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Itinerary - Hong Kong to St.Petersburg
Your choice of flights from Australia aboard Cathay Pacific or Qantas to
Hong Kong. Enjoy a stopover before beginning your Trans Mongolian
Railway journey.
Day 1. Hong Kong - the adventure begins
Join your fellow group members and Group Leader for a welcome drink and Pre Departure Meeting at
our hotel. This evening explore Hong Kong “by night” with your Group Leader and sample some of
it’s famous cuisine at one of the city’s 6,000 restaurants.
Day 2. Hong Kong & to Xian
This morning we enjoy an orientation tour of Hong Kong visiting Victoria Harbour, Wanchai, Victoria
Peak and Aberdeen village. After lunch we transfer to the airport for our 2-hour flight to Xian: gateway
to the ancient Silk Road.
Day 3. Xian – Gateway to the Silk Road
Xian; the great capital of ancient Cathay, the glittering city of fabled wealth at the end of the “Golden
Journey” - the Silk Road traveled by Marco Polo. Today we visit one of China’s greatest historical sites:
the 3,000 year old tomb of Qin Shiuang. Surrounding his tomb is the extraordinary buried army of
some 6,000 life-sized pottery figures – soldiers, horses, chariots and weapons - the Terra-cotta Army.
This evening Xian’s incredible history is brought to life as we experience the Tang Dynasty Banquet
and cultural show.
Day 4. Xian
Our sightseeing continues today as we explore Xian; its ancient city walls, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, the
Great Mosque and Muslim quarter and the Shaanxi Provincial Museum - one of China’s best.
Day 5. Beijing – Imperial and modern capital
During our stay in Beijing, we not only visit the Great Wall but the Temple of Heaven, the Ming
Tombs, the Gate of Heavenly Peace and Tiananmen Square. And the fabulous Imperial Palace from
which the Emperors of the Ming Dynasty governed China 500 years ago: The Forbidden City. This
evening we enjoy the famous local delicacy – Peking Duck.
Day 6. The Great Wall of China
Today we enjoy an excursion to the Great Wall of China. “The Wall” stretches 10,000 Li across the
distant hills – built as the ultimate defence against the Mongol invaders from the north. Our sightseeing
includes the Sacred Road and the tombs of the Ming Dynasty Emperors.
S m a l l G ro u p J o u r n ey
Day 7. Beijing
Our sightseeing continues with the Temple of Heaven, The Lama Temple and a visit to one of the
traditional Hutongs: the old residential areas of Beijing. This evening we enjoy a traditional Chinese
cultural performance.
Day 8. To Ulaanbaatar – the world’s most remote capital city
We join our flight north over the Great Wall and across the Gobi Desert to the remote capital of
Mongolia – Ulaanbaatar. Bounded by Lake Baikal to the north and the Great Wall to the south is the
Mongolian Plateau and the Gobi Desert. This was the homeland of the brilliant, tough, well-drilled
horsemen who, for over 500 years from the 13th century, plundered and occupied lands and cities from
the Yellow River to the Danube. On arrival we transfer to Terelj National Park; our accommodation for
the night is the traditional round tents (Gers) of the Mongolian nomads, set amongst the beautiful
alpine scenery of the national park. Our Ger-stay is one of the great highlights of the journey and we
have the opportunity to sample some of the traditional food and drink of Mongolia.
Day 9. Terelj National Park
Enjoy a walk through the countryside to Turtle Rock, relax at camp and enjoy a display of the
traditional Mongolian skills of archery, horsemanship & wrestling. In the afternoon we return to
Ulaanbaatar and visit the National History Museum of Mongolia. This evening we enjoy a traditional
Mongolian cultural performance.
Day 10. Aboard the Trans Mongolian Railway to Siberia
Our sightseeing this morning includes the Gandan Hiid Monastery, which provides an insight into the
religious beliefs of the Mongolians – who are predominantly Buddhist. This afternoon we board the
Trans Mongolian Railway for the overnight journey to Ulan Ude in Siberia. We quickly settle into life
on board; our comfortable twin-berth compartments offer ample space and a relaxing ambience. Our
carriage crew quickly has us organised and they welcome us on board with a glass of Russian
champagne. There is anticipation and excitement as the train journey begins and we leave Ulaanbaatar
for the almost 6200 kilometre journey to Moscow.
Day 11. Welcome to Siberia!
This morning we reach Ulan Ude, Capital of the Buryat Republic and an important centre for
Buddhists around the world. Our sightseeing includes the Ivolginsky Datsun (Buddhist Monastery) and
the Ethnographic Museum. This afternoon we rejoin the train for the journey along the southern shore
of Lake Baikal to Irkutsk.
Day 12. Irkutsk & Lake Baikal
Founded as a Cossack military outpost over 350 years ago, the first Trans-Siberian train reached Irkutsk
in 1898. Gold had been discovered a few years earlier and the city boomed, at one time being known as
the “Paris of Siberia” due to its fine merchants houses, municipal buildings and well stocked shops.
Today, Irkutsk still exudes a certain time-worn charm with its wide boulevards and interesting mix of
architecture. We enjoy a revealing insight of the city’s history during our sightseeing program before
continuing to Lake Baikal and our overnight stay in a comfortable guesthouse.
Day 13. Lake Baikal & aboard the Trans Siberian Railway
For a land as vast and extreme as Siberia it is only fitting that it should contain the world’s deepest
freshwater lake – Baikal, whose crystal clear waters stretch over 600 kilometres to the north, up to 80
kilometres wide and almost 2 kilometres deep. Here is a vast, natural paradise; frozen to a depth of up
to one metre during the harsh winter months, while during the summer, bathers brave the still very cold
waters for its promised health benefits! This afternoon we return to Irkutsk and board the train across
Siberia to Moscow – 5000 kilometres and 5 time zones away.
Day 14. Across Siberia – ‘The Sleeping Land’
A short Siberian summer’s night, lulled by the ever mechanical rhythms of train and track, passes to
expose a daybreak of fir forests and wild flowers, homely cottage gardens and a thousand and one
signs of hardy lives and simple means as the scale of the journey across Russia becomes apparent. This
is, without any doubt, the world’s longest transcontinental rail journey!
Day 15. From Asia to Europe
We will have the opportunity to see the Asia-Europe border marker (Km 1777) shortly before the city
of Ekaterinburg. Founded in 1723 by Peter the Great and named after his wife, Catherine,
Ekaterinburg has an intriguing and bloody history. It is the site of the murder of the Romanov family
in 1918 – that ushered in the Communist era. We continue, ever westwards, across the Ural Mountains
and into European Russia.
Day 16. Moscow
On the far side of the Volga River, the flickering silvers and greens of birch forests speed past. The
train enters the suburbs and, slowing now, turns up almost casually on time in the early evening.
We transfer to our premium hotel in central Moscow – and unable to resist, we take an evening stroll
through Red Square.
Day 17. Moscow
Moscow will amaze you. At its heart lie the ancient fortified grounds of the Kremlin – the fabled
palace-fort of gilded domes and the exquisite collection of royal treasures in the stunning Armoury
Chamber; the Cathedral of the Assumption where Tsars were crowned, the Bell Tower and the Faberge
jewels and icons. Beyond the Kremlin’s high walls lie Red Square and the splendid twirled cupolas of St
Basils Cathedral. Beneath the city lies the palatial metro rail system draped in chandeliers, mosaics and
baroque bas-reliefs. This evening we enjoy a traditional performance in one of Moscow’s many
theatres.
Day 18. Moscow
Our sightseeing program continues this morning, before joining the afternoon express rail service
north to St Petersburg.
Day 19. St Petersburg
“The united magnificence of all of the cities of Europe are but its equal.” – so said Voltaire. St
Petersburg is indeed a unique treasure-house of 18th century architecture and the city that best displays
the Russian genius for museums. Our sightseeing today includes the Peter and Paul Fortress, St Isaacs
Cathedral, Palace Square and the former Winter Palace, now the Hermitage Museum. This is one of
the world’s greatest art collections with works of Leonardo da Vinci, Rembrandt, Picasso and a
hundred other great masters. A visit to St Petersburg would not be complete without experiencing a
performance at one of the city’s beautiful theatres.
Day 20. St Petersburg
Beyond the city lie the fabulous summer palaces and residences of the tsars and the Imperial Court, the
most magnificent being the palace of Peter the Great at Petrodvorets. The gilded rooms and extensive
gardens and unique fountain complex offer an insight into the life of the Russian royal family.
This evening we enjoy a special farewell dinner, a chance to reflect and reminisce with your fellow
travellers the incredible adventure that is the Trans Mongolian Railway.
(Special commemorative certificates and group photographs will be provided to all tour members.)
Tours
Day 21. Journey’s end
An incredible journey in just 3 weeks – so many new and extraordinary places have been visited, and all will be
long remembered and greatly treasured.
Return to Australia with Finnair or travel onto another European gateway; your
Finnair flights include many free European cities to choose from.
“For lovers of adventure and lovers of
railways alike here’s an incredible
journey across the dramatic
landscapes of China, Mongolia
and Russia.”
Itinerary - St.Petersburg to Hong Kong
Your choice of flights from Australia aboard Cathay Pacific, Qantas or British
Airways then with Finnair to St.Petersburg. Enjoy a stopover at one of many Asian
gateways before beginning your Trans Mongolian Railway journey. Your Finnair
flights also include many free cities in Europe to choose from.
Day 1. St Petersburg
Join your fellow group members and Group Leader for a welcome drink and Pre Departure Meeting at our hotel.
This evening explore St Petersburg “by night” with your Group Leader. The Journey has begun!
Day 2. St Petersburg
“The united magnificence of all of the cities of Europe are but its equal.” – so said Voltaire. St Petersburg is indeed a
unique treasure-house of 18th century architecture and the city that best displays the Russian genius for museums.
Our sightseeing today includes the Peter and Paul Fortress, St Isaacs Cathedral, Palace Square and the former Winter
Palace, now the Hermitage Museum. This is one of the world’s greatest art collections with works of Leonardo da
Vinci, Rembrandt, Picasso and a hundred other great masters. A visit to St Petersburg would not be complete without
experiencing a performance at one of the city’s beautiful theatres.
Day 3. St Petersburg
Beyond the city lie the fabulous summer palaces and residences of the tsars and the Imperial Court, the most
magnificent being the palace of Peter the Great at Petrodvorets. The gilded rooms and extensive gardens and unique
fountain complex offer an insight into the life of the Russian royal family.
Day 4. To Moscow
Our sightseeing of this remarkable city continues this morning with the incredible collection of the Hermitage
museum. This afternoon we board the express train service to Moscow.
St. Petersburg
RUSSIA
Lake Baikal
Moscow
Irkutsk
Ulan Ude
Ulaanbaatar
MONGOLIA
Beijing
CHINA
Xian
Hong Kong
Day 5. Moscow
Moscow will amaze you. At its heart lie the ancient fortified grounds of the Kremlin – the fabled palace-fort of
gilded domes and the exquisite collection of royal treasures in the stunning Armoury Chamber; the Cathedral of the
Assumption where Tsars were crowned, the Bell Tower and the Faberge jewels and icons. Beyond the Kremlin’s high
walls lie Red Square and the splendid twirled cupolas of St Basils Cathedral. This evening we enjoy a traditional
performance in one of Moscow’s many theatres.
Day 6. Moscow & aboard the Trans Siberian Railway
Our sightseeing program continues this morning exploring beneath the city where there lies the palatial metro rail
system draped in chandeliers, mosaics and baroque bas-reliefs. This evening we board our private rail carriage for the
journey east to Irkutsk.
Day 7. From Europe to Asia
On the far side of the Volga River, the flickering silvers and greens of birch forests speed past as the scale of the
journey across Russia becomes apparent. This is, without any doubt, the world’s longest transcontinental rail journey!
We will have the opportunity to see the Europe-Asia border marker (Km 1777) shortly after the city of Ekaterinburg.
Founded in 1723 by Peter the Great and named after his wife, Catherine, Ekaterinburg has an intriguing and bloody
history. It is the site of the murder of the Romanov family in 1918 – that ushered in the Communist era.
Days 8 & 9. Across Siberia – ‘The Sleeping Land’
A short Siberian summer’s night, lulled by the ever mechanical rhythms of train and track, passes to expose a
daybreak of fir forests and wild flowers, homely cottage gardens and a thousand and one signs of hardy lives and
simple means. The train draws into Irkutsk almost casually on time.
Day 10. Irkutsk
Founded as a Cossack military outpost over 350 years ago, the first Trans-Siberian train reached Irkutsk in 1898. Gold
had been discovered a few years earlier and the city boomed, at one time being known as the “Paris of Siberia” due to
its fine merchants houses, municipal buildings and well stocked shops. Today, Irkutsk still exudes a certain time-worn
charm with its wide boulevards and interesting mix of architecture. We enjoy a revealing insight of the city’s history
during our sightseeing program.
Day 11. Lake Baikal & depart to Ulan Ude
For a land as vast and extreme as Siberia it is only fitting that it should contain the world’s deepest freshwater lake –
Baikal, whose crystal clear waters stretch over 600 kilometres to the north, up to 80 kilometres wide and almost 2
kilometres deep. Here is a vast, natural paradise; frozen to a depth of up to one metre during the harsh winter
months, while during the summer, bathers brave the still very cold waters for its promised health benefits!
Day 12. Ulan Ude
This morning we reach Ulan Ude, Capital of the Buryat Republic and an important centre for Buddhists around the
world. Our sightseeing includes the Ivolginsky Datsun (Buddhist Monastery) and the Ethnographic Museum. This
afternoon we rejoin the train for the journey to Mongolia
Day 13. Arrive Ulaanbaatar
Bounded by Lake Baikal to the north and the Great Wall to the south is the Mongolian Plateau and the Gobi
Desert. With a history of incredible acquisition and of towering personalities thundering across Asia; among
them Genghis Khan, founder of the Empire and Kublai Khan, overlord of China, convert to Buddhism, the
Great Khan, host to Marco Polo. Our sightseeing today includes the Gandan Hiid Monastery, which provides
an insight into the religious beliefs of the Mongolians – who are predominantly Buddhist. This evening we
enjoy a traditional Mongolian cultural performance.
Day 14. Terelj National Park
Today we transfer to Terelj National Park; our accommodation for the night is the traditional round tents
(Gers) of the Mongolian nomads, set amongst the beautiful alpine scenery of the national park. Our Ger-stay
is one of the great highlights of the journey and we have the opportunity to enjoy a walk through the
countryside to Turtle Rock, relax at camp and enjoy a display of the traditional Mongolian skills of archery,
horsemanship & wrestling.
Day 15. To Beijing
We return to Ulaanbaatar this morning and join our flight to south across the Gobi Desert and over the Great
Wall to Beijing.
Day 16. Beijing – Imperial and modern capital
10 soldiers marching abreast to be posted on the wall in defence of the civilized world and it’s capital, Beijing.
To appreciate that claim, during our stay in Beijing, we not only visit the Great Wall but the Temple of
Heaven, the Ming Tombs, the Gate of Heavenly Peace and Tiananmen Square. And the fabulous Imperial
Palace from which the Emperors of the Ming Dynasty governed China 500 years ago: The Forbidden City.
This evening we enjoy a traditional Chinese cultural performance
Day 17. The Great Wall of China
Today we enjoy an excursion to the Great Wall of China. “The Wall” stretches 10,000 Li across the distant
hills – built as the ultimate defence against the Mongol invaders from the north. Our sightseeing includes the
Sacred Road and the tombs of the Ming Dynasty Emperors. This evening we enjoy the famous local delicacy –
Peking Duck.
Day 18. Beijing & to Xian
Our sightseeing continues with the Temple of Heaven, The Lama Temple and a visit to one of the traditional
Hutongs: the old residential areas of Beijing. This afternoon we depart for Xian.
Day 19. Xian – Gateway to the Silk Road
Xian; the great capital of ancient Cathay, the glittering city of fabled wealth at the end of the “Golden
Journey” - the Silk Road traveled by Marco Polo. Today we visit one of China’s greatest historical sites: the
3,000 year old tomb of Qin Shiuang, unifier of China and founder of the Qin dynasty (221-206B.C.).
Surrounding his tomb is the extraordinary buried army of some 6,000 life-sized pottery figures – soldiers,
horses, chariots and weapons - the Terra-cotta Army. This evening Xian’s incredible history is brought to life
as we experience the Tang Dynasty Banquet and cultural show.
Day 20. Xian & to Hong Kong
Our sightseeing continues today as we explore Xian; its ancient city walls, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, the Great
Mosque and Muslim quarter and the Shaanxi Provincial Museum - one of China’s best. This afternoon we
transfer to the airport for our two hour flight to Hong Kong. This evening we enjoy a special farewell dinner, a
chance to reflect and reminisce with your fellow travellers the incredible adventure that is the Trans Mongolian
Railway. (Special commemorative certificates and group photographs will be provided to all tour members.)
Day 21. Journey’s end
An incredible journey in just 3 weeks – so many new and extraordinary places have been visited, and all will be
long remembered and greatly treasured.
Extend your stay in Hong Kong or return to Australia with Cathay Pacific or
Qantas.
The Essentials
Tour Prices
Group Size
AUD - $9,970 - (land content only)
15 maximum, plus your Group Leader
Accommodation
Hong Kong to St.Petersburg
Private Rail Carriage – 4 nights (twin share compartment/lower
berths)
Premium Hotels - 14 nights (twin share)
Traditional Mongolian Ger – 1 night (twin share)
Siberian Guesthouse – 1 night
St.Petersburg to Hong Kong
Private Rail Carriage – 6 nights (twin share compartment/lower
berths)
Premium Hotels - 13 nights (twin share)
Traditional Mongolian Ger – 1 night (twin share)
Meals
Breakfast daily, with either lunch or dinner included each day.
We include a number of special regional cuisine experiences to
ensure you enjoy a taste of the traditional flavours of the
countries visited.
Note: While onboard the train meals are provided when a
dining car is available.
Hong Kong to St.Petersburg
Breakfast (20), Lunch (11), Dinner (9)
St.Petersburg to Hong Kong
Breakfast (20) Lunch (14) Dinner (7)
Transportation
Dates shown in black below will
experience Mongolia’s colourful national
festival – Naadam. A surcharge will
apply to these departures to cover
Naadam event entrance fees and
increased operating expenses during the
festival period.
Airfares
A specific Trans Siberian airfare is also
available with this journey travelling with
Finnair, Qantas, British Airways and Cathay
Pacific. Includes stopover options in both
directions as well as 2 free coupons in Europe.
Business class upgrade is also available. Full
airfare details available on request.
Low
Shoulder
High Shoulder
High
$2,065 + taxes
$2,210 + taxes
$2,445 + taxes
$2,560 + taxes
Contact Sundowners or your agent for
full details.
Dates
Charter rail carriage: Twin share compartments with two lower
berths. Shared toilet and shower facilities.
Hong Kong to St.Petersburg
Flights: Hong Kong - Xian - Beijing - Ulaanbaatar or v.v.
2007 (code TMPH)
Start
Finish
Comfortable Private Coach for all scheduled sightseeing
excursions and transfers while on tour.
Sunday 03 June -
Saturday 23 June
Public transport and on foot for optional City Exploring with your
Group Leader
Tuesday 03 July -
Sightseeing
Scheduled Sightseeing is part of the itinerary and includes all
transport, entrance fees and English speaking local guides.
Hong Kong: City tour to Victoria Harbour, Wanchai, Victoria
Peak and Aberdeen village.
Xian: City tour, Terracotta Warriors, City walls, Big Wild
Goose Pagoda, Great Mosque & Muslim Quarter, Shaanxi
Provincial Museum and Tang Dynasty Banquet.
Beijing: Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Temple of
Heaven, Lama Temple, Great Wall of China, Sacred Way, Ming
Tombs, Hutong district and cultural performance.
Ulaanbaatar: National History Museum, Gandan Hiid
Monastery, Terelj National Park and cultural performance.
Ulan Ude: Ivolginsky Datsun and Ethnographic Museum.
Irkutsk (Siberia): City tour, Lake Baikal and Listvyanka village.
Moscow: City tour, St.Basil's Cathedral, Red Square, Kremlin &
Armoury Chamber, Metro tour and cultural performance.
St.Petersburg: City tour, St.Isaacs Cathedral, Peter & Paul
Fortress, Palace Square, Hermitage Museum, Summer Palace
(Petrodvorets) and cultural performance.
Visas
Required for China, Mongolia & Russia. Sundowners and your
consultant will provide all required invitation letters and full visa
support including detailed visa guidelines.
Experience in the region
Sundowners have been offering journeys aboard the Trans
Siberian & Trans Mongolian Railways for over 30 years. Our new
“Premium” journey is the culmination of that experience
combined with a level of service not previously available on
such a journey.
Tour Dossier
Our Tour Dossier provides detailed information about this
journey and is available on request. Call Sundowners or your
travel agent, or visit www.sundownerstravel.com
(This departure coincides with Russia’s White
Nights Festival)
Tuesday 24 July
(This departure coincides with Mongolia’s Naadam
Festival, see above, and is 22 days. Please note a
surcharge of US$470 applies to this departure)
Sunday 29 July Sunday 19 Aug Sunday 09 Sept -
Saturday 18 Aug
Saturday 08 Sept
Saturday 29 Sept
2008 (code TMPH)
Start
Sunday 20 April Sunday 11 May Sunday 01 June -
Finish
Saturday 10 May
Saturday 31 May
Saturday 21 June
(This departure coincides with Russia’s White
Nights Festival)
Thursday 03 July -
Thursday 24 July
(This departure coincides with Mongolia’s Naadam
Festival, see above, and is 22 days. Please note a
surcharge of US$470 applies to this departure)
Sunday 27 July -
Saturday 16 Aug
St.Petersburg to Hong Kong
2007 (code TMPS)
Start
Finish
Wednesday 30 May - Tuesday 19 June
Thursday 28 June - Thursday 19 July
(This departure coincides with Mongolia’s Naadam
Festival and Russia’s White Nights Festival, see
above, and is 22 days. Please note a surcharge of
US$470 applies to this departure)
Wednesday 25 July - Tuesday 14 August
Wednesday 15 Aug - Tuesday 04 Sept
Wednesday 05 Sept - Tuesday 25 Sept
2008 (code TMPS)
Start
Finish
Wednesday 16 April Wednesday 07 May Wednesday 28 May Sunday 29 June
-
Tuesday 06 May
Tuesday 27 May
Tuesday 17 June
Saturday 19 July
(This departure coincides with Mongolia’s Naadam
Festival, see above. Please note a surcharge of
US$200 applies to this departure)
Wednesday 23 July - Tuesday 12 Aug
“Its strength and magic lies not in the size of its giant trees nor in
the depth of its deadly silence, but rather in the fact that
perhaps it is the migrant birds alone of all living
creatures that know its limits”.
Anton Chekhov (during his travels across Siberia)
Sundowners Premium Tours offer all the romance and
adventure of the great Trans Mongolian-Siberian Railway for the discerning, adventurous traveller. Twin share accommodation is
provided throughout the journey: aboard the train, in all hotels, while staying in a traditional Mongolian Ger and at our
Siberian Guesthouse, offering a level of style, service and comfort not available on any other Trans Mongolian Railway journey.
Excellent included sightseeing, special cultural performances and a maximum group size of just 15 will ensure you see and experience the
cities and sights at a more informative and intimate level than is possible with larger groups.
When you join a Sundowners Premium Tour you are assured of the very best Trans Mongolian-Siberian Railway experience and will
enjoy many special highlights:
Two-berth train compartment in our private rail carriage from Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia to Moscow
Carefully selected hotel accommodation
Enjoy the Mongolian countryside with a stay in a traditional Mongolian Ger
Experience Siberian hospitality and cuisine at our Siberian guesthouse near Lake Baikal
Comprehensive sightseeing in all cities with excellent local guides
A maximum group size of just 15 guarantees you a very high level of service, and ensures you really
understand the history and culture of the cities visited with our included sightseeing program.
Fully escorted by one of Sundowners’ excellent Group Leaders
All transfers from arrival on Day 1 to departure on the final day
Aboard the train
Our Premium Tours use a private rail carriage which is
attached to the regular trains servicing Russia and Mongolia.
Our private carriage is used on all rail sectors between
Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia and Moscow. (For the journey
between Moscow and St Petersburg we use a comfortable
day-train service). Your accommodation is in comfortable
twin-share compartments with two lower berths, you will
also enjoy many extra facilities onboard including
a shower compartment for the exclusive use of
our group.
Your Siberian Guesthouse
Our Siberian Guesthouse is a
small, cosy, private hotel close to
the shores of Lake Baikal. You will
enjoy some traditional Siberian
hospitality – and have the
opportunity to experience a
Siberian Banya (sauna).
Your Premium Hotels
Carefully selected hotels ensure a comfortable stay
and convenient location in all our stopover cities.
Your Traditional Mongolian Ger
The Ger experience is a highlight for many people, and
certainly a wonderful opportunity to experience the traditional
lifestyle of the Mongolian
nomads. Our Gers are
comfortable, clean and
well furnished.
Meals
Meals are included on a half-board basis while in the cities,
aboard the train meals are provided when a dining car is available.
Special regional banquets will provide a taste of the richly diverse
cultures experienced on this fascinating journey.
Your Group Leader
Chosen for their exceptional customer service qualities,
you can be assured your Group Leader has been
selected with great care, and is committed to ensuring
your journey of a lifetime is just that!
Booking Conditions
It is important that you read the following booking
conditions before you book.
Sundowners Travel Centre Pty. Limited ("Sundowners"), a limited
liability company registered in Australia, is the tour operator for the
journeys contained in this brochure. Sundowners is a member of the
Travel Compensation Fund, which provides protection for travellers
monies, and holds Travel Agent Licence number 30093.
Sundowners accepts your booking subject to the following conditions:
1. Brochure validity & surcharges
Information in this brochure is correct at time of printing. Published
prices are based on the prevailing exchange rates and costs at that
time (August 2006). Prices are subject to change at any time due to
currency fluctuations, government action or amendments to itineraries
and train timetables beyond the control of Sundowners.
2. To make a booking
To confirm your booking Sundowners requires a fully completed and
signed booking form and a deposit of $700 per person. Your final
balance payment is due 60 days before the tour departure date and
your booking may be cancelled if full payment is not received by the
due date, in which case your deposit will be forfeited. Bookings
received less than 60 days prior to the tour departure date must be
paid in full at time of booking.
(HWT TMP - 2007)
of any extra services required. The only exception to this is pre or post
tour accommodation and other services, which may be added up to
one calendar month before departure without charge. Within one
calendar month, these can be added on payment of the amendment
fee of $50. Whilst every reasonable effort will be made to
accommodate changes and additional requests their availability cannot
be guaranteed. A $100 per person transfer fee applies when
transferring between Sundowners tours or changing the departure date
of your journey. Amendments and transfers made 60 days or less prior
to departure will be charged at the cancellation fees below.
8. Cancellation - by traveller
Once your booking has been confirmed cancellations can only be
accepted in writing. In the event of cancellation the following charges
will apply:
Over 60 days prior to departure - loss of deposit.
60-46 days prior to departure - 50% of the tour cost.
45 days or less or "No Show" - 100% of tour cost.
9. Cancellation - by Sundowners
Sundowners reserves the right to cancel any tour (before tour
commencement), including guaranteed departures, due to force
majeure, health concerns, war, or threat of war, civil unrest, acts of
terrorism, strikes, industrial disputes or any other reason outside the
3. Refund
control of Sundowners that Sundowners in its absolute discretion may
determine. In such circumstances a full refund of the tour price paid
No refund will be made for any tours, meals, accommodation,
will be made and this will be the full extent of Sundowners liability. If a
sightseeing, transfers, or any other services included in the tour cost,
guaranteed departure is cancelled for reasons other than force majeure,
which were not utilised, should you choose voluntarily to not use the
a full refund of monies paid will be made. In addition a 25% reduction
service, if you decide to leave the tour early or should Sundowners be
unable to provide the service for reasons beyond its control. Any refund in the cost of an alternative tour will be offered. Sundowners otherwise
disclaims any liability to you for the costs of airfares, visas or any other
due for any service booked and paid for, but not provided, will be
expenses incurred by you as a result of any tour cancellation.
made by Sundowners after the completion of your Sundowners travel
services.
10. Guaranteed departures
4. Travel documents
You will require a valid passport and visas for your journey. It is solely
your responsibility to ensure that you are in possession of the
necessary documentation to comply with the laws and regulations of
the countries to be visited.
A Small Group Journey departure is guaranteed when it is less than 60
days before the tour commencement date and it has four booked and
fully paid travellers, unless a higher minimum group size is stated (see
Essentials for your selected tour).
5. Insurance
Travel insurance is not included in the tour cost. Sundowners will not
be responsible or liable for any injury or damages suffered or incurred
in any way arising from or occurring during your journey.
Comprehensive travel insurance (including medical and repatriation
cover) is compulsory for "Small Group Journeys" and Sundowners
reserves the right to require you to leave the tour in the event that you
have not secured the appropriate cover (see Tour Dossier for further
details of appropriate cover).
11a. Reasonable Behaviour
Travelling in a group may require some compromise to accommodate
the different desires and abilities of group members. When joining a
Small Group Journey you undertake to conduct yourself in a manner
conducive to good group dynamics. If you act in a manner that
threatens or disrupts the safety or enjoyment of others on the tour, the
Group Leader may in his or her absolute discretion require that you
leave the tour. If you are required to leave a tour in such circumstances,
no refund will be made for any unused services.
6. Amendments to itineraries
Sundowners reserves the right to amend any tour itinerary due to force
majeure, changes in local conditions, or any other reason that
Sundowners in its absolute discretion may determine. If an amendment
to the tour itinerary is necessary, Sundowners will provide similar tour
inclusions. Where such amendments are major (25% or more of the
tour content is changed, or a price surcharge greater than 15% of the
published tour cost is required) and this amendment is known before
the tour commences, you will be offered the opportunity to transfer to
an alternative tour, alter your departure date, or cancel with a full
refund of any monies paid to Sundowners for the tour. Sundowners
otherwise disclaims any liability to you for the costs of airfares, visas or
any other expenses incurred by you as a result of any amendment or
change to the tour itinerary.
11b. Your Health & Fitness
It is your responsibility to ensure that you have a suitable level of
fitness to undertake the journey of your choice and that you have
received required vaccinations. Fitness guidelines are provided in the
Tour Dossiers. You should also seek the advice of your doctor or travel
health specialist regarding the specific health recommendations for
travel to the countries and regions visited on your tour.
If, during the operation of the tour and for reasons beyond the control
of Sundowners, it becomes advisable to change, amend or alter an
itinerary, including the start or finish city of the tour, Sundowners may
do so in its absolute discretion and any additional costs incurred in
these changes will be the responsibility of the traveller.
7. Amendments to bookings
Any amendment to the original booking once it has been confirmed
will incur an amendment fee of $50 per booking in addition to the cost
11. Your responsibility (Small Group Journeys)
without any further recourse.
When joining a Sundowners Small Group Journey you accept the
authority of the Group Leader.
11c. Complaints
Should you have a complaint about any aspect of the travel
arrangements you must bring it to the attention of the Group Leader
or our local representative at the time. Failure to notify the Group
Leader or our local representative immediately may adversely affect
your claim to compensation. If the problem is not solved to your
satisfaction you must forward your complaint in writing to Sundowners
no later than 28 days after completion of the tour.
11d. Health & Government Travel Advisories
It is your sole responsibility to inform yourself of the prevailing travel
advisories issued by the government of your country regarding the risks
and associated precautions (including health) related to travel to the
countries and regions visited on your tour. Health advice is available
from travel health specialists and international bodies such as the World
Health Organisation. Sundowners will not be responsible for advising
you of such travel advisories or of any changes that occur to such travel
advisories prior to departure of the tour.
12. Optional activities
When on tour, you may be offered the opportunity to engage in
optional or non-itinerary activities. You acknowledge and agree that
such activities may be inherently risky and Sundowners will not be
responsible to you for any loss, damage, injury, accident that may occur
as a result of your participation therein.
13. Responsibility
Sundowners acts as an agent in the arrangement of travel services. All
vouchers and tickets are issued subject to the terms and conditions
specified by the supplier of those travel services. By accepting the
vouchers and tickets and utilising the services, you agree that except
where the law provides that liability or responsibility may not be
excluded, Sundowners shall not be liable or responsible in respect of
either person or property for any loss, damage, injury, accident, delay,
diversion, fault or irregularity however occasioned, sustained or
suffered in the course of any journey, trip or tour in the carrying out of
any arrangements or the use of any facilities booked by or through it
and not withstanding that the booking is made with a foreign
company, corporation or person.
You understand, and accept, that when joining a Sundowners tour the
level of services, in the countries or regions to be visited including but
not limited to, medical facilities, accommodation, transportation and
communication will be lower than those you would expect at home, or
in more traditional holiday destinations. You acknowledge that this can
increase your personal risk, and you accept this risk.
Sundowners shall not be liable for any loss or damage arising out of a
matter over which it has no control including, without limitation, war or
threat of war, riots, civil unrest, terrorist activity, natural disaster,
weather conditions, fire, flood, industrial disputes, government action or
the reasonable apprehension of any of the foregoing.
14. Other
These conditions cannot be varied or altered or waived by any servant,
agent or representative of Sundowners or any other person providing
services on the tour.
You must inform Sundowners of any medical condition that may
prevent your full participation in the tour. Should Sundowners or your
Group Leader consider you medically unfit to join a tour or should your
medical condition deteriorate during the tour, to an extent where you
are no longer able to fully participate in the tour, you will be required
to leave the tour. No refund will be made for any unused services in
such an event.
Any contract between you and Sundowners is deemed to have been
made in the State of Victoria, Australia, shall be governed by the laws
of the State of Victoria and any disputes shall be dealt with by a court
with the appropriate jurisdiction in Victoria.
Sundowners and their agents reserve the right to withhold or withdraw
tour participation for anyone whose inappropriate behaviour or medical
condition is likely to affect the smooth operation of the tour or
adversely affect the safety or enjoyment of other travellers on the tour.
Additionally, Sundowners reserve the right at any time to insist on a
current medical certificate stating that you are fit to travel, and may
refuse carriage if a satisfactory certificate is not supplied. Any decision
to exclude a passenger for any reason will be made by Sundowners
* Conditions apply. Price is per person, twin share. Price is correct at time of publication
(November 2006) but may fluctuate due to changes in taxes, charges, surcharges and
currency. The nature of this tour as a Private Charter is based on 15 minimum passengers
and should these numbers not be reached the tour may proceed but may include passengers
booked by travel agents other than Harvey World Travel. Airfares between Hong Kong and
Ulaanbaatar included are based on a group airfare and all passengers will need to fly on
these flights, dates and destination only. Tour price is subject to fuel and tax surcharges (for
international and internal flights) if imposed by the airline. Price does not include taxes
imposed directly by third parties. Tour is subject to availability and terms and conditions as
listed. Minimum tour numbers apply, see booking conditions for more details. A service fee
and credit card surcharge will apply. Licence No’s: ACT - TC373, NSW - 2TA5129, NT - NT001,
QLD – TAG 1718, SA - TTA 165258, TAS - TAS097, VIC - 32392, WA - 9TA 1174. DMK.
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