Trip Notes LA RUTA MAYA Trip Code: AUR Countries: Guatemala, Mexico, Belize Amended: October 2013 Edition No: VB 1 2014 Valid from: 01 Jan 2014-31 Dec 2014 HIGHLIGHTS An in-depth exploration of the highlights of the Mayan world, covering Guatemala, Mexico and Belize Guided visits to the Mayan sites of Palenque, Uxmal, Chichen Itza, Tulum, Tikal and Xunantunich Colourful colonial cities of Antigua, San Cristobal de las Casas, Campeche and Merida Traditional Indian communities in the Mexican highlands Two nights at beautiful Lake Atitlan, surrounded by volcanoes Idyllic Caribbean waters in Mexico and Belize The Mayas dedicated an immense amount of time to erecting giant monuments of stone, in the form of temples, pyramids and palaces and our journey takes us to a selection of the major Mayan sites, including Chichén Itzá, Uxmal, Palenque and Tikal. The Mayas were an incredibly advanced culture who made astonishing discoveries in scientific fields and developed a sophisticated hieroglyphic script. Their art was no less highly developed, and remains most clearly preserved in the limestone carvings of their cities and temples. As with many early civilizations, their lives were dominated by gods who they believed were responsible for absolutely all the basic elements of life: the sun, rain, crops, hunger, war, life and death. Spanish colonial influence is prevalent in the architecture throughout the region and there are many beautifully preserved cities and villages. There are still pure-blooded Mayas who inhabit the highlands of Guatemala even today and the Tzotzil people of southern Mexico are also direct descendants of the Maya. These groups preserve much of the language, religion, traditions and customs of their ancestors. This trip is not only about visiting historical sites though. We travel through almost every kind of tropical scenery - high volcanic mountains, the contrasting low-lying scrublands of the northern Yucatán peninsula and the dense jungle of the south, the beautiful Lake Atitlán and the Caribbean paradise of Caye Caulker. The bright colours of the landscapes are reflected in the people themselves and we have the chance to experience some of the most vivid colours at the many local stalls and markets in the charming towns we pass through. IS THIS TRIP FOR YOU? This trip includes several long drives and you should be prepared for this. Border crossings can sometimes be delayed with significant queues and formalities. Being in the tropics, most of the region is hot and humid, particularly during the summer months and inland - drinking plenty of water and dressing in loose cotton clothing is advisable. SUMMARY The mystery of the ancient Mayan civilization and its incredible architectural feats has captivated and confused historians since its discovery by Cortes in the early 16th century. The exact origins of the Mayas remain unknown but their civilization existed for hundreds of years, from around 100 AD until the arrival of the Spaniards. LAND ONLY ITINERARY The entries in bold at the end of each day indicate the type of accommodation normally used (if different standards of accommodation are used - see accommodation section below for key to codes), and meals included (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner). Exodus Travels Grange Mills, Weir Road, London SW12 0NE Sales & Reservations: 0845 863 9606 E-mail: sales@exodus.co.uk
the Catholic churches. In the main church of Chamula, where locals practice a blend of Catholicism and Mayan customs, people sit on the pine needle covered floor surrounded by dozens of candles, chanting prayers in an ancient dialect of Tzotzil. Our guide will explain some of the local traditions before we enter the church to see this practice for ourselves. Visitors should note that when visiting churches in the villages, photography of the worshippers and the church interiors is expressly forbidden. Your guide will explain the full reasons behind this, but please remember to exercise discretion when taking pictures, always seeking permission before using your camera. In the afternoon, there will be some free time to explore San Cristobal de las Casas at your leisure. CH (B) Day 6 Agua Azul Waterfalls and Palenque Day 1 Start Antigua Those on group flights will be met at Guatemala City airport and taken to our start hotel in Antigua (approx. 1 hour drive). Those on land only arrangements should make their own way to the start hotel. CH Day 2 Antigua, Guatemala Many travellers agree that Antigua is one of the most attractive cities in Latin America. Rightly declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the colourful, colonial city attracts visitors from all over for its unique history and renowned Spanish language schools. Above the tiled roofs of pastel houses there are impressive views of the Agua and Fuego volcanoes, standing in excess of 3700m above the city. Antigua was the capital of the Spanish empire in Central America from 1543 to 1773, a highly religious period that left the city with an abundance of convents and churches packed with religious art. Unfortunately many buildings are now in ruins from centuries of earthquake damage - our guided walking tour of the city will bring its fascinating history to life. In the afternoon we drive for approximately 2.5 hours into the highlands to the ancient market town of Chichicastenango, where centuries-old economic and cultural traditions of the Kaqchikel people continue to thrive. A further drive of 1 hour brings us to Panajachel, a small town on the shore of Lake Atitlan. Guatemala's largest lake is dominated by three volcanoes and was formed following an ancient eruption. Many of the villages that exist around the lake are only accessible by boat. CH (B) Day 3 Lake Atitlan Today we will explore some of the area surrounding Lake Atitlan. A 45-minute scenic boat ride on the lake takes us to the village of San Juan La Laguna, where we will visit the home studios of local painters and a textile cooperative where women are engaged in hand weaving and natural dyeing processes. We continue by boat to San Antonio where we can learn about the Mayan traditions and beliefs from our local guides. At certain times of the year, it may be possible to visit a shaman's house to see this fascinating practice, held amidst clouds of burning incense. CH (B) Day 4 To San Cristobal de las Casas Today we begin early and drive north, crossing the border into Mexico's southern state of Chiapas. The road takes us through rugged mountain scenery before we come to the old capital of the region, San Cristobal de Las Casas. This is one of the most attractive colonial towns in Mexico, with many old churches and squares amongst a lively café scene. It is also a major centre for the Tzotzil Indians, each group having different, colourful costumes. The extensive market has some good handicrafts for sale and plenty of interesting foodstuffs on offer! San Cristobal has a very pleasant climate because of its altitude. Today is a full day drive of around 7 hours plus stops for a traditional Mexican lunch (not included) and the border crossing. CH (B) Day 5 San Cristobal de las Casas We visit the nearby Indian villages of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan this morning. These small communities are very traditional and many of the villagers continue to follow ancient religious practices within Today we descend from the highlands to the humid forests of northeastern Chiapas - expect some winding roads but plenty of spectacular scenery en route. We break our journey at the Agua Azul Falls, a glittering series of cataracts which often appear blue due to the high mineral content. In Spanish the name of the falls means 'Blue Water'. Our journey will continue to the small town of Palenque, where the Mayan site of the same name is located just on the outskirts. Enjoy an optional trip to El Panchán for dinner this evening, a nearby bohemian rainforest hangout (dinner not included). The total driving time today is approx. 4 hours. CH (B) Day 7 Palenque This morning we have a guided tour of the impressive Mayan site of Palenque. The jungle-covered complex is one of the most famous in Mexico and is located in the low hills of Chiapas. The pyramids, sanctuaries and temples, with their sculptured wall-panels and roofs are remarkably well preserved and are probably the finest surviving examples of Mayan buildings. In the afternoon, we drive for around 5 hours to the historic fortified city of Campeche, a UNESCO World Heritage Site which boats incredibly well preserved colonial architecture. Most impressive are the city walls, built to protect the city from the constant attacks of English and Dutch buccaneers and pirates during the 16th and 17th centuries. Arrive in the early evening and head out to sample some local cuisine overlooking the Bay of Campeche - seafood is a local specialty and widely available. CH (B) Day 8 Uxmal and Merida From Campeche we travel for around 2 hours to reach the fascinating Mayan ruins of Uxmal. Uxmal dates back to the late classic period, having been built by the Xiu tribe. The site is dominated by the Pyramid of the Magician and the Nunnery Quadrangle which consists of long buildings with elaborately carved façades. There are remnants of a ball court used in ritual games that sometimes ended in sacrifice, and the whole site is quite exposed, which is a real contrast to the ruins of Palenque. From Uxmal it is around a 1 hour and 30 minute drive to the bustling colonial city of Mérida. Many of its buildings were constructed using stones from the Mayan city which existed on the site and these are still visible in the walls of the imposing cathedral. The city flourished following the conquest and the 19th century homes designed in French style contribute to the attractive appearance of the historical centre. We arrive in the middle to late afternoon and will enjoy a walking tour of the city; the main square is particularly impressive when lit up at night. SH (B) Day 9 Chichen Itza We will spend the morning exploring one of the largest Mayan ceremonial centres at Chichén Itza, located approximately 2 hours from Mérida. The impressive El Castillo Pyramid sits in the middle of the site and is surrounded by temples, palaces and ball courts. Nearby, we stop to visit the Cenote Sagrado ('Sacred Well'), dredged in the early 20th century and found to contain precious gold, silver and jade artifacts as well as the remains of sacrifice victims. After the tour we stop in Valladolid to further explore the mix of Mayan and colonial Spanish culture on the Yucatan before driving for around 3 hours to the fantastic beach community of Tulum, where we stay for the next 2 nights. Just outside the town lies one of the most photographed sites in the Yucatan; the ruins of an ancient Mayan city that overlook the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. SH (B) 2
Day 10 Tulum This morning we have a short tour of the ancient Mayan fortress of Tulum followed by an optional visit to the sacred underground Mayan waters, to cool off in a nearby cenote that is suitable for swimming. The most famous buildings in the complex are the ruins that overlook the lapping waves of the Caribbean, but there are also several temples, ritual platforms and houses to be explored. In common with many other Mayan cities, the whole site is surrounded by a huge defensive wall. This afternoon is free to relax on the beautiful Tulum beach. SH (B) In the afternoon, we head to the town of Flores and take a short flight to Guatemala City, where we will spend our final night. CH (B) Day 15 End Guatemala City Those on the group flights will be transferred to the airport for their flight back to London. (B) For those on group flights, these depart in the afternoon and will arrive in the UK the following day. ACCOMMODATION We will stay in a variety of colonial and modern properties, all with en suite facilities. Some of the accommodation highlights will include: a property on the shore of Lake Atitlan with wonderful views of the lake, a property 2km from Palenque surrounded by forest, a Spanish colonial residence in the heart of San Cristobal de las Casas and a hotel overlooking the beach in Tulum. Some of the hotels have pools and most have wifi/internet. Single Accommodation: We can arrange single rooms throughout the trip (subject to availability). Please ask your sales consultant for details. KEY TO ACCOMMODATION: We indicate in the itinerary what type of accommodation is provided on each day. The descriptions are guidelines only and are used to give an idea of the accommodation offered, rather than an exact description. Day 11 Caye Caulker This morning we drive for around 3 hours to Chetumal and embark for Belize, traveling 90 minutes by boat to San Pedro and then another 30 minutes to Caye Caulker. This laid-back Caribbean Island is just west of the Belize Barrier Reef and offers fantastic snorkeling and diving opportunities. There will be some border formalities this morning, but this afternoon has been left free to relax into island life and understand the meaning of Belize's motto: 'no shirt, no shoes, no problem!' The tiny village of Caye Caulker has only three sandy main streets (Front, Middle and Back Street), but they are full of bars and restaurants, many of which serve excellent fresh seafood. SH (B) Day 12 Caye Caulker Today is a free day for optional excursions and activities, or simply for relaxation. Diving, snorkeling, sea kayaking and fishing can all be arranged locally. As the island is small, it is very easy to complete a circuit on foot. As well as the marine activities there is also a forest reserve in the northern part of the island which offers great bird watching in the mangroves. SH (B) Day 13 To El Remate CH Comfortable Hotel, Lodge or Gite - twin rooms with en suite facilities, reliable electricity and water supply, good service and some added amenities. SH Standard Hotel, Lodge or Gite - no-frills hotel, usually with twin rooms and en suite facilities. Service and amenities are generally adequate. FOOD & TRANSPORT Food The trip price includes all breakfasts throughout the trip which generally consist of fruits, cereals, beans and eggs. One dinner is included. Please refer to the extra expenses section for more details on food costs in the countries visited. Transport Transport in this trip is by private minibuses (usually with air conditioning), boat/ferry and domestic flight. WEATHER AND SEASONALITY We leave Caye Caulker by boat bound for Belize City (approx. 1 hour) and then drive from the coast into the heavily forested and sparsely populated Maya Mountains, encountering some spectacular scenery en route. We will stop at the Mayan ruins of Xunantunich to explore its temples and palaces. Located on a ridge close to the border with Guatemala, the site has some fine stucco facades as well as several elaborately carved stelae and an impressive 40 metre high pyramid. After looking around the ruins, we cross the border and descend into the humid eastern lowlands of Guatemala. Our final destination is El Remate on Lake Peten Itza, where we have the opportunity to learn more about sacred plants in a traditional Mayan garden and enjoy a group dinner. Total drive time today is just under 3 hours (2 hours between Belize City and the border with an additional 45 minutes to El Remate). SH (B,D) Day 14 Tikal We make an early start this morning to reach Tikal, the most famous and probably the most impressive of all Mayan sites (approx. 45 minute drive). Here, in the middle of the jungle are nearly 20 square miles of classic Mayan ruins, surrounded by the dense jungles of Petén. We take a tour of the city, visiting the Q complex, Main Plaza, North and Central Acropolis, Seven Temples and Mundo Perdido (Lost World). Tikal is a superb area for observing wildlife in the jungle environment and visitors regularly see Howler monkeys, Spider monkeys, toucan, Weaver birds, coatimundi and even tarantula (if you know where to look and wish to find one!) On the coast and in the lowland areas there is little variation in temperatures between the seasons. These are likely to be 28ºC to 33ºC average daytime maximum and 18ºC to 23ºC night time minimum. On the coast the heat and humidity are moderated by sea breezes, but inland it is likely to be quite humid. The wet season is from June to October, when it normally rains on average one day in three. The rains tend to be short and heavy, 3
alternating with pleasant clear spells. During the other months rain is much less likely, but there is the chance of an occasional storm at almost any time. In the hills the temperatures are moderated by the altitude, and there is more seasonal variation. Between November and February the daytime maximum is around 20ºC, rising to 27ºC in summer. Nights are much cooler, around 6ºC in winter and 12ºC in summer. Note that it can be surprisingly cold in the highlands on winter nights. The pattern of rainfall is similar to the lowlands. Airport Transfers If you require airport transfers, you may (by prior arrangement only) be able to join the group transfer. Transfers are arranged to coincide with the arrival time of the group flight - please check the group flight details 2 weeks before departure. If you do not take this transfer, or miss it, you must make your own way to the joining point at your own expense. If you would like us to organise a private transfer, please ask your sales consultant for a quote. Please ensure that you provide us with all relevant information at least 2 weeks before departure. Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent. FLYING VIA THE USA The US is known to have lengthy immigration queues which must be navigated by all passengers, including those in transit. We only book flights that meet the minimum valid connection time and wherever possible we will ensure there is at least a 2 hour window between connecting flights. If your flight to the US is delayed and the connection becomes particularly tight, we advise you to make your way as quickly as you can from the plane to immigration where you should make yourself known to an official in an attempt to move closer to the front of the queue. RESPONSIBLE TOURISM JOINING THE TRIP IN THE UK 16 days, normally depart London Sat, return Sun Itinerary Start The group flight from London is a daytime flight departing on Day 1 of the itinerary. Flights from London We normally use the scheduled services of United Airlines (depending on availability). As flight timings and schedules change regularly we recommend you call one of our specialist sales staff or your agent to confirm up-to-date timings. Please note timings may change at a later date and cannot be confirmed until approximately two weeks before departure. UK Regional Flights The Flight Inclusive price is based on a London departure, but we are happy to tailor this to your local or regional airport. Please visit www.exodus.co.uk/regionaldepartures for a useful overview of the options available, and contact our sales team for expert advice. If booking regional flights other than with Exodus, you must allow a minimum connecting time (in addition to the international check in time) of 1 hour at Gatwick, and 1½ hours at Heathrow; this is longer than the official minimum, but baggage handling is known to be subject to delays. Airport Transfers Airport transfers are included for those on the group flights. Please note that transfers are not included for clients arriving on any other flight, even if Exodus has booked it. Those arriving from London on non-group flights should read the airport transfer section below for information on reaching the start point. Please check with the Exodus office. Tourism can be a real help to local communities, providing income, positive cultural exchanges and a financial incentive to protect their natural environment. Ours is a 'total approach' to responsible tourism, covering everything from the way we plan and operate our trips to the practices of Exodus as a company. On this tour we visit several local communities. In the region of Lake Atitlan, we stop at the village of San Juan La Laguna, where we will visit the home studios of local painters and a textile cooperative where women are engaged in hand weaving and natural dyeing processes. During this visit we support the local community initiative financially which in turns helps traditions flourish. For full details of our Responsible Tourism Policy please visit: www.exodus.co.uk/responsible-travel PRACTICAL INFORMATION Passports and Visas All nationalities require a full passport that must be valid for 6 months beyond the intended length of stay. It is your responsibility to have the correct personal documents and to obtain your own visa, if one is necessary, in accordance with the regulations of the country you are to visit. The information below is primarily for UK passport holders, and other nationalities should check with their travel agent or the relevant embassies. We are not responsible for the actions of local immigration and customs officials, whether at points of entry or otherwise, and any subsequent effects. Guatemala Holders of British, Australian, New Zealand, US, Canadian and most EU passports do not require visas for Guatemala. JOINING THE TRIP IN ANTIGUA GUATEMALA 15 days, normally start Antigua Guatemala Sat, end Guatemala City Sat Itinerary Start Your trip normally starts at our hotel in Antigua Guatemala in the afternoon of Day 1 of the itinerary. Details of how to reach the start point are provided in the Final Joining Instructions - sent approximately two weeks before departure. Hotel check-in times are normally from around 3.00pm. 4
Mexico Holders of British, Australian, New Zealand, US, Canadian and most EU passports do not require visas for Mexico. However, please note that if flying via the USA, you will have to clear immigration during transit. In this case, you will be required to get an Electronic Travel Authority (US$14) prior to flying if travelling via the USA under the Visa Waiver Scheme (as is the case for most UK citizens). Please see www.exodus.co.uk/usvisa for more information. Belize Holders of British, Australian, New Zealand, US, Canadian and most EU passports do not require visas for Belize. Visa regulations can change without notice: please check the current regulations in good time to obtain a visa if one is required. The minimum age of clients on this trip is 16 years. Please note that anyone aged under 18 must be accompanied by (and share accommodation with) a parent or legal guardian. MONEY MATTERS Currency Information The national currency of Guatemala is the Guatemalan Quetzal (GTQ), with an exchange rate of 12.6 to the UK and 7.9 to the US$. The national currency of Mexico is the Mexican Peso (MXP), with an exchange rate of 19.8 to the UK and 12.7 to the US$. The national currency of Belize is the Belize Dollar (BZD), with an exchange rate of 3.2 to the UK and 2 to the US$. Exchange rates are correct at the time of publication. You should take all of your spending money in US Dollars since it is difficult to change Sterling or Euros and exchange rates are generally less favourable for these currencies. Goods and services can be paid for in most establishments in US dollars, but change will usually be given in the local currency and good rates of exchange aren't always available. As this tour passes through 3 different countries, it's advisable to change small amounts of money fairly regularly from US Dollars into the local currency. We suggest changing a small amount of money on arrival at Guatemala airport where there are plenty of exchange counters. Your tour leader will then recommend the best opportunities to change money throughout the trip. It is suggested that you take a couple of copies of your passport with you as these are useful when changing cash in banks. Vaccinations and Health Travel health can often be something people forget about before going away, but a little preparation and knowledge can go a long way to help you stay fit and healthy while abroad. There are no mandatory vaccination requirements for this trip. Recommended vaccinations for this trip are: Tetanus, Typhoid, Hepatitis A. The risk of malaria on this trip is slight, but you may wish to consult your GP or travel health clinic for further advice. Dengue fever is a known risk in places visited on this trip. It is a tropical viral disease spread by daytime biting mosquitoes. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available for Dengue, and therefore the best form of prevention is to avoid being bitten. We recommend you take the usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites. If you are arriving from an area with risk of Yellow Fever infection, both Guatemala and Belize require you to have a Yellow Fever certificate. The above information can change at short notice; as we are not qualified to answer all your questions about travel health we strongly recommend you contact your Medical Professional or a Travel Health Clinic at least 8 weeks prior to departure for up-to-date information. Insurance - are you adequately covered? You must have adequate travel insurance, and if you are joining a trip which goes to high altitude, you must check that you are covered up to the maximum altitude of the trip. If you are resident in the UK we strongly recommend Exodus travel insurance, which is specifically designed to cover all activities on your trip. If you are a UK citizen and travelling in Europe you should obtain the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) from your Post Office. This gives free medical care in many European countries, but should not be considered a substitute for adequate insurance. Local Time GMT -6hrs Group, Staff and Support The group will generally be between 6 and 15 people. There will be a local leader and drivers and local guides where needed. ATM availability/credit Card Acceptance/Travellers cheques ATMs are increasingly available in most major towns throughout the region, although are generally difficult to find in rural areas. A flat fee of up to US$3 and a small commission usually applies with debit card withdrawals. Credit card withdrawals generally attract a 1% charge. You should check with your bank before departure to ensure your card will be accepted in ATMs. Most major credit cards are accepted in larger shops and more expensive restaurants, but their use is not widespread in smaller establishments and so cash is recommended. Travellers' cheques (in US dollars also) can be quite difficult to change throughout Central America and there will be limited time on the trip to do this. It is certainly much more convenient to carry as much of your money in US dollars as possible, so long as you are security conscious. We recommend that you bring some small denomination notes ($1 and $5 notes) since getting change is often a problem when paying for small items. Extra Expenses and Spending Money Please retain the Tourist Card given on entry into Mexico, as this will allow you to cross the border into Belize without complications. There are small entry and exit taxes for Guatemala and Belize payable when crossing land borders - these are variable but should not come to more than US$35 in total. Please note that the entry and exit taxes change constantly, and your leader will advise of any changes where appropriate. An airport departure tax of approximately US$30 per person (subject to change) is payable when leaving Guatemala City airport. Meals vary from around US$8-10 for lunch and dinner in Guatemala and the Mexican highlands to around US$10-15 in the Yucatan area and Belize. A beer costs on average US$2-3. Optional Excursions (approximate costs, depending on group sizes) Caye Caulker snorkelling from US$25 (half day) - rates vary by location, trips to Hol-Chan Marine Reserve are typically more expensive Sea kayaking US$25 per hour (minimum 2 hours) Diving US$55 (single tank) or US$80 (two tank) Manatee and snorkelling day trip (US$60 including lunch/drinks) Tipping (leader and local staff) While tipping is not compulsory, it is a large part of the Latin American service culture. Certified guides will accompany us to each ruin visit, and it is customary to tip them approx. US $3 - $4. For the tour leader and drivers, we suggest around US $40 - $50 to be shared between them, in favour of the tour leader. You may wish to form a 'tip kitty' 5
with other group members to facilitate the distribution of tips. By definition, gratuities are not something we can include in the tour cost. WHAT TO TAKE Essential Equipment and Clothing Sunglasses; sunhat; sunscreen; rain poncho or lightweight waterproof jacket; warm sweater; swimming gear; shorts; sturdy walking shoes for Mayan ruins; long trousers; long-sleeved lightweight shirts; insect repellent. Dress is fairly conservative in Guatemala and parts of rural Mexico. Women do not normally wear shorts in the towns and men should always wear a shirt or t-shirt. Optional items: Umbrella; binoculars; headtorch; small daypack for walks/ruins visits; universal sink plug. Baggage and Baggage Allowance At time of writing the standard weight limit for hold baggage on the recommended international carrier for this trip is 20kg. We recommend packing only one piece of checked baggage. a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent. The information in these Trip Notes is given in good faith. Where differences exist between the Trip Notes and our current brochure, the Trip Notes supersede the brochure. All holidays can be subject to unexpected changes; in order to enjoy them you should be prepared to be flexible where necessary. Occasionally, as stated in our brochure, it may not be possible to follow the itinerary as planned. This may be for a variety of reasons - climatic, political, physical or other. In these circumstances we will make the best possible alternative arrangements that maintain the integrity of the original itinerary. As fuel prices, airport taxes and exchange rates fluctuate, and airlines manage their rates to match demand, it is proving harder than ever to guarantee our Flight Inclusive prices. Although we endeavour to keep our website as accurate as possible, daily fluctuations mean that our Flight Inclusive price may be out of date. For accurate prices we recommend that you contact one of our Travel Experts, or your Travel Agent. Prices and exchange rates were correct at the time of publication. The most up-to-date prices can be found on the Exodus website. Exodus Travels Ltd. ATOL 2582/FTO Internal flights in the destination country are subject to a weight limit of 23kg. As advice about luggage allowances for both hand and hold luggage is subject to change, we suggest you check www.baa.com and/or the airline's website for the latest information prior to your departure. Reading List: Ancient Kingdoms of Mexico N. Davies (Penguin) Good general introduction. Lost Cities of the Maya C. Baudel & S. Picasso (Thames & Hudson) Interesting and relevant. Time Among the Maya Ronald Wright (Grove Press) Recommended. I, Rigoberta Menchu Rigoberta Menchu (Verso) Fascinating account of Guatemalan peasant life under military rule. If you are interested in any of these books then you can order them from our own Exodus shop, 'Exodus Travel Essentials', JOIN THE EXODUS ONLINE COMMUNITY Don't forget to visit the Community area on our website. You can view the range of Exodus videos and podcasts, read trip write-ups which have featured in the national media and take advantage of some special deals on travel gear and equipment. In the Compass Café forum you'll find the Departure Lounge where you can discuss your trip with fellow travellers before you depart. When you get back from your holiday remember to upload your images to the relevant trip page on our website. This helps other people see what our holidays are really like and you'll be entered automatically into our monthly photo competition. To make full use of the Compass Café you'll need to join My Exodus. It's free, registration is simple and easy, so what are you waiting for? http://www.exodus.co.uk/community IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR ALL CLIENTS Exodus operates a 24 hour duty office for emergencies, which can be contacted on 0044 (0) 1582 644 100. Every time that you travel abroad you should take the time to read the warnings in the essential information in the brochure or at www. exodus.co.uk/about-exodus/essential-information? Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers, and details of how to reach the start point, will be sent to you approximately 2 to 3 weeks prior to departure. If you do not receive these at least 6
HOW TO BOOK YOUR TRIP 1. Check availability Go online to check availability, or contact us by phone or email. 2. Secure your place You can provisionally hold a place on this trip, usually for between three and seven days. 3. Complete your booking and payment When you re ready to book, go to www.exodus.co.uk for online booking, book over the phone or you can complete a booking form (available online or on request by calling us). We accept all major credit and debit cards, or you can pay be cheque. Book with confidence: Exodus is fully licensed and bonded as a tour operator. We hold Air Traffic Organisers Licence (ATOL) number 2582 issued and bonded with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). We are also bonded to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and we are members of the Federation of Tour Operators (FTO) and ABTA - The Travel Association. This means you can book your Exodus holiday with confidence, as all monies paid to us for your trip are fully protected. 7