Travel with LESLEY ROBIN
Join Lesley in discovering the cultural diversities of southern India, its ancient heritage reflected by its music and dance, crafts and culture. We begin in Madras, capital of the state of Tamil Nadu. Explore an area architecturally rich with imposing temples, vibrant with mythology. Here decorated elephants, pilgrims and Hindu ritual are a part of daily life. Visit rural villages and bustling towns with colorful markets. During this time the Pongal Harvest festival is being celebrated. Drive across the Cardamom Hills with lush tea plantations and where spices are grown for their medicinal and culinary properties. Boat through the backwaters of Kerala and visit the beautiful port of Cochin. Take a boat trip through Periyar Wildlife Reserve and drive into the state of Karnataka to Nagarhole National Park inhabited by elephant and Indian bison. Some of our visits include brocade silk weaving in Kanchipuram, the production of handmade paper in Pondicherry and bronze casting near Tanjore. See performances of Bharat Natyam and Kathakali dance-drama and visit a center for “ayurveda” (traditional Indian herbal medicine). A diverse exploration of southern India!
ITINERARY
Day 1 Fri., Jan. 5: Late night departure from Los Angeles on our Singapore Airlines flight to Singapore. Meals served on board.
Day 2 Sat., Jan. 6: Crossing the International Date Line, we lose a day.
Day 3 Sun., Jan. 7: Mid-day arrival in Singapore. Singapore Airlines has arranged for a dayroom for your comfort until your Singapore Airlines evening flight to Madras, capital of the state of Tamil Nadu, South India. On arrival in Madras Lesley will meet and escort you to the hotel. MADRAS—HOTEL GRAND DAYS
Day 4 Mon., Jan. 8: Madras (Chennai) is a major port situated on the Bay of Bengal. Visit the colorful wholesale fruit, vegetable and flower market. Visit Cholamandal Artists Village, a cooperative of contemporary artists and sculptors. Attend a performance of Bharat Natyam dance, one of the oldest classical dance forms. MADRAS—HOTEL GRAND DAYS (B,L,D)
Day 5 Tue., Jan. 9: Morning visit to Kanchipuram, one of the seven most sacred cities of India and an important pilgrimage center. Visit the Kailasanatha temple and a home to see the weaving of brocade silk sarees. Drive to Mahabalipuram along palm-fringed roads with rice fields, bullock carts, bicycles and cows. Newly dyed silk yarn hangs from rooftops and warps are prepared on the roadside. MAHABALIPURAM—HOTEL TEMPLE BAY (B,L,D)
Days 6, 7 Wed, Thu Jan 10, 11: Explore Mahabalipuram, the 7th century capital of the Pallava dynasty and a World Heritage Site with its rock-cut sculptures. Drive along the Coromandel coast to Pondicherry, originally a French colony. Today Pondicherry is home to an international community focused around the Sri Aurobindo Ashram (a center for spiritual learning). Walk through the French Residential Quarter of the Old Town, visit the Ashram and see the production of handmade paper. PONDICHERRY—HOTEL ANANDYA INN (B,L,D daily)
Days 8, 9 Fri, Sat Jan 12, 13: Friday a full day drive to Tanjore (also called Thanjavur), capital of the Chola kings of the 10th century. This bustling country town is dominated by the Bridhashwara temple. As we travel we visit some of the enormous temples with their towering gateways, colorfully painted and laden with mythology. During this time village people celebrate the Pongal Harvest festival when the land, sun and animals are thanked after a successful harvest. Women decorate the entrance of their houses with special floor patterns called “kolam”… a time of special Hindu rituals and temple offerings. On Saturday a full day excursion to the small town of Swamimalai to meet Rajan, a Master Craftsman and his group of artisans who produce Chola bronzes using the lost-wax method. TANJORE—HOTEL SANGAM (B,L,D daily)
Day 10 Sun., Jan. 14: Drive to Madurai stopping to see the making of coir rope and visit a group of potters who make traditional waterpots. Late afternoon visit the massive temple-complex dedicated to the “fish-eyed” Mother Goddess Meenakshi. Situated in a non-stop bazaar, throbbing with sights & sounds packed with street markets it teems with pilgrims and music from dawn to dusk. MADURAI—PANDYAN HOTEL or TAJ RETREAT (B,L,D)
Days 11, 12 Mon. Tue Jan 15, 16: On Monday we travel westward into the rolling Cardamom Hills. Our destination is the state of Kerala, a narrow band of fertile land bordered by the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats (mountains). Afternoon arrive at the village of Kumily situated in the crisp mountain air near Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Early Tuesday morning boat cruise on Lake Periyar to see birds and wildlife. In the surrounding hills are estates for tea, coffee and cardamom. Visit a farm cultivating medicinal and culinary herbs and spices. “Ayurveda”, a Sanskrit word meaning “long life” is the traditional holistic healing method of India using herbs and massage. Opportunity at our tranquil hotel to have a herbal massage. KUMILY—HOTEL SPICE VILLAGE (B,L,D daily)
Day 13 Wed., Jan. 17: Morning drive to Kottayam from where we travel by motorboat along the palm-fringed network of canals and lagoons through the backwaters to Alleppey. Continue by road to Cochin, Portugal’s original trading station in the East Indies, today a major port built around a saltwater lagoon of the Arabian Sea. COCHIN—HOTEL TAJ MALABAR (B,L,D)
Day 14 Thu., Jan. 18: The influence of early traders – the Arabs, Chinese and Europeans – is everywhere as we explore beautiful Cochin. Morning visit to watch the fishermen who still use the old method of fishing with cantilevered Chinese nets. Visit Mattancherry, the old part of the city with the Jewish Quarter and Synagogue and its many antique shops. Visit the St. Franciscan Convent where young women are trained in fine lace-making and embroidery. Lunch on your own. This evening attend a performance of Kathakali dance drama, the Kerala tradition of story telling through dance. COCHIN—HOTEL TAJ MALABAR (B,D)
Day 15 Fri., Jan. 19: A full day’s drive north to Calicut. En route visit a well-known company to see the production of herbal medicines into pills and potions. CALICUT—HOTEL TAJ RESIDENCY (B,L,D)
Day 16 Sat., Jan. 20: Morning drive to the state of Karnataka and Nagarhole National Park situated in thick tropical jungle with deciduous trees, swamps and streams, inhabited by elephant, Indian bison and other species of animals. Late afternoon explore the Park by jeep with a wildlife guide. NAGARHOLE National Park—KABINI RIVER LODGE (B,L,D)
Day 17 Sun., Jan. 21: Our drive to Mysore takes us through countryside and traditional villages often with painted houses. Today is market day and we stop to visit a couple of local livestock and village markets. MYSORE—HOTEL SOUTHERN STAR or METROPOLE (B,L,D)
Day 18 Mon., Jan. 22: Visit the Devaraja produce market and the Maharaja’s Palace. This afternoon we take the 1st class express train back to Madras, arriving late evening. MADRAS—HOTEL GRAND DAYS (B,L, Dinner on train)
Day 19 Tue., Jan. 23: Morning visit to the Cottage Industries Emporium with crafts and textiles from all over India. The remainder of the day at leisure for independent activities, with lunch on your own. We come together for an early farewell dinner before transferring to the airport for our late night flight to Singapore. MADRAS—HOTEL GRAND DAYS (B,D)
Day 20 Wed., Jan. 24: Early morning arrival in Singapore where we connect onwards for our Singapore Airlines flight to Los Angeles. Arrival same day. In-flight meals. (B)
$3675
$750
(Cost includes all accommodations in first class or best available hotels, based on double occupancy. All meals (B,L,D daily) as specified in the itineraries. All ground transportation by private motorcoach, boat, or train. All entrance fees to museums and sites listed in the itinerary. The services of a CWT Tour Director and local English-speaking guides. Transfers and luggage handling for two pieces of luggage per person.)
January 29 – February 15 | Burma: Temples, Pagodas & Timeless Ways
CWT TOUR DIRECTOR: Prof. Tom Muir Wilson
Join Tom as he returns to exotic Burma, today known as Myanmar. For over 1000 years, Burma was the center of a flourishing Buddhist culture, and today it remains one of the most traditional and fascinating countries in Southeast Asia. Explore ancient cities, gilded pagodas, and traditional villages. Meet local craftspeople and experience the timeless ways of the Burmese people.
ITINERARY
Day 1 Mon., Jan. 29: Late night departure from Los Angeles on our Thai Airways flight to Bangkok. Meals served on board.
Day 2 Tue., Jan. 30: En route.
Day 3 Wed., Jan. 31: Late night arrival in Bangkok and overnight at the airport hotel. BANGKOK—AMARI AIRPORT HOTEL
Day 4 Thu., Feb. 1: Early morning Thai Airways flight to Yangon, capital of Burma. After lunch visit the Chaukhtatgyi Pagoda to see the colossal reclining Buddha. We then visit the Shwedagon Pagoda, one of the wonders of the world, whose golden dome dominates the city’s skyline. Welcoming dinner this evening. YANGON—EQUATORIAL HOTEL (B,L,D)
Day 5 Fri., Feb. 2: Morning flight to Mandalay, the cultural heart of Burma. After lunch visit the Mahamuni Pagoda, which houses one of the most revered Buddha images in the country. Visit the artisan quarters to see traditional puppet making, tapestry (kalaga) workshops, and stone carving. MANDALAY—MANDALAY SWAN HOTEL (B,L,D)
Days 6, 7 Sat, Sun Feb 3, 4: Saturday morning visit to Amarapura, a former capital, to see the U Bein Bridge and visit a silk weaving workshop. Sunday excursion by boat up the Ayeyarwady River to Mingun to see the massive unfinished pagoda and the world’s largest uncracked bell. MANDALAY—MANDALAY SWAN HOTEL (B,L,D daily)
Day 8 Mon., Feb. 5: Drive to Monywa, a traditional market town. Visit the Mohnyin Thambuddhei Pagoda and the nearby Bodhi Tahtaung where thousands of Buddha images sit under Bodhi trees. MONYWA—MONYWA HOTEL (B,L,D)
Day 9 Tue., Feb. 6: Cross the Chindwin River and drive to the Hpowindaung and Shwebadaung cave temples, famous for their mural paintings and carvings. Continue to Pakokku and take a private boat down the Ayeyarwady River to Bagan. BAGAN—BAGAN HOTEL (B,L,D)
Days 10, 11, 12 Wed, Thu, Fri Feb 7, 8, 9: Explore the vast archaeological site of Bagan, formerly Pagan. Visit the Shwezigon Pagoda, Ananda Temple, and various small villages specializing in lacquerware and pottery. Afternoon rickshaw ride to view the sunset from one of the temples. Puppet show one evening. BAGAN—BAGAN HOTEL (B,L,D daily)
Day 13 Sat., Feb. 10: Morning flight to Heho and drive to Inle Lake. Transfer by boat to our hotel. Explore the lake with its unique leg-rowers and floating gardens. INLE LAKE—HU PIN HOTEL (B,L,D)
Days 14, 15 Sun, Mon Feb 11, 12: Sunday we visit the local five-day market where people from the surrounding hill-tribes come to buy and sell. Monday explore the lakeshore villages and visit a weaving workshop using lotus fibers. INLE LAKE—HU PIN HOTEL (B,L,D daily)
Day 16 Tue., Feb. 13: Morning flight to Yangon. Lunch on your own. Afternoon visit to Bogyoke Market with time for photographing and shopping. This evening brings us together for our farewell dinner. YANGON—EQUATORIAL HOTEL (B.D)
Day 17 Wed., Feb. 14: This morning we return to the airport for our Thai Airways flight to Bangkok. Lunch on the plane, dinner on your own. BANGKOK—AMARI AIRPORT HOTEL (B)
Day 18 Thu., Feb. 15: Transfer to the airport for our return flight to Los Angeles. (B)
$3250
$525
(Cost includes all accommodations in first class or best available hotels, based on double occupancy. All meals (B,L,D daily) as specified in the itineraries. All ground transportation by private motorcoach, boat, or train. All entrance fees to museums and sites listed in the itinerary. The services of a CWT Tour Director and local English-speaking guides. Transfers and luggage handling for two pieces of luggage per person.)
March 29 – April 25 | Central Asia: Bazaars of the Silk Road
CWT TOUR DIRECTOR: Prof. Tom Muir Wilson
Join Tom as he returns for our 8th journey to the exotic Silk Road cities of Central Asia. Once a vital link between East and West, this region today still reflects a rich culture from its diverse heritage. Wander through ancient medinas with their winding alleyways and explore bustling bazaars. Meet local craftspeople and experience the legendary hospitality of the Silk Road!
ITINERARY
Day 1 Thu., March 29: Evening departure from New York’s JFK on our Lufthansa flight to Frankfurt. Meals served on board.
Day 2 Fri., March 30: Mid-day arrival in Frankfurt where we connect for our Lufthansa evening flight to Ashkhabad, capital of Turkmenistan.
Days 3, 4 Sat, Sun March 31, April 1: Saturday morning we meet a special couple, a jewelry artisan and his wife who is a feltmaker. After lunch we’ll visit the National Museum with its outstanding collection of costumes & jewelry. Special welcoming dinner Saturday evening. The next morning we visit the overwhelming Ashkhabad Sunday Bazaar with the central core of the market filled with carpets, felts, jewelry & traditional dress! Afternoon visit to the Carpet Museum. ASHKHABAD—HOTEL NISA (B.L,D daily)
Day 5 Mon., April 2: Morning flight to Mary. Visit the ruins of ancient Merv, capital of the Seljuk Turks in the 11th & 12th centuries and a major Silk Road oasis. After lunch explore the local market before our return flight to Ashkhabad. ASHKHABAD—HOTEL NISA (B,L,D)
Day 6 Tue., April 3: Morning flight to the ancient Silk Road city of Khiva in Uzbekistan. This afternoon we’ll walk through the Ichan Kala (Old City), an open-air museum of traditional architecture. KHIVA—HOTEL KHIVA (B,L,D)
Days 7, 8, 9 Wed, Thu, Fri April 4, 5, 6: Wednesday a full day’s drive through the Kyzyl-Kum Desert to Bukhara. Over the next days we explore the medieval city of Bukhara, one of the most ancient and holy of Silk Road cities. Explore its narrow alleyways, turquoise-domed mosques and minarets. Visit the local bazaars and meeting with several local craftspeople… gold embroiderers, weavers, and a puppet-maker. BUKHARA—HOTEL BUKHARA (B,L,D daily)
Day 10 Sat., April 7: Drive to Samarkand, the legendary “Golden Road” to Samarkand. En route visit a group of potters who make traditional ceramic wares. SAMARKAND—HOTEL AFROSIAB (B,L,D)
Days 11, 12, 13 Sun, Mon, Tue April 8, 9, 10: Explore Samarkand, the capital of Tamerlane’s empire in the 14th century. Visit the magnificent Registan Square, the Bibi-Khanym Mosque and the Shah-i-Zinda necropolis. Visit a group of women who have revived the art of making traditional paper from mulberry bark. Visit the local bazaar. Special evening with a local family. SAMARKAND—HOTEL AFROSIAB (B,L,D daily)
Day 14 Wed., April 11: Drive to Tashkent, capital of Uzbekistan. Visit the Old City, the Museum of Applied Arts and the local bazaar. TASHKENT—HOTEL UZBEKISTAN (B,L,D)
Days 15, 16, 17 Thu, Fri, Sat April 12, 13, 14: Continue our drive through Ferghana Valley, crossing the border into KYRGYZSTAN for our flight from Osh to Bishkek. Friday visit the Museum of Applied Arts with its collection of jewelry and felts, as well as the Historical Museum to see the yurt and carpets. Afternoon visit to the Aesthetic Center to see a project providing village women with the opportunity to earn a living from their handiwork. Saturday excursion into the countryside to Burana Tower with a traditional lunch in a village home. BISHKEK—HOTEL AK KEME (B,L,D daily)
Day 18 Sun, April 15: After lunch we drive through beautiful hilly countryside with a backdrop of mountains to Almaty, capital of KAZAKHSTAN for overnight. ALMATY—HOTEL OTRARA (B,L,D)
Day 19 Mon, April 16: Flight to Urumqi, CHINA located in the frontier region of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region in northwestern China, formerly known as Chinese Turkestan. Lunch on the plane. Afternoon visit to the Museum of National Minorities and the local bazaar. URUMQI—HOLIDAY INN (B, L on plane, D)
Days 20, 21, 22 Tue, Wed, Thu April 17, 18, 19: Tuesday morning flight over the Taklimakan Desert to the oasis of Hotan. Xinjiang region is home to a concentration of Central Asian nationalities who have preserved their language, culture and traditions. Regional villages retain some of their strongest traditions. For the next days we’ll explore the ancient handcrafts of silk weaving, feltmaking, carpetweaving, jade-carving and papermaking… visit a local village bazaar. HOTAN—HOTAN HOTEL (B,L,D daily)
Days 23, 24 Fri, Sat April 20, 21: On Friday a full day’s drive northwest along the edge of the Taklimakan Desert to Kashgar. Saturday visit the local market, a handcraft cooperative, and Id Kah Mosque. KASHGAR—SEMAN HOTEL (B,L,D daily)
Day 25 Sun., April 22: Explore Kashgar’s Great Sunday Bazaar where thousands of people from the surrounding area come to buy and sell livestock, animal trappings, hides, hats, rugs and fabrics, household items, produce and spices. After dinner, late night return flight to Urumqi. URUMQI—HOLIDAY INN (B,L,D)
Days 26, 27 Mon, Tue April 23, 24: Monday morning return flight to Almaty, KAZAKHSTAN. Tuesday we’ll visit the wooden Zenkov Cathedral, the Musical Instrument Museum and the Kazakh Central Museum. Afternoon meeting with local craftspeople. ALMATY—HOTEL OTRARA (B,L,D daily)
Day 28 Wed., April 25: This morning we take the cable railway up Kok Tube Mountain. After our special farewell lunch the rest of the afternoon & evening is yours for packing and resting. Dinner on your own. Shortly after midnight we’ll transfer to the airport. ALMATY—HOTEL OTRARA (B,L)
Day 29 Thu., April 26: Very early morning transfer to the airport for our Lufthansa flight to Frankfurt where we connect for our onward flight to JFK New York. In-flight meals. (B)
$5850
$725
(Cost includes all accommodations in first class or best available hotels, based on double occupancy. All meals (B,L,D daily) as specified in the itineraries. All ground transportation by private motorcoach, boat, or train. All entrance fees to museums and sites listed in the itinerary. The services of a CWT Tour Director and local English-speaking guides. Transfers and luggage handling for two pieces of luggage per person.)
May 11 – 25 | Portugal: SOL—from Lisbon into the countryside
with Tom Muir Wilson
Join Tom as he returns for an exploration of the traditional arts and culture of Portugal. From the historic capital of Lisbon, we’ll travel into the sun-drenched countryside of the Alentejo and the rugged mountains of the north. Portugal remains a country where old-world charm and traditional ways of life are still very much alive. We’ll wander through medieval walled towns, explore colorful weekly markets, and meet local craftspeople in their workshops… potters, weavers, and lace-makers. Experience the warmth and hospitality of the Portuguese people on this 15-day journey!
ITINERARY
Day 1 Fri., May 11: Evening departure from JFK New York for Lisbon on TAP Air Portugal. In-flight meal.
Day 2 Sat., May 12: Morning arrival in Lisbon. Transfer to our hotel. Afternoon walking tour of the Alfama, the oldest quarter of Lisbon with its narrow winding streets. Welcoming dinner this evening with Fado music. LISBON—HOTEL MUNDIAL (D)
Day 3 Sun., May 13: Visit the Coach Museum and the Jeronimos Monastery in Belem. Afternoon visit to the Tile Museum (Azulejos) to see the history of Portuguese glazed tiles. LISBON—HOTEL MUNDIAL (B,L)
Day 4 Mon., May 14: Drive south to the Alentejo region. Visit the walled town of Evora, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the Roman Temple and the Cathedral. EVORA—POUSADA DOS LOIOS (B,L,D)
Day 5 Tue., May 15: Visit the pottery center of Sao Pedro do Corval. Continue to the hilltop village of Monsaraz. Afternoon visit to a rug-weaving workshop in Reguengos de Monsaraz. EVORA—POUSADA DOS LOIOS (B,L,D)
Day 6 Wed., May 16: Drive north to Estremoz to visit the local market and see the famous clay figurines. Continue to Tomar to visit the Convent of Christ, former headquarters of the Knights Templar. TOMAR—HOTEL DOS TEMPLARIOS (B,L,D)
Day 7 Thu., May 17: Drive to the silver coast town of Nazare. Visit the local market and see the traditional dress of the fisherfolk. Afternoon drive to the medieval walled village of Obidos. OBIDOS—POUSADA DO CASTELO (B,L,D)
Day 8 Fri., May 18: Drive north to Coimbra, home to one of Europe’s oldest universities. Visit the university library and the local pottery workshops. COIMBRA—HOTEL QUINTA DAS LAGRIMAS (B,L,D)
Day 9 Sat., May 19: Drive to the northern region of the Minho. Stop in Porto for a visit to a Port wine lodge. Continue to Viana do Castelo. VIANA DO CASTELO—POUSADA DE SANTA LUZIA (B,L,D)
Day 10 Sun., May 20: Visit the traditional market in Barcelos, famous for its colorful pottery roosters. Afternoon visit to the embroidery center in Viana do Castelo. VIANA DO CASTELO—POUSADA DE SANTA LUZIA (B,L,D)
Day 11 Mon., May 21: Explore the remote mountain villages of the Peneda-Geres National Park. Visit a local weaver and see traditional granite granaries (espigueiros). VIANA DO CASTELO—POUSADA DE SANTA LUZIA (B,L,D)
Day 12 Tue., May 22: Drive south to the historic town of Guimaraes, the birthplace of Portugal. Visit the Ducal Palace and the medieval center. GUIMARAES—POUSADA DE SANTA MARINHA (B,L,D)
Day 13 Wed., May 23: Return drive to Lisbon. Afternoon at leisure for independent activities. LISBON—HOTEL MUNDIAL (B,L)
Day 14 Thu., May 24: Visit a traditional tile-making workshop (Fabrica Sant’Anna). Farewell dinner this evening. LISBON—HOTEL MUNDIAL (B,D)
Day 15 Fri., May 25: Transfer to the airport for our return flight to JFK New York. (B)
$3250
$450
(Cost includes all accommodations in first class or best available hotels, based on double occupancy. All meals (B,L,D daily) as specified in the itineraries. All ground transportation by private motorcoach, boat, or train. All entrance fees to museums and sites listed in the itinerary. The services of a CWT Tour Director and local English-speaking guides. Transfers and luggage handling for two pieces of luggage per person.)
June 6 – 23 | Romania: from the painted monasteries to the folklife & crafts of Transylvania
with Tom Muir Wilson
Join Tom as he returns for an exploration of the rich cultural heritage of Romania. This 18-day journey takes us from the vibrant capital of Bucharest to the remote regions of Moldavia and Transylvania. We’ll visit the world-famous painted monasteries of Bucovina, whose exterior walls are covered with 15th and 16th-century frescoes. In the mountainous region of Maramures, we’ll discover a “living ethnographic museum” where traditional folklife and crafts have been preserved for centuries. Throughout our travels, we’ll meet local craftspeople—weavers, woodcarvers, potters, and mask-makers—and experience the legendary hospitality of the Romanian people.
ITINERARY
Day 1 Wed., June 6: Evening departure from JFK New York for Bucharest on Swissair via Zurich. In-flight meal.
Day 2 Thu., June 7: Afternoon arrival in Bucharest. Welcoming dinner this evening. BUCHAREST—HOTEL BUCURESTI (D)
Day 3 Fri., June 8: Sightseeing in Bucharest including the Village Museum and the Peasant Museum. BUCHAREST—HOTEL BUCURESTI (B,L,D)
Day 4 Sat., June 9: Drive to Curtea de Arges to visit the 14th-century Princely Church. Continue to Sibiu in southern Transylvania. SIBIU—HOTEL IMPARATUL ROMANILOR (B,L,D)
Day 5 Sun., June 10: Walking tour of Sibiu’s Old Town. Afternoon visit to the ASTRA Museum of Traditional Folk Civilization. SIBIU—HOTEL IMPARATUL ROMANILOR (B,L,D)
Day 6 Mon., June 11: Drive to the Saxon village of Biertan to visit the fortified church. Continue to Sighisoara, one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe. SIGHISOARA—HOTEL STEAUA (B,L,D)
Day 7 Tue., June 12: Morning tour of Sighisoara. Afternoon drive to Targu Mures. TARGU MURES—HOTEL CONTINENTAL (B,L,D)
Day 8 Wed., June 13: Drive into the Bucovina region of Moldavia. Visit the painted monasteries of Humor and Voronet. CAMPULUNG MOLDOVENESC—HOTEL ZIMBRUL (B,L,D)
Day 9 Thu., June 14: Visit the monasteries of Moldovita and Sucevita. Afternoon visit to the black pottery workshops in Marginea. CAMPULUNG MOLDOVENESC—HOTEL ZIMBRUL (B,L,D)
Day 10 Fri., June 15: Drive across the Prislop Pass into the Maramures region. Arrival in the village of Botiza. SIGHETU MARMATIEI—HOTEL TISA (B,L,D)
Days 11, 12 Sat, Sun June 16, 17: Explore the villages of Maramures, visiting traditional wooden churches and craft workshops. Visit the “Merry Cemetery” in Sapanta. SIGHETU MARMATIEI—HOTEL TISA (B,L,D daily)
Day 13 Mon., June 18: Drive south to Cluj-Napoca. Visit the Ethnographic Museum of Transylvania. CLUJ-NAPOCA—HOTEL BELVEDERE (B,L,D)
Day 14 Tue., June 19: Drive to Brasov. Afternoon walking tour of the Old Town and the Black Church. BRASOV—HOTEL ARO PALACE (B,L,D)
Day 15 Wed., June 20: Visit Bran Castle (Dracula’s Castle) and the fortified church in Prejmer. BRASOV—HOTEL ARO PALACE (B,L,D)
Day 16 Thu., June 21: Drive to Sinaia to visit Peles Castle, the former royal summer residence. Return to Bucharest. BUCHAREST—HOTEL BUCURESTI (B,L,D)
Day 17 Fri., June 22: Final day in Bucharest for independent activities and shopping. Farewell dinner. BUCHAREST—HOTEL BUCURESTI (B,D)
Day 18 Sat., June 23: Transfer to the airport for our return flight to JFK New York. (B)
$3450
$375
(Cost includes all accommodations in first class or best available hotels, based on double occupancy. All meals (B,L,D daily) as specified in the itineraries. All ground transportation by private motorcoach, boat, or train. All entrance fees to museums and sites listed in the itinerary. The services of a CWT Tour Director and local English-speaking guides. Transfers and luggage handling for two pieces of luggage per person.)
July 20 – August 9 | ECUADOR & BOLIVIA: handcrafts & villages of the Andes
with Tom Muir Wilson
Join Tom on a 21-day journey into the heart of the Andes to explore the traditional handcrafts and vibrant village life of Ecuador and Bolivia. We begin in Quito, the capital of Ecuador, and travel through the northern highlands to the famous market town of Otavalo. In Bolivia, we’ll visit the colonial city of Sucre and the silver-mining town of Potosi. Our journey continues to the shores of Lake Titicaca and the bustling markets of La Paz. Throughout our travels, we’ll meet indigenous craftspeople—weavers, potters, and musicians—and experience the rich cultural traditions that have endured for centuries in the high Andes.
ITINERARY
Day 1 Fri., July 20: Late night departure from Miami for Quito, Ecuador. Transfer to our hotel. QUITO—HOTEL COLON
Day 2 Sat., July 21: Morning sightseeing of colonial Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the Cathedral and the Church of the Jesuits. Welcoming dinner. QUITO—HOTEL COLON (L,D)
Day 3 Sun., July 22: Drive north to Otavalo. Visit the famous Saturday market (held daily) and the nearby weaving village of Peguche. OTAVALO—HOSTERIA PUERTO LAGO (B,L,D)
Day 4 Mon., July 23: Visit the leather-working village of Cotacachi and the woodcarving center of San Antonio de Ibarra. OTAVALO—HOSTERIA PUERTO LAGO (B,L,D)
Day 5 Tue., July 24: Return to Quito. Visit the “Middle of the World” monument on the equator. QUITO—HOTEL COLON (B,L,D)
Day 6 Wed., July 25: Fly to La Paz, Bolivia. Afternoon at leisure to adjust to the altitude (12,000 ft). LA PAZ—HOTEL PLAZA (B,L,D)
Day 7 Thu., July 26: Fly to Sucre, the constitutional capital of Bolivia and a colonial gem. SUCRE—HOTEL PLAZA (B,L,D)
Day 8 Fri., July 27: Visit the ASUR Textile Museum to see the extraordinary weavings of the Jal’q and Tarabuco cultures. SUCRE—HOTEL PLAZA (B,L,D)
Day 9 Sat., July 28: Full day excursion to the Sunday market in Tarabuco, one of the most colorful in South America. SUCRE—HOTEL PLAZA (B,L,D)
Day 10 Sun., July 29: Drive across the high plateau (altiplano) to Potosi, once the world’s richest city due to its silver mines. POTOSI—HOTEL COLONIAL (B,L,D)
Day 11 Mon., July 30: Visit the Royal Mint (Casa de la Moneda) and a colonial silver mine in the Cerro Rico. POTOSI—HOTEL COLONIAL (B,L,D)
Day 12 Tue., July 31: Drive to Oruro, a traditional mining center. Afternoon drive to La Paz. LA PAZ—HOTEL PLAZA (B,L,D)
Day 13 Wed., Aug 1: Sightseeing in La Paz including the Witches’ Market and the Gold Museum. LA PAZ—HOTEL PLAZA (B,L,D)
Day 14 Thu., Aug 2: Drive to Lake Titicaca. Visit the reed boat builders in Huatajata and take a hydrofoil to the Sun and Moon Islands. LAKE TITICACA—HOTEL INCA UTAMA (B,L,D)
Day 15 Fri., Aug 3: Visit the pilgrimage town of Copacabana. Return to La Paz. LA PAZ—HOTEL PLAZA (B,L,D)
Day 16 Sat., Aug 4: Full day excursion to the Tiwanaku archaeological site, center of a pre-Inca civilization. LA PAZ—HOTEL PLAZA (B,L,D)
Day 17 Sun., Aug 5: Fly back to Quito. Afternoon visit to the Guayasamin Museum. QUITO—HOTEL COLON (B,L,D)
Day 18 Mon., Aug 6: Drive south along the “Avenue of the Volcanoes” to Cotopaxi National Park. QUITO—HOTEL COLON (B,L,D)
Day 19 Tue., Aug 7: Day trip to the Saquisili weekly market. QUITO—HOTEL COLON (B,L,D)
Day 20 Wed., Aug 8: Final day for shopping and independent activities in Quito. Farewell dinner. QUITO—HOTEL COLON (B,D)
Day 21 Thu., Aug 9: Transfer to the airport for our return flight to Miami. (B)
$4150
$675
(Cost includes all accommodations in first class or best available hotels, based on double occupancy. All meals (B,L,D daily) as specified in the itineraries. All ground transportation by private motorcoach, boat, or train. All entrance fees to museums and sites listed in the itinerary. The services of a CWT Tour Director and local English-speaking guides. Transfers and luggage handling for two pieces of luggage per person.)
September 28 – October 17 | China: the Silk & Craft Route
with Tom & Matthew (Zhang Xu)
Join us for our 11th trip exploring the unique cultures, crafts and folk arts of the lesser-traveled regions of Chinese Central Asia as we journey the ancient Silk Road. Beginning with the well-known sights of Beijing, we then fly to Xi’an, the easternmost terminus of the Silk Road. Continue to Dunhuang located along the Hexi Corridor, a passageway between mountains and deserts for the ancient trade routes between Central Asia and China. Venture on to Urumqi and Turpan, beginning our journey into the sparsely settled frontier region of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, formerly known as Chinese Turkestan. Here can be found a concentration of Central Asian national minorities who have preserved their language, culture and traditions. We fly over the Taklimakan Desert to the oasis town of Hotan located on the old southern Silk Road… continue by road to Kashgar for the Great Sunday Bazaar. Throughout our travels we will visit traditional handcraft workshops as well as the important sights of the Forbidden City, the Great Wall… the terra-cotta warriors near Xi’an… Mogao Grottoes near Dunhuang… and Bezeklik Thousand-Buddha Caves near Turpan. Come with a sense of adventure!
ITINERARY
Day 1 Fri., Sept. 28: Late night departure from Los Angeles on our Air China flight to Beijing. In-flight meals.
Day 2 Sat., Sept. 29: Crossing the International Date Line, we lose a day.
Day 3 Sun., Sept. 30: Mid-day arrival in Beijing, capital of the People’s Republic of China. Our guide Matthew will meet and escort us to the hotel. Welcoming dinner this evening. BEIJING—CAPITAL HOTEL (D)
Day 4 Mon., Oct. 1: Visit the Forbidden City, the palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties. Afternoon visit to the Temple of Heaven and the local market. BEIJING—CAPITAL HOTEL (B,L,D)
Day 5 Tue., Oct. 2: Full day excursion to the Great Wall at Mutianyu. BEIJING—CAPITAL HOTEL (B,L,D)
Day 6 Wed., Oct. 3: Morning flight to Xi’an. After lunch visit the Terra Cotta Warriors archaeological site. XI’AN—HOTEL GRAND CASTLE (B,L,D)
Day 7 Thu., Oct. 4: Visit the Shaanxi Provincial Museum and the Great Mosque. Explore the colorful Muslim Quarter market. XI’AN—HOTEL GRAND CASTLE (B,L,D)
Day 8 Fri., Oct. 5: Morning flight to Dunhuang, an oasis town on the edge of the Gobi Desert. After lunch visit the Singing Sand Dunes and Crescent Moon Lake. DUNHUANG—DUNHUANG HOTEL (B,L,D)
Day 9 Sat., Oct. 6: Visit the Mogao Grottoes, a world-famous world heritage site with ancient Buddhist mural paintings and sculptures. After dinner, late night departure by overnight train to Turpan. (B,L,D)
Day 10 Sun., Oct. 7: Morning arrival in Turpan. Visit the Karez irrigation system and the Jiaohe ruins. TURPAN—TURPAN HOTEL (B,L,D)
Day 11 Mon., Oct. 8: Visit the Emin Minaret and the Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves. Dinner with a local Uygur family in their vineyard. TURPAN—TURPAN HOTEL (B,L,D)
Day 12 Tue., Oct. 9: Drive to Urumqi. Visit the Xinjiang Museum with its collection of mummies. After dinner, late night return flight to Beijing. (B,L,D)
Day 13 Wed., Oct. 10: Morning flight over the Taklimakan Desert to the oasis town of Hotan. For the next days we’ll explore the ancient handcrafts of silk weaving, feltmaking, carpetweaving, jade-carving and papermaking… visit a local village bazaar. HOTAN—HOTAN HOTEL (B,L,D)
Day 14 Thu., Oct. 11: Continue exploring the traditional workshops and village life of the Hotan region. HOTAN—HOTAN HOTEL (B,L,D)
Days 15, 16 Fri, Sat Oct 12, 13: Friday we continue our drive northwest to Kashgar, located on the northern edge of the Taklimakan Desert and bounded on the west by the towering Pamir Mountains. Situated where the northern and southern routes of the ancient Silk Road converged, Kashgar, like Hotan, is populated mostly by Muslim national minorities and retains its Central Asian atmosphere. We’ll visit the local market, a handcraft cooperative, and Id Kah Mosque. On Saturday, provided weather and road conditions are favorable we will take a full day excursion along a portion of the Karakoram Highway into the Pamir mountains. KASHGAR—SEMAN HOTEL (B,L,D daily)
Day 17 Sun., Oct. 14: This morning we explore the Great Sunday Bazaar in Kashgar where thousands of people from the surrounding area come to buy and sell… livestock, animal trappings, hides, hats, rugs & fabrics, household items, produce and spices. After dinner, late night flight to Urumqi. URUMQI—HOLIDAY INN (B,L,D)
Day 18 Mon., Oct. 15: Return flight to Beijing. The remainder of the day is at leisure for independent activities. BEIJING—CAPITAL HOTEL (B,L)
Day 19 Tue., Oct. 16: Walk through Old Beijing to visit a traditional lantern-maker. Farewell dinner. BEIJING—CAPITAL HOTEL (B,D)
Day 20 Wed., Oct. 17: Transfer to the airport for our return flight to Los Angeles. (B)
$4250
$650
(Cost includes all accommodations in first class or best available hotels, based on double occupancy. All meals (B,L,D daily) as specified in the itineraries. All ground transportation by private motorcoach, boat, or train. All entrance fees to museums and sites listed in the itinerary. The services of a CWT Tour Director and local English-speaking guides. Transfers and luggage handling for two pieces of luggage per person.)
October 30 – November 13 | Morocco: medinas, souks & markets
with Tom Muir Wilson
Join Tom as he returns for an exploration of the vibrant medinas, souks and markets of Morocco. This North African kingdom remains a crossroads of Berber, Arab, and European cultures. We’ll wander through the ancient Imperial Cities, explore bustling markets, and meet local craftspeople who continue to practice traditional arts.
ITINERARY
Day 1 Tue., Oct. 30: Evening departure from JFK New York for Casablanca, Morocco on Royal Air Maroc. In-flight meal.
Day 2 Wed., Oct. 31: Morning arrival in Casablanca and drive to Rabat, the modern capital. Visit the tomb of Mohammed V and the Museum of Moroccan Art. RABAT—HOTEL SAFIR (L,D)
Day 3 Thu., Nov. 1: Visit the potteries near Sale. Drive to the blue-and-white town of Chechaouen in the Rif Mountains. CHECHAOUEN—HOTEL PARADOR (B,L,D)
Day 4 Fri., Nov. 2: Walking sightseeing of Chechaouen. Visit the local weaving workshops. CHECHAOUEN—HOTEL PARADOR (B,L,D)
Day 5 Sat., Nov. 3: Departure for Fes, intellectual, cultural and religious center and the most ancient of the Imperial Cities. Along our way we’ll stop to visit a weekly market. Markets are important weekly events and are excellent opportunities to see traditional people from the countryside as they come to socialize and exchange goods. En route we visit the weavers souk of Quezzane, as well as the ruins of Volubilis. FES—HOTEL MERINIDES (B,L,D)
Day 6 Sun., Nov. 4: Experience the incredible sights and sounds of the souks of Fes, medieval in character with mazes of winding passageways and burros loaded with merchandise. Visit the famous tannery, the dyers souk, weavers workshops, brass & copperworkers, woodworkers, and a pottery workshop. Visit the Dar Batha Museum, a former palace that has been restored as a Museum of Moroccan Art. A full day of exploring & photographing! FES—HOTEL MERINIDES (B.L.D)
Day 7 Mon., Nov. 5: Journey through the Middle Atlas Mountains to ErRachidia. Visit the Franciscan nunnery in Midelt where local girls are taught the art of embroidery and rug-weaving. ER RACHIDIA—HOTEL RISSANI (B,L,D)
Day 8 Tue., Nov. 6: Drive to Quarzazate, stopping at the spectacular Todra Gorge. Visit the kasbah of Ait Benhaddou, a world heritage site. QUARZAZATE—KARAM PALACE HOTEL (B,L,D)
Day 9 Wed., Nov. 7: Drive to Taroudant, known as “Little Marrakech.” TAROUDANT—HOTEL PALAIS SALAM (B,L,D)
Day 10 Thu., Nov. 8: Explore the ramparts and souks of Taroudant. Meet several local craftspeople who produce traditional Berber jewelry. Return to our hotel, an 18th century palace situated within the city walls. TAROUDANT—HOTEL PALAIS SALAM (B.L.D)
Day 11 Fri., Nov. 9: Drive westward to the Atlantic coast and the picturesque port of Essaouira, once a Portuguese stronghold. The town is famous for its thuya woodcarving. ESSAOUIRA—HOTEL DES ILES (B.L.D)
Day 12 Sat, Nov 10: Explore the medina of Essaouira with its white and blue houses and busy harbor. Visit workshops of several master woodcarvers who use thuya wood and lemonwood to produce intricate inlay work. ESSAOUIRA—HOTEL DES ILES (B.L)
Day 13 Sun, Nov 11: Drive to Marrakech. Visit the 12th century Koutoubia Mosque and the Museum of Moroccan Art. MARRAKECH—HOTEL ES SAADI (B.L.D)
Day 14 Mon, Nov 12: Full day exploring the souks of Marrakech and the Djemma El Fna square, which comes alive at sunset with musicians, acrobats, storytellers and food stalls. Farewell dinner. MARRAKECH—HOTEL ES SAADI (B.L.D)
Day 15 Tue., Nov. 13: Transfer to the airport for our return flight to JFK New York. (B)
$3275
$475
(Cost includes all accommodations in first class or best available hotels, based on double occupancy. All meals (B,L,D daily) as specified in the itineraries. All ground transportation by private motorcoach, boat, or train. All entrance fees to museums and sites listed in the itinerary. The services of a CWT Tour Director and local English-speaking guides. Transfers and luggage handling for two pieces of luggage per person.)
December 16 – January 2 | Romania: Winter Festival of Maramures
with Tom Muir Wilson
Come join us as we return for our 5th Winter Festival of Maramures in Romania! For persons with an interest in traditional folklife, Transylvania’s mountainous region of Maramures is truly a living ethnographic museum. Here traditions have been preserved for centuries… carved wooden gates and churches, gaily painted houses, and people in colorful traditional dress. We begin in Bucharest, the capital, before driving to the medieval town of Brasov. Journey north to Moldavia (Bucovina) to see the world-famous 15th & 16th century painted monasteries. Our destination is the remote region of Maramures for the colorful Winter Festival and Christmas festivities. Throughout our travels we meet local craftspeople… weavers, woodcarvers, potters, and maskmakers. Join us for a special holiday celebration!
ITINERARY
Day 1 Sun., Dec. 16: Evening departure from JFK New York for Bucharest, via Zurich.
Day 2 Mon., Dec. 17: Arrival in Bucharest. Welcoming dinner this evening. BUCHAREST—BUCURESTI HOTEL (D)
Day 3 Tue., Dec. 18: Visit the Peasant Museum with its outstanding collection of traditional architecture, textiles and ceramics. After lunch drive to the medieval town of Brasov. BRASOV—ARO PALACE HOTEL (B,L,D)
Day 4 Wed., Dec. 19: Walking tour of Brasov’s Old Town. Visit the Black Church and the nearby Bran Castle. BRASOV—ARO PALACE HOTEL (B,L,D)
Day 5 Thu., Dec. 20: Drive to Piatra Neamt, gateway to the moldavia region. PIATRA NEAMT—HOTEL CEAHLAUL (B,L,D)
Days 6, 7, 8 Fri, Sat, Sun Dec 21, 22, 23: Drive to Moldavia (Bucovina). Visit Agapia Monastery and the world-famous 15th & 16th century painted monasteries, whose exterior walls are covered with frescoes. CAMPULUNG MOLDOVENESC—HOTEL ZIMBRUL (B,L,D daily)
Day 9 Mon., Dec. 24: Drive into Maramures. Spend Christmas Eve in the village of Botiza where traditions remain very strong. SIGHETU MARMATIEI—TISA HOTEL (B,L,D)
Days 10, 11 Tue, Wed Dec 25, 26: Explore the villages of Maramures, visiting traditional homes and craft workshops… woodcarvers, weavers and a maskmaker. SIGHETU MARMATIEI—TISA HOTEL (B,L,D daily)
Day 12 Thu., Dec. 27: Today is Maramures’ Winter Festival held annually in Sighetu Marmatiei. We’ll spend the full day wandering, exploring & photographing the festivities. By late morning young men in traditional dress will begin to ride and gallop through the streets on gaily decorated horses. Followed by a loosely organized parade with each village represented by women & men in traditional dress singing and dancing through the streets. SIGHETU MARMATIEI—TISA HOTEL (B,L,D)
Day 13 Fri., Dec. 28: Depart Maramures as we drive south to the university town of Cluj, stopping to visit a straw hatmaker en route. CLUJ—VICTORIA HOTEL (B,L,D)
Days 14, 15 Sat, Sun Dec 29, 30: Saturday morning sightseeing of Cluj and visit the Ethnographic Museum. After lunch we continue our drive to Sibiu in southern Transylvania. Sunday morning walking sightseeing of the Old Town of Sibiu… the old city walls, the 15th & 16th century town squares, the medieval staircase leading to the lower town. After lunch in a mountain restaurant, continue to Saliste village for dinner with our hatmaker friend and his family. SIBIU—HOTEL IMPARATUL ROMANILOR (B,L,D daily)
Day 16 Mon., Dec. 31: Visit Sibiel village to see a unique collection of icons painted on glass and to explore this picturesque village. We receive a warm welcome from villagers as we enjoy lunch with a local family. Return to Sibiu this evening for a New Year’s Eve celebration in Sibiu, one of Romania’s most charming towns… where we will welcome in the year 2002! SIBIU—HOTEL IMPARATUL ROMANILOR (B,L,D)
Day 17 Tue., Jan. 1: Drive south to Bucharest. Final sightseeing and shopping. BUCHAREST—BUCURESTI HOTEL (B,L,D)
Day 18 Wed., Jan. 2: Transfer to the airport for our return flight to JFK New York. (B)
$3150
$350
(Cost includes all accommodations in first class or best available hotels, based on double occupancy. All meals (B,L,D daily) as specified in the itineraries. All ground transportation by private motorcoach, boat, or train. All entrance fees to museums and sites listed in the itinerary. The services of a CWT Tour Director and local English-speaking guides. Transfers and luggage handling for two pieces of luggage per person.)
GENERAL INFORMATION
AIRFARE: Estimated international airfares from New York (JFK) or Los Angeles (LAX) range from $1150 to $1850 depending on the destination. CWT will provide specific airfare quotes at the time of booking.
RESERVATIONS AND PAYMENTS: A deposit of $500 per person is required to confirm a reservation. Final payment is due 90 days prior to departure. Payments may be made by check or money order.
CANCELLATIONS AND REFUNDS: Cancellations must be received in writing. The following per person fees apply: more than 90 days prior to departure: $100 administrative fee. 90 – 61 days prior: $500 (deposit). 60 – 31 days prior: 50% of total tour cost. 30 days or less: 100% of total tour cost (no refund). Trip cancellation insurance is strongly recommended.
HEALTH AND DISABILITY: Travelers should be in good health. Many of these regions involve walking on uneven terrain and stairs. Any physical disability requiring special attention must be reported at the time of reservation.
RESPONSIBILITY: Craft World Tours (CWT) acts only as an agent for the passenger with respect to transportation and hotels and exercises every care possible. CWT is not responsible for any injury, loss, or damage to person or property, or for additional expenses due to acts of God, weather, strike, or other causes beyond its control. CWT reserves the right to change the itinerary or substitute hotels when necessary.