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AUSTRALIA / NEW ZEALAND

An Odyssey Down Under: Australia and New Zealand

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Program #16434RJ

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28 Days | 27 Nights
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EasyFor people looking to exercise their minds more than their bodies. There’s minimal walking and not too many stairs.
ModerateThese programs get you on your feet and include activities such as walking up to a mile in a day through a city and standing in a museum for a few hours.
ActiveFor people who enjoy walking as much as two miles a day, perhaps to explore historic neighborhoods or a nature trail.
Moderately ChallengingFor hardy explorers who enjoy a good physical challenge, spending most of their days on the go.
ChallengingGet ready to keep up with our highest-energy group. These demanding — and rewarding — programs are for seasoned outdoor enthusiasts.

Program Details > Daily Schedule

Elevation Note
The highest elevation reached is the Homer Tunnel en route to the Milford Sound (NZ) at 3,100 feet.

Itinerary for Feb 3 — Mar 2, 2013

Expand all
Day One: Sunday, February 03 - Departure 
Evening: Depart the USA on overnight flight to New Zealand.

Day Two: Monday, February 04 - In Flight 
In Transit: Cross International Dateline.

Close [ x ]
Type: Hotel

 Description: Situated in the centre of Auckland and within walking distance to picturesque Waitemata Harbour.

Contact info:
8 Customs Street
Auckland, 1010 New Zealand
phone: +64 -9-377-8920
web: www.accorhotels.com/gb/hotel-1721-mercure-auckland/index.shtml

Room amenities: Room facilities include tea/coffee making facilities, television, telephone, refrigerator, iron/ironing board, Internet & PC connection and hairdryer.

Facility amenities: Hotel facilities include a laundry service, fitness facilities and safety deposit box facilities

Smoking policy: No
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Elevator: Yes

Additional nights before: TBA in Preparatory Material
The Program Provider can arrange additional accommodation for participants arriving earlier or departing later than the group. A Request form will be included with the Preparatory Material, or participants can contact the Provider direct by email.

Day Three: Tuesday, February 05 - Arrivals & Orientation / Orientation walk 
Arrive To: Arrival processing then coach to hotel to check in. Welcome, introductions & program overview followed by a lecture introducing participants to Auckland.

Lunch: In the hotel's top-floor dining room with stunning views of Auckland Harbour and the central business district.

Afternoon: Excursion: Guided orientation walk through city centre. Remainder of afternoon at leisure.

Dinner: In the hotel's top-floor dining room with stunning views of Auckland Harbour and the central business district.

Evening: At leisure.

Lodging: Mercure Auckland

Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner
Close [ x ]
Type: Hotel

 Description: Situated in the centre of Auckland and within walking distance to picturesque Waitemata Harbour.

Contact info:
8 Customs Street
Auckland, 1010 New Zealand
phone: +64 -9-377-8920
web: www.accorhotels.com/gb/hotel-1721-mercure-auckland/index.shtml

Room amenities: Room facilities include tea/coffee making facilities, television, telephone, refrigerator, iron/ironing board, Internet & PC connection and hairdryer.

Facility amenities: Hotel facilities include a laundry service, fitness facilities and safety deposit box facilities

Smoking policy: No
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Elevator: Yes

Additional nights before: TBA in Preparatory Material
The Program Provider can arrange additional accommodation for participants arriving earlier or departing later than the group. A Request form will be included with the Preparatory Material, or participants can contact the Provider direct by email.

Day Four: Wednesday, February 06 - Introduction to New Zealand History / Harbour Cruise / City... 
Introduction to New Zealand History / Harbour Cruise / City Orientation / Auckland Museum.

Breakfast: In the hotel's top-floor dining room with stunning views of Auckland Harbour and the central business district.

Morning: Lecture: Introduction to New Zealand History. Excursion: A yacht cruise on Auckland's magnificent Waitemata Harbour with views of the city and the surrounding volcanic cones. At the conclusion of the cruise we disembark at Auckland's maritime museum.

Lunch: At Eden Garden surrounded by delightful gardens created in an abandoned quarry nearly 50 years ago.

Afternoon: Field Trip: Orientation to Auckland city. Field Trip: Guided tour of Auckland War Memorial Museum.

Dinner: Own arrangements - a chance to sample Auckland's cuisine at your leisure. The Viaduct Basin, formerly the home of the America’s Cup, has a variety of cafes and restaurants a short walk from the hotel.

Evening: At leisure.

Lodging: Mercure Auckland

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Close [ x ]
Type: Hotel

 Description: Situated in the centre of Auckland and within walking distance to picturesque Waitemata Harbour.

Contact info:
8 Customs Street
Auckland, 1010 New Zealand
phone: +64 -9-377-8920
web: www.accorhotels.com/gb/hotel-1721-mercure-auckland/index.shtml

Room amenities: Room facilities include tea/coffee making facilities, television, telephone, refrigerator, iron/ironing board, Internet & PC connection and hairdryer.

Facility amenities: Hotel facilities include a laundry service, fitness facilities and safety deposit box facilities

Smoking policy: No
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Elevator: Yes

Additional nights before: TBA in Preparatory Material
The Program Provider can arrange additional accommodation for participants arriving earlier or departing later than the group. A Request form will be included with the Preparatory Material, or participants can contact the Provider direct by email.

Day Five: Thursday, February 07 - Auckland's Geology / Explore the North Coast 
Breakfast: In the hotel's top-floor dining room with stunning views of Auckland Harbour and the central business district.

Morning: Lecture: Geology of Auckland and its varied coastlines. Field Trip: Exploring Auckland's northern coastline to understand the variety of its coastal environment.

Lunch: At local restaurant.

Afternoon: Field Trip: Exploring Auckland's northern coastline continued.

Dinner: In the hotel's top-floor dining room with stunning views of Auckland Harbour and the central business district.

Evening: At leisure.

Lodging: Mercure Auckland

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Close [ x ]
Type: Hotel

 Contact info:
Fenton Street
Rotorua, 3010 New Zealand
phone: +64 -7-348-0199
web: http://www.millenniumhotels.co.nz/copthornerotorua/

Room amenities: Room facilities include tea/coffee making facilities, television, telephone, refrigerator, iron/ironing board and hairdryer.

Facility amenities: Hotel facilities include a heated swimming pool, spa, sauna, tennis court, gymnasium, guest laundry and safety deposit box facilities.

Smoking policy: No
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Elevator: Yes

Day Six: Friday, February 08 - Waitomo Glow-Worm Caves / Coach to Rotorua / City Orientation 
Breakfast: In the hotel's top-floor dining room with stunning views of Auckland Harbour and the central business district.

Morning: Coach transfer to Waitomo through Waikato's rolling green countryside.

Lunch: At a local orchard cafe in Waitomo.

Afternoon: Field Trip: Guided tour of the internationally-recognised Waitomo glowworm caves. Coach to Rotorua. Field Trip: Orientation to Rotorua.

Dinner: In the hotel.

Evening: At leisure.

Lodging: Copthorne Hotel Rotorua

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Close [ x ]
Type: Hotel

 Contact info:
Fenton Street
Rotorua, 3010 New Zealand
phone: +64 -7-348-0199
web: http://www.millenniumhotels.co.nz/copthornerotorua/

Room amenities: Room facilities include tea/coffee making facilities, television, telephone, refrigerator, iron/ironing board and hairdryer.

Facility amenities: Hotel facilities include a heated swimming pool, spa, sauna, tennis court, gymnasium, guest laundry and safety deposit box facilities.

Smoking policy: No
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Elevator: Yes

Day Seven: Saturday, February 09 - Waimangu Volcanic Valley / Maori Arts and Crafts / Kiwi House /... 
Waimangu Volcanic Valley / Maori Arts and Crafts / Kiwi House / Whakarewarewa Thermal Area / Maori Cultural Evening

Breakfast: In the hotel.

Morning: Field Trip/Class: Waimangu Volcanic Valley: volcanic New Zealand. Waimangu Volcanic Valley is the only geothermal system in the world wholly created as the direct result of a volcanic eruption - the Tarawera Eruption of 10 June 1886. Walk through this amazing volcanic landscape serenaded by the songs of the local native birdlife. Cruise on Lake Rotomohana, also formed as a result of the 1886 eruption.

Lunch: At local restaurant beside Rotorua's Government Gardens.

Afternoon: Field Trip/Class: Te Puia (Arts & Crafts Institute). Visit the Kiwi House to meet New Zealand's national symbol - the flightless kiwi; view the Whakarewarewa thermal area, boiling mudpools & pohutu geyser; partake in a Maori cultural performance.

Dinner: Experience a hangi - the traditional Maori method of cooking food in the ground - at a Marae.

Evening: Enrichment Activity: Maori Cultural Evening.

Lodging: Copthorne Hotel Rotorua

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Close [ x ]
Type: Hotel

 Description: Set amongst manicured gardens on the tranquil shores of Lake Te Anau.

Contact info:
20 Lakefront Drive
Te Anau, 9600 New Zealand
phone: +64 -3-249-7421
web: www.millenniumhotels.co.nz/kingsgateteanau/index.html

Room amenities: Room facilities include tea/coffee making facilities, television, telephone, refrigerator, hairdryer and electric blankets.

Facility amenities: Hotel facilities include a guest laundry, foreign exchange and safety deposit box facilities.

Smoking policy: No
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Day Eight: Sunday, February 10 - Flight to Invercargill then coach to Te Anau / Course Overview / Ata... 
Flight to Invercargill then coach to Te Anau / Course Overview / Ata Whenua Shadowland - Fiordland on Film

Breakfast: In the hotel.

Morning: Coach to Rotorua Domestic Airport for flight to Invercargill.

Lunch: At local restaurant.

Afternoon: Coach to Te Anau with course overview and introduction to the Southern Lakes en route. Coach to Ata Whenua Shadowland - Fiordland on Film.

Dinner: In the hotel.

Evening: At leisure.

Lodging: Kingsgate Hotel Te Anau

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Close [ x ]
Type: Hotel

 Description: The Copthorne Hotel & Apartments Queenstown Lakeview is located within a 10 minute walk of the town centre and all rooms enjoy superb lake and mountain views.

Contact info:
88 Frankton Road
Queenstown, 9300 New Zealand
phone: +64 -3-442-7950
web: www.millenniumhotels.co.nz/copthornequeenstownlakeview/index.html

Room amenities: Room facilities include tea/coffee making facilities, television, telephone, refrigerator, iron/ironing board, electric blankets and hair dryer.

Facility amenities: Hotel facilities include a spa pool, guest laundry and safety deposit box facility.

Smoking policy: No
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Elevator: Yes

Day Nine: Monday, February 11 - Cruise on stunning Milford Sound / Coach to Queenstown 
Breakfast: In the hotel.

Morning: Field Trip/Class: Travel around the side of Lake Te Anau and through New Zealand's highest tunnel, the Homer Tunnel (where you may well meet a cheeky kea or two), en route to majestic Milford Sound. Cruise on Milford Sound, one of Fiordland's most picturesque fiords, where mountains stand tall right out of the sea and rainforest clings to sheer rock faces.

Lunch: On board cruise

Afternoon: Coach to Queenstown.

Dinner: In the hotel.

Evening: At leisure.

Lodging: Copthorne Hotel & Apartments Queenstown Lakeview

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Close [ x ]
Type: Hotel

 Description: The Copthorne Hotel & Apartments Queenstown Lakeview is located within a 10 minute walk of the town centre and all rooms enjoy superb lake and mountain views.

Contact info:
88 Frankton Road
Queenstown, 9300 New Zealand
phone: +64 -3-442-7950
web: www.millenniumhotels.co.nz/copthornequeenstownlakeview/index.html

Room amenities: Room facilities include tea/coffee making facilities, television, telephone, refrigerator, iron/ironing board, electric blankets and hair dryer.

Facility amenities: Hotel facilities include a spa pool, guest laundry and safety deposit box facility.

Smoking policy: No
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Elevator: Yes

Day Ten: Tuesday, February 12 - Lake Wakatipu Cruise including Walter Peak Sheep Station / Southland... 
Lake Wakatipu Cruise including Walter Peak Sheep Station / Southland in Perspective / Gondola to Skyline Restaurant overlooking Queenstown's stunning natural beauty

Breakfast: In the hotel.

Morning: Field Trip: Cruise on Lake Wakatipu on board the historic steamer TSS Earnslaw. Excursion: Visit Walter Peak High Country Farm for a guided tour and an insight into New Zealand farmers' working dogs.

Lunch: At Walter Peak Homestead.

Afternoon: Continue Field Trip: Cruise on Lake Wakatipu. Lecture: Southland in Perspective. Gondola to Skyline Restaurant on top of Bob's Peak for dinner overlooking Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables.

Dinner: At Skyline Restaurant.

Evening: Gondola to coach, then return to hotel. Remainder of evening at leisure.

Lodging: Copthorne Hotel & Apartments Queenstown Lakeview

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Close [ x ]
Type: Hotel

 Description: The hotel has stunning views of Wellington's delightful harbour. It is located on the edge of Wellington's central business district and offers easy, flat walking access to many of the city's attractions including Te Papa Tongarewa: Museum of New Zealand.

Contact info:
73 Roxburgh Street
Wellington, 6011 New Zealand
phone: +64 -4-385-0279
web: www.millenniumhotels.co.nz/copthorneorientalbay/index.html

Room amenities: Room facilities include tea/coffee making, ISD telephone, television, refrigerator, ironing facilities and electric blankets (upon request).

Facility amenities: Hotel facilities include a heated swimming pool, cocktail bar, guest laundry facilities and a safety deposit box.

Smoking policy: No
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Elevator: Yes

Day Eleven: Wednesday, February 13 - Flight to Wellington / Orientation to Wellington / City Lights 
Breakfast: In the hotel.

Morning: Coach to Queenstown Domestic Airport for flight to Wellington via Christchurch. Coach to Wellington accommodation.

Lunch: In the hotel.

Afternoon: Field Trip/Class: Orientation to Wellington, New Zealand's capital - cable car, botanic gardens, Boulton Street Memorials, Premier House.

Dinner: At accommodation.

Evening: Wellington city lights tour.

Lodging: Copthorne Hotel Wellington, Oriental Bay

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Close [ x ]
Type: Hotel

 Description: The hotel has stunning views of Wellington's delightful harbour. It is located on the edge of Wellington's central business district and offers easy, flat walking access to many of the city's attractions including Te Papa Tongarewa: Museum of New Zealand.

Contact info:
73 Roxburgh Street
Wellington, 6011 New Zealand
phone: +64 -4-385-0279
web: www.millenniumhotels.co.nz/copthorneorientalbay/index.html

Room amenities: Room facilities include tea/coffee making, ISD telephone, television, refrigerator, ironing facilities and electric blankets (upon request).

Facility amenities: Hotel facilities include a heated swimming pool, cocktail bar, guest laundry facilities and a safety deposit box.

Smoking policy: No
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Elevator: Yes

Day Twelve: Thursday, February 14 - Zealandia Native Sanctuary / Brooklyn Wind Turbine / Te Papa... 
Zealandia Native Sanctuary / Brooklyn Wind Turbine / Te Papa Tongarewa: Museum of New Zealand

Breakfast: In the hotel.

Morning: Field Trip/Class: Zealandia native sanctuary - New Zealand as it once was. Excursion: Brooklyn Wind Turbine - stunning views over Wellington and across Cook Strait to the South Island.

Lunch: At accommodation.

Afternoon: Field Trip/Class: Walk to Te Papa Tongarewa: Museum of New Zealand. Lecture/guided program followed by free time for self-exploration. Remainder of afternoon free.

Dinner: At accommodation.

Evening: At leisure.

Lodging: Copthorne Hotel Wellington, Oriental Bay

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Close [ x ]
Type: Hotel

 Description: The hotel has stunning views of Wellington's delightful harbour. It is located on the edge of Wellington's central business district and offers easy, flat walking access to many of the city's attractions including Te Papa Tongarewa: Museum of New Zealand.

Contact info:
73 Roxburgh Street
Wellington, 6011 New Zealand
phone: +64 -4-385-0279
web: www.millenniumhotels.co.nz/copthorneorientalbay/index.html

Room amenities: Room facilities include tea/coffee making, ISD telephone, television, refrigerator, ironing facilities and electric blankets (upon request).

Facility amenities: Hotel facilities include a heated swimming pool, cocktail bar, guest laundry facilities and a safety deposit box.

Smoking policy: No
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Elevator: Yes

Day Thirteen: Friday, February 15 - New Zealand Politics & Public Life / New Zealand Parliament House /... 
New Zealand Politics & Public Life / New Zealand Parliament House / New Zealand's Supreme Court

Breakfast: In the hotel.

Morning: Lecture: New Zealand Politics & Public Life. Field Trip/Class: New Zealand's Parliament. Excursion: Old St Paul's Church.

Lunch: At local restaurant.

Afternoon: Field Trip/Class New Zealand's Supreme Court.

Dinner: At own arrangements to sample the many fine restaurants, cafes and bars Wellington has to offer.

Evening: At leisure.

Lodging: Copthorne Hotel Wellington, Oriental Bay

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Close [ x ]
Type: Hotel

 Description: Overlooking Darling Harbour, this hotel is within minutes walk to the heart of the city.

Contact info:
17 Little Pier Street
Sydney NSW, 2000 Australia
phone: +61 -2-8217-4000
web: www.accorhotels.com.au

Room amenities: Room facilities include tea/coffee making facilities, television, telephone, hairdryer, refrigerator and internet access.

Facility amenities: Hotel facilities include a safety deposit box, gymnasium, indoor heated lap pool and foreign exchange facilities. Valet laundry service is available or a commercial laundry is located nearby.

Smoking policy: No
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Elevator: Yes

Day Fourteen: Saturday, February 16 - Wellington's Fascinating Coastline / Flight to Sydney / Course... 
Wellington's Fascinating Coastline / Flight to Sydney / Course Overview / Orientation to Sydney

Breakfast: In the hotel.

Morning: Field Trip/Class: Wellington's fascinating coastline - how tectonic forces have shaped the New Zealand capital.

Lunch: At hotel.

Afternoon: Coach to Wellington International Airport for flight to Sydney.

Dinner: In the hotel.

Evening: Lecture: Course Overview and Introduction to Sydney.

Lodging: Novotel Rockford Darling Harbour

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Close [ x ]
Type: Hotel

 Description: Overlooking Darling Harbour, this hotel is within minutes walk to the heart of the city.

Contact info:
17 Little Pier Street
Sydney NSW, 2000 Australia
phone: +61 -2-8217-4000
web: www.accorhotels.com.au

Room amenities: Room facilities include tea/coffee making facilities, television, telephone, hairdryer, refrigerator and internet access.

Facility amenities: Hotel facilities include a safety deposit box, gymnasium, indoor heated lap pool and foreign exchange facilities. Valet laundry service is available or a commercial laundry is located nearby.

Smoking policy: No
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Elevator: Yes

Day Fifteen: Sunday, February 17 - Introduction to Australia / Sydney's Colonial History / Sydney Opera... 
Introduction to Australia / Sydney's Colonial History / Sydney Opera House tour

Breakfast: In the hotel.

Morning: Lecture: Introduction to Australia; its early discovery & settlement.

Lunch: In the hotel.

Afternoon: Field Trip: Sydney's Colonial Past featuring The Rocks area and Macquarie Street. Excursion: Guided tour of the beautiful, World Heritage-listed Sydney Opera House, a masterpiece of late modern architecture.

Dinner: At a local restaurant in Sydney's Darling Harbour precinct.

Evening: At leisure.

Lodging: Novotel Rockford Darling Harbour

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Close [ x ]
Type: Hotel

 Description: Overlooking Darling Harbour, this hotel is within minutes walk to the heart of the city.

Contact info:
17 Little Pier Street
Sydney NSW, 2000 Australia
phone: +61 -2-8217-4000
web: www.accorhotels.com.au

Room amenities: Room facilities include tea/coffee making facilities, television, telephone, hairdryer, refrigerator and internet access.

Facility amenities: Hotel facilities include a safety deposit box, gymnasium, indoor heated lap pool and foreign exchange facilities. Valet laundry service is available or a commercial laundry is located nearby.

Smoking policy: No
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Elevator: Yes

Day Sixteen: Monday, February 18 - Orientation to Beachside Suburbs / Cruise on Sydney Harbour 
Breakfast: In the hotel.

Morning: Field Trip: Orientation to Sydney's sought-after eastern beach-side suburbs & the central business district. Field Trip/Class: Cruise on magnificent Sydney Harbour and learn how Sydney Harbour has evolved.

Lunch: At local restaurant in The Rocks, the historic area where Sydney began.

Afternoon: Time to explore Sydney at leisure.

Dinner: At own arrangements to taste what Sydney's restaurant scene has to offer.

Evening: At leisure.

Lodging: Novotel Rockford Darling Harbour

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Close [ x ]
Type: Hotel

 Description: Overlooking Darling Harbour, this hotel is within minutes walk to the heart of the city.

Contact info:
17 Little Pier Street
Sydney NSW, 2000 Australia
phone: +61 -2-8217-4000
web: www.accorhotels.com.au

Room amenities: Room facilities include tea/coffee making facilities, television, telephone, hairdryer, refrigerator and internet access.

Facility amenities: Hotel facilities include a safety deposit box, gymnasium, indoor heated lap pool and foreign exchange facilities. Valet laundry service is available or a commercial laundry is located nearby.

Smoking policy: No
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Elevator: Yes

Day Seventeen: Tuesday, February 19 - Opal Discovery Centre / Taronga Park Zoo / Performance at the Sydney... 
Opal Discovery Centre / Taronga Park Zoo / Performance at the Sydney Opera House

Breakfast: In the hotel.

Morning: Lecture: Australia's precious stone - the opal. Field Trip/Class: Taronga Park Zoo: meet some of the unique fauna of Australia at this iconic zoo boasting splendid views across Sydney Harbour to the city.

Lunch: At Taronga Park Zoo.

Afternoon: Field Trip/Class Continued: Taronga Park Zoo: time for personal exploration. Ferry return to Circular Quay. Remainder of afternoon at leisure.

Dinner: In the hotel.

Evening: EnrichActivity: This evening we enjoy a performance at the Sydney Opera House - one of the world's great pieces of architectural design. Definitely something to tell the folks back home about!

Lodging: Novotel Rockford Darling Harbour

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Close [ x ]
Type: Four-Star Hotel

 Description: Located in the heart of Melbourne, close to major attractions and adjacent to major tram routes.

Contact info:
195 Swanston Street
Melbourne, VIC, NA 3000 Australia
phone: +61 3 9663 4711
web: www.theswanstonhotel.com.au

Room amenities: Room facilities include tea/coffee making facilities, cable television, telephone, refrigerator, hairdryer and iron/ironing board.

Facility amenities: Hotel facilities include laundry, gymnasium, heated indoor swimming pool, foreign exchange, safety deposit box facilities and internet access.

Smoking policy: No
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Elevator: Yes

Day Eighteen: Wednesday, February 20 - Flight to Melbourne / Course Overview / Introduction & Orientation to... 
Flight to Melbourne / Course Overview / Introduction & Orientation to Melbourne / Evening Video

Breakfast: In the hotel.

Morning: Coach to Sydney Domestic Airport for flight to Melbourne.

Lunch: At local restaurant.

Afternoon: Lecture: Course Overview and Introduction to Melbourne. Field Trip: Orientation to the city: Shrine of Remembrance and Melbourne's newest attraction - Eureka Skydeck 88.

Dinner: In the hotel.

Evening: Enrichment Activity: Video - "Australia: The Big Country"

Lodging: The Swanston Hotel Melbourne, Grand Mercure

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Close [ x ]
Type: Four-Star Hotel

 Description: Located in the heart of Melbourne, close to major attractions and adjacent to major tram routes.

Contact info:
195 Swanston Street
Melbourne, VIC, NA 3000 Australia
phone: +61 3 9663 4711
web: www.theswanstonhotel.com.au

Room amenities: Room facilities include tea/coffee making facilities, cable television, telephone, refrigerator, hairdryer and iron/ironing board.

Facility amenities: Hotel facilities include laundry, gymnasium, heated indoor swimming pool, foreign exchange, safety deposit box facilities and internet access.

Smoking policy: No
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Elevator: Yes

Day Nineteen: Thursday, February 21 - Australia's Economy and Health System / Melbourne's famous Queen... 
Australia's Economy and Health System / Melbourne's famous Queen Victoria Markets / local wildlife park - meet the wombat & friends / Phillip Island Penguin Parade

Breakfast: In the hotel.

Morning: Lecture: Australia's Economy & Health System. Enrichment Activity: Explore Melbourne's famous & quirky Queen Victoria Markets.

Lunch: At Queen Victoria Markets

Afternoon: Field Trip: Coach to Phillip Island to visit a local wildlife park and the Penguin Parade.

Dinner: At quintessential Australian local country pub bistro near Phillip Island.

Evening: Field Trip continued: Penguin Parade at Phillip Island.

Lodging: The Swanston Hotel Melbourne, Grand Mercure

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Close [ x ]
Type: Four-Star Hotel

 Description: Located in the heart of Melbourne, close to major attractions and adjacent to major tram routes.

Contact info:
195 Swanston Street
Melbourne, VIC, NA 3000 Australia
phone: +61 3 9663 4711
web: www.theswanstonhotel.com.au

Room amenities: Room facilities include tea/coffee making facilities, cable television, telephone, refrigerator, hairdryer and iron/ironing board.

Facility amenities: Hotel facilities include laundry, gymnasium, heated indoor swimming pool, foreign exchange, safety deposit box facilities and internet access.

Smoking policy: No
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Elevator: Yes

Day Twenty: Friday, February 22 - Introduction to Australian Art at the National Gallery of Victoria /... 
Introduction to Australian Art at the National Gallery of Victoria / Remainder of day at leisure

Breakfast: In the hotel.

Morning: Field Trip/Class: Tram to the National Gallery of Victoria - Introduction to Australian Art.

Lunch: At leisure in the city.

Afternoon: At leisure.

Dinner: Own arrangements - an opportunity to explore and sample Melbourne's renowned restaurant scene.

Evening: At leisure.

Lodging: The Swanston Hotel Melbourne, Grand Mercure

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
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Type: Hotel

 Description: Situated on the banks of the famous Todd River, with its magnificent river red gums, the hotel is only a five minute walk from the town centre.

Contact info:
34 Strott Terrace
Alice Springs NT, 0870 Australia
phone: +61 -8-8951-4545
web: www.chifleyhotels.com.au/component/hoteldetail/?tid=ASR

Room amenities: Room facilities include air-conditioning, tea/coffee making facilities, refrigerator, television, in-house movies, telephone, radio, internest access, iron/ironing board hairdryer.

Facility amenities: Hotel facilities include a swimming pool, guest laundry, dry cleaning service, internet kiosk, foreign currency exchange and safety deposit box facility.

Smoking policy: No
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Day Twenty One: Saturday, February 23 - Fly to Alice Springs / Course Overview / School of the Air /... 
Fly to Alice Springs / Course Overview / School of the Air / Aboriginal Culture / Olive Pink Botanical Garden BBQ / Stars of the Southern Hemisphere

Breakfast: In the hotel.

Morning: Coach to Melbourne Domestic Airport for flight to Alice Springs. Lecture: Course Overview.

Lunch: In the hotel.

Afternoon: Field Trip/Class: School of the Air - providing education to students in isolated communities. Lecture: Aboriginal Culture, Art & Heritage in Central Australia.

Dinner: BBQ at Olive Pink Botanical Garden.

Evening: Performance: Outback Ballads & Yarns - stories and songs of life in Australia's Red Centre. Lecture: Stars of the Southern Hemisphere - look for the Southern Cross and other southern constellations in the clear air of Australia's Red Centre, free of the lights of the big city.

Lodging: Alice Springs Resort

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Type: Hotel

 Description: Situated on the banks of the famous Todd River, with its magnificent river red gums, the hotel is only a five minute walk from the town centre.

Contact info:
34 Strott Terrace
Alice Springs NT, 0870 Australia
phone: +61 -8-8951-4545
web: www.chifleyhotels.com.au/component/hoteldetail/?tid=ASR

Room amenities: Room facilities include air-conditioning, tea/coffee making facilities, refrigerator, television, in-house movies, telephone, radio, internest access, iron/ironing board hairdryer.

Facility amenities: Hotel facilities include a swimming pool, guest laundry, dry cleaning service, internet kiosk, foreign currency exchange and safety deposit box facility.

Smoking policy: No
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Day Twenty Two: Sunday, February 24 - Alice Springs Desert Park / Western MacDonnell Ranges / Aboriginal... 
Alice Springs Desert Park / Western MacDonnell Ranges / Aboriginal Bush Foods

Breakfast: In the hotel.

Morning: Field Trip/Class: Alice Springs Desert Park - desert landscapes, flora & fauna.

Lunch: At Alice Springs Desert Park.

Afternoon: Field Trip: Western MacDonnell Ranges & Simpson's Gap - unique desert landforms. Field Trip: Royal Flying Doctor Service - learn how medical services are dispensed across Australia's vast Red Centre. Lecture at local restaurant/caterer: Aboriginal Bush Foods - Traditional & Contemporary

Dinner: At local restaurant - contemporary Australian cuisine utilising traditional Aboriginal flavourings.

Evening: At leisure.

Lodging: Alice Springs Resort

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Type: Hotel

 Description: The hotel is located as a part of the Ayers Rock Resort.

Contact info:
Yulara Drive
Yulara NT, 0872 Australia
phone: +61 -8-8957-7605
web: www.voyages.com.au

Room amenities: Room facilities include tea/coffee facilities, telephone, television, refrigerator, iron/ironing board and hair dryer.

Facility amenities: Hotel facilities include a guest laundry, swimming pool and safety deposit box facility.

Smoking policy: No
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Day Twenty Three: Monday, February 25 - Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park Cultural Centre / Uluru (Ayers Rock) /... 
Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park Cultural Centre / Uluru (Ayers Rock) / Sunset watching.

Breakfast: In the hotel.

Morning: Coach to Uluru (Ayers Rock) with an excurion to a camel farm en route.

Lunch: At Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park Cultural Centre.

Afternoon: Field Trip: Guided tour of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park Cultural Centre. Field Trip: Guided tour around Uluru (Ayers Rock), one of the world's largest monoliths. This sacred Aboriginal site is truly awe-inspiring. EnrichActivity: Watch the sun set over Uluru.

Dinner: In the hotel.

Evening: At leisure.

Lodging: Outback Pioneer Hotel & Lodge

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Type: Hotel

 Description: Located within walking distance from the waterfront esplanade and the city centre.

Contact info:
122 Lake Street
Cairns QLD, 4870 Australia
phone: +61 -7-4080-1888
web: www.accorhotels.com/gb/hotel-0534-novotel-cairns-oasis-resort/index.shtml

Room amenities: Room facilities include tea/coffee making facilities, television, telephone, refrigerator, hairdryer, iron/ironing board, in-room safe and internet connection.

Facility amenities: Hotel facilities include lagoon-style pool with a sand-beach entrance, gymnasium, valet laundry/dry cleaning and guest laundry.

Smoking policy: No
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Elevator: Yes

Day Twenty Four: Tuesday, February 26 - Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) / Fly to Cairns / Orientation to City / Course... 
Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) / Fly to Cairns / Orientation to City / Course Overview / Great Barrier Reef lecture

Breakfast: At Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park Cultural Centre.

Morning: Field Trip: Kata Tjuta (The Olgas), a collection of 36 rounded rock domes aptly named as Kata Tjuta means "many heads" in a local language.

Lunch: At restaurant in Ayers Rock Resort.

Afternoon: Coach to Ayers Rock Domestic airport for flight to Cairns. Orientation to Cairns en route to hotel.

Dinner: On board flight to Cairns.

Evening: Lecture: Course Overview. Lecture: The Great Barrier Reef.

Lodging: Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Close [ x ]
Type: Hotel

 Description: Located within walking distance from the waterfront esplanade and the city centre.

Contact info:
122 Lake Street
Cairns QLD, 4870 Australia
phone: +61 -7-4080-1888
web: www.accorhotels.com/gb/hotel-0534-novotel-cairns-oasis-resort/index.shtml

Room amenities: Room facilities include tea/coffee making facilities, television, telephone, refrigerator, hairdryer, iron/ironing board, in-room safe and internet connection.

Facility amenities: Hotel facilities include lagoon-style pool with a sand-beach entrance, gymnasium, valet laundry/dry cleaning and guest laundry.

Smoking policy: No
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Elevator: Yes

Day Twenty Five: Wednesday, February 27 - Cruise on Great Barrier Reef, one of Australia's most remarkable... 
Cruise on Great Barrier Reef, one of Australia's most remarkable natural gifts

Breakfast: In the hotel.

Morning: Coach to marina. Field Trip/Class: Cruise on the Great Barrier Reef, one of the seven wonders of the natural world, enjoying the opportunity to snorkel and view the reef from a glass-bottom boat or semi-submersible.

Lunch: Seafood buffet on board cruise.

Afternoon: Field Trip/Class continued: Cruise on Great Barrier Reef.

Dinner: Own arrangements.

Evening: At leisure.

Lodging: Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Close [ x ]
Type: Hotel

 Description: Located within walking distance from the waterfront esplanade and the city centre.

Contact info:
122 Lake Street
Cairns QLD, 4870 Australia
phone: +61 -7-4080-1888
web: www.accorhotels.com/gb/hotel-0534-novotel-cairns-oasis-resort/index.shtml

Room amenities: Room facilities include tea/coffee making facilities, television, telephone, refrigerator, hairdryer, iron/ironing board, in-room safe and internet connection.

Facility amenities: Hotel facilities include lagoon-style pool with a sand-beach entrance, gymnasium, valet laundry/dry cleaning and guest laundry.

Smoking policy: No
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Elevator: Yes

Day Twenty Six: Thursday, February 28 - Wet Tropical Rainforests / Kuranda / SkyRail / Tjapukai Aboriginal... 
Wet Tropical Rainforests / Kuranda / SkyRail / Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park / Program Review

Breakfast: In the hotel.

Morning: Lecture: Wet Tropical Rainforests of North Queensland. Coach to the village of Kuranda, a mountain retreat surrounded by rainforest

Lunch: At local restaurant.

Afternoon: Field Trip: SkyRail Rainforest Cableway - ride over the treetops and down from the edge of the Atherton Tablelands escarpment. Field Trip/Class: Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park - Northern Queensland Coastal Aborigines and their social organisation and culture. Lecture: M.A.S.H. - final program review.

Dinner: In the hotel - Farewell.

Evening: At leisure.

Lodging: Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Close [ x ]
Type: Hotel

 Description: Situated next to riverfront parklands and overlooking an 18 hole golf course, the hotel is only 2kms from Sydney’s International and Domestic Airports but is away from the direct flight path.

Contact info:
20 Levey Street
Wolli Creek
Sydney NSW, 2205 Australia
phone: +61 -2-9518-2000
web: www.mercuresydneyairport.com.au

Room amenities: Room facilities include air-conditioning, tea/coffee making facilities, refrigerator, television, pay-to-view movies, telephone, iron/ironing board and hairdryer.

Facility amenities: Hotel facilities include a laundry/valet service, computer centre, outdoor swimming pool, gymnasium, tennis courts and squash courts.

Smoking policy: No
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Elevator: Yes

Additional nights after: TBA in Preparatory Material
The Program Provider can arrange additional accommodation for participants arriving earlier or departing later than the group. A Request form will be included with the Preparatory Material, or participants can contact the Provider direct by email.

Day Twenty Seven: Friday, March 01 - A chance to relax, explore Cairns at leisure, pack and prepare for... 
A chance to relax, explore Cairns at leisure, pack and prepare for the flight home.

Breakfast: At accommodation.

Morning: At leisure in Cairns.

Lunch: At leisure in Cairns.

Afternoon: Coach transfer to Cairns airport for flight to Sydney.

Dinner: On board flight to Sydney.

Evening: Coach to accommodation. Remainder of evening at leisure.

Lodging: Mercure Sydney Airport

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day Twenty Eight: Saturday, March 02 - Departure for the USA. 
Breakfast: At accommodation.

Morning: Coach transfer to Sydney Airport. Departure to the USA on a flight to Los Angeles.

Meals Included: Breakfast
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Important information about your itinerary:
Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information featured on this website. Itineraries are based on our best information at this time. Circumstances beyond our control may require us to adjust itineraries or other details. We regret any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding. Information will be sent to you from your Program Provider approximately three weeks prior to the program start date.
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•25 nights of accommodations
•70 meals: 25 breakfasts, 25 lunches, 20 dinners
•17 Expert-led lectures
•42 Field trips
•2 Hands-on experiences
•3 Performances
•7 Flights during the program
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