Day 1: Hanoi
Fly to Hanoi, former capital of French Indochina, then transfer to your hotel.* Check in for a 2-night stay, then relax or take a walk to stretch your legs and begin getting acquainted with the city.

Day 2: Hanoi
After breakfast, take a tour of this unique, thousand-year-old Asian capital where old and new combine in a lush setting of parks and lakes. Pass by the scenic Sword Lake on your way to the vast Ho Chi Minh Memorial, a complex dedicated to Vietnam’s 20th-century Communist leader. Then, spend some time in the excellent Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, where you learn about the cultural heritage of this multicultural country’s 50+ ethnic groups. Later, tour the notorious “Hanoi Hilton,” the facility where American POWs were held captive during the Vietnam War. Relax this afternoon before dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 3: Hanoi & Siem Reap
This morning, check out of your hotel and proceed to Hanoi’s Temple of Literature. Founded in 1070 as Vietnam’s first university, this mazelike compound features inviting courtyards, gateways, pavilions, walkways, lakes and a museum. Tour the facility and spend some free time enjoying attractions such as the Tortoise Steles, Sage Courtyard, Well of Heavenly Clarity, Lake of Literature and Constellation of Literature Pavilion.

This afternoon, take a short afternoon flight to Siem Reap in Cambodia. Check in to your hotel for a 3-night stay; tonight’s dinner is accompanied by a traditional Apsara dance show.

Day 4: Angkor Wat
Siem Reap is the gateway to Angkor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important archeological sites in the world. Begin your day with a visit to one of Angkor’s largest Khmer temples, Angkor Wat, built for King Suryavarman II in the 12th century A.D. With its beautiful proportions and extensive, intricate bas-relief stone carvings, it is one of the most spectacular sights in Southeast Asia. Spend some time exploring the fortified city of Angkor Thom, which houses several of Angkor’s most popular sights such as the Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper Kings with their dramatic bas reliefs.

Today you also visit the mysterious Bayon Temple, known for its giant, stone carved faces with their enigmatic smiles. Dine at a local restaurant and relax this evening.

Day 5: Angkor & Siem Reap
Today, continue your exploration of the temple ruins left behind by the mighty Khmer Empire, which ruled Cambodia from the early 9th century for some 400 years. Its founder, King Jayavarman II, was a contemporary of Charlemagne, and his dreams of empire were equally grandiose. At its zenith, the Khmer Empire covered most of the Indochinese Peninsula. Ride to the spectacular 10th-century Hindu temple Banteay Srey (“Citadel of Women”) to see magnificent carvings of Shiva and Vishnu. Then, journey to Ta Prohm, one of the most popular of the temples of Angkor. Unlike many other buildings, it has been largely left intact as it was when discovered, with trees and large shrubs growing over the ruins.

Return to Siem Reap this afternoon and learn how local crafts are alive and well in the modern-day city. Visit a vocational center that trains 650 young apprentices every year in the traditional crafts of stone sculpture, wood carving and painting; then take a guided tour through Artisans d’Angkor, a network of studios for the newly trained craftspeople. Mingle with the locals at some of Siem Reap’s open air markets or just relax before your final dinner in Siem Reap.

Day 6: Kampong Thom & Kampong Cham
After breakfast, check out of your Siem Reap hotel. A coach tour through the Cambodian countryside brings you to your ship in Kampong Cham, via the provincial capital of Kampong Thom. Due to its central location, this area is rapidly becoming an important hub for fishing and agriculture; it also has a rich archeological heritage, to which the 200 temples—some of which predate the Khmer empire—attest. This afternoon, board your ship; after you get settled in, meet the ship’s officers over a welcome cocktail.

Day 7: Kampong Cham
You will visit the hilltop temple of Wat Hanchey this morning, which affords stunning views of the Mekong River. The temple itself dates back to the 8th century and it is surrounded by smaller religious monuments dotting the hillsides. After lunch, visit the twin holy mountains of Phnom Pros and Phnom Srey with their many temples and pagodas, still used during traditional Khmer festivals. Continue to the ecotourism village of Choeungkok, supported by the French–Cambodian Amica organization.

Day 8: Phnom Penh
Dock along the lovely waterfront of Cambodia’s capital and explore the city in style, in a cyclo. This mode of transportation provides many Cambodians with a source of income and visitors with a speedy and enjoyable way to move around. See the magnificent Royal Palace with its spectacular Silver Pagoda, built in the 19th century by the French but inspired by the centuries-old architecture of the Khmer.

This afternoon, join an excursion to the sobering memorial in the Tuol Sleng detention center, a former high school in which thousands of victims of the murderous Khmer Rouge regime died, and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek, or explore the city’s maze of small alleys, markets and busy streets on your own if you prefer. Tonight’s dinner is accompanied by a folkloric performance.

Day 9: Phnom Penh
After breakfast, take a tour of the National Museum of Cambodia, which houses treasures of Khmer art and craftsmanship and also displays art that predates the mighty empire. After your museum visit, continue to the beautifully preserved 14th-century Buddhist temple of Wat Phnom, with more modern murals inside and a sanctuary dedicated to Lady Penh, said to be the founder of this temple. Take some free time for exploration or shopping before returning to your ship for lunch.

This afternoon there will be a presentation on board including a lecture on Cambodia’s history and culture and a film about the life of Pol Pot, leader of the infamous Khmer Rouge—or you are free to explore Phnom Penh’s historic riverfront area, with its restaurants, art galleries and silk shops, or perhaps visit the distinctive Central Market or the “Russian Market” where you can buy jewelry, curios, clothes and souvenirs. You might prefer to visit more of the city’s wats—Wat Langka, Wat Botum, Wat Koh or Wat Ounalom—each with its own special character and purpose. Dinner is served on board.

Day 10: Mekong River Scenic Cruising
Sail down the Mekong, one of the world’s great rivers, toward the Vietnamese border. The Mekong is truly the Mother River of Southeast Asia, sustaining civilizations through the centuries. Pass by some of the Mekong rice fields—the Khmer empire was founded on a rice surplus and rice is still the main staple of Vietnamese cuisine.

Day 11: Châu Ðôc & Cu Lao Gien
Begin your morning with a tour of the busy riverside port of Châu Ðôc riding a trishaw. Afterwards, board a small boat to visit a Cham tribal village. Descended from an ancient Malay-Polynesian empire that arrived in Southeast Asia during the 1st and 2nd centuries B.C., the Champa people competed with the Khmer for dominance of the area. Observe village life and visit a catfish farm.

In the afternoon, visit Cu Lao Gien Island where you see the monastery of St. Paul of Chartres, built in 1875 and later known as “la Providence.” Once a thriving mission with an orphanage, a hospital to treat leprosy victims, a school and a hospice, it serves today as a retreat for some 180 retired nuns. This evening, enjoy a screening of the film l’Amant (the Lover) which will prepare you for tomorrow’s visit to Sa Dec.

Day 12: Sa Dec & Cái Bè
In Sa Dec, you will see the house of Mr. Huynh Thuy Le, the protagonist in Marguerite Duras’s beloved autobiographical novel, l’Amant (The Lover). Duras, who grew up in what was then French Indochina, is one of France’s best-selling authors. Later today, board a sampan boat to explore the backwaters and canals of the Delta. Small factories line the river channels here; see local workers producing rice noodles, coconut candy and a host of other handmade products. Then, visit the colorful floating market of Cái Bè. This evening, attend an onboard screening of the 2002 film The Quiet American, based on Graham Greene’s novel set in 1952 Saigon.

Day 13: My Tho & Ho Chi Minh City
Bid farewell to your ship this morning as your cruise through Cambodia and Vietnam comes to an end. Disembark in My Tho, a busy river port not far from the capital of Southern Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon. Upon arrival, take a tour of Reunification Palace—the site of South Vietnam’s defeat. See the Central Post Office and Notre Dame Cathedral. After your tour, check in to your hotel for a 2-night stay, then spend the rest of the day at leisure, getting acquainted with this lively city at your own pace—see some of the historic French colonial architecture and soak up some of the city’s youthful energy. Tonight’s dinner is in a local restaurant.

Day 14: Ho Chi Minh City
After breakfast, begin another tour of this bustling metropolis with a visit to its historic center. Take a stroll along Dong Khoi Street, the main shopping boulevard in the old colonial heart. See the grand city hall, the old opera house with its soaring arched entryway, the Chinatown area and a Lacquer Factory. Complete your morning tour at Ben Thành Market.

This afternoon, get a different perspective on modern-day Vietnam at the War Remnants Museum, which provides a stark picture of the Vietnam War from a decidedly partisan point of view. The rest of your afternoon is free for exploring the city’s neighborhoods or doing a bit of last-minute shopping at the local markets before this evening’s festive final dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 15: Ho Chi Minh City
After breakfast, check out of your hotel and proceed to the airport for your return flight.

Day 1: Arrive Sydney
Upon arrival at Sydney airport, catch a taxi to your hotel. Unpack in your luxury hotel suite, as this will be your home for the next 4 days. Walk along the waterfront, enjoying your first evening of your Australia vacation.
Stay 4 nights: Sydney 5 star hotel

Day 2: Sydney Day Tour
Today you will be privileged to have your own personal tour of Sydney’s highlights. Learn the ins and outs of Australia’s most famous city from your knowledgeable and friendly guide. Homemade morning tea and lunch are provided. This evening, dine at one of Sydney’s premier restaurants or attend an event at the Opera House.

Day 3: Sydney at leisure
A day completely at your leisure, explore sights and museums you didn’t get a chance to see the day before. Spend some time window shopping or head over to Bondi Beach. Just be sure to get some rest this evening in preparation for your Blue Mountains adventure the following day.

Day 4: Blue Mountains
Early this morning, your tour guides will pick you up at your hotel. With a small group of fellow travelers you’ll journey to the Blue Mountains National Park. Today, you will see ancient Aboriginal sites, rock formations, native flora and fauna, and memorable lookouts. Enjoy a BBQ lunch, complete with Australia Wines and cheese. On the way back to your Sydney hotel, you’ll catch a glimpse of the site of the 2000 Olympic Games.

Day 5: Sydney to Cairns to Lizard Island
You will have a private transfer to the airport, where you will catch your flight from Sydney to Cairns. From Cairns, transfer to Lizard Island – your retreat for the next 3 days and nights.
Stay 3 nights: Lizard Island 5 star hotel

Day 6: Lizard Island at leisure
Lizard Island is Australia’s northernmost resort, a national park right on the Great Barrier Reef. Home to 24 beaches and a lagoon, your days will be filled with all types of water activities: snorkeling, diving, sailing, and/or traveling out in the Reef in a glass-bottomed boat.

Day 7: Lizard Island at leisure
Use your final day at Lizard Island to continue your activities from yesterday. Otherwise, consider bushwalking, fishing, or perhaps a relaxing massage.

Day 8: Lizard Island to Cairns
Fly back to Cairns and then north to your hotel at Palm Cove. Recognized as one of Australia’s best beaches, spend your day relaxing in the sun.
Stay: Cairns 5 star hotel

Day 9: Cairns to Adelaide
Catch your flight to South Australia’s largest city: Adelaide. An easy walk from your hotel is many of the city’s highlights and some great restaurants.
Stay: Adelaide 5 star hotel

Day 10: Adelaide to Kangaroo Island
A highlight of your trip will be visiting beautiful Kangaroo Island. The island is home to a concentrated abundance of wildlife you won’t find elsewhere in Australia. Some of the touring options include: Cliffords Honey Farm, Parndana Wildlife Park, Guided Tour of Seal Bay, Kangaroo Island Marine Center, Kelly Hill Caves, Flinders Chase National Park, Remarkable Rocks, Admiral’s Arch, Island Pure Sheep Dairy and Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Distillery
Stay 3 nights: Kangaroo Island 5 star hotel

Day 11: Kangaroo Island at leisure
Attend a yoga class, sit on the seafront with a watercolor kit, or fly a kite. Whatever you do, enjoy yourself!

Day 12: Kangaroo Island to Adelaide
Enjoy high tea and a game of croquet or go snorkeling. Otherwise, for an added cost, join a wildlife tour, have a massage, go scuba diving, or take cooking lessons.

Day 13: Return Home
Your vacation ends today upon return via transfers to Adelaide airport.

Day 1: Depart North America

Day 2: Enroute to Sydney

You will cross the International Dateline.

Day 3: Arrive Sydney

Welcome to the island continent of Australia! On arrival in Sydney, Australia’s largest city, we will be met and transferred to our hotel where a porter will assist. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Sydney, Australia’s gateway city and the capital of New South Wales, is a vibrant city of unsurpassed style and variety. Established in 1788 as a convict settlement, Sydney has grown from these humble beginnings to become Australia’s biggest, oldest and liveliest city and one of the great international cities of the world. Today, over 5 million people live in Sydney and its suburbs. Sydney is built around one of the largest and most beautiful natural harbours in the world. Miles of surfing beaches stretch north and south of the city on the shores of the Pacific Ocean.

The most famous of Sydney’s landmarks are the Harbour Bridge and the spectacular Opera House with its graceful ‘sails’ – the centre of Sydney’s cultural activities. Combined with a sunny climate and a relaxed outdoor lifestyle, Sydney is a magnet for the best the world has to offer.

We will have a Welcome to Australia dinner at the O’Bar & Dining Revolving Restaurant which is on the 48th Floor with breathtaking 360 degree views of Sydney. Dinner included.

Stay 3 nights: Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Sydney

Day 4: Sydney Sightseeing – City Tour / Sydney Opera House / Sunset Dinner Cruise

After a relaxing breakfast this morning at our hotel, we head out of downtown Sydney via the historic Rocks area and through the suburb of Paddington known for its turn-of-the century terraced houses before arriving at Sydney’s famous surfing mecca, Bondi Beach. Here we will enjoy a lifesaving demonstration followed by morning tea. Later, we return to the city following the scenic route through Watson Bay and Rose Bay before arriving at the Sydney Opera House for a guided walking tour followed by a ‘Tasting Plate’ lunch at the venue. The Opera House is Australia’s premier venue for the performing arts and home to the Australian Opera Company, the Australian Ballet, the Sydney Symphony Orchestra and the Sydney Theatre Company.

It was designed by Jorn Utzon, and, on completion in 1973, was officially opened by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Beneath the huge sail roofs are four major halls which are acoustically balanced to suit its own particular form of entertainment. In addition to the spectacular architecture, the appeal of the Opera House is its location on the harbour foreshores, bounded by the Botanical Gardens, Circular Quay and overlooked by the Harbour Bridge. At completion of the tour, we will return to our hotel and have free time until the late afternoon.

Early this evening, we will take a short stroll to Circular Quay where we will join Captain Cook’s Sunset Private Dinner Cruise on Sydney Harbour which departs at 5:00PM. Relax and enjoy the sights of Sydney’s foreshore suburbs and the upper and lower reaches of Sydney Harbour while enjoying a unique dining experience. We then cruise past Fort Denison, a fortress island also known as “Pinchgut,” where convicts prone to escaping were detained on a diet of bread and water. Looking back at the city skyline we gain a totally different perspective of Sydney’s best known landmarks – the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. At the end of the cruise, which concludes at 6:30PM, it is just a short stroll back to our hotel for a free evening. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included.

Day 5: Blue Mountains

A full day tour today takes us to the Blue Mountains outside of Sydney. On arrival into the small town of Leura, we will visit the Tea Pot Museum and have morning tea. Afterwards, we have rides on the Skyway, a glass bottomed aerial cable car and the Scenic Cableway, the steepest aerial cable car in Australia followed by a short walk through the Cold Mountain Rainforest. We then stop for a 2 course lunch after which we head to one of the lookout points to experience the full beauty of the Blue Mountains. The views from the park’s lookouts are magnificent; we will look out over hazy blue forests, waterfalls and interesting rock formations.

To end our stay in the Blue Mountains, we visit the Mount Tomah Botanical Gardens and relax with a glass of sparkling wine while viewing its beautiful landscaped gardens and spectacular vistas. We return to Sydney in the late afternoon. Breakfast and Lunch included.

Day 6: Fly Sydney to Cairns (Palm Cove)

This morning we transfer to Sydney Airport for our flight to Cairns.

Cairns is a modern, vibrant city and the unofficial capital of tropical North Queensland. Not only is the city the gateway to two amazing natural wonders, the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree National Park, it is also connected to a strong Aboriginal Culture and historical links to WW II and the battles for the Pacific.

This evening we are transferred to the Tjapukai by Night and you are taken you on a magical adventure into the legends of Australia’s dreamtime. Enter another world as Australia’s Aboriginal culture is brought to life through a series of award winning performances as you feast on modern cuisine from the Far North. Enjoy a welcome drink on arrival before the performers lead a didgeridoo blessing ceremony followed by a spectacular fire performance and cultural dance celebration. If you are keen, you can even take to the stage to learn a traditional dance yourself! This evening of entertainment is complemented by a delicious dinner, photo opportunity with the Tjapukai warriors & even time to shop in the retail gallery full of authentic souvenirs. Breakfast and Dinner included.  Stay 3 nights: Pullman Palm Cove Sea Temple Resort and Spa.

Day 7: Full Day Kuranda Rail/Rainforestation Tour

After breakfast, we board the train for one of the most spectacular journeys in Australia. We will enjoy “Royale Champagne Service” as the train slowly winds its way up the epic pioneer track with every turn revealing a new panorama – sugar plantations, Barron Falls and Stoney Creek Falls. Our Royale service includes champagne and orange juice which we can sip while we listen to the informative commentary as the majesty of this area unfolds.

On arrival into Kuranda Station – a cool, tropical environment of native shrubs, ferns and flowers – we meet up with our coach driver for the short transfer to Kuranda Village, where we will have some free time to browse around the quaint township before enjoying lunch at Frog’s Restaurant. After lunch, we head to our next adventure at Rainforestation.

Our visit includes the Pamagirri Aboriginal Dancers who perform in the Rainforest Amphitheatre, a guided Dreamtime Walk, a boomerang throwing demonstration and an exciting ride on an amphibious army duck for an informative tour through the rainforest. Later we will also have the opportunity to visit the native animal enclosure to meet “Matilda”, “Walter” and “Kiah” – our three koalas who are proudly sponsored by Goway Travel. From Rainforestation, we take our coach back down to Palm Cove and the hotel.

Tonight enjoy a sumptuous 3 course dinner at the hotel.

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included.

Day 8: Full Day Great Barrier Reef

Another great day today as we board our coach and take the scenic drive to Port Douglas. On arrival, we enjoy a full day of cruising on the Great Barrier Reef on a Sailaway cruise. This will be a day to remember with a reef and island cruise to the Low Isles, an unchanged coral cay on Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. Low Isles is situated on a large oval 200 hectare coral platform and consists of a small coral cay, a large mangrove island, mudflats, seagrass beds, and coral reefs. The islands are surrounded by 5.5 acres of coral reef very close to the islands making it an ideal area for snorkelers. Living among the corals in the blue lagoon are a large variety of reef fish including angelfish, damselfish, anemones, giant trevally, sweetlip, fusiliers and many green turtles.

The vessel moors up in the sheltered blue lagoon for 4.5 hours. From here, you can join the guided snorkel tour and relax or explore the island. You can experience a trip on the glass bottom boat viewing incredible coral and fish. The tour includes a delicious buffet lunch including fresh garden salads, cold meats, prawns and tropical fruits. After a great day on the reef just laze on the deck as we sail back to Port Douglas.

There is a guided snorkel tour and the equipment will be available with instruction and water assistance if you would like to participate. For all today’s options, we strongly recommend you take a hat and plenty of sunscreen lotion. This evening is at our leisure. Breakfast and Lunch included.

Day 9:  Fly Cairns to Ayers Rock

A box breakfast is arranged by the hotel due to an early flight this morning. This morning we transfer to the airport for our flight to the “Red Centre” of Australia and Ayers Rock. Upon arrival into Ayers Rock Airport, our coach will be waiting to transfer us out to the Olgas also known in the Aboriginal language as “Kata Tjuta” translated as “many heads.” The Olgas are a collection of smaller, more rounded rocks, located 32km to the west of Ayers Rock. Each of the 36 domes has a story in mythology and is of significance to the Aboriginal Dreamtime (legends).

Before heading to the hotel, we stop at the Cultural Centre for lunch (at own expense).

We have time to freshen up at our hotel before being transferred to the site of the amazing Sounds of Silence Dinner Experience. This evening we will absorb the haunting sounds of the didgeridoo and dine, al fresco, on true outback cuisine whilst witnessing the sunset. After a feast of Northern Territory delights including barramundi, kangaroo, emu, crocodile, bush salads, and classic Australian desserts, we will then be treated to some of the world’s best stargazing before returning to our hotel.

Breakfast and Dinner included. Stay: Desert Gardens Hotel 1 night.

Day 10: Coach Ayers Rock/Alice Springs

We have an early start this morning for our Sunrise Base Tour of Ayers Rock with tea and coffee. The Rock has become one of the symbols of Australia that is recognized everywhere in the world. Nothing can give a sense of its size except standing beneath the towering 348 meters wall of rock.

As we tour the Rock’s base with our knowledgeable driver/guide, we will fully appreciate not only its size but also the way it appears to continually change. From one angle it looks almost like a huge box; from another, it sprawls elegantly across the plain. After sunrise and the base tour, we will return to the hotel for a well-deserved breakfast.

After breakfast, we join our coach for the journey to Alice Springs via the Lasseter and Stuart Highways. Places of interest along the way include Curtin Springs Station and Roadhouse, one of the largest in the district, and Mt. Connor, a large rock formation which is often mistaken for Ayers Rock and is visible from the roadside. A lunch-stop will be made enroute (own expense).

This evening, we enjoy an exciting Outback experience at the Mbantua Sunset and Starlight Dinner under the Milky Way! Here we have a chance to take in some spectacular scenery while getting some insights into bush foods and Aboriginal culture while enjoying a delicious meal prepared by an Aboriginal Master Bush Chef. Breakfast and Dinner included.  Stay: DoubleTree by Hilton Alice Springs, 1 night.

Day 11: Fly Alice Springs to Adelaide

Our morning begins with a tour of Alice Springs, the main service centre for the vast Outback region. Alice Springs is set against the rugged mountain backdrop of the magnificent MacDonnell Ranges 1500kms from the nearest capital city. ‘Alice’ was originally known as Stuart Town after the first European who, on his fifth attempt to cross Australia from Adelaide to Darwin surveying the route for the Overland Telegraph Line, discovered the spectacular mountain range now known as the MacDonnell Ranges. The largest of the many repeater Telegraph Stations completed in 1872, it was situated at Stuart Town, later renamed Alice Springs after the Postmaster’s wife.

Our tour includes visits to the Royal Flying Doctor Service to see how this marvelous facility operates to provide a “Mantle of Safety” to the people of the Outback as well as a visit to the School of the Air. After our tour, we transfer to the airport for our flight to Adelaide in the state of South Australia. On arrival, we are met and transferred to our hotel. Dinner is included at our hotel this evening.

GHAN OPTION (must be pre-booked):

Our morning begins with a tour of Alice Springs, the main service centre for the vast Outback region. Alice Springs is set against the rugged mountain backdrop of the magnificent MacDonnell Ranges 1500 kms from the nearest capital city. ‘Alice’ was originally known as Stuart Town after the first European who, on his fifth attempt to cross Australia from Adelaide to Darwin surveying the route for the Overland Telegraph Line, discovered the spectacular mountain range now known as the MacDonnell Ranges. The largest of the many repeater Telegraph Stations completed in 1872, it was situated at Stuart Town, later renamed Alice Springs after the Postmaster’s wife.

Our tour includes visits to the Royal Flying Doctor Service to see how this marvelous facility operates to provide a “Mantle of Safety” to the people of the Outback as well as a visit to the School of the Air. After our tour, we transfer to the train station in time to board the world famous Ghan for our overnight journey through the remote outback region to Adelaide. This is one of the world’s great and legendary train journeys. This famous train was named after the Afghan Cameleers and their camel trains, the most efficient transport through the desert in the late 1800s, linking Central Australia and other parts of the continent. After settling into our first class berths, lunch will be served as the train pulls out of Alice Springs Station. Relax and enjoy the rhythm of the rails for the afternoon before our dinner sitting in the comfortable dining car.  Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included. Stay 2 nights Hilton Adelaide.

Day 12: Adelaide Sightseeing

Breakfast is at your leisure this morning. We then join our coach late morning and head to the train station to pick up our Ghan passengers. Once our group is back together, we head to the Adelaide Hills and the historic village of Hahndorf for wine tasting and a 2 course lunch at Maximilian’s, a superb restaurant where you will delight in the sweeping views over the lake and vineyard. We also visit the National Wine Centre in Adelaide, where it boasts Australia’s largest tasting room experience with visitors able to sample 120 different wines, thanks to the installation of state-of-the-art Enomatic wine preservation and dispensing machines. The remainder of the evening is at leisure.

GHAN OPTION (must be pre-booked):

Enjoy breakfast this morning on the train before arriving into Adelaide Station. After disembarking, we meet up with the rest of our group and head to the Adelaide Hills and the historic village of Hahndorf for wine tasting and a 2 course lunch at Maximilian’s, a superb restaurant where you will delight in the sweeping views over the lake and vineyard. We also visit the National Wine Centre in Adelaide, where it boasts Australia’s largest tasting room experience with visitors able to sample 120 different wines, thanks to the installation of state-of-the-art Enomatic wine preservation and dispensing machines. The remainder of the evening is at leisure.  Stay: Hilton Adelaide, 1 Night.  Breakfast & Lunch included.

Day 13: Fly Adelaide to Melbourne

This morning, we transfer to Adelaide airport for our flight to Melbourne. On arrival in Melbourne, we are transferred to our hotel for check-in and freshening up before starting our city tour. Melbourne is a magnet for people because its distinctive characteristics create memorable experiences and a vibrant lifestyle. Encircled by parkland, Melbourne is the cultural capital of Australia with everything from grand opera to sidewalk art. The city is rich in its multi-cultural identity, classic buildings, beautiful parks and gardens, sophisticated dining and enviable shopping. Later, we travel to Phillip Island to enjoy watching the little penguins return from their day at sea as dusk falls over Summerland Beach during what is known as the Penguin Parade. The sight of the little penguins waddling along the beach to their burrows is utterly priceless. We then enjoy a 3 course dinner at Harry’s on the Esplanade before returning to Melbourne.

Later, we travel to Phillip Island to enjoy watching the little penguins return from their day at sea as dusk falls over Summerland Beach during what is known as the Penguin Parade. The sight of the little penguins waddling along the beach to their burrows is utterly priceless. We then enjoy a 3 course dinner at Harry’s on the Esplanade before returning to Melbourne.

Breakfast and Dinner included. Accommodation: Crown Promenade Hotel, 2 nights.

Day 14: Melbourne Sightseeing

This morning, we discover the secrets and hidden treasures of Melbourne’s lanes and arcades on a walking tour. We will immerse ourselves in the heritage and culture of this cosmopolitan city, visit local artisans and up and coming fashion designers. Join the café society and soak up the atmosphere of old world charm as well as discover a little history, architecture, street art and more! There will be a tea/coffee stop in the middle in addition to bottled water and chocolate tasting.

Our afternoon is free to explore Melbourne on our own. Early evening, enjoy a dinner on board the converted air-conditioned 1927 tram that has become The Colonial Tramcar Restaurant. The atmosphere is cozy, the service friendly and the food a culinary delight. As you cruise the scenic streets of Melbourne, enjoy a 3 course dinner with wine and a trip into a little piece of history .Breakfast and Dinner included.

Day 15:  Depart Melbourne

This morning, enjoy breakfast and your farewells to the group before you are transferred to Melbourne Airport for your onward flight home. Breakfast included.