With special solar eclipse departures, monastic stays at Mount Koya and easier access into North Korea…
Our new Orient 2009-10 brochure has now been launched, offering an increased choice of inspirational journeys. The programme introduces brand new escorted journeys to post-Olympic China, monastic stays at Japan’s holy Mount Koya, Bassac cruises on the Mekong Delta and the ‘once in a life-time’ opportunity to witness the most dramatic eclipse of the sun this century.
NEW DISCOVER CHINA TOUR
All eyes are on post Olympic China and our Discover China Tour not only takes in all of the ‘must see’ sights – the Forbidden City, the historic Great Wall, the Army of Terracotta Warriors, the vistas of Guilin and vibrant Shanghai – but also gives visitors a unique opportunity to participate in some more unusual cultural experiences. Discover the importance of Tai Chi to Chinese culture, enjoy an advanced display from an expert and participate in a lesson with the locals in the grounds of the Temple of Heaven. Immerse yourself in the tradition of a formal Tea Ceremony at the famous Mid Lake Pavilion Tea House which dates back to the Qing Dynasty. The 11 day escorted journey costs from £2095 per person.
SOLAR ECLIPSE DEPARTURE
22 July 2009 will see the earth witness the most dramatic total eclipse of the sun to take place this century – with over six minutes of totality, and we have created a special 4 day package to coincide with this momentous occasion. Departing on Monday 20 July 2009, guests will travel to Shanghai and on to Hangzhou to observe the eclipse from the shores of the beautiful West Lake which will be privy to some of the best views on the planet. The 4 day tour costs from £1540. For those looking to take a longer trip, the Discover China departure on 12 July has also been planned to coincide with this ‘once in a life-time’ occasion, priced from £2225.
MS YANGZI EXPLORER
Witness the might of the Three Gorges Dam, set for completion in 2009, from the deck of this brand new vessel. Launched in July 2008, the MS Yangzi Explorer is the most environmentally friendly ship sailing the Yangtze River and offers the ultimate in luxury cruising. The ship houses the largest cabins on the river all with private balconies, it also offers a deluxe on-board spa and a range of activities including Tai Chi, Chinese brush painting and cultural performances. Four or five day cruises on the MS Yangzi Explorer can be booked as part of Bales’ tailor made holidays. Combine a four day cruise with visits to historic Beijing and vibrant Shanghai with the Yangzi Explorer suggested itinerary. Priced from £3445 per person.
BASSAC MEKONG DELTA CRUISES
Traditionally built wooden sailing vessels ply the waterways of the Mekong Delta offering an authentic way to discover one of the most culturally diverse regions in South East Asia. For the first time, we are offering 1, 2 and 3 night Mekong Delta cruises on traditional Bassac boats, as well as selected 7 night cruises that venture into Cambodia. These boats have 6 or 12 compact cabins with private bathrooms, air conditioning, polished wood floors and bar and restaurant facilities that open up to offer al fresco dining. The cruises can be purchased as part of Bales tailor made packages. From £265 per person for a 2 day cruise, based on two sharing.
PILGRIMAGE TO MOUNT KOYA
Bales has extended its tailor made options in Japan for 2009. Guests can now choose to take a pilgrimage to the spiritual home of the Shingon sect and experience the simple pleasures of monastic life with an overnight stay at one of holy Mount Koya’s traditional temples. The 2009-10 programme also introduces a choice of three exciting suggested itineraries starting at £2745 per person for the 10 day Classic Japan journey.
MONGOLIA NAADAM FESTIVAL
Bales is now offering a special 15 day journey to coincide with Mongolia’s biggest cultural event, the Naadam Festival – a three day spectacular of competitions and pageantry showcasing Mongolian warrior traditions. Guests will begin their adventure in Beijing before travelling to Ulan Baton and the Naadam Festival. The journey continues to Karakorum and through the Gobi Desert staying in traditional tented ‘gers’. The tour departs on 7 July 2009 and costs from £3345 per person.
NORTH KOREA – EASIER ACCESS WITH NEW FLIGHT ROUTE
The introduction of a new Air China flight between Beijing and Pyongyang has greatly improved access to this mysterious and isolated country. Few travellers have glimpsed the workings of this most hidden of countries. Bales is one of the few travel companies to offer a 12 day escorted tour right into the heart of The People’s Republic of North Korea. Explore the capital before travelling to Panmunjom DMZ, one of the most strictly guarded areas anywhere in the world, separating North from South Korea. The journey also takes in the ‘Children’s Palace’, the sacred site of Mount Myohyang and the port of Nampo. Priced from £2425.
MYANMAR – BOUNCING BACK
Mystical Myanmar is welcoming back visitors after the cyclone earlier this year. The ancient temples and golden beaches offer a fascinating journey through one of South East Asia’s least visited countries. Bales’ Myanmar – The Golden Land escorted journey takes in the scenic and cultural diversity of this mysterious country. This 15 day journey includes a cruise along the Irawaddy River, a sunset visit to the revered Shwe Dagon Pagoda and a tour of ancient Mayan sites. From £2595 per person.
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Bales Worldwide (formerly known as Bales Tours) is a family run independent tour operator established by George Bales in 1947. Bales have become more and more flexible over time, in order to truly meet your needs. Wherever you decide to travel and whenever you want to travel, whether it is in 14 months time or just 3 weeks away, Bales have 60 years of knowledge and expertise to give you a holiday of a lifetime. 