Spectrum Holidays. Discover the Real Alaska & Canada 2014 Escorted Group Tours

Transcription

1 Spectrum Holidays Discover the Real Alaska & Canada 2014 Escorted Group Tours Spectrum Holidays Pty Ltd ACN ABN Licence No IATA Whitehorse Rd Mitcham VIC 3132 Contact Details Interstate Melbourne - (03) Fax - (03) info@spectrumholidays.com.au Revised 8 November 2013

2 Overview Introduction Our escorted tours are ideal for people who have: a spirit of adventure the desire to discover the Real Alaska and Canada been searching for an alternative to big cruise ship style packages an interest in meeting and interacting with local residents enjoy the excitement of experiencing new destinations and cultures We have scheduled four separate escorted group tours for the 2014 season. For the Spring, Early Summer, Late Summer and Fall groups you can choose between the full four week or shorter three week itineraries. Tour leaders and group size Our group tours are led by experienced Australian based tour directors who work in conjunction with knowledgeable local guides. The Winter tour is led by a local Alaskan guide. The average size of the groups is 20 to 25 people. Style Our aim is to create a relaxed, friendly and informal atmosphere. Comfortable and casual clothing is appropriate whilst on tour. Accommodation Our itineraries include a number of multiple night stays in clean and comfortable accommodation. We generally stay in three star properties with private bathroom and toilet facilities. Where possible we use accommodation that is centrally located within the town. Transport We include a mixture of transport including train, motor coach, ferries and sometimes light plane. Experience has shown this approach makes the itinerary more interesting and enjoyable. Additional touring The dates and itineraries for our group tours are fixed. However, you are welcome to add arrangements either side of the tour. If you would like assistance organising extra arrangements we are happy to help. Sample itineraries for extra touring are shown on page 12. Sightseeing tours Our philosophy is to include all key sightseeing activities in the tour price. We do not believe in the approach of selling a bare bones itinerary and then trying to entice clients into purchasing extra sightseeing activities. There are one or two places where you have the option of purchasing an extra tour (e.g. flightseeing) if you wish, but these are definitely not essential. Meals We have found the pay as you go approach is cost effective and provides maximum flexibility. Some hotels provide a simple continental breakfast as part of their standard room rate. Likewise there are certain sightseeing tours which include a light lunch. These meals are shown on the itinerary. We suggest you budget $350 per person per week to cover the cost of additional meals not included in the tour price. Gratuities We have included the cost of gratuities for coach drivers, local guides, baggage handling, transfers and sightseeing tours in the price of the escorted group tours. You are responsible for gratuities on meals and extra touring arrangements not included in the itinerary. A gratuity of 10% to 15% is generally considered appropriate. Single supplement If you are willing to share with another person of the same gender, we will not charge a single supplement. If you prefer not to share and wish to be guaranteed a room of your own, the single supplement for each itinerary will apply. Refer to each itinerary for single supplement prices. International group flights We hold seats with Air New Zealand from Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane for the group tours. Passengers will board flights in their home cities and then meet up with the group in Auckland for the flights through to North America. If you are travelling from Adelaide, Perth or other cities in Australia or New Zealand please contact us to discuss flight details. Individual flights If you would prefer to travel with an airline other than Air New Zealand, we can assist with reservations. You are welcome to organise your own flights on frequent flyer points. If you are planning to visit Europe or Asia you may prefer to use a Round The World airfare with either Star Alliance or OneWorld. Transfers The tour price includes transfers and baggage handling at each city and town. Occasionally when the hotel is located very close to the station, airport or ferry terminal we may walk rather than using a coach. If you would like assistance, baggage handling can be organised at no extra charge. Transfers between the airport and hotels at the beginning and end of the tour are scheduled to meet with the Air New Zealand group flights. These transfers are made by chartered motor coach. If you are flying with another airline or arriving/departing at a different time of day, you will be responsible for your own transfers at the beginning and end of the tour. If you would like assistance, we can help in organising these. Terms and conditions Details of our terms and conditions are available on our website. Alternatively we are able to post or these on request. 2

3 Tour Code GCB4 Alaska & Canada Spring Tour May 2014 Fri 23: Australia to Vancouver - on arrival we transfer to our hotel. Renaissance Harbourside Hotel (2 nights) Sat 24: Vancouver City Tour - in the morning we take a sightseeing tour of Vancouver including Stanley Park, Gastown, English Bay, Chinatown and the waterfront. Sun 25: Vancouver to Seward - today we fly to Anchorage where we will take a luxury coach to the coastal town of Seward. Breeze Inn (2 nights) Mon 26: Kenai Fjords Cruise - enjoy a five hour tour into Kenai Fjords National Park which is home to orcas, humpback whales, sea otters and many species of birds. Tue 27: Seward to Anchorage - we travel by coach to Anchorage, the largest city in Alaska. Quality Suites (2 nights) Wed 28: Anchorage (B) - full day at leisure. Set at the base of the Chugach Mountains, Anchorage has many attractions including the Alaska Native Heritage Center, the Museum of Art, Earthquake Park and Ship Creek. Thu 29: Anchorage to Denali (B) - we board our private motor coach and drive to Denali. The afternoon is free to explore Denali. Denali Grizzly Resort (2 nights) Fri 30: Denali Tundra Wilderness Tour (B) - today we join the Tundra Wilderness Tour taking us into the Denali National Park and Preserve. Our tour provides an opportunity to view the magnificent scenery that makes this wilderness region so famous. During the tour we keep a close watch for wildlife such as bears, moose, wolves, caribou and Dall Sheep. Sat 31: Denali to Fairbanks (B) - we board the Alaska Railroad this morning for a journey through the heart of Alaska to Fairbanks, Alaska's largest interior city. Bridgewater Hotel (2 nights) June 2014 Sun 1: Riverboat Discovery Cruise - in the morning we board the Riverboat Discovery for a cruise down the lovely Chena River. This tour includes a visit to a recreated Chena Indian Village and demonstration of dog sledding. The afternoon is free to explore Fairbanks. Mon 2: Fairbanks to Haines - today we board an Alaska Airlines flight to Juneau. We then take a spectacular light plane flight over the Juneau Icefield and Lynn Canal to Haines. Captain s Choice (3 nights) Tue 3: White Pass and Yukon Summit Tour (B) - we transfer by water taxi to Skagway where we board the famous White Pass and Yukon Railway. We can view breathtaking mountain panoramas, glaciers, waterfalls, tunnels and historic sites. In the afternoon there is time to wander through the town before returning to Haines. Wed 4: Haines (B) - day at leisure. Originally a Russian and Native American trading post, this town provides beautiful views of the Chilkat Mountains and Lynn Canal, North America s deepest fjord. With only a few small cruise ships docking each summer, Haines has retained its local identity as a quiet South East Alaskan town. Thu 5: Haines to Inside Passage (B) - we board an Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS) ferry for the overnight journey to Wrangell. Local residents use the ferries for transport between the towns along the Inside Passage. The facilities include observation decks, dining room, bar and gift shop. On-board cabin with private facilities (1 night) Fri 6: Inside Passage to Wrangell - we arrive in Wrangell late in the morning. The remainder of the day is free to explore the town including Petroglyph Beach, Chief Shakes House, Rainbow Falls and the local museum. Stikine Inn (2 nights) Sat 7: Stikine River Wilderness Tour (B) - our jetboat tour takes us through the lower sections of the Stikine River. This pristine wilderness region is home to abundant wildlife. Sun 8: Le Conte Glacier and Petersburg Tour (B) - we tour by jetboat to the southern most active glacier in the northern hemisphere. This glacier fills the bay with several miles of icebergs. Our tour also visits the community of Petersburg, Alaska s Little Norway. Shortly before midnight we check into the AMHS terminal for the next leg of our journey through to Prince Rupert. On-board cabin with private facilities (1 night) Mon 9: Wrangell to Prince Rupert (B) - we make a short stop in Ketchikan on the voyage to Prince Rupert. Pacific Inn (2 nights) 3

4 Alaska & Canada Spring Tour Tue 10: Prince Rupert - day at leisure Wed 11: Prince Rupert to Prince George - today we board VIA Rail s Skeena service to Prince George. Highlights of the trip include views of the Coast Mountains and the Skeena River. Ramada Inn (1 night) Thu 12: Prince George to Jasper - we board our motor coach along the Yellowhead route into the Rocky Mountains. On clear days there are excellent views of Mount Robson. Marmot Lodge (2 nights) Fri 13: Jasper - our day is free to explore this picturesque alpine town. There are amazing views from every street and a number of nearby walking tracks and attractions we can enjoy. Sat 14: Jasper to Banff - we tour the Icefields Parkway with its towering mountain peaks, tranquil lakes and cascading waterfalls. We stop at several spots including Lake Louise and the Columbia Icefield Centre where we take an Ice Explorer ride onto the Athabasca Glacier. Banff Park Lodge (2 nights) Sun 15: Banff - at leisure to explore the attractions of Banff. Taking in the mountain air, you may like to venture to Bow Falls, The Fairmont Banff Springs, Banff Gondola and the nearby hot springs. Mon 16: Banff to Lac Le Jeune (L/D) - we board our motor coach and drive from the high alpine of the Rockies, through the picturesque town of Revelstoke and onto our lakeside lodge. Lac Le Jeune (1 night) Tue 17: Lac Le Jeune to Whistler (B) - we re-board the motor coach in the morning and travel along the high plateau before entering the Coast Mountains and the resort town of Whistler. Delta Whistler Suites (1 night) Wed 18: Whistler to Victoria - we travel along the scenic Sea to Sky Highway today to Horseshoe Bay, where we board our ferry to Vancouver Island. Before arriving into Victoria, we briefly tour some of the towns along the coast. Double Tree by Hilton (2 nights) Thu 19: Butchart Gardens Excursion - this morning we visit the renowned Butchart Gardens with its colourful floral displays. Fri 20: Victoria to Vancouver - on the final leg of our tour we sail across the Strait of Georgia on a BC Ferry to the mainland. We are then transferred by motor coach to Vancouver International Airport where we board our flights back to Australia. Sat 21: In flight Sun 22: Arrive back in Australia Full Tour GCB4 ($A per person twin share) Land arrangements $ 9,700 Internal flights* $ 800 Price excluding international flights $10,500 Air New Zealand airfares (if required) $ 2,250 Price including international flights $12,930 Single supplement (refer page 2) $ 2,900 *Internal flights - Vancouver/Anchorage, Fairbanks/ Anchorage/Juneau Accommodation in clean and comfortable hotels with private facilities Meals as indicated (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner) Vancouver City Tour Kenai Fjords Cruise Denali Tundra Wilderness Tour The Alaska Railroad Denali to Fairbanks Riverboat Discovery Tour White Pass and Yukon Summit Tour Return fares on Haines to Skagway fast ferry Alaska Marine Highway fares and cabins Stikine River Cruise LeConte Glacier and Petersburg Tour Lynn Canal flightseeing VIA Rail Skeena Service (Comfort Class) Prince Rupert to Prince George Icefields Parkway Tour and Ice Explorer ride Victoria and Butchart Gardens Excursion BC Ferry Victoria to Vancouver Travel on luxury motor coach 22 DAY ITINERARY (Tour GCC4) You can leave the tour in Prince Rupert on Wed 11 June. The prices for this itinerary are shown in the table below. Shorter Tour GCC4 ($A per person twin share) Land arrangements $ 6,600 Internal flights* $ 1,200 Price excluding international flights $ 7,800 Air New Zealand airfares (if required) $ 2,250 Price including international flights $10,230 Single supplement (refer page 2) $ 2,150 *Internal flights - Vancouver/Anchorage, Fairbanks/ Anchorage/Juneau, Prince Rupert/Vancouver 4

5 Tour Code GCD4 Alaska & Canada Early Summer Tour June 2014 Fri 27: Vancouver - arrive into Vancouver and transfer to our hotel. Sandman Signature Airport Hotel (1 night) Sat 28: Vancouver to Anchorage - today we take an Air Canada flight to Anchorage, the largest city in Alaska. Quality Suites (2 nights) Sun 29: Anchorage (B) - full day at leisure. Set at the base of the Chugach Mountains, Anchorage has many attractions including the Alaska Native Heritage Center, the Museum of Art, Earthquake Park and Ship Creek. Mon 30: Anchorage to Denali (B) - we board our luxury motor coach and drive through the heart of Alaska to Denali National Park. The afternoon is free to explore Denali. Denali Grizzly Resort (2 nights) July 2014 Tue 1: Denali Tundra Wilderness Tour (B) - today we join the Tundra Wilderness Tour taking us into the Denali National Park and Preserve. Our tour provides an opportunity to view the magnificent scenery that makes this wilderness region so famous. During the tour we keep a close watch for wildlife such as bears, moose, wolves, caribou and Dall Sheep. Wed 2: Denali to Fairbanks (B) - we board our luxury motor coach this morning for a journey through the heart of Alaska to Fairbanks, Alaska's largest interior city. Bridgewater Hotel (2 nights) Thu 3: Riverboat Discovery Cruise - in the morning we board the Riverboat Discovery for a cruise down the lovely Chena River. This tour includes a visit to a recreated Chena Indian Village and demonstration of dog sledding. The afternoon is free to explore Fairbanks. Fri 4: Fairbanks to Dawson City - we drive along the Top of the World Highway en-route to Dawson City. Along the way we make stops at Rika s Roadhouse, Tok and Chicken. Eldorado Hotel (2 nights) Sat 5: Dawson City - in the morning we visit the Discovery Claim, home to the richest placer gold strike in history. The remainder of the day is free to explore the town, which has been declared a national historic site. Sun 6: Dawson to Whitehorse - we drive south along the Klondike Highway through ranchlands and the beautiful expanses of the Yukon River Valley to Whitehorse. Best Western Gold Rush Inn (1 night) Mon 7: Whitehorse to Haines - we travel by luxury motor coach along the Alaska Highway before joining the scenic Haines Highway through to Haines. Captains Choice (3 nights) Tue 8: Haines (B) - originally a Russian and Native American trading post, this town provides beautiful views of the Chilkat Mountains and Lynn Canal, North America s deepest fjord. With only a few small cruise ships docking each summer, Haines has retained its local identity as a quiet South East Alaskan town. Wed 9: White Pass and Yukon Summit Tour (B) - in the morning we travel by water taxi to Skagway. We have time to explore this well preserved frontier town before taking a ride on the White Pass and Yukon Railroad. Built during the days of the Klondike Goldrush, this is one of the most colourful and interesting rail trips in North America, both from a scenic and historic viewpoint. We can view glaciers, mountains, gorges, waterfalls and historic sites. We return to Haines by water taxi in the afternoon. Thu 10: Haines to Inside Passage (B) - we board an Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS) ferry for the overnight journey to Wrangell. Local residents use the ferries for transport between the towns along the Inside Passage. The facilities include observation decks, dining room, bar and gift shop. On-board cabin with private facilities (1 night) Fri 11: Inside Passage to Wrangell - early morning arrival into Wrangell. The remainder of the day is free to explore the town including Petroglyph Beach, Chief Shakes House, Rainbow Falls and the local museum. Stikine Inn (3 nights) Sat 12: AnAn Bear Observatory (B) - today we tour to AnAn where we have the opportunity to safely photograph black and brown bears in the wild. We start the tour with a beautiful one hour boat ride to AnAn. On arrival we walk through lush rainforest to the bear viewing platforms. We are accompanied by experienced local guides throughout the tour. 5

6 Alaska & Canada Early Summer Tour Sun 13: Stikine River Cruise (B) - this morning we take a jetboat ride through the lower reaches of the Stikine River. This pristine wilderness features glaciers and possible sightings of bears, moose and eagles. Mon 14: Wrangell to Inside Passage (B) - the morning is at leisure. In the afternoon we board an Alaska Marine System (AMHS) ferry for our overnight voyage to Prince Rupert. On-board cabin with private facilities (1 night) Tue 15: Inside Passage to Prince Rupert - we arrive in Prince Rupert early evening. Pacific Inn (1 night) Wed 16: Prince Rupert to Prince George (B) - this morning we board our coach for the journey to Prince George. Highlights of the day include views of the Coast Mountains and Skeena River. Ramada Inn (1 night) Thu 17: Prince George to Jasper - we travel by motor coach across the Yellowhead Pass to Jasper. On clear days there are excellent views of Mt. Robson the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. Marmot Lodge (1 night) Fri 18: Jasper to Banff - we tour the Icefields Parkway with its towering mountain peaks, tranquil lakes and cascading waterfalls. We stop at several spots including Lake Louise and the Columbia Icefield Centre where we take an Ice Explorer ride onto the Athabasca Glacier. Banff Park Lodge (2 nights) Sat 19: Banff - our day is free to explore the attractions around the town of Banff and Banff National Park. Popular places to visit include Bow Falls, The Fairmont Banff Springs, Banff Gondola and the nearby Upper Hot Springs. Sun 20: Banff to Kamloops (B/L) - early this morning we commence our two day Rocky Mountaineer rail excursion. We travel through The Rocky Mountains on our journey to Kamloops. Highlights include Yoho National Park, Kicking Horse Pass and the Spiral Tunnels. Hotel assigned by Rocky Mountaineer (1 night) Mon 21: Kamloops to Vancouver (B/L) - we re-board the Rocky Mountaineer train in the morning, travelling through the fertile plains of the Fraser River Valley, then through the rugged Fraser Canyon before arriving in Vancouver. Renaissance Harbourside Hotel (2 nights) Tue 22: Vancouver City Tour - in the morning we take a sightseeing tour of Vancouver including Stanley Park, Gastown, English Bay, Chinatown and the waterfront. Wed 23: Vancouver to Victoria - we board our morning ferry to Vancouver Island. Before arriving into Victoria, we tour some of the lovely suburban areas. Double Tree by Hilton (2 nights) Thu 24: Butchart Gardens Excursion - this morning we visit the renowned Butchart Gardens with its colourful floral displays. Fri 25: Victoria to Vancouver - on the final leg of our tour we sail across the Strait of Georgia on a BC Ferry to the mainland. We are then transferred by motor coach to Vancouver International Airport where we board our flights back to Australia. Sat 26: In flight Sun 27: Arrive back in Australia Full Tour GCD4 ($A per person twin share) Land arrangements $10,000 Internal flights* $ 700 Price excluding international flights $10,700 Air New Zealand airfares (if required) $ 2,550 Price including international flights $13,430 Single supplement (refer page 2) $ 2,900 *Internal flights - Vancouver/Anchorage Upgrades (A$ per person): Rocky Mountaineer Silverleaf $ 500 Rocky Mountaineer Goldleaf $1,050 Accommodation in clean and comfortable hotels with private facilities Meals as indicated (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner) Denali Tundra Wilderness Tour Riverboat Discovery Tour Dawson City Discovery Claim White Pass & Yukon Summit Tour Return fares Haines to Skagway fast ferry AnAn Bear Viewing Tour Stikine River Cruise Alaska Marine Highway fares & cabins Icefields Parkway Tour & Ice Explorer Ride Rocky Mountaineer Railtour (Redleaf Service) Vancouver City Tour Victoria & Butchart Gardens Excursion Return fares on BC Ferry Victoria to Vancouver Travel on luxury motor coach 24 DAY TOUR (Tour GCE4) If you are interested in a shorter tour you can fly into Vancouver on 4 July for a 2 night stay. On Sunday 6 July you will then fly to Whitehorse and meet up with the group in the evening. The 2 night stay in Vancouver is not escorted. The prices for this itinerary are shown in the table below. Shorter Tour GCE4 ($A per person twin share) Land arrangements $ 7,500 Internal flights* $ 450 Price excluding international flights $ 7,950 Air New Zealand airfares (if required) $ 2,550 Price including international flights $10,680 Single supplement (refer page 2) $ 1,950 *Internal flights - Vancouver/Whitehorse 6

7 Tour Code GCF4 Alaska & Canada Late Summer Tour July 2014 Fri 18: Australia to Vancouver - on arrival transfer to our hotel. Sandman Signature Airport Hotel (1 night) Sat 19: Vancouver to Anchorage - today we take an Air Canada flight to Anchorage, the largest city in Alaska. Quality Suites (2 nights) Sun 20: Prince William Sound Tour (B) - we drive to Whittier where board our Prince William Sound cruise. The tour covers areas such as College and Harriman Fjords and includes a narrated presentation on the abundant marine life. Mon 21: Anchorage to Denali (B) - today we board our luxury motor coach and drive through the heart of Alaska to Denali National Park. The afternoon is free to explore Denali. Denali Grizzly Resort (2 nights) Tue 22: Denali Tundra Wilderness Tour (B) - today we join the Tundra Wilderness Tour taking us into the Denali National Park and Preserve. Our tour provides an opportunity to view the magnificent scenery that makes this wilderness region so famous. During the tour we keep a close watch for wildlife such as bears, moose, wolves, caribou and Dall Sheep. Wed 23: Denali to Fairbanks (B) - we board the Alaska Railroad this morning for a journey through the heart of Alaska to Fairbanks, Alaska's largest interior city. Bridgewater Hotel (2 nights) Thu 24: Riverboat Discovery Cruise - in the morning we board the Riverboat Discovery for a cruise down the lovely Chena River. This tour includes a visit to a recreated Chena Indian Village and demonstration of dog sledding. The afternoon is free to explore Fairbanks. Fri 25: Fairbanks to Dawson City - we drive along the Top of the World Highway en-route to Dawson City. Along the way we make stops at Rika s Roadhouse, Tok and Chicken. Eldorado Hotel (2 nights) Sat 26: Dawson City - in the morning we visit the Discovery Claim, home to the richest placer gold strike in history. The remainder of the day is free to explore the town, which has been declared a national historic site. Sun 27: Dawson to Whitehorse - we drive south along the Klondike Highway through ranchlands and the beautiful expanses of the Yukon River Valley to Whitehorse. Best Western Gold Rush Inn (1 night) Mon 28: Whitehorse to Haines - we travel by luxury motor coach along the Alaska Highway before joining the scenic Haines Highway through to Haines. Captains Choice (3 nights) Tue 29: Haines (B) - originally a Russian and Native American trading post, this town provides beautiful views of the Chilkat Mountains and Lynn Canal, North America s deepest fjord. With only a few small cruise ships docking each summer, Haines has retained its local identity as a quiet South East Alaskan town. Wed 30: White Pass and Yukon Summit Tour (B) - in the morning we travel by water taxi to Skagway. We have time to explore this well preserved frontier town before taking a ride on the White Pass and Yukon Railroad. Built during the days of the Klondike Goldrush, this is one of the most colourful and interesting rail trips in North America, both from a scenic and historic viewpoint. We can view glaciers, mountains, gorges, waterfalls and historic sites. We return to Haines by water taxi in the afternoon. Thu 31: Haines to Inside Passage (B) - we board an Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS) ferry for the overnight journey to Wrangell. Local residents use the ferries for transport between the towns along the Inside Passage. On-board cabin with private facilities (1 night) August 2014 Fri 1: Inside Passage to Wrangell - early morning arrival into Wrangell. The remainder of the day is free to explore the town including Petroglyph Beach, Chief Shakes House, Rainbow Falls and the local museum. Stikine Inn (3 nights) Sat 2: AnAn Bear Observatory (B) - today we tour to AnAn where we have the opportunity to safely photograph black and brown bears in the wild. We start the tour with a beautiful one hour boat ride to AnAn. On arrival we walk through lush rainforest to the bear viewing platforms. We are accompanied by experienced local guides throughout the tour. Sun 3: Stikine River Cruise (B) - this morning we take a jetboat ride through the lower reaches of the Stikine River. This pristine wilderness features glaciers and possible sightings of bears, moose and eagles. Mon 4: Wrangell to Inside Passage (B) - morning is at leisure. Shortly after lunch we re-board the AMHS ferry for our overnight voyage to Prince Rupert. On-board cabin with private facilities (1 night) Tue 5: Inside Passage to Prince Rupert - in the morning we arrive into Prince Rupert. Pacific Inn (1 night) Wed 6: Prince Rupert to Prince George (B) - this morning we board our coach for the journey to Prince George. Highlights of the day include views of the Coast Mountains and Skeena River. Ramada Inn (1 night) Thu 7: Prince George to Jasper - we travel by motor coach across the Yellowhead Pass to Jasper. On clear days there are excellent views of Mt. Robson the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. Marmot Lodge (1 night) 7

8 Tour Code GCF4 Alaska & Canada Late Summer Tour Fri 8: Jasper to Banff - we tour the Icefields Parkway with its towering mountain peaks, tranquil lakes and cascading waterfalls. We stop at several spots including Lake Louise and the Columbia Icefield Centre where we take an Ice Explorer ride onto the Athabasca Glacier. Banff Park Lodge (2 nights) Sat 9: Banff - your day is free to explore the attractions around the town of Banff and Banff National Park. Popular places to visit include Bow Falls, The Fairmont Banff Springs, Banff Gondola and the nearby Upper Hot Springs. Sun 10: Banff to Lac Le Jeune (L/D) - we board our motor coach and drive from the high alpine of the Rockies, through the picturesque town of Revelstoke and onto our lakeside lodge. Lac Le Jeune (1 night) Mon 11: Lac Le Jeune to Vancouver (B) - today we travel through the magnificent Fraser River Canyon, stopping in Whistler along the way, before arriving in Vancouver. Renaissance Harbourside Hotel (2 nights) Tue 12: Vancouver City Tour - in the morning we take a sightseeing tour of Vancouver including Stanley Park, Gastown, English Bay, Chinatown and the waterfront. Wed 13: Vancouver to Victoria - we board our morning ferry to Vancouver Island. Before arriving into Victoria, we tour some of the lovely suburban areas. Double Tree by Hilton (2 nights) Thu 14: Butchart Gardens Excursion - this morning we visit the renowned Butchart Gardens with its colourful floral displays. Fri 15: Victoria to Vancouver - on the final leg of our tour we sail across the Strait of Georgia on a BC Ferry to the mainland. We are then transferred by motor coach to Vancouver International Airport where we board our flights back to Australia. Sat 16: In flight Sun 17: Arrive back in Australia Full Tour GCF4 ($A per person twin share) Land arrangements $10,000 Internal flights* $ 800 Price excluding international flights $10,800 Air New Zealand airfares (if required) $ 2,250 Price including international flights $13,230 Single supplement (refer page 2) $ 2,900 *Internal flights - Vancouver/Anchorage Accommodation in clean and comfortable hotels with private facilities Meals as indicated (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner) Prince William Sound cruise Denali Tundra Wilderness Tour The Alaska Railroad Denali to Fairbanks Riverboat Discovery Tour Dawson City Discovery Claim tour White Pass & Yukon Summit Tour Return fares Haines to Skagway fast ferry Alaska Marine Highway fares & cabins Stikine River Cruise AnAn Bear Viewing Tour Icefields Parkway Tour and Ice Explorer ride Vancouver City Tour Victoria and Butchart Gardens Excursion Return fares BC Ferry Victoria to Vancouver Travel on luxury motor coach 22 DAY ITINERARY (Tour GCG4) You can leave the tour in Prince Rupert on Wed 6 August. The prices for this itinerary are shown in the table below. Shorter Tour GCG4 ($A per person twin share) Land arrangements $ 7,150 Internal flights* $ 1,200 Price excluding international flights $ Air New Zealand airfares (if required) $ 2,250 Price including international flights $10,780 Single supplement (refer page 2) $ 2,150 *Internal flights - Vancouver/Anchorage, Prince Rupert/Vancouver 8

9 Tour Code GCH4 Alaska & Canada Fall Tour August 2014 Fri 1: Vancouver - arrive into Vancouver and transfer to our hotel. Sandman Signature Airport Hotel (1 night) Sat 2: Vancouver to Anchorage - today we take an Air Canada flight to Anchorage, the largest city in Alaska. Quality Suites (2 nights) Sun 3: Anchorage (B) - full day at leisure. Set at the base of the Chugach Mountains, Anchorage has many attractions including the Alaska Native Heritage Center, the Museum of Art, Earthquake Park and Ship Creek. Mon 4: Anchorage to Denali (B) - today we board our luxury motor coach and drive through the heart of Alaska to Denali National Park. The afternoon is free to explore Denali. Denali Grizzly Resort (2 nights) Tue 5: Denali Tundra Wilderness Tour (B) - today we join the Tundra Wilderness Tour taking us into the Denali National Park and Preserve. Our tour provides an opportunity to view the magnificent scenery that makes this wilderness region so famous. During the tour we keep a close watch for wildlife such as bears, moose, wolves, caribou and Dall Sheep. Wed 6: Denali to Fairbanks (B) - we board our luxury motor coach this morning for a journey through the heart of Alaska to Fairbanks, Alaska's largest interior city. Bridgewater Hotel (2 nights) Thu 7: Riverboat Discovery Cruise - in the morning we board the Riverboat Discovery for a cruise down the lovely Chena River. This tour includes a visit to a recreated Chena Indian Village and demonstration of dog sledding. The afternoon is free to explore Fairbanks. Fri 8: Fairbanks to Dawson City - we drive along the Top of the World Highway en-route to Dawson City. Along the way we pass through Chicken, Tok and Rika s Roadhouse. Eldorado Hotel (2 nights) Sat 9: Dawson City - in the morning we visit the Discovery Claim, home to the richest placer gold strike in history. The remainder of the day is free to explore the town, which has been declared a national historic site. Sun 10: Dawson to Whitehorse - we drive south along the Klondike Highway through ranchlands and the beautiful expanses of the Yukon River Valley to Whitehorse. Best Western Gold Rush Inn (1 night) Mon 11: Whitehorse to Haines - we travel by luxury motor coach along the Alaska Highway before joining the scenic Haines Highway through to Haines. Captains Choice (3 nights) Tue 12: Haines (B) - originally a Russian and Native American trading post, this town provides beautiful views of the Chilkat Mountains and Lynn Canal, North America s deepest fjord. With only a few small cruise ships docking each summer, Haines has retained its local identity as a quiet South East Alaskan town. Wed 13: White Pass and Yukon Summit Tour (B) - in the morning we travel by water taxi to Skagway. We have time to explore this well preserved frontier town before taking a ride on the White Pass and Yukon Railroad. Built during the Klondike Goldrush, this is one of the most colourful and interesting rail trips in North America, both from a scenic and historic viewpoint. We can view glaciers, mountains, waterfalls and historic sites. We return to Haines by water taxi in the afternoon. Thu 14: Haines to Inside Passage (B) - we board an Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS) ferry for the overnight journey to Wrangell. Local residents use the ferries for transport between the towns along the Inside Passage. The facilities include an observation deck and dining room. On-board cabin with private facilities (1 night) Fri 15: Inside Passage to Wrangell - early morning arrival into Wrangell. The remainder of the day is free to explore the town including Petroglyph Beach, Chief Shakes House, Rainbow Falls and the local museum. Stikine Inn (3 nights) Sat 16: AnAn Bear Observatory (B) - today we tour to AnAn where we have the opportunity to safely photograph black and brown bears in the wild. We start the tour with a beautiful one hour boat ride to AnAn. On arrival we walk through lush rainforest to the bear viewing platforms. We are accompanied by experienced local guides throughout the tour. Sun 17: Stikine River Cruise (B) - this morning we take a jetboat ride through the lower reaches of the Stikine River. This pristine wilderness features glaciers and possible sightings of bears, moose and eagles. Mon 18: Wrangell to Inside Passage (B) - the morning is at leisure. Early in afternoon we board an Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS) ferry for our overnight voyage to Prince Rupert. On-board cabin with private facilities (1 night) Tue 19: Inside Passage to Prince Rupert - in the morning we arrive into Prince Rupert. Pacific Inn (1 night) Wed 20: Prince Rupert to Prince George (B) - this morning we board our coach for the journey to Prince George. Highlights of the day include views of the Coast Mountains and Skeena River. Ramada Inn (1 night) Thu 21: Prince George to Jasper - we travel by motor coach across the Yellowhead Pass to Jasper. On clear days there are excellent views of Mt. Robson the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. Marmot Lodge (1 night) 9

10 Alaska & Canada Fall Tour Fri 22: Jasper to Banff - we tour the Icefields Parkway with its towering mountain peaks, tranquil lakes and cascading waterfalls. We stop at several spots including Lake Louise and the Columbia Icefield Centre where we take an Ice Explorer ride onto the Athabasca Glacier. Banff Park Lodge (2 nights) Sat 23: Banff - your day is free to explore the attractions around the town of Banff and Banff National Park. Popular places to visit include Bow Falls, The Fairmont Banff Springs, Banff Gondola and the nearby Upper Hot Springs. Sun 24: Banff to Kamloops (B/L) - early this morning we commence our two day Rocky Mountaineer rail excursion. We travel through The Rocky Mountains on our journey to Kamloops. Highlights include Yoho National Park, Kicking Horse Pass and the Spiral Tunnels. Hotel assigned by Rocky Mountaineer (1 night) Mon 25: Kamloops to Vancouver (B/L) - we re-board the Rocky Mountaineer train in the morning, travelling through the fertile plains of the Fraser River Valley, then through the rugged Fraser Canyon before arriving in Vancouver. Renaissance Harbourside Hotel (2 nights) Tue 26: Vancouver City Tour - in the morning we take a sightseeing tour of Vancouver including Stanley Park, Gastown, English Bay, Chinatown and the waterfront. Wed 27: Vancouver to Victoria - we board our morning ferry to Vancouver Island. Before arriving into Victoria, we tour some of the lovely suburban areas. Double Tree by Hilton (2 nights) Thu 28: Butchart Gardens Excursion - this morning we visit the renowned Butchart Gardens with its colourful floral displays. Fri 29: Victoria to Vancouver - on the final leg of our tour we sail across the Strait of Georgia on a BC Ferry to the mainland. We are then transferred by motor coach to Vancouver International Airport where we board our flights back to Australia. Sat 30: In flight Sun 31: Arrive back in Australia Full Tour GCH4 ($A per person twin share) Land arrangements $10,000 Internal flights* $ 700 Price excluding international flights $10,700 Air New Zealand airfares (if required) $ 2,250 Price including international flights $13,130 Single supplement (refer page 2) $ 2,850 *Internal flights - Vancouver/Anchorage Upgrades (A$ per person): Rocky Mountaineer Silverleaf $ 500 Rocky Mountaineer Goldleaf $1,050 Accommodation in clean and comfortable hotels with private facilities Meals as indicated (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner) Denali Tundra Wilderness Tour Riverboat Discovery Tour Dawson City Discovery Claim White Pass and Yukon Summit Tour Return fares Haines to Skagway fast ferry Alaska Marine Highway fares & cabins as shown AnAn Bear Viewing Tour Stikine River Cruise Icefields Parkway Tour & Ice Explorer Ride Rocky Mountaineer rail tour (Redleaf Service) Vancouver City Tour Victoria and Butchart Gardens Excursion Return fares BC Ferry Victoria to Vancouver Travel on luxury motor coach 24 DAY TOUR (Tour GCI4) If you are interested in a shorter tour you can fly into Vancouver on 8 August for a 2 night stay. On Sunday 10 August you will then fly to Whitehorse and meet up with the group in the evening. The 2 night stay in Vancouver is not escorted. The prices for this itinerary are shown in the table below. Shorter Tour GCI4 ($A per person twin share) Land arrangements $ 7,500 Internal flights* $ 450 Price excluding international flights $ 7,950 Air New Zealand airfares (if required) $ 2,250 Price including international flights $10,380 Single supplement (refer page 2) $ 1,950 *Internal flights - Vancouver/Whitehorse 10

11 Tour Code GCA4 Alaska Winter Tour February 2014 Tue 18: Seattle - arrive into Seattle and transfer to our hotel. The Seattle portion of this tour is not escorted. Roosevelt Hotel (2 nights) Wed 19: Seattle - at leisure or shopping for winter gear. Thu 20: Seattle to Fairbanks - in the morning we board an Alaska Airlines flight to Fairbanks. On arrival we meet up with Premier Alaska Tours and join their Winter Extravaganza escorted group tour. Spring Hill Suites (3 nights) Fri 21: Fairbanks (B) - the day is free to explore the town. Fairbanks is one of the best places on earth for experiencing the beautiful and mysterious northern lights. In the evening we board our motor coach and head out of town to (hopefully) view a spectacular display of the Aurora Borealis. Sat 22: Fairbanks (B) - in the morning we enjoy a city tour of Fairbanks including a visit to the Morris Thompson Cultural Center and the Trans Alaska Pipeline. After dinner, we have another chance to view the northern lights, this time at a different location. Sun 23: Fairbanks to Talkeetna to Anchorage (B/L) - this morning we travel on the world famous Alaska Railroad Aurora winter train. Our journey takes us through the stunning snow covered interior of Alaska. We pass Denali National Park before arriving into Talkeetna. After a short stop in Talkeetna, we continue onto Anchorage. Anchorage Hilton Hotel (2 nights) Mon 24: Anchorage (B) - enjoy a day at leisure exploring the largest city in Alaska. Tue 25: Anchorage to Girdwood (B) - today we board our motor coach for the trip to the coastal community of Seward. Along the way we stop at the Alaska Wildlife Rehabilitation Center. Whilst in Seward, we visit the Alaska Sealife Center for an in-depth look above and below the waters. We then drive to Girdwood. The Hotel Alyeska (2 nights) Wed 26: Girdwood (B/L) - we have the day free to enjoy Alaska s premier resort. You can relax and enjoy the hotel amenities or undertake optional activities such as dog sledding, flightseeing or snow shoeing (costs not included). Thu 27: Girdwood to Anchorage (B/D) - we start the day by driving back to Anchorage. On arrival, we take a tour through the historic downtown district and also visit the Alaska Zoo. In the evening we attend the annual Iditarod Musher s Banquet. Quality Suites (4 nights) Fri 28: Happy Trails Kennel Tour (B) - we travel north to the home of four-time Iditarod Champion Martin Buser. We hear personal stories from Martin and meet some of the members of his fabulous team of dogs. March 2014 Sat 1: Iditarod Ceremonial Start (B) - this morning we head to 4th Avenue to watch the start of the Iditarod. In the afternoon we visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center. Sun 2: Iditarod Official Restart (B) - this morning we board our coach and travel north to Willow for the official restart of the Iditarod. The mushers head from the start line in Willow into the Alaskan Wilderness on their 1,000 mile race through to Nome. Mon 3: Anchorage to Honolulu to In Flight - in the morning we transfer to Anchorage Airport for our Alaska Airlines flight to Honolulu. On arrival, we transfer onto Air New Zealand flights back in Australia. Tue 4: In flight Wed 5: Arrive back in Australia Tour GCA4 ($A per person twin share) Land arrangements $ 3,500 Internal flights* $ 1,100 Price excluding international flights $ 4,600 Air New Zealand airfares (if required) $ 1,700 Estimated taxes on airfares $ 200 Price including international flights $ 6,500 Single supplement (refer page 2) $ 1,450 *Internal flights - San Francisco/Seattle, Seattle/ Fairbanks, Anchorage/Honolulu Accommodation in clean and comfortable hotels with private facilities Meals as indicated (Breakfast = B, Lunch = Lunch, D = Dinner) Alaska Railroad Fairbanks to Talkeetna Northern lights viewing Happy Trails Kennel Tour Alaska Sealife Center Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center and Alaska Zoo Ticket for Annual Mushers Banquet Iditarod Ceremonial Start in Anchorage Day tour to Willow for Official Iditarod Start 11

12 Sample Independent Tour Extension Ideas Eastern Coast Canada and USA Day 1: Toronto - arrive in Toronto and transfer to Holiday Inn Toronto Downtown (3 nights) Day 2: Toronto - experience the sights, sounds and the history of one of the world s great multi-cultural cities on the hop-on hop-off trolley tour. Your ticket allows you to see the city with professional drivers and commentary. The tour covers the University of Toronto, Yorkville Village, CN Tower, Skydome, Chinatown, Queen s Quay and Toronto Harbourfront. Day 3: Niagara Falls Excursion - depart on a full day scheduled sightseeing excursion to one of the seven natural wonders of the world, Niagara Falls. Highlights include the Whirlpool Rapids, Floral Clock, the smallest chapel in the world, and Brock s Monument. You will have time at leisure to explore on your own before returning to Toronto. Day 4: Toronto to Quebec City - travel on VIA Rail s Corridor Service to Quebec City. Chateau Laurier (2 nights) Day 5: Quebec City - day at leisure to explore one of the most beautiful cities in the world including The Latin Quarter, Plains of Abraham, Ramparts, world famous Chateau Frontenac, National Assembly, Basilica, City Hall, Place Royale and Citadel. Day 6: Quebec City to Montreal - travel on VIA Rail s Corridor Service from Quebec City to Montreal. Hotel Le Cantlie Suites (2 nights) Day 7: Montreal - enjoy a tram tour of Montreal which covers points of interest including the Old Port, Mount Royal Lookout, the Olympic Park, McGill University, Chinatown and the Notre Dame Basilica. Day 8: Montreal to New York - full day rail trip on Amtrak Adirondack service from Montreal to New York. New Yorker Ramada (3 nights) Day 9 to 10: New York - the All Loops Double Decker tour will give you an opportunity to discover the best sights of Manhattan and Brooklyn. There are over 60 stops on its Uptown, Downtown, Brooklyn and Night Loops. The ticket is valid for 48 hours. Day 11: New York to Boston - travel on Amtrak rail service from New York to Boston. Copley Square Hotel (2 nights) Day 12: Boston - day at leisure to explore Boston including sights such as the Freedom Trail, Faneuil Hall and Harvard University. Day 13: Depart Boston 12 nights accommodation VIA Rail (Economy Class) fares Amtrak fares (Comfort Class) fares Toronto city trolley tour Niagara Falls excursion Montreal hop-on hop-off tour New York All Loops Double Decker tour, Indicative cost: A$3,000 per person (twin share basis) West Coast USA Day 1: Los Angeles - arrive in Los Angeles and transfer to your hotel. Holiday Inn Santa Monica (2 nights) Days 2: Los Angeles - at leisure to explore attractions such as Disneyland, Universal Studios, Long Beach and Hollywood. Day 3: Los Angeles to San Francisco - board Amtrak Coast Starlight rail service for the full day trip through to San Francisco. Tuscan Inn (2 nights) Day 4: San Francisco - day at leisure in San Francisco to visit attractions such as Fisherman s Wharf, Alcatraz, and the Golden Gate Bridge. Day 5: San Francisco to Yosemite National Park - in the morning you will be collected from your hotel and taken by coach to Yosemite National Park. The drive takes you along the south side of the Merced River where you can see the Half Dome and waterfalls. Yosemite View Lodge (3 nights) Days 6 to 7: Yosemite National Park - enjoy a grand tour of Yosemite which includes the Glacier Point area and Mariposa Grove of big trees. Day 8: Yosemite to San Francisco - morning at leisure in Yosemite before returning in the afternoon by coach to San Francisco. Tuscan Inn (1 night) Day 9: San Francisco to Amtrak Train - in the evening depart on Amtrak Coastal Starlight rail service. Superliner Bedroom (1 night) Day 10: Amtrak to Seattle - relax and enjoy the magnificent scenery of the Pacific Northwest as you travel by train through to Seattle. Roosevelt Hotel (3 nights) Day 11 to Day 12: Seattle - at leisure. Day 13: Seattle to Vancouver - transfer by coach from Seattle to Vancouver. 12 nights accommodation Amtrak rail fares including sleeper Yosemite National Park coach tour Transfer from Seattle to Vancouver Indicative cost: A$3,300 per person (twin share basis) 12

13 SPECTRUM HOLIDAYS BOOKING FORM 2014 ALASKA & CANADA TOURS 1st Passenger details 2nd Passenger details Title Surname Given names per passport Preferrred Name Street Address Suburb/Town and Postal Code State Address Home Phone Mobile Phone Emergency contact person Emergency contact number Travel Insurance & Policy number Body weight [Only required for light plane flight on Spring tour] Rocky Mountaineer (please circle) Redleaf Silverleaf Goldleaf Single travellers accommodation (please circle) Happy to share Guaranteed single room Tour Name Dates Full tour Tick Dates Shorter tour Tick Spring tour 23 May - 22 Jun GCB4 23 May - 13 Jun GCC4 Early Summer tour 27 Jun - 27 Jul GCD4 04 Jul - 27 Jul GCE4 Late Summer tour 18 Jul - 17 Aug GCF4 18 Jul - 8 Aug GCG4 Fall tour 1 Aug - 31 Aug GCH4 8 Aug - 31 Aug GCI4 Winter tour 18 Feb - 5 Mar GCA4 Contact Details Interstate Melbourne - (03) Fax - (03) info@spectrumholidays.com.au Whitehorse Rd Mitcham VIC 3132 Please return booking form along with a copy of your passport and deposit of $1,000 per person. If you are renewing your passport a photocopy can be forwarded separately. 13