  (Travel
license TTA 183) For details of these and other tours please
contact the Tours Office:
Mexico Guatemala Belize4th January - 24 January 2019 
Marvel at the cultural gems of Central America on this exhilarating journey to Mexico, Guatemala and Belize. Stand in awe at the might and mystery of the Aztec and Mayan archaeological sites of Teotihuacan, Chichen Itza, Uxmal and Tikal. Explore the diverse cultures, art and architecture of these colourful countries steeped in ancient, indigenous and Spanish colonial history. All offer charming towns, traditional indigenous lifestyles, fabulous markets, traditional arts and crafts and breathtaking Caribbean, mountain and jungle landscapes. Be delighted by this cultural feast for the senses.
Click here for the full itinerary, costs and conditions (PDF document - may take some time to download if on a slow connection) Israel Jordan and The Dead Sea16th March - 5th April 2019 
A journey to Israel resonates deeply within the soul. It is a place like no other, its very name conjuring up biblical images, extraordinary history, parched deserts and profound questions of antiquity and western civilization. Explore intriguing archaeological sites, ancient cities and dramatic landscapes as well as Mediterranean, Dead Sea and Red Sea coastlines. Neighbouring Jordan too stirs a romantic image with its mysterious lost cities, epic Lawrence of Arabia landmarks and the spectacular pink desert sands of Wadi Rhumm. The rose city of Petra can be compared in mystique and grandeur to Machu Picchu or Angkor Wat as one of the great ancient cities of the world. With a perfect balance of both historical and modern exploration, unique adventures and time to relax, join experienced archaeologist Dr Robert Stone to discover the wonders of these ancient holy lands. Click here for the full itinerary, costs and conditions (PDF document - may take some time to download if on a slow connection) Iberia - Portugal and Spain27th April - 18th May 2019 
Be delighted by an unspoilt Europe and authentic charm in Portugal as you explore medieval towns, sumptuous Baroque architecture and romantic palaces. Indulge in extraordinary gastronomic pleasures, cruise down the fabulous Douro River, enjoy traditional folk music and journey through history with local expert guides. Complement the distinctive character, individuality and cultural treasures of Portugal with those of its exotic neighbour Spain. Savour the artworks of grand European masters in Madrid and the exquisite Moorish architecture and gardens, white washed villages and heavenly beauty of the Al Hambra in Andalucia. Every day is a feast for the senses.
Click here for the full itinerary, costs and conditions (PDF document - may take some time to download if on a slow connection) Russia and The Baltics 201922 May - 12 June 2019 
Explore Moscow in the Spring admiring the imposing Red Square and Kremlin, the Tsarist treasures of the Kremlins Armoury, spectacular cathedrals with extravagant concoctions of onion domes and spirals in riotous colours, ancient icons and the famous Moscow Metro with its marble, mosaics and sculptures. Spend six nights cruising the Volga River, stepping ashore at World Heritage listed ancient cities of the Golden Ring, picturesque islands and rural Russian villages. Be dazzled by the opulence and neo-classical beauty of St Petersburg, the sumptuous Amber Room at Catherines Palace and the jewellery, Faberge collections and artistic treasures of the great Hermitage. Tour the fine Baltic cities of Riga and Tallinn where the wealth created by the Hanseatic League has left a legacy of living museums, grand heritage buildings and medieval architecture.
Click here for the full itinerary, costs and conditions (PDF document - may take some time to download if on a slow connection) Tanzania And The Spice Islands16th June - 5th July 2019 
Tanzania is a land of powerful landscapes, wildlife and culture and the cradle of humankind. The colours will dazzle you from brilliant orange sunsets to a sky painted pink by a million flamingos; the leafy green of the lush Kilimanjaro foothills to the turquoise waters of Zanzibars Indian Ocean. Witness the grandeur of arguably the worlds mightiest National Park Serengeti, where immense populations of wild game animals roam the savannah and the unique spectacle of the Ngorongoro crater and be intrigued on cultural exchanges with precious and iconic tribal groups such as the Maasai, Hadzabe, Datoga and Chagga. Canoe on mighty Lake Victoria, sail on a traditional Dhow on historic Zanzibar island, visit plantations, schools, local markets and galleries brimming with beautiful African art. This enriching experience captures the spirit of Africa and its people and is likely to stay with you forever.
Click here for the full itinerary, costs and conditions (PDF document - may take some time to download if on a slow connection) Maryborough Queenslands Fraser Coast5th August - 13th August 2019 
The Fraser Coast of Queensland is a treasure trove of quaint historic villages, graceful cities with grand and eclectic architecture and lush sub- tropical vistas from the ranges to the sea. Explore beautiful Botanic gardens, quirky museums, iconic produce factories, local heritage and museums. Travel with Qantas to Brisbane, then by high speed Tilt Train to Maryborough and by luxury coach throughout the tour. Highlights include a scenic Hervey Bay whale watching cruise, the Gympie Rattler steam engine journey and numerous local heritage walking tours. Join Dr Denis Binnion our perennially popular historian and tour leader on this carefree exploration of south- central coastal Queensland which abounds in pleasantly un-commercialised sights and attractions. With six nights in sunny Maryborough you can unpack and relax at your comfortable accommodation and delight in escaping the winter cold. Click here for the full itinerary, costs and conditions (PDF document - may take some time to download if on a slow connection) Transylvania29th August - 17th September 2019 
The beauty of the Balkan Peninsula is a timeless secret now appreciated by savvy travellers. This tour explores the historic treasures and rich heritage of the unspoilt former kingdoms of Romania and Bulgaria. Arriving in Sofia the Bulgarian capital and departing from the Romanian capital of Bucharest, you visit fabulous Brasov, Sibiu and Sighisoara, the so called Walled Citadels of Transylvania which exemplify the finest medieval neighbourhoods in all of Europe. These picture-postcard towns are ringed by towering walls which conceal impeccably preserved rows of red- roofed merchant houses and impossibly narrow lanes from the middle- ages. Be awed by Ceausescus colossal Palace of Parliament, legendary castles, UNESCO World Heritage listed ancient and Eastern Orthodox monasteries, fine archaeological and ethnographic museums, rock-hewn churches and century old frescoes. Journey through countryside where it seems time has stood still and relax in the beautiful Carpathian Mountains and on the Black Sea Coast. With too many highlights to mention this tour is sure to exceed every expectation. Click here for the full itinerary, costs and conditions (PDF document - may take some time to download if on a slow connection) Cyprus7th September - 27th September 2019 
A magical Mediterranean odyssey to the unforgettable islands of Cyprus to explore its Greek and Turkish heritage, Malta for its eclectic cultural mix and picture postcard harbours and Sicily with its astonishing Greek and Roman Classical sites and breathtakingly beautiful villages and coastlines. Cross the Strait of Messina by ferry to the south of Italy and continue to marvel at the wonders of ancient subterranean Matera, magnificent Romanesque and Baroque architecture, the awesome beauty of the Amalfi Coast and a genuine southern friendliness and rustic charm.
Click here for the full itinerary, costs and conditions (PDF document - may take some time to download if on a slow connection) The Silk Road China and Tibet 20197th October - 26th October 2019 
Take an astonishing journey into the autonomous regions of Chinas far west Xin Jiang and Tibet. Travel the ancient Silk Road exploring vibrant cities, superb archaeological sites and cultural and culinary delights which have evolved over thousands of years; a legacy of pilgrims, missionaries, nomads and armies who travelled this fabled route leaving their eclectic mark. A marvellous blend of eastern and western cultures, you experience the ethnic melting pot of Han Chinese, Uyghurs, Kazaks, Kyrgyz, Mongols and Hui Muslims who have made these lush oases their home. Admire their beautiful mosques, ruined cities, grand bazaars and great mountain and desert landscapes. Travel on the worlds highest and arguably most exciting train journey, across the roof of central Asia from Lanzhou to Lhasa the spiritual capital of enchanting Tibet.
Click here for the full itinerary, costs and conditions (PDF document - may take some time to download if on a slow connection) Leaf Fall in Japan 20195th October - 23rd October 2019 
Traditionally Momijigari means maple hunting . Appreciating the highly revered spectacle of Japans magnificent autumn foliage season this sophisticated and delightful journey to the pristine islands of Hokkaido and northern Honshu has been thoughtfully designed to flow with the change of colour. With a perfect balance of exquisite gardens, national parks, boat cruises, cable car rides, breathtaking scenic drives, cultural sights and immersive experiences you bypass the crowds of busy Japan and take a path less travelled. Discover an inspiring wonderland of colour and ancient Japanese grace and culture in the beautiful north.
Click here for the full itinerary, costs and conditions (PDF document - may take some time to download if on a slow connection) Hong Kong Taiwan and South Korea29th Dec 2019 - 12th Jan 2020 
Take a truly unique and perfectly timed journey to the Orient. Fly in to Hong Kong where East meets West and the bustle and rhythms of daily life are simply exhilarating. Marvel at the spectacular New Years Eve fireworks over Victoria Harbour which are said to be some of the best in the world and traverse a road less travelled in mystical Taiwan. Formerly Formosa meaning beautiful island in Portuguese, democratic Taiwan enjoys a rich multi- cultural history and idyllic landscapes. Its a perfect package of timeless culture, friendly people, some of the best street food in all of Asia, pretty coastlines, mountains, national parks and a vibrant sophistication. Including South Korea with its glorious palaces, ancient traditions and fascinating history this once off tour is sure to charm and delight. Click here for the full itinerary, costs and conditions (PDF document - may take some time to download if on a slow connection) Tours for 2019Exciting programme of tours by the WEA 
Click here for the full itinerary, costs and conditions (PDF document - may take some time to download if on a slow connection) |
