Imperial Rajasthan with South India Extension Founder's Collection
Imperial Rajasthan with South India Extension Founder's Collection
Imperial Rajasthan with South India Extension Founder's Collection
20 Days Starting in New Delhi and ending in Mumbai
Visiting: Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Khimsar, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Mumbai, Kochi, Alleppey Backwater, Kumarakom
Tour operator:
Tour code:
CA554M19
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
0-0
Special diets catered:
Please advise request
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Get a true taste of India’s majesty and scale as you travel in style between Mumbai, Kumarakom, and the Taj Mahal in old Rajasthan. In Udaipur—the City of the Lakes, step out from your luxury accommodations at the esteemed Leela Palace and join a Local Expert for an exploration of the Jagdish Temple and the Garden of the Maids of the Honour. Meet the Dabbawalla in Mumbai and learn how this army of delivery men have kept the city going for over 130-years using the fabulously intricate tiffin service. Explore India’s capital your way with the choice to tour the UNESCO world Heritage Site at Qutub Minar or treat your taste buds to the Delhi Street Food Tour, joining a well-known local chef for a sojourn through the famous street snacks of the old city. Rise early in Kerala for birdwatching at the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, explore the canals of Vaikom Village and try your hand at a truly unique Kochi Cooking Lesson—learning the traditional recipes of the region and how to prepare them.The Activity Level of this tour is Balanced, meaning there is 1 to 3 miles of walking per day which may include some uneven surfaces such as cobblestones and stairs.
Choice Highlights
- Choose between two carefully selected activities
- Delhi: Join a well-known chef for a culinary exploration of Delhi streets where you will tantalise your taste buds. Experience a wide variety of foods and learn the effect that mixing different flavours has on the palate as you sample Indian delicacies from local stallholders.
- Delhi: Visit the 12th century Qutub Minar, and see the tallest brick minaret in the world before enjoying lunch.
- Choose between two carefully selected activities
- Agra: Meet the community living in the shadow of the Taj Mahal when you take a Mughal Heritage Walk. Discover hidden gems of the area and learn about daily life in the ancient village with impressive vistas of India’s most famous monument. Through this initiative the community is supported from tourism to improve their living conditions.
- Agra: Visit a private colonial bungalow for high tea, meet the host family and listen to their stories about the British Raj and today's Indian culture and society.
- Choose between two carefully selected activities
- Jaipur: Visit the colourful cavalcade of the fresh flower and spice market.
- Jaipur: Visit the white marble Birla Mandir, a Hindu temple and witness aarti, a traditional prayer ceremony.
- Choose between two carefully selected activities
- Lake Pichola: Cruise the serene waters of Lake Pichola and relax as you take in the city views from the water.
- Udaipur: Explore the colourful bazaar in the old city.
- Choose between two carefully selected activities
- Kumarakom: Indulge in a rejuvenating massage. Please note - the Ayurveda Massage will be on direct payment.
- Kumarakom: Harmonise your mind and body by taking part in a yoga class.
Exceptional Dining
Delhi: Regularly rated as one of India's very finest restaurants, The Spice Route is a feast for all your senses, from the elegant design to the aromatic journey that each dish brings. Admire the incredible artwork from across Southeast Asia as you dine.
Jaipur: Enjoy a private access tour around Jaipur City Palace including the maharajah’s personal living room, normally off limits to visitors. Savour an Indian inspired high tea on the regal terrace after viewing the spectacular handcrafted crystal table by René Lalique.
Jaisalmer: Experience a truly unique dinner as the sun sets over the Sand Dunes. A sumptuous nomadic banquet is served under the desert stars as local musicians play traditional tunes into the gentle breeze of the night.
Kochi: Learn the art of home cooking, Kerala style, as you meet a local cooking instructor who will demonstrate the techniques of preparing traditional recipes of the region.
Vaikom Village: Have lunch with a local in Viakom Village. You will be introduced to village life and given the opportunity to try your hand at weaving with pineapple leaves or coconut husks before you are invited to share lunch in their home.
Udaipur: Sit down to your indulgent Celebration Dinner in the stunning restaurant of your hotel, which overlooks the beautiful outer courtyard and lake. Dine on a delicious banquet of Indian cuisine as you reflect on your unforgettable time in India.
Mumbai: Say goodbye to Mumbai in style with a showcase of Indian cuisine at your Celebration Dinner. Enjoy your final feast as you share tales and make toasts to the experiences you’ve had and memories you’ve made along your amazing journey.
Itinerary
Day 1: Delhi, A Rich Melting Pot Of Old And New
Location: Delhi
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: The Imperial, New Delhi.
Meals Included: Dinner
Your India luxury tour commences with a traditional welcome before you are transferred to your luxury Delhi hotel.
Day 2: Delhi Sightseeing
Location: Delhi
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: The Imperial, New Delhi.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Discover the Red Fort and Jama Masjid before either joining a foodie tour or visiting Qutub Minar. Feel the energy of Chandni Chowk, Delhi’s busiest market, on a rickshaw ride and visit the highlights of Delhi.
Day 3: Agra And The Views Of The Taj Mahal
Location: Delhi, Agra
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: ITC Mughal, Agra.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Take in Agra’s historical fort and Musamman Burj. Step out on a Mughal heritage walk or visit a private colonial bungalow for high tea with a family.
Day 4: Sunrise At The Taj And Jaipur, The Pink City
Location: Agra, Jaipur
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hyatt Regency Jaipur Mansarovar.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Bask in the majesty of the Taj Mahal at sunrise before journeying to Jaipur, the Pink City.
Day 5: Jaipur Sightseeing Relaxed Start
Location: Jaipur
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hyatt Regency Jaipur Mansarovar.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Ascend the Amber Fort for a blessing ceremony. Admire the Palace of the Winds and the royal observatory. Luxuriate in a VIP Indian high tea at City Palace. Visit the fresh flower and spice market or join a prayer ceremony at the Birla Mandir temple.
Day 6: Exploring Khimsar
Location: Jaipur, Khimsar
Accommodation: Hotel, Hotel
Accommodation Name: WelcomHotel, Khimsar.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Journey to Khimsar for a guided walk in a remote village or enjoy time at leisure. Relax an oasis-style desert retreat.
Day 7: The Sun City, Jaisalmer Relaxed Start
Location: Khimsar, Jaisalmer
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Fort Rajwada
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel through the Great Thar Desert to the Golden City of Jaisalmer. Ease into quiet desert life at your hotel where an inviting spa and pool await.
Day 8: Jaisalmer Sightseeing Relaxed Start
Location: Jaisalmer
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Fort Rajwada
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
View Gadisar Lake and the imposing Fort. Go local at the lively market and enjoy a serenade by a local folk singer as you dine amidst sunset-bathed dunes.
Day 9: The Blue City Of Jodhpur Relaxed Start
Location: Jodhpur
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: WelcomHotel, Jodhpur.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trace the ancient silk routes to the Blue City of Jodhpur. Explore the hidden lanes of the market by tuk tuk.
Day 10: Explore Mehrangarh Fort Relaxed Start
Location: Jodhpur
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: WelcomHotel, Jodhpur.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Meet village residents over lunch before visiting hilltop Mehrangargh Fort – the sandstone “Citadel of the Sun.”
Day 11: Udaipur, Venice Of The East
Location: Udaipur
Accommodation: Hotel, Hotel
Accommodation Name: The Leela Palace, Udaipur.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Take in Ranakpur’s intricately carved marble temples before arriving in Udaipur’s Leela Palace.
Day 12: Udaipur Sightseeing Relaxed Start
Location: Udaipur
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: The Leela Palace, Udaipur.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Cruise Lake Pichola or explore Udaipur’s colourful bazaar. Toast to your journey with dinner overlooking the beautiful outer courtyard.
Day 13: Fly To Kochi Via Mumbai
Location: Jaipur, Mumbai, Kochi
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Crowne Plaza
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Upon arrival for your India luxury tour in this port city of tiny islands and peninsulas along the Arabian Sea, check into your waterfront hotel on Bolgatty Island. Relax with a cocktail by the outdoor pool or at the poolside Thai Soul restaurant, tempting you with cuisine inspired by the vibrant streets of Bangkok.
Day 14: Kochi Sightseeing, Cooking School And Kathakali
Location: Kochi
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Crowne Plaza
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
In Kochi, view the oldest Jewish synagogue in the commonwealth and marvel at the Hindu mythology and legends in the murals of the Portuguese Mattancherry Palace. Lunchtime brings a colourful feast of traditional Kerala home cooking. The day ends with a performance of traditional Kathakali dance.
Day 15: Kumarakom And The Alleppey Backwaters Relaxed Start
Location: Alleppey Backwater, Kumarakom
Accommodation: Resort
Accommodation Name: Coconut Lagoon - CGH Earth Resort
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Take a private waterwheel houseboat cruise across the tranquil waters of Alleppey past picturesque villages, green paddy fields and a coconut plantation. Linger over a gourmet lunch before the day ends at Coconut Lagoon, your lakeside retreat built from preserved mansions of the nobility’s family homes.
Day 16: Kumarakom And Vaikom Village Relaxed Start
Location: Kumarakom
Accommodation: Resort
Accommodation Name: Coconut Lagoon - CGH Earth Resort
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
View the area’s vibrant migratory birds on a tour at Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary. Discover one of the oldest townships in Kerala cruising down the canals of Vaikom village. Meet the residents and try your skills at weaving from pineapple leaves or coconut husks before lunch at a local’s home.
Day 17: Relaxing Kumarakom Relaxed Start
Location: Kumarakom
Accommodation: Resort
Accommodation Name: Coconut Lagoon - CGH Earth Resort
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Personalise your day in tranquil Kumarakom and delve into one of the local nurturing practices. Harmonise your mind and body in a relaxing yoga class or enjoy a rejuvenating massage featuring Ayurvedic techniques. The day ends with a delicious dinner of fresh, local seafood.
Day 18: Magical Mumbai
Location: Kumarakom, Kochi, Mumbai
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: The Oberoi, Mumbai.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Journey north to Kochi for your flight to vibrant Mumbai. Settle into your deluxe hotel offering enticing views of the ocean and 'Queen’s Necklace' lights along the shoreline.
Day 19: Mumbai Sightseeing
Location: Mumbai
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: The Oberoi, Mumbai.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Uncover the alluring sites of Mumbai and learn the intricate details of the magnificent, 130-year-old Dabbawalla lunchbox delivery service. Cruise to Elephanta Island to visit the complex of cave temples before raising a glass to your journey over an elegant dinner.
Day 20: Depart Mumbai
Location: Mumbai
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your luxurious journey comes to an end as you are escorted to Mumbai Airport for your onward flights.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Accommodation is provided as detailed in the itinerary.
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Additional Services
Personal radio headsets are provided for freedom during visits to famous highlights, available on departures with 15 or more guests. Hotel Wi-Fi is available where possible.
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Airport Transfers at Destination
Complimentary airport transfers are included on start and end dates and when additional accommodation has been booked through Luxury Gold.
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Fully Guided
You will be escorted by a Travel Concierge, serving as your expert guide and organizer.
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Meals
Meals are provided as detailed in the itinerary.
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Dining Summary
Includes 12 Dinners, 19 Breakfasts, 10 Lunches, and 1 Afternoon Tea.
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Additional Included Highlights
Enjoy seamless personal assistance, Local Expert Guides, hotel taxes, porterage, tips, and complimentary hotel Wi-Fi.
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Curated Experiences
Includes a bird-watching tour at Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary.
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Founder’s Collection
Includes an intimate dinner with historian Rana Safvi on select departures.
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Magnificent Stays
Stay at The Leela Palace in Udaipur, styled as a grand Maharaja's palace.
What's Not Included
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International Travel
International travel is not included in the tour package.
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Ayurveda Massage
The Ayurveda Massage in Kumarakom is available on direct payment.
Dining Summary
- 12 Dinner (D)
- 19 Breakfast (B)
- 10 Lunch (L)
- 1 Afternoon Tea (AT)
Additional Included Highlights
- Enjoy seamless personal assistance throughout your journey. From securing exclusive reservations, to organising transportation, your Travel Concierge ensures every aspect of your travel is tailored to your tastes and preferences.
- In select destinations, our network of Local Expert Guides will illuminate your journey on a deeper level. ?
- Included at all hotels.
- Hotel taxes, porterage and tips, as well as tips for included dining experiences, are included.?
- Enjoy breakfast every morning, and an array of incredible dining options throughout your journey, infused with discovery and adventure.
- On days where a Relaxed Start (RS) is indicated, you can select to indulge in breakfast in bed.
- Enjoy complimentary hotel Wi-Fi. And, on select coaches, onboard Wi-Fi may also be available.
- Transfers are included on your journey start and end dates, and where additional accommodation has been booked in advance through Luxury Gold. Transfers to train stations or alternate hotels, in the same start or end city as the itinerary, may be requested.
Curated Experiences
- Backwater Ripples: Start the day early with a bird-watching tour at Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary where you will be given the chance to view some of the fantastic migratory birds which flock to the Himalayas and find home in the acres of woodland.
Founder's Collection
- Delhi: If you are travelling on a Founder's Collection departure, on Day 2 historian Rana Safvi invites you to an intimate dinner at Sana-Di-Ge to learn about her studies of Indian culture and how they relate to present day life in India.
Magnificent Stays
- Udaipur: Built in the style of a grand Maharaja's palace, The Leela Palace evokes the mystique of a bygone age where refined service and regal majesty meet to present an unparalleled experience.
Passport Moments
- Delhi: View the monuments of Old and New Delhi when you drive out to Red Fort, the former home of the Mughal emperors. Cruise down the Rajpath to see India Gate and Parliament House.
- Delhi: Take a tour of Jama Masjid with your Travel Concierge. Feel the majesty of the largest mosque in India with its three great gates, 40-metre-high minarets, and a courtyard large enough for 25,000 devotees.
- Delhi: Jump into the hustle and bustle of Old Delhi by taking an exhilarating rickshaw ride through the busy streets of Chandni Chowk. Let the city’s sights and sounds swirl around you as you’re transported in traditional style.
- Delhi: Visit a Sikh temple and community kitchen, where meals are given out to locals and travellers. Those of the Sikh faith regularly open their place of worship to those in greater need.
- Agra: Visit the impressive fortress in Agra and delve into the history of the Mughal Dynasty, who ruled their empire for over 300 years. See the glorious mosques and fairytale palaces such as the Sheesh Mahal within its protected walls.
- Agra: Rise in the morning light to view one of the greatest monuments in the world, the grand Taj Mahal. With the light of dawn and fewer visitors, you can fully appreciate its grandeur in peace, accompanied by only the birds and monkeys.
- Jaipur: Ascend by jeep to stroll through the intricately designed complex of courtyards and halls of Amber Fort. Enjoy the shimmering walls and ceilings and wonderful views of the surrounding countryside and receive a special blessing at this 16th-century residence.
- Jaipur: Enter the towering gates to the City Palace Museum for a look back through time at chandeliers, cannons, chariots and incredible murals. Built between 1729 -1732, this glorious complex is still home to the Jaipur royal family and young king.
- Jaisalmer: Set off to explore the sights of Jaisalmer, in particular the serene Gardisar Lake, built by the founding Rajput ruler of the city over 600 years ago. Visit the historic fort, where a quarter of the city's population still resides.
- Jaisalmer: Wander through the local markets of the Golden City of Jaisalmer and uncover the heartbeat of life in the desert. Peruse the fine silks and intricate silver jewellery in the bazaars of this medieval trading city.
- Kochi: Discover the city of Kochi with an orientation tour which takes in Paradesi Synagogue, the largest in the Commonwealth, before visiting the 16th century Portuguese Mattancherry Palace, renowned for its beautiful murals of Hindu mythology and legends.
- Kochi: Delve deeper into the cultural heritage of Kochi by attending a Kathakali performance. This colorful show is one of the world’s oldest forms of theater and the vibrant costumes, transformative make up, amazing dancing and vocal acrobatics make it unmissable.
- Jodhpur: Zip through the ancient streets of Jodphur on an invigorating tuk-tuk ride and visit Sadar Market to browse the traditional craft and food stalls which sprawl through the narrow city lanes in the shadow of the famous clock tower.
- Jodhpur: Follow the winding road to Mehrangarh Fort, the imposing sandstone structure which dominates the skyline above Jodphur. The building, so colossal it was described by Rudyard Kipling as ‘the work of giants,’ houses one of the best-stocked museums of Rajasthan.
- Alappuzha: Cruise the backwaters of Alleppey on a waterwheel houseboat to get an inside view of life on its shores. Journey past lush rice paddies and coconut plantations where people work daily, and enjoy a wonderful lunch onboard as you make your way to your luxury resort.
- Vaikom Village: Guided by boat, explore the narrow canals of one of the oldest townships in Kerala and with many spots untouched by modernity.
- Ranakpur: Explore the intricately carved Jain temples of Ranakpur. Built in the 15th century by Seth Dharna Sah, the vast structure comprises almost 1500 white marble pillars across its twenty-nine halls and is considered the most spectacular of its kind in India.
- Udaipur: Visit the architectural marvel of the City Palace complex that towers over the banks of Lake Pichola. This amazing blend of styles is a wonder to explore, with unique paintings and magnificent antiques, a testimony to the Rajput passion for art.
- Udaipur: Climb the stairs to visit the magnificent Jagdish Temple in the center of Udaipur Old Town and explore the many statues and carvings before stepping into the peaceful surroundings of the Garden of the Maids of Honour at the edge of town.
- Mumbai: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage protected ancient cave temples with depictions of Lord Shiva hewn from basalt rock. These extraordinary carvings date back as far as the 5th century and were recently restored. Human settlements from 2 BC have been recovered here.
- Mumbai: Take a cruise from Mumbai to Elephanta Island to see the six metre statue of Sadhashiva and the warren of carved cave temples which date back to AD 450, earning the island UNESCO World Heritage status.
- Mumbai: Meet the Dabbawalla in Mumbai to learn more about the intricate details of the magnificent tiffin service that keeps the city going! Without any technology, these delivery men have been providing home cooked food to the masses for over 130 years.
Personalise your day
- Delhi: Join a well-known chef for a culinary exploration of Delhi streets where you will tantalise your taste buds. Experience a wide variety of foods and learn the effect that mixing different flavours has on the palate as you sample Indian delicacies from local stallholders.
- Delhi: Visit the 12th century Qutub Minar, and see the tallest brick minaret in the world before enjoying lunch.
- Agra: Meet the community living in the shadow of the Taj Mahal when you take a Mughal Heritage Walk. Discover hidden gems of the area and learn about daily life in the ancient village with impressive vistas of India’s most famous monument. Through this initiative the community is supported from tourism to improve their living conditions.
- Agra: Visit a private colonial bungalow for high tea, meet the host family and listen to their stories about the British Raj and today's Indian culture and society.
- Jaipur: Visit the colourful cavalcade of the fresh flower and spice market.
- Jaipur: Visit the white marble Birla Mandir, a Hindu temple and witness aarti, a traditional prayer ceremony.
- Kumarakom: Indulge in a rejuvenating massage. Please note - the Ayurveda Massage will be on direct payment.
- Kumarakom: Harmonise your mind and body by taking part in a yoga class.
- Lake Pichola: Cruise the serene waters of Lake Pichola and relax as you take in the city views from the water.
- Udaipur: Explore the colourful bazaar in the old city.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique experiences can I expect during the tour in Delhi?
In Delhi, you can join a well-known chef for a culinary exploration of the streets, sampling a variety of Indian delicacies and learning about the effects of mixing different flavors. Alternatively, you can visit the 12th century Qutub Minar, the tallest brick minaret in the world, and enjoy lunch afterward.
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How does the tour support local communities in Agra?
In Agra, the tour includes a Mughal Heritage Walk where you meet the community living in the shadow of the Taj Mahal. This initiative supports the community through tourism, helping to improve their living conditions.
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What activities are available in Jaipur during the tour?
In Jaipur, you can visit the colorful fresh flower and spice market or witness aarti, a traditional prayer ceremony, at the white marble Birla Mandir, a Hindu temple.
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What can I do in Kumarakom to relax and rejuvenate?
In Kumarakom, you can indulge in a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage or participate in a yoga class to harmonize your mind and body.
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What is the dining experience like in Jaisalmer?
In Jaisalmer, you will experience a unique dinner as the sun sets over the Sand Dunes. A sumptuous nomadic banquet is served under the desert stars while local musicians play traditional tunes.
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What cultural experiences are included in Kochi?
In Kochi, you will learn the art of home cooking, Kerala style, from a local cooking instructor. You will also attend a performance of traditional Kathakali dance, which is one of the world's oldest forms of theater.
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What is the highlight of the tour in Mumbai?
In Mumbai, you will uncover the city's alluring sites and learn about the 130-year-old Dabbawalla lunchbox delivery service. You will also cruise to Elephanta Island to visit the complex of cave temples.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Absolutely! We are very selective in who we work with and choose to only use hotels that take the health and well-being of our guests as seriously as we do and agree to meet expected guidelines and specifications. We only work with establishments that we are confident will consistently adhere to our standards.
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Which countries does Luxury Gold visit?
We offer incredible luxury trips in Europe, North America, South America, Hawaii, South-East Asia, the Indian sub-continent (including India, Nepal, Bhutan and Sri Lanka), Australia and New Zealand.
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What other modes of transport does Luxury Gold use?
A Luxury Gold tour will include touring on high-speed trains, alpine cable cars, hydrofoils, river cruisers and horse-drawn carriages, in addition to our high-deck luxury coaches with extra legroom.
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Who travels with Luxury Gold?
We are delighted to welcome guests who have a shared love of travel, adventure, entertainment and exploration. A mix of solo travellers, couples, and groups of friends and family join us from all over the English-speaking world.
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What is the role of the Well-Being Director?
Working closely together with your Travelling Concierge, the Well-Being Director* will help make sure all necessary protocols are followed to ensure the health and wellbeing of all our guests. This includes our enhanced screening and hygiene protocols, complying with distancing and other requirements set by government authorities. They are also there to support our guests & answer any questions.
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Low Deposit
Luxury Gold requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of luxury gold charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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