NOMADIC EXPEDITIONS
THE GOLDEN EAGLE
A TASTE OF THE SILK ROAD
Eastbound MOSCOW - ALMATY
SEPT 19 – OCT 1, 2016
About this Exceptional Adventure…
Recommended For:
Adventurers looking to
explore the ancient routes
and civilizations of the Silk
Road on board the Golden
Eagle Trans – Siberian
Express Train.
Retracing one of the most important trading routes of ancient
civilization, the Silk Road follows in the footsteps of such
legendary figures as Alexander the Great and Marco Polo. For
centuries, merchants and adventures journeyed on these ancient
routes through some of the most testing landscapes in the world,
trading silk, spices and perfumes. These “highways” – stretching
more than 4,000 miles (6,400 km) – collectively came to be called
the “Silk Road”.
Highlights:
v
v
v
v
v
v
v
Ride the luxury Golden
Eagle
Trans-Siberian
Express Train
Trace
the
ancient
routes of the Silk Road
See Moscow’s Red
Square Metro stations
and tour the Kremlin
Explore Khiva a World
Heritage Site
Take in the vastness of
Samarkand’s Registan
Square
Listen to daily lectures
on board the train
View the world’s oldest
Koran in Tashkent
Accommodations:
v 2 nights at a hotel in
Moscow
v 9 nights aboard the
Golden Eagle TransSiberian train
v 1 night at a hotel in
Almaty
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Moscow's Red Square separates
the Kremlin - the former royal citadel and the current official
residence of the President of Russia - from the merchant or
business quarter. It is also widely considered the center of
Moscow and all of Russia, due to main roads that originate in the
square and extend through Moscow to Russia's main highways.
Samarkand, Uzbekistan conjures up evocative images of the Silk
Road. Founded in the 6th century BC, Samarkand’s stunning
architecture hints at its former status as one of the most important
cities in Asia, particularly when it flourished as the fabled capital
of the Mongol empire of Timur and his successors.
Almaty is the largest city in Kazakhstan and is notable for its
wide tree-lined boulevards. Surrounded by the majesty of the
Tien Shan Mountains, this beautifully city derives its name from
“alma” meaning “apple”, where just outside the city, apple
orchards thrive in abundance.
Nomadic Expeditions, Inc. Contact us at (800) 998-6634 or [email protected]
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1
Welcome to Moscow
Arrive at Moscow Airport, where you are met and transferred to
the luxurious five-star Baltschug Kempinski Hotel, overlooking
the Moskva River with an unrivalled view of the Kremlin, Red
Square and St. Basil’s Cathedral. We enjoy a welcome reception
dinner at our hotel, whilst you meet your fellow travelers and
anticipate the epic 13-day voyage that lies ahead.
(Baltschug Kempinski; D)
Day 2
Moscow, Russia
Our touring program of Moscow principally takes us to the
grandeur of the Kremlin – the spiritual, historical and political
heart of Moscow – and to see the treasures of the Tsars in the
Armoury Chamber. We also visit Red Square, an iconic symbol of
Russia’s former military and political might with its eclectic mix
of fascinating architecture, such as the ornate St Basil’s
Cathedral’s magnificent onion-domed spires, the beautiful facade
of the world famous GUM department store, constructed in
Tsarist times, and the somber and evocative site of Lenin’s tomb.
You may instead wish to travel out of the city center to Sergiev
Posad, home to one of the most beautiful monasteries in Russia
and the historical and spiritual center of the Russian Orthodox
Church or visit the famous State Tretyakov Gallery (National
Museum of Fine Art).
Why not extend your stay in Moscow with additional nights to
explore more of the city at your leisure or have time to take in a
performance at the world-renowned Bolshoi Theatre? Tickets need
to be pre-booked and are subject to schedule and availability.
(Baltchug Kempinski; B, L, D)
Nomadic Expeditions, Inc. Contact us at (800) 998-6634 or [email protected]
Day 3
Onboard
Today we board the Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express at
Moscow’s Kazansky Station. After settling into our modern,
stylish cabins, we enjoy dinner in one of the beautifully appointed
restaurant cars as our rail journey to Almaty in Kazakhstan
begins. Our Golden Eagle train, on selected departures, will be
hauled by a Russian steam locomotive for the first 100 km section
of the journey. With the opportunity to photograph the
locomotive in Moscow Kazansky Station, it makes for an
unforgettable way to start your journey onboard Russia’s premier
train.
(On Board; B, L, D)
Day 4
Volgograd, Russia
Standing on the banks of the Volga, Stalingrad, as the city was
known in Soviet times, was the dramatic scene of one of the most
important Second World War battles. The Russians heroically
turned back the Nazi advance here to alter the course of the war.
We visit the poignantly sobering Mamayev Kurgan war
memorial, followed by an informative museum visit.
(On Board; B, L, D)
Day 5
Kara Kum, Kazakhstan
A day to relax onboard the Golden Eagle as we travel across the
vast expanses of the Kara Kum desert. Chat with your fellow
passengers, learn a few words in Russian at a language lesson,
Nomadic Expeditions, Inc. Contact us at (800) 998-6634 or [email protected]
simply relax with a good book, or enjoy the ever changing
landscape outside your window as it unfolds.
(On Board; B, L, D)
Day 6
Khiva, Uzbekistan
From Urgench we travel to the ancient city of Khiva, founded
2,500 years ago. As one of the Silk Road’s most important trading
posts and now a World Heritage Site, it lies at the crossroads of
the routes between Mongolia, Russia, China and Persia.
“I did not tell half of what
I saw, for no one would
have believed me.”
-Marco Polo, 1324
A truly magnificent sight to behold, it rises out of the desert to
reveal a wealth of impressive architecture. Stepping back in time,
we discover its impressive mosques, madrassas, bazaars and
minarets within Khiva’s ancient walls.
(On Board; B, L, D)
Day 7
Ashgabat, Turkmenistan
Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan is known as the “Las
Vegas of the Kara Kum”. Situated between the Kara Kum desert
and the Kopet Dag mountain range, Ashgabat is a relatively
modern city built upon the ruins of the Silk Road city of Konjikala
and the Soviet city built after the devastating earthquake of 1948.
The city’s extravagant fountains, golden domes and towering
modern buildings appear strangely incongruous in this desert
setting. Highlights on our visit include a visit to the National
Museum and Kipchak Mosque.
(On Board; B, L, D)
Day 8
Merv, Turkmenistan
Today we transfer to Merv the ancient and mainly unrestored
remains of a once important stop on the Silk Road. The city was
once considered the largest city in the world during the 12th
Nomadic Expeditions, Inc. Contact us at (800) 998-6634 or [email protected]
century. The year 1794 saw the demise of Merv, after the Emir of
Bukhara destroyed the dam which the population depended on
for its water supply. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, we’ll
spend some time wandering among the ruins of one of the five
walled cities before returning to the train and continuing on to
Bukhara.
(On Board; B, L, D)
Day 9
Bukhara, Uzbekistan
We arrive in Bukhara, one of Uzbekistan’s splendidly restored
oasis city. Another World Heritage Site, the highlight of our visit
is a visit to The Ark, a fortified residence of the Emirs of
Bukhara—the despotic and ruthless leaders who ruled until
Soviet times.
We then travel out of the city to experience the Emir’s
enchantingly named, Palace of the Moon and Stars. The evening,
weather and time permitting, we will enjoy a barbecue on the
station platform before our train departs for Samarkand.
(On Board; B, L, D)
Day 10
Samarkand, Uzbekistan
Many phrases describe this jewel of the Islamic world from, “the
Paris of the Muslim World, to “Rome of the East” and you will
see why its list of admirers include Marco Polo, Tamerland and
Alexander the Great, to name a few. We will visit significant sites
including Registan Square, the refined elegance of the beautifully
proportioned Bibi Khanum Mosque and the Ulag Beg
observatory, one of the earliest Islamic astronomical observatories
built in 1428. Before dinner we will return to the illuminated and
awe-inspiring Registan Square before boarding our train.
(On Board; B, L, D)
Nomadic Expeditions, Inc. Contact us at (800) 998-6634 or [email protected]
We would love to share this
exceptional adventure with you.
Our Expedition Specialists are
available from 9 AM- 5:30 PM
EST, Monday through Friday.
Phone:
800-998-6634 or
609-860-9008
Fax:
609-860-9608
Email:
[email protected]
Nomadic Expeditions,
1095 Cranbury-South River Road,
Suite 20A
Monroe Twp., NJ 08831
USA
Day 11
Tashkent, Uzbekistan
Tashkent is the capital city of Uzbekistand and we will spend
time touring this modern Soviety-style city which was rebuilt
following the devasatating earthquake of 1966. Our tour of the
city includes the Old Town, wehere traditional homes and
religious buildings line the narrow streets. Here, in a small library
we are privileged to see one of Islam’s most sacred relics—the
world’s oldest Koran. Afterwards, visit the Railway Museum and
the Museum of Applied Arts.
(On Board; B, L, D)
Day 12
Almaty, Kazakhstan
Today we reach our final destination Almaty, Kazakhstan where
we will disembark the train and spend the day visiting the sites of
the largest city in the country. Our city tour includes a visit to
Panfilov Park for stop at the Zenkhov Cathedral built entirely of
wood. Venturing just outside the city, we’ll ride a cable car for
spectacular views of Almaty and the surrounding Tien Shan
Mountains. Return to Almaty and check in to your hotel where
later this evening you’ll attend a farewell dinner.
(InterContinental Hotel; B, L, D)
Day 13
Departure
Breakfast is served in the hotel and transfers are provided to the
airport for departing flights.
(B)
Nomadic Expeditions, Inc. Contact us at (800) 998-6634 or [email protected]
B=Breakfast
L=Lunch D=Dinner
Nomadic Expeditions reserves the right to alter the above itinerary if deemed
necessary.
Nomadic Expeditions, Inc. Contact us at (800) 998-6634 or [email protected]
Golden Eagle Onboard Accommodations
Silver Class
Cabin Area
60 sq ft (5.5 sq
m)
Cabin
Length
8ft 8ins (2.6m)
Cabin Width
6ft 7ins (2m)
Lower Bed
Width
3ft 6ins (1.1m)
Upper Bed
Width
2ft 9ins
(85cm)
Bed Length
6ft 2ins (1.9m)
Cabins per
car
6
•
Sleeps 2 in either lower small double bed or in bunk style
•
Private en-suite bathroom with ‘wet-room’ style shower and toilet
•
DVD/CD player with LCD screens
•
Bathrobes, slippers and toiletries provided as standard
•
Individual controlled air-conditioning
•
Full length wardrobe and personal safe
•
Large picture window
•
All guests – receive a generous wine allowance with lunch and dinner,
both on and off the train
Nomadic Expeditions, Inc. Contact us at (800) 998-6634 or [email protected]
Gold Class
Cabin Area
77 sq ft (7 sq
m)
Cabin Length
11ft 8ins
(3.6m)
Cabin Width
6ft 7ins (2m)
Lower Bed
Width
4ft 5ins
(1.35m)
Upper Bed
Width
2ft 9ins
(85cm)
Bed Length
6ft 2ins
(1.9m)
Cabins per car
5
•
Sleeps 2 in either lower standard double bed or in bunk style
•
Private en-suite bathroom with separate power shower cubicle and
underfloor heating
•
DVD/CD player with LCD screens
•
Bathrobes, slippers and toiletries provided as standard
•
Individual controlled air-conditioning
•
Full length wardrobe and personal safe
•
Large picture window
•
Gold Class guests – benefit from complimentary drinks from the Standard
Bar list in the Bar Lounge Car
Imperial Suites
Nomadic Expeditions, Inc. Contact us at (800) 998-6634 or [email protected]
Cabin Area
120 sq ft (11.1 sq m)
Cabin
Length
17ft 4ins (5.3m)
Cabin
Width
6ft 7ins (2m)
Bed Width
5ft (1.5m)
Bed Length
6ft 2ins (1.9m)
Cabins per
car
1 Imperial Suite (+ 3
Gold Class Cabins)
•
Sleeps 2 in King Size bed
• Private en-suite bathroom with
separate power shower cubicle and
underfloor heating
screens
•
DVD/CD player with LCD
•
Bathrobes, slippers and toiletries provided as standard
•
Complimentary minibar
•
Complimentary laundry service
•
Option of in-suite private dining
•
Dressing table
•
Sitting area
•
Individual controlled air-conditioning
•
Full length wardrobe and personal safe
•
Two large picture windows
•
Imperial Suite guests – benefit from inclusive drinks from the Standard
and Premium Bar list in the Bar Lounge Car
Nomadic Expeditions, Inc. Contact us at (800) 998-6634 or [email protected]
Trip Price:
•
•
Silver Class, double occupancy
Silver Class, single occupancy
$16,995 per person
$24,995 per person
•
•
Gold Class, double occupancy
Gold Class, single occupancy
$20,595 per person
$30,995 per person
•
•
Imperial Suite, double occupancy
Imperial Suite, single occupancy
$33,995 per person
On Request
Trip Price includes:
• Hotel and travel services in Moscow as described in the itinerary;
• Nine nights’ full board on Golden Eagle Luxury Train;
• Hotel and travel services in Almaty as described in the itinerary;
• All airport transfers on arrival and departure;
• All meals as noted in itinerary;
• All excursions, entrance fees, and exclusive visits as described in itinerary;
• On board educational lectures about local culture, people and history;
• Services of knowledgeable and dedicated tour director as well as local guides
throughout the trip;
• All gratuities on the train and land program;
Trip Price does not include: International airfare; passport and visa fees;
comprehensive medical and trip insurance; excess baggage charges; photography and
video fees; food and beverages not included in the itinerary descriptions; items of
personal nature, including laundry and telephone calls; other items not specifically
mentioned as included.
International Airfare
Please indicate on your Trip Application Form if you would like us to assist you with
booking international flights. Flight availability and pricing is subject to change and
Nomadic Expeditions cannot guarantee the availability of flights close to the departure
date, so it is in the client’s best interest to make reservations as early as possible in the
trip planning process. Airline ticketing fees will be applied to tickets purchased
through Nomadic Expeditions.
It is imperative that you send a copy of your international flight itinerary to Nomadic
Expeditions at least 60 days prior to departure so that we may arrange for any
additional services and/or airport transfers.
Visa Requirements
Depending on your nationality, you may need visa(s) for entry into the countries on
this itinerary. Please confirm with the relevant Embassies and or Consulates. We
Nomadic Expeditions, Inc. Contact us at (800) 998-6634 or [email protected]
partner with a visa processing company that can assist you with any necessary
applications. Please contact us should you need assistance.
Reservations
Reserve your space on this trip by completing our Trip Application and mailing it to us
with an appropriate deposit. The deposit amount will depend in the train cabin class
category:
Silver class: $2,000 per person
Gold Class: $3,000 per person
Imperial Suite: $5,000 per person
Please mail your application and deposit payment to:
Nomadic Expeditions
1095 Cranbury South River Road Suite 20A
Monroe Township, NJ, USA, 08831
Once we receive your Trip Application and deposit, we will send you written
confirmation of your reservation and our extensive pre-departure information packet,
which includes our Travel Guide, recommended reading list, and insurance
information. This information should answer most of the questions you may have
about your upcoming adventure. However, if any other questions arise, please do not
hesitate to contact us. We will also include an invoice for the balance of your trip
payment, which will be due 90 days prior to your departure date, payable by check,
credit card, money order or wire transfer to Nomadic Expeditions, Inc. (Please note
that there is an additional fee for payment by wire transfer to cover bank service
charges).
Approximately three weeks prior to departure, after receipt of full payment, we will
send your final departure package, which includes a final itinerary, emergency contact
numbers, luggage tags, and air tickets (if applicable).
Cancellation Policy
All cancellations must be submitted in writing to Nomadic Expeditions. Cancellation
charges are based on the number of days from the date we receive the written
cancellation notice until the main trip departure date.
Cancellation Charges:
95 days or more
Deposit
65-94 days
50% of trip cost
64-0 days
No refund
After trip departs No refund
Airfares are refundable in accordance with the policy of the airline carrier being used,
subject to a $50 handling charge.
If full payment is not received 95 days prior to departure, Nomadic Expeditions
reserves the right to consider this a cancellation. A Late Payment Fee will apply to all
payments made less than 95 days prior to departure.
Nomadic Expeditions, Inc. Contact us at (800) 998-6634 or [email protected]
In the event that a trip cannot depart on the dates specified due to unforeseeable events
that render the itinerary inoperable or inadvisable, Nomadic Expeditions reserves the
right to postpone services until such time as it is deemed appropriate by Nomadic
Expeditions.
Nomadic Expeditions is not responsible for any unrecoverable expenses incurred by
trip participants due to trip cancellation or postponement, including non-refundable
airline tickets, medical expenses and visa fees, or additional arrangements, made either
through Nomadic Expeditions or another provider, purchased to coincide with this
scheduled departure.
This trip is subject to the terms and conditions set forth under the general terms and
conditions of the Trip Application. We urge you to read this information carefully and
call us if you have any questions.
Delays
We are not responsible for any additional charges incurred arising from the delay or
extension of a trip due to weather, equipment failure, illness, or other causes beyond
our control. No refunds can be made for any unused services or accommodations on
the trip.
What to Expect
The rewards of visiting seldom-explored countries require traveling with flexibility, a
spirit of adventure, and a willingness to accept local standards of amenities and
services. The countries on this itinerary are still developing in terms of infrastructure;
delays or changes in the itinerary are possible, and indeed likely. Delays at the border
crossings are very common and patience is required. As has been the case for decades,
border stops take a long time – anything from one and a half to four hours. The journey
has been scheduled so that you will not miss out on anything during the route because
of the border crossings.
It is very important that travelers contact Nomadic Expeditions with any special needs,
such as dietary or medical restrictions, as soon as possible so that every effort can be
made to accommodate special needs. However, it is ultimately the responsibility of the
client, in conjunction with their health care provider, if necessary, to determine
whether their needs can be met sufficiently to allow for a safe and comfortable journey.
Nomadic Expeditions Recent Awards:
2015 Wendy Perrin WOW List – Trusted Travel Expert for Mongolia (Jalsa
Urubshurow)
2015 National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World – Founding Member (Three
Camel Lodge)
2013 - 2008 World’s Top Travel Specialist for Mongolia- Condé Nast Traveler
Magazine (Jalsa Urubshurow)
2013 “25 World’s Best Lodges” National Geographic Traveler (Three Camel Lodge)
2013 “50 Tours of a Lifetime” – National Geographic Traveler
2013 “50 Dream trips” – Travel and Leisure Magazine
Nomadic Expeditions, Inc. Contact us at (800) 998-6634 or [email protected]