Day 1 : Paris

Arrive Paris – the Romantic Capital of the world. Upon arrival you will be transferred to your hotel. In the evening you have an option to experience an unforgettable evening at the world renowned Lido Show. Overnight in Paris.

Day 2 : Paris

After breakfast at the hotel. Today you have the option of either visiting Disneyland OR visiting the Versailles Palace and the Louvre Museum. Overnight in Paris.

Day 3 : Paris – Nice (by train - 6hrs) Guided City Tour of Paris

After breakfast at the hotel, check out and enjoy a half day Guided City Tour of Paris where you will drive through the Notre Dame Cathedral, Place de la Concorde, the Avenue des Champs Elysees and the Arc de Triomphe. Enjoy a visit to the 2nd floor of the Eiffel Tower and admire the superb panoramic views over Paris. Later transfer to Paris train station to board the high speed TGV train to Nice. Upon arrival in Nice you will be transferred to your hotel. Overnight in Nice.

Day 4 : Nice - City Tour

After breakfast, start your day with the city tour of Nice, see the Castle Hill, Fransciscan monastery, Queen Victoria’s Winter Palace and the roman ruins located within a beautiful Mediterranean garden. Later drive pass the Promenade des Anglais. In the evening drive on the spectacular ‘Moyenne Corniche’ road to Monaco. Discover the quiet atmosphere around the area fo Royala Palace. Experience the glamorous extravagance of Monte-Carlo by night. Enjoy free time to stroll on the streets of Monte-Carlo, have a drink or dine in one of the famous restaurants. Later drive back to Nice. Overnight in Nice.

Day 5 : Nice - Drive to St Tropez

After breakfast at the Hotel, begin your drive to the town of St tropez, located on the French Riviera, and it is known today for its famous and extremely wealthy summertime guests. Later drive back to Nice. Overnight in Nice.

Day 6 : Depart Nice

After breakfast at the hotel check out and you will be transferred to Nice airport to proceed onward to the next destination

Days 1 & 2: Helsinki : Gateway to Finland

Arrive in Helsinki in the morning if you can so you'll have more time for sightseeing and visiting the main attractions, some of which are in the environs. Check into a hotel for 2 nights.

Before the morning fades, visit the Ateneum Art Museum [SS] part of the Finnish National Gallery, spending at least 2 hours here.

After lunch, you can spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the Seurasaari Open-Air Museum with the biggest collection of historic buildings in the country. You can take a ferryboat from Market Square to reach this mini-archipelago in the Baltic.

Back in town, and if it's a summer night, you can head for the Linnanmäki Amusement Park 3km (2 miles) north of Helsinki. This is a fun fair for all ages, with splashing fountains, rides, restaurants, cafes, and theaters.

On the morning of the second day, you can pick up your pre-arranged rental car and explore some of the sights in the environs, which for many will be their first preview of the heavily forested Finnish countryside.

Heading out of town, drive 39km (24 miles) along E-79 north to Järvenpää where a signpost points to Ainola. This log-constructed building was the former home of Jean Sibelius, who lived here for more than half a century. Both Jean and Aino, his wife, are buried on the property. Finland's greatest composer created many of his major works here.

Return to Helsinki by lunchtime, and plan a second excursion in the afternoon to the historic town of Porvoo 48km (30 miles) northeast of Helsinki. Instead of driving, we'd recommend a summer trip aboard one of two boats that sail to Porvoo from Market Square in Helsinki.

Once at Porvoo, you can visit its late 13th-century cathedral and such attractions as the studio of Albert Edelfelt, one of Finland's most famous painters. Return to Helsinki for the night.

Day 3: Tampere

Leave Helsinki in the morning and head north along the expressway, E-79, following the signs to Hämeenlinna, a distance of 98km (61 miles). You'll pass forest-covered hills and meadows that eventually give way to open country dotted with lakes. Consider a luncheon stopover in Hämeenlinna: Finland's oldest inland town, founded in 1639, was the birthplace of Jean Sibelius. You can explore the old castle on the shores of Lake Vanajavesi.

After Hämeenlinna, continue northwest along E-79 into Tampere, 172km (107 miles) from Helsinki. Check into a hotel for the night in Finland's second largest city.

The city is built on a narrow isthmus between two lakes, and its attractions such as the Tampere Art Museum and Tuomiokirkko, its cathedral, are easy to explore. If it's summer, attend a night performance at the Pyynikki Summer Theater.

Days 4 & 5: Turku

In the morning of Day 4, leave Tampere and follow E-80 155km (96 miles) southeast to the historic seaport of Turku, the oldest city in Finland and its former capital. Check into a hotel for 2 nights and set out to explore the major sights, including the twin museums of Aboa Vetus [SS] and Ars Nova; Taidemuseo, the second major art museum in Finland, and Tuomiokirkko, the mother of the Lutheran Church of the country, dating from the 13th century.

On the morning of Day 5, while still based in Turku, take a summer boat ride aboard the S/S Ukkopekka to the town of Naantali, famous for its Old Town. Spend a day here, wandering and exploring, perhaps visiting Kulturanta, the stunning summer residence of the president of Finland.

Secure the makings of a picnic and enjoy it on the grounds of Moominworld, with a beach and several other attractions. Return to Turku for the night.

Days 6 & 7: Åland Islands

On Day 6, you can leave the port of Turku and take a seagoing ferry to Mariehamn, the capital of the Ålands, an archipelago lying off the west coast of Finland between Stockholm and Turku. The archipelago consists of 6,500 islands, islets, and skerries.

After arriving in Mariehamn, the only real town, check into a hotel for 2 nights. In the afternoon you can visit the Ålands Museum and the Museum Ship Pommern.

On Day 7, explore the other islands, which are connected by a series of bridges, causeways, and ferry services.

After a final night in Mariehamn, return to Helsinki for your ongoing transportation.

Days 1 & 2: Arrival in Copenhagen

Before renting a car to explore the countryside, you can take in the glories of Copenhagen itself, the most kid-friendly of all Scandinavia capitals. After your arrival and after you've checked into a hotel for 2 nights, take one of the bus and boat tours to orient yourself. Follow this up with a guided tour of Amalienborg Palace, where Queen Margrethe II lives with her royal family. After lunch, descend on the Tivoli Gardens, where you and your kids can wander for hours and also eat dinner.

Day 2:

Pay a call on Den Lille Havfrue (The Little Mermaid), the most photographed statue in Scandinavia. After that, explore Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, one of the greatest art museums in Europe. If your child is older, he or she will find much art to fascinate here, perhaps a prehistoric sculpture of a hippopotamus. In the afternoon, visit Frilandsmuseet, an open-air museum and reconstructed village that evokes life in the 19th century, lying at Lyngby on the fringe of Copenhagen.

When you return to Copenhagen, you can do as many families do and pay a final visit to Tivoli Gardens, or else you can visit another amusement park, Bakken, on the northern fringe of the city. If you like merry-go-rounds and roller coasters, Bakken is even more fun for some families than the more carefully manicured Tivoli.

Day 3: Helsingør & Roskilde

On the morning of Day 3, check out of your hotel and drive 40km (25 miles) north of Copenhagen, taking the E4 express highway. Once at Helsingør, you can pay a morning visit to the Dutch-Renaissance-style Kronborg Castle, legendary home of Shakespeare's fictional Hamlet. Kids may think that Walt Disney created this dank, spooky place, which is surrounded by a deep moat.

After a 1-hour visit, you can head for our final destination of the day, the cathedral city of Roskilde, lying 72km (45 miles) southwest. It's reached by following Route 6 all the way. Check into a hotel in Roskilde for the day and set about to explore this ancient city. Call first at the Roskilde Domkirke. Kids delight in seeing the 16th-century clock where a tiny sculpted St. George on horseback marks the hour by charging a dragon. Afterward, drive 20km (12 miles) north of Roskilde to see the Viking Ship Museum, displaying the remains of five wrecked Viking-era ships. Return to Roskilde for the night.

Days 4 & 5: H. C. Andersen's Odense

On the morning of Day 4, drive west from Roskilde for 134km (83 miles) until you reach Odense. To do so, you have to cross the Great Belt Bridge into Nyborg, lying west on the Funen side. From Nyborg, E20 will carry you to Odense, where you can check into a hotel for 2 nights. In Odense, you can take in some of the major sights of the city, including the H. C. Andersen's Childhood Home. If it's summer, you might even hook up with a 2-hour walking tour, taking in all the highlights. Check with the tourist office.

Visit Funen Village, an open-air regional museum depicting life in Denmark in the 1700s and 1800s. In a busy afternoon you can visit both Egeskov Castle, one of the grandest in Denmark, and Ladbyskibet, 19km (12 miles) northeast of Odense, to see the ruins of a 10th-century Viking ship.

Days 6 & 7: Denmark's Beautiful Island of Ærø

Leave Odense on the morning of Day 6, driving south to Svendborg, a distance of 43km (27 miles), following Route 9. Once at Svendborg, take a car ferry over to the island of Ærø, a distance of 29km (18 miles) from Svendborg. Once here, check into a hotel in the tiny island's capital, Ærøskøbing, for 2 nights and set about to explore this Lilliputian town, with a driving tour of the island to follow on Day 7.

Begin first on foot by walking the cobblestone streets of this most enchanting of Danish villages, saving the driving tour of the island for the following day. The main attraction of the town is Ærøskøbing itself, although there are specific sights of minor interest, including the Ærø Museum and an 18th-century church, Ærøskøbing Kirke. Dine in an old kro (inn), and later walk down by the water to watch the yachts and other boats bobbing in the harbor at night.

On the morning of Day 7, while still based in Ærøskøbing, set out on a leisurely motor tour of the island, stopping at random to enjoy anything that fascinates you. We'd head east to the "second city" on Marstal, really just a modest port town. After a 2-hour visit here, you can take the southern road all the way to the little port ofSøby in the northwest. From Søby, you can drive southeast back to Ærøskøbing for the night.

After a visit to Ærø, you can easily return to Copenhagen the following day, using a bridge and a ferryboat. Copenhagen lies 176km (109 miles) to the east of Ærø.

Days One and Two

Depart from the US overnight, arrive in Dubrovnik, meet your tour guide at the airport and transfer to hotel. Relax in the evening, enjoy Dubrovnik by night, explore the Old Town with its unforgettable lights, music, small local restaurants, concerts, folk dancing and more.

Day Three

Walk to the Old City of Dubrovnik for a half day sightseeing tour. Visit the old Franciscan Monastery, with the oldest Pharmacy in Europe (founded in 1317). See the Rector's Palace, old Cathedral, Dominican Monastery, and walk magnificant city walls a mile long. This is a place where past and present unified in a wonderful harmony offer their soul to every visitor. This old city a real architectural, historical and artistic treasure.

In the afternoon, on your drive to Catvat, pass the Dubrovnik Riviera, small villages like jewels along the coast (Kupari, Srebreno, Mlini, and Plat). Cavtat, once upon a time was a Greek colony called Epidaurum, with a rich history. Today it is a charming small village scattered on the Peninsula surrounded with an azure blue sea, hundred year old pine and cypress trees, and a charming marina with sailing yachts from all over the world.

Return to your hotel and stay overnight.

Day Four

Visit Montenegro, the youngest country of Europe, which gained its independence in 2006. Drive through Konavle valley, part of the Dubrovnik region.

Enjoy the unique Fjord of Kotor where small medieval cities are scattered along the coast. Stop on the small island Gospa od Skrpjela and visit the seamen's votive museum and church, an exceptional experience.

Next arrive in Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage city. Their Roman, Byzantine and Gothic churches, public buildings and steep city walls will tell you a lot about the rich history of this small city.

Drive to St. Stephan, an island hotel since 1950, when the Pastrovich family sold their houses to the government. Today it is a unique hotel connected with a narrow path to the mainland. Discover the medieval old city of Budva within the city walls.

Return to your hotel in Dubrovnik to stay overnight.

Day Five

Depart to Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina. Take a beautiful drive along the coast, pass the border into Herzegovina, and cruise along the charming Neretva River. Reach Pocitelj, a small village with a typical Oriental influence. Tall, elegant Minarets, mosques, and Turkish houses all exhibit a real Ottoman, Turkish flavor. Painters, writers, and poets come here every spring searching for inspiration.

Half an hour later arrive in Mostar, the capitol of Herzegovina, with its bridges, mosques, Turkish houses, old Bazaar (market) on one side and a modern city on the other side. The Old Bridge (built 1556) was destroyed in the war in 1994, and with international help was rebuilt again.

Finally, drive to Split and stay overnight.

Day Six

In the morning take a half day sightseeing tour of Split: visit the historic Old Town, Roman Emperor Diocletian's palace, museums and galleries. We'll see the gallery of the famous sculptor Ivan Mestrovic and Marjan Park.

The afternoon will be free to enjoy the picturesque streets of old Split, its medieval squares, perhaps even go shopping.

Day Seven

Meet your guide and transfer to Split harbor, to embark on a ferry ride to Island Hvar, a stunningly beautiful boat ride among the Croatian islands. Hvar is well known for its oldest European theater, beautiful Renaissance squares and churches, Gothic buildings and a magnificent renaissance Lodge.

Excellent red and white wine, virgin olive oil and lavender fields are characteristic of this island, which is also called the San Tropez of Croatia.

Return to Split and stay overnight.

Day Eight

Meet your guide and drive to Trogir, a small medieval city 20 miles north of Split. Visit its famous Cathedral with a magnificent Radovan Portal, stroll narrow cobbled streets and medieval squares surrounded with dreamy, stony houses, enjoy the yacht harbor and the old fortress of Karmelengo that protects the town from the sea side.

In the afternoon take a drive to the pristine greens of the River Krka waterfalls. Lush vegetation, blue-green water, and the sound of the waterfalls will magically touch your soul. You can take a swim in a crystal green water that will welcome you, offering you the best refreshment of the day.

Return to Split and stay overnight.

Day Nine

After breakfast depart from Split to Plitvice Lake National Park. This natural wonder is one of the most exciting destinations in Croatia. The breathtaking 16 Upper and Lower lakes surrounded by thick forests and hills are unforgettable. We'll walk along the Lower lakes, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring a camera.

In the afternoon drive to the Croatian capital of Zagreb and stay overnight.

Day Ten

Meet your local guide and discover this interesting city of Zagreb, visiting Gornji Grad (Upper Town), enjoying the roofs of old Zagreb, steeple of St Stephen Cathedral, and the old Baroque St Catherine's church. Walk by the famous Zagreb Theater on Zrinjevac Square where also numerous galleries and museums are located. Zagreb is a modern vibrant, city with a rich history.

Afternoon, explore Zagreb, its shops, coffee houses, flower market (beautiful arrangements of dry flowers can be taken home). Zagreb is famous for a fine dining restaurants and a good local wine selection.

Day Eleven

Transfer to the Zagreb airport for your flight home.

Day 1: Brussels

Whenever the kids step out of line in Brussels, uttering these magic words should get their attention: "Maybe we should tour the European Union administrative buildings today." I'd wager that they (and you) would prefer the Atomium. And while you're there, in the city's northern Bruparck district, think about seeing Mini-Europe. Back in the center of town, treat the kids to an exposé of bold little Manneken-Pis; grown-ups usually wonder what all the fuss is about, but kids love him. By the way: Going around the city by tram can't hurt.

Day 2: More of Brussels

Boys, especially, might want to take a look under the hood of Autoworld today. And is it being sexist to suggest that the girls might prefer costumes and lace at the Musée du Costume et de la Dentelle? Both genders will likely agree that the comic strips and characters at the Centre Belge de la Bande-Dessinée are pretty cool.

Day 3: Bruges

In this historic Flemish city, you can swerve past Old Masters, Gothic architecture, and mussel-slurping diners in one fast move. Achieve this satisfying feat by visiting the Boudewijn Seapark or the Kinderboerderij Domein De Zeven Torentjes -- or both. The open-top canal cruise boats are another good bet. And it's safe to go around by rented pedal-bike in the center of town.

Day 4: The Belgian Coast

A day at the seacoast is a no-brainer for families, especially in summer -- just imagine building sandcastles on the beach, swimming in the sea, and riding beach buggies and sand-yachts. Ride from one end of Belgium's seacoast to the other onboard the amazing Coast Tram. At Ostend there's the Noordzeeaquarium, and the museum ships Mercator and Amandine. Up the coast at Knokke-Heist, allow some time to check out the bird sanctuary at Natuurreservaat Het Zwin.

Day 5: Antwerp

Begin day 5 in Antwerp, with a visit to Belgium's only traditional zoo. Then, in the afternoon, cross over to Aquatopia. For other options, consider a cruise downriver to the harbor, and/or a visit to the National Maritime Museum.

Days 6 & 7: The Ardennes

From Antwerp, the drive here takes long enough that I'd suggest allocating 2 days for your family's visit to Han-sur-Lesse. On the first day, drive to the village and visit the Grottes de Han underground caverns; the next day, spend some time at the Réserve d'Animaux Sauvages before moving on.

Day 8: Rotterdam

Today, make your way to the Euromast for the greatest views of Rotterdam. Afterward, you'll probably need to choose between a boat tour through the city's vast harbor and a visit to the outstanding Blijdorp Zoo, but if you have time for both, by all means fit them in.

Day 9: Amsterdam

Going around Amsterdam by tram is fun for the whole family. I'm not sure, though, about going by bicycle. Parents might need to spend too much time watching out for the kids. I suppose it all depends on what age the children are. A canalboat cruise is a good idea. A visit to the Anne Frank House is interesting and thought-provoking for children about as old as Anne was when she hid from the Nazis here and wrote her famous diary. After this, try the Artis Zoo, or -- if you've had enough of zoos by now -- go onboard the Amsterdam, a full-size replica 18th-century ocean-going sailing ship. Unfortunately, the Scheepvaartmuseum (Maritime Museum) that is the ship's usual home is closed until some time in 2010, but the ship is still open for business, tied up just across the water at NEMO.

Day 10: More of Amsterdam

Today, choose between a visit to Madame Tussaud's and the Science Center NEMO -- either one is worthwhile, but both in a single day can be too much, unless it's raining. By way of variation, you could try in-line skating in Vondelpark, ice skating at Jaap Eden IJsbanen, or bowling at Knijn Bowling.

Day 11: Dolphins & Sailing Ships

From Amsterdam (your base), drive east today to Harderwijk and visit the outstanding Dolfinarium Harderwijk. Cross over into Flevoland province and head to Lelystad. Here, at Batavia Wharf, a full-size replica of a 17th-century sailing ship, the Batavia, is moored, and a man-of-war from the same century, De Zeven Provinciën, is being constructed.

Day 12: Enkhuizen

This town lies on the western shore of the IJsselmeer, a freshwater lake that until 1932 was a sea known as the Zuiderzee. Enkhuizen hosts the superb Zuiderzeemuseum, which aims to recreate traditional life around the transformed sea. Between getting to and from Enkhuizen and visiting both sections of this large museum, you'll need most of a day to do it all justice.

Day 13: Zandvoort

Always supposing the weather is good, there's nothing your standard young Amsterdammer likes more than to take a train for the short ride to Amsterdam's favorite seacoast resort, Zandvoort, on the North Sea. The locals will do this in all but the most abysmal weather, but if it's really too bad for the seacoast, try instead the neat little Visitor Center at the Amsterdamse Bos (Amsterdam Wood). You can peruse the nature displays here and get out and about in the park if the weather picks up.

Day 14: Back to Brussels

One way to break the monotony of a 3-hour drive back to Brussels is to stop off at the cluster of windmills at Kinderdijk, close to Rotterdam.

Day 1: Arrive Vienna

Welcome to Austria - a place of exuberant palaces, baroque abbeys and spirit-soaring landscapes ! Upon arrival in Vienna, you will be welcomed by a representative and transferred by a car to your hotel. Vienna, Austria Later in the afternoon, on a city tour Get introduced to the most important sights of the Austrian capital as you drive around the famous 'Ringstrasse', Vienna's main boulevard. Pass by the State Opera, the Museums of Fine Art and Natural History, the Parliament building, the Burgtheater (National Theatre), the City Hall and the University. The highlight of this programme is the visit to Schonbrunn Palace where you take a tour of some of the most magnificently decorated rooms. Return to the city centre, passing by Belvedere Palace.

Day 2: Vienna - Salzburg

This morning, you will transfer on your own to the Vienna Train station to board your train to the musical town of Salzburg and experience a memorable stay in Mozart's city (3 hours). Upon arrival in Salzburg you will transfer on your own to the hotel. Vienna, Austria. City Tour of Salzburg.

Day 3: Salzburg

Today take an optional "Sound of Music tour" which takes you around beautiful lakes and mountain area known as the Salzkammergut from our below mentioned list.

Day 4: Salzburg - Innsbruck

This morning, you will transfer on your own to the Salzburg Train station to board the train to the valley of Innsbruck, the capital of the Alps and an ideal base for touring Tirol and its neighbouring areas (2 hours ). Upon arrival in Innsbruck you will transfer on your own to the hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure to explore the famous city which is a living treasure house of history and culture.

Day 5: Innsbruck

This morning visit the Swarovski Crystal World in Wattens. A world of fantasy, an adventure museum with crystals, light and sound designs. The water spouting Giant ( a remarkable huge face sculptured on top of a rock ) will amaze you with his sparkling eyes ! Inside the Giant, a whole crystal world awaits you: the Chambers of Wonders containing the Planet of Crystals, the Crystal Dome, the Crystal Theatre, the Ice passage and the Floating Poem.
The evening is free. Why not Enjoy an shopping in the city centre Or browse for souvenirs and exquisite gifts in the plethora of little shops in the Old Town Or just discover the beauty of traditional Tyrolean handicrafts or treat yourself to a culinary keepsake.
Morning visit to the Swarovski Crystal World. This morning visit the Swarovski Crystal World in Wattens. A world of fantasy, an adventure museum with crystals, light and sound designs. The water spouting Giant ( a remarkable huge face sculptured on top of a rock ) will amaze you with his sparkling eyes ! Inside the Giant, a whole crystal world awaits you: the Chambers of Wonders containing the Planet of Crystals, the Crystal Dome, the Crystal Theatre, the Ice passage and the Floating Poem.

Day 6: Innsbruck - Vienna (5 hrs)

Today travel by train to Vienna. The day is free for you to enjoy the many sights and sounds the city has to offer or enjoy shopping. Overnight stay in Vienna.

Day 7: Depart Vienna

Today you will be transferred to Vienna Airport for your flight back home (Private).

Buenos Aires (4 nights)

Day 1-5

International arrival

Buenos Aires 

The capital of Argentina is unique in the way of combining Latin American lifestyle along with that of European architecture and culture. Buenos Aires enchants with its beautiful parks, colonial buildings, recreational activities and the tango and football...all in symbiotic harmony. While here, don't forget to taste the world's finest beef products on offer.

Activities:

City Tour: Latin America's cultural metropolis is yours to discover on a 3.5 hours private guided tour. Experience the Europrean flair that has given the city its fame. Visit important historical monuments of the city and tour its ecclectic neighborhoods from antique San Telmo and colorful working class La Boca to fancy and chic Recoleta. You set the pace and your guide will be happy to tailor the tour to your preferences.

Tango Lessons: Mi Buenos Aires Querido! Sensuality, artistry, and soulful music combine to create the magic of Tango. Match steps with an instructor to learn the basics or try out more the advanced steps and tricks that will help you own any ballroom.

Tango Show: With dozens of shows to choose from, we have selected one in which traditions are preserved and where the ambience exudes the charms of the bygone era. Sensuous moves, stirring music and mouth-watering delicacies await you in the authentic tango barrio of San Telmo.

Hotel Option 1

Mine Hotel
(Superior Room)

Included: 
Breakfast

Hotel Option 2

Legado Mitico
(Classic Room)

Included: 
Breakfast

Ushuaia (3 nights)

Day 5-8

Flight from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia.

Ushuaia 

The southernmost city in the world, Ushuaia is an ideal place to begin cruising this majestic, snow-covered landscape. Ever changing climatic conditions, incessant storms, and furious waves reinforce the sense that this really is the end of the world. Enjoy great views of the Beagle canal and breath in some of the freshest air on earth.

Activities:

Visit Estancia Harberton and Penguin Colony: Travel to the historical Estancia Harberton enjoying the beautiful Fuegian landscape unfold as you venture out of city limits. Once reaching the Estanica, embark on a short navigation along the Beagle Channel to the Martillo Island penguin colony. Here you will have the unique opportunity to disembark on the island and walk along it's trails experiencing these quirky and curious animals up close.

Visit to Escondid, Tierra Del Fuego, and Fagnango Lakes: Relax and enjoy the splendid landscapes of the hidden Escondido Lake, Tierra del Fuego, and the Fagnango Lake on a privately guided walk.

Hotel Option 1

Los Yámanas
(Standard Room)

Included: 
Breakfast

Hotel Option 2

Los Cauquenes
(Standard Channel View)

Included: 
Breakfast

Buenos Aires Province (2 nights)

Day 8-10

Flight from Ushuaia to Buenos Aires. Drive from Buenos Aires to Buenos Aires Province (110 km, 1 hr).

Time passes differently in this little village near Buenos Aires. From the gauchos working on the ranches nearby, to the flavors of Argentinean national dishes at a barbecue, there's nothing like a first hand experience of the village life and its customs and traditions.

Activities:

Visit the ranches and enjoy the local food; see folklore dance shows and take rides with the local Gauchos.

Hotel Option 1

La Candelaria del Monte
(Standard Room)

Included: 
Full Board

Hotel Option 2

La Candelaria del Monte
(Standard Room)

Included: 
Full Board

Rio de Janeiro (3 nights)

Day 10-13

Drive from Buenos Aires Province to Buenos Aires (110 km, 1 hr). Flight from Buenos Aires to Rio de Janerio.

Rio de Janeiro 

Rio de Janiero's famous icons include Copacabana, Sugar Loaf, Samba, Ipanema, Caipirinha cocktails, beach culture and of course the magnificent subtropical rainforests. Brimming with vitality and life, there has never been a better time to explore the beauty and energy of Brazil's unofficial capital.

Hotel Option 1

Casa Amarelo
(Suite Junior)

Included: 
Breakfast

Hotel Option 2

Porto Bay
(Sup. Limited ocean view)

Included: 
Breakfast

Paraty (1 night)

Day 13-14

Drive from Rio de Janerio to Paraty (235 km, 4 hrs).

Paraty 

The well preserved colonial town of Paraty will surely enchant you! Its colorful houses lining the cobblestone streets, the deep blue waters of the bay and the encompassing secretive flair combine to make Paraty a truly unique destination in Brazil. Experience the architectural influence of free masons who left their mark in many hidden places of the town. It is little wonder the Nobel Prize laureate

'Thomas Mann' always came back to his birth place, regardless of where in the world he was.

Activities:

A private half-day tour takes you through colonial treasures and exciting tales of Paraty, allowing you to gain a deep insight into the history of this picturesque colonial town.

Hotel Option 1

Porto Imperial
(Standard Room)

Included: 
Breakfast

Hotel Option 2

Pousada do Sandi
(Deluxe Room)

Included: 
Breakfast

Picinguaba (4 nights)

Day 14-18

Drive from Paraty to Picinguaba (35 km, 30 min).

Picinguaba 

Amidst scenic tropical fauna reminiscent of the Caribbean, the small charming fishing village of Picinguaba is ideally located in the Atlantic's bay...with deep blue waters and far away from the touristic hustle-and- bustle. The untouched beaches of Picinguaba invite you for a leisurely stroll and a refreshing bath, after which you can catch glimpses of freshly caught fish being brought to the harbor. It is an ideal

destination for those who have already traveled to Brazil but are now looking for a more different and unique experience. An absolute insider tip: for those wishing to spend a couple of days in solitude and peace, head for Picinguaba.

Drive from Picinguaba to Rio de Janerio international airport.

Days 1 & 2: Lima

Arrive into Lima and transfer to your hotel for an overnight stay. Lima has a number of interesting museums specifically the Gold Museum and the Larco Herrera (great for lunch or dinner too). There are a number of very good restaurants particularly in the Miraflores and Barranco districts.

Days 2 & 4: Arequipa

Transfer to the airport and fly to Arequipa. Met and driven to your hotel for the next two nights. Arequipa is picturesque and much easier to get around than Lima. There are a number of miradors around the city with fine views and the countryside is very pretty. There is a small but good museum and the convent of Santa Catalina is a must see.

Days 4 & 6: Colca

Collected and driven to the high canyons of Colca for the next two nights. The scenery is beautiful with many farmers using the steep terraces to grow hardy crops. A visit to the Cruz del Condor is a must, in the early morning the condors rise from the canyon on the warm thermal air currents. Although wildlife is never guarenteed it is a magnificent sight.

Days 6 & 8: Lake Titicaca

Collected and driven by shared transfer to Puno for your two night stay on Lake Titicaca. Puno is a higgledy piggledy town but fun to explore. The most popular boat trip is to visit the floating reed islands of Uros and Taquile, home to a small agricultural community. Further afield is Suasi Island, perfect for relaxing. This is a perfect border crossing into Bolivia as Sun Island is on the Bolivian side.

Days 8 & 10: Cusco

Take the bus or luxury train to Cusco, stay for the next two nights. Cusco has a rich historical past, capital of the Inca empire there are some amazing examples of Inca masonry work and impressive colonial buildings. A city tour is really recommended and it is easy to visit the archaeological sites just outside of town. There are plenty of bars, shops and restaurants.

Days 10 & 12: Sacred Valley

Be driven to the Sacred Valley for the next two nights. There are plenty of things to do in the area, including white water rafting, mountain biking, riding and walking. The Sacred Valley has artisan markets and a number of small villages specialising in textiles. There are plenty of interesting Inca architectural sites such as the fortress of Ollantaytambo.

Days 12 & 13: Machu Picchu

Take the train to Aguas Calientes and stay in Machu Picchu for the night. The Inca Citadel is unique and does take time to explore, to climb up Huanya Picchu takes a few hours and requires a pre-purchased ticket. It is possible to walk the classic Inca Trail/Mountain Lodges of Peru, or you can opt for the 1 day Inca Trail which involves no camping.

Days 13 & 14: Cusco

Take the train back to Cusco for an overnight before flying elsewhere.

Day 1

The non-stop flight time to Las Vegas from the U.K. is 10 hours 20 minutes. Your package includes transfers from the airport to your hotel.

Stroll The Strip

You will arrive into Las Vegas in the afternoon or early evening so drop your bags and head out on to the world famous 'Las Vegas Strip'. Your hotel is right in a prime spot on the strip so you will feel safe and relaxed walking the strip with everyone else out enjoying the bright lights of this desert oasis. We'd suggest a stroll towards the Bellagio Hotel where you can watch the frequent water fountain show on the lake in front of the hotel, like many things in this one off town it's quite a spectacular sight.

Enjoy a Vegas Buffet

By this time you will be roughly on the opposite side of the road to the Paris Hotel. If you are feeling peckish Paris Hotel houses one of the best buffet dining experiences in Las Vegas. Vegas has become famous for buffet dining so this is a good place to indulge either tonight or another night during your stay.

Continue to walk the strip and 'Casino-hop' until you can take no more then head for a good night's sleep at your hotel, the rooms are spacious and the beds divine!

Important tip

Wear very comfortable shoes we guarantee you will walk more than you think - Everything looks close but it's bigger and further than you think in Las Vegas!

Hotel - Monte Carlo Hotel & Casino

We've visited and stayed at the Monte Carlo a number of times and we reckon it's a good choice for a number of reasons. The hotel is just very straight forward... you will walk into many hotels during your stay and probably get lost a number of times... Monte Carlo just seems so well laid out, when you need to just find your way to the elevator to go to bed it's easy, odd as it may sound that's not always that easy at other hotels in this city. Position wise on the strip it's close to perfect, having all the current major attractions and hotels right around you and within easy walking distance.

Day 2Las Vegas

We suggest you start the day by booking a show for tonight if you have not already booked anything. We think the Cirque De Soleil productions of Ka, O or Mystere are the pick of the bunch but there are so many options and lots of different ticket prices so grab the guide in your room and see what takes your fancy. It ought to be one of those 'Must do' things whilst in Vegas though.

Our suggestion would be to spend the day hopping from place to place along the strip again. The buildings along this famous road are like nothing else on earth and each grandiose interior tops the last. You will want to see Wynn Las Vegas, the Venetian complete with gondolas on the waterways surrounding the hotel, Bellagio, Mirage with the erupting volcano out front, Paris Hotel (Just look out for the Eiffel Tower) New York New York, MGM Grand and at least the exterior of Excalibur (The Castle) and Luxor (The Pyramid). Perhaps one of the most popular hotel attractions is the pirate ship battle in front of the Treasure Island hotel, check out show times when you walk by and be sure to be there in plenty of time to get a decent viewing spot.

Tonight might be a good time to eat at a buffet but try and get down to the Stratosphere for a drink at the top of the tower, the tallest building West of the Mississippi River and a great place for night time pictures of Las Vegas, oh yeah and perhaps you should have a little flutter in the casinos today as well!

Hotel - Monte Carlo Hotel & Casino

Unless you have become hooked on gambling or just want to spend the day casino hopping we'd suggest heading a little further afield today. You can either hire a car for the day or book yourself on to any number of tours, that is of course unless you haven't already sorted it before you left the U.K. with us. A trip to the Hoover Dam comes well recommended, they have a nice tour that takes you down to the base of the dam with a guide who tells the story of if it's construction between 1931 and 1936 during the Great Depression, a project that cost over 100 lives.

If you are feeling really adventurous and want this holiday done in style then surely it has to be a helicopter up above the Las Vegas Strip and off to one of the wonders of the world the Grand Canyon. There are a number of different tour options and this is probably best booked before you go but all tours will generally offer a pick-up and drop off service from your hotel. A great great way to see this truly awesome sight and our preferred tours will take you further and deeper into the Grand Canyon than anyone else, by far the most dramatic tour below the rim of the Grand Canyon.

Being your last night in Las Vegas why not push the boat out and book a flash restaurant.. Whilst buffet eating is a famous part of Vegas history in more recent times genuine haute cuisine by celebrity chefs has invaded the town. We'd suggest looking up one or two of the following. Bartolotta, Fleur de Lys, Bouchon, Picasso, Joël Robuchon and L'Atelier de Joël Robuchon at the MGM Grand, Alex, Alizé, or Aureole, Olives, Pinot Brasserie, Border Grill.

Whatever you end up doing on your last night be sure to leave some time to go Downtown to check out the much more affordable casinos in the classic Glitter Gulch and to visit the Fremont Street Experience light show.

Hotel - Monte Carlo Hotel & Casino

The flight time from Las Vegas to Honolulu is approximately 6 hours.

On arrival at Honolulu you will experience a traditional Lei greeting and be transferred to your hotel.

The island of Oahu is the 3rd biggest of 6 Hawaiian Islands and is home to famous Waikiki Beach. But it has more to offer, granted many come to the emerald island to laze on its pristine sandy beaches and why not? But be sure to consider some of  the fantastic lush walking trails, or a snorkeling tour of an extinct volcanic crater and everyone should witness the history at Pearl Harbor. If it's glamour you seek, Waikiki Beach delivers, with its backdrop of gleaming Honolulu skyscrapers and vibrant nightlife.

Things to Do on Oahu

Oahu is an island full of varied opportunities to fill your days, take a sightseeing boat, where you can observe the island rising out of the cobalt sea. Take a walk into virgin rainforest in the Makiki Valley, or venture to the North Shore to see the amazing sight of surfers flying off the top of waves that can rise to 30 feet - This is the premier surfing spot in the world, when you see surfers on television programs surfing under monster waves, it's usually filmed here. A hula performance is a popular way to get a taste of traditional Hawaiian culture, the best is performed every weekday at the Bishop Museum. A visit to Pearl Harbor is a sobering reminder of this island's place in America's history and we've included this tour in your package. Most people like to take in a bit of shopping on holiday, Oahu has posh European to locally made, avant-garde to unspeakably tacky, the offerings are wide-ranging. Among the designer boutiques on Waikiki's Kalakaua Avenue plenty of booths hawk airbrushed T-shirts, gold by the inch, and tasteless aloha shirts. Instead, surprise your friends with patterned aloha shirts and sarongs. Buy bowls and baskets made of pandanus leaves or stock up on local Kona coffee. No trip is complete without purchasing a lei, and on Maunakea Street, Hawaii's finest floral creations go for as little as $3.50.

Nightlife & Entertainment

Nightlife in Hawaii begins at sunset, and there are few more pleasing spots in Waikiki than the benches at the water's edge at the Diamond Head end of Kalakaua Avenue, where everyone stops to see the sinking sun. Afterward, revelers head for Waikiki and Honolulu, where clubs and bars are strung along the illuminated shoreline.

Restaurants & Dining

Choose among chef-owned restaurants, neighborhood eateries, fast-food joints, ethnic spots, and restaurants in shopping malls. Don't miss a traditional luau on the beach, a traditional Hawaiian feast often with entertainment. Savour succulent kalua pig (slow roasted underground) and fried rice, accompanied by cold lomi-lomi salmon(salad with salt-cured salmon). If you're up on the North Shore, visit a shrimp truck for the sweetest, juiciest shrimp.

Hotel - The Pacific Beach Hotel.

We'd say it's a pretty safe bet you wanted to come to Hawaii to relax a little and feel the sand between your toes.. well fear not, our choice of hotel means you are just steps away...with the added benefit of an ocean view room to retire to and breakfast included daily. The Pacific Beach Hotel also has a quite unique feature, a 280,000 gallon oceanarium with over 70 different species of Indo-Pacific marine life which you can admire from the Oceanarium restaurant. There is also the unique opportunity to snorkel and scuba dive in the Oceanarium. The hotel has everything you might expect and a bit more with a sundeck, swimming pool, whirlpool, spa, tennis courts and fitness club. We have access to great rates at many hotels across Waikiki but we chose this property for offering a great location at the beach and good mid range accommodation and facilities at great value for money. Our team are happy to provide advice and details along with costs for a package including other hotels on request.

Day 9 - 13 - 5 nights

Arrival Kaanapali Beach, Maui, Hawaii

You will be collected from your Waikiki hotel and taken the short 20 minute ride to Honolulu airport for your 30 minute flight to the Hawaiian island of Maui. Voted the 'Best Island' by Conde Nast Traveler readers for more than a dozen years you will start to appreciate why as you approach on your flight.

After your lei greeting you will be taken to you hotel for what we are sure will be 5 magical nights.

Things to do

The thought of lying on sun soaked beaches regularly named “the best” by travel magazines is enough to make any of your friends jealous and you will notice a real change in pace from your time in Waikiki Beach, this is the Hawaiian paradise that most people dream of visiting one day. Once you have settled in you will want to explore Maui.  The western, or leeward side, is the drier side of the island and features Maui’s world-famous beaches including your base, the beautiful Kaanapali Beach, home to a nightly sunset cliff diving ceremony. West Maui is also home to historic Lahaina, where you can find great shopping, dining and entertainment. The eastern, or windward side, of the island is the wetter side of the island, home to the lush Iao Valley and the scenic road to Hana. The cool, elevated slopes of Haleakala are where you can find the farms and gardens of Upcountry Maui and the soaring summit of Haleakala National Park. There is so much to see and do on Maui it’s best to plan ahead. 

Hotel - Kaanapali Beach Hotel

Nestled on eleven acres of tropical gardens along Maui’s renowned Kaanapali Beach, our hotel choice here was not difficult. Once again to compliment the exquisite location we've included a partial ocean view room and breakfast daily. We are sure during your stay here you will be absorbed into the Hawaiian Culture and appreciate what “Aloha” really feels like in the way that only locals can show you. Enjoy the little touches that you’d only find in any Hawaiian home, like bedspreads of Hawaiian quilt design and tropical furnishings and always, the warmth of a smile. Kaanapali Beach Hotel is true to it's word with a real family feel. With all the facilities you'd expect including a pool and spa we are confident we have once again found a hotel that strikes the balance between a good mid range beach side hotel and value for money. Maui is home to some of the worlds most luxurious hotels all of which the team here are familiar with. Whether you require information and prices on room upgrades at the Kaanapali Beach or would like to consider other hotels for your Maui stay they can offer you guidance and a tailored costing to meet your needs, this is all available on request.

Day 14 Arrival San Francisco

All too soon it's time to bid farewell to paradise. You will be collected from the hotel and taken to the International Airport for your 6 hour flight to San Francisco. Many people do not appreciate the distance between the Hawaiian Islands and the west coast of America. Flying from or home to the U.K. without breaking the journey on the west coast would involve around 17 hours of flying and usually a lot of waiting around in Los Angeles or San Francisco for connecting flights. It's for this reason we recommend a stop to appreciate the wonderful city of San Francisco but if you've been before or fancy something different as us about other options such as Los Angeles, Seattle or even Vancouver.

On arrival at San Francisco you might miss the lei Hawaiian greeting but at least we've got transport to your hotel sorted..

Hotel - Parc 55 Hotel

The Frank is a modern cosmopolitan styled boutique hotel in the heart of San Francisco at Union Square. Many people head for Fisherman's Wharf for hotels in San Francisco but we prefer Union Square. Feel the vibe of the city, enjoy the shopping board a cable car or one of the many bus tours. The hotel is a really neat little city hotel with nice touches such as iPod speaker docks in the rooms, complimentary wifi and flat screen TV's. It offers the perfect base from which to explore this fabulous city.

Day 15 San Francisco

Suggested activities (Not included in pre-paid cost)

Morning

This morning we suggest you take a city tour - especially if this is your first time to this fabulous city as it will allow you to get your bearings.

Afternoon 

Enjoy a quick 10-minute ferry ride to the centre of the San Francisco harbour to the infamous former prison island - Alcatraz. The visit includes a taped tour of the prison (once home to such famous criminals as gangster Al Capone and Machine Gun Kelly"). Note: We strongly suggest that you pre-book this very popular Alcatraz tour which in our opinion is not to be missed - let us know at time of booking.

Evening

Seafood dinner at one of many restaurants along the waterfront or at one of the trendy restaurants in the SoMa (South of Market) area! After dinner, enjoy a musical show, an American Conservatory Theatre performance or a comedy club, and a nightcap in one of the many rooftop cocktail lounges.

Hotel - Parc 55 Hotel

Morning 

Why not take a tour to Muir Woods, a forest of giant California redwood trees, which are some of the biggest trees in the world. On the way back it would be a great idea to stop for lunch and shopping in the beautiful little town of Sausalito. Return to San Francisco by ferry will give you some great photo opportunities of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz and the San Francisco skyline. If time permits take your own little walking tour of Chinatown with a dim sum lunch, check out Lombard Street, the windiest road in the world, and a stop at the San Francisco Cable Car Museuem is well worth it in our opinion.

Afternoon 

Free afternoon to shop! Explore Union Square's department stores, small boutiques and art galleries; visit the neighbourhood shopping areas South of Market or Union Street; take a five-minute walk from downtown to the Embarcadero Centre, a three-level, four-building complex of 150 shops. Shop at the many complexes in the Fisherman's Wharf area such as PIER 39, Ghirardelli Square and The Cannery and enjoy the musicians and street performers. Take a jeep tour of the area, or rent a bike and ride across the Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito and ferry back to San Francisco.

Evening

San Francisco has over 3,000 restaurants! Take your choice: For instance, an authentic Chinese banquet in Chinatown - the largest Asian settlement outside of mainland China, an elaborate Korean barbecue or an Italian feast in The City's Italian section, called "North Beach" or how about a dinner cruise on San Francisco Bay. Enjoy dinner and dancing to a live band as you cruise past The City's famous skyline at sunset.

PLEASE NOTE:

San Francisco is one of our favorite cities in the whole of North America and we would not recommend you spending any less than 3 nights in the city if this is your first visit. None of the tours or attractions mentioned in our suggested itinerary are included in your tour price, however, we would be very happy to make these arrangements on your behalf. In particular, as we have mentioned above, your visit to Alcatraz - as the ferry to the island can often be booked up days in advance during the height of the season.

There are numerous festivals going on throughout the year in San Francisco, art, film and dance festivals and this is in addition to a packed sport scene, which includes the world famous San Francisco 49’ers. We are happy to help our customers with purchasing tickets and advising on events taking place during your stay, please ask for details.

Hotel - Parc 55 Hotel

Non-stop flights to London Heathrow are offered with optional connections to regional airports across the U.K. available on request. Flight time to London Heathrow is 10 hours and 20 minutes. Flight departs San Francisco in the afternoon or evening and arrives into the U.K. the following morning or afternoon local time.

Day 1:

Arrive Auckland. See the Americas Cup village, view the city and harbour from the Sky Tower, take a boat trip to Waiheke Island or across to Devonport and visit the shops and cafes of Parnell Village.

Day 2:

Drive to Tairua on the Coromandel Peninsula (160 km, 100 miles, 2 hours). The Coromandel has beautiful golden beaches, great swimming and bush walks.

Day 3:

Take a picnic and explore the beaches to the north including Hot Water Beach where you can dig your own Spa Pool in the sand, Hahei and Cathedral Cove and Cooks Beach. From Cooks Beach, drive along to Ferry landing, leave your car here and take a short ferry ride across to Whitianga with a good selection of cafes and shopping and a walk along Buffalo Beach.

Day 4:

Travel from Tairua to Rotorua (160km, 3.5 hours)via Whangamata with it's 3.8km Ocean Beach with great surf and a relaxed holiday atmosphere. Travel onto Rotorua and relax in the Thermal baths or visit the Wai-otapu Thermal Reserve or the Waimangu Volcanic Valley.

Day 5:

Spend the day around the lakeside town of Rotorua. A helicopter trip to White Island, an active volcano is a highlight for many visitors, keen anglers will want to take a charter boat out on the lake and walking or cycling in the Whakarewarewa Forest is also recommended.

Day 6:

Fly from Rotorua to Nelson.Pick up your rental car here, visit the World of Wearable Arts Museum near the airport, visit Nelson town and then take a short (45 minute) drive onto your accommodation near Motueka.

Day 7:

Use today to visit the beautiful Abel Tasman National Park. Drive to Marahau via Kaiteriteri to the Southern entrance to the park and the base for sea kayaking, boat trips and walks. (NB. the Abel Tasman Park is the most visited in New Zealand and bookings are recommended for the summer months in particular).If time allows, the Pupu Walkway and Te Waikoropupu Springs, the clearest freshwater springs in the Southern Hemisphere, are well worth a detour.

Day 8:

Drive from Motueka to Punakaiki via Murchison and the mighty Buller River- allow 5 hours with stops. Just South of Westport, take a short detour out to Cape Foulwind and The award winning Bayhouse Cafe for stunning views and fantastic food. A little further down the road at Charleston you can take a rail trip through the limestone valley up the Nile River through stunning rainforest and this trip is also highly recommended. Take a walk down Trumans Track just north of Punakaiki is recommended at low tide and try to see the Pancake Rocks and blowholes at Dolomite Point at high tide. There are lots of good bush walks around the Paparoa National Park and the Fox River.

Day 9:

Drive to Fox Glacier with stops in Hokitika (shop for greenstone at The Jade factory)and Franz Josef (250 km, 4.5 hours). Plan to arrive at one of the two Glaciers by early afternoon - (Fox and Franz Josef are approximately 45 minutes' drive apart) Either walk to the base of the Glaciers or join one of the guided glacier walks, which accommodate every level of fitness and experience. A helihiking trip is well worthwhile where you are flown up onto the glacier and taken for a guided walk to explore ice caves and formations. This is also the best place to take a scenic flight over the alps and the view of Mt Cook and the glaciers from the air is most spectacular from the Western side of the mountains. There are nature walks and other attraction options available to enjoy the area - visit the Franz Josef Glacier Visitor Centre for more information.

Day 10:

If you didn't get a chance to fly to the glaciers the day before, book an early morning trip. Drive onto Wanaka (260km, 5.5 hours) via the spectacular Haast Pass and Lake Hawea. Wanaka is a sublime tourist town on the edge of the 4th largest lake in New Zealand. There is plenty to do here with great walks around the lake and mountains, fishing and boating available, scenic flights up to the Mt Aspiring National Park and good restaurants and cafes to enjoy the view from.

Day 11:

Travel to Te Anau via Queenstown - if you have a 4 wheel drive or are comfortable with steeper roads, the drive to Queenstown is most scenic through the Crown Range (1 hour). Take a short detour into Arrowtown for lunch, an historic and very pretty mining town.The drive from here to Te Anau is another 3 hours along the Southern arm of Lake Wakatipu. Te Anau is the gateway to the Fiordland National Parks and is well set up to cater for visitors keen to experience the wildlife and walking facilities in the area.

Day 12:

Options are driving into Milford Sound (leave as early as you can to beat the tour coaches which come down on day trips from Queenstown), taking a tour coach from TeAnau to Milford Sound.From Te Anau the road winds up the Eglington and Hollyford Valleys, then through the Homer Tunnel before being greeted by Mitre Peak towering from the glassy waters of Milford Sound. Boats cruise the full length of Milford Sound to the Tasman Sea, and stop at various points of interest along the way to view waterfalls and marine life. Cruises leave from the main wharf at Milford Sound.Another option is the spend the day visiting he deepest of all the fiords, Doubtful Sound has ancient rainforest and abundant wildlife. Virtually untouched by man, the Sound is a wonderful place to visit. Captain James Cook sighted the entrance to Doubtful Sound on his first voyage to New Zealand in 1770. He called the place Doubtful Harbour. Today one of the most popular of all Fiordland excursions is the return one-day trip from Manapouri to Doubtful Sound. Modern launches leave Pearl Harbour at Manapouri (20 minutes from Te Anau) and cross Lake Manapouri to West Arm, where visitors can see the West Arm Underground Power Station before heading over Wilmot Pass and on to Doubtful Sound.

Day 13:

Drive to Dunedin (290 km, 180 miles, 4 hours. If time allows, take a tour of the TeAnau Caves and glow worm grottos. The drive to Dunedin is through some of New Zealands most lush and fertile farmlands with many small prosperous rural towns along the way. The Moth Restaurant at Mandeville, 10 minutes out of Gore is a good late lunch stop and there is a vintage aircraft restoration workshop here with Tiger Moths a specialty.

Day 14:

Dunedin offers plenty for those interested in wildlife. We recommend you include a Monarch Wildlife Cruise to see the Royal Albatross colony and Yellow Eyed Penguin Reserve. Visit Larnarchs Castle and experience the history and atmosphere of this southern city with it's Scottish heritage.

Day 15:

Return to Christchurch (362 km, 225 miles, 4.5 hours)with stops at the Moeraki Boulders and Oamaru, known for its classical Victorian buildings made of a chalky limestone.Travel onto Christchurch and depart from here.