The Worlds Greatest East West Trade Route

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2 The Worlds Greatest East West Trade Route Silk was first cultivated in China around 2600BC, but it took 2½ millennia for it to spread west. Alexander the Great s expansion from Europe into Central Asia over 2300 years ago stopped far short of China, and he had little knowledge of the lands beyond. So the empires of Rome and China, developed simultaneously up to the second century BC, had only the vaguest consciousness of each other. The journeys west by China s emissary Zhang Qian, in the second century BC brought the Chinese Han Dynasty into political contact with many kingdoms of Central Asia, and opened up the great East-West trade route. This trade route would eventually become a chain of camel caravan trails, a vast conduit for exchanging goods and information, stretching thousands of kilometres from Changan (Xian) in China, across the Gobi and Taklamakan deserts, through the rich oases of Turpan and Kashgar. From here the route continued into modern Afghanistan, Iran and Syria on the eastern shores of the Mediterranean, with further branches connecting to the Roman Empire at Constantinople (Istanbul) and beyond. China controlled these trade routes to the West, accumulating great wealth from it. At Kashgar s Bazaar The early trade in silk and tea was carried on against incredible odds by merchants and animals travelling at a snails pace over some of the most inhospitable territory on the face of the earth. For protection against gangs of marauders (much tempted by the precious cargoes), merchants set aside their competitiveness and joined forces to form large caravans comprising as many as 1000 camels under the protection of armed escorts. The Han Dynasty Silk Road began at the magnificent capital city of Changan (Xian), and took traders westwards along the Hexi Corridor to the Great Wall fortress at Jaiyuguan. The Chinese traders escorted their merchandise probably as far as Dunhuang, where it was sold or bartered to Central Asian middlemen who carried the trade on to the cities of Persia, Syria and Greece, often reaching the Roman Empire in the hands of Greek and Jewish entrepreneurs. On its way across Asia, the Silk Road brought riches to several isolated pre-islamic Buddhist civilisations that flourished in these desolate regions. Along with trade came travellers, and with them, ideas. The Silk Road may have seen the exchange of small but precious cargoes such as gems, porcelain, spices, incense, furs, tea and silk, but in the long term the greater exchange was of science, religion, and art. It should not be forgotten that it was along this route that the Chinese inventions of the compass, gunpowder and paper were carried westwards. In the Han Dynasty, the Silk Road bought Buddhism to China, and by the Tang Dynasty, Islam. It was during the Tang Dynasty when the Silk Road reached its zenith. The Monk Xian Zang made his epic journey from China to India in search of Buddhist Scriptures, and Changan (Xian) had over 5000 foreign traders. Each year tons of silk and spices passed through the Changan city gates. However, when the Tang Dynasty fell, so did trade. The Silk Road finally passed out of use in the 10 th century with the discovery of faster and more convenient sea routes. Ming Sha sand dunes of Dunhuang

3 Today, oasis towns, tranquil lakes, snow capped mountains, Buddhist caves, and remnants of ancient cities add allure to this wilderness, maintaining the mystique and romance of the Silk Road. Large communities of Muslims continue to flourish, and vast Buddhist cave complexes mark the ancient frontier between old China and the deserts of Central Asia. Today it is not just the historic significance that makes the Silk Road intriguing, but the incredible scenery and ethnic diversity along the way. Amazing Grape harvests of Turpan Outstanding Engineering Achievement The Qinghai-Tibet Railroad, the highest in the world, connects Tibet with the rest of China. After 4 years of construction, you can now see for yourself the spectacular scenery of the mysterious Qinghai Tibet Plateau from the comfort of a high quality passenger train, the Lhasa Express. Departing from Xining, the capital of Qinghai Province, the train travels 1956 kms to Lhasa, the capital of Tibet. It is by far the longest plateau railway journey in the world with the highest altitude, and the most problematic climate. The 1142km section from Golmud to Lhasa traverses 960kms over 4000m above sea level, and 530 of these kilometres are built over permanently frozen earth. The worlds highest railway station, Tanggula, stands 5068 metres above sea level. The line runs across the spectacular Kunlun, Tanggula and Nianqing Mountain Ranges, winding its way past the source of three of the worlds great rivers, as well as the vast and magnificent wetlands of Kehexili Nature Reserve, and skirting several huge mountain lakes including Cuona the worlds highest fresh water lake. On the newest Golmud to Lhasa section alone, there are almost 2000 culverts, 681 spectacular bridges with 458 of them built over permanently frozen land. Two of the 11 tunnels also pass through frozen land. The air pressure and oxygen levels at this altitude are just 60% of those at sea level. Hundreds of kilometres of specially designed fences and intricate stonework protect the most vulnerable parts of the line from sand and snow storms. The carriages are sealed and pressurised like an aeroplane. Each carriage is equipped with an oxygen generator to maintain comfortable oxygen levels. The large picture windows in each compartment are fitted with anti-ultraviolet radiation glass. Although outside Spectacular rail journey to Lhasa temperatures can be as low as - 30 C in mid winter, the temperature inside is always kept at a perfect 22 C. This is one of the worlds most amazing engineering projects, providing a unique travel experience across some of the most amazing topography on the planet. You even get your own personal high-definition plasma flat screen TV for each bed, complete with proper earphones and control panel! A totally unique experience, enjoyed in relative comfort.

4 Shangri-La on the Roof of the World Tibet s reputation as a lost land steeped in magic and exotic mystery is due to centuries of geographic isolation and a unique theocratic culture, based on Buddhism but influenced by an older shamanistic faith called Bon. In 1950 China annexed Tibet, but the traditional ethnic culture and values of the Tibetans remain strong, consistently enchanting those lucky enough to visit. Songsten Gampo, a remarkable leader who unified Tibet, The friendly people of Tibet introduced Buddhism in the 7 th Century. Since then religion has permeated all aspects of Tibetan life, with monasteries acting as palaces, administrative centres, and schools. Ruled by priests, Tibet was feudal and resisted all modernisation, with few technologies more sophisticated than the prayer wheel. One of Tibet s early rulers, Tsongkhapa ( ), established the Yellow Hat sect of Buddhism. His disciples became the Dalai Lamas, rulers of Tibet for 500 years. Each new Dalai Lama is seen as a reincarnation of the previous one. In the 1959 uprising that followed the Chinese annexation, the 14 th Dalai Lama fled to India, where he still leads the Tibetan Government-in-Exile. Despite some continuing ethnic tensions, living conditions in Tibet have improved significantly today, and there are signs of religious revival. Many monasteries that were ravaged during the Cultural Revolution have been repaired and returned to their former roles. The ancient city of Lhasa is the heart of Tibet. The Old Tibetan Quarter, home of the Potala Palace and the famous Jokhang Temple, illustrates Tibetan determination to hold onto their cultural traditions. A common sight here are pious and cheerful pilgrims, swinging prayer wheels and performing energetic prostrations as they make holy circuits around the temples. Many customs arose as response to life in this harsh environment. Sky burials, for example, in which the dead are left in the open for vultures, are practical in a land where firewood is scarce and the earth too hard to dig. Farming this barren land is difficult, and the only crop that grows easily is barley. Almost a quarter of the people are nomads, keeping herds of Yak and living in tents. Tibet is without doubt one of the most remarkable places on earth to visit. For many, the highlights will be of a spiritual nature. Despite rapid development and more than 50 years since Chinese annexation, Tibetan pilgrims across the country are mumbling mantras and thumbing their prayer beads in chapels heavy with the acrid smell of incense and yak butter. Tibet offers fabulous monastery sights and experiences, stunning views of the worlds highest mountains The stunning Potala Palace of Lhasa and one of the most likeable peoples you will ever meet. Almost everyone comes away with admiration and affinity for the Tibetan people, whose openness of heart makes travelling in Tibet such a joy. But you are never far away from the reality of politics. For anyone who travels with their eyes open, a visit to Tibet will be memorable, fascinating and even life-changing, but also at times a sobering experience.

5 On a great small group tour full of rewarding cultural experiences in a wonderful country of intrigue, full of friendly people. Jaiyuguan Xining Tsetang OUR ITINERARY IN CHINA The Silk Route: Xian, Jaiyuguan, Dunhuang, Turpan, Kashgar, Urumqi, Xining By Train: Lhasa Express, Xining to Lhasa Tibet: Lhasa, Gyangtse, Shigatse, Tsetang Guangzhou

6 XIAN Ancient Changan, historic centre of Chinese Civilisation - Home to the Terracotta Warriors & historic starting point of the famous Silk Road JIAYUGUAN Guarding the famous Silk Road s Hexi Corridor - Spectacular Ming Dynasty Fortress at the western extremity of the Great Wall, Overhanging Great Wall, Weijin Dynasty tomb, Great Wall Museum DUNHUANG China s most significant capital of Buddhist Art - World famous Buddhist murals and sculptures of the Mogao Grottoes, Mogao History and Research Institute, Camel ride in the Ming Sha Sand Dunes, Crescent Lake, Dunhuang evening market TURPAN World famous oasis in the Gobi Desert - Historic Karez underground irrigation system, vineyards and agricultural crops of the Turpan Depression (World s second lowest, 154m below sea level), ruins of the Han Dynasty desert garrison town of Jaiohe, Tuyugou Auger Village and 4 th C caves, Emin Afghan-style mosque and its famous minaret, Flaming Mountains, Astana and Bezelik Caves, Traditional Uyghur Music and Dance. URUMQI Furtherest place in the world from an ocean (2250kms) - Archaeological relics and 4000 year old mummies of Xinjiangs Lost Cities in the Regional Museum,Heavenly Lake, grassfields and snow capped peaks of the Nanshan Prairies, the Kazakh and Mongolian people and their horse culture, yurt houses, Uyghur Folkloric show KASHGAR Exotic remote outpost, historic focal point of Old Chinese Turkestan - World famous Sunday livestock market, Old Kashgar & its traditional handicraft skills, musical instrument & pottery workshops, Fragrant Concubines Tomb, Idkah Mosque XINING One of China s mysterious cities, on 2260 metre northern edge of the Tibetan Plateau - Kumbum Lamasery QINGHAI-TIBET RAILWAY Worlds highest railway, an outstanding high-altitude engineering success - Xining, Golmud, Kunlun mountains, Tuotuo headstream of Yangtse River, Kekexile Great Lakes and Nature reserve, Tanggula Mountain Pass, Worlds highest railway station (5068m above sea level), Cuona Lake (highest freshwater lake in the world), Lhasa LHASA Holy Buddhist Capital, proudly guarding the flame of Tibetan heritage - Potala Palace, Jokhang Monastery, Debating Monks of Sera Monastery, Barkhor Pilgrims circuit, Norbulingka Summer Palace, Herbal Medicine Hospital, Tibetan Handicrafts School, Tibetan Cultural Show SHIGATSE & GYANTSE Ancient towns under the authentic Tibetan spell - Tashilhunpo Monastery (Seat of the Panchen Lama), Kumbum Chorten and Pelkhor Chode Monastery, Tibetan Carpet factory, magnificent Yamdrok-Tso Lake TSETANG & YARLUNG VALLEY Birthplace of Tibetan culture - Samye Monastery (Tibets very first), Yumbulagang (legendary first building in Tibet), Tomb of Songtsen Gampo and the Chongye Burial Mounds

7 Tuesday 23 August Brisbane / Xian This morning we depart Brisbane on our direct flight with our China Southern to Guangzhou and Xian. After our arrival into Xian we transfer to our 5 star hotel. The Sofitel is beautifully located for a stroll around the heart of the city if you wish. Marco Polo visited Xian during the Middle Ages, when it was one of the largest cities in the world. This centre of ancient cultures served as the capital of eleven dynasties, and of course was the beginning of the famous trade caravans of the Silk Road. Xian is one of the few cities in China where old city walls have been preserved. The monuments and archaeological sites in the city and fertile surrounding plain are a reminder that once upon a time Xian stood at the very centre of the Chinese world. Overnight: Sofitel Hotel Included Meals: In Flight Meals Wednesday 24 August Xian This morning is reserved for those who want to visit the UNESCO World Heritage listed cultural site of China s fantastic Terracotta Warriors (optional excursion, especially for those who have not had the opportunity before). The Terracotta Army guarded the tomb of Emperor Qin, builder of the Great Wall of China an unforgettable experience, a lifetime highlight! Thousands of lifesized terracotta warriors and their horses served as imperial bodyguards in the tomb of this powerful Emperor. The mausoleum is so large that archaeologists expect to work at this site well in to this century. After lunch, we ll have a special briefing on the Silk Road and our program for the next 10 days. Then we ll visit the Silk Road section within the history museum along with a photo stop at the Silk Road Statue. We ll also visit the City Wall and Wild Goose Pagoda made famous by the Monk who travelled an epic voyage along the Silk Road to India in search of the Buddhist sutras. He then returned to Xian to spend years in the Wild Goose Pagoda to translate the sutras from Sanskrit into Chinese. We ll also spend time to have a look at Xian s large Muslim Quarter including the Mosque, a result of the influx of Central Asian Muslims who travelled the Silk Road into this fabulously prosperous Imperial Capital of China. Overnight: Sofitel Hotel Thursday 25 August Xian to Jaiyuguan We depart by plane this morning for Jaiyuguan, famous as the location of the westernmost extremity of the 6000km Great Wall of China. A narrow strip of land, 1000kms long, called the Hexi Corridor, is sandwiched between the Tibetan Plateau to the South and the merciless mountain desert to the north. Historically whoever controlled Jaiyuguan Pass in the Corridor had a stranglehold on the fabulous riches of the Silk Road trade. This is the place which was literally the last frontier of the Chinese Empire beyond which lay the terrifying desert wilderness. Tibetans, Uygurs and then Mongols vied for control. Great Wall building started along the Hexi Corridor in the 3 rd Century, but the Corridor only came under complete Chinese control in the Ming Dynasty with the building of the magnificent fort at Jaiyuguan. It is one of the great sights of Western China. The pervading sense of history is overwhelming. The illustrious gate towers and walls encircling the fort are an imposing 10 metres high with a perimeter of 733 metres, decorated with bowmen s turrets and pavilioned watchtowers. Foreign traders, pilgrims and later western envoys, their camel caravans laden with tribute gifts and goods, had to wait here for permission to proceed eastwards into China. This afternoon we ll visit the famous fort and the 16C Overhanging Wall, which once connected the fort to the Mazong range. We ll take time to visit the excellent Great Wall Museum, documenting the history of the Wall, and exhibiting a wealth of Wall relics, scale models, photography, interpretive materials and maps, before returning to town Overnight: Jaiyuguan Hotel Friday 26 August Jaiyuguan to Dunhuang This morning we visit one of the 1000 or so ancient tombs of the Wei and Jin dynasties. The three chamber tomb we ll visit includes hundreds of painted bricks depicting all facets of ancient daily life farming, mulberry picking, herding, hunting, military encampments, butchery and entertainment. We then get a very personal and up-close look at the famous Gobi Desert as we travel 400km by good road to Dunhuang. Silk Road caravans wound their way roughly along this same path taking up to three weeks on this section. We travel through desert areas important to modern China as the site of important oil wells with an annual output of more than three million tons. Along the way we pass sand bluffs and dunes, occasional herds of camels, sheep and goats, perhaps even farmers carts harnessed to donkeys or camels, and the occasional oasis. We arrive in Dunhuang, a small and ancient oasis town, once perched right on the outer periphery of Old Chinese Turkistan. In the early days of the Silk Road, Dunhuang was an important trading centre, and during the first century BC, the westernmost outpost of China. This was the last stop on the Silk Road before it split north and south to skirt the Taklamakan Desert. The town marked the confluence of artistic styles and philosophies from Central Asia Turkish, Mongolian, Christian, Manichean and Buddhist. Late afternoon we ll visit the Ming Sha Sand Dunes, magnificent desert scenery with dunes as high as 300 metres. We ll take the opportunity to ride camels in this classic desert setting, and perhaps go sand tobogganing or paragliding. The dunes overlook the small and mysterious Crescent Lake, which is freshwater and at least 2000 years old, despite existing in the heart of shifting sand dunes. This evening you may like to visit the Night Market in the towns main street, selling an exotic range of souvenirs including leather puppets, scroll paintings, jade items, coins, and much more or perhaps you d like to take the opportunity to enjoy the local folklore show highlighting remote desert cultures. Overnight: Dunhuang Hotel Saturday 27 August Dunhuang to Kashgar Today will be a sensational, unforgettable experience as we visit the famous Mogao Grottoes. The Grottoes were the first known Buddhist temples in the Chinese Empire. Chinese Buddhism radiated to the whole Empire from these wild desert cliffs. Hewn over a millennium spanning nine dynasties, from the 4 th to the 14 th centuries, the Mogao Grottoes mark the height of Buddhist art. The caves honeycomb the cliff face, surrounded by sand dunes and desert. Most of the caves are rectangular and connected by balconies, walkways and ladders. They are the worlds richest treasure-trove of Buddhist manuscripts, wall paintings and statutory. History relates that in 336AD a Monk asked a pilgrim to have one of the smaller caves painted and

8 consecrated to ensure his own safe journey along the Silk Road. Other pilgrims and travellers followed, and for the next thousand years temples and shrines were hewn out of the cliff, painted and decorated to guarantee the success and safety of their journeys today these grottoes are known as the Great Art Gallery in the Desert. Nearly 500 caves are still in good condition with over murals and 2000 pigmented stucco figures. The paintings have lasted for 15 centuries because of the aridity of the surrounding desert and the pigment used. Many of the colours are still surprisingly bright. About 30 of the caves are open to the public. Cave 96 contains a statue of Buddha standing 34 metres high. We ll make a brief visit also to the Museum and Research Exhibition Centre at the site, to help appreciate how the caves were discovered.. After lunch we join our flight (via Urumqi) to the great oasis outpost of Kashgar and the very westernmost border of China with Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan. Our flight of over 1000kms is entirely over the Taklimakan desert. Kashgar is fantastically remote from Eastern China, more than 4000kms from Beijing as the crow flies! It is an oasis 1200 metres above sea level, a remarkably prosperous and pleasant place, despite being essentially a medieval community. It is the largest oasis community in Chinese Central Asia, and a visible bastion of old Chinese Turkistan. Kashgar s importance derives from its strategic position at the foot of the Pamir Mountains commanding access to the high glacial passes of the Silk Road into Central Asia, India and Persia. It s history spans 2000 years. Dinner tonight is at a venue located in what was the old British Embassy building. Overnight: Tianyuan Hotel Sunday 28 August Kashgar The remote fabled community of Kashgar is a step back in time traditional rhythms of the traders, worshippers and bakers seem unchanged among the mud-brick walls, horse carts and bazaars. The 18 metre high statue of Chairman Mao dominates the main streetscape. Kashgar s persona is overtly Islamic, as 90% of the population are Uyghur Muslims. The heart of the town is Idkah Mosque and the surrounding bazaar. Skull caps, prayer caps, fur lined caps, as well as brown veils and colourful silk scarves for the women are available everywhere. Barbers set up throughout the bazaar to shave faces and scalps with an assortment of large knives and cleavers. Dress is conservative and meant to cover the entire body, long sleeves and pants for men, dresses and stockings for women. Silversmiths, bootmakers and porcelain menders labour in front of teashops and stores selling jewellery, silk, colourful candles, knives, pots and pans, fresh vegetables, mountains of stacked Hami and sweet melons, baskets of peaches and apricots. The overflow of people spills into the streets where horse and donkey carts jostle with each other. Shows of acrobats and magicians attract large crowds. On Sunday (today), the world famous livestock and horses section is 6kms away from the city bazaar. Tens of thousands of villages and nomads arrive riding their donkey carts. Large numbers of minority peoples come to trade, all sporting their distinctive headwear. Thousands of donkey carts cause traffic jams as they compete with horsemen and herds of sheep for space in the chaos. At the market, horses are test-driven, sheep are meticulously examined, and cattle are paraded before potential buyers. Clothes and boots, and every kind of domestic and agricultural appliance are on sale. Being in Kashgar on Sunday for one of the worlds most famous markets, is an unforgettable experience! Today we ll not only visit the markets, but we ll experience some of Kashgars unique home-based occupations in a visit to the Óld City where we meet some locals, visiting them in their platform homes. We ll also walk down Handicraft Street, including the exotic musical instrument markets. Overnight: Tianyuan Hotel Monday 29 August Kashgar to Turpan A few kilometres east of Kashgar is the sacred resting place of the descendants of Abakh Hoja, a 17 th century leader of the White Hat Sect of Islam who was revered second only to Mohammed. The tomb (or mazar) is the holiest place in the Province, an architectural treasure where all five generations of the family are buried, including Xianfei, said to be the legendary fragrant concubine. The wife of a defeated rebel leader, she was captured by the Qianlong emperor and taken to Beijing to be his imperial concubine. She was either murdered or driven to suicide by the Emperors mother. Although Islam came to the province via Arab traders on the Silk Road in the 9 th and 10 th centuries, it was not the dominant religion until the 15 th century, and Kashgar became an important Islamic Centre. Today we visit the attractive tomb complex before our late morning flight to Urumqi where we ll visit the excellent Xinjiang Regional Museum to see the incredibly well preserved Mummies from the Astana Tombs of Gaochang, including the so-called Loulan Beauty allegedly 3800 years old. Also displayed are archaeological treasures and the ethnic minority cultures of the region. We then transfer via coach for our 3 hour journey to Turpan where enroute we ll pass Asia s largest Windmill Farm consisting of thousands of huge windmills generating clean energy. In the distance we ll glimpse the snow capped Tian Mountains. Overnight: Petroleum Hotel Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Tuesday 30 August Turpan Turpan is an oasis of world repute, sitting in a huge depression in the Gobi Desert whose lowest point is 154 metres below sea level, the second lowest continental point in the world after the Dead Sea. Intense summer temperatures in June and July can reach 50 C. Winters are also extreme, as low as -15 C. August will be hot, but not unbearable and it is absolutely the best month of the year to visit. In this amazing environment, Turpan is a stunning agricultural oasis, thirstily surviving on irrigated snowmelt water from the nearby 2000 metre high Tian Mountains. The ancient Karez irrigation system is the most outstanding of its kind in the world. A series of wells and 5000kms of underground channels delivers gravity-fed water from the snow clad mountains all the way into the depression. This amazing irrigation system, 2000 years old, originated in Persia, and knowledge of it probably came to Turpan via the Silk Road. During the Tang dynasty, Turpan introduced China to the art of making grape wine. Today this well-irrigated oasis is a premier wine growing region as well as successfully producing excellent crops of melons, nuts, grains, fruit and vegetables. Verdant trees, vineyards and cultivated fields are a striking contrast to the surrounding desert. Many of Turpans streets and walkways are trellised with grapevines providing a delightful cooling effect. Virtually every household in town has a hand in

9 the grape business, cultivating, drying grapes to make raisins, or selling the product. The ancient Silk Road brought the Uyghur people, descended from nomadic Siberian tribes who converted to Islam. You ll be able to wander around the grape markets and enjoy a typical Uyghur meal of crispy roast lamb skewers (the fat clumps of grapes are thrown in for free!). This morning we ll visit a site that allows us to see and understand the workings of the Karez Irrigation system before heading out of town to experience amazing scenery, including the Flaming Mountains. Also we will use Donkey carts to visit the 2C ruins of Gaochang, one of the two ancient garrison cities associated with the Silk Road that preceded the current town of Turpan. Gaochang was an important and wealthy centre of power, capital of the Western Han Empire in the 4 th Century, the Uyghur capital from 9 th to 13 th century, then abandoned during the early Ming era. This evening we ll enjoy a colourful Uygher dinner out under the grape trellises at a private home accompanied by colourful folkloric singing and dancing.. Grape Valley is a surprisingly attractive desert oasis with vines and trellises bulging with grapes. Overnight: Petroleum Hotel Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Wednesday 31 August Turpan Early departure this morning to catch the colour of the rising sun on the lovely Emin Mosque and its famous minaret, one of the architectural gems of the Silk Road, adjoining Turpan s most interesting mosque. Constructed in 1778 with sun dried bricks, of circular Iranian style, the minaret tower stands 44 metres high. The elaborately decorative brickwork tapers skywards in geometric and floral patterns. The adjoining Mosque offers views of the area from the second story balcony. Then we ll enjoy a 70km drive to the peaceful ancient village of Tuyugou, in a spectacular valley carved into the Flaming Mountains. It is a timeless village with a friendly Auger community. Children swim in the small stream and old men stroke their long beards and eat melons in the shade. It is famous (even in Beijing) for the raisins made from oval shaped seedless grapes. In 1905 a set of Buddhist caves clinging like a swallows nest to the almost perpendicular slope of the mountainside, were discovered. They date from the 4 th century, the oldest in the Turpan area. Only 9 of the 40 caves still contain traces of frescoes, and the precarious soft soil and rocks surrounding the caves clearly endanger their continued existence. We ll take a walk through the lovely village the Mosque is the centre of village life, surrounded by mud brick homes, and a particularly interesting local cemetery, framed by the picturesque vineyards. Late this afternoon we ll visit the ancient ruins of Jiaohe. These strategically located Tang Dynasty ruins are just 10kms west of Turpan, perched on a spectacular narrow terrace with its ancient street plan clearly evident. Jiaohe reached its cultural peak under Uygurs in the ninth century, when the population was approximately We ll have dinner on top of the ruins at sunset, with Turpan wines and Uygher music. Overnight: Petroleum Hotel Thursday 1 September Urumqi Today is a particularly interesting cultural day as we depart by coach for the return trip to Urumqi via the beautiful Nanshan Prairie. The Prairie is dotted with pie-shaped yurts, nomadic tents favoured by Kazakhs who live there. They are generally made from thick felt over wooden poles. This beautiful green valley has a stream and waterfall, which we visit, with a backdrop of fir and pine tree forests, amid snow capped peaks. We ll meet the locals, and see their horse riding skills, traditional dancing and yurt accommodation. Upon return to Urumqi your evening will be free. Overnight: Sheraton Hotel Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Friday 2 September Urumqi Urumqi is 900 metres above sea level, just below the foothills of the Heavenly Mountains (Tian Shan), an unspoilt natural haven where Kazakh families pitch their yurts in summer and graze their herds of horses, sheep and cattle. Today we ll drive out through this picturesque countryside to Heavenly Lake, an unexpected alpine treat at an altitude of 2000 metres, enclosed by snow-capped peaks. It is spectacularly at odds with the low lying arid terrain below. We ll cruise on the lake, and enjoy this spectacular and beautiful lake landscape, home to many local minority people. After our return to Urumqi, we ll enjoy a wonderful dinner and folkloric show at one of Urumqi s best Uygher Restaurants. Overnight: Sheraton Hotel Saturday 3 September Xining In the morning, we ll take a flight from Urumqi to Xining, provincial capital of Qinghai. Qinghai is geographically and culturally a part of the Tibetan Plateau, and only came firmly under Chinese control in 1949 when the Communist armies defeated the Muslim warlord Ma Bufang whose historic residential complex is in the capital. Xining is particularly famous for the Kumbum Buddhist Monastery, one of the worlds six great Yellow Hat Sect lamaseries. It was the birthplace of Tsongkhapa the founder of the reformist Yellow Hat Sect. Two of his unique disciples were to become the two greatest living Buddhas, the Dalai Lama and the Panchen Lama. Among the clusters of historic buildings is a hall containing yak-butter statues, a historic Tibetan art form. This afternoon we ll visit the monastery. Later, we board a very special train, the Lhasa Express to travel across the Tibetan Plateau to Tibet a very special experience in comfortable quad share accommodation. Overnight: on board the Qinghai-Tibet Railway Sunday 4 September to Lhasa We ll probably wake up this morning just as we pass through the legendary Kunlun Mountains, climbing to a height of 4772 metres above sea level. During the night we will have followed the route of the Southern Silk Road around the shores of Qinghai and Salina Lakes, passed through a long tunnel nearly 4 kms above sea level, and crossed a huge desert plateau. During this spectacular and unforgettable day we ll cross the amazing Hekexili Green Lakes area in the 4200 metre high frigid zone surrounded by snow capped mountains, pass the worlds highest railway station near the Tuotuo River which is the beginning of the mighty Yangtse River. The scenery is simply fantastic! Herds of yak, the endangered Tibetan antelopes, mountain sheep, donkeys and hardy mountain cattle grace the magnificent landscape. We ll be able to sit back, soak up the stunning views from our huge picture windows, listen to expert commentary from time to time, take memorable photos,

10 socialise with fellow travellers, and generally appreciate this very unique and unforgettable travel experience. We ll cross the Tanggula Mountains at a height of 5072 metres above sea level, before entering Tibet, skirting the worlds highest freshwater Lake (Cuona Lake) and descending into Lhasa tonight. Our transfer from the new Lhasa station into the city may provide us with our first views of the famous Potala Palace, dominating the cityscape. Overnight: Four Points Sheraton Hotel Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Monday 5 September Lhasa After centuries of isolation and only a short history of communication with the outside world, Lhasa, the holy capital of this magnificent kingdom guards the flickering flame of Tibetan heritage. Today will be a magnificent and unique day as we visit Jokhang temple, and experience the heart of Lhasa s Tibetan Quarter. Over 1300 years old, Lhasa is a city where religion is blended into every aspect of life busy markets, sweet incense, and flowing yellow robes greet you at every turn. The Chinese population is highly active economically, with two Chinese businesses to every Tibetan one, a ratio that reflects the city s population. The most visible of all Lhasa s sights is the awesome fortress-like Potala Palace. Only a kilometre away is the holiest of Tibets temples, the labyrinthine Jokhang, deluged with Tibetan art and illuminated inside by a constellation of yak butter lamps. Two huge incense burners in front of the temple send out juniper smoke as an offering to the gods. In front of the temple doors, a constant crowd of pilgrims prostate themselves. Inside, you re in for one of the worlds most unforgettable experiences a palpable sense of reverence accompanies any visit here. The anticipation of the pilgrims, the constant bustle, gaudy paraphernalia of worship, flickering butter lamps, and wreaths of heady incense, make this one of Tibets most memorable moments. We ll also visit the golden roof of the Jokhang for magnificent views over Barkhor Square and across to the Potala Palace. Barkhor is in the heart of the Tibetan enclave, a place of perambulation around which pilgrims circle in a clockwise direction (don t go against the flow!). It has become a focus for market stalls, and a crush of hawkers and traders from all parts of Tibet. The whole scene melts into a fusion of colour and activity. You can watch groups of monks draped in their maroon and saffron robes mingling with colourful Tibetans sporting large boots, daggers and large turquoise necklaces, spinning prayer wheels, or performing full prostrations. We ll drive to the Sera Monastery, particularly to see the monks in their famous debating routines during the mid-afternoon. Held in the open-air Sera Je courtyard, the monks assemble in small animated groups to practise highly stylised debating skills, involving lots of posturing, clapping and stamping. You will be surprised by the physicality of the exercise, with one monk sitting down while the other launches intimidating verbal attacks. These debates provide an opportunity for monks to demonstrate their scholarship and rise through the ranks. Sera Monastery also has a wonderful Assembly Hall used by the 13 th Dalai Lama as a Throne Room. It is supported by over 100 columns and has magnificent wall-length thangkas. High above the monastery is the Sera Utse hermitage which predates the monastery established by Tsongkhapa s disciples in The hermitage was used as a retreat for many years by Tsongkhapa himself. We ll also spend a fascinating visit at the Brail Without Borders School for Tibetan blind children, a charitybased organisation run by a European couple. Tonight provides a free evening to get out into the Barkhor again and enjoy the life, colour and ambience of the old Tibetan Quarter. Overnight: Four Points Sheraton Hotel Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Tuesday 6 September Lhasa Today is our opportunity to explore the amazing Potala Palace. Thirteen dramatic stories high, with over 1000 rooms, it was once the residence of Tibets Chief Monk and leader, the Dalai Lama, and therefore the centre of spiritual and temporal power. The palace is dazzling both inside and out. Some of Tibets richest treasures are held here, including the jewel encrusted tomb of the 5 th Dalai Lama, a 15 metre high stupa containing 3720 kg of gilded gold and 10,000 precious pearls and stones. Lunch is at the delightful Mandela Rooftop Restaurant overlooking Barkhor Square. After lunch we visit the pleasantly maintained gardens of Norbulingka, once the Summer Palace of the Dalai Lamas. The oldest palace, used by the 8 th to the 13 th Dalai Lamas, is the most historically important and still has a throne and wealth of thangkas. But the most fascinating is the Summer Palace built by the current Dalai Lama in It s Audience Chamber holds modern murals depicting major events in Tibetan history including one of a young Dalai Lama and Panchen Lama with Mao Zedong and Zhou Enlai. The Dalai Lama s meditation room and bedroom are preserved exactly as he left them when he escaped from this palace disguised as a Tibetan soldier and began his journey to India. The Assembly Hall where he held state has a fabulously carved golden throne and colourful murals depicting scenes from his court. Locals use the grounds for picnics and come to see the masked dances or traditional opera. This afternoon we ll also pay a short visit to the Tibetan Herbal Hospital, quite a unique place. And we ll travel a little outside Lhasa to visit a special Tibetan Handicraft school showcasing creative locals. Dinner is special tonight at the famous original Mad Yak restaurant with very Tibetan entertainment. Overnight: Four Points Sheraton Hotel Wednesday 7 September Lhasa to Shigatse / Gyantse This morning we drive from Lhasa to Shigatse, Tibets second largest city. We ll travel via the new expressway most of the time, but will detour to the summit of Kamba La Pass (4794 metres) to take in views of the magnificent turquoise waters of Yamdrok-Tso, third largest lake in Tibet. The road up to the Lake lifts us a kilometre higher for the short visit. The lake is several hundred metres below the Pass and is one of the four holy lakes where devout Tibetan pilgrims circumambulate the lake, a walk of around seven days. Next is the picturesque town of Gyantse, located in a natural amphitheatre of rocky ridges. This is a very Tibetan town, quite attractive and relaxed with a pleasant laid-back air. Presided over by another spectacular Fortress (Dzong). Gyantse draws visitors to its amazing Kumbum and the Pelkhor Chode monastery. The Fortress was heavily bombarded during the British invasion in 1914, at great loss of life to the Tibetans. Today it is a dramatic ruin with a small museum. The surrounding rural scenery is beautiful, and features the rare architecture of sturdy two and three story farm houses. Not much has changed over the years. The towns monastic compound is home to a magnificent nine story (42

11 metre high) Kumbum, honeycombed with 75 little chapels. It is the finest example of this architectural style, unique to Tibet. The first 5 floors are four sided, while the upper floors are circular, crowned with a golden dome and umbrella roof. The chapels are bursting with statuary and smothered with paintings at each level. At the sixth level you can emerge onto an open platform, level with the huge eyes of the chorten that look in each direction. There are dramatic views from the Kumbum dome top. The other major building in the compound is the Pelkhor Chode Monastery. Local farmers in this rich agricultural area have a special style of home. We ll visit a farmhouse to meet some real locals on their turf. Overnight: Shigatse Hotel Thursday 8 September Shigatse Shigatse is 3900 metres above sea level, and has historically been an important monastic centre and a former capital. On the Drolma Ridge to the north of the city, a mighty 14 th century fortress (or Dzong) resembling a mini Potala Palace. From here the kings of the Tsang Empire ruled, but it was reduced to a dramatic pile of ruins in the 1957 conflict and since been restored. We ll visit the most important attraction of Shigatse, the large Tashilunpo Monastery, traditional home of the Panchen Lama, the second highest ranking Buddhist leader. The Panchen Lama is strongly supported by the Chinese Government, often in opposition to the Dalai Lama. The vast monastery was founded in 1447 by Tsongkhapa s nephew, who was retrospectively titled the first Dalai Lama. Some of the most fabulous chapels outside Lhasa are to be found in this monastery the best preserved in Tibet. There s a gold and silver chorten that contains the remains of the 4 th Panchen Lama. It was the only funeral chorten to escape destruction during the Cultural Revolution. The larger jewel-studded funeral chorten of the 10 th Panchen Lama cost US$8 million in There are courtyards where monks can be observed praying, debating, and relaxing. The 15 th century Assembly Hall holds the imposing throne of the Panchen Lama. There is also a Tibetan Night Market in town to explore if you wish. This afternoon we pay a visit to their carpet factory. Both Shigatse and Gyantse are quite famous for their carpet making skills. Local ladies produce beautiful carpets, first skeining the wool then weaving it. Carpets are made from 90% wool and 10% cotton. Overnight: Shigatse Hotel Friday 9 September Shigatse to Tsedang Today we use the expressway to drive to Tsedang, with more great scenery to enjoy along the way. Upon on arrival in Tsedang, we have the option to travel onto the Chongye Valley over 25kms of unsealed road to visit the burial place of Tibets early kings. Some tombs are up to 200 metres long and 30 metres wide, as each king was buried along with statues, precious objects, and (some sources suggest) live servants. About 20 of the greatest kings of the Yarlung dynasty are buried here. We ll visit the site of the Red Tomb of Songtsen Gampo which has a chapel on top of it, built in the 12 th century, with representations of Songtsen Gampo, his wives, and chief ministers. In the distance we ll see the ruins of the huge fortress and capital of the Yarlung kings before Songtsen Gampo moved to Lhasa. Overnight: Tsedang Hotel Saturday 10 September Tsedang Amazing scenery today as we visit several outstanding historic highlights of the Yarlung and Chongye Valleys, considered the birthplace of Tibetan culture and Tibetan Buddhism. The rural scenery today is outstanding, with many nomadic herdsmen, agricultural development areas, primitive irrigation systems, patchwork fields, and even huge shifting sand dunes. Our first visit is to Samye, Tibet s very first monastery, founded in the 8 th century, marking the replacement of Tibets primitive beliefs with Buddhism. At Samye, Indian and Chinese Zen Scholars were invited to translate Buddhist sculptures into Tibetan. They argued over which form of Buddhism should be followed in Tibet. The Indian school won, and Chinese religious influence gradually waned. The first Tibetan monks were ordained here. Nowadays followers of all traditions worship at Samye, and Samye is a popular pilgrim destination. It is also famous for its striking design in the shape of a huge mandela. The central six story temple complex (the Utse) demonstrates the classic principles of Tibetan architecture with a large ground floor tapering to refined and intricate upper tiers. Near the entrance is a 5 metre obelisk proclaiming Buddhism to be the state religion. The first floor is dominated by the Grand Assembly Hall and the very impressive main Chapel. The second floor is where monks do craft work for the temple, and the third floor contains the small Dalai Lama quarters. From Samye, we ll enjoy a magnificent drive back to Tsetang and out the other side of town to Yumbulagang, Tibets oldest building. It was originally a palace constructed on a spectacular hilltop for the first King of Tibet in 2 nd century BC. Unfortunately it was severely damaged in the Cultural Revolution, but the reconstruction is great. It contains a small two story chapel dedicated to the early Tibetan Kings, with murals showing legendary events in Tibetan history, and an 11 metre high tower in a spectacular setting. If possible, we ll have a fun ride up to Yumbulagang on horseback or by yak! Overnight: Tsedang Hotel Sunday 11 September to Guangzhou Today we transfer to the airport for our journey from Lhasa to Guangzhou. Accommodation: China Marriott Hotel Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Monday 12 September to Brisbane Morning is at leisure and following lunch we spend 2-3 hours touring the city highlights of Guangzhou, before early evening transfer to airport for our return flight to Brisbane. Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Inflight Dinner Tuesday 13 September Arrive Home We arrive into Sydney today, and transfer to our domestic flight home.

12 A Special & Exclusive Small Group Tour Personally Escorted from Australia Comprehensive Sightseeing Outstanding Attractions Ancient & Exotic Cultures Colourful Lifestyles 22 Days - $7,480pp, twin share Includes all flights ex Brisbane, Sightseeing, excellent meals, deluxe accommodation, all tips and Chinese Visa Your Tour Escort Greg Clayton, Business Development Manager of Travel Masters, will travel with you on this outstanding itinerary, bringing with him a wealth of knowledge and experience and a passion for people & places of different cultures. You ll find Greg will take every opportunity to make this tour one of life s most outstanding memories. He has travelled quite extensively throughout China in recent times (including the Silk Road and Tibet) and has a particular love of culturally different holiday destinations. Greg would love you to join him on this marvellous holiday of discovery. Five star CRUISING on the YANGTSE RIVER or any other desired options can be added to this tour.

13 FIRST PASSENGER Title: Surname (as shown on passport): First Name(as shown on passport): Preferred First Name: Sex: MALE / FEMALE If sharing what would be your room preference? TWIN / DOUBLE Do you require single supplement? YES / NO Would you like us to keep an eye out for a possible twin-share on your behalf? YES / NO (Please note that Single Supplement will be payable if we are unable to assist with a suitable twin-share for you) Do you require business class airfare? YES / NO Are you a Frequent Flyer Member? Member No: Airline: Do you have any dietary or seating requests: Do you hold an Australian passport? YES / NO If No, please state the nationality: Passport Number: Date of Issue: / / Date of Expiry: / / Date of Birth: / / Place of Issue: Occupation: (Passport details are required for all tours travelling outside Australia) SECOND PASSENGER Title: Surname (as shown on passport): First Name(as shown on passport): Preferred First Name: Sex: MALE / FEMALE If sharing what would be your room preference? TWIN / DOUBLE Do you require single supplement? YES / NO Do you require business class airfare? YES / NO Are you a Frequent Flyer Member? Member No: Airline: Do you have any dietary or seating requests: Do you hold an Australian passport? YES / NO If No, please state the nationality: Passport Number: Date of Issue: / / Date of Expiry: / / Date of Birth: / / Place of Issue: Occupation: (Passport details are required for all tours travelling outside Australia) PASSENGER/S CONTACT DETAILS (Please attach details separately if Second Passengers Contact Details are different) Street Address: Suburb: State: Postcode: Postal Address (If different from Street Address: Suburb: State: Postcode: Home Tel: Work Tel: Fax: Mobile No: TRAVEL INSURANCE It is compulsory and in your interest to carry travel insurance for health, loss of luggage/belongings and in case of cancellation. Would you like us to send a travel insurance brochure to you? YES / NO If you are a traveller who is aged 80 years or over, or a traveller who is under 80 years of age and has a pre-existing medical condition/s, you will need to complete a Travellers Medical Appraisal form to accompany your insurance application. Do you require a Travellers Medical Appraisal Form? YES /NO EMERGENCY CONTACT (Person to contact should there be an emergency while you are overseas) Complete Name: Relationship: Street Address: Suburb: State: Postcode: Home Tel: Work Tel: Mobile No: Please also complete the reverse side of this form and then send it to your travel consultant, or to: Group Tour Co-ordinator, PO Box 5038, Mermaid Waters QLD 4218

14 I have read and understand the responsibility section detailed below on this form and the General Information and Booking Conditions and accept them on behalf of myself and my party. I declare that I/they are not travelling against any medical advice. Signature: Date: / / Payment Options 1. Mail Enclosed is a cheque / money order as a deposit 2. Credit Card Please debit my: Visa / Mastercard / American Express / Diners Club Card No: Expiry: / / Cardholder s Name: Cardholder s Signature: (Payments by American Express or Diners Club cards will be subject to a 2.5% Merchant Administration fee, Visa and Mastercard 1%) 3. Direct Deposit into Travel Masters bank account. Please list your full name as the payment description, so we are able to locate your payment when we receive your completed booking form. Account Name: Mistvale Pty Ltd Bank Name: National Australia Bank Account BSB: Account Number: DEPOSIT AND FINAL PAYMENT The deposit is accepted as a first instalment of the tour cost and will be fully refunded if the arrangements cannot be confirmed or the tour is cancelled by Travel Masters. A detailed invoice is sent out to all passengers booked on the tour, approximately two weeks prior to due date of the final payment. Final payment for the tour needs to be received at least 100 days prior to tour departures. CANCELLATION FEES If it is necessary for you to cancel your holiday, notification of cancellation must be received in writing. Cancellation charges will apply: up to 8 weeks prior to departure loss of deposit; 7-4 weeks prior up to 50% of tour cost, and less than 4 weeks up to full tour cost. No refund is available for cancellation of the tour or any service not used after commencement of the tour. Deposits are non-transferable. PASSPORT AND VISAS It is the traveller s responsibility to ensure that they posses the necessary travel documentation for the tour, such as a valid passport and any required visas. In general, a passport should be valid at least 6 months beyond the end of your journey and have two clear pages to allow for entry and exit stamps en-route or for any visas applicable for countries in your journey. At the time of making your booking you will be given information about any visas that may be required for the tour. Our agency will assist you with the Visa process. PRICES Tour prices stated on the tour brochure have been calculated on the basis of exchange rates and tariffs valid at time of print and are subject to change up until final payment for the tour has been received. Once final payment is received, no surcharges will apply. Should you decide to cancel your tour on the basis of a change of price, then normal cancellation charges will apply. TRAVEL MASTERS Group (Travel Masters, The Travel Studio, Lifestyle Travel & Cruise Centre) Beth & Bob Malcolm, Managing Directors PO Box 563, Nerang QLD 4211 Phone: (07) / Fax: (07) sales@travelmasters.com.au Visit our website: RESPONSIBILITY Mistvale Pty Ltd trading as Travel Masters and/or its associated Companies or Agents, act only in the capacity of agents for the passenger in all matters of transportation, tour operation and other services. All receipts, tickets, vouchers, coupons or exchange orders are issued subject to the terms and conditions under which transportation and other services are provided. Travel Masters and/or its associated companies or Agents assume no responsibility for loss, injury, accident, delay or damage or irregularity that may be caused to person or property, however caused arising before commencement and/or during any tour under its management, sponsorship, procurement or otherwise. It is the responsibility of the passenger to make sure he/she is in possession of the proper visas and other travel documents and that they are in compliance with current government and transportation companies regulations. The right is reserved to modify the itinerary in any way considered necessary or desirable, or to change any reservation, hotel feature and/or means of conveyance, without allowance or refund but the extra cost (if any) resulting therefrom must be paid by the passenger. The right is also reserved to cancel or withdraw any tour, to replace any tour leader with another, to cancel or withdraw any booking made for a passenger, or to decline to accept any person as a member of a tour. The transportation companies or firms shall be exempt from all liabilities in respect of any detention, delay, loss, damage, sickness or injury however and by whomsoever caused and of whatever kind occurring of or to the passenger at any time when the passenger is not on board a carrier or conveyance used or operated by the transportation companies or firms. The contract of passage in use by the transportation companies or firms concerned shall constitute the sole contract between transportation companies or firms, and the purchase of these tours and/or passenger. All tickets, deposit tickets, coupons or orders are furnished and issued subject in all respects to those terms and conditions under which the means of transportation or other services provided there by are offered or supplied by owners, public carriers, or managing agents. The issuance and acceptance of receipts, tickets, vouchers, coupons, or exchange orders shall be deemed consent to the above conditions. The tour is based on flights as detailed in the itinerary, however any other IATA or non-iata carrier may be used for tour co-ordination.

15 CLOTHING AND LUGGAGE Our visit is in Summer so days (even in Tibet) should be warm and evenings cool to mildly cold. The Silk Road can be quite warm during the days. Comfortable, casual clothes are the general rule. Clothes should be mostly light and loose fitting. Good walking shoes are a must, and you will need a warm jacket and a light waterproof jacket for the cooler nights. Both men and women are requested to wear long slacks or skirts (light of course) especially on the Western Silk Road, in deference to Muslim sensibilities. Women are requested not to wear revealing clothes. Bring sturdy sunglasses and a small light torch (between couple) for inside the Buddhist caves. The international luggage allowance is strictly 23 kilograms. Please restrict your luggage to one average size suitcase and one carry bag of no more than 5kg. Porterage is for one average size suitcase (max 23kgs), All hand luggage is your personal responsibility at all times. PASSPORT AND VISAS You must be in possession of a passport with 6 months validity beyond the end date of this tour. If you are not using an Australian Passport please let us know so that we can advise you of your visa requirements. Your Chinese & Tibet Visas, and special travel permits in Tibet are included and our Agency will organise these for you. HEALTH AND VACCINATIONS To participate in this tour you will be required to present a Doctors Certificate indicating your capacity to handle this tour, including the altitudes involved, capacity for walking, and ability to climb sets of steps. Anyone requiring wheelchair assistance at any time is not considered suitable for this tour. Currently no vaccinations are required for travel in China and Tibet. However this could change at any time and we suggest you contact your Doctor for the latest advice. CURRENCY We recommend that you take cash in Chinese Yuan or US Dollars, (at least some of it in smaller denominations). Travel Masters is happy to organise your cash requirements for you ask for advice. Australian dollars, major traveller cheques and international credit cards are generally accepted in most of China, but not always. We recommend that you only use credit cards to pay for hotel bills. Travellers cheques are becoming more difficult to cash. Torn, damaged or marked US dollars will not be accepted in China. ATM s are sometimes available. ELECTRICITY The voltage for China is 220 volts. International Plugs are available from Travel Masters. TIPPING Gratuities for guides, drivers, porters and waiters are a necessity in China. To avoid any embarrassment or problems, and help make your holiday "hassle free", we have included all necessary tips for all activities and meals included in the itinerary. Your tour escort will manage the tipping funds for the group whilst on tour. ITINERARY CHANGES From time to time, changes may be required to the advertised itinerary. If this is required, it will be communicated to you by the Tour Escort who will make the decision in conjunction with our operators. TRAVEL INSURANCE Travel Insurance with a Travel Masters recommended Insurance company is compulsory. This is a comprehensive insurance which covers cancellation charges in the event of illness preventing you from travelling, overseas medical and hospital expenses, personal baggage, accidental death, personal liability and much more. Credit card insurance is not advised, as is does not cover full cancellation charges in the event ill health forces you to cancel. DEPARTURE TAXES International and local taxes as known at time of tour preparation are included in your tour cost. However, should new government taxes or tax and fuel increases be imposed these will be advised to you at time of final payment or at the time of their imposition. MEDICAL INFORMATION It is a good idea to travel with a small personal medical kit containing. Headache pills, antiseptic cream, cold & flu tablets, remedy for upset stomachs, laxatives, non-liquid mosquito repellent and throat medication. You should take whatever is necessary with you. Just in case your reading glasses are lost or damaged, take a spare pair with you you never know what you might need. CANCELLATION FEES If it is necessary to cancel your holiday, notification of cancellation must be received in writing. Cancellation Charges will apply: up to 8 weeks prior to departure - loss of deposit. 7-4 weeks prior - up to 50% of tour cost, and less than 4 weeks - up to full tour cost. No refund is available for cancellation of tour or any service not used after commencement of tour. Cancellation fees will apply as required by Airline Tariff Regulations. DEPOSITS AND FINAL PAYMENT A deposit of $500 per person is required to secure your place. We will send an account late April setting out full account details. Final payment is then required by 9 May. We have striven to keep the tour costs as low as possible and the tour price quoted is a cash / cheque price. Should you choose to pay by credit card, a 1% fee applies. CLIMATE We have chosen the best and most rewarding time of the year for this tour the oasis towns are full of life, flowers in bloom, fruit in season, activity is at its best. The days will be warm. Climate is not such a major concern when visiting Tibet as you might imagine. Days should be sunny and evenings cool. NATIONAL CHINESE TOUR ESCORT Our tour group will be accompanied by a National Guide who accompanies the group throughout the duration of the tour, thus avoiding any language difficulties. Our National Guide works in support of our Tour Escort. In addition, we have local guides who have specialised knowledge of their own areas in each of the places visited. SINGLE ROOM SUPPLEMENT The single room supplement is $1,490. In the event that you are a sole traveller and would prefer to share we will do our best to arrange a twin-share companion, but this cannot be guaranteed. BUSINESS CLASS UPGRADE Business Class upgrades on the International flights are available for an additional $3,050pp. ADVERTISED PRICE EXCLUDES Meals other than specified, insurance, additional gratuities as required, items of a personal nature such as drinks, laundry, phone calls etc and any optional excursions. All costs are subject to surcharges which may occur in connection with Governmental action, currency exchange fluctuations or increase in supplier's costs i.e. scheduled air fares, entrance fees etc. Should the minimum number of 10 persons not be attained, we reserve the right to cancel, amend or re cost the tour program. FINALLY. We hope this information will assist you plan for your holiday. We would be delighted to have you join our Travel Masters escorted holiday tour. Our tours are recognised as the best deluxe tours of their kind available in China especially designed for Australians who want high quality accommodation, especially selected dining experiences, the best possible smorgasbord of sightseeing and cultural experiences, and the highest quality English speaking guides available. Do not hesitate to telephone or call in if we can be of further assistance. We want to make this a very memorable holiday for you. PLEASE NOTE DEGREE OF FITNESS All Travel Masters itineraries are carefully planned and well paced to maximise the passenger experience, while at the same time ensuring a level of comfort is maintained at all times. Given the nature of the journeys and cultural experiences etc, any person/s of a reasonable general fitness level will have no problems in gaining total satisfaction from the trip. Should any person however, have significant walking difficulties or be likely to find it necessary to require wheelchair assistance at any time, it is unfortunately considered that participation on this tour would not be appropriate.

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