busabout europe brochure 2016 gbp

TRAVEL ADVENTURES
MUSIC FESTIVALS
SAILING TRIPS
LA BATALLA DEL VINO JUNE • HARO, SPAIN, P43
KING’S DAY APRIL • AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS, P39
IBERIAN ADVENTURE P51
CROATIA SAILING P58
SAN FERMIN JULY • PAMPLONA, SPAIN, P40
UP HELLY AA JANUARY • LERWICK, SHETLAND, P83
ST. PATRICK’S DAY MARCH • DUBLIN, IRELAND, P92
CHRISTMAS AND HOGMANAY EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND, P100
GREEK ISLANDS P56
BUILD YOUR OWN
EUROPEAN
ADVENTURE BUSABOUT HOP-ON HOP-OFF NEW FOR 2016 6 HOP-ON HOP-OFF EXPLAINED 8 TIMETABLE 14 OUR PASSES 16 COACHES, BEDS & EXCURSIONS 22
BUSABOUT FESTIVALS MUSIC FESTIVALS 30 ST PATRICK’S DAY, TRANSYLVANIA & KINGS DAY 38 SAN FERMIN 40 LA TOMATINA & LA BATALLA DEL VINO 42 OKTOBERFEST 44
BUSABOUT ADVENTURES ITALY 48 SCANDI-BALTIC 49 IBIZA 50 SPAIN & PORTUGAL 51 MOROCCO 52 GREECE 54 CROATIA 58 EASTERN EUROPEAN TREKS 64 TURKEY 68
HAGGIS ADVENTURES (SCO)
ABOUT US 72 COMPASS BUSTER 76 COAST TO COAST & HEBRIDEAN HOPPER 78 HIGHLAND FLING & SKYE HIGH 80 GET ACTIVE & UP HELLY AA 82
SHAMROCKER ADVENTURES (IRL)
ABOUT US 84 ALL IRELAND ROCKER 86 CELTIC ROCKER 88 GIANT’S ROCKER 89 SOUTHERN & WESTERN ROCKER 90 ST PATRICK’S DAY 92
WINTER ADVENTURES THE EUROPEAN WINTER 94 WINTER TRACKS 96 FESTIVE TREKS 98 CHRISTMAS & HOGMANAY 100 ASIA ADVENTURES 104
CONTENTS
LA BATALLA DEL VINO JUNE • HARO, SPAIN, P43
KING’S DAY APRIL • AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS, P39
IBERIAN ADVENTURE P51
CROATIA SAILING P58
SAN FERMIN JULY • PAMPLONA, SPAIN, P40
UP HELLY AA JANUARY • LERWICK, SHETLAND, P83
ST. PATRICK’S DAY MARCH • DUBLIN, IRELAND, P92
CHRISTMAS AND HOGMANAY EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND, P100
GREEK ISLANDS P56
BOOK & GO!—GUARANTEE—
We have never cancelled a trip and don’t operate a minimum numbers policy. When you book any of our trips you are absolutely guaranteed to go.
Award-winning trips of Scotland, with the best local Guides
Let the Irish show you the real Ireland. Fan-feckin-tastic!
The flexible Hop-on Hop-off travel network plus island hopping, Eastern European Treks and the top European festivals
GET ON AND OFF THE ADVENTURE AS YOU WANT.
IT TAKES US TIME TO PLAN OUR TRIPS. DISCUSSIONS AND DECISIONS ABOUT WHICH PLACE IS MORE BEAUTIFUL AND WHAT PARTY IS MORE RAUCOUS. AND IT’S WORTH IT BECAUSE IT MEANS YOU GET TO SEE ALL THE SPECTACULAR SIGHTS AND MEET ALL THE AWESOME PEOPLE. BUT THERE’S ONE THING WE DON’T PLAN. AND THAT’S HOW AND WHEN YOU’RE GOING TO PIECE IT TOGETHER. WE DON’T PLAN THIS BECAUSE IT’S YOUR JOURNEY AND WE WANT YOU TO HAVE THE FREEDOM TO DO THE UNIQUE THINGS YOU LOVE. WE GIVE YOU CHOICES, WE GIVE YOU FLEXIBILITY, WE GIVE YOU SERVICE.
WE CREATE THE JOURNEY.WE CREATE THE JOURNEY.
GET ON AND OFF THE ADVENTURE AS YOU WANT.
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SPLIT A gobsmacking travel hub for the hedonistic. Split is crammed with culture and links up with our Croatia sailing trips and music festivals. (p58-63)
VIENNA Enrich your eyes by visiting the city that’s too splendorous. Then continue the visual indulgence and head into the Alps on our North Loop. (p18-19)
VENICE A watery labyrinth of marble churches and romantic vistas. Wonder how it was built and wander over to our South Loop. (p18-19)
BLED Instagram the living daylights out of Lake Bled, then burst out into the wilderness for gorgeous rafting and kayaking adventures.
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EUROPE'S TOPTOMORROWLAND,BELGIUM Dance is a vertical articulation of the horizontal passion. It’s the language of the soul. But it’s even better at the world’s largest electronic music festival.
ULTRA, SPLIT A day without dancing is a day lost. So do a lifetime’s worth on our Ultra Festival Hop-on Hop-off add on.
SONAR, BARCELONA Barcelona’s unrivalled arts festival. A creative mash-up in the day and a dance marathon through the night.
SZIGET, BUDAPEST Celebrate the kaleidoscope of musical genres in beautiful Budapest. Rock-out, chill-out, trance-out, freak-out and burn-out.
BBK, BILBAO Big names descend upon the big arts town of Bilbao. Expect alternative music, Basque culture and heaps of ‘free-spirited’ dancing.
PASS
KRAKOW Its sights are mythical and its nights are legendary. Krakow is the fairy tale town of Poland that packs a beery punch.
BUDAPEST The Ancient Romans came here to bathe and party in the hot springs. Follow in their footsteps and explore the beautiful city of Budapest.
MUSIC FESTIVALS
HOP-ON HOP-OFF
GET THE: SUPPORT,
SOCIAL ASPECT & CONVENIENCE
OF A TRADITIONAL
TRAVEL
BOTH WORLDS
WITH A MIX OF INDEPENDENCE AND SUPPORT we let you experience
Europe your way!
?
You can’t categorise Hop-on Hop-off. It’s not quite a traditional tour neither is it totally independent. It’s a mix of the two, a flexible travel
network that gives you unlimited options to build your own adventure. You get the convenience of door to door service, the support of an expert
Busabout Guide and driver, as well as the chance to meet like-minded travellers. You get the freedom to choose how long you travel for and
how much you spend.
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• SPEND AS LONG AS YOU LIKE IN EVERY DESTINATION • PRE PLAN COACH DAYS OR BOOK THEM AS YOU GO • CHANGE YOUR COACH DAYS AS OFTEN AS YOU LIKE, FREE OF CHARGE • DISCOVER SOME OF EUROPE’S OFF THE BEATEN TRACK HIDDEN GEMS
4646 DESTINATIONS
FLEXIBILITY & FREEDOMFLEXIBILITY & FREEDOM
WHY IS
AWESOME? It’s awesome because it provides you with the tools to build your own
European adventure. Just imagine it. You hop on a coach from the doorstep of your hostel with a Guide and a bunch of fun travellers. On the journey the Guide tells you about the history and recommends all the best things to see and do. And when you arrive you do what you want. Stay there for weeks, stick with
your new buddies, or head out on the Busabout coach to the next destination. What’s more, you can link up with our Adventures and Festivals and then
reconnect with the Hop-on Hop-off network at a later date.
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• TRAVEL DOOR TO DOOR WITH OUR HOSTEL PICK-UPS AND DROP-OFFS
• COACHES LEAVE EVERY DESTINATION, EVERY SECOND DAY BETWEEN MAY AND OCTOBER
• OUR AIR-CONDITIONED COACHES HAVE ALL THE MOD CONS INCLUDING POWER POINTS TO CHARGE UP YOUR ELECTRONIC BITS AND BOBS
• OUR EXPERIENCED AND KNOWLEDGEABLE GUIDES AND DRIVERS ARE ON HAND TO SHARE THEIR TIPS AND ADVICE
• BOOK COACH DAYS, ACCOMMODATION AND EXCURSIONS USING BUSABOUT’S ONLINE PLANNING TOOL – ‘MYTRIP’
• YOU’LL RECEIVE A FREE PASSENGER HANDBOOK PACKED FULL OF INFO ON WHAT TO SEE AND DO AT EACH DESTINATION
• CHOOSE YOUR START AND FINISH POINT FROM ANYWHERE ON THE NETWORK
• CHOOSE HOW AND WHERE TO SPEND YOUR MONEY
• CHOOSE FROM OUR OPTIONAL DISCOUNTED DAY TRIPS, EXCURSIONS AND ACCOMMODATION
• CHOOSE TO LINK-UP WITH OUR FESTIVALS, ADVENTURES AND SAILING TRIPS
• USE ‘MYTRIP’, BUSABOUT’S ONLINE PLANNING TOOL TO CONNECT WITH FELLOW TRAVELLERS EVEN BEFORE YOU START YOUR TRIP
• MEET LIKE-MINDED PEOPLE AND SHARE YOUR TRAVEL EXPERIENCES AND STORIES
• GET CONNECTED. STAY CONNECTED.
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WHERE DOES
Let’s go!
AVIGNON The town itself is stuffed full of UNESCO sites. The people are spoilt by wondrous food and a relaxed pace of life. The surrounding area is the scenic region of Provence. It’s France at its very best.
ZADAR Zadar is the gateway to the infamous island of Pag; there’s cheese, lamb, secluded bays and Zrce beach, home to some of Croatia’s best dance festivals; Fresh Island, Hideout, and Croatia Rocks to name a few.
Ever found a place difficult to leave? Well that’s what these places are. Heart-achingly beautiful locations that look straight out of a Disney movie. You’ll hear our Guides rave about them, and hear them being called the ‘absolute highlight’ of a trip. So make sure you set aside some time for these little surprises when planning your travels!
…P LU
S SO
M E
OF O
UR F
AV OU
RI TE
…P LU
S SO
M E
OF O
UR F
AV OU
RI TE HIDDEN GEMSHIDDEN GEMS
Max out your adventure and save. Break up your Hop-on Hop-off pass and experience our Adventures, Sailing trips, Treks or Festivals and re-join the network at any stop, any time. See p46-47. Look out for the ‘Link up & Save’ boxes for more details.
Buy any Hop-on Hop-off pass together with any of our qualifying trips and you save 10% off the total price. Here are the savings you could make if you purchase one of our bestsellers with a Hop-on Hop-off pass:
…P LU
S SO
M E
OF O
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AV OU
GRÜENAU
This gem is a traditional little village surrounded by awesome Alpine scenery. Take a swim in the crystal clear lakes or just stare at the beautiful views.
ORVIETO Situated on top of an impressive volcanic rock with vertical cliff faces. However the real surprise is the labyrinth of caves and tunnels that lie beneath the surface.
SAVE10%SEE BACK COVER
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Madrid – link to 7 Day Iberian Adventure (p51) SAVE up to £141 Rome – link to 3 Day Italian Adventure (p48) SAVE up to £112 Prague – link to 9 Day Classic Rhapsody Trek (p64) SAVE up to £147 Split – link to 8 Day Croatia Sailing (p60–61) Croatia Music Festivals (p62–63) 7 Day Bohemian Trek (p65) SAVE up to £135 9 Day Ottoman Trek (p65) SAVE up to £141 Ancona – link to* Greek Island Flexi-Hopper (p56–57) SAVE up to £121 8 Day Croatia Sailing (p60–61)
Valencia or Barcelona – link to* 8 Day Ibiza Island Hopper (p50) SAVE up to £148 4 Day Ibiza Blast (p50)
* Connect by local ferry.
See www.busabout.com for details.
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It’s simple. From May to October we have a bunch of coaches travelling the loops in the direction of the arrows. They pass through each
destination every second day and you can hop-off at any stop for as long as you like. You have to stay at least one night at the white stops because our Driver and Guide need to rest there. And you can skip the
black dots altogether or stay there for a minimum of 2 nights.
Use the timetable and the calendar to work out when the coach departs.
The coach leaves white departure cities on white calendar days.
The coach leaves orange departure cities on orange days.
White dots on the map and timetable represent compulsory overnight stops. (This is as far as the coach will travel in one day.)
The black dots are optional overnight stops. Hop-off here for a minimum of 2 nights or continue on to the next compulsory overnight stop.
1 3 5
FROM TO DEPARTS ARRIVES FROM UNTIL
NORTH LOOP (1 MAY–27 OCTOBER) Paris Bruges 8:00 13:00 1 May 16 Oct Bruges Amsterdam 13:00 18:00 1 May 16 Oct Amsterdam Berlin 8:00 18:00 2 May 17 Oct Berlin Dresden 8:00 11:30 3 May 18 Oct Dresden Prague 11:30 16:00 3 May 18 Oct Prague Cesky Krumlov 8:00 11:45 4 May 19 Oct Cesky Krumlov Vienna 11:45 16:30 4 May 19 Oct Vienna Gruenau 8:00 12:00 5 May 20 Oct Gruenau Salzburg 12:00 14:15 5 May 20 Oct Salzburg Munich 14:15 17:00 5 May 20 Oct Munich Stuttgart 8:00 11:15 6 May 27 Oct Stuttgart Paris 11:15 21:30 6 May 27 Oct
EAST LOOP (20 JUNE–11 SEPTEMBER) Vienna Vienna Bratislava 08:00 09:30 20 Jun 06 Sep Bratislava Olomouc 09:30 13:00 20 Jun 06 Sep Olomouc Krakow 13:00 17:00 20 Jun 06 Sep Krakow Zakopane 08:00 11:00 21 Jun 07 Sep Zakopane Budapest 11:00 18:00 21 Jun 07 Sep Budapest Zagreb 08:00 15:00 22 Jun 08 Sep Zagreb Split 15:00 21:30 22 Jun 08 Sep Split Zadar 08:00 10:30 23 Jun 09 Sep Zadar Venice 10:30 18:30 23 Jun 09 Sep Venice Trieste 08:00 10:30 24 Jun 10 Sep Trieste Ljubljana 10:30 13:30 24 Jun 10 Sep Ljubljana Lake Bled 13:30 15:00 24 Jun 10 Sep Lake Bled Graz 08:00 11:30 25 Jun 11 Sep Graz Vienna 11:30 15:00 25 Jun 11 Sep
SOUTH LOOP (12 MAY–26 OCTOBER) Munich Innsbruck 8:00 10:45 12 May 21 Oct Innsbruck Venice 10:45 17:00 12 May 21 Oct Venice Ancona 8:00 13:00 13 May 22 Oct Ancona Rome 13:00 18:30 13 May 22 Oct Rome Orvieto 8:00 10:00 14 May 23 Oct Orvieto Siena 10:00 12:15 14 May 23 Oct Siena Florence 12:15 15:00 14 May 23 Oct Florence La Spezia 8:00 10:30 15 May 24 Oct La Spezia Nice 10:30 16:00 15 May 24 Oct Nice Lake Como 8:00 13:45 16 May 25 Oct Lake Como Swiss Alps 13:45 18:30 16 May 25 Oct Swiss Alps Lucerne 8:00 9:45 17 May 26 Oct Lucerne Munich 9:45 17:00 17 May 26 Oct
WEST LOOP (22 MAY–6 OCTOBER) Paris Bern 8:00 17:15 22 May 1 Oct Bern Swiss Alps 17:15 18:30 22 May 1 Oct Swiss Alps Milan 8:00 13:30 23 May 2 Oct Milan Nice 13:30 18:30 23 May 2 Oct Nice Avignon 8:00 12:15 24 May 3 Oct Avignon Barcelona 12:15 18:30 24 May 3 Oct Barcelona Valencia 8:00 13:00 25 May 4 Oct Valencia Madrid 13:00 18:30 25 May 4 Oct Madrid Pamplona 8:00 15:00 26 May 5 Oct Pamplona San Sebastian 15:00 17:00 26 May 5 Oct San Sebastian Bordeaux 8:00 11:30 27 May 6 Oct Bordeaux Tours 11:30 16:45 27 May 6 Oct Tours Paris 16:45 21:30 27 May 6 Oct
compulsory overnight stopoptional stop
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30 31
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6 7 8 9 10 11 12
13 14 15 16 17 18 19
20 21 22 23 24 25 26
27 28 29 30
1 2 3
M T W T F S S AUGUST 2016
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8 9 10 11 12 13 14
15 16 17 18 19 20 21
22 23 24 25 26 27 28
29 30 31
1 2 3 4
26 27 28 29 30
M T W T F S S OCTOBER 2016
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PASSESPASSES
PASSESPASSES
P A S S E SP A S S E S
We’ve created three pass options. Flexibility, choice and independence are standard, and you can choose to spend as long as you like at each destination.
We’ve broken up the Hop-on Hop-off network into 4 easy-to-use ‘loops’: North, East, South and West. Each loop concentrates on different parts of Europe.
Build your own pass around the number of cities you want to stop at, anywhere on the network.
Some of our popular routes that take in a variety of destinations across Europe.
TIMETABLE CALENDAR
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• Minimum travel time of 3 weeks.
• Choose a 4 loop pass and travel all 46 destinations on the network.
• Re-visit any destination free of charge on your loop pass.
• Perfect if you are unsure of what to see and need some inspiration.
• Best value for the most popular routes.
• Add on extra destinations as you travel.
• Good value if you have limited time.
WHICH TRAVEL PASS IS BEST
FOR ME?
FOR ME?
WE’VE MADE CHOOSING EASY BY LISTING THE DIFFERENCES OF EACH TRAVEL PASS.
1 2 3
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COACH DATE FROM TO LOOP NIGHTS
DAYS COACH DATE FROM TO LOOP NIGHTS
DAYS
PASS OPTIONS PASS OPTIONS
LOOPS LOOPS8 31
8 COACH DAY FLEXITRIP PASS
3
HOW TO PLAN
We understand everyone is different when it comes to how they plan their travels. Some like to plan every detail and some like to go with the flow. No matter what, you can change your travel plans as often as you
like free of charge, both before and during your travels.
21 JUNE PRAGUE CESKY N 2
23 JUNE CESKY VIENNA N 3
26 JUNE VIENNA KRAKOW E 3
29 JUNE KRAKOW BUDAPEST E 5
4 JULY BUDAPEST ZAGREB E 2
6 JULY ZAGREB SPLIT E 9
15 JULY SPLIT VENICE E 3
18 JULY VENICE ROME S 4
EXAMPLE PLAN YOUR OWN
FOLLOW THIS STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO PLAN YOUR TRIP.
1 Grab a pen and circle all the destinations you want to visit
2 Think about how long you’d like to spend in each destination
(remember you can change this as you go, free of charge)
3 Count up the number of coach days
4 Count up the number of loops
5 Decide which pass will offer you the best value. See pages 18-21 for prices.
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Europe can be travelled in about a million and one different ways and
that’s what we love about it. So, on our Loop Passes, you start where
you want, and go-round them as much as you like between May and
October. Do one Loop, combine two, three or even four.
OPTIONAL STOP (MIN 2 NIGHTS) COMPULSORY (OVERNIGHT STOP)
4 LOOP PASS £899 STUDENTS £865 RACING IT: 55 days – 10 weeks PACING IT: 10 weeks – 6 months
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12 DESTINATIONS 6 COUNTRIES The Parisians have more fashionable clothes than you. In Berlin the parties go on longer than you can handle. And Vienna has prettier buildings than your hometown. But whatever; just suck it up and appreciate how unique these places are. The North Loop is a humbling journey through Europe’s heavyweights.
(MAY-OCT)
(JUN-SEP)
(MAY-OCT)
(MAY-OCT)
13 DESTINATIONS 5 COUNTRIES Our South Loop poses questions. How does Italy keep such a sexy figure when the food is so tasty? What makes the Alps so incredibly idyllic? And why in Munich do they swig beer from such massive glasses? Find the answer to these questions yourself by exploring the beautiful and tasty South Loop.
13 DESTINATIONS 4 COUNTRIES Sip on the sophistication of Paris, nibble on the charm of Provence, guzzle down on Spain’s passion-filled nights and cool off in the Swiss Alps. Our West Loop is a wanderlust-quenching journey through some of Europe’s strongest flavours. After you’ve tasted it, home will feel a whole lot more bland.
WHY
GO?
14 DESTINATIONS 8 COUNTRIES You’ll surprise yourself. That adventurous part of you will end up kayaking along a fast-flowing river-rapid. The geek inside you will salivate over Budapest’s architecture. And the party-spirit will burst out on the Croatian coast. You’ll come back home knowing a little more about yourself and a lot more about Europe’s off-the-beaten-track destinations.
Get the most out of your time in Europe, and link up with our Adventures, Festivals and Sailing trips.
SEE P12-13 FOR DETAILS
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We’re all different. Some like their Bran Flakes in the morning; and others prefer left-over meat-feast-pizzas. Some need the ‘snooze button’, and some jump directly into a baltic shower. Whatever your way of doing things, it’s fine with us. These One-Way passes should satisfy all sorts. Everything is the same as our other Loop Passes; the only difference is that you end somewhere completely different from where you started.
SAVE10%SEE BACK COVER PASSESPASSES
GO ROMAN 15 DESTINATIONS, 7 COUNTRIES START: PARIS | FINISH: ROME £469 | STUDENTS £449
GO WEST 15 DESTINATIONS, 3 COUNTRIES START: ROME | FINISH: PARIS £469 | STUDENTS £449
GO EAST 15 DESTINATIONS, 10 COUNTRIES START: PARIS | FINISH: SPLIT £469 | STUDENTS £449
ALPINE PASS 17 DESTINATIONS, 7 COUNTRIES START: VENICE | FINISH: BARCELONA £529 | STUDENTS £509
SUN SEEKER 21 DESTINATIONS, 6 COUNTRIES START: SPLIT | FINISH: AMSTERDAM £599 | STUDENTS £575
LONG WAY ROUND 22 DESTINATIONS, 11 COUNTRIES START: BARCELONA | FINISH: SPLIT £629 | STUDENTS £599
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The Flexitrip Pass differs from the other passes because it is made up of the number of ‘coach days’ you decide to make. A coach day is a day on the bus. The places you visit can be chosen from anywhere on the network. This means you can travel all over Europe and connect up different regions by hopping on a budget flight where you can re-join the network.
If you wanted to get from Paris to Amsterdam and miss out Bruges, that would count as 1 coach day. If instead you wanted to Hop-off in Bruges (to drink a few local beers and scoff Belgian chocolate) before heading onto Amsterdam a few days later, that would take 2 coach days.
The base Flexitrip Pass is 6 coach days but you can buy any number of additional coach days before you leave. You can also buy extra coach days whilst on the road from your Guide (only available with a Flexitrip pass).
H Every second day departures from May to October H Stay as long as you like in each destination H Change your coach days as often as you like free of charge H Expert Guides and Drivers on all departures H Pick-up and Drop-off at our recommended accommodation H FREE Traveller's Handbook
4646 DESTINATIONS
COMPULSORY OVERNIGHT STOP
EXTRA COACH DAY £39
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TRAVELLER'S HANDBOOK
OUR BIG BLUE COACHES Along with our Drivers and Guides, our coaches are our pride and joy! We call them our Big Blues and they will be your supercharged, comfy chariot on your journey around the best of Europe! From the shade of tint on the windows to the specially commissioned fabric on the seats, you’ll see we’ve gone to great lengths to ensure every detail is just right.
Our Big Blues are luxurious, air-conditioned coaches with reclining seats and plenty of leg room. While on board, chat to your old mates, meet some new ones or even just peer out the massive windows at the amazing European countryside flashing by… The choice is yours! We even have a fully-stocked entertainment system with movies, TV shows and audio channels to keep you entertained while on the road. And don’t worry ‘flashpackers’, onboard power points are available to charge up all your electronic bits ‘n’ bobs… Just don’t forget your European or UK power converter!
COACH DAYS Europe comes alive at night, so we travel by day to keep your all-important evenings free. You wouldn’t want to miss all that incredible scenery anyway. And don’t worry, your photos won’t just be hastily snapped through a blurry coach window. Whether we are winding through the Swiss Alps or cruising along the Croatian coastline, we’ll make scenic stops en-route.
Not that we’ll just be taking all the back roads, we’ve carefully selected the routes so that your journey will be the perfect mix of speed and beauty. This means we can guarantee that your travel days will be just as incredible as your city stops.
THE DRIVERS Our Big Blues are commanded by our expert drivers. They spend months perfecting their knowledge of all our routes to ensure you avoid all the highway mayhem. Our Drivers are especially proud of their vehicles and keep them meticulously clean for your comfort. We wouldn’t be surprised if you saw them shining the chrome on the wheels every now and then.
Like to spread yourself out on the coach? In May,
June and October our coaches are less busy,
meaning there’s a better chance for you to grab a
couple of seats to yourself.
You’re now travelling stress free with Busabout! No need to worry about your bags or valuables, as they can all be safely locked up underneath the coach when you’re out exploring. Your wonderful Busabout Crew are available for any questions you may have, so not only are they your support network while on the road, our Guides and Drivers are also your friendly ear to deal with any travel dilemmas that may pop up while seeing the best of Europe. In essence – we deal with the serious stuff so you can focus on the fun.
While travelling between destinations, there are plenty of breaks for you to sample some service-stop delicacies, stretch your legs and breathe in some fresh European air. Once you arrive in your destination, there is no need to stress, no need to decipher a map and no need to cart your luggage across a foreign city – our door-to- door hostel pick-ups and drop-offs get you as close as possible to our recommended accommodation. That’s less hassle and less stress, leaving you more time to explore.
You’ll receive a Busabout Handbook on your first day of travel, full of details about local activities as well as some exclusive discount vouchers to help you save those pennies!
SIT BACK & RELAX
These places are not only for sleeping. Party there, chill there, learn there and meet some great people. We’ve picked out accommodation that have friendly staff, great facilities, are safe, clean and comfortable.
HOSTELS
PLUS Florence is Florence’s most cutting edge hostel right in the core of the city. You’ll feel spoilt by the flat screen TVs in every room, all- you-can-eat buffets and swimming pool. That’s without even mentioning its terrace bar with spectacular views of the Duomo.
Wombats City Hostel Budapest is the perfect place to explore one of Eastern Europe’s most beautiful cities. Containing a hangar- sized common area and one of Europe’s most impressive hostel bars, Wombats is the ideal place to start your evening before heading out to experience Budapest’s famous Ruin Bars.
CAMPING VILLAGES
Lauterbrunnen Camping Jungfrau is surrounded by mountains, 72 waterfalls and glaciers. You can choose from chalets and a hostel. Make the most of the restaurant, bar and mini-mart before you explore the Alps and indulge in some adventure sports.
Rome PLUS Camping Roma, just a short ride from the centre of Rome, is the ideal base to explore the Italian capital. We stay in air- conditioned bungalows with spacious rooms and ensuite bathrooms. It has a swimming pool and a restaurant/bar that makes it an excellent place to chill out or party.
GUESTHOUSES & HOTELS If you fancy a bit more luxury or privacy, then we also recommend a range of 2* and 3* hotels and guesthouses, usually just a short walk or bus/ tram ride from the Pick-Up Point. You can book these through MyTrip.
Avignon Les Jardins de la Livrée is a charming 14th century guesthouse, set in a lush garden with a swimming pool. It has spacious rooms and a restaurant with some of the most delicious French food.
great sleeps
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Most places we stay are centrally located. When a city doesn’t have great value backpacker hostels, we use awesome camping villages with frequent and easy links to the city centre. By booking our Pick-Up Point recommended accommodation you get all the benefits of our door-to-door service. Check-in, drop your bag and you’re ready to explore.
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Let’s be honest: booking and organising travel isn’t as fun as travel itself. But it’s necessary. And MyTrip is our way of making it as easy as possible. It’s an online travel planning tool that lets you book your beds and travel days on the Hop-on Hop-off network. And if you’re disorganised, don’t worry; you can use MyTrip to
change your plans on the go.
1 Once you have booked your trip, you will receive a client reference number.
2 Go to busabout.com/mytrip
3 Use your client reference and create your own password to login.
4 Once you have logged in, you can book your coaches and beds at our Pick-Up Point recommended accommodation (no booking fees).
5 Use MyTrip to keep an eye on coach availability, add and change your coach days or even book another trip.
6 Get chatting to fellow travellers through the Trip Mates tab in MyTrip.
YOUR STEP BY STEP GUIDE
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SAVE ££££ On MyTrip, our online planning tool, you can choose the style of accommodation and type of room to suit your wallet. Budget €15–30 per night for a dorm bed. We guarantee the dorms will either be at the market rate or below.
EXPLORE
MORE Sometimes it’s hard to know how to make the most out of your time at a new destination. So we’ve narrowed down the choices and hand-picked some of the best local activities for you to choose from.
There are bike tours, walking tours and pub crawls which are great ways to learn about the area from local experts. Alternatively, you can try your hand at Spanish cookery, chateaux-hopping in the Loire Valley or even throw yourself out of a plane over the Swiss Alps!
All the local activities on offer are tried and tested to ensure you receive the best experience and best value for money. They’re also generally cheaper when purchased from your Busabout Guide.
BACKPACKER €85 per day will get you a hostel dorm bed, local activities, lunch from the supermarket, an inexpensive dinner as well as a good night out. If you want your money to go further, then €55 will get you the cheapest dorm bed, a few nights out, a bit more self-catering, with the same amount of sightseeing and local activities.
FLASHPACKER €140 per day will cover a private room in a hostel, local activities, lunch and dinner in a restaurant with plenty left to spend on evening entertainment. You receive a Busabout Handbook on your first day of travel, with details of local activities as well as exclusive discount vouchers to help you save those pennies!
DAILY BUDGET GUIDE You’re in control of your budget so how you spend your money is entirely up to you. However, here’s a quick guide to give you an idea of what to budget.
FLORENCE WELCOME TO FLORENCE A walking tour of Florence, a leather demonstration (no rip offs!), a 4 course Italian meal and a night out in one of the most vintage Backpacker Restaurants in Florence. Yes, it is as cheap as your Guide is telling you!
MADRID CORRAL DE LA MORERIA FLAMENCO SHOW One of the most recognised flamenco establishments in Spain. Seriously, you should see their trophy cabinet! Watch the best Flamenco dancers doing their breath-taking moves in a traditional setting. Featured in the ‘1,000 Places to See Before You Die’ book for a reason!
AMSTERDAM MIKE’S BIKES TOURS Cycling is faster. Amsterdam is flat. The two were meant to be together. These tours get you about quickly so you can efficiently explore the history, culture and scenic outskirts of Amsterdam.
HERE ARE SOME OF OUR FAVOURITES:
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LAKE BLED EMERALD RIVER An action-packed day that explores the 100% natural, jaw-dropping beauty of the Slovenian countryside! You will hike through mountainous National Parks, swim under sparkling waterfalls and white water raft the crystal clear Emerald rivers. This is a nature buffs dream!
BERLIN BERLIN INSIDER TOURS CITY WALKING TOUR Berlin is a marvel of both past and present. This city tour has expert guides that make Berlin’s intricate history come alive. They’re also likely to convince you that it’s one of the greatest cities in the world!
VIENNA DISCOVER VIENNA, THE GRAPE ESCAPE Go bike riding through the breath-taking Austrian wine region. Historic villages and castles are a-plenty in this UNESCO World Heritage site. And if that wasn’t enough, you also get to taste some of the wines along the way!
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B U S A B O U T C R E W
B U S A B O U T C R E W
INQUISITIVE. INDEPENDENT. INDIVIDUAL.
TRAVEL IS AS MucH ABOUT WHO YOU GO WITH AS WHERE YOU GO AND THAT INCLUDES OUR CREW. they have a lust for life and a curious soul.
Experienced, but -- like you -- always seeking out the new.
Serious about what they do but never taking themselves too seriously.
INQUISITIVE. INDEPENDENT. INDIVIDUAL.
THEY EMBODY OUR FREESTYLE SPIRIT. they are the people who make your trip.
They are the CREW.
/BusaboutEurope /HaggisAdventures /Shamrockertours
/Busabout /HaggisAdventures /ShamrockerAdventures
/BusaboutTV /HaggisTelly
Look online and you’ll find photos of them dancing until late, jumping off boats, gorging on delicious seafood and watching Greek sunrises. They even show off a bit. Their photos have #viewfromtheoffice, #thisiswork, #workhard, #lovethisjob, #bestjob... etc. But do we care?
Of course not. This passion for travel is why we hired them in the first place. They’re free spirits.
SOMETIMES
TRUE...
@busaboutellie
@kellygruebner
@bohemianbythesea
@isothetourguide
@busaboutellie
Always worth that 45 minute hike uphill! #omis #fortica #themviews #croatia #busabout #busaboutcrew #bucketlist #lifeisgood #sailaway #traveller #travelbug
Weeeeeee #sailing #busabout #hopon #aegeanadventure #busabout #GoProTravel
Getting lost in the side streets of Chefchaouen Morocco #busabout #busaboutcrew #chefchaouen #morocco #wayfaring #wanderlust #instapassport #explore
Busabout has a blast at La Batalla Del Vino. Here’s some of our supersoaked super awesome peeps with @busaboutrose #BusaboutCrew #Busabout #batalladelvino #gotafreespirit
John Lennon wall in Prague, displaying countless scrawled Beatles lyrics, a lot of love and a bid for peace @holzebubble #somuchlove
HOP-ON HOP-OFF CONNECTSMUSIC FESTIVALS
T H A T D R O P
SONAR The International Festival of Advanced Music and New Media Art. Simply put: amazing Spanish hipster festival. See p35.
BBK This festival is the epitome of cool. Imagine leftfield bands, on a breezy mountain near the artsy Spanish town of Bilbao. See p35.
TOMORROWLAND Party like there’s no tomorrow at the world’s largest electronic music festival. See p32.
SZIGET The best boogie in Budapest. All the biggest rock bands and all the grooviest people come together for a festival on the Danube. See p34.
BENICASSIM A completely mental music festival. Rave till sunrise, bathe on the beach, and then start to rave again before sunset. See p34.
ULTRA The biggest names in dance music provide a rhythmical crescendo to a beautiful Croatian score. See p33.
A thumping beat. Synths swirling. Multiple snare smashes. And then THAT drop. Simultaneously thousands of ecstatic people go bonkers. Bodies
rubbing, drinks spilling, sunglasses flying, and nobody caring. Such electrifying moments don’t happen often in our lives; but with Busabout you can make it
happen all summer. Take advantage of the Hop-on Hop-off network’s flexibility and hit the world’s top music festivals while exploring Europe.
4 THINGS ABOUT TOMORROWLAND - IT SELLS OUT IN SECONDS. 2 MILLION
PEOPLE SCRAMBLE OVER THE INTERNET TO GET 360,000 TICKETS
- RAVERS CAN BE FOODIES TOO. THERE’S A PRIVATE 2 MICHELIN STAR RESTAURANT AND A BELGIAN CHOCOLATE BAR
- DAVID GUETTA HAS PLAYED THERE EVERY YEAR
- THE ARTISTS NEED TO ARRIVE BY BOAT TO GET TO SOME OF THE MORE ‘AQUATIC’ STAGES
See website for details.
The holy mecca of the rave crusades. Its fantastical main stage is a symposium of lights, lasers and world class DJs. The crowd is a miracle of 180,000 international dance disciples. And the mood is love, hugs and over-rapturous feelings. Join this once-in-a-lifetime event and dance like you’ve never danced before.
Hop-on Hop-off Festival highlightThe Tomorrowland festival can be experienced as part of your Hop-on Hop-off pass. Hop-off in Bruges.
Continue travelling by connecting with the options below.
Bruges – link to Hop-on Hop-off (p12-13)
Hop-on HOP-OFF
USIC FESTIVALS AT BUSABOUT.COM
There’s no point doing Ultra half-hearted. You need to be committed to the cause. All night long there are DJs and fireworks in the super-stylised Poljud Stadium. And then throughout the day it’s swimming in the sea and exploring the trendy town of Split. We’ll help you keep up with the heart-racing tempo.
TRIP ITINERARY
Day 1: Ultra Check in to your accommodation and relax before the events of Ultra. We’ll show you around the town’s cool little bars before the festival starts. HExplore beautiful Split, ‘The Mediterranean Flower’ HDecorate yourself with rave paint and get a little ‘too’ into the music
Day 2: Ultra Once back in your accommodation you can rest, eat, sleep and swim. If you can handle it there are boat trips to some of the nearby islands. In the evening it’s back to Split for round 2. HRefuel and recover in the crisp blue sea
Day 3: Ultra Today you can head to the Omis fortress for wide sweeping views over Dalmatia or slip into a local eatery for some tasty nibbles. Can you handle another night of dancing like a maniac? HGo crazy at the final danceathon
Day 4: Check out Check out 9am. Head back to the Hop-on Hop-off network or stay a little longer and go to Hvar for some Croatian island relaxation.
Hop-on Hop-off Ultra festival Split
NEED TO KNOW Inclusions • Your fantastic Busabout crew • Ultra Europe 3 day pass • 3 nights accommodation • Camping right on the beach • Busabout village in Beachville • Split and Omis orientation walks
Accommodation Standard twin-share tent accommodation with shared facilities.
Accommodation upgrade Apartment accommodation in Split.
Departure point/time Beachville Omis, from 10am.
Return point/time Beachville Omis, after breakfast.
Departures – see website for details.
Explore the islands at your own pace, or join in with one of our optional extras. Full details from your Busabout crew.
CAMPING ACCOMMODATION This isn’t a ‘no-frills’ campsite. This is a high octane campsite that has its own stage, a shisha corner, a forest chill out area, a beach bar, and its very own private beach. Just make sure you don’t spend all your time here and miss the actual festival.
SPLIT APARTMENTS Ultra makes Split the party capital of the world. And our comfortable apartment accommodation places you smack in the middle of it. It’s a short walk to the Ultra stages and the perfect hub for exploring the history and beauty of Split.
See website for details.
Hop-on Hop-off Festival Add-On The Ultra Festival can only be bought as an add-on to a Hop-on Hop-off pass.
Split – link to Hop-on Hop-off (p12-13) 9 Day Ottoman Trek (p67) 8 Day Croatia Sail (p60)
Hop-on HOP-OFF
Ultra festival
Benicassim Benicassim, Spain
NEED TO KNOW Inclusions • Your fantastic Busabout festival crew • Benicassim 4 day pass • 4 nights accommodation • 4 breakfasts • Orientation walk of Benicassim • Afternoon session at the beach • Busabout Festival t-shirt
Accommodation Twin-share tent with airbeds. We pitch your tent. Bring your own sleeping bag! (Sleeping bags can be bought if required).
Accommodation upgrade Single tent upgrade available at time of booking.
Departure point/time Benicassim CampFest, Benicassim, 2pm.
Return time Check out 10am.
Pre accommodation Book with MyTrip for no booking fees.
NEED TO KNOW Inclusions • Your fantastic Busabout festival crew • Sziget festival 3 day pass • 3 nights accommodation • 3 breakfasts • Orientation of the Sziget site • Busabout Festival t-shirt • Festival party night
Accommodation Hostel multi-share.
Accommodation upgrade Double / twin room, available at time of booking.
Departure point/time Wombats City Hostel, Budapest, 9am.
Return time Wombats City Hostel, Budapest, Check out after breakfast.
Pre/post accommodation Book through MyTrip with no booking fees.
Festivals mean different things to different people. To some it’s a chance to cover their naked bodies in luminous body paint. For others it’s about big hugs with sweaty people. And to a few people it’s just about getting totally lost in the music. That’s what we love about Sziget. It’s got something for everybody. Check out Sziget and experience one of the world’s most eclectic festivals in one of the world’s most beautiful cities.
To say ‘Benicassim is energetic’, is an understatement. To say it’s ‘completely mental’, is closer to the truth. It’s a 4 day festival where the music starts at 5pm and ends at 7am. Every day you can chill and recover on the nearby beach before being entertained by some of the biggest acts in music. Between the music we’ll try our best to get you out of bed and exploring some of the incredible sights in and around the location.
Sziget Budapest, Hungary
Valencia – link to* Hop-on Hop-off (p12-13) San Fermin (p40-41)
*Link by local transport.
Budapest – link to Hop-on Hop-off (p12-13)
Start Þ Finish Þ 8 Aug 11 Aug 11 Aug 14 Aug
*Per person price based on multi-share. (B=breakfast / L=lunch / D=dinner).
Start Þ Finish Þ 14 Jul 18 Jul
*Per person price based on twin-share. (B=breakfast / L=lunch / D=dinner).
SZIGET & BENICASSIM
4 DAYS £379 pp*
USIC FESTIVALS AT BUSABOUT.COM
BBK Festival Bilbao, Spain
NEED TO KNOW Inclusions • Your fantastic Busabout festival crew • BBK 3 day pass • 3 nights accommodation • 3 breakfasts • Busabout Festival t-shirt • Pintxos crawl • Bilbao old town orientation
Return time Check out 10am.
NEED TO KNOW Inclusions • Your fantastic Busabout festival crew • Sonar 3 day pass • 4 nights accommodation • 4 breakfasts • Orientation of Sonar sights • Busabout Festival t-shirt • Festival party night • Barcelona tapas and pub crawl • Barcelona orientation walk
Accommodation upgrade Twin and double rooms, available at time of booking.
Departure point/time Be Sound Hostel, Barcelona, 7pm.
Return time Check out after breakfast.
How do you improve a well organised festival with an awesome line-up? Easy: you place it on a stunning mountain in the Basque region of Spain. But that’s not all that makes the BBK festival stand out. You also get to spend the afternoons exploring the tastes and sights of the artistically endowed town of Bilbao before partying all night on the mountain. The combination of the location and the music is pretty much pitch-perfect.
Sonar Barcelona, Spain
All the splits and cracks of Barcelona become flooded by musical genius. Sonar takes over the city with epic concerts and incredible art installations. The festival has been around for 21 years and attracts over 100,000 people. Take the chance to visit an amazing city and seize the opportunity to enjoy Europe’s most musically blessed festival.
Barcelona – link to Hop-on Hop-off (p12-13)
San Sebastian – link to* Hop-on Hop-off (p12-13) San Fermin (p40-41)
*Link by local transport.
Start Þ Finish Þ 7 Jul 10 Jul
Start Þ Finish Þ 15 Jun 19 Jun
BBK FESTIVAL & SONAR
4 DAYS £329pp*
5 DAYS £399 pp*
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MORE THAN JUST THE PARTY Ah go on, go on, go on. If you’re in Dublin for the party you may as well see the rest of the Emerald Isle. Shamrocker’s 7 day St Pat’s All Ireland trip gets you exploring the whole country no matter how hungover you are.
THE GUINNESS STOREHOUSE It’s a scientific fact that Guinness tastes better in Ireland. On our trips we take you to the very place it’s made, and treat you to a pint of the good stuff in the exclusive Guinness Sky Bar.
SHAMROCKER DUBLIN WALKING TOUR Dublin shares some great things with the world. It’s given us colour photography, Colin Farrell and Guinness. But we will show you there’s a lot more to the fair city than science, celebs and beer.
It’s a fan-feckin-tastic sight. Swathes of green-clad people take to the streets to celebrate like only the Irish can. Fiddles are playing on every corner, Guinness is pouring from every tap and great times are being had by all. Everyone knows that Dublin is the only place worth being on the 17th of March.
See page 92 for more details.
St
TRANSYLVANIAN HALLOWEEN TREK
King’s Day Netherlands
NEED TO KNOW Inclusions • Your fantastic Busabout Guide • 3 nights accommodation and breakfasts,
1 dinner • Orange party pack (t-shirt, face paint etc)
PLUS all itinerary highlights marked with a Accommodation Hostel multi-share.
Accommodation upgrade Twin rooms available at time of booking.
Departure point/time Amsterdam, 2pm.
TRIP ITINERARY
Day 1: Amsterdam Welcome dinner and drink before hitting the Dam nightlife. (D) Orientation walk of Red Light District
Amsterdam
Day 2: Amsterdam We get out to the countryside around Amsterdam and visit a traditional cheese and clog-making house before hitting the party. (B) Countryside bike tour HCheck out some of the best clubs in Europe
Day 3: Amsterdam King’s Day King’s Day! There seriously ain’t no party like a King’s Day party! (B)
Day 4: Amsterdam Check-out after breakfast. (B)
Up to one million orange-clad people flock to Amsterdam to party with the locals on King’s Day.
What better place to spend Halloween than in Dracula’s Transylvania? There is a spooky, mysterious atmosphere in this part of the East. We follow Dracula’s trail past castles, fortified churches, mountain chalets and quaint local villages. But it is our ultimate fancy dress Halloween party in a Transylvanian mountain retreat that is the crowning glory to this once in a lifetime adventure!
NEED TO KNOW Inclusions • Your fantastic Busabout Guide and Driver • 6 nights accommodation and breakfasts • Exclusive Halloween party location • Orientation walks Brasov, Sighisoara & Cluj • Halloween BBQ at Racatau Valley PLUS all itinerary highlights marked with a Accommodation 2 night multi-share hostel, 1 night multi- share lodge, 2 nights twin-share hotel, 1 night multi-share Villa.
Accommodation upgrade Available at time of booking.
Departure point/time Wombats Hostel, Budapest, 7am.
Return point/time Wombats Hostel, Budapest, after breakfast.
TRIP ITINERARY
Day 1: Budapest to Cluj We set off East through the mighty Hungarian Pusta to Cluj, the cultural capital of Transylvania, for dinner and drinks. Drive through the epic Carpathian mountains
Day 2: Cluj to Sibiel We visit Turda salt mines then on to Sibiel, one of the region’s most beautiful towns. Tonight we’ll introduce you to some traditional music and food. (B) Visit the Turda salt mines, known to some
as the most beautiful underground place in the world
Day 3: Sibiel to Brasov To Brasov, where you’ll be introduced to Vlad the Impaler and the fantastic city of wine, blue stone churches and mystery. We’ll enjoy a city orientation then tonight is yours to explore. (B) Gawk at the mountain village of Brasov
Day 4: Brasov We visit Bran Castle, and explore with a local guide, then back to Brasov to pick up that last minute costume for the fancy dress party. (B) Get spooked by Vlad the Impaler’s Bran castle
Day 5: Brasov Halloween to Racatau Valley We drive to Sighisoara, birthplace of Dracula and a beautifully preserved UNESCO-listed fortified city. Halloween party tonight in a remote mountain location. (B,D) Suck up the medieval atmosphere of
Sighisoara, Dracula’s birthplace Do the monster mash at an exclusive
Transylvanian Halloween party
Day 6: Racatau Valley to Budapest Back to Budapest, driving across the Pusta. On arrival we’ll head out for a final supper. (B) Go barmy in Budapest
Day 7: Budapest Check-out after breakfast. (B)
Start Þ Finish Þ 25 Apr 28 Apr
* Per person price based on multi-share. (B=breakfast/L=lunch/D=dinner).
Chill out, explore on your own or take part in one of our optional extras. Full details from your Busabout Guide.
See itinerary for H options
TRANSYLVANIAN HALLOWEEN TREK
* Per person price based on multi-share. (B=breakfast/L=lunch/D=dinner).
7 DAYS £479pp* 4 DAYS £239 pp*
2016 DEPARTURE DATE & PRICE ADULT £479
Imagine the most raucous street party ever. Then add an extra megaton of sangria and Spaniards. You’re still not even close to the madness of San Fermín. Our trips dive head first into this 400 year old festival. You’ll dress up in traditional garb, you’ll explore the beautiful surroundings, and you’ll learn to fiesta like a local.
HOTEL Need a little pampering after a lot of partying? Then the hotel bundle is perfect. Enjoy the party through the day and rest easy at night in a central 4 star hotel. Yes, you heard right – 4 star!
HOSTEL Our hostel is perfect for beach lovers. It’s located in the surf-tastic, foodie haven of San Sebastian. There are shuttle buses to Pamplona to make sure you don’t miss any of the action.
CAMPING There’s never a dull moment at this campsite. The tents are bright orange and decked out with super comfy air mattresses. And on hangover days you can splash about in the swimming pool.
4
Viva
FERM N
AT BUSABOUT.COM
NEED TO KNOW Inclusions • Your fantastic Busabout festival team • 3 nights accommodation • 3 continental breakfasts • Busabout San Fermín t-shirt • Busabout San Fermín Pañuelo • Welcome party
Accommodation Hotel multi-share (max triple).
Departure point/time Pamplona, 2pm.
NEED TO KNOW Inclusions • Your fantastic Busabout festival team • 3 nights accommodation • 3 continental breakfasts • San Sebastian and Pamplona orientation
walks and pintxos crawls • Coach shuttles to and from Pamplona • Busabout San Fermín t-shirt • Busabout San Fermín Pañuelo • Welcome party Accommodation Hostel multi-share. Accommodation upgrade Twin and double rooms, available at time of booking. Departure point/time San Sebastian, 2pm. Return point/time San Sebastian, 9am after breakfast. Pre/post accommodation Book through MyTrip with no booking fees.
Hostel San Sebastian, Spain
Camping (Opening ceremony) Pamplona, Spain
NEED TO KNOW Inclusions • Your fantastic Busabout festival team • 3 nights accommodation • 3 cooked breakfasts • Welcome dinner and party • Coach shuttles to and from Pamplona • Busabout San Fermín t-shirt • Busabout San Fermín Pañuelo
Accommodation Twin-share tent with airbeds. We pitch your tent. Bring your own sleeping bag! (Sleeping bags can be bought if required.) Accommodation upgrade Single tent and cabin upgrades available at time of booking. Departure point/time Camping El Molino, after 2pm. Return point/time Check-out by 10am. Pre/post accommodation Book through MyTrip with no booking fees.
Benicassim 5 DAYS
To say ‘Benicassim is energetic’, is an understatement. To say it’s ‘completely mental’, is closer to the truth. A festival where the music starts early and continues through to the early hours. Every day you can chill and recover on the beach before being entertained by some of the biggest acts in music. In between the music you’ll have the opportunity to explore some of the incredible sights in and around the local area. See page 34 for more details.
4
Start Þ Finish Þ 05 Jul (Opening ceremony) 09 Jul
NEED TO KNOW Inclusions • Your fantastic Busabout festival team • 4 nights accommodation • 4 continental breakfasts • San Sebastian and Pamplona orientation
walks and pintxos crawls • Coach shuttles to and from Pamplona • Busabout San Fermín t-shirt • Busabout San Fermín Pañuelo • Welcome party
Departure point/time San Sebastian, 2pm.
Return point/time San Sebastian, 9am after breakfast.
Hostel (Opening ceremony) San Sebastian, Spain
Start Þ Finish Þ 09 Jul 12 Jul 12 Jul 15 Jul
09 Jul 12 Jul 12 Jul 15 Jul
Pamplona – link to San Sebastian – link to Hop-on Hop-off (p12-13) Hop-on Hop-off (p12-13)
4 DAYS from £359pp*
4 DAYS £229 pp*
4 DAYS £255 pp*
2016 DEPARTURE DATES & PRICE ADULT £255
2016 DEPARTURE DATES & PRICES LOW SEASON ADULT £359 HIGH SEASON ADULT £419
5 DAYS £335 pp*
Mind-blowing: ketchup may actually be a smoothie. But even more mind-blowing is what happens at La Tomatina. In one hour 40 metric tons of tomatoes are hurled, splattered and squashed all over the tiny Spanish town of Buñol.
HOTEL Are you a bit posh but secretly want to bathe yourself in tomatoes? Then these comfy packages are for you.
HOSTEL Our Valencian hostel is right bang in the centre of town and a stone’s throw from the local tapas bars and night life.
CAMPING It’s about the tomatoes man. These pre-pitched packages get you the gooey glory and the Busabout benefits for less cash.
And if that wasn’t enough, there’s a slippery pole with a ham on top, an epic hose down, an optional day trip to Peñíscola town (featured in Game of Thrones season 6) and an after- party in Valencia. It’s a lot of crazy and a lot of fun.
PAGE 43 LA TOM
ATIN A AT BUSABOUT.COM
Hostel Valencia, Spain
NEED TO KNOW Inclusions • Your fantastic Busabout festival team • 2 nights accommodation • 2 breakfasts • Busabout Festival t-shirt and Pañuelo • Pintxos Crawl • Wine battle Accommodation 2 nights twin share tents with air mattresses.
Accommodation upgrade Cabin and single tent upgrade, available at time of booking.
Departure point/time Camping de Haro, 2pm.
Return point/time Check out 10am.
NEED TO KNOW Inclusions • Your fantastic Busabout festival team • 3 nights accommodation • 3 breakfasts • Festival entrance ticket • Orientation walk of Valencia • Festival party night • Return coach to Buñol for Tomatina Festival • Afternoon session at the beach • Busabout Festival t-shirt and headband • Official Tomatina After Party ticket
and transfers
Accommodation Twin-share tent with airbeds. We pitch your tent. Bring your own sleeping bag! (Sleeping bags can be bought if required.)
Accommodation upgrade Single tent and cabin upgrades, available at time of booking.
Departure point/time Busabout campsite from 2pm (see website for details).
Return point/time Check-out by 10am.
Camping Valencia, Spain
and transfers
Accommodation Hotel multi-share (max triples).
Departure point/time Hotel Venecia, 2pm. (Please note we also use two other hotels within a 3-minute walk away, both of the same standard.)
Hotel Valencia, Spain
and transfers
Camping Haro, Spain
If you think La Tomatina is messy, then wait till you hear about La Batalla del Vino – Wine Battle! It’s a unique and crazy Spanish fiesta where wet, purple, sun-soaked people frolic around while gorging on delicious wine and tapas.
TRIP ITINERARY
Day 1: Haro Get ready for a ‘pintxos crawl’. Your Guide will take you to the best local bars where you’ll eat as the locals do. Time to also try some Spanish wine within the most important wine region in Spain.
Day 2: Haro Let the war begin! Your Guide will tell you a little bit about the Rioja region’s vineyards and then lead you to the battlefield. (B)
Day 3: Haro Say goodbye to your fellow wine throwers. Your Guide will help you get to your next destination. Possibly San Fermín? (B)
Start Þ Finish Þ 30 Aug 01 Sep
Start Þ Finish Þ 28 Jun 30 Jun
4 DAYS £269 pp* 4 DAYS £199 pp*3 DAYS £219pp*
3 DAYS £199 pp*
Continue travelling by connecting with the options below. Valencia – link to Hop-on Hop-off (p12-13) Valencia – also link to* 8 Day Ibiza Island Hopper (p50) 4 Day Ibiza Blast (p50)
*Connect by local ferry. See www.busabout.com for details
OKTOBERFEST CAMPING The budget Oktoberfest experience. The tents are pre-pitched with a comfy air mattress so all you’ll need are your beer drinking boots and a party attitude.
OKTOBERFEST HOSTEL This package is for people who think sleep is as important as beer. It’s a comfy city centre hostel that’s close to all the beery action.
Oktoberfest starts with a ceremonious splash. Throughout the pour there’s a lot of bubble and fizz. And at the end there’s always a fuzzy head. Our trips bring out the best of this beer festival. You’ll soak up the atmosphere, eat a lot of meaty grub and get the chance to explore the heart of Bavaria.
OKTOBERFEST TOP TIPS 1 Pack light – You may end up
dancing on tables.
2 Eating isn’t cheating – In fact, the more meat the better.
3 Slow down – Or you’ll pass out too early.
4 Bring marker pens – How else will you know how much you’ve drunk?
5 Tip – It means you’ll get beer quicker.
6 Attend opening parade – If only to get some photos your parents can look at.
OKTOBER FEST
NEED TO KNOW Inclusions • Your fantastic Busabout festival team • 3 nights accommodation • 3 cooked breakfasts • Orientation walk of Munich • Busabout Oktoberfest t-shirt
Accommodation Twin-share tent with airbed. We pitch your tent. Bring your own sleeping bag! (Sleeping bags can be bought if required.)
Accommodation upgrade Single tent upgrade, available at time of booking (limited availability).
Departure point/time Camping Thalkirchen, 2pm.
Return time Check-out by 10am.
Camping Munich, Germany
NEED TO KNOW Inclusions • Your fantastic Busabout festival team • Return coach from London to Munich • 3 nights accommodation • 4 cooked breakfasts • Orientation walk of Munich • Busabout Oktoberfest t-shirt
Accommodation 2 nights overnight luxury coach. 3 nights twin share tent with airbed. We pitch your tent. Bring your own sleeping bag! (Sleeping bags can be bought if required.) Accommodation upgrade Single tent upgrade, available at time of booking (limited availability). Departure point/time Busabout London, 5pm. Return time Busabout London, 11am (depending on traffic). Pre/post accommodation Book through MyTrip with no booking fees.
Camping from London
(Opening ceremony)
NEED TO KNOW Inclusions • Your fantastic Busabout festival team • 3 nights accommodation
(walking distance to beerfest grounds) • 3 breakfasts • Free welcome drink on arrival • Orientation walk of Munich • Busabout Oktoberfest t-shirt
Accommodation upgrade Twin room, available at time of booking (limited availability).
Departure point/time Check-in 3pm.
Hostel Munich, Germany
Start Þ Finish Þ 16 Sep (Opening ceremony) 19 Sep
20 Sep 23 Sep 24 Sep 27 Sep 28 Sep 01 Oct
19 Sep 22 Sep 22 Sep 25 Sep 25 Sep 28 Sep 28 Sep 01 Oct 01 Oct 04 Oct
- BAVARIAN BEER HALL GAMES -
‘BIERKRUGSTEMMEN’ Demonstrate your beer strength by seeing who can ‘hold their drink’ at arm’s length the longest.
‘BIERDECKELFLIPPEN’ See how many beermats you can flip and catch with one hand.
‘RÜCKHANDTRINKEN’ Lift and drink beer from your 1 litre stein using just the back of your hand.
‘FINGERHAKELN’ Pull your opponent over the table by just using your finger.
BIERZELTSPIELE
Munich – link to Hop-on Hop-off (p12-13)
4 DAYS from £169 pp*6 DAYS £309pp*4 DAYS from £319pp*
2016 DEPARTURE DATE & PRICE ADULT FROM £309
2016 DEPARTURE DATES & PRICES LOW SEASON ADULT £319 MID SEASON ADULT £339 HIGH SEASON ADULT £359
2016 DEPARTURE DATES & PRICES LOW SEASON ADULT £169 HIGH SEASON ADULT £189
PA GE
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A T
BU SA
BO UT
.C OM
TourName TourStops There’s evidence that humans have been using
ropes of some sort or another for over 28,000 years. This simply means that we’ve always liked to tie knots and link things up. We continue this ancient tradition and make it possible for anyone on the Hop-on Hop-off network to link up with our Adventures, Festivals and Sailing trips at certain ‘Link Up’ points. For example, from the ‘Split’ link up point you can add a Croatia Sailing Adventure. From Prague you can connect to a Rhapsody Trek. And once you’ve finished your ‘Link Up’ trip you can get straight back on the Hop-on Hop-off network. Check out the examples on these pages to see how it works. Just follow the arrows!
L O CA L F E R RY L I N K
L O CA L F E R RY L I N K
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T H E S S A L O N I K I
AT H E N S
M E T E O R A K A L A M B A K A
D E L P H I T H E R M O P Y L A E
C O R I N T H CA N A L
PA R G A
D U B R OV N I K
T I R A N A
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B U L GAR I A S E R B I A
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MONT E N E G R O
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B O SN I A AN D H E R Z E G O V I NA
G J I R O K A S T R A ( U N E S C O )
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1 No. of overnight stays
PA M U K K A L EE P H E S U S
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P60
Fethiye – link to*
7 Day Turkey Cappadocia Adventure (p71) 10%
Istanbul – link to 11 Day Classic Balkan Trek (p66) 10%
5 Day Mini Balkan Trek (p66) 10%
8 Day Turkey Aegean (p70) 10%
*Dalaman Airport. See www.busabout.com for details.
Continue travelling by connecting with the options below and SAVE 10%.
Split – link to Hop-on Hop-off (p12-13) 10% 7 Day Bohemian Trek (p65) 10% 9 Day Ottoman Trek (p67) 10% 8 Day Croatia Sailing (p60-61)
Istanbul – link to 11 Day Classic Balkan Trek (p66) 10% 5 Day Mini Balkan Trek (p66) 10% 8 Day Turkey Aegean (p70) 10%
Athens – link to* 7 Day Balkan Trek (p67) 10% Greek Island Hopping (p56-57) 10%
*Connect by local ferry. See www.busabout.com for details
P56
S O R R E N TO
P O M P E I I R AV E L L O
R O M E
A M A L F I CA P R I
2
ITALIAN Adventure
TRIP ITINERARY
Day 1: Rome to Sorrento Travel south from Rome past Naples and Mount Vesuvius to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Pompeii. Then head further down the coast, twisting through villages to Sorrento. Marvel at Pompeii – preserved by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79AD HEat regional food from Sorrento. The best pizza, chocolate and gelato washed down with Limoncello
Day 2: Isle of Capri Your boat will pick you up from the campsite dock and take you out to the Isle of Capri. You have the whole day to explore its beaches and watch paparazzi chase the visiting celebs. Take a local boat trip to visit the glamorous Isle of Capri Swim in the Mediterranean and soak up the sun HCapri – take a chairlift to Monte Solaro, visit Villa San Michele or experience the spectacular Blue Grotto Cave
Day 3: Sorrento to Rome We depart Sorrento and drive along the Amalfi Coast spending time in both Amalfi and Ravello before returning to Rome. Wander the serene streets of Ravello and Amalfi Drive the Amalfi Coast road, one of the best scenic views in Europe H Ravello – visit the gardens of Villa Rufolo
Think your country has great food, history and people? Well think again. Because Italy does it better. Their food is so divine it deserves its own Unesco World Heritage site. Their history basically invented history. And the Italians themselves are so passionate that they make cupid blush. On this short Italian tour we visit the best bits. It’s a three-day tour that includes the history of Pompeii, the breath-taking Amalfi Coast and the glitzy glamour of Capri. Come on this trip and find out how the Italians do it better.
Italian Adventure Pompeii, Capri, Sorrento & Amalfi
Tony’s Limoncello Shop
Tony’s family has been making this drink for years, and his passion and enthusiasm for this tradition is contagious. Whether he is posing for photos, singing opera, or telling jokes, his personality and Italian accent make him a character to remember.
Start Þ Finish Þ Start Þ Finish Þ 16 May 18 May 20 Jul 22 Jul 20 May 22 May 22 Jul 24 Jul 23 May 25 May 25 Jul 27 Jul 27 May 29 May 27 Jul 29 Jul 30 May 01 Jun 29 Jul 31 Jul 03 Jun 05 Jun 01 Aug 03 Aug 06 Jun 08 Jun 03 Aug 05 Aug 08 Jun 10 Jun 05 Aug 07 Aug 10 Jun 12 Jun 08 Aug 10 Aug 13 Jun 15 Jun 10 Aug 12 Aug 15 Jun 17 Jun 12 Aug 14 Aug 17 Jun 19 Jun 15 Aug 17 Aug 20 Jun 22 Jun 17 Aug 19 Aug 22 Jun 24 Jun 19 Aug 21 Aug 24 Jun 26 Jun 22 Aug 24 Aug 27 Jun 29 Jun 24 Aug 26 Aug 29 Jun 01 Jul 26 Aug 28 Aug 01 Jul 03 Jul 29 Aug 31 Aug 04 Jul 06 Jul 02 Sep 04 Sep 06 Jul 08 Jul 05 Sep 07 Sep 08 Jul 10 Jul 09 Sep 11 Sep 11 Jul 13 Jul 12 Sep 14 Sep 13 Jul 15 Jul 16 Sep 18 Sep 15 Jul 17 Jul 19 Sep 21 Sep 18 Jul 20 Jul 23 Sep 25 Sep
ITALIAN SLEEPS Home for the night is Camping Village Santa Fortunata, perched on the cliff-top town of Sorrento. We have upgrade options which can be added at the time of booking or through MyTrip.
1 Twin-share basic tent-cabin (included in price). Halfway between a tent and a cabin. It’s basic but ideal for resting your weary travelling head.
2 Ensuite twin cabins (available as upgrade). For a bit more comfort, try our cabins with ensuite bathrooms.
3 Deluxe apartment (available as upgrade). Treat yourself to a private ensuite apartment with air-conditioning.
SAVE 10%
3 DAYS from £195 pp* Students from £185 pp*
2016 DEPARTURE DATES & PRICES LOW SEASON ADULT £195 • STUDENT £185 HIGH SEASON ADULT £225 • STUDENT £215
Buy this trip together with any Hop-On Hop-off pass and SAVE 10% off the total price.
Rome – link to * Hop-on Hop-off (p12-13) Save up to £112
NEED TO KNOW Inclusions • Busabout Guide and local driver • 2 nights accommodation • All orientation walks • Guided walking tour of Pompeii
PLUS all itinerary highlights marked with a Accommodation Santa Fortunata, a cliff-top camping village. Twin-share basic tent cabin with shared facilities.
Accommodation upgrade £39pp ensuite cabins twin-shared.
Departure point/time Plus Camping Roma, Rome, 7.45am.
Return point/time Plus Camping Roma, Rome, 7.30pm.
Pre/post accommodation Camping Roma, Rome. Book through MyTrip with no booking fees.
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DI-BALTIC AT BUSABOUT.COM
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H I L L O F C R O S S E S
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No. of overnight stays Vilnius - Tallinn
Tallinn - Vilnius
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CA S T L E T R A K A I 1
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Riga
Discover one of Europe’s best preserved medieval old towns, with UNESCO listed Art Nouveau architecture sitting side by side with Eastern Bloc communist markets.
Tallinn
Explore cute medieval areas, indulge in notorious party nights, and learn about a haunting Soviet past. Tallinn is the quintessential Baltic city with an attitude that few forget.
IBIZA TO MALLORCA
DETOX THEN RETOX
RETOX THEN DETOX
Vilnius TO Tallinn
Tallinn TO vilnius
marrakech TO Essaouira
Essaouira TO marrakech
marrakech TO Marrakech
Our Scandi-Baltic Adventure is a funky, vibrant, sun-drenched, elegant romp through the three Baltic countries and the über-cool capital cities of Sweden and Finland. Explore fabulous fortresses, be wowed by stories of Viking exploits and see if you can stand the steamy heat of a real Scandinavian sauna. The nights out are legendary too: spend your evenings raving it up in a cave bar or blasting out some karaoke, Abba-style. Sublime sea cruises and lavish places make this part of the world one of the sexiest in Europe.
Scandi-Baltic Adventure Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Sweden & Finland
TRIP ITINERARY See website for Tallinn to Vilnius itinerary
Day 1: Vilnius to Riga We explore the Lithuanian capital and Castle Trakai before heading to the eerie Hill of Crosses. Tonight we land in Riga; a great place for partying that’s known as the ‘second city that never sleeps’. Explore the island castle of Trakai Walk up to the Hill of Crosses, Lithuania HExplore Riga’s nightlife on the famous bar crawl
Day 2: Riga Head off in the morning and delve deeper into the communist past by visiting the Russian markets. This afternoon we have the opportunity to fire some old Soviet weapons! (B) HFire old AK47s in an underground shooting range HRace down an Olympic bobsleigh track
Day 3: Riga to Stockholm Board our Baltic sea cruise liner for an adventurous overnight to Sweden’s capital, Stockholm. A night full of entertainment, karaoke and ABBA-themed bands. (B)
Day 4: Stockholm A sunrise arrival to the Swedish capital, then a walking tour of the Old Town with our Viking friends. Explore the islands by bike and try some local meatballs. (B) Venture through Stockholm’s archipelago
Day 5: Stockholm to Helsinki Free day to check out this magnificent town or visit the ABBA Museum. Sea cruise to Finland. (B) HVisit the ABBA Museum HTour Stockholm by bicycle HThe mother of all buffets
Day 6: Helsinki We’ll start the day with an orientation walk around the city with its great art scene, shops and cafe culture. Tonight we check out Helsinki’s awesome nightlife. (B) HFeast on local delicacies at the seaside markets HGo for a Finnish sauna
Day 7: Helsinki to Tallinn Ferry to the Estonian capital, Tallinn. An orientation walk of the city, followed by free time to check out its Soviet past. Tonight, enjoy Tallinn’s nightlife. (B)
Day 8: Tallinn Trip finishes after breakfast. (B)
Stockholm
Explore the islands of Stockholm on two wheels and discover the hidden gems that can only be seen by bike. An expert local guide will provide all the chat.
Start Tallinn Start Þ Finish Þ Start Þ Finish Þ 25 Jun 02 Jul 06 Aug 13 Aug 09 Jul 16 Jul 20 Aug 27 Aug 23 Jul 30 Jul 03 Sep 10 Sep
Start Vilnius Start Þ Finish Þ Start Þ Finish Þ 18 Jun 25 Jun 30 Jul 06 Aug 02 Jul 09 Jul 13 Aug 20 Aug 16 Jul 23 Jul 27 Aug 03 Sep
*Per person price based on multi-share. (B=breakfast / L=lunch / D=dinner). These trips must be booked 2 weeks prior to departure.
SAVE 10%
SEE BACK COVER 8 DAYS from £539pp* Students from £519pp*
2016 DEPARTURE DATES & PRICES ADULT £539 • STUDENT £519
NEED TO KNOW Inclusions • Your fantastic Busabout Guide • All coach transport and cruise ships • 5 nights accommodation, 2 Baltic sea
cruise nights, 7 breakfasts • All orientation walks • Stockholm’s Viking Walk
PLUS all itinerary highlights marked with a Accommodation 2 nights cruise liner multi-share, 5 nights hostel multi-share. Accommodation upgrade £169pp twin/double room. Departure point/time Central Vilnius or Tallinn, 8am. Return point/time Central Tallinn or Vilnius, 8am. Pre/post accommodation Book through MyTrip with no booking fees.
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No. of overnight stays Ibiza - Menorca
Menorca - Ibiza
1 S PA I N
TRIP ITINERARY See website for Menorca to Ibiza itinerary
Day 1: Ibiza Orientation walk of Ibiza Town followed by an optional delicious tapas dinner, drinks and clubbing! Ibiza Town Orientation tour H Ibiza Town night out
Day 2: Ibiza Explore the Island or relax on the beach before our evening in San Antonio and our Sunset Cruise. Then it’s more clubbing! (B) HSunset cruise around San Antonio
Day 3: Ibiza A day at Bora Bora beach. Tonight, check out the best clubs in the world. (B)
Day 4: Ibiza to Mallorca Optional day trip to the beautiful island of Formentera or just discover the hidden charm of Ibiza old Town: Dalt Vila. Then a late ferry to Mallorca. HSwim in the pristine waters of Formentera
We give you two different ways to experience the brilliant Balearics. Either go crazy in the world’s hottest clubbing scene of Ibiza, then laze away the days on the beaches of Mallorca and Menorca. Or start chilled in Menorca and build up to some of your biggest nights out ever.
Ibiza Island Hopper Ibiza, Mallorca & Menorca
Day 5: Mallorca Jump on our optional catamaran trip or discover Mallorca: spectacular caves of Drach, royal Soller or the rough beauty of the Tramuntana Mountains. (B) HCatamaran excursion in Mallorca
Day 6: Mallorca to Menorca Ferry to Menorca and an orientation walk. Party at the breathtaking Cova d’en Xoroi. Optional Menorcan dinner that will change your life. (B) HRave in a cave, Cova d’en Xoroi overlooking the sea HEnjoy traditional Menorcan seafood and Pomada gin
Day 7: Menorca Explore the island and laze on golden sands. Optional sunset kayaking excursion. (B) HSunset kayak in Menorca’s crystal clear waters
Day 8: Menorca Trip ends after breakfast. (B)
IBIZA BLAST
Want a quick dose of some serious party action? Then Ibiza is the place to be! A perfect dose of hedonism…
Once an idyllic hideaway popular with hippies, the island now attracts hordes of hedonistic party goers looking to experience Ibiza’s immense clubbing scene. Party hard ‘til the early hours and spend your days relaxing on one of Ibiza’s many beaches or exploring the local markets of Ibiza Town. The trip includes... • Your fantastic Busabout Guide • 3 nights accommodation • 3 buffet breakfasts • Welcome drinks over one of Ibiza’s best views • Discounted club tickets • Orientation walk of Ibiza Town • Busabout Wristband
See website for details
Start Ibiza Start Þ Finish Þ Start Þ Finish Þ 17 Jun 24 Jun 12 Aug 19 Aug 01 Jul 08 Jul 26 Aug 02 Sep 15 Jul 22 Jul 09 Sep 16 Sep 29 Jul 05 Aug
Start Menorca Start Þ Finish Þ Start Þ Finish Þ 24 Jun 01 Jul 19 Aug 26 Aug 08 Jul 15 Jul 02 Sep 09 Sep 22 Jul 29 Jul 16 Sep 23 Sep 05 Aug 12 Aug
*Per person price based on multi-share. (B=breakfast / L=lunch / D=dinner). This trip must be booked 2 weeks prior to departure.
Jun to Sep
8 DAYS from £559 pp* Students from £539pp*
NEED TO KNOW Inclusions • Your fantastic Busabout Guide • All ferry tickets and transfers • 7 nights accommodation, 6 breakfasts • Orientation walks on each island • Organised nights out on every island • Discounted club tickets arranged by your Guide
PLUS all itinerary highlights marked with a Accommodation Multi-share Spanish hostales (budget hotels and hostels).
Accommodation upgrade £99pp twin/double private (min. 2 persons).
Departure point/time Ibiza Town, El Puerto Hotel, 3pm. (a few metres from Ibiza Port).
Return point/time Menorca, after breakfast.
4 DAYS from £339pp*
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P O R T U GA L M A D R I D
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TRIP ITINERARY
Day 1: Madrid to Seville Visit Cordoba, home to the Mezquita then on to Seville. And since we’re in Spain we’ll have tapas and a party this evening. Explore Seville with a local guide
Day 2: Seville to Lagos Free time to explore beautiful Seville before heading off to the sun lovers’ party town of Lagos. Dinner tonight at an authentic Portuguese restaurant, before hitting the bars. (B) Enjoy the pumping nightlife in Lagos, Portugal
Day 3: Lagos A historian’s heaven, a reveller’s mecca, a beach bum’s paradise: it’s Lagos. There’s something for everyone here so get out and start exploring. (B) HExplore the grottos of the Algarve coast by sea-kayak HSurf the waves in Lagos
Day 4: Lagos to Tangier We pass through the small Spanish town of Tarifa before arriving in Morocco by boat. You’ll be amazed by the new sights, smells and sounds of mysterious Tangier. (B) Discover a new continent and explore the city of Tangier in Morocco HHaggle for a bargain at the Tangier bazaars
Day 5: Tangier to Granada Tonight we are in the home of tapas, so time to sample the local specialities! (B) HGet stuck into the Granada Tapas Crawl HSacromonte Caves Flamenco Show
Day 6: Granada The option to visit the Alhambra, Spain’s most visited attraction and residence of royalty for centuries. Join a fully guided tour or relax and head to the Turkish hot pools for a massage. (B) HVisit the stunning UNESCO listed Alhambra HGet steamy in Moorish Granada at a traditional Hammam
Day 7: Granada to Madrid A stop in Consuegra, followed by the Imperial city of Toledo before returning to Madrid. (B) Grab a photo of the famous windmills at La Mancha Plains Wander the cobbled streets of UNESCO listed Toledo
Gorge yourself on tapas, and witness emotive Flamenco in its spiritual home. Head over into Lagos with its great beaches and awesome night life before venturing further into Morocco. History, culture and passion in abundance with balmy summer nights that really come alive after the sun goes down.
SAVE 10%
Iberian Adventure Cordoba, Seville, Lagos, Tangier (Morocco), Granada, Consuegra & Toledo
Start Þ Finish Þ Start Þ Finish Þ 28 May 03 Jun 30 Jul 05 Aug 04 Jun 10 Jun 06 Aug 12 Aug 11 Jun 17 Jun 13 Aug 19 Aug 18 Jun 24 Jun 20 Aug 26 Aug 25 Jun 01 Jul 27 Aug 02 Sep 02 Jul 08 Jul 03 Sep 09 Sep 09 Jul 15 Jul 10 Sep 16 Sep 16 Jul 22 Jul 17 Sep 23 Sep 23 Jul 29 Jul
Granada’s Alhambra The UNESCO World Heritage listed Alhambra and Generalife Gardens are up there on the ‘wow’ scale.
The name is Arabic for ‘Red Fortress’ and was built by the Moorish rulers of Granada as their residence and court in the mid-fourteenth century. If their intention was to show off how much ‘bling’ they had, then it worked, however the ‘official’ reason was to reflect the beauty of paradise itself.
Stunning Islamic architecture and decoration fill the palace and mosque along with the gardens, fountains and streams. Entry is optional but this is Spain’s most visited attraction for a very good reason!
Tickets can be purchased from your Guide.
Spain & PortugalIberian Adventure
7 DAYS from £489pp* Students from £469 pp*
NEED TO KNOW Inclusions • Your fantastic Busabout Guide and Driver • 6 nights accommodation and breakfasts • Orientation walks in each town • Guided tour of Tangier and its markets
PLUS all itinerary highlights marked with a Accommodation Multi-share hostels and hotels.
Accommodation upgrade £119pp twin private (min. 2 persons).
Departure point/time U-Hostel, Madrid, 7.30am.
Return point/time Madrid, 8pm.
Buy this trip together with any Hop-On Hop-off pass and SAVE 10% off the total price.
Madrid – link to Hop-on Hop-off (p12-13) Save up to £141
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DETOX THEN RETOX
RETOX THEN DETOX
Vilnius TO Tallinn
Tallinn TO vilnius
Essaouira TO marrakech
marrakech TO Marrakech
C H E F C H A O U E N
F E S
M I L D E LT
S A H A R A D E S E RT
A Ï T B E N H A D D O U
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R A B AT M E K N E S
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MOROC C O
MOROC C O
S A H A R A D E S E RT M A R R A K E C H
E S S A O U I R A
2
1
1
Marrakech – Essaouira
TRIP ITINERARY
Day 1: Marrakech Welcome to Morocco! Go explore or chill by the pool at our 4H hotel before a welcome meeting at 6pm. (D)
Day 2: Marrakech to Rabat A visit to Casablanca en-route to a night in Morocco’s capital, Rabat. (B) HVisit the stunning Hassan II mosque, the third largest in the world
Day 3: Rabat to Meknes A morning to explore the mosques and palaces of the capital Rabat, then on to the imperial city of Meknes. (B)
Day 4: Meknes to Chefchaouen Arrive at Chefchaouen high up in the Rif mountains.(B) Admire Chefchaouen, city of blue and white
Day 5 to 6: Fes Discover Fes, the world’s largest medieval city. Explore souks and tanneries on our full day city tour. (B, B) H Immerse yourself in a traditional Moroccan evening
Day 7: Fes to Midelt Relax after Fes in this beautiful alpine town for a night in the Atlas Mountains. (B, L, D)
Day 8: Midelt to Sahara Desert (Berber camp) We travel from the Atlas Mountains to the enigmatic Sahara Desert and Berber camp. (B, L, D) Camp with the Berbers and Sahara camel trek
Day 9: Sahara Desert to Todra Gorge Marvel at the changing colours and dizzying heights of the Todra Gorge. (B, L, D) Wander Todra Gorge, the ‘Grand Canyon’ of Morocco
Day 10: Todra Gorge to Aït Benhaddou Passing via Dades Valley, we visit the home of ‘Lawrence of Arabia’ and its famous Kasbah. (B, D)
Day 11 to 12: Essaouira Enjoy the beach and surf at this stunning fortified and colourful fifteenth-century fishing town. (B, B) Explore ‘Game of Thrones’ l

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