THE BALKANS, MEDITERRANEAN 
& THE BLACK SEA 

 Tour Departs: 6 July 2012    •    Tour Length: 30 Days

This tour was very successful in 2011 and one of our most popular.  The itinerary really is something special, so we have decided that it be repeated for 2012 with a few itinerary adjustments to make provision for amended Black Sea cruising schedules. The combination of the coach touring down through the Balkans first followed by the leisurely cruise through the Black Sea and Mediterranean is an absolute winner. We visit so many places that have stamped their mark in history, sometimes for the wrong reasons but it is all just so interesting and stimulating.

THE COACH TOUR – BELGRADE TO ISTANBUL
Our coach journey commences in the Serbian capital of Belgrade and from there we work our way south through Bosnia, Croatia, Montenegro, Albania, and Macedonia all the way down the peninsula to Greece. The region which has had such a chequered past over many periods in history offers visitors the chance to experience the cultural diversity, the historic sites and the natural wonders and beauty the region has to offer. From Thessaloniki in Northern Greece, we take a short flight to Istanbul for a 2 night stay in the city that bridges 2 continents.
• Belgrade – situated on the Danube, a vibrant and exciting city now staking its place amongst the great capitals of Europe
• Sarajevo – a city with a warm and welcoming heart despite its tragic history
• Dubrovnik – the “jewel of the Adriatic” and perhaps the most beautiful city on the Mediterranean. Always good for a repeat visit.
• Durres – the very important economic and leisure port city of Albania
• Ohrid – a beautiful lakeside location nestled between high mountains
• Kalambaka / Meteora – one of the most spectacular sites of Greece with the monasteries perched high atop the pinnacles of rock
• Istanbul – full of history, chaotic, exciting, like no other city on earth

THE BLACK SEA - MEDITERRANEAN CRUISE
To complement the coach tour, we have included a 10 night cruise commencing in Istanbul and cruising through the Black Sea before crossing back into the Mediterranean finishing in Athens, This cruise combines the mystique and wonder of the Black Sea with the majesty and history of ancient Turkey and the beauty of the Greek Islands.
• Varna, Bulgaria; Constanta, Romania
• Ukraine – Sevastopol, Odessa, Yalta
• Canakkale – gateway to the Dardenelles and Gallipoli
• Santorini, the island of dreams, and Paros
• Athens, the cradle of western civilisation

AND TO COMPLIMENT THE WONDERFUL CRUISING DESTINATIONS, WELCOME TO OUR FLOATING BOUTIQUE HOTEL, “ÄZAMARA QUEST”.
Azamara offers a distinctly sophisticated yet relaxed way of cruising that suits our needs perfectly. With just 650 passengers, there is a certain intimacy and friendliness that you associate with a club, yet, the ship boasts all the facilities that you expect of much larger vessels …
• A choice of Ocean View Staterooms – with or without verandahs
• Ensuite bathrooms, flat screen television
• Telephone, safe, refrigerator with mini-bar
• A choice of 3 different restaurants offering gourmet dining
• Complimentary wines (with lunch and dinner), specialty coffees, teas, soft drinks and bottled water
• Expansive pool decks, Astral Spa and Health Centre
• Evening cabaret and cultural shows, casino, destination lectures
The total onboard experience will certainly compliment the fascinating and exciting destinations of the cruise.

TOUR COSTS:
Including Ocean View Stateroom
Per Person Twin Share                                     NZD$ 16,770       AUD$13,700
Supplement for Single Accommodation               NZD$   5,670       AUD$  4,630

Including Ocean View Stateroom with Verandah
Per Person Twin Share                                     NZD$ 17,920       AUD$14,650
Supplement for Single Accommodation               NZD$   6,770       AUD$  5,500

Costs Include:
- Economy Class airfares from Auckland, Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane. Cost to upgrade to Business Class available on request
- Prepaid government and airport taxes, security and fuel surcharges as at 01.09.11
- First Class/Superior grade accommodation throughout
- Ocean View staterooms with or without verandah on “Azamara Quest” 
- First Class air-conditioned coach transportation for touring
- Meals as indicated in the itinerary (B=breakfast, L= lunch, D= dinner)
- Sightseeing and entrance fees as indicated in the itinerary
- Services of European Tour Director and local guides for touring and sightseeing
- Baggage handling of 1 suitcase per person
- All tips and gratuities to coach drivers, guides and cruise staff
- Fully escorted by a Mahers’ tour escort

Costs Exclude:
- Any meals and sightseeing not specifically mentioned in the itinerary
- Travel insurance – advice and assistance offered
- Items of a personal nature such as drinks, room service, laundry, telephone calls etc

Important – Cancellation Conditions: Due to the cruise content of this tour, we must vary our standard payment and cancellation conditions. These will be detailed in our written confirmation of your booking. Travel insurance will also be offered at this time. 
 

DAY-TO-DAY ITINERARY

Friday 06 July
Home – Dubai
Late this afternoon, we join our flight to Duba 

Saturday 07 July
Dubai (D)
We arrive in Dubai early this morning and after clearing customs and immigration formalities, we are transferred to our hotel for a 2 night stay. The morning is free to rest up after the flight and late this afternoon its time to take on the mantle of Lawrence of Arabia as we join a 4WD excursion over rolling dunes deep into the heart of the desert. Watch the sun cast its orange glow over the shimmering sand and enjoy dinner and entertainment under the stars in Bedu tents.

Sunday 08 July
Dubai (B)
This morning, we enjoy a sightseeing tour of the city, a fascinating historical excursion. The route takes us to the magnificent Jumeirah Mosque past modern palaces sprawled along the coast. In Bastakiya, admire the old wind-towered houses built by wealthy merchants. Close by stands the 150 year old Al Fahidi Fort. Here, the Dubai Museum records the city’s past as an important pearl diving and trading centre. We cross the Creek by water taxi and see the modern metroplolis with its splendid architecture dwarfing the bustling alleys of the gold and spice souks.

Monday 09 July
Dubai – Frankfurt - Belgrade (B,D)
An early morning transfer to the airport where we join the flight to Frankfurt before connecting to the flight to Belgrade where we are met and transferred to our hotel for a 2 night stay. There is time to freshen up and relax before dinner at the hotel.

Tuesday 10 July
Belgrade (B)
Belgrade is a vibrant city, dynamic, warm and hospitable, and one of the most exciting cities in this part of Europe. Its sometimes violent history caught between empires has coloured its evolution and is evident in its culture and architecture reflecting both Austrian and Turkish influences. On this morning’s sightseeing tour, our local guide shows us St. Sava Church, the largest Eastern Orthodox church in the world, the National Museum and Theatre in Republic Square, Marshall Tito’s tomb and monument. We finish our tour at the imposing Kalemegden Fortress, dramatically situated at the confluence of the Sava and Danube Rivers. The afternoon is at leisure.

 
Wednesday 11 July
Belgrade – Sarajevo, Bosnia (B,D)
Leaving Belgrade, we journey south via the Sava Valley and cross the border into Bosnia, passing through remote villages and spa resorts nestled in the forested Bosnian mountains, Later this afternoon, we arrive in Sarajevo, the Bosnian capital, for a 2 night stay.

Thursday 12 July
Sarajevo (B,D)
A diverse number of events have cemented Sarajevo’s place in history – including most notably the assassination of Archduke Ferdinand in 1914 which sparked WWI; the 1984 Winter Olympics (remember Torvill and Dean), and the longest post WWII siege during the Bosnian war. Often referred to as the “Jerusalem of Europe” because of the presence and tolerance of diverse faiths, the city is nestled in a valley surrounded by mountains and is a place that welcomes visitors and where everyone is made to feel at home. Our guided sightseeing tour this morning shows us the Bascarsija, the cobbled old town market where the city was founded in the 15th century. We see Gazi Musrev-begs Mosque and the Olympic Stadium before visiting the War Tunnel Museum that was the city’s lifeline during the siege of Sarajevo.

Friday 13 July
Sarajevo – Mostar - Dubrovnik (B,D)
Our first stop today is Mostar where we can walk across the famous Stari Most (old bridge) which was reconstructed after suffering severe damage during the war. There is a chance to explore the cobbled old town which stretches on both sides of the bridge. We journey on through the gorge of the River Neretva and across the border into Croatia and the magnificent walled city of Dubrovnik for a 2 night stay.

Saturday 14 July
Dubrovnik (B)
Dubrovnik has to be the most beautiful medieval city on the Mediterranean with a history dating back to the 7th century. We spend a day in the city and tour the old town located inside the walls. There will be time for lunch at the many outside cafes and visit the bazaars for bargains. Dubrovnik is certainly the ‘Jewel of the Adriatic’. George Bernard Shaw once said, “those who seek paradise on earth should come to Dubrovnik”.

Sunday 15 July
Dubrovnik - Durres (B,D)
We continue our odyssey along the sparkling Adriatic coastline through Montenegro’s picturesque coast to Kotor and Budva a tourist mecca because of its natural beauty, its bay islands and beaches as well as its old town located on a small peninsula and a treasure trove of history. We then cross over the border into Albania and continue on to the coastal city of Durres for an overnight stay.

Monday 16 July
Durres – Ohrid (B,D)
Leaving Durres, we turn inland and travel to Tirana, Albania’s vibrant capital, continuing to beautiful peaceful lakeside Ohrid, nestled between high mountains and magnificent Lake Ohrid with stunning Byzantine churches, small cobblestone streets of picturesque houses. Ohrid is Macedonia’s jewel.

Tuesday 17 July
Ohrid (B.D)
This morning, we enjoy a guided walking tour of the Old Town of Ohrid. See the 2000 year old Roman Ampitheatre, the monument to St Clement of Ohrid which dominates the park at the waterfront, and the varied architecture of the Old Town. The afternoon is free, time to relax lakeside, or enjoy time amongst the market shops.

Wednesday 18 July
Ohrid – Kalambaka (Meteora) (B,D)
From Ohrid, we continue our journey south and across the border into Greece, cradle of Western civilization. This afternoon, we visit the amazing monasteries known as Meteora- which means “in the air” – incredibly perched on top of pinnacles of rock. The monastic history dates back to the 11^th century. After our visit, we arrive at nearby Kalambaka hotel for an overnight stay.

Thursday 19 July
Kalambaka – Thessaloniki (B,D)
We drive north east towards the Central Macedonia region of Greece and our overnight destination of Thessaloniki, the second largest city in Greece and a major commercial, cultural and port city. There is time to see the highlights of the central city, many of which line the waterfront area

Friday 20 July
Thessaloniki - Istanbul (B,D)
Early this afternoon, we are transferred to the airport in time to join the short flight to Istanbul. On arrival, we are met and transferred to our hotel for a 2 night stay.

Saturday 21 July
Istanbul (B)
This morning, we start our sightseeing tour with a visit to the Topkapi Palace, former seat of the Ottoman Emperors, to admire the treasures of the Sultans and the famous Blue Mosque completed in 1616 and with its wonderful domes and minarets. We see Hagia Sophia, once the world’s largest cathedral but now a museum, famous for its massive dome, and we visit the Grand Bazaar of 4000 shops, tea houses and cafes. The afternoon is at leisure.

Sunday 22 July
Commence Mediterranean/Black Sea Cruise (B,D)
10 Nights of Luxury Cruising
This afternoon, we transfer to the port to join our home for the next 10 nights, the “Azamara Quest”. Unpack and settle in to your stateroom and prepare to be pampered on this very special cruise to some fascinating destinations. Our “hotel-club” sets sail this evening.

Monday 23 July
Varna, Bulgaria (B,L,D)
At first glance, you're met with an imposing 19th century landmark - the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin. After that, you'll find a modern city filled with ancient buildings, meandering streets and a cluster of seaside resorts nearby. Varna, no matter when you go it is always a delight. Arrive 10.00am depart 10.00pm.

Tuesday 24 July
Constanta, Romania (B,L,D)
Traces its history back some 2,500 years. Named by the Roman explorer Constantine in honour of his sister, the region has been heavily influenced by centuries of Turkish rule. Beach resorts make it a focal point of Black Sea tourism while you can venture into the countryside and visit traditional rural villages. Five mansions and hotels were built in the 19th century by King Caroli.  Arrive 6.00am Depart 10.00pm

Wednesday 25 July
Odessa, Ukraine (B,L,D)
Odessa known as the ‘Pearl of the Black Sea’, has always shown more colour, excitement, intimacy, humour than other cities in the former Soviet Union. Odessa is simply enchanting with its marvellous architecture, strikingly ornate buildings of past centuries reminiscent of right bank Paris. Odessa is a ‘crossroads’ of cultures, languages and trade as well as a major seaport. Past associations make it dear to Russian hearts, the Riviera of the Black Sea. Arrive 12.00 noon depart midnight

Thursday 26 July
Sevastopol (B,L,D)
Sevastopol's status as a strategic naval stronghold has contributed to its fascinating history, but has not been kind to the city itself. Under siege for 11 months during the Crimean War, the formerly glorious city was left in ruins. Reconstructed, it was then besieged again by Germans in WWII, reduced to rubble, and rebuilt once again. During Soviet times a closed city, Sevastopol opened to the outside world only in 1995, and not until 1997 did Russia and the Ukraine sign a peace and friendship treaty, ruling out Moscow's claims, and making Ukraine a sovereign nation. Arrive 1.00pm depart 10.00pm

Friday 27 July
Yalta, Ukraine (B,L,D)
Yalta has an ideal Mediterranean climate and has long been a holiday retreat for the elite of Tzarist Russia and former Soviet States. Located on a sheltered bay, Yalta is lush with flowers and exotic plants and is a combination of the French Riviera and Greece. Places to see in Yalta (population 80,000) are the former Romanov vacation home used for the World War II Conference of Stalin, Roosevelt and Churchill, and also the Nikitsky Botanical Gardens which boasts 1,600 varieties of roses. Arrive 8.00am depart 7.00pm

Saturday 28 July
Cruising The Bosphorous (B,L,D)
A full day at sea as we cross from the Black Sea and make our way towards the Mediterranean. Enjoy the vista of Istanbul from the water as we cruise into the Sea of Marmara

Sunday 29 July
Canakkale (B,L,D)
Touching both the shores of Asia and Europe, Canakkale sits on the Black and Mediterannean Seas. Visit the ancient city of Troy to see the inspiration for Homer's Iliad and a replica of the Trojan Horse. It is also just across the water from the Gallipoli Peninsula, the scene of horrific battles in the WWI campaign of 1915. Arrive 7.00am depart 2.00pm

Monday 30 July
Santorini (B,L,D)
Perfection has coordinates. Here on Santorini, you'll find whitewashed houses accented by roofs of the bluest blue - there's no doubt that azure waters of the Aegean have served as creative inspiration. Among the many historic sites on the island is the ancient city of Akrotiri, once buried under a thick blanket of volcanic ash over 3,600 years ago. Arrive 9.00am depart midnight.

Tuesday 31 July
Paros (B,L,D)
Paros is considered to be one of the most beautiful islands of the Cyclades. This place has many things to offer to the visitor: beautiful landscapes, golden sandy beaches with clear water, small traditional white villages with cubic houses, fishing harbours, churches, archaeological sites. Arrive 8.00am depart 8.00pm.

Wednesday 01 August
Athens (B,D)
Sadly, our time aboard comes to an end this morning as we disembark. We join our coach and guide to enjoy a morning tour of Athens before checking into our hotel for an overnight stay. We visit the Acropolis and Parthennon, the mighty rock formation standing 230 feet above the city and still dominating the bustle of modern Athens below.  We also see the Royal Palace, the Temple of Zeus, Hadrian’s Arch and the stadium built for the first modern Olympics in 1896. The afternoon is at leisure and this evening we enjoy dinner together at a Greek Taverna, a fitting finale to our time in Europe.

Thursday 02 August
Athens – Dubai (B)
This morning is at leisure and early this afternoon we transfer to Athens Airport in time to join our flight to Dubai. On arrival we are met and transferred to our airport hotel for an overnight stay.

Friday 03 August
Dubai – Home (B)
After breakfast, we return to Dubai Airport in time to join our homeward flight.

Saturday 04 August
Arrive Home
Arrival home time is early afternoon.