Freedom of Choice Touring

New for 2011 is the Freedom of Choice Touring in cities:  Moscow, St Petersburg, Beijing, Xian, Bombay, Delhi and Calcutta

When onboard the train, choose from a  variety of excursion options for the following day's tour. This means that you will receive an even greater degree of flexibility that best suits your interests whilst on tour and it's all included in the price, with no more to pay.

Some examples are:

MOSCOW - Option 1: Red Square featuring St Basil's Cathedral and the Kremlin. Option 2: Tretyakov Art Gallery
BEIJING - Option 1: Ancient Beijing with a visit to the Forbidden City. Option 2: Modern Beijing including the 'Birds Nest' Olympic Stadium
XIAN - Option 1: Terracotta Warriors. Option 2: Han Yangling Museum
DELHI - Option 1: Tour of Old Delhi.  Option 2: Visit to the National Museum of India

The Silk Road
Retracing one of the most important trading routes of ancient civilisation, the Silk Road follows in the footsteps of such legendary figures as Alexander the Great and Marco Polo. For centuries, merchants and adventurers journeyed to and from China on ancient routes through some of the most testing landscapes in the world trading silk, spices and perfumes. These ‘highways’ – stretching some 4,000 miles – collectively came to be called the ‘Silk Road’.

Crossing both Russia and China as well as some of the remotest former Soviets Republics – Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan – our epic journey on board the Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express through Russia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan and the Shangri-La Express from the Kazakh border, across the Gobi Desert and onwards to Beijing through an ever changing landscape will take in some of the most magnificent yet little visited sights and oasis cities from the ancient world.

We travel a total of 11,000kms (6,800 miles) across 5 countries and 6 time zones through areas only accessible by train. Whilst the journey may present great difficulties for the independent traveller, our tour provides the opportunity to travel in comfort and safety. A true feeling of adventure and pioneering awaits on this unique 21 day tour by private train.

A TASTE OF THE SILK ROAD

Experience a taste of the Silk Road with our short tour options. Travel on the Golden Eagle between Moscow and Almaty (13 days) on a Russia and Central Asia tour – or experience just the China sector from Urumchi to Beijing (9 days) on the Shangri-La Express

Day 1, Moscow

Arrive at Moscow airport, where you are met and transferred to the luxurious five-star Marriott Royal Aurora hotel (or similar) located in the heart of this vibrant city for a two-night stay.  We enjoy a welcome dinner at our hotel, whilst you meet your fellow travellers and, together, look forward to the 21 day voyage that lies ahead.

Day 2, Moscow

Our city tour of Moscow principally takes us to Red Square, an iconic symbol of Russia’s former military and political might. Here we see an eclectic mix of fascinating architecture, such as the ornate St Basil’s Cathedral with its magnificent onion-domed spires, the grandeur of The Kremlin and the sombre and evocative site of Lenin’s tomb. 

Day 3, Onboard

In the morning of Day 3, we board the Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express.  After settling into our modern, stylish cabins, we enjoy dinner in one of the beautifully designed restaurant cars as our rail journey to Beijing begins.

Day 4, Volgograd

Standing on the banks of the Volga, Stalingrad, as the city was known in Soviet times, was the dramatic scene of one of the most important Second World War battles. The Russians heroically turned back the Nazi advance here to alter the course of the war.  We visit the poignantly sobering Mamayev Kurgan war memorial, followed by the informative diorama and absorbing museum visit.  In the evening we enjoy a beautifully prepared dinner on board our private train.

Day 5, Kara Kum

Today, we enjoy a relaxing day onboard as we travel across the vast expanses of the Kara Kum desert.  As well as experiencing the unique landscape, we can take the opportunity to chat to fellow passengers and maybe take our first Russian language lesson.

Day 6, Khiva

Crossing into Uzbekistan, our train travels towards Urgench, where we transfer to the ancient city of Khiva, founded 2,500 years ago.  As one of the Silk Road’s most important trading posts and now a World Heritage Site, it lies at the crossroads of the routes between Mongolia, Russia, China and Persia.  A truly magnificent sight to behold, it rises out of the desert to reveal a wealth of impressive architecture.  Stepping back in time, we discover its impressive mosques, bazaars and minarets within Khiva’s ancient walls.

Day 7, Ashgabat

In dramatic contrast to Khiva, we arrive in Ashgabat, capital of Turkmenistan - the ‘Las Vegas of the Kara Kum’.  Situated between the Kara Kum Desert and the Kopet Dag mountain range, its fountains, golden domes and towering modern buildings appear strangely incongruous in this desert setting.

Day 8, Merv

Early morning sees us arrive in Mary, where we transfer to the ancient and mainly unrestored city of Merv. Once an important stopping point on the Silk Road, it claims to have briefly been the largest city in the world during the twelfth century.  1794 saw the demise of Merv, after the Emir of Bukhara destroyed the dam which the population depended on for its water.  After our fascinating exploration we return to our train for dinner.

Day 9, Bukhara

Bukhara is quite simply outstanding. Like Khiva, UNESCO backed the renovation of much of the city for its 2,500th anniversary in 1999.  The highlight of this wonderful tour is a visit to The Ark, a fortified residence of the Emirs of Bukhara - the despotic and ruthless leaders who ruled until Soviet times. We then travel out of the city to experience the Emir’s enchantingly named, Palace of the Moon and Stars.

Day 10, Samarkand

Founded in the 6th Century BC, Samarkland’s stunning architecture hints at its former status as one of the most important cities in Asia.  Today we will visit some of its most significant sites including Registan Square, the refined elegance of the beautifully proportioned Bibi Khanum Mosque and the Ulag Beg observatory, one of the earliest Islamic astronomical observatories built in 1428. After dinner we will visit the illuminated and awe-inspiring Registan Square before returning to our train for a late evening departure.

Day 11, Tashkent

Today we arrive in the capital city of Uzbekistan and spend the morning touring this modern Soviet-style city which was rebuilt following the devastating earthquake of 1966.  We re-board the train for lunch as we head towards Kazakhstan and Almaty.  This afternoon gives us the opportunity to relax with friends or listen to one of the informative lectures designed to give us a greater insight into this fascinating region.

Day 12, Almaty

Just before lunch we arrive in Almaty – the largest city in Kazakhstan. This beautifully verdant city derives its name from ‘Alma’ meaning ‘apple’.  Just a short distance from the city, apple orchards thrive in abundance. Surrounded by the majesty of the Tien Shen Mountains, we will enjoy a traditional lunch in a Kazak ‘yurt’, a dwelling place of this region’s nomadic people.  Tonight is our final evening onboard the Golden Eagle and will be marked by a farewell banquet.

Day 13, Crossing into China

As we arrive at the Kazakh border of Druzhba, we bid the Golden Eagle a final farewell. The border crossing takes 5 hours but our patience is rewarded as the Shangri-La Express private train awaits us in Alanshankou, the Chinese border station.  We are now at liberty to settle into our comfortable cabins as we head further into the intriguing landscape of China.  A welcome dinner is served in the restaurant cars, giving us our first taste of authentic Chinese cuisine.

Day 14, Urumchi & Turpan

Urumchi is located in a verdant oasis between the lofty ice capped Bogda Peak, the vast Salt Lake, the pine covered Southern Hill and the alternating fields and sand dunes of the Zunggar Basin.  Urumchi boasts an entry in the Guinness Book of Records for being the city furthest from any sea in the world – a staggering 1,400 miles (2,500km) from the nearest coastline. This morning we visit the renowned mummy exhibition at the Provincial Museum.  After lunch we travel to Turpan, where the Flaming Mountains create a magnificent backdrop. We then take a fascinating tour to the ancient underground irrigation system that has successfully fed the rich orchards and vineyards for centuries.  Our final destination is the elegantly decaying sand city of Jiaohe that was founded in 108 BC.  

Day 15, Dunhuang

Before lunch we arrive in the small oasis-city of Dunhuang, where we will visit the fascinating Magao Thousand Buddha Cave Complex. This impressive site contains almost 500 grottoes, carved between 700 and 1,700 years ago.  Inside we will see an amazing collection of beautiful sculptures and murals depicting the evolution of Buddhist religious art over a 1,000 year period.  In the afternoon we explore the vast natural beauty of the Gobi Desert by camel.  Here we discover Crescent Lake.  Hidden amongst towering sand dunes, it has sustained life in this region for millennia.  Tonight we experience dinner and a local folk performance in this magical setting.

Day 16, Jiayuguan

This morning our private train arrives in Jiayuguan.  Famous for being the first pass at the most westerly point of the Great Wall of China, it was given the rather poetic name:  ‘The first and greatest pass under Heaven’.  Our tour takes us to the perfectly restored fortress at the end of the Great Wall which dates back to 1372.  Considered one of the greatest sites in northwest China, we spend time here and visit its excellent museum. This afternoon we spend time in the Bar Car either attending a lecture on the Great Wall or simply relax as the landscape unfolds before us.

Day 17, Xian – Terracota Warriors

Our fascinating journey of discovery takes us to Xian.  Our morning arrival gives us several hours to explore the world famous Terracotta Warriors, discovered by peasants only 30 years ago.  The 6,000 terracotta figures and their horses are one of the greatest archaeological finds of the 20th Century.  This evening we enjoy the Tang Dynasty Dinner, Music and Dance Show, a wonderful performance of ancient entertainment.

Day 18, Beijing

Spending our last day onboard the Shangri-La Express we wind our way northwards towards the capital of China, Beijing.  Having travelled a mammoth 7,000 miles (11,250km) from Moscow, we bid farewell to our train crew and transfer to the five-star Regent Hotel (or similar) for a three-night stay.

Day 19, Beijing

Today we visit Tiananmen Square and then explore the magnificently restored Forbidden City. Our cultural exploration continues at the Temple of Heaven, the grandest of the four great temples situated in Beijing.  Here we experience enchanting displays of traditional dancing, singing and the delicately precise ancient art of calligraphy.

Day 20, Beijing – The Great Wall

We devote our final full day in Beijing to the most awe-inspiring site in the whole of China - The Great Wall.  This amazing edifice is one of the few man-made structures visible from outer space and perhaps the most evocative symbol of Chinese skill and precision. At Badaling we have the privilege of walking along a portion of the wall – the perfect opportunity to take some memorable photographs with your fellow guests. Our farewell banquet is hosted in an authentic Peking Duck restaurant, where we say goodbye to our fellow travelling companions.

Day 21, Beijing

Following breakfast, you will be transferred to Beijing airport for international departures.

MARRIOT ROYAL AURORA, MOSCOW *****

Experience a wonderful mix of traditional and modern Moscow at the exquisite 5 star Marriott Royal Aurora Hotel during our 2 night stay as we look forward to our Silk Road journey. Located in Moscow city centre, within walking distance of world-renowned Red Square and Bolshoi Theatre, Marriott Moscow Royal Aurora offers spacious accommodation with Butler service for each guest room - the only hotel in Moscow to offer this fine service.

Other amenities include in-room safe, mini-bar, WI FI Internet access, and DVD player. The Polo Club Restaurant features a wonderful selection of steaks and international wines and Aurora offers a la carte lunch and dinner and an extravagant breakfast buffet under a 5-story atrium.

After sightseeing, rejuvenate your body and spirit at the 24-hour fitness gym and indoor pool.

HOTEL REGENT, BEIJING *****

Located in the historical centre of China’s capital, Beijing, we spend the final 3 nights of our Silk Road odyssey at the 5 star Regent Beijing hotel which boasts 500 luxuriously appointed guest rooms in the very centre of the city.

This luxury Beijing hotel is minutes from the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, Wangfujing shopping, the Oriental Plaza and picturesque hutongs. With five restaurants and lounges, a full service spa, fitness centre, indoor pool and renowned service, the Regent is the perfect hotel in Beijing, China for pampered luxury.

EXTEND YOUR STAY

Extend your 'Voyage of a Lifetime by Private Train' with one of our fantastic tour extensions. Every tour extension can be tailor-made so it can meet your own individual requirements so whether you are interested in art, history or nature we can create the perfect short-break extension just for you.

MOSCOW

Spend extra time in the beautiful and vibrant Russian capital. In addition to the excursion that we provide as part of the main tour you may want to extend your time in Moscow and perhaps take in a tour of Moscow's underground metro stations, designed by prominent Russian architects, artists and sculptors; visit the famous Tretyakov State Art Gallery; or even spend a cultural evening at the Bolshoi Theatre.

ST PETERSBURG

The Imperial Capital City of St Petersburg is one of the world's most stunning cities. St Petersburg is crowded with splendid palaces, impressive historical monuments, wide boulevards and beautiful bridges. We can arrange for you to spend time in central St. Petersburg visiting the Hermitage Museum and St Isaac’s Cathedral plus visits to the Grand Palace and Gardens in Peterhof and Catherine's Palace in Pushkin.

THE GOLDEN RING

The famous Golden Ring is made up of a number of cities north and east of Moscow. These ancient towns, which played a significant role in the formation of the Russian Orthodox Church, preserve the memory of the most important and significant events in Russian history. These towns have been called 'open air museums' and feature unique examples of Russian architecture dating back to the 12th century, including kremlins, monasteries, cathedrals and churches. We visit Sergiev Posad, Vladimir and Suzdal which are among the most picturesque towns in Russia and prominently feature Russia's famous onion-domed churches.

SHANGHAI AND THE 2010 WORLD EXPO

Shanghai, the largest city in China, has fully embraced modernity and technology and is host to the 2010 World Expo. The city radiates a cosmopolitan character, marked by contemporary urban living, futuristic skyscrapers, and a bustling financial district. The famous Bund, with its colonial waterfront architecture, stretches for a mile along the bank of the Huangpu River and faces the modern Pudong district on the other side. Once a small fishing village in the 1800s, Shanghai transformed into the most cultured city in China in the 1930s and became known as the ‘Paris of the East’. You will be provided with entrance tickets to the World Expo for a day.

CHINA TOURS

Experience the many other amazing sites in China, including but not limited to Hangzhou, Guilin, Tibet, Yellow Mountain, Yangtz Cruise... We can organise private or group tours to most destination in China you wish to visit.

Eastbound – 21 day itinerary

MOSCOW – VOLGOGRAD – KARA KUM – KHIVA – ASHGABAT – MERV – BUKHARA – SAMARKAND – TASHKENT – ALMATY – URUMCHI – TURPAN – DUNHUANG – JIAYUGUAN – XIAN - BEIJING

2012 EASTBOUND TOUR September 21 – October 11

 TOUR INCLUDES

• 2 nights in Moscow
• 10 nights onboard the Golden Eagle
• 5 nights onboard the Shangri-La Express
• 3 nights in Beijing
• See below for full list of inclusions

* Save 50% off Single Supplements

The single supplement is the difference between twin share and single occupancy prices.

The offer on a small number of cabins is available until sold out on a first come, first served basis.  

RATES

Notes:
-  AUD rates are converted from USD, subject to exchange rate fluctuation.
- Single rates available on requets
   You dont have to pay a single supplement if you are willing to share your cabin with another traveller.
   If GW Travel is unable to find you another person to share, you will get a cabin for single occupancy at no additional charge.

TOUR EXTENSION OPTIONS

• Imperial City of St Petersburg
• Golden Ring
• China Tours
  

OPTIONAL EXTRA

Book the Silver cabin on the Golden Eagle and upgrade to 2 x Heritage Cabins on the Shangri-La Express for an additional cost of US$1900 per person

WHAT'S INCLUDED IN THIS TOUR

As far as possible GW tours are all inclusive with no hidden extras. What follows are those elements which are included in the tour price. The only extra items you may need to budget for include personal expenses such as visa costs, insurance, drinks from the bar car, laundry, spa treatments, hairdressing and occasional optional off-train excursions.

EXPERIENCED TOUR MANAGERS
The tour managers and their assistants are selected for their travel knowledge and organisational abilities allowing you to relax and enjoy your voyage of a lifetime. Their aim is to ensure you enjoy every minute of your holiday.

ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE TRANSFERS
They are included.

HOTEL AND ONBOARD ACCOMMODATION
Although you will spend much of your time sightseeing or relaxing in the train’s public areas, you will find you hotel room or cabin a welcome retreat at the end of a rewarding day. Hotel and onboard accommodation as described in your individual tour itinerary are included in the tour price. All hotels are of 5 star standard or, in certain locations, the best available. Room upgrades are available on request and at extra cost.

WELCOME AND FAREWELL DINNERS
Each tour begins with a Welcome Dinner, an ideal opportunity to get to know your fellow passengers; for the Tour Manager to brief you on the trip; and introduce you to the GW Travel team and the Tour Doctor. The Farewell Dinner is the perfect end to your adventure by private train where you can relive the journey and look ahead to future tours.

ROUTE GUIDE, ITINERARY AND INFORMATION PACK
When you board the train there will be a brochure in your cabin detailing more about your journey and the places en-route. Our Tour Manager will organise a programme of briefings on the cities or places we visit and, each evening, will issue a programme for the next day’s touring schedule.

BREAKFAST, LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY
All departures feature one or two uniquely designed restaurant cars where you can enjoy the excellent waiter-served food and wine. Several times during the tour we will also sample authentic local cuisine off the train.

DRINKS WITH MEALS
A generous drinks allowance is included with lunch and dinner. For passengers travelling in Gold Class onboard the Golden Eagle, drinks from the Standard Drinks List in the Bar Car are also included.

ON BOARD SERVICE
Throughout your tour you can expect service which is attentive, friendly and unintrusive. The high ratio of staff to passengers means there is always someone available should you need assistance.

GUIDED OFF-TRAIN EXCURSIONS
All our tours include a wide-ranging sightseeing schedule to make the most of the time you have off the train and bring you closer to the culture, people and history of your destinations. We believe it is the special little touches that help create magical memories – whether it is attending a private concert in the middle of Siberia, or drinking tea picked from the very plantations where you are sitting, nestled in the foothills of the mighty Himalayas.

PERSONAL HEADSETS
On all the off–train excursions, to enhance your enjoyment and comprehension of the places you visit, you will be provided with a lightweight personal headset on which to listen to your tour guide as you take in the sights. So you do not need to worry about missing any of the interesting details on your excursions.

ON BOARD DOCTOR AND MEDICAL FACILITIES
To give you peace of mind, a doctor will travel with the group for the entire journey; so you can rest assured that medical assistance is always available. On call 24 hours a day, the doctor is on hand to give primary care as required. Normally, the doctor will be English speaking and be registered with the General Medical Council in the UK.

24 HOUR SERVICE ATTENDANT
Your car attendants provide 24-hour housekeeping and bedding turndown services, with one attendant always on duty to assist you and to ensure you are comfortable in your cabin. Complimentary tea, coffee and bottled drinking water are available in your cabin 24 hours a day.

PORTERAGE
Porterage is included between the hotels and stations.

ALL GRATUITIES
All gratuities are included in the tour price.