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Scheduled Itinerary:

Day 1 (April 14, 2011) – San Francisco/Tokyo
Depart San Francisco for a pleasant flight to Tokyo via Ana Airlines.

Day 2 – (April 15, 2011) Tokyo/Sapporo Suzukino – Night Entertainment District
Arrive Tokyo in the late afternoon then immediately connecting a flight to Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido and the 5th largest city in Japan, one with the youngest population Dinner before transfer to hotel Sapporo Park or similar for rest. (D.)

Day 3 – (April 16, 2011) Sapporo City Tour – Historical Village of Hokkaido – Meiji Clock tower – Odori Park (Snow Festival Site) – Sapporo Beer Brewery – Nijo Seafood Market – Tanukikoji Shopping Alley – Ramen Alley
After breakfast in the hotel, transfer to Historical Village of Hokkaido where you will spend the morning her walk through this huge Park with all the historical buildings and museum. Return to Sapporo city for lunch, then to Sapporo Brewery where you will see how they make the famous Sapporo Beer and Beer tasting at the end of the tour. Then will walk pass the Old Government Quarters – Meiji Clock Tower – Odori Park (the Snow Festival Site) and the Tanukikoji Shopping Alley. After dinner you can walk pass the night entertainment district Suzukino or the under ground shopping district follow by the Ramen Alley to try the famous Sapporo Ramen before returning to hotel Sapporo Park or similar. (B.L.D.)

Day 4 – (April 17, 2011) Sapporo – Otaru – Old Canal – Glass & Music Museum – Lake Toya – Showa & Usu Volcanoes – Bear Farm – Noboribetsu Onsen.
Breakfast at hotel. Then transfer to Otaru which has developed and prospered as "the sea entrance of Hokkaido" over the last 100 years and it has gained the nickname "Wall Street of the North." The glassworks shops, coffee shops, restaurants and shopping malls along the canal have been converted from stone-built or brick-built warehouses, which were used for storage in the days when commerce flourished and the canal was crowded with jostling barges. You will visit the Glassware Shops and the Music Boxes Shop and walk the Sushi Alley. Otaru's nickname is "the town of hills" as there are so many hills, and is a popular ski resort in winter.     After Lunch, will transfer to Then Transfer to Lake Toya-ko, belongs to Shikotsu-Toya National Park. This wide lake lies 200 to 500 meters below the outer rim of the crater. The active volcano that stands proudly near the lake with white smoke rising above it is Mt. Showa Shinzan. The beauty of this ice-free lake can therefore be admired anytime during the year. After viewing the live Volcanoes Mt show & Mt Usu will visit the Bear Farm where you will find over hundred Bears here and can feed them.      Then proceed to Noboribetsu and will see the most impressive scene at the hot spring, it is the Jigoku Valley (hell valley), where yellowy gray volcanic gas seeps from the surface of the rocks. This makes the whole place smell strongly of sulfur, and gives it an image like that of hell. The valley is a 450 – meter – diameter mouth of a volcano, which produces 3,000 liters of hot water a day. Then transfer to Noboribetsu.Onsen for overnight stay. The Noboribetsu-onsen is one of Hokkaido's best-known hot springs, and is surrounded by a virgin forest 200 meters above sea level. It has over 10 different kinds of water, containing minerals such as hydrogen sulfide, salt, and iron. The quality of these minerals results in the spa being ranked among the world's most exceptional hot springs.  Stay at the Noboribetsu Yumoto Onsen Hotel or similar  (B.L.D.)

Day  5 – (April 18, 2011)  Nobroibetsu – Furano – Tomida Flower Farm – Bie – Asahigawa – Sounkyo Gorge – Ryusei & Ginga Waterfalls  (B.L.D.)
Breakfast at Hotel, start our journey to visit the Tomita Flower Farm at Furano, a beautiful farm famous for its flower gardens. Here you can see beautiful flowers especially the famed Lavender in July. Will pass by Bie where you find the scenery here is gorgous. Then proceed to Asahigawa visit the Takasagoshuzo Sake Factory then to Sounkyo gorge contains lots of waterfalls, of which the Ryusei-no-taki Falls (shooting star falls) and Ginga-no-taki Falls (Milky Way falls) are especially worth seeing. At both of these waterfalls, the water falls directly over the cliff, giving them a sense of great power. The Obako and Kobako rock formations are said to be the most beautiful places in the gorge. Obako features wide rock faces that resemble 'byobu' (folding screens).  Stay at Sounkaku Grand Hotel or similar (B.L.D.)

Day 6 – (April 19, 2011) Sounkyu – Abashiri – Prison Museum – Iceberg Museum
Breakfast at Hotel, morning view the spectacular gorge and waterfall sceneries resembling the Milky Way. The giant gorge attracts millions of visitors each year with its high cliffs, plentiful hot springs, powerful waterfalls and fantastic rock formations. Soun Gorge is situated at the foot of Mt. Daisetsu-zan, which is called the "roof of Hokkaido." The giant gorge, bordered by 100-meter-high cliffs formed by the erosion of tuff, stretches for 24 kilometers and forms the center of Daisetsu-zan National Park. The hot spring area boasts of magnificent scenery and plentiful natural hot water, and attracts three million visitors a year.
Transfer to Abshiri to visit the Iceberg Museum (Okhotsk Ryuhyo Museum) to experience the drift ice all year round. You can actually touch and feel the ice. Okhotsk Ryu-hyo (drift ice) Museum is a science museum adjoinsTentozan Observatory. A permanent display of real drift ice is maintained. One room enables you to experience drift ice and another room features a three-screen super-wide-vision theater displays the four season of Okhotsk. Drift ice also provides some surprising encounters. For instance, you might encounter a Clione limacine, also known as a sea angel. They are attached to the drift ice and when the drift ice disappears they go with it. This is a family of small floating sea slugs. These creatures have a transparent body about 10mm in length, and they swim gracefully as if flapping their wings Also a visit to the Prison Museum.  Located halfway up Mt. Tento, is the original Abashiri Prison building–used as a prison until 1984–that has been moved and opened as a museum. Then proceed to Sounkyo and relax yourself in hot spring.  Hotel: Abashiri Koso Hotel or similar    (B.L.D.)

Day 7 – (April 20, 2011) Abshiri – Oshinkoshinn Waterfall – Utoro -Lake Akan – Ainu Village
Breakfast at Hotel, transfer to Shiretoko National Park. Utoro-the largest and only sizable town along the western coast of Shiretoko Peninsula. Transfer to view Oshinkoshin Waterfall-designated as one of Japan's top 100 waterfalls, Oshinkoshin Falls (Oshinkoshin no taki) is a spectacular waterfall just next to the coastal main road.     We will pass by Lake Kusharo and Lake Mashu before entering Akan National Park. The Ainu people have revered this lake as the "lake of the gods" from ancient times. You cannot go down to the lakeshore, but you can enjoy a splendid view from the 3 observatories. Another special feature of this lake is that it is always covered with mist, thereby also being called "Misty Lake Mashu". Then Proceed to Lake Akan and visit the Ainu village which is right beside the Lake.  Stay at Akan Kanko Hotel or similar. (B.L.D.)
 
Day 8 – (April 21, 2011) Lake Akan (Short Cruise) – Kushiro / Haneda – Tokyo
After breakfast in the hotel, visit the Lake Akan-a beautiful crate lake to enjoy the great view of Lake Akan from the boat. The boat cruises around a number of tourist sites takes around an hour. Its is home of marimo (moss balls), are algae species that forms itself into beautiful green balls. Left alone for a few centuries, then we travel to T Lake Mashu prides itself as being the world's most transparent lake. It features the most beautiful transparent emerald-colored surface that changes. Then transfer to Kushiro city and will try our luck on seeing the Red Head Cranes before you take afternoon flight from Kushiroariprot to Haneda airport of Tokyo. Upon arrival, you will have dinner before check-in Hotel Grand Pacific Le Daiba or similar (B.L.D.)

Day 9 – (April 22, 2011) Tokyo/San Francisco
Wrap up your memories and bid farewell to Japan and return to the United States via Ana Airlines. (B.)

Click Here to View Map

Scheduled Itinerary for this Tour:

Day 1 – (March 15, 2011.)    Los Angeles/Tel-Aviv

Today you board a magnificent 747 jetliner for your journey to Tel-Aviv.

Day 2 – (March 16,  2011.)   Tel-Aviv

Arrive Ben-Gurion Int’l Airport. Upon arrival to Israel, you will be met and assisted by our epresentatives and official guide who will take us to our journey of the Holy Land. We will immediately travel to Joppa, the Ancient sea port from which the prophet Jonah fled from God (Jonah 1:17).  The town where Peter stayed with Simon the Tanner and restored Tabitha (Acts 9:36).   (D)

Day 3 – (March 17, 2011)     Caesarea/Haifa/Mount Tabor

Travel north to Caesarea, an early Christian center, where Peter baptized the Roman Centurion Cornelius (Acts 10).  This is also the place where Paul was tried by Festus (Acts 25:6-12). Visit the excavations, Roman Theatre and the Herodian port.  Continue to Mount Carmel, The site of where Elijah challenged the false prophet of Baal and won. (I King 18-25).  Next stop will be a visit to Haifa (Israel’s third-largest city and an import port.  View the Bahia’s shrine and the newly designed Bahia’s garden-among the most beautiful in the world.  We will continue our travel in Galilee to Mount Tabor (Psalms 89-12).  Visit the church of the transfiguration, where Jesus transfigured in the presence of Peter, James and John (Matt 17).  Overnight in Galilee (B/D).

Day 4 – (March 18, 2011)     Sea of Galilee/Boat RideRide/Capernaum/Tabgha/Nazareth

Today we will go to the Sea of Galilee, cruise aboard “Jesus Boat” across the Sea of Galilee, passing the villages of Magdala, hometown of Mary Magdalene; Bethsaida, Genesret to view 2000 year-old Jesus Boat), Visit, Capernaum, the home of Peter, Tagbha, site of feeding of 5000 and Mount of the Beatitude, site of the Sermon on the Mount, and site of the Primacy of St. Peter. (John 21:17-19)  In Nazareth we will visit the Basilica of the Annunciation.  The Workshop of Joseph and Mary’s well.  Overnight in Galilee (B/D).

Day 5 – (March 19, 2011)        Galilee/Cana/Jordan Valley/Jerusalem.

After breakfast, we travel to Cana, the site of Jesus first miracle of turning water into wine (John 2-1-11).  Then we travel south to the baptismal site at the “Yardenit”.  Continue via Beit Shean (Ancient Scitopolice., one of Roma’s Decapolis cities in the time of the ministry of Jesus).  Pass by Jordan Valley, Jericho.  We will view the mount of Temptation and Mount Nebo. Travel along the old Jericho road to Jerusalem passing by the Inn of the Good Samaritan.  Before checking into our hotel-we’ll take the first glimpse of the city from the heights surrounding Jerusalem.  Overnight Jerusalem.  (B/D).

Day 6 – (March 20, 2011)        Mount of Olives/the Western Wall/Bethlehem.

Visit Mount Olives and have a bird’s eye view of the city.  The Chapel of Ascension/The Pater Noster Church/Continue to the church of Dominus Flevit (where Jesus wept over Jerusalem.  Walk down the road of Palm Sunday.  Contemplate at the Garden of Gethsemane.  Visit the Church of all Nations and the rock of Agony.  View the eKidron Valley.  Drive along the Earn Wall to Western Wall.  Visit the western wall and view Temple Mount.  Mount Mariah-where Abraham prepared to sacrifice his own son Isaac)

Travel to Beth-Lethem, the City of David and the birthplace of Christ.  Visit the Church of the nativity at manger square.  St. Jerome’s Chapel and St. Catherine Church and Shepherds Fields.  Overnight Jerusalem (B/D).

Day 7 – (March 21, 2011)        The Old City/Sepulcher Church/Mount Zion

Travel to the old city and enter through St. Stephen’s gate.  Visit the pool of Bethesda and St. Anne’s Church. View the Ecce Homo Arch and remnants of the judgment hall of Pontius Pilate.  Walk along the Via Dolorosa and visit the church of the Holy Sepulcher.  The place of the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus.  Walk and explore the Christian, Moslem and Jewish Armenia Quarters.  Visit Mount Zion; The Tomb of David, The upper Room.  Dormiton Abbey and the Church of St. Peter in Gallicantu (built on the site of the house of the high priest Caiaphas).  B/D

Day 8 –(March 22, 2011)         Massada/Qumram/Dead Sea/Ein-Geddie

After breakfast, we drive along the Jordan Valley, passing Jericho on our way to the Dead sea.  In the Horizon, we will see Mt. Nebo.  We continue to drive to Qumran, where the dead sea scrolls were discovered.  Then we ascent Massada by Cable car, for a fascinating tour of the mountain where 960 Jewish defenders organized his soldiers from King Saul.  We enjoy a float in the salty water of the Dead Sea.  In the afternoon we will ascent to Jerusalem.  The “Eternal City of God”  B/D

Day 9 – (March 23, 2011)        Jerusalem/The New City/Eim Kare/Tel-Aviv/Joppa

Drive to Ein-Karem, the birth place of John the Baptist, the place where Mary Visited Elizabeth. Visit the Church of John the Baptist and the Visitation Church. Travel to the new city.  Visit “Yad-Vashem”, Israel’s memorial to the victims of the Nazi Holocaust.  Pass by the Knesset (the parliament)/Supreme Court and the government campus. Farewell Dinner.  Late evening ride to the airport. B/D

Day 10 – (March 24, 2011.)     TLV-LAX

Have a pleasant flight back to United States.

Scheduled Itinerary for this Tour:

Day 1 – San Francisco to Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia)

Depart San Francisco for a pleasant flight to Kuala Lumpur via Hong Kong by Cathay Pacific Airways.

Day 2 – Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia)

Afternoon to Kuala Lumpur  upon arrival, we will start city tour of the KL Tower and the Petronas Twin Tower (photo stop only), National Monument,  Independence Square where the tallest flag-pole in the world is flying high and the King Palace and other places of interest. In the evening attend a Malay cultural performance and feast on Malay delicacies.  Enjoy your stay in Kuala Lumpur Hotel  Istana or same class hotel.  (D.)

http://www.kl-hotels.com/istana/

Day 3  – Kuala Lumpur/Yangon (Myanmar)

Morning depart for Yangon  and your tour of Burma (now called Myanmar).  sightseeing includes high lights of the tour of  Sule Pagoda, Maha Bandooia Park with Independence Monument, located at the heart of the city, Chaukhtatgyi reclining Buddha image and a sunset visit to the 2,500 years old magnificent Shwedagon Pagoda sheathed in 11tons of pure gold and 4,350 diamonds weighing 1800 carats! Stay at the Trader Hotel or similar.   (B.L.D.)                                    

http://www.shangri-la.com/en/property/yangon/traders

Day 4 – One day excursion to Bago

Morning make an excursion by coach to Bago-once the capital of ancient Mon Kingdom. It is about 80 kilometres northeast of Yangon. Tour highlights include Bago Traditional Market, the Shwemawdaw Pagoda, the Hintha-gon Paya and Kanbawza Thardi Golden Palace, a replica of the Golden Palace built by King Bayintnaung. Enjoy your lunch at a local restaurant. After lunch, continue to the Shwethalyaung Reclining Buddha Image, the Mahazedi Pagoda with its impressive bell-shaped stupa and the Kalyani Sima, this sacred hall of ordination was originally built by King Dhammazedi. Also visit a cheroot making workshop. Then return to Yangon. En route visit a pottery workshop and World War II Allied War Cemetery, which is situated near Htaukkyant. Enjoy your dinner at a local restaurant. Stay overnight at the Trader hotel or similar hotel. (B.L.D.)

Day 5 – Yangon/Bagan

Morning flight to Bagan, the city of 13,000 temples. Full-day sightseeing includes a memorable experience at Bupaya Pagoda for the panoramic view over the Ayeyarwady River and the many ancient monuments, which make this one of the richest archaeological sites in Asia. (Threadbare Gate) (B/L/D)

http://www.tharabargate.com/

Day 6 – Bagan (Half day optional  excusion of Mt. Popa – Included lunch)

After breakfast in the hotel, you can relax or join the half day by coach to optional tour of Mt. Popa-an extinct volcano, which is the abodeof Nats ( Spirits ).  On top of the mountain, there are monasteries, pagodas and shrines in different style. Lunch at Popa Mountain resort then drive back to Bagan and pick up the rest of tour members who didn’t join the optional tour and continue to Shwe Gukyi temple for panoramic morning beauty of old Bagan area. Here you will have the chance to study the ruin palace site of Bagan. Then visit to the highest temple of Bagan “Thatbyinnyu”. Then to Dhammayangyi, a massive temple with the finest brickwork. and last we will visit a temple Sulamunitemple where you can see fine frescos from 18^th century Kone Baung era and it also has a beautiful back round history so make sure you get that. Overview of Bagan temple from nearby temple called Tayoke Pyay and that calls for that day.   (B,)

Day 7 – Bagan/Mandalay

Morning flight to Mandalay. Full-day sightseeing in Mandalay, home of the largest marble Buddha in the world and center for Burmese art, architecture and handicrafts. (Sedona Hotel) (B/L/D)

 http://www.sedonahotels.com.sg/oh_mya_ma_loc.asp

Day 8 – Mandalay/Yangon

Late morning flight back to Yangon  and upon arrival, walking tour of the remaining sights  which is starting from downtown central post office; the Strand Road, the jetty to observe the ways of life of the people on Yangon River. Pansoedan Street, famous for the most impressive colonial buildings to be found in Yangon. City Hall, the high court, Bogyoke( Scott ) market where a lot of food, clothing, handicrafts, and gems stores are located.  Last, if time is allowed, we will visit to the hand made glass blowing factory and exploring the natural warehouse. (B.L.D.)

Day 9 – Yangon/Kuching (Borneo, Malaysia)

After breakfast depart for Kuching-Sarawak’s capital city on Borneo’s West coast. Upon arrival, city tour of Kuching’s Chinatown, the Cat Statue (Kuching means “Cat” in Malay), the colourful Tua Pek Kong Chinese Temple, the Civic Centre Viewing Platform and the world famous Sarawak Museum. Across river, visit the unique Cat Museum, passing the magnificent State Mosque and the Astana, the former residence of the White Rajahs. Return via the golden-domed City Mosque. Stay at the Hilton hotel. (B.L.D.

http://www1.hilton.com/en_US/hi/hotel/KUCHITW-Hilton-Kuching-hotel/index.do

Day 10 – Kuching/Lemanak River Safari
In the morning take a native longboat to travel upstream against the rapids and pole through to clean shallow water to the longhouse (head hunter) on Skrang River. Stop to collect jungle products.  Fish from the shoreline, and enjoy lunch native style on the river bank. Receive a warm welcome from the long house dwellers and witness their colorful traditional dance.** Please pack 1 days clothing and necessary items in a carry on for overnight in the Safari.  (B.L.D.)

Day 11 – Lemanak River Safari/Kuching
After breakfast say goodbye to your host, the king, and return to Kuching for continue some more city tour of Old Kuching, visiting the colorful Central Markets and squeezing through narrow alleyways crammed with spice dealers and textile shops. Pass by the heritage buildings of the White Rajah era, the Pavilion, the Square Tower, the Court House, the Charles Brooke Monument and the Post Office. Stay at the Hilton hotel. (B.L.)

Day 12  – Kuching/Miri

Board an early flight to Miri and transfer to the Park Hotel or same class hotel.  Then, take a day trip through the countryside to explore the Great Niah Caves, a 27-ace limestone cavern where tools, ornaments, and stone pottery continue to be unearthed from the old and new Stone Age.  Visit the Painted Cave to view prehistoric wall paintings, observe local marvel at the natural wonder of the untouched rain forest which is over a million years old.  Note:  This is a historical monument and as such, visitors to the caves are required to observe certain regulations prohibiting the digging, collecting or removal of any object natural or man-made. Stay at the Marriott Hotel or same class hotel.   (B.L.)

http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/myymc-miri-marriott-resort-and-spa/

Day 13 – Miri/Kota Kinablu

Enjoy a half day of free time to explore Miri before taking an afternoon flight to Kota Kinabalu-the Sate Capital of Sabah and The Land Below the Wind.  Upon arrival and city tour of  Sabah Foundation Building –one of the hanging structures of the world. Stopover at the Buddhist Temple and visit the Sabah State Museum which displays artifacts from Sabah’s past and diverse cultures prevalent in North Borneo.  Pass by the State Mosque – This resplendent structure, with its majestic domes and gold motifs, is a spectacular sight.  Stay at the Le Meridien Hotel or Similar Hotel. (B.L.D.) 

http://www.starwoodhotels.com/lemeridien/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=1935

Day 14 – One day Optional  excursion tour to Sandakan and Orang Utan Sanctuary

After breakfast, Sandakan is 40 minutes by air from Kota Kinabalu. A rewarding experience is a visit to the Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre, 20 minutes by road from Sandakan. Here in the Sepilok forest reserve, orphaned or captive orang utans are taught survival skills so that they may return to their natural habitat. They are then released into the forest to roam free. To aid the orang utans adapt to the wilds, a supplementary diet of bananas and milk are laid out on feeding platforms twice a day. Stay at the Le Meridien Hotel or similar Hotel. (B.) *Rremarks:  one day optional tour is included lunch. 

Day 15 – Kota Kinabalu –  Overnight excursion tour to Mt. Kinabalu

Breakfast in the hotel, today you will take an excursion tour to Mt. Kinabalu which you will visit Poling Hotel Spring Canopy walk, Kinabalu Park and other point of interest. Over night at the Park GraceHostel or similar. ** Please pack 1 days clothing and necessary items in a carry on for Mt. Kinabalu’s overnight.. (B.L.)

Day 16 – Kota Kinabalu

In the morning return to Kota Kinabalu by coach and transfer back to Le Meridien Hotel or similar hotel for rest.  (B.L.D.)

Day 17 – Kota Kinabalu/San Francisco

Recall your adventures in the Orient as your relax on the flight back to San Francisco via Hong Kong. **You may choose to stopover in Hong Kong on the way back on your own within 45 days of the date of departure from San Francisco.  (B.)

Click Here to View Map

Scheduled Itinerary for this Tour:

Day 1 – San Francisco to Bali (Indonesia)

Depart San Francisco for a pleasant flight to Bali via Hong Kong by Cathay Pacific Airways.

Day 2 – Bali

Arrive Bali in the morning and transfer to the Bali Beach or same class hotel to rest and relaxation.   In the evening enjoy a special Indonesian performance.  (L.D.)   

http://bali.grand.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/index.jsp

 Day 3  - Bali

After breakfast explore this fascinating resort with a full day tour.  Attend a performance of the masked Barong Dance.  The most beautiful of Bali’s classical dances .  After this performance discover the artistic genius of the Balinese with visits to three villages, with its own specialties.   Celuk is a center for gold and silver work.  The villagers of Mas  dedicate their life to woodcarving, while Ubund is noted for its Balinese painters.  Also, visit Bedulu, the Tampaksiring sanctuary, and Kintamani at Mount Betur before returning to the Grand Hyatt Bali hotel (B.L.D.)

Day 4 – Bali

After breakfast the whole day is free for leisure. (B.)

Day 5 – Bail/Yogyakarta

Depart for Yogyakarta in the morning and take a trip to explore for yourself why they consider the Borobudur Monument as one of the Severn Wonders of the World. Overnight at the Hyatt Regency or same class hotel. (B.L.D.)

http://yogyakarta.regency.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/index.jsp

Day 6 – Yogyakarta

Take a full day tour of Yogyakarta which includes visits to a batik factory, the Sultan’s Palace, Taman Sari (The Water Castle), a cottage industry in silver, and the historic Pranbanan Temple. (B.L.D.)

Day 7 – Yogyakarta/Jakarta

Take a morning flight to Jakarta-Capital city of Indonesia , upon arrival, we will pass by the latest and modern tourist attraction in Jakarta such as Ancol, National Museum, and enter the Beautiful Indonesian Miniature which is consists of miniature of 26 cultural  Height light of Indonesian ethnics also with other point of interests.  Stay at the Le Meridien Hotel or similar. (B.L.D.)

http://www.starwoodhotels.com/lemeridien/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=1837

Day 8 – Jakarta/Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia)

Morning flight to Kuala Lumpur  upon arrival, we will start city tour of the KL Tower and the Petronas Twin Tower (photo stop only), National Monument,  Independence Square where the tallest flag-pole in the world is flying high and the King Palace and other places of interest. In the evening attend a Malay cultural performance and feast on Malay delicacies.  Enjoy your stay in Kuala Lumpur.  (B.L.D.)        http://www.kl-hotels.com/istana/

Day 9  – Kuala Lumpur/Yangon (Myanmar)

Morning depart for Yangon  and your tour of Burma (now called Myanmar).  sightseeing includes high lights of the tour of  Sule Pagoda, Maha Bandooia Park with Independence Monument, located at the heart of the city, Chaukhtatgyi reclining Buddha image and a sunset visit to the 2,500 years old magnificent Shwedagon Pagoda sheathed in 11tons of pure gold and 4,350 diamonds weighing 1800 carats! Stay at the Trader Hotel or similar.   (B.L.D.)                         

http://www.shangri-la.com/en/property/yangon/traders

Day 10 – One day excursion to Bago

Morning make an excursion by coach to Bago-once the capital of ancient Mon Kingdom. It is about 80 kilometres northeast of Yangon. Tour highlights include Bago Traditional Market, the Shwemawdaw Pagoda, the Hintha-gon Paya and Kanbawza Thardi Golden Palace, a replica of the Golden Palace built by King Bayintnaung. Enjoy your lunch at a local restaurant. After lunch, continue to the Shwethalyaung Reclining Buddha Image, the Mahazedi Pagoda with its impressive bell-shaped stupa and the Kalyani Sima, this sacred hall of ordination was originally built by King Dhammazedi. Also visit a cheroot making workshop. Then return to Yangon. En route visit a pottery workshop and World War II Allied War Cemetery, which is situated near Htaukkyant. Enjoy your dinner at a local restaurant. Stay overnight at the Trader hotel or similar hotel. (B.L.D.)

Day 11 – Yangon/Bagan

Morning flight to Bagan, the city of 13,000 temples. Full-day sightseeing includes a memorable experience at Bupaya Pagoda for the panoramic view over the Ayeyarwady River and the many ancient monuments, which make this one of the richest archaeological sites in Asia. Stay at the Hotel Threadbare Gate or similar. (B.L.D.)   http://www.tharabargate.com/

Day 12 – Bagan (Half day optional  excusion of Mt. Popa – Included lunch)

After breakfast in the hotel, you can relax or join the half day by coach to optional tour of Mt. Popa-an extinct volcano, which is the abodeof Nats ( Spirits ).  On top of the mountain, there are monasteries, pagodas and shrines in different style. Lunch at Popa Mountain resort then drive back to Bagan and pick up the rest of tour members who didn’t join the optional tour and continue to Shwe Gukyi temple for panoramic morning beauty of old Bagan area. Here you will have the chance to study the ruin palace site of Bagan. Then visit to the highest temple of Bagan “Thatbyinnyu”. Then to Dhammayangyi, a massive temple with the finest brickwork. and last we will visit a temple Sulamunitemple where you can see fine frescos from 18^th century Kone Baung era and it also has a beautiful back round history so make sure you get that. Overview of Bagan temple from nearby temple called Tayoke Pyay and that calls for that day. Dinner  on your own.  (B,)

Day 13 – Bagan/Mandalay

Morning flight to Mandalay. Full-day sightseeing in Mandalay, home of the largest marble Buddha in the world and center for Burmese art, architecture and handicrafts. (Sedona Hotel) (B/L/D) 

http://www.sedonahotels.com.sg/oh_mya_ma_loc.asp

 Day 14 – Mandalay/Yangon

Late morning flight back to Yangon  and upon arrival, walking tour of the remaining sights  which is starting from downtown central post office; the Strand Road, the jetty to observe the ways of life of the people on Yangon River. Pansoedan Street, famous for the most impressive colonial buildings to be found in Yangon. City Hall, the high court, Bogyoke( Scott ) market where a lot of food, clothing, handicrafts, and gems stores are located.  Last, if time is allowed, we will visit to the hand made glass blowing factory and exploring the natural warehouse. (B.L.)

Day 15 – Yangon/Kuching (Borneo, Malaysia)

After breakfast depart for Kuching-Sarawak’s capital city on Borneo’s West coast. Upon arrival, city tour of Kuching’s Chinatown, the Cat Statue (Kuching means “Cat” in Malay), the colourful Tua Pek Kong Chinese Temple, the Civic Centre Viewing Platform and the world famous Sarawak Museum. Across river, visit the unique Cat Museum, passing the magnificent State Mosque and the Astana, the former residence of the White Rajahs. Return via the golden-domed City Mosque. Stay at the Hilton hotel. (B.L.D.)

http://www1.hilton.com/en_US/hi/hotel/KUCHITW-Hilton-Kuching-hotel/index.do

Day 16 – Kuching/Lemanak River Safari

In the morning take a native longboat to travel upstream against the rapids and pole through to clean shallow water to the longhouse (head hunter) on Skrang River. Stop to collect jungle products.  Fish from the shoreline, and enjoy lunch native style on the river bank. Receive a warm welcome from the long house dwellers and witness their colorful traditional dance.** Please pack 1 days clothing and necessary items in a carry on for overnight in the Safari.  (B.L.D.)

Day 17 – Lemanak River Safari/Kuching

After breakfast say goodbye to your host, the king, and return to Kuching for continue some more city tour of Old Kuching, visiting the colorful Central Markets and squeezing through narrow alleyways crammed with spice dealers and textile shops. Pass by the heritage buildings of the White Rajah era, the Pavilion, the Square Tower, the Court House, the Charles Brooke Monument and the Post Office. Stay at the Hilton hotel. (B.L.)

Day 18  – Kuching/Miri

board an early flight to Miri and transfer to the Park Hotel or same class hotel.  Then, take a day trip  through the countryside to explore the Great Niah Caves, a 27-ace limestone cavern where tools, ornaments, and stone pottery continue to be unearthed from the old and new Stone Age.  Visit the  Painted Cave to view prehistoric wall paintings, observe local marvel at the natural wonder of the untouched rain forest which is over a million years old.  Note:  This is a historical monument and as such, visitors to the caves are required to observe certain regulations prohibiting the digging, collecting or removal of any object natural or man-made. (B.L.)                                                                        

http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/myymc-miri-marriott-resort-and-spa/

Day 19 – Miri/Kota Kinabalu

Enjoy a half day of free time to explore Miri before taking an afternoon flight to Kota Kinabalu-the Sate Capital of Sabah and The Land Below the Wind.  Upon arrival and city tour of  Sabah Foundation Building –one of the hanging structures of the world. Stopover at the Buddhist Temple and visit the Sabah State Museum which displays artifacts from Sabah’s past and diverse cultures prevalent in North Borneo.  Pass by the State Mosque – This resplendent structure, with its majestic domes and gold motifs, is a spectacular sight.  Stay at the Le Meridien Hotel or Similar Hotel. (B.L.D.)                               

http://www.starwoodhotels.com/lemeridien/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=1935

Day 20 – One day Optional  excursion tour to Sandakan and Orang Utan Sanctuary

After breakfast, Sandakan is 40 minutes by air from Kota Kinabalu. A rewarding experience is a visit to the Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre, 20 minutes by road from Sandakan. Here in the Sepilok forest reserve, orphaned or captive orang utans are taught survival skills so that they may return to their natural habitat. They are then released into the forest to roam free. To aid the orang utans adapt to the wilds, a supplementary diet of bananas and milk are laid out on feeding platforms twice a day. Stay at the Le Meridien Hotel or similar Hotel. (B.) *Remarks:  one day optional tour is included lunch.

Day 21– Kota Kinabalu –  Overnight excursion tour to Mt. Kinabalu

Breakfast in the hotel, today you will take an excursion tour to Mt. Kinabalu which you will visit Poling Hotel Spring Canopy walk, Kinabalu Park and other point of interest. Over night at the Park Grace Hostel or similar. ** Please pack 1 days clothing and necessary items in a carry on for Mt. Kinabalu’s overnight.. (B.L.D.)

Day 22 – Kota Kinabalu

In the morning return to Kota Kinabalu by coach and transfer back to Le Meridien Hotel or same class hotel for rest. Farewell Dinner in the evening.   (B.L.D.)

Day 23 – Kota Kinabalu/San Francisco

Recall your adventures in the Orient as your relax on the flight back to San Francisco via Hong Kong. **You may choose to stopover in Hong Kong on the way back on your own within 45 days of the date of departure from San Francisco.  (B.)

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Day 1: (10/12/09) San Francisco/Beijing
Depart San Francisco for a pleasant flight to Beijing –the capital city of China by United airlines or Air China

Day 2: (10/13/09) Beijing
After an afternoon arrival, transfer to Capital Hotel for a nice rest in preparation of an exciting trip the following day. (D.)
Click here to see pictures of Capital Hotel

Day 3: (10/14/09) Beijing
Tour this historic city with special visit to the Forbidden City; Tiananmen Square; the Summer Palace and Temple of Heaven; Cloisonne Factory also you may have chance to try on the China’s emperor and empress costume. Visit the night market after dinnder. (B/L/D)

Day 4: (10/15/09) Beijing
Enjoy a full day tour to The Great Wall-one of the Seven Wonders of the World and the Ming Tombs. You will also view the famous Olympics stadium “Bird’s Nest” and “Water Cube”. Evening enjoy the Peking Dinner (B/L/D)

Day 5: (10/16/09) Beijing
Whole day free for leisure or optional tour to Hutong-surrounded by ancient Palaces, Temples, Bell Tower, Drum Tower and Shishahai Lake area is the most beautiful among hundreds of historical scenic spots in old Beijing. (Hutong tour will take around 3 hours) (B.)

Day 6: (10/17/09) Beijing – Xian
Morning flight to Xian-once the largest city in the world and paradigm of imperial splendor. Upon arrival, transfer to the Grand New World Hotel for your stay in Xian before visit Wild goose Pagoda; Forest of Steles and City Wall. Enjoy the special Cultural Performance of Tang Sing & Dancing Show. (B/L/D)
Click here to see pictures of Grand New World Hotel

Day 7: (10/18/09) Xian
Today discover the treasures of this region with a full day tour to the Qin Tomb excavation famous for the Terra Cotta Warriors. Also visit the archaeological ruins of Ban Bo Village, and the Hua Qing Hot spring. At last, we will visit the Jade Factory. Enjoy the special Cuisine of Steam Dumping Banquet in the evening. (B.L.D.)

Day 8: (10/19/09) Xian
Whole day free for leisure. (B.)

Day 9: (10/20/09) Xian/Shanghai
Today flight to Shanghai-the fifth Largest city in the world, is one of China’s most cosmopolitan areas. Upon arrival, you will travel along the Huanpu River for a visits to Yu Garden and Jade Buddha Temple. Chinese Acrobatic Show in the evening if available. Stay at the Central Hotel located on the Nanjing Road or Ramada Plaza hotel for rest. (B/L/D)
Click here to take a look at Central Hotel

Day 10: (10/21/09) Shanghai
Whole day free for leisure, or optional tour to Zhouzhuang-is well known for its beautiful environment and simple architecture. Although more than 900 years have past. Its architectural style is still well preserved. More than 60 percent of the residential houses were built during the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties, consisting of nearly 100 classic courtyards and 60 carved brick archways. (B.)

Day 11: (10/22/09) Shanghai – San Francisco
Wrap up your memories and bid farewell to the Orient and return to the United States. (B.)

Included: Shipboard accommodations, ocean transportation, most meals, some beverages and most onboard entertainment.
Not Included: Air transportation**; transfers**; items of a personal nature, such as shore & land excursions**, specialty restaurant fees, some beverages, photographs, gratuities/service fees, medical services, etc.** You can add these during or after the reservation process.

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Royal Caribbean International reserves the right to impose a fuel supplement on all guests if the price of West Texas Intermediate fuel exceeds $65.00 per barrel. The fuel supplement for 1st and 2nd guests would be no more than $10 per guest per day, to a maximum of $140 per cruise; and for additional guests would be no more than $5 per person per day, to a maximum of $70 per cruise.

* Prices are per person, based on double occupancy, for cruise only on select sailings and stateroom categories. Government taxes and fees are additional. For new reservations only. Subject to availability. Certain restrictions apply. May not be combinable with any other promotion and may be withdrawn at any time. "Deals" pricing reflects the special rate(s) you may be eligible for. Proof of eligibility required. If eligibility cannot be validated, you will be charged the standard rate or denied boarding. All prices are quoted in US Dollars. All itineraries and prices are subject to change without notice. Ships' Registry: Bahamas. © 2008 Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.

Scheduled Itinerary for this Tour:

Day 1  – San Francisco/Tokyo
Depart San Francisco for a pleasant flight to Tokyo via Ana Airlines.

Day 2 – Tokyo/Sapporo Suzukino – Night Entertainment District
Arrive Tokyo in the late afternoon then immediately connecting a flight to Sapporo,the capital of Hokkaido and the 5^th largest city in Japan, one with the youngest population.  Dinner before transfer to hotel Sapporo Park or similar. (D.)

Day 3 – Sapporo City Tour/Historical Village of Hokkaido/Meiji Clock tower/Odori Park (Snow Festival Site)/Sapporo Beer Brewery/ Nijo Seafood Market/Tanukikoji/Shopping Alley/Ramen Alley
After breakfast in the hotel, transfer to Historical Village of Hokkaido where you will spend the morning walk through this huge Park with all the historical buildings and museum. Return to Sapporo city for lunch, then to Sapporo Brewery where you will see how they make the famous Sapporo Beer and Beer tasting at the end of the tour. Then will walk pass the Old Government Quarters – Meiji Clock Tower – Odori Park (the Snow Festival Site and 1964 Olympic site) and the Tanukikoji Shopping Alley. After dinner you can take a leisure walk to the night entertainment district Suzukino or the underground shopping district followed by the Ramen Alley to try the famous Sapporo Ramen before returning to hotel Sapporo Park or similar. (B.L.D.)

Day 4 – Sapporo/Otaru/Old Canal/Glass &Music Museum/Lake Toya/Showa & Usu Volcanoes, Bear Farm – Noboribetsu Onsen.
After breakfast at hotel, we proceed to Otaru which has developed and prospered as "the sea entrance of Hokkaido" over the last 100 years and it has gained the nickname "Wall Street of the North." The glassworks shops, coffee shops, restaurants and shopping malls along the canal have been converted from stone-built or brick-built warehouses, which were used for storage in the days when commerce flourished. The canal was crowded with jostling barges. You will visit the Glassware Shops and the Music Boxes Shop and walk the Sushi Alley. Otaru's nickname is "the town of hills"  and is a popular ski resort in winter.  After Lunch, you will transfer to Lake Toya-ko which is part of the Shikotsu-Toya National Park. This wide lake lies 200 to 500 meters below the outer rim of the crater. The active volcano that stands proudly near the lake with white smoke rising above it is Mt. Showa Shinzan. The beauty of this ice-free lake can therefore be admired anytime during the year. After viewing the live Volcanoes Mt showa & Mt Usu , our next stop is the Bear Farm where you will find over hundreds of bears which you can feed.   Our next stop is the hot springNoboribetsu situated at the Jigoku Valley (hell valley), where yellowy gray volcanic gas seeps from the surface of the rocks filling the air with sulfur.   The valley is a 450m. diameter mouth of a volcano, which produces 3,000 liters of hot water a day. Tonight  enjoy and relax in the hot spring in the  Noboribetsu Yumoto Onsen Hotel or similar (B.L.D.)

Day  5 – Nobroibetsu/Furano/Tomida Flower Farm/Asahigawa/Sounkyo Gorge – Ryusei & Ginga Waterfalls
Breakfast at Hotel, start our journey to visit the Tomita Flower Farm at Furano, a beautiful farm famous for its flower gardens especially the famed Lavender in July. Will pass by Bie where the scenery here is gorgeous. Then proceed to Asahigawa to visit the Takasagoshuzo Sake Factory.  We cannot miss the  Sounkyogorge famous for  waterfalls, of which the Ryusei-no-taki Falls (shooting star falls) and Ginga-no-taki Falls (Milky Way falls) are especially worth seeing. Magnificent water falls  plunge directly over the cliff, giving them a sense of great power. The Obako and Kobako rock formations are said to be the most beautiful places in the gorge. Obako features wide rock faces that resemble 'byobu' (folding screens).  Stay at Sounkaku Grand Hotel or similar (B.L.D.)

Day 6 – Sounkyu – Abashiri – Prison Museum – Iceberg Museum
Breakfast at Hotel, morning sightseeing includes the spectacular gorge and waterfall sceneries resembling the Milky Way. The giant gorge attracts millions of visitors each year with its high cliffs, plentiful hot springs, powerful waterfalls and fantastic rock formations. Sounkyu Gorge is situated at the foot of Mt. Daisetsu-zan, which is called the "roof of Hokkaido." The giant gorge, bordered by 100-meter-high cliffs formed by the erosion of tuff, stretches for 24 kilometers and forms the center of Daisetsu-zan National Park. The hot spring area boasts of magnificent scenery and plentiful natural hot water, and attracts three million visitors a year. Our next stop is the  Abashiri to visit the Iceberg Museum (Okhotsk Ryuhyo Museum) to experience the drift ice all year round. You can actually touch and feel the ice. OkhotskRyu-hyo (drift ice) Museum is a science museum adjoining the Tentozan Observatory. A permanent display of real drift ice is maintained. One room enables you to experience drift ice and another room features a three-screen super-wide-vision theater displaying the four season of Okhotsk. Drift ice also provides some surprising encounters. For instance, you might encounter a Clione limacine, also known as a sea angel. They are attached to the drift ice and when the drift ice disappears they vanish with it. This is a family of small floating sea slugs. These creatures have a transparent body about 10mm in length, and they swim gracefully as if flapping their wingsAlso a visit to the Prison Museum.  Located halfway up Mt. Tento is the original Abashiri Prison building–used as a prison until 1984–that has been moved and opened as a museum. Our final stop of the day is at Sounkyo to relax in the  hot spring.
Hotel: Abashiri Koso Hotel or similar (B.L.D.)

Day 7 – Abashiri/Oshinkoshinn Waterfall /Utoro/Lake Akan/Ainu Village
Breakfast at Hotel, morning travel to Shiretoko National Park. Utoro is the largest and only sizable town along the western coast of Shiretoko Peninsula. Transfer to view Oshinkoshin Waterfall-designated as one of Japan's top 100 waterfalls, Oshinkoshin Falls (Oshinkoshin no taki) is a spectacular waterfall just next to the coastal main road.     We will pass by Lake Mashu before entering Akan National Park. The Ainu people have revered this lake as the "lake of the gods" from ancient times. You can enjoy a splendid view from the 3 observatories. A special feature of this lake is that it is always covered with mist, thereby also being called "Misty Lake Mashu". A visit to the Shiraoi Ainuzoku Village near the lake highlights our visit of the day.  Ainus are the indigenous people of Japan native only in Hokkaido. Stay at Akan Kanko Hotel or similar. (B.L.D.)

Day 8  - Lake Akan (Short Cruise) – Kushiro/ Haneda – Tokyo
After breakfast in the hotel,morning boat ride to view  Lake Akan -a beautiful crater lake. The boat cruises around a number of tourist sites for an hour.  Then transfer toKushiro city and will try our luck on seeing the Red Head Cranes before you take afternoon flight from Kushiro airport to Haneda airport of Tokyo. Upon arrival, you will have dinner before check-in Hotel Grand Pacific Le Daiba or similar (B.L.D.)

Day 9 –  Tokyo
After breakfast, take a full day city tour starting with Tokyo Tower for a panoramic view of the city, then to Imperial East Garden (formerly party of Imperial Palace Grounds), and Asakusa Kannon Temple with its bustling arcade of souvenir shops displaying many interesting traditional Japanese products. After lunch, continue to visit the tickly wooded Meiji Shrine, the largest of Japan’s native Shinto shrine and other points of interest in Japan. Free for leisure in the evening when you can try out different types of delicious Japanese food.  (B.L.)

Day 10 – Tokyo/Kamakura/Hakone/Lake Cruise/Owakudani/Mt. Fuji /Yatsugatake
After breakfast at hotel, visit the 754-year old enormous bronze statue of the sitting Buddha. Then continue driving along the scenic Enoshima Seaside to Hakone (Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park) and enjoy the Lake Cruise before process to Owakudani (Crater), here you can have the most beautiful view of Mt. Fuji. Transfer to accommodation hotel in Yatsugatake where you can enjoy your Hot Onsen Bathand Japanese dinner before going to bed.
Hotel: Yatsugatake Royal Onsen Hotel or Similar (B.L.D.)

Day 11 – Yatsugatake/Matsumoto Castle/ ShiragawagoVillage(World Heritage)/Tokayama
After breakfast transfer to Matsumoto. A  city lies in the middle of Honshu, where we  will visit the Matsumoto Castle. Our cultural event takes us to the World Heritage “Shiragawago Village” where you will visit over dozens of old genuine farm houses over 350 years old with a unique building technique called “Gasho Tsukuri”. The Shirakawa-go and neighboring Gokayama regions line the Shogawa River Valley in the remote mountains This village was declared a UNESCO world heritage site in 1995.  Gassho-zukurimeans "constructed like hands in prayer", as the farmhouses' steep thatched roofs resemble the hands of Buddhist monks pressed together in prayer. The architectural style developed over many generations and is designed to withstand the large amounts of heavy snow that falls in the region during winter. The roofs, made without nails, provided a large attic space used for cultivating silkworms.  Afterwards on to  Takayama, the famous old town on the mountain.  Japanese Dinner at Hotel.
Hotel: Takayama Assoscia Onsen Resort or similar . (B.L.D.)

Day 12 – Takayama/Morning Market/Jinya (old government quarters)/Kyoto
After breakfast take a walking tour starting with the Morning Market which is starting in the Edo period (about 200 years ago) as markets of rice, mulberry trees, and flowers.  This market place was  developed by the middle of the Meiji period (about 100 years ago) when farmers’ wives began to bring vegetables, these markets came to the  known as ‘Morning Markets.’  Then visit the district designated as an area of important traditional buildings by the Japanese Governmen such as the  Jinya Historical Government House (National Historical Site). This was one of the mansions of Lord Kanamori of Takayama Castle. This castle is saturated with history of the Japanese governing warlords. We will stroll  through the Old Residential District and other interesting places to explore this ancient traditional town..  After Lunch, our ride continues to Kyoto via Nagoya.  Tonight is an opportunity to explore the enchanting old Gion of geishas and traditional wooden houses, and many good restaurants.  Hotel: Kyoto Mystay Hotel or Similar.   (B.L.)        

Day 13 – Kyoto City tour/Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion)/Kiyomizu Temple/Heianjingu Shrine/Nara/Todaiji Temple – Deer Park – Osaka/Shinsabashi
You’ll visit Kinkkuji the Golden Pavilion (with beautifully laid out Japanese Garden), the Heanjingu Shrine (built in 1895 to commemorate the 1,100^th anniversary of this ancient capital.) Kiyomizu Temple where you can see the whole Kyoto City from its wooden platform built on the cliff Shijo Kawaramachi, a busy and vibrant shopping district located in central Kyoto. Our visit also includes  Nara Todaiji Temple where you will find the largest Indoor Bronze Buddha Image and walk through the Deer Park where you can feed the deers along the way. We will spend the evening in  Osaka (sister city of San Jose, CA) Your last chance to shop at the  famous shopping area – Shinsaibashi.
Our farewell dinner in Osaka.
Hotel: Osaka New Hankyu Hotel or Similar.  (B.L.D.)

Day 14 – Osaka/San Francisco
Wrap up your memories and bid “Sayonara” to Japan and return to the United States via Ana Airlines. (B)

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(2 person) $99.00/person * (3-4 person) $69.00/person * (5-9 person) $45.00/person

Description:

The most important orientation tour for all tourists to discover the best of Hong Kong. The tour are started to bring you to the Victoria Peak, it enable you to have a bird-eyes view of Hong Kong Island and Kowloon Peninsula, afterwards drive on to Repulse Bay Beach and Aberdeen Fishing Village where you will see the traditional Junk and Jumbo Floating Restaurant, enroute to Factory shopping.

Remarks: This tour is pick up from your hotel in Hong Kong then send you back to your hotel.

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