South Pacific Wonders
Presented By: Newtown Senior Center

Day 1 - Day 2: Monday, October 25, 2010 Depart From Home
Today you board your flight and begin the adventure of a lifetime. Crossing the International Dateline, you skip a day ahead.

Day 3: Wednesday, October 27, 2010 Arrive Cairns, Australia
Your tour begins today in Cairns, the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Don’t forget to look up at the Southern Hemisphere's stars this evening after you join your mates for a welcome dinner. (D)

Day 4: Thursday, October 28, 2010 Great Barrier Reef
Board a high speed catamaran for an exciting excursion to the Great Barrier Reef. This is an immense series of 2,800 coral reefs which are home to amazingly diverse marine life. From your base on Green Island, you are able to explore the reef in many ways. Enjoy a glass bottom boat ride*, a stroll on the walking trail to take in the rain forest, relax on the beaches, or just watch the fish and sea turtles swim past from the pier. For a more adventurous encounter with the reef, optional scuba diving, snorkeling and an outer reef tour are also available. Whichever way you choose, you’ll see some of the world’s most fascinating marine and plant life. (B, L)

Day 5: Friday, October 29, 2010 Cairns
Today visit the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Center. You’ll see traditional Aboriginal dances, learn about the Aboriginal lifestyle, and even throw a boomerang or play a didgeridoo, a traditional instrument. Browse the renowned art gallery and visit the interpretation center, which houses a collection of interesting artifacts. This afternoon a great experience awaits as you search for crocodiles in their natural habitat during a visit to Hartley's Croc Farm! Boardwalks take you on a path of adventure through rainforests and woodlands to see animals such as wild birds, reptiles and wallabies. While visiting you also have the chance to meet some of the local koalas and have a private talk with a wildlife naturalist to learn more about these cuddly creatures. Then, enjoy an exciting cruise in the lagoon looking for crocodiles before enjoying a delicious Aussie barbecue. (B, D)

Day 6: Saturday, October 30, 2010 Cairns - Sydney
Fly to the bustling city of Sydney this morning. Enjoy a city tour of Sydney where the English explorer James Cook first weighed anchor in 1770. Highlights of your exploration include Kings Cross, the Harbour Bridge, Chinatown, the Rocks, Circular Quay, the Botanic Gardens and the fashionable Paddington suburb. (B)

Day 7: Sunday, October 31, 2010 Sydney
Enjoy a leisurely day to explore Sydney your way. Your Tour Manager will be on hand to offer suggestions. Tonight, experience the best of Sydney. Chat with new friends and take in the sights during a delightful dinner cruise of Sydney Harbour during which you’ll pass by two of Australia’s most famous icons: the renowned Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge. (B, D)

Day 8: Monday, November 01, 2010 Sydney
This morning discover one of the world’s most fascinating architectural wonders during a guided tour of the Sydney Opera House. Next, enjoy a unique opportunity to learn first-hand how raw opals are transformed from the dark mine shafts to beautiful works of art. This evening is free to explore Sydney’s many famous restaurants! (B)

Day 9: Tuesday, November 02, 2010 Sydney - Christchurch, New Zealand
You leave Australia behind and fly to New Zealand and the historic city of Christchurch. Upon arrival enjoy a short sightseeing tour of "the most English city outside of England". Highlights include magnificent gardens, the Neo-Gothic Cathedral and the downtown park district. (B)

Day 10: Wednesday, November 03, 2010 Christchurch
This morning visit a Canterbury farmyard where you’ll enjoy a sheep shearing demonstration and see the herding of the farm’s animals! It’s a great opportunity to learn how a New Zealand family farm operates. This afternoon you are free to explore Christchurch independently before a truly special evening. Tonight you are the guest of honor at a private dinner inside the restored Riccarton House mansion. Step back in time and experience a world of Victorian and Edwardian splendor during a guided tour that teaches you the history of the first family of Christchurch. Then, relax in the elegant dining room and enjoy a sumptuous dinner. (B, D)

Day 11: Thursday, November 04, 2010 Christchurch
Today, enjoy a day of exploration on your own in beautiful Christchurch. This English city – the charming international gateway to New Zealand’s South Island – boasts countless cafes and boutiques. Stroll its cobblestone streets and enjoy the many sights that “the Garden City” has to offer. Make yourself right at home this evening when a New Zealand family welcomes you into their home for dinner! This is sure to be an unforgettable evening during which you will make new friends, learn about the customs of the “Kiwi’s” and enjoy a home-cooked meal. (B, D)

Day 12: Friday, November 05, 2010 Christchurch - Mt. Cook Region - Queenstown
Traverse the spectacular countryside to New Zealand’s most famous national park, Mt. Cook. Mt. Cook is one of the most impressive mountains in the world. You may choose to view the massive glaciers and extensive snow-covered mountain top terrain on an optional glacier flightseeing tour (weather permitting), or perhaps enjoy the park during a nature walk. Continue to Queenstown and enjoy a stop at a local fruit stand to gain an inside look at the produce of New Zealand. (B)

Day 13: Saturday, November 06, 2010 Queenstown - Milford Sound - Queenstown
En route to Milford Sound, enjoy the rugged grandeur of the Hollyford Valley. You’ll travel through beech forest via the Homer Tunnel. During a cruise of the breathtakingly beautiful Milford Sound you’ll see why this fjord is one of the most visited sites on the South Island. With rock faces that rise nearly 4,000 feet on either side, the scenery will take your breath away. Following your cruise, you return to Queenstown. You may choose to return via a short optional flight (weather permitting) for spectacular views of New Zealand’s Southern Alps. (B, L)

Day 14: Sunday, November 07, 2010 Queenstown
A leisurely day in Queenstown offers several options to enhance your vacation. Shop or people watch in the village or perhaps take the optional "Safari of the Rings" which takes you through the majestic Remarkable Mountains and the breathtaking Queenstown countryside where the Lord of the Rings movies were filmed. This evening, take in the city of Queenstown from above and soak in the breathtaking views during a gondola ride to dinner at the Skyline Restaurant overlooking Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu and the mountains. (B, D)

Day 15: Monday, November 08, 2010 Queenstown - Tour Ends
Your tour ends today. (B)




October 25 - November 8, 2010
14 Days • 20 Meals
12 Breakfasts • 2 Lunches • 6 Dinners
Highlights: Cairns, Great Barrier Reef, Sydney, Christchurch, Mount Cook National Park, Queenstown, Milford Sound
Rates Per Person
Double: $4599, Single: $5599,
Triple: $4549
*Included in Price: Round Trip Air from New York, Air Taxes and Fees/Surcharges of $230 (subject to increase until paid in full), Hotel Transfers.
*Not Included in Price: Cancellation Waiver and Insurance of $225 per person.
Itinerary at a Glance
Day 1 - 2 Overnight Flight
Day 3 - 5 Novotel Oasis, Cairns
Day 6 - 8 Rydges World Square, Sydney
Day 9 - 11 Rydges Christchurch, Christchurch
Day 12 - 14 Mercure Queenstown Resort, Queenstown
On some dates alternate hotels may be used.
Essential Experiences
  • Take in the sights during a delightful dinner cruise of Sydney Harbour.
  • Capture the amazing scenery of the fjords of New Zealand on a cruise of Milford Sound.
  • Visit a Canterbury farmyard to see a sheep shearing demonstration and learn how this New Zealand family farm works.
For more information call
 Marilyn Place
Newtown Senior Center
(203) 270-4315
Included Meals Key
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

AVAILABLE OPTIONS:
Cairns
Hot Air Ballooning Adventure • $300.00
Float over blue gum and paper bark trees and experience the wide open spaces of the Atherton Tablelands/Cairns Highlands in the beautiful early morning light in a hot air balloon. Watch in wonder as the balloons inflate and rise into the sky. Don’t forget your camera to capture dawn’s light on the lush greenery of the mountainous plain. After your 60 minute flight, return to the ground and “tuck into” a hearty “Aussie Style” champagne breakfast featuring a tropical buffet, bacon & eggs, and a glass of champagne to celebrate a remarkable ride! This option requires riding in a basket which does not have an entrance. To enter passengers will need to step up and over into the basket. This option operates on a weather permitting basis only.
Outer Great Barrier Reef • $110.00
Explore the vibrant, colorful world teeming with life at the outer Great Barrier Reef. This massive reef system, the largest in the world, can actually be seen from space. Cruise across the water by catamaran to the Outer Reef pontoon where a diverse, bountiful ecosystem is yours to discover. Explore the kaleidoscopic underwater sea life from the semi-submersible or up close, with goggles, snorkeling along the reef. Many other fascinating activities await you on the Outer Reef. Whatever your pleasure, you’re sure to have a once-in-a-lifetime experience exploring one of the seven natural wonders of the world! Important Note: Scuba diving is an additional cost and some medical restrictions and a waiver of liability will apply. For passengers on Journey to the South Pacific and The Complete South Pacific programs, the scuba diving will be unavailable due to your scheduled flight the following day.
Skyrail • $45.00
Glide over and into the leafy rainforest canopy on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, the world’s longest gondola cableway. The comfortable, six-person gondola carries you 4½ miles through the rugged beauty of Barron Gorge National Park, part of the Wet Tropics UNESCO World Heritage Area. The gondola dips through the layers of the canopy to bring you deep into the rainforest, stopping at two in-forest viewing platforms along the way. Experience the sights, sounds and scents of this vibrant ecosystem up close. Discover the ways of the Djabugai Aboriginal tribe, whose traditional home is here. See the dramatic Barron gorge and waterfalls.
Tjapukai by Night • $99.00
Embrace Australia’s ancient indigenous culture during an evening filled with entertainment, delicious cuisine and storytelling that brings dreamtime legends to life. Enjoy a welcome drink on arrival. Have your face painted to reflect Aboriginal history. Revel in a laid-back, delicious buffet dinner enjoying the camaraderie of your travel companions and locals. Discover Aboriginal traditions and Australian culture through customary dances and music. It’s an unforgettable, cultural evening you can’t miss!
Christchurch
Christchurch Tramway Dinner • $95.00
Climb aboard the elegant Tram car and step back to New Zealand’s colonial era. Take your seat on the beautifully restored dining car and indulge in a delicious 4 course dinner accompanied by unlimited drinks. Harken back to a genteel era as you travel in luxury around central Christchurch, seeing the exquisite Cathedral Square, Aquarium of Discovery, Arts Centre, Botanic Gardens, Canterbury Museum, Victoria Square, and New Regent Street. No trip to Christchurch would be complete without dinner aboard this historic tram.
International Antarctic Center • $45.00
Step inside and be transported to the “white continent!” The awesome and magical beauty of Antarctica is recreated with an interactive, fun and exciting experience of the “Great White South.” See the seasons change before your eyes. Feel the chill of winter and watch daylight return as the Antarctic summer approaches. They’ll outfit you to experience the Polar Room, where you’ll find real snow and ice! Explore the snow cave or brave the wind chill machine. Every half hour an Antarctic storm blows through the Polar Room, with lightening, authentic Antarctic storm audio and 25 mile per hour winds! Learn about the Antarctic Treaty, transportation to and from the continent, and the ozone layer and the fascinating wildlife that has adapted to life in this extreme habitat. The Aquarium features amazing creatures found in McMurdo Sound. Get up close and personal with the amazing little blue penguin. While at the Centre, you can experience the Centre’s new 4-D experience that takes you on a virtual journey through the Drake Passage to Antarctica! This experience will show you what it’s like to journey to the southernmost continent in the comfort and confines of a theatre setting. This is as close to the seventh continent as you can get without going!
Milford Sound
Milford/Queenstown Flightseeing • $275.00
Get more Milford Sound! This time, soar over the plunging cliffs, fjords and pristine Southern Alps on a flightseeing plane that carries you back to Queenstown from Milford Sound. Seeing Milford Sound and Fiordland National Park from the air brings a whole new perspective on the overwhelming beauty of this region. A truly spectacular trip! NOTE: Please be advised that some of these activities may be weather dependent and/or seasonal offerings and could be unavailable on your specific departure. Flight times may alter the ability to participate in some of the optional activities listed. Availability for flightseeing is limited. We apologize in advance for any inconvenience this may cause.
Mt. Cook Region
Glacier Highlights by Skiplane • $285.00
Spectacular! Fly into the pristine wilderness of Mt. Cook National Park for once-in-a-lifetime views of the wilderness surrounding Mt. Cook. New Zealand’s highest peak, Mt. Cook soars to 12,316 feet. Nineteen peaks in the park climb to over 9,800 feet and 40% of its land is covered in glaciers. The ski plane carries you over the Tasman Glacier and gently lands on the ice field. Explore the glacier on foot and experience the magical silence of the remote ice field. The return flight brings even more breathtaking vistas of New Zealand wilderness and wildlife. NOTE: Please be advised that some of these activities may be weather dependent and/or seasonal offerings and could be unavailable on your specific departure. Flight times may alter the ability to participate in some of the optional activities listed. We apologize in advance for any inconvenience this may cause.
Queenstown
Queenstown Haka Show • $35.00
From the first dramatic moments of the "Powhiri," the traditional Maori welcome, you’ll be embraced by the powerful culture of the Maori people at a traditional Haka. Feel the spirit of their proud history celebrated through the music of ancient Maori instruments and songs. Traditional dances are accompanied by the thumping swings of poi balls, flying around the dancers with rhythmic precision. This is a terrific evening of traditional entertainment you won't want to miss!
Safari of the Rings • $115.00
Venture into Middle Earth and see the primeval, mystical landscapes where J.R.R. Tolkein’s powerful trilogy was filmed. The vast panoramas of unspoiled wilderness of New Zealand’s South Island provided the ideal setting to bring these beloved adventures to life and the ideal setting for your day of touring. Trek by 4 x 4 up into the Remarkable Mountains and across the Arrow River. There are no movie sets left, just the stunning pristine vistas that filled the frames.
Shotover Jets • $90.00
A river cruise in Queenstown, the epi-centre of adventure tourism and home of the Bungee Jump, is definitely a little more than just a boat ride! Zoom through the sheer canyons of the Shotover River on this thrilling adventure. Shotover Jet boats zoom along in mere centimeters of the glacial water which flows down from the Southern Alps, providing an exhilarating, but safe and enjoyable ride for all ages. You may get a little wet, but it is a unique and fun way to enjoy the spectacular scenery of the South Island of New Zealand. No visit to Queenstown is complete without it!
Sydney
A Taste of Australia • $139.00
Meet the fascinating denizens of the deep at the largest Aquarium in the Southern Hemisphere. The Sydney Aquarium allows you to experience the enormous diversity of eight unique Australian aquatic environments. Over 12,000 animals are found here, including huge sharks, rays, platypuses, crocs, and more! Australia’s marine diversity will astound you – from the weedy sea dragon of the Southern Oceans to the wiggly sea cucumber found in tropical waters of the Great Barrier Reef. Later, dine alfresco at Nick’s Restaurant, a popular spot with locals and tourists alike. Enjoy Nick’s renowned fresh seafood and picturesque waterfront location.
Sydney Bridge Climb - Day • $210.00
For an up close and personal view of The Sydney Harbour Bridge like no other - climb it! This popular adventure takes you to the top of the Bridge some 440 feet (134 meters) above sea level offering unsurpassed views of the famous Opera House and Sydney’s breathtaking harbor. Prep on the climb simulator before the ascent. Don a specially designed “Bridge Suit” over your personal clothing. A harness keeps you attached to a static line for safety during the climb and a radio and headset keep you in contact with your Climb Leader. A professionally trained Climb Leader accompanies each group providing guidance on the climb and insight about the Harbour Bridge and the unforgettable Sydney sites. The Sydney Bridge Climb is centrally located within walking distance for all downtown hotels. Taxis are available at your own expense. This option is weather permitting and based upon availability.
Sydney By Bike! • $95.00
Explore one of the world's greatest cities, by bicycle! Sydney residents are increasingly turning to bicycles to help the environment, ease urban congestion and improve their own health. Join the Australians in this movement and gain an insider’s perspective of Sydney on this slow-paced, easy riding tour. Pedal through the historic waterfront neighborhood, The Rocks, and ride over the graceful Harbour Bridge for breathtaking views. This tour has been tailor-made for Collette Vacations and will be sure to leave you with truly personal memories of the unforgettable city of Sydney!
CANCELLATION WAIVER:

Worry-Free Cancelation
Our industry-leading cancellation waiver offers travelers a full cash refund for the price of the tour, right up to the day prior to departure, minus the small cost of the waiver. Travel worry-free knowing if anything changes, you're protected.

Plus, you're covered on tour.
Our cancellation waiver and insurance plan covers you on tour. If you have to stop your trip or return home early, need medical assistance or evacuation, suffer a baggage loss or delay; or are delayed on tour for 12 hours or more, you're covered.

Cancellation Waiver and Insurance is just $225 per person.

Click here for complete details.

TRAVEL TIPS:
South Pacific Wonders
Listed below is important information to assist you in preparing for your upcoming trip. This information provided will help you have a more enjoyable experience while you are on your tour.
Accommodations
On some programs, there are a limited number of single and triple rooms. Double rooms usually consist of 2 beds. Triple rooms are normally a standard double room with 2 beds. A cot or rollaway bed may be added to the double room at some hotels, based on room size and fire codes. When triples are not available, appropriate charges for single and twin accommodations will be assessed. We make every effort to accommodate your specific requests and forward them to the hotels. These requests cannot be guaranteed as hotels may not always be able to honor them. Check-in times are set by individual hotel properties and vary by hotel. Depending on your arrival time, there may be a delay in gaining access to your room as most hotels offer afternoon check-in. We ask guests to observe check-out times at all properties as designated by the hotel. Some hotels require a credit card imprint or your passport information upon check-in in order to activate telephones in the rooms and for potential incidental charges. Most hotels charge an access fee for using phones in hotel rooms. Please check with the front desk personnel at each hotel for specific policies. Hotel membership programs are not applicable. In certain countries, hotel rooms tend to be smaller than standard U.S. accommodations. Please be assured that we use high quality properties throughout each country.
ADA
The Americans with Disabilities Act does not apply outside of the United States. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, we will make reasonable efforts to accommodate the special needs of tour participants. Persons requiring individual assistance must be accompanied by a companion who is capable of, and totally responsible for, providing the necessary assistance. Neither our personnel nor its suppliers may physically lift or assist clients onto transportation vehicles. We regret that we cannot provide individual assistance to a tour member who has special mobility, dietary or other like needs.
Arrival Day Suggestions
Due to varied flight schedules and different arrival times of our tour guests, your tour will not have any scheduled activities on Day 1. Should your flight schedule allow for an earlier arrival time that day, enjoy the great opportunity for some independent exploration.
Clothing & Packing Tips
When you travel ‘down under’ to Australia as well as in New Zealand, enjoy a casual dress style and be sure to pack comfortable walking shoes! It is recommended to take light or medium weight clothing during their summer months (December through April) and medium weight clothing the remainder of the year. From May through October, it’s a good idea to bring along a winter weight jacket, hat, gloves, and/or scarf especially for your visit to Phillip Island and also for the south island of New Zealand. Rain wear and an umbrella are recommended year-round. It is recommended that you bring along swimwear for your included excursion to Green Island and the Great Barrier Reef. When visiting the central part of Australia (Alice Springs and Ayers Rock), it is recommended to dress for the desert in clothing such as shorts, short-sleeved shirt and sturdy closed toe shoes. It is generally a good idea to bring clothing that can be worn in layers so it can be easily added or removed as the temperature changes. You may want to pack a hat and sunscreen as well. Smart casual dress is suggested for your visit with a New Zealand family as well as for the farewell dinner. During certain seasons, you may wish to purchase nets for your time in the Outback. These can also be purchased upon arrival.
If you are taking prescription medication, please be sure to take an adequate supply for your tour and a few additional days, in original prescription containers. Medication should be packed in your carry-on baggage. Do not place it in your checked luggage. You may want to carry an extra prescription in a separate bag in case medication is lost.
Currency
Your personal bank card may work at local ATM machines in the destination you are traveling to and would dispense local currency. Please contact your bank to determine if this option is available, that your PIN number will be accepted, to inform them that you are traveling and to determine if any charges apply for each transaction. You may exchange your money at airports, banks, exchange bureaus, and at most hotels. In most cases, a commission charge will be assessed to exchange your money. At the hotel or in the city usually offer a better currency exchange rate than airports. We recommend carrying only a few major credit cards. Credit card purchases often provide an extra guarantee on your purchase (check with your specific credit card company for details and fees). It is advisable to contact any credit card company you intend utilizing while on tour before you depart to notify them where you will be traveling, to avoid any rejection of services. The currency in Australia is the Australian Dollar, in New Zealand, the New Zealand Dollar and in Fiji, the Fiji Dollar. If optional tours are made available to purchase, please note that credit cards must have an expiration date of greater than 30 days from the start of the tour.
Electricity
Australia uses 220 Volts, New Zealand uses 230 Volts. Both are Type I plugs.
An adaptor (which changes the physical plug) and/or converter (which changes the electric current) are necessary if you plan to use an appliance with voltage different from the standard within the country you are visiting. Please note, if your appliance has dual voltage you may still need an adaptor for the plug. When packing your electronic items for travel, please review the converter electric current level to make sure it the same or greater than the items you are planning on using. If you plan on utilizing or transporting a sleep apnea machine, please remember to pack an extension cord and adapter plug to ensure proper function.
Elevation
Australia is the lowest continent in the world with an average elevation of only 330 meters (1,082 ft). In New Zealand the highest elevation is Mt. Cook at 3,754 meters (12,316 ft) above sea level.
Helpful Hints
Bring a camera, memory cards, film, and batteries and be sure to bring enough photography supplies for your entire trip. If you have a video camera, bring an extra battery, plus proper recharging equipment. Due to security screening, we recommend storing your equipment in your carry-on luggage. Bring a travel alarm clock, travel sewing kit and an alcohol based gel hand sanitizer when soap and water is not accessible. Pack items that may leak in plastic bags. Do not pack any articles of value in your checked luggage. As a precaution, we suggest that you divide the contents of your suitcase with your traveling companion. Avoid over packing and leave room for souvenirs that you plan to take back home.
Bring a copy of your passport/identification and pack it separately from the original. Leave a copy of your tour itinerary at home with your emergency contact and a copy of your passport. Remember when flying you can only take one quart size bag with no more than 3 ounces of any one liquid. Liquids that do not fit in the one quart size bag and are larger than 3 ounces will be discarded by security. Remember to hydrate and get up and stretch while flying. If you are considering using your cell phone while traveling internationally, you should check with your cell provider concerning their access and charges for overseas calls, texting and emailing for the specific destination you are traveling to.
Included Features
The following are included in your tour package: transportation via motorcoach, accommodations, hotel luggage handling, meals, sightseeing, admission charges (as outlined in your itinerary), and applicable gratuities for bellmen, doormen and dining room wait staff. Customary gratuities for hotel housekeeping staff, local sightseeing guides, drivers and tour managers have not been included.
Luggage
Due to the limited motorcoach capacity, one carry-on (36 inches in length, height and width; not to exceed 11 lbs. /5.2 kg.) and one checked luggage (62 inches in length, height and width; weight not to exceed 23kg/50lbs) are allowed. Please consult with your scheduled airline as luggage fees and restrictions vary by carrier and destination. Wheeled carry-ons are not suitable for coach tours. If you exceed the limit of 2 bags, we cannot guarantee that your additional luggage will be able to fit in the touring vehicle. Storage or shipment of additional luggage will be at your own expense. If we are able to accommodate your additional luggage, we will assess a fee of 4 USD per bag per hotel. Please remember to label your luggage and important items with your name, home address and telephone number. We recommend labeling your luggage on both outside and inside of the bag. Please attach only the plastic luggage tag included in this mailing to your checked luggage before checking in for your flight. Your paper luggage tag is to be attached at the first hotel. We cannot assume liability or accept claims for loss or damage to luggage and personal effects due to breakage, theft or normal wear and tear that results from hotel, airline and group carrier handling. It is in your best interest to have adequate insurance (such as our comprehensive "No Worries Travel Protection") to cover these eventualities.
For your inter-flights within Australia, New Zealand and Fiji, there is a maximum of 7 kilos (approximately 15lbs) for your carry-on bag. Checked bag maximum is 22.68 kilos (approximately 50lbs).
Meals
Most meals are included as indicated in your document itinerary. Guests with special dietary requirements must advise their travel counselor at the time of booking and also the tour manager upon joining the tour. When information is provided, every effort will be made to accommodate these requests. Please be advised that the average cost of meals (not inclusive of tax and gratuity) that are not included in your tour are as follows: breakfast 7 to 8 USD, lunch 10 USD and dinner 15 to 20 USD.
Miscellaneous
Local Customs: It is suggested that you bring a gift from the United States for the New Zealand family. Something representative of your area would be great. Value should not exceed 10 USD. (Note: Please do not bring unprocessed foods as they will be taken by New Zealand Custom Officers.) Respect the native Maoris' and Aborigines' privacy. Ask first if you may take a photo before doing so.
Name Badges
Name Badges Collette Vacations provides name badges to our travelers in order to facilitate conversation among fellow travelers. The name badge also ensures that a Collette Vacations representative can easily recognize you, especially at airports upon arrival.
Reading List
Interested in reading about your destination before you depart? Collette has pre-selected travel guides, novels and books on history, nature and art to help enhance your total vacation experience. You can access the complete list by typing the following into your web browser. Select the region of the world to find your tour: http://www.collettevacations.com/travel-books.cfm
Shopping
If you purchase DVDs or other electronic equipment abroad, check that it is compatible with your PC or other home equipment.
One of the best parts of traveling is coming back home with souvenirs that really reflect the place you’ve just been. In Australia, Aboriginal art and artifacts are very popular choices. You'll find the best opals in the world in Australia. Wines are abundant in the land down under and not to be missed! In New Zealand, look for products made from jade, the gorgeous "greenstone" which the Maori call 'pounamu'. Jade carvings make beautiful jewelry pendants. Another popular souvenir in New Zealand is products made from wool - like luxurious sweaters, scarves and hats. It is also a wonderful place to pick up unique art pieces like paintings, as well as handmade crafts and Pacific Island themed treasures. New Zealand is famous for its wine, which makes for a great souvenir. Sauvignon Blanc is very popular here. Australia now offers a tax rebate program at the departure airport for purchases over 300 AUD. The purchases must total a minimum of 300 AUD, must be purchased no earlier than 30 days prior to departure, must be purchased from the same store, and items must be presented to Customs upon departure with receipts. Visit: www.customs.gov.au to see what products are eligible for the rebate.
Smoking
Smoking Restrictions: Our tours are non-smoking throughout. If you require a smoking room, please alert your agent upon tour booking. Please be mindful of locations where smoking is prohibited: the motorcoach, at dining venues and other restricted areas on tour including most hotels. Customers are responsible for any fines incurred for failure to comply with smoking restrictions.
Tour Manager
We pride ourselves on having the best-trained and most experienced tour managers in the industry. Gratuities should be extended on a voluntary basis and should be in direct proportion to the level of professionalism and personal service extended to you throughout the tour. Past experience has shown that a guideline of 4-6 USD per person for each traveling day is a customary amount for the tour manager. A customary amount of 3-5 USD per person per day is suggested for the driver.
Transportation
Flight Information, Departure Taxes & Fees Land Only Vacations: If you chose to purchase a land only vacation, pay particular attention to flight segments that occur during the tour which are not included in your land only rate. You must purchase these internal flight segments and the schedule must match the flights that we utilize on the group tour. Please provide us with your flight schedules for the entire tour six weeks prior to departure so we may secure services if you purchased transfers from us, as well as maintain emergency contact. Air Inclusive Vacations Air inclusive vacations cover air transport to and from your origin gateway as well as all internal air segments on tour. In order to comply with Homeland Security’s “Secure Flight” mandate, all passengers must provide full name, date of birth and gender at time of reservation. Your airline ticket must match the name on your valid, non-expired, government issued photo ID to be shown at the airport (including middle name, first or middle initial). If you are a member of a participating frequent flyer program, provide the number upon booking and retain the passenger copy of your ticket and boarding pass to ensure that you receive proper credit of your mileage. Some air tickets are not eligible for mileage accrual. Whenever possible, we will add charges for air departure taxes to your invoice. Some international arrival and departure fees are not included in your air ticket and must be paid by you on tour in local currency.
Transfers We are pleased to provide you with complimentary airport to hotel, and hotel to airport transfers at the beginning and end of an escorted tour when you purchase an air-inclusive vacation. Land-only clients who have purchased round trip transfers will be accommodated at the same times as air inclusive clients. Arrival meeting locations and transfer departure times are provided on your document booklets. On some programs there may be a waiting period at the airport due to varying flight schedules of other arriving passengers. If you have secured your own transfer, you may meet your tour manager at the hotel. Motorcoach Information: We do not own or operate vehicles. We charter quality coaches that are temperature controlled vehicles. Coach size may vary based upon the number of tour patrons. In certain countries, lavatory equipped motorcoaches are not available or the lavatory is for emergency use only. Frequent stops will be made en route for comfort and convenience. Seat Rotation: Seats are rotated for the benefit of our tour guests, fosters communication, and enables our guests to enjoy a variety of vantage points on the motorcoach. Guests will rotate seats at least once a day, as directed by the tour manager. In fairness to all, there will be no exceptions to this policy.
Air Travel: Due to numerous flights in Australia and New Zealand, early or late flights may be necessary to fulfill all required components of the tour.