  (Travel
license TTA 183) For details of these and other tours please
contact the Tours Office:
Telephone: 8223 1272 (Monday to Friday, 9:30am - 5:00pm)
Fax: 8232 3690 Email: tours@wea-sa.com.au
Interstate participants can usually fly internationally from their
capital city to join WEA tours.
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South Africa - 2012
10th March - 30th March 2012
This new WEA tour focuses on cultural and historical aspects of South Africa and the mountain kingdoms of Swaziland and Lesotho. It passes through stunningly picturesque mountain and coastal scenery, along the famed Garden & Wine Routes of South Africa, across celebrated battlefields of the Boer War, with stops at historic gold rush towns as well as the UNESCO World Heritage listed Drakensberg Mountains, listed in the BBC’s ‘Unforgettable Places to See Before you Die’. It includes the Kruger National Park, home to the ‘Big Five’, ‘Little Five’ and the birding ‘Big Six’. Ascend Table Top Mountain by cable car, traverse the world’s third highest pass into Lesotho, stroll through the Kirstenbosch Gardens, cross to the infamous Robben Island and relax on board a cruise on the beautiful Knysna Lagoon on an unforgettable WEA Travel tour of a lifetime. Tour leader
Professor Jonathan Anderson has led may tours for WEA Travel, including: North and South America, the Caribbean, Europe, Asia and Africa. He has an unrivalled enthusiasm for historical places, places, people and cross-cultural experiences.
Click here for the full itinerary, costs and conditions (PDF document - may take some time to download if on a slow connection)
Bhutan 2012
1st April - 19th April 2012
Bhutan, the ‘Land of Dragons’ is purportedly the happiest place on earth to live. Nestling in the foothills of the mighty Himalayas Bhutan is a pristine and unspoilt land, where the absence of neon lights, billboards, takeaway food chains and traffic lights only add to the attraction and uniqueness of this little known destination. Immerse yourself in the history and culture of this ancient kingdom. Be enthralled by the architecture of the Buddhist Dzongs (temples) set against the backdrop of lush mountains and rushing rivers. Immerse yourself in this truly cultural tour. Experience the most colourful of Bhutanese festivals, the Tshechu. Gaze in awe at the stunning costumes and dances of this symbolic celebration of the Buddhist way of life. Try your hand at the ancient craft of textile or silk weaving or perhaps you would prefer thangkha painting. Enjoy a simple trek amongst the dense forests to a hidden gem; a temple, a village or a spectacular view. The landscape is magnificent and the local people are genuine, respectful and happy; living a simple life according to their strong Buddhist beliefs and traditions. This is truly a unique tour to one of the world’s least visited and best kept secret destinations, Bhutan.
Click here for the full itinerary, costs and conditions (PDF document - may take some time to download if on a slow connection)
Russia & Kiev 2012
6th May - 27th May 2012
Marvel at the unique ecclesiastical architecture of Russia with its onion domed cathedrals laden with gold icons and orthodox statues as well as the history of forts, kremlins and monasteries. Visit some of the oldest world heritage listed cities of Russia on the famous Golden Ring Route and ponder the rawness of life in the quaint wooden villages of European Russia. Be dazzled by the opulence and neo-classical beauty of St Petersburg, the stupendous Amber Room at Catherine Palace and the jewellery collections, Faberge collections and artistic treasures of the winter palace of St Peter the Great, the Hermitage. Enjoy the Bolshoi, musical and folklore performances, a Ukrainian degustation of local ‘nalivka’ and a train journey like no other from St Petersburg to Kiev the sophisticated capital of the Ukraine.
Photograph: Marantez
Click here for the full itinerary, costs and conditions (PDF document - may take some time to download if on a slow connection)
Oriental Odyssey 2012
19th May - 7th June 2012
HONG KONG, MACAU, SOUTHERN CHINA & TIBET
An amazing oriental odyssey, beginning in Hong Kong and Macau, where ‘East meets West’ and where the bustle and rhythms of daily life are simply exhilarating. In Guilin you float through dreamy landscapes down the mystical Li River before boarding your four night Yangtze River cruise. Passing through the infamous three Yangtze gorges you disembark in ChongQing and fly to Lhasa, the timeless and spiritual capital of Tibet. With ample time to delve into ancient cultures: explore temples, palaces, grandiose squares and market places: visit rural villages: cruise magnificent waterways and feast on China’s most delicious cuisine of all, this tour is truly a sensory overload of the exotic.
Click here for the full itinerary, costs and conditions (PDF document - may take some time to download if on a slow connection)
Romania Bulgaria Croatia
26th May - 16th June 2012
The beauty of the Balkans is a timeless and tightly held secret. Discerning travellers are now appreciating the unspoilt history and rich heritage of the former kingdoms of Bulgaria and Romania. This tour offers guided explorations of their monasteries, royal palaces, grandiose squares and legendary castles including the seven walled citadels of Transylvania, 13th Century Bran Castle, otherwise known as ‘Dracula’s Castle’ and the Palace of Parliament (Ceausescu’s former palace before his demise). Serene German renaissance style residences of former kings are set amidst the beauty of the Carpathian Mountains and stunning medieval townships are ringed by towering city walls, their streets lined with rows of red roofed merchant houses from the middle ages. Here you will find the finest example’s of medieval neighbourhood’s in all of Europe. Complimented by the picture postcard loveliness of the Dalmatian Coast, the UNESCO world heritage treasure and ‘living museum’ of Dubrovnik, stunning Mostar in Bosnia Herzegovina and the relaxed Mediterranean charm Hvar Island, this tour is sure to exceed every expectation.
Click here for the full itinerary, costs and conditions (PDF document - may take some time to download if on a slow connection)
Tuscany, Corsica & Sardinia
16th June - 7th July 2012
Tuscany, Corsica & Sardinia is a magical mix which will delight even the most discerning of travellers. Tuscany, rich in history, traditions, art and culture is bordered by the Apennine Mountains, Apuan Alps and the Tyrrhenian Sea. It is a region of spectacular scenic contrasts from rolling hills, stunning coastlines to wild mountain slopes. Corsica oozes heritage, everywhere you go there is a chapel, a bridge, a tower or something interesting to explore. Its most famous son, Napoleon Bonaparte was born in the town of Ajaccio in 1769. Located closer to Africa than Italy, Sardinia is the second largest island in the Mediterranean. It is an ancient land steeped in history and legend. It has survived countless invasions by the Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, Arabs and Byzantines. Prehistoric castles, villages, temples and tombs dot the countryside adding mystery to this fascinating destination.
Click here for the full itinerary, costs and conditions (PDF document - may take some time to download if on a slow connection)
Cairns & Mt Isa 2012
16th July - 25th July 2012
Take the track less travelled and join WEA Travel’s most popular historian on this unique tour to discover the amazing history, geography and quirks of far north Queensland. Marvel at rain forest and reef on tours to Green Island, Cape Tribulation, the Daintree River and the fabulous Skyrail cable car which whisks you over the stupendous rainforest canopy. Heritage tours to magnificent towns from bygone eras include Charters Towers and Cloncurry where faded glories are brought to life by striking architecture and tales from the past. Delight too, in train travel on two iconic experiences of the north, the Sunlander from Cairns to Townsville and the Inlander from Townsville to Mt Isa. Enjoy gorgeous views, sunsets and the true spirit of outback Australia on these fascinating rail journeys.
Click here for the full itinerary, costs and conditions (PDF document - may take some time to download if on a slow connection)
Classical Greece 2012
25th August - 14th September
Classical Greece is the land of Gods, Heroes and Legend, the birthplace of civilization. This specialist tour is packed with guided tours of Greece’s finest archaeological sites and tales of fabled history. You visit the magnificent monasteries of Meteora, beautiful villages, Byzantine churches and breathtaking Mediterranean islands.
A highlight of this tour is staying several nights in many of the destinations to unpack and unwind, explore, enjoy and absorb these treasures of the past. There is time to delight in glorious food, culture and a simply intoxicating way of life.
Click here for the full itinerary, costs and conditions (PDF document - may take some time to download if on a slow connection)
El Camino de Santiago : A walk through history
18th September - 8th October 2012
This tour is aimed at dedicated and experienced walkers. An excellent level of fitness is required by all participants as you will cover almost 300kms of trails, roads and walking paths on a variety of terrains on your journey to Santiago de Compostela.
For more than a 1,000 years pilgrims have been making their way to along the El Camino, or St James Way as it is know in English, to Santiago de Compostela, the final resting place of St John the Elder. Through medieval times it was one of the three most important pilgrimages undertaken, to Jerusalem, Rome and Santiago de Compostela. Completing one of these pilgrimages could result in plenary indulgence, which frees a person from penance due for sins.
Each year thousands of walkers take to the El Camino trails and join in the camaraderie with fellow ‘pilgrims’ as they make their way along the paths to Santiago and the recognition of their achievements by the awarding of the ‘Credientiale’ as proof of their endeavors.
Accommodation and meals en-route are simple and rustic and perfectly in keeping with the pretty villages and small towns you encounter along the way. Luggage is transported each day to the next stopping place, and if needed, allows the sore of foot the luxury of not walking on a particular day. This is a small group tour and numbers are limited.
Click here for the full itinerary, costs and conditions (PDF document - may take some time to download if on a slow connection)
Turkey
23rd September - 12 October 2012
Discover the historical riches of Turkey in this carefully planned tour. Turkey is a fascinating country where many important civilisations have flourished since 1000BC. Once home to the ancient Hittites, Persians, Macedonians, Romans, Byzantines and Ottomans all leaving behind them a superb architectural, archaeological and historical heritage.
Turkey is the bridge from Europe to Asia, its vibrant culture reflecting both continents. This tour over flows with highlights some of which include the Gallipoli Peninsula, the ancient city of Troy, mighty Ephesus and the laid back Mediterranean and Aegean coastal resort towns of Kusadasi and Antalya. You can sooth your soul in the hot thermal waters at fascinating Pamukkale. Be amazed by the surreal lunar landscape and rock dwellings of Cappadocia and delighted by the colourful oriental bazaars, exquisite mosques, ancient archaeological richness, delicious cuisine and friendly people of this intriguing country, which spans from south-west Asia to the Balkan region of South Eastern Europe.
- Istanbul
- Gallipoli
- Troy
- Kusadasi
- Pamukkale
- Goreme
- Ankara
- Antalya
Click here for the full itinerary, costs and conditions (PDF document - may take some time to download if on a slow connection)
The Great Silk Road - Uzbekistan & Turkmenistan 2012
9th - 30th September 2012
Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan boast some of the world’s oldest civilisations. Join us on an exciting tour of these ancient lands and some of the most stunning cities along the Great Silk Road; Tashkent the Uzbekistan’s capital city and a city of contrasts, Samarkand with its 2,500 years of history, Bukhara one of the oldest cities in Uzbekistan and the fairy tale city of Khiva. Cross the border into Turkmenistan and discover the cities of Dashoguz, Mary and Ashgabat. Take in a desert horse race and gaze in wonder at the amazing Gonur Depe and the many UNESCO World Heritage Sites on this unique tour. The Silk Route was not only used by silk traders it was an important link between east and west. Thousands of caravans plied their wares along its 13,600 km land and sea routes trading in spices, gems, carpets, leather and other exotic goods. The Great Silk Road gave rise to a huge melting pot of customs, cultures and religions, all leaving their mark along the way. This is your chance to explore these fascinating destinations along the Great Silk Road. Meet its hospitable people, share in its remarkable culture and customs, be enthralled by the spectacular architecture and enjoy the dramatic scenery on this fully escorted WEA tour.
Click here for the full itinerary, costs and conditions (PDF document - may take some time to download if on a slow connection)
South Korea
30th September - 14th October 2012
Late September is the most glorious time to visit South Korea. The skies are blue, the days crisp and invigorating and the autumnal colour magnificent. This experiential tour of South Korea offers a depth and variety seldom found on organised tours. Overnight at Seonamsa Temple, praised as the most beautiful and mysterious in all Korea and immerse yourself in ancient Buddhist rites and rituals. Enjoy lush mountain scenery, delicious cuisine and indulgences such as a traditional Korean sauna and hot spring soak. Ponder ancient Confucianism at the Confucian school of thought in Andong and roll up your sleeves to create Kimchi rice cakes in Seoul and lotus paper lanterns at Seonamsa. Peruse traditional medicine markets and wonder at the glorious Palaces of the Josean and Silla Dynasties with glowing names such as the’ palace of shining happiness’. Taste real Korea, its busy cities, peaceful landscapes, gentle people and ancient culture on this WEA odyssey.
Click here for the full itinerary, costs and conditions (PDF document - may take some time to download if on a slow connection)
New England USA
29th September - 22nd October 2012
Experience the vibrant West Coast city of Los Angeles; be impressed by the stunning beauty of Niagara Falls and the vermillion splashed autumnal splendour of the New England forest and rocky coastline. Discover the fascinating history behind some of America’s most important events- the Puritan settlement, the War of Independence, the introduction of slavery, the devastating Civil War and the opulence of the industrialist Robber Baron era. Be enchanted by the Amish way of life and thrilled by the stunning gardens of Longwood and Nemours. Sample an Amish Shoo Fly Pie and feast on a traditional New England lobster bake dinner. Explore exciting cities and site across 13 states with Dr Denis Binnion, an American history specialist, on this one off WEA tour which incorporates fun, history, and excitement in the lead up to the November presidential elections. Photo: Muffet
Click here for the full itinerary, costs and conditions (PDF document - may take some time to download if on a slow connection)
Norfolk Island & New Zealand
1st November 2012 - 13th November 2012
Join WEA’s ever popular tour guide and historian Dr Denis Binnion on this unique adventure. Flying Air New Zealand all the way you begin your touring in and around Auckland as well as marvelling at the magnificent Rotorua Geysers, before jetting off to the South Sea and Norfolk Island. A serene sense of tranquillity, intriguing history and natural beauty awaits you on Norfolk, a separate colony of the British Crown, supervised but not ‘owned’ by Australia, with its own ‘government’. Each day is filled with fun, informative and relaxing tours around this Pacific island paradise including, cultural, historical and nature based experiences. There is ample free time to relax and unwind, step back in time, or to explore on your own. On returning to New Zealand you are whisked off to the world renowned Bay of Islands, the glistening jewel in the North Island’s crown. Cruise the turquoise waters of the Bay and visit historic Waitangi where the iconic treaty between the Maori chiefs and the British Crown was signed in 1840. This ‘small group’ tour is a WEA Travel exclusive and a real gem
Click here for the full itinerary, costs and conditions (PDF document - may take some time to download if on a slow connection)
Indochina
27th December 2012 - 11 January 2012
Indochina encompasses many countries depending on which definition you choose. This delightful tour transports you to the cultural treasures of Cambodia, Laos and Thailand visiting the most extraordinary highlights of each. Steeped in history and mystique, be enthralled by the overwhelming scale and magnificence of the Angkor Wat complex in Cambodia. Travel to Laos, the land of smiles, and the city of Luang Prabang, said to be the best preserved heritage city in South East Asia. Observe saffron robed monks take their ritualistic alms and cruise down the mighty Mekong River, the lifeblood of Indochina. Stay in vibrant Chang Mai in Thailand’s north with its fabulous night markets and close proximity to traditional minority group hill villages and the infamous Golden Triangle where Myanmar (formerly ancient Burma), Thailand and Laos meet. Learn about South East Asian elephant conservation and help bathe these gentle giants. Be enchanted by these friendly and ancient lands.
Click here for the full itinerary, costs and conditions (PDF document - may take some time to download if on a slow connection)
Sri Lanka - Jewel of the Indian Ocean 2013
3rd -25th January 2013
Sri Lanka is steeped in heritage dating back over 2,000 years. Sri Lanka is home to some of the best preserved Asian monuments and boasts no fewer than eight UNESCO World Heritage sites, all remarkably preserved to surpass many well-known world class heritage sites. The centuries old heritage lives on, in the culture and the way of life of the Sri Lankan people. The rich tapestry of cultural practice, beliefs and the traditional way of life renews and revives this Island nation’s historic ties, creating an oasis of cultural richness in the modern day. Join WEA Travel on an exclusive tour to this wonderful island and discover for yourself the beauty, history and cultural diversity of this ancient land and its hospitable people. Explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites, age old arts and crafts, stunning beaches, abundant wildlife surrounded by the superb scenic backdrop of this lush, rich tropical paradise.
Click here for the full itinerary, costs and conditions (PDF document - may take some time to download if on a slow connection)
STOP PRESS
Put your name down now for upcoming tours.
STOP PRESS
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Want to know what other tours will be on offer soon? Please click on the link below for the latest updates on future tours. Please contact us if you would like to receive details or be placed on our mailing list.
Click here for the full itinerary, costs and conditions (PDF document - may take some time to download if on a slow connection)
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