EXCLUSIVE CHARTER OF THE ORIENT PANDAW 2012 2013 Booking Terms and Conditions RESERVATIONS AND PAYMENTS Bookings for these exclusive Pandaw cruise holidays must be made with a Cruiseco travel agent. On confir mation of your booking, a written confirmation will be sent to your Cruiseco travel agent. An option will be given for 7 days. Before the option expires it will be necessary for you to pay a deposit of $1,000 per person. This deposit secures your holiday as requested. Failure to pay the deposit by the option due date may result in the cancellation of your booking. Final payment is due 90 days prior to sailing. If your booking is made within 90 days prior to sailing, full payment, along with details of your travel insurance policy will be due immediately. FARES The fares quoted in this brochure are shown in Australian dollars and are based on a twin sharing basis, unless specified as a single cabin category. All rates are subject to change with or without notice. WHAT S NOT INCLUDED IN YOUR HOLIDAY PRICE Passport and visa fees, insurances of all kinds, laundry, phone calls, beverages (except for those noted as being included), additional accommodation made necessary by flight schedules and items of a personal nature are not included in the holiday costs advertised in this brochure. TRAVEL DOCUMENTATION Travel documents will be sent to you approximately 14 days prior to departure from Australia (providing full payment has been received). If you are departing Australia earlier, please ask your Cruiseco travel agent to request your travel documents in good time. TRAVEL INSURANCE Travel insurance is mandatory for Cruiseco s Orient Pandaw holidays. We recommend that you obtain Travel insurance before paying a deposit. Failure to obtain travel insurance will not waive any cancellation fees in the event that you need to cancel your trip. BOOKING CHANGES AND CANCELLATIONS In the unfortunate event that you should have to cancel your holiday, we must be notified in writing. The day that we receive this notice in writing, will be considered the date that your cancellation has been made. Certain cancellation fees apply to your holiday if cancelled after a deposit or final payment has been made. BOOKING CHANGES A fee of $25 per person will be charged for any revision or alteration made to a reservation after the booking is confirmed unless the change increases the value of the booking. CANCELLATIONS AND CANCELLATION FEES Notice of cancellation must be made in writing to your Cruiseco travel agent. The following scale of charges (includes GST) will apply when notice of cancellation is given prior to sailing. Days before sailing cancellation received Administration fee on all cancellations 90 plus days 60-89 days 30-59 days 29 days to day of departure QANTAS FREQUENT FLYER POINTS Qantas Frequent Flyer points are awarded on Cruiseco holidays. Qantas Frequent Flyer members will receive one Qantas Frequent Flyer point for every $1.50 spent. You must be a member of the Qantas Frequent Flyer program to earn points in accordance with the terms and conditions of the Qantas Frequent Flyer program. A joining fee applies. Points are not awarded on port charges, government fees, on board gratuities and air taxes. OTHER CONDITIONS It is your responsibility to ensure you have read all of the Booking Conditions and to provide valid travel documents. Be sure to ask your Travel Agent for advice concerning passport and visa requirements. CRUISECO S STATEMENT OF BUSINESS PRACTICE Your Cruiseco travel agent should provide you with a copy of Cruiseco s Statement of Business Practice at time of booking. BOOKING ARRANGEMENTS Your booking arrangements are to be made by your Travel Agent and the person effecting the booking, shall be deemed to have accepted the booking conditions. These cruise holidays are promoted by: Discovery Travel Centre Pty Ltd trading as Cruiseco Licence No. 2TA001284 ABN 1 200 193 4461 Please contact your local Cruiseco agent for further details Cancellation charges $100 per person Loss of deposit plus admin fee 50% of total holiday cost plus admin fee 75% of total holiday cost plus admin fee 100% of total holiday cost If this box is empty call 1800 225 656 or visit: www.cruising.com.au for details of your nearest Cruiseco agent. Authentic Asia Burma Exploring all the mystery and intrigue by luxury river cruise Qantas Frequent Flyer Points awarded on Cruiseco Holidays
Cruiseco takes you further Following the success of our Indochina Pandaw charters on the Mekong, we now unlock one of the world s most mysterious destinations for you. After three years of chartering Indochina Pandaw in Vietnam and Cambodia, Cruiseco has now chartered its identical sister ship, Orient Pandaw, for a ten-month season in Burma. Sitting on the crossroads of Asia s great civilisations of India and China, Burma stretches from the Indian Ocean right up towards the majestic Himalayas. However, despite such a prominent positioning, it remains so inscrutable that it even has two names: Burma and Myanmar. If you are looking for something very different, then welcome aboard. Exploring Burma with a river cruise on the Orient Pandaw promises to put you in the front row for the most authentic of Asian experiences. Imagine the thrill of visiting a country that has all the traditional regional delights but also offers the unique charm of a nation only just joining the modern world. Designed specifically for local conditions, only the Orient Pandaw can take you deep into a heritage spanning 2000 years and 135 ethnic groups. Cruising aboard this wonderful craft, you will learn why the Burmese are renowned for an almost disarming warmth and a truly engaging curiousity. You ll also discover that this laid back style couldn t be a bigger contrast to some of their more frenetic Asian neighbours. Patience is a way of life in these lands with displays of emotion or anger being considered taboo. This is a land spiked with literally thousands of temples, enriched with colonial architecture, and offering almost endless natural wonders. Our local, Englishspeaking guides will personally reveal their own country. You will see, feel, and taste everything this enigmatic land offers, and all while you enjoy the absolute cosseting of a luxury river cruise that lacks nothing in facilities and features. Let Cruiseco take you into the open arms and the warmest welcome you ll find in Asia. YOUR ALL-INCLUSIVE PRICING COVERS: RETURN INTERNATIONAL ECONOMY CLASS AIRFARE with SINGAPORE AIRLINES EX SYDNEY, MELBOURNE, BRISBANE, ADELAIDE or PERTH, including AIR TAXES* 8 NIGHT CRUISE ONBOARD ORIENT PANDAW including: SOFT DRINKS, LOCAL BEERS and SPIRITS, GOVERNMENT TAXES and ONBOARD GRATUITIES 1 NIGHT DELUXE ACCOMMODATION at the CHATRIUM HOTEL in YANGON 2 NIGHTS DELUXE ACCOMMODATION at the MANDALAY HILL RESORT in MANDALAY BREAKFAST DAILY, LUNCH and DINNER as specified in itinerary ALL TRANSFERS EXTENSIVE SIGHTSEEING with EXPERT LOCAL GUIDES as detailed in itineraries COUNTLESS UNIQUE EXPERIENCES * The cost of overnight accommodation in Singapore made necessary by flight schedules is not included in the package price and will be an additional charge. Left: Buddahs, Yangon. Middle left: Burmese script dates from the 11th century. Middle right: an unusual pet. Above: Inle Lake village The cruise itself exceeded all expectations and we would not hesitate to recommend it. We are now keen to travel again, especially to Burma. K.S. Tasmania, Indochina Pandaw 2 3
Welcome aboard Burma True to its colonial heritage, the beautiful Orient Pandaw has a quality and attention to detail matched only by the professionalism of its crew. Resplendent in their traditional whites, they re dedicated to providing first class service while helping you enjoy all the wonders of their world. Orient Pandaw is a replica of the colonial steamers of the Irrawaddy Flotilla that plied these waters early last century. Painstakingly accurate in their reproduction, they were built in Rangoon and Saigon. Sailing is an outdoor experience and most passengers prefer to spend their time casually attired and in the comfort of the upper deck or the promenades. And, as the Orient Pandaw draws only one metre, you are asssured of easy berthing at points of interest when it s time to go ashore. With a friendly and diligent crew of 28, it offers you the finest in accommo - dation, including a bar, dining room and an observation deck. Upon retiring to your stateroom you ll find the ship s most celebrated feature. Roomy and well appointed, with detailing by local craftsmen, your cabin provides an oasis of comforts, including a luxurious private bathroom, individually controlled air-conditioning, insect screening, mini-safe, luggage storage, desk, wardrobe, and a hair-dryer. Pleasingly, and true to its history, there s a deliberate absence of mini-bars, televisions and phones. And, also unlike other vessels, every window can be opened. All main and upper-deck cabins front onto a promenade deck, complete with outdoor seating for quiet enjoyment of the spell binding and ever-changing vista of human and wildlife activity. And Orient Pandaw s exquisite local cuisine and exotic foods are enhanced when the dining room is opened up, its sides rolling back to offer you a gloriously uninterrupted panorama as you cruise along the Irrawaddy. Breakfast and lunch afford you both buffet and à la carte choices while Cabin attendant and other staff very helpful. At 77, I appreciated the care taken in getting us up steep banks. Passenger testimonial from Indochina Pandaw on record dinner is served à la carte. European and vegetarian options are offered to complement the superb menu of national dishes. Your exploratory shore excursions are led by local guides so you will experience the true Burma while gliding through this rich and varied collection of wetlands, wildlife and wondrous people. Importantly, when it s essential to go deeper, smaller boats will ferry you into the remotest backwaters and channels taking you further into Burma s river system than anyone can. That s why this cruise is your chance to experience all the enchantment that was, for so long, denied to outsiders. RV Orient Pandaw Built: 2008, in Saigon, Vietnam Crew: 28 (of Asian nationality) Passenger decks: 4 Passengers: 60 Length/Beam: 55 metres/10 metres 4 5
Love the experience, love the luxury Brass and teak, open-air Kimonos and candle-lit Local cuisine and exotic dining dinners menus A large part of your enjoyment of Cruiseco s Pandaw river expedition is the considerable comfort this wondrous vessel provides you with and the first class service from its ever-attentive crew. Lined with the finest of teak and bedecked with superb brass fittings and flowers, passengers have been known to fall in love with their cabins. They not only enjoy the self-contained facilities, but are also highly appreciative of the supplied kimonos, slippers, and beverages. At around 20sqm (including deck and seating space) it offers ample room for a quiet retreat and reflection on all you have seen that day. A particular delight for our guests is being able to simply slide open their cabin door and step out onto the wonderful promenade. From here they are afforded an uninterrupted view of the river s continually changing panorama standing at the railing or sitting back in comfort. Of course, Orient Pandaw has much more to offer with a chance to meet fellow travellers in the well-appointed saloon, dining room and vast open-air observation deck. Whether with friends or taking a moment alone, you need only choose your seat and then make your selection of refreshment. It s true to say that our passengers are typically more interested in quality rather than quantity. So, with the exception of salads and coldcuts, main dishes are served at your table from an à la carte menu. There is a choice of Asian and Western dishes and special diets can be catered for (with prior notice). Importantly, Orient Pandaw has a policy of sourcing from local suppliers wherever possible. So, everything from your favourite river fish or exotic fruit is more than likely authentic regional produce. Cruiseco ensures your Asian adventure is one of fulfilment with a series of tours, lectures, cooking demonstrations, films and even spa treatments available. And, as befits the relaxed atmosphere, our dress code is shorts by day, smart casual by night. Some compare Orient Pandaw to a five-star boutique hotel, others think of it as a private yacht which will you choose? We cannot fault any thing on this trip as everything was to our expectation. Attention to details was perfect. Passenger testimonial from Indochina Pandaw on record 6 7
GOLDEN LANDS UPSTREAM 13 DAYS 11 NIGHTS Prome to Mandalay Above: monks in a queue for lunch donations. Far right: statue from Bagan. DAY 1, SUNDAY AUSTRALIA~SINGAPORE~YANGON Fly with Singapore Airlines to Yangoon via Singapore. Departures may require overnight accommodation in Singapore*. DAY 6 MAGWE GOLD BRICKS (B,L,D) Today, ride trishaws or alternatively cross the river by sampan (depending on water levels), to reach the magnificent Myat-thalon Pagoda. The Pagoda is constructed with solid gold bricks and links to the river by attractive winding covered stairways ascending the steep wooded river banks. The temple includes many interesting shrines within its precincts and overlooks the river, offering spectacular views of the Irrawaddy. DAY 2 YANGON ARRIVAL (L,D) Upon arrival at Yangon International Airport, meet with your local guide DAY 7 SALE (B,L,D) and transfer to The Chatrium Hotel. Following a lunch of Burmese cuisine, we set off for sightseeing in Yangon, starting with a short tour of downtown. Travel streets lined with faded colonial buildings, past historic landmarks, to Sule Paya, one of the city s iconic sites, and continue through Chinatown to Bogyoke Market. Experience an integral part of Burmese life by drinking tea at the Modern Tea Shop before visiting Shwedagon Pagoda, the most revered Buddhist temple in Myanmar. Sale was the home town of U Ponna, the most celebrated poet and play - wright in King Mindon s court. Visit Yout-saun-kyaung, a monastery donated in honour of U Ponna, and now a museum housing many of his writings and spectacular wood carvings decorating its exterior walls. Continue sailing upstream for an afternoon mooring at Tan Chi Taung mountain. We will ascend the mountain by WWII jeep for a stunning view of the sunset over Bagan. This evening enjoy a welcome dinner at the hotel and overnight at the DAY 8 PAGAN (B,L,D) Chatrium Hotel. The World Heritage Site of Pagan is an absolute wonder in this Golden DAY 3 YANGON~PROME~EMBARK RV ORIENT PANDAW (B,L,D) Land. Originally home to 10,000 temples constructed between the 11th After breakfast this morning, transfer by coach from Yangon to Pyay port and 13th centuries, there are still 3,000 scattered across the vast arid plain to embark the Rv Orient Pandaw. Later, we cross jungle and countryside attesting to the power of Burma s first empire. to visit the 5-8th century archaeological site of Thiri-ya-kittiya, former centre of the Pyu civilisation and the earliest and most important archaeological site in Burma. This was an early centre of Buddhism, a walled palace city complete with art and culture, merchants and princes. Enjoy the chance to tour a selection of these listed monuments, including the Dhamma-yan-gyi, a colossal brick pyramid, and That-byin-nyu, which soars over 50 meters high. In the afternoon, explore Pagan further, and visit a lacquer workshop. You can see the excavations of this former palace city, and the monumental DAY 9 PAGAN OHN NE KYAUNG (B,L,D) Pyu stupas just outside the gates. Enjoy some final explorations of Pagan this morning, before casting off at DAY 4 THAYET~MYO FRONTIER POST (B,L,D) lunchtime for the Ohn Ne Kyaung village, a lively and colourful community. Thayet-myo is a delightful river-stop, half a day s sail north of Prome. This It s a heartwarming opportunity to experience the daily local life and pleasant colonial town once guarded the border between Royal Myanmar customs within a typical riverside village. and British Myanmar following the 2nd Anglo Myanmar War of 1855. DAY 10 YANDABO (B,L,D) The town retains its colonial character, with bungalows draped in gorgeous bourgainvillea, and court houses, a jail, post office and markets built in a rustic Anglo-Indian manner. You will have time to visit the covered markets and ride by horse and cart through the former British Botanical gardens to the oldest golf course in Myanmar. Yandabo is a rarely visited village, with no access via road. Dependant on the river economy, this small rural village specialises in terracotta pots made from the river bank clay. You will see the pottery making process in various stages of production, and visit the Pandaw School and clinic, built with donations from Pandaw passengers. DAY 5 MINHLA FORTS (B,L,D) DAY 11 DISEMBARK MANDALAY (B,L,D) Today, we visit Minhla and Gwechaung Forts, Italian and French designed forts built to keep the British at bay from Royal Myanmar. These forts were captured by the British in the 3rd Anglo Myanmar War, with the fight for the Minhla redoubt being the only serious action during that war. You may climb Gwechaung Hill to the fort standing high on the east bank of the river for a fabulous panoramic view. Arriving in Mandalay, we disembark Rv Orient Pandaw mid morning to meet with our local guide. Begin touring today with a walk up Mandalay Hill, towering 240 meters above the city, it affords a great view of the country side, Irrawaddy River and city centre. At the base of the hill, visit the Golden Palace Monastery, noted for its intricate wood carvings, and then Kayuktawgyi Pagoda to view the huge marble Buddha. Finally, visit Kuthodaw Pagoda, home to the world s largest book, a collection of over 700 marble slabs inscribed with Buddhist teachings. After lunch, we will stop at Amarapura, for a silk weaving workshop, Mahagandayon monastery, and the 200 year old (and over 1km long) teak U Bein Bridge. This evening, we transfer to and enjoy dinner at the Mandalay Hill Resort. Some people visit another country and learn nothing but I have come away from the cruise with wonderful new experiences and understanding. Passenger testimonial from Indochina Pandaw on record DAY 12 MANDALAY~AVA and SAGAING (B,L,D) This morning, we will cross a bridge over the Irrawaddy River to Sagaing. Covered with 600 white painted pagodas and monasteries, Sagaing Hill is widely regarded as the religious center of Myanmar and is home to 3000 monks and 100 meditation centres. You ll have the chance to visit various pagodas, a local Burmese market and a small pottery village. We then continue south to Ava, the capital from 14 18th centuries, and take a short ferry ride across the river for lunch. Afterwards, take a tour of Ava by horse and cart, to visit the old wooden Bagaya Monastery and the remains of the Royal Palace and Fort. Prices Inclusions Please see page 3 for details of all inclusions 2012 29 June 15 and 31 July 16 August 1 and 17 September 3 and 19 October 4 and 20 November 2013 31 January 16 February 4 and 20 March 5 and 21 April 2012 6 and 30 December 2013 15 January Twin Share per person Twin Share per person Main Deck $5,999 Main Deck $6,399 Upper Deck $6,399 Upper Deck $6,799 Sole Occupancy Sole Occupancy Main Deck $10,099 Main Deck $10,599 Upper Deck $10,899 Upper Deck $11,399 Prices exclude accommodation in Singapore if required due to flight schedules. Prices are subject to change. Prices include $480 air taxes (subject to change). Optional Crown Plaza Airport Singapore, includes breakfast Additional $131 per person twin share or $262 for sole use We return to Mandalay Hill Resort this afternoon, and enjoy dinner in the hotel. DAY 13 MANDALAY~YANGON (B,L) We will be transferred this morning to Mandalay Airport for a domestic flight to Yangon, continuing to Australia with Singapore airlines. Due to flight schedules, overnight accommodation in Singapore may be required. *Some departure flights may leave Australia early morning on Day 2. Ask for our latest EARLY-BIRD DISCOUNT Roadsign, Yangon 8 Pagodas, Inle Lake 9
GOLDEN LANDS DOWNSTREAM 13 DAYS 11 NIGHTS Mandalay to Prome Above: the temples of Bagan at sunrise. Far right: gold weather vane (encrusted with rubies and diamonds) from the top of a temple. DAY 1, SUNDAY AUSTRALIA~SINGAPORE~YANGON Fly with Singapore Airlines to Yangoon via Singapore. Due to flight schedules, departures may require overnight accommodation in Singapore*. DAY 2 YANGON ARRIVAL (L,D) Meet with your local guide upon arrival at Yangon International Airport and transfer to The Chatrium Hotel. Following a lunch of Burmese cuisine, set off for sightseeing in Yangon, commencing with a short tour of downtown. Travel streets lined with faded colonial buildings, past historic landmarks, to Sule Paya, one of the city s iconic sites. Continue through Chinatown to Bogyoke Market. Experience an integral part of Burmese life by drinking tea at the Modern Tea Shop before visiting Shwedagon Pagoda, the most revered Buddhist temple in Myanmar. This evening enjoy a welcome dinner at the hotel. DAY 3 YANGON~MANDALAY (B,L,D) Transfer this morning to Yangon Airport for a domestic flight to Mandalay. We begin touring with a visit to Mahamuni Pagoda, home to one of the most revered Buddha images. Next, we will visit traditional workshops and see the production of wood carving, tapestries, and the centuries old gold-leaf technique used to craft items for the Royal Court. After lunch, you ll have time to walk up Mandalay Hill (rising 240 metres) to get a great view of the surrounding countryside, Irrawaddy River and city centre. At the base of the hill, visit the Golden Palace Monastery, noted for its intricate wood carvings, and to Kayuktawgyi Pagoda s huge marble Buddha. Finally, you will visit Kuthodaw Pagoda, home to the world s largest book, a collection of over 700 marble slabs inscribed with Buddhist teachings. Enjoy a dinner tonight at the Mandalay Hill Resort, where we spend the next two nights. DAY 4 MANDALAY~AVA and SAGAING (B,L,D) This morning, cross a bridge over the Irrawaddy River to Sagaing. Covered with 600 white painted pagodas and monasteries, Sagaing Hill is widely regarded as the religious center of Myanmar and is home to 3000 monks and 100 meditation centres. Visit various pagodas, a local Burmese market and a small pottery village. After, we will continue south to Ava, the capital in the 14 18th centuries, and take a short ferry ride across the river for lunch. Afterwards, take a tour of Ava by horse and cart, to visit the old wooden Bagaya Monastery and the remains of the Royal Palace and Fort. We return this afternoon for dinner at the Mandalay Hill Resort. DAY 5 MANDALAY~AMARAPURA and EMBARK RV ORIENT PANDAW (B,L,D) Enroute to Shwe Kyet Jetty, we will stop at Amarapura to stroll along the 200 year old, 1.2km long, teak U Bein Bridge. Then, we ll visit Mahagandayon monastery where over 1000 monks reside, before embarking Rv Orient Pandaw. We cast off and cruise through lunch before mooring over night near a small river bank village. DAY 6 YANDABO and OH NE KYAUNG VILLAGE (B,L,D) Yandabo is a rarely visited village, with no road access. Dependant on the river economy, this small rural village specialises in terracotta pots made from the river bank clay. Today, you can see the pottery making process in various stages of production, and visit the Pandaw School and clinic, built with past donations from Pandaw passengers. In the evening, we will cross the river to visit Oh Ne Kyaung village, and experience the local life and customs within a typical riverside village. DAY 7 PAGAN (B,L,D) The World Heritage Site of Pagan is an absolute wonder in this Golden Land. Originally home to 10000 temples constructed between the 11th and 13th centuries, still scattered across the vast arid plain are over 3000 surviving monuments that proclaim the power of Burma s first empire. Enjoy the chance to tour a selection of these listed monuments, such as the Dhamma-yan-gyi, a colossal brick pyramid, and That-byin-nyu, which soars over 50 meters high. In the afternoon, we will explore Pagan further, and visit a lacquer workshop. DAY 8 TAN KYI TAUNG MOUNTAUN and SALE (B,L,D) Today, we will moor at Tan Chi Taung mountain, ascend the mountain by foot or by WWII jeep for a stunning view of the sunrise over Bagan. We continue downstream to Sale, the home town of U Ponna, the most celebrated poet and playwright of King Mindon s court. Visit a monastery donated in honour of U Ponna, Yout-saun-kyaung, which is now a museum housing many of his original writings, with spectacular wood carvings decorating the exterior walls. DAY 9 MAGWE GOLD BRICKS (B,L,D) Today, you may ride trishaws or, alternatively, cross the river by sampan (depending on water levels), to reach the magnificent Myat-thalon Pagoda. Built with solid gold bricks, the Pagoda is linked to the river by attractive winding covered stairways ascending the steep wooded river banks. The temple includes many interesting shrines within its precincts and is perched overlooking the river, commanding spectacular views of the Irrawaddy. DAY 10 MINHLA FORTS (B,L,D) Today, visit Minhla and Gwechaung forts, Italian and French designed forts constructed to keep the British at bay from Royal Myanmar. These forts were captured by the British in the 3rd Anglo Myanmar War, with the fight for the Minhla redoubt the only serious action occurring. For a fabulous panoramic view, climb Gwechaung Hill to the fort standing high on the east bank of the river. DAY 11 THAYETMYO FRONTIER POST (B,L,D) Our journey takes us to Thayet-myo, a delightful river stop half a day s sail north of Prome. This pleasant colonial town once guarded the border between Royal Myanmar and British Myanmar following the 2nd Anglo Myanmar War of 1855. The town retains its colonial character, with bungalows draped in bourgainvillea, court houses, the jail, post office and markets all built in a rustic Anglo-Indian manner. Visit the covered markets, Brilliant experience no hesitation in recommending Pandaw cruises. Seven days of fantastic adventure and only one decision to make: what to choose from the excellent menu. Passenger testimonial from Indochina Pandaw on record and ride by horse and cart through the former British Botanical gardens to the oldest golf course in Myanmar. DAY 12 PROME and THE ANCIENT PYU (B,L,D) Today, we cross jungle and countryside to visit the 5-8th century archaeo - logical site of Thiri-ya-kittiya, former centre of the Pyu civilization and the earliest and most important archaeological site in Burma. This was an early centre of Buddhism, a walled palace city within these walls were art and culture, merchants and princes. You will see the excavations of this former palace city, and the monumental Pyu stupas just outside the gates. Prices Inclusions Please see page 3 for details of all inclusions 2012 5 and 21 July 6 and 22 August 7 and 23 September 9 and 25 October 10 and 26 November 2013 21 January 6 and 22 February 10 and 26 March 11 and 27 April 2012 20 December 2013 5 January Twin Share per person Twin Share per person Main Deck $5,999 Main Deck $6,399 Upper Deck $6,399 Upper Deck $6,799 Sole Occupancy Sole Occupancy Main Deck $10,099 Main Deck $10,599 Upper Deck $10,899 Upper Deck $11,399 Prices exclude accommodation in Singapore if required due to flight schedules. Prices are subject to change. Prices include $480 air taxes (subject to change). Optional Crown Plaza Airport Singapore, includes breakfast Additional $131 per person twin share or $262 for sole use DAY 13 DISEMBARKATION at PROME (B,L) Disembark Rv Orient Pandaw this morning and meet with your local guide for a transfer to Yangon Airport, and onward journey home with Singapore airlines. Due to flight schedules, overnight accommodation in Singapore may be required. Ask for our latest *Some departure flights may leave Australia early morning on Day 2. EARLY-BIRD DISCOUNT 10 Drying rice noodles 11
ADD EVEN MORE MEMORIES WITH EXTRA NIGHTS AND Extensions Above: floating village, Inle Lake EXTRA NIGHTS Mandalay Hill Resort A full-featured resort hotel, it lies at the foot of Mandalay Hill with a panoramic view of myriad pagodas, the superb architecture of the Royal Palace and its beautiful moat. The resort is also within easy reach of many ancient monuments and historical sites. Accommodation in a deluxe room, and breakfast daily. 4 DAYS 3 NIGHTS Inle Lake Extension ONLY $76 * per person twin share $152* SINGLE Private Transfer: Mandalay, with English-speaking guide Airport/hotel OR Hotel/ airport $34 per person twin share/$64 single Day One: Arrive Heho Fly from Mandalay or Yangon to Heho and then a scenic one-hour drive to Nyaung Shwe, the Inle Lake s gateway village. You ll stop at the Shwe Yan Pyay Monastery with its beautiful carvings and Buddha images. Lunch at Viewpoint restaurant in Nyaung Shwe before arriving at Inle Princess Resort. If time permits, enjoy a short walk through one of the lakeside villages before dinner at the hotel. Day Two: Sagar Excursion Set off this morning from your lakeside hotel for Sagar in the south of Inle Lake. Only recently opened to tourists, this is one of the Shan State s most beautiful places with mountains as a backdrop for villages on the water. Your boat journey is about 3 hours and is full of fabulous views, including some unique birdwatching. Arriving in the Sagar area, you ll make several stops (depending on the time, other tourist boats and village activities). A highlight will be the sunken stupas:108 stupas from the 16 17th centuries, partially underwater for a few months a year. There s also a local monastery and village to see before we continue to Thaya Gone, home to Pa-Oh, Shan and Inthar people and noted for its local rice wine (enjoy a sample). You can climb a small hill for stunning views of the lake and surrounding villages. Another stop will be at Sae Khaung Pottery Village to see the crafting of oil and water pots and the natural, underground kilns. On the western shores, Tar Kaung offers a fabulous photo opportunity with its more than 200 stupas. Your lunch will be a picnic lunch or at a small restaurant. Afterwards the boat will journey back to the main part of Inle Lake. In the afternoon the light shifts so the return route offers quite different views and new activities will be happening on the water and in the villages; rice noodles drying in the sun, spun cotton hung out to dry, and kids returning from school. You return to Inle Princess Resort early evening in time to freshen up and watch the sunset. Chatrium Hotel Yangon ONLY $68 * Chatrium Hotel Yangoon is a beautiful resort per person twin share located in the heart of Yangon City, along the $116* SINGLE western shore of Royal Lake (Kandawgyi Lake) and Kandawgyi Natural Park. Its traditional decor, gallery-like lobby atmosphere, and outstandingly attentive service assure you of an stay true to the spirit of traditional Asia. Accommodation in a deluxe room, and breakfast daily. Private Transfer: Yangon, with English-speaking guide Airport/hotel OR Hotel/ airport $34 per person twin share/$68 single Day Three: Inle Lake After breakfast, visit the morning market which is also frequented by the surrounding hill tribes looking to trade. (The market is daily except on dark moon day and full moon day). TOUR PRICE $1433 * per person twin share Continue along Inle Lake, passing Intha villages built $401* SINGLE on stilts. Observe the leg-rowing fishermen and see SUPPLEMENT their floating gardens built from water hyacinth and mud and anchored with bamboo poles. Visit Nga Hpe Chaung Monastery, which houses dozens of Shan Buddha images, but is known for its unique jumping cats and their hoop-leaping! Continue to Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda, it s the lake s main sanctuary and home to five sacred Buddha images covered in gold leaf. Next, prepare your lunch with a local family! This is an intrigu ing (and fun) way to learn about traditional flavors and pre paration used in Burmese cuisine. You ll be a guest in their kitchen to cook and then sit on the floor to dine as they do. Explore the local crafts of Inle Lake at Inpawkhone, a weaving village and cheroot factory, where Burmese cigars are hand made. Return to Inle Princess Resort in mid-afternoon. Day Four: Depart Inle Lake After breakfast, transfer to Heho for your flight to Yangon. Inclusions: 3 nights accommodation at the Inle Princess Resort in a shared twin or shared double room with breakfast daily Economy Class return airfare to Heho from Yangoon / Mandalay including taxes Entrance fees for included sightseeing All land and boat transfers listed in the itinerary Private air-conditioned vehicles for included sightseeing and transfers, with a local English-speaking guide SINGAPORE STOPOVER: 1 NIGHT PACKAGE Crown Plaza Airport Hotel With a complementary skytrain connecting Changi Airport to the hotel, you'll reach Crown Plaza Airport hotel in minutes. You can leave your luggage with the front desk during your stay, and check in to your outward flight with the front desk. Your inclusions: 1 night accommodation, deluxe twin share room with buffet breakfast Complimentary arrival and departure transfer on sky shuttle GST (VAT) SINGAPORE STOPOVER: 2 NIGHT PACKAGE Day One: Arrive Singapore Upon arrival you will be transferred to your hotel with an English speaking driver. The rest of the day at your leisure to enjoy Singapore. Day Two: Morning city tour Today you will explore the history, culture, and lifestyle of multi-racial Singapore. Stroll along the colourful streets of Little India and be dazzled by the hive of activity that permeates every nook and cranny of the area. Walk along the Singapore River, where much of the famous historical trading took place. It was transformed from an obscure fishing village to a world-class seaport and modern metropolis. Look out for the quaint waterfront shop-houses (authentically restored and rejuvenated) and sitting in the shadow of the financial district s towering buildings. Join in the bustling activity of Chinatown. You will delight in the unique shops and ensure you visit the oldest Hindu Temple in Singapore, the magnificent Sri Mariamman Temple. Take in the Singapore Botanic Gardens, the green lung at the city s center, and experience the serenity of its 52 hectare gardens. The National Orchid Garden is also within the grounds of the park and you will marvel at the immense variety and striking colours on display. Your inclusions: 2 nights accommodation, superior twin share room with buffet breakfast daily Arrival and departure transfers including porterages, with English speaking driver Morning half-day city tour with English speaking guide GST (VAT) Your choice of hotels: Swissôtel the Stamford World-class epicures with 11 restaurants and five bars, the Willow Stream Spa, outdoor pools, and much more. Fairmont With 16 inhouse restaurants and bars, it lies at the heart of cultural, entertainment, and shopping districts. ^Prices are subject to change. Please note: rates available on package start / end dates ONLY. Alternative dates will be charged a $10 surcharge. Additional surcharge of $80 per person twin, 12 * Prices are subject to change. $178 single applies to 23 September 2012 departure due to Formula One Grand Prix. 13 TOUR PRICE $131^ per person twin share $262^ SINGLE $436 * per person twin share $786* SINGLE $455 * per person twin share $826* SINGLE Top: Modern Singapore and (middle) its Old Chinatown. Right: detail from Singapore s Sri Mariamman Temple
CRUISECO S PASSENGERS ARE MAKING A DIFFERENCE Giving back Dispensing at Pandaw Charity s much-attended Gantgar clinic Providing food and respite in the wake of Cyclone Nargis Pandaw cruises are enriched by the welcome of the local people who invite us into their homes, workplaces and sacred sites. So, it isn t surprising that Pandaw s passengers become enthusiastic supporters of the communities we so enjoy visiting. Contributions from passengers, in conjunction with our long established Pandaw Charity, has helped build schools, set up clinics, and run a small hospital ship (used to treat 200 patients daily in the Burmese Delta). Education first Many of the Pandaw crew are from a group of islands in the Irrawaddy, south west of Pagan. Though near a major tourist centre, the islanders live in primitive conditions and are exceedingly poor, so Pandaw and our passengers have built five schools in the area. Overwhelming demand Gantgar is the centre of a large agricultural area within the Thiri Islands. The Gantgar clinic opened as a basic two room house and treated over 6,000 patients in its first six months. A doctor and nurse, sponsored by the Pandaw Charity, make weekly visits with patients arriving by foot, bicycle and bullock cart. There s no charge for consultations or medications and we now plan to construct a larger clinic and fund a full time medical team. Utter devastation Cyclone Nargis struck the Irrawaddy Delta in 2008, causing massive devastation and an estimated 138,000 fatalities. Commun ities lost all their buildings and contents, wells were poisoned, and livestock killed. Pandaw dispatched two cruise ships, rapidly converted to floating hospitals and laden with supplies, to the Delta area. Over 10,000 patients were treated and five Pandaw Babies born on board. Thanks to the amazing generosity of passengers, over $800,000 was raised. This funded a new permanent floating hospital, equipped with an out - patient clinic, X-ray facility, ultrasound and ECG, generators, and water treatment plant. Pandaw now partners with the Myanmar foundation to ensure this program is continued. The director of the orphanage said the children had to walk 4-5kms to school each day word spread onboard and 30 Cruiseco passengers joined in to purchase 17 bikes CAROLE, WA In Burma you need to know Is travel insurance required? Travel insurance is a mandatory requirement of Pandaw Cruises. Please keep in mind that some of the destinations we visit are remote and emergency services may be required. We recommend you obtain travel insurance before paying a deposit. Failure to obtain travel insurance will not waive any cancellation fees in the event that you need to cancel your trip. Is a doctor on board and do I need any injections before I travel? There is no doctor on board. Limited medical facilities are available on board, and in the event of an emergency, the vessel will head to shore immediately. It is recommended you check with your doctor that you are fit for travel. Your doctor should also check as to whether any prophylactic drugs or inoculations are required. What facilities are available in the cabins? All cabins have their own air conditioning, mini-safe, luggage storage, wardrobe, writing desk, kimono, slippers, and ratten chairs. Hairdryers are available on request from the purser. Cabins do not have mini bars, televisions or phones. What sort of power adapter is used onboard? The electricity voltage is 230 volts; two round pin type as found in Continental Europe. Is there air-conditioning onboard? Your cabin has its own air-conditioning unit, which can be adjusted for your comfort. It is recommended not to over-cool your cabin as the sudden change from outside temperature to a chilled cabin can bring on colds, respiratory illnesses and even stomach upsets. What is the dress code? The atmosphere onboard is informal and relaxed; comfortable, casual attire during the day and the evenings are smart-casual. What drinks are included? All soft drinks, local beers, local spirits, local mineral water, coffee and tea are free of charge. Only imported spirits, liquors, wine, expresso and imported mineral water will be charged. A complimentary daily cocktail, of local spirits, will be served. What currency is used on board? Orient Pandaw s onboard currency is the USD. You ll have your own ship-board account which allows you to sign a bill for all purchases and services throughout your cruise. All onboard charges will be in USD and accounts can be settled by cash or credit card (only Mastercard, Visa, or Discover card). Please note: only accounts over $25 USD can be paid by credit card. Traveller s cheques are not accepted on board. There is limited money exchange service available onboard. Myanmar s currency is the kyat, however most vendors ashore take USD. ATM s are nonexistent in Myanmar. Travellers cheques can be exchanged in local banks. In Myanmar, hotels and shops can charge up to 7% for credit card processing. Am I required to tip the staff onboard? Gratuities have been included in your cruise fare and passengers are not expected to tip staff individually or collectively. Is there Internet access onboard? No, as the ship is travelling to remote areas, there is no wireless internet connection. Are there laundry facilities? A laundry bag is provided for your needs and a laundry list is avail - able in your cabin. Laundry is collected each morning when your room is made up and will be returned the following day. It s not recommended to have whites washed onboard. Charges for the laundry service will be made to your onboard account. Is the water onboard suitable for drinking? The vessel s water supply comes from the river after passing through a sterilisation plant. It is suitable for washing and brushing teeth but should not be drunk. Bottled water is provided free of charge for drinking. Never accept ice in drinks and avoid ice creams, crushed sugar cane, salads and the skins of fruits when off the vessel. Is smoking permitted onboard? Smoking is not permitted in your cabin or any internal areas but is permitted in outside areas, namely the sun deck and promenade deck. What type of meals are provided on board? Breakfast is a buffet while lunch and dinner are served at the tables. We offer a fusion of Asian and Western cuisine and there are always vegetarian dishes on offer. Any special meal requirements will be made on a request basis only and cannot be guaranteed. Please advise your Cruiseco travel agent of your requirements at time of booking. Can I have a double bed? All cabins have fixed twin beds which can t convert into doubles. Are there lifts onboard and facilities for passengers in wheelchairs? There are no lifts and the ship is not equipped for passengers travelling in a wheelchair. The vessel regularly moors where paths can be muddy and slippery. It s recommended passengers be relatively fit, able-bodied and able to walk over uneven surfaces. Please consult your Cruiseco travel agent if you have questions. The official currency is the kyat but vendors trade in US dollars Will my mobile phone work? International mobile phones do not work in Myanmar as the local mobile network is not connected to international roaming networks. Will I need a visa to travel? Australian passengers must obtain a visa before travel to Myanmar. The cost of visas are not included in the cost of your holiday. Please ensure your passport has sufficient validity (over six months) before travelling. For further information on obtaining visas please speak to your Cruiseco travel consultant. What is polite etiquette in Myanmar? South-East Asians are generally tolerant and easy going. Please do not raise political issues with people. Let them raise them with you as you could even get them into trouble by discussing politics. Disrespect for the national religion (Theravada Buddhism) can cause upset. Unlike many faiths, Buddhists make their temples open to foreigners, permitting the snapping of cameras and invasion of their sacred space. They ask only one thing: that you take your shoes off even socks are forbidden. It is also considered rude to point with your feet, or touch people on the head or upper body. Never cross your legs in the company of monks or elders, and ladies should never sit down next to a monk. Do not shake hands with monks or nuns as people, in general, rarely shake hands; rather they smile and nod. Shorts and skirts should be longish and it is OK for both sexes to expose arms. 14 15