Tantalizing Tahiti

Tahiti is a land of timeless beauty and ancient culture. Intoxicating scents, azure lagoons, palm-shaded beaches, Polynesian beauties... Tahiti and her islands are indeed a place beyond the ordinary. Moorea charms with her emerald mountains and sandy shores. Bora Bora captivates with her gentle lagoons of an unimaginable palette of blues and turquoises. Huahine, Raiatea and Taha’a offer lush vanilla plantations and ancient maraes. Rangiroa and the Tuamotus beckon divers with their untouched coral reefs and schools of marine life. The remote Marquesas enchant adventurers with its rugged cliffs and soaring mountain peaks. Tahiti is truly tantalizing - a world apart from all other tropical island vacations!

Tempting Tahiti is a suggested itinerary for a short holiday. This can be an extension to your holiday in Australia or New Zealand. Mercury Travels offers customized holidays to Tahiti and other tantalizing destinations. Come and see Tahiti the way you want you to.

TEMPTING TAHITI
Papeete/Moorea (4 nights/5 days)
Day 1 – Arrive Papeete
Maeva! Upon arrival at Papeete airport, you are met and transferred to the hotel in Papeete. Overnight in Papeete.
Day 2 – Papeete/Moorea
Wake up to a lazy breakfast followed by a city tour of Papeete by coach. Later in the day, take a half hour catamaran ride to Moorea. On arrival, you are transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to relax at the beach or the pool. You could also spend time snorkelling and admiring the fabulous undersea life this reef has to offer you! Overnight in Moorea.
Day 3 – Moorea
You are taken by coach on a Circle Island Tour to see the gorgeous sights of Moorea including Cook’s Bay, Opunohu Bay and the Belvédère lookout. Spend the rest of the day on the white sands or in the pool. Overnight in Moorea.
Day 4 – Moorea
You have the whole day to pamper yourself with the various amenities available at your resort. Swim, snorkel or simply relax by the sea and soak in the ambience! Overnight in Moorea.
Day 5 – Moorea/Depart Papeete
After breakfast, you will be escorted back to the dock for a catamaran ride to Papeete, where you are transferred to the airport for your onward flight back home.

Wild wonders

Jambo! Welcome to the wild! Kenya and Tanzania are where you see nature unfold right before your eyes. A mecca for wildlife enthusiasts, when you visit there you can get up close and personal with the king of the jungle and feel his mane brush past your hand. From game parks to wildlife sanctuaries, from the depths of a coral reef to the top of snow capped mountains, from one of the world’s most endangered owls to a herd of wildebeest more than a million strong, the wilderness here is a wonder to behold...
Breathtaking Kenya & Tanzania is a suggested itinerary for a holiday in exotic Africa. Mercury Travels offers customized holidays to Kenya, Tanzania and other fabulously exciting destinations. Come and see Africa the way you want you to.


BREATHTAKING KENYA & TANZANIA
Nairobi/ Lake Nakuru National Park/ Masai Mara Game Reserve/Speke Bay/
Serengeti National Park/Ngorongoro Crater/Lake Manyara National Park/Nairobi
(10 nights/11 days)
Day 1 – Arrive Nairobi
Welcome to Nairobi, a thriving young city spawned during the construction of the railroad to the Indian Ocean. You are met and transferred to your hotel. In the evening, enjoy an informative presentation about East Africa’s National Parks, reserves and wildlife. Enjoy dinner at the Anghan Restaurant. Overnight in Nairobi.
Day 2 – Nairobi/Lake Nakuru National Park
Depart Nairobi in the morning and drive to the dramatic Rift Valley, making a brief stop at the Rift Valley View Point and proceed to the pink Lake Nakuru for lunch at the lodge. Enjoy an afternoon game drive inside the beautiful Park to view thousands of pink flamingos and numerous wild game, including the rhinos. Dinner and overnight at Lake Nakuru Lodge.
Day 3 – Lake Nakuru/Masai Mara Game Reserve
After breakfast at the lodge, depart the Lake Nakuru National Park with
en route game viewing. Cross the Loita Plains as you head for Kenya’s most scenic Masai Mara and arrive in time for lunch at your lodge. An afternoon of game drives inside the Park, followed by dinner and overnight at Mara Serena Lodge or a similar hotel.
Day 4 – Masai Mara Game Reserve
Enjoy breakfast at the lodge. Leave with picnic lunches for a full day of game viewing inside the Park. Extend your drive to the hippo point. Between meals you can choose to take an optional visit to the Masai villages for an insight into the local culture. Dinner and overnight at Mara Serena Lodge or a similar place.
Day 5 – Masai Mara Game Reserve/Speke Bay
Drive down to the Kenyan Tanzanian border town of Isebania for lunch and then onward to the Speke Bay Lodge on Lake Victoria. Spend the afternoon at leisure. Dinner and overnight at Speke Bay Lodge.
Day 6 – Speke Bay/Serengeti National Park
After breakfast, drive to Serengeti National Park. Have a relaxed lunch at the exclusive Serengeti Serena Lodge. Enjoy an afternoon of game drive. Dinner and overnight at Serengeti Serena Lodge or somewhere similar.
Day 7 – Serengeti National Park
The Masai translation of Serengeti is ‘endless plains’. The Park spreads over 23,000 square miles and is home to thousands of animals. One of the highlights is the annual migration of the wildebeest and the zebra. The migration varies from month to month but the herds are usually in southern Serengeti during December to May. The animals migrate in pursuit of food and water and to bear their young. Early morning and afternoon game drives give you an opportunity to watch the life and death drama unfold before you, as the ever-searching predators follow the masses of migrating animals. Overnight at the Serengeti Serena Lodge or a similar hotel.
Day 8 – Serengeti National Park/Ngorongoro Crater
Drive across the Serengeti plains, viewing game en route and arrive at Olduvai Gorge, the famous archaeological site where two million year old humanoid fossils of Australopithecus, Homo Habilis and Homo Erectus have been discovered. This steep-sided gorge is about 50 km long and as deep as 90 meters in some places. You will have time to walk through the little museum.
Continue your drive and reach the Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge, set high on the rim of Ngorongoro Crater - a dormant and collapsed volcano. The first glimpse of the Ngorongoro Crater is an unforgettable experience. Over 20 kms wide and 600 mts deep, the Ngorongoro Crater is the largest unbroken, un-flooded caldera in the world. The volcano and surrounding landscape are part of a vast conservation area inhabited by the Masai tribe, as well as an extraordinary variety of big game and bird life. At Ngorongoro Serena Lodge, visitors co-exist in perfect harmony with the natural environment and the wildlife that inhabits it. After lunch at the lodge, take a gentle nature walk with a lodge naturalist. Overnight at the Ngorongoro Serena Lodge or somewhere like it.
Day 9 – Ngorongoro Crater
After an early breakfast, descend into the crater in a 4x4 vehicle for a full day of game viewing. Over 25,000 wild animals occupy the crater floor. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the crater floor before driving back, later in the afternoon, to your lodge perched on the rim. Overnight at the Ngorongoro Serena Lodge or similar lodges.
Day 10 – Ngorongoro Crater/Lake Manyara National Park
Drive down to Lake Manyara National Park, which is tucked into the base of the Rift Valley escarpment. After lunch, a game drive is planned in the Park. Overnight at the spectacularly located Lake Manyara Serena Lodge or a similar hotel.
Day 11 – Lake Manyara National Park/Nairobi
Set off after breakfast to Arusha for lunch. Drive via Namanga border to clear customs and immigration, then onward into Jomo Kenyatta airport for your international departure flight.

In the abode of Ravana

The beauty of the island nation of Sri Lanka has to be seen to be believed. Once considered to be the abode of Ravana - often seen as the good and pious but misguided man commonly villified by mythology - the small land mass just off the southernmost tip of India is well worth a visit. Food, nature, legend, crafts, gems, textiles and, of course, the people - all go into making Sri Lanka a true paradise of sight, sound and experience.

Mercury Travels has packages that will help you explore the beautiful island.

COLOMBO, KANDY, NUWARAELIYA, BENTOTA & COLOMBO.
05 Nights / 06 Days
Day 01 - Airport / Colombo
On arrival at the Bandaranaike International Airport, you will get your first taste of warm Sri Lankan hospitality. The representative from Nkar Travels & Tours (Pvt) Limited will welcome you and help you transfer to Colombo. Overnight in Colombo.
Day 02 – Colombo / Kandy
After breakfast, transfer to Kandy. En route visit the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. This centre is set up especially for abandoned or injured baby elephants. They are reared here and trained to become working animals. Feeding and bathing in the river provide the best opportunities to see the animals close up.
Check into the hotel in Kandy. In the evening, join the city tour of Kandy. Visit the Temple of the Holy Tooth, the relic of Lord Buddha, the Gem Museum and a traditional batik-making factory. A stroll in the market place would also be interesting. Late in the evening experience a colourful cultural show where you can really get a taste of Sri Lankan culture. Overnight in Kandy.
Day 03 – Kandy/ Nuwara Eliya
After breakfast, visit the Royal Botanical Garden in Kandy. Thereafter continue your journey to Nuwara Eliya. Stop at the Ramboda waterfall; en route you can stop and enjoy a cup of Ceylon tea while enjoying the spectacular scenery. Spend the evening relaxing in the cool climate. Nuwara Eliya is known as the 'Little England' of Sri Lanka. It is set against beautiful backdrop of mountains, valleys, waterfalls and tea plantations. It is supposed to be one of the coldest places on the island, but is really just like being in England on a spring day; be warned the temperature does drop at night. All around Nuwara Eliya you will see evidence of the former British presence. Houses are like country cottages or Queen Ann-style mansions. Overnight in Nuwara Eliya.
Day 04 – Nuwara Eliya / Bentota
After breakfast proceed to Wadduwa via Kitulgala. Witness the world famous St. Clair’s and Devon waterfalls. Spend the evening at leisure on the beach. Overnight in Bentota.
Day 05 – Bentota / Colombo
After breakfast proceed to Colombo. In the evening, go on a site seeing and shopping trip around the busy. You’ll see the famous Bandaranaike International Memorial Hall, the Valukarama temple and the municipal council. among other sights. You can enjoy fair bargains by shopping at some of the reputed shopping malls, but pay a visit to the Pettah Bazaar.
Overnight in Colombo.
Day 06 – Colombo / Airport
After breakfast proceed to the airport for your flight back.

A Scandinavian sojourn

Scandinavia, located in the northern part of Europe, consists of Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland and Iceland. The land is blessed with breathtaking natural surroundings.

Denmark is a small country made up of the Jutland Peninsula and over 400 islands. From the capital city of Copenhagen with its historical royal castles to the beautiful streets of Odense, birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen, Denmark truly is a land of fantasy.

Norway is a beautiful country that boasts dynamic natural scenery. From the complex fjords carved from the earth by glaciers, the Aurora in the Arctic Circle, and the Midnight Sun in Nordkapp, Europe's northernmost point, Norway with its wide range of natural panoramas is truly the land of Mother Nature.

Sweden, with over 227,000 lakes with half the country covered in green woods, is aptly called the land of forests and lakes. Stockholm, the most beautiful city in the world; the world-famous Glass Kingdom located in the Smaland region in the south; and the world's most unusual hotel made entirely of ice located in north; makes Sweden a must-visit destination.

Finland’s vast forests, a unique archipelago and thousands of lakes present a striking mixture of wooded hills and waters. Finland beckons visitor to experience its mystical northern natural beauty and peacefulness.

Iceland is a potpourri of the marvels of Mother Nature such as icecaps, glaciers, spouting geysers, steaming solfataras, volcanoes, raging rivers, magnificent waterfalls, cavorting whales and a multitude of birds. Summers are surprisingly warm and winters not as cold as you might expect.

Scandinavia is simply superb, stunning and wholly inviting!


FOUR SCANDINAVIAN COUNTRIES
Helsinki/Stockholm/Oslo/Geilo/Bergen/Copenhagen
(7 nights/8 days)
Day 1 - Arrive Helsinki
Arrival in Helsinki. You are met and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to familiarize yourself with this splendid city. Overnight stay in Helsinki.
Day 2 - Helsinki /Silja Line to Stockholm
In the morning is earmarked for a sightseeing tour of Helsinki during which you will see the historical centre and the diplomatic quarters, the Presidential Palace, City Hall, the Parliament Buildings, Finlandia Hall and the Opera House. Stop at Senate Square, the Sibelius Monument and the Temppeliaukio Church in the rocks before ending the tour at the city centre.
In the early afternoon it is time to board the Silja Line cruise ship for the crossing to Stockholm. Enjoy a Scandinavian buffet dinner on the ship. After dinner you can dance the night away in the nightclub, linger in the various shops, or enjoy the scenery. Accommodation on board the liner in comfortable 2-berth cabins.
Day 3 - Stockholm
Enjoy a sumptuous Scandinavian breakfast buffet before arriving in Stockholm, but make sure to be out on deck as the ship sails into the beautiful Stockholm harbour. With its 24,000 islands, the Stockholm archipelago is quite unique. Around 9.00 a.m. you dock in Stockholm, the Swedish capital. Disembark and go to your hotel to check in. Later go for a sightseeing tour. Stockholm is often called the “Beauty on Water” being built on 14 islands. See the City Hall (outside), constructed in the National Romantic style where each year on December 10th the Nobel price banquette takes place. See the Old Town, which is in direct contrast with today’s modern city centre.
The rest of the afternoon is free to wander around on your own. You have time to visit to the Vasa ship museum to see the warship Vasa – the only remaining, intact 17th century ship in the world.
Overnight stay in Stockholm.
Day 4 - Stockholm – Oslo
After breakfast go to the airport and fly from Stockholm to Oslo. Overnight stay in Oslo.
Day 5 - Oslo – Geilo
After breakfast go on the famous 'Norway in a Nutshell' trip. This unique tour takes you through some of the most magnificent scenery in and along the Norwegian Fjords!
Your first stop will be in Myrdal where you change to the special Flåm line, a masterpiece of engineering set in wild and wonderful countryside of high mountains and thundering waterfalls.
Dinner and overnight stay in Geilo.
Day 6 - Geilo – Bergen
After breakfast continue on the “Norway in a nutshell”
tour. In Flåm you board a boat that will take you on an about 2 hour’s tour on the Aurland fjord, an arm of the Sognefjord. This is one of the narrowest fjord inlets in Western Norway, surrounded by mountains up to 1800 m. Small farms lie dotted along the mountainsides. In Gudvangen you will be picked up by a bus that will take you to Voss where you change to a train that will take you to Bergen. On the way you will drive up the steep and spectacular Stalheimskleivane hairpin bends, from where you have a fantastic view of the Stalheim waterfall. Arrive in Bergen in the early afternoon.
Bergen is Norway's second largest city.
In the afternoon you are free to take an 8-minute ride to the top of Mount Fløyen (altitude 320 m) with a magnificent view over Bergen and the surrounding countryside. Overnight stay in Bergen.
Day 7 - Bergen - Copenhagen
Departure by air from Bergen to Copenhagen.
Go to your hotel and check in.
Copenhagen’s one-thousand-year history has been written by ambitious kings, inspiring artists and celebrated designers as is evident in its historical buildings, ancient streets, dozens of world-class museums and galleries.
Later go on a guided sightseeing tour of Copenhagen. Some of the fascinating sites include the new harbour of Nyhavn, the Royal Palace Amalienborg, the Gefion fountain and the wistful Little Mermaid. The rest of the afternoon is free to browse through the many fine shops throughout the city. Overnight stay in Copenhagen.
Day 8 - Copenhagen - return flight
Today it is time to say goodbye to Scandinavia. But there are options for you to see more of this delightful part of the world...

Rovaniemi in Finland
5 days / 4 nights
Rovaniemi is located at the confluence of Lapland’s mighty rivers Kemijoki and Ounasjoki.
It has always been a centre and a gateway to Finnish Lapland.
Rovaniemi has maintained contact with the wild and undisturbed surrounding countryside
and at the same time managed to develop a strong urban development.
Day 1 - Helsinki
Arrive in Helsinki and go to the hotel.
The afternoon at leisure to explore Helsinki on own. You should visit the famous market Square and get a feeling of the meeting point between the east and the west.
Overnight stay at a pleasant hotel in Helsinki.
Day 2 - Rovaniemi
In the morning go to the airport. Departure by air to Rovaniemi in Finnish Lapland. At the airport in Rovaniemi there will be a taxi to meet and take you to the hotel. In the afternoon visit Arktikum, a fascinating museum and science centre where you can learn about the people north of the Arctic Circle.
The rest of the afternoon is free to try various winter activities, such as skiing, skating and more. See below list of suggestions for activities.
Dinner and overnight stay at a nice hotel in Rovaniemi.
Day 3 - Rovaniemi
All day is at your leisure to discover Rovaniemi on your own.
Dinner and overnight stay at a nice hotel. In Rovaniemi.
Day 4 - Rovaniemi
All day is at your leisure to discover Rovaniemi on your own.
See below list of suggestions for activities.
Dinner and overnight stay in Rovaniemi.
Day 5 - Rovaniemi - Helsinki
After an early breakfast transfer to the airport and fly back to Helsinki.
Return in Helsinki with the possibility of one or more nights at a hotel and various sightseeing options.

The grandeur of Greece

Greece is a country of beautiful contradictions, a constant journey in time, from the present to the past and back again. Experience the confluence of cultures, colours and civilizations of this country with its rich historical past. See the landscape that has given the world thousands of postcard images but remains incredibly vibrant and impossible to capture. Explore the breathtaking scenery as you walk through the olive groves, through ancient sites, across beaches and rocky mountains. Come you explore your senses in Greece.

The Classic Favourite – Greece is a suggested holiday itinerary to this lovely land. You can combine this vacation with a holiday to Egypt and/or Turkey. Mercury Travels offers customized holidays to Greece and other heritage destinations. Come and experience the cradle of . Experience a holiday like never before.

THE CLASSIC FAVOURITE – GREECE
(7 nights/8 days)
Day 1 - Athens
Welcome to Athens, the capital of Greece. On arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free. Overnight in Athens.
Day 2 - Athens
The morning is set aside for a sightseeing tour of Athens which includes a visit to the Acropolis and its museum. Seeing the rock of Acropolis and the ruins of the Parthenon, rising majestically above it, fills you with a sense of wonder. Explore these majestic ruins and spend the rest of the day at leisure. Overnight in Athens.
Day 3 - Athens/Aegina/Poros/Hydra
Post breakfast this morning, you are transferred to the Trocadero harbour to embark your ship for a full day cruise to the Saronic Gulf Islands of Aegina, Poros and Hydra. Visit the Aegina island with its sandy coves sheltered by oaks, cypresses and wild olive trees. Cruise along the streets of the pretty island of Poros. View the fascinating architecture of the historical mansions in Hydra. Lunch is included. Later this evening, it is time to return to the hotel. Overnight in Athens.
Day 4 - Athens/Olympia
This morning, you depart on your four day classical tour. Take a brief halt at the Corinth Canal which connects the Aegean with the Ionian Sea. Visit Nauplion, a beautiful town by the seaside, which houses the Theatre of Epidaurus, world famous for its acoustics. Then drive to Ancient Mycenae and visit the Archaelogical Site and Tomb of Agamemnon. Drive to Olympia through central Peloponnese. Overnight in Olympia
Day 5 – Olympia/Delphi
Visit the archaeological site of Olympian Zeus, the Ancient Stadium and the Archaeological Museum, before driving onwards to Delphi. Overnight in Delphi.
Day 6 – Delphi/Kalambaka
Explore the Archaeological Museum of Delphi. Drive onward to Kalambaka, a small town built of the majestic grey rocks and crowned by the Meteora Monasteries. Overnight in Kalambaka.
Day 7 – Kalambaka/Meteora/Athens
In the morning visit the Meteora Monasteries which stand suspended between earth and sky, on top of granite rocks. The monasteries, built in the Byzantine era, contain priceless historical and religious treasures. Your classical tour ends with your return to Athens. Overnight in Athens.
Day 8 – Depart Athens
It is time to bid farewell to Greece. You are transferred to the airport to catch your flight home.

Islands in the sun!

Welcome to the closest you can get to paradise! Mauritius, Maldives and Seychelles are the three jewels of the Indian Ocean. Vacation here like you have never before. Tread the softest and whitest sand that you may have only dreamt of. Each of these islands has its own distinct personality. . Stay at any of the fabulous resorts these islands offer. Experience the stunning sunsets. Revel in the tranquility and the air of romance. Feel the magic all around you.

Mercury Travels offers customized holidays to the islands of the Maldives, Mauritius and Seychelles in the Indian Ocean and other fabulous destinations. Come, experience the ocean the way you want to.

MALDIVES (3 nights/4 days)
Day 1 - Arrive Male
Arrive into Male, the Capital of the Paradise Country of Maldives. On arrival, you are met transferred to your resort, by boat/sea plane (depending on the resort). Check in and the rest of the day is free for you to relax and soak in the fresh air and the unbelievably azure blue waters that so unbelievable!!!!
Overnight at the resort in Maldives.
Day 2 – On the Island
Wake up to a lazy breakfast and loll around for the rest of the day by the beach or at the pool. Spend time snorkelling or admiring the fabulous undersea life this reef has to offer you!! Maldives is the perfect place to unwind. In the evenings, the place comes alive with live bands, disco and other nightlife activities. Overnight at the resort in Maldives.
Day 3 – On the Island
It is your third day in this paradise…a day to relax and enjoy the beauty around you. If you are an avid diver there are some excellent Dive Sites available. If you are not, well you can still get a course in diving by professional PADI experts. Spend the rest of the day on the white sands or by the pool. Overnight at the resort in Maldives.
Day 4 – Depart Male
Post breakfast, it is time for you to be transferred to the Airport to board your flight back home.



MAURITIUS (6 nights/7 days)
Day 1 - Arrive Mauritius
Arrive into the beautiful island country of Mauritius. On arrival you are met and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to unwind and take in the salubrious environs around you. Later in the evening, we recommend you make a trip to the Grand Baie area or the Waterfront area, which is dotted by haute cafés and abundant entertainment. Overnight in Mauritius.
Day 2 - Mauritius
This morning, you are taken on a full day tour to the Ile Aux Cerfs. You can indulge in water sports, para-sailing and the other water games. The tour terminates at the hotel, later in the evening. Overnight in Mauritius.
Day 3 - Mauritius
The day is free for you to check out the various optional tours that Mauritius offers. Try the Undersea Walk - a lifetime experience of walking on the sea bed!!! Try the Le Nesse, a semi submersible in which you can sit and watch the marine life, with the safety of the glass around you. Overnight in Mauritius.
Day 4 - Mauritius
A trip to Mauritius would be incomplete if you do not visit the Pamplemousses Garden which houses the giant water lilies. This is a full day trip and also takes you to Port Louis where you can spend some time shopping. Overnight in Mauritius.
Day 5 - Mauritius
You could try a cruise around the Island or just sit and relax by the sea or the pool and pamper yourself with the amenities your hotel has to offer you. Dinner is at the Hotel. Overnight in Mauritius.
Day 6 - Mauritius
Wake up to a relaxed breakfast this morning and enjoy the rest of the day either on the beach or in the pool. Overnight in Mauritius.
Day 7 – Depart Mauritius
Your holiday comes to an end today. It is time to pack and check out of your hotel this morning. You are escorted to the Airport to catch your flight back home.


SEYCHELLES (3 nights/4 days)
Day 1: Arrive Mahe
Your holiday to the sun kissed island of Seychelles begins today. On arrival at Mahe, you are met and transferred to your resort. The rest of the day is free for you to explore this island on your own. Overnight at the Resort.
Day 2: Resort on the Island
Wake up to the sound of the waves lashing gently against the shores and the chirping of the birds…..this indeed is the closest you can get to paradise. Enjoy a delicious and relaxed breakfast at the resort. Spend the rest of the day pampering yourself to the various amenities available at your resort, swim, snorkel or just relax by the sea! Soak in the ambience!! Overnight at the resort.
Day 3: Resort on the Island
Seychelles has many virgin beaches around Mahe and this morning, following breakfast, you are taken on a full day Mahe Discovery Tour. The tour terminates in the evening and reaches you back at your resort. We recommend you opting for a quiet dinner at any of the restaurants your resort. Overnight at the resort.
Day 4: Depart Mahe
Wake up to a lazy breakfast this morning. Later in the day, you are escorted to the Airport to connect to your flight back home.

Alluring Australia

(Though there may be a little strain between the two countries, India and Australia, both are still fabulous destinations for the traveller. Go on, take a vacation and find out for yourself!)

Australia is one of the most spectacular countries in the world with its fabled outback, distinctive outdoor culture, rich wildlife, vibrant beaches, iconic architecture and sophisticated cities. The salubrious atmosphere at Cairns, the pristine beaches of the Great Barrier Reef, the luxury of the Hayman Island resort, the theme parks at the Gold Coast, the great shopping at Melbourne, the unique blend of old and new at Sydney, not to forget the vibrant beaches and dolphins at Port Stephens, makes Australia one of the most alluring holiday destinations. No wonder you want to go there! And we at Mercury Travels promise you a pleasurable vacation unlike anything you’ve experienced before.

Escape To Australia is a suggested itinerary. You can extend your holiday with a short holiday inNew Zealand or Tahiti. Mercury Travels offers customized holidays to Australia and other captivating destinations. Come and see Australia the way you want you to.

ESCAPE TO AUSTRALIA
Cairns/Gold Coast/Hayman Island/Sydney/Melbourne (14 nights/15 days)

Day 1 – Arrive Cairns
Your magical holiday Down Under begins with your arrival into Cairns this morning via Sydney. You are met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Check in and relax. Overnight in Cairns.

Day 2 – Cairns
Your day begins at dawn with a ride on board the Hot Air Balloon for a fabulous aerial view of Cairns. Enjoy a champagne breakfast upon descent and proceed to The Great Barrier Reef, one of the natural wonders of the world. Enjoy a full day excursion with lunch on board the Big Cat Cruise Liner. The rest of the evening is at leisure. Overnight in Cairns.

Day 3 – Cairns/Hayman Island
Catch a flight to the beautiful Hamilton Island. Upon arrival, you are whisked away to a resort at the fabulous Hayman Island in Queensland’s tropical north. Overnight in Hayman Island.

Day 4 – Hayman Island
Wake up to a lazy breakfast and have the entire day to yourself to spend by the beach or just sit by the pool and relax. A truly rejuvenating and blissful feeling! Overnight in Hayman Island.

Day 5 – Hayman Island/Brisbane/Gold Coast
After breakfast, the speedboat will reach you to the airport at Hamilton Island for your flight to Brisbane. Upon arrival, you are met and transferred to the Gold Coast. Check into your hotel and the rest of the day is at leisure. In the evening, you are escorted to the Conrad Jupiters Hotel to witness the Extravaganza Show (shows on Monday to Saturday only). After the show, do make your way back to the hotel on your own. Overnight in Gold Coast.

Day 6 – Gold Coast
Gold Coast, with its excellent theme parks, is called the Disneyland of the South Pacific. Spend the entire day at Dreamworld trying out some of the tallest and fastest thrill rides in the world. After a brief rest at your hotel, you arrive at the pier for a relaxing two hour sunset cruise, accompanied with champagne. Experience the calm water and the scintillating sights before you make your own way back to the hotel. Overnight in Gold Coast.

Day 7 – Gold Coast
Experience the magic and excitement of the Warner Bros. Movie World. The fun and adventure of your favourite action movies is brought to life on the amazing rides here. After a brief rest at your hotel, you are escorted to the Glowworm Night Tour for a magical experience that includes a guided walk through the rainforest and the National Park, followed by supper. Overnight in Gold Coast.

Day 8 – Gold Coast/Brisbane/Melbourne
After an early breakfast you fly to Melbourne. On your arrival in the afternoon, you are met and transferred to your hotel with the rest of the day free. Overnight in Melbourne.

Day 9 – Melbourne/Great Ocean Road
This morning you drive down the scenic Great Ocean Road to the fabulous Seafarers Gateway. Check into the resort and spend the rest of the day soaking in the exclusive views and the private beach. Overnight along the Great Ocean Road.

Day 10 – Great Ocean Road/Melbourne
Wake up to a lazy and pampered breakfast, after which you are escorted to a private helicopter ride for a birds eye view of the Great Ocean Road. Head back to Melbourne, check in at the hotel and the rest of the day is free. Explore the city and its great shopping options, on your own. In the evening, you are treated to a special tramcar dinner following which you could spend time at the casino. Overnight in Melbourne.

Day 11 – Melbourne
A great city with loads to experience! Enjoy a full day trip covering Melbourne’s premier food and wine destination, Yarra Valley and the Dandenong Ranges that are perched high above the city amid the ancient ferns and trees. Upon returning back to the city, relax at the hotel. We recommend you take a water taxi to the fabulous waterfront and dine al fresco by the harbours edge. Overnight in Melbourne.

Day 12 – Melbourne/Sydney
Fly to Sydney in the morning. You are met and transferred to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day at leisure. In the evening you are escorted to the Victoria Wharf to experience the magic of the harbour by night and to enjoy an Indian dinner aboard the Deluxe Showboat Dinner Cruise. Overnight in Sydney.

Day 13 – Sydney/Port Stephens
After a leisurely breakfast, you are transferred to an exclusive resort at Port Stephens. Enjoy a dolphin cruise in the afternoon and have the rest of the evening free. Overnight in Port Stephens.

Day 14 – Port Stephens/Sydney
Post breakfast, you are transferred back to Sydney. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and spend the rest of the day exploring the city on your own. Overnight in Sydney.

Day 15 – Depart Sydney
Your Australian Escape ends today and you are escorted to the airport to board your flight back home.

Fabulous France

France is a country of rich diversity and outstanding natural beauty. It presents a kaleidoscope of landscapes, sightseeing and culture - fortified hill towns, spellbinding historic cities, soaring cathedrals, medieval hamlets, famed museums and enthralling can-can shows. From romantic Paris to the rolling vineyards of Champagne; from the glamorous French Riviera and the beaches of Cannes and Nice to the Alpine slopes of Chamonix; the beautiful landscape of Alsace to the retail therapy of Lyon; France promises to allure and tantalize you.

Most visitors begin or end their holiday in France with a stay at Paris. The best way to explore Paris is to do so at your own pace with the one-day Hop On Hop Off pass. You could get off at the stop near Montparnasse Tower for an amazing view of the city from the tower. Dine at the stylish cafés along the Champs-Élysées. An evening boat cruise along the River Seine is your opportunity to take in Paris by night, where all the monuments are illuminated and the scene is nothing short of being magical.

Another must-do, when in Paris, is a trip to the village of Montmartre to visit the fascinating Sacré-Cœur Basilica. Spend an evening in Montmartre, enjoying a leisurely dinner while enjoying a fabulous view of the city of Paris below. Of course, being the fashion capital of the world you cannot but help spend time at the great shopping malls like the Printemps or the Galleries Lafayette or the many other haute couture shopping places in the city.

Dijon is a city with great ambience and character. The high-speed TGV train is best way to travel from Paris to Dijon. A splendid city to walk around and soak in the salubrious climes, Dijon is also famous for its mustard that you can buy at some of the shops stocking and selling them. If you are a museum buff, you can spend endless hours at the Musee des Beaux housed in the eastern wing of the Palais des Ducs.

Lyon, a UNESCO World Heritage city, is conveniently located close to Dijon. The Lyon Card gives you free access to all bus, metro, tramway and funicular lines of Lyon and discounted admissions to many museums, shows, and some shopping discounts too. Visit the Tête d’Or Park, its zoo and many attractions, City Aventure and Fourvière Aventures acrobatic parks, Grand Lyon Aquarium, the large safari parks and zoos, and the Domaine de Lacroix Laval park are all highly appreciated play and discovery areas particularly if you have children with you. Shopping in Lyon is an easy pleasure, part of the city’s art of living. The city, illuminated with a thousand lights by night, is truly spectacular! The day does not end for those who are caught in the whirl of Lyon’s famed nightlife.

No visit to France is complete without a stay at Nice, the capital of the French Riviera. Stroll around the Promenade des Anglais and its narrow bylanes and cobble-stone pathways. Cannes, Monaco and Monte Carlo are at easy distance. Enjoy the good life at Cannes as you rub shoulders with the socialites. Spend time at Monaco, home to the Rainer family and the Grand Prix Formula One race circuit. Visit Monte Carlo famed for its exquisite casino and the beautiful gardens.

The French taste for the douceur de vivre, or 'sweetness of life', marks the sumptuous French cuisine. Breakfast on steaming coffee and freshly baked croissants and crepes at a buzzing Paris boulevard. Sip a classic Burgundy at a traditional village square. Feast on extravagant truffle-laced dishes in cosy Bordeaux. Feast on an array of cheeses, soufflés and delicious patisserie on offer across the country.

There are so many ways to experience France. You could enjoy a self-drive vacation, or use the excellent train connections, or choose a coach tour of the country. The best way to see France is to experience it like a local…visit its wonderful cities, stroll across the beautiful countryside, visit its medieval villages and linger for a while where it pleases you.

Mercury Travels customizes your holiday so that you don’t just see a country like a tourist, but experience it like a local. France is truly charming, fabulous and fascinating. Experience her on a holiday that is specially crafted by Mercury Travels just for you!