Ireland for ever!

Ireland is steeped in history and can trace its heritage to almost 5,000 thousand years ago with archaeological sites like Newgrange, near Dublin and the Ceide Fields in County Mayo. Ireland is also famous for its warm welcome – its 'Cead Mile Failte' or '“One Hundred Thousand Welcomes'. How better to experience Ireland than with our Georgian Farmhouse tour, where history and the warm Irish welcome can be combined! The Georgian Period was from the late 1700’s through to the end of the 1800’s and coincided with the rule of the various King Georges throughout that period. Our programme is based on bed and full Irish breakfast ccommodation in en-suite bedrooms in stylish Georgian or other period/historic farmhouses. The accommodations we use are generally those whose basic structures would have been built from the late 1700’s to the late 1800’s and have been occupied by the same families since then; many of them are still full working farms.

Georgian Farmhouse tour
DAY 1: Dublin Airport and Transfer to Wicklow (85km)
Arrive at Dublin Airport and drive to Wicklow area – depending on time of arrival, there may be some time for local touring or perhaps a visit to the 6th century monastic settlement at Glendalough or Powerscourt House and Gardens.
Overnight in Wicklow.
DAY 2: Dublin’s Fair City (145km)
Travel to Dublin city where you can trace the history of this colourful city from early Viking origins, through the mediaeval magnificence of St. Patrick’s Cathedral – visits to Dublinia, Guinness Storehouse, Jameson Irish Whiskey Distillery, Trinity College and much, much more. Return to Wicklow for overnight.
DAY 3: Medieval Kilkenny (90km)
Travel to Kilkenny area. En-route you can visit the Irish National Stud and Japanese Gardens in Kildare. Continue on to the medieval city of Kilkenny where perhaps you could enjoy a walking tour of the city, which commences at Shee Alms House, now the tourist office, but formerly offering shelter for the poor of Kilkenny during the middle ages and continue through the narrow streets and slip ways where you can see many of the historic sites Kilkenny is famous for. You can also visit Kilkenny Castle which stands on a majestic site beside the river Nore. This magnificent castle, dating from 1172, lies in a beautiful 50-acre park. The Gobelin tapestries and Great Hall have been restored to reveal their former splendour.
Overnight in the Kilkenny area.
DAY 4: Cork & West Cork or Kerry (175km)
This morning leave Kilkenny and travel south towards Cork, Ireland’s second largest city. En-route, why not visit the Old Midleton Distillery and learn how Irish whiskey is made or kiss the world famous Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle and acquire the gift of eloquence? Continue on into the spectacular west Cork region where many fishing towns and villages dot the southwest coastline. Overnight in either west Cork or Kerry region.
DAY 5: Ring of Kerry (235km)
Today tour one of Ireland’s loveliest districts, the Ring of Kerry. Poets, painters, writers and musicians have all tried to convey the beauty of this area. Mountains, valleys and lakes blend into a palette of scenic splendour. A delightful day includes a drive along the broad, dramatic coastline of the Iveragh Peninsula and through the charming villages and towns of Killorglin, Cahirciveen, Waterville and Irishspeaking Sneem. Why not visit Muckross House, a magnificent
Victorian mansion and one of Ireland’s leading stately homes? The gardens at Muckross House are renowned world-wide for their beauty; in particular they are noted for their fine collections of azaleas and rhododendrons.
Overnight in either west Cork or Kerry region.
DAY 6: Limerick/Tipperary Region (140km)
Today travel towards the Limerick/Tipperary area; perhaps visiting Tralee and the Dingle Peninsula en-route. In Tralee why not visit the Kerry Museum, which traces the history of Kerry from 5,000BC to the present day? Continue on to Limerick and the Shannon Region. In Limerick why not visit King John’s Castle or the Hunt Museum or continue to the nearby village of Bunratty and visit Bunratty Castle & Folk Park where you can see Irish village life around the 1900’s created in the Folk Park.

Overnight in Limerick/Tipperary area

DAY 7: Kildare/Meath Area (165km)
Returning to the Dublin region today, why not visit Birr Castle Demesne where you can visit the gardens or see one of the world’s largest telescopes? Time permitting, why not visit Dublin again for some last minute shopping or sightseeing. Overnight in Kildare/Meath area
DAY 8: Depart from Dublin Airport (85km)

Tempting Turkey

Turkey is a land of glorious beaches, colourful history, hospitable people and fascinating cultural contrasts that reflect its unique situation. Bordered by six countries and four different seas, it has one foot firmly in Europe and the other in the Middle East. The country has a magnificent past with a rich heritage, from thirteen successive civilizations, spanning 10,000 years. Istanbul, former capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires, juxtaposes history and oriental splendour with contemporary style. Domes and minarets form a sparkling skyline alongside smart hotels, glamorous nightspots and trendy galleries. Turkey’s 8,000 km of sandy coastline is dotted with ruins from ancient civilizations. Ephesus is the best-preserved classical city on the Mediterranean. The mountainous interior offers hiking, skiing and surreal volcanic landscapes.Come and allow us to help you discover tempting Turkey.

Simply Turkey is a suggested holiday itinerary to Turkey. You can combine this vacation with a holiday to Egypt and/or Greece. Mercury Travels offers customized holidays Turkey and other heritage destinations. Come and experience the cradle of civilization the way you want to. Be sure to experience a holiday like never before.

SIMPLY TURKEY
ISTANBUL/CAPPADOCIA (4 nights/5 days)
Day 1 – Arrive Istanbul
Welcome to Istanbul, the capital of Turkey. On arrival, you are met and transferred to your hotel. Check in and relax for a while. Later in the evening, you are escorted for an evening cruise along the spectacular Bosphorus, the winding strait separating Europe & Asia. The Bosphorus coastline is a delightful mix of the past and the present, with the grand splendour of the marble palaces and fortresses along with the quaint beauty of the ancient wooden mansions and small fishing villages. Overnight in Istanbul.
Day 2 – Istanbul/Kayseri/Cappadocia
The day is earmarked for a city tour that covers the must-see sights. Visit the Suleymaniye Mosque built in the 16th century by Sinan, the famous Ottoman architect of all times. Then onward to the Byzantine Hippodrome which houses the Obelisk brought from Egypt by Theodosius and the Serpent Column taken from Delphi by Constantine. Visit the Blue Mosque with its six minarets and 109 feet high dome. The last stop is the Grand Covered Bazaar, dating back to 15th century, which houses over 4,000 shops under one roof. In the early evening, you are transferred to the airport for your flight to Kayseri. On arrival, you are met and escorted to the cave city of Cappadocia. Enjoy dinner at your hotel. Overnight in Cappadocia.
Day 3 – Cappadocia
This morning is set aside for your visit to the Dervent Valley, Pasabagi Fairy Chimneys and Avanos Village. For millions of years, the mighty volcanoes of the Central Anatolian Plateau erupted and spewed their contents creating interesting rock formations, known as ‘fairy chimneys’, formed as the result of the erosion due to the flood waters and winds. Enjoy lunch at a typical local restaurant before visiting the Pigeon Valley, the natural citadel of Uchisar followed by the Goreme Open Air Museum with its pink, rose and white tapering stone columns. Visit some caves on the cliffs to see Byzantine frescoes decorating early Christian churches. Enjoy dinner at your hotel. Overnight in Cappadocia.
Day 4 – Cappadocia/Kayseri/Istanbul
Post breakfast continue your the tour by visiting Kaymakli or Derinkuyu Underground City; carved out of rock and completely self contained. More than 200 people lived on each of seven floors with the last one 250 feet underground. Then see the citadel of Ortahisar and the old Cavusin Village and its cave houses. Lunch followed by a walking tour of Red Valley and a visit to Urgup Wine House.
At around 18:00 hrs you are driven to Kayseri airport for your flight to Istanbul, where you are met and are transferred to your hotel for the night. Overnight in Istanbul.
Day 5 – Depart Istanbul
Following breakfast at hotel, you are transferred to the airport for your flight back home.

New Zealand: Adventure in the islands

New Zealand’s spectacularly beautiful landscape includes vast mountain chains, steaming volcanoes, sweeping coastlines, deeply indented fiords, gorgeous beaches, lush rainforests and fascinating animal and plant life. It is a haven for those seeking rejuvenation and relaxation as well as a playground for thrill seekers and adventurers. Its temperate climate makes it an ideal year-round holiday destination.

This is a great country for self drive holidays. You do not need an International Driving Permit, as your Indian Driving Licence is recognized by the authorities. The vehicles have right-hand drive and you can choose from mid–size 1.5L cars to high-end 4-wheel-drive vehicles. The light traffic, well-maintained roads and the passing scenery makes driving a pleasure. So get ready for an exciting motoring holiday down the vast landscape of New Zealand.

New Zealand Self Drive is a suggested self drive itinerary. You can extend your holiday with a short holiday at Australia or Tahiti. Mercury Travels offers customized holidays to New Zealand and other captivating destinations. Come and see New Zealand the way you want you to!

New Zealand Self Drive
North & South Island (17 nights/18 days)
Day 1 – Arrive Auckland
Welcome to Auckland, the City of Sails. You are met and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free for you at leisure. Overnight in Auckland.
Day 2 – Auckland/Bay of Islands
Following breakfast, your chosen rental car will be delivered to you at your hotel. Drive north, for around 4 hours, over Auckland’s Harbour Bridge, along the Hibiscus Coast and through Whangarei – Northland’s only major city and port, to reach the fabulous Bay of Islands. Upon arrival, check in and relax. We recommend you drive down to the historic Treaty Grounds where the Waitangi Treaty was signed, giving birth to the country of New Zealand. Overnight in Bay of Islands.
Day 3 – Bay of Islands
The Kings Coach Company will pick you up from your hotel and take you on a full day trip to Cape Reinga and the 90 Mile Beach. Learn about the Bay and the history of the Maoris. Return to the hotel later this evening. Overnight in Bay of Islands.
Day 4 – Bay of Islands/Auckland
Make your way to the pier at around 0800 hours to board the Kings Ferry for a cruise into the waters and to the Hole in the Rock - the icon of the area. You can choose to get off and spend some time midway at the island of Russell with its quaint landscape and great restaurants. On your return, drive back to Auckland. Overnight in Auckland.
Day 5 – Auckland/Coromandel
Drive down the scenic south route to the Coromandel Peninsula. Stop over at the historic township of Thames, famous for its gold mining in the 1990s. Continue down the Pacific Coastal Highway to the township of Coromandel. A highly recommended optional here is the Driving Creek Train which takes you amidst the lush Kauri trees up the mountains for the most spectacular views of the Bay. Continue eastwards, over the semi tropical bush clad mountains to Mercury Bay. Check in and the rest of the evening is for you to relax and unwind. Overnight in Coromandel.
Day 6 – Coromandel
Post breakfast, indulge yourself either at the sandy Hahei Beach or visit the world famous Hot Water Beach with warm water bubbling out of the sand. The spectacular coastline of sandy beaches, coves and harbours provide boundless opportunities for fishing, boating and swimming. We recommend that you the take a gentle farmland walk to visit the beautiful and romantic Cathedral Cove for a walk or a swim. At an added cost, you can arrange for boat transfers into the cove. Do stop for lunch at the Waves Café, located next to the Hot Water Beach. Overnight in Coromandel.
Day 7 – Coromandel/Rotorua
Its time for a long drive south through Pauanui, to the Bay of Plenty and onwards to Rotorua. There is a scent of sulphur in the air, and the spouting geysers, bubbling mudpools and warm geothermal pools create a keleidoscope of colour. Check into the hotel and relax. Overnight in Rotorua.
Day 8 – Rotorua
Post breakfast, drive back up north for a full day excursion to Whakatane from where you head off to the White Island. This is the country’s only active marine volcano and is located just off the main coast. It is an unforgettable experience but totally weather permitting. Overnight in Rotorua.
Day 9 – Rotorua
Start your day with a drive to the Agrodome for an entertaining show on sheep farming. Follow this up with a visit to Rainbow Springs to see the local flora and the breeding of kiwis. Then head off to the thermal geysers and mudpools at Waiotapo to soak in the world famous Champagne pool, coloured springs, bubbling mud, steaming ground, expansive vistas, huge volcanic craters and sinter terrace formations. Visit the village of Mitai for an authentic introduction to Maori culture - their homes, cuisine, attire, crafts and arts like the poi dance and spine tingling haka finale. Overnight in Rotorua.
Day 10 – Rotorua
Today is free for you enjoy at leisure. In the evening, drive to Hells Gate for a well deserved mudpool soak and some authentic spa treatments. A very strong recommendation is the unparalleled experience of a skydrive that you can take en route. Overnight in Rotorua.
Day 11 – Rotorua/Queenstown
Drive to the airport and drop off your rental car before flying to Queenstown - the adventure capital of New Zealand. Pick up a rental car from the airport counter and drive to your hotel. The rest of the evening is at leisure. Overnight in Queenstown.
Day 12 – Queenstown
The day is at leisure for you to indulge in any of the endless activities - from bungy jumping to jetboating, from white water rafting to four wheel driving, from cruising on lake Wakatipu to riding a gondola to the summit of Bob’s Peak, or simply enjoy the excellent shopping and dining available. Overnight in Queenstown.
Day 13 – Queenstown
Spend the day at leisure. We strongly recommend you enjoy the world famous Doubtful Sound experience with a cruise down the crystal clear waters of Lake Manapouri to experience some of Fiordland’s densest rainforest and the colourful alpine moss gardens, while keeping a lookout for the bottlenose dolphins, fur seals and rare penguins. Overnight in Queenstown.
Day 14 – Queenstown/Mt Cook
Drive past Lake Wakatipu through the central Otago Region to the small town of Twizel. Continue north along the shores of Lake Pukaki to Mt Cook, or as known in Maori Aorangi - the cloud piercer. Mt Cook boasts of some spectacular scenery and you can spend a relaxed day here. Overnight in Mt Cook.
Day 15 – Mt Cook/Farm Stay
Drive to the Church of the Good Shepherd and Lake Tekapo before travelling across the Cantebury plains to arrive at a typical New Zealand farm in Ashburton or Geraldine. Spend a memorable day experiencing life on a working farm by getting involved with the daily chores. Overnight on the farm.
Day 16 – Farm Stay/Christchurch
Wake up to hot scones and some great home made breakfast after which its time to bid farewell to your hosts and drive your way up to the Garden City of Christchurch. Check in and unwind for the rest of the day. Overnight in Christchurch.
Day 17 – Christchurch
Take a ride in the restored heritage Christchurch Tram for a view of the attractions of the inner city, including the Anglican Cathedral, Arts Centre, Art Gallery, Botanic Gardens, the Avon River and Cathedral Junction. A must do is the Snow and Ice Experience and the Antarctic storm at the outstanding Antarctic Centre. A recommended optional is the Skyline Gondola ride and an early morning Up Up Away hot air balloon flight. Overnight in Christchurch.
Day 18 – Depart Christchurch
Its time to bid farewell to New Zealand today. Catch up on some last minute shopping before driving to the airport to return your car to the car rental company, in time for your onward flight.

Stunning South Africa

South Africa is several countries rolled in one. Cape Town intrigues visitors with its glorious beaches, enchanting vineyards, striking Table Mountain and rugged landscapes. Sip wine at Spier and watch the sun set as you’ve never seen it before. Not to forget the mesmerizing wilderness of Kruger National Park, teeming with exotic game and the natural beauty of Knysna. This is an exhilarating land, that will reward your senses and your soul to an unimaginable degree. South Africa with its diverse experiences, promises a wholesome holiday experience.

The South Africa itinerary is a suggested holiday itinerary. You can extend your stay with the suggested extension holidays at Sun City Resort or at Zimbabwe’s Victoria Falls. Mercury Travels offers customized holidays to South Africa and other captivating destinations. Come and see Africa the way you want you to.

SOUTH AFRICA
Johannesburg/Cape Town/Spier/Cape Town/Oudtshoorn/Knysna/Kruger/Johannesburg (11 nights/12 days)
Day 1 – Arrive Johannesburg/Cape Town
Arrive into Johannesburg and take a connecting flight to Cape Town. On arrival, you are met and transferred to your hotel. Overnight in Cape Town.
Day 2 – Cape Town
Wake up to a leisurely breakfast. Set off on a half day Mother City Tour that includes visits to the Houses of Parliament, the Castle, the South African Museum and other historical sights. The cable car ride takes you to the Table Mountain for a breathtaking view of the city. The Victoria and Alfred Waterfront is the last stop before you make your own way to the hotel. Overnight in Cape Town.
Day 3 – Cape Town
Set off on a full day Peninsula Tour that introduces you to spectacular Cape Peninsula, also called the Fairest Cape. Take a leisurely walk in the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. Travel past Sea Point and Camps Bay, past the famous beaches of Clifton and Llandudno, towards Hout Bay. Drive along the Atlantic Seaboard. Pass through Noordhoek and Scarborough. Visit the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve and Seal Island. Drive along the Indian Ocean coastline, where you can visit the beautiful Boulders Beach, and perhaps sit among the famous colony of Jackass Penguins. Thereafter, enjoy a short stop at the naval port of Simon’s Town before returning to your hotel. Overnight in Cape Town.
Day 4 – Cape Town/Spier
This morning, you head out into the wine growing area of Spier. This is a great place to enjoy nature and unwind. Check into your resort and spend the rest of the day soaking in the ambience. Overnight in Spier.
Day 5 – Spier
After a lazy breakfast, you can indulge in any of the variety of leisure options including visiting the Wine Centre, the open-air theatre, the swimming pools, the spa, craft exhibitions, wildlife encounters or even wine tasting on horseback! Overnight in Spier.
Day 6 – Spier/Oudtshoorn
Set out from Spier and drive down to the Mossel Bay via the Robinson Pass to Oudtshoorn. Oudtshoorn is also known as the Feather Capital of the World, thanks to its huge ostrich industry. Overnight in Oudtshoorn.
Day 7 – Oudtshoorn/Knysna
Visit the Crocodile and Cheetah Park and take pictures of yourself with the cheetah. Check out the Cango Caves, regarded one of South Africa’s most spectacular natural wonders, to marvel at the icy formations underground and then head off to the ostrich farm. You then proceed onward to Knysna. Check into your hotel and spend the rest of evening at leisure. Overnight in Knysna.
Day 8 – Knysna
Take a cruise on the Knysna Lagoon. Guarding the lagoon are the Heads, imposing sandstone cliffs that provide powerful protection against the Indian Ocean. Knysna’s forests, marshes and pristine beaches are home to a variety of rare animals and birds. Proceed to the Tsitsikamma National Park and spend the rest of the day discovering the joys of the town’s many art galleries, craft shops and coffee bars. Overnight in Knysna.
Day 9 – Knysna/Kruger
Catch your flight from George Airport to Kruger. The fabulous National Park of Kruger is home to an impressive number of species: 336 trees, 49 fish, 34 amphibians, 114 reptiles, 507 birds and 147 mammals. Upon arrival, you are met and are driven into the interiors of Kruger, to your private game reserve lodge. Post lunch, its time to experience the game drive you have been waiting for. Overnight in Kruger.
Day 10 – Kruger
Wake up at dawn and leave for a game drive into the jungle, prior to sunrise. Return to your lodge for some sumptuous breakfast. Enjoy two more game drives during the day. Overnight in Kruger.
Day 11 – Kruger/Johannesburg
Catch a flight to Johannesburg. Upon arrival you are met and escorted to your hotel. Overnight in Johannesburg.
Day 12 – Depart Johannesburg
Your holiday comes to an end today. You are escorted to the Johannesburg Airport for your flight back home or you could opt to extend your stay with additional holiday options.

SOUTH AFRICA EXTENSIONS
Sun City Break (2 nights/3 days)
Day 1 – Arrive Sun City
This morning, on arrival into Johannesburg, you met and transferred by road to the fabulous Sun City complex. The drive to the Sun City complex, which borders the Pilanesberg National Park, takes about two hours. On arrival into Sun City, check into your hotel and relax for the rest of the day. Loads of evening entertainment awaits you here. Overnight in Sun City.
Day 2 – Sun City
Sun City offers myriad entertainment and relaxation opportunities, as well
as enough attractions and activities to keep you busy. From slots to safaris; theatre extravaganza to a games arcade for children; horseriding to golf; The Valley of Waves to The Lost City... the resort facilities are endless. The Palace of the Lost City Casino has over 850 slot machines and 38 gaming tables with a huge array of gaming choices. Check out the Gary Player Country Club and the Lost City Golf Course - both international-standard 18-hole golf courses. The Lost City Golf courses is noted for the crocodiles in the water feature of the 13th hole. Overnight in Sun City.
Day 3 – Depart Sun City
Post breakfast, its time to depart for Johannesburg to catch your flight
back home.

ZIMBABWE’S VICTORIA FALLS (2 nights/3 days)
Day 1 – Arrive Victoria Falls
Welcome to Zimbabwe, the land of the fabulous Victoria Falls. Your flight from Johannesburg arrives this morning into Victoria Falls. Upon arrival you are met and transferred to your hotel. Check in and relax. Later in the evening, enjoy a stunning sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. Overnight at Victoria Falls.
Day 2 – Victoria Falls
This morning you set out to see the Falls up close. The Victoria Falls is one of the most spectacular natural wonders of the world. At 1,708 meters wide, it is the largest curtain of water in the world. It drops between 90 meters to 107 meters into the Zambezi Gorge. The local people call it Mosi-oa-Tunya, which means 'the smoke that thunders'. The sheer marvel of the towering column of spray, the thunder of the falling water, the terrifying abyss and the tranquil lagoons upstream in which hippos and deadly crocodiles lurk, leaves you speechless and wanting for more. Return to the hotel later in the afternoon. The evening is free for rest and leisure. Overnight at Victoria Falls.
Day 3 – Depart Victoria Falls
Wake up to breakfast this morning and its time for you to be escorted to the airport to catch your flight back to Johannesburg.