Thompsons Holidays

Far East 2008

www.thompsons.co.za
 Why you should insist on a Thompsons Holiday
At the Merlion, in Singapore The Leading Travel Companies of The World
Thompsons Holidays is a proud member of “The Leading Travel
Companies of The World”, a collection of quality International travel and
tourism companies offering an extensive selection of holiday options across
the globe. All members of this group offer superior quality, value for money
and the highest levels of service..

Getting to know Thompsons Holidays

This Thompsons brochure has been designed especially for you, our valued
client. We have gone the extra mile to ensure that all your travel needs are
covered and are confident that after reading it, you’ll insist on a Thompsons
holiday. The Thompsons website is a one-stop shop for a variety of exciting
holidays. Simply visit www.thompsons.co.za and discover a wealth of travel
opportunities.

Your Link to Thompsons

Thompsons Holidays has dealings with more than 1 500 travel agencies
across South Africa so you’ll have no difficulty booking the holiday you
deserve. Just pop into a travel agency near you and request a Thompsons
holiday.

Price Guarantee
Once full payment is received from you, the price paid is guaranteed,
irrespective of any subsequent changes in airfare or fluctuations in the
exchange rate.

Awards Speak Volumes

With 30 years experience in the travel industry, we have built a reputation
for providing excellent service, specialist knowledge and value for money
Far East

tailor-made packages. Our efforts have not gone unnoticed and for five
consecutive years, Thompsons has been voted Best International Tour
Operator and Best African Tour Operator in the Diners Club ASATA
Travel Awards.

Thompsons Value for Money

As one of the largest Tour Operators selling the UK and Europe,
Thompsons Holidays enjoys excellent rates and booking conditions with
our partner airlines, hotels, transfers, excursion and attraction suppliers.
This translates into the best possible value for you, our valued customer.

Travel Pack
Prior to departure, your travel documents will be presented to you in a
durable Thompsons travel wallet. Each pack contains valuable information,
as well as re-usable luggage labels and other surprises, depending on your
destination. In the event of an emergency, a Thompsons staff member is
contactable by phone, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Thompsons Top-Up’s
Stretch your Rands and Top-Up your Thompsons package with additional
excursions to enhance your holiday experience. Pre-book car hire,
sightseeing tours, admission tickets and more.

Pricing
All prices are from a starting price per person sharing, are an estimate and are
subject to change wthout prior notice. Our “What Things Cost” prices are an
estimate and are to be used as a guideline only. Prices correct at time of going
to print. Thompsons terms and conditions apply.

Refer to our website www.thompsons.co.za for more information.

Thompsons • Avoid drinking tap water and stick to • byRevitalize body, mind and soul
including an aromatherapy
cooked vegetables instead of raw salads
travel tips and lettuce. These might also have been
washed in water.
treatment at a spa whilst in the
East.

2 Dream the destination... Live the journey.

 Enticing...irresistible places!
Contents:
2-3
The Far East with Thompsons
4-7
Malaysia
8-10
Singapore
11
Star Cruises
12-14
Bali
15-17
Hong Kong
18-20
China
21-22
Vietnam
23-24
Cambodia
25
Far East Combo’s Discover the unique charm Hotel Grading
26 of the Far East
Hotel Features List Steeped in a rich and unique Please note that the hotels in this brochure are the official star ratings

Far East
history, it offers visitors an insight from the hotels themselves. All hotels have all been given the Thompsons’
27 stamp of approval. This means that wherever you choose to stay, you have
Booking Conditions into a very different world with
carefully preserved cultures, our personal guarantee of comfort and service.
religious beliefs and a completely
different way of life.

With the Far East being one of the

best sellers at Thompsons Tours
there are new and exciting
destinations to follow this year.

What to wear in the Far East

Clothes should be light and loose
for most parts in the Far East, yet
for China and Hong Kong warm
clothes should be part of your
luggage.

The Far East has lots of different

cultures and beliefs so long sleeved
clothes that cover your arms
and legs are a must when visiting
Temples.

Make sure you take a comfortable

pair of walking shoes, which are
vital for sightseeing. Ensure that you
pack plenty of sunblock and any
medication you may need.

• cultures,
Learn about the different
beliefs and lifestyles
• and
Shopping in the East is a thrilling
exciting experience but
• pose
Although languages might sometimes
a problem, a friendly smile, gestures
through our vast variety of prepare to haggle for the best and facial expressions will often get you
destination guided tours. price. what you want

www.thompsons.co.za 3
 Dedicated Thailand Brochure
Thailand, famous for its white beaches,
excellent shopping, gilded temples, hill tribes
and unforgettable islands, has quickly become
Thompson’s most popular and highly requested
Thailand
resorts as well as more tours and sightseeing
ideas. With a variety and mix from islands and
beaches to urban delights and the huge, chaotic
metropolis of Bangkok which has become a

destination in the Far East. Therefore this year
we have introduced a separate 16-page
brochure, featuring this ultimate chill-out,
memorable, holiday making magic destination.
This allows us to bring you a wider selection
of products ranging from new cities and island
destinations, various newly acquired hotels and
shopper’s paradise, this destination has long since
charmed visitors senseless with its energy and
cultural treasures. For more information, don’t
forget to collect a copy of our Thailand brochure
from your nearest travel agent, or for ease and
convenience, go online to www.thompsons.co.za
download it to your computer.

Malaysia
iCAPITAL CITY:
Kuala Lumpur
LANGUAGE:
Bahasa. English is spoken.
CURRENCY:
Local - Malaysian Ringitt (MYR)
MYR100 = ZAR245
VISA:
Not required for SA Passport Holders
AREA:
329,750 km2
TIME DIFFERENCE:
SA Time + 6 hours
Traditional dance
HEALTH REQUIREMENTS:
None
Malaysia

what things cost

These prices are an average price and may vary
according to areas, hotels and season.
(MYR Malaysian Ringitt)

Glass of wine: MYR 18-35

Local Beer: MYR 15
Tea / Coffee: MYR 5
Soft drinks: MYR 7
Water: MYR 5
Lunch: MYR 30

BEST TIME TO TRAVEL
Malaysia is hot and humid all year round with
temperatures rarely dropping below 20C, even
in the evenings. It has two not very marked
seasons, a moderately wet and moderately dry
season.
Humidity hovers around 90% but on the Penin-
sula you can escape this by retreating to hillside
resorts. Thunderstorms are frequent during
the wetter months from November – February,
with brief outbursts, which seldom interrupt
the sunshine and outdoor activities.
Malaysia is one of the most pleasant, hassle-free
countries to visit in Southeast Asia, with its
interesting fusion of Malay, Chinese, Indian and
indigenous cultures and customs - comprising
of the Peninsula of Malaysia and two states of
Sabah and Sarawak.
A beautiful characteristic of Malaysia, other than
all it has to see and do, is the fact that it is truly
Asian. You can travel from a Malay village through
an Indian neighborhood to Chinatown and feel
that you have been to three different countries.
Aside from the gleaming skyscrapers of the 21st
century in Kuala Lumpur’s bustling metropolis, it
also boasts some of the most superb beaches.
Sarawak is the heart of the rainforest and the
national parks offering wildlife, beaches and rivers.
Sabah has the lively Kota Kinabalu, Mount Kinabalu
and the Sepilok Orang-Utan Rehabilitation centre.
Malaysia is a compelling mixture of uneven
mountains, seaside resorts and picturesque fishing
villages, historical towns and national parks

4 Dream the destination... Live the journey.

Malaysia - Kuala Lumpur
SIGHTSEEING
Kuala Lumpur - The capital and also the
largest city with a history spanning more
than 150 years. It’s grown quickly to a
modern city with a blend of old colonial
and new buildings that exist side by side
and is home to the KLCC Petronas Towers
– one of the tallest buildings in the world.
It consists of a population of over two
million people. The city is known for some
of the best shopping in Asia, with many
air-conditioned shopping centers selling
everything at competitive prices and should
therefore be considered as a stopover must
for a few days.
Kuala Lumpur Half Day City Tour Accommodation: Good size rooms, some with 2 double beds
Kuala Lumpur has an exciting blend of
both colonial and modern architecture,
with its colonial roots along the river to
mosques, palaces and modern buildings
along wide boulevards. Visit places like the
Malayan Railway Station, Merdeka Square,
Chinatown and the King’s Palace.
from MYR55 pp
Chinatown Night Tour Accommodation: The 310 air-conditioned and newly refurbished
Visit the bustling night markets of
Chinatown, where you can try your skills at
bargaining. Enjoy a delicious Malay dinner
in a typical local restaurant, followed by a
traditional Malay cultural performance.
from MYR122 pp
Countryside Tour
A fascinating insight into the bustling city
with the countryside right outside it’s
footsteps where quaint Kampung Houses
stand beside palatial homes. Visit cottage
industries including the Royal Selangor
Pewter and Batik Centre. Included in the
tour is also a visit to Embassy Row,
kampongs and the limestone cluster caves
of Batu. from MYR56 pp
Shop ‘till you Drop’ Add-on
3 Days/ 2nights
Kuala Lumpur is an ideal stopover and
home to great value markets and many
shopping centres. From local arte-facts to
the latest designer labels, your stay is set
to be a very busy one...
Package includes: Return transfers
from the airport to your hotel, 2 night’s
accommodation including breakfast and
local taxes, as well as a half day city tour
from MYR480 pp
TIP: Good value hotel ideally suited
to families, in an excellent location.
TIP: Indulge in an ancient Balinese
massage at the Samsara Spa.
TIP: Spacious room, huge swimming
pool in a convenient location
TIP: Excellent location with all the
comforts of a 5* property
Other top selling hotels, available on request : Istana Hotel, JW Marriot, Ritz Carlton, Impiana KLCC Hotel & Spa, Coronade Hotel,
Federal Hotel, Crowne Plaza Mutiara KUL, Grand Continental, Shangri-la Kuala Lumpur and many others.
www.thompsons.co.za
Petronas Towers
★HHPLUS Dorsett Regency
Location: A popular hotel, located at the start of Bintang walk in
the heart of the Golden Triangle close to shops and entertainment.
make this ideal for families. Rooms are air-conditioned with refrigerator
and mini-bar, in room safes, free tea/coffee, satellite TV, movies on
demand, IDD telephone, internet, Inter-connecting rooms.
Facilities: 2 Restaurants, 1 bar, entertainment, rooms for those with
disabilities, swimming pool, kids pool, gym and day spa .
from MYR 295 per room per night
Malaysia
★HHH Swiss Garden Hotel
Location: Situated in the heart of bustling Kuala Lumpur, on the
Golden Triangle, between the well known shopping haven in the city,
rooms offer satellite TV/IDD phone, tea/coffee making and internet
facilities.
Facilities: For outdoor dining, the Garden Terrace Coffee House or
The Pool Bar, both offer a variety of delicacies. The stylish Blue Chip
Lounge is a cocktail of style and elegance.
from MYR 269 per room per night
★HHH Renaissance Hotel
Location: Jalan Ampang next to the light rail for easy access to the
rest of the city. Walking distance of the Petronas Towers.
Accommodation: There are two separate wings, the
contemporary 4-star East Wing and the more classic 5-star West
Wing. Air-conditioned rooms with fridge and mini-bar, in room safes,
tea/coffee, satellite TV as well as movies on demand, IDD telephone,
internet, Inter- connecting rooms.
Facilities: 5 restaurants, 4 bars, entertainment, rooms for those with
disabilities, swimming pool with poolbar, tennis courts, gym and spa.
from MYR 320 per room per night
★HHH The Westin Kuala Lumpur
Location: The city’s newest deluxe hotel situated in the heart of the
Golden Triangle surrounded by restaurants and entertainment, as well
as shopping centres.
Accommodation: Rooms are decorated in a contemporary style
with a Heavenly bed and either twin tower or city views.
Facilities: These include a fine selection of restaurants with a Latin
grill and even a Cuban cigar bar. An ideal hotel for families offering a
kids club as well as a children’s pool.
from MYR 564 per room per night
5
 Malaysia - Langkawi & Pangkor Laut
SIGHTSEEING
The 99 islands of the Langkawi group are
situated at the northern end of Peninsula
Malaysia, bordering Thailand. Idyllic,
tropical islands with powdery white
beaches and crystal clear waters only one
hours flight from Kuala Lumpur.
A destination for honeymooners and an
ideal place to relax. Enjoy the excellent
cuisine, water sports and many interesting
attractions such as Mahsuri’s Tomb. Telaga
Tujuh (the seven wells), Pulau Dayang
Bunting, Galleria Perdana, Underwater
world and many others. A duty free
shopping haven for visitors, with many
complexes in the main town. In less tourist
areas, still a rural Malay island with small
villages, rice paddies, water buffaloes and
natural beauty.
Langkawi Highlights Half Day Tour Facilities: 3 restaurants, 2 bars, 24 hour room service, computers
Highlights include the Mahsuri Tomb -
Malaysia
where the sad legend of a beautiful
princess will be related to you, a fishing
village and the capital Kuah, where you
will have time to do some shopping.
from MYR 70 pp
Sunset Dinner Cruise
Transfer to the Porto Malai jetty and
board the 40 passenger catamaran. Set
sail around the scattered tropical islands
of the Langkawi Archipelago. Enjoy a free
flow of drinks from the bar whilst the crew
prepares your BBQ dinner. Bring along
your bathing suit and a change of clothes
for this cruise as after dinner, you can take
a dip in the boat’s jacuzzi of salt water &
feel refreshed. Transfer back to your hotel
at the end of cruise. bedding configuration of 2 doubles. Rooms have spacious balconies,
Adult: MYR 359 pp Child: MYR 205 pp
Duration: 3 hours.
Mix Business with Pleasure
Kuala Lumpur / Langkawi - 9 nights
Extend a business trip to include a 7 night
stay at one of the most beautiful island
destinations in Asia. Combine 2 nights in
Kuala Lumpur, one of Asia’s most bustling
cities, with a 7 night Langkawi stay.
includes:
• Return airport - hotel transfers
• 2 nights in Kuala Lumpur with an Evening
Chinatown tour • Breakfast daily.
• 7 nights in Langkawi with a ‘Highlights of
Langkawi half day island tour’ and local
taxes
from MYR 2 228 pp
6 Dream the destination... Live the journey.
TIP: Large pool and good leisure
facilities set on spacious grounds.
TIP: The newly built over water
suites offer good value.
TIP: Good value with facilities for
both adults and children alike.
TIP: Previously voted best Spa
Resort in the world
Other hotels also available on request are the : Langkawi Lagoon Resort, Rebak Island Resort, Westin Langkawi Resort, Mutiara
Burau Bay Resort, Tanjung Rhu Resort, Paradise Sandy Beach Penang, Shangri-la Golden Sands and many others.
Diving in Langkawi
★HH Holiday Villa Beach & Spa Resort
Location: : On Pantai Tengah, situated on 13 acres, right on the
beach. Close to popular eating and shopping areas.
Accommodation: All 258 air-conditioned rooms, those sea-
facing offer private balconies or terraces. Rooms are comfortable
offering the usual IDD telephone, satellite television, refrigerator with
mini-bar, tea & coffee making facilities and in room safes.
with internet access, shops, a swimming pool with pool bar and kids
pool, day spa, water sports, tennis courts, gym, and baby-sitting
services on request. from MYR 333 per room per night
★HH Berjaya Langkawi Beach & Spa Resort
Location: Situated on Burau Bay, surrounded by tropical rainforest.
Accommodation: Typically Malaysian styled rooms, chalets and
suites each with either their own balcony or terrace. All 500 rooms
are air-conditioned with a refrigerated mini-bar, Satellite TV, IDD
telephone and tea/coffee making facilities.
Facilities: 24 hour room service, laundry, shops, 5 restaurants, 4
bars, a swimming pool with a pool bar and separate kid’s pool, tennis
courts and a gym.
from MYR 474 per room per night
★HHH Sheraton Langkawi Beach
Location: Located along a beautiful section of the Andaman
coastline, set in the rainforest.
Accommodation: 238 recently fully renovated, air-conditioned
spacious rooms designed in chalet style are ideal for families with a
offering either sea or rainforest views, a refrigerator with mini-bar,
in room safes, IDD telephone, tea/coffee facilities, as well as internet
access.
Facilities: 24 hour room service, laundry, 4 restaurants, 3 bars,
evening entertainment, a swimming pool, pool bar and kids club &
pool, day spa, water sports, tennis courts, gym
and baby-sitting services. from MYR 653 per room per night
★HHHH Pangkor Laut Resort
Location: A short ferry trip from KL to Pangkor Laut, a privately
owned island which was voted the best Spa Resort in the world.
Accommodation: 148 air-conditioned villas with private balconies,
offering all the necessary amenities such as IDD telephones,
refrigerated mini-bars
Facilities: This resort provides guests with unforgettable memories.
Not only is it situated in a magnificent location, but facilities offer 2
swimming pools, a gymnasium, 3 tennis and a squash court, a spa,
library, restaurants and much more. from MYR 1024 per room per night
Malaysia - Penang

SIGHTSEEING

Situated on the North Western coast,

the island of Penang is the oldest British
settlement in Malaysia and one of the
country’s premier resort areas. Aside from
beautiful beaches there are also excellent
hawker restaurants, colonial buildings of
nearby Georgetown and hundreds of
market stalls. Try a rickshaw ride around old
Chinese chop houses or take a cool retreat
up Penang Hill where spectacular views
Malay delicacies
await and a lavishly decorated Hindu temple
Sri Mariamman await you at the top. ★HH Bayview Beach Resort
Location: Located at the quieter end of Batu Ferringhi beach, set in
Round the Island Tour landscaped gardens right on the beach.
Discover the enchanting beauty of Penang Accommodation: 366 Spacious air-conditioned rooms with radio,
and her secrets with this essential circular TV, mini-bar, tea/coffee and IDD telephone.
island tour that takes you through idyllic
Facilities: These include a business centre, laundry service, free
and picturesque fishing villages; fruit, clove
parking, 24 hour room service, 3 restaurants, 3 bars a swimming pool
and nutmeg plantations, with a stop at the
with pool bar and kids pool area, day spa, water sports, tennis courts,
Penang Batik Handicraft Centre to observe

how local Malaysian batik is being made.
Proceed to the infamous Snake temple,
where pit vipers coil unperturbed.
from MYR 73 pp
Historical Georgetown
Step back in time as you venture into the
historical streets of Penang that hold the
religious abodes reflecting the 4 dominant
religions of Hinduism, Buddhism,
Christianity and Islam. Visit the Sri
Mariamman Temple (the oldest Hindu
TIP: Up to 2 kids under 12 years of
age, sharing with 2 adults, stay free
temple), Masjid Kapitan Keling (the oldest
Indian Muslim mosque), Saint Georges
Anglican Church (1818) and the Kuan Yin
Temple, built by the first Chinese settlers
more than a century ago. shopping and dining opportunities in Penang.
from MYR 73 pp
City To Island Getaway
Kuala Lumpur / Penang - 9 Nights
For an interesting cocktail of shopping,
mixed with relaxation, why not combine a
2 nights Kuala Lumpur stay, with 7 nights
in Penang? A short flight from KL, Penang
is famous for its beaches and tropical
lifestyle as well as the colonial buildings of
Georgetown.
includes: • Return transfers
• 2 nights in Kuala Lumpur with an
Evening Chinatown tour
• 7 nights in Penang with a Historical
Georgetown Tour and local taxes
• Breakfast daily.
from MYR 1616 pp
(Excludes International & internal flights)
Other hotels also available on request are the : Paradise Sandy Beach Penang, Shangri-la Golden Sands and many others.
TIP: Comfortable rooms make this a
good value resort in a great location.
TIP: Good location with many good
quality dining options.
TIP: An expansive luxury retreat in
true Malaysian style
Malaysia
a gym, kids club and baby-sitting services on request.
from MYR 256 per room per night
★HHH Holiday Inn Resort
Location: In the heart of Batu Ferringhi, close to restaurants, night
markets and shops. This resort is right on the beach.
Accommodation: All 358 air-conditioned, spacious guest rooms
include suites, kid suites and triple rooms offering a TV, mini-bar, tea/
coffee facilities, telephone. Safety deposit boxes are available to guests
and located at reception.
Facilities: 2 Restaurants and 2 bars with evening entertainment, 24
hour room service, shops, swimming pool with kids pool area, tennis
courts, gym, and kids club. from MYR 320 per room per night
★HHH Park Royal Penang
Location: On the beach front, in the middle stretch of Batu
Ferringhi beach with access to all restaurants and night bazaars for best
Accommodation: All the in room facilities of a 4-star hotel.
Facilities: Good indoor and outdoor activities for everyone, includ-
ing couples and honeymooners. They also boast a spa, kids club,
swimming pool, water sports, tennis courts, gym and baby
sitting service on request making this an ideal family resort.
from MYR 461 per room per night
★HHHH Shangri-La’s Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa
Location: Well situated right on Ferringhi Beach.
Accommodation: Recently re-opened after a full revamp and set
to become one of the leading hotels in Asia, the hotel is split into 2
wings. The Garden Wing has deluxe sea-facing rooms whilst the Rasa
Wing has deluxe, premier rooms and suites which include private club
lounge facilities with free champagne, wines, juices and canapés served
throughout the day, as well as a butler service.
Facilities: The exclusive spa sanctuary, CHI Spa cocooned within
lush gardens, 2 restaurants and 4 bars, a swimming pool, tennis courts,
gym, kids club and water sports. from MYR 1011 per room per night

www.thompsons.co.za 7
 Singapore

Singapore harbour

Half day Heritage Tour

i This tour begins with a visit to the Thien Hock

Keng Temple which is more than 160 years old.
The unique wooden structure and wood
carvings were built and assembled without using
Singapore

CAPITAL CITY: any nails. Next stop is Chinatown Heritage

Singapore Centre. Discover and trace journeys, beliefs and
LANGUAGE: myths of early Chinese migrants who made their
Chinese, Malay, Tamil, English way to Singapore. Gain an insight into their lives
CURRENCY: and experience for yourself the hardship of living
Singapore dollar (SGD) in the dark and cramped quarters they built in
SGD = ZAR5,65 Chinatown. Last stop is Kampong Glam - where
VISA: the old Arab Quarters once stood. Learn about
Not required for SA Passport Holders. the practice of Islam in this part of the world
Bintan - Indonesian visa required.
at the Sultan Mosque. Along Arab Street, see
AREA: the last remaining shops in Singapore still selling
513,120 km2
sarongs, rattan baskets, brass works and unique
TIME DIFFERENCE: leather products used by the Muslim community.
SA time + 6 hours
Daily - 09h00 - 14h30. Duration - 3.5 hours.
HEALTH REQUIREMENTS:
Adult: SGD 38 pp. Child under 12yrs: SGD 19 pp
None

(Food Court)
what things cost
These prices are an average price and may
vary according to areas, hotels and season.
(Singapore Dollar)
Glass of Wine: SGD 10
Beer: SGD 10
Tea/Coffee: SGD 4.50
Soft drinks: SGD 4
Water Small bottle: SGD 4
Local Meal (lunch): SGD 28
(Food Court) SGD 4
best time to travel
Singapore, being so close to the equator has
a constant climate that changes little from
month to month, making it an ideal year
round destination.
The wettest months are between November
and January so your best time to travel would
be in the low rainfall season from June to
August.
This small Tropical- island has become known as a
shopper’s paradise, with unrivalled
opportunities to spend your life-savings on
everything from electronics, watches, jewellery
and cosmetics to designer labelled fashion items.
It is fun to explore areas such as Chinatown,
Little India and Arab Street where some unusual
businesses are being run.
You will find a harmonious blend of culture, some
of the tastiest cuisine creations in Asia, a variety
of arts and an ultra modern architecture.
A world of possibilities, Singapore offers
countless memorable experiences just waiting to
be discovered.
There are places like Sentosa Island, offering
every form of fun imaginable, from golf, to
swimming, to exciting theme parks and many
historical and cultural attractions, one of which is
the Singapore museum.
There is an Underwater world, one of Asia’s
largest oceanariums. Singapore, with world class
attractions such as the Singapore Zoo, a home to
more than 4000 residents, some of which are the
Komodo Dragon and the white rhino, as well as
a charismatic orangutan colony and the blue-eyed
white tiger with paws the size of our faces.
Year round Festivals offer great opportunities to
explore and observe local cultures at their most
enchanting and passionate moments.
Festivals:
Chinese New Year - Jan/Feb: Dragon dances,
parades, fireworks, night markets.
Vesak Day - Apr /May celebrates the birthdate of
Buddha with the releasing of caged birds & much
more
Dragon Boat festival - May/June, celebrated with
boat races across Marina Bay

8 Dream the destination... Live the journey.

Singapore
SIGHTSEEING
Sentosa Sunset Island Tour
Take a Cable Car ride to Sentosa Island
and enjoy a panoramic view of the Port of
Singapore as the sun sets. Visit the Images
of Singapore exhibition to experience the
real magic behind the story of Singapore.
Here legend, fact and folklore are
creatively interwoven for guests to enjoy
the special “I am here” experience.
Images of Singapore are a journey into the
very soul of Singapore – a place of
adventure, ingenuity, perseverance,
survival and fun. Next we proceed to the
Underwater World, one of the largest
oceanariums that has an 83m long acrylic
tunnel for a spectacular view of marine
life. Finally, visit the “Songs of the Sea”
for a spectacular synchronized display of
pyrotechnics and laser presentation by the
Beach. Return to mainland Singapore is
by coach.
* In the unlikely event of of any cancellation of
the ‘Songs of the Sea’ performance due to bad
weather or technical failure there will strictly be
no refund in part or full.
Daily: Pick-up 15h30. Duration: 4 hours.
Adult: SGD 72 Child: SGD 36
Cheng Ho Imperial Dinner Cruise
For an unforgettable evening, enjoy a
sunset dinner cruise to the Southern
Islands and see the busiest port in the
world, onboard the M.V. Cheng Ho, an
air-conditioned Imperial Chinese Vessel.
The evening breeze, a setting sun and the
peace and quiet of the open sea, combined
with a sumptuous international buffet
dinner is an experience not to be missed.
Adult: SGD 65 Child: SGD 35
Other top selling hotels also available on request are : Copthorne Orchid, The Orchard Parade Hotel, Rasa Sentosa Shangri-la, Le Meridien Singapore, Meritus Mandarin Hotel, Raffles The Plaza,
Rendezvous Hotel, Swissotel Merchant Court, The Stamford and many others.
TIP: Perfect urban retreat that
would appeal to your senses
TIP: A unique hotel offering an
unforgettable experience
TIP: Close to Chinatown, shopping
and entertainment.
TIP: Excellent for families, 5 minutes
from main shopping areas.
www.thompsons.co.za
Chinese masks
HHHPLUS Copthorne Orchid Hotel
Location: Close to Singapore’s popular shopping district in Orchard
Road, major tourist attractions, the CBD and convention centres.
Accommodation: Rooms are located by open air corridors
offering and include all the usual amenities and comforts.
Facilities: The Palms Asian Brasserie offers culinary delights where
you can savour Eastern as well as Western cuisine. The café offers
Asian and continental favourites, generous buffets and an extensive
Singapore
a-la-carte menu. Other facilities include a fitness centre, outdoor pool,
sauna and spa. from SGD 269 per room per night
★HHH Gallery Hotel
Location: Jalan Ampang next to the light rail for easy access to
the rest of the city.
Accommodation: There are two separate wings, the 4-star East
Wing and the more classic 5-star West Wing. Air-conditioned rooms
with refrigerator and mini-bar, in room safe, tea/coffee, satellite TV,
movies on demand, IDD telephone, internet, Interconnecting rooms.
Facilities: 5 restaurants, 4 bars, entertainment, 24 hour room
service, rooms for those with disabilities, swimming pool with poolbar,
tennis courts, gym, spa and baby-sitting facilities.
from SGD 228 per room per night
★HHH Copthorne Kings Hotel
Location: Along the historic Singapore River close to the Shenton
Way business district.
Accommodation: 314 stylish and contemporary air-conditioned
rooms offer modern day amenities.
Facilities: 3 Award winning restaurants and recreational facilities
such as a landscaped outdoor pool with Jacuzzi, a gymnasium, sauna
and steam bath.
from SGD 234 per room per night
★HHH York Hotel
Location: Conveniently located just 5 minutes walk from Orchard
and Scotts Road, Singapore’s main shopping and entertainment belt.
Accommodation: 406 spacious, well-appointed rooms.
Facilities: Include wireless broadband internet access, business
centre, function rooms, outdoor swimming pool and Jacuzzi,
children’s pool and fitness centre.
from SGD 292 per room per night
9
 Singapore
SIGHTSEEING
Singapore Cruise Add-on - 2 Nights
A perfect ministay for travellers who are
seeking a pre or post stay in Singapore, as
an add on to their cruise.
Includes:
• Return transfers
• 2 night’s accommodation at the
Pan Pacific inclusive of breakfast and all
local taxes
• A Singapore half-day city tour
from SGD 565 pp
Singapore
Singapore & Bintan Combo
6 nights
Why not include 3 nights in Singapore
with an additional 3 nights in Bintan for a
holiday that offers everything?
Bintan is located only 45km south-east
of Singapore, and has untarnished white
beaches and azure waters, offering the
ideal retreat for those seeking an escape
from the hustle and bustle.
Shop till you’re about to drop in Singapore,
then escape to the beaches of Bintan to
recover. An exhilarating and relaxing
combination of destinations.
includes:
• Transfers throughout
• 2 night’s accommodation at the
York Hotel incl. breakfast (previous page)
• A half day Singapore City
• 5 night’s accommodation in Bintan
at the Nirwana Resort incl. breakfast
• All local taxes
from SGD 1043 pp
Note: Bintan Island is an Indonesian territory
and visas are required. These can be done on
arrival but passports must have a validity of
more than 6 months.
Best avoided during the Monsoon season from
Nov - Mar, as things like watersports could be
cancelled over this period.
10
TIP: Choice offerings for business,
entertainment and relaxation.
TIP: Close proximity to Suntec
Expo Centre
TIP: Superbly located in the centre
of Orchard Road
TIP: Extend a business trip to
include a getaway retreat to this
luxurious resort
Dream the destination... Live the journey.
The Merlion in Singapore
★HHH Orchard Hotel
Location: On Singapore’s renowned Orchard Road, the
city-state’s famous shopping and entertainment belt.
Accommodation: 653 rooms and suites are tastefully appointed
in two characteristically unique twin buildings.
Facilities: Offers cosmopolitan elegance and comfort, complimented
by some of the city’s finest dining in award winning restaurants.
Guests staying here will enjoy a wide selection of facilities.
from SGD 330 per room per night
★HHH Pan Pacific Singapore Hotel
Location: In Marina Bay, adjacent to three shopping malls.
Accommodation: 775 well-appointed and recently refurbished
rooms and suites offer magnificent views of the city and harbor. Rooms
are luxurious with LCD televisions and remote controlled drapes.
Facilities: Guests can enjoy facilities that include tennis courts, a spa,
gymnasium and outdoor swimming pool. It boasts 6 award winning
restaurants, with Cantonese, Japanese, International gourmet
presentations and a delectable selection of tapas to choose from.
from SGD 458 per room per night
★HHHH Meritus Mandarin
Location: An excellent location in Orchard road, within easy access
of the City Hall MRT station and close to many shops and restaurants..
Accommodation: 1200 large and well appointed air-conditioned
rooms in two separate towers offering city and harbour views.
Facilities: This property offers a wide range of food and beverage
outlets with a choice of leisure facilities that include a gym, massage
rooms, sauna and steam baths, tennis and squash courts, swimming
pool, etc. from SGD 413 per room per night
★HHHH Banyan Tree Bintan
Location: Close to Pasar Oleh Oleh and Kampoeng Lagoi, both
locations near each other, across the street. Where guests can find
restaurants, bar and shopping areas.
Accommodation: Styled with elegant sophistication, the air-
conditioning with mini bar, internet, IDD phone, satellite TV offer the
comforts of home for business and leisure travellers.
Facilities: A night of romance and epicurean delights await with
exclusive outdoor destination dining experiences – on the rocks by
the beach, over the swimming pool, in a beach cabana and on the golf
green. from SGD 678 per room per night
 Star Cruises
Inside Cabin from R6 170 pps
Island Escapade - 4 Nights Ocean View Cabin from R7 070 pps

Andaman
Departing on Sunday
Sea • Phuket Island Mar 30 - - - - 2008
THAILAND
Apr 06 13 20 27 - 2008
May 04 11 18 25 - 2008
• Penang
South China
Jun 01 08 15 22 29 2008
MALAYSIA Sea
Jul 06 13 20 27 - 2008

St
ra
it
Aug 03 10 17 24 31 2008

s
o
M

f
a
INDONESIA la
cc
a
Sep 07 14 21 28 - 2008
Oct 05 12 19 - - 2008
SINGAPORE

Day Destination Arrival Departure
Sun Singapore - 1500
Mon Penang, Malaysia † 1400 2100
Tue Phuket Island, † Thailand 0900(0800) 2100 (2000)
Wed Port Klang, Malaysia * 1900 2100
Thu Singapore 1000 -
* Port of Embarkation
4 Night Island Escapade - on SuperStar Aquarius
PACKAGE INCLUDES: Transfers throughout, 1 night at the Copthorne
Kings Hotel with breakfast (pre cruise), 4 night cruise on board Aquarius
including all meals and entertainment, passenger handling charges, fuel
surcharges while on board the ship. (Prices are per person sharing)

Inside Cabin from R7 699 pps

China & Vietnam Adventure - 5 Nights Ocean View Cabin from R8 559 pps
Departing on Sunday
CHINA Apr 13 20 27 2008
Xiamen
May 11 18 25 2008

Star Cruises
Jun 1 8 15 2008
HONG KONG
Halong Bay Jul 6 13 20 2008
Aug 31 - - 2008
Sep 7 14 28 2008
South China
Sea
Oct 5 2 - 2008
Sanya

VIETNAM * Port of Embarkation

Day Destination Arrival Departure
Sun Hong Kong, China - 1800
Mon Sanya, China 1300 2100
Tue Halong Bay, Vietnam 0900(0800) 1600(1500)
Wed Hong Kong, China 1600 2130
Thu Xiamen, China 1300 2200
Fri Hong Kong, China 1400 -
5 Night China & Vietnam Adventure - on SuperStar Virgo
PACKAGE INCLUDES: Transfers throughout, 1 night at the Metropark
Hotel with breakfast (pre cruise), 5 night cruise on board Virgo including
all meals and entertainment, passenger handling charges, fuel surcharges
while on board the ship. (Prices are per person sharing)

Inside Cabin from R13 217 pps

Straits Adventurer - 7 Nights Ocean View Cabin from R14 984 pps
Gulf of
Andaman
Sea Thailand Departing on Sunday
Phuket • • Krabi
Apr 20 - - 27 - 2008
Island THAILAND May 4 - - - - 2008
• Langkawi Jun 22 - - 29 - 2008
Island
• Penang
St

Aug 17 - - - - 2008
ra

MALAYSIA South China

it

Sea Oct 5 12 19 26 - 2008

s
o

M • Kuala Lumpur
f

a
la
cc (Port Klang) Nov 2 9 16 23 30 2008
a
Indian
Ocean
INDONESIA Dec 7 14 21 28 - 2008
SINGAPORE
* Port of Embarkation
Day Destination Arrival Departure Sat Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang), Malaysia *1300 1500
Sun Singapore - 1800 Sun Singapore 0900 -
Mon Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang), Malaysia 0900 1900
Tue Penang, Malaysia † 0900 1800 7 Night Straits Adventurer - on SuperStar Gemini
Wed Krabi, Phuket Island †, Thailand 0800 (0700) 1700 (1600) PACKAGE INCLUDES: Transfers throughout, 1 night at the Copthorne
1900 (1800) - Kings Hotel with breakfast (pre cruise), 7 night cruise on board Gemini
Thu Phuket Island, Thailand - 1900 (1800) including all meals and entertainment, passenger handling charges, fuel
Fri Langkawi Island, Malaysia 0900 1900 cont.. surcharges while on board the ship. (Prices are per person sharing)
† = Disembark by tender * = Brief technical stop ( ) = Local time

www.thompsons.co.za 11
 Indonesia - Bali
i Sanur and Nusa Dua and a vast
CAPITAL CITY: Jakarta
LANGUAGE: Indonesian
English is widely spoken.
CURRENCY:
Local - Rupiah. Tourists use US dollars
IDR1000 = ZAR0,84
VISA: Required for SA Passport Holders for
stay of up to 30 days (Passports must be valid
for at least 6 months)
AREA: 1,904,570 km2
TIME DIFFERENCE: SA time + 6 hours
HEALTH REQUIREMENTS: None
what things cost
These prices are an average price and may vary
according to areas, hotels and season.
(US Dollar)
Bottle of wine US$30 Balinese culture making it a unique and
Large Bottle of Beer US$2.50
Litre Mineral Water US$1.25
Cup of Tea / Coffee US$1
Soft Drinks US$1
Light Lunch at local restaurant US$12 with dancers being a regular part of almost every
Buffet Meals US$20
Indonesia - Bali
Java Overland Tour
Tea plantation
9 Days / 8 Nights
Jakarta - Yogyakarta - Bali
A 9 day journey travelling across Indonesia
from Jakarta to Bali visiting many old temples,
harbours and monuments along the way.
INCLUDES:
• Tour and transfer with air-conditioned car
and English speaking guide.
• Accomodation on a twin sharing basis
• Meals as specified
• Domestic flight Yogyakarta-Denpasar
Day 1. Jakarta
Direct transfer. Jakarta city Tour - visit old
harbour of Sunda Kelapa, passing monument
Nationall Presidential palace. Evening back to
hotel.
12 Dream the destination... Live the journey.
Bali, or ‘Isle of the Gods’ as it is known, is one of
the many islands in Indonesia where snorkelling
and diving in the crystal clear waters, or lazing
away night and day, are favourite pastimes. For
many visitors Bali defines tropical tourism with its
startling geographical contrasts of verdant hillside
rice fields, idyllic white sandy beaches, sacred,
mist-wreathed volcanoes and lush tropical forests.
It is a densely populated island with a vibrant
extravagant destination for many travellers
seeking artistic and ceremonial heritage. Music,
dance and drama are all closely related in Bali
temple festival.
Borobudur temple
Day 2. Jakarta Bandung Breakfast at Hotel. Drive to visit Borobudur
Breakfast at Hotel. Drive to Bogor Botanical
Garden, afterwards to the Tea Plantation of
Puncak, afternoon procced to Bandung the
capital of West Java. Overnight.
Day 3. Bandung Tours Breakfast at Hotel. Transfer to Yogyakarta
Breakfast at Hotel. Drive to the south part of
Bandung, visit the Soreang Village, see the
activity of local people working in the morning
in the rice fields, and also visit traditional Black
Smith and Bamboo wall home industry.
Then to The White Crater in active volcano.
Day 4. Bandung - Yogyakarta By Train
Breakfast at Hotel. Transfer to railway station of
Bandung for executive wagon ride through the
most beautiful lush and green landscape.
Day 5. Yogyakarta & Borobudur Tours
With popular beaches like Kuta,
variety of water sport activities
such as river rafting, sailing, jet ski-
ing, paragliding and surfing, you’re
set to enjoy many days of fun in
the sun. If however you prefer
something a little more relaxed
and laid back, there are many spas
around Bali offering pampering
beauty treatments to restore both
mind and body through a holistic
approach.
BEST TIME TO TRAVEL:
The best time to visit is in the dry season
between April and October, however draped
over the Equator, Indonesia tends to have a fairly
hot climate all year round.
Royal Temple in Bali
Temple, which is built in the 7th century and
has a thousand stupa. Afterwards visit of the
Sultan Palace of Yogyakarta, Batik Factory,
Silver. Afternoon late back to hotel.
Day 6. Yogyakarta - Flight To Denpasar.
Airport for flight to Denpasar. Arrival
Denpasar - Bali. Transfer to hotel .
Day 7-9 Bali
Days at leisure in hotel with breakfast. Transfer
to airport on day 9 for return flight home.
US$ 864 pp sharing
Discovering Bali
SIGHTSEEING
Romantic Bali
This excursion shows you the romantic
side of Bali. First visit the royal family
temple in Mengwi, and then drive to Alas
Kedaton to visit the Holly monkey forest
where giant bats live in the treetops. The
highlight of this tour is a stop at the side
lake of Bratan – Ulundanu temple where
you can walk along the flower, fruit and
vegetables market in Bedugul. Continue
to Jatiluwih, one of the most magnificent
rice fields, then arrive at Tanah Lot temple,
dramatically perched on top of a large
black rock about 200 meters offshore,
surrounded by the sea. Incl. lunch.
Full day - duration: 9 hours. from US$ 64 pp
Bali Roundtrip 3 Days/2 Nights
A 3 day trip to the northern parts of the
island, taking you to many temples, forests,
rice paddies and markets. You will drive to
Pura Beji in Singaraja and Kintamani, where
you will be at the crater rim of one of the
mountain volcanoes, for a breathtaking and
magnificent view of the Crater lake, where
lava flows from the Volcanic peaks. Experi-
ence a real Balinese community in Tenganan
and visit an ancient justice hall cave. Travel
back down past Ubud and stop along the way
at the many handicraft shops.
Tours include:
• Return airport - hotel transfers
• Accommodation for the duration of the
tour as detailed above
• Breakfast daily
• Tour transfers as per the itinerary and all
the local service taxes
from US$ 226 pp
All tours include pick-up from your hotel and an
English speaking guide.
TIP: Well managed hotel in a
popular Balinese style
TIP: A garden oasis, only metres
away from all the shops
TIP: Offers a free shuttle bus to
Kuta art market and beach area
TIP: A beachfront resort offering
many value inclusions
This is the life!
HHH Grand Istana Rama Hotel
LOCATION: on Kuta beach, offering relaxation and variety of shops &
restaurants, with the vibrant nightlife of Jalan Legian close by.
Accommodation: 139 renovated rooms consist of superior and
bungalows with wide terraces and overlook lush tropical gardens with
an Indonesian style and ambience..
Facilities: Large swimming pool, pool table, coffee shop, restaurant
Indonesia - Bali
featuring International dishes as well as Chinese and Balinese food.
from US$ 64 per room per night
★HH Ramayana Resort & Spa
LOCATION: Located in the heart of Kuta, amidst a tropical and small
water garden. A short walk to the famous “Matahari Square, Kuta
Galleria and The Art Market” as well as the beach of Kuta.
Accommodation: Rooms are newly revamped, furnished and
decorated in a contemporary Balinese décor with modern facilities for
a harmonious ambiance.
Facilities: A swimming pool, 4 restaurants, an orchard garden,
cooking classes, Balinese Rindik music and dancing lessons
from US$ 68 per room per night
★HHH Risata Bali Resort & Spa
LOCATION: South of the Kuta village within close proximity of shops
and many restaurants.
Accommodation: 139 generously sized air-conditioned rooms are
elegantly touched with Balinese features. Some have private balconies,
whilst all offer TVs, mini-bars and the usual in-room amenities like tea/
coffee maker, hairdryers, etc.
Facilities: Big swimming pool with sunken pool bar, a children’s pool
and playground, restaurants and coffee shop, lobby lounge, gymnasium
and spa.
from US$ 56 per room per night
★HHH Aston Bali Resort And Spa
All Inclusive
Location: Situated on the impressive beachfront of Meal Package
Tanjung Benoa, a short drive from Nusa Dua beach.
Accommodation: This contemporary Balinese resort consists of
187 well appointed rooms and suites offering tea/coffee facilities, TV,
mini bar, private balconies and the usual in- room amenities.
Facilities: 3 restaurants and 3 bars, a spa and beauty salon,
2 swimming pools, shops, a business centre, kids club, waters sports
and fitness center.
from US$ 79 per room per night
13
 Discovering Bali
SIGHTSEEING
Kintamani Volcanic Tour
One of the most popular sightseeing tours
in Bali. It shows you the best of outstanding
scenery combined with the exotic cultural
treasures of Balinese dances and handi-
crafts. Continue your visit along a shopping
area with choices ranging from wood-
carvings to intricate gold and silverware,
there are many paintings and Batik fabric
factories. The highlight of the day though is
Kintamani, a temple perched dramatically
on top of the crater rim of one of the vol-
cano mountains. Witness spectacular views
of Mount Batur and the crater lake, where
lava flows from the volcanic peaks. The
scenic journey takes you along Bali’s famous
tiered rice paddies. Incl. lunch.
Duration: 9 hours. from US$ 58 pp
Indonesia - Bali
Shopping Trip to Ubud
This is purely a shopping trip, where
you can ask your driver to stop along the
way wherever you want. It takes you up
North to an area called Ubud. A shopper’s
paradise with a vast selection of wooden
carved handicraft items and intricate
gold and silverware, leaving you distressed
about how to get it all back home. Ubud
is also well known for its paintings and the
various Batik factories with their lovely
handmade fabric.
from US$ 32 pp
White Water Rafting
For a truly exhilarating experience, journey
down the Ayung River in a raft through
rainforests, rapids and cascading waterfalls.
Thereafter enjoy a well deserved lunch at
Sobek’s river café.
Note: A long walk and many steps at the
start and finish require a degree of
physical fitness.
from US$ 71 pp
All tours include pick-up from your hotel and an
English speaking guide.
14
TIP: Good quality and inexpensive
restaurants in the area
TIP: Close to Convention Centre
and Bali Golf and Country Club
TIP: Duplex suites are amongst the
best family accommodation in Bali
TIP: A very popular resort offering a
family friendly environment
Evening entertainment
★HHH Sanur Beach Hotel Bali
Location: The Sanur beach area is a relaxing alternative to Kuta
Beach, with a large variety of tourist services, many shops and an
active nightlife.
Accommodation: All 426 air-conditioned guest rooms offer TVs,
radio, balconies, mini-bars, IDD telephone and 24-hour room service.
Facilities: 4 restaurants, 3 bars, along with 2 swimming pools with
separate kids pools, a spa, tennis courts, fitness centre and water sport
activities.
from US$ 64 per room per night
★HHH Grand Mirage Resort
Location: Situated on the tip of Nusa Dua Beach, in the serene district
on Tanjung Benoa, the resort exudes an exclusive atmosphere.
Accommodation: With glowing wooden floors, every room has
been furnished with attention paid to detail. 163 Superior rooms face the
Lagoon garden, whilst the 105 Deluxe rooms overlook the ocean with a
view of Nusa Dua Beach.
Facilities: A swimming pool, 2 tennis courts, nearby golf course, bike
rental, 4 restaurants, 2 bars and a coffee shop.
from US$ 82 per room per night
★HHHPLUS Melia Bali Villas And Spa Resort
LOCATION: A spectacular resort on 25 acres of the best lush gardens
in Bali, combining international standards with Balinese hospitality.
Accommodation: Rooms are beautifully decorated featuring
either a terrace or balcony. Superior rooms are spacious, each
measuring 42sqm. Duplex suites are 71sqm and offer 2 levels
allowing an occupancy of 2 adults and 2 children. .
Facilities: 5 Restaurants with nightly cultural entertainment and
4 bars, swimming pools, tennis courts, water sports, fitness center
and YHI Spa.
from US$ 115 per room per night
★HHHPLUS Nusa Dua Beach Hotel And Spa
Location: A famous beachfront resort located on Nusa Dua beach.
Accommodation: 381 rooms and suites built in an ancient
Balinese palace style amongst 23 acres of lush tropical gardens. Rooms
offer a blend of modern amenities and artistic traditions.
Facilities: Featuring one of the most famous spa centres in Bali, the
resort offers a selection of 5 restaurants and 3 bars, along with
3 swimming pools a fitness centre, tennis courts, water sports and
a kids club.
from US$ 115 per room per night
Hong Kong
and clocks, toys, games and electronic products

i
making it a haven for shoppers from across the
globe. Despite its British colonial past, Hong
Kong is a city of glittering skyscrapers, it’s people
have always stuck to their roots and culture
making its dynamism unforgettable.
CAPITAL CITY:
Victoria City From the vantage point of Victoria Peak which
overlooks the world’s busiest port, the city is
LANGUAGE:
English, Chinese (Mandarin, Cantonese) geared to making money at a whirlwind pace.
CURRENCY: Hong Kong Dollar
HKD10 = ZAR10.01 The main shopping areas are Causeway Bay,
Central and the Stanley Markets on Hong Kong
VISA:
Not required for South African Passport Island. Other popular areas are also Nathan road
Holders for a stay of up to 30 days which sports brightly lit up neon decorated shops,
AREA: 1,040 km2 the Jade market and for night shopping, head to
Temple street market.
TIME DIFFERENCE:
SA time + 6 hours
Best time to travel
HEALTH REQUIREMENTS:
None
Hong Kong has a subtropical climate with
distinct seasons. Typhoon season is from May -
November. March to mid May is Spring and
what things cost lightweight jackets are recommended for the
Lying at the south eastern tip of China, Hong
These prices are an average price and may vary evenings. Summer is from mid May to September
Kong is just south of the Tropic of Cancer.
according to areas, hotels and season. and it is normally hot and humid over this time
The country comprises of Hong Kong Island,
(Hong Kong Dollar) with temperatures ranging between 26 0C to
Kowloon and the New Territories, including 235
360C.
Glass of wine HK$ 60 outlying islands.
Late September to early December is Autumn
Beer HK$ 45
with temperatures ranging from 18C - 26C.
Tea/Coffee HK$ 40 It is a great trading post, a manufacturing base
December to February is their winter time and
Soft drinks HK$ 40 and one of the world’s largest financial centres,
Water HK$ 30 with temperatures often below 10C, your woolies
with a busy and bustling port. Hong Kong is
Lunch HK$ 200 and coats will be worth bringing along.
known for its exporters of garments, watches

Hong Kong
Family Fun in Hong Kong

DISNEY ©

For a fun-filled family getaway, why not spend 2 nights at 4 Nights of Thrills & Spills
Disney’s Hollywood Hotel?
Experience the magic of Disney whilst discovering the four themed lands, includes:
see the Festival of the Lion King, stroll into sleeping beauty’s castle and • 2 night’s accommodation at Disney’s Hollywood Hotel
enter Space Mountain for the ride of your life. Then enjoy 2 nights in • 2 nights at the Park Hotel in Kowloon including all the local taxes,
Kowloon at the Park Hotel, for a chance to explore the many attractions, • Round trip seat in couch transfers
sites and sounds of Hong Kong. Included is a tour to Victoria Peak for a • One Day Disney Theme park entrance ticket
panoramic view of modern skyscrapers and rich green mountains. • Tram tour up to Victoria Peak.
“Available from June 2008, please call us for more details”
Or if you’re pressed for time, why not just take a Hong Kong Disneyland © Look out for a special promotion including a 2-Day Pass for the price
Day Tour - see info on page 16. of a 1-Day Pass - Soon to be featured!

www.thompsons.co.za 15
 Exploring Hong Kong
SIGHTSEEING
Hong Kong Half Day Island Tour
An excellent orientation tour set to delight
first timers and refresh old memories.
Starts with the tram trip to the top of
Victoria Peak where you can enjoy
panoramic views. Then pass by
picturesque Repulse Bay and precede next
to the famous fishing village of Aberdeen
to see the ‘floating community’ . Visit
Stanley Market where you can pick up
bargains at a fraction of the price in town.
Thereafter visit a prestigious jewellery
Hong Kong
factory, where meticulous craftsmen
fashion works of art from gold and gems.
Return to your hotel/pick up point in the
early afternoon.
from HK$ 192 pp
Ocean Park Tour
Ocean Park is an amusement park with
one of the most spectacular oceanariums
in the world. A breath-taking 8 minute ride
by cable car to the headland gives a
glorious view of Repulse Bay, Deep Water
Bay, Aberdeen and the South China Sea.
Home to giant pandas, sea lions, dolphins,
sharks, penguins and killer whales, all
housed in stimulated environments similar
to their natural habitat. With a full range
of hair raising rides the day is set to be an
exhilarating and unforgettable one. Finally
travel down the mountain by the world’s
second longest outdoor mountain-climbing
escalator and transfer back to your hotel.
from HK$ 461 pp
Hong Kong Disneyland © Day Tour
Include a day trip to Hong Kong
Disneyland. A place where fun reigns
supreme and everlasting memories are
made. It’s where dreams come true and
adults rediscover their inner childhood
spirit through a world of exhilarating
excitement, fantastical thrills and whimsical
wonder.
includes:
• Return hotel to Disneyland transfers
• Disney theme park entrance pass.
Adult: HK$ 653 pp Child: HK$ 550 pp
16
TIP: Excellent location and value
for money
TIP: Well appointed rooms at
affordable prices
TIP: : A favorite hotel for South
African families
TIP: Modern rooms in an excellent
location
Dream the destination... Live the journey.
Traditional boat in Hong Kong Harbour
★HHPLUS Kimberley Hotel
Location: Situated adjacent to the famous eating and entertainment
area of Knutsford Terrace and within walking distance of the Star Ferry
Terminal and Harbour City shopping Complex.
Accommodation: 546 guest rooms all with air-conditioning, mini-
bar, IDD phone, broadband internet access, TV, in-room movies and
tea/coffee making facilities.
Facilities: These include 3 restaurants, a bar, and gym on the eighth
floor which provides golf driving nets.
from HK$ 1149 per room per night
★HHPLUS Park Hotel
Location: Ideally situated in Tsim Sha Tsui, the heart of Kowloon’s
entertainment and shopping district. This hotel is only a few minute’s
walk to Nathan road, the MTR and the Star Ferry Pier to Hong Kong
Island.
Accommodation: Guest rooms have recently undergone a
refurbishment and all offer mini-bars, TV, IDD telephones, in-room
movies, hairdryer, tea/coffee making facilities
Facilities: These include a restaurant, room and laundry service and
shops from HK$ 999 per room per night
★HHH Holiday Inn Golden Mile
Location: An award winning, popular hotel located in Kowloon’s
famous business and shopping district. Nathan Road and Tsim Sha Tsui
MTR station are at the door with the Star Ferry just minutes away
Accommodation: 585 air-conditioned rooms with TV, in-room
movies, tea/coffee making facilities.
Facilities: Dine at the Avenue Restaurant, voted as one of Hong
Kong’s best restaurants. Great dining options and location with spacious
rooms make this a very popular choice for those wanting to be in the
heart of it all.
from HK$ 1736 per room per night
★HHH Kowloon Hotel
Location: In the heart of the Tsim Sha Tsui area, this hotel is right
next to commercial shopping, dining and entertainment district with
direct access to the MTR station at Tsim Sha Tsui.
Accommodation: All 735 guest rooms are equipped with high
speed internet access. Some of the many in room comforts include
tea/coffee facilities, TV, safes, mini-bars, in room fax machines to name
but a few.
Facilities: Offers 2 restaurants and a bar with comprehensive facilities
in a shopping arcade. from HK$ 1436 per room per night
Exploring Hong Kong
SIGHTSEEING
City and Harbour by night Tour
Dinner at the “Revolving 66” Restaurant
on the 62nd floor of one of the tallest
buildings in Hong Kong. Then, feel the
authentic hustle and bustle, typical of Hong
Kong people, while taking a stroll along the
busy, narrow lanes of the Temple Street
Night Market in Kowloon.
The highlight of your adventure follows
with a relaxing Harbour Cruise on a quaint
Chinese Junk, where unlimited drinks are
served. Experience the pleasure of sailing
against the soothing, yet invigorating
sea-breeze, before stepping onto dry land
for the return transfer to your hotel.
from HK$ 851 pp
Full Day Macau Excursion
Travel to the former Portuguese colony
- Macau, once the oldest European
settlement in the Orient. A 60 minute
Catamaran journey brings you to the
Monte Carlo of the Far East. The city
sightseeing begins with a drive along Guia
Circuit where the Macau Grand Prix is
held annually. Visit the 400 year old A-Ma
Temple and Penha Church. Stop at Porta
do Cerco and lunch at a local restaurant.
Move on to St. Paul’s Ruins, designed by
Italians and built by Japanese Christian
exiles in early 16th century Finally try your
luck at the world famous casino in Macau
before leaving the city in the late after-
noon.
*Passport is required. Macau Visa (if required)
rates are excluded. Visitors wearing shorts are
not allowed to enter the casino.
from HK$ 877 pp
Hong Kong Stopover Package
3 days / 2 nights
Whether you are travelling on somewhere
else or returning home, a stop via Hong
Kong is a definite must. Stock up on the
latest gadgets or have a new suit tailor
made, with so much to see and do a
connection via Hong Kong is a definite
recommendation.
Includes:
• 2 nights accommodation at the Eaton
Hotel, inclusive of local taxes
• Breakfast daily
• Return airport - hotel transfers
• Half day Hong Kong Island tour
from HK$ 1810 pp
TIP: Compact rooms in a good
location
TIP: Great value hotel with fantastic
pool and harbor views.
TIP: Excellent location for the
shoppa-holic
TIP: Watch the Symphony of Lights
show from the Oyster and wine bar
www.thompsons.co.za
Stunning views over Hong Kong
★HHH Eaton Hotel
Location: Only a few minutes walk from Jordan MTR and one
station away from Tsim Sha Tsui, this hotel is well located in Nathan
Road. The Temple street night market is also nearby and the hotel offers
free guided tours.
Accommodation: Air-conditioned guest rooms offer mini-bars,
IDD telephones, pay to view movies, in-room safes and tea/coffee
Hong Kong
making facilities and all the usual comforts.
Facilities: This property boasts 4 restaurants and a bar, as well as a
heated roof-top swimming pool and a gymnasium.
from HK$ 1362 per room per night
★HHH Harbour Plaza
Location: Along Kowloon’s waterfront area on Hung Hom, more
relaxed than central Kowloon providing spectacular views.
Accommodation: Courtview rooms are 36sqm and offer
contemporary, understated luxury with all the necessary amenities
expected from a 4 star property.
Facilities: 4 Restaurants, a café and 2 bars serving a variety of cuisines.
The 21st floor famous glass walled swimming pool makes for an unfor-
gettable swim. Other options are a fitness centre and spa.
from HK$ 1587 per room per night
★HHH The Prince
Location: Situated adjacent to Kowloon’s busy waterfront with only
a short walk to the Star ferry, MRT and Cruise Terminal. An integral part
of the Harbour City, Hong Kong’s largest shopping complex.
Accommodation: 394 Spacious and above average, for a Hong
Kong hotel, sized rooms.
Facilities: 2 Restaurants, a bar and deli. Guests also receive reciprocal
priviledges at sister properties including the use of the outdoor heated
pool and beauty salon at the Marco Polo Hotel
from HK$ 1766 per room per night
H★HHH The Sheraton Hotel & Towers
Location: In the heart of Kowloon at the entrance to Golden Mile
in Tsim Sha Tsui surrounded by shops, restaurants and entertainment.
Close to Space Museum, Hong Kong Museum of Art and Star Ferry.
Accommodation: Modern rooms with tasteful furnishings.
Bathrooms are fitted with select touches such as marble floors, glass
vanities and massage showerheads.
Facilities: State of the art fitness equipment, sauna, heated outdoor
swimming pool and Jacuzzi, as well as 3 restaurants, 3 lounges one of
which is a cigar lounge and a café. from HK$ 2783 per room per night
17
 China

A section of the Great Wall of China

Shanghai, situated on the estuary of the Yangtze

i
River of China, this is a mutli-cultural metropolis
with both modern and traditional Chinese
features. A city with three key features: shopping,
business and sightseeing. Nanjing Road is a must
CAPITAL CITY: for all shopping enthusiasts. With sites like the
Beijing Shanghai Museum, Yuyuan Garden, Oriental TV
LANGUAGE: Mandarin Chinese, Shanghai-, Tower and Jingmao Building.
China

Canton-, Fukien-, Hakka- dialects, Tibetan,

Vigus (Turkic)
CURRENCY: Yuan
CNY10 = ZAR11.16
VISA:
Visa is required for SA Passport Holders
AREA:
9, 596, 960 km2
TIME DIFFERENCE:
SA time + 6 hours
HEALTH REQUIREMENTS:
None
what things cost
These prices are an average price and may
vary according to areas, hotels and season.
(US Dollars)
Glass of wine: US$ 4.50
Beer: US$ 1.50
Tea / coffee: US$ 3.50
Soft drinks: US$ 1.50
Local menu (lunch): US$ 7 2008 Canton Trade Fair dates: (Subject to change)
Dinner (local menu): US$ 9 Beijing, is the capital of the People’s Republic of
BEST TIME TO TRAVEL
China has great climatic variation, from
tropical conditions in the south to a cold
climate in the north, northeast and
northwest. Northern winters fall between
December and March, with temperatures
below freezing. Summer is from April to
August and is hot and humid. Rains are mostly
in July and August, the south can be wet at
times in the winter and the northern regions
are cold and dry. The best time to visit is
March to May is Spring-time and September
to October in Autumn.
China is a country of great contrasts and a very
different destination with its vast, picturesque rural
landscapes, congested cities and natural beauty.
With sites that will evoke your curiosity and stir
your emotions whilst holding you enraptured
for many days thereafter. Timeless and mystical,
China offers unlimited experiences and adventure.
A country rich in cultural treasures with a mind-
blowing history, involving the rise and fall of many
Chinese dynasties.
Visit the following cities whilst in China:
China and has a population of over 14 million. It is
a favoured city of wide, tree-lined boulevards with
both ancient and modern neighbourhoods. One
of the six ancient cities in China, it offers ancient
architecture, temples, palaces, royal gardens as
well as modern mansions and structures. Visit
the great-wall of China, the Forbidden City, Ming
Tombs and Summer Palace where you become
engrossed in the story of Empress Dowager CiXi
who is remembered as one of history’s most
monstrous women, seducing and murdering her
way to the throne in 1861 to rule China for more
than 50 years.
X’ian, the eternal city is the largest metropolis
in north western China and a world renowned
ancient capital. Visit the famous underground army
of the Terracotta Warriors, praised as the eighth
major miracle of the world, the Greater Wild
Goose Pagoda, Banpo Village and the old quarter
and Bell Tower.
Guangzhou, otherwise known as Canton, is a
famous historical city. Sights include Dr Sun Yatsen’s
Memorial, Chen Family’s Temple and Banyan’s
Temple. Today it retains it’s ancient customs
but is also still a large city full of vigor and current
fashions. Canton is also very popular for its Trade
Fair which is held twice a year in Spring and
Autumn and is China’s largest trade fair of the
highest level.
15-21 April and 25-30 April
15-21 October and 25-31 October
Festivals:
Chinese New Year - starts in the first day of the
Lunar calendar, usually in Jan/Feb
Lantern Festival - Around mid February to mid
March
Tomb Sweeping Day - April, when families spend
the day tending to the graves of departed loved
ones.
Temple & moon-based festivities - These include
the Birthday of Confuscious (28 Sep) and more.

18 Dream the destination... Live the journey.

 China Tours
Beautiful Beijing
4 Days / 3 Nights
Day 01
• Arrival in Beijing and transfer to hotel
Day 02
• Sightseeing takes you to Tiananmen
Square, the world’s largest plaza, the
legendary once Forbidden City, whose
acres of splendid 15th century halls and
pavilions graced with imperial treasures
now comprise the Palace Museum and
The Temple of Heaven.
Day 03
• A memorable daylong excursion combines
a visit to the soul-stirring Great Wall, like
a winding dragon across northern China
- only earthly evidence of men, visible
from space.
• Walk along the Sacred Way, guarded
by sculpted stone animals, which are a
photographer’s delight.
Day 04
• Enjoy a morning visit to the Summer
Palace, a breathtaking
arrangement of lake and landscape,
pagodas and pavilions.
• A boat ride on the Kunming Lake inside
the palace, which was ordered to be built
by using the fund planned to build the
Chinese navy in the 1900s. Transfer to
airport for departure.
from US$ 448 pp
China Wonder
8 Days / 7 Nights
Day 01
• Arrival in Beijing and transfer to hotel
Day 02
• Sightseeing takes you to Tiananmen
Square, the world’s largest plaza, the
legendary once Forbidden City, whose
acres of splendid 15th century halls and
pavilions graced with imperial treasures
now comprise the Palace Museum and
The Temple of Heaven.
Day 03
• A memorable daylong excursion combines
a visit to the soul-stirring Great Wall
• Walk along the Sacred Way, guarded by
sculpted stone animals, a photographer’s
delight, to the Ming Tombs.
Day 04
• Visit the Summer Palace, thereafter a boat
ride on the Kunming Lake.
• Transfer to airport and flight to Xi’an,
ancient capital for 11 imperial dynasties
and the cradle of Chinese civilization.
Day 05
• Experience awe of seeing the individually
sculpted, life-sized terracotta warriors.
• Visit to Huaqing Hot Spring, a magnificent
summer residence for Tang emperors.
• Tang Dynasty Palatial dinner and show.
Day 06
• Visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, the Bell
Tower and the Great Mosque.
• Fly to Shanghai and transfer to your hotel.
• Dinner and a tour to the Bund, the former
foreign settlement.
• Visit Nanjing Road, praised as the ‘5th
Avenue’ of the East.
Day 07
• Visit the Jade Buddha Temple, and the
Yuyuan Garden at the ‘Old Quarter’.
• Watch the world famous Shanghai
Acrobatic Troupe perform at Shanghai
Opera House.
Day 08
• Morning at leisure. Transfer to airport for
return flight home.
includes:
• Flights from Beijing to Xi’an and Xi’an to
Shanghai in economy class • All transfers
and tours • 7 nights accommodation &
breakfast daily. (Excludes flights into Beijing
& out of Shanghai.)
from US$ 1446 pp
www.thompsons.co.za
Scenic Panda Tour
8 Days / 7 Nights
Day 01
• Arrive Chendgu and transfer to Crown
Plaza Chengdu
Day 02
• Depart for Wulong Panda Reserve,
en route, visit Dujiangyan Irrigation System
on the Minjiang River.
• Travel through spectacular mountain
scenery to Wulong Nature Reserve and
overnight at the newly refurbished Wulong
hotel, where a Sichuan dinner is served.
Day 03
• A visit to China Research & Conservation
Centre for the Giant Pandas.
• After a brief relaxation at your hotel
(Crown Plaza Chengdu), visit a genuine
China Tours
Sichuan teahouse, followed by dinner.
• Sichuan Opera show
Day 04
• Brief Chengdu City Tour in the
morning and afternoon transfer to the
airport for your flight to Guilin.
• Accommodation at Sheraton Guilin Hotel
Day 05
• Enjoy a cruise (with lunch en-route) down
the fabled Li River through a surrealistic
landscape of limestone karst formations.
• Observe life in the rural south.
• After approximately 6 hours, the boat ties
up at Yangshou, a market town, where you
can find souvenir bargains aplenty.
Day 06
• Free morning to discover this scenic town.
In the afternoon, visit a tea farm for a tea
ceremony. Discover the Reed Flute Caves,
spectacularly lit by pastel lights.
• Visit the Seven Star Park (Bonsai Garden)
& The Elephant Trunk Hill.
• Dinner, transfer to airport for your flight
to Hong Kong. Meet and transfer to Metro
Park Hotel.
Day 07 & 08
• At leisure in Hong Kong until transfer to
airport
includes:
• Internal flights between Hong Kong,
Chengdu & Guilin on Dragon Air
• Accommodation at deluxe & superior
hotels • All transfers and sightseeing points
with English speaking guide • All entrance
fees.
from US$ 1856 pp
19
 Exploring China
Beijing H★HH Novotel Xinqiao Hotel - Beijing
LOCATION: Situated close to Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City
and the Temple of Heaven with easy access to shopping and business
centres.
Accommodation: A big hotel with 700 rooms in total, 31 of them
suites. Rooms offer all the usual comforts expected from a 4* property
with the convenience of WiFi internet access.
Facilities: The Novotel features 3 restaurants, a lobby bar, health cen-
tre, spa, sauna and outdoor tennis court. from US$ 124 per room per night

★HHHH Prime Hotel - Beijing

LOCATION: In Beijing’s business, cultural and shopping district
Wangfujing Avenue, with easy access to all the famous attractions.
Accommodation: 400 air-conditioned guest rooms with satellite TV
with CNN & HBC, mini-bar, safe, hairdryers and many other amenities.
Facilities: There are 4 restaurants, serving Mexican, Cantonese and
international cuisines. Leisure facilities include an indoor heated pool,
gymnasium, beauty parlour, sauna and 24 hour room service.
from US$ 154 per room per night

Guangzhou HH★ New Mainland Hotel - Guangzhou

LOCATION: Surrounding New Mainland Fashion Plaza, Liu Hua Park and
situated close to the railway station. Only 2kms from the city centre and
40kms from the airport.
Accommodation: The 120 newly decorated rooms, have TV,
air-conditioning, IDD telephone, laundry and internet access.
Facilities: Fitness centre, chess and poker room, beauty salon, pool
China

room, table tennis, business centre and shopping arcade. Dining options
include a Tea and Dim Sum restaurant serving Cantonese favourites, as
well as a Western-style food restaurant. from US$ 82 per room per night

★HHH Huashi Hotel - Guangzhou

LOCATION: 50 kms from the Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport.
Close by to the university, it owns the largest garden in Guangzhou with
giant trees and colourful flowers.
Accommodation: Newly opened in 2005, this hotel has 200 rooms.
It is a multifunctional and well-equipped luxury business hotel built
according to four-star international standards. Rooms are air-conditioned
and feature satellite TV, DDD/IDD and broadband internet access.
Facilities: These include a Chinese and Western restaurant.
from US$ 87 per room per night

Shanghai HHH Pacific Hotel - Shanghai

LOCATION: In Nanjing Road, one of the world’s busiest shopping
streets, in the centre of Shanghai.
Accommodation: The Pacific Hotel Shanghai offers 185 spacious
Standard and Superior rooms, featuring private bathroom, bathrobe,
scale and hairdryer.
Facilities: This neo-classical hotel features a beauty centre, a gift shop,
3 restaurants, a bar, wireless Internet access available throughout,
ensuring you a pleasant and comfortable holiday in Shanghai.
from US$ 149 per room per night

★HHHH Crowne Plaza Hotel - Shanghai

Location: Whether for business or leisure, the 26-storey Crowne
Plaza Shanghai is the ideal hotel, within easy reach of commercial districts,
consulates, exhibition venues and shopping.
Accommodation: 497 rooms feature Internet access, bathrobes,
coffeemakers, minibars, safes, in-room movies, satellite TV and more
Facilities: Food and beverage outlets feature a range of Chinese,
Japanese, Western and Italian restaurants, live-entertainment lounge and
bar. Health and leisure facilities include an indoor swimming pool and a
fully equipped gymnasium. from US$ 167 per room per night

20 Dream the destination... Live the journey.

 Vietnam
Classic Vietnam Tour
8 Days / 7 Nights
Day 01
• Arrival in Hanoi and optional visit to Bat
Trang Pottery Village. Overnight in Hanoi.
Day 02
• Visiting Ho Chi Minh’s former residence
and mausoleum, the One Pillar Pagoda and
the Temple of Literature.
• Drive to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World
Heritage Area, after a visit to the History
museum. Overnight in Halong Bay.
Day 03
• Boat trip through Halong bay.
• A seafood lunch is served on board.
Evening entertainment includes a water
puppetry performance. At leisure.
Day 04
• Fly to Danang and drive south past the
famous China Beach to the enchanting
town of Hoi An. Visit the 300 year old Tan
Halong Bay Ky and Phuc Kien houses, the Japanese
Covered Bridge and Hoi An market. Ex-
perience the friendly atmosphere before

i
dinner and returning to your hotel.
Day 05
• Take a Boat ride to a local restaurant be-
fore departing from Hoi An via the Marble
Mountains, over the most spectacular
CAPITAL CITY: Hanoi
Hai Van Pass and onto Vietnam’s former
LANGUAGE: Vietnamese

Vietnam
imperial capital . An afternoon of culture
CURRENCY: Dông takes you by dragon boat to the Thien Mu
VND100 = ZAR0,048 Pagoda before an evening of leisure in this
AREA: quiet town.
331,690 km2 Day 06
VISA: • Visit the Imperial Citadel and the tomb of
Required for SA passport holders for stay up Emperor Tu Duc. After lunch visit the local
to 30 days - valid 6 months after return date Dong Da market in Hue where the famous
TIME DIFFERENCE: conical hats are made. Transfer to the air-
SA time + 5 hours port for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City..
Visitors to Vietnam are overwhelmed by the
HEALTH REQUIREMENTS: Day 07
sublime beauty of the country’s natural settings and
None • Drive to Cu Chi district. Crawl through
spectacular sights thanks to a rich cultural
this amazing system of tunnels before
Best time to travel civilization, which has left temples and traditions returning to Saigon for Lunch. Afternoon
throughout this fascinating country. With its orientation by foot, from the Saigon River
North: Winter lasts from November to
breathtaking mountains, a patchwork of green rice past the Opera House, Town Hall & Notre
April with fog and drizzle in January - March.
Summer begins in May and lasts until October paddies, a stunning coastline with divine beaches Dame Cathedral. Visit Reunification Palace
with heavy rainfall. and sublime scenery, this is quickly emerging as a and the famous Ben Thanh Market.
favourite tourist destination. Vietnam offers an
Center: Heavy rainfalls between October and Day 08
December and dry, hot summer months. opportunity to see a country of traditional charm
• At leisure until transfer to Ho Chi Minh
with historic and cultural sites. Its mysterious City/Tan Son Nhat International Airport.
South: Temperatures are fairly constant
through the year. The dry season runs from
islands set in pristine waters, make it an exotic and
November to April and the wet season from diverse holiday option rapidly opening up to the Includes: • English speaking Guide
May to October. outside world. • All road transportation in air-conditioned
Hanoi. The Vietnamese capital has a distinct French well maintained vehicles • Accommodation
feel to it with narrow streets and bazaars. as mentioned in twin sharing room with
what things cost breakfast • Domestic flights Hanoi-
Halong Bay. This picture-perfect destination is
These prices are an average price and may famed to be one of the most popular tourist Danang and Hue-Ho Chi Minh City inclusive
vary according to areas, hotels and season. attraction areas. of ticket taxes • Entrance fees to all listed
(US Dollars)
Cu Chi Tunnels. A former stronghold of the sights • Boat fees for boat jouneys listed.
Glass of wine: US$ 4 Vietnamese army with 250kms of tunnels.
Local Beer: US$ 2-5 Excludes: International flights. Surcharges
Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City). Formerly the capital of
Tea / Coffee: US$ 3 for compulsory gala dinners during festive
Vietnam. seasons and peak season. Vietnamese visa
Soft drinks: US$ 2
China Beach. Made popular by the American TV arrangement fee & stamp fee. Late check-
Water: US$ 1
Lunch: US$ 10 series of the same name, a popular seaside resort. out and Early check-in.
Gourmet Restaurant: US$ 30 Hoi An. Often the highlight of any visit to Vietnam, from US$ 769 pp
(3 course meal) this quaint fishing town has colourful markets and a
fusion of cuisines.

www.thompsons.co.za 21
 Exploring Vietnam
SIGHTSEEING
The Vietnamese Experience
Enjoy a full day adventure and see how
the locals live by visiting some of the small
countryside villages situated only a few
kilometers from the city. Travel either by
motorbike or air-condition van, into the
country villages to encounter the local way
of life. Admire the intricate workmanship
as they weave the rush mats, roll incense
sticks and make traditional conical hats.
from US$ 64 pp
Ben Tre (Mekong Delta)
Travel by road to the heart of the Mekong
delta. Visit the Vinh Trang Pagoda and
the Tien Giang river. Take a boat trip on
Mekong River to Phoenix Island for local
handicrafts and sweets. Enjoy traditional
live music and entertainment. Take a short
ride by horse carriage to a typical local
Vietnam
house for homemade honey-tea. Proceed
by small sampan boats through small canals
to observe the daily life along the river
banks with a stop at Turtle Island.
from US$ 82 pp including lunch
Full Day Hanoi City Tour
Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and his former
residence (closed on Monday, Friday and
the whole month of Oct & Nov), One-Pillar
Pagoda, Temple of Literature. Visit one of
the following museums (note, museums are
closed on Mondays & Fridays): Fine Arts
Museum, History Museum, Revolutionary
Museum, War Museum, Ethnology Museum.
Continue to Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son
Temple for a one-hour cycle tour through
the Old Quarters of Hanoi.
from US$ 52 pp including lunch
Cultural Trip Nha Trang
Join this excursion to visit a selection of
the numerous cultural attractions situated
in Nha Trang. Places of interest visited
include the price of Khanh Hoa Province,
the Oceanographic institute, Long Son
Pagoda, built in commemoration of the
monks and nuns who died whilst fighting
the Diem Government, and the Po Nagar
Temples. An outstanding example of Cham
architecture with panoramic views. After
lunch, visit local markets and a rice paper
factory. An excellent insight into the history
and culture of the city and also that of the
Vietnam. and a water activity centre, plus a PADI Gold Palm Resort Scuba
from US$ 62 pp
22
Vietnam streets
Demilitarized Zone Tour Halong Bay - World Heritage Site
Early morning depart to DMZ at the 17th Parallel, Early morning departure from Hanoi to Halong
once the demarcation line between North and Bay (165km). Enjoy a boat cruise through World
South Vietnam. Visit Ben Hai River, Vinh Moc Nature Heritage Halong Bay with its islands,
Underground Tunnels, built during the American rocks and caves rising from the sea. A fresh sea-
War. Picnic lunch on Cua Tung Beach. Stopover food lunch served during the cruise.
at the Ancient Citadel of Quang Tri, former from US$ 119 pp
American bases and vestiges of the war.
Cu-Chi Tunnels Half Day Tour
from US$ 126 pp
from US$ 41 pp
★HH Sunway Hotel - Hanoi
LOCATION: An award winning hotel situated in Central Hanoi’s old
French Quarter, only 10 mins from Hoan Kiem Lake.
Accommodation: : It consists of 143 air-conditioned rooms
featuring satellite TV, mini-bar, safe, tea/coffee making facilities and
internet access.
FACILITIES: These include an International restaurant and jazz bar.
TIP: Winner of the Best Business from US$ 102 per room per night
Boutique Hotel
HHHH Equatorial Hotel - Ho Chi Minh City
Location: In Saigon’s main shopping area. The hotel offers a free
hourly shuttle service to six main tourist attractions.
Accommodation: Recently renovated the 333 air-conditioned
rooms offer a mini bar, safe, tea/coffee making facilities, satellite TV and
24 hr room service.
Facilities: Restaurants, cafes and 3 bars, a large outdoor swimming
pool and a fitness centre.
TIP: Amazing value for money
from US$ 136 per room per night
★HHHH Evason Ana Mandara & Six Senses Spa
Location: Nha Trang’s only 5-star beachfront resort occupying 2.6
hectares of private tropical gardens.
Accommodation: 74 semi-detached, air-conditioned garden
rooms offer private porch, ceiling fan, satellite TV, mini bar,
in-room safe, coffee/tea making facilities and 24 hour room service.
Facilities: 2 restaurants and 2 bars, tennis courts, beach volley ball
TIP: Experience a true Vietnamese Diving Centre.
Spa with a speciality of treatments from US$ 274 per room per night
Dream the destination... Live the journey.
Cambodia
i
CAPITAL CITY:
Phnom Penh
LANGUAGE:
Khmer
CURRENCY: Riel
KHR1000 = ZAR2,039
VISA:
Visa is required for SA Passport Holders
AREA:
181,040 km2
TIME DIFFERENCE:
SA time + 5 hours
HEALTH REQUIREMENTS:
None
what things cost
These prices are an average price and may
vary according to areas, hotels and season.
(US Dollars)
Bottle of water (1L) US$ 1
Soft Drink US$ 2
Beer in local restaurant US$ 3
Glass of wine in local restaurant US$ 4
Burger US$ 12
Taxi rate US$ 5 - 10
(Airport to city: Siem Riep/Phnon Penh)
BEST TIME TO TRAVEL
Cambodia can be visited throughout the
year. However those planning to travel
extensively by road should avoid the last
two months of the rainy season when
some countryside roads may be impassable.
The climate is tropical and distinguished by
three major seasons. The most pleasant
season is the dry season from November
to March during which temperatures are
cooler (average 20-28 c).
Locals on Tonie Sap Lake
Ancient temples, mighty rivers and remote forests,
Cambodia has emerged from decades of isolation
and is truly back on the Southeast Asian travel
map. Cambodia boasts rich culture, a weathered
French era capital and impressive natural scenery.
The many temples in Angkor are a great tourist
attraction with the three most popular ones being:
Bayon, Ta Prohm and Angkor Wat.
Phnom Penh
Cambodia’s capital city has some hidden treasures
such as the Silver Bagoda in the Royal Palace and
its Russian Market. Tuol Sleng Museum and The
Killing Fields are reminders of past atrocities and
reminders of how much this great country and its
people have moved forward.
Siem Reap
Built during the Angkorian period in the 12th cen-
tury, Angkor Wat and its surrounding temples are
the reason people come to Siem Reap.
www.thompsons.co.za
Phnom Penh Half Day City Tour
Begin your tour of this charming capital with
a visit to the city’s namesake, Wat Phnom.
Founded in 1373, the pagoda was built to house
Buddhist relics washed ashore by the river.
Visit the Royal Palace built in 1866 by King
Cambodia
Norodom.
See the different structures of this pagoda-style
compound and stroll in its beautiful garden. Visit
the Silver Pagoda so named because of its floor
that is comprised of 5,000 silver tiles. A gold
Buddha encrusted with 9,584 diamonds and a
small 17th century emerald and baccarat crystal
Buddha are also housed here. Continue to the
nearby National Museum. Built in 1917 it is an
exceptional example of traditional architecture
and is exclusively devoted to preserving and dis-
playing Khmer art and sculptures. Hundreds of
pieces are housed here including both pre-and
post-Angkorian pieces
from US$ 37 pp
Siem Reap Pagoda Half Day Tour
Visit Wat Inkosei built on the site of an ancient
temple, which still remains. Continue to Wat
Bo pagoda to view its well-preserved paintings.
You will also observe monks making the vari-
ous moldings, which adorn the pagodas. Visit a
workshop where traditional shadow play pup-
pets are made.
Visit the Rattan Weaving Villages near Siem
Reap and learn about the process of weaving
handicrafts from raw rattan strands. On the
short and interesting drive from Siem Reap you
pass rice fields and picturesque green villages
where the locals live in wooden stilt houses and
are happy to welcome guests to present their
craft.
from US$ 21 pp
23
 Exploring Cambodia
TIP: Modern facilities, warm & wel-
coming atmosphere - a real winner
TIP: Excellent accommodation, cen-
Phnom Pehn palace trally located in the heart of the city
★HHPLUS Prince D’Angkor Hotel & Spa - Siem Reap
Location: Ideally situated in the heart of Siem Reap close to
shopping and restaurants.
Accommodation: This property offers true Cambodian hospi-
tality in luxurious surroundings. All 222 luxurious rooms have been
decorated with traditional Khmer features, satellite TV, mini-bar, safe,
tea / coffee making facilities and internet access.
Facilities: These include 2 restaurants, a piano bar, gym and spa,
as well as a swimming pool.
from US$ 68 per room per night
★HHH Sunway Hotel - Phnom Penh
Location: Well located in Phnom Penh’s green belt overlooking
the famous Wat Phnom Pagoda and only 5 minutes walk from the
main shopping area and tourist attractions.
Accommodation: The 138 well appointed rooms are elegantly
designed and offer satellite TV, mini-bar, Safe and tea / coffee making
facilities.
Facilities: This property offers a selection of restaurants and cafes as
well as a business centre.
from US$ 87 per room per night

Cambodia In-depth 4 Day Add-on Tour

Day 1
• Arrive in Phnom Penh and transfer to your
hotel. This afternoon get a real feel for
Cambodia’s unique art and architecture
Cambodia
temples appeared when European explorers with its huge statues depicting the churning of
first stumbled upon them. the ocean of milk, the Bayon Temple, unique
• Continue your tour at Banteay Kdei. Srah for its 54 towers decorated with over 200 smil-
Srang, (“the pool of ablutions”) undoubtedly ing faces of Avolokitesvara, the Phimeanakas,

through visits to Victory Monument, the
National Museum, also called Musee des
Beaux-Arts.
• Visit the Royal Palace, built by King Norodom
in 1866 and the Silver Pagoda, so named for
its floor is paved in up to 5000 silver tiles.
Treasures include a solid gold Buddha
encrusted and weighing 90 kilograms and
a small 17th century emerald and baccarat
crystal Buddha.
• End your afternoon with the visit of the Wat
Phnom Temple, Phnom Penh’s namesake.
Day 2
• Transfer to Phnom Penh International
airport. Depart for Siem Reap. Upon arrival,
transfer to hotel.
• Morning, visit Victory Gate, the twin temples
of Thommanon and Chau Say Tevoda, Takeo
and Ta Prohm, one of the most beautiful
temples in the area. Relatively untouched
since it was discovered, it retains much of its
mystery. Its appeal lies in the fact that, unlike
the other monuments of Angkor, it was aban-
doned and swallowed by the jungles, look-
ing very much the way most of the Angkor
used in the past for ritual bathing and Prasat
Kravan temple with its unique brick sculp-
tures. Lunch at the hotel.
• Afternoon, visit the North Gate of Angkor
Thom. Continue to Preah Khan temple, a
place of towered enclosures and shoulder-
hugging corridors. Visit Neak Pean, a fountain
built in the middle of a pool and representing
the paradisiacal Himalayan mountain-lake.
Return to your hotel. Included:
Day 3
• For early birds: Sunrise from Phnom Bakheng,
one of the two hills dominating the plain of
Angkor, from where you will have a spec-
tacular view of the Western Baray and the
surrounding plain. Or sunrise at Srah Srang.
Return to the hotel for breakfast.
• In the morning, visit the most famous of all
temples on the plain of Angkor: Angkor Wat.
The temple complex covers 81 hectares and
is comparable in size to the Imperial Palace in
Beijing. Angkor Wat’s five towers symbolize
Meru’s five peaks. Lunch at the hotel.
• In the afternoon, visit the ancient capital of
Angkor Thom (12th century) the South Gate
the Royal Enclosure, the Elephants Terrace,
and the Terrace of the Leper King. Enjoy the
sunset at Angkor Wat. Return to your hotel.
Day 4
• Breakfast at hotel. Transfer to Siem Reap
International Airport for flight to the next
destination.
• Transfers and tours with English speak-
ing guide
• Domestic air-ticket Phnom Penh/Siem
Reap
• Domestic airport tax
• Accommodation in shared twin rooms
with taxes and services.
• Entrance fees
NOTE: Small deviations in the tour program
are sometimes necessary, depending on
weather, road and/or river conditions, flight
schedules and room availability. 
from US$ 435 pp

24 Dream the destination... Live the journey.

 Best Suggested Far East Combo’s
Singapore & Malaysia
Rebak Island Resort
10 Days / 9 Nights Ref: 20004
INCLUDES:
• Return flights into Singapore with a connection into Langkawi
• 3 Night’s stay in Singapore at the Copthorne Kings hotel (see page 9)
inclusive of local taxes • Transfers throughout
• Half day Heritage Tour and plenty of free time for shopping in
Singapore
• 6 Night’s stay at Rebak Island Resort inclusive of local taxes
A Taj Hotel, consisting of a secluded and charming cluster of luxurious
timber villas. Situated on the privately owned 390 acre Rebak Island,
with magnificent views of the Senari Straits bordering the Andaman
Sea. The island is blessed with stunning rock formations, picturesque
waterfalls, pristine, secluded beaches, ensconced by crystal-clear waters
perfect for recreational activities. It is 4 kms away from the main island
of Langkawi and 15 minutes luxury ferry ride from Port Langkasuka.
• Return seat in coach transfers in both cities
• Daily breakfast at both hotels
• Thompsons travel bag
Ex JNB from R21 078pp Ex CPT from R21 648pp
Ex DUR from R22 175pp Prices include approximate airport taxes
Malaysia & Bali
13 Days / 12 Nights Ref: 19933
INCLUDES:
• Return flights into Kuala Lumpur with flight connections into and out
of Denpasar, Bali Denpasar, Bali.
• 3 Night’s stay at the Dorsett Regency Hotel in Kuala Lumpur inclusive
of local taxes local taxes
• Half day Kuala Lumpur City Tour and time to explore this cosmopoli-
tan city whilst stocking up on Souvenirs.
• 9 Night’s stay at the Bali Grand Istana Rama Hotel in Bali, inclusive of
local taxes
• A Kintamani Volcanic Tour
• All transfers in both cities
• Daily breakfast at both hotels
• Thompsons travel bag
Ex JNB from R12 154pp Ex CPT from R12 481pp
Ex DUR from R13 719pp Prices include approximate
airport taxes
www.thompsons.co.za
Hong Kong - Guangzhou - Guilin
7 Days / 6 Nights South China Explorer Ref: 20013
INCLUDES:
• 2 Night’s accommodation at the Harbour Plaza Hong Kong Hotel
• Hong Kong Victoria Peak afternoon tour.
• 1 Night’s accommodation at the New Mainland Hotel.
• Guangzhou city tour of the historic temple of the Chen Family
Temple, Dr Sun Yatsen’s memorial Hall and the Five Ram statue.
• Flight from Guangzhou to the picture perfect city of Guilin
• 2 interrupted night’s at the Sheraton Guilin Hotel.
• City of Guilin Tour, to Reed Flute Cave and Elephant trunk Hill.
• Evening meal of local cuisine accompanied by traditional dance show.
Best Suggested Far East Combo’s
• Cruise down the beautiful River Li, to the delightful village Yangshuo.
Explore the characteristic local markets to find souvenir bargains.
• Lunch on board the cruise.
• Night’s accommodation at the Paradise Hotel in Yangshuo.
• Coach transfer back to Sheraton Hotel in Guilin with overnight
accommodation again.
• Afternoon transfer to the airport for flight to Hong Kong & home.
from R9 682 pp
Hong Kong & Bali
11 Days / 10 Nights Ref: 19957
INCLUDES:
• Return flights into Hong Kong with flight connections into and out of
• 3 Night’s stay at The Prince Hotel in Hong Kong, inclusive of
• Half day Hong Kong City Tour to Victoria Peak and plenty of time to
explore this shopper’s paradise.
• 7 Night’s stay at the Sanur Beach Hotel in Bali, inclusive of local taxes
• A shopping trip to Ubud or the Romantic Bali Tour
• All transfers in both cities
• Daily breakfast at both hotels
• Thompsons travel bag
Ex JNB from R13 120pp Ex CPT from R14 766pp
Ex DUR from R14 540pp Prices include approximate
airport taxes
25
 Hotel Features List
ROOM  FACILITIES PROPERTY
  FACILITIES LEISURE  FACILITIES FAMILY  FACILITIES

deposit  boxes at reception ®

Swimming  Pool (S) Swim  up 

Tea /  Coffee making  facilities

Laundry  (L) Dry cleaning  (D)

Parking  - Free (F) Charge ©  
Internet  - Free (F) Charge ©

internet  - Free (F) Charge ©

Room service - 24 hour (F) 
Computer available  with  
In room safe  (I) /  Safety  

Reception - 24 hour (F) 
Interconnecting  Rooms

Number of Restaurants
Rooms for those with  
Refrigerator  /  Minibar
Air-Conditioned

Kitchen facilities

Number of Bars
In room movies

IDD  Telephone

Tennis Courts
Entertainment
Pa ge  number

Watersports
pool bar (B) 

Cots  /  Cribs

Baby  Sitting
Limited  (L) 

Limited  (L) 
disabilities

Kids Club

Kids Pool
Day Spa
Shops

Gym
MALAYSIA
Kuala Lumpur
Dorsett  Regency 5 A √ √ √ √ √ I  C √ F C L √ √ F 2 1 √ S √ √ √ √ √
Swiss Garden Kuala Hotel 5 A √ √ √ I  F √ F 1 2 √ S √ √
Renainssance  Hotel 5 A √ √ √ √ √ I  C √ F C D C √ F 5 4 √ B √ √ √ √
Westin Hotel 5 A √ √ √ √ √ I  C √ F C D C √ F 6 2 √ S √ √ √ √ √
Langkawi
Berjaya Langkawi Beach & Spa Resort 6 A √ √ √ √ R C F C L F √ L 5 4 B √ √ √ √ √
Holiday Villa Beach & Spa Resort   6 A √ √ √ √ I  F C F √ F 3 2 B √ √ √ √ √ √ √
Sheraton Langkawi Beach  6 A √ √ √ √ I  C F C L F √ F 4 3 √ B √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √
Pangkor Laut Resort - Pangkor Island 6 A √ √ √ √ √ C F C L F √ F 4 3 B √ √ √ √ √ √
Penang  (Pulau  Pinang)
Bayview Beach Resort 7 A √ √ √ √ √ R F C L F √ F 3 3 S √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √
Holiday Inn Resort 7 A √ √ √ √ √ R F D F √ F 2 2 √ S √ √ √ √ √ √
Park Royal Penang 7 F √ √ √ √ I  C F F L F √ F 5 4 √ S √ √ √ √ √ √
Shangri -La's Rasa Sayang  Resort  &  Spa 7 A √ √ √ √ √ I  C √ F C L F √ F 2 4 √ S √ √ √ √ √ √ √
SINGAPORE
Copthorne  Orchid  Hotel 9 A √ √ √ √ I  C F C L F 2 1 S √
York  Hotel 9 A √ √ √ √ √ R F C L F 1 1 √ S √ √ √ √
Far East Hotel Features List

Copthorne  Kings  Hotel 9 A √ √ √ √ I  C F C √ √ F 3 1 √ S √ √ √

Gallery Hotel 9 A √ √ √ I  F F F L F √ F S √ √ √
Orchard  Hotel 10 A √ √ √ I  C F C L F 4 1 S √ √ √
Pan Pacific  Singapore  Hotel 10 A √ √ I  C F C L F √ F 6 1 √ S √ √ √ √ √
Meritus Mandarin 10 A √ √ √ √ √ I  C F C L F 7 1 S √ √ √ √
BINTAN
Nirwana Gardens Resort 10 A √ √ √ √ R C F C L √ L 4 1 B √ √ √ √
Banyan  Tree  Bintan 10 A √ √ √ I F C L √ F 6 S √ √ √ √
INDONESIA - BALI
Ramayana  Resort &  Spa 13 A √ √ √ √ √ R C F C √ √ √ √ 4 3 √ S √ √ √
Grand  Istana  Rama  Hotel 13 A √ √ √ √ I  C F C L/D F F 1 2 √ S/B √ √ √ √
Risata Bali Resort & Spa 13 A √ √ √ I  C F C L F √ F 1 2 √ S/B √ √ √ √ √
Aston Bali Resort  and Spa 13 A √ √ √ √ I  W/C F C L/D F √ F 3 2 √ S/B √ √ √ √ √ √ √
Sanur Beach Hotel  Bali 14 A √ √ √ √ I  C F C L F √ F 4 3 √ S √ √ √ √ √ √ √
Grand Mirage   Resort 14 A √ v √ √ v I  C F C L/D F v v 3 2 v S/B v v v v v v v v
Melia   Bali V
  illas a  nd S  pa R
  esort 14 A √ √ √ √ I  C √ F C L/D F √ F 5 4 √ S √ √ √ √ √ √ √
Nusa Dua Beach Hotel and Spa 14 A √ √ √ √ √ I  √ F C L/D F √ F 5 3 √ S/B √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √
HONG  KONG
Disneyland's Hollywood  Hotel 15 A √ √ √ I C √ F C D F √ 3 2 √ S √ √ √ √
Kimberley Hotel 16 A √ √ √ √ √ R C √ F C L C √ L 3 1 √ √ √
Park Hotel 16 A √ √ √ √ √ I  C √ F L √ L 1
Holiday Inn Golden Mile 16 A √ √ √ √ R F D C √ F 4 2 √ S √ √ √
Kowloon  Hotel 16 A √ √ √ √ √ I C F C D C √ L 2 1 √ √ √
Eaton Hotel 17 A √ √ √ √ √ I C √ F C D C F 4 1 S √ √ √
The Prince Hotel 17 A √ √ √ √ √ I  C F C D C √ F 3 √ √ √
Harbour  Plaza  Hong  Kong
  Hotel 17 A √ √ √ √ √ I C √ F C D F 5 2 √ B √ √ √ √ √
The Sheraton Hotel & Towers 17 A √ √ √ √ √ I C √ F C D C √ F 8 2 B √ √ √ √
CHINA
Beijing
Novotel Xinqiao Hotel 20 A √ √ √ √ I /R F √ F C L/D F √ F 5 1 √ √ √ √ √
Prime Hotel 20 A √ √ √ √ I  F √ F C L/D F √ F 5 1 √ S √ √ √
Guangzhou(Canton)
Huashi Hotel 20 A √ √ √ I  C F C L C √ F 4 1 √
New  Mainland Hotel 20 A √ √ √ R C F C L F √ F 2 1
Shanghai
Crown  Plaza  Shanghai 20 A √ √ √ √ I C √ F C L/D F √ F 5 2 √ S √ √ √ √
Pacific  Hotel  20 A √ √ √ R C F C L/D F √ F 2 1
VIETNAM
Hanoi
Sunway  Hotel 22 A √ √ √ I  C F C L C F 1 1 √
Ho Chi  Minh  City
Equatorial Hotel 22 A √ √ √ √ I  C F C L C √ F 2 3 S √ √ √
NHA  Trang
Evason Ana Mandara  & Six Senses Spa 22 A √ √ √ I  C F L F √ F 1 1 S/B √ √ √
CAMBODIA
Sunway  Hotel - Phnom  Penh 24 A √ √ √ √ √ I  C √ F C D F √ L 1 1 √ S √ √ √
Prince D'Angkor Hotel & Spa - Siem  Reap 24 A √ √ √ C F C L/D F F 2 1 S √ √ √ √

26 Dream the destination... Live the journey.

 Booking Conditions
Please read the following booking conditions carefully, as they set out the terms
and conditions of the contract between you and Thompsons. We act as booking
agents for the suppliers of the component parts of the holiday we organise, and
as such, bookings for their services will form a direct contract between you and
the relevant supplier, and will be subject to that supplier’s standard terms and
conditions.
1) Bookings
Bookings save for late bookings as referred to hereunder, are confirmed on the
condition that a non-refundable deposit, of a minimum of 25% of the total package
price, is paid to Thompsons within 72 hours of confirmation of your bookings. You
will be advised at the time of booking what payment is required for your particular
arrangements. The balance of the cost of your travel arrangements must be paid
no less than six weeks prior to departure. If your booking is made within 6 weeks
of departure, the total cost of your travel arrangements must be paid at the time of
booking. Please note: FAILURE TO PAY ON TIME WILL RESULT IN THE AUTOMATIC
CANCELLATION OF YOUR BOOKING.
2) Late Booking Fee & Communication Expenses (Telephone Calls)
In the event of a booking (except South Africa bookings) being made less than 7 days
prior to the date of departure, Thompsons reserves the right to charge for any extra
communication expenses. Full payment is due immediately on confirmation and
is non-refundable on all late bookings. Some bookings require full payment at the
time of booking i.e. prior to confirmation. If we are unable to secure confirmation
you will be refunded in full.
3) Price Changes
a) The costs associated with travel arrangements are not always stable, and currency
movements can fluctuate sharply. It is impossible to predict these movements in
advance. When you book a package through us, we reserve the right to pass
on any surcharges to you. Surcharges may be imposed to cover increases in
transportation costs, including the costs of fuel and security charges, taxes or fees
chargeable for services such as landing taxes or embarkation or disembarkation
fees at ports and airports, or exchange rates applied to the particular package.
b) Thompsons guarantees the price of land arrangements, only once full payment is
received.
c) Airfares are subject to the prices and conditions quoted by the particular airlines
and cannot be guaranteed by Thompsons. The onus is on the agent & the passen-
ger to check that there have been no changes in these prices before making final
payment thereof.
d) Should the client make a group reservation & subsequently the group numbers
deviate from the minimum number required for the booking, Thompsons reserves
the right to re-cost the price and raise a surcharge. Should any client refuse to
accept and pay such surcharge, it may result in cancellation of the booking and
forfeiture of all payments made.
4) Methods of Payment
a) Credit Cards: In accordance with International Airline Travel Association (IATA) bul-
letin # A1/00 we need a signed and validated Standard Credit Card Charge Form.
The agent acknowledges that s/he has seen the card and that the signature on the
card is the same as that on the Credit Card Charge Form. A signed and validated
Standard Credit Card Charge Form (SCCCF) or payment through our Virtual Card
Services system, are the only recognised forms of payment for credit cards. If the
card is a foreign credit card then you may be requested to supply various other
details.
b) Cheques: Bank issued cheques or travel agency cheques only (accredited agencies
only). Please note we require 7 working days to clear all cheques before documents
can be issued.
c) Cash or EFT Transfers: We accept EFT transfers, or cash deposited into one of our
bank accounts, subject to condition that the EFT transmission report or the cash
deposit slip is provided to ourselves and such payment has been confirmed as
received by ourselves.
5) Insurance
It is strongly advised that all clients take out adequate insurance cover such as
cancellation due to illness, accident or injury, personal accident and personal
liability, loss of or damage to baggage and sports equipment. Thompsons will not
be responsible or liable if the client fails to take adequate insurance cover or at
all. It shall not be obligatory upon Thompsons to effect insurance for the client
except upon detailed instructions given in writing and all insurance effected by
Thompsons pursuant to such instruction will be subject to such exceptions and
conditions as may be imposed by the insurance company or the underwriters
accepting the risk, and Thompsons shall not be obliged to obtain separate cover
for any risks so excluded. Should the insurers dispute their liability for any reason,
the client will have recourse against the insurers only. Once the insurance has
been confirmed and paid for, the client will be issued with a policy document of
the insurer. It is a complex document, which must be READ BEFORE you initiate
your travel so that you can address any queries you may have to the insurer PRIOR
to your departure. Please note that various credit card companies offer limited
levels of travel insurance, which Thompsons does not consider sufficient cover
for international travel. Kindly check with the respective credit card companies in
order to obtain specific details of the cover.
6) Flight and Other Travel Timings
Flight timings are provided by airlines and are subject to Air Traffic Control restric-
tions. All means of transportation are subject to weather conditions, the need for
constant maintenance, and the ability of passengers to check-in on time. There is
no guarantee that flights, ferries, ships, trains or coaches will depart at the times
stated on any itinerary or tickets which you receive. All timings are estimates
only, and we do not accept any liability for any delay, however arising, or for any
schedule alterations.
7) Flight Reconfirmation
It is your responsibility to ensure that you reconfirm the departure date and times of
all your flights at least 72 hours prior to departure. This is particularly important in
respect of subsequent journeys once leaving South Africa and Thompsons hereby
specifically excludes any liability for any delay and /or loss as a result of your
failure to reconfirm any flight and/or connecting flight.
8) Documents
a) Documents (vouchers, itineraries, etc.) are only prepared on receipt of full payment
of the package price, and signed & completed Booking Form, and will be ready 24
hours after payment has been received. Normally your travel agent will arrange
collection of your documents.
b) Should you require your documents and air tickets to be forwarded to either your-
self or the departure airport this may be arranged by your agent with us. However,
the courier costs in respect thereof will be for your own account.
c) It is important that you check all details of your travel documents (including your
itinerary) before leaving South Africa. If there are any inaccuracies on any of your
travel documents, or should you have any further queries, you should contact your
travel agent immediately. Thompsons will not be liable for any delay and/or loss
occasioned as a result of any inaccuracies on any travel documents once you are
in receipt thereof and you have left South Africa.
9) Unscheduled Extensions
In the unlikely event of there being an unscheduled extension to the holiday caused
by flight delays, bad weather, strikes, or any other cause which is beyond the con-
trol of Thompsons, it is understood that the expenses relating to these unscheduled
extensions, (hotel accommodation etc.), will be for the account of the passenger.
Thompsons accepts no liability for changes, omissions or delays before or during
the course of any holiday occasioned by technical difficulties, weather conditions,
strikes or communication breakdowns or the like.
10) Changes by You
a) If you wish to make a change to your booking we will endeavour to assist you
to make the change wherever this is possible. You will have to pay all charges,
whatever kind, imposed by the suppliers providing that component part of your
travel arrangements when amending a booking any time prior to departure. Fares
will be re-quoted at the time of amendment.
b) An administration fee of R100 per person will be charged for each amendment and
/ or cancellation.
c) After departure it is understood that extra expenses incurred as a result of any
change will be for the passenger’s account, and any unused service will not be
refunded.
d) Amendments and cancellations en route must be made with our operators
directly.
11) Cancellation by You
If you wish to cancel your booking you must advise your agent immediately,
who will in turn advise us. You will be liable to pay the following cancellation
charges:
a) Where your booking includes a special fare, the relevant charges are levied by the
airline. In some circumstances this may be 100% of the total fare, regardless of
when cancellation is effected.
b) Where your booking is for a package, you will be responsible for all cancellation
charges, of whatsoever nature, imposed by the suppliers providing the component
parts of such travel arrangements.
c) Thompsons charges a cancellation fee equal to 10% of the package price on any
finalised booking. However, Thompsons reserves the right to charge a cancellation
fee of up to 100% of the total package, in its sole discretion, in particular circum-
stances. Any monies, which you have already paid to us, will be taken by us as
payment or part payment of any cancellation charges.
12) Our Right to Change Your Travel Arrangements
a) A significant change to your travel arrangements would include a change in the
departure date from South Africa; where the flight times are changed by more
than 12 hours or a change to a lower standard of accommodation to that which
is booked. In these instances of significant changes to your travel arrangements
Thompsons undertakes to advise you thereof as soon as reasonably possible before
your departure date to obtain your further instructions in this regard.
b) All other changes are minor changes. A minor change can be made at any time
and, if practicable, we will advise you of any such change prior to departure but we
are not obliged to do so. Such minor changes may be made by Thompsons, in its
discretion, who will not be responsible or liable for the payment of compensation
to you as a result of such minor changes.
c) Every effort is made by Thompsons to adhere to confirmed itineraries; however, we
reserve the right to make changes to your travel arrangements when it becomes
necessary to do so.
d) Should any travel component be confirmed by Thompsons and this component is
cancelled by the supplier for whatsoever reason, then in such instances Thompsons
will accept no liability for the cancellation thereof.
13) Lost/Stolen Flight Tickets
a) The loss or theft of a ticket must be reported to Thompsons immediately. Certain
airlines will not authorise Thompsons to issue a replacement ticket if such ticket
is lost or stolen before the passenger leaves South Africa. In the latter instance
you will be required to purchase a new ticket, at your own cost, until such time as
Thompsons receives authority from the airline to make any refund to you, which
authority could take up to 12 months. Should the airline authorise Thompsons to
issue a replacement ticket Thompsons will do so and a re-issue fee, per ticket, will
be applicable.
b) Should your ticket be lost or stolen abroad it should be noted that certain airlines
will not issue a duplicate ticket and it will be your responsibility to purchase a new
ticket abroad at the local fare. Upon your return to South Africa you may make
application to Thompsons for a refund of the amount spent by yourself on the lost
or stolen ticket, but it is specifically recorded that any refund will be entirely at the
discretion of the airline concerned which may take up to 12 months to authorise.
c) It is your responsibility to report the lost or stolen ticket to the police and to provide
Thompsons with the proof of such report if required.
14) Airline Refund Procedures
a) Refund policies of the various airlines vary greatly. Tickets returned to Thompsons,
will be presented to the relevant airline for assessment. Should a refund be
authorised, such refund will be made to you, less any cancellation or administra-
tion charges.
b) If payment for the ticket was made to Thompsons by credit card, the refund will be
made to your credit card. Cash payments will be refunded by EFT.
c) Partly used tickets will be refunded at less than the pro rata rate on the face
value of such ticket.
d) Refunds may take up to 12 weeks to process although this time frame cannot be
guaranteed by Thompsons
e) Unused tickets must be returned to Thompsons for a refund within one year from
the date of issue or they will be regarded as expired by the airline and have no
refund value.
15) Complaints
a) In the event that you have any reason to complain, or experience any problems with
your holiday whilst away, you must immediately inform the supplier of the services
in question.
b) If you are still dissatisfied, you must notify Thompsons immediately to enable us
to resolve the problem. Failure to give us the opportunity to resolve any problem
at the time it occurs may result in either a reduction, or complete extinction, of any
rights which you may have to claim compensation.
c) If you remain dissatisfied, contact the Customer Services Manager within 28 days
of the unsatisfactory service, giving your booking reference and full details of your
www.thompsons.co.za
BOOKING CONDITIONS OF THOMPSONS HOLIDAYS,
A DIVISION OF CULLINAN HOLDINGS LTD
(Hereinafter referred to as “Thompsons”)
complaint on email: clientservices@thompsons.co.za or fax to 011-770-7498.
d) Whilst every effort will be made to resolve your complaint to your satisfaction, it
is specifically recorded that Thompsons in no way accepts liability for any claim.
16) Passports, Visas and Health
It is entirely the clients duty to ensure that all passports & visas are current, valid,
obtained on time and that any vaccinations, inoculations, prophylactics (e.g. for
malaria) and the like, where required, have been obtained. Passports must be valid
for 6 months after return to South Africa. Please check the requirements with your
travel agent before travelling. Thompsons will endeavour to assist the client but
such assistance will be at Thompsons discretion and the client acknowledges that
in doing so, Thompsons is not assuming any obligation or liability and the client
indemnifies Thompsons against any consequences of non-compliance. It is the
clients duty to familiarise him/herself with the inherent dangers of and mental
and/or physical condition required for the proposed travel arrangements. The client
must ensure that the details supplied to Thompsons mirror those details shown on
their passport for international travel and ID documents for local travel.
17) General Information
i. Taxes: Thompsons will advise you of all mandatory taxes, which you must pay
before departure. However, many countries charge departure taxes that can only be
paid locally. It is therefore recommended that you retain sufficient local currency to
meet such charges. Details of departure taxes can be obtained from the relevant
airline when you reconfirm your flight details.
ii. Special requests: We can pass on any special requests that you may wish to make
at the time of booking, but acceptance of such requests is at the discretion of the
airline or other supplier and in no circumstances are special requests guaranteed.
Confirmation that a special request has been noted or passed on to the supplier,
or the inclusion of the special request on your confirmation invoice or any other
documentation, is not confirmation that the request will be met.
iii. Medical Problems: If you or any member of your party has any medical problem or
disability which may affect your holiday, you need to give us full details in writing
at the time of booking. If we reasonably feel unable to properly accommodate
the particular needs of the person concerned, we reserve the right to decline their
reservation. We reserve the right to cancel the reservation should we become
aware of any such medical problem or disability which has not been disclosed.
iv. Renovations: Hotels undergo renovations from time to time and take all possible
steps to limit disruption to their guests. We will not entertain complaints or
requests for refunds if a hotel is carrying out renovations whilst a guest is resident.
If we are specifically advised of renovation work, dates may be provided. It is
important to remember that these are subject to change and we are not always
Booking Conditions
notified.
v. Refunds and Unused Services: No refunds will be considered for any reason
whatsoever.
vi. Charges to your credit card: Any charges made to your credit card whilst away are
your responsibility. Thompsons will not be responsible, nor accept responsibility for
having these charges reversed or corrected upon return to South Africa.
vii. Drivers Licence: Even if you have obtained an international drivers licence, please
take your national driver’s licence with you.
viii. Confidentiality: Subject to statutory constraints or compliance with an order of
court, Thompsons undertakes to deal with all client information of a personal
nature on a strictly confidential basis.
18) Force Majeure
Except where otherwise expressly stated in these booking conditions, we regret
we cannot accept liability or pay any compensation where the performance or
prompt performance of our contractual obligations is prevented or affected, or
you otherwise suffer any damage or loss, as a result of “force majeure”. In these
Booking Conditions, “force majeure” means any event which we or the supplier of
the service(s) in question could not, even with all due care, foresee or avoid. Such
events may include war or threat of war, riot, civil strife, terrorist activity or actual
threatened terrorist activity, industrial dispute, natural or nuclear disaster, adverse
weather conditions, fire and all similar events outside our control.
19) Responsibility and Limitation of Liability
Thompsons act as agents only for local and international ground operators and air-
lines and accordingly accepts no liability whatsoever for any loss, damage, injury,
accident, delay, or any other irregularity howsoever arising. Thompsons makes
every effort to ensure that all the arrangements and services connected with a
passenger’s itinerary will be carried out as specified in the most efficient and
effective way possible. However, we do not have direct control over the provision
of services by suppliers and, whilst they are in all cases selected with the utmost
care, we do not accept liability for error and omissions of such suppliers. The
contract in use by such suppliers (which is often constituted by the ticket Issued by
the Principal), shall constitute the sole contract between the supplier and the client
and any right of recourse the client may have, will be solely against the supplier.
20) Jurisdiction of the Magistrate’s Court
Thompsons Holidays, a Division of Cullinan Holdings Ltd, shall be entitled, at its
option to institute any legal proceedings arising out of or in connection with this
contract in any Magistrate’s Court having jurisdiction in terms of Section 29 of the
Magistrate’s Court Act No 32/1944 as amended, notwithstanding that the amount
in issue may exceed the limits of such jurisdiction.
21) Legal
This document together with Thompsons’ standard booking form and Thompsons
invoice / itinerary constitutes the sole record of the agreement between the par-
ties. No party shall be bound by any representation, warranty, and promise of the
like not recorded herein. Client acknowledges that he/she has not relied on any
matter or thing stated on behalf of Thompsons or otherwise that is not included
herein. No addition to the Thompsons standard booking conditions shall be of any
force or effect unless in writing and signed by or on behalf of the parties. All costs
and disbursements, including legal costs on the attorney and client scale incurred
by Thompsons in recovering any damages and payments payable by the passenger
to Thompsons shall be for the passengers’ account. This agreement shall in
all respects be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the
Republic of South Africa. The passenger hereby consents to the jurisdiction of the
Magistrates Court having jurisdiction over its person in respect of all proceedings
in connection with this agreement.
22) The Client and Authority
The person requesting such quotations or estimates or making such booking or to
whom any service is rendered, is deemed to have read and accepted the Conditions
and to have the authority to do so on behalf of the person in whose name the
estimate or quotation or reservation is requested and/or provided and/or the
person to whom the services are rendered (collectively referred to as “the Client”)
27
 Is there a bank around here?
There is always a bank around if you’re using TravelWallet. Preload
your card with US dollars, euros, pounds sterling or Australian
dollars before you go. That way you’ll avoid spending more than you
budgeted for and any exchange rate fluctuations. It can be used as
both a payment and an ATM card. So make Standard Bank
your first stop for TravelWallet.

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Registered credit provider (NCRCP15) Authorised financial services provider

The Standard Bank of South Africa Limited (Reg. No. 1962/000738/06). SBSA 90750806/07

Your approved
907508 Thompsons
234x190 TravelWallet dine1 1 agent is: JOHANNESBURG: Travel House, 6 Hood Ave, Rosebank, South Africa.1:21:56 PM
12/13/07
P.O. Box 41032, Craighall, 2024, South Africa. Docex 270, Randburg.
Tel: (27) (11) 770-7511; Fax: (27) (11) 325-2840.
DURBAN: 20 The Boulevard, West End Office Park, Spine Road, Westville, South
Africa. P.O. Box 51041, Musgrave Road, 4062, Durban, South Africa. Docex 238,
Durban. Tel: (27) (31) 275-3500; Fax: (27) (31) 275-3990.
CAPE TOWN: 15th Floor, Main Tower, Standard Bank Centre, Hertzog Boulevard,
Foreshore, South Africa. P.O. Box 382, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa. Docex 145,
Just a phone call away from a remarkable holiday. Cape Town. Tel: (27) (21) 408-9500; Fax: (27) (21) 408-9596.
www.thompsons.co.za
Thompsons Holidays: A division of Cullinan Holdings LTD (Reg No 1902/001808/06)