DOHA DUBAI ARABIAN DESERT

Transcription

1 2015 Treasures of Arabia Qatar, the United Arab Emirates & Oman Escorted Journey DOHA DUBAI ARABIAN DESERT Al AIN ABU DHABI MUSCAT NIZWA

2 JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS See some of the most beautiful Arabian horses in the world in Qatar Search for treasures in the colorful gold and spice souqs of Dubai Enjoy the view from the 124 th floor of the world s tallest building, Burj Khalifa Cruise through the man-made islands of The World and Palm Island, pausing to swim and snorkel in the Arabian Sea Ride a camel, the ship of the desert, back from your desert safari at Al Maha resort tented camp in the Arabian Desert Visit Al Ain, one of the world s oldest inhabited settlements and a UNESCO World Heritage Site Place a bet on a camel in Abu Dhabi Cruise the Arabian coast in a traditional dhow in Muscat and an abra down the Dubai Creek Hold a falcon and learn about the sport at the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital Step inside the spectacular Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the largest and most opulent mosques in the world Tour the House of Amouage, which creates some of the most expensive perfumes and colognes in the world

3 DAILY ITINERARY Travcoa journeys are designed to accommodate the most common flight times from the USA. The first and last included accommodation and meals are specified in the itinerary below. Friday, Day 1 Arrive Doha, QATAR Journey accommodations begin with the hotel night on Day 1. Check-in time is approximately 3:00 pm on Day 1. Included meal services begin with dinner on Day 1. Arrive in Doha, the capital of Qatar. You are met at the airport and transferred directly to your luxury hotel. Since Qatar only opened its door to visitors within the last decade, few people have heard of the country, let alone visited this remote area. Most foreign maps of Arabia drawn before the 19 th century do not even show the Qatar peninsula. Yet, evidence from archaeological digs has told historians that the peninsula was inhabited as far back as the Stone Age, when the region s climate was milder than it is today. By the early 18 th century, nomadic Bedouins from central Arabia settled in the peninsula s coastal areas, where they became fishermen and pearl divers. By the mid-18 th century, Qatar was already well established as a pearling center. Relax after your flight and prepare for your adventure ahead. Tonight enjoy dinner at your leisure at our luxurious hotel. Four Seasons Hotel Doha Activity Note Doha City sightseeing is done by comfortable motorcoach over excellent roads. Walking is required at monuments, mosques and museums and souks. The sun can be hot during the walks. Saturday, Day 2 Doha We spend today exploring the heritage and traditions of the Qatari people and discovering how this rapidly changing city is successfully blending the old and the new. Our day begins with a visit to the Sheikh Faisal Museum, the private museum of Royal Family member Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani. During our guided tour, view the extensive collection of more than 3,000 Arabian and Islamic artifacts, weapons, Bedouin jewelry, manuscripts, antique furniture and books. The museum also features a comprehensive collection of historic cars, including the 19 th century steam-powered vehicle.

4 Next, we drive to Al Rayyan, for generations the country s hub for equestrian activity. The racetrack has hosted such prestigious races as the Qatar International Cup and Emir s Cup. We visit the Racing & Equestrian Club for a private tour, and to view some of the most beautiful purebred Arabian horses in the world. In the afternoon we visit the Katara Cultural Village, where we find a variety of exhibits reflecting Qatar s culture, and learn about Qatar's emerging arts culture. Next, at the astonishing Museum of Islamic Art, admire masterpieces spanning three continents and dating from the 7 th century. Designed by famed architect I.M. Pei, the imposing museum seems to be influenced by ancient Islamic architecture, yet has a unique modern design. It was the first museum of its kind in the Persian Gulf, and has a very large collection of Islamic art, including manuscripts, textiles and ceramics. It has one of the world s most complete collections of Islamic artifacts. Our afternoon continues with a walk through the bustling Souk Waqif. Over the years, it has evolved from its simple origins as a weekend market used by the Bedouins, into a maze of narrow alleyways filled with small shops selling a variety of goods. We also visit their famous Falcon Market. This evening, gather with your Travcoa Travel Director and fellow travelers for a special welcome cocktail reception and dinner. Four Seasons Hotel Doha Sunday, Day 3 Doha to Dubai, UAE This morning we are transferred to the airport for our flight to Dubai. Upon arrival, we are driven to "Old Dubai" for a special lunch and cultural event at the Sheikh Mohammed Center for Cultural Understanding. You are invited participate in an open discussion with locals about traditions, culture, religion, politics and life in the UAE. Our private group lunch features delectable local dishes. Originally a small fishing village, Dubai developed its date cultivation, pearl diving, and trade until it boasted the largest souqs on the Persian Gulf coast. The city s naturally sheltered harbor made it a busy port of call on the ancient trade route between Mesopotamia and the Indus Valley, and its more recent wealth of oil makes it an important force in today s world. In Old Dubai, you can see the picturesque skyline of the old city, with its traditional mosques and authentic wind tower houses, originally built by wealthy merchants. Wind towers, with their wall carving and latticework, can be found throughout the region, and are representative of traditional 19 th century life. One of the early forms of "air conditioning," the wind tower would act as a funnel, catching the breeze and drawing it into the cavities below, as well as allowing the release of hot air like a chimney. Wander through the narrow lanes of Bastakiah,

5 before we visit the Al Fahidi Fort, which houses the Dubai Museum. The museum was originally built in 1787 as a fort to guard the desert approaches to the town. Today it features life-size dioramas depicting traditional Arabian life before the discovery of oil. You can also view a media presentation showing a timeline of the development of Dubai and the region. A short walk away is the Dubai Creek, the water artery of Dubai. We continue our sightseeing, taking a short trip on a traditional wooden boat, known as an abra, for a harbor ride along the bustling Dubai Creek. We disembark in the heart of the old souqs area. Explore the aromatic treasures of the Spice Souq, and then take your time to admire the vast amount of the gold on display in the large and dazzling Gold Souq. See a wide variety of the latest in jewelry designs and gold art the display of shiny opulence is overwhelming. Later in the afternoon, we proceed to our luxury hotel with the remainder of the afternoon and evening at leisure. Taj Dubai Activity Note Dubai & Desert Our city sightseeing is done by comfortable motorcoach over excellent roads. Easy walking is required at the sites including museums, and the souks. The sun can be very hot during walks. The desert excursion at Al Maha is in 4x4 vehicles over very bumpy, rough, and hilly sand dunes. Monday, Day 4 Dubai Today we have a full day to explore vibrant and constantly changing Dubai. Our guide explains how in just the recent decades Dubai has been transformed from a small desert oasis to a thriving metropolis that is getting bigger every day. We begin the day by boarding a private yacht for a morning of sightseeing, and enjoying the coastline. We cruise around the famed man-made islands such as The World, (a man-made archipelago designed to resemble a map of the planet), and the artificial peninsulas of Palm Islands. In addition to enjoying a BBQ lunch on board, you have time for a swim in these warm Arabian waters. After our boat excursion, return to the hotel to freshen-up before heading out to see modern Dubai. You get an overview of this expanding city as we drive along the coast through the Jumeirah district. This picturesque palace and residential area is home to the famous Jumeirah Mosque, a dominant landmark of Dubai city. Built in the medieval Fatimid tradition, combined with modern building materials, this stone structure is a tribute to modern Islamic architecture. It provides a rare and beautiful perspective on Islamic life. We have a photo stop here, considered one of the most attractive mosques in Dubai. Next, we stop at the Souq al Bahar ( Market of the Sailor ), an Arabesque shopping, entertainment, and dining destination located in the heart of Downtown Dubai. It has an art gallery, more than 100 shops, and a dozen dining choices. Enjoy some time to wander before we

6 proceed to our last stop - the world s tallest building, Burj Khalifa. Experience the breathtaking 360 view of Dubai from the observation deck on the 124 th floor, as well as the multi-media presentations on the history, statistics and building of the Burj. See the artificial peninsulas of Palm Islands, which we cruised around this morning, along with more new sites that are being created each day. We return to your luxury hotel for an evening at leisure. Taj Dubai Tuesday, Day 5 Dubai to the Arabian Desert This morning we drive east, away from the mega-tropolis of Dubai and into the desert plains. En route, we visit the Royal Stables. View the Sheik s personal stables and see how the Arabian horses are fed, trained and stabled. This is considered one of the best training facilities in the world; our tour includes the paddocks, the jockeys room and weigh-station. Mid-afternoon we arrive at our desert oasis home for the evening, the incomparable Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa. ("Al Maha" is Oryx in Arabic.) Relax and settle into your luxury tented accommodations each with antique furnishings and private plunge pool. With the fast pace urbanization of Dubai, the local government recognized its need to conserve Dubai's original habitat and hence created the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. The Al Maha Desert Resort and Spa is the only resort in the reserve. Every effort is taken to guard the flora and fauna as well as the culture and heritage of the Arabian Desert. The number of visitors is also limited to ensure the eco system is not disturbed. Sustainability forms the core of the vision. Al Maha s large-scale habitat rehabilitation programs include the propagation of over 6,000 indigenous trees, shrubs, and grasses, and the re-introduction of the regions' first freeroaming herds of endangered Oryx and many other indigenous wildlife species. Later this afternoon, it is time for a thrilling adventure on a Desert Safari, on a four-wheel drive ride out to the more isolated parts of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. Ride across seemingly infinite sand dunes set within the country's first National Park, where we explore the delicate desert ecosystems, and their uniquely adapted flora and fauna. Al Maha is home to over 33 mammal and reptile species, all indigenous to the Arabian Peninsula. Arabian and Sand gazelles, Rueppell's fox, Arabian red fox, Ethiopian hedgehog and more thrive in this region. Our drive through the beautiful desert landscape gives you the unique opportunity to get close and take photos of the free-roaming wildlife in the reserve. Our afternoon excursion will end with a camel trek back to the camp. Dinner this evening will be under the starlit sky of the Arabian Desert. Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa

7 Wednesday, Day 6 Arabian Desert to Al Ain & Abu Dhabi Arise in the cool of the morning to enjoy breakfast on your private verandah overlooking the beautiful desert landscape. Relax this morning, or you may choose to participate in some optional activities offered by our desert resort. Early this afternoon, we depart our desert homestead, and travel to the capital city of Abu Dhabi. En route we stop in the beautiful Garden City of Al Ain one of the world's oldest inhabited settlements and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We visit Al Jahili Fort, and the Al Ain Museum, which showcases the city s unique heritage and history. Step back in time at the Hili Gardens, famous for the archaeological excavations from the third millennium B.C., and the site of some of the UAE's most impressive ancient tombs. Our next destination is the largest camel market in the UAE, where dealers come from around the Gulf to buy and sell racing animals and other livestock We arrive at Abu Dhabi by late afternoon and settle into our luxury hotel. Abu Dhabi is a cosmopolitan metropolis with spacious city streets and thousands of acres planted with trees. Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri Activity Note Abu Dhabi Sightseeing is done by comfortable motorcoach over excellent roads. Easy walking is required at the sites including museums, and the souks. The sun can be very hot during walks. While visiting a mosque (most are not open to non-muslims), everyone must take their shoes off, and women must wear a head cover such as a scarf. Thursday, Day 7 Abu Dhabi Today, discover the wonders of Abu Dhabi, known as the Arabian Jewel. We start with a guided tour through the interior of the spectacular Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. This masterpiece is one of the most important architectural treasures of contemporary UAE society and one of the largest and most opulent mosques in the world, with a capacity for 40,000 worshippers. The mosque s first event was the funeral of Sheikh Zayed, who is buried at the site. This landmark mosque features 80 domes, more than 1000 columns, 24-carat gold-plated chandeliers, and the world s largest hand-woven carpet. Our guide allows us inside, interpreting various elements of the architecture, artistic design, and Islamic culture. We continue to Breakwater Island and Heritage Village which features an open-air cultural museum, photography exhibitions and a handicraft center. Leaving this area we drive along the famed Corniche to the bustling Fish Market and get a glimpse into local life.

8 After lunch, we are treated to a special visit to the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital. Here, you are given a brief introduction about the history and culture of the birds in the region which are intricately woven into Emirati culture, we'll also visit the treatment room, surgical center, and get to hold a falcon. Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri Friday, Day 8 Abu Dhabi Today, we go to the races with a visit to the Yas Marina Circuit, home of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix (Formula 1 racing). Our tour here includes viewing of the cars, the grandstands, the control room, race team suites, and the winner s platform. After lunch, we return to the city with the rest of the day at leisure to relax or explore more of Abu Dhabi on your own. Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri Saturday, Day 9 Abu Dhabi to Muscat, OMAN This morning, depart for the airport for our flight to Muscat in the country of Oman. Muscat, the capital of Oman, is only a small part of a larger grouping of cities and towns strung along the coast of the Gulf of Oman, which is known locally as the "Capital Area" or the "Muscat Municipality." These towns are sandwiched between the sea to the north and a very rocky, primeval-looking range of barren mountains to the south. A thriving and strategically located Arabian Peninsula port in ancient times, Muscat retains its somewhat medieval appearance. Two picturesque Portuguese forts, Al Jalali and Al-Mirani, coexist with modern, commercial, and residential quarters of the neighboring coastal towns, and give Muscat a distinctive ambience of its own. The seaside, ceremonial palace of H.M. Sultan Qaboos, nestled between steep rocky hills, offers a spectacular sight, especially at night. Muscat offers the visitor a unique opportunity to witness a modern commercial center existing in harmony with its traditional culture. Muscat means anchorage, and both the city and its natural harbor lie in a natural volcanic bowl. Upon arrival we visit the House of Amouage, which creates some of the most expensive perfumes and colognes in the world. Established in 1983 by the Sultan of Oman, the silver frankincense used in the making of Amouage is found solely in the Dhofar Mountains of Southern Oman - the reverence for this resin goes back 1500 years. Later this afternoon, we begin our exploration of the city. First, we get an exterior look at the Sultan s Palace and the beautiful grounds surrounding the compound. Enjoy the outstanding

9 views of the small harbor in front of the palace, protected by the famed Al Jalali and Al-Mirani forts which took on their present form in the 1580s during the Portuguese occupation of Muscat. Next, we board a traditional dhow for a cruise along the Muscat coast. As we sail around the harbor, see Muscat through the eyes of ancient seafarers who plied this route for centuries. The startling white buildings seem to glow against the rich aqua color of the water. Grand Hyatt Muscat Activity Note Oman City sightseeing is done by comfortable motorcoach. Walking is required at the sites including museums, monuments, and the souks. Exploring the forts requires walking on steep stairs without handrails. The excursion to Nizwa is in 4x4 vehicles over some bumpy and rough terrain. The sun can be very hot during walks. While visiting a mosque (most are not open to non-muslims), everyone must take their shoes off, and women must wear a head cover such as a scarf. Sunday, Day 10 Muscat & Nizwa This morning, we embark on a full day 4-wheel drive tour to Nizwa, capital city of the interior. Nizwa offers a clear picture of daily life in the busy, colorful world of Omani commerce. Villagers come from miles around to buy, sell, and trade their cattle, goats and other wares. On market day the animals are paraded around in a circle while observers either yell out their animal s praises or bids to buy them it s like the floor of the stock market, Omani style! We explore the Nizwa bazaar, filled with fascinating, traditional souqs. Bargain hunting and bartering here can turn up some exceptional treasures; and make sure to stop for a cup of dark Omani coffee and dates. We tour the renowned Round Tower Fort, built in the 17 th century, with its construction taking over 30-years. Built on a solid base of rock, the huge tower was designed to withstand the vibrations of 24 cannons. From the top, a superb panoramic view gives visitors a bird s eye view all around Nizwa and the surrounding plains. The fort is protected by an outer and inner wall, and rigged with trap doors hidden beside the staircases. We visit the pretty village of Birkat-Al-Mouz. The lush green oasis village has a unique twotiered falaj (irrigation system) and tiny castle. We explore the oasis and its flourishing date plantation, taking time to sample and savor the sweetness of this traditional desert fruit. We continue to Jebel Al Akhdar, the green jewel of the Al Hajar mountain ranges, a unique spot in Arabia renowned for its fruit orchards. En route back to Muscat, we stop at the scenic overlook at Diana s Point, named for a visit by Princess Diana, and then visit the abandoned village of Wadi Bani Habib. Grand Hyatt Muscat

10 Monday, Day 11 Muscat In the morning we visit the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, the largest mosque in Oman. Surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens, sits the shining white marble courtyard and a series of symmetrical white stone archways. Each archway frames views of the 300-foot high main minaret. This minaret, along with the four others (each 150-feet high), symbolize the five pillars of Islam. Our special guide is an Omani scholar, who also gives us a short lecture on Omani culture and Islam. Next, we drive along the waterfront Corniche before stopping at the Muttrah Souq. There is time to enjoy the souqs, searching for treasures and drinking in the sounds, smells, and friendly faces of the people. Our last stop is at Bait al-zubair Fort, to visit the Bait Al Zubair Museum for its brief but excellent introduction tracing Oman s history and development. After lunch at a local restaurant, the afternoon is at leisure for you to relax and enjoy the luxurious amenities at our resort hotel, or perhaps explore more of Muscat on your own. Tonight, enjoy a cocktail and dinner party with your Travcoa Travel Director and fellow travelers as we bid a fond farewell to Arabia. Grand Hyatt Muscat Tuesday, Day 12 Muscat & Depart for Home Today you are transferred to the Muscat airport for your flight home or on to your next destination. Journey accommodations end with the hotel night on Day 11. Check-out time is approximately 11:00 am on Day 12. Included meal services end with breakfast on Day 12. NOTE: The Daily Itinerary above is subject to change dependent upon local conditions and/or operational changes or improvements. The specific times and order of inclusions within each destination may also be altered to best accommodate unscheduled closures, special events, weather, traffic, etc. Please contact your Journey Consultant before scheduling any coinciding appointments. You will receive an up-dated, itinerary approximately 21 days prior to your journey s scheduled departure date.

11 ACCOMMODATIONS DAYS 1 & 2 DAYS 3 & 4 DAYS 5 DAYS 6-8 DAYS 9-11 Doha, Qatar: Four Seasons Hotel Doha (Premier Sea View Room) Dubai, UAE: Taj Dubai (Taj Club Room) The Arabian Desert, UAE: Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa (Bedouin Suite) Abu Dhabi, UAE: Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri (Horizon Club Premier Room) Muscat, Oman: Grand Hyatt Muscat (Club View Room) Doha, Qatar, Four Seasons Hotel Doha With an exclusive marina and beach curved at its feet, the Four Seasons Hotel Doha gazes over the Arabian Gulf as an outstanding waterfront landmark. The resort offers a relaxing waterfront setting, featuring its exclusive beach, 110-berth marina, and far-reaching views of the Arabian Gulf. There is an extensive spa and fitness center with whirlpools and hot tubs, and a three-level beachfront grotto pool is set amid lush gardens. Other hotel features and services include laundry service, gift shops, and a business center. For dining you can choose from a wide range of dining styles and culinary delights, each offering a distinctive and elegant experience and superb service. The 232 guestrooms and suites are spacious and enjoy expansive views of the gulf. Your Premier Sea View room amenities include down duvets & pillows, in-room safe, minibar, internet access, and a marble bathroom with a make-up mirror, terry cloth bathrobes and a hairdryer. Dubai, UAE, Taj Dubai Located in the prestigious downtown Burj Khalifa District, surrounded by a futuristic vision of architectural landmarks and cutting-edge attractions, the Taj Dubai hotel is a prime example of Dubai's burgeoning tourism scene. The definition of sophisticated luxury, it creates the perfect base from which to explore this iconic city. Close by is Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building, and Dubai Fountain, the world's biggest "dancing" fountain. The vast Dubai Mall with over 1,200 stores is also just a short stroll away. A myriad of sights, sounds and tastes awaits - from fine dining and trendsetting bars, to an Olympic-sized ice rink and one of the largest aquariums

12 on the planet. Added to this is the very best of service which one can experience at Taj Dubai - reinvented, personalized and delivered in the renowned Taj fashion. Contemporary elegance is featured in the 296 rooms - sophisticated and luxurious, with a palette of walnut timber, bamboo coloured walls, taupe leathers and textural carpeting evokes the era of glamour - while the latest in-room technology ensures the highest levels of efficiency. Travcoa has reserved Taj Club Rooms with views of Burj Khalifa and which provide exclusive access to the Taj Club Lounge. From a sumptuous buffet style breakfast to relaxing by the pool bar, or a spot of afternoon tea, followed by evening cocktails and dining at one of the hotel's specialty restaurants, the Taj Dubai promises a refreshingly different culinary journey. The Arabian Desert, UAE, Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa The resort lies nestled within a green and verdant oasis amongst some of Arabia's most impressive dune and desert landscapes. Resembling an ancient Bedouin encampment this secluded, internationally-awarded hideaway resort offers personal and seductive experiences of the region's history and hospitality, in absolute comfort. We include several of the resorts activity options camel trekking, desert hikes and drives, horseback riding and desert walks. The swimming pool spills out into a never ending vista of dramatic desert and mountain views whilst the private deck provides a secluded area for spending relaxing time alone or as an intimate spot for a personalized dining experience. Dining at Al Maha is a truly international experience, exciting to the palate, yet remaining relatively simple, honest and 'homemade'. Using the finest organic ingredients sourced from around the world; from free-range eggs and Halal meats to the freshest hand-picked fruit and vegetables, the resort provides a standard fit for any highly-awarded restaurant. Built in the style of an ancient Bedouin settlement, the neutral toned 'tents' shade individual suites of understated, modern luxury. Each private suite is furnished with original, unique and rare collections of regional artwork and antiques. Travcoa s Bedouin Suites each have their own private swimming pool (5x4 meters), graceful interiors scattered with regional antiques and artifacts plus thoughtful extras such as binoculars and an easel, should your artistic instincts be inspired. Other room amenities include Satellite TV, an in-room safe, minibar, tea and coffee making facilities, and a spacious bathroom with a walk-in shower, king-size bath, and a 'his and hers' vanity area.

13 Abu Dhabi, UAE, Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri Located near a golf course and city center, the hotel offers lush garden landscapes and a serene, faraway world of its own. Your senses are bewitched by the hotel's impressive architecture, with its fine Arabic décor, full of warm tones and organic textures. The hotel is connected by a winding waterway featuring Arabic traditional abra boats that slowly meander throughout the verdant garden scenery. Additional resort facilities and services include an expansive beach, traditional Arabian marketplace, full service luxury spa, beauty salon, business center, and laundry services. There is a choice of five restaurants serving an assortment of international cuisines, in addition there are three bars and a lobby lounge. Travcoa has reserved Horizon Club Premier rooms, featuring amenities that include air conditioning, satellite TV, free wireless Internet access, a minibar, coffee/tea maker, in-room safe and a luxurious bathroom with a tub and separate walk-in rain shower, and a hairdryer. You also receive complimentary shoe shine, daily fresh fruit, and access to the Club Lounge that offers a daily breakfast, evening cocktails and canapés, and soft drinks throughout the day, plus Wi-Fi Internet access and a selection of newspapers and magazines. Muscat, Oman, Grand Hyatt Muscat The Grand Hyatt Muscat is situated on a pristine stretch of beach in the capital of the Sultanate of Oman and is a striking illustration of Arabian architecture. Located in the Shatti Al Qurum section of Muscat, the hotel's majestic surroundings and traditional Omani hospitality combine for a truly unforgettable stay. The white, sandy stretch of Shatti Al Qurum beach is directly outside Grand Hyatt Muscat hotel and is lined with palm trees and has jogging paths, walkways and picnic areas located beside it. Grand Hyatt Muscat is one of the largest and most opulent luxury hotels Muscat has to offer, with 280 stylishly appointed hotel rooms and suites with a remarkable Arabian style interior design. The property has outstanding recreational facilities and a variety of award winning restaurants, bars and lounges to choose from, including Tuscany, Grand Hyatt Muscat's signature Italian restaurant, and the Safari Rooftop Grill House. Taking advantage of the fitness center, guests can enjoy healthy and relaxing moments in the temperature controlled swimming pool, the whirlpool bath or playing tennis on one of our courts.

14 TRAVEL PLANNING DETAILS 2015 Departure Dates & Prices Dates Travcoa Select Intra Tour Air Select Single Suppl. Jan Feb. 10, 2015 $11, ,395 March 06-17, 2015 $11, ,395 October 16-27, 2015 $11, ,395 November 06-17, 2015 $11, , Day Itinerary: Per person price is based upon two people sharing a room. Airfare is additional. Check with Travcoa for special international airfares. INTRA-TOUR FLIGHTS: Doha / Dubai Abu Dhabi / Muscat These flight tickets will be issued by Travcoa; airfare prices are subject to change and are only guaranteed at time of final payment. JOURNEY PACE: MODERATE TO ACTIVE All guests are expected to be in good health. There are experiences on this journey that require physical exertion such as climbing stairs and walking on uneven terrain. In addition, guests can expect early mornings and long drives on rough roads. Some journeys tour at high altitudes and may use small boats and 4x4 vehicles. If you need assistance with walking or other personal needs you must be accompanied by an able companion who will help you as we are unable to offer this kind of assistance. Each Travcoa journey has its own unique and specific examples of physical exertion described more fully in the above itinerary. Contact a Travcoa Journey Consultant for further details.

15 RENDEZVOUS & SCHEDULE POINTS Following are the times and locations where this journey officially begins and ends. Travcoa is pleased to provide arrival and departure transfers between the designated airport city and the rendezvous location when confirmed flight details are provided with final payment. Day 1 Friday Arrive Doha, Qatar Meeting Point- Doha, Four Seasons Hotel Doha, after lunch Journey accommodations begin with the hotel night on Day 1. Check-in time is approximately 3:00 pm on Day 1. Included meal services begin with dinner on Day 1. Day 12 Tuesday Depart Muscat, Oman Farewell Point - Muscat, The Grand Hyatt Muscat, after breakfast Journey accommodations end with the hotel night on Day 11. Check-out time is approximately 11:00 am on Day 12. Included meal services end with breakfast on Day 12. INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS Airfares vary according to airline, departure city and seat category, and are based on availability and subject to change. Travcoa is pleased to assist you with your air reservations for this journey. The recommended air carriers for this journey are Qatar & United Airlines. Please check with Travcoa for schedules and rates on our preferred carriers. If you are arranging your own flights, please take careful note of the Rendezvous Points above. Our office requires flight details at time of final payment in order to provide your included journey arrival and departure airport transfers.

16 EXTENDING YOUR STAY This Travcoa escorted journey is designed to give you an in-depth experience of this region. If you have more time, you may choose to extend your travels and explore more of this region or other nearby areas. Some recommended options on how to extend your travel are listed below. EXTRA HOTEL NIGHTS: Many guests choose to add additional hotel nights before and/or after their journey to help acclimate after long international flights or to do some independent exploration. Travcoa is happy to secure those hotel reservations for you. Travcoa still provides airport assistance and journey hotel transfers if you choose to arrive early or depart after the journey. Call for pre tour rates at the Four Seasons in Doha in Doha, or post-tour rates at the Grand Hyatt Muscat in Muscat. Extra hotel nights are subject to availability. INDEPENDENT JOURNEY EXTENSIONS: The Middle East area offers countless options for additional independent travel; we suggest Travcoa s ready-to-book Jordan s Petra Private Journey. CUSTOM JOURNEY EXTENSIONS: Travcoa can create customized independent itineraries designed around your special interests and desired travel dates. These can be arranged as extensions either before and/or after your escorted journey. Contact a Travcoa Journey Consultant for more details. NOTE: If you are connecting this journey with another Travcoa journey, please remember the connecting flights between journeys are NOT included. Please contact Travcoa for the recommended connecting flight schedule.

17 YOUR TRAVCOA JOURNEY INCLUDES Deluxe rooms in the best available hotels* Three meals per day on an à la carte basis wherever available and practical, including room service. Where time and location permit includes our unique Dine-Around program outside the journey hotel. * A professional Travcoa Travel Director as your personal concierge Local sightseeing with professional English-speaking guides with unparalleled knowledge, including entrance fees for places visited Active participation and up-close encounters to experience the cultures of your journey Bottled water, soft drinks, coffee and tea included with meals; bottled water during sightseeing excursions All gratuities to hotel and restaurant staff and local guides and drivers Group or individual airport transfers on arrival and departure flights Emergency Evacuation and Assistance Plan *Due to remote or undeveloped locations on some journeys, accommodations may not always meet Western standards. Dine-Around opportunities will be limited in remote or unsecured locations. THE COST OF YOUR JOURNEY DOES NOT INCLUDE: Air transportation; airport taxes; passport expenses Inoculations and medications Visas, if required Alcoholic beverages (except as noted in itinerary) and caviar Expenses of guides, buses or cars for sightseeing not included in the itinerary Laundry, expenses of a personal nature and gratuity for any personal services Health, accident, baggage and trip cancellation insurance Excessive baggage charges imposed by airlines Customary end-of-the-trip gratuity to the Travcoa Travel Director (Depending on your satisfaction with their services, $15-$18 per person, per day is customary.)

18 TRAVEL PRECAUTIONS For your personal safety we recommend the following precautions in all destinations: Leave valuables and highly sentimental items at home. Use hotel in-room safes for documents and other valuables Carry a copy of your passport while sightseeing rather than the actual passport (leave in hotel room safe). Always have a copy of your passport while traveling. Listen to your Travcoa Travel Director s recommendations in each location and pay attention to any recommendations provided by your hotel. Be aware of your surroundings, most incidents occur on the street or crowded areas Keep a firm hold on purses, backpacks or bags; thieves may be on motorcycles or bicycles. Be wary of people offering or requesting help, they could be a distraction to lower your guard. The destination notes included in this booklet have more destination specific information; please ask your travel director if you have any questions.