Campania Italy Best in Travel 2013

Campania is home to Italy’s most sumptuous stretch of coastline (the Amalfi Coast), one of its most mind-blowing and ebullient cities (Naples), the menacing beauty of Mt Vesuvius, and the frozen-in-lava ancient Roman city of Pompeii. This year it is receiving an enormous injection of cash as part of its role in hosting the UN’s fourth Universal Forum of Cultures from April to July. Events will include art exhibitions from all five continents, music, cinema, dance, street artists and theatre, circus acts, food markets and workshops.Campania is home to Italy’s most sumptuous stretch of coastline (the Amalfi Coast), one of its most mind-blowing and ebullient cities (Naples), the menacing beauty of Mt Vesuvius, and the frozen-in-lava ancient Roman city of Pompeii. This year it is receiving an enormous injection of cash as part of its role in hosting the UN’s fourth Universal Forum of Cultures from April to July. Events will include art exhibitions from all five continents, music, cinema, dance, street artists and theatre, circus acts, food markets and workshops.Campania is home to Italy’s most sumptuous stretch of coastline (the Amalfi Coast), one of its most mind-blowing and ebullient cities (Naples), the menacing beauty of Mt Vesuvius, and the frozen-in-lava ancient Roman city of Pompeii. This year it is receiving an enormous injection of cash as part of its role in hosting the UN’s fourth Universal Forum of Cultures from April to July. Events will include art exhibitions from all five continents, music, cinema, dance, street artists and theatre, circus acts, food markets and workshops.

Inland Sea Japan Best in Travel 2013

Tokyo, Kyoto, Mt Fuji… the islands of the Seto Inland Sea? You’d be forgiven if the name of this vast stretch of water in Japan’s west doesn’t ring any bells. With the exception of Miyajima, with its oft-photographed vermillion ‘floating’ torii (shrine gate), most of the Inland Sea islands aren’t on the usual international-tourist hit list. Fair enough. They’re out of the way, and there’s just so much to do in Tokyo. But those who make the effort are rewarded. Many of the islands in this roughly 400km-long waterway offer the chance to experience a Japan without all the bells, whistles and bullet trains.Tokyo, Kyoto, Mt Fuji… the islands of the Seto Inland Sea? You’d be forgiven if the name of this vast stretch of water in Japan’s west doesn’t ring any bells. With the exception of Miyajima, with its oft-photographed vermillion ‘floating’ torii (shrine gate), most of the Inland Sea islands aren’t on the usual international-tourist hit list. Fair enough. They’re out of the way, and there’s just so much to do in Tokyo. But those who make the effort are rewarded. Many of the islands in this roughly 400km-long waterway offer the chance to experience a Japan without all the bells, whistles and bullet trains.Tokyo, Kyoto, Mt Fuji… the islands of the Seto Inland Sea? You’d be forgiven if the name of this vast stretch of water in Japan’s west doesn’t ring any bells. With the exception of Miyajima, with its oft-photographed vermillion ‘floating’ torii (shrine gate), most of the Inland Sea islands aren’t on the usual international-tourist hit list. Fair enough. They’re out of the way, and there’s just so much to do in Tokyo. But those who make the effort are rewarded. Many of the islands in this roughly 400km-long waterway offer the chance to experience a Japan without all the bells, whistles and bullet trains.

Palawan The Philippines Best in Travel 2013

Palawan incorporates thousands of sparkling, rugged islands and is fringed by 2000km of pristine coastline. So far Palawan’s natural marvels have only been sampled by plucky backpackers. Not for much longer. The trail these pioneers have blazed is set to explode, with regional airlines waking up to Palawan’s potential and clambering to schedule direct flights to the capital. Throw in the mushrooming growth of style-conscious boutique hotels normally found in places like Ko Samui or Bali, and you can feel that Palawan is ready to hit the big-time in 2013.Palawan incorporates thousands of sparkling, rugged islands and is fringed by 2000km of pristine coastline. So far Palawan’s natural marvels have only been sampled by plucky backpackers. Not for much longer. The trail these pioneers have blazed is set to explode, with regional airlines waking up to Palawan’s potential and clambering to schedule direct flights to the capital. Throw in the mushrooming growth of style-conscious boutique hotels normally found in places like Ko Samui or Bali, and you can feel that Palawan is ready to hit the big-time in 2013.Palawan incorporates thousands of sparkling, rugged islands and is fringed by 2000km of pristine coastline. So far Palawan’s natural marvels have only been sampled by plucky backpackers. Not for much longer. The trail these pioneers have blazed is set to explode, with regional airlines waking up to Palawan’s potential and clambering to schedule direct flights to the capital. Throw in the mushrooming growth of style-conscious boutique hotels normally found in places like Ko Samui or Bali, and you can feel that Palawan is ready to hit the big-time in 2013.

Carinthia Austria Best in Travel 2013

With belts tightening across Europe, the Alps are fast becoming the exclusive preserve of the champagne set… but lesser mortals will find plenty to love about Carinthia. With ski resorts nestled on every mountain top, Carinthia is best known outside Austria for uncrowded slopes and après-ski where you don’t have to take out a second mortgage just to buy a beer. Backing onto Italy and Slovenia, the region dilutes the Austrian efficiency with Mediterranean laissez-faire. So where are the crowds? Check out Carinthia now, while peace and quiet reigns; it won’t stay like this forever.With belts tightening across Europe, the Alps are fast becoming the exclusive preserve of the champagne set… but lesser mortals will find plenty to love about Carinthia. With ski resorts nestled on every mountain top, Carinthia is best known outside Austria for uncrowded slopes and après-ski where you don’t have to take out a second mortgage just to buy a beer. Backing onto Italy and Slovenia, the region dilutes the Austrian efficiency with Mediterranean laissez-faire. So where are the crowds? Check out Carinthia now, while peace and quiet reigns; it won’t stay like this forever.With belts tightening across Europe, the Alps are fast becoming the exclusive preserve of the champagne set… but lesser mortals will find plenty to love about Carinthia. With ski resorts nestled on every mountain top, Carinthia is best known outside Austria for uncrowded slopes and après-ski where you don’t have to take out a second mortgage just to buy a beer. Backing onto Italy and Slovenia, the region dilutes the Austrian efficiency with Mediterranean laissez-faire. So where are the crowds? Check out Carinthia now, while peace and quiet reigns; it won’t stay like this forever.

The Gulf Coast USA Best in Travel 2013

An area that has become synonymous with the words ‘oil spill’ doesn’t sound like it’d be a vacation must-do. But a lot has happened since a deep-water drilling operation off the coast of Louisiana went fatally awry in 2010. The Gulf Coast – never a place to take disaster lying down – has rebounded. Rolling sand dunes once again sparkle and seasonal travellers are once again enjoying the Gulf’s tepid waters, not to mention its tender locally caught fish. The 'Redneck Riviera' is edging back to its best.An area that has become synonymous with the words ‘oil spill’ doesn’t sound like it’d be a vacation must-do. But a lot has happened since a deep-water drilling operation off the coast of Louisiana went fatally awry in 2010. The Gulf Coast – never a place to take disaster lying down – has rebounded. Rolling sand dunes once again sparkle and seasonal travellers are once again enjoying the Gulf’s tepid waters, not to mention its tender locally caught fish. The 'Redneck Riviera' is edging back to its best.An area that has become synonymous with the words ‘oil spill’ doesn’t sound like it’d be a vacation must-do. But a lot has happened since a deep-water drilling operation off the coast of Louisiana went fatally awry in 2010. The Gulf Coast – never a place to take disaster lying down – has rebounded. Rolling sand dunes once again sparkle and seasonal travellers are once again enjoying the Gulf’s tepid waters, not to mention its tender locally caught fish. The 'Redneck Riviera' is edging back to its best.

Chachapoyas & Kuelap Peru Best in Travel 2013

Nestled in the northern Peruvian Andes, the placid mountain city of Chachapoyas is small, quiet and a pain in the neck to reach. But this charming agricultural centre sits amid some of the country’s most incredible cultural and natural treasures, including an entire river valley’s worth of pre-Inca ruins, the funerary site of Karajía, and one of the world’s tallest waterfalls. The glorious isolation isn’t going to last for long. For the past half-dozen years, the Peruvian government has been quietly paving roads and improving other infrastructure to make the area more visitor-friendly.Nestled in the northern Peruvian Andes, the placid mountain city of Chachapoyas is small, quiet and a pain in the neck to reach. But this charming agricultural centre sits amid some of the country’s most incredible cultural and natural treasures, including an entire river valley’s worth of pre-Inca ruins, the funerary site of Karajía, and one of the world’s tallest waterfalls. The glorious isolation isn’t going to last for long. For the past half-dozen years, the Peruvian government has been quietly paving roads and improving other infrastructure to make the area more visitor-friendly.

The Yukon Canada Best in Travel 2013

This vast and thinly populated wilderness has a grandeur and beauty that can only be properly appreciated in person. But while few places in the world today are so unchanged over the course of time, change has started coming fast to the Yukon. In 2013 it is still one of the least densely populated regions on the planet (there’s almost 14.2 sq km/5.5 sq miles for each hardy local) but its tremendous mineral wealth is drawing new residents in a reprise of the fabled Klondike Gold Rush of 1898. Climate change means that parts of the far north are actually dissolving into the Arctic Ocean and the glacier-clad parks are undergoing profound change.This vast and thinly populated wilderness has a grandeur and beauty that can only be properly appreciated in person. But while few places in the world today are so unchanged over the course of time, change has started coming fast to the Yukon. In 2013 it is still one of the least densely populated regions on the planet (there’s almost 14.2 sq km/5.5 sq miles for each hardy local) but its tremendous mineral wealth is drawing new residents in a reprise of the fabled Klondike Gold Rush of 1898. Climate change means that parts of the far north are actually dissolving into the Arctic Ocean and the glacier-clad parks are undergoing profound change.

Mustang Nepal Best in Travel 2013

The completion of a road connecting Mustang to China in the north and the rest of Nepal to the south will make all the difference to this remote region. Lo Manthang, or Mustang as it’s usually called, has been dubbed ‘little Tibet’ or ‘the last forbidden kingdom’; though politically part of Nepal, in language, culture, climate and geography, it’s Tibet. Until 1992 nobody from outside was allowed in; for a while after that it was opened up to a few hundred a year, and these days anyone can enter, though the pricey trekking permit keeps the numbers down. Expect that to change.The completion of a road connecting Mustang to China in the north and the rest of Nepal to the south will make all the difference to this remote region. Lo Manthang, or Mustang as it’s usually called, has been dubbed ‘little Tibet’ or ‘the last forbidden kingdom’; though politically part of Nepal, in language, culture, climate and geography, it’s Tibet. Until 1992 nobody from outside was allowed in; for a while after that it was opened up to a few hundred a year, and these days anyone can enter, though the pricey trekking permit keeps the numbers down. Expect that to change.The completion of a road connecting Mustang to China in the north and the rest of Nepal to the south will make all the difference to this remote region. Lo Manthang, or Mustang as it’s usually called, has been dubbed ‘little Tibet’ or ‘the last forbidden kingdom’; though politically part of Nepal, in language, culture, climate and geography, it’s Tibet. Until 1992 nobody from outside was allowed in; for a while after that it was opened up to a few hundred a year, and these days anyone can enter, though the pricey trekking permit keeps the numbers down. Expect that to change.

The Negev Israel Best in Travel 2013

For decades the Negev was regarded as nothing but a desolate desert. But today, this region is a giant greenhouse of development. Think eco-villages, spa resorts and even wineries. In the next few years a new international airport at Timna is scheduled to open, followed by a high-speed railway to Eilat and more hotels. Time is running out to experience the desert as nature intended.For decades the Negev was regarded as nothing but a desolate desert. But today, this region is a giant greenhouse of development. Think eco-villages, spa resorts and even wineries. In the next few years a new international airport at Timna is scheduled to open, followed by a high-speed railway to Eilat and more hotels. Time is running out to experience the desert as nature intended.For decades the Negev was regarded as nothing but a desolate desert. But today, this region is a giant greenhouse of development. Think eco-villages, spa resorts and even wineries. In the next few years a new international airport at Timna is scheduled to open, followed by a high-speed railway to Eilat and more hotels. Time is running out to experience the desert as nature intended.

Corsica France Best in Travel 2013

Mixing the cultures of Italy and France yet fiercely Corsican, the French Mediterranean island of Corsica has a furious beauty. It is this epic beauty combined with its challenging topography that make it a spectacular choice to host the historic centenary of the initial stages of the Tour de France. Race organisers wanted the hundredth Tour to start in an enchanting location, and decided Corsica was the place; this will be the first time the race has braved its challenges.Mixing the cultures of Italy and France yet fiercely Corsican, the French Mediterranean island of Corsica has a furious beauty. It is this epic beauty combined with its challenging topography that make it a spectacular choice to host the historic centenary of the initial stages of the Tour de France. Race organisers wanted the hundredth Tour to start in an enchanting location, and decided Corsica was the place; this will be the first time the race has braved its challenges.Mixing the cultures of Italy and France yet fiercely Corsican, the French Mediterranean island of Corsica has a furious beauty. It is this epic beauty combined with its challenging topography that make it a spectacular choice to host the historic centenary of the initial stages of the Tour de France. Race organisers wanted the hundredth Tour to start in an enchanting location, and decided Corsica was the place; this will be the first time the race has braved its challenges.

Versailles Small Group Day Trip from Paris

Experience the grandeur of Versailles Palace and Gardens on a small group tour from Paris. With a maximum of only eight per group, this small group trip to Versailles ensures a more intimate experience. Hotel pickup from centrally located Paris hotels is included, taking all the guess work out of your trip. You can choose from a half-day tour (independent tour), either in the morning or afternoon, or a full-day tour (guided tour). On both the half-day and full-day tours you'll also be able to wander around the garden's groves and pools. If you visit Versailles on a Saturday or Sunday during April to October, you can see the famous fountain show in the gardens. The display is accompanied by music composed at the time of Louis XIV's court. Highlights Free hotel pickup and drop-off included Small-group tour by minibus Choice of morning or afternoon departure Recorded commentary by audio headphones All entrance fees included Half-day: Choose from a morning or afternoon departure from Paris. Your hostess will provide advice to help you plan your time at Versailles. An audio guide is available in 8 languages. Your tour of the Palace of Versailles will be independent without a tour guide. It includes free time to explore Louis XIV's fabulous suite of rooms, the grand Hall of Mirrors and the apartments of the Dauphin and Dauphine. Full-day: Your full day tour begins with a fully-guided tour of Versailles (1-hour) including the Royal Apartments, Hall of Mirrors, Queen's Bedroom and the Gallery of Battles. Enjoy lunch at La Petite Venise Restaurant. After lunch, it's time to explore the palace gardens and take a visit to the Queen's Hamlet, where Marie-Antoinette played at being a shepherdess in the 1780s. You'll then take a guided tour of the Grand Trianon (1 hour), a mini palace where Louis XV and Louis XVI liked to lead a quiet life outside the court of Versailles.

Normandy D-Day Battlefields and Beaches Day Trip

Take a poignant, memorable day trip from Paris to visit the Normandy battlefields and landing beaches of World War II. You'll visit famous wartime sites and the American cemetery, spend time on the historic beaches and gain invaluable insights into the wartime experience of the Allied soldiers and the French citizens they liberated.

Highlights
Fully narrated tour
Comprehensive tour by bus/coach
All entrance fees included
Lunch included
Your drive through the picturesque Normandy countryside takes you to the Caen Memorial, devoted to illustrations and films about the Second World War and the Normandy landings of June 1944.

After lunch at the Memorial, visit the Pointe du Hoc, a German defense position that was heroically taken by US soldiers during World War II. Continue to the American cemetery of Saint-Laurent, the final resting place of almost 10,000 soldiers. You will also have free time at Omaha Beach to reflect on the site's moving history and visit the Omaha Beach Visitor Center, which describes the American soldiers' operations on the famous beach in June 1944.

Before returning to Paris, stop at the Canadian Memorial at Juno beach and Arromanches to see the remains of the artificial landing harbor that was built by the Allies in less than 15 days.

Skip-the-Line Eiffel Tower Ticket in Paris

Skip the line at the Eiffel Tower in Paris with this fast-track entrance ticket, and explore the different levels at leisure! After meeting a host to hear some fun facts and history about the tower, walk to the priority entranceway and then head straight up the elevator independently. Skip-the-line access to the attraction’s 1st and 2nd levels is included, as well as standard access to the Eiffel Tower’s summit.

Highlights
Choice of several departures throughout the day
Enjoy fantastic aerial views
Skip the line
Meet your host near the Eiffel Tower and listen to a brief introduction about this fascinating landmark– its history, architecture and views – before heading to the base of the tower with your skip-the-line ticket and fact sheet. Queues in the peak summer months can sometimes last up to two hours; fortunately, you’ll bypass those lines by heading through the priority entranceway and then up the elevator independently.

Your ticket includes entry to the tower’s 1st and 2nd levels, as well as its summit, and you can spend as little or as long as you like at each point. Walk around independently, soaking up unforgettable views from this iconic architectural marvel, and reading about the tower’s history from your fact sheet. Completed in 1889, the Eiffel Tower took precisely two years, two months and five days to make. While it wasn’t loved by the locals originally, it wasn’t long before it won over the hearts of Parisians and visitors alike.

On the 1st level, look down at the pin-like people lined up below you, and gaze at the Champ des Mars -- Paris’ famous green park -- stretching out toward Montparnasse Tower. The best vistas are arguably seen from the 2nd level, where you’re high enough to soak up the city skyline, but still close enough to see famous landmarks (like Notre Dame Cathedral) without needing a map.

For jaw-dropping views, continue to the summit! The skip-the-line access you get for the first two levels does not include the 3rd level; everyone must wait for one elevator, but the line doesn't usually last longer than 30 minutes – a short time to wait to stand at the top of the Eiffel Tower!

Paris Pass

Discover the joy of sightseeing with the Paris Pass, which gives you free entry to the best attractions Paris has to offer. Save time as you skip the queues with fast track entry at many attractions, including the Louvre and Musée d'Orsay, and take advantage of special offers at various Paris restaurants and shops.

Highlights
Excellent value for money
Perfect introduction for first-time visitors
Includes free admission to top local attractions
Save time as you skip the long queues, and save money with free entry to over 60 Paris sights and attractions. With your Paris Pass, there is no need to use cash, simply show your pass for fast entry. Choose from a two, four or six day pass.

Paris Pass includes:

A free map of Paris
2-day hop-on hop-off tour
Free entry to over 60 sights and attractions (see 'View Additional Info' below for full list)
Additional special offers and benefits at selected restaurants and shops
Free use of public transport within Paris Zones 1 - 3 (Metro and public buses) for the validity of your pass
Skip the queues with fast-track entry at many of the major sights, including the Louvre, Pantheon, Arc de Triomphe, Musée d'Orsay, Centre Pompidou and many more!

Moulin Rouge Show Paris

The Moulin Rouge is the number one show in Paris, if not the whole of Europe. No wonder it sells out quickly! Don't miss your chance to see the world-renowned showgirls and French Cancan dancers strut their stuff on the Moulin Rouge's historic stage.

Highlights
Choice of several departures throughout the day
Free drinks included
Likely to Sell Out
Moulin Rouge Paris sells out months in advance. If you'd like to see the Moulin Rouge show "Feerie" (105 minutes), pre-book your 9:00pm or 11:00pm tickets (including champagne!) here. For 110 years, the most legendary French cabaret has welcomed millions of spectators who have come to admire the famous French Cancan. Book ahead of time to avoid disappointment.

Le Moulin Rouge is world famous thanks to its French Cancan, and immortalized by the painter Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec. The sumptuous shows at the Moulin Rouge feature feathers, rhinestones and sequins, fabulous settings, original music and of course... the most beautiful girls in the world.

Many international stars have performed on stage at the Moulin Rouge including Ella Fitzgerald, Liza Minnelli, Frank Sinatra and Elton John. They have all put on exceptional shows, following in the footsteps of French celebrities such as Maurice Chevalier, Jean Gabin, Edith Piaf and Yves Montand.

Moulin Rouge Paris sells out every night. By pre-booking tickets you'll lock in the price, secure seats and get the most out of your precious vacation time in Paris.

Skip the Line: Eiffel Tower Tickets and Small-Group Tour

Book your skip-the-line ticket to the Eiffel Tower and leave the long queues behind! This is a fully escorted tour by an English-speaking expert guide, who will lead you to the 2nd level of the Eiffel Tower. Before exploring, your guide will entertain you with interesting anecdotes and facts about the tower and its architecture, including stories about the various wedding proposals and publicity stunts the tower has hosted over the years.

With a choice of departure times during the day as well as a unique sunset viewing, your skip-the-line tour offers the most flexible and enjoyable way to visit this must-see Paris landmark. You will have time to walk around the levels at leisure, taking in the breathtaking Paris cityscape from this unique vantage point! Numbers are limited to 20 people on this small-group walking tour of the Eiffel Tower, ensuring you'll receive personalized attention from your guide.

Highlights
All entrance fees included
Choice of morning or afternoon departure
Choice of several departures throughout the day
Enjoy fantastic aerial views
Ideal choice for families
Meet at the Eiffel Tower and avoid waiting in a queue that often takes at least two hours during the summer months! A pre-booked, skip-the-line ticket grants priority access to the Eiffel Tower elevator, so you'll go straight up to the second level after learning about the building's fascinating history.

Hear the story of the man behind the Tower, Gustave Eiffel, and learn about the wonders behind this architectural and engineering feat as you view it up close. Hear the details of the World’s Fair of 1889, the year the tower was built. The first level offers a great cinematic theater where you can see exclusive video of the tower’s storied 120-plus-year history. It also features one of the original spiral staircases that Gustave himself used daily to reach his office on the top level.

Eiffel Tower 2nd Level
On the second level, your guide will allow ample time to take in the best views that Paris has to offer. With two tiers on the second level, there is plenty of space to hear your tour guide explain the countless stunts and anecdotes from the tower’s past. You’ll be entertained with stories about crazy exploits (like planes flying underneath the tower) and the tower’s role in everything from world wars to Hollywood movies.

Eiffel Tower 1st Level and the Eiffel Tower Summit (3rd Level)
Upon the conclusion of the tour, your time on the Eiffel Tower doesn’t have to end; the price includes tickets to the first level and the summit of the tower too. At the summit, purchase a glass of Champagne to enjoy while you stare out over the City of Light. The skip-the-line access you receive for the first two levels does not include the 3rd level; everyone must wait for one elevator, but the line doesn't usually last longer than 30 minutes – a short time to wait to stand at the top of the Eiffel Tower!

Full-Day Milford Sound and Fiordland National Park Tour including Milford Sound Cruise and BBQ Lunch from Queenstown

Milford Sound is arguably the most scenic destination in New Zealand, a must-see for any traveler. This is a small group tour for travelers seeking a personalized trip to Milford Sound. You will be transported in a modern, fully air-conditioned 22 seat coach. As you begin your tour out of Queenstown we will travel south along the side of the amazing "Remarkables" mountain range and New Zealand's longest lake, Lake Wakatipu. From Te Anau the scenery really begins as we drive north along the lake. Lake Te Anau is the largest lake in the South Island.

Highlights
Instant Confirmation
Travel by boat and see the sights from the water
Lunch included
Informative, friendly and professional guide
Small group ensures personal service
Free hotel pickup and drop-off included
Upon entering the Fiordland National Park, the largest National Park in NZ, travel up along side the Eglington River to three mountain lakes at the head of the Eglington Valley. During this part of the journey you will make the first of our many sightseeing stops that also allow for some great photo opportunities. You have a couple of different locations for lunch and will endeavor to select the best spot on the day. With some fantastic walks in the area, this is a great opportunity to experience the beautiful alpine forest up close.

After lunch you head towards the Homer Tunnel, taking in some incredible mountain views while driving along side the crystal clear waters of the Hollyford river. Once through the Homer Tunnel, you'll wind the way down the Cleddau Valley. At this time you arrive in an area called Fiordland but are visiting a "Sound", the difference will be explained.

You link up with a scenic cruise at 2pm for a 1hour and 45 minute excursion on the fjord. As this is an 'off peak' period of the day, the boat is less crowded and the large boat allows for plenty of space to move about and enjoy the spectacular landscape and wilderness of Milford Sound. Complimentary tea and coffee is served while looking out for seals and dolphins!

The barbecue lunch includes a classic Kiwi BBQ of marinated beef kebabs and sausages, a good range of salads, fresh bread and fruit juice. Vegetarian patties are available on request.

Viator VIP: Palace of Versailles Small-Group Tour with Private Viewing of the Royal Quarters

See the Palace of Versailles (Château de Versailles) as French kings once did – with this small-group tour that includes a once-in-a-lifetime private viewing of the palace’s Royal Quarters. This exclusive tour gives you priority entrance to Versailles through a reserved door and provides you with unprecedented access to magnificent private rooms – such as Louis XVI’s library – which are normally off-limits to the general public, allowing you to see a side of the UNESCO World-Heritage-listed Palace of Versailles that most never will.

This VIP experience also includes a tour of two rooms in the State Apartments and the famous Hall of Mirrors as soon as the palace opens, before the majority of the crowd arrives. Your priority entrance ticket allows you to go straight inside the palace with your small group (maximum 16 people), beating most of the public to these rooms.

Highlights
Informative, friendly and professional guide
Perfect introduction for first-time visitors
Pickup from a centrally located meeting point
Skip the line
Small-group tour
Your VIP experience begins as you board a luxurious, air-conditioned minivan in central Paris and head west to the Palace of Versailles. When you arrive, meet your knowledgeable guide at the palace’s reserved entrance, and go straight inside with your priority access ticket.

Follow your guide to the State Apartments, where you’ll see two of the 17 rooms – the King’s Chamber and the Council Study. Then head to the fabulous Hall of Mirrors. Your group will be among the first of the general public to arrive at this famous room so you can enjoy the sumptuous setting in all its glory. Walk down the spectacular hall, lined with 357 mirrors that reflect the windows on the opposite wall.

Next, the exclusive part of your tour truly begins as you leave the crowd behind and pass through the velvet ropes into the palace’s restricted area. See the following Royal Quarters of Louis XV and Louis XVI:


The library of Louis XVI, said to be one of his favorite rooms
The dining room where Louis XV held dinners for lords and ladies
The clock room with its clock that has a crystal globe showing the planets revolving around the sun
The ‘corner room,’ which contains a cylinder desk belonging to Louis XV that is considered one of the most outstanding pieces of furniture in the world
You will then visit one of two additional royal sites, depending on daily availability: the Royal Opera House, built in 1770 to celebrate the wedding of Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette, or the Royal Chapel, where a series of paintings and sculptures depicts the notion that kings were chosen by God.

The guided portion of your tour now ends, and your friendly guide will answer any questions you have. From here, you have a few options to complete your Versailles experience. You can explore the other 15 rooms that make up the public State Apartments independently. You can enjoy lunch at Angelina’s restaurant located inside the palace (own expense). Or you can head outside and enjoy the beautiful Gardens of Versailles – a 1,977-acre (800-hectare) oasis of groves, sculptures, labyrinths and fountains. Depending on the day of the week that you are at the palace, you may catch one of the summer musical events – either the Musical Gardens or the Musical Fountains Show (known as the Grandes Eaux musicales), both of which bring the gardens to live with classical music; see the Itinerary section below for more details.

The gardens are also home to La Petite Venise, a popular restaurant with a lovely terrace, located in the former stables by the Grand Canal. It is your choice if you’d like to eat here, but you must make your way here to meet your guide for the drive back to Paris.

Waitomo Caves and Rotorua Day Trip from Auckland

See all the highlights of the Waitomo Caves and Rotorua in one day. You'll take a guided tour of Waitomo Caves stalactites and glowworms, and see Rotorua's bubbling mud pools and geysers, and make many other interesting stops along the way. You have the option to end your tour in Rotorua or return to Auckland.

Highlights
Day trip (destination A to B)
Free hotel pickup and drop-off included
All taxes, fuel surcharges and service fees included
All entrance fees included
Travel by boat and see the sights from the water
Lunch included
At Waitomo you'll take a guided tour through the long galleries and lofty chambers to view stalactites formed over thousands of years by the constant dripping of water. Your caves tour includes a magical boat ride through the glowworm grotto, illuminated by thousands of glowworms suspended from the cave ceiling.

Next stop is the the Agrodome for a hands-on Kiwi farming experience. You'll see sheep mustering by highly trained dogs, sheep shearing demonstrations and receive an insight into the history of dairy farm milking. Don't miss the opportunity to milk a cow, feed young animals or even be photographed with a huge bull!

Then it's on to the famous Te Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve to see the renowned silica terraces, bubbling mud pools and unique geothermal vegetation. Exploding from the ground up to 100 feet (30 meters) high is the world-famous Pohutu Geyser, which bursts into life 10-20 times a day and has been a visitor attraction since the early 1900s.

You'll also visit the Maori Arts and Crafts Institute, to see how traditional carvings and weaving record history and customs in the Maori sacred meeting houses.

Milford Sound Mariner Overnight Cruise

An overnight cruise amidst spectacular Milford Sound, is a once in a lifetime experience. While on board the Milford Mariner you will cruise the full length of this spectacular fiord to the Tasman Sea before anchoring for the night in sheltered Harrison Cove.

Highlights
Travel by boat and see the sights from the water
Breakfast included
Multi-Day Trip
Dinner included
All taxes, fuel surcharges and service fees included
Departing from the Milford Sound Wharf, the Milford Mariner cruises the length of the Milford Sound to the Tasman sea, New Zealand. The vessel explores in a leisurely way many points of interest, with plenty of time available to view waterfalls, rain forest, mountains and wildlife with the experienced nature guide on board.

The Milford Mariner offers you a very special dinner, bed and breakfast experience. With a nature guide at hand you can explore in the tender craft and kayaks or simply relax on deck. After the days activities, enjoy a delicious evening buffet in the spacious saloon before retiring to your private cabin. The Milford Mariner caters for visitors who enjoy comfort combined with activity. The vessel has been purpose built to accommodate passengers in private cabins with en suite bathrooms. It has a spacious dinning saloon, observation lounge and large open deck areas for viewing the scenery of Milford Sound.

After reaching the open sea, subject to weather and favorable conditions the sails are hoisted for a period. The vessel returns to and anchors overnight in sheltered Harrison Cove. Activities include kayaking and exploring the shoreline on the tender craft. The overnight cruise includes a delicious three course buffet evening meal and hearty cooked breakfast. Beverages are sold at the licensed, on board bar. The next morning following breakfast there is further cruising before returning to the Milford Sound Wharf.

Orlando Sunrise Hot-Air Balloon Ride

Make your childhood fantasies come true and take a sunrise flight over Orlando in a hot-air balloon! You'll fly over beautiful forests and lakes on this ultimate Orlando experience.

Highlights
Scenic air tour
All taxes, fuel surcharges and service fees included
Enjoy fantastic aerial views
Champagne breakfast included
Meeting one hour prior to sunrise, you'll travel to your launch site for take-off. Once you are airborne, your pilot will point out the spectacular sights of the Orlando area, from the theme parks to the orange groves, forests and swamps. Your hot-air balloon flight lasts approximately one hour.

After your exhilarating flight you'll drink a traditional champagne toast to your memorable experience (non-alcoholic beverages are also available) before heading to the Best Western Lakeside for an all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet. You'll then be presented with a Flight of Ascension certificate by your pilot.

Please note: Ballooning is dependent upon favorable weather conditions. Therefore, if conditions are not favorable for a safe flight, the pilot may reschedule or cancel the flight. Please remember to wear closed toed shoes.

Schedule details

Orlando Sunrise Hot-Air Balloon Ride

Departure Dates:
Select a month to view a calendar of availability and departure details.

7-Day South Island Coastal Splendor Tour from Christchurch

Visit the scenic South Island of New Zealand on this seven day independent coach tour. Travel by coach and train from Christchurch to the city of Dunedin, then head to Queenstown and up the rugged West Coast before returning to Christchurch.

Highlights
Instant Confirmation
Multi-Day Trip
All entrance fees included
All taxes, fuel surcharges and service fees included
Travel by boat and see the sights from the water
Flexibility to customize your itinerary to your own preferences
Free hotel pickup and drop-off included
Informative, friendly and professional guide
The highlights of this tour include a scenic cruise on majestic Milford Sound, a tour of the Scottish influenced city of Dunedin, viewing the mighty Franz Josef Glacier and enjoying scenic train journeys.

Special Offer! - Save 5% on the recommended retail price. Special offer valid for travel April 1 to September 30, 2013 - Book Now!

Universal Orlando 2-Park Bonus Ticket

At Universal Orlando® Resort you’ll find two amazing theme parks, non-stop nightlife and more, all in one convenient location. Experience the pulse-pounding thrills of Universal’s Islands of Adventure®, including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™; The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man®, now in high-def 3-D; and the Jurassic Park River Adventure®. Take a starring role in some of the biggest movies and TV shows ever created at Universal Studios®, home of the 3-D ride Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, Shrek 4-D, Revenge of the Mummy®, Universal’s Superstar Parade, Universal’s Cinematic Spectacular nighttime show, and the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit® coaster. And enjoy the best in restaurants, nightclubs, shopping and movies at Universal CityWalk®. It’s all at Universal Orlando Resort, where vacation becomes adventure.

This product is available for non-USA / non-Canada residents only

Universal’s Islands of Adventure
Take an unforgettable journey through remarkable islands where all your favorite myths, legends, comic books, cartoons and children’s stories come to life. At Universal’s Islands of Adventure you’ll experience innovative rides and attractions that challenge all your senses, including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™; The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man, now in high-def 3-D; The Incredible Hulk Coaster®; the Jurassic Park River Adventure; and The Cat in the Hat™.

Universal Studios Florida
Go beyond the screen and jump into the action of your favorite films at Universal Studios Florida®. At the world’s premier movie and TV based theme park, you’ll find an amazing array of rides, shows, movie sets and attractions including the 3-D ride Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit multi-sensory coaster, Shrek 4-D, Revenge of the Mummy, The Simpsons Ride™, MEN IN BLACK™ Alien Attack™, Universal’s Superstar Parade, Universal’s Cinematic Spectacular–100 Years of Movie Memories nighttime show, and more.

Universal CityWalk
Dance, drink, shop, and see it all in one place-Universal CityWalk. Only here can you walk from some of Orlando's most popular restaurants into some of its hottest clubs, trendiest shops and state-of-the-art theatres. It's anything and everything you want to make your night come alive-Universal CityWalk, the Entertainment Capital of Orlando℠ .

SeaWorld® Orlando Ticket

Spend a day at SeaWorld® Orlando and come face-to-face with the ocean's most fascinating marine animals. With more than 30 family-friendly attractions, shows and rides, this admission ticket has something for everyone!

Highlights
All entrance fees included
All taxes, fuel surcharges and service fees included
Family friendly
Instant Confirmation
Venture into the amazing world of the ocean and its inhabitants as SeaWorld Orlando takes you on an unforgettable journey into the deep blue sea. With several up-close encounters with killer whales, sharks, polar bears and turtles, you'll feel the enthusiasm, energy and excitement of all kinds of marine life.

For additional fun, choose from combo ticket options with Busch Gardens and Aquatica.

Busch Gardens
One of the top zoos in North America, Busch Gardens brings you face-to-face with more exotic and endangered animals than any destination outside of Africa, with live shows that take you to the heart of the jungle through music and dance.

Discover a colorful village nestled among towering trees, explore a 3-story playland of climbing nets and tunnels, soar above the treetops on a zipline adventure or launch into the sky from inside a 35-foot (10-meter) waterfall. Then, come face-to-face with orangutans and test your strength in a tug-of-war with a Bengal tiger!

Aquatica
Son't miss this whimsical, one-of-a-kind waterpark. Float on a river through a world of colorful fish and then race into rolling rapids. Hop on two awesome tube slides and speed through a lively lagoon filled with friendly dolphins. Catch waves in the huge wave pool and soak up some sun or relax in the shade on the sandy beach.

See the Itinerary below for a full list of exhibits, rides and attractions.

Universal Orlando 3-Park Unlimited Ticket

With the Universal Orlando 3-Park Unlimited Ticket with Park-to-Park Access, you can come and go as much as you please between two amazing theme parks and one waterpark on all days during at fourteen (14) consecutive calendar day period!

Experience the pulse-pounding thrills of Universal’s Islands of Adventure®, including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™, The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man™ and Jurassic Park River Adventure®. Take a starring role in some of the biggest movies and TV shows ever created at Universal Studios®, home of Shrek 4-D, Revenge of the Mummy® and the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit® coaster. At Wet 'n Wild® experience more themed, multi-person thrill rides than any other waterpark around. Enjoy the best in restaurants, nightclubs, shopping and movies at Universal CityWalk®.

2-Day Miami South Beach Adventure from Orlando with Optional Dolphin Swim

On this 2-day Miami South Beach adventure, take a thrilling airboat tour through the Florida Everglades, enjoy free time to shop at Bayside Marketplace, and stay overnight in the heart of the Art Deco District, featuring a slew of restaurants, shops, museums, nightclubs and beaches at your fingertips. Upgrade to enjoy a dolphin swim with marine experts in Key Largo!

Day 1: Orlando -- Miami

After pickup from a select meeting point in Orlando, take a 4-hour drive to South Beach in Miami. Your first stop is the Florida Everglades, where you'll enjoy an exhilarating airboat ride through the lush wetlands with your guide. Your airboat ride is followed by a wild snake- and alligator-handling show, during which expert reptile handlers will offer interesting information about these creatures.

Next stop is Bayside Marketplace, a shopping complex where you'll have free time to peruse the numerous specialty and name-brand stores. This complex is also home to a variety of restaurants, live entertainment and sightseeing tour options, and offers breathtaking views of the Miami skyline.

You’ll then be taken to your hotel, located in the heart of South Beach's Art Deco District. It’s just seconds away from restaurants, shops, museums, nightclubs and the beach, so you'll always have something to do. The rest of the day and night is yours to spend as you please.

Overnight: Catalina Hotel and Beach Club or similar in South Beach

Day 2: Miami -- Orlando
On your second day, take a tour of the Art Deco District, dine at the Miami Beach Marina, visit the famous Lincoln Road outdoor mall, stroll along Ocean Drive, or take a dip in Nikki Beach (all activities at own expense). Your tour will depart from Miami around 3pm for arrival in Orlando at approximately 7pm.

Dolphin Swim Upgrade: For something new and exciting, upgrade to include a Dolphin Swim! Check out of your hotel early in the morning and head to Key Largo with your guide. You'll receive an informative briefing about dolphins by a marine expert before hopping in the water to rub the dolphins' bellies, do handshakes and other tricks, and even receive a dolphin kiss. After your 1.5-hour dolphin experience, you'll be taken back to South Beach for a few hours of free time before heading back to Orlando.