radical travel 2010 uk 1

FOR INDEPENDENT TRAVELLERS

deeP ceLtic LoveUp close and personal with sexy Scotland and wild Ireland

isLand hoPPingParty your way around Croatia and Greece

hoP-on hoP-off33 destinations, 9 countries, 1 pass... do it your way

hungry for adventure?Feast on Eastern Europe

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our tripsinfo3 WAYS TO SAVE 04 GrEEN STUFF 53YOUr QUESTIONS 54THE SMALL PrINT 55

BUSABOUT06-25 Backpack Europe on a budget plus Greece and Croatia Island Hopping

HAGGiS ADVENTUrES32-43 Wild & Sexy trips of Scotland, Cornwall and Wales

EASTErN TrEKKEr26-31 Go East! Prague to Split and on to Istanbul

SHAMrOCKEr ADVENTUrES44-52 Let the Irish show you the real Ireland

SCOTLAND

WALES

ENGLANDGERMANY

POLAND

HUNGARYROMANIA

BULGARIA

TURKEY

GREECE

EGYPT

ITALY

CROATIAFRANCE

SPAINPORTUGAL

IRELAND

SWITZERLAND

AUSTRIA

NETHERLANDS

BELGIUMCZECHREPUBLIC

BOSNIA &HERZEGOVINA

SLOVAKIA

SERBIA

SLOVENIA

SCOTLAND

WALES

ENGLANDGERMANY

POLAND

HUNGARYROMANIA

BULGARIA

TURKEY

GREECE

EGYPT

ITALY

CROATIAFRANCE

SPAINPORTUGAL

IRELAND

SWITZERLAND

AUSTRIA

NETHERLANDS

BELGIUMCZECHREPUBLIC

BOSNIA &HERZEGOVINA

SLOVAKIA

SERBIA

SLOVENIA

BUSABOUT

HAGGiS ADVENTUrESEASTErN TrEKKEr

SHAMrOCKEr ADVENTUrES

contents WELCOME TO OUr 2010 BrOCHUrE

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Black c 0 m 0 y 0 k 100

Red c 0 m 100 y 100 k 0Busabout Explorer Designed for the independent traveller and budget backpacker, our ‘Hop on – Hop off’ coach network is all about flexibility. You decide where you go and how long you travel for. Our door to door hostel service and on-board Guides are there to maximise your European experience.

We’ve been running legendary, award-winning trips since 1993 and our incredible reputation has been built on word of mouth. With the best local Guides who are passionate about their country and the famous wee yellow buses, there is no better way to discover Scotland, England and Wales with like-minded travellers.

Busabout Adventures Awesome in their own right, perfect for extending your Explorer pass and squeezing more out of your travels. We’ve developed some amazing trips that go that bit further - from short breaks and Greek island hopping to sailing the Croatian coast. We also do the top European festivals for those who want to party in style!

Let the Irish show you the real Ireland! Our world famous Guides live and breathe Celtic history, myths and legends and you will leave loving our country as much as we do! And the ‘craic’ continues down the pub partying with the locals to traditional music and a few pints of the black stuff. Fan-feckin-tastic!

The Eastern Europe pioneers! Even seasoned travellers are raving about the countries that formally made up the Eastern Bloc. Vibrant cities, jaw dropping scenery and rich cultures all add up to make our trips some of the most exciting on the planet. And your cash goes much further here...

PEOPLE LIKE YOU

We live travel. It’s the reason we get up in the morning and what we talk about in the pub after work. We believe you don’t have to spend a fortune to get a great experience and that, armed with a bit of local knowledge, you can stretch your time and dollars further.

We also believe that travel shouldn’t be stressful and that choice and flexibility don’t have to mean getting dumped in a city and having no one to help you out.

Our style, whilst unashamedly great fun, treats the cultural understanding of the countries in which we travel with the utmost importance. On some of our trips we’ll show you around, on others you’ll discover the destinations for yourselves. Either way we’re here to make sure you have the best experience possible.

SEE YOU ON THE rOAD!

OUr BOOK & GO GUArANTEEWe will never cancel your trip once you’ve booked. Some claim to have guaranteed departures but don’t. Our promise to you is simple – you book, you go. Guaranteed.

one collective,unlimited experiencesWE BELIEVE IN CHOICEHaving options is a good thing and travel is all about possibilities - where you go, what you do, when and who you do it with. It’s for these reasons Radical Travel came about. Our collective shares the same aims and ours is to offer big experiences to independent travellers who want to make their time and money go further. You might feel the same way.

Our 2010 brochure is bigger, better and juicier than ever. Inside we have crammed more trips and adventures than ever before. If you want a one-stop shop that gives you the widest choice of travel options throughout Europe, Egypt, the UK and Ireland, then you’ve come to the right place.

The trips contained within these pages are as diverse as the people who make up the Radical collective. Yet, we all came together for the same reasons – having itchy feet with a yearning to explore new places and meet new people. By sharing this knowledge (and

enthusiasm!) we know how to max your time and make your budget travel further. So, whether you’re travelling on your own or in a group, for the first time or with a well used guidebook, we will have the ideal trip for you.

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LOOK OUT FOR THIS TAG ON QUALIFYING TRIPS

BUY TwO OR mORe QUALIFYING TRIPS TOGeTHeR AND SAVe 10% OFF THe TOTAL*

*Multi Trip saving of 10% applies to any of the qualifying products listed above. Two or more different qualifying trips must be booked simultaneously by a single individual to qualify for the Multi Trip discount. The 10% discount only applies to qualifying products. Discount is valid against Student prices on qualifying trips. Not valid with any other promotion or discount. Cancellation charges will be adjusted to incorporate any Multi Trip discounts previously given. Multi Trip discount only applies to base trip price, not to optional upgrades or supplements.

7 Day aLL IRELaND ROCKER5 Day CELTIC ROCKER5 Day GIaNT’S ROCKER

9 Day CLaSSIC RhapSODy TREK7 Day RhapSODy TREK 7 Day BOhEMIaN TREK6 Day BaLKaN TREK

exPLOReRFLExITRIpaLL FLExIROUTES

GReece4 ISLaND FLExI-hOppER

ITALY3 Day ITaLIaN aDvENTURE

SPAIN & PORTUGAL7 Day IBERIaN aDvENTURE

eGYPT9 Day ONE-way EGypT

ScOTLAND10 Day COMpaSS BUSTER7 Day ISLaND ExpLORER5 Day hIGhLaND FLING

eNGLAND & wALeS5 Day wELSh ExpLORER5 Day CORNwaLL CRUSaDER

THe mORe TRIPS

YOU BOOK, THe mORe YOU SAVe!

Our little collective shares a common aim: to make your cash stretch as far as possible by arming you with excellent guides, a choice of destinations and a choice of travel styles. It’s an admirable mission but one which is made slightly easier by our multi-trip, mates’ rates and student discounts.

If you are not covered by any of the discounts below then do not despair: keep your bookmark on the Special Offers section of our websites for current promotions.

mULTI TRIPS

SAVe 10% STUDeNTDIScOUNT

mULTI TRIPS

SAVe 10%

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AweSOme FOURSOme

TeRRIFIc TeN

OUR GROUP OF FOUR DIScOUNT meANS A 5% SAVING PeR PeRSON wHeN FOUR OR mORe PeOPLe BOOK AT THe SAme TIme ON THe SAme TRIP.

TRAVeL wITH 10 FRIeNDS BOOKeD ON THe SAme TRIP AT THe SAme TIme AND eVeRYONe SAVeS 10%

* Multi Trip deals and Mates’ Rates discounts cannot be combined. Mates’ Rates discounts valid on all trips in this brochure. Mates’ Rates discounts only apply to base trip prices, not to optional upgrades or supplements. please see Terms & Conditions.

SAVe5%

SAVe10%

STUDeNTS, OURISIc / ISe / ITIc cARD HOLDeR DIScOUNT wILL HeLP YOUR TRAVeL BUDGeT STReTcH THAT LITTLe BIT FURTHeR.PLUS ALL RADIcAL mULTI TRIP DeALS AND GROUP DIScOUNTS ARe APPLIcABLe ON TOP OF THe STUDeNT DIScOUNT.* valid ISIC / ISE / ITIC card must be presented on first day of travel.

SAVe£££s

SURF OUR weBSITeS FOR ALL THe LATeST NewS

Our network covers all the major European destinations, plus some of our hidden away favourites (see page 13).

Choose to do your own thing with a FLEXITRIP pass (page 11) or go

for one of our set routes with the FLEXIROUTES (pages 12-14).

Go where you want and when you want, but above all travel at your own pace and make up your own mind – it’s your adventure.

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Hassle-free, independent travelNever be dumped on your own in the middle of a city again – use our hostel-to-hostel service instead! Our team will drop you as close as possible to our selected hostels so you just carry your bag inside rather than having to lug it across town. Your bag gets locked up underneath the coach while you travel so no need to stress about your possessions during the day. We look after the serious stuff allowing you to concentrate on having a good time.

travel buddiesBusabout Explorer is a lot more than a choice of travel style. It’s about being free to go solo or hooking up with like-minded travellers. Find travel buddies, bump into mates on the road or change your route to go see that hot guy you met in Berlin. It’s about who you make the journey with as much as where you go. Whether you start your Busabout trip on your own, as a couple or in a group, you’ll meet loads of people along the way.

GettinG startedWhether you’ve already got a route in mind or just know you want to travel in Europe, check out all your options here or online. We’re all about choice and flexibility when you travel and making the planning of your trip really easy. If this sounds like your idea of an awesome European experience, read on!

hop-onhop-offeuropebaCKpaCK eurOpe On a budGetOur network’s unique mix of independence and support lets you travel Europe at your own pace. We’ve got the coaches, the Guide and Driver but, unlike a tour, you choose where you go and how long you travel for.

(In Tirol)

NON-COMPULSORYDAY STOP

COMPULSORYOVERNIGHT STOP

PHOTO STOP

COnneCt WitH tHe best adventuressee paGe 16

CHOOse HOW tO spend yOur time and mOneyIf you want to party in Berlin or check out the Paris museums, sunbathe on a Mediterranean beach or take a hike in the Alps, we can help you out. Our Guides are there to help and answer your questions, so use them as much as you want. And before you depart you’ll find heaps of useful details and suggestions on the Busabout website, from Lonely Planet’s destination guides to traveller’s tales.

neW fOr 2010* MyBusabout CommunityGet online and start networking with other travellers - before, during and after your trip.

* Neuschwanstein CastleIf you only ever see one castle in your life, this is the one to see.

* New Destinations - Innsbruck and Gruenau Perfect for the Austrian Alps.

* PamplonaIdeal for the Running of the Bulls, or to check out this stunning town outside the crazy season.

We are proud of what we do, from our beloved big blue buses to our awesome crew.

persOnalised attentiOnTravelling on Busabout means that you do the discovering while our awesome Crew are there to help you make the most of your trip. Want to know about that tiny village just south of Prague or which metro line to take for the Eiffel Tower? Just ask our team and you’ll get all the low-down you need for your own tailor-made adventure.

lOCal KnOWledGeOur Guides and Drivers are all independent travellers who are fanatical about Europe and keen to share their knowledge and experience with you. It’s not all historical sites and culture – our guys will give you their own top tips about where to party, the best little family-run restaurant in town and where to go for live music. They’ve been there and tried it all so they’ve got plenty of suggestions, whatever you’re looking for.

save yOur time and mOneyWhether you want to go sight-seeing, hire a bike or find out how to get around by public transport – a wealth of information is just a question away. We aim to stretch your time and money as far as it will go; you don’t need to have a huge bank balance to get the most out of Europe.

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why we aredifferent

Guide ‘tWeets’Get to hear about life on the road through Twitter. Our Guides will be tweeting as they go so you can find out what is happening where, direct from the team.www.twitter.com/Busabout

JOin us On faCebOOK and stay connected with all the news and views from Busabout HQ.www.facebook.com/BusaboutEurope

Your travel experience doesn’t necessarily begin the moment you get on the bus. Not even when you step foot on European soil. With the power of technology we bring you our community site!

OurCOmmunity

Experiences are better when they’re shared and you can join our community even before you’ve bought an Explorer pass. MyBusabout has been developed with the following aims in mind...

Got a question for the crew? Need some advice on where to go? Then post your question here.

Blog on all the issues of the day and get some feedback from other Busabouters on what is going on and where. Don’t be shy with those questions!

Meet other travellers who are planning their trip. You can make new friends from around the world and then meet up with them in Paris, Rome, Amsterdam... Get the news first – where we have secured extra beds, when we release more spaces on Festival trips and the latest offers. Upload your sexy photos to share with your mates or to show off the amazing time you are having.

Also available online

* Lonely Planet destination guides* Trip-planner* Tips on saving time and money* The latest news on European festivals and events* Downloadable ‘Guideabout’ fact sheets* Adventure videos* Blogs from the crew

bOOK yOurbeds & buses

Flexibility is what we look for when we travel and we’ve built this into all aspects of Busabout. As soon as you buy a Busabout trip, you can login to your very own online planning website: MyTrip. From here you can check availability, book and cancel buses free of charge. You can also reserve yourself a bed (no booking fees, just a 10% deposit) and find out pick-up point times.

We aim to let you travel when and where you want, but it’s worth bearing in mind that our network can get pretty busy. Therefore we recommend booking your seats as early as possible for maximum flexibility. Two weeks is usually plenty (a little longer

around festivals). You can make changes up to 24 hours before you travel so if there’s space on the bus, you’re more than

welcome on board.

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1st class is standard on Busabout. We have a fleet of modern, air-conditioned coaches with reclining seats, plenty of leg room and a secure lock-up for your bags – and we love them! Watch a film, chat to your mates, listen to some tunes or watch the world go by through our huge tinted panoramic windows.

You don’t just get choice and flexibility off the bus – you get it on-board too. Each bus has its own entertainment system, offering on-board movies and documentaries plus many music channels. And for all you flashpackers we have power points to charge all your electronic bits ‘n bobs.

Girls On tHe rOad...Don’t sacrifice all luxury when you travel if you don’t want to - check out these tips from our female Busabout crew instead.

lOnely planetYour ideal (pocket sized) travel companion!Not a worry because you get a FREE 200 page guide book to help you get the most of your trip*. (*Issued on the first day of travel for all Flexitrip and Flexiroute passengers).

Check out all our Lonely Planet content at www.busabout.com/explorer

ceiling mountedmovie screens

power sockets for re-charging

reclining seats &plenty of leg room

fully air-conditioned

secure luggage hold

You can also plug your headphones into our seat back audio entertainment system (available to buy onboard).

travel in style

One of the best things about independent travel is all the people you will meet up with on the road, whether from back home or other parts of the world.

Busabout is perfect for people travelling on their own as you will have the opportunity to meet like-minded travellers and share experiences. Those

who do start out by themselves (almost half

our travellers!) very soon have a group of friends to travel with. In fact Busabout is the only backpacker travel network in Europe operated exclusively for backpackers. This means that our customers are meeting like-minded travellers from the moment they join our network or even before if you sign up to our community site (see page 7).

sOlOtravellers

We’ve teamed up with our mates at Lonely Planet who have provided us with all the info you’ll need for each of Busabout’s destinations - what to see and do, where to party, the best places to eat and drink... the lot.

Buy local brands of clothes, toiletries and accessories to save cash and weight. You’ll also find big-name brands in most chemists.

Don’t compromise on what’s important to you – bring your straighteners and hairdryer if you want to!

Good things, small packages. Bring travel-size appliances to save space and don’t forget European plug-adaptors.

Backpack vs. wheelie case – you decide. If you use our door-to-door hostel service a wheelie case is just as practical as a backpack. Go with what suits your style of travelling and stick two fingers up at anyone who tells you otherwise.

big tinted windows

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Here is a seleCtiOn Of typiCal aCCOmmOdatiOn OptiOns:

Great places to sleep and recharge are important when you’re on the road. Every year we personally pick out the best value options (friendly staff, great facilities and clean) in each of our destinations. The hard work’s been done for you!

HOstelsParis - St. Christopher’s is a brand new purpose built backpackers hostel in central Paris. There are some great facilities like free Wi-Fi and a ‘girls only’ floor, and there’s great parties and live music in their Belushi’s Bar. Just two stops on the Metro from Montmartre, it’s located in one of the most vibrant areas of the city and well connected to the rest of the capital.

Barcelona. Right In the heart of the city Barcelona Sound has an amazing roof terrace, balconies on every floor and great

views from every window – perfect for watching Barcelona life

pass by. It’s 2 minutes walk to Las Ramblas and to the partying and shopping area. Decorated by local graphic artists it has loads

of personality and helpful staff who are there to give

you the ‘local perspective’. They even organise spicy flamenco and ‘tapas tasting nights’ great for meeting new mates before a night on the town.

Florence - Plus is Florence’s newest and most cutting edge hostel situated right in the heart of the city. There’s all the facilities you would expect but throw in ensuites and flat screen TV’s in every room, all you can eat buffets, ‘girls only’ dorms and swimming pool. Unwind on the Terrace Bar with its panoramic views across the rooftops towards Il Duomo.

CampinG villaGesLauterbrunnen - Camping Jungfrau. Located at the foot of the world-famous Swiss Alps, but if being surrounded by mountains, waterfalls and glaciers isn’t enough for you, then you’ll be blown away by the welcome. Your hosts, Hans & Ruth, are always on hand to make your stay one to remember. Choose from chalets, caravans or the hostel with private and dorm rooms both available. Make the most of the great restaurant, bar, mini-supermarket and self-catering kitchen before you head out to the mountains. It’s also the ideal starting point for walking tours, for exploring the Alps or indulging in adventure sports and just a 15 minute train ride into Interlaken.

Rome. Only 3kms and a 15 minute shuttle bus journey from the Vatican,

Camping Roma is the ideal base to explore the Italian capital at your own pace. We stay in air-conditioned bungalows with spacious rooms and ensuite

bathrooms. There are also loads of facilities like a supermarket and

laundry but it’s the swimming pools, bars and restaurant that make it an ideal place to chill out or party.

HOtelsIf you fancy a bit more luxury or privacy,

then we also recommend a range of 2 & 3 H hotels in most destinations which are usually just a short walk or bus/tram ride from the pick-up point.

greatsleepz

MyTrip is fast, convenient and the savings made without having to pay booking fees can be better used elsewhere. (We have also managed to squeeze a few extra

discounts for bar meals and drinks along the way! Your Guide will let you know!) It’s also a great way of keeping track of all your bookings and planning where to go next.

Great valueMost Busabout recommended places are very centrally located. When a city doesn’t have great value backpacker hostels, we use awesome camping villages with pools, great bars and restaurants and with frequent and easy links to the city centre.

By booking at our Pick-up point recommended accommodation (we have at least one in every city) you get all the benefits of our door-to-door service. We get the bus as close to the front door as possible, meaning a hassle-free arrival for you. Check-in, drop your bag and you’re ready to explore.

save ¤¤¤s Booking online through MyTrip, you can choose the type of room to suit your budget, from larger dorms to private ensuite rooms. Budget about ¤17-¤28 per night for a dorm bed. You Save ¤¤¤s every time you book as there are no booking fees. We also guarantee you will not pay above the market rate for your beds, often they are even cheaper.

maKe neW mates

Of course, the best hostels have the best staff so the

people who work there, be

they locals or travellers, will be a fountain of knowledge and advice. You’ll also get to meet heaps of people from other walks of life making their own journey through Europe.

bOOK yOur beds

big tinted windows

nO bOOKinGfees

HOW dO i bOOK my buses / aCCOmmOdatiOn?Once you’ve bought your pass you’ll get a client reference number. Go to MyBusabout then log in to MyTrip and create a password.

dO i Have tO bOOK in advanCe?To guarantee your seat, book through MyTrip. If you’re not able to be flexible with your dates we’d recommend you do this a couple of weeks in advance. You can turn up without a booking and if there’s space you’re welcome onboard but we can’t guarantee the bus won’t be full.

WHat if i CHanGe my mind?You can change buses up to 24 hours in advance at no extra cost. If you don’t cancel a sector or don’t show up, you can still travel that sector, but only on a standby basis.

tHere are tWO Ways tO GO

flexibility, CHOiCe and independenCe are what we’re all about. Whether you choose to travel on one of our set FLEXIROUTES or make your own way with a FLEXITRIP, this is what we offer.

We’ve got an ‘every other day’ service running from May to October, to and from every destination on our Busabout Explorer network, allowing you all the time and flexibility you need to experience Europe at your own pace.

* Start and finish anywhere you like* Travel at your own pace* Break up your FLEXITRIP or FLEXIROUTE – make it into more than one trip* Door to door pick-ups and drop-offs* On-Board Guides who are full of local tips* Awesome big blue luxury coaches* Move on or stay put? Departures every 2nd day

The ultimate flexible travel option. Just choose where you’d like to go, then buy your Flexitrip pass plus any extra Flexistops to complete the trip. See page 11.

We’ve broken the network down into easy-to-use routes. Some are ‘loops’ and some are ‘one-way’ trips. They are a great way to explore a particular region or to follow some of our favourite trips. See page 12.

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4. Accommodation works out to be about ¤17-¤28 per person per night for shared dorms. Allow around ¤20-¤30 per day for everything else. >>>

5. Decide whether the Flexitrip or the Flexiroutes fit best with your travel plans and book your trip. >>>

3. Work out how much time you have and your budget. Do you want to make this one big trip or break it into a few smaller ones? >>>

7. Remember to leave some time to explore the other great Busabout Adventures featured in this brochure. >>>

GettinG started

and OffyOu GO!

this is howit all works...

6. After booking, go

to MyTrip, create your own password and start planning your trip. Book your seats and accommodation online - no booking fees. >>>

2. Look at our map and tickthe destinations you’d like to discover. >>>

1. Surf the internet (and the Busabout

website) for ideas on places

you want to see and things you want to do. >>>

11

day 1-4 rOmeIt all began in the Eternal City... pizza, pasta, chic fashion and crazy Italians on mopeds! Packed in five

days exploring the sights you dream of - the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain and Pantheon, not to mention sampling the local Chianti. Met my fellow Busabouters on the Vatican walking tour and spent the evening pool-side, comparing itineraries and gearing up for the first departure.

day 5-9 siena & flOrenCeWalked the walls of Siena in an afternoon but its charming cobbled streets and

friendly locals left me craving more. After a full day hunting down Michelangelo’s David in Florence, our Busabout Guide took us for a night of dinner and dancing at the Red Garter. We said goodbye to our bleary eyes with a

shot of espresso and wandered the outer walls of the city to witness a breathtaking sunset over the Ponte Vecchio.

day 10-14 Cinque terreEach of these quaint five villages left me enchanted and I just had to extend

my stay. Sandy beaches, secret coves and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. Not to mention being seduced by the local cuisine... pesto, Limoncello, gelati, focaccia... but not necessarily in that order! Took time out to wander the 12km trail connecting the Cinque Terre on my final day before sadly leaving Italy behind.

day 15-18 niCe & aviGnOnFrance! A brief stop off in Nice to get a taste of how the rich and famous live. Our

St. Tropez cruise took us by the super-yachts

of Monaco, all the while convinced we had spotted a celebrity or two. The ancient city of Avignon was a contrast from modern Nice. We posed for photos on the Pont d’Avignon and spent a day admiring the Palace of the Popes. Oh, and we tried snails!

day 19-24 barCelOnaOnto España and beautiful Barca, the home to Gaudi, and a

city with an electric vibe of passion and creativity. I spent an amazing six days exploring Las Ramblas, visited the eye popping Sagrada Familia and fell in love with the fantasyland of Parc Guell. The first night was spent at a Spanish cooking class, where we sampled our own tapas and pintxos, washed down with copious amounts of sangria before dancing the night away.

and OffyOu GO!

Eastern TrekkerSee page 26-31

Croatia SailingSee page 23-25

Greek Island HoppingSee page 16-17

Italian AdventureSee page 18

Iberian AdventureSee page 19

(In Tirol)



PHOTO STOP

New Zealander Lucy MacIntyre travelled Busabout in summer 2008 and loved it so much she joined our team at Busabout HQ. Here’s a taster of what she got up to on her FLEXITRIP...

(luCy’s Way, tHat is)

The FLEXITRIP pass is designed to give you the ultimate in flexibility - so go crazy drawing circles around the destinations you have always dreamed of visiting, then join up the dots and count up the stops.

A Flexistop is one travel day so, for example, if you want to get from Paris to Amsterdam that would be one Flexistop. If instead you fancy hopping off in Bruges (to drink local beers and eat Belgian chocolate) and then carry onto Amsterdam another day, that would take 2 Flexistops.

Build up on your base pass of 6 Flexistops by buying additional stops before you leave. You can also buy extra Flexistops whilst you’re on the road from your Guide.

6 stOps £309 (students £299)




extra flexistOp £29(students £29)

WHat’s tHe GO? * Every 2nd day service from May to October* Stay as long as you like in each destination* Expert Guides on all departures* Change your travel days as often as you like* Book accommodation through MyTrip - no booking fees!

multi trips

save 10%see page 4

trip duratiOn Guide days ‘Pacing it’ is for those who have lots of time on their hands and want to do it all.

‘Racing it’ is for those who are short of time and want to see the main sites. (Minimum recommended travel time)

re-travel yOur lOOpOn all of the Loop FLEXIROUTES

you can re-travel your loop as many times as you like on a standby basis until the end of the season.

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West lOOpStart & finish: Anywhere 13 Destinations 4 Countries 4 weeks+ 15 days

£349(students £335)

PICK THE BEST ROUTE FOR YOU... Whether you choose 1, 2 or 3 Loops or one of our One-Way routes you can create your very own tour of Europe. No matter where you end up travelling, the same great Busabout service will be there for you.

WHat’s tHe GO? * Every 2nd day service from May to October* Stay as long as you like in each destination* Expert Guides on all departures* Change your travel days as often as you like* Book accommodation through MyTrip - no booking fees!

You will notice that there is a couple of what we call ‘Photo Stops’ highlighted on the network map. And this is exactly what they are, little extras between hop on – hop off points we think you should check out.

nOrtH lOOpStart & finish: Anywhere 12 Destinations6 Countries 3 weeks+ 15 days


sOutH lOOpStart & finish: Anywhere12 Destinations 5 Countries 3 weeks+ 15 days

£349(students £335) (In Tirol)



PHOTO STOP

(In Tirol)



PHOTO STOP

(In Tirol)



PHOTO STOP

Pisa. No need for an introduction, Pisa’s leaning tower is famous for the poor choice of construction site and the loose earth it was built upon. Recent work has apparently stopped it moving for the first time in its 800 year history. Just don’t lean against it too hard.

Neuschwanstein. Perched on a hilltop, surrounded by forest, this fairy tale Bavarian palace has featured in numerous movies and was the inspiration for the Disney castle. Built for the eccentric King Ludwig IIto escape the public, he probably shouldn’t have made it so stunning...

Terezin. A fascinating stop, this Czech town served as a ghetto for the Jewish population and a punishment prison for Allied POW’s during World War II. A chapter from Europe’s recent past from which we can learn many lessons.

Orvieto.This Italian beauty is another one that will make you gasp. Situated on top of a volcanic rock with vertical cliff faces, the town once controlled the road between Rome and Florence. The real surprise however, is the labyrinth of caves and tunnels that lie beneath the surface used as cellars, rooms and even escape tunnels over the centuries.

multi trips

save 10%see page 4

multi trips

save 10%see page 4

multi trips

save 10%see page 4

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mOre Great rOutes >>>

You may have your sights set on experiencing the big cities of the Busabout network but there are a number of smaller spots we have added which we feel are worth the time to explore. The following hidden gems are just a few examples. Your Guide and fellow passengers will rave about them and many consider these stops the highlight of their trip. Make sure you set some time aside and enjoy!

Cesky Krumlov this tiny bohemian town in the Czech Republic is UNESCO

listed because of its stunning medieval architecture. You can wander through the cobbled streets up to the castle or even raft down the River Vltava with a couple of locally brewed Eggenberg beers on board. Trust us, you will find it difficult to leave.

Cinque Terre is always a winner for those who want a more relaxed Italian

experience after the bustle of the big cities. The five villages that have

Lauterbrunnen is an incredible alpine hideaway filled with Swiss chalets. Its lush

green valley sweeps up to awe-inspiring snowy mountains and the whole area is well worth a few days exploration. Chuck a snowball at the ‘Top of Europe’, Jungfraujoch, or check out the Trummelbach glacier falls. This alpine village is also a great base for rafting, paragliding and sky-diving... or just taking it easy, cycling, hiking or exploring Interlaken and the lakes...

been built over the centuries onto this rugged coastline are noted for their beauty and easy pace of life. Cars are not allowed access but if you’re feeling active you can hike the path that connects them through olive and lemon groves before enjoying a glass of wine by one of the little harbours.

nOrtH + West lOOpsStart & finish: Anywhere23 Destinations9 Countries 6 weeks+ 33 days


West + sOutH lOOpsStart & finish: Anywhere 23 Destinations 6 Countries 6 weeks+ 33 days


nOrtH + West + sOutH lOOpsStart & finish: Anywhere 33 Destinations9 Countries 8 weeks+ 42 days


nOrtH + sOutH lOOpsStart & finish: Anywhere 23 Destinations 8 Countries 6 weeks+ 33 days


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Gruenau. New for 2010, this Austrian idyll is a traditional; little village surrounded

by awesome Alpine scenery with majestic mountains and crystal clear lakes. There’s hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking or simply a stunning place to relax and enjoy nature.

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mOre...

It’s one of those facts we like to boast about when talking about our company but last year almost every second traveller did a completely unique trip of their own. Now if that’s not an example of how well we cater for the independent traveller, we don’t know what is.

We introduced our One-Way Flexiroutes in 2009 and they were a huge success as each one manages to incorporate all the juicy bits of the European region you want to concentrate on. And, being a One-Way, you can fly in to one city and depart from another so no need to revisit places you have already been to.

Have we missed the ultimate One-Way itinerary? If you think we have, don’t keep it to yourself - let us know!

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GO WestStart: Rome Finish: Paris 13 Destinations3 Countries 4 weeks+ 18 days


lOnG Way rOundStart: Paris Finish: Barcelona 20 Destinations8 Countries 6 weeks+ 30 days


alpine passStart: Rome Finish: Amsterdam 12 Destinations6 Countries 4 weeks+ 18 days


epiC adventureStart: Paris Finish: Madrid 16 Destinations6 Countries 5 weeks+ 24 days


GO rOmanStart: Paris Finish: Rome 14 Destinations7 Countries 4 weeks+ 21 days


sun seeKerStart: Berlin Finish: Madrid 19 Destinations 6 Countries 5 weeks+ 26 days


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DATE FROM TONO. OF

NIGHTSPLAN YOUR TRIP LIKE THIS

15

startplanningBusabout operates an EVERY SECOND DAY service. To check travel dates, simply match the colour of the departure city to the calendar day colour. The white departure cities operate on white calendar days, the shaded departure cities operate on the shaded calendar days.

We advise booking as much of your trip as you can. You can always change your mind, however if you are planning to travel in peak season or around the big European festivals get those bookings in early!

This is your part of the website. Get online, research, check availability and start locking in your seat reservations on MyTrip. The route planner is quick and easy to use so you’ll have fun doing it!

(In Tirol)



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FROM TO DEPARTS ARRIvES FROM UNTIL

compulsory overnight stops

NORTH (4 MAY - 28 OCT)

Paris Bruges 8:00 13:00 4-May 17-OctBruges Amsterdam 13:00 18:00 4-May 17-OctAmsterdam Berlin 8:00 18:00 5-May 18-OctBerlin Dresden 8:00 11:30 6-May 19-OctDresden Prague 11:30 16:00 6-May 19-OctPrague Cesky Krumlov 8:00 11:45 7-May 20-OctCesky Krumlov Vienna 11:45 16:30 7-May 20-OctVienna Gruenau 8:00 11:30 8-May 21-OctGruenau Salzburg 11:30 13:30 8-May 21-OctSalzburg Munich 13:30 16:30 8-May 21-OctMunich Stuttgart 8:00 11:30 9-May 28-OctStuttgart Paris 11:30 21:00 9-May 28-Oct

SOUTH (15 MAY - 27 OCT) Munich Innsbruck 8:00 10:45 15-May 22-OctInnsbruck Venice 10:45 17:30 15-May 22-OctVenice Ancona 8:00 13:30 16-May 23-OctAncona Rome 13:30 18:30 16-May 23-OctRome Siena 8:00 13:30 17-May 24-OctSiena Florence 13:30 15:00 17-May 24-OctFlorence La Spezia 8:00 12:15 18-May 25-OctLa Spezia Nice 12:15 17:45 18-May 25-OctNice Milan 8:00 13:45 19-May 26-OctMilan Lauterbrunnen 13:45 18:30 19-May 26-OctLauterbrunnen Lucerne 8:00 10:00 20-May 27-OctLucerne Munich 10:00 18:30 20-May 27-Oct

wEST (25 MAY - 13 OCT) Paris Bern 8:00 17:15 25-May 8-OctBern Lauterbrunnen 17:15 18:30 25-May 8-OctLauterbrunnen Lake Como 8:00 13:00 26-May 9-OctLake Como Nice 13:00 18:30 26-May 9-OctNice Avignon 8:00 12:15 27-May 10-OctAvignon Barcelona 12:15 18:30 27-May 10-OctBarcelona Valencia 8:00 13:30 28-May 11-OctValencia Madrid 13:30 19:00 28-May 11-OctMadrid Pamplona 8:00 15:00 29-May 12-OctPamplona San Sebastian 15:00 17:00 29-May 12-OctSan Sebastian Bordeaux 8:00 11:30 30-May 13-OctBordeaux Tours 11:30 16:30 30-May 13-OctTours Paris 16:30 21:00 30-May 13-Oct

AUGUSTM T w T F S S 1 2 3 4 5 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 31

JULYM T w T F S S

1 2 3 4 5 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 31

SEPTEMBERM T w T F S S 1 2 3 4 5 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

OCTOBERM T w T F S S

MAYM T w T F S S 4 5 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 31

JUNEM T w T F S S 1 2 3 4 5 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 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28

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* Grab a photo with Petros the Pelican on Mykonos* Discover the ancient ruins of uninhabited Delos* Explore a volcano and kick back on the black beaches of Santorini* Party until dawn on Ios* Watch the sun set behind white stone buildings and windmills* Go Greek with plenty of feta, moussaka and ouzo

4 Island FlexI-hopper9 daYs (MIn) FroM £219(sTUdenTs FroM £209)

MYkonos, paros, sanTorInI & IosYou’ll never have the same experience twice on this trip - from partying in one of the

hundreds of clubs to chilling out along the miles of beaches or discovering ancient ruins and

natural wonders. The islands are full

of surprises and whether it’s decent or decadent you’re after, our 4 Island Flexi-Hopper gives you a taste of it all.

I absolutely loved this trip!! The planned activities were

amazing and there was also a lot of time to do your own thing. The Mykonos pub crawl was great and the Paros island cruise was amazing. Javana Mandic, Canada,16 June 2009

greek islandhopping

InclUsIons> Guided orientations of each island> Nights out on every island> All transfers to and from MyTrip recommended accommodation> Your fantastic Busabout Guide> All local taxes

accoMModaTIon (Pay as you go)¤10 - ¤35 per night in Busabout recommended beach clubs and pensions. Book through MyTrip with no booking fees

deparTUre poInT & TIMePort of Piraeus, Athens, Gate E6. Passenger Waiting Area 6:30am

reTUrn TIMe (Athens)Varies depending on the ferries. We recommend booking your onward travel for after 12 noon the following day

pre/posT accoMModaTIonBook through MyTrip with no booking fees

MInIMUM ITInerarYDay 1: Athens to Mykonos Mykonos Town and its famous windmills - orientation tour and night out Day 2: Mykonos Explore the town take a trip to Delos or chill out at Paradise Beach Day 3: To Paros Ferry to Paros. Hit the beach, go scuba diving or horse riding Day 4: Paros Island exploration or the Antiparos boat trip Day 5: To Santorini Ferry to Fira. Caldera sunset dinner at a Greek taverna Day 6: Santorini Volcano and hot springs trip, visit beaches and have a sunset picnic Day 7: To Ios Ferry to Ios – the Greek Island party capital! Bar Hopping Day 8: Ios Mylopotas Beach. Chill out, do some water sports plus the final night party! Day 9: To Athens Fast ferry back to the birthplace of democracy

deparTUres DATE FULL STUDENT

MAY even days (16,18... 30) £219 £209 JUN odd days (1, 3... 29) £219 £209 JUL odd days (1,3... 31) £249 £239AUG even days (2, 4... 30) £249 £239SEP odd days (1, 3... 25) £219 £209This trip must be booked 2 weeks prior to departure.

TrIp deTaIls

here are soMe oF oUr FavoUrITe desTInaTIons... Whether you’re expanding your Busabout Explorer trip, planning an extended city break or heading off for an Egyptian adventure, these great value trips are an awesome way to see the world. Travelling with experienced Guides you’ll immerse yourself in local living, take in the sights and chill out with plenty of time to explore.

Greek Island 16hoppInGITalY 18 spaIn 19& porTUGalpaMplona & 20la ToMaTInaokToBerFesT 21eGYpT 22croaTIa 23saIlInG

Take off your watch and forget everything you know about timetables – from the moment you arrive you’re on Greek Time.This trip is what you want it to be: an organised beach BBQ in Paros, a boat cruise out to Santorini’s volcano, free pub crawls and walking tours. Swim from beaches, eat fresh tzatziki, drink local wine and soak up the striking beauty of Europe’s original party islands. The only choices left to make will be whether to spend more time in the sea or in the taverna, and whether or not you really need another shot of ouzo (of course you do!). 9 days or 5 months - it’s up to you.

Explore the islands on your own, or join in with one of our optional extras. Full details from your Busabout Guide.

* Mykonos town – night out and orientation tour* Volcano trip and sunset picnic on Santorini* Paros Boat Trip – with swimming, a barbeque and free wine from Paros* Scuba diving in Paros* ½ Day trip to ancient Delos (from Mykonos)* Water sports in Ios – get active - hire seabiscuits, go canoeing or kneeboarding * Indulge in local Greek feasts

WIndMIllTIMFor the ultimate Greek Island experience look no further than

Tim. A third year guide having spent his first year on the main circuit, he’s now passing the amazing Greek culture and all it has to offer on to his groups. From interesting and theatrical stories of pirates, windmills and Greek architechture in Mykonos to snorkling around the amazing waters of Paros, ‘Timothious’ will be the first to get amoungst it all. He’ll be there at 9am forging the path up the Volcano in Santorini and the last one tearing up the dance floor with his signature ‘windmill dance moves’ at the Highlander night club.

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17

Greek sleepZ

MykonosKnown for its picturesque town, shopping, nightlife and Paradise Beach!

Choose from cabins or bungalows only steps away from the beach and only a 10-minute bus ride into Mykonos Town.

From full-moon parties and pumping techno music, to chilled-out beaches and traditional beachfront cafés – it’s party paradise!

SANTORINIImmaculate rooms with private balconies, air conditioners, fridges and hair

dryers and all in traditional Cycladic style. Located in the centre of Fira, this whitewashed, cliff-perched town is the jumping-off point for all the beaches.

Lefteris and Vasso with their easygoing nature and willingness to help really make Santorini special. They’ll offer you all the free frappés you can drink – but make sure you leave the hotel and sample some ouzo too!

PAROSAfter Mykonos’ hedonism Paros is the perfect place to unwind. Lilly and Mihalis

make this your home away from home, always ready to help out and make your stay one to remember.

Located in a peaceful part of Parikia town, you’re just a short walk from the seafront cafes and restaurants, the beach and the nightlife (when you’re ready for it again!).

IOSIos is backpacker heaven! Situated right on the beach, this is the hottest place

to be on the island. Choose from the chilled-out Village, or the more happening Beach Club.

You’ll also be spoilt for choice with activities. Swim in the sea, the pool or try some water sports and beach volleyball. At night everyone heads into town, just a 5-minute bus ride away where you’ll find all the vibrant bars the Greek Islands are famous for.

On every island we have preferred accommodation. You can be sure that they offer the best mix of value for money, cleanliness, location and attitude. A range of bed and room types are offered from budget to ‘pamper yourself’. (All are optional)

We know that where you hang out can be just as important as how you got there (well, almost!) so we have searched out a great mix of island experiences for you. They’re all different but cool in their own way, and offer great value for money, are in great locations and run by folk that just love our travellers to bits.

Here’s a bit of a snapshot of the sort of experience you can expect on our unique and world-famous Greek 4 Island Flexi-Hopper

FerrIesGreece has 2 types of ferry and we use both. The bigger ships are great to really soak up the local Greek culture, sunbathe, write your journal and generally get into the Greek spirit. The catamarans or ‘whoosh boats’ are air-conditioned and are a great way to jump between islands quickly. Schedules change depending on the season, so we opt for the best boat to give you maxi-mum exposure to the islands. If you want to stay longer on the islands, tell us two weeks before your Athens departure and we will sort it for you.

Food & drInk Lip-smackingly fantastic. Proper Greek salads, fantastic Moussaka, great value Gyros (kebabs) and all sorts of delicacies you have never heard of. Top Tip 1: ask your Guide what is best in each island and each restaurant. They know. Top Tip 2: try Frappes; iced coffee you’ll see all the locals drinking. Top Tip 3: try Ouzo at least once, sipped over ice

nIGhTs oUTMykonos - we start out as we mean to go on. A fantastic meal followed by a comprehensive sampling of the nightlife of Mykonos town. During July and August (peak season) Paradise Club and Cavo Paradiso come alive with some of the best known DJs from around the world.

Ios - with over 100 bars, Ios boasts some of the best nightlife in Greece. Join your Guide for a night out bar-hopping where you discover some of the best.

From Flames bar to fire shows, flaming

Lamborghinis to chocolate orange shots, Ios has the lot.

Santorini - one of our favourite evenings

out has to be the sunset picnic at Oia. While you’re out sightseeing during the day your Guide will prepare some of the tastiest local foods and cocktails around, topped off with a private return transfer. A must do!

sTaYInG 2 daYs lonGer?Mykonos – if you’re visiting Greece to see some of the best clubs, bars and DJs Europe has to offer, we’d recommend a few extra nights on this truly cosmopoli-tan island.

Paros – The Antiparos boat trip is one of the best days out you’ll have. However if you don’t want to miss out on exploring some of the beautiful villages and beaches too, we suggest you add a couple of nights to your itinerary.

Santorini – Sunsets, beaches and shopping! If you need a couple of days of retail therapy then stay here for longer.

Ios – If you want to spend your days by the beach and your nights partying it up in the village, then definitely add a couple of nights here. You’ll also get to stay with the same group to the end.

BOOK YOUR BEDS THROUGH MYTRIP. NO BOOKING FEES!

WanT a lonGer Greek Island experIence?You can extend your Flexi-hopper to suit your schedule until the end of the season – our trips depart every second day from May until the end of September.Plan your itinerary 2 weeks in advance through MyTrip

GeTTInG To aThensInstead of flyinginto Athens, you can catch the ferry from Ancona or Venice with our Busabout Link – check out www.busabout.com/athenslink for more info

Book earlY To GeT The BesT FlIGhT deals

WaTch The clIpwww.busabout.com/greece

MUsT do’sParos Cruise - this day trip is the abso-lute highlight of any Greek Island experi-ence. Captain Antonio knows all the best swimming and beauty spots of Antiparos. Visit his BBQ shack on a remote beach to

savour sea urchins and squid caught that day en-route, combined with lovely souvlaki and Greek salad, washed down with wine, ouzo and plenty of soft drinks.

Santorini Volcano - If you’ve never stepped onto a volcano before, now’s your chance. Take a short hike to the top then after taking in the breathtaking views your boat will take you to a nearby cove where you can relax at the purifying mud baths.

Delos - If it’s history and culture you’re after then take a day trip to Delos the birthplace of Apollo. Once the centre of ancient Cycladic life, Delos is one of the most important archaeological sites of the Mediterranean.

GeT acTIveIf you want to keep active, Ios has plenty of sports on offer. From wakeboarding to tubes, kayak safaris to beach volleyball and soccer. There’s something on offer for everyone.

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italy

* Explore Pompeii, petrified after the eruption in 79AD wiped out its population* Check out how the other half lives on glamorous Capri* Take a boat trip inside the Blue Grotto Cave, originally linked to Roman catacombs (extra fee) * Eat regional food from Sorrento* Sample the best pizza and chocolate in all of Italy washed down with Limoncello * Wander the serene streets of Ravello and Amalfi* Swim in the Mediterranean Sea and soak up the sun * Drive the Amalfi Coast road, one of the best scenic views in Europe

Chill out, explore on your own or take part in one of our optional extras. Full details from your Busabout Guide.

* Capri - chairlift to Monte Solaro / Villa San Michel tour / Blue Grotto boat trip* Sorrento – local Italian feast / bars and night club / Limoncello and chocolate tasting

ITalIanadvenTUre3 daYs FroM £169pp*(sTUdenTs FroM £159pp*)

poMpeII, caprI, sorrenTo & aMalFIThe Italian Adventure is the trip for you if you like Roman history, southern Italian food,

beaches and breathtaking scenery. With two nights spent in Sorrento,

there’s plenty of time to

explore the Amalfi Coast and the glamour of Capri, as well as the eerie ruins of Pompeii.

InclUsIons> 2 nights in Tent Cabins> Entry to Pompeii and guided tour with local guide> Orientation tour of Sorrento> Limoncello and chocolate tasting> Return ferry to Capri> All on-tour coach transport> Busabout Guide and local driver> All local taxes

accoMModaTIon InclUdedSanta Fortunata, a cliff-top camping village. Twin-share basic tent cabin with shared facilities.

accoMModaTIon UpGrade£19pp ensuite multi-share cabins (triple share)

£69pp ensuite, air conditioned hotel twin / double private room (min. 2 persons)

£99pp ensuite, air conditioned hotel single private room

deparTUre poInT & TIMeCamping Roma reception, Rome 7:45am

reTUrn TIMeCamping Roma, Rome 7:30pm

pre/posT accoMModaTIonCamping Roma, Rome. Book through MyTrip with no booking fees.

ITInerarYDay 1: Rome to Sorrento Travel south from Rome past Naples and Mount Vesuvius to Pompeii to explore this UNESCO World Heritage site. Then head further down the coast, twisting through coastal villages to Sorrento Day 2: Capri Set off early morning for a whole day on Capri exploring its beaches; grottoes and watching paparazzi chase the visiting celebs Day 3: Sorrento to Rome We depart Sorrento and drive along the stunning Amalfi coast taking in Ravello before heading north again and returning to Rome

TrIp deTaIls

ITalY sleepZ

The BlUe GroTToA boat trip away on the Isle of Capri this wonder of nature will show you colours you didn’t think existed.

ITalY’s BesT BITs In 3 daYs

WaTch The clIpwww.busabout.com/italy

GeTTInG There Don’t want to just fly in and out of Rome to connect with this trip? Combine it with the Busabout Explorer South Loop taking in the French Riviera, Switzerland, Germany and Austria as well as Italy. Check out pages 6-15 for further details.

Twin-share basic TenT-cabin (included in price)

Half way between a tent and a cabin. Its basic, but a place to rest your weary travelling head.

EnsuitE hotEl twin/dbl privatE (available as upgrade)

Looking for something a bit more romantic? We also have air conditioned Hotel rooms with

bathroom, for 2 people as double or twin. Continental breakfast included.

EnsuitE multi-sharE cabins (available as upgrade)

For a bit more comfort try our proper wooden cabins with own bathroom - towels and sheets supplied.

EnsuitE hotEl singlE privatE (available as upgrade)

If you want your own space our Hotel room with ensuite for single occupancy is for you. Continental

breakfast included and all rooms air conditioned.

Our bed for the night is Camping Santa Fortunata, perched on the cliff-top town of Sorrento. We have many accommodation options for you to choose:

sWeeT carolIneCal will get you buzzing for any destination with her

genuine enthusiasm for anything... and everything. You could find yourself in Salzburg, reluctantly but uncontrollably, singing along to the Sound of Music after Cal recites the entire soundtrack. But it’s on the Italian Adventure that Cal excels sharing her knowledgeable and unique insight into a country that’ll leave you planning to return before you’ve even left!

If you want to see Italy in between other countries, or only have

a short bit of time to go to Italy, and are on a tight budget, this tour is for you. Tara Mancini, USA, 26 June 2009

* Per person price based on twin share

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MAY 28, 31 £169pp* £159pp*

JUN 4, 7, 11, 14, 18, 21, 25, 28 £169pp* £159pp*

JUL 2, 5, 9, 12, 16, 19, 23, £189pp* £179pp*

26, 30AUG 2, 6, 9, 13, 16, 20, 23, £189pp* £179pp*

27, 30SEP 3, 6, 10, 13, 17, 20, 24, 27 £189pp* £179pp*

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spain & portugal

Tarifa

Lagos

SpainPortugal

* Lose yourself in the cobbled streets of UNESCO-listed Toledo* Optional Guided tour through the Alhambra and the stunning Generalife gardens* La Mancha’s Tarifa battered plains and the snow-capped Sierra Nevada Mountains* Taste the delights of Jerez - the home of Sherry with a guided tour through the world famous ‘Tio Pepe’ Bodega* Make the most of the pumping night life in Lagos* Incredible shopping in Seville

Chill out, explore on your own or take part in one of our optional extras. Full details from your Busabout Guide.

* Enjoy the Granada Tapas Crawl* Sacromonte Caves Flamenco show. One of the best nights on tour* Get steamy in Moorish Granada at a traditional Hammam* From Tarifa, spend your afternoon exploring a new continent and the city of Tangier in Morocco, Africa* Explore the grottoes of the Algarve coast by sea-kayak or spend your afternoon surfing the waves in Lagos, or lying on the beach* Take a guided tour with a local, through the remarkable city of Seville

IBerIan advenTUre7 daYs FroM £449pp*(sTUdenTs FroM £429pp*)

Toledo, Granada, JereZ, sevIlle, TarIFa & laGosGorge yourself on tapas, witness emotive Flamenco

in its spiritual home and drink jerez (sherry) at its birthplace. Venture

further into Moorish

influenced Tarifa and then over into Lagos with its great beaches and awesome night life.

InclUsIons> 6 nights dorm share accommodation> Orientation walks in each town> Bodega sherry tasting in Jerez> Modern coach with reclining seats> Busabout Guide and Driver> All local taxes

accoMModaTIon InclUdedMulti-share accommodation in Spanish hostales (budget hotels)

accoMModaTIon UpGrade£79pp twin / double private ensuite (min. 2 persons) £149pp single private ensuite

deparTUre poInT & TIMeMad Hostel, Madrid 7:45am

reTUrn TIMeMad Hostel, Madrid 6pm

pre/posT accoMModaTIonMad Hostel. Book through MyTrip with no booking fees.

ITInerarYDay 1: Madrid to Granada via the Imperial city of Toledo Day 2: Granada

optional guided tour through the Alhambra, sample local tapas or relax in Turkish hot pools with a massage Day 3: To Tarifa via the Costa Del Sol to the southern most point of Spain. Take a quick ferry across the Strait of Gibraltar to sample the delights of Morocco. Or try some of the local excursions, such as whale watching Day 4: To Lagos Stop to sample local sherry before arriving at the sun lovers’ heaven of Portugal. Time to party! Day 5: Lagos Spend time in the old town or explore this stunning secluded coastline by kayak Day 6: To Seville Visit the world’s third largest cathedral then feast on tapas and traditional cuisine before party time with the locals Day 7: To Madrid En-route we visit the picturesque bonus stop of Consuegra, before arrival back into Madrid

TrIp deTaIls

Granada’salhaMBra

WaTch The clIpwww.busabout.com/italy

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 14th 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!

InsIderreneeAlways ready to share her worldly knowledge, valuable tips and adventure stories,

Renee lives travel! Guiding for over 5 years (so far) Renee quickly realised planning peoples’ trips was fun but could be even better if she could join them! Whether it’s knowing the best local bars and restaurants or seeking out new authentic delights, Renee has the insider info to ensure you get the local experience. With an amazing ability to make everyone feel well looked after and involved, Renee will show you the Spain and Portugal you never knew existed.This tour is a great

mix of partying and sightseeing! The

weather’s almost guaranteed to be good and you see a large area in a week. Eleanor King, UK,12 August 2009

paMplona orla ToMaTIna?see paGes 20 - 21

SEE PAGE 4

* Per person price based on multi share

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JUN 13, 20, 27 £449pp* £429pp*

JUL 4, 11, 18, 25 £479pp* £459pp*

AUG 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 £479pp* £459pp*

SEP 5, 12, 19 £449pp* £429pp*

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pamplona

* Be part of the opening ceremony – champagne, sangria and egg throwing!* Dress up in traditional red and white and run like a local* A 400 year old tradition with an incredible atmosphere

Opening weekend HOSTeL SAn SeBASTiAn

5 dAYS £299pp*

Opening weekendCAMping - depART LOndOn

6 dAYS £269pp*

Mid weekHOSTeL SAn SeBASTiAn 4 dAYS £239pp*

FinAL weekendHOSTeL SAn SeBASTiAn 4 dAYS £239pp*

Lying within the rolling green hills of the Basque countryside in Northern Spain is Pamplona. The sleepy capital of the Navarra region explodes from a modest population of 180,000 to over 500,000 during Spain’s most notorious Festival - San Fermin, more commonly known as ‘the Running of the Bulls’.

If you want the true San Fermin experience then this is the package for you. Brace yourself for the biggest street party you’ll

For those who want to save their pennies, we have put together the perfect option. Departing London on one of our sexy coaches, we will take

probably ever see as this is truly a fiesta like no other! Add a bit of beach action at ‘San Seb’ to the mix and you’ve got yourself the best of both worlds.

you cross channel, through France to northern Spain where your campsite awaits. Here, the party well and truly goes on into the balmy Spanish night!

Can’t make it for the opening or the closing weekend but don’t want to miss out on the madness that is Pamplona?

This is the package for everyone who wants to take part in Pamplona and then chill in the fantastic surrounds of San Sebastian afterwards!

inCLuSiOnS> Your Busabout Guide> 4 nights hostel accommodation (dorm share), centrally located> 4 continental breakfasts> San Sebastian orientation walk> Coach shuttles to and from Pamplona to catch ALL the bull runs> Busabout Pamps t-shirt> Busabout Pamps Panuelo> Arrival night sangria and Pintxos party> Day at the beach

ACCOMMOdATiOn inCLudedHostel multi share accommodation

ACCOMMOdATiOn upgRAdeAvailable at time of booking

CHeCk-in From 2pm, 5 July

CHeCk-OuT 11am, 9 July

pRe/pOST ACCOMMOdATiOnBook through MyTrip with no booking fees

iTineRARYDay 1: San Sebastian The first day starts at 17:30 at the hostel in San Sebastian, where you will meet your Guide and fellow travellers Day 2: San Seb – Pamplona Shuttle to Pamplona for the opening ceremony, then party in the town with your Guide. Day 3: San Seb – Pamplona Shuttle to first ‘encierro’ (bull run). Options to spend the day at the beach or wander around San Seb old town. Later its back to Pamps for a bull fight Day 4: San Seb – Pamplona More runs and the end of Festival Busabout party! Day 5: Check out 11am

TRip deTAiLS

inCLuSiOnS> 5 nights campsite (twin share)> Continental Breakfast > Welcome dinner> ‘Pre Pamps’ party> Final night party> Shuttles to/ from Pamplona - 1st, 2nd & 3rd Bull runs> Excursion to San Sebastian town and the beach> Busabout Pamps t-shirt> Busabout Pamps Panuelo> Optional shuttle on the last morning (9 July) connecting to Busabout Explorer departure to Paris

ACCOMMOdATiOn inCLudedTwin share tents. Bring your own sleeping bag! We pitch your tent.

CHeCk-in Camping El Molino. Check-in after 2pm, 4 July

CHeCk-OuT 12pm, 9 July

TRip deTAiLS

inCLuSiOnSAll the good stuff of the opening weekend but with:> 3 nights hostel accommodation (multi share), centrally located> 3 continental breakfasts




inCLuSiOnSAll the good stuff of the opening weekend but with:> 3 nights hostel accommodation (multi share), centrally located> 3 continental breakfasts




TRip deTAiLS TRip deTAiLS

Opening weekendCAMping - pAMpLOnA 6 dAYS £189pp*

inCLuSiOnS> 2 nights overnight coach / 3 nights campsite (twin share)> Continental breakfast > Welcome dinner> ‘Pre Pamps’ party> Opening Festival> Shuttles to/ from Pamplona> 1st & 2nd bull runs> Excursion to San Sebastian town and day at the beach> Final night party> Busabout Pamps t-shirt> Busabout Pamps Panuelo

ACCOMMOdATiOn inCLudedTwin share tents. Bring your own sleeping bag! We pitch your tent.

depARTuRe pOinT & TiMeBusabout, London 6pm, 4 July

ReTuRn TiMeBusabout, London 5pm (approx), 9 July

iTineRARYDay 1: Depart London cross the channel by ferry to Pamplona Day 2: Arrive at campsite (tents are already set up!), welcome dinner and party Day 3: Into Pamps for the opening festival! Shuttles to and from campsite Day 4: Pamps for 1st bull run and trip to San Seb – beach time! Final night party Day 5: Pamps for last bull run. Coach leaves for London Day 6: Arrive London late afternoon

TRip deTAiLS

Ideal if you are making your own way there, even better if added on to your Busabout Explorer trip, this ‘accommodation only’ package means you get all the Pamp’s experience on a budget.

SEE PAGE 4

BuSABOuT COnneCTiOnBook as part of your Hop-on Hop-off trip. See page 11

* Per person price based on multi share * Per person price based on twin share

21

la tomatina

oktoberfest

* Be part of the world’s biggest beer festival* Drink beer in glasses the size of your head* Stand on tables and sing along to the oompah band* The best beer drinking atmosphere in the world* Sit in a beer tent packed with over 10,000 revellers* Heaps of Bavarian grub – lovely!* Day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle - a fairytale Bavarian palace

* Expert Tomato Guide to make sure you are in the middle of the action* Take on the locals in the world’s craziest food fight (don’t forget to bring your goggles!)* Busabout’s infamous post-Tomatina pub crawl of Valencia’s nightlife* America’s Cup Port – recover on the beach and chill in the marina bars

* Dachau walking tour* Munich bike tour* Shopping* Watch river surfing

Spain has some crazy festivals, but La Tomatina wins the award hands-down for the craziest and the messiest. On the last Wednesday in August each year, the inconsequential town of Buñol holds the world’s largest organised tomato fight.

Oktoberfest in Munich has got to be top of the ‘do before you die’ list. It’s not just a European must-do, it ranks up there as one of the Worlds biggest parties. You have worked hard to travel to the UK - now party until you want to wear lederhosen – just don’t let anyone take photos!

Opening weekend Camping - depaRT LOndOn 6 daYS £259pp*

The opening weekend is party central: the town will be packed and the beer will be flowing freely. We’ve taken care of all the details. All you need are your beer drinking boots and a party attitude. Prost!

iTineRaRYDay 1: London to Germany Ferry to France and overnight journey to MunichDay 2: Arrive Munich Check in to the campsite then into Munich for beer hall party. Shuttle back to campsite Day 3: Beerfest! Into Munich for the opening of the festival. Your Guide will make sure you are in the right place at the right time. Shuttles back to the campsite Day 4: Munich Hit the beer halls again or take one of the optional excursions to Dachau or a bike tour of Munich Day 5: Munich to London Option to take a day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle then it’s London bound Day 6: Arrive London The coach arrives in London late afternoon

TRip deTaiLSinCLuSiOnS> 3 Continental breakfasts> Opening night Beer Hall party> Excursion to Neuschwanstein Castle> Busabout Oktoberfest t-shirt> Your Busabout Guide> Luxury coach travel from London

aCCOmmOdaTiOn inCLudedOvernight coach (2 nights) and 3 nights twin share tents. Bring your own sleeping bag! We pitch your tent.

depaRTuRe pOinT & TimeBusabout, London 6pm, 16 September

ReTuRn Time (Approx.)Busabout, London 5pm, 21 September

pRe/pOST aCCOmmOdaTiOnBook through MyTrip with no booking fees

inCLuSiOnS> Your experienced Busabout Guide> 2 nights quality central hotel accommodation > 2 breakfasts> Orientation walk and introduction to Valencia> Pub crawl> Festival party night> Coach transport to and from Buñol for Tomatina festival> Visit to America’s Cup port village > Afternoon session at the beach> Busabout Tomatina t-shirt> Busabout swimming caps – keeps your hair and ears clean!

aCCOmmOdaTiOn inCLuded2-3H Hotel accommodation in the centre of town. Triple/quad share rooms

aCCOmmOdaTiOn upgRadeAvailable when booking

CHeCk-in Hotel Venecia, Valencia. From 2pm, 24 August

CHeCk-OuT 10am, 26 August


iTineRaRYDay 1: Valencia Check in from 2pm onwards. Orientation walk of Valencia then evening pub crawl and pre-Tomatina party! Day 2: La Tomatina Guided trip to Buñol for the tomato fight! Return for a trip to the America’s Cup port, chill on the beach then a night on the town! Day 3: Valencia Check out after breakfast and the day is yours to catch a few more sights

TRip deTaiLS

* Take a bike tour around gorgeous Valencia and see the sights* Hit the shops for your Tomatina outfit

FeSTiVaL TRip 2H HOTeL - VaLenCia 3 daYS £189pp*

Imagine one small street less than a quarter mile long in a tiny Spanish town, packed with over 20,000 people prepared to spend a solid hour slogging each other with tomatoes. Sounds crazy? Sounds like La Tomatina!

SEE PAGE 4

SEE PAGE 4

pOp: 9k pRe-FeST

pOp: 50k duRing FeST

100 TOnS OF TOmS THROwn

= One Big TOmaTO SOup

* Per person price based on triple / quad share

* Per person price based on twin share

22

egyptOne-waYegYpT9 daYS £389pp*(Trip £359* + local payment £30* approx.)

(STudenTS £369pp*)(Trip £339* + local payment £30* approx.)

CaiRO, aSwan, FeLuCCa SaiLing, VaLLeY OF THe kingS & daHaBThere are no half measures here: trinkets sit proudly next to ancient tombs and you’ll

travel from sandy deserts to glittering coastal resorts. Take in the history

of Egypt with our expert local

Egyptologist Guides but don’t miss out on the contemporary scene with great bars, diving and quad biking all available.

inCLuSiOnS> 8 nights accommodation> All breakfasts, 2 lunches and 3 local dinners> Entrance fees included: Egyptian Museum, Valley of the Kings, Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, Karnak and Luxor Temples, Kom Ombo and Aswan High Dam. All worth $125> Certified Egyptologist Guide> Inbound airport transfer †> All on-tour transport and local guide services

aCCOmmOdaTiOn inCLuded4 nights 3H hotel, 1 night overnight train (1st class Seating - optional upgrade to sleeper), 2 nights on a Felucca boat, 1 night beachside resort. All rooms are twin/triple share ensuite

aCCOmmOdaTiOn upgRade£139pp single room (4 nights hotel / 3 nights resort)

depaRTuRe pOinT & TimeThe Victoria Hotel, Cairo 6pm† Free airport transfer to the Victoria Hotel only. Check your booking confirmation for details

TRip endS Dahab. After breakfast

pRe/pOST aCCOmmOdaTiOnSee www.busabout.com/egypt

iTineRaRYDay 1: Cairo Pre-Departure meeting Join your group for an evening

orientation walk and authentic meal in local restaurant (optional). The night is free to enjoy the local sights, smells and sounds of Cairo Day 2: Cairo Pyramids, Sphinx and Egyptian Museum Browse the markets of the local bazaar. Enjoy your 1st Class overnight train to Aswan (B) Day 3 & 4: Aswan High Dam, Obelisk and Philae Temples Optional flight excursion to Abu Simbel. Nile Felucca Sailing or 5H Nile Cruise available (B, B L D) Day 5 & 6: Felucca Sailing & Luxor Enjoy the views whilst sailing the Nile. Disembark for tour of Kom Ombo, Edfu and the Temple of Horus then travel to the river city of Luxor (B L D, B) Day 7: Luxor to Hurgahada Visit the unforgettable Valley of Kings, including Hatshepsut, Karnak and Luxor Temples. Relax in the evening in your 3H Hurghada Hotel (B) Day 8: Hurghada to Dahab Save time and enjoy your short ferry crossing to Sharm-el-Sheikh, before the scenic coastal drive to Dahab to your beachside resort (B D) Day 9: Dahab Tour finishes after breakfast (B)B - Breakfast L - Lunch D - Dinner

depaRTuReSAPR 17 MAY 1, 15, 29 JUN 12, 26 JUL 10, 24 AUG 7, 21 SEP 4, 18 OCT 2, 16, 30 NOV 13

TRip deTaiLS

* Abu Simbel day trip by plane* Nubian Village, Giza and Luxor light and sound show, Bedouin camel rides and tea, 4 x 4 quad safari in Dahab* Explore Sinai Desert by camel

* See the Giza Pyramids, a wonder of the ancient world* The Sphinx and the Cairo Museum* Valley of the Kings * Sail up the Nile on a traditional Felucca or 5 star luxury cruise ship* Unearth the wonders of the Luxor and Karnak Temples * Aswan High Dam, the unfinished obelisk and Philae Temple* Kom Ombo, Edfu and the Temple of Horus* Be a beach bum in Dahab or try your hand at diving and water sports

OVeR$125wORTH OF

enTRanCe FeeS

inCLuded

STep BaCk in Time TO THe Land OF THe pHaRaOHS

egYpT add-OnS

FLY in CaiROFLY OuT SHaRm-eL-SHeikH

niLe CRuiSe upgRade4 daYS £139pp (twin/triple share)

4 daYS £199pp (single occupancy)

Treat yourself to 3 nights of luxury onboard a 5H Nile Cruise. With onboard bar, pool, sundeck and air conditioned cabins.

This is the perfect antidote to life on the road.

DEPArTurE This upgrade takes place on days 3-6 of the One-Way Egypt itinerary.

aBu SimBeLdaY TRip

Take a short flight from Aswan to this breathtaking monument. Comprising of two temples cut into the rock, it was built by Ramses II to honour himself and his beloved wife Nefertari.

Choose our return flight package to discover it for yourself.

CameL TRekS & BLue HOLe SnORkeLLing OR mT Sinai & ST kaTHeRine expeRienCeS FROm daHaB

Dahab is an ideal base for loads of excursions including a trek up Mt. Sinai where God delivered the Ten Commandments to Moses.

Many travellers claim this to be the highlight of their time in Egypt.

SEE www.BuSABOuT.COM/EGyPT FOr A FuLL LiST OF OPTiOnAL ExCurSiOnS

mOVing On? If you’re heading to Sharm-el-Sheikh or back to Cairo then check our website for transfer options www.busabout.com/egypt

diSCOVeR SeCReT

TexTS 4,000 YeaRS OLd

* Per person price - based on twin / triple share accommodation. Local payment of USD $50 (£30) paid on Day 1 (based on exchange rate at time of print).

muLTi TRipS

SaVe 10%see page 4

23

STep BaCk in Time TO THe Land OF THe pHaRaOHS

Hop on-board a traditional Croatian cruiser with its local crew and Busabout Guide for an adventure around the Dalmatian Coast.

So what’s it like sailing the blue Adriatic, hopping from perfect island to perfect island. Our Guide Andrea tells you about what to expect.

rELAxyour days of must-see sights are over. Drop your backpack, walk slowly, spend an hour with a coffee and watch the sunset. And don’t feel guilty if you do nothing all week but stare at the sea and smile.

Picture the most perfect photo of your wooden boat bobbing on the bright blue sea. now insert yourself into it as you leap, arms and legs flailing, from the deck. Profile pictures never had it so good!

when you finally lie down at night, there’s no better way to sleep than with your door open to the sea. Or on the warmest nights, take a lilo up to the roof and sleep under the stars.

THE DOGet personal with little towns: play with the local cats in Sipan, walk barefoot around Mljet or chat to the fishermen on the docks. Take a bottle of wine to the long beach in Makarska to watch a bright red

sun set over the glassiest water in the Adriatic. Hike up to a 15th century pirate fortress in Omis, then make up for all that exercise at our legendary pirate party (skulls, crossbones and corny pirate jokes compulsory!) There’s a surprise around every coral... Grab a snorkel and go searching for sea urchins and starfish. Or hang a line over the edge and whatever you manage to catch, the cook will fry it up!

MMMMM - no one eats better than a Captain... puppy dog eyes and a smile can usually score you an invite to sit and sample some of his fresh fish. But be warned; the Captains enjoy their vino and are not shy about pouring it! Sorry, but all that dieting you did to look hot in your swimsuit was for naught... Every day brings another 3-course traditional meal, and that voice inside your head telling you to stay away from carbs will be drowned out every time the lunch bell rings!

PArTy, PArTy!Tequila boom booms, bars lit on fire, a nightclub with a swimming pool... Don’t worry, you can’t hype it up enough; the sexy, classy and unabashedly fun island of Hvar exceeds all expectations. you thought your fellow passengers were wild... wait until you meet your boat crew! From our fisherman captain who might wrestle an octopus at swim stops, to the young waiters who sing traditional music while they work and to Momma the cook, you’ll be laughing with them all week. (They’ll teach you all the Croatian swear words and pick-up lines you need as well!)

croatia sailing

Here’s a selection of our boats cruising the Adriatic this summer, each with their own local captain and crew.

pROVidnOST A Standard class boat with shared bathrooms throughout. There’s space

for 28 on the Providnost, all in twin-share cabins. There’s also a large aft deck above the dining room – perfect for sunbathing.

VikTORija30 berths across 16 cabins both standard and ensuite class. Above and below deck

cabins are available and, in addition to the dining room, there is sheltered seating as well as aft and fore decks.

jaVORak Made of wood from the Javor tree, the Javorak is a stunning boat catering for 26

passengers in a mixture of above deck ensuite cabins and below deck with shared bathroom facilities.

Our Guide (Grantos)

CROaTia iSLand HOppeR8 daYS FROm £384pp*(Trip £329* + Fuel £39* + Taxes £16* approx.)

(STudenTS FROm £374pp*)(Trip £319* + Fuel £39* + Taxes £16* approx.)

24

SpLiT, duBROVnik & daLmaTian iSLandS

There’s no beating Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast for an 8 day,

7 night chill out.Think crystal clear seas, tiny walled cities, eclectic

islands and long nights

sampling local food and wine in a traditional konoba.

* Anchor up and jump off the boat into the Adriatic* Sip cocktails at the top of a 14th century tower in Korcula* Turquoise sea, blue skies and the luscious green hills* Scale the city walls of Dubrovnik – the best way to spy-out the ocean side bars nestled into the cliffs* Sit back with a local beer and watch the yachts come in at Hvar* Try your hand at fishing or even catching a squid off the back of the boat* Captain the Pirate Cruiser as it sails along the Dalmatian Coast* Learn a few phrases with your local captain and crew* Party till dawn in a Croatian cave bar* English speaking Busabout Guide* Captain’s Dinner

paRTY Like a piRaTe OR waLk

THe pLank

Explore the islands at your own pace, or join in with one of our optional extras. Full details from your Busabout Guide.

* Traditional group dinners* Kick back with a beer onboard* Sunbaking and swimming in secluded bays – all completely free!* Hire a canoe and paddle across the Mljet salt lakes to discover its secluded abbey* Bike hire in the National Parks* Beach ball games and lilos

inCLuSiOnS> 7 nights accommodation (Saturday to Friday inclusive)> 7 breakfasts > 5 lunches> 2 dinners (on boat)> Island orientation walks> Boat Captain and crew> English speaking Busabout Guide> Bedding on the boats (bring a towel and your swimming gear)> Fuel supplement

aCCOmmOdaTiOn inCLudedStandard twin share accommodation with shared facilities. Optional accommodation upgrade is available. See cabin options above for details.

depaRTuRe pOinT & TimeSplit Harbour, 1pm (Check-in 11am)

TRip endSThe boat arrives into Split Harbour on Friday at approximately 6pm. Over night on the boat. Disembark by 9am on Saturday.


iTineRaRYDay 1: To Hvar Where the rich and famous play and where you can party all night long. Day 2: To Mljet Explore tranquil lakes and forests of the National

Park. Day 3: To Dubrovnik The ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’, a stunning medieval city with its limestone and marble streets and squares and the most complete set of medieval fortified walls in the world! With time to explore the town and historic walls. Day 4: To Korcula Famed for its expert stone masonry, jewellery making, shipbuilding and its most famous ex-resident, Venetian traveller Marco Polo, the island has over 5,000 years of history! Orientation including Marco Polo’s birthplace. Day 5: To Makarska One of Croatia’s most beautiful resorts dotted with cute seaside villages, resorts and white pebble beaches. The best place to party in a cave. Day 6: To Omis After spending the morning in Makarska, it’s onto Omis. Hike to the pirate fortress and get ready for your very own on-board pirate party. Day 7: To Split Return to Split, via a last swim, and enjoy your final night. Day 8: Split Say goodbye to your new friends when the trip ends after breakfast. Transfer information to Split available.

depaRTuReSMAY 15, 22, 29 JUN 5, 12, 19, 26 JUL 3, 10,17, 24, 31 AUG 7, 14, 21, 28 SEP 4, 11, 18, 25

TRip deTaiLS

Croatia

Makarska

waTCH THe CLipwww.busabout.com/croatia

We’ve got a range of different cabins available onboard our Croatian sailing boats, depending on how much you want to spend. All cabins (rooms) are twin berths (2 beds per room) usually with bunk beds.

STandaRd OR enSuiTe CaBinSYou can choose whether to go for an Ensuite cabin, which will have your own bathroom, or Standard, which means you’ll be sharing facilities with two or more other cabins.

aBOVe OR BeLOw deCk You can also choose between above deck cabins (bigger windows, more fresh air, less engine noise) and below deck cabins (small portholes, less noise from other passengers).

£££Ensuite above deck berths are the most expensive and standard below deck are the cheapest so decide what suits you best and book yourself on!

magiCmOniCaWith Monica you’re guaranteed an adventure of a lifetime!

This girl has a talent for getting everyone caught up in everything the islands have to offer (and often leaves you asking “how on earth did that happen..?”). Famed for rounds of refreshing beers, random conversation and delicious (and nutritious) snacks along the way, there’s never a dull moment when you’re with Mon. Anyone who gets to join her soaking up the sun by day and partying by night will be certain to have a trip they’ll never forget!

Sailing the flat blue ocean and stopping at some awesome

destinations, we were given heaps of free time to spend however we liked. Kristie, South Africa, 18 August 2008

SEE PAGE 4

* Per person price - based on Standard Below Deck twin share accommodation. Prices vary depending on cabin class and departure date. Go to www.busabout.com/croatia for full prices. Taxes – Port Taxes of ¤16 (£16) paid on Day 1 (based on exchange rate at time of print). Fuel – route supplement of £39 paid at time of booking.

25

croaTIa one-WaY saIl8 daYs FroM £395pp*(Trip £379* + Taxes £16* approx.)

(sTUdenTs FroM £385pp*)(Trip £369* + Taxes £16* approx.)

Bol, hvar, Makarska, korcUla, dUBrovnIk & MlJeT

For more time on the islands, including time in secluded bays away from the main tourist spots, try our One-Way Sail. Choose from ‘Split to Dubrovnik’ or ‘Dubrovnik to Split’ for maximum exposure to Croatian life and its people.

Explore the islands at your own pace, or join in with one of our optional extras. Full details from your Busabout Guide.

* Onboard parties* Traditional group dinners* Hire a canoe and paddle across the Mljet salt lakes to discover its secluded abbey* Bike hire in the National Parks* Sun baking and swimming in secluded bays – all completely free!* Snorkelling off the boat - free!* Beach ball games and lilos

InclUsIons> 7 nights accommodation on boat> 7 breakfasts > 5 lunches> 2 dinners (on boat)> Island orientation walks> Boat Captain and crew> English speaking Busabout Guide> Bedding on the boats (bring a towel and your swimming gear)

accoMModaTIon InclUdedStandard twin share accommodation with shared facilities. Optional accommodation upgrade is available. See cabin options for details on page 24.

deparTUre poInT & TIMeSplit Harbour 1pm, (Check-in 11am)Dubrovnik Harbour (Gruz port) 1pm, (Check-in 11am)

TrIp endsThe boat arrives into Split/Dubrovnik Harbour on Friday at approximately12 noon. Overnight on the boat. Disembark by 9am on Saturday

pre/posT accoMModaTIonBook through MyTrip with no booking fees

ITInerarY (splIT deparTUre onlY)Day 1: To Omis Depart early afternoon, with your first swim stop enroute. Hike to the pirate fortress and get ready for your very own on-board pirate party. Day 2: To Makarska One of Croatia’s most beautiful

resorts dotted with cute seaside villages, resorts and white pebble beaches. Take a dip, sunbathe on deck and then party in a cave. Day 3: To Brac (Bol) and Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn Beach) A delightful stop for the rich and famous. Get amongst it and enjoy the evening entertainment. Day 4: To Hvar Via the Pakleni islands for swimming and onto Hvar town for the evening. Day 5: To Korcula Explore the beautiful, historic cobbled stone Venetian streets. Marco Polo’s birthplace. Day 6: To Mljet Best to start the day with a morning swim, then it’s time to explore Mljet National Park. Join your group for the ‘Captain’s Dinner’ and party night. Day 7: To Dubrovnik Set sail early for Dubrovnik and allow maximum time to explore this picturesque town. Last night of trip, time to let the hair down and party your night away. Day 8: Dubrovnik Say goodbye to your new friends, the trip ends after breakfast. Transfer information available from your Guide.

deparTUresFROM SPLIT FROM DUBROVNIKMAY 15, 29 MAY 22 JUN 5, 12, 19, 26 JUN 5, 12, 19, 26 JUL 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 JUL 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 AUG 7, 14, 21, 28 AUG 7, 14, 21, 28 SEP 4, 11, 18 SEP 4, 11,18, 25ENDS DUBROVNIK ENDS SPLIT

TrIp deTaIls

Croatia

Bol

Makarska

aWesoMeandreaIt’s a laugh a minute (literally!) with Andrea as she is happy

and up for a laugh 100% of the time. Andrea, a Canadian (eh?), fell in love with the Dalmatian Coast within seconds and thrives on showing off her perfect Croatia on her perfect sailing trips and convincing people to love it as much as she does. You could live in a cardboard box with Andrea and still have a great time, always getting caught up in her infectious personality.

The Croatia sailing trip was by far the most amazing

holiday I’ve ever been on! 8 days of pure paradise! Tip: book the ‘above deck’ cabin, it’s the best! Kristie, South Africa, 18 August 2008

* Swim in crystalline waters off Golden Horn Beach (Zlatni Rat)* Eat the freshest seafood you’ll ever find on Makarska * Swim stops in secluded bays* Try your hand at fishing or even catching a squid off the back of the boat* Captain the Pirate Cruiser as it sails along the Dalmatian Coast* Learn a few phrases with your local captain and crew* Party till dawn in a Croatian cave bar* English speaking Busabout Guide* Captain’s Dinner

FancY sTarTInG In dUBrovnIk?This itinerary is also available Dubrovnik to Split. It’s the same but in reverse!

all TrIps haveBUsaBoUT GUIdes

JUsT a ThoUGhT…Combine your adventure around the

Croatian islands with an Eastern Trekker

trip departing from Split.

See pages 26 - 31

*Per person price - based on standard below deck twin share accommodation. Prices vary depending on cabin class and departure date. Go to www.busabout.com/croatia for full prices. Taxes - Port Taxes ¤16 (£16) paid on Day 1 (based on exchange rate at time of print).

Who are We?Twenty years ago the wall came down and the doorway to Eastern Europe burst open. Gradually travellers headed east, returning with the most amazing tales of countries and experiences quite unlike anything found in the west. Six years ago, Eastern Trekker was set up with the simple mantra ‘to get in amongst these wonderful lands’.

The East is where it’s happening. From iconic cities like Krakow and

Budapest that zing with a vibrancy

and energy that other places struggle to match, to off the beaten track secret gems such as Lake Bled or Plitvice National Park. These places will take your breath away. There’s excitement and adventure around every corner and a different history behind every doorway! Join the

revolution!We believe in keeping things simple just as travelling on a budget should be. Our trips have all been built around the same principals – our favourite spots, outstanding and unique places to stay and the coolest places to eat and drink as the locals do. All that’s missing are people who think like us, people who love travel and having a great time doing it. If that sounds like you then seize the day!

BusaBout linksCheck out our comrades at Busabout. A few treks can link up with their Explorer pass or Croatian islands sailing trips. And our Radical Deals on Page 4 can help you save!

MaXiMuMGrouP siZe: 39

neW for 2010 * New Balkan Trek from Split to Istanbul * New Bohemian Trek with one night in Cesky Krumlov * Exclusive deals on adventure sports activities in Bled

Get in aMonGst it!Melting into a thermal bath under the stars in Budapest, clubbing in Krakow, breathing in the coastal scents of the Dalmatian Coast, where stories are told of places that you may only have heard of - Hungary, Poland, Bosnia, Turkey, Serbia, Bulgaria, Croatia and Slovenia. Their histories and cultures will blow your mind, whilst the sights and people will steal your hearts.

26

Add that little bit more to your experience. These activities can be booked through your Guide.

Emerald River day trip, Bled, Slovenia Jump, swim, canyon, raft, laugh and eat your way

through the gorgeous Emerald

River. It is the most rewarding day tour you’ll

ever do!

Budapest Caving tour, Budapest Crawl beneath one of Eastern Europe’s most famous cities, through thermal holes dating to the last ice age. A totally unique experience.

Schnapps Farm, SalzburgParty in a farm house that produces the best Schnapps, liqueurs, cider and local beers in the region. With all you can eat ribs and roast potatoes, this will be the highlight of your stay in Salzburg.

Welcome to Budapest On arrival into the Hungarian capital, you’ll

be welcomed in style with an orientation walk, a fine Hungarian three course dinner and an evening Danube

river cruise!

OlOmOuc A classic old communist style hotel with a wide foyer, fabulous twin rooms with

ensuites. The hotel is located across the city park from the old town, just a five minute walk to all the action. The breakfast buffet is awesome.

Belgrade An uber-cool hostel setting the trend in the East for comfort and aesthetical

design. Situated out of the busy centre on the River Danube with great views of the Kalemegdan Fortress it’s right amongst the trendiest river side cafes in the city. All rooms are brand spanking new, brilliantly bright with natural light and the hostel boasts a vibrant cafe bar with panoramic river views.

Split Apart from their brilliantly designed, newly established hostel in

the middle of the old town, our comrades offer some of the best chic accommodation in Split. Designer styled loft apartments, some with harbour views, make this a perfect home on the Croatian coast.

Bled Our apartments all boast a lounge area to chill, ensuite massage showers and a

view straight to the Alps. Breakfast is a feast served in your room. There is an excellent BBQ area out the back and a bar run by a local character called Jani nearby.

Great value and a high standard of accommodation are hard to find in the East, that’s why we have included it in the price of all our trips. We have chosen the best, based on cleanliness, location and character. You can expect great hostels with ensuite facilities, cool bungalows in the Plitvice NP and small hotels in the Balkans. All accommodation is based within short walking distance of city centres and are locally owned. No sleeping bags needed, it’s all fresh linen. Breakfast is also included and double room upgrades are available!

Our team are extensively trained in Eastern European culture. They love the East’s lifestyles and people, love telling stories and love the fantastic scenic drives. They will make the difference to your journey with their energy, knowledge and quirky little tales. They know the local characters, essential

in opening local doors for you. You’ll feel it, see it

and reap the rewards!

On the Classic Rhapsody, Rhapsody

and Bohemian Treks our driver and guide will lead

the trip, both are extensively trained on all destinations.

A great tune and an epic, just like this combo. Take the Classic Rhapsody to Split, hop on an awesome 8 day Croatia Sailing trip with Busabout (see page 24) then the Bohemian Trek back to where you started in Prague. Pure unadulterated pleasure.

If you’re going to go, you may as well go the distance. No point in having all these great experiences and then leave thinking, ‘hang on...I could have had more!’ Well, if you’re the sort who likes to ‘go large’ here are a couple of suggestions...

Or there’s this bad boy. Take the Classic Rhapsody to Split, sail the Croatian islands chilling out, then max your adventure hopping on our new Balkan Trek to Istanbul in Turkey.

Stuck for a name for this combo, we finally settled on ‘The Mega’ after Mitch, founder of Eastern Trekker. A native of Sydney, Mitch is a man who... well let’s just say when God handed out enthusiasm he gave Mitch an extra big helping. If he likes it, it’s ‘mega!’ And he loves this. Mega!

Mitch, the morning after the schnapps trip

• PRaguE

SPLIT •

• PRaguE

• ISTaNBuL

SPLIT •

We have always prided ourselves on the close relationships with local characters and over the years have made some great friends.A comrade is a local character who boasts a deep knowledge of their city or town’s historical

past and has the up to date knowledge of what’s happening in the place they live.Our comrades reinforce our love for travel in Eastern Europe. By working with the best characters we are showing a commitment to local business, strengthening our ties with the region and ultimately delivering an exceptional experience to you.

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* Church of human bones in UNESCO listed town Kutna Hora* Olomouc city walk* Bike tour Krakow* Diva night club Krakow* Infamous Auschwitz and Birkenau* Budapest! Thermal bath under the stars* Budapest’s night cruise and nightlife* Stunning Tatra Mountains, Zakopane* The great value food and drink* Plitvice National Park, an aqua wonderland* Scenic drive to Split, Croatia

Take time out with one of our Optional Extras. Full details from your Guide or at www.easterntrekker.com

* Bike tour of Budapest* Caving tour - Budapest* Welcome to Budapest, night cruise and dinner

9 DaYs froM £509pp*(stuDents froM £489pp*)

CZeCh rePuBliC, PolanD, slovakia, hunGarY & Croatia

This was the best tour I’ve been

on by far. I had a really great time, many memories and experiences. I’d recommend this trip to anyone in the future. The guide and driver were both excellent, they made a good team. I’ll be writing about this experience in my travel blog.David James, Australia, August 2009

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Church of human bones in UNESCO listed town Kutna Hora

ChilleDCharlieCharlie sleeps with one eye open, such is his willingness to see you have a

good time. He can entertain kings as well as court jesters, is always in the thick of the action as salsa dancing is his passion and he’s a favourite with all the guys we work with on the road. South African-raised but Latino at heart, our very own pocket rocket will have you sneaking down side streets and back alleys with him, finding hidden salsa clubs and the best spots for his famous braii. His energy is infectious, his stories wild, and with his toy mascot Bokkie in tow he’ll show you a side of Europe that no one else has found.

inClusions> 8 nights accommodation> 8 breakfasts> Bike tour Krakow> Walking tour Olomouc> Auschwitz and Birkenau guided tours> Orientation walks of Budapest and Split> Entrance to the Plitvice National Park> All transport with Guide> Eastern Trekker t-shirt

aCCoMMoDation inCluDeD4 nights hostel multi-share1 night bungalow twin-share2 nights hotel multi-share1 night apartment multi-share

aCCoMMoDation uPGraDe8 nights in double/twin room £80pp

DeParture Point & tiMeHostel Plus, Prague 7am for pre-departure breakfast

triP enDsSplit Hostel, Split 9am

Pre/Post aCCoMMoDationSee www.easterntrekker.com

itinerarYDay 1: Prague – Kutna Hora – Olomouc After a short drive across the Czech Republic we reach the UNESCO listed Kutna Hora. Time to explore the ancient church made from human bones, before departing for Olomouc. After a city walk, dinner in a typical Moravian restaurant (B) Day 2: Olomouc – auschwitz – Krakow After breakfast, it’s off to Poland with visits to Auschwitz and Birkenau. Then on to Krakow for a buzzing Saturday night out (B) Day 3: Krakow Bike tour of Schindler’s List’s Krakow with a local Polish guide. Free afternoon to discover Krakow (B) Day 4: Krakow - Zakopane A short drive to Zakopane, mountains galore. This is a hiker’s paradise so after an adventurous day in the mountains we indulge in an Alpine BBQ. (B) Day 5: Zakopane – Budapest After breakfast, it’s on to Budapest, with a stop in the Tatra Mountains for a picnic lunch. We will orientate you with a pre-dinner walk, Goulash, and a Budapest night cruise before hitting some of the

famous Budapest nightlife. (B) Day 6: Budapest Budapest, Hungary’s capital lies waiting. Start with a bike tour, or go caving under Budapest, visit the best food markets in Hungary or just chill in the thermal baths in the evening. (B) Day 7: Budapest – Plitvice We head south toward Croatia with a swim stop and lunch at Lake Balaton. Visit the Balkan open air war museum before arriving into Plitvice National Park at sunset for a BBQ and a few beers (B) Day 8: Plitvice – Split Tour the aqua wonderland of Plitvice National Park before heading over lunar landscapes to Split. Check out our sailing boats and the old town before the last supper. (B)Day 9: Split Trip finishes 9amB - Breakfast L - Lunch D - Dinner

triP Details

CoMBine Witha Croatia sailinG triPsee PaGe 23

Ben, DisCoverBuDaPestBudapest was Eastern Trekker’s first destination and I became their first comrade. I didn’t make it home for 2 days when the boys came over to scope out the town and plan for their group’s arrival. We visited most pubs in the 7th district, didn’t once venture on to any main boulevards, had business meetings in thermal baths, and ate well. I remember reflecting on their visit afterwards and thought to myself ‘gee, I saw parts of the city I hadn’t seen before’. I still get a kick out of working with them!


Multi triPs

save 10%see page 4

DePartures DaTE FuLL STuDENT

MAY 7, 21 £509pp* £489pp*

JUN 4, 18, 25 £509pp* £489pp*

JUL 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 £529pp* £509pp*

AUG 6, 13, 20, 27 £529pp* £509pp* SEP 3, 10, 24 £509pp* £489pp*

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Prague

Krakow

Zakopane

Budapest

Prague

Krakow

ZakopaneOlomouc

Budapest

Plitvice

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AUSTRIA

CZECH REPUBLIC

SLOVAKIA

HUNGARY

POLAND

Split

1

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Olomouc

PragueKrakow

Zakopane

Budapest

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CROATIA

ROMANIA

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Sarajevo

KotorDubrovnik

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Cluj

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RacatauValley

1

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1

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Prague

Vienna

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Auschwitz

Bratislava

Krakow

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* Church of human bones in UNESCO listed town Kutna Hora* Olomouc city walk* Clubbing in Krakow* Infamous Auschwitz and Birkenau* A top weekend in Krakow* Stunning Tatra Mountains, Zakopane* Budapest! Thermal bathing under the stars* Krakow bike tour


* Bike tour of Budapest* Caving tour - Budapest* Welcome to Budapest night cruise and dinner



CZeCh rePuBliC, PolanD, slovakia, hunGarY

Croatia, slovenia, austria & CZeCh rePuBliC

inClusions> 6 nights accommodation> 7 breakfasts> Bike tour Krakow> Olomouc city walk> Auschwitz and Birkenau guided tours> Orientation walk Budapest> All transport with Guide> Eastern Trekker t-shirt

aCCoMMoDation inCluDeD4 nights hostel2 nights hotel


DeParture Point & tiMeHostel Plus, Prague 7am for pre-departure breakfast

triP enDs Central Budapest. After breakfast


itinerarYDay 1-6: As per Classic Rhapsody Trek Day 7: Trip finishes after breakfast

triP Details

Very impressed by the organisation

and efficiency. The crew gave very detailed talks about each destination and our tour plan, costs, times were extremely helpful! I loved the very positive, easy going nature – imperative for this styled tour. Thanks guys for a memorable trip. Great guides and a very safe, skilled driver.Nicky Bonisch, New Zealand, May 2009

All the accommodation

was great as were the breakfasts. The Schnapps farm was a highlight for me. I hope Eastern Trekker open more routes so I can see more of Eastern Europe.Beth Timlin, Canada, August 2009

voDka PartY on

a Plane? CheCk

out oloMouC.

* Pag’s sunset beach parties* Exploring Ljubljana* Adrenalin packed Emerald River day trip in Bled* Salzburg’s old city and Monastery of Beer* The party at the Schnapps farm - Salzburg* Listening to top music whilst driving the Croatian coastline* Bohemian Cesky Krumlov* Slovenia to Austria scenic drive* Prague, the Bohemian capital* Succulent locally cooked roast lamb in Pag* Jani - the Prince of Bled * Lake Bled and its island church

Stretch the legs with a row out to the church perched on an island and ring the bell for luck. (B) Day 3: Bled This day is dedicated to nature and the cool activities in the magnificent Slovenian Alps. We recommend the Emerald River day trip where you’ll swim, raft, canyon and adventure your way through waterfalls, mountains and searing peaks, before an evening BBQ.(B) Day 4: Bled – Salzburg An alpine festival! Alps, castles and great music en route, before arriving in the world heritage city of Salzburg and a visit to the Monastery of Beer. Tonight you are invited to the Schnapps farm, for a feast of ribs, homemade liqueurs, Schnapps, cider and local beer. (B) Day 5: Salzburg – Cesky Krumlov A short drive into Bohemia and Cesky Krumlov. Enjoy a walk around the town, visit the castle or get a bit adventurous and lilo the Vlatva River. Overnight in the old town (B) Day 6: Cesky Krumlov – Prague The Bohemian capital Prague. We arrive mid morning and after an orientation, you can enjoy the sights and ensure the last night is full of memories. (B) Day 7: Prague Trip finishes after breakfast (B)B - Breakfast L - Lunch D - Dinner

inClusions> 6 nights accommodation> 6 breakfasts> Wine and cheese tasting on Pag> Orientation walk of Ljubljana> Orientation walk of Salzburg> Orientation walk of Cesky Krumlov> Prague introduction> All transport with Guide> Eastern Trekker t-shirt

aCCoMMoDation inCluDeD1 night hotel multi share 3 nights hostel multi share 2 nights apartment multi share


DeParture Point & tiMeSplit Hostel, Split. 9am

triP enDsHostel Plus, Prague, after breakfast


itinerarYDay 1: Split - Pag A short drive to the island paradise of Pag. After check in it’s off to the beach and crystal clear island waters. At sunset we indulge in some local wine and cheese and succulent Pag roast lamb. The evening beach parties are legendary at Zirce beach. Day 2: Pag – Ljubljana – Bled One of Europe’s most magnificent drives, from the Croatian coast to the Alps. We’ll stop in Ljubljana then on to Bled.

triP Details


* The Emerald River day trip – Bled * Sky diving - Bled* Schnapps farm – Salzburg

* Per person price based on multi share * Per person price based on multi share

Prague

Krakow

Zakopane

Budapest

Prague

Krakow

ZakopaneOlomouc

Budapest

Plitvice

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CROATIA

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AUSTRIA

CZECH REPUBLIC

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POLAND

Split

1

2

1

2

1

1

Olomouc

PragueKrakow

Zakopane

Budapest

1

2

1

2AUSTRIA

CZECHREPUBLIC

SLOVAKIA

HUNGARY

POLAND

CROATIA

ROMANIA

Split Mostar

Sarajevo

KotorDubrovnik

2

2

21

Cluj

Sighisoara

BrasovSibiu

RacatauValley

1

1

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3

ROMANIABudapest

1

Budapest

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Vienna

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Auschwitz

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Bled

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Prague

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Split

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Krakow

ZakopaneOlomouc

Budapest

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1

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PragueKrakow

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Budapest

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2AUSTRIA

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CROATIA

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Sarajevo

KotorDubrovnik

2

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BrasovSibiu

RacatauValley

1

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ROMANIABudapest

1

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HUNGARY

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Bled

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SplitPag

Bled

Salzburg

Prague

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Budapest

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Sighisoara

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APR 2 £419pp* £399pp*

MAY 7, 21 £419pp* £399pp*

JUN 4, 18, 25 £419pp* £399pp*

JUL 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 £439pp* £419pp*

AUG 6, 13, 20, 27 £439pp* £419pp* SEP 3, 10, 24 £419pp* £399pp*

OCT 8, 15, 22 £419pp* £399pp*

Multi triPs

save 10%see page 4

Multi triPs

save 10%see page 4


MAY 15, 29 £399pp* £379pp*

JUN 12, 26 £399pp* £379pp*

JUL 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 £419pp* £399pp*

AUG 7, 14, 21, 28 £419pp* £399pp*

SEP 4, 11, 18 £399pp* £379pp*

OCT 2 £399pp* £379pp*

30

inClusions> 5 nights accommodation> 5 breakfasts> All city Orientation walks> All transport with guide> Eastern Trekker t-shirt

aCCoMMoDation inCluDeD5 nights multi shared rooms


DeParture Point & tiMeSplit Hostel, Split. 9am

triP enDsIstanbul after breakfast


itinerarYDay 1: Split – Mostar – Sarajevo Leave Split for the drive along the Croatian coast before heading into Bosnia and magnificent Mostar. We will orientate you around Mostar with its famous bridge, and a chance to delve into

Bosnian specialties for lunch. It’s then onto Sarajevo for a night out, top nightlife, live bands and great food. Day 2: Sarajevo Today get to know the Bosnian capital and its incredible history. We will present the city and the famous Sarajevo tunnel which will give you a better understanding of the country and its people. Relax the afternoon away in Sarajevo shopping in the old town bazaar and squeezing the last drops out of a great weekend (B) Day 3: Sarajevo – Belgrade We leave Sarajevo and head across the border into neighbouring Serbia and its capital Belgrade. After check-in, we’ll set off to explore the city with its grand orthodox churches, but the real highlight here in Belgrade are the people and the life of the city. We will certainly get you into the middle of the action. (B) Day: 4 Belgrade – Sofia We leave Belgrade after breakfast and pass through the important Serbian town of Nis, where we’ll inspect some of the Ottoman ruins and have lunch. Then it’s across the border into Bulgaria and the capital Sofia. The inner city of Sofia is

full of chic cafes and great value shops which we will get into before feasting on Bulgarian specialties and a top night out. The prices here will excite! (B) Day 5: Sofia – Istanbul This drive will amaze you as we literally meet the end of Europe and enter Asia in Istanbul, Turkey. Today we trace the footsteps of the once famous Ottoman army back to the edge of Asia, stopping in Plovdiv, Bulgaria, a famous Ottoman outpost and then the highlight - Istanbul. Tonight we will spend the evening amongst towering Mosques, eating the all famous Turkish cuisine after this fantastic journey from the Croatian coast to Turkey. (B) Day 6: Istanbul Trip finishes after breakfast (B) B - Breakfast L - Lunch D - Dinner

triP Details

BOSNIA

CROATIA

SplitMostar

Nis

Plovdiv

Sarajevo

Belgrade

Sofia

Istanbul

2SERBIA

BULGARIA

TURKEY

1

1

1

Prague

Krakow

Zakopane

Budapest

Prague

Krakow

ZakopaneOlomouc

Budapest

Plitvice

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BOSNIA

CROATIA

SLOVENIA

AUSTRIA

CZECH REPUBLIC

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HUNGARY

POLAND

Split

1

2

1

2

1

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Olomouc

PragueKrakow

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Budapest

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MaXGrouP siZe29

6 DaYs froM £409pp*(stuDents froM £389pp*)Croatia, Bosnia, serBia, BulGaria & turkeY

I thought this tour was excellent,

the accommodation was brilliant and I loved the smaller sized group.Cheryl James, New Zealand, July 2009 GranD

GarYEnthusiasm to burn, enough energy to light a small village

and a head full of knowledge, pretty much typify this man who was born to guide. He’ll make you feel like part of the group but treat you as an individual. Give Gary coffee in the morning and he’s yours, deny Gary coffee in the morning...watch out! He loves unleashing his vast musical library on his travel companions, loves looking around corners to find new things, cherishes eating good value food and will effortlessly make you feel extra special. Not bad for a Lancashire lad!

* The spectacular drive along the Croatian coastline to Bosnia* The atmosphere in Mostar, the bridge and the bakeries* The Sarajevo walking tour with a Cevapcici lunch in the old town* The Mosques wailing at sunset through the Sarajevo night* The nightlife in Sarajevo* The Serbian nightlife in Belgrade* Sofia and its Ottoman look and feel * Chic café culture in Sofia* Istanbul in the evening and the Blue Mosque* Turkish baths * The great value food and drinks * The small group feel* Top accommodation

SEE PagE 4

koko & Maria, sPlit hostelWe meet the Eastern Trekker passengers and guides every Friday. They are always having a great time and there’s always a great rapport between the guests and the guides - everyone is always smiling and making jokes. We make sure all meet up at a local bar, where we get the chance to hear about everyone’s experience on the trip so far. It’s neat to be a part of people’s holiday through Europe.


Multi triPs

save 10%see page 4


MAY 29 £409pp* £389pp*

JUN 12, 26 £409pp* £389pp*

JUL 10, 24 £429pp* £409pp*

AUG 7, 21 £429pp* £409pp*

SEP 4 £409pp* £389pp*

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11 DAYS £629pp*(STUDENTS £599pp*)

PolAND, SlovAkiA, HUNgArY, AUSTriA & CzECH rEPUbliC

iNClUSioNS> 10 breakfasts> 10 nights accommodation> Tour of Auschwitz and Birkenau> Walking tour Krakow> Christmas dinner > Christmas Eve dinner > A bottle of Champagne each> Vienna Schnapps Museum> All transport with Guide> Eastern Trekker t-shirt

ACCommoDATioN iNClUDED8 nights hostel accommodation multi shared rooms2 nights hotel accommodation (Christmas)

ACCommoDATioN UPgrADE10 nights in double/twin room £100pp

DEPArTUrE PoiNT & TimEHostel Centrum, Krakow, 22 DEC 2010. 9am

TriP ENDSHostel Plus, Prague, 1 JAN 2011, after breakfast

PrE/PoST ACCommoDATioNSee www.easterntrekker.com

iTiNErArYDay 1: Dec 22 - Krakow Today our tour takes in Krakow and Auschwitz, then the Christmas markets in Krakow, drinking hot mulled wine before a night out at Diva nightclub Day 2: Dec 23 – Krakow A chance to visit the Royal salt mines or meander the Christmas markets of Kazimierz. A free day to enjoy Krakow at Christmas (B) Day 3: Dec 24 - Krakow – Zakopane South to the Alps where we will set you up in our Christmas chalet for the festive period. A chance to ski before partying amongst the snow (B, D) Day 4: Christmas Day – Zakopane Wake up to a white Christmas in the Polish Alps then set off for a day skiing or horse and sleigh rides before our big Christmas party in our own chalet. Hot wine and a roast dinner await, dancing the night away (B, D) Day 5: Boxing Day - Zakopane – Budapest We head south to Budapest stopping en route in the Donna Valley before an evening meal of goulash on board the Danube River night cruise (B) Day 6: Dec 27 - Budapest Check out the shops or melt the day away in a

thermal bath, it’s your day in Budapest to really get to know this magnificent town (B) Day 7: Dec 28 - Budapest – Bratislava – Vienna We head west to Bratislava and enjoy its castle and quaint old city before arriving in the Austrian capital Vienna for a visit to the famous schnapps museum (B) Day 8: Dec 29 - Vienna A day to enjoy Vienna. Maybe try the opera, the Spanish riding school or get all quirky with Freud or Mozart (B) Day 9: Dec 30 - Vienna – Cesky Krumlov We set off toward Prague but stop in Cesky Krumlov for a night of pre New Year’s celebrations. This town looks at its best around the festive period so a pub crawl around the medieval town is the way to go (B) Day 10: Dec 31 - Cesky Krumlov – Prague We set off on the short drive to Prague and start with an orientation tour of the Bohemian capital before getting ready for the big party and fireworks this evening (B) Day 11: Jan 01 - Our trip finishes after breakfast (B)B - Breakfast D - Dinner

DEPArTS 22 DECEMBER 2010

TriP DETAilS


* Walking tour, Budapest * Opera, Vienna * Skiing, Zakopane * Thermal pools, Budapest * Danube Karaoke River Cruise

Be prepared to eat...lots. We

considered changing the name to the Xmas Eating Tour! Not that I was complaining with the irresistible selection on offer. Zakopane is a great town in the Tatra’s to spend Xmas day in your swanky chalet. Prague’s a pretty good place to spend New Year’s Eve too, beautiful fireworks over the picturesque bridge and river combination... simply spectacular. Tour master Greg took good care of us!Andrew Batchelor, Australia, December 2008

SEE PAGE 4

CHECk US oUT oN FACEbookwww.facebook.com/easterntrekker

mArCiN, Cool bikE ToUrSCool Tour company has been working with Eastern Trekker since their first arrival to Krakow in 2005 and our sixth season of making every Trekker smile and work their bums a little on our bike tour of Krakow. Our easy and relaxed cycling tour helps these party animals recover after a crazy Saturday night and gives a great insight into the best parts of Krakow!

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* The traditional Christmas markets in Krakow at night* Skiing on Christmas Day enjoying your own white Christmas* A traditional Christmas dinner of roast chicken, pork, potatoes and gravy with your new found friends * Soaking in the thermal pools of Budapest at 32ºC* New Year’s Eve on the Charles Bridge, Prague* Cesky Krumlov * Cosy winter atmosphere

NA zDrAví, ProST, SToliCkA,

EgÉSzSÉgEDrE,

NA zDroWiE

- CHEErS!


Grab a pile of brochures and you’ll soon discover that they’re full of the same... blah... blah... blah... promising you loads of stuff you’ll never REALLY experience.

The HAGGiS difference is that we’re local, we live here, it’s our country and we’re showing you around. We guarantee a genuine local’s adventure.

We’re a proud bunch who know what it takes to make unforgettable trips. We’ve all been on the wrong end of crappy trips when we’ve travelled the world ourselves. That just won’t do when you’re travelling in our backyard. We’ll do what it takes to make you love our country as much as we do.

PassionateThere’s a couple of other things we feel make us a cut above the rest.

We know you are travelling on a budget so you should spend that cash how you want to. That’s why we don’t include attraction entry fees and accommodation. (We have chucked in a couple of freebies to maximise your experience!) If you want a dorm bed then just pay on arrival or if you want a little more privacy then go for it – it’s your choice.

stunning

LegendarySo what makes us legendary? Our people; that’s all. Sounds simple doesn’t it?

We’ve always stuck stubbornly to our mission of making each trip the best yet and have picked up a few awards along the way. But the true legends are our Crew. Recognised as the best, our team are in a class of their own. They were born to show off their country in a style that has made them world famous.

OVER 99% OF OUR CUSTOMERS RECOMMEND US**from a survey of our passengers 2009 (same was said in 2008, 2007, 2006….)

engLand

sCotLand

WaLes

CHoiCesome beLieve in ‘kitties’, We don’t.

We believe you should keep control of your budget. We take care of getting you around, including ferries and tolls and so on but the rest is up to you. You’re an independent traveller, right?

aCCommodation

Hostel accommodation is guaranteed on all trips - we reserve the beds and you pay as you go. That means you can get an upgrade to a twin or double where available. And, not being tied to any hostel chain means we can choose the best and most unique out there, be it a farmhouse or a castle.

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Haggis days..magical forest; charge across ancient battlefields, or take a cruise on the famous Loch

Ness. Britain is a small country but packed with

loads to see so that means heaps of time off the bus.

Our trips are flexible so that we can change

our plans depending on the weather or wishes of the group So long as you’re flexible, open-minded and bring your sense of adventure you will have the best time possible with your clothes on.

tHe FamousHaggis busesJust because you’re travelling on a budget doesn’t mean you have to compromise on safety or comfort. We only use Mercedes Benz midi-coaches, the latest models custom-built for touring. Famously yellow and named after our legendary crew, our vehicles all have eco-friendly (low-emission) engines, big windows and are ideally suited for getting off the beaten track. Perfect for those legendary HAGGiS days on the road.

our guidesAt HAGGiS we don’t create ‘tour managers’ or ‘trip leaders’. All our guys are naturals – they love travel and travelling with like-minded people. For sure we all train like mad (for three months or more), but that’s about making us all better at hosting great trips, not creating robots. That’s why we don’t have regimented itineraries. You’ll see all the ‘must-see’ bits, but each trip is unique because it comes down to your Guide and your group on the day. That’s the difference.

Our landscape, history and culture are what it’s all about. We have always believed in sustainability, long before being ‘green’ was ‘in’. We believe in minimum impact on nature but maximum impact for you. Our country is stunning – let’s keep it that way!

greenstuFF

Typical... you wait ages for a once-in a lifetime experience then loads come along at once.

This is what to expect. We’ll cram in plenty of sightseeing - the ones you’ve heard of but also a few wee hidden gems that only us locals know about. Hear countless tales and legends about our awesome history; walk up a wild mountain or along a sexy loch; stroll through a stunning glen or

book & goWe mean just that – you book your HAGGiS trip and we totally guarantee that it will run. We won’t wait until you arrive to tell you that we have too few people. This isn’t new for us, since 1993 we have never – NEVER EVER! – cancelled a single traveller’s trip.

Some other tour operators think we’re mad doing this. Maybe, but we think they just don’t get it. You have made the effort to get here so the least we can do is show you our country.

If we cancel your trip we’ll give you a full refund PLUS the boss’s car (a battered wee Honda truck with 100,000 miles on the clock) for a week, pay for the fuel and give you £1,000 spending money.

Fine, but not quite like the experience we can deliver!

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AVERAGEGROUp SizE 28

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sCottisHHigHLands

getting to edinburgH

Scotland is one of Europe’s last great wildernesses and we go remote, well off the beaten track but that’s just one of the reasons why we love it.

It’s really easy to get to Edinburgh, the home of HAGGiS. From London

it’s only an hour’s flight and with more connections than most European cities

you’re spoilt for choice, especially when the budget

airlines compete on price. Trains connect with the Scottish capital many times a day and only take a few hours or, if you’re really making that budget stretch, the overnight bus is the way to go. Grab a strong coffee and a bacon roll on arrival and you’ll be ready for anything.

HiGHLAND SLEEpz

Carbisdale Castle *This grand neo-gothic castle comes complete with its own

intriguing history, art gallery, resident ghosts, and nude statues!*blackout dates apply

OBANWith panoramic sea-views across the bay this hostel is close to the

action. Hit the town for fantastic fresh seafood, great pubs, and a true Highland ‘Ceilidh’.

StornowayHigh up in ‘Europe’s last wilderness’ sits a Hebridean home-from-

home. You can expect great hospitality from the family-owners and a welcoming peat fire.

SKYEIn a small fishing village where a live music session can break out at any

moment. There’s also the ruined castle of local legend, Saucy Mary...

UllapoolLocated close to the harbour where you can watch the fishing boats returning

in the evening and a short walk to fantastic pubs with live music.

Guaranteed (but optional). From cottages to castles, we only recommend the best hostels (mostly rated 4 by VisitScotland) and are not tied to any hostel chain. From £15 - £20 per night.

WOWMOMENT

GUIDE’S

isLe oF skye“Enveloped by the mighty Red and venomous Black Cuillin mountains and with the sounds of the crisp cool waters sweeping down these extraordinary hills, I am always left with a deep sense of awe and appreciation that we are mere specks in this ancient and extraordinary land. ” Ped, HAGGiS Adventures Guide

Famous tHe WorLd over, For a Wee Country, sCotLand PunCHes WeLL above its WeigHt.

Once here you’ll see why. With more famous icons than you can shake a stick at, you’ll be amazed at just how much Scotland has to offer.

From heather covered mountains, down rushing glens to deep mysterious lochs, our landscape is spectacular. Castles dot the land, many the seats of ancient clans

on whose grounds bloody battles were fought. Tartan kilts, wailing bagpipes and hairy coos are all part of our rich culture. Stay in a haunted castle, try a dram of malt whisky by a peat fire, listen to Gaelic speaking locals on tiny island communities or chill out on the empty sandy beaches of the Western Isles.

Our Guides will ensure you get into it all with some proper Scottish hospitality thrown into the mix. They may even show you what’s under the kilt!

NEw FOR 2010 * The ultimate Scottish adventure – The Compass Buster – 10 days exploring Skye, the Western Isles and Orkney

* The original Scottish ‘Hop-on Hop-off’ is back! Travel at your own

pace but get the benefits of a fully guided trip with like-minded travellers

* FREE Highland Clan Show on all trips

Situated on the dramatic cliff side of an Orcadian farm overlooking the North Sea, the Tomb of the Eagles is an historical experience like none you’ve ever had before. Crawl into the chambered ‘cairn’ (meaning ‘man-made mound of stones’) to imagine life several millennia ago, and actually touch 5000 year old artefacts. We cover the entry fees on our 10 Day Compass Buster.

Free tomb oF tHe eagLesvisit

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ComPassbuster10 DAYS £379(STUDENTS £359)

orkney, Western isLes, isLe oF skye & LoCH ness

* Stay in a real haunted Highland castle* – if you dare! (* blackout dates apply)

* Discover over 5,000 years of human history on Orkney including Europe’s best preserved prehistoric village* Explore the amazing Tomb of the Eagles where you can come face to face with our prehistoric ancestors* See a traditional Hebridean blackhouse and soak up the atmosphere at the Callanish Standing Stones, predating Stonehenge!* Wander along empty sandy beaches with turquoise waters on Harris* Spend a free day exploring Loch Ness and its stunning surroundings* Look out for dolphins and whales on the 4 ferry trips – included in the price!

I had a BLAST on my HAGGiS tour! Some of my most favourite

memories are in Scotland! Glencoe was absolutely stunning and completely worth your while. Staying at Morag’s Lodge in Fort Augustus was great! The staff really know how to show you a good time and the ‘Nessie Haka’ at Loch Ness is something everyone should experience! Sigrid Fletcher, Australia, June 2009

KARAOKEKYLESexy Kyle with the sexy smile…you can see his lips moving but

his excellent historical knowledge is lost on most female passengers... Whatever your persuasion, however, Kyle, a 100% beef Edinburger himself, will make sure you get involved. Bus karaoke, Nessie-calling, and tartan toga parties are all in a day’s work for the K-dog, but prepare yourself for some dire ‘dad jokes’…

EDINBURGH

GLENCOE

INVERNESS

STIRLING

TOUR ROUTES INDICATIVE ONLY

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ISLEOF SKYE

ISLEOF SKYE

LEWIS STORNOWAY


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LEWIS STORNOWAY


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FORTWILLIAM

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NON-COMPULSORY DAY STOP


* Cruise Loch Ness - take an evening boat cruise and hunt for Nessie* FREE Highland clan show. Hear the bloody history of the clans, try on traditional Highland dress and see their weapons* FREE entry to the amazing Tomb of the Eagles where you can come face to face with our prehistoric ancestors* Hire bikes for the day and discover Loch Ness or eplore the forest trails* Try some haggis or the best black pudding in the world on Stornoway* Have a round of golf on your free day. The Scots invented it!* Walk around the village and canal of Fort Augustus (Loch Ness)* Visit a Highland whisky distillery

iNCLUSiONS> Legendary Mercedes midi-coach to explore off the beaten track> All taxes & ferries (where applicable)> Your sexy local Guide> FREE Highland clan show> FREE Tomb of the Eagles entry

ACCOMMODATiON (Optional)Hostel accommodation £15 - £20

ACCOMMODATiON UpGRADEPrivate rooms where available £20 - £40. See website for details.

DEpARTURE pOiNT & TiMEHAGGiS Adventures, Edinburgh 8.30am

RETURN TiME (Approx.)HAGGiS Adventures, Edinburgh 5pm

pRE/pOST ACCOMMODATiONSee www.haggisadventures.com

iTiNERARYDay 1: Edinburgh to Inverness Through Perthshire’s mountains, rivers and forests to Dunkeld. Then the Cairngorms National Park, Culloden Battlefield and Inverness, capital of the Highlands. Day 2: To Kirkwall We continue our journey north, past the Black Isle and onto John O’Groat’s, mainland Britain’s most northerly point. We cross to Orkney by ferry and visit the Tomb of the Eagles. Day 3: Orkney A day exploring the ancient monuments of Orkney including Skara Brae, Europe’s best preserved Neolithic village and 5,000 year old Maeshowe chambered cairn. Day 4: To Carbisdale After a trip to the Italian chapel, a ferry crossing to the mainland and a journey through northern Scotland’s rugged terrain including Loch Shin and mysterious Smoo Cave. Tonight

is spent in a haunted Highland castle*, if you dare! Day 5: To Loch Ness Through Dornoch and Dingwall before a stop at a whisky distillery in the Muir of Ord. After a wee walk in Glen Affric we stop for a view of Loch Ness from Urquhart Castle where Nessie has been seen many times. Day 6:Free day in Fort Augustus Your day to explore the area around Loch Ness and the village of Fort Augustus. Hire bikes, take to the forest trails or walk by the canal. Have a game of golf or go monster spotting on a boat trip. Alternatively chill out at Morag’s Lodge with a plate of haggis and a locally brewed beer... Day 7: To Stornoway An action packed day starting with the Road to the Isles, heading further north to catch a ferry from the fishing village of Ullapool to the Western Isles. Day 8: Lewis & Harris We discover the very ancient and mysterious Callanish Standing Stones, traditional blackhouse and Harris tweed makers. You’ve tasted haggis, now try some famous Stornoway black pudding! Day 9: To Skye We explore the empty white beaches of Harris before crossing by ferry to the ‘winged isle’ of Skye. Awesome scenery – the Quirang, Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock and the Cuillin plus legends and faerie stories. Day 10: To Edinburgh Back on the mainland, a stop at Eilean Donan Castle, then down the Great Glen past Ben Nevis, through haunting Glencoe and Rannoch Moor. Onto the Trossachs, Rob Roy country and home past Stirling Castle and The Wallace Monument.

DEpARTURESJUN – SEP Wednesdays

TRip DETAiLS

Go beyond the mainland and discover the far northern and western fringes of Scotland, Europe’s last great wilderness. Our ultimate trip explores an amazingly diverse range of scenery, history and cultures. From the Viking influenced Orkney Islands and the mysterious Callanish Stones on Lewis to the mountains and legends of the magical Isle of Skye.

MULTi TRipS

SAVE 10%see page 4

EDINBURGH

GLENCOE

INVERNESS

STIRLING


OVERNIGHTSMAY VARY

EDINBURGH

GLENCOE


ULLAPOOL HARRIS

LOCHNESS

ISLEOF SKYE

ISLEOF SKYE

ISLEOF SKYE

LEWIS STORNOWAY


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* Go monster spotting on a Loch Ness cruise* FREE Highland clan show. Hear the bloody history of the clans, try on traditional Highland dress and see their weapons* Hire bikes for the day and discover Loch Ness or explore the forest trails* Taste haggis or Stornoway black pudding* Try a wee dram of whisky after seeing how it is made at a Highland distillery

iNCLUSiONS> Legendary Mercedes midi-coach to explore off the beaten track> All taxes & ferries (where applicable)> Your sexy local Guide> FREE Highland clan show






iTiNERARYDay 1: Edinburgh to Carbisdale Castle*North through Perthshire and ‘Big Tree Country’ to Dunkeld and its famous cathedral. Cairngorms National Park, Culloden Battlefield and then deep into the Highlands to the castle. Day 2: To Loch Ness Dornoch town and Dingwall then a stop at a whisky distillery for a wee dram. A walk through Glen Affric before we stop at Urquhart Castle for a chance to spot Nessie. Day 3: Free

day in Fort Augustus Get amongst some spectacular Highland scenery and do your own thing. Hire bikes, take a boat trip on Scotland’s most famous loch, play a round (of golf!) or chill out in Morag’s Lodge with an ice cold beer. Day 4: To Stornoway An action packed day starting with the Road to the Isles, heading further north to catch a ferry from the fishing village of Ullapool to the Western Isles. Day 5: Lewis & Harris We discover the very ancient and mysterious Callanish Standing Stones, traditional blackhouse and Harris tweed makers. You’ve tasted haggis, now try some famous Stornoway black pudding! Day 6: To Skye We explore the empty white beaches of Harris before crossing by ferry to the ‘winged isle’ of Skye. Awesome scenery – the Quirang, Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock and the Cuillin plus legends and faerie stories. Day 7: To Edinburgh Back on the mainland, a stop at Eilean Donan Castle, then down the Great Glen past Ben Nevis, through haunting Glencoe and Rannoch Moor. Onto the Trossachs, Rob Roy country and home past Stirling Castle and The Wallace Monument.

DEpARTURESMAY – OCT Saturdays

TRip DETAiLS

An unforgettable journey of the far north west and the region’s most famous islands, the Outer Hebrides and the Isle of Skye. Small villages, long sandy beaches and dramatic mountain scenery made all the more stunning by its remoteness. You will also discover the Gaelic culture, hear traditional music, as well as get the chance to enjoy the fantastic local seafood. And the sunsets are legendary!

tHe Western isLes, isLe oF skye & LoCH ness

Windswept moors, dramatic coastlines, jagged mountain

peaks, white sandy beaches, colorful culture, fascinating history, and delicious whisky – Welcome to ‘Wild & Sexy’ Scotland. Laura Mickleson, USA

* Stay in a Highland castle* with its own art collection and ghost! (* blackout dates apply)

* See a traditional Hebridean blackhouse and visit Harris tweed makers* Mysterious Callanish Standing Stones, predating Stonehenge!* White sandy beaches on Harris* A free day at Loch Ness to go monster spotting* The mystical and awe-inspiring Isle of Skye* Look out for dolphins and whales on the ferry trips – included in the price!

isLand exPLorer

WOWMOMENT

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CaLLanisH“My absolute favourite place we visit on any of our tours! The standing stones are so accessible yet so impenetrable. They sit on the brow of a wee hill by a loch and defy interpretation. I love to marvel at the effort and purpose of their being there and would challenge anyone not to be impressed by this amazing standing stone complex.” Laura, HAGGiS Adventures Guide

Clan life is now regarded with a romantic tartan-rose-tint, but in reality it was exceptionally rough and tough for these ‘true’ Scots men and women. Our Highland Clan show provides an eye-opening education on real day-to-day Highland life hundreds of years ago, highlighting their hardships and their remarkable resilience. You’ll also learn what made them so ferocious in battle, get the opportunity to dress in the plaid and imagine yourself as a Clan warrior!

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7 DAYS £269(STUDENTS £249)

* Spend the night in a real haunted Highland castle* complete with its own art collection and resident ghost! (* blackout dates apply)

* Explore Loch Ness and try to catch a glimpse of the world’s most famous monster* Hear tales of Scotland’s bloody history in haunting Glencoe* Explore the Isle of Skye, awesome mountains, legends and jaw- dropping scenery* Taste some malt whisky at one of Scotland’s oldest distilleries

* FREE Highland clan show! Hear the bloody history of the clans, try on traditional Highland dress and see their weapons* Loch Ness cruise - Enjoy an evening boat cruise and search for the monster* Hire bikes and discover the fantastic forest trails around Loch Ness* Walk around the canals and village of Fort Augustus, Loch Ness* Visit a Highland whisky distillery* Ceilidh Night – get dancing at a traditional Scottish night oot!* Go ghost hunting along the spooky passageways of the castle* Watch the sunset over Oban Bay from McCaig’s Tower







iTiNERARYDay 1: To Carbisdale Past the Forth Bridge and north through mountains and forests to Dunkeld. Then through the Cairngorms National Park to Culloden Battlefield. We pass by Inverness and the Black Isle before arriving at Carbisdale Castle, deep in the Highlands. Day 2: To Loch Ness

Our journey takes us through Dornoch town, Dingwall and on to Muir of Ord with a stop at a whisky distillery. After a walk at Glen Affric, there’s a stop at Urquhart Castle on the banks of Loch Ness where the monster has been seen many times. Day 3: Loch Ness to Skye to Loch Ness Taking the Road to the Isles, we stop at Eilean Donan Castle then cross the bridge to Skye for legends and faerie stories. View the spectacular Old Man of Storr and Cuillin Mountains before returning to Fort Augustus. Day 4: To Oban We pass Loch Oich and the Well of the Seven Heads, through the Great Glen, Glenfinnan Viaduct (Harry Potter) and Fort William, at the foot of Ben Nevis. Day 5: To Edinburgh Passing through the haunting beauty of Glencoe, Rannoch Moor and into Rob Roy country. Then past Stirling Castle and The Wallace Monument en route to Edinburgh.

DEpARTURESJAN – MAY MondaysJUN – SEP Mondays, Wednesdays & SaturdaysOCT – DEC Mondays

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A spectacular and unforgettable adventure through the Highlands and magical Isle of Skye. Get out there amongst some of the world’s most incredible scenery. Stay in a haunted Highland castle*, go monster hunting on Loch Ness, hear tales of Scotland’s bloody history, enjoy whisky tasting in a Highland distillery and explore the stunning Isle of Skye.

LoCH ness, isLe oF skye & tHe nortHWest HigHLands

Hidden on a hillside overlooking the historic village of Fort Augusts is a Highland hostel gem, a stones throw from the most famous body of water in the world.

As travellers ourselves, we know that an affordable bed is important but that’s not what makes a truly great hostel. The comfortable bed in an en-suite room is a given. We also have the best power showers and great buffet dinners.

Morag’s is that bit more special because of its great ‘Highland’ welcome. We’ll help you organise your day whether you want to monster hunt on Loch Ness, take a day trip to Skye or explore the area on one of our bikes. Of course you are more than welcome to spend the day chilling out, watching DVDs, or supping a local organic ale in our private beer garden.

And, there’s always something happening in ‘The Shack Bar!’ Live music, pub quizzes and maybe one of our famous ‘Tartan Toga’ parties!

monstrous nigHtsAT MORAG’S LODGE, LOCH NESS

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HigHLandFLing

I’ve travelled a lot but this Haggis tour was by far the best experience

I’ve had! Scotland is so wild & sexy and I have too many favourite moments to recount here! Sarah Wright, USA, July 2009

CHECK US OUT ON FACEBOOKwww.FACEBOOK.COM/

HAGGiSADVENTURES

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skyeHigH3 DAYS £99(STUDENTS £95)

Our most popular tour – ideal if you’re short on time but still want to explore some of Scotland’s most famous sights. Go Nessie hunting, discover ruined castles, stunning lochs, dramatic mountains and hear tales of Celtic myths and legends.

isLe oF skye, LoCH ness & gLenCoe

* Go monster spotting and spend the night at Loch Ness* Discover the magical Isle of Skye* Explore the haunting beauty of Glencoe, scene of the infamous massacre* View Eilean Donan Castle, perched on the shores of Loch Duich* Soak up the atmosphere of Culloden Battlefield, scene of Bonnie Prince Charlie’s bloody defeat

* FREE Highland clan show! Hear the bloody history of the clans, try on traditional Highland dress and see their weapons* Take an evening boat cruise on Loch Ness and hunt for Nessie* Hire bikes from Morag’s Lodge, Loch Ness and explore the area* Taste some haggis in a Highland pub washed down with a pint of local ale

BUBBLYGiLLBubbly Gill hails from the Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond, and

her various adventures across the globe only cemented her love for her Highland homeland. Keen to pass on her sparkling passion for Scotland to all her passengers, Gill is notorious for her colourful considerations on her history and culture. Also a young farmer, Gill’s partying endurance would put the most hardened revellers to the test and she could probably deliver a lamb at the same time!

What a fantastic 3 days in Scotland! Great tour. Great tour mates & breathtaking

scenery. Bambie burgers, liquid sunshine and glourious weather, Hamish the hairy coo & singing faeries. Ticks in all the boxes – Love it! Rachel & Matt, Australia, September 2009

WOWMOMENT

GUIDE’S

sCottisH battLes“I love re-enacting many of the gruesome Scottish battles. One of my favourites is the Battle of Stirling Bridge. I gather the whole group at the top of The Wallace Monument just outside Stirling and tell the real story, not the one in the movie. It’s great being able to take people back in time and evoke a feeling of pride. There’s nothing better than the whole tour wishing they were Scottish!” Carole, HAGGiS Adventures Guide

Loch Ness contains more water than all the lakes and rivers of England and Wales combined. Its deepest point is 230 metres deeper than the height of London’s BT Tower. The earliest recorded sighting of ‘Nessie’ was by St. Columba in the 6th century when he saved the life of a Pict, who was being attacked by the monster. You can go monster hunting on all our legendary Scotland trips.







iTiNERARYDay 1: Edinburgh to Loch Ness Hear tales of William Wallace as we drive past Stirling and into the Trossachs and

Rob Roy country. Then into windswept Rannoch Moor and infamous Glencoe, through the Great Glen to the shores of Loch Ness. Day 2: Loch Ness to Skye to Loch Ness Taking the Road to the Isles we stop for a story at Eilean Donan Castle before crossing the water to the mystical Isle of Skye. The dramatic Cuillin Mountains, faerie stories and legends! Return to Fort Augustus (Loch Ness). Day 3: To Edinburgh We drive the length of Loch Ness, see Urquhart Castle, then through Inverness to Culloden Battlefield. Heading south we pass through the stunning beauty of the Cairngorms National Park, Pass of Killiecrankie and Macbeth country.

DEpARTURESJAN – MAR Mondays & FridaysAPR – SEP Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays & SaturdaysOCT – DEC Mondays & Fridays

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HoP-on HoP-oFFsCotLand

It’s back... our original trip that launched HAGGiS back in 1993 has returned for backpackers wanting their own tailor made Scottish experience.

A totally flexible, fully guided trip the hop-on hop-off combines the flexibility of a travel pass with all the benefits, fun and convenience of a tour. We’ll help you discover our magnificent Scottish Highlands and West Coast.

Our knowledgeable and friendly team are delighted to help you in planning your travels. Whether you take a quick seven day trip, or spend up to three months really exploring Scotland, we’ll give you the best planning advice, the best discounts to attractions and a guide to the best quality hostels.

As well as a fully guided, staged trip, we’ll throw in a HAGGiS Welcome Pack full of loads of info on hostels, local tours, activities and special discounts — in fact everything you’ll need!

Of course, this trip is designed for you to do your own thing and here we have listed a few of the biggies at the hop-on hop-off stops to get you started. If you think we have missed anything out – let us know!

gLasgoW Scotland’s biggest, busiest and most cosmopolitan city

Marvel at floating heads and a stuffed elephant at Kelvingrove Museum and Art Gallery * Explore the ‘Bohemian’

West-end, and take a stroll along eclectic Byre’s Road * Relive the experiences of the ship-builders at the Maritime Museum on the Clyde, once the world’s ship-building powerhouse

Fort WiLLiam Formerly a major garrison town, now a bustling outdoor pursuits centre

Tick off a ‘Munro’ and the UK’s highest mountain in one fell swoop by climbing Ben Nevis! * Explore the beautiful Glen Nevis and Steall

Falls used in the Harry Potter films * Take a ride on the steam train to Mallaig and back and follow in the tracks of the Hogwart’s Express * Visit Glenfinnan and imagine the scene there over 250 years ago when Bonnie Prince Charlie raised his standard calling the Clans to rise

Fort augustusA Highland village on the banks of Loch Ness (compulsory overnight)

Experience life as a 17th century Highlander by dressing up in a plaid and trying weapons at a Highland Clan show * Take a

cruise on Loch Ness and go Nessie hunting * Walk or cycle any of the many scenic woodland tracks around the village

inverness Capital of the Highlands

A great base to explore the Northern Highlands * The perfect spot to make your own journey to the Orkney and Shetland Islands

* Visit the Highland Museum and learn about traditional Scottish music * Cruise the Moray Firth and search for dolphins * Culloden battlefield where the last battle was fought on British soil. Now with a stunning visitor centre * Explore Clava Cairns - 6000 year old burial chambers and standing stones

aviemoreThe Cairngorms mountain resort

Activity central! Go white water rafting, quad biking, swimming, sailing, canoeing and fishing * Hike the trails through native

Caledonian forest where pine martens, wild cats, ospreys and capercaillies can be seen * Take the funicular railway up the mountain

PitLoCHry A great wee Perthshire town on the banks of the River Tummel

Experience Scotland’s smallest distillery - Edradour * Re-enact a Highland charge at Killiecrankie, site of a famous Jacobite

battle in 1689 * Head north to Blair Castle and the stunning ‘Falls of Bruar’ * Feel like Royalty by taking in the amazing Queen’s View and gaze upon Schiehallion, ‘The fairy-hill of the Caledonians’

tHis is WHere We go:

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obanA beautifully situated coastal town

Take a guided tour of Oban’s distillery and enjoy a wee dram * Walk along the shore to the ruins of Dunollie castle and imagine what life was

like for the MacDougals who inhabited it in the 13th Century * Take an island tour out to Mull or Staffa and enjoy the scenery, history and wildlife of these remote wee islands * Take the ferry to Iona where the Scottish Kings are buried * Walk up to McCaig’s tower and watch the sunset over the town and nearby islands

CarbisdaLe CastLe One of the most spectacular hostels around...

Reputedly haunted by several ghosts, including a child and the ‘white lady’ who tucks people up in bed at night... * Explore this

amazing hostel with its secret passageways, statues and art gallery * Do a forest walk up to the site of the Battle of Carbisdale, fought in 1650 during the civil war between the Royalists and the Parliamentarians

MyHAGGiSHow do I book my buses and beds?Once you book your trip you will receive a client reference number on your eticket. Log onto MyHaggis and create a password to get started.

Do I have to book in advance?To guarantee your seat on the bus, we do recommend booking a few days in advance as it can get busy in the summer months! You can turn up without a booking and if there’s space you are welcome aboard.

What if I change my mind?You can change buses up to 24 hours in advance at no extra cost. If you don’t cancel a sector or don’t show up, you can still travel that sector but only on a standby basis. Please be aware, hostels will have cancellation fees of their own.

TRip DETAiLSACCOMMODATiON (Optional)Hostel accommodation £15 - £20Book through MyHaggis

ACCOMMODATiON UpGRADEPrivate rooms where available £20 - £40 Book through MyHaggis



pRE/pOST ACCOMMODATiONSee MyHaggis

DEpARTURES (From Edinburgh)JUN odd days (15, 17, 19... 29)JUL odd days (1, 3, 5... 31) AUG even days (2, 4, 6... 30)SEP odd days (1, 3, 5... 15)

£99(STUDENTS £95)

tHe originaL

WiLd & FLexiHoP-on HoP-oFF

You are in control of your own Highland adventure and flexibility and choice is what this trip is all about. We would recommend at least a week but if you have more time – go for it. We live here and still haven’t seen it all!

* Start and finish anywhere you like

* Travel at your own pace – a week to 3 months – you decide

* Door to door pick up and drop off at our recommended hostels

* Our awesome Guides full of local tips and advice

* Every other day service from June to September

HOw iT wORKS

5 DAYS £399pp*

iNCLUSiONS> All hostel dorm accommodation > All breakfasts> Mulled wine on arrival at Loch Ness on Christmas Eve> Christmas Eve Supper and evening entertainment> Christmas Dinner & wine> Live band entertainment> Packed lunch Christmas Day and Boxing Day > Goodie Bag

ACCOMMODATiON iNCLUDEDHostel shared dorm accommodation



iTiNERARYDay 1: Edinburgh to Loch Ness North through forested Perthshire into the Cairngorms. Culloden Battlefield then arrival at Loch Ness for a party. Day 2: Christmas Day at Loch Ness Highland exploration around Loch Ness then back in the afternoon for Christmas dinner and party. Day 3: Loch Ness to Skye Road to the Isles, Eilean Donan castle then over the bridge to the Isle of Skye. Mountains, lochs and glens, myths and legends. Awesome. Day 4: Skye to Oban Through the Great Glen, Glenfinnan viaduct (Harry Potter) through Fort William, Castle Stalker and the seaside town of Oban. Day 5: Oban to Edinburgh Haunting Glencoe, Rannoch Moor, through Rob Roy country, past Stirling Castle to Edinburgh.

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HigHLandCHristmas

* Play in the snow among some stunning mountain scenery* Christmas Day in a Highland setting – perfect!* Loads of food, drink and live music for a great party* Mistletoe... bring plenty

* Princes Street party – one of the biggest New Year celebrations in the World. It’s not called ‘Snog-manay’ for nothing!* Aussie and Kiwi New Year celebrations* The ‘Loony Dook’ – take part in the insanity that is a traditional swim in the sea on New Year’s Day* A proper hog roast to fill you up before the street party

Imagine a Highland setting for Christmas, with lochs, snow capped mountains and cosy pubs with real fires. Then add a proper slap up dinner with all the trimmings and a party with

other travellers. A wee bit different to mince pies with your granny…

A real Christmas

cracker - the magnificent Highlands covered in a blanket of snow, as well as having the time of your life with Christmas Day spent by the shores of Loch Ness.

tHere are many PLaCes in tHe WorLd to sPend tHe Festive season but FeW Can matCH tHe exPerienCe you get by CeLebrating tHem in sCotLand.

* Explore Edinburgh’s Old and New towns and its many great pubs* Check out Edinburgh’s famous Winter festival* Take a wee dram with you to the Street party to keep you warm!

4 DAYS £319pp*

DEpARTS LONDON

coach from London will take you to Edinburgh for the

festivities ahead. The Scottish capital is buzzing at this time and your Guide will be there to make sure you get amongst it all. The

street party is the place to be and we have the elusive

tickets to get you in. Get ready for midnight when the clock strikes. You’ve never seen anything like it!

The world has New Year. Scotland has Hogmanay! Yes, we Scots may be known for inventing a few things but it’s our celebration on New Year’s Eve that sets the standard. This is the biggest party of them all!

This is probably the best experience of a Scottish New Year you can get. A luxury

Haggis Hogmanay

iNCLUSiONS> London to Edinburgh return coach> 3 nights hostel accommodation> All breakfasts > Princes Street Party ticket> Welcome Drinks> Walking Tour of Edinburgh> A Ceilidh (a proper Scottish dance!)> Hog Roast for the very hungry> Day trip to Queensferry for the Loony Dook> Your experienced HAGGiS Guide

ACCOMMODATiON iNCLUDEDHostel shared dorm accommodation

DEpARTURE pOiNT & TiMEHAGGiS Adventures, London 7.15am

RETURN TiME (Approx.)HAGGiS Adventures, London 6.30pm

iTiNERARYDay 1: London to Edinburgh Coach journey north to Scotland with Guide. Tonight there’s a traditional ceilidh to kick things off properly! Day 2: New Year’s Eve Edinburgh walking tour, Aussie and Kiwi New Year celebrations, then a hog roast before the build up to Princes Street to see in 2011 properly! Day 3: New Year’s Day Today’s your chance to clear your head with the traditional ‘Loony Dook’ (swim in the sea) at historic Queensferry. Farewell party later. Day 4: To LondonBack south by coach but with many more new friends than you had in 2010.

DEpARTS 30 DECEMBER 2010

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Few have heard of it, let alone been, but in the mid-winter of late January, the locals of the Shetland Islands go more than a little mad and celebrate Up Helly Aa. This superb spectacle is a celebration of Shetland history and a triumphant

demonstration of the islanders’ skills and spirit. Eight

hundred horny-helmeted islanders set fire to a Viking longboat then party all night until dawn.

There’s even a chance of viewing the Northern

Lights. Simply amazing!

uP HeLLy aa!ViKiNG FiRE FESTiVAL, JANUARY

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NEw FOR 2010 * FREE surfing lessons in Cornwall * FREE Welsh Farmhouse BBQ Feast

stoneHenge

roCksStonehenge, is one of the most famous and mysterious prehistoric sites in the world. Over the centuries countless myths have sprung up about its origins and functions. Was it built by Druids or Romans? Used as an ancient observatory? A Neolithic burial ground? Or even a landing pad for alien spacecraft?

Discover for yourself on our amazing Cornwall Crusader 5 Day trip.

GREAT BRiT SLEEpz

CheddarThis Victorian villa sits just below the famous Gorge. Peaceful if you

want it to be but there’s plenty of fun to be had in town.

Newquay Overlooking the beach in England’s surf capital with incredible pubs,

clubs and atmosphere. Drift off to the sound of the sea or go large with the nightlife.

BathCentrally located in the heart of the city near the Roman baths and with the best

cheap beers and grub.

Cardiff Prepare yourself for a night in Wales’ vibrant capital, this hostel is

ideally situated to explore the city, get involved in the buzzing nightlife, and sleep in style.

North Wales Off the beaten track in rural Wales nestles this family run hostel. Expect

an awesome barbeque and then Lynda’s incredible cooked breakfast!

Caernarfon Fantastic backpackers based in a 200 year old town-house right next to the castle.

walls.

Guaranteed (but optional). We only stay in the best hostels, in the best locations with the best facilities. From £17 - £19 per night.

engLand& WaLesFrom the manic energy of London, one of the World’s most vibrant and diverse cities, to the sleepy villages and rugged moors of the Welsh countryside, the British landscape never ceases to surprise and amaze. Ancient Celts, Saxon tribes, Roman legions and Viking warriors have all left their mark here. Now it’s your turn.

If you thought you knew what to expect from England and Wales then think again. On leaving London you will be taken back in time through

centuries of history where ancient and modern Britain sit side by side. One moment you will be exploring ancient and mysterious Stonehenge, then onto Tintagel castle, the birthplace of the Arthurian legend, before hitting Newquay to party the night away at the UK’s surfing capital. Or explore wild Wales, where a proud people still speak their own language and whose unique culture will leave you rapt. You may even pick up a few words from the locals before you leave!

WOWMOMENT

GUIDE’S

WeLsH FarmHouse “After a night of booze-fuelled barbequed bliss in the middle ofthe stunning Welsh countryside you are drawn back into the waking world by the sounds of a cockerel crowing, and are greeted by a cow licking the dew from the window as you draw the curtains. After a fantastic fry-up of bacon, runny eggs and sweet tea you will sit back and appreciate that you are somewhere very special.” Adam, HAGGiS Adventures Guide

the race by releasing a 7-8lb round of cheese down a treacherous slope. Competitors then chase down the slope after the cheese. The first person to arrive at the foot of the hill wins the cheese and the acclaim of the crowds.

GLOUCESTERSHiRE CHEESE-ROLLiNG MAY 2010Don’t miss one of the the UK’s most unusual and talked about events, the legendary May Bank Holiday Cheese Rolling Festival. A guest roller starts

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* FREE Surfing lesson on Newquay beach * Take a walk across Dartmoor and try not to get misled by the mischievous pixies!* Visit Tintagel, place of magic and myth where the legend of King Arthur was born* Marvel at the mysterious Stonehenge and Avebury stone circles* Climb Glastonbury’s magical Tor for spectacular views across Somerset* Try your hand at some amateur dramatics at one of the most spectacular open air theatres in the world – The Minack Theatre

* Explore medieval Salisbury Cathedral home to the original Magna Carta* Explore the caves where Cheddar Man was found* Walk around the awe-inspiring Tintagel Castle* Chill out on one of the 11 beaches in Newquay and watch the sun set* Visit the ancient Roman Baths and pamper yourself with a spa treatment in Britain’s original natural thermal spa* Check out the amazing Georgian architecture of Bath* Get stuck into local favourites such as Cornish pasties and Scrumpy cider

iNCLUSiONS> Legendary Mercedes midi-coach to explore off the beaten track> All taxes & ferries (where applicable)> Your sexy local Guide





iTiNERARYDay 1: London to Cheddar Depart London and travel west to Stonehenge the UK’s most famous and mysterious stone circle then onto Salisbury where you have a chance to explore the cathedral. We then drive to the dramatic Cheddar Gorge where you can delve into the caves, home to Cheddar Man, or have a walk to the top of the gorge. Day 2: Cheddar to Newquay Spend the morning exploring the wilds of Dartmoor and Bodmin National Parks – First stop is Canonteign Falls then Clapper Bridge where we can lookout for Dartmoor Ponies. Go for a walk and perhaps climb one of the many ‘tors’ before making our way into

Cornwall and the chance of a trek to Dozemary Pool, made famous by King

Arthur. We then head to Newquay the UK’s surf capital and our base for two nights. Day 3: Newquay The whole day is spent in Cornwall around the mysterious standing stones, doing scenic coastal walks, viewing St Michael’s Mount and maybe attempting to speak some Cornish. We visit the amazing Minack Theatre and stop at the most westerly tip of England for a walk to Land’s End. Back to Newquay and it’s ‘Surf Time’! And after a busy day you’ll be able to have a night out to remember in Newquay. Day 4: Newquay to Bath Leave the sand and surf behind to visit Tintagel Castle, the birthplace of King Arthur. We then travel east through Devon into Somerset to Glastonbury where King Arthur is buried. Here you can visit the Abbey or go for a walk up the Tor. We stop for the night in the historic and beautiful city of Bath. Day 5: Bath to London Spend the morning visiting the Roman Baths, visit the Jayne Austin museum or wander around admiring some of the finest examples of Georgian architecture in the UK. Feel like you have travelled back in time in the village of Lacock and then onward to one of the most impressive standing stone circles at Avebury before returning to London.

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AMAziNGADAMA true diamond ‘geezah’, Adam (Adamski) knows a thing or three

about the rare-bits of Wales and the best bits of Cornwall. His laugh is infectious, his guiding is vivacious, and his musical tastes are... er... atrocious but he more than makes up for it in sheer entertainment value. Whether it’s in the black of the Big Pit or in the sunny Newquay sands Adam will instil his love of everything Great and British in everyone he meets.

Go Celtic in Cornwall The Cornish flag is the flag of St. Piran, patron saint of miners. It’s said to be inspired by the ‘Jolly Roger’ - and the fearsome reputation of the seagoing Cornish.

Being a Celtic nation the Cornish have their own tartans and even wear kilts!

did youknoW?You might think jumping on a

board and riding the waves is totally bonkers. Then again, maybe your search for the perfect surf continues. Well now is your chance to conquer the seas and harness the power of nature. Well, sort of.

Our Cornwall Crusader includes a FREE 2 hour professional surf lesson on Newquay beach. All equipment is provided; you just

FreesurFingLessonwORTH £25

need to remember your towel and swimwear. Once changed into wetsuits it’s onto the beach for a warm-up, an intro and then you hit the waves! The surf school is based in our Newquay hostel so once it’s over you can look out over the conquered waves with a refreshment in hand. Last one in the water’s a Jessie!

I had a great time. Saw great sights, met great people and ate

too much food. Good thing there is lots of walking on this tour! Thanks for an amazing experience and for pulling some strings for great weather! Viki Copland, Canada, June 2009

CornWaLLCrusader

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Discover the mystical West Country, steeped in Arthurian legends, laylines and ancient Roman history. Reach the

southwest tip of the UK

through tiny villages, deserted moors and

stunning coastline. Plus

the chance to ride the waves in Newquay, the UK’s surf capital.

MULTi TRipS

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iNCLUSiONS> Legendary Mercedes midi-coach to explore off the beaten track> All taxes & ferries (where applicable)> Your sexy local Guide





iTiNERARYDay 1: London to Abergavenny Head west across the Severn into south Wales to Chepstow Castle, then explore the Wye Valley and Tintern Abbey. You also get the chance to go down a real Welsh mine at the Big Pit. Day 2: To Corwen We start with a walk in the stunning Brecon Beacons. Next, it’s the world famous second hand book capital of Britain, Hay-on-Wye and then Dinas Bran to hear about the last prince of Wales. We then

grab some local produce to cook up a feast in a rural Welsh farmhouse.Day 3: To Caernarfon After a hearty cooked breakfast we head to the ‘Ugly House’ and then Conwy Castle. After it’s Snowdonia National Park to take in the spectacular scenery north Wales is famous for. We visit Llanfairpwllgwyngyll-gogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch,one of the longest place names in the world. Spend the evening chilling out onthe north coast with fish and chips, stayingin the shadow of Caernarfon Castle! Day 4: To Cardiff We have a walk around the Welsh tribal lands of Dolgellau and then on to Machynlleth, the ancient capital of Wales. A gorge walk at the Devil’s Bridge and coastal road to Cardigan Bay and the Welsh capital – Cardiff! Day 5: To London Free time to explore the City of Cardiff, then Caerleon, site of a Roman amphitheatre and fortress. Finally, we visit Castle Combe, a quaint village on the edge of the Cotswolds before returning to London

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* FREE Barbeque at a Welsh farmhouse* FREE entry to The Big Pit – go underground and experience a real coal mine and hear the fascinating history of mining in Wales* Discover the unspoilt beauty of the Brecon Beacons* Wander around the spectacular ruins of Tintern Abbey, inspiration to William Wordsworth* Visit the ‘Ugly House’ and cross the Devil’s Bridge* Explore one of the most impressive castles in the world in Conwy, built by Edward 1st to contain the Welsh* Trek in the stunning Snowdonia National Park and hopefully get a glimpse of Britain’s second tallest mountain, Mt. Snowdon* Find some lost treasure in the town of books (Hay-on-Wye – with over 30 second hand bookshops)* Caerleon Roman fortress - or is it King Arthur’s Camelot?

Another awesome freebie!

Don a miner’s helmet and plunge hundreds of feet into the earth to get a hands-on experience of what life was really like ‘down the mines’. A former miner will take you on a journey through the pit, and through the hardships and conditions that they and their

Free bigPit visit

community faced. This museum is a unique memorial to a prominent and tragic part of Wales’ (and Britain’s) industrial history and what better way to appreciate it than getting your fingers coal-dusty!

WeLsHexPLorer5 DAYS £189(STUDENTS £179)

The ultimate Welsh adventure! Escape London and let

wild Wales capture your imagination as you explore this unique and

fascinating country.

Discover ancient castles, fantastic towns and villages, stunning coastal and mountain scenery and the legends of King Arthur.

CardiFF, snoWdonia, breCon beaCons & ConWy CastLe

Free bbqGet ready for a group cook-up like no other…

Just when you think your guide has taken a calamitous wrong turning into the Welsh wilderness you will suddenly find yourself warmly welcomed by your host Lynda at the Farmhouse. Waste no time in piling into the legendary wooden ‘kota’ to get the coals burning and prepare yourself for a proper Welsh Barbie. Surrounded by nature, you can eat all night... just don’t forget that you will be woken at the crack of dawn by a cockerel crowing, and maybe a cow peering through your bunkhouse window as you get dressed! After a hearty breakfast you will be prepared to take on the day’s adventuring.

* Walk around Castle walls at Caernarfon* Have a night out to remember in the vibrant capital city of Cardiff* Put on your tight leather trousers and pretend you’re Tom Jones at the karaoke* Learn some Welsh and impress the locals* Order a pint of Brains beer and get chatting to the locals in a traditional Welsh pub

I have now been on 5 tours with Radical and have enjoyed

all of them, good guides, good people, good sights and great times.Cheers! Craig, Australia, July 2009

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The Welsh love their food & beerWhy not sample a pint of Brains Beer? Traditional Welsh dishes include laverbread (made from seaweed!), bara brith (fruit cake), cawl cennin (leek stew), Welsh cakes, Welsh Rarebit, and of course Welsh lamb. A type of shellfish, cockles, is often served with breakfast. Yum!

did youknoW?

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New for 2010 * More departures and more choice to suit your time and budget * The 5 Day Giant's Rocker More time to experience the north of Ireland, its dramatic scenery and dramatic past * The 3 Day Western Rocker 2 nights in Ireland’s cultural capital Galway and a day trip to Inis Mór

our uNrivalled reputatioNSure, we’re the best. All the big travel agencies recognise that fact! So, how are we exactly? Well, now that you ask...

proper irish hospitalityA fabulous country like ours needs someone pretty special to show it off. That’s why we recruit only the best storytellers; 100% Irish guides with green blood flowing through their veins and more facts and tall tales about their land than you could imagine. Ireland has a long line of poets and storytellers and our team are simply part of that great tradition.

GuaraNteed departuresWe have never cancelled a trip – in over 10 years of running. No blarney!

ChoiCeEveryone has their likes and dislikes and being an independent traveller is at the heart of our philosophy so that’s why we only include everything you definitely must see (not loads you don’t want). You then get to decide how you spend your money on accommodation, meals or our optional 'extras'. At the end of the day, it’s your cash!

It’s easy to see why so many people love Ireland and claim to be Irish. If you have yet to discover this beautiful part of the world, then get ready to be seduced by our stunning scenery, incredible history but most of all, us Irish! Don’t listen to anyone else, we are by far the friendliest people on the planet and that’s the truth!

averaGe GroupsiZe: 25

aCCommodatioN(Optional - Pay as You Go)

We believe night time is just as important as what you get up to during the day – if you have partied with the Irish before you will understand why! That’s why we ensure you stay in the best hostels and not being tied to any hostel chain, we can ensure

upGrades available If you fancy treating yourself to a twin or

double then let us know at the time of booking and we

will do our best to help you out where available.

you get the best experience possible. From vibrant city centre locations with all ‘the craic’ to little country towns, we pre-book your dorm bed and you

just pay as you go.

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We consider it our duty to make sure your experience of Ireland is the most welcoming you get on all your travels. Of course, everywhere else you go in the world the locals are friendly and want to show off their country, but we go that extra mile. Whenever you meet an Irishman (or girl), there will be that cheeky sparkle in their eyes that tells you to expect the unexpected!

Our Irish adventures are shamelessly good fun or as we say over here, ‘great craic’. We also like to get out there and do stuff. You’ll explore Pagan tombs, medieval castles

and cross a 30 metre high rope-bridge over the sea. There’s our turbulent past to explore from mass migration through the

centuries to the recent ‘Troubles’ of Northern

Ireland. But at the end of an active day stretching your legs through Ireland’s

countryside and its forty shades of green,

there’s some good times to be had at a place central to much of our culture – the pub! Imagine downing creamy ‘pints of the black

stuff’ with the locals as they start up their fiddles, flutes and guitars and show you just how we like to

party! You may even hear the odd story told

over a pint that will leave you spellbound…

GettiNG to dubliN

Ah, Dublin… capital of Ireland and home of Shamrocker Adventures! You can almost hear the street buskers long before your plane touches down. And with over 500 pubs to get a proper pint in, you’ll be made to feel welcome in an instant.

Getting there is not a bother. Flights leave from London all the time, only take an hour and with the growth of the budget airlines, many other European cities have connections with Dublin.

We Irish are famous for the way we talk. A lot of it's blarney but here’s a wee lesson on ‘craic’ to help you get started as it’s one word you will hear a lot of! ‘Craic’ can be used in a couple of different ways.

Somebody could say ‘well what’s the craic?’ meaning ‘what’s going on?’ or ‘what’s happening?’

Check out all the FREE stuff now included in our trips. This means you don’t miss out on all the top sights saving you time and cash.

IrIsh for begInners:

What is ‘CraiC?’Or somebody could say ‘well, was it any craic?’ meaning ‘was it good fun?’ Your response to this would be ‘the craic was mighty’ meaning it was great or ‘the craic was 90!’ meaning that it was fan-feckin-tastic.

However, if you’re in Dublin going for a bit of a wander around at night and you’ve got lost down an alley and somebody asks ‘have you got any craic..?’ That’s your sign to run away as fast as you can because they’re talking about something completely different!

Prices can be ridiculously cheap, especially when booked early.

For those with a bit more time to spare

(and tighter budget) the train or bus from

London with ferry crossing is an option. A longer journey for sure but let's be honest, if you can arrive at a new destination by boat, take the chance. It might be the romantic in us but you won’t forget your arrival into port after crossing the Irish Sea. 'Céad míle fáilte' as we would say!

If there’s one thing the Irish do well, it’s the pub and a ‘trad session’ is what the pubs are famous for! Whether singing, dancing, tin whistles or fiddles, everyone takes part. The home of the trad session is County Clare and it’s here we invite you to our very own where you’ll get the chance to play a few Irish instruments, learn a jig or Irish song. Now that’s ‘great craic!’

st. patriCK's dayis the highlight of any Irish calendar. If you want to do it right, then head to Dublin for a celebration to remember. See page 52.

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A rugged island on the western fringes of northern Europe and exposed to the mighty Atlantic Ocean, Ireland’s impact on the world is colossal. So much so that despite a population of only 6 million, over 80 million can claim Irish decent. It could be true when they say you only ever meet two types of people…Irish and those who want to be Irish!

With over 8,000 years of history, a lot has happened on Irish soil. Ancient burial tombs, ring forts and dolmens are all legacies of Ireland’s first settlers, followed by the Celts,

St. Patrick and the early Christian missionaries, then Viking raids and the Normans whose many castles still dominate the countryside.

Combine this distant and turbulent history with the country’s rugged beauty like the bizarre moon surface of the Burren, the incredible stone columns of the Giant’s Causeway, not to mention the many

mountains, rivers and peatbogs and you get one amazing island. No wonder there is a rich tradition of myths and legends involving warriors, fairy folk and battling giants that lasts to this day. Some of the world’s greatest writers, poets and musicians are Irish!

Giant’s Causeway

‘we are all

borN mad.

some remaiN so.’

samuel beCKett

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Our ultimate Irish adventure! Explore the whole of the island, north and south plus Inis Mór

(Aran Islands) hidden away off the west coast. This one has it all - traditional music,

stunning scenery, ancient

monuments and vibrant towns plus great craic on the road and at night. This is your chance to see Ireland through Irish eyes. Seven action packed and fun filled days which may well turn out to be the best days of your life!

* Get the ‘gift of the gab’ by kissing the Blarney Stone* Experience the dramatic Cliffs of Moher * Hear tales of Celtic legends at the mysterious Dolmen in the Burren* Meet the locals at a traditional music session in the pub* Explore the Gaelic Isle of Inis Mór of ‘Father Ted’ fame* Trek to the Giant’s Causeway and brave the amazing Carrick–a-Rede Rope Bridge* Great nights in Killarney, Ennis and Galway* The walled City of Derry* Discover the stories about the ‘Troubles’ in Belfast

* Soak up the atmosphere of the bustling town of Killarney* Listen to traditional music in Ennis* Enjoy ‘pints of the black stuff’ in Galway, Ireland’s cultural capital* Inis Mór - hire a bike and get lost for the day, check out Dun Aonghasa semi circular stone fort over looking the Atlantic Ocean* Take an award winning walking tour of Derry City’s medieval walls then enjoy a pint with the locals* Explore the capital of Northern Ireland, Belfast from a Black Cab (see page 49)

iNClusioNs> Your Fan-feckin-tastic Irish guide> All transport around the Emerald Isle> Transfer and ferry to Inis Mór > Mitchelstown Caves> Traditional Irish music ‘session’> Cliffs of Moher> Blarney Castle> Giant’s Causeway> Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge> Dunluce Castle

aCCommodatioN (Optional)Hostel dorm from ¤18 including breakfast

aCCommodatioN upGradeHostel Private ¤27 to ¤40, B&B’s ¤40 to ¤60 (subject to availability)

departure poiNt & timeShamrocker Adventures, Dublin 8.15am

returN time (Approx.)Shamrocker Adventures, Dublin 5.30pm

pre/post aCCommodatioNSee www.shamrockeradventures.com

itiNeraryDay 1: Dublin to Killarney Pass the River Liffey on the way to Cashel, explore the amazing Mitchelstown Caves, then we head through the Golden Vale to Blarney

in the rebel county of Cork. Day 2:To Ennis Spend the day exploring the dramatic Dingle Peninsula, before taking the ferry over the mighty Shannon to County Clare. Day 3: To Galway Gasp at the mighty drop off the Cliffs of Moher over the Atlantic, hear legends on the moon surface of the Burren, then head to Galway. Day 4:Inis Mór We take a ferry crossing over the Atlantic to Inis Mór. Spend the day hiring bikes or a horse and cart to explore this ancient island made famous by Father Ted! Day 5: To Derry Through Connemara peatbogs, we stop for a pint at Matt Molloy’s pub in Westport, W.B. Yeats’ grave, then over the border to Nothern Ireland. Day 6: To Belfast We travel along the stunning coastline to get to Dunluce Castle, then the world famous Giant’s Causeway and the jaw-dropping Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. Day 7: To Dublin Explore the murals of Belfast on an optional Black Cab tour. We then head south to Monasterboice monastic settlement, then the site of the Battle of the Boyne.

departuresAPR – OCT MondaysMAY – SEP Mondays, Saturdays

trip details

blarney Castle, ClIffs of Moher, galway, InIs Mór, Derry, gIant’s Causeway & belfast

Best trip ever – thanks for an awesome trip full of beautiful

scenery, history and entertainment. I had a blast... hanging out with Shamrocker. Grace, USA, May 2009

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‘we are all

borN mad.

some remaiN so.’

samuel beCKett

ALL IRELAND ROCKER

derry walKiNG tourMartin McCrossan’s award winning walking tour which takes you to the heart of the social, cultural and religious history of Derry City.

multi trips

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7 days £289(studeNts £269)

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* Kiss the Blarney Stone* Experience the dizzy heights of the Cliffs of Moher* Wander the weird and wonderful Burren landscape* Explore the amazing Mitchelstown Caves* Storytelling and traditional music in the pub* Explore the island of Inis Mór and its Celtic mythology (Apr – Sep)* Soak up wild mountain & coastal views in Connemara (Oct – Mar)

* Take a stroll around Killarney National Park * Experience an unforgettable night of storytelling, dancing and shenanigans in the party town of Killarney * Explore the narrow winding streets of Ennis then join a traditional music ‘session’* Listen to the buskers in Galway * Taste fresh oysters in Galway, washed down with a pint!* Check out Pa, The Storyteller (see page 51)

iNClusioNs> Your Fan-feckin-tastic Irish guide> All transport around the Emerald Isle> All ferry charges> Traditional Irish music ‘session’> Mitchelstown Caves> Blarney Castle> Cliffs of Moher> Transfer and ferry to Inis Mór (Apr – Sep)






itiNeraryDay 1: Dublin to Killarney Rock of Cashel, seat of the Kings of Munster, then Mitchelstown Caves and a kiss

of the Blarney Stone before a night of shenanigans. Day 2: To Ennis We take a trip round the Dingle peninsula, spot Fungi the dolphin and the amazing Atlantic views before a night of traditional music. Day 3: To Galway Get giddy looking over the Cliffs of Moher, then a trip to the Burren and Pól Na Bróne Dolmen before arriving in Galway. Day 4: Inis Mór Day Trip (Apr – Sep) We take a ferry over to this amazing Gaelic speaking island where you can hire bikes or horse and carts to explore its stunning scenery and ancient monuments. Also home of Father Ted! Return to Galway. Day 4: Connemara Day Trip (Oct – Mar) Explore the famous Irish bogs and Croagh Patrick (Ireland’s holy mountain). Irish famine memorial and a pint at Matt Molloy’s pub in Westport. Return to Galway. Day 5: To DublinFree morning to explore the ‘City of the Tribes’ before returning to Dublin.

departuresJAN – APR MondaysMAY – OCT Mondays, SaturdaysNOV – DEC Mondays

trip details

CeltiCKeviNA native of County Wicklow, famous for its rolling hills, stunning scenery

and sheep which may be why his love of sheep knows no bounds! Seriously, ask him any question about the woolly creatures and he’ll have an answer for you. It wasn’t a puppy Kevin begged for as a child and the proud photos of him and his pet lamb prove his request was granted! After sheep, Kevin’s love is for his native land of Éire. Kevin’s historical, cultural and mythical knowledge will knock your (woollen) socks off. Make sure to pack your dancing shoes when on tour with Kevin as he’s renowned for his dance offs!

irish sleepZ

KillarneySituated right in the centre of this party town but up a little laneway where this family

owned hostel provides a little peace and quiet.

DERRYLocated in the heart of Derry City close to all the action. The relaxed laid back

atmosphere of this hostel will make you feel at home.

EnnisOverlooking the river, this impressive Georgian building was built around

1740 for the lords and gentry of the land! Facilities however, are all brand new with outdoor patio, free WIFI and bar.

GalwayAn award winning hostel located in the heart of vibrant Galway with top

class facilities and well travelled staff there to help you get the most out of your stay.

BELFASTA modern, purpose built hostel located in the bustling heart of Belfast’s

university area and ideally placed for the city’s excellent nightlife!

Your bed is guaranteed, but optional. We only stay in the best hostels, all approved by the Irish Tourist Boards. From €18 to €22.

SEE PAGE 4

blarney, ClIffs of Moher, KIllarney, galway, InIs Mór / ConneMaraExperience first hand what great craic the Emerald Isle is, from incredible landscapes,

mountains and castles, to nights squeezed into the local pub with

traditional live music and a pint

of the black stuff. Go beyond the postcard images and discover the real Ireland.

The legendary Irish band The Pogues were originally called ‘Pogue Mahone,’ which translates into ‘kiss my arse’ in Gaelic.

In 1800, the population of Ireland

was almost twice as large as that of the

United States.

Ireland’s 15 main railway stations are named after the leaders of the 1916 uprising.

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Set your sights on the north of Ireland and the province of Ulster, with its stunning landscape and turbulent

history. From the ancient

past to the ‘Troubles’ of recent times, there’s the

unforgettable scenery of Inis

Mór, the Giant’s Causeway and the Antrim coast. Along with the vibrant cities of Galway, Derry and Belfast and their fascinating stories, this is a part of the Emerald Isle that once experienced is never forgotten.

* Walk in the footsteps of ancient Kings at the Hill of Tara* Galway, City of Tribes* The Gaelic speaking island of Inis Mór (Aran Islands)* The walled city of Derry* The Giant’s Causeway, a natural wonder or built by a giant?* Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge (weather permitting) – only for the brave!* Belfast City with its infamous murals on an optional black cab tour

* Check out some traditional music in Galway * Get to know the locals over a pint in a Derry pub or take an award winning walking tour of the city walls* Discover Belfast, with its new lease of awesome nightlife

iNClusioNs> Your Fan-feckin-tastic Irish guide> All transport around the Emerald Isle> Transfer and ferry to Inis Mór > Clonmacnoise monastic settlement > Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge> Dunluce Castle> Giant’s Causeway


aCCommodatioN upGradeHostel Private ¤27 to ¤40, B&B’s ¤40 to ¤60 (Subject to availability)




itiNeraryDay 1: Dublin to Galway Hill of Tara, then Trim Castle and the monastic site of Clonmacnoise by the banks of the

Shannon. Then the City of Tribes. Day 2:Inis Mór day trip We take the ferry over the Atlantic to an island where the locals speak Gaelic. Hire bikes or a horse and cart to explore the country lanes, dramatic coastline and many Celtic monuments. Return to Galway. Day 3: To Derry We journey through Connemara National Park with its peatbogs, then the best pint of Guinness in Matt Molloy’s pub in Westport. W. B Yeats’ grave before crossing the border to Northern Ireland. Day 4: To Belfast Dunluce Castle, then Fionn mac Cumhaill's Causeway with its 38,000 hexagonal basalt columns. After braving the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, we head to Belfast, Titanic Town! Day 5: To Dublin Discover the meaning behind the murals and the story of the ‘Troubles’ on a Black Cab tour (optional). South to Monasterboice monastic settlement followed by the site of the Battle of the Boyne.

departuresMAY – OCT Wednesdays

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belfast blaCK Cab tour(Optional)

Take a trip around Belfast and get the inside track on the ‘Troubles’ from the locals.

shamroCKerseáNAlso known as ‘The Songbird’, Seán is always singing or else

he’s playing a few tunes on his guitar or any random instrument he’s found lying around! So after an action packed day Seán is always up for a jamming session, especially when he’s in Ennis, the heart of traditional music. His love of all things Irish and bad jokes have made him a legend around the world.

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GIANT'SROCKER5 days £189(studeNts £179)

galway, InIs Mór, Derry, gIant’s Causeway & belfast

seemedievalduNluCeCastle oN a stuNNiNG

Coastal Cliff-top

Ireland sure did it for me. Spent an amazing 10 days here and don’t

want to leave! Thanks for showing off your beautiful country and history. Spectacular! Tammy, Australia, August 2009

the GiaNt's Causeway is a world heritaGe site aNd was built by the GiaNt fioNN maC Cumhaill...

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gIant’s Causeway, belfast & DerryThis awesome trip unveils the real beauty of Northern Ireland, from striking scenery to its dramatic history and unique culture. Lakes and legends, murals and mountains – get immersed in the culture of the North and learn about the ‘Troubles’ from a local perspective.

* Explore the medieval walls of Derry where the past and present are pieced together in dramatic fashion * The stunning cliff top Dunluce Castle* Walk in a Giant’s footsteps at the world-famous Giant’s Causeway* Hold your nerve as you cross the perilous Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge* Discover the real Belfast with an optional local Black Cab tour

* After your walking tour enjoy a pint of the black stuff while you get to know the locals in Derry* Explore Belfast City and check out some of the famous pubs

iNClusioNs> Your Fan-feckin-tastic Irish guide> All transport around the Emerald Isle> All ferry charges > Dunluce Castle> Giant’s Causeway > Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

aCCommodatioN (Optional)Hostel dorm from £12 including breakfast

aCCommodatioN upGradeHostel - Private £20 to £30, B&B’s £30 to £45 (subject to availability)




itiNeraryDay1: Dublin to Derry Trim Castle and Lough Crew, then over the border into Northern Ireland. Day 2: To Belfast Coastal drive to Dunluce Castle, then it’s onto the Giant’s Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and Belfast. Day 3: To Dublin Murals of Belfast, Monasterboice monastic settlement and site of the Battle of the Boyne.

departuresMAY – OCT Mondays

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SEE PAGE 4

galway & InIs Mór

* Get among the locals in one of Galway’s many pubs for live music and a couple of pints* Taste oysters fresh from the wild Atlantic coast

iNClusioNs> Your Fan-feckin-tastic Irish guide> All transport around the Emerald Isle> All ferry charges> Clonmacnoise early Christian monastic site> Hill of Tara




returN time (Approx.) Shamrocker Adventures, Dublin 5.30pm


itiNeraryDay 1: Dublin to Galway Hill of Tara, the Anglo-Norman Trim Castle and then a visit to the 6th century monastic site of Clonmacnoise. Day 2: Inis Mór Day Trip We take a ferry over to this amazing Gaelic speaking island where you can hire bikes or horse and carts to explore its stunning scenery and ancient monuments. Also home of Father Ted! Return to Galway. Day 3: To Dublin Spend a free morning exploring the City of Tribes with it fascinating history before returning to Dublin.

departuresMAY – OCT Wednesdays

trip details

Shamrocker... what can I say? Will definitely be

spreading the word about how fecking awesome a time I had! Peter, Australia, May 2009

BLARNEYCASTLE

DUBLIN

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An awesome trip that takes you through centuries of Irish history. Not only that but two

nights in the cultural hot spot of Galway with its great nightlife and

vibrant celtic energy will give

you an incredible insight into the Irish way of life that will be hard to match ever again!

NORTHERNROCKER

WESTERNROCKER

CheCK out the optioNal blaCK

Cab & derry walKiNG tours



* Two nights in Galway with its many pubs and live music* Explore the Gaelic isle of Inis Mór of 'Father Ted' fame* Explore the ancient Monument of Dun Aonghasa, a spectacular stone fort

51

Ideal for those short on time, this adventure checks out some of Ireland’s most famous sites. If you can brave sheer cliffs and don’t mind dangling upside down from the top of a castle to get the ‘gift of the gab’, then we will take you on an extravaganza of Ireland’s best bits.

iNClusioNs> Your Fan-feckin-tastic Irish guide> All transport around the Emerald Isle> All ferry charges> Mitchelstown Caves> Blarney Castle > Traditional Irish music 'session'> Cliffs of Moher






itiNeraryDay 1: Dublin to Killarney See the dramatic Rock of Cashel and marvel at the formations in the Mitchelstown Caves. Kiss the stone at Blarney Castle and then on to the party town of Killarney.Day 2: To Ennis Explore the wilds of the Dingle Peninsula where you may get to see Fungi the dolphin. Cross the mighty Shannon River and then onto Ennis, capital of County Clare for some traditional Irish music. Day 3: To DublinThe stunning Cliffs of Moher, then the eerie moon surface landscape of the Burren. We visit Galway, City of the Tribes, before returning to Dublin.

departures ALL YEAR Fridays

trip details

* Experience the dizzy heights of the dramatic Cliffs of Moher* Explore the stunning Dingle Peninsula, spot the ‘sleeping giant’ and discover hidden beaches* Get the ‘gift of the gab’ at the legendary Blarney Castle* Join a traditional Irish music 'session'* Wander the 'lunar landscape' of the Burren* Galway, Ireland’s cultural capital* Enjoy a pint or two in Killarney

* Experience a 'real' Irish disco, something you’ll never experience anywhere else!* Stroll around the National Park in Killarney* Explore the narrow streets of Ennis

hear about irish folKlore, misChievouslepreChauNs & fairy folK

Savage tour - loved the scenery, the music, the activities, the pubs, the

Guinness (finally!) the tunes but most of all loved the locals and the history... one of the most amazing experiences...Elisha, Australia, August 2009

pa, the storyteller(Optional)

A brilliantly told, hilarious and captivating one-man play about a man closing his bar for the last time. Written, directed and starring the local legend, Pa!

Dingle Peninsula

SEE PAGE 4

watCh the Clipwww.shamrockeradventures.com

PINT OF THE BLACK STUFF & IRISH STEW, GALWAY, IRELAND

You’ll not get much more Irish than this, a mountain of home-made Irish stew, traditional music, great craic and one of the best pints of Guinness in the country.

BLARNEYCASTLE

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GIANT’SCAUSEWAYSOUTHERN

ROCKER3 days £119(studeNts £115)

IrIshgrub

ClIffs of Moher, blarney Castle & the burren

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CELTICCOMBO

MONKs &MOUNtaiNs

8 days £439pp*

4 days £199pp*

the ultIMate all-IrelanD st. PatrICK’s extravaganza! see IrelanD at Its best In 8 Days – north & south

st. PatrICK's, PerfeCt for those short of tIMe

We head north first of all and visit the Giant’s Causeway, Derry and Belfast; you’ll see murals and mountains and explore tombs and temples, then return to Dublin for festival fun and frolics and of course - The Parade! Then we head south to visit Killarney and Ennis, kiss the Blarney Stone and hang out at the Cliffs of Moher. One island, one week, once in a lifetime!

* Explore the stunning Dingle peninsula, Ireland’s most westerly point* Get the ‘gift of the gab’ when you kiss the legendary Blarney Stone* Stand on the mysterious Giant’s Causeway with views across the Irish Sea to Scotland* Discover Protestant and Catholic Belfast with your local Black Cab tour* Party till you see leprechauns in Dublin’s Fair City

* Day trip to Wicklow, the Garden of Ireland and the ancient monastic site of Glendalough* All the festivities and celebrations of Dublin’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade

iNClusioNs> Your Fan-feckin-tastic Irish guide> All transport around the Emerald Isle> 4 nights on-tour hostel accommodation > 3 nights Dublin accommodation > All breakfasts> Award winning Derry City walking tour > Dunluce Castle > Giant’s Causeway > Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge > Black Cab tour of Belfast > St. Patrick’s Survival Pack - full of info, maps and tips > Exclusive Shamrocker t-shirt > Guinness Storehouse Ticket > Cliffs of Moher > Blarney Castle> Mitchelstown Caves

iNClusioNs> Your Fan-feckin-tastic Irish guide> 3 nights accommodation in a Dublin city centre hostel > All breakfasts > Guinness Storehouse Ticket > St. Patrick’s Survival Pack - full of info, maps and tips > Exclusive Shamrocker t-shirt > Day trip of County Wicklow > Glendalough monastic settlement

aCCommodatioN iNCluded3 nights hostel dorm accommodation in Dublin for the festival

CheCK iN At your city centre hostel, 15 March

CheCK out 10am, 18 March


aCCommodatioN iNCluded7 nights hostel dorm accommodation on tour and in Dublin for the festival.




itiNerary3 Day Northern Rocker PLUS 3 nights in Dublin for the St. Patrick’s Day Parade AND a 3 Day Southern Rocker. See pages 50-51.

departure 13 MARCH 2010

itiNeraryDay 1: Arrive in Dublin Your city centre hostel is already sorted – check in at your convenience Day 2: Day trip to Wicklow Today we explore some of the countryside which has given Ireland the name 'The Emerald Isle'. We travel to Glendalough monastic settlement where you can hear some of the ancient stories of Ireland and take a stroll past the scenic lakes surrounded by lush green mountains Day 3: Paddy's Day! Today is the day you’ve been waiting for, St. Patrick’s Day. Grab your spot early as the streets of Dublin fill fast. Get ready to bombard your senses with colour, music and scenes you will remember forever from the Dublin parade! Day 4: Check out after breakfast After a fan-feckin-tastic time celebrating St Pat’s it is time to bid goodbye to the Emerald Isle but don’t forget to come back next year and do it all again!

departure 15 MARCH 2010

trip details

trip details

MONKS & MOUNTAINS FLIGHT OPTIONdeparts 15 marCh 2010loNdoN GatwiCK airport

See website for full details.

dubliN’s st. patriCK’s festivalEveryone has heard of St. Patrick’s Day but few realise the Irish actually have a festival dedicated to their favourite Saint that lasts for five days in Dublin’s Fair City every year. During this time you will have the

Party in Dublin with the Irish and then combine this with the Wicklow Mountains and you get unforgettable memories! You get to hit the highlights of the St. Patrick’s Day festival - including The Parade but there’s also a trip into the wild and rugged Wicklow Mountains where lies the ancient monastic site of Glendalough.

Yes, we have packaged up our very popular Monks &

Mountains trip with the very convenient addition of flights from

London and Dublin airport transfers to the city centre. There will even be one of the Shamrocker team to meet you at both airports. We can’t guarantee they will be dressed as a leprechaun though...!

opportunity to give Irish dancing a go, listen to some traditional music or join in the city treasure hunt but the highlight of the festival has to be the parade on the 17th March. Get amongst the crowds as thousands of performers and characters join together in a carnival of dancing and music.Don’t forget, only be seen in green!

This is your chance to discover why the world goes crazy for anything green on 17th March every year. On this day, everybody becomes Irish! There really is only one place on Earth to properly celebrate the world’s number one Saint, the

country that taught the rest of the world how to party – Ireland.

Our legendary St. Patrick’s packages have been designed to give you an amazing time discovering our stunning country but also the chance to party with us Irish. Hopefully you can last the pace!



Our travellers can also breathe easy knowing that coach travel emits less carbon emissions and other harmful greenhouse gases per passenger than most other forms of transport including cars, trains and planes. Our coaches are also among the best in Europe and by continually updating our fleet we can ensure that our engines are fuel efficient and environmentally friendly too.

Click on busabout.com/makeadifference for more info

You can also calculate the carbon footprint of your travel and accommodation on our website. Choose to travel ‘carbon neutral’ by offsetting the carbon emissions you can’t reduce.

Source: DEFRA (Dept for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs) Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Conversion Figures June 2009

www.defra.gov.uk/environment/business/reporting/conversion-factors.htm

* Car assumes national average of 1.56 people per car** Assumes average of 36 passengers

UK statistics used to accurately reflect our tours which are majority are operated in the UK and Europe.

GREENHOUSE GAS PER PASSENGER KILOMETRES

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We’re founding partners of the non-profit Leading Travel Companies Conservation Foundation. So far the Foundation has committed over US$2 million to help underprivileged communities and support sustainable tourism around the world.

IN 2008-09 THE FOUNDATION:

* helped to protect 3 million hectares of Atlantic Forest in Brazil

* supported indigenous sustainable tourism in Australia

* funded wildlife research centres in Africa

* funded major research works to preserve important monuments and archaeological sites in Europe (like the sinking city of Venice)

* primary sponsor of Tourism for Tomorrow Awards

Air: 0.0819

Car: 0.2028*

Rail: 0.0577

Coach: 0.0300**

learN more at www.tltC.Com.au/fouNdatioN

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ART DIRECTION &

DESIGN: HEARD CREATIVE PHOTOGRAPHY: AN

DY RUMBALL, VISIT SCOTLAN

D, VISIT BRITAIN, M

ICAH WRIGHT, TESS FOLLET, CARA O’DOW

D, CLAIRE STRUTHERS, MATTHEW

DAVENPORT, CAROLIN

E EDGE, ANN

A WHITE &

SUN PEN

G

OK, maybe not all of these questions are the ones you were itching to ask but there may be something in here that you were still unsure about. As a team we pondered for a bit over some tea and biccies and felt these were the ones that were asked most often.

Have a read and if you are still unsure, get in contact. We’re really nice people and know a thing or to about the trips we run. Some of us are locals and others are travellers who have decided to hang around for a while. Either way, funny accents or not, we’re here to make your travels hassle free and loads of fun.

BUSABOUT FLEXITRIP & FLEXIROUTESCan I start anywhere on the Busabout network? If you’ve bought a Loop pass you can choose any destination to start or finish your travels on the Loop you’ve selected. If you’ve bought a Flexitrip pass then you can start anywhere on any of the three loops. If you’ve bought one of our six Flexiroute One- Ways you have a set destination to start and finish your travels.

Do I have to follow the directions of the arrows? Yes. Our buses only follow the direction of the arrows indicated on our Explorer network map.

How do I book a seat on the bus? Once you buy your Busabout Explorer pass, you’ll have the chance to use the MyTrip online route planner. At the click of the mouse you can plan your trip and book your buses, all in a matter of seconds.

When you get your e-ticket e-mailed to you after booking, you’ll receive your very own client reference number. This number (not your booking reference) allows you to log onto the MyBusabout Community homepage where you can then setup your account.

How do I know my seat is booked?If it’s on your route planner (part of the MyTrip site) you’ve got a seat on the bus. If you need to change your plans, then it’s no problem either.

What does ‘standby’ mean? When you buy any one of our Loop or Flexiroute passes (except One-Ways) you’ll have the option to re-travel as a standby passenger for the rest of the season. What this means is that you can turn up to any one of our pick up points without having pre-booked a seat in MyTrip and jump on. If there are seats available, our guides will keep letting you board as many times as you want...

Europe does get super busy from July – September so we always recommend that you book your seats at least two weeks in advance the first time round. If you’re not committed to being somewhere for a set date i.e. flight connection, then you can turn up to the pick-up points and board the bus without having a seat booked in MyTrip. We can’t however guarantee the bus won’t be full.

How do I book accommodation?Book through MyTrip, with no booking fees.You’ll need a credit card to pay a 10% deposit for your stay, the balance can be paid when you arrive.

HAGGiS ADVENTURES & SHAMROCKER ADVENTURESWhere do the HAGGiS and Shamrocker trips depart from?

HAGGiS Scotland trips depart from our Edinburgh office at 60 High Street on the Royal Mile.

HAGGiS Wales and Cornwall trips depart from our London office at 7-11 Bressenden Place, Victoria.

Shamrocker trips depart from our Dublin office at Kinlay House, 2/12 Lord Edward Street.

What’s included in the price? The advertised price covers your transport and local Guide. We reserve all accommodation for your whilst on tour, so a bed is guaranteed should you wish it and should be paid for on arrival at each hostel. Meals are not included in the price allowing you to keep your options open. For 2010 all trips have added experiences included in the price – check out the trip pages to see what is included on each trip.

Are private rooms available? Some hostels have private rooms but these are limited and dependent on availability. All private room requests must be made to us directly and well before the departure date.

How much time do we spend off the coach each day? As much time as possible! Our aim is to get you out and about and to actually experience the country you’re in. We’ll take you for walks, to explore castles, explain local myths and legends and tell you about our often turbulent history.

Will there be other people travelling on their own? Whilst we regularly get couples and friends travelling together, every trip has a number of people travelling on their own and from the first day onwards you’ll have made a whole bunch of new friends!

What do I need to bring at check-in?All you need is some form of photo-ID to show to our staff at check-in. If you booked claiming a student discount, you must bring along valid student ID, otherwise you will be asked to pay the difference in price as well as an administration fee (see page 4-5).

EASTERN TREKKERIs my accommodation booked for me? All of the Treks include shared accommodation in the price. We stay at some amazing places in Eastern Europe, whether it’s a guest house, hotel or hostel you’ll love it. We also have private room upgrades, all bookable through your MyTrek log-in.

How do I find out where the bus will pick me up from? Check the website under the planning tab where you can find a full list of all our 2010 pick-up and drop-off points.

I’m travelling by myself. Will there be other people like me? Our buses are full of people just like you. Check out our MyBusabout Community site if you don’t believe us.

I’m travelling with my partner; can I book our accommodation and bus journeys together? Absolutely. In MyTrip you have the option to book everything at the same time. If you’re travelling with a group you can also nominate a lead passenger to take charge of all the bookings.

Does Busabout have an age limit? Our network is all about independence therefore it’s not suitable for children. All passengers need to be at least 18 years of age to travel with us. There is no upper age limit.

GREEK ISLAND HOPPINGHow do I know when I’ll arrive in each of the islands? On the first day of your tour your Guide will give you a detailed itinerary and all of your ferry tickets. You’ll then be able to let your accommodation know what time you’ll arrive to arrange your transfer. Remember, if you book your accommodation through MyTrip, you’re transfer is arranged automatically at no extra cost.

Can I change my tickets when I’m in the islands? Our Greek Adventure is all about flexibility so you can spend more time in the islands. However, just remember you need to confirm your itinerary two weeks prior to your trip departing. Once you are on the trip ferries cannot be amended.

CROATIA SAILINGI want to travel with my friends, how do I make sure they’re on the same boat as me? All you need to do is book everyone in the same category of cabin on the same route and in the same booking. Once you’ve all booked, send us an e-mail saying who you want to sail with, and we’ll make sure we get you all on the same boat. If the category that your friends have booked is full, we’ll try our best to get you together but it will depend on what boat your friends are sailing on.

Do you have single supplements?No – we will match you up with a room-mate. If you want a cabin to yourself you will have to pay for 2 people.

ITALYIf I want to upgrade my accommodation can I do it when I’m on tour? Cabin upgrades for the campsite in Sorrento need to be booked at least 7 days before you leave, hotel upgrades require 14 days. Upgrades can be bought through the ‘add-ons’ tab in MyTrip.

SPAIN & PORTUGALIf I want to upgrade my accommodation can I do it when I’m on tour? Single or twin room upgrades need to be booked at least 14 days before you travel. Upgrades can be bought through the ‘add-ons’ tab in MyTrip.

EGYPTHow do I arrange my airport transfer? When you book your tour you’ll receive an e-ticket confirming your booking. On this e-ticket there is a link that allows you to send us your flight arrival details safely so we can arrange for you to be transferred from the airport to the hotel where your trip departs from in Cairo. We can also arrange your visa for Egypt, plus pre and post tour accommodation.

Can I book the sleeper train upgrade and Nile cruise upgrade when I’m in Egypt? Both of these upgrades must be confirmed 14 days before you travel. All you need to do is jump into MyTrip, click on the ‘add-ons’ tab and we’ll take care of the rest.

your questionsanswered

Once the Operators as detailed in Clause 14 below, (hereinafter referred to as “the Operator”), confirms your booking, a contract is made between you and the Operator under the terms and conditions set out below. Your statutory rights are not affected. In a booking with more than one passenger the ‘lead passenger’ will be deemed to have accepted the terms and conditions on behalf of all passengers within the booking. The ‘lead passenger’ is the passenger who makes the booking on behalf of all passengers in a multi-passenger booking and is named in the ‘lead passenger’ field within the booking. Within these Booking Conditions, “you” and “your” means all persons named on the booking (including anyone who is added at a later date).

1. BOOKING / ACCEPTANCE1.1 The Operator accepts a booking on the understanding that a deposit or full payment has been collected and held either by the Operator directly, or by an authorised travel agent on the Operator’s behalf. Bookings made via the Operators’ own websites are considered as made with the operator directly. 1.2 On confirmation of your booking, subject to availability and at the Operator’s discretion, the Operator will reserve your place(s) on your selected products (“trips”). It is your (or on bookings involving more than one person, the lead passenger’s) responsibility, as the customer, to check the accuracy of your booking and travel dates. A contract is only made between you and the Operator upon your booking being confirmed and accepted and communication thereof to either you or your authorised travel agent (hereinafter referred to as “confirmation”). 1.3 On confirmation of your booking, an E-ticket will be sent to either you or your travel agent for fully paid bookings, or a Booking Confirmation will be sent, for bookings where only a deposit has been paid. 1.4 In order to reserve your trip: 1.4a) Tours costing 180 GBP or less: full payment must be made at time of booking. 1.4b) Tours costing more than 180 GBP: a non refundable deposit of 90 GBP, per person per trip, or the full amount payable if booking is made within 45 days of the nominated departure date, must be made at the time of booking. This payment is in addition to any deposit required by your travel agent. The deposit is accepted as a first installment of the trip price by the Operator only once the booking has been confirmed in writing by the Operator or your travel agent. 1.4c) The outstanding balance of the trip price must be paid by no later than 45 days prior to the scheduled, nominated or confirmed trip departure date, which shall be by the due date stated on the confirmation issued to you. Whilst every endeavour will be made to remind you of the payment due dates, it is your responsibility to make this payment. If payment is not made to the operator or to your authorised travel agent (for agent bookings) by the due date, the Operator may assume that you have cancelled your trip and cancellation charges in accordance with clause 3 below will be levied by the Operator. 1.4d) E-Tickets will not be issued until full payment has been received by the Operator or authorised travel agent. 1.5 In the case of bookings made within 45 days of trip departure, the full cost of the trip will be payable immediately at time of booking. 1.6 The Operator reserves the right to cancel the booking and apply cancellation charges should full payment not be received within the above specified periods. 1.7 If you wish to book to travel at student prices, you must have a valid ISIC, ITIC or ISE student card.

2. TRAVELLING2.1 The Operators’ tickets / e-tickets are not transferable. Your ticket / e-ticket (indicating that full payment has been made) must be produced at any time at the Operator’s request. You will also be required to produce your valid passport and the valid student card used when booking, for travel at student prices (see section 1.7 and 5.14), each time you travel. Photo identification is required for all trips. 2.2 Baggage is restricted to one reasonable sized suitcase or backpack and one small carry-on bag per passenger (maximum combined weight 20KG). Baggage in excess of this limit will not be carried. 2.3 It is your responsibility to check-in with the Operator 15 minutes prior to the specified departure time. The Operator will not be liable for any service that leaves or returns later than its specified time, even if as a result you miss a connecting service. The Operator will use its best efforts to ensure that departure and return times are met.

3. CANCELLATION & CHANGES3.1 Cancellation of your booking must be in writing to either the Operator (direct or website bookings) or the authorised agent through which the booking was made. If your booking was made through an authorised agent all amendments and cancellations must be made through them (they may also levy cancellation charges in addition to those noted below - please check at time of reservation). When written notification has been received by the Operator, a fee will be levied to cover the costs incurred (25% of booking price being the minimum fee). The amount of the cancellation fee will be dependent on the number of days prior to the departure date of the trip as below (not including the day of departure nor the day of notification). 3.2 Where a deposit has been made on a booking and the booking is cancelled by you or your booking agent prior to full payment being made, or in the circumstances of the balance not being received by the Operator or their authorised agent by the due date, no refund of the deposit will be applicable, nor can it be credited or transferred to any other booking. 3.3 Cancellation of individual passengers from a multiple booking where a group discount applies (‘Mates Rates’ discount) may mean that the discount applied on booking will be forfeited, due to the qualifying criteria no longer being met. If the cancellation results in the qualifying criteria no longer being met then the prices for the remaining passengers on the booking will be adjusted, and any forfeited discount will be reclaimed through deduction in calculating any refund due to the cancelling passengers. The following cancellation policies apply:BUSABOUT EXPLORER & HAGGIS ADVENTURES ‘HOP-ON HOP-OFF’– PLEASE SEE PARAGRAPH 4.13

BUSABOUT ADVENTURES & EASTERN TREKKER:3.4 Iberian Adventure, Italian Adventure, Croatia (Island Hopper & One-Way Sail) and One-Way Egypt, Greece ‘4 Island Flexi-Hopper’ and Eastern Trekker Treks: up to 14 full days prior to departure - full refund less 25% of the price paid. Within 14 full days - no refund applies. 3.5 Greece 4 Island Flexi-Hopper: No itinerary changes are permitted within 15 days of departure date. 3.6 Festivals & Special Events: Special conditions apply to non-standard products (e.g. Pamplona, La Tomatina, Oktoberfest). Cancellation fees (unless specifically stated otherwise): up to 22 full days prior to departure - full refund less 50% of price paid. Within 21 full days - no refund. Please check our website for updated terms and conditions relating to these products.

HAGGIS ADVENTURES & SHAMROCKER ADVENTURES: 3.7 Up to 7 full days prior to departure - full refund less 25% of the price paid, within 7 days - no refund applies. 3.8 Festivals &

Special Events: Special conditions apply to non-standard products (e.g. Festive, Easter, St. Patrick’s Day packages). Cancellation fees (unless specifically stated otherwise): up to 22 full days prior to departure - 50% refund. Within 21 full days - no refund. Please check our website for updated terms and conditions relating to these products. 3.9 Private Group / Bespoke Tours - specific cancellation fees apply to each tour, the Operator will inform you of these prior to payment. A non-refundable deposit will be required at time of booking to cover any accommodation, meal and entrance fee costs. Where bookings include entrance fees to attractions, accommodation, involve accommodation upgrades or specific accommodation requests any cancellation fees incurred by the Operator will be passed on to you.

GENERAL3.10 If after your booking has been confirmed, you wish to change to an alternative departure date, or wish to change to another trip, you may do so subject to the trip being available and minimum notice of 15 days prior to departure. Exception: Croatia Sailing (Island Hopper & One-Way Sail) - a minimum notice of 30 days is required. All departure date changes will incur an administration fee of 15 GBP per person per trip. Date changes will only be extended to 3 months from the original departure date. Accommodation date changes will incur an administration fee of 15 GBP per person per trip. 3.11 Trip changes to one of a lower value or seasonality will result in the loss of any special discounts applied to the originally booked trip and will be subject to an administration fee equivalent to the cancellation fee on the original product. 3.12 Trip changes to one of higher value or seasonality will require the difference in price to be paid. This may also result in the loss of any special discounts applied to the originally booked tours.3.13 If the reason for your cancellation is covered under your insurance policy, you may be able to make a claim under that policy.

4. BUSABOUT EXPLORER PASSES & HAGGIS ADVENTURES ‘HOP-ON HOP-OFF PASSES’ – SPECIFIC CONDITIONS4.1 A ‘sector’ is defined as any journey between two destination stops on the Busabout Explorer network or Haggis Adventures Hop-on Hop-off route (hereafter referred to as Pass(es)). 4.2 The first travel date must be nominated and confirmed at the time of purchase. 4.3 Departure dates for the Pass(es) can be changed at no charge up to 7 days prior to the confirmed first departure date, subject to availability. 4.4 Confirmed seat reservations can be made for any sector at the time of booking or at any time up until 24 hours prior to each scheduled departure, subject to availability. Sector bookings may be changed without charge, subject to availability. 4.5 Individual sectors may only be travelled once on a confirmed seat reservation basis, if you wish to travel a particular sector more than once this can only be done on a standby basis. Individual sectors may only be travelled once on ‘One Way Flexi-routes’. 4.6 It is strongly recommended that you book your sectors as far in advance as possible to ensure availability of your desired travel plan. The Operator cannot be held responsible if travel sectors are not available because coaches are already fully booked. 4.7 If you do not wish to travel any pre-booked sectors you must cancel them at least 48 hours in advance. If you fail to do so you will only be allowed to travel that same sector at a later date on a ‘standby’ basis. 4.8 Travel must take place within the 2010 operating periods as stated. 4.9 The Busabout e-ticket must be presented to the Busabout Guide on your departure, to be exchanged for the Pass(es) as specified on the e-ticket. The Haggis Adventures e-ticket must be presented to the check-in desk (or Operator’s Representative) at departure. The Operator will not allow you to travel if you do not have a valid e-ticket. 4.10 Busabout passes may also be issued by Busabout’s London Service Centre. Please check you have the correct tickets, as mistakes cannot be rectified later. If your first journey on Busabout is an Easy Link, you will need to exchange your e-ticket for the Easy Link vouchers before commencement of travel, at either the Busabout Service Centres in London or Athens. 4.11 You are responsible for making all accommodation arrangements. Busabout and Haggis Adventures representatives will assist where reasonably possible during your travel days. 4.12 If you lose your Pass(es), or it is stolen, you must inform the Operator immediately. You will not be permitted to travel without a valid Pass(es). The Operator will replace lost or stolen Pass(es) at a cost of Euro 50. A replacement Pass will carry the same validity as the original ticket at the time of loss. 4.13 A cancellation fee of 25% of the total price paid will apply to any cancellation of Passes, where the cancellation is more than 7 days prior to a confirmed departure date. The 25% cancellation fee will also apply for Pass(es) if a departure date has not been nominated. No refunds will be provided after travel has commenced or has been deemed to have commenced. Travel will be deemed to have commenced within 7 days of a nominated travel date or where a passenger fails to travel without prior cancellation. Additional Flexi Stops purchased in conjunction with a Busabout Flexipass are non refundable. 4.14 Busabout Easy Links are only offered in conjunction with a Busabout Explorer Pass(es) and cannot be purchased independently. Easy Link vouchers are open dated, and must be exchanged at the office of the designated Ferry Operator. Once you have been issued with ferry tickets, changes to those tickets can only be made by the Ferry Operator and subject to their booking conditions. Easy Link vouchers that are lost or stolen cannot be replaced. Busabout Easy Links are non-refundable. Busabout Easy Links vouchers must be redeemed by October 31, 2010.

5. YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES5.1 The trip products offered are forms of transportation. For this reason the Operators representatives cannot offer constant special attention or assistance should you have any physical disability requiring such attention. 5.2 The programmes brochured have been designed for travellers aged 18 years and over with the style and operation specifically designed for young independent travellers. This fact should be recognised when you book. Passengers are primarily in the 18-35 year age group. 5.3 Passengers must be aged 18 years or over. The Operator may, at its absolute discretion, and in exceptional circumstances, give confirmation of acceptance of a person outside this age restriction, provided that they are accompanied by a person 18 years or over. There is no upper age restriction. 5.4 Passengers with disabilities are welcome on trips, provided that they are accompanied by a companion capable of providing all necessary assistance and do not require special assistance from the Operator’s personnel. Any medical or physical condition requiring third party attention or treatment must be advised in writing to our Reservations Team at the time the booking is made. It is your responsibility to see to it that your letter is acknowledged with the booking confirmation. The Operator cannot guarantee travel in the absence of such an acknowledgement. Similarly if you wish to make a special request about any matter concerning your travel or accommodation you must do so at the time of booking. Again, it is your responsibility to produce an

acknowledgement from our Reservations Team at the time of travel. We will try to pass on any reasonable requests to the relevant suppliers but we cannot guarantee that your requests will be met. The fact that a special request has been noted on your confirmation invoice or on any other acknowledgement is not confirmation that the request will be met. Failure to meet any special requests will not be a breach of contract on our part unless the request has been specifically acknowledged and confirmed as accepted by our Reservations Team. The Operator reserves the right to refuse to carry anyone if it is felt that the individual cannot cope with the requirements of the trip and who may require services and facilities that the Operator cannot guarantee will be available. The nature of the trips means that not every type of disability can be accommodated despite our reasonable endeavours. Most trips involve getting on and off coaches, sitting for long periods on coaches without toilet facilities, walking and other physical activities which may involve steps and stairs at sightseeing stops, visitor attractions and accommodation units. Coaches are not adapted to carry wheelchairs and do not have ramps, lift or low floor access. Collapsible wheelchairs can generally be carried in the luggage hold but you must check in advance with our Reservations Team to ensure that this is the case for your trip. The Operator cannot carry any motorised wheelchairs under any circumstances. You agree not to hold the Operator responsible for any decision made by them or by any service provider to refuse to carry you, provide any facilities or accommodation to you, or to provide any service to you in the absence of written acknowledgement and acceptance of your special request or of your disability from our Reservations Team. Please note that 100% cancellation charges would apply in these circumstances. 5.5 It is your responsibility to have a valid passport and all necessary visas, permits and certificates on your person for your selected itinerary and to have all necessary vaccinations and to comply with applicable laws. Schengen visas – it is your responsibility to have your passport stamped on entry to the European Union. The Operator will not allow you to travel if you do not have a valid visa for your destination. 5.6 You agree to comply with the authority of the Operator’s representative and the laws and regulations of the countries visited, including customs and foreign exchange restrictions. If you do not do so, you may, at the discretion of the Operator’s representative, be asked to leave the trip. No refunds will be issued in such circumstances. 5.7 You agree that the Operators’ representatives may take photographs and films of you while you are a passenger. These may be used in the Operator’s Group brochures and/or advertising and publicity material without obtaining any further consent or payment in respect of such photographs and/or films. 5.8 You agree that the Operator may use any text written in comments books, recorded in customer surveys or input to online forums, in Group brochures, websites and/or advertising and publicity material without obtaining any further consent or payment in respect of comments. 5.9 There may be times when the Operator’s personnel have to make a decision in the interests of safety. It is a condition of bookings that you comply with the authority and decisions of the appointed representative of the Operator. If you do not comply with the said representative or are not compatible with the general enjoyment and well being of members of the trip, the Operator reserves the right to refuse to allow you to continue the trip. In such a case the Operator will not be liable for any refund, compensation or any additional costs incurred by you. The Operator cannot accept liability for the behaviour of others on your trip nor if any facilities are curtailed as a result of their actions. 5.10 It is your responsibility to meet the Operator at the pick-up points. Because of the nature of the services, the Operator will not be liable if any service leaves or returns later than its specified time, even if as a result you miss a connecting service. The Operator will use its best efforts to ensure that departure and arrival times are met. 5.11 The Operators do not tolerate any form of abuse, verbal or otherwise, of its personnel. Any passenger abusing or threatening personnel will automatically forfeit their right to onward travel. 5.12 You are responsible for looking after your personal belongings whilst travelling. The Operator cannot be held responsible for any personal belongings left behind on any trip irrespective of the circumstances. 5.13 It is the responsibility of the passenger to check the accuracy of dates booked upon receipt of their e-tickets. 5.14 If you paid a Student price on booking, you will be required to prove this entitlement at check-in for each departure by exhibiting an ISIC, ISE or ITIC student card. Should you not be able to do this, you will be charged the difference between the normal brochure price and the discounted price in addition to an administration fee of 25 GBP / 35 EURO.

6. LOCAL TOURS & EXCURSIONS6.1 You will have the opportunity to purchase local tours or excursions from the Guides. These tours and excursions are run by local operators and you will be subject to their terms and conditions. 6.2 Local tours and excursions purchased via Guides are non-refundable. It is your responsibility to meet the tour at the designated departure point and time. Travel will only be permitted on presentation of the official Guides issued voucher to the named operator. 6.3 Local tour and Excursion vouchers that are lost or stolen cannot be replaced.

7. INSURANCE7.1 There is no travel insurance cover included in the price of any pass, ticket, tour, trip or product represented in this brochure. 7.2 The Operator very strongly recommends that you purchase Travel Insurance that covers all your travels. Travel Insurance is mandatory for travel on all Croatian & Egyptian products, failure to provide proof of adequate insurance my result in travel being refused. 7.3 The Operator strongly recommends that you take out comprehensive insurance cover for cancellation, medical expenses, personal accident, personal baggage, money and public liability before you travel. You may also wish to indemnify the Operator against all third-party claims, actions, damages and remedies that may be brought against the Operator in respect of your travel needs/requirements.

8. CHANGES BY THE OPERATOR8.1 Prices in this brochure are based on costs and exchange rates at October 1, 2009. These prices may increase or decrease and the Operator reserves the sole right to alter prices and other particulars contained in this brochure. The final price will be confirmed to you before you make your booking. 8.2 No surcharge in respect of costs or currency fluctuations will be applied where a product has been booked and paid in full. However, a surcharge may be necessary at other times should there be significant changes in the following circumstances: (a) Transportation costs including the cost of fuel. (b) Dues, taxes (including road taxes and tolls) or levies charged by the governments or their agencies. (c) Exchange rates. The surcharge will only be made where the increase in cost will affect the price of the trip by more than 2%. 8.3 The Operator

reserves the right to vary, modify or cancel any itinerary, either part or wholly. If this is necessary, they will substitute alternative arrangements of comparable value, or at the Operator’s discretion provide a full or partial refund. 8.4 If access to any country or area is prohibited for reasons of force majeure (i.e. circumstances such as political unrest, war or threat of war, riots, civil strife, closure of airports or ports, industrial disputes, terrorist activity, natural and nuclear disasters, fire, epidemic or health risk, Acts of God, adverse weather conditions or other similar events beyond the Operator’s control) the Operator reserves the right to amend or alter the product, or fully or partially withdraw the programme. If the Operator cannot offer suitable substitute services, you will be entitled to a refund less reasonable expenses incurred by the Operator in respect of your booking. The amount of the refund will be calculated pro-rata based on used portion of the trip. No compensation will be paid. 8.5 The Operator reserves the right to alter or substitute the type of vehicle mentioned in the brochure or websites, depending on the number of passengers carried, which vary from trip to trip.

9. WEATHER CONDITIONSUnder no circumstances can the Operators be held responsible for any delay, deviation or cancellation due to weather conditions, nor can any trip be cancelled or amended by you at any time on the basis of weather conditions.

10. NO SMOKING POLICYThe Operators operate a No Smoking Policy on all their vehicles.

11. DISPUTE PROCEDURES11.1 If you have a complaint in respect of any Operator, you should inform the Operator’s Representative at the time. Any complaint that cannot be resolved by the Representative should be submitted in writing within 28 days of the incident to The Customer Service Manager, Radical Travel Group Limited, 60 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1TB, Scotland, United Kingdom so that your complaint can be passed to and then investigated by the Operator. The Operators will not consider complaints after the 28 day period. 11.2 This contract and all matters arising in respect hereof shall be governed by Scottish law whose courts will have exclusive jurisdiction unless the operator agrees otherwise in writing. 11.3 If any provision of this contract is held invalid or unenforceable by any court of competent jurisdiction, that provision shall be deemed to be re-written to give effect to the same purpose within the permitted limits of the law. The validity and enforceability of the other provisions shall not be affected. 11.4 If you are unsuccessful in any legal action instituted against the Operator, you agree to pay all the Operator’s costs, including but not limited to attorney / client costs.

12. CONTRACTING PARTIES12.1 The booking conditions detailed herein contain the entire contract between you and the Operator. No representation, term, warranty or condition can be expressed or implied by reference to any other writing, advertisement or conversation. This contract may only be varied by a duly authorised officer or Director of the Operator in writing. 12.2 Your contract is with the Operator. At any time, and at the Operator’s complete discretion, the Operator may nominate to you in writing any other company or person to have the benefit of some or all of those provisions of this contract, which the Operator may then specify, as if you had agreed the provisions concerned directly with that company or person in the first place as well as agreeing them with the Operator. The Operator may at its complete discretion assign all or any rights and liabilities arising under or by virtue of this or any other contract with you. 12.3 All bookings with carriers and other service providers are subject to their terms and conditions and limitations of liability. Please note that some of these limit or exclude liability in respect of death, personal injury, delay and loss or damage to baggage. Whilst the Operator cannot accept any responsibility for any loss as a result of such actions or as a result of any act or omission of any such third parties, the Operator will give reasonable assistance in helping to resolve any reasonable dispute. 12.4 Many accommodation arrangements referred to in this brochure are provided independently and directly by third party providers (unless stated otherwise). Any such contracts undertaken are made directly between you and the third party accommodation provider. They are subject to the terms and conditions, and limitations of liability, imposed by the provider. All such arrangements are made independently of the Operator, regardless of any help and assistance, which the Operator may provide in securing such arrangements. 12.5 Please note that no airline or carrier depicted or recommended in this brochure by virtue of their endorsement of this brochure represents themselves either as contracting with any legal relationship with any such purchaser. 12.6 Every effort is made to ensure brochure accuracy at the time of going to print, however the Operator cannot be held responsible for printing and typographical errors, or errors arising from unforeseen circumstances.

13. VALIDITYThe programmes advertised in this brochure are valid from the operating season pertaining to each operator as specified in the brochure, unless stated to the contrary. These Terms and Conditions supersede all previous Terms and Conditions issued and are valid for all reservations made on or after 15 October 2009, until replaced.

14. OPERATING COMPANIES14.1 The Busabout Explorer, Busabout Adventures & Eastern Trekker services advertised in this brochure are operated by Busabout Operations Ltd., The Picquet House, St. Peter Port, Guernsey, GY1 1AF, Channel Islands 14.1a) The local operator of the Croatia Sailing (Island Hopper & One-Way Sail) programme featured in this brochure is Katarina Lines d.o.o., Croatia. Additional Terms and Conditions of the local operator may apply, details of these are available on request. 14.1b) The Athens Link and the Greek Island ferries are operated by various transport providers within the relevant region. All travel is also subject to their Terms & Conditions. 14.1c) The local operator of the Egypt Adventure programme featured in this brochure is Spring Tours Egypt. Their terms and conditions apply (available on request). 14.2 HAGGIS Adventures are operated by Radical Travel Group Limited, 7/9 Blackfriars Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1NB, Registered in Scotland No. 136334. 14.3 Shamrocker Adventures are operated by Shamrocker Adventures Limited, Kinlay House, 2/12 Lord Edward Street, Dublin 2, Registered in Ireland No. 281604.

TERMS & CONDITIONS

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