Travel Brochre

Japan : Old & New
Escorted Group Tour

22 March 2014
Temple pond & bridge, Kyoto
We are proud to have received a number of awards over recent

years including Top Tour Operator in the 2012 Wanderlust
Readers’ Travel Awards. We have also won recent awards in
the Sunday Times Travel Magazine, The Telegraph, Condé Nast
Traveller and the Guardian and Observer. Additionally, we have
been awarded AITO's maximum five stars for our responsible
travel policies and achieved two stars from the Best Company
organisation for our great working environment.
These awards are widely recognised as being the most

respected in the travel industry as they are professional surveys
of the publications’ readerships. With over 500 travel
companies for you to choose from in the UK alone, we hope
you find these awards are an additional reassurance of the
quality of service you can expect from Audley.
Contents
Introduction to tour ______________________________ 5

Day by day summary of our Japan : Old & New arrangements 7
Price _________________________________________ 9
Why travel with us? ______________________________ 10
Introduction to the region _________________________ 11
Photographs of the region __________________________ 14
Itinerary in detail ________________________________ 16
Accommodation information________________________ 26
Charity support _________________________________ 31
General information ______________________________ 32
Terms and conditions _____________________________ 35
Booking form _____________________________ back page
Meet our Japan Specialists
Our experience in Japan varies from having spent

years teaching and living there to studying Japanese at
university and between them our Japan specialists
have spent over two decades in the country, falling
head over heels in love with it along the way. It’s
often said that Japan is the most alien culture for
western travellers and our level of expertise is
absolutely vital in planning a trip to get the most out
of it.
4 Meet our specialists

Introduction to our Japan : Old & New tour
 Introduction to our Japan Old & New Tour

There are few places in the world as fascinatingly foreign as Japan. This is an unforgettable tour of contrasting images, in a
country where ancient and modern, natural and man-made, merge like nowhere else on earth.
For convenience and comfort the group will travel by a mixture of private coach and Japan's ultra-modern transport system:
speeding between cities on the famous 'shinkansen' bullet and limited express trains. Whilst the aim is to explore all sides of
the paradox - from the towering skyscrapers of Tokyo to the secluded temples and shrines of Kyoto and Kamakura - the
focus is on Japan's traditional past. You will experience the refined world of Kanazawa's gardens and museums, linger in the
shadow of the great torii gate on picturesque Miyajima island and visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Shirakawago.
Accommodation will be mainly in excellent international style hotels, but there is also opportunity to try a more traditional
style of accommodation along the way, including hot spring baths and Japanese cuisine.
 Climate
Due to the length of the archipelago, covering 20 degrees of latitude, Japan's climate varies greatly, ranging from
Scandinavian in the north island of Hokkaido to sub-tropical in Okinawa in the far south. Essentially, Japan's four seasons
resemble our own, but conditions are more pronounced, with a significantly colder and snowier winter and a much hotter
summer. Autumn and spring are generally considered the best times to travel, with the wonderful cherry blossom or
turning leaves adding a beautiful hue to the scenery.
 Group Size
The group size is kept to a maximum of 16, this ensures that the trip is a more personal experience and that you can always
hear and speak to your guides. The small group size also ensures that your experience of a particular sight is not marred by
the presence of too many people.
Your main mode of transport will be a coach that seats 20-30, so there is plenty of space for everyone.
There is a minimum requirement of 10 passengers to run this tour, so the first 10 people to book will be done so on a
provisional basis until minimum numbers are reached. Deposits for those first 10 people will be fully refundable should the
tour not operate.
 Single Travellers
We welcome single travellers on tours. You have two options - you can choose to share a room with another single
traveller on the tour and pay the standard tour price (this option will only be available if another single traveller of the same
sex is also willing to share), or you can choose to guarantee the sole occupancy of your room, in which case a single
supplement is payable.
 Tour Guide
You will be accompanied on your tour by one of our most experienced and highly regarded Japanese guides. Your guide will
have lead tours for Audley clients in the past and will ensure that your tour runs smoothly, to time and will be on hand to
solve any problems that may occur.
 Meal Arrangements
Daily breakfast is included at your hotel and dinner is included on five occasions, either at the hotel (where stated) or at a
local restaurant. Lunch is included on one occasion. Your guide will be able make suggestions for dining where this is not
included.
 Special Dietary Requirements

Special dietary requirements should be highlighted by you on the booking form. However you must be aware that it is
unrealistic to expect specialist diets to be catered for in some of the destinations we will be visiting. We will advise hotels
and airlines of your request but we cannot guarantee their availability.
 Tour Health & Fitness

To ensure that all participants get the most out of the tour, it is important that you are fully aware of the level of activity
and fitness and medical health required to successfully complete this itinerary. Please read this dossier carefully prior to
confirming your place on the tour, and having established the facts, it is your responsibility to contact us with any concerns
regarding individual levels of fitness, health or ability. Please be aware that our tour leaders have the right to exclude
customers from the tour if they feel they are not sufficiently fit, healthy or able to complete the tour without affecting its
Introduction to our Japan : Old & New tour 5

Introduction to our Japan : Old & New tour
safety, comfort or smooth progress. If you would like to discuss any of these issues further please the Japan team on 01993
838 210 to discuss in more detail.
 Activity Level - Low/Medium

A medium level of fitness is required for this trip but you should be physically active. You should be aware and prepared for
all or any of the following on this trip:
- To carry your own luggage through airports and from the vehicles to hotels and vice versa. However, some portering is
included as are luggage transfers when travelling by train.
- Walking up and down stairs to access train platforms.
- To join all day walking tours of cities, monuments and historic sites. (All of these are optional).
- To declare any food allergies or requirements prior to departure so that these can be incorporated into the itinerary
where necessary.
 Extending Your Trip

You have the option to extend your trip at either the beginning or end of your trip. Please contact the Japan team to
discuss options.
 Tipping Policy
Tips for your guide are not included in the price of the trip. We suggest around £40-50 per couple for the whole trip. Tips
for the drivers and porters have been included in the tour price.
 What to Pack
Spring in Japan often presents a wide range in temperatures, from a chilly 5 or 6C in the mountains or early mornings, to a
warm 20C or so in Hiroshima and Kyoto sometimes. Taking layers is essential, as is a waterproof and sturdy shoes. There
can sometimes be lingering snow in areas such as Takayama, so a scarf and gloves by also be useful, although hopefully not
necessary.
Visas
Japan British nationals travelling on leisure can stay in Japan for up to 90 days without a visa.
Important Note: We cannot under any circumstances guarantee that your visa application for any country will be accepted.
However, in our experience refusals are extremely rare. Visa information is given in good faith and is accurate to the best of
our knowledge.
6 Introduction to our Japan : Old & New tour

Day by day summary
1 Saturday 22 Fly overnight with British Airways, arriving the following day. On-board the plane
March 2014
2 Sunday 23 At Narita airport you are met by your guide, who will be Keio Plaza Hotel, Shinjuku,
March 2014 with you for the duration of the trip. Once the full group has Tokyo
assembled, we will transfer to Tokyo by airport limousine Superior Room for 2 (Twin)
bus. Tonight the group meets for a relaxed, informal Dinner is included
welcome dinner to get to know the tour guide and fellow
travellers.
3 Monday 24 Today we explore some of the main sights of Tokyo, Keio Plaza Hotel, Shinjuku,
March 2014 including Meiji-jingu shrine, Asakusa and Tokyo Tower. Tokyo
Superior Room for 2 (Twin)
Breakfast is included
4 Tuesday 25 A couple of hours` drive away from Tokyo is the seaside Fujiya Hotel, Miyanoshita,
March 2014 town of Kamakura, celebrated for its ancient bronze Great Hakone
Buddha. We continue on to Hakone National Park in the Standard room for 2 (Twin)
afternoon and the small village of Miyanoshita. Breakfast is included
5 Wednesday 26 Hakone is best explored using a variety of public Fujiya Hotel, Miyanoshita,
March 2014 transportation, including a cable car, funicular railway and Hakone
local bus. The loop around the park is scenic and provides Standard room for 2 (Twin)
several Mt Fuji viewing spots along the way, weather Breakfast and dinner are
permitting. We also pay a visit to the excellent Open Air included
Museum, which houses sculptures by Henry Moore and
Picasso, amongst others.
6 Thursday 27 This morning we transfer by private coach through the Japan Hotel Associa, Takayama
March 2014 Alps, stopping to pay a brief visit to Matsumoto, home to Standard twin for 2 (Twin)
Japan`s oldest five tier castle. We continue on to the small Breakfast is included
city of Takayama.
7 Friday 28 We explore Takayama on foot today, including the Sanmachi Hotel Associa, Takayama
March 2014 merchant area and Festival Float Museum. Standard twin for 2 (Twin)
8 Saturday 29 Between Takayama and today`s destination, Kanazawa, lies Excel Tokyu Hotel, Kanazawa
March 2014 the secluded village of Shirakawago, a UNESCO World Standard room for 2 (Twin)
Heritage Site home to a unique, traditional building style Breakfast and lunch are included
known as gassho-zukuri. You have the opportunity to try
your hand at Japanese cookery today as we will be making
soba buckwheat noodles for lunch. We continue on to
Kanazawa in the afternoon.
9 Sunday 30 The first stop today is Kanazawa`s most celebrated Excel Tokyu Hotel, Kanazawa
March 2014 attraction, the Kenroku-en garden, rated as one of the three Standard room for 2 (Twin)
finest stroll gardens in Japan. The afternoon is spent exploring Breakfast is included
some more of this convivial city.
10 Monday 31 We take the express and bullet trains from Kanazawa to ANA Crowne Plaza Hotel,
March 2014 Hiroshima. On arrival we visit the moving Peace Park and Hiroshima
Memorial Museum on foot. Standard room for 2 (Twin)
Day by day summary 7

Day by day summary
11 Tuesday 01 From Hiroshima it is a scenic ferry ride across to Miyajima Miyarikyu Hotel, Miyajima Island
April 2014 Island. We will be spending the night in a Japanese style hotel, Japanese Ocean View room for
with traditional "banquet" style cuisine served in the evening. 2 (Twin)
This is a great opportunity to experience traditional Japanese Breakfast and dinner are
hospitality. The island is also very serene in the evening and included
pleasant to stroll round in your "yukata" - cotton Japanese
robe - after dinner.
12 Wednesday 02 Using the ferry, local train and bullet train, we transfer to Kyoto Okura Hotel, Kyoto
April 2014 Kyoto today. For centuries Kyoto was the cultural heart of Standard room for 2 (Twin)
Japan and it was here that many of the finest aspects of the Breakfast is included
culture developed and flourished: the arts and crafts; the
beautiful temples, palaces and gardens; and, perhaps most
famously, the refined world of the geisha.
The afternoon is at leisure.
13 Thursday 03 Enjoy a full day tour to soak up the unique atmosphere of the Kyoto Okura Hotel, Kyoto
April 2014 city. Standard room for 2 (Twin)
14 Friday 04 This morning we visit nearby Nara, former capital of Japan. Kyoto Okura Hotel, Kyoto
April 2014 We visit Todaiji temple, the largest wooden structure in Standard room for 2 (Twin)
Japan. In the afternoon we return to Kyoto to take part in a Breakfast and dinner are
calligraphy and origami lesson with the Women`s Association included
of Kyoto.
Tonight we dine at a local restaurant, which includes a dance

performance by a maiko, a trainee geisha.
15 Saturday 05 We transfer back to Tokyo by high-speed bullet train and the Keio Plaza Hotel, Shinjuku,
April 2014 afternoon is at leisure. Tonight`s farewell dinner is at Tokyo
Gonpachi, a lively restaurant in the bustling Ginza area of the Superior Room for 2 (Twin)
city. Breakfast and dinner are
included
16 Sunday 06 Transfer by shared limousine bus to Narita airport, for the Breakfast is included
April 2014 return flight back to the UK.
8 Day by day summary

Prices
Arrangements as specified per person ____________________________________________________ £6,145

..........................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Please note the following supplements and/or upgrade options per person:
Single Supplement ________________________________________________________________ £1,095
..........................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Per person deposit required to confirm these arrangements _________________________________ £922
Optional carbon off-setting for your flights per person (see General Information section for further details) ____£23
The deposit required is detailed above and relates to the itinerary detailed in this quotation. In most cases the deposit is 15% of the
total cost or £200 per person (whichever is the greater), however in some instances a larger deposit is required in order to secure
particular services. Please refer to the Terms and Conditions section at the back of this booklet. Please note if you confirm your
booking within 60 days of your departure date full payment is required at the time of booking.
How to book Included in the price

If you have any questions regarding the tour or would like to  All flights as specified in the itinerary
hold a no obligation option for a place on the tour, please  Twin share accommodation as specified
feel free to call our Japan team on 01993 838 210 who will  All transfers and excursions as specified
be delighted to assist you. To confirm an option, please send  Services of experienced local guides
us a completed booking form and the deposit specified  Sightseeing and entrance fees
above. The deposit can be paid by cheque, bank transfer or  Meals as specified in the itinerary
credit / debit card. Please make cheques payable to Audley
Travel. Not included in the price
 Meals not indicated within your itinerary.
Payment by credit card
 Where applicable, local airport departure taxes; payable
Please note that we do not charge a fee on deposit payments
locally on departure in some locations.
by credit card, except when a deposit is more than 15%. In
this situation a charge will apply. Credit card fees are  Where applicable, locally payable car hire related
detailed on the booking form. We charge a credit card fee charges, including optional excess reduction.
due to the high fees charged to tour operators by the credit  Items of a personal nature such as laundry, drinks, etc..
card companies. We have chosen to make this transparent  Tips for your guide and driver (discretionary).
rather than including it within the trip price. You may  Any camera or video fees at any sites.
therefore wish to pay the balance by bank transfer, debit  Entrance fees and other costs when on 'free time’.
card or personal cheque.  Travel insurance (see general information section).
Prices 9
Why travel with us?
Quality service when you are

travelling
We take a good deal of care when
choosing our travel partners overseas,
taking into account their quality of
service, guides and vehicles. We have
built up many long-standing
relationships, ensuring that they deliver
the level of service demanded by
Detailed travel documents
Audley clients. Our local guides and
drivers, where appropriate, are the Approximately two to three weeks
people you will meet. In many cases we before you travel we will send you all
know them personally, in all cases we your travel documents presented in a
ensure that they are of the highest convenient travel organiser. As well as
calibre. They are there to do much your full itinerary and travel
more than show you specific sights and documents, there will also be
The New Mill, our offices on the outskirts of provide factual information. They will additional information such as
Witney in west Oxfordshire be able to tell you about local life, recommended restaurants and
culture, cuisines and customs; and, practical tips. A few days before you
Reputation and quality where applicable, act as translator. In travel your specialist will call you to
Well over 80% of our clients have certain parts of the world a specialist have a final talk through your itinerary
travelled with us in the past or have guide is more appropriate, for example, and answer any last minute questions
had Audley recommended to them. a wildlife expert. you may have.
When you book with us you are
assured of quality arrangements if only
for the fact that we simply cannot
afford to risk our excellent reputation.
Our service has been recognised by
the readers of well-known publications Responsible travel
including the Guardian & Observer, the We have a firm commitment to
Daily Telegraph and Wanderlust minimising the environmental and
magazine, where we have consistently social impact of travel, and strive to
featured in their ‘best tour operator’ ensure that a visit from an Audley
awards for a number of years. client has a positive effect on the
destination. We have a
Personal service firm commitment to the principles of
We are committed to offering you a First class guides ‘responsible travel’ and have been
very personal service, with all your awarded AITO 5 star status (the
arrangements being handled by one A smooth journey highest achievable) for our policies and
country specialist. They will remain We have procedures in place for practises. We continue to work with
your one point of contact and will take dealing quickly and efficiently with AITO, and a number of other bodies,
responsibility for the smooth operation mishaps from minor flight time to improve our policies. For more
of your trip. They are supported by a alterations to more fundamental details please refer to our website
team of specialists for that region and a changes. If problems do occur we will (www.audleytravel.com/rt) where you
professional administration and rapidly rearrange your itinerary to will find details of our responsible
management team. make best use of your time given the travel policy and also our Travellers’
changed circumstances, not simply Code. If you are particularly interested
From the moment you contact us, we cancel part of your trip or leave you in these issues, your country specialist
are here to answer your questions sitting in an airport waiting for hours will be able to tell you more.
accurately and honestly, be they about for a rescheduled flight. Importantly, in
specific arrangements or any more these situations we will do everything Legal liability
general queries you may have. We are possible to minimise any extra costs We are a UK company and hence must
experienced travellers with a thorough involved – in the vast majority of cases fully comply with English law. When
and in-depth knowledge of our no extra charges will be made. If a booking with us you can rest assured
specialist destinations, and the benefit problem does occur while you are that your arrangements are carefully
of this experience is yours throughout. travelling you can contact us on our 24 planned as we have a reputation to
When we do not know the answer to hour number. We will do everything in maintain and are legally liable for any
a question we will endeavour to find our power to rectify the problem omissions or negligent acts. You may
out and get back to you as soon as immediately rather than allow it to not find you have this level of
possible. spoil your trip. reassurance if you make your own
travel arrangements independently.
[
10 Why travel with us?

Introduction to Japan
Key facts:
Population: 127.82 million Currency: Japanese Yen
Land area: 377.84 thousands square kilometres Time difference: GMT+9 hours
Major languages spoken: Japanese Capital city: Tokyo
Introduction
In the archetypal image of the sleek bullet train gliding past snow-capped Mount Fuji, the magic of Japan is encapsulated in one
freeze frame: natural and modern beauty merging in harmony. Japan's four main islands contain a wealth of variety and
spectacle, from the thronging cities of Tokyo and Hiroshima to the provincial spa towns, neatly-tended farming regions and
rugged wilderness beyond. Delve into Japan's rich cultural heritage in Kyoto to witness traditional ceremonies, dress and
theatre, and take a glimpse into the closed world of the Geisha. Enjoy, too, the delectable cuisine, taking time to sample the
numerous local and seasonal delicacies to be found in every city and town. The appeal of Japan encompasses all tastes and ages,
whether your interest lies in embracing modern pop-culture, discovering ancient spirituality in secluded Buddhist retreats or
communing with nature in steamy jungles or high mountain peaks. Relax on star-sand beaches in southerly Okinawa or whale-
watch in wintry Hokkaido, the scope of experience is truly immense. In Japan a striking backdrop of mountain scenery and
crystal lakes, neon-lit skyscrapers and landscaped gardens, steaming volcanoes and traditional architecture forms a magical
world that will amaze you each step of your journey.
J F M A M J J A S O N D
Avg Max Day Temperature (0C)
Tokyo Avg Min Night Temperature (0C)
Avg Hours of Sunshine
Monthly Rainfall (mm) 43 58 95 119 132 181 128 147 181 158 84 44
Introduction to the region 11

Introduction to Japan
12 Introduction to the region

Top: Kyoto, Japan
Left: Bon odori drummer, Japan
Lower left: A typical ryokan dinner
14 Photographs of the region

Top: Cherry blossoms and pagoda, Takayama
Left: Mt Fuji and Cherry Blossom
Right: Kyoto schoolgirls
Photographs of the region 15

Itinerary in Detail
Saturday BA London/Tokyo TBC

22 March, 2014
Sunday Tokyo introduction
23 March, 2014
Tokyo is a city that is hard to introduce. If you speak to people who have either
lived in or visited the city, each person will have a very different impression from
Keio Plaza Hotel,
the others. Some will use words like 'amazing' and 'fantastic', while others will be
Shinjuku, Tokyo
more cautious, warning of crowded trains and perpetual hustle and bustle.
However all will share one thing in common, the experience of seeing one of the
world's most diverse and exciting cities, where the ultra-modern vies for attention
with the historical past, Michelin starred restaurants sit alongside back-street
noodle bars and smoky temples are nestled between glittering skyscrapers. Tokyo
is a city of juxtaposition and contradiction and one certainly not to be missed.
Getting around is a cinch thanks to the ultra efficient transport system and armed
with a JR Pass that covers all the overground train journeys on the Yamanote Line
that loops around the city, you'll save money on tickets too.
Pagoda, Honmonji Temple
Young women in kimono
Welcome meeting at airport and transfer to Tokyo

Group Tour shared transfer with your guide
After passing through immigration and claiming your baggage, make your way to
the Arrivals Hall to be met by your guide. They will be carrying a sign clearly
indicating the name Audley Travel. The transfer to Tokyo will be by shared
limousine bus and is a journey of around two hours. Please note there will be non-
Audley passengers on this coach.
Introductory Evening Meal

Group Tour dinner
Held at a local restaurant or the hotel restaurant, this welcome dinner is an

opportunity to get to know your fellow travellers and tour guide a little better.
Monday Tokyo City Tour

24 March, 2014 Group Tour excursion by private vehicle with your guide
Japan's modern capital has no single central point, rather it is an amalgamation of

Keio Plaza Hotel,
many individual districts, each with its own unique character and highlights.
Shinjuku, Tokyo
Our tour today takes in the best of Tokyo, combining both the modern and the
ancient attractions. We begin our day with a visit to Meiji-jingu shrine, in Yoyogi
Park. The shrine was first built in 1920 in memory of Emperor Meiji, who reigned
until 1912. Emperor Meiji's rule was one of the most important in Japanese history
16 Itinerary in Detail
Itinerary in Detail
and saw political, social, and industrial revolution turn Japan into one of the great
world powers. Meiji also opened up the country to international trade and
commerce. A detailed account of the State Funeral in the New York Times
concluded with the observation: "The contrast between that which preceded the
funeral car and that which followed it was striking indeed. Before it went old Japan;
after it came new Japan". Meiji shrine is therefore a poignant starting point for our
tour of Tokyo. From here we take the coach to the Imperial Palace Gardens, After
lunch we continue on to the Hinode Pier to cruise along the bay to Odaiba, a man-
made island across Tokyo Bay, offering some great scenery of the cityscape.
Returning to the mainland the tour makes its way to Roppongi Hills. There are
wonderful night views from the top of the skyscraper complex here, a fitting end to
our exploration of the city.
Tokyo Tower
Palace bridge & Keep, Tokyo
Tuesday Tokyo to Hakone, via Kamakura

25 March, 2014 Group Tour transfer by private coach accompanied by your guide
This morning we drive on from Tokyo by private coach to the nearby town of
Fujiya Hotel, Miyanoshita,
Kamakura. Just an hour south of Tokyo, this pretty seaside town was briefly the
Hakone
seat of the feudal government in the 12th Century, and though its importance soon
faded, the remnants of its former glory are still visible in the Great Bronze Buddha
and the many interesting temples and shrines that are dotted throughout town.
The great image of Buddha is the principal attraction for all visitors to Kamakura,
and a photographer's delight. Situated in the precincts of Kotokuin Temple, the
Daibutsu is a bronze statue depicting Buddha in a seated meditative pose. It
measures 11.4m in height. Leaving the town in the afternoon we drive on to our
final destination, our hotel in the heart of the Hakone countryside, stopping in
briefly at the Honma marquetry Museum at Odawara.
Hakone introduction
The Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park spreads over a large region to the south of
Tokyo, encompassing the Izu Peninsula, Hakone, Mt Fuji and Fuji Five Lakes.
Commonly referred to as simply the Hakone National Park, "Hakone" is the
Open Air Sculpture Park, Hakone gateway to a scenic sightseeing loop, best visited utilising the good value Hakone
Free Pass ticket. On a clear day, there are several Fuji viewing spots in the park,
serviced by various modes of public transportation. The park encompasses several
main areas; Odawara, Hakone Yumoto, Miyanoshita, Gora, Sengokuhara, Moto
Hakone and Hakone Machi with accommodation spread around all these areas.
Itinerary in Detail 17
Itinerary in Detail
Lake Ashi, Hakone
Wednesday Exploring Hakone

26 March, 2014 Group Tour excursion using public transport with your guide
We will be using the Hakone Free pass ticket during our sightseeing trip around
Fujiya Hotel, Miyanoshita,
the park, which allows unlimited access to the local scenic train line, the bus
Hakone
network, a funicular train up the volcanic rim, which leads on to a gondola cable car
Breakfast and dinner are
and a bus journey through the scenic mountains. There is also a lake crossing at
included
Lake Ashinoko upon a quirky and kitsch replica pirate ship! We end the day at the
excellent Open Air Sculpture Museum in Chokokunomori.
Mt Fuji can be spotted from various points around the park, weather permitting.
We begin our full circuit of the park by heading off on the Tozan railway to the
small village of Gora at the foot of the mountain. From Gora we take the funicular
railway up Mt Kami. Alighting here at Owakudani "Hell Valley" we walk through the
bubbling sulphur vents and stop to try one of the famous black eggs, cooked in the
heat of the natural thermal activity. The route continues by cable-car, providing
some lovely views across Lake Ashi. Disembarking the cable-car we board the boat
across Lake Ashi to Moto-Hakone, the main small town in the region, to see the
Edo era checkpoint and ancient cedar avenue. We then take the bus on to the
excellent Open Air Sculpture museum at the village of Chokokunomori. The
museum houses sculptures by Henry Moore, Picasso, Rodin and Miro and was the
Lake Ashi, with Mount Fuji behind,
Hakone.
first open air museum in Japan, opening in 1969. The museum has over 100
sculptures (often in rotation) and an indoor collection as well.
Thursday Hakone to Takayama, via Matsumoto

This morning we drive by private coach through the Japan Alps into mountainous
Hotel Associa, Takayama
Nagano Prefecture, host to the 1998 Winter Olympics. We pay a brief visit to
Matsumoto, gateway to the Japanese Alps and home to Japan's oldest five tier
castle, built in 1593, before continuing on to the Alps town of Takayama. Today is
the longest transfer of the tour, taking around 8 to 9 hours in total, including stops.
Takayama introduction
Nestled in the Japanese Alps, Takayama is only a small city, but of significant
historic importance in the Hida district. The built up area around the station belies
the hidden charm of the streets to the east of Miwagawa river, which give way to
the Sanmachi District, a warren of traditional shops, museums, galleries and sake
breweries, all retaining their character in a country that otherwise has embraced
Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine,
Takayama
the modern age. The oldest buildings that remain are some storehouses (kura in
Japanese) built in the 17th century. Most of the buildings in the Sanmachi District
are from the late 19th century, although they retain the charm of times gone by.
That said, Takayama has lost some of its charm over the past 20 years or so but
Itinerary in Detail
the local architecture, ebullient atmosphere and culinary specialties keep visitors
coming back year after year. Takayama also has an extensive wooded park and
numerous shrines in the Teramachi district, which has often led to comparisons
with Kyoto.
Hida Folk Village, near Takayama
Friday Exploring Takayama

28 March, 2014 Group Tour excursion with your local guide
The morning is spent strolling among the atmospheric merchant houses and
Hotel Associa, Takayama
markets of the Sanmachi district. Twice a year, Takayama plays host to a busy
festival, with a procession of "yatai" festival floats through the centre of the town
over two consecutive evenings. We will be able to see some of these fascinating
floats up close at the Festival Float Museum and learn a little more about the
history of the festival. We also visit the Governor's House and enjoy a short
performance at the Marionette Museum. The afternoon is free for you to further
explore the old streets of this pretty town.
Autumn leaves at Hida folk village, near

Takayama
Saturday Takayama to Kanazawa via Shirakawago

Between Takayama and our destination, Kanazawa, lies the secluded village of
Excel Tokyu Hotel,
Shirakawago, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to a unique, traditional
Kanazawa
building style known as Gassho-zukuri. We also stop in another of the Shokawa
valley villages, where we will be making our own soba noodles for lunch. After
passing through the mountains we arrive into Kanazawa.
For most of their history, the villages in this region have lain hidden in the deep,
snowbound valleys of the northern Alps, under the shadow of sacred Mt Hakusan.
The traditional style of housing, the Gasshozukuri, designed with steep, thatched
roofs to withstand the weight of snow, has survived in this area long after it has
disappeared from other, more accessible, areas. The region was opened up in the
1960's when the river upstream from the villages was dammed, and the subsequent
highway into the mountains constructed. It was designated a UNESCO World
Monk in Takayama Heritage site in 1995, and consequently the number of visitors, and gift shops, has
increased dramatically. That said, the village of Shirakawago is still a fascinating
remnant of an older Japan.
Itinerary in Detail
The journey passes through parts of the Hida Tunnel, which opened in summer
2008. This tunnel is a feat of Japanese engineering and the second longest tunnel in
the country.
Kanazawa introduction
From the 15th century onwards, thanks to the wealth brought through local rice
production and trade, Kanazawa has been one of Japan's foremost cultural centres.
Located at the south-western base of the Noto Peninsula, just inland from the Sea
of Japan, Kanazawa is the prefectural capital and quite a large, sprawling town.
There are a number of interesting cultural sites that can be reached easily using the
excellent bus service. These include the much-celebrated Kenroku-en Garden,
ranked together with those in Mito and Okayama as the three best in Japan, the
Nagamachi Samurai District, a silk-dyeing centre, the fascinating Myoryuji 'Ninja'
temple and the Gold Leaf Museum amongst others. The 21st Century Art Museum
has been completed and makes a very well worthwhile detour for those wishing to
view contemporary art.
Kenrokuen Garden
Sunday Kenroku-en and Kanazawa City Tour

30 March, 2014 Group Tour excursion with your guide
The first stop today, and the most important on any visit to Kanazawa, is the
Excel Tokyu Hotel,
town's most celebrated draw, the serene Kenroku-en garden. The town is also
Kanazawa
renowned for its craftwork and we'll explore the shops and traditional stores, as
well as some of Kanazawa's other attractions during the remainder of the day.
Kanazawa's number one attraction, ranked by the Japanese as one of the top three
gardens in Japan, is a must-see for any visitor to Kanazawa. It is located right in the
middle of town, within easy walking distance of the main shopping district and many
of the other tourist sites of interest. The name Kenroku-en refers to the six
attributes traditionally considered vital in the creation of the perfect garden, all of
which are said to exist here. One of these, seclusion, may seem a little hard to
come by at certain times of year but with a bit of luck we will be able to time our
visit to enjoy in peace the beautiful combination of ponds, streams, old trees and
Kenrokuen in cherry blossom season, teahouses that have made the garden justifiably famous. On one edge of the garden
Kanazawa is the Seisonkaku Villa, formerly the residence of the local feudal lord's mother, and
now open to the public as a museum.
After lunch there will be time to stroll around the nearby Nagamachi samurai
district with your guide.
Monday Kanazawa to Hiroshima by train

31 March, 2014 Group Tour train journey with your guide
Itinerary in Detail
Taking the train from Kanazawa to Osaka, we connect with the famous shinkansen
ANA Crowne Plaza bullet train and head westwards, skirting the Inland Sea, to Hiroshima, the city that
Hotel, Hiroshima has risen from the ashes of the first atomic bomb. On arrival we transfer to the
Breakfast is included hotel and enjoy an afternoon exploring the Peace Park and its museum. Total
journey time will be around four hours.
Hiroshima introduction
Hiroshima is a city which has risen from the ashes since the horrific events of
August 1945 and although these events are justifiably and sensitively
commemorated, the city is now one with an energetic and cosmopolitan feel. The
wide tree lined avenues, castle (reconstructed), Shukkei-en gardens and of course
the moving Peace Park and Memorial Museum ensure that the visitor has plenty to
see and do over a couple of days here.
Atomic bomb dome, Hiroshima
Peace memorial, Hiroshima
Hiroshima City Tour

Group Tour excursion on foot with your guide
Our sightseeing will focus on the powerful Peace Park and Memorial Museum,
which commemorate and explain the tragic events of 6th August 1945. The A-
Bomb Dome is one the most prominent reminders of the atrocity and was
declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1996. From the A-Bomb Dome we
cross into Heiwa-koen (Peace Park), which is dotted with various memorials,
including the Children's Peace Memorial which was inspired by a young leukaemia
sufferer's wish to fold 1000 origami crane before she died. Sadly her wish was not
fulfilled, but her classmates folded the rest and sparked a nationwide campaign.
Strings of cranes are kept at the memorial to this day and regularly added to it. We
also pay a visit to the museum, which explains more about the history of nuclear
warfare and goes into more detail about 6th August 1945.
Tuesday Hiroshima to Miyajima by boat

01 April, 2014 Group Tour transfer by boat with your guide
We take a boat from Hiroshima's Peace Park, along the river and into the Inland
Miyarikyu Hotel, Miyajima
Sea to cross over to Miyajima Island. The journey will take around an hour in total.
Island
Breakfast and dinner are Miyajima Island introduction
included
Miyajima, or Itsuku-shima as it was formally known, has been sacred to the
Japanese since the inception of the first shrine on the island over fifteen hundred
years ago. The present incarnation of the Itsukushima-jinja shrine is one of the
island's greatest attractions, and the "floating" red torii gate that stands in the
shallow waters of the bay when the tide is in, remains one of the most
photographed views in Japan. The small town has a pleasant, relaxed atmosphere,
particularly in the evenings and early mornings once the day-trippers have returned
Itinerary in Detail
to the mainland. There are several other smaller temples and shrines dotted
around the island that are well worth a visit and Mt Misen (530m) offers great
views from its summit.
Itsukushima Shrine, Miyajima Island
Floating torii gate, Miyajima
Exploring Miyajima Island

Group Tour excursion on foot with your guide
We begin our sightseeing with a visit to the shoreline to see the 'torii' gate- at its
most photogenic when the tide is high but also interesting when the waters have
receded and you can walk up to the huge structure and admire it close up. After
some time here we explore some smaller temples dotted about the island before
walking up and through to Momiji-dani valley. Please note the valley becomes
slightly hilly in parts. Towards the top of the valley we reach the cable car station
for the ascent up to Mt Misen (a two-stage cable car). On a clear day the views
from the top are spectacular.
Wednesday Miyajima to Kyoto via Hiroshima by ferry and train

02 April, 2014 Group Tour transfer with your guide
We return to Miyajima-guchi station by ferry from the island and then take a local
Kyoto Okura Hotel,
train to Hiroshima station. Here, we board the high speed Nozomi bullet train to
Kyoto
Kyoto, covering the 380km distance in just over an hour and half. At Kyoto station
we have a short time to wander around the building itself - a striking modern
design in stark contrast to the ancient temples and shrines elsewhere in the city,
before taking taxis to our hotel in the Higashiyama area.
Kyoto introduction
Kyoto was the capital of Japan for over one thousand years and remains the most
culturally important city in Japan. The city houses about 1,700 Buddhist temples and
300 Shinto shrines as well as palaces, castles, canals and gardens. Here, modern
buildings stand side by side with buildings steeped in history. Walking down narrow
alleyways you can still see the Japan of yesteryear with women wearing kimono and
Pagoda at the Kiyomizudera, Kyoto
tatami mats being hand-made. Kyoto is one of the most entertaining cities in the
world with some of the best restaurants in Japan, excellent shopping and a host of
cultural shows that serve to amuse and inform. No visit to Japan is really complete
without seeing Kyoto.
Itinerary in Detail
Golden Pavilion, Kyoto
Thursday Kyoto City Tour

03 April, 2014 Group Tour excursion by private vehicle with your guide
Today enjoy a fascinating introduction to the refined delights of Kyoto. We visit

Kyoto Okura Hotel,
some of the city's most celebrated sights, including Kinkakuji temple, Nijo Castle
Kyoto
and the iconic Ryoanji Zen garden. The precise itinerary may vary somewhat,
depending on conditions on the day, and any local markets or events that may be
worth a diversion. Kinkakuji temple, otherwise known as the Golden Pavilion, is
one of the most famous landmarks in the city and it can get very crowded in the
spring and autumn. However, it is very photogenic and a must see of the city. Nijo
Castle also sees a lot of visitors but is slightly more spacious than Kinkakuji. The
castle is perhaps best known for its inventive "nightingale" floors, which were fitted
with a device to make them squeak, thus safeguarding the castle's occupants from
intruders. The palace garden is also beautiful, designed and executed by tea master
and architect Kobori Enshu. We also pay a visit to Ryoanji, close to Kinkakuji. The
dry raked gravel of the Zen garden here is a collection of 15 rocks, 14 of which are
Japanese lady in summer kimono visible at any one time. There has never been an explanation of the garden's design,
but gazing on it may well bring enlightenment, one day! There is also time today to
visit a yuzen dyeing workshop, which is the traditional form of dyeing kimono
materials; a very highly refined skill.
Friday Morning visit to Nara

04 April, 2014 Group Tour excursion by private coach with your guide
Like nearby Kyoto, Nara was once the Japanese capital and a source of enormous
Kyoto Okura Hotel,
cultural and religious outpourings. Unlike its more celebrated neighbour, Nara has
Kyoto
survived relatively untouched by modern advances and remains a relaxed town
dotted with temples, shrines and parkland. From the fifth and sixth centuries
onwards this region was Japan's cultural heartland, and successive rulers displayed
their devotion to the recently introduced Buddhist faith by building splendid
temples and commissioning grand works of art. Many of these remain today,
including the most famous, Todai-ji Temple, home to the great bronze Buddha
housed in the world's largest wooden structure. The park is also a playground for
hundreds of tame deer, which roam at will through the grounds of Todai-ji Temple.
Calligraphy & Origami lesson

Group Tour excursion with your guide
This afternoon you have the opportunity to learn more about two traditional
Japanese pastimes- Calligraphy and Origami. The course is organised by the
Women's Association of Kyoto, whose members are proud of their skills and have
Cherry blossom, Kyoto become masters of these crafts over 10,15 or even 20 years. They are more than
happy to share these skills with you. This is a very personal experience and one
which will hopefully stay with you for many years to come.
Itinerary in Detail
Calligraphy is a beautiful art form in Japan and for centuries was used as a practice
for finer writings in everyday use. Gradually it developed to an art and appreciated
for its intricacy and varying styles. Brush strokes, including the pressure used and
the direction painted, are important indications of the artists' expression and skill.
You will learn to paint a Japanese character of your choice.
Origami is paper folding, usually learnt at a young age but developed to create
fantastic shapes including animals or decorative boxes. The most well known
origami shape is that of the crane, tens of thousands of which you will have seen at
the Peace Park in Hiroshima.
Dinner at a local restaurant including Maiko performance

Group Tour excursion with your guide
Maiko are trainee Geisha (Geiko in Kyoto dialect) who train for six years before
becoming fully fledged Geisha. They learn skills such as dance, singing and
instrument playing as well as how to entertain guests with conversation. They
attend functions at discrete tea houses throughout Kyoto and live and work in five
"hanamachi" (literally flower towns) in the city. There are fewer than 2000 Geisha
and Maiko in Japan today; in the 1920s there were as many as 80,000. As such, time
spent in the company of a Maiko is now a rare and unique experience, open only to
a select few.
Maiko perform at Ganko Nijo-en, a traditional restaurant located near to the

Kamogawa River in central Kyoto, with an ornate landscaped garden dating back
over 400 years. We will be dining here on a sushi and kaiseki (banquet) set menu.
Please advise your specialist if you have any food allergies or special requests.
Saturday Kyoto to Tokyo by bullet train

05 April, 2014 Group Tour train journey with your guide
The journey back to Tokyo takes around 2 and half hours by shinkansen bullet
Keio Plaza Hotel,
train, passing under the shadow of Mt Fuji en-route.
Shinjuku, Tokyo
Breakfast and dinner are Farewell Dinner
included Group Tour dinner at Gonpachi restaurant
This popular chain restaurant has various outlets in the city but our favourite is the
Ginza branch where we dine tonight. The restaurant serves up a mixture of
charcoal grilled meat and vegetable skewers and grilled fish, along with sushi in a
side room. The restaurant has a great ambience and is the perfect setting for our
final evening meal of the tour.
Tokyo skyline at night
Sunday Limousine bus from hotel to Narita airport

06 April, 2014 Group Tour shared transfer accompanied by your guide
Your guide will accompany you to the airport, which will be by shared limousine
bus. There will be other pick-ups en-route to the airport.
BA Tokyo/London TBC
Itinerary in Detail
Cherry Blossom along the riverside in

Tokyo
Important Notes
 Flight times and the daily order of sightseeing are subject to change.
 Transfer times are approximate and subject to local conditions at the time of travel.
 All flight times are local.
Accommodation
OUR ACCOMMODATION GRADING SYSTEM

Your accommodation is described on the following pages. Please do not
hesitate to call us if you require any further information about any of the
properties. We classify accommodation into the following categories. These
are for your guidance only, they are based on the opinions of our staff and are
therefore quite subjective.
Basic: Very primitive accommodation where we are not aware of anything
better in the region.
Simple: Clean and simple but limited facilities.
Medium: A good standard of accommodation, reasonable range of facilities.
First Class: A high standard of accommodation with a wide range of facilities.
Deluxe: Superb accommodation with facilities and service to match.
Opulent: The world’s most unashamedly luxurious hotels, resorts and lodges.
26 Accommodation
Accommodation
KEIO PLAZA HOTEL,

SHINJUKU
First Class
This popular hotel is located in the

heart of Tokyo’s business district, just a
few minutes' walk from bustling
Shinjuku Station. The rooms are
conventional in style and décor and
many have great views of the
impressive cityscape. With 1,450
rooms the hotel has a large selection of
restaurants, boasting cuisine from
around the world. During the summer
the hotel's outdoor pool opens, and
unusually for Japan, is free for guests.
Our opinion: One of Tokyo's better

international hotels, located in Shinjuku,
the capital’s most vibrant locality.
FUJIYA HOTEL, MIYANOSHITA

Medium
The first Western style hotel in all

Japan, the Fujiya was originally built for
foreign travellers at the end of the
nineteenth century, and is now made
up of several different buildings all
constructed at various times since
1878 up until the 1960s. Parts of the
hotel have even been designated as a
cultural asset by the Japanese
government and to this end rooms are
large and comfortable (twin beds only)
with classic teak furnishings and quirky
design. The hotel has indoor and
outdoor pools, hot spring bathing
facilities, several restaurants, a famous well located in Miyanoshita and central
tea lounge and even more famous to the sightseeing loop.
Japanese curry. There is even a
museum dedicated to the hotel's Our opinion: The emphasis here is on
history. The previous manager of the faded charm and the Fujiya is definitely in
hotel was American and has translated need of a face-lift. However, a sense of
information about the hotel and the history permeates the entire hotel and it is
surrounding area into English, so please a good characterful choice for those who
do ask for it on arrival. The hotel is don't mind a little shabbiness.
Accommodation 27
Accommodation
HOTEL ASSOCIA, TAKAYAMA

First Class
Set back from the town in the deep

forests and high mountains of the Japan
Alps, the Associa Hotel offers a high
standard of facilities in a peaceful and
secluded location. The hotel has a
couple of fine restaurants and like
many Japanese resort hotels has
excellent indoor and outdoor onsen
bathing facilities, an integral part of any
Japan experience. The open air baths
on the top floor look out over the
mountains and are particularly great for
relaxation. Room are spacious and
tastefully decorated, and on a clear day
offer spectacular views over the Japan
Alps.
Our opinion: Though slightly out of

town and rather austere looking, the hotel
is a great place to relax and unwind away
from the hustle and bustle of central
Takayama.
EXCEL TOKYU HOTEL,

KANAZAWA
Medium
The Excel hotels are the most

upmarket of the Tokyu hotel chain, and
the Kanazawa hotel lives up to this
billing. Rooms, although basic and
slightly dated, are clean and the beds
are very comfortable. The hotel is well
located in the centre of the action,
with the main shopping areas and
sightseeing highlights right on the
doorstep. There are plenty of
restaurants around the hotel and the
famous Kenroku-en garden is only
500m away.
Our opinion: Clean, comfortable and a

great base in Kanazawa
28 Accommodation
Accommodation
ANA CROWNE PLAZA HOTEL,

HIROSHIMA
First Class
The ANA Crowne Plaza, offers fine

quality accommodation in a good
central location. The hotel is located
on Peace Boulevard, a wide tree-lined
street, within easy walking distance of
the Peace Park and museum with
convenient transport links to the tram
network. The emphasis is on simple
elegance with chic and modern decor
throughout and flat-screen TVs in the
rooms. Staff are very helpful and
professional and there are stunning
views out to the island-studded Inland
Sea. Japanese and western cuisine is
served in the restaurant and there is a
swimming pool available, however you
need to pay a fee to enter.
Our opinion: The hotel offers

everything you'd expect from an
international chain and has a great
location to boot.
MIYARIKYU HOTEL, MIYAJIMA

ISLAND
First Class
Situated on the shore of the Seto

Inland sea within a few minutes walk of
the ferry terminal, the Miyarikyu Hotel
enjoys not only some of the best views
on the beautiful, historic island of
Miyajima but also one of the most
convenient locations.
While the ryokan is fairly modern, with
the benefit of a coffee shop, bar and
ensuite bathrooms, the guest rooms
are spacious and decorated in
traditional Japanese style with tatami,
shoji sliding screens and, in most cases,
sea views. Our opinion: The Miyarikyu is within a
comfortable stroll of all of the major sights
The hotel has a wonderful onsen (hot of Miyajima and benefits from the best of
spring bathing)up on the 5th floor, the traditional Japanese hospitality and
use of which is included in the price. Western convenience.
The baths have views over the shrine
gate in the bay making it a very
memorable experience.
Accommodation 29
Accommodation
KYOTO OKURA HOTEL,

KYOTO
First Class
From the outside this hotel is not

much to write home about, but once
inside our reasons for choosing the
Okura Hotel as our preferred central
hotel become more apparent. The
rooms are pleasantly decorated and of
a good size with views over the entire
city. The hotel has a number of good
dining options, including an excellent
Teppanyaki restaurant. Please note that
double rooms are far outnumbered by
twins are priced slightly higher than the
twin bed rooms. Do let your specialist
know which room type you would Our opinion: Despite its austere outer
prefer. The main draw of the Okura is shell, the Kyoto Okura Hotel is a well run
undoubtedly its location in the heart of property with the best location of any hotel
Kyoto, convenient for the main in the city. Modern rooms, friendly service
entertainment and sightseeing districts. and all the mod cons of a good
This deluxe hotel enjoys a wonderful international hotel.
reputation with the local Japanese, as
the best for service and with fine food.
30 Accommodation
Charity support
Audley has been supporting carbon reduction projects through Friends of Conservation since 2005 and in addition to this each
individual department also supports a charity of their choice with a yearly financial donation. This charity is one that is close to
their hearts and the team often chooses to fundraise to add to this amount. Please ask your specialist if you would like to find
out more as in most instances they will have visited the charity themselves, or one of their colleagues will have.
The Christina Noble Children’s Foundation and Audley’s Contribution

The Christina Noble Children's Foundation (CNCF) is dedicated to helping children in need with education, medical care, social
opportunities and job placement. Located in the country’s capital, the foundation conducts outreach work in and around Ulaan
Bataar offering housing for poor and single parent families as well as medical care, shelter and schooling for street children. In
1997 the foundation established a permanent centre here with the aim of creating a stable home for as many orphaned children
as possible. Today the charity’s ‘Sunshine Ger Village’, boasts a number of residential gers (the traditional felt tent of the
Mongolian people) and other facilities which serve as a stable home for 60 children and young adults ranging in age from 2 to
24 years old. Each residential ger is staffed by an adopted ger mother, often a single parent herself, who creates a loving home
for all of the children within her care. At school age the children are enrolled alongside their peers at the local district school:
learning within the community and gaining vital qualifications for later adult life. Children below school age attend the
Foundation’s kindergarten, constructed in 2002 on land adjacent to the ger village. The kindergarten also serves the wider
community and provides invaluable pre-school education to children of local families.
Our contribution
As part of their outreach work in the capital CNCF also administer the ‘Give a Ger’ fund, an emergency fund established to
provide families in danger of becoming homeless with a secure and comfortable place to live. This has proved an essential
lifeline for many in a country which is renowned for it’s particularly harsh winters where temperatures drop as low as -40C,
conditions which often drive whole families beneath the city’s streets as they find refuge in central heating pipes and vents. In
2008 our department made a £500 donation to the charity which bought a ger for a nomadic family who had been living in
what can only be described as a primitive hut in the heart of the city’s slum district.
In 2009 we decided to strengthen our support for the charity by committing our annual donation to sponsor a child through his
secondary education, this has been a real success and has seen Delgerbat, our sponsored child, go from strength to strength at
school over the last few years. Our fundraising efforts in addition to this annual donation have also continued, ranging from staff
barbeques and charity soup kitchens to Christmas cake sales. The additional money raised has gone to equally good use in
funding fuel and winter provisions for the family and even paying for a traditional New Year's party for the children in the
Sunshine Ger Village!
If you would like further information please speak to your specialist or visit www.cncf.org
Charity support 31
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issue date. This will, therefore, provide also be found at 4817). All the flight-inclusive holidays*
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serious accident. you will be supplied with an ATOL
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not providing any specific advice on country of residence. Some insurance Health
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32 General Information
General Information
any Foreign Office advice and the latest Smoking Travel advice
health news. Airlines do not permit smoking on the The Foreign and Commonwealth Office
aircraft. At the request of the majority of Travel Advice Unit monitors all overseas
Other health information services are our clients we do not allow smoking on destinations and offers safety advice to
available, including www.nathnac.org and any form of transport used for our British travellers. You can contact the
www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk escorted group tours. Stops are regularly service on 0845 850 2829 or visit
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
made where you will be able to smoke. www.fco.gov.uk/travel
For smokers travelling on a tailor-made
The majority of international airlines now
tour we request that you check with Flights and airlines
issue advice on how to lessen the risk of
your driver or guide whether smoking is The difference between a direct flight and
DVT; however, if you have any concerns,
permitted in the vehicle. a non-stop flight can cause confusion. To
we recommend that you consult your
doctor. clarify, on a direct flight no change of
Health and safety standards aircraft is scheduled but touchdowns will
Pre-existing medical Each country has its own regulations and be made en route either to refuel or to
conditions/Disabled passengers enforcement levels relating to health and board or disembark passengers. On non-
It is essential that you advise us before safety standards. These do not always stop flights no change of aircraft is
booking if you have any disability or pre- match the very high standards we are required and no stops are made en
existing medical condition which may used to in the UK. We therefore route. Virtually all of the flights that we
affect your holiday or any special recommend that you follow a few use are direct and many are non-stop.
requirements as a result of any disability precautionary safety procedures. Always Exact details will be given with your
or medical condition (including any which check where the nearest fire exit is and itinerary.
affect the booking process) so that we how to raise the fire alarm. Do not enter
can assist you in considering the Premium Economy, Business and
a swimming pool before checking the
suitability of the arrangements and/or First Class
water depth first. For more suggestions
making the booking. It will also enable us If you require business or first class flights
please see the Important Information
to make sure you receive the relevant these can be arranged on most airlines at
section in your Travel Organiser.
level of assistance when you fly. very competitive rates. Premium
economy can be arranged on certain
Passport and visa information for
Full details must be confirmed in writing airlines, please call us for details.
British Citizens
at the time of booking and whenever any Passengers must hold a passport which is Specific seat requests
change in the condition or disability valid for at least six months following the We will do all we can to try to reserve a
occurs. You must also promptly advise us return date of your holiday. British specific seat for you, if you have a
if any medical condition or disability passport holders (full British Citizens) preference. However, whilst airlines may
which may affect your holiday develops currently require visas, in advance of allow us to request seats, they will not
after your booking has been confirmed. travel, for the following destinations guarantee any specific seat reservation. If
The nature of many of the destinations featured in our brochures: Australia, this is important to you, it is always best
featured within our brochures means that Bhutan, Burma, China, Cuba, India, Iran*, to arrive for your flight early, regardless
in the majority of cases they are Kenya, Mongolia, Libya*, Papua New of having made this request in advance.
unsuitable for those who are wheelchair Guinea (also available on arrival), Russia, Please make it clear on your booking
bound or have a lack of mobility. We will Syria*, Tanzania, Tibet, Uganda, the USA form if you have a specific request.
be delighted to discuss the feasibility of Uzbekistan and Vietnam**. Flight amendments
creating a tailor-made itinerary for you Visas may be required for other We generally use special ‘inclusive tour’
that takes into consideration your level of countries but can be arranged on arrival. fares when we purchase your air tickets
mobility. *Subject to Foreign Office advice. from the airlines. While these fares are
**Visitors to Vietnam can obtain a visa on very good value they are inflexible in
On our escorted group tours the Tour arrival but require a letter of terms of changes and offer no refunds
Leader is, unfortunately, unable to offer authorisation from ourselves – please once the tickets are issued. Once your
additional assistance to passengers with speak to your specialist. flight is confirmed the airlines will charge
limited mobility and all such assistance
an amendment fee or insist on the
will need to be provided by whoever the We are normally able to obtain visas on purchase of a completely new ticket if
passenger is travelling with. We may your behalf, please ask for details at the you make changes.
request that you provide a letter from time of booking. Non-British passport
your doctor confirming your fitness to holders should check with the relevant Internal flights
travel. embassies as visa requirements may be Smaller local airlines are often more likely
different to those of British passport to change their schedule at short notice.
High altitude
holders. It is your responsibility to ensure We will endeavour to inform you of any
Your itinerary may include sections
you have the correct documentation and changes in advance of travelling but this
where the altitude exceeds 10,000 feet
visa stamp(s). Failure or inability to obtain may not always be possible.
(3,048 metres). If you suffer from
circulation, heart or respiratory problems all required visas for whatever reason
we advise that you consult with your does not entitle you to cancel without
doctor before confirming your booking. paying the applicable cancellation charges.
General Information 33
General Information
Frequent Flyer Clubs changes do occur and errors are customers who are in the UK at the time
If you collect points through any of the occasionally made. Airlines may change of booking or to overseas customers
airline frequent flyer clubs please provide their schedules, roads may close and who have booked directly with the
your membership details on the booking government regulations may alter. Should member. Members have to comply with
form and we will ensure that these are there be any changes to the travel UK Government Regulations in this
recorded against your flight reservation. arrangements you have booked we will respect. Members submit details of their
Please note that on some of our specially do our best to keep you informed of the bonding and guarantee arrangements to
negotiated ‘inclusive tour’ fares points are situation prior to departure. the Association on a regular basis.
not always awarded.
Accurate brochures and web sites
Travel in the developing world
All members do their utmost to ensure
Carbon off-setting Many of our destinations are in the
that all their brochures and other
Please let your specialist know if you developing world where attitudes,
publications, print or electronic, clearly
would like to carbon offset your flights. infrastructure, priorities, lifestyles and
and accurately describe the holidays and
We work with Friends of Conservation cultures are very different from our own.
services offered.
and all offsetting payments are donated This is often the very reason to visit the
through them. For more details visit destination but certain aspects may be Professional service and continual
www.audleytravel.com/offset. The frustrating. We always advise that the improvements
suggested amounts are in line with first thing you should pack is your sense All members are committed to high
DEFRA’s current guidelines for the cost of humour. This can prove invaluable standards of service and believe in regular
per tonne of carbon. If you wish to when travelling over rougher roads, and thorough training of employees.
ensure that Gift Aid is included please waiting for a delayed aircraft and Members continually seek to review and
donate directly via communicating with hotel staff whose improve their holidays. They listen to
www.audleytravel.com/offset first language is not English. their customers and always welcome
suggestions for improving standards.
UK airport hotels, car parking and Data Protection Act Monitoring standards
lounges We will hold your name, address and any AITO endeavours to monitor quality
We are able to arrange airport hotel other details you supply us with on our standards regularly. All customers should
accommodation, car parking, meet and database. This information will be used to receive a post-holiday questionnaire the
greet services and airport lounge access make your travel arrangements and to results of which are scrutinised by the
in the UK, subject to availability. To send you information about Audley Association.
arrange any of these services please call Travel. In order to make your travel
our Administration Team on 01993 838 arrangements we will need to pass your Responsible tourism
051. details to companies and individuals All members acknowledge the
outside the EU where less stringent data importance of AITO’s Responsible
Hotel information protection controls may be in place. We Tourism guidelines, which recognise the
There is frequent confusion over the will not pass on your details to third social, economic and environmental
terminology used for bed arrangements parties for any other purposes. responsibilities of tour operating. Those
in hotel rooms. A ‘double’ is recognised demonstrating their achievements
as meaning a room with a double bed, AITO Quality Charter: beyond the pure acceptance of this
this may be two single beds pushed The Association of Independent principle are recognised by the award of
together. A ‘twin’ is a room with two Tour Operators 2 to 5 star status.
single beds. Please note that all rooms AITO is the association for independent Customer relations
are allocated at the discretion of the and specialist holiday companies. Our All members endeavour to deal swiftly
hotel and cannot be guaranteed. member companies, usually owner- and fairly with any issues their customers
managed, strive to create overseas may raise. In the unlikely event that a
Single rooms
holidays with high levels of dispute between an AITO member and a
Single rooms tend to be smaller than
professionalism and a shared concern for customer cannot be settled amicably,
double or twin rooms, however, many
quality and personal service. The AITO’s low-cost Independent Dispute
hotels do not have single rooms, in which
Association encourages the highest Settlement Service may be called upon by
case you will be allocated a twin or
standards in all aspects of tour operating. either side to bring the matter to a
double room.
Exclusive membership speedy and acceptable conclusion.
Special dietary requirements AITO sets criteria regarding ownership, Audley is a member of the Association of
Special diets should be requested on the finance and quality which must be Independent Tour Operators. To contact
booking form; however, it is unrealistic satisfied before new companies are the Association, visit www.aito.co.uk or
to expect special diets to be catered for admitted to membership. All members call 020 8744 9280.
in some of the destinations we feature. are required to adhere to a Code of
We will advise the hotels and airlines of Business Practice which encourages high
your request but we cannot guarantee operational standards and conduct.
their availability. Financial security
An AITO member is required to protect
Brochure and itinerary accuracy money paid by customers to the member
We thoroughly check all the information for any holiday sold under the AITO
that is included within our brochures and logo. This protection applies to
individual tour itineraries, however,
34 General Information
Terms and conditions
Please read the following conditions carefully. All holidays we have contracted to provide will be held by them on our can reasonably expect to have a major effect on your
are sold by us subject to these conditions and the other behalf. If you book your holiday through a travel agent who holiday. Significant changes are likely to include the
general information in this booklet, our brochures and is not a member of ABTA, all payments must be made to following changes when made before departure; a change
quotations. us directly and not your travel agent. of accommodation to that of a lower official classification
Audley Travel Group Ltd (whose administrative offices are or standard for the whole or a major part of the time you
at New Mill, New Mill Lane, Witney, Oxon OX29 9SX) 2. If you change your holiday are away*, a change of accommodation area for the whole
are members of the Association of Independent Tour If, after the contract between us has come into existence, or a major part of the time you are away, a change of UK
Operators. Audley Travel Group Ltd (hereafter referred you want to change your holiday we will do our best to outward departure time or overall length of time you are
to as ‘we’, ‘us’, ‘our’) offers a number of products and the pass your request to the relevant supplier, however we away of twelve or more hours, or a change of UK
trading names we use are ‘Audley’, and ‘Audley Travel’. In cannot guarantee that such changes can be made. Where a departure airport to one which is more inconvenient for
these Terms & Conditions, ‘you’ and ‘your’ means all change can be made, we will charge for any additional costs you (except as between Gatwick and Heathrow).
persons named on the booking, or any of them as incurred including any costs imposed or incurred by any of
applicable (including anyone who is added or substituted at our suppliers, and including for example cancellation *Please note: A change affecting a stay in a hotel during a
a later date). charges that may be incurred for sectors cancelled. You tour where the hotel itself is not the focus of the tour, does
should note, for example, that a change of name on or not constitute a significant change.
Your contract with us and all matters arising out of it are other alteration to an airline ticket will usually incur a 100%
governed by English law. We both agree that any dispute, cancellation charge and full rebooking fee. If we have to make a significant change or cancel, we will
claim or other matter which arises out of or in connection tell you as soon as possible. If there is time to do so before
with this contract or your holiday, will be dealt with by the 3. If you cancel your holiday departure, we will offer you the choice of the following
AITO Arbitration Scheme - see clause 9 or the Courts of If you have to cancel part of the booking or cancel the options:-
England and Wales only unless, in the case of Court entire booking once it has been confirmed by us, written
proceedings, you live in Scotland or Northern Ireland. In notification must be sent to us by recorded delivery post or (a) (for significant changes) accepting the changed
this case, proceedings may be brought in the Courts of by email. As proof of receipt by email of your notification to arrangements or
your home country. If proceedings are brought in Scotland cancel you must receive and retain written
or Northern Ireland, you may choose to have your acknowledgement from Audley Travel. Charges will be (b) purchasing an alternative holiday from us, of a similar
contract governed by the law of Scotland/Northern Ireland applied from the date the letter is received, or the email is standard to that originally booked if available. Please note:
as applicable. If you do not so choose, English law will apply. acknowledged by Audley Travel, according to the scale Due to the original and individual nature of our holidays it
below. The charges are applied as a percentage of the total frequently may not be possible to offer you a comparable
1. Paying for your holiday holiday cost excluding any amendment charges and any holiday to that originally booked.
(i) The procedure for making a booking is shown in your amounts paid in addition to the deposit at the time of
itinerary quotation and on our website. All bookings are booking or before balance due date (see clauses 1(ii) and (c) cancelling or accepting the cancellation in which case
subject to these terms and conditions and by asking us to I(iv)) which are non refundable in the event of cancellation. you will receive a full and quick refund of all monies you
confirm your booking, the person who makes the booking have paid to us.
is taken to have accepted these booking conditions on The following cancellation charges apply if your final balance
behalf of all persons named on the booking. Once we have due date is 8 weeks prior to departure. Please note, You must advise us of your decision within 7 days of the
received the applicable payment(s) due at the time of different cancellation charges apply in relation to certain date on which we notified you of the significant change or
booking (see below), we will, subject to availability of the products – please see your quote for details. cancellation. Please note, the above options are not
requested arrangements, send you your invoice. It is at the available where any change made is a minor one. A minor
point when we issue this to you that a valid contract will Period before departure Cancellation change is any change which, taking account of the
come into existence between us. Please check your date within which written Charge information you have given us at the time of booking or
confirmation/invoice and all tickets/documents carefully as notification is received at Per Person which we can reasonably be expected to know as a tour
soon as you receive them and contact us immediately if our offices operator, we could not reasonably expect to have a
you think any details are incorrect. We regret we cannot significant effect on your confirmed holiday.
accept any liability if we are not notified of any inaccuracies Up to balance due date Deposit only
(for which we are responsible) in any document within ten Balance due date-43 days 30% If we have to make a significant change or cancellation we
days of our sending it out (five days for tickets).We will do 42-29 days 60% will pay you the compensation set out below subject to the
our best to rectify any mistake notified to us outside these 28-3 days 90% following exceptions. Compensation will not be payable
time limits but you must meet any costs involved in doing Within 2 days 100% and no liability beyond offering the above mentioned
so. choices can be accepted where (1) we are forced to make
Alterations or cancellations by you after a change or cancel as a result of unusual and unforeseeable
(ii) The deposit is part payment of the holiday. The deposit commencement of travel and unused services circumstances beyond our control, the consequences of
required will be shown on the quotation page of your We will do our best to implement any changes to your which we could not have avoided even with all due care or
itinerary. In addition to the deposit, full or part payment of arrangements you request once they have commenced, but (2) we have to cancel because the minimum number of
certain elements of your holiday (such as flights) may be we cannot guarantee this will be possible. In the event of bookings necessary for us to operate your holiday has not
required at the time booking or at some point between such amendments being made you will be liable for any been reached - in this case we will notify you no less than
booking and balance due date. Also see clause I (iv). The cancellation charges that may be levied for the services 60 days before departure. Please note: all escorted group
deposit and all such additional payments are non refundable originally booked, and for the cost of booking the revised trips are based on group arrangements involving a given
except as set out in clause 4. The balance must be paid not arrangements and the arrangements themselves. As a basic minimum number of passengers. No compensation will be
later than the date specified on the invoice. This is normally principle, no refunds will be paid to clients who do not payable and the above options will not be available if we
no less than 8 weeks before the departure date. However, complete a tour. However where we ourselves are able to cancel as a result of your failure to comply with any
there are a few destinations or trip components that obtain a refund from hotels or principals for services not requirement of these booking conditions entitling us to
require payment no less than 90 days before the departure used, we will pass this on to you, less any reasonable cancel (such as paying on time).
date which will be specified on your invoice and quotation. administration charges.
Please note if we do not receive all payments due (including Period of notification of Compensation
any surcharge where applicable) in full and on time, we are THE IMPORTANCE OF TRAVEL INSURANCE change before scheduled per person
entitled to assume that you wish to cancel your booking. In If you have taken out holiday insurance you may, depending departure date
this case, we will be entitled to keep all amounts paid or on the detail of your policy, be able to recover the
due at that date. If we do not cancel straight away because cancellation charges, check your policy for details. Never More than 60 days Nil
you have promised to make payment, you must pay the travel without insurance, the unexpected can always 60-43 days £10
cancellation charges shown in clause 3 depending on the happen. It is your responsibility to ensure you are 42-29 days £20
date we reasonably treat your booking as cancelled. adequately covered by insurance. Please read your policy 28-15 days £30
and take it on holiday with you. 14-0 days £40
(iii) Full payment is required at the time of booking for all
bookings made after balance due date as above. 4. If we change your holiday In the unlikely event that we become unable to provide a
We start planning the holidays we offer many months in significant proportion of the services you have booked after
(iv) On occasions, we may be asked by suppliers to make advance. Occasionally, we have to make changes to and you depart, we will make alternative arrangements for you
payment to them earlier than normal. Such requests may, correct errors in itineraries and other details both before at no extra charge, or, if this is impossible, or you do not
for example, be made in order to secure accommodation and after bookings have been confirmed and cancel accept these alternative arrangements for a good reason,
and other services during periods of peak demand. Whilst confirmed bookings. Whilst we always endeavour to avoid we will provide you with transport back to the point where
suppliers may have no contractual right to make such changes and cancellations, we must reserve the right to do your holiday arrangements with us commenced. If we are
requests, failure to comply with them may result in the loss so. However, we promise we will only cancel your forced by ‘force majeure’ (see clause 5) to change or
of confirmed arrangements. Where this situation arises, we confirmed booking after balance due date where you have terminate your holiday after departure but before the
reserve the right to ask you to make payment of the failed to comply with any requirement of these booking scheduled end of your time away, we regret we will be
requested sum within a stipulated period and prior to conditions entitling us to cancel (such as paying on time) or unable to make any refunds (unless we obtain any refunds
balance due date. We will of course endeavour to avoid where we are forced to do so as a result of ‘force majeure’ from our suppliers), pay you any compensation or meet any
doing so if we can. Any such early payment will be non as defined in clause 5 below. We will not cancel after this costs or expenses you incur as a result except as set out
refundable except as set out in clause 4. date for any other reason. above.
(v) If you are booking your holiday through one of our Most changes are minor. Occasionally, we have to make a 5. Force majeure
authorised travel agents the balance must be paid to the ‘significant change’. A significant change is a change made Except as set out in these terms and conditions, we cannot
agent two weeks prior to the applicable balance due date as before departure which, taking account of the information accept liability or pay any compensation where the
specified on the invoice and quotation. All payments made you give us at the time of booking and which we can performance or prompt performance of our contractual
to one of our authorised travel agents for the arrangements reasonably be expected to know as a tour operator, we obligations is prevented or affected, or you otherwise
Terms and conditions 35

suffer any loss or damage (as more fully described in clause (c) an event or circumstance which we or the supplier of 8. Flights and your responsibility
7 (i) below) as a result of circumstances amounting to the service(s) in question could not have predicted or The flight details shown in your itinerary quotation are for
‘force majeure’. In these terms and conditions ‘force avoided even after taking all reasonable care (see clause 5) guidance only and are subject to change. Final details will be
majeure’ means any event or circumstances which we or confirmed on your travel documentation, sent
the supplier of the services in question could not foresee (d) the fault of anyone who is not carrying out work for us approximately 14 days prior to departure. The times
or avoid even with all due care. Such events and (generally or in particular) at the time. shown on all tickets are local times and check in for both
circumstances may include, whether actual or threatened, outward and return flights is at least 3 hours prior to the
war, insurrection, riots, strikes, civil action, decisions by In addition, we will not be responsible where you do not departure times on the travel documents. It is possible that
governments or governing authority, technical or enjoy your holiday or suffer any problems because of a flight times may be changed even after tickets have been
maintenance problems with transport, changes of schedules reason you did not tell us about when you booked your dispatched - we will contact you as soon as possible if this
or operational decisions of air carriers, terrorist activity, holiday or where any problems you suffer did not result occurs.
industrial action, natural or nuclear activity, from any breach of our contract or other fault of ourselves
epidemics/pandemics, adverse weather conditions, fire and or, where we were responsible for them, our suppliers or In accordance with EU Directive (EC) No 2111/2005
all similar events outside our control. agents or where any losses, expenses, costs or other sum Article 9, we are required to bring to your attention the
you have suffered relate to any business. existence of a “Community list” which contains details of
6. Surcharges air carriers who are subject to an operating ban within the
Once the price of your chosen holiday has been confirmed Please note: we cannot accept responsibility for any EU. The Community list is available for inspection at
at the time of booking, we will only increase or decrease it services which do not form part of our contract. This http://europa.eu.int/comm/transport/air/safety/
in the following circumstances. Price increases or decreases includes, for example, any additional services or facilities flywell_en.htm. In accordance with EU Regulations we are
after booking will be passed on by way of a surcharge or which your hotel or any other supplier agrees to provide required to advise you of the actual carrier(s) (or, if the
refund. A surcharge or refund (as applicable) will be for you where the services or facilities are not advertised in actual carrier(s) is not known, the likely carrier(s)) that will
payable, subject to the conditions set out in this clause, if our brochure and we have not agreed to arrange them as operate your flight(s) at the time of booking. Where we are
transportation costs (e.g. fuel, scheduled airfares and any part of our contract and any excursion you purchase during only able to inform you of the likely carrier(s) at the time of
other airline surcharges which are part of the contract your holiday. booking, we shall inform you of the identity of the actual
between airlines (and their agents) and the tour operator) carrier(s) as soon as we become aware of this. Any change
or dues, taxes or fees payable for services such as landing (ii) The promises we make to you about the services we to the operating carrier(s) after your booking has been
taxes or embarkation or disembarkation fees at ports or have agreed to provide or arrange as part of our contract - confirmed will be notified to you as soon as possible. If the
airports change. and the laws and regulations of the country in which your carrier with whom you have a confirmed reservation
claim or complaint occurred - will be used as the basis for becomes subject to an operating ban as above as a result of
Even in the above cases, only if the amount of the increase deciding whether the services in question had been which we/ the carrier are unable to offer you a suitable
in our costs exceeds 2% of the total cost of your holiday properly provided. If the particular services which gave rise alternative the provisions of clause 4 will apply. Any change
(excluding any amendment charges), will we levy a to the claim or complaint complied with local laws and in the identity of the carrier, flight timings, and/or aircraft
surcharge. If any surcharge is greater than 10% of the cost regulations applicable to those services at the time, the type (if advised) will not entitle you to cancel or change to
of your holiday (excluding any amendment charges), you services will be treated as having been properly provided. other arrangements without paying our normal charges
will be entitled to cancel your booking and receive a full This will be the case even if the services did not comply except where specified in these conditions.
refund of all monies you have paid to us (except for any with the laws and regulations of the UK which would have
amendment charges) or alternatively purchase another applied had those services been provided in the UK. The We can accept no responsibility if you arrive late for the
holiday from us as referred to in clause 4 ‘If we change your exception to this is where the claim or complaint concerns check in and miss your flight as a result nor can we accept
holiday’. Please note that travel arrangements are not the absence of a safety feature which might lead a responsibility for any loss by you of your holiday/flight travel
always purchased in local currency and some apparent reasonable holiday maker to refuse to take the holiday in tickets, vouchers or coupons.
changes have no impact on the price of your travel due to question.
contractual and other protection in place. Air travel is subject to operational decisions of carriers and
(iii) We limit the maximum amount we may have to pay airports which may result in delays and diversions. Please
A refund will only be payable if the decrease in our costs you for any and all claims or parts of claims which do not note that minor carriers sometimes change the departure
exceeds 2% as set out above. Where a refund is due, we involve personal injury, illness or death. Except where loss time of short-haul or domestic flights at short notice, and in
will pay you the full amount of the decrease in our costs. of and/or damage to luggage or personal possessions is some instances, schedules shown in the computers of
concerned or a lower limitation of liability applies to your intercontinental carriers differ from those actually flown by
You have 14 days from the issue date printed on the claim, the maximum amount we will have to pay you for smaller local carriers. We advise you that it is your
surcharge invoice to tell us if you want to cancel or such non personal injury claims if we are found liable to you responsibility to be meticulous in locally reconfirming
purchase another holiday where applicable. If you do not on any basis is twice the price (excluding any amendment directly with the carrier operating the flight. We accept no
tell us that you wish to do so within this period of time, we charges) paid by or on behalf of the person(s) affected in liability for the consequences of flights missed owing to the
are entitled to assume that you will pay the surcharge. Any total. This maximum amount will only be payable where passenger’s failure to reconfirm.
surcharge must be paid with the balance of the cost of the everything has gone wrong and you have not received any
holiday or within 14 days of the issue date printed on the benefit at all from your holiday. Clients flying in economy class to long-haul destinations
surcharge invoice, whichever is the later. should be aware that flights are often full and you may not
Where we are found liable for loss of and/or damage to any be able to get seats together. We also recommend that
We reserve the right to make changes to and correct luggage or personal possessions (including money), the you check in early for a long flight, and in any case not less
errors in quoted prices at any time before your holiday is maximum amount we will have to pay you is £150 per than 3 hours before the scheduled departure time.
confirmed. We will advise you of any error of which we are person affected as you are assumed to have taken out
aware and of the then applicable price at the time of adequate insurance at the time of booking. Please also see If your flight is cancelled or delayed, your flight ticket is
booking. clause 7(iv) below. downgraded or boarding is denied by your airline in
circumstances which would entitle you to claim
(iv) Where any claim or part of a claim concerns or is compensation or any other payment from the airline under
7. Our responsibility based on any travel arrangements (including the process of EC Regulation No 261/2004 - the Denied Boarding
(i) We promise to make sure that all parts of the holiday getting on and/or off the transport concerned) provided by Regulations 2004, you must pursue the airline for the
we have agreed to arrange, perform or provide as part of any air, sea, rail or road carrier or any stay in a hotel, the compensation or other payment due to you. All sums you
our contract with you are arranged, performed or maximum amount of compensation we will have to pay receive or are entitled to receive from the airline
provided with reasonable skill and care. This means that, you will be limited. The most we will have to pay you for concerned by virtue of these Regulations represent the full
subject to these booking conditions, we will accept that claim or that part of a claim if we are found liable to amount of your entitlement to compensation or any other
responsibility if, for example, you suffer death or personal you on any basis is the most the carrier or hotel keeper payment arising from such cancellation, delay, downgrading
injury or your contracted holiday arrangements are not concerned would have to pay under the international or denied boarding. This includes any disappointment,
provided as promised or prove deficient as a result of the convention or regulation which applies to the travel distress, inconvenience or effect on any other
failure of ourselves, our employees, agents or suppliers to arrangements or hotel stay in question (for example, the arrangements. The fact a delay may entitle you to cancel
use reasonable skill and care in making, performing or Warsaw Convention as amended for international travel by your flight does not automatically entitle you to cancel any
providing, as applicable, your contracted holiday air and/or for airlines with an operating licence granted by other arrangements even where those arrangements have
arrangements. Please note, it is your responsibility to show an EU country, the EU Regulation on Air Carrier Liability been made in conjunction with your flight. We have no
that reasonable skill and care has not been used if you wish for national and international travel by air, the Athens liability to make any payment to you in relation to the
to make a claim against us. In addition, we will only be Convention for international travel by sea and COTIF, the Denied Boarding Regulations or in respect of any flight
responsible for what our employees, agents and suppliers Convention on International Travel by Rail). Please note: cancellation or delay, downgrading of any flight ticket or
do or do not do if they were at the time acting within the Where a carrier or hotel would not be obliged to make denial of any boarding as the full amount of your
course of their employment (for employees) or carrying any payment to you under the applicable International entitlement to any compensation or other payment (as
out work we had asked them to do (for agents and Convention or Regulation in respect of a claim or part of a dealt with above) is covered by the airline's obligations
suppliers). We will not be responsible for any injury, illness, claim, we similarly are not obliged to make a payment to under the Denied Boarding Regulations. If your airline does
death, loss (including loss of enjoyment), damage, expense, you for that claim or part of the claim. When making any not comply with these rules, you should complain to the
cost or other sum or claim of any description whatsoever payment, we are entitled to deduct any money which you Air Transport Users’ Council on 020 7240 6061
which results from any of the following:- have received or are entitled to receive from the transport www.auc.org.uk
provider or hotelier for the complaint or claim in question.
(a) the fault of the person(s) affected or any member(s) of We cannot accept liability for any delay unless it has a
their party or (v) You must provide ourselves and our insurers with all material effect on your holiday arrangements. See clause 4.
assistance we may reasonably require. You must also tell us
(b) the fault of a third party not connected with the and the supplier concerned about your claim or complaint
provision of your holiday which we could not have as set out in clause 9 below.
predicted or avoided or
36 Terms and conditions

You undertake to behave with propriety and in such a on a particular itinerary or programme, this information A copy of the policy is available on request. In the instances
manner as in no way causes or is likely to cause distress, should be regarded as a term of the contract. where topp protection applies you will not receive an
danger or annoyance to other clients and/or any third party ATOL certificate with your invoice. For further details visit
or damage to property. If, in the view of ourselves, our The hotel classifications given in our brochure, quotations www.audleytravel.com/protect
employees, agents or suppliers, you are in breach of this and dossiers and fact sheets are for guidance only. They are
clause, we reserve the right to terminate your contract and not based on any national or international classification 13. Excursions
neither we nor the providers of any of the services in system, they are the opinions of our staff or agents and are Please note that we do not provide or arrange excursions
question will have any further contractual obligations to you quite subjective. other than those listed in your itinerary and forming part of
either in respect of covering any expenses, paying any the arrangements booked and paid for in the UK. Our local
compensation or refunds, or arranging for your return 11. Special requests representatives or guides may put you in touch with local
home. If you have any special request, you must advise us in organisers of excursions if you request but we can have no
writing at the time of booking. Although we will endeavour liability for such excursions, as your contract for such
When you book with us, you accept responsibility for any to pass any reasonable requests on to the relevant supplier, excursions will be with a local company providing the
damage or loss caused by you. Full payment for any such we regret we cannot guarantee any request will be met services and not with us.
damage or loss (reasonably estimated if not precisely unless we have specifically confirmed this. For your own
known) must be paid direct at the time to the protection, you should obtain confirmation in writing from 14. Prices and Brochure Accuracy
accommodation owner or manager or other supplier. If the us that your request will be complied with (where it is Please note, the information and prices shown in our
actual cost of the loss or damage exceeds the amount paid possible for us to give this) if your request is important to brochures and/or quotations may have changed by the time
where estimated, you must pay the difference once known. you. Confirmation that a special request has been noted or you come to book your holiday. Whilst every effort is
If the actual cost is less than the amount paid, the difference passed on to the supplier or the inclusion of the special made to ensure the accuracy of the brochures, quotations
will be refunded. If you fail to do so, you will be responsible request on your confirmation invoice or any other and prices at the time of printing or when they are given to
for meeting any claims subsequently made against us documentation is not confirmation that the request will be you, regrettably errors do occasionally occur. You must
(together with our own and the other party’s full legal met. Unless and until specifically confirmed, all special therefore ensure you check all details of your chosen
costs) as a result of your actions. requests are subject to availability. holiday (including the price) with us at the time of booking.
You must ensure that all your travel documents, full We regret we cannot accept any conditional bookings, i.e. 15. Honeymoon Gift Service
passports, visas, vaccination certificates, currency and any booking which is specified to be conditional on the All honeymoon bookings and use of Audley's Honeymoon
travellers cheques are in order and valid for travel. All costs fulfilment of a particular request. All such bookings will be Gift Service are subject to our terms & conditions. It is
incurred in obtaining such documentation must be paid by treated as ‘standard’ bookings subject to the above important to note that in the unfortunate event of the
you. We regret we cannot accept any liability if you are provisions on special requests. cancellation of your booking you will be responsible for all
refused entry onto any transport or into any country due cancellation charges as detailed in our Terms & Conditions.
to failure on your part to carry correct documentation. We If you have any medical problem or disability which may Audley also reserve the right to charge a £150
are able to give general advice on these matters for British affect your holiday, please tell us before you confirm your administration fee to cover refunding all monies to your
citizens holding a British passport. However, non-British booking so that we can advise as to the suitability of the guests. These refunds will only be made once all
citizens and non British passport holders should check with chosen arrangements. In any event, you must give us full cancellation charges have been paid. As the client, you will
their embassy or consulate vis-a-vis current requirements. details in writing at the time of booking. You must also take on the responsibility for the full payment of the
See also our General Information section. promptly advise us if any medical condition or disability booking as the amount of your guest contributions cannot
which may affect your holiday develops after your booking be guaranteed.
If failure to have any necessary travel or other documents has been confirmed. If we reasonably feel unable to
results in fines, surcharges or other financial penalty being properly accommodate the particular needs of the person Audley Travel Group Limited. Registered Address: New
imposed on us, you will be responsible for reimbursing us concerned, we must reserve the right to decline their Mill, New Mill Lane, Witney, Oxfordshire OX29 9SX.
accordingly. reservation or, if full details are not given at the time of Registered in England with Company Reg. No. 3190720.
booking, cancel when we become aware of these details. VAT Reg. No.125454721. October2012.
The name on your airline tickets must be the name that
appears on your full passport. 12. Your financial protection
We hold an Air Travel Organiser's Licence issued by the
Please note that if you believe that we have stated orally Civil Aviation Authority (ATOL number 4817). When you
that a particular facility or service should be available, but is buy an ATOL protected flight-inclusive holiday* from us,
not in the brochure or in writing from us, please make you will receive an ATOL Certificate. This lists the flight,
reference to it on the booking form so that we may accommodation, car hire and/or other services that are
confirm it to you when accepting your booking. financially protected, where you can get information on
what this means for you, and who to contact if things go
9. Complaints wrong. We, or the suppliers identified on your ATOL
Should you have any complaints about any aspect of your Certificate, will provide you with the services listed on the
holiday arrangements, you must inform our local ATOL Certificate (or a suitable alternative). In some cases,
representative or tour leader immediately and the supplier where neither we nor the supplier are able to do so for
of the arrangements concerned. Problems can most easily reasons of insolvency, an alternative ATOL holder may
be dealt with on the spot. Please note, if you do not report provide you with services you have bought or a suitable
a problem or complaint which, if it had been reported at alternative (at no extra cost to you). You agree to accept
the time it occurred could have been resolved there and that in those circumstances the alternative ATOL holder
then we cannot accept any liability in respect of that will perform those obligations and you agree to pay any
problem or complaint. It is sensible to expect a client money outstanding to be paid by you under your contract
travelling in the developing world to be reasonably to that alternative ATOL holder. However, you also agree
resourceful if things go wrong. If you experience any that in some cases it will not be possible to appoint an
difficulties, contact us in the UK on our 24 hour emergency alternative ATOL holder, in which case you will be entitled
telephone service. The number will be found on your pre- to make a claim under the ATOL scheme (or your credit
departure information and with your tickets. In the unlikely card issuer where applicable).
event that an acceptable solution cannot be found, you
should then write to us within 28 days of your return with *The air inclusive holidays and flights we arrange are ATOL
full details of your complaint. If you fail to follow this protected providing they are made available in the UK. For
complaints procedure, your right to claim the further information, visit the ATOL website at
compensation you may otherwise have been entitled to www.atol.org.uk.
may be affected or even lost as a result.
Not all holiday or travel services offered and sold by us will
If we cannot reach an amicable solution to any dispute you be protected by the ATOL scheme. In compliance with the
do have the right to refer the dispute to the Association of UK Package Travel, Package Holidays and Package Tours
Independent Tour Operators which operates an Regulations 1992 an insurance policy has been arranged
Independent Dispute Service (details on request) for with Travel & General Insurance Company plc, authorised
resolution of the dispute by a mediator provided the claim and regulated by the Financial Services Authority, to
does not involve personal accident, injury or illness. protect customers’ pre-payments for packaged travel
services which are not covered by the ATOL scheme in the
10. The brochure and quotation unlikely event of our financial failure. This policy will cover
We have taken every care in ensuring that the information the following;
in the brochure and given in quotations/itineraries is - a refund of such pre-payments if customers have not yet
correct at the time of publication. However we are sure travelled, or
you will appreciate that subsequently minor alterations may - making arrangements to enable the holiday to continue if
arise. We reserve the right to change any of the prices, customers have already travelled, or
services or other particulars contained in this brochure or - returning customers to the starting point of their
any quotation at any time before we enter into a contract contracted holiday arrangements with Audley Travel where
with you. If there is any change we will notify you before applicable
we enter into such contract. Where we state that Customers’ pre-payments are protected by a topp policy.
additional information, a fact sheet or a dossier is available In the unlikely event of financial failure please contact the
claims helpline on 0870 0137 965.
Terms and conditions 37

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Japan : Old & New

Escorted Group Tour

We are proud to have received a number of awards over recent

These awards are widely recognised as being the most

Introduction to tour ______________________________ 5

Our experience in Japan varies from having spent

4 Meet our specialists

 Introduction to our Japan Old & New Tour

 Special Dietary Requirements

 Tour Health & Fitness

Introduction to our Japan : Old & New tour 5

 Activity Level - Low/Medium

 Extending Your Trip

6 Introduction to our Japan : Old & New tour

Day by day summary 7

The afternoon is at leisure.

Tonight we dine at a local restaurant, which includes a dance

8 Day by day summary

Arrangements as specified per person ____________________________________________________ £6,145

How to book Included in the price

Quality service when you are

10 Why travel with us?

Avg Max Day Temperature (0C)

Tokyo Avg Min Night Temperature (0C)

Avg Hours of Sunshine

Introduction to the region 11

12 Introduction to the region

14 Photographs of the region

Photographs of the region 15

Saturday BA London/Tokyo TBC

Pagoda, Honmonji Temple

Young women in kimono

Welcome meeting at airport and transfer to Tokyo

Introductory Evening Meal

Held at a local restaurant or the hotel restaurant, this welcome dinner is an

Monday Tokyo City Tour

Japan's modern capital has no single central point, rather it is an amalgamation of

Palace bridge & Keep, Tokyo

Tuesday Tokyo to Hakone, via Kamakura

Lake Ashi, Hakone

Wednesday Exploring Hakone

Thursday Hakone to Takayama, via Matsumoto

Hida Folk Village, near Takayama

Friday Exploring Takayama

Autumn leaves at Hida folk village, near

Saturday Takayama to Kanazawa via Shirakawago

Sunday Kenroku-en and Kanazawa City Tour

Monday Kanazawa to Hiroshima by train

Atomic bomb dome, Hiroshima

Peace memorial, Hiroshima

Hiroshima City Tour

Tuesday Hiroshima to Miyajima by boat

Itsukushima Shrine, Miyajima Island

Floating torii gate, Miyajima

Exploring Miyajima Island

Wednesday Miyajima to Kyoto via Hiroshima by ferry and train

Golden Pavilion, Kyoto

Thursday Kyoto City Tour

Today enjoy a fascinating introduction to the refined delights of Kyoto. We visit