15 August 2008
Qantas Flight to London
Departing 10:50pm from terminal 2, Tullararine Airport
16 August
Flight Arrives at Heathrow Airport (terminal 4)
1:30pm Local Time
Total flight time 23 Hours 40 minutes
17 August
Staying with Lucy at Botton Village
18 August
Return to London
Staying at Globetrotters Inn
19 August – 11 September
Top Deck Tour “Spirit of Europe”
19-20 August
London to Paris, France
Our Topdeck experience begins today! From London we travel to Paris where we embark on a "City Lights" tour. A free day the next day to explore Paris, before enjoying our Champagne picnic beside the Eiffel Tower. An optional River Seine cruise or cabaret show finishes the day. Bx1, Dx2
21-22 August
Paris to Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland
The village of Lauterbrunnen is in the heart of the stunning Swiss Alps. An optional adventure to the Jungfrau, Europe's highest rail station for some amazing views. Bx2, Lx2, Dx2
23-24 August
Lauterbrunnen to French Riviera/Monaco
Following Napolean's footsteps we make tracks to the French Riviera. Time here to spot celebrities as we stroll the promenades! Tonight we once again mingle with the stars at the casinos of Monaco. Bx2, Lx1, Dx1
25 August
French Riviera to Florence, Italy
First stop, the Leaning Tower of Pisa before we reach Florence and time to sample the delicious Tuscan cuisine. Bx1, Dx1
26-27 August
Florence to Rome, Italy / Vatican City
The city of Florence unveils its artistic treasures today before we cut loose on some of Europe's most fashionable shops. On to Rome and our fascinating walking tour. While here, a visit to the Vatican City including an option of exploring the Sistine Chapel. Then the day is free to explore Rome. Bx2, Dx1
28-29 August
Rome to Venice, Italy
The fair city of Verona, home of Romeo and Juliet, breaks our journey to Venice. Our walking tour allows us to see such sights as St Mark's Square and the Rialto Bridge. Our vaporetto ride is the perfect way to see the Grand Canal and of course there is the chance for an optional gondola ride. Bx2, Lx1, Dx2
30-31 August
Venice to Vienna, Austria
On to sylish Vienna. Famous for its Opera, coffee and apple strudel. The next day is ours to discover Vienna - the Opera House, St Stephen's Cathedral, and the Hofburg Palace are just some of the attractions. Bx2, Lx1, Dx1
1-2 September
Vienna to Budpapest, Hungary
To Bratislava and our walking tour, before heading to the twin cities of Buda and Pest. What an amazing city Budapest is! Where else can you watch chess played in an outdoor bath and explore an underground labyrinth which has its own fountain producing wine? Bx2, Dx1
3-4 September
Budapest to Krakow, Poland
We travel through Slovakia before arriving at Krakow. This city inspires all. Our visit includes the Jewish Quarter and the Palace of the Polish Kings. There's also the option to visit the salt mines dating back to the 13th century.Bx2, Lx1, Dx1
5-6 September
Krakow to Prague, Czech Republic
Firstly a sobering visit to the former Nazi concentration camps of Birkenau and Auschwitz. Then it's on to one of our favourite cities - Prague. Our walking tour amongst the cobblestone streets is enthralling. The next day is ours to explore Prague. Our hostel here is one of the newest in Europe.Bx2, Dx1
7-8 September
Prague to Berlin, Germany
The city of Dresden's history dates back 800 years and hence makes a fascinating break on our journey to Berlin. Once divided, this city is now regarded as one of the most happening places in Europe. The nightlife? Awesome! Bx2, Lx1, Dx1
9-10 September
Berlin to Amsterdam, Netherlands
From one happening city to another as we head to Amsterdam. Tonight a visit to the crazy Red Light District. Our bicycle tour is a great introduction to Amsterdam followed by our walking tour. Tonight a farewell dinner and optional canal cruise. Bx2, Lx1, Dx1
11 September
Amsterdam to London, England - End of Topdeck Tour
The Belgium city of Brugge is a great place to sample some of the 300 different varieties of beer and of course who can resist the chocolate? We arrive back in London this evening. Bx1
12-15 September
Stay in London with Lucy at Andrew & Nat’s Place
16 – 23 September
University of Leicester London Orientation
23 – 26 September
International Students’ Welcome Program
27 – 28 September
Catered Accommodation Commences
29 – 30 September
Registration
1 October – 12 December
Classes at University of Leicester.
Living at Beaumont Hall, Leicester.
14 December
Caitlin arrives at 1:30pm.
Check into the Royal National – Contiki Hotel.
15 December – 2 January
Contiki Tour “European Inspiration”
15 December
London to Amsterdam
Meet your Contiki Crew and see the White Cliffs of Dover before travelling through Belgium and into the Netherlands to Amsterdam. (D)
16 December
Amsterdam
Visit the cheese village of Edam on a bicycle tour of the Dutch countryside. Spend your free time wandering along the canals, shopping or visiting famous museums such as the Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank's House. (B)
17 December
Amsterdam to Berlin
This morning we head east and continue to Berlin, the cultural capital of Germany. You'll have your first glimpse of the Berlin Wall and time to sample the great nightlife of this vibrant city. (B,D)
18 December
Berlin
A full day of sight-seeing including the remains of the Berlin Wall, the Russian War Memorial and the Brandenburg Gate. An opportunity to visit the "Checkpoint Charlie" museum. Tonight, why not head for town, mix with the locals and try some traditional fare? (B)
19 December
Berlin to Prague
Drive south through Germany and stop for lunch in Dresden. We head into the Czech Republic for two nights in Prague, the golden city built on Seven Hills across the River Vltava. (B,D)
20 December
Prague
This morning's sightseeing tour includes Hradcany Castle, the Cathedral of St. Vitus and Wenceslas Square. Free time to explore - maybe visit the Jewish Quarter or the old town square. (B)
21 December
Prague to Munich
We skip back to Germany and Bavaria's lively capital Munich - home to the Oktoberfest. Enjoy some of the sights and sounds of the city and perhaps experience the atmosphere of a local beerhall. (B)
22 December
Munich
A relaxing day where you can explore the shops and museums or join us on a bike ride around the famous sights. (B,D)
23 December
Munich to Venice
Today we travel south through Austria and the astonishing beauty of the Brenner Pass to cross the border into Italy. Tonight we stay on the mainland of Venice. (B,D)
24 December
Venice
A short boat ride takes us into the historical centre of Venice to see St Mark's Square, the Bridge of Sighs and the Doges' Palace. Ample time to wander the bustling streets, see the skill required to create local crafts such as Venetian glass and fine lace and visit one of the many amazing museums. Why not treat yourself to a gondola ride and evening meal with your fellow travellers as a perfect end to your Venetian experience? (B)
25 December
Venice to Rome
Past medieval hillside villages and through the Apennine Mountains, we travel south to the fabled Seven Hills of Rome. Do as the Romans do and stroll past the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon and Piazza Navona. Later be delighted by your first glimpse of the Colosseum on our sightseeing tour. (B)
26 December
Rome
Ancient and modern Rome await your discovery. Why not take a guided tour of the Imperial Forum and walk in the footsteps of Gladiators? In your free time explore the Vatican City and Sistine Chapel, snap up Italian fashions or just watch the world go by with a gelato (or two). (B,D)
27 December
Rome to Florence
Today we travel north and visit Pisa to see the famous Leaning Tower. This evening your first chance to walk the streets of Renaissance Florence. (B,D)
28 December
Florence
The day includes a walking tour of the Piazza della Signoria, the Duomo and Santa Croce, and a chance to shop for leather, gold and silver. In your free time maybe visit one of the city's many museums or galleries and this evening enjoy the colourful Florentine nightlife. (B)
29 December
Florence to Swiss Alps
A spectacular drive today as we pass Lake Como before crossing the Swiss border. A short stop in the lakeside town of Lucerne, well known for its abundance of Swiss watches, Swiss Army knives and chocolate stores before arriving into Engelberg, nestled in the Swiss Alps. (B,D)
30 December
Swiss Alps
A chance for a different perspective of the Alps today as a revolving cable car journey offers breath-taking panoramic views before reaching the summit of Mt. Titlis. Cross a glacier, play in the snow or simply marvel at the scenery. You have free time in Engelberg this afternoon, and tonight enjoy the nightlife in this popular resort town. (B)
31 December
Swiss Alps to Paris
Through Burgundy, past Dijon's vineyards, to Paris for your first glimpse of this beautiful city. (B,D)
1 January
Paris
Visit a French perfume house and then take the opportunity to visit some of the most celebrated icons of Europe. The Louvre, Eiffel Tower, Nôtre Dame, Arc de Triomphe and the Champs Elysées all await your arrival! Tonight, why not complete your Parisian experience with a French meal and a famous cabaret? (B)
2 January
Paris to London
Today we drive past World War I battlefields on the way to our cross-channel ferry back to England. Time to swap addresses and say goodbye as we arrive early evening in London. (B)
3 – 5 January
Not too sure yet…
6 January
Finnair Flight to Helsinki
Departing Heathrow Airport at 10:20am (local time) from terminal 3
Arriving Helsinki airport at 3:15 (Local time)
Total flight time 2 hrs 55 mins
Finnair Flight to Tokyo
Departing Helsinki Airport at 5:20 (local time) from terminal 2
7 January
Arriving Narita Airport (Tokyo) at 10am (local time)
Total flight time 9 hrs 40 mins
10 January
Qantas Flight to Sydney
Departing Narita Airport at 8:00pm (local time) from terminal 2
11 January
Arrive Sydney Airport at 7:55am (local time)
Total flight time 9hrs 55mins
Qantas Flight to Melbourne
Departing Sydney Airport at 9:30am (local time) from terminal 3
Arriving Melbourne Airport at 11:00am (local time) at terminal 1.Total flight time 1hr 30min
THE END!
