19 Days /18 NightsFor the Independent Traveler
Departures: Daily
from $8025 per person, double occupancy
Nights at Destination: Melbourne (3), Sydney (3), Christchurch (2), Queenstown (3),Rotorua (2), Auckland (2), Royal Davui, Fiji (3)
Three Country Highlights offers travelers a unique insight into three very diverse - and equally spectacular - locations:
exciting Australia, awe-inspiring New Zealand and the tropical paradise that is Fiji. Exclusive hotels, choice of activities and superb dining make this a vacation truly unlike any other.
Crown Towers Melbourne
Crown Towers Melbourne is a haven of luxury on Melbourne's Yarra River at Southbank, in the heart of the arts and leisure precinct. The 451 rooms and suites offer views framed by floor to ceiling glass. Featuring the renowned Crown Spa, more than 9 fine dining restaurants and the Crown Entertainment Complex with cinemas, bars, live music and luxury boutiques.
Hilton Auckland
Hilton Auckland is a contemporary "boutique" style, 165-room hotel situated on Princess Wharf, with superb water views across Auckland Harbor.
The George
In Christchurch, The George is the essence of luxury. Named "Best New Zealand Hotel" in the 2007 Conde Nast Gold List, The George boats 53 stylish rooms, exquisite dining and a one-to-one guest to staff ratio.
Royal Davui
In Fiji, you'll be in the lap of luxury at Royal Davui. Located off of Fiji's Coral Coast, Royal Davui is accessible via a short helicopter ride or chartered flight from Nadi. 16 vales nestled in the tropical vegetation offer superb views of surrounding reefs and islands. Enjoy first class cuisine from a fresh, ever-evolving menu. With so many activities, you can do as much, or as little as you please.
Included
18 nights accommodationPrivate car transfersPenguin Parade small group tourDeluxe Sydney city sightsHelicopter picnic, QueenstownRotorua guided small group tourScenic helicopter flight, Fiji18 breakfasts, 4 lunches,5 dinnersNot Included:
Note: International and domestic airfare not included. Accommodation
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive Melbourne, Australia
At the airport, you will be greeted and transferred by private car through Melbourne's city streets to your deluxe accommodation at the Crown Towers, featuring numerous restaurants, cafes, international shopping, entertainment and the Crown Casino. Overnight: Crown Towers Melbourne, Deluxe Room for 3 nights
Day 2: Phillip Island Penguin Parade
Departing Melbourne, the first stop is along the coast for stunning views before walking among the treetops at the Koala Conservation Center. Head to the Nobbies for spectacular coastal viewing then see the "Little Penguins" arrive onshore from their ocean feeding grounds. The boardwalks enable you to get close to the penguins. Your evening finishes with a fish and chips dinner. (B,D)
Day 3: Melbourne at Leisure
Today is free for you to explore the city, perhaps shop at nearby Little Bourke Street, visit Docklands for arts, entertainment and eateries or just jump on a tram. (B)
Day 4: Melbourne - Sydney
Transfer by private car to the airport and connect with your flight to Sydney (airfare not included). Upon arrival in Sydney, you will be greeted and transferred by private car to the Shangri-La Hotel Sydney where you will enjoy stunning views of Sydney Harbor from your room. Overnight: Shangri-La Hotel Sydney, Deluxe Opera House View Room for 3 nights (B)
Day 5: Deluxe Sydney City Sights Tour
Your friendly and informative guide will meet you at your hotel this morning. Visit the historic Rocks area, Macquarie Street, infamous Kings Cross, Sydney Harbor National Park and Bondi Beach. The tour ends at Circular Quay at noon, allowing the rest of the day at leisure. (B)
Day 6: Sydney at Leisure
Explore Sydney at your leisure. Visit exciting Darling Harbor, the up-market shopping areas of Double Bay and Rose Bay, or take a cruise on Sydney Harbor. (B)
Day 7: Sydney - Christchurch, New Zealand
Depart Sydney today and transfer by private car to the airport. Connect with your flight to New Zealand (airfare not included). Be greeted on arrival at Christchurch Airport and transfer to your beautiful hotel opposite Hagley Park. Day at leisure. Overnight: The George, Executive Room for 2 nights (B)
Day 8: Christchurch at Leisure
Day at leisure. Perhaps you might wish to join a sunrise champagne hot-air balloon flight or a romantic punt (gondola) on the River Avon. (B)
Day 9: Arrive Queenstown, the Adventure Capital
Transfer to Christchurch Airport for the flight to Queenstown (airfare not included). Be greeted on arrival at Queenstown Airport and transfer to the magnificent Millbrook Resort where you have access to a championship golf course and spa retreat. Overnight: Millbrook Resort, Village Inn Room for 3 nights (B)
Day 10: Scenic Helicopter Flight & Picnic
A scenic helicopter flight takes you to a remote and secluded area, nestled into the lake shore high above Queenstown. The stunning alpine scenery will take your breath away. Enjoy a champagne picnic lunch and time to take in the beauty of the area before calling the helicopter to return you to civilization. Spend the remainder of your day at leisure. (B,L)
Day 11: Queenstown at Leisure
Today, we suggest an optional tour to Milford Sound. Ask for details. (B)
Day 12: Queenstown - Rotorua
Depart for your flight to Rotorua (airfare not included) in the North Island of New Zealand. You will be greeted at the airport and transferred to Treetops Lodge. Nestled amid magnificent native forests and valleys, Treetops offers a uniquely New Zealand experience. Full breakfast, pre-dinner drinks, canapes and a 4-course dinner are included daily. Overnight: Treetops Lodge & Wilderness Estate, Lodge Suite for 2 nights (B,D)
Day 13: Rotorua Touring
Today, enjoy an amazing journey through the volcanic wonders and natural history of Rotorua. Head to Wai-O-Tapu, a thermal wonderland of geysers, mud pools and colorful hot springs, before viewing the largest hot spring in the world, The Lady Knox Geyser. Drive through Waimangu Volcanic Valley and board your vessel for an unbelievable cruise on Lake Rotomahana, witnessing a myriad of wildlife and awe inspiring geo thermal steam bursts. After the cruise, enjoy a sumptuous lakeside lunch. (B,L,D)
Day 14: Rotorua - Auckland
Transfer to the airport and fly to Auckland (airfare not included). Be greeted on arrival and transfer to the Hilton Auckland Hotel. Overnight: Hilton Auckland, Deluxe Room for 2 nights (B)
Day 15: Auckland at leisure
Feel free to explore Auckland today. Enjoy lunch at the Viaduct, board a ferry to Waiheke Island or just relax at your hotel. (B)
Day 16: Arrive Fiji - Helicopter to Royal Davui
Transfer to the airport this morning and board your flight to Nadi, Fiji Islands (airfare not included). Upon arrival, transfer by exhilarating helicopter to Royal Davui. Overnight: Royal Davui, Deluxe Villa for 3 nights (B)
Days 17 -18: Royal Davui at Leisure
Spend the days enjoying the many activities Royal Davui has to offer. From snorkeling and diving (diving, own expense) to sportfishing and cultural village visits, there is something for everyone. Perhaps hike to a waterfall, or simply relax on the beach. (B,L,D daily)
Day 19: Depart Fiji
Transfer by helicopter to the airport to connect with your onward flight (airfare not included). (B)
Day - City - Area - Hotel
Day - 1, 2, 3 - Melbourne - Crown Towers Melbourne
Day - 4, 5, 6 - Sydney - Shangri-La Hotel Sydney
Day - 7, 8 - Christchurch - The George
Day - 9, 10, 11 - Queenstown - Millbrook Resort
Day - 12, 13 - Rotorua - Treetops Lodge & Wilderness Estate
Day - 14, 15 - Auckland - Hilton Auckland
Day - 16, 17, 18 - Fiji - Royal Davui