Discover the enchanting beauty of Penang and her secrets with this essential circular island tour that takes you through idyllic and picturesque fishing villages; fruit, clove and nutmeg plantations, with a stop at the Penang Batik Handicraft Centre to observe how local Malaysian batik is being made. Proceed to the infamous Snake temple, where pit vipers coil unperturbed.

Bayview Beach Resort

Location: Located at the quieter end of Batu Ferringhi beach, set in landscaped gardens right on the beach.

TIP: Good location with many good quality dining options.

Facilities: Good indoor and outdoor activities for everyone, including couples and honeymooners. They also boast a spa, kids club, swimming pool, water sports, tennis courts, gym and baby sitting service on request making this an ideal family resort. from MYR 461 per room per night ★HHHH

TIP: An expansive luxury retreat in true Malaysian style

Shangri-La’s Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa

Location: Well situated right on Ferringhi Beach. Accommodation: Recently re-opened after a full revamp and set to become one of the leading hotels in Asia, the hotel is split into 2 wings. The Garden Wing has deluxe sea-facing rooms whilst the Rasa Wing has deluxe, premier rooms and suites which include private club lounge facilities with free champagne, wines, juices and canapés served throughout the day, as well as a butler service. Facilities: The exclusive spa sanctuary, CHI Spa cocooned within lush gardens, 2 restaurants and 4 bars, a swimming pool, tennis courts, gym, kids club and water sports. from MYR 1011 per room per night

Other hotels also available on request are the : Paradise Sandy Beach Penang, Shangri-la Golden Sands and many others.

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7

Singapore

Singapore harbour

Half day Heritage Tour

Singapore

i

This tour begins with a visit to the Thien Hock Keng Temple which is more than 160 years old. The unique wooden structure and wood carvings were built and assembled without using any nails. Next stop is Chinatown Heritage Centre. Discover and trace journeys, beliefs and myths of early Chinese migrants who made their way to Singapore. Gain an insight into their lives and experience for yourself the hardship of living in the dark and cramped quarters they built in Chinatown. Last stop is Kampong Glam - where the old Arab Quarters once stood. Learn about the practice of Islam in this part of the world at the Sultan Mosque. Along Arab Street, see the last remaining shops in Singapore still selling sarongs, rattan baskets, brass works and unique leather products used by the Muslim community.

CAPITAL CITY: Singapore LANGUAGE: Chinese, Malay, Tamil, English CURRENCY: Singapore dollar (SGD) SGD = ZAR5,65 VISA: Not required for SA Passport Holders. Bintan - Indonesian visa required. AREA: 513,120 km2 TIME DIFFERENCE: SA time + 6 hours

Daily - 09h00 - 14h30. Duration - 3.5 hours. Adult: SGD 38 pp. Child under 12yrs: SGD 19 pp

HEALTH REQUIREMENTS: None

This small Tropical- island has become known as a shopper’s paradise, with unrivalled opportunities to spend your life-savings on everything from electronics, watches, jewellery and cosmetics to designer labelled fashion items.

(Food Court)

what things cost

These prices are an average price and may vary according to areas, hotels and season. (Singapore Dollar) Glass of Wine: Beer: Tea/Coffee: Soft drinks: Water Small bottle: Local Meal (lunch): (Food Court)

SGD 10 SGD 10 SGD 4.50 SGD 4 SGD 4 SGD 28 SGD 4

It is fun to explore areas such as Chinatown, Little India and Arab Street where some unusual businesses are being run. You will find a harmonious blend of culture, some of the tastiest cuisine creations in Asia, a variety of arts and an ultra modern architecture. A world of possibilities, Singapore offers countless memorable experiences just waiting to be discovered.

best time to travel Singapore, being so close to the equator has a constant climate that changes little from month to month, making it an ideal year round destination. The wettest months are between November and January so your best time to travel would be in the low rainfall season from June to August.

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There are places like Sentosa Island, offering every form of fun imaginable, from golf, to swimming, to exciting theme parks and many historical and cultural attractions, one of which is the Singapore museum.

There is an Underwater world, one of Asia’s largest oceanariums. Singapore, with world class attractions such as the Singapore Zoo, a home to more than 4000 residents, some of which are the Komodo Dragon and the white rhino, as well as a charismatic orangutan colony and the blue-eyed white tiger with paws the size of our faces. Year round Festivals offer great opportunities to explore and observe local cultures at their most enchanting and passionate moments. Festivals: Chinese New Year - Jan/Feb: Dragon dances, parades, fireworks, night markets. Vesak Day - Apr /May celebrates the birthdate of Buddha with the releasing of caged birds & much more Dragon Boat festival - May/June, celebrated with boat races across Marina Bay

Dream the destination... Live the journey.

Singapore SIGHTSEEING

Sentosa Sunset Island Tour

Chinese masks

HHHPLUS

Accommodation: Rooms are located by open air corridors offering and include all the usual amenities and comforts.

TIP: Perfect urban retreat that would appeal to your senses

Facilities: The Palms Asian Brasserie offers culinary delights where you can savour Eastern as well as Western cuisine. The café offers Asian and continental favourites, generous buffets and an extensive a-la-carte menu. Other facilities include a fitness centre, outdoor pool, sauna and spa. from SGD 269 per room per night ★HHH

* In the unlikely event of of any cancellation of the ‘Songs of the Sea’ performance due to bad weather or technical failure there will strictly be no refund in part or full. Daily: Pick-up 15h30. Duration: 4 hours. Adult: SGD 72 Child: SGD 36

Copthorne Orchid Hotel

Location: Close to Singapore’s popular shopping district in Orchard Road, major tourist attractions, the CBD and convention centres.

TIP: A unique hotel offering an unforgettable experience

Gallery Hotel

Location: Jalan Ampang next to the light rail for easy access to the rest of the city. Accommodation: There are two separate wings, the 4-star East Wing and the more classic 5-star West Wing. Air-conditioned rooms with refrigerator and mini-bar, in room safe, tea/coffee, satellite TV, movies on demand, IDD telephone, internet, Interconnecting rooms. Facilities: 5 restaurants, 4 bars, entertainment, 24 hour room service, rooms for those with disabilities, swimming pool with poolbar, tennis courts, gym, spa and baby-sitting facilities. from SGD 228 per room per night ★HHH

Singapore

Take a Cable Car ride to Sentosa Island and enjoy a panoramic view of the Port of Singapore as the sun sets. Visit the Images of Singapore exhibition to experience the real magic behind the story of Singapore. Here legend, fact and folklore are creatively interwoven for guests to enjoy the special “I am here” experience. Images of Singapore are a journey into the very soul of Singapore – a place of adventure, ingenuity, perseverance, survival and fun. Next we proceed to the Underwater World, one of the largest oceanariums that has an 83m long acrylic tunnel for a spectacular view of marine life. Finally, visit the “Songs of the Sea” for a spectacular synchronized display of pyrotechnics and laser presentation by the Beach. Return to mainland Singapore is by coach.

Copthorne Kings Hotel

Location: Along the historic Singapore River close to the Shenton Way business district. Accommodation: 314 stylish and contemporary air-conditioned rooms offer modern day amenities.

Cheng Ho Imperial Dinner Cruise

TIP: Close to Chinatown, shopping and entertainment.

For an unforgettable evening, enjoy a sunset dinner cruise to the Southern Islands and see the busiest port in the world, onboard the M.V. Cheng Ho, an air-conditioned Imperial Chinese Vessel. The evening breeze, a setting sun and the peace and quiet of the open sea, combined with a sumptuous international buffet dinner is an experience not to be missed. Adult: SGD 65

Child: SGD 35

Facilities: 3 Award winning restaurants and recreational facilities such as a landscaped outdoor pool with Jacuzzi, a gymnasium, sauna and steam bath. from SGD 234 per room per night

★HHH

York Hotel

Location: Conveniently located just 5 minutes walk from Orchard and Scotts Road, Singapore’s main shopping and entertainment belt. Accommodation: 406 spacious, well-appointed rooms. Facilities: Include wireless broadband internet access, business centre, function rooms, outdoor swimming pool and Jacuzzi, children’s pool and fitness centre. TIP: Excellent for families, 5 minutes from main shopping areas.



from SGD 292 per room per night

Other top selling hotels also available on request are : Copthorne Orchid, The Orchard Parade Hotel, Rasa Sentosa Shangri-la, Le Meridien Singapore, Meritus Mandarin Hotel, Raffles The Plaza, Rendezvous Hotel, Swissotel Merchant Court, The Stamford and many others.

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9

Singapore SIGHTSEEING

Singapore Cruise Add-on - 2 Nights A perfect ministay for travellers who are seeking a pre or post stay in Singapore, as an add on to their cruise. Includes: • Return transfers • 2 night’s accommodation at the Pan Pacific inclusive of breakfast and all local taxes • A Singapore half-day city tour

The Merlion in Singapore ★HHH

Orchard Hotel

Location: On Singapore’s renowned Orchard Road, the city-state’s famous shopping and entertainment belt.

from SGD 565 pp

Accommodation: 653 rooms and suites are tastefully appointed in two characteristically unique twin buildings.

Singapore

Facilities: Offers cosmopolitan elegance and comfort, complimented by some of the city’s finest dining in award winning restaurants. Guests staying here will enjoy a wide selection of facilities. TIP: Choice offerings for business, entertainment and relaxation.



from SGD 330 per room per night

★HHH

Pan Pacific Singapore Hotel

Location: In Marina Bay, adjacent to three shopping malls.

Singapore & Bintan Combo 6 nights Why not include 3 nights in Singapore with an additional 3 nights in Bintan for a holiday that offers everything? Bintan is located only 45km south-east of Singapore, and has untarnished white beaches and azure waters, offering the ideal retreat for those seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle. Shop till you’re about to drop in Singapore, then escape to the beaches of Bintan to recover. An exhilarating and relaxing combination of destinations. includes: • Transfers throughout • 2 night’s accommodation at the York Hotel incl. breakfast (previous page) • A half day Singapore City • 5 night’s accommodation in Bintan at the Nirwana Resort incl. breakfast • All local taxes

Accommodation: 775 well-appointed and recently refurbished rooms and suites offer magnificent views of the city and harbor. Rooms are luxurious with LCD televisions and remote controlled drapes.

TIP: Close proximity to Suntec Expo Centre

Facilities: Guests can enjoy facilities that include tennis courts, a spa, gymnasium and outdoor swimming pool. It boasts 6 award winning restaurants, with Cantonese, Japanese, International gourmet presentations and a delectable selection of tapas to choose from.

from SGD 458 per room per night

★HHHH

Meritus Mandarin

Location: An excellent location in Orchard road, within easy access of the City Hall MRT station and close to many shops and restaurants.. Accommodation: 1200 large and well appointed air-conditioned rooms in two separate towers offering city and harbour views.

TIP: Superbly located in the centre of Orchard Road

Facilities: This property offers a wide range of food and beverage outlets with a choice of leisure facilities that include a gym, massage rooms, sauna and steam baths, tennis and squash courts, swimming from SGD 413 per room per night pool, etc. ★HHHH

Banyan Tree Bintan

Location: Close to Pasar Oleh Oleh and Kampoeng Lagoi, both locations near each other, across the street. Where guests can find restaurants, bar and shopping areas.

from SGD 1043 pp

Note: Bintan Island is an Indonesian territory and visas are required. These can be done on arrival but passports must have a validity of more than 6 months. Best avoided during the Monsoon season from Nov - Mar, as things like watersports could be cancelled over this period.

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Accommodation: Styled with elegant sophistication, the airconditioning with mini bar, internet, IDD phone, satellite TV offer the comforts of home for business and leisure travellers. TIP: Extend a business trip to include a getaway retreat to this luxurious resort

Facilities: A night of romance and epicurean delights await with exclusive outdoor destination dining experiences – on the rocks by the beach, over the swimming pool, in a beach cabana and on the golf from SGD 678 per room per night green.

Dream the destination... Live the journey.

Star Cruises Inside Cabin from R6 Ocean View Cabin from R7

Island Escapade - 4 Nights

170 pps 070 pps

Departing on Sunday

Andaman Sea • Phuket Island THAILAND

• Penang

South China Sea

St

MALAYSIA

ra it s o f

M

INDONESIA

a

la

cc

a

Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct

30 06 04 01 06 03 07 05

- 13 11 08 13 10 14 12

- 20 18 15 20 17 21 19

- 27 25 22 27 24 28 -

- - - 29 - 31 - -

2008 2008 2008 2008 2008 2008 2008 2008

SINGAPORE

Day Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu

Destination Singapore Penang, Malaysia † Phuket Island, † Thailand Port Klang, Malaysia * Singapore

Arrival - 1400 0900(0800) 1900 1000

* Port of Embarkation

Departure 1500 2100 2100 (2000) 2100 -

4 Night Island Escapade - on SuperStar Aquarius PACKAGE INCLUDES: Transfers throughout, 1 night at the Copthorne Kings Hotel with breakfast (pre cruise), 4 night cruise on board Aquarius including all meals and entertainment, passenger handling charges, fuel surcharges while on board the ship. (Prices are per person sharing)

Inside Cabin from R7 Ocean View Cabin from R8

China & Vietnam Adventure - 5 Nights

699 pps 559 pps

Departing on Sunday CHINA

Xiamen

South China Sea

Sanya

Destination Hong Kong, China Sanya, China Halong Bay, Vietnam Hong Kong, China Xiamen, China Hong Kong, China

Arrival - 1300 0900(0800) 1600 1300 1400

Departure 1800 2100 1600(1500) 2130 2200 -

R13 Inside Cabin from Ocean View Cabin from R14 Gulf of Thailand

• Langkawi Island

St

• Penang

ra

South China Sea

it

MALAYSIA

s o

• Kuala Lumpur

f

M

a

la

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INDONESIA

(Port Klang)

a

SINGAPORE

Arrival Departure - 1800 0900 1900 0900 1800 0800 (0700) 1700 (1600) 1900 (1800) - 1900 (1800) 0900 1900 cont..

* = Brief technical stop

217 pps 984 pps

Departing on Sunday

Phuket • • Krabi Island THAILAND

Indian Ocean

2008 2008 2008 2008 2008 2008 2008

PACKAGE INCLUDES: Transfers throughout, 1 night at the Metropark Hotel with breakfast (pre cruise), 5 night cruise on board Virgo including all meals and entertainment, passenger handling charges, fuel surcharges while on board the ship. (Prices are per person sharing)

Andaman Sea

† = Disembark by tender

27 25 15 20 - 28 -

5 Night China & Vietnam Adventure - on SuperStar Virgo

Straits Adventurer - 7 Nights

Day Destination Sun Singapore Mon Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang), Malaysia Tue Penang, Malaysia † Wed Krabi, Phuket Island †, Thailand Thu Phuket Island, Thailand Fri Langkawi Island, Malaysia

20 18 8 13 - 14 2

* Port of Embarkation

VIETNAM

Day Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri

13 11 1 6 31 7 5

Star Cruises

HONG KONG Halong Bay

Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct

Sat Sun

Apr May Jun Aug Oct Nov Dec

20 4 22 17 5 2 7

- - - - 12 9 14

- - - - 19 16 21

27 - 29 - 26 23 28

- - - - - 30 -

* Port of Embarkation

Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang), Malaysia *1300 Singapore 0900

2008 2008 2008 2008 2008 2008 2008 1500 -

7 Night Straits Adventurer - on SuperStar Gemini PACKAGE INCLUDES: Transfers throughout, 1 night at the Copthorne Kings Hotel with breakfast (pre cruise), 7 night cruise on board Gemini including all meals and entertainment, passenger handling charges, fuel surcharges while on board the ship. (Prices are per person sharing)

( ) = Local time

www.thompsons.co.za

11

Indonesia - Bali With popular beaches like Kuta, Sanur and Nusa Dua and a vast variety of water sport activities such as river rafting, sailing, jet skiing, paragliding and surfing, you’re set to enjoy many days of fun in the sun. If however you prefer something a little more relaxed and laid back, there are many spas around Bali offering pampering beauty treatments to restore both mind and body through a holistic approach.

i CAPITAL CITY: Jakarta LANGUAGE: Indonesian English is widely spoken. CURRENCY: Local - Rupiah. Tourists use US dollars IDR1000 = ZAR0,84 VISA: Required for SA Passport Holders for stay of up to 30 days (Passports must be valid for at least 6 months) AREA: 1,904,570 km2 TIME DIFFERENCE: SA time + 6 hours HEALTH REQUIREMENTS: None

what things cost These prices are an average price and may vary according to areas, hotels and season. (US Dollar)

Indonesia - Bali

Bottle of wine Large Bottle of Beer Litre Mineral Water Cup of Tea / Coffee Soft Drinks Light Lunch at local restaurant Buffet Meals

US$30 US$2.50 US$1.25 US$1 US$1 US$12 US$20

It is a densely populated island with a vibrant Balinese culture making it a unique and extravagant destination for many travellers seeking artistic and ceremonial heritage. Music, dance and drama are all closely related in Bali with dancers being a regular part of almost every temple festival.

BEST TIME TO TRAVEL: The best time to visit is in the dry season between April and October, however draped over the Equator, Indonesia tends to have a fairly hot climate all year round.

Java Overland Tour

Tea plantation

Borobudur temple

9 Days / 8 Nights Jakarta - Yogyakarta - Bali A 9 day journey travelling across Indonesia from Jakarta to Bali visiting many old temples, harbours and monuments along the way. INCLUDES: • Tour and transfer with air-conditioned car and English speaking guide. • Accomodation on a twin sharing basis • Meals as specified • Domestic flight Yogyakarta-Denpasar Day 1. Jakarta Direct transfer. Jakarta city Tour - visit old harbour of Sunda Kelapa, passing monument Nationall Presidential palace. Evening back to hotel.

12

Bali, or ‘Isle of the Gods’ as it is known, is one of the many islands in Indonesia where snorkelling and diving in the crystal clear waters, or lazing away night and day, are favourite pastimes. For many visitors Bali defines tropical tourism with its startling geographical contrasts of verdant hillside rice fields, idyllic white sandy beaches, sacred, mist-wreathed volcanoes and lush tropical forests.

Day 2. Jakarta Bandung Breakfast at Hotel. Drive to Bogor Botanical Garden, afterwards to the Tea Plantation of Puncak, afternoon procced to Bandung the capital of West Java. Overnight. Day 3. Bandung Tours Breakfast at Hotel. Drive to the south part of Bandung, visit the Soreang Village, see the activity of local people working in the morning in the rice fields, and also visit traditional Black Smith and Bamboo wall home industry. Then to The White Crater in active volcano. Day 4. Bandung - Yogyakarta By Train Breakfast at Hotel. Transfer to railway station of Bandung for executive wagon ride through the most beautiful lush and green landscape. Day 5. Yogyakarta & Borobudur Tours

Royal Temple in Bali Breakfast at Hotel. Drive to visit Borobudur Temple, which is built in the 7th century and has a thousand stupa. Afterwards visit of the Sultan Palace of Yogyakarta, Batik Factory, Silver. Afternoon late back to hotel. Day 6. Yogyakarta - Flight To Denpasar. Breakfast at Hotel. Transfer to Yogyakarta Airport for flight to Denpasar. Arrival Denpasar - Bali. Transfer to hotel . Day 7-9 Bali Days at leisure in hotel with breakfast. Transfer to airport on day 9 for return flight home.

US$ 864 pp sharing

Dream the destination... Live the journey.

Discovering Bali SIGHTSEEING

Romantic Bali This excursion shows you the romantic side of Bali. First visit the royal family temple in Mengwi, and then drive to Alas Kedaton to visit the Holly monkey forest where giant bats live in the treetops. The highlight of this tour is a stop at the side lake of Bratan – Ulundanu temple where you can walk along the flower, fruit and vegetables market in Bedugul. Continue to Jatiluwih, one of the most magnificent rice fields, then arrive at Tanah Lot temple, dramatically perched on top of a large black rock about 200 meters offshore, surrounded by the sea. Incl. lunch.

This is the life! HHH

Grand Istana Rama Hotel

LOCATION: on Kuta beach, offering relaxation and variety of shops & restaurants, with the vibrant nightlife of Jalan Legian close by. Accommodation: 139 renovated rooms consist of superior and bungalows with wide terraces and overlook lush tropical gardens with an Indonesian style and ambience..

Full day - duration: 9 hours. from US$ 64 pp

TIP: Well managed hotel in a popular Balinese style



from US$ 64 per room per night

★HH

Ramayana Resort & Spa

LOCATION: Located in the heart of Kuta, amidst a tropical and small water garden. A short walk to the famous “Matahari Square, Kuta Galleria and The Art Market” as well as the beach of Kuta.

Indonesia - Bali

Facilities: Large swimming pool, pool table, coffee shop, restaurant featuring International dishes as well as Chinese and Balinese food.

Accommodation: Rooms are newly revamped, furnished and decorated in a contemporary Balinese décor with modern facilities for a harmonious ambiance.

Bali Roundtrip 3 Days/2 Nights A 3 day trip to the northern parts of the island, taking you to many temples, forests, rice paddies and markets. You will drive to Pura Beji in Singaraja and Kintamani, where you will be at the crater rim of one of the mountain volcanoes, for a breathtaking and magnificent view of the Crater lake, where lava flows from the Volcanic peaks. Experience a real Balinese community in Tenganan and visit an ancient justice hall cave. Travel back down past Ubud and stop along the way at the many handicraft shops.

TIP: A garden oasis, only metres away from all the shops



from US$ 68 per room per night

★HHH

Risata Bali Resort & Spa

LOCATION: South of the Kuta village within close proximity of shops and many restaurants. Accommodation: 139 generously sized air-conditioned rooms are elegantly touched with Balinese features. Some have private balconies, whilst all offer TVs, mini-bars and the usual in-room amenities like tea/ coffee maker, hairdryers, etc. TIP: Offers a free shuttle bus to Kuta art market and beach area

Tours include: • Return airport - hotel transfers • Accommodation for the duration of the tour as detailed above • Breakfast daily • Tour transfers as per the itinerary and all the local service taxes

Facilities: Big swimming pool with sunken pool bar, a children’s pool and playground, restaurants and coffee shop, lobby lounge, gymnasium and spa.

from US$ 56 per room per night

★HHH

Aston Bali Resort And Spa

Location: Situated on the impressive beachfront of Tanjung Benoa, a short drive from Nusa Dua beach.

All Inclusive Meal Package

Accommodation: This contemporary Balinese resort consists of 187 well appointed rooms and suites offering tea/coffee facilities, TV, mini bar, private balconies and the usual in- room amenities.

from US$ 226 pp All tours include pick-up from your hotel and an English speaking guide.

Facilities: A swimming pool, 4 restaurants, an orchard garden, cooking classes, Balinese Rindik music and dancing lessons

TIP: A beachfront resort offering many value inclusions

Facilities: 3 restaurants and 3 bars, a spa and beauty salon, 2 swimming pools, shops, a business centre, kids club, waters sports and fitness center.

from US$ 79 per room per night

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Discovering Bali SIGHTSEEING Kintamani Volcanic Tour One of the most popular sightseeing tours in Bali. It shows you the best of outstanding scenery combined with the exotic cultural treasures of Balinese dances and handicrafts. Continue your visit along a shopping area with choices ranging from woodcarvings to intricate gold and silverware, there are many paintings and Batik fabric factories. The highlight of the day though is Kintamani, a temple perched dramatically on top of the crater rim of one of the volcano mountains. Witness spectacular views of Mount Batur and the crater lake, where lava flows from the volcanic peaks. The scenic journey takes you along Bali’s famous tiered rice paddies. Incl. lunch. Duration: 9 hours. from US$ 58 pp

Evening entertainment ★HHH

Sanur Beach Hotel Bali

Location: The Sanur beach area is a relaxing alternative to Kuta Beach, with a large variety of tourist services, many shops and an active nightlife.

Indonesia - Bali

Accommodation: All 426 air-conditioned guest rooms offer TVs, radio, balconies, mini-bars, IDD telephone and 24-hour room service.

TIP: Good quality and inexpensive restaurants in the area



from US$ 64 per room per night

★HHH

Grand Mirage Resort

Location: Situated on the tip of Nusa Dua Beach, in the serene district on Tanjung Benoa, the resort exudes an exclusive atmosphere. Accommodation: With glowing wooden floors, every room has been furnished with attention paid to detail. 163 Superior rooms face the Lagoon garden, whilst the 105 Deluxe rooms overlook the ocean with a view of Nusa Dua Beach.

Shopping Trip to Ubud This is purely a shopping trip, where you can ask your driver to stop along the way wherever you want. It takes you up North to an area called Ubud. A shopper’s paradise with a vast selection of wooden carved handicraft items and intricate gold and silverware, leaving you distressed about how to get it all back home. Ubud is also well known for its paintings and the various Batik factories with their lovely handmade fabric.

TIP: Close to Convention Centre and Bali Golf and Country Club

White Water Rafting For a truly exhilarating experience, journey down the Ayung River in a raft through rainforests, rapids and cascading waterfalls. Thereafter enjoy a well deserved lunch at Sobek’s river café. Note: A long walk and many steps at the start and finish require a degree of physical fitness.



from US$ 82 per room per night

Melia Bali Villas And Spa Resort

LOCATION: A spectacular resort on 25 acres of the best lush gardens in Bali, combining international standards with Balinese hospitality. Accommodation: Rooms are beautifully decorated featuring either a terrace or balcony. Superior rooms are spacious, each measuring 42sqm. Duplex suites are 71sqm and offer 2 levels allowing an occupancy of 2 adults and 2 children. . TIP: Duplex suites are amongst the best family accommodation in Bali

Facilities: 5 Restaurants with nightly cultural entertainment and 4 bars, swimming pools, tennis courts, water sports, fitness center and YHI Spa.

from US$ 115 per room per night

★HHHPLUS

Nusa Dua Beach Hotel And Spa

Location: A famous beachfront resort located on Nusa Dua beach. Accommodation: 381 rooms and suites built in an ancient Balinese palace style amongst 23 acres of lush tropical gardens. Rooms offer a blend of modern amenities and artistic traditions.

from US$ 71 pp All tours include pick-up from your hotel and an English speaking guide.

Facilities: A swimming pool, 2 tennis courts, nearby golf course, bike rental, 4 restaurants, 2 bars and a coffee shop.

★HHHPLUS

from US$ 32 pp

14

Facilities: 4 restaurants, 3 bars, along with 2 swimming pools with separate kids pools, a spa, tennis courts, fitness centre and water sport activities.

TIP: A very popular resort offering a family friendly environment

Facilities: Featuring one of the most famous spa centres in Bali, the resort offers a selection of 5 restaurants and 3 bars, along with 3 swimming pools a fitness centre, tennis courts, water sports and a kids club.

from US$ 115 per room per night

Hong Kong and clocks, toys, games and electronic products making it a haven for shoppers from across the globe. Despite its British colonial past, Hong Kong is a city of glittering skyscrapers, it’s people have always stuck to their roots and culture making its dynamism unforgettable. From the vantage point of Victoria Peak which overlooks the world’s busiest port, the city is geared to making money at a whirlwind pace.

i CAPITAL CITY: Victoria City LANGUAGE: English, Chinese (Mandarin, Cantonese) CURRENCY: Hong Kong Dollar HKD10 = ZAR10.01

The main shopping areas are Causeway Bay, Central and the Stanley Markets on Hong Kong Island. Other popular areas are also Nathan road which sports brightly lit up neon decorated shops, the Jade market and for night shopping, head to Temple street market.

VISA: Not required for South African Passport Holders for a stay of up to 30 days AREA: 1,040 km2 TIME DIFFERENCE: SA time + 6 hours HEALTH REQUIREMENTS: None

what things cost These prices are an average price and may vary according to areas, hotels and season. (Hong Kong Dollar) HK$ 60 HK$ 45 HK$ 40 HK$ 40 HK$ 30 HK$ 200

It is a great trading post, a manufacturing base and one of the world’s largest financial centres, with a busy and bustling port. Hong Kong is known for its exporters of garments, watches

DISNEY ©

Family Fun in Hong Kong

Hong Kong

Glass of wine Beer Tea/Coffee Soft drinks Water Lunch

Lying at the south eastern tip of China, Hong Kong is just south of the Tropic of Cancer. The country comprises of Hong Kong Island, Kowloon and the New Territories, including 235 outlying islands.

Best time to travel Hong Kong has a subtropical climate with distinct seasons. Typhoon season is from May November. March to mid May is Spring and lightweight jackets are recommended for the evenings. Summer is from mid May to September and it is normally hot and humid over this time with temperatures ranging between 26 0C to 360C. Late September to early December is Autumn with temperatures ranging from 18C - 26C. December to February is their winter time and with temperatures often below 10C, your woolies and coats will be worth bringing along.

For a fun-filled family getaway, why not spend 2 nights at Disney’s Hollywood Hotel? Experience the magic of Disney whilst discovering the four themed lands, see the Festival of the Lion King, stroll into sleeping beauty’s castle and enter Space Mountain for the ride of your life. Then enjoy 2 nights in Kowloon at the Park Hotel, for a chance to explore the many attractions, sites and sounds of Hong Kong. Included is a tour to Victoria Peak for a panoramic view of modern skyscrapers and rich green mountains. Or if you’re pressed for time, why not just take a Hong Kong Disneyland © Day Tour - see info on page 16.

4 Nights of Thrills & Spills includes: • 2 night’s accommodation at Disney’s Hollywood Hotel • 2 nights at the Park Hotel in Kowloon including all the local taxes, • Round trip seat in couch transfers • One Day Disney Theme park entrance ticket • Tram tour up to Victoria Peak.

“Available from June 2008, please call us for more details” Look out for a special promotion including a 2-Day Pass for the price of a 1-Day Pass - Soon to be featured!

www.thompsons.co.za

15

Exploring Hong Kong SIGHTSEEING

Hong Kong

Hong Kong Half Day Island Tour An excellent orientation tour set to delight first timers and refresh old memories. Starts with the tram trip to the top of Victoria Peak where you can enjoy panoramic views. Then pass by picturesque Repulse Bay and precede next to the famous fishing village of Aberdeen to see the ‘floating community’ . Visit Stanley Market where you can pick up bargains at a fraction of the price in town. Thereafter visit a prestigious jewellery factory, where meticulous craftsmen fashion works of art from gold and gems. Return to your hotel/pick up point in the early afternoon.

Traditional boat in Hong Kong Harbour ★HHPLUS

Location: Situated adjacent to the famous eating and entertainment area of Knutsford Terrace and within walking distance of the Star Ferry Terminal and Harbour City shopping Complex. Accommodation: 546 guest rooms all with air-conditioning, minibar, IDD phone, broadband internet access, TV, in-room movies and tea/coffee making facilities. TIP: Excellent location and value for money

from HK$ 192 pp



from HK$ 1149 per room per night

Accommodation: Guest rooms have recently undergone a refurbishment and all offer mini-bars, TV, IDD telephones, in-room movies, hairdryer, tea/coffee making facilities TIP: Well appointed rooms at affordable prices

Holiday Inn Golden Mile

Location: An award winning, popular hotel located in Kowloon’s famous business and shopping district. Nathan Road and Tsim Sha Tsui MTR station are at the door with the Star Ferry just minutes away Accommodation: 585 air-conditioned rooms with TV, in-room movies, tea/coffee making facilities.

Include a day trip to Hong Kong Disneyland. A place where fun reigns supreme and everlasting memories are made. It’s where dreams come true and adults rediscover their inner childhood spirit through a world of exhilarating excitement, fantastical thrills and whimsical wonder. includes: • Return hotel to Disneyland transfers • Disney theme park entrance pass.

TIP: : A favorite hotel for South African families

Adult: HK$ 653 pp

TIP: Modern rooms in an excellent location

Child: HK$ 550 pp

Facilities: These include a restaurant, room and laundry service and shops from HK$ 999 per room per night ★HHH

from HK$ 461 pp

Hong Kong Disneyland © Day Tour

Park Hotel

Location: Ideally situated in Tsim Sha Tsui, the heart of Kowloon’s entertainment and shopping district. This hotel is only a few minute’s walk to Nathan road, the MTR and the Star Ferry Pier to Hong Kong Island.

Ocean Park Tour

16

Facilities: These include 3 restaurants, a bar, and gym on the eighth floor which provides golf driving nets.

★HHPLUS

Ocean Park is an amusement park with one of the most spectacular oceanariums in the world. A breath-taking 8 minute ride by cable car to the headland gives a glorious view of Repulse Bay, Deep Water Bay, Aberdeen and the South China Sea. Home to giant pandas, sea lions, dolphins, sharks, penguins and killer whales, all housed in stimulated environments similar to their natural habitat. With a full range of hair raising rides the day is set to be an exhilarating and unforgettable one. Finally travel down the mountain by the world’s second longest outdoor mountain-climbing escalator and transfer back to your hotel.

Kimberley Hotel

Facilities: Dine at the Avenue Restaurant, voted as one of Hong Kong’s best restaurants. Great dining options and location with spacious rooms make this a very popular choice for those wanting to be in the heart of it all. from HK$ 1736 per room per night ★HHH

Kowloon Hotel

Location: In the heart of the Tsim Sha Tsui area, this hotel is right next to commercial shopping, dining and entertainment district with direct access to the MTR station at Tsim Sha Tsui. Accommodation: All 735 guest rooms are equipped with high speed internet access. Some of the many in room comforts include tea/coffee facilities, TV, safes, mini-bars, in room fax machines to name but a few. Facilities: Offers 2 restaurants and a bar with comprehensive facilities in a shopping arcade. from HK$ 1436 per room per night

Dream the destination... Live the journey.

Exploring Hong Kong SIGHTSEEING

City and Harbour by night Tour Dinner at the “Revolving 66” Restaurant on the 62nd floor of one of the tallest buildings in Hong Kong. Then, feel the authentic hustle and bustle, typical of Hong Kong people, while taking a stroll along the busy, narrow lanes of the Temple Street Night Market in Kowloon. The highlight of your adventure follows with a relaxing Harbour Cruise on a quaint Chinese Junk, where unlimited drinks are served. Experience the pleasure of sailing against the soothing, yet invigorating sea-breeze, before stepping onto dry land for the return transfer to your hotel.

Stunning views over Hong Kong ★HHH

from HK$ 851 pp

TIP: Compact rooms in a good location

★HHH

Accommodation: Courtview rooms are 36sqm and offer contemporary, understated luxury with all the necessary amenities expected from a 4 star property.

TIP: Great value hotel with fantastic pool and harbor views.

Facilities: 4 Restaurants, a café and 2 bars serving a variety of cuisines. The 21st floor famous glass walled swimming pool makes for an unforgettable swim. Other options are a fitness centre and spa.

from HK$ 1587 per room per night

★HHH

The Prince

Location: Situated adjacent to Kowloon’s busy waterfront with only a short walk to the Star ferry, MRT and Cruise Terminal. An integral part of the Harbour City, Hong Kong’s largest shopping complex. Accommodation: 394 Spacious and above average, for a Hong Kong hotel, sized rooms.

Hong Kong Stopover Package 3 days / 2 nights TIP: Excellent location for the shoppa-holic

Facilities: 2 Restaurants, a bar and deli. Guests also receive reciprocal priviledges at sister properties including the use of the outdoor heated pool and beauty salon at the Marco Polo Hotel

from HK$ 1766 per room per night

H★HHH

The Sheraton Hotel & Towers

Location: In the heart of Kowloon at the entrance to Golden Mile in Tsim Sha Tsui surrounded by shops, restaurants and entertainment. Close to Space Museum, Hong Kong Museum of Art and Star Ferry.

Includes: • 2 nights accommodation at the Eaton Hotel, inclusive of local taxes • Breakfast daily • Return airport - hotel transfers • Half day Hong Kong Island tour from HK$ 1810 pp

Harbour Plaza

Location: Along Kowloon’s waterfront area on Hung Hom, more relaxed than central Kowloon providing spectacular views.

*Passport is required. Macau Visa (if required) rates are excluded. Visitors wearing shorts are not allowed to enter the casino. from HK$ 877 pp

Whether you are travelling on somewhere else or returning home, a stop via Hong Kong is a definite must. Stock up on the latest gadgets or have a new suit tailor made, with so much to see and do a connection via Hong Kong is a definite recommendation.

Facilities: This property boasts 4 restaurants and a bar, as well as a heated roof-top swimming pool and a gymnasium. from HK$ 1362 per room per night

Hong Kong

Accommodation: Air-conditioned guest rooms offer mini-bars, IDD telephones, pay to view movies, in-room safes and tea/coffee making facilities and all the usual comforts.

Full Day Macau Excursion Travel to the former Portuguese colony - Macau, once the oldest European settlement in the Orient. A 60 minute Catamaran journey brings you to the Monte Carlo of the Far East. The city sightseeing begins with a drive along Guia Circuit where the Macau Grand Prix is held annually. Visit the 400 year old A-Ma Temple and Penha Church. Stop at Porta do Cerco and lunch at a local restaurant. Move on to St. Paul’s Ruins, designed by Italians and built by Japanese Christian exiles in early 16th century Finally try your luck at the world famous casino in Macau before leaving the city in the late afternoon.

Eaton Hotel

Location: Only a few minutes walk from Jordan MTR and one station away from Tsim Sha Tsui, this hotel is well located in Nathan Road. The Temple street night market is also nearby and the hotel offers free guided tours.

Accommodation: Modern rooms with tasteful furnishings. Bathrooms are fitted with select touches such as marble floors, glass vanities and massage showerheads. TIP: Watch the Symphony of Lights show from the Oyster and wine bar

Facilities: State of the art fitness equipment, sauna, heated outdoor swimming pool and Jacuzzi, as well as 3 restaurants, 3 lounges one of which is a cigar lounge and a café. from HK$ 2783 per room per night

www.thompsons.co.za

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China

A section of the Great Wall of China

Shanghai, situated on the estuary of the Yangtze River of China, this is a mutli-cultural metropolis with both modern and traditional Chinese features. A city with three key features: shopping, business and sightseeing. Nanjing Road is a must for all shopping enthusiasts. With sites like the Shanghai Museum, Yuyuan Garden, Oriental TV Tower and Jingmao Building.

i China

CAPITAL CITY: Beijing LANGUAGE: Mandarin Chinese, Shanghai-, Canton-, Fukien-, Hakka- dialects, Tibetan, Vigus (Turkic)

X’ian, the eternal city is the largest metropolis in north western China and a world renowned ancient capital. Visit the famous underground army of the Terracotta Warriors, praised as the eighth major miracle of the world, the Greater Wild Goose Pagoda, Banpo Village and the old quarter and Bell Tower.

CURRENCY: Yuan CNY10 = ZAR11.16 VISA: Visa is required for SA Passport Holders AREA: 9, 596, 960 km2 TIME DIFFERENCE: SA time + 6 hours HEALTH REQUIREMENTS: None

what things cost These prices are an average price and may vary according to areas, hotels and season. (US Dollars) Glass of wine: US$ Beer: US$ Tea / coffee: US$ Soft drinks: US$ Local menu (lunch): US$ Dinner (local menu): US$

4.50 1.50 3.50 1.50 7 9

BEST TIME TO TRAVEL China has great climatic variation, from tropical conditions in the south to a cold climate in the north, northeast and northwest. Northern winters fall between December and March, with temperatures below freezing. Summer is from April to August and is hot and humid. Rains are mostly in July and August, the south can be wet at times in the winter and the northern regions are cold and dry. The best time to visit is March to May is Spring-time and September to October in Autumn.

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China is a country of great contrasts and a very different destination with its vast, picturesque rural landscapes, congested cities and natural beauty. With sites that will evoke your curiosity and stir your emotions whilst holding you enraptured for many days thereafter. Timeless and mystical, China offers unlimited experiences and adventure. A country rich in cultural treasures with a mindblowing history, involving the rise and fall of many Chinese dynasties. Visit the following cities whilst in China: Beijing, is the capital of the People’s Republic of China and has a population of over 14 million. It is a favoured city of wide, tree-lined boulevards with both ancient and modern neighbourhoods. One of the six ancient cities in China, it offers ancient architecture, temples, palaces, royal gardens as well as modern mansions and structures. Visit the great-wall of China, the Forbidden City, Ming Tombs and Summer Palace where you become engrossed in the story of Empress Dowager CiXi who is remembered as one of history’s most monstrous women, seducing and murdering her way to the throne in 1861 to rule China for more than 50 years.

Guangzhou, otherwise known as Canton, is a famous historical city. Sights include Dr Sun Yatsen’s Memorial, Chen Family’s Temple and Banyan’s Temple. Today it retains it’s ancient customs but is also still a large city full of vigor and current fashions. Canton is also very popular for its Trade Fair which is held twice a year in Spring and Autumn and is China’s largest trade fair of the highest level.

2008 Canton Trade Fair dates: (Subject to change) 15-21 April and 25-30 April 15-21 October and 25-31 October Festivals: Chinese New Year - starts in the first day of the Lunar calendar, usually in Jan/Feb Lantern Festival - Around mid February to mid March Tomb Sweeping Day - April, when families spend the day tending to the graves of departed loved ones. Temple & moon-based festivities - These include the Birthday of Confuscious (28 Sep) and more.

Dream the destination... Live the journey.

China Tours Beautiful Beijing 4 Days / 3 Nights

China Wonder 8 Days / 7 Nights

Day 01 • Arrival in Beijing and transfer to hotel

Day 01 • Arrival in Beijing and transfer to hotel

Day 02 • Sightseeing takes you to Tiananmen Square, the world’s largest plaza, the legendary once Forbidden City, whose acres of splendid 15th century halls and pavilions graced with imperial treasures now comprise the Palace Museum and The Temple of Heaven.

Day 02 • Sightseeing takes you to Tiananmen Square, the world’s largest plaza, the legendary once Forbidden City, whose acres of splendid 15th century halls and pavilions graced with imperial treasures now comprise the Palace Museum and The Temple of Heaven.

Day 03 • A memorable daylong excursion combines a visit to the soul-stirring Great Wall, like a winding dragon across northern China - only earthly evidence of men, visible from space. • Walk along the Sacred Way, guarded by sculpted stone animals, which are a photographer’s delight.

Day 04 • Visit the Summer Palace, thereafter a boat ride on the Kunming Lake. • Transfer to airport and flight to Xi’an, ancient capital for 11 imperial dynasties and the cradle of Chinese civilization. Day 05 • Experience awe of seeing the individually sculpted, life-sized terracotta warriors. • Visit to Huaqing Hot Spring, a magnificent summer residence for Tang emperors. • Tang Dynasty Palatial dinner and show. Day 06 • Visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, the Bell Tower and the Great Mosque. • Fly to Shanghai and transfer to your hotel. • Dinner and a tour to the Bund, the former foreign settlement. • Visit Nanjing Road, praised as the ‘5th Avenue’ of the East. Day 07 • Visit the Jade Buddha Temple, and the Yuyuan Garden at the ‘Old Quarter’. • Watch the world famous Shanghai Acrobatic Troupe perform at Shanghai Opera House.

Day 04 • Enjoy a morning visit to the Summer Palace, a breathtaking arrangement of lake and landscape, pagodas and pavilions. • A boat ride on the Kunming Lake inside the palace, which was ordered to be built by using the fund planned to build the Chinese navy in the 1900s. Transfer to airport for departure.

Day 08 • Morning at leisure. Transfer to airport for return flight home.

from US$ 448 pp

from US$ 1446 pp

includes: • Flights from Beijing to Xi’an and Xi’an to Shanghai in economy class • All transfers and tours • 7 nights accommodation & breakfast daily. (Excludes flights into Beijing & out of Shanghai.)

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Day 01 • Arrive Chendgu and transfer to Crown Plaza Chengdu Day 02 • Depart for Wulong Panda Reserve, en route, visit Dujiangyan Irrigation System on the Minjiang River. • Travel through spectacular mountain scenery to Wulong Nature Reserve and overnight at the newly refurbished Wulong hotel, where a Sichuan dinner is served. Day 03 • A visit to China Research & Conservation Centre for the Giant Pandas. • After a brief relaxation at your hotel (Crown Plaza Chengdu), visit a genuine Sichuan teahouse, followed by dinner. • Sichuan Opera show Day 04 • Brief Chengdu City Tour in the morning and afternoon transfer to the airport for your flight to Guilin. • Accommodation at Sheraton Guilin Hotel

China Tours

Day 03 • A memorable daylong excursion combines a visit to the soul-stirring Great Wall • Walk along the Sacred Way, guarded by sculpted stone animals, a photographer’s delight, to the Ming Tombs.

Scenic Panda Tour 8 Days / 7 Nights

Day 05 • Enjoy a cruise (with lunch en-route) down the fabled Li River through a surrealistic landscape of limestone karst formations. • Observe life in the rural south. • After approximately 6 hours, the boat ties up at Yangshou, a market town, where you can find souvenir bargains aplenty. Day 06 • Free morning to discover this scenic town. In the afternoon, visit a tea farm for a tea ceremony. Discover the Reed Flute Caves, spectacularly lit by pastel lights. • Visit the Seven Star Park (Bonsai Garden) & The Elephant Trunk Hill. • Dinner, transfer to airport for your flight to Hong Kong. Meet and transfer to Metro Park Hotel. Day 07 & 08 • At leisure in Hong Kong until transfer to airport includes: • Internal flights between Hong Kong, Chengdu & Guilin on Dragon Air • Accommodation at deluxe & superior hotels • All transfers and sightseeing points with English speaking guide • All entrance fees. from US$ 1856 pp

19

Exploring China Beijing

H★HH

Novotel Xinqiao Hotel - Beijing

LOCATION: Situated close to Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City and the Temple of Heaven with easy access to shopping and business centres. Accommodation: A big hotel with 700 rooms in total, 31 of them suites. Rooms offer all the usual comforts expected from a 4* property with the convenience of WiFi internet access. Facilities: The Novotel features 3 restaurants, a lobby bar, health centre, spa, sauna and outdoor tennis court. from US$ 124 per room per night ★HHHH

Prime Hotel - Beijing

LOCATION: In Beijing’s business, cultural and shopping district Wangfujing Avenue, with easy access to all the famous attractions. Accommodation: 400 air-conditioned guest rooms with satellite TV with CNN & HBC, mini-bar, safe, hairdryers and many other amenities. Facilities: There are 4 restaurants, serving Mexican, Cantonese and international cuisines. Leisure facilities include an indoor heated pool, gymnasium, beauty parlour, sauna and 24 hour room service. from US$ 154 per room per night

Guangzhou

HH★

New Mainland Hotel - Guangzhou

LOCATION: Surrounding New Mainland Fashion Plaza, Liu Hua Park and situated close to the railway station. Only 2kms from the city centre and 40kms from the airport. Accommodation: The 120 newly decorated rooms, have TV, air-conditioning, IDD telephone, laundry and internet access.

China

Facilities: Fitness centre, chess and poker room, beauty salon, pool room, table tennis, business centre and shopping arcade. Dining options include a Tea and Dim Sum restaurant serving Cantonese favourites, as well as a Western-style food restaurant. from US$ 82 per room per night ★HHH

Huashi Hotel - Guangzhou

LOCATION: 50 kms from the Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport. Close by to the university, it owns the largest garden in Guangzhou with giant trees and colourful flowers. Accommodation: Newly opened in 2005, this hotel has 200 rooms. It is a multifunctional and well-equipped luxury business hotel built according to four-star international standards. Rooms are air-conditioned and feature satellite TV, DDD/IDD and broadband internet access. Facilities: These include a Chinese and Western restaurant.

Shanghai

from US$ 87 per room per night

Pacific Hotel - Shanghai HHH LOCATION: In Nanjing Road, one of the world’s busiest shopping streets, in the centre of Shanghai. Accommodation: The Pacific Hotel Shanghai offers 185 spacious Standard and Superior rooms, featuring private bathroom, bathrobe, scale and hairdryer. Facilities: This neo-classical hotel features a beauty centre, a gift shop, 3 restaurants, a bar, wireless Internet access available throughout, ensuring you a pleasant and comfortable holiday in Shanghai. from US$ 149 per room per night ★HHHH Crowne Plaza Hotel - Shanghai Location: Whether for business or leisure, the 26-storey Crowne Plaza Shanghai is the ideal hotel, within easy reach of commercial districts, consulates, exhibition venues and shopping. Accommodation: 497 rooms feature Internet access, bathrobes, coffeemakers, minibars, safes, in-room movies, satellite TV and more Facilities: Food and beverage outlets feature a range of Chinese, Japanese, Western and Italian restaurants, live-entertainment lounge and bar. Health and leisure facilities include an indoor swimming pool and a fully equipped gymnasium. from US$ 167 per room per night

20

Dream the destination... Live the journey.

Vietnam Classic Vietnam Tour 8 Days / 7 Nights Day 01 • Arrival in Hanoi and optional visit to Bat Trang Pottery Village. Overnight in Hanoi. Day 02 • Visiting Ho Chi Minh’s former residence and mausoleum, the One Pillar Pagoda and the Temple of Literature. • Drive to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Area, after a visit to the History museum. Overnight in Halong Bay. Day 03 • Boat trip through Halong bay. • A seafood lunch is served on board. Evening entertainment includes a water puppetry performance. At leisure.

Halong Bay

i LANGUAGE: Vietnamese CURRENCY: Dông VND100 = ZAR0,048 AREA: 331,690 km2 VISA: Required for SA passport holders for stay up to 30 days - valid 6 months after return date TIME DIFFERENCE: SA time + 5 hours HEALTH REQUIREMENTS: None

Best time to travel North: Winter lasts from November to April with fog and drizzle in January - March. Summer begins in May and lasts until October with heavy rainfall. Center: Heavy rainfalls between October and December and dry, hot summer months. South: Temperatures are fairly constant through the year. The dry season runs from November to April and the wet season from May to October.

what things cost These prices are an average price and may vary according to areas, hotels and season. (US Dollars) US$ US$ US$ US$ US$ US$ US$

4 2-5 3 2 1 10 30

Visitors to Vietnam are overwhelmed by the sublime beauty of the country’s natural settings and spectacular sights thanks to a rich cultural civilization, which has left temples and traditions throughout this fascinating country. With its breathtaking mountains, a patchwork of green rice paddies, a stunning coastline with divine beaches and sublime scenery, this is quickly emerging as a favourite tourist destination. Vietnam offers an opportunity to see a country of traditional charm with historic and cultural sites. Its mysterious islands set in pristine waters, make it an exotic and diverse holiday option rapidly opening up to the outside world. Hanoi. The Vietnamese capital has a distinct French feel to it with narrow streets and bazaars. Halong Bay. This picture-perfect destination is famed to be one of the most popular tourist attraction areas. Cu Chi Tunnels. A former stronghold of the Vietnamese army with 250kms of tunnels. Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City). Formerly the capital of Vietnam. China Beach. Made popular by the American TV series of the same name, a popular seaside resort. Hoi An. Often the highlight of any visit to Vietnam, this quaint fishing town has colourful markets and a fusion of cuisines.

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Vietnam

Day 05 • Take a Boat ride to a local restaurant before departing from Hoi An via the Marble Mountains, over the most spectacular Hai Van Pass and onto Vietnam’s former imperial capital . An afternoon of culture takes you by dragon boat to the Thien Mu Pagoda before an evening of leisure in this quiet town.

CAPITAL CITY: Hanoi

Glass of wine: Local Beer: Tea / Coffee: Soft drinks: Water: Lunch: Gourmet Restaurant: (3 course meal)

Day 04 • Fly to Danang and drive south past the famous China Beach to the enchanting town of Hoi An. Visit the 300 year old Tan Ky and Phuc Kien houses, the Japanese Covered Bridge and Hoi An market. Experience the friendly atmosphere before dinner and returning to your hotel.

Day 06 • Visit the Imperial Citadel and the tomb of Emperor Tu Duc. After lunch visit the local Dong Da market in Hue where the famous conical hats are made. Transfer to the airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City.. Day 07 • Drive to Cu Chi district. Crawl through this amazing system of tunnels before returning to Saigon for Lunch. Afternoon orientation by foot, from the Saigon River past the Opera House, Town Hall & Notre Dame Cathedral. Visit Reunification Palace and the famous Ben Thanh Market. Day 08 • At leisure until transfer to Ho Chi Minh City/Tan Son Nhat International Airport. Includes: • English speaking Guide • All road transportation in air-conditioned well maintained vehicles • Accommodation as mentioned in twin sharing room with breakfast • Domestic flights HanoiDanang and Hue-Ho Chi Minh City inclusive of ticket taxes • Entrance fees to all listed sights • Boat fees for boat jouneys listed. Excludes: International flights. Surcharges for compulsory gala dinners during festive seasons and peak season. Vietnamese visa arrangement fee & stamp fee. Late checkout and Early check-in. from US$ 769 pp

21

Exploring Vietnam SIGHTSEEING

The Vietnamese Experience Enjoy a full day adventure and see how the locals live by visiting some of the small countryside villages situated only a few kilometers from the city. Travel either by motorbike or air-condition van, into the country villages to encounter the local way of life. Admire the intricate workmanship as they weave the rush mats, roll incense sticks and make traditional conical hats. from US$ 64 pp

Vietnam streets

Vietnam

Ben Tre (Mekong Delta) Travel by road to the heart of the Mekong delta. Visit the Vinh Trang Pagoda and the Tien Giang river. Take a boat trip on Mekong River to Phoenix Island for local handicrafts and sweets. Enjoy traditional live music and entertainment. Take a short ride by horse carriage to a typical local house for homemade honey-tea. Proceed by small sampan boats through small canals to observe the daily life along the river banks with a stop at Turtle Island.

Demilitarized Zone Tour

Halong Bay - World Heritage Site

Early morning depart to DMZ at the 17th Parallel, once the demarcation line between North and South Vietnam. Visit Ben Hai River, Vinh Moc Underground Tunnels, built during the American War. Picnic lunch on Cua Tung Beach. Stopover at the Ancient Citadel of Quang Tri, former American bases and vestiges of the war.

Early morning departure from Hanoi to Halong Bay (165km). Enjoy a boat cruise through World Nature Heritage Halong Bay with its islands, rocks and caves rising from the sea. A fresh seafood lunch served during the cruise.

from US$ 126 pp

Accommodation: : It consists of 143 air-conditioned rooms featuring satellite TV, mini-bar, safe, tea/coffee making facilities and internet access. FACILITIES: These include an International restaurant and jazz bar. TIP: Winner of the Best Business Boutique Hotel

22

from US$ 102 per room per night

Equatorial Hotel - Ho Chi Minh City

Location: In Saigon’s main shopping area. The hotel offers a free hourly shuttle service to six main tourist attractions. Accommodation: Recently renovated the 333 air-conditioned rooms offer a mini bar, safe, tea/coffee making facilities, satellite TV and 24 hr room service. Facilities: Restaurants, cafes and 3 bars, a large outdoor swimming pool and a fitness centre.

Cultural Trip Nha Trang

from US$ 62 pp



HHHH

from US$ 52 pp including lunch

Join this excursion to visit a selection of the numerous cultural attractions situated in Nha Trang. Places of interest visited include the price of Khanh Hoa Province, the Oceanographic institute, Long Son Pagoda, built in commemoration of the monks and nuns who died whilst fighting the Diem Government, and the Po Nagar Temples. An outstanding example of Cham architecture with panoramic views. After lunch, visit local markets and a rice paper factory. An excellent insight into the history and culture of the city and also that of the Vietnam.

Sunway Hotel - Hanoi

LOCATION: An award winning hotel situated in Central Hanoi’s old French Quarter, only 10 mins from Hoan Kiem Lake.

Full Day Hanoi City Tour Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and his former residence (closed on Monday, Friday and the whole month of Oct & Nov), One-Pillar Pagoda, Temple of Literature. Visit one of the following museums (note, museums are closed on Mondays & Fridays): Fine Arts Museum, History Museum, Revolutionary Museum, War Museum, Ethnology Museum. Continue to Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple for a one-hour cycle tour through the Old Quarters of Hanoi.

Cu-Chi Tunnels Half Day Tour from US$ 41 pp

★HH

from US$ 82 pp including lunch

from US$ 119 pp

TIP: Amazing value for money



from US$ 136 per room per night

★HHHH

TIP: Experience a true Vietnamese Spa with a speciality of treatments

Evason Ana Mandara & Six Senses Spa

Location: Nha Trang’s only 5-star beachfront resort occupying 2.6 hectares of private tropical gardens. Accommodation: 74 semi-detached, air-conditioned garden rooms offer private porch, ceiling fan, satellite TV, mini bar, in-room safe, coffee/tea making facilities and 24 hour room service. Facilities: 2 restaurants and 2 bars, tennis courts, beach volley ball and a water activity centre, plus a PADI Gold Palm Resort Scuba Diving Centre.

Dream the destination... Live the journey.

from US$ 274 per room per night

Cambodia

Locals on Tonie Sap Lake

i

Phnom Penh Half Day City Tour

CAPITAL CITY: Phnom Penh LANGUAGE: Khmer CURRENCY: Riel KHR1000 = ZAR2,039 VISA: Visa is required for SA Passport Holders AREA: 181,040 km2 TIME DIFFERENCE: SA time + 5 hours HEALTH REQUIREMENTS: None

what things cost These prices are an average price and may vary according to areas, hotels and season. (US Dollars) Bottle of water (1L) US$ 1 Soft Drink US$ 2 Beer in local restaurant US$ 3 Glass of wine in local restaurant US$ 4 Burger US$ 12 Taxi rate US$ 5 - 10 (Airport to city: Siem Riep/Phnon Penh)

BEST TIME TO TRAVEL Cambodia can be visited throughout the year. However those planning to travel extensively by road should avoid the last two months of the rainy season when some countryside roads may be impassable. The climate is tropical and distinguished by three major seasons. The most pleasant season is the dry season from November to March during which temperatures are cooler (average 20-28 c).

Ancient temples, mighty rivers and remote forests, Cambodia has emerged from decades of isolation and is truly back on the Southeast Asian travel map. Cambodia boasts rich culture, a weathered French era capital and impressive natural scenery. The many temples in Angkor are a great tourist attraction with the three most popular ones being: Bayon, Ta Prohm and Angkor Wat. Phnom Penh Cambodia’s capital city has some hidden treasures such as the Silver Bagoda in the Royal Palace and its Russian Market. Tuol Sleng Museum and The Killing Fields are reminders of past atrocities and reminders of how much this great country and its people have moved forward. Siem Reap Built during the Angkorian period in the 12th century, Angkor Wat and its surrounding temples are the reason people come to Siem Reap.

See the different structures of this pagoda-style compound and stroll in its beautiful garden. Visit the Silver Pagoda so named because of its floor that is comprised of 5,000 silver tiles. A gold Buddha encrusted with 9,584 diamonds and a small 17th century emerald and baccarat crystal Buddha are also housed here. Continue to the nearby National Museum. Built in 1917 it is an exceptional example of traditional architecture and is exclusively devoted to preserving and displaying Khmer art and sculptures. Hundreds of pieces are housed here including both pre-and post-Angkorian pieces

Cambodia

Begin your tour of this charming capital with a visit to the city’s namesake, Wat Phnom. Founded in 1373, the pagoda was built to house Buddhist relics washed ashore by the river. Visit the Royal Palace built in 1866 by King Norodom.

from US$ 37 pp

Siem Reap Pagoda Half Day Tour Visit Wat Inkosei built on the site of an ancient temple, which still remains. Continue to Wat Bo pagoda to view its well-preserved paintings. You will also observe monks making the various moldings, which adorn the pagodas. Visit a workshop where traditional shadow play puppets are made. Visit the Rattan Weaving Villages near Siem Reap and learn about the process of weaving handicrafts from raw rattan strands. On the short and interesting drive from Siem Reap you pass rice fields and picturesque green villages where the locals live in wooden stilt houses and are happy to welcome guests to present their craft. from US$ 21 pp

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23

Exploring Cambodia ★HHPLUS

Prince D’Angkor Hotel & Spa - Siem Reap

Location: Ideally situated in the heart of Siem Reap close to shopping and restaurants. Accommodation: This property offers true Cambodian hospitality in luxurious surroundings. All 222 luxurious rooms have been decorated with traditional Khmer features, satellite TV, mini-bar, safe, tea / coffee making facilities and internet access. TIP: Modern facilities, warm & welcoming atmosphere - a real winner

Facilities: These include 2 restaurants, a piano bar, gym and spa, as well as a swimming pool.

from US$ 68 per room per night

★HHH

Sunway Hotel - Phnom Penh

Location: Well located in Phnom Penh’s green belt overlooking the famous Wat Phnom Pagoda and only 5 minutes walk from the main shopping area and tourist attractions. Accommodation: The 138 well appointed rooms are elegantly designed and offer satellite TV, mini-bar, Safe and tea / coffee making facilities.

Phnom Pehn palace

TIP: Excellent accommodation, centrally located in the heart of the city

Facilities: This property offers a selection of restaurants and cafes as well as a business centre.

from US$ 87 per room per night

Cambodia

Cambodia In-depth Day 1 • Arrive in Phnom Penh and transfer to your hotel. This afternoon get a real feel for Cambodia’s unique art and architecture through visits to Victory Monument, the National Museum, also called Musee des Beaux-Arts. • Visit the Royal Palace, built by King Norodom in 1866 and the Silver Pagoda, so named for its floor is paved in up to 5000 silver tiles. Treasures include a solid gold Buddha encrusted and weighing 90 kilograms and a small 17th century emerald and baccarat crystal Buddha. • End your afternoon with the visit of the Wat Phnom Temple, Phnom Penh’s namesake. Day 2 • Transfer to Phnom Penh International airport. Depart for Siem Reap. Upon arrival, transfer to hotel. • Morning, visit Victory Gate, the twin temples of Thommanon and Chau Say Tevoda, Takeo and Ta Prohm, one of the most beautiful temples in the area. Relatively untouched since it was discovered, it retains much of its mystery. Its appeal lies in the fact that, unlike the other monuments of Angkor, it was abandoned and swallowed by the jungles, looking very much the way most of the Angkor

24

temples appeared when European explorers first stumbled upon them. • Continue your tour at Banteay Kdei. Srah Srang, (“the pool of ablutions”) undoubtedly used in the past for ritual bathing and Prasat Kravan temple with its unique brick sculptures. Lunch at the hotel. • Afternoon, visit the North Gate of Angkor Thom. Continue to Preah Khan temple, a place of towered enclosures and shoulderhugging corridors. Visit Neak Pean, a fountain built in the middle of a pool and representing the paradisiacal Himalayan mountain-lake. Return to your hotel. Day 3 • For early birds: Sunrise from Phnom Bakheng, one of the two hills dominating the plain of Angkor, from where you will have a spectacular view of the Western Baray and the surrounding plain. Or sunrise at Srah Srang. Return to the hotel for breakfast. • In the morning, visit the most famous of all temples on the plain of Angkor: Angkor Wat. The temple complex covers 81 hectares and is comparable in size to the Imperial Palace in Beijing. Angkor Wat’s five towers symbolize Meru’s five peaks. Lunch at the hotel. • In the afternoon, visit the ancient capital of Angkor Thom (12th century) the South Gate

4 Day Add-on Tour with its huge statues depicting the churning of the ocean of milk, the Bayon Temple, unique for its 54 towers decorated with over 200 smiling faces of Avolokitesvara, the Phimeanakas, the Royal Enclosure, the Elephants Terrace, and the Terrace of the Leper King. Enjoy the sunset at Angkor Wat. Return to your hotel. Day 4 • Breakfast at hotel. Transfer to Siem Reap International Airport for flight to the next destination. Included: • Transfers and tours with English speaking guide • Domestic air-ticket Phnom Penh/Siem Reap • Domestic airport tax • Accommodation in shared twin rooms with taxes and services. • Entrance fees NOTE: Small deviations in the tour program are sometimes necessary, depending on weather, road and/or river conditions, flight schedules and room availability.  from US$ 435 pp

Dream the destination... Live the journey.

Best Suggested Far East Combo’s Singapore & Malaysia

Hong Kong - Guangzhou - Guilin

Rebak Island Resort

10 Days / 9 Nights

Ref: 20004

Ex JNB from R21 078pp Ex CPT from R21 648pp Ex DUR from R22 175pp Prices include approximate airport taxes

INCLUDES: • 2 Night’s accommodation at the Harbour Plaza Hong Kong Hotel • Hong Kong Victoria Peak afternoon tour. • Transfers throughout • 1 Night’s accommodation at the New Mainland Hotel. • Guangzhou city tour of the historic temple of the Chen Family Temple, Dr Sun Yatsen’s memorial Hall and the Five Ram statue. • Flight from Guangzhou to the picture perfect city of Guilin • 2 interrupted night’s at the Sheraton Guilin Hotel. • City of Guilin Tour, to Reed Flute Cave and Elephant trunk Hill. • Evening meal of local cuisine accompanied by traditional dance show. • Cruise down the beautiful River Li, to the delightful village Yangshuo. Explore the characteristic local markets to find souvenir bargains. • Lunch on board the cruise. • Night’s accommodation at the Paradise Hotel in Yangshuo. • Coach transfer back to Sheraton Hotel in Guilin with overnight accommodation again. • Afternoon transfer to the airport for flight to Hong Kong & home.

from R9 682 pp

Malaysia & Bali

13 Days / 12 Nights

Ref: 20013

Hong Kong & Bali

Ref: 19933

11 Days / 10 Nights

Ref: 19957

INCLUDES: • Return flights into Kuala Lumpur with flight connections into and out of Denpasar, Bali • 3 Night’s stay at the Dorsett Regency Hotel in Kuala Lumpur inclusive of local taxes • Half day Kuala Lumpur City Tour and time to explore this cosmopolitan city whilst stocking up on Souvenirs. • 9 Night’s stay at the Bali Grand Istana Rama Hotel in Bali, inclusive of local taxes • A Kintamani Volcanic Tour • All transfers in both cities • Daily breakfast at both hotels • Thompsons travel bag

INCLUDES: • Return flights into Hong Kong with flight connections into and out of Denpasar, Bali. • 3 Night’s stay at The Prince Hotel in Hong Kong, inclusive of local taxes • Half day Hong Kong City Tour to Victoria Peak and plenty of time to explore this shopper’s paradise. • 7 Night’s stay at the Sanur Beach Hotel in Bali, inclusive of local taxes • A shopping trip to Ubud or the Romantic Bali Tour • All transfers in both cities • Daily breakfast at both hotels • Thompsons travel bag

Ex JNB from R12 154pp Ex DUR from R13 719pp

Ex JNB from R13 120pp Ex DUR from R14 540pp

Ex CPT from R12 481pp Prices include approximate airport taxes

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Best Suggested Far East Combo’s

INCLUDES: • Return flights into Singapore with a connection into Langkawi • 3 Night’s stay in Singapore at the Copthorne Kings hotel (see page 9) inclusive of local taxes • Half day Heritage Tour and plenty of free time for shopping in Singapore • 6 Night’s stay at Rebak Island Resort inclusive of local taxes A Taj Hotel, consisting of a secluded and charming cluster of luxurious timber villas. Situated on the privately owned 390 acre Rebak Island, with magnificent views of the Senari Straits bordering the Andaman Sea. The island is blessed with stunning rock formations, picturesque waterfalls, pristine, secluded beaches, ensconced by crystal-clear waters perfect for recreational activities. It is 4 kms away from the main island of Langkawi and 15 minutes luxury ferry ride from Port Langkasuka. • Return seat in coach transfers in both cities • Daily breakfast at both hotels • Thompsons travel bag

7 Days / 6 Nights South China Explorer

Ex CPT from R14 766pp Prices include approximate airport taxes

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Hotel Features List

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Kids Club

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Holiday Villa Beach & Spa Resort  

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Tennis Courts

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Berjaya Langkawi Beach & Spa Resort

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Westin Hotel Langkawi

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Rooms for those with   disabilities Reception - 24 hour (F)  Limited  (L)  Computer available  with   internet  - Free (F) Charge ©

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ROOM  FACILITIES

MALAYSIA Kuala Lumpur √

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Penang  (Pulau  Pinang) Bayview Beach Resort

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Park Royal Penang

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10

A

√

√

√

I 

C

F

C

L

Pan Pacific  Singapore  Hotel

10

A

√

√

I 

C

F

C

L

Meritus Mandarin

10

A

√

Nirwana Gardens Resort

10

A

Banyan  Tree  Bintan

10

A

Ramayana  Resort &  Spa

13

A

√

Grand  Istana  Rama  Hotel

13

A

√

Risata Bali Resort & Spa

13

A

√

√

√

Aston Bali Resort  and Spa

13

A

√

√

√

Sanur Beach Hotel  Bali

14

A

√

√

√

Grand Mirage   Resort

14

A

√

√

Melia   Bali V   illas a  nd S  pa R   esort Nusa Dua Beach Hotel and Spa HONG  KONG

14 14

A

√

√

A

√

√

Disneyland's Hollywood  Hotel

15

A

√

Kimberley Hotel

16

A

√

√

Park Hotel

16

A

√

Holiday Inn Golden Mile

16

A

√

Kowloon  Hotel

16

A

Eaton Hotel

17

The Prince Hotel Harbour  Plaza  Hong  Kong   Hotel The Sheraton Hotel & Towers

I 

C

I 

C

√

I 

C

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R

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L

F

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F

3

3

D

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2

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Far East Hotel Features List

SINGAPORE

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S

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4

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2

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4

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17

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17

A

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Novotel Xinqiao Hotel

20

A

√

√

√

Prime Hotel

20

A

√

√

√

Huashi Hotel

20

A

√

√

New  Mainland Hotel

20

A

√

√

Crown  Plaza  Shanghai

20

A

√

√

√

Pacific  Hotel 

20

A

√

√

√

22

A

√

√

√

22

A

√

√

√

Evason Ana Mandara  & Six Senses Spa CAMBODIA

22

A

√

√

√

Sunway  Hotel - Phnom  Penh

24

A

√

√

√

Prince D'Angkor Hotel & Spa - Siem  Reap

24

A

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BINTAN I

INDONESIA - BALI √

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F

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L/D

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v

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v

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B

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CHINA Beijing √

√

S

√ √

√

√

√

S

√

√

Guangzhou(Canton)

Shanghai √

√

√

√

√

VIETNAM Hanoi Sunway  Hotel

√

Ho Chi  Minh  City Equatorial Hotel

√

√

√

√

NHA  Trang

26

√

√

C

√

F

C

D

F

F

C

L/D

F

Dream the destination... Live the journey.

√

√

S S

√ √

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

Booking Conditions

1)

2)

3) a)

b) c)

d)

b) c)

5)

6)

7)

8) a)

b) c)

9)

10) a)

b) c) d) 11) a) b) c)

12) a)

b)

c) d) 13) a)

b)

c) 14) a)

b) c) d) e) 15) a) b)

c)

itinerary) before leaving South Africa. If there are any inaccuracies on any of your travel documents, or should you have any further queries, you should contact your travel agent immediately. Thompsons will not be liable for any delay and/or loss occasioned as a result of any inaccuracies on any travel documents once you are in receipt thereof and you have left South Africa. Unscheduled Extensions In the unlikely event of there being an unscheduled extension to the holiday caused by flight delays, bad weather, strikes, or any other cause which is beyond the control of Thompsons, it is understood that the expenses relating to these unscheduled extensions, (hotel accommodation etc.), will be for the account of the passenger. Thompsons accepts no liability for changes, omissions or delays before or during the course of any holiday occasioned by technical difficulties, weather conditions, strikes or communication breakdowns or the like. Changes by You If you wish to make a change to your booking we will endeavour to assist you to make the change wherever this is possible. You will have to pay all charges, whatever kind, imposed by the suppliers providing that component part of your travel arrangements when amending a booking any time prior to departure. Fares will be re-quoted at the time of amendment. An administration fee of R100 per person will be charged for each amendment and / or cancellation. After departure it is understood that extra expenses incurred as a result of any change will be for the passenger’s account, and any unused service will not be refunded. Amendments and cancellations en route must be made with our operators directly. Cancellation by You If you wish to cancel your booking you must advise your agent immediately, who will in turn advise us. You will be liable to pay the following cancellation charges: Where your booking includes a special fare, the relevant charges are levied by the airline. In some circumstances this may be 100% of the total fare, regardless of when cancellation is effected. Where your booking is for a package, you will be responsible for all cancellation charges, of whatsoever nature, imposed by the suppliers providing the component parts of such travel arrangements. Thompsons charges a cancellation fee equal to 10% of the package price on any finalised booking. However, Thompsons reserves the right to charge a cancellation fee of up to 100% of the total package, in its sole discretion, in particular circumstances. Any monies, which you have already paid to us, will be taken by us as payment or part payment of any cancellation charges. Our Right to Change Your Travel Arrangements A significant change to your travel arrangements would include a change in the departure date from South Africa; where the flight times are changed by more than 12 hours or a change to a lower standard of accommodation to that which is booked. In these instances of significant changes to your travel arrangements Thompsons undertakes to advise you thereof as soon as reasonably possible before your departure date to obtain your further instructions in this regard. All other changes are minor changes. A minor change can be made at any time and, if practicable, we will advise you of any such change prior to departure but we are not obliged to do so. Such minor changes may be made by Thompsons, in its discretion, who will not be responsible or liable for the payment of compensation to you as a result of such minor changes. Every effort is made by Thompsons to adhere to confirmed itineraries; however, we reserve the right to make changes to your travel arrangements when it becomes necessary to do so. Should any travel component be confirmed by Thompsons and this component is cancelled by the supplier for whatsoever reason, then in such instances Thompsons will accept no liability for the cancellation thereof. Lost/Stolen Flight Tickets The loss or theft of a ticket must be reported to Thompsons immediately. Certain airlines will not authorise Thompsons to issue a replacement ticket if such ticket is lost or stolen before the passenger leaves South Africa. In the latter instance you will be required to purchase a new ticket, at your own cost, until such time as Thompsons receives authority from the airline to make any refund to you, which authority could take up to 12 months. Should the airline authorise Thompsons to issue a replacement ticket Thompsons will do so and a re-issue fee, per ticket, will be applicable. Should your ticket be lost or stolen abroad it should be noted that certain airlines will not issue a duplicate ticket and it will be your responsibility to purchase a new ticket abroad at the local fare. Upon your return to South Africa you may make application to Thompsons for a refund of the amount spent by yourself on the lost or stolen ticket, but it is specifically recorded that any refund will be entirely at the discretion of the airline concerned which may take up to 12 months to authorise. It is your responsibility to report the lost or stolen ticket to the police and to provide Thompsons with the proof of such report if required. Airline Refund Procedures Refund policies of the various airlines vary greatly. Tickets returned to Thompsons, will be presented to the relevant airline for assessment. Should a refund be authorised, such refund will be made to you, less any cancellation or administration charges. If payment for the ticket was made to Thompsons by credit card, the refund will be made to your credit card. Cash payments will be refunded by EFT. Partly used tickets will be refunded at less than the pro rata rate on the face value of such ticket. Refunds may take up to 12 weeks to process although this time frame cannot be guaranteed by Thompsons Unused tickets must be returned to Thompsons for a refund within one year from the date of issue or they will be regarded as expired by the airline and have no refund value. Complaints In the event that you have any reason to complain, or experience any problems with your holiday whilst away, you must immediately inform the supplier of the services in question. If you are still dissatisfied, you must notify Thompsons immediately to enable us to resolve the problem. Failure to give us the opportunity to resolve any problem at the time it occurs may result in either a reduction, or complete extinction, of any rights which you may have to claim compensation. If you remain dissatisfied, contact the Customer Services Manager within 28 days of the unsatisfactory service, giving your booking reference and full details of your

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d) 16)

17) i.

ii.

iii.

iv.

v. vi. vii. viii. 18)

19)

20)

21)

22)

complaint on email: [email protected] or fax to 011-770-7498. Whilst every effort will be made to resolve your complaint to your satisfaction, it is specifically recorded that Thompsons in no way accepts liability for any claim. Passports, Visas and Health It is entirely the clients duty to ensure that all passports & visas are current, valid, obtained on time and that any vaccinations, inoculations, prophylactics (e.g. for malaria) and the like, where required, have been obtained. Passports must be valid for 6 months after return to South Africa. Please check the requirements with your travel agent before travelling. Thompsons will endeavour to assist the client but such assistance will be at Thompsons discretion and the client acknowledges that in doing so, Thompsons is not assuming any obligation or liability and the client indemnifies Thompsons against any consequences of non-compliance. It is the clients duty to familiarise him/herself with the inherent dangers of and mental and/or physical condition required for the proposed travel arrangements. The client must ensure that the details supplied to Thompsons mirror those details shown on their passport for international travel and ID documents for local travel. General Information Taxes: Thompsons will advise you of all mandatory taxes, which you must pay before departure. However, many countries charge departure taxes that can only be paid locally. It is therefore recommended that you retain sufficient local currency to meet such charges. Details of departure taxes can be obtained from the relevant airline when you reconfirm your flight details. Special requests: We can pass on any special requests that you may wish to make at the time of booking, but acceptance of such requests is at the discretion of the airline or other supplier and in no circumstances are special requests guaranteed. Confirmation that a special request has been noted or passed on to the supplier, or the inclusion of the special request on your confirmation invoice or any other documentation, is not confirmation that the request will be met. Medical Problems: If you or any member of your party has any medical problem or disability which may affect your holiday, you need to give us full details in writing at the time of booking. If we reasonably feel unable to properly accommodate the particular needs of the person concerned, we reserve the right to decline their reservation. We reserve the right to cancel the reservation should we become aware of any such medical problem or disability which has not been disclosed. Renovations: Hotels undergo renovations from time to time and take all possible steps to limit disruption to their guests. We will not entertain complaints or requests for refunds if a hotel is carrying out renovations whilst a guest is resident. If we are specifically advised of renovation work, dates may be provided. It is important to remember that these are subject to change and we are not always notified. Refunds and Unused Services: No refunds will be considered for any reason whatsoever. Charges to your credit card: Any charges made to your credit card whilst away are your responsibility. Thompsons will not be responsible, nor accept responsibility for having these charges reversed or corrected upon return to South Africa. Drivers Licence: Even if you have obtained an international drivers licence, please take your national driver’s licence with you. Confidentiality: Subject to statutory constraints or compliance with an order of court, Thompsons undertakes to deal with all client information of a personal nature on a strictly confidential basis. Force Majeure Except where otherwise expressly stated in these booking conditions, we regret we cannot accept liability or pay any compensation where the performance or prompt performance of our contractual obligations is prevented or affected, or you otherwise suffer any damage or loss, as a result of “force majeure”. In these Booking Conditions, “force majeure” means any event which we or the supplier of the service(s) in question could not, even with all due care, foresee or avoid. Such events may include war or threat of war, riot, civil strife, terrorist activity or actual threatened terrorist activity, industrial dispute, natural or nuclear disaster, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events outside our control. Responsibility and Limitation of Liability Thompsons act as agents only for local and international ground operators and airlines and accordingly accepts no liability whatsoever for any loss, damage, injury, accident, delay, or any other irregularity howsoever arising. Thompsons makes every effort to ensure that all the arrangements and services connected with a passenger’s itinerary will be carried out as specified in the most efficient and effective way possible. However, we do not have direct control over the provision of services by suppliers and, whilst they are in all cases selected with the utmost care, we do not accept liability for error and omissions of such suppliers. The contract in use by such suppliers (which is often constituted by the ticket Issued by the Principal), shall constitute the sole contract between the supplier and the client and any right of recourse the client may have, will be solely against the supplier. Jurisdiction of the Magistrate’s Court Thompsons Holidays, a Division of Cullinan Holdings Ltd, shall be entitled, at its option to institute any legal proceedings arising out of or in connection with this contract in any Magistrate’s Court having jurisdiction in terms of Section 29 of the Magistrate’s Court Act No 32/1944 as amended, notwithstanding that the amount in issue may exceed the limits of such jurisdiction. Legal This document together with Thompsons’ standard booking form and Thompsons invoice / itinerary constitutes the sole record of the agreement between the parties. No party shall be bound by any representation, warranty, and promise of the like not recorded herein. Client acknowledges that he/she has not relied on any matter or thing stated on behalf of Thompsons or otherwise that is not included herein. No addition to the Thompsons standard booking conditions shall be of any force or effect unless in writing and signed by or on behalf of the parties. All costs and disbursements, including legal costs on the attorney and client scale incurred by Thompsons in recovering any damages and payments payable by the passenger to Thompsons shall be for the passengers’ account. This agreement shall in all respects be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the Republic of South Africa. The passenger hereby consents to the jurisdiction of the Magistrates Court having jurisdiction over its person in respect of all proceedings in connection with this agreement. The Client and Authority The person requesting such quotations or estimates or making such booking or to whom any service is rendered, is deemed to have read and accepted the Conditions and to have the authority to do so on behalf of the person in whose name the estimate or quotation or reservation is requested and/or provided and/or the person to whom the services are rendered (collectively referred to as “the Client”)

Booking Conditions

4) a)

Please read the following booking conditions carefully, as they set out the terms and conditions of the contract between you and Thompsons. We act as booking agents for the suppliers of the component parts of the holiday we organise, and as such, bookings for their services will form a direct contract between you and the relevant supplier, and will be subject to that supplier’s standard terms and conditions. Bookings Bookings save for late bookings as referred to hereunder, are confirmed on the condition that a non-refundable deposit, of a minimum of 25% of the total package price, is paid to Thompsons within 72 hours of confirmation of your bookings. You will be advised at the time of booking what payment is required for your particular arrangements. The balance of the cost of your travel arrangements must be paid no less than six weeks prior to departure. If your booking is made within 6 weeks of departure, the total cost of your travel arrangements must be paid at the time of booking. Please note: FAILURE TO PAY ON TIME WILL RESULT IN THE AUTOMATIC CANCELLATION OF YOUR BOOKING. Late Booking Fee & Communication Expenses (Telephone Calls) In the event of a booking (except South Africa bookings) being made less than 7 days prior to the date of departure, Thompsons reserves the right to charge for any extra communication expenses. Full payment is due immediately on confirmation and is non-refundable on all late bookings. Some bookings require full payment at the time of booking i.e. prior to confirmation. If we are unable to secure confirmation you will be refunded in full. Price Changes The costs associated with travel arrangements are not always stable, and currency movements can fluctuate sharply. It is impossible to predict these movements in advance. When you book a package through us, we reserve the right to pass on any surcharges to you. Surcharges may be imposed to cover increases in transportation costs, including the costs of fuel and security charges, taxes or fees chargeable for services such as landing taxes or embarkation or disembarkation fees at ports and airports, or exchange rates applied to the particular package. Thompsons guarantees the price of land arrangements, only once full payment is received. Airfares are subject to the prices and conditions quoted by the particular airlines and cannot be guaranteed by Thompsons. The onus is on the agent & the passenger to check that there have been no changes in these prices before making final payment thereof. Should the client make a group reservation & subsequently the group numbers deviate from the minimum number required for the booking, Thompsons reserves the right to re-cost the price and raise a surcharge. Should any client refuse to accept and pay such surcharge, it may result in cancellation of the booking and forfeiture of all payments made. Methods of Payment Credit Cards: In accordance with International Airline Travel Association (IATA) bulletin # A1/00 we need a signed and validated Standard Credit Card Charge Form. The agent acknowledges that s/he has seen the card and that the signature on the card is the same as that on the Credit Card Charge Form. A signed and validated Standard Credit Card Charge Form (SCCCF) or payment through our Virtual Card Services system, are the only recognised forms of payment for credit cards. If the card is a foreign credit card then you may be requested to supply various other details. Cheques: Bank issued cheques or travel agency cheques only (accredited agencies only). Please note we require 7 working days to clear all cheques before documents can be issued. Cash or EFT Transfers: We accept EFT transfers, or cash deposited into one of our bank accounts, subject to condition that the EFT transmission report or the cash deposit slip is provided to ourselves and such payment has been confirmed as received by ourselves. Insurance It is strongly advised that all clients take out adequate insurance cover such as cancellation due to illness, accident or injury, personal accident and personal liability, loss of or damage to baggage and sports equipment. Thompsons will not be responsible or liable if the client fails to take adequate insurance cover or at all. It shall not be obligatory upon Thompsons to effect insurance for the client except upon detailed instructions given in writing and all insurance effected by Thompsons pursuant to such instruction will be subject to such exceptions and conditions as may be imposed by the insurance company or the underwriters accepting the risk, and Thompsons shall not be obliged to obtain separate cover for any risks so excluded. Should the insurers dispute their liability for any reason, the client will have recourse against the insurers only. Once the insurance has been confirmed and paid for, the client will be issued with a policy document of the insurer. It is a complex document, which must be READ BEFORE you initiate your travel so that you can address any queries you may have to the insurer PRIOR to your departure. Please note that various credit card companies offer limited levels of travel insurance, which Thompsons does not consider sufficient cover for international travel. Kindly check with the respective credit card companies in order to obtain specific details of the cover. Flight and Other Travel Timings Flight timings are provided by airlines and are subject to Air Traffic Control restrictions. All means of transportation are subject to weather conditions, the need for constant maintenance, and the ability of passengers to check-in on time. There is no guarantee that flights, ferries, ships, trains or coaches will depart at the times stated on any itinerary or tickets which you receive. All timings are estimates only, and we do not accept any liability for any delay, however arising, or for any schedule alterations. Flight Reconfirmation It is your responsibility to ensure that you reconfirm the departure date and times of all your flights at least 72 hours prior to departure. This is particularly important in respect of subsequent journeys once leaving South Africa and Thompsons hereby specifically excludes any liability for any delay and /or loss as a result of your failure to reconfirm any flight and/or connecting flight. Documents Documents (vouchers, itineraries, etc.) are only prepared on receipt of full payment of the package price, and signed & completed Booking Form, and will be ready 24 hours after payment has been received. Normally your travel agent will arrange collection of your documents. Should you require your documents and air tickets to be forwarded to either yourself or the departure airport this may be arranged by your agent with us. However, the courier costs in respect thereof will be for your own account. It is important that you check all details of your travel documents (including your

BOOKING CONDITIONS OF THOMPSONS HOLIDAYS, A DIVISION OF CULLINAN HOLDINGS LTD (Hereinafter referred to as “Thompsons”)

27

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JOHANNESBURG: Travel House, 6 Hood Ave, Rosebank, South Africa.1:21:56 PM 12/13/07 P.O. Box 41032, Craighall, 2024, South Africa. Docex 270, Randburg. Tel: (27) (11) 770-7511; Fax: (27) (11) 325-2840. DURBAN: 20 The Boulevard, West End Office Park, Spine Road, Westville, South Africa. P.O. Box 51041, Musgrave Road, 4062, Durban, South Africa. Docex 238, Durban. Tel: (27) (31) 275-3500; Fax: (27) (31) 275-3990.

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CAPE TOWN: 15th Floor, Main Tower, Standard Bank Centre, Hertzog Boulevard, Foreshore, South Africa. P.O. Box 382, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa. Docex 145, Cape Town. Tel: (27) (21) 408-9500; Fax: (27) (21) 408-9596.

www.thompsons.co.za Thompsons Holidays: A division of Cullinan Holdings LTD (Reg No 1902/001808/06)