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Insider’s take on South America

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SOUTH America is one of the most colourful and vibrant destinatio­ns in the world. The warmth of the local people, the rich culture and customs, historical gems and diverse natural beauty are just some of the reasons to make South America a must-visit destinatio­n.

Trafalgar, an award-winning escorted holiday specialist, ensures you get a hassle-free holiday packed with priceless insider experience­s designed to show you the insideout of the destinatio­n, reveal its many secrets and also introduce you to local characters, creating enriching memories to last a lifetime.

Tempting options

Trafalgar offers a total of 17 itinerarie­s, including Mexico, Costa Rica and Panama from as short as eight days up to 22 days.

These itinerarie­s feature First Class inclusions such as its First Class perfectly located accommodat­ion, Be My Guest dining experience, VIP entry to major sights and airport transfers with meet-andgreet on arrival and departure.

A new feature, Authentic Accommodat­ion, houses guests in centuries-old buildings that have historical significan­ce, and this gives guests amazing insights to the destinatio­n.

To get an in-depth look at Peru, home to the mystical Machu Picchu, consider the eight-day highlights of the Peruvian itinerary.

Begin in Lima, a city founded in 1535 and dubbed the City of Kings, and be welcomed with a Be My Guest lunch at the private home of an illustriou­s local family.

Here, not only will you dine on a sumptuous home-cooked meal of traditiona­l Peruvian delicacies, you will also learn about the history of your host’s ancestors and visit his historic home.

The Local Expert will show you the colonial splendour of Lima’s Historic Centre, a Unesco World Heritage Site, including the Plaza de Armas and its impressive cathedral, stately government palace, as well as the impressive architectu­re of the Church of San Francisco.

From Lima, fly further inland to Cusco and head for the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

Stops included are Awanakanch­a, a living museum of the Peruvian Andes where you will see some of the indigenous animals like llamas, alpacas and vicunas.

You will also visit the vibrant market of Pisac, where local Quechua people sell their produce and handicraft­s.

In Cusco, experience Trafalgar’s authentic accommodat­ion with a stay at an 18th Century colonial- style monastery surrounded by beautiful gardens in the heart of the sacred Urubamba Valley.

A local specialty included in the Sacred Valley is the art of Peruvian weaving. You get to observe centuries-old methods of spinning, dyeing and weaving Andean traditiona­l textiles.

Next up is Ollantayta­mbo, where you will see the famous Inca stronghold built from huge blocks of stone.

Learn Inca history as you tour the ruins of this hilltop fortress. Then board the Vistadome train which features panoramic windows for you to appreciate the incredible scenery as you climb towards Machu Picchu.

One of the new Seven Wonders of the World, this once-great fortress was built in the 15th Century and abandoned nearly 100 years later when the Spanish arrived.

From Machu Picchu, head to the colonial city of Cusco, also known as the “Imperial City” with its position as the capital of the Incas during their reign.

Experience more

If you want to capture more incredible sights, you can opt for the 16-day South America Revealed itinerary.

In addition to the impressive Peruvian sights included in the eight-day Highlights of Peru itinerary also covered are Rio de Janeiro, Iguassu Falls and Buenos Aires.

All internal flights are included: Rio – Iguassu – Buenos Aires – Lima – Cusco. This trip includes a cable car ride up Sugar Loaf Mountain for breathtaki­ng views of Rio and a cogwheel train to the summit of the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

You will also indulge in a traditiona­l barbecue highlight dinner at a local churrascar­ia where you can feel the spirit of Rio’s famous carnival as you are treated to a lively extravagan­za of Samba song-anddance.

From Rio, fly to Iguassu to visit the Iguassu National Park, a Unesco World Heritage Site where you will explore the thunderous Iguassu Falls from both the Brazilian and Argentinia­n sides.

In Buenos Aires, embark on an in-depth discovery of the passionate city where tango was born. Included sights are the Casa Rosada, Metropolit­an Cathedral and the renowned Teatro Colon.

For a unique insight, take a backstage tour of the Opera House, acoustical­ly considered to be among the five best concert venues in the world.

Book your South American holiday today and enjoy early bird savings of up to US$1,072 (RM3,500) per couple.

Each couple will also get a luggage bag (while stocks last). Combine these savings with other discounts such as the 5% frequent traveller discount, young traveller discount and group discounts.

Visit Holiday Tours at Booths No.1305 –1324 (Hall 1) or contact 03-6286 6288 for more informatio­n.

 ??  ?? The once great fortress of Machu Picchu that was built in the 15th Century.
The once great fortress of Machu Picchu that was built in the 15th Century.
 ??  ?? The colourful neighbourh­ood of La Boca in Buenos Aires.
The colourful neighbourh­ood of La Boca in Buenos Aires.

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