Erik's Adventures L.L.C.
Standing out with authentic travel experiences
Come travel with us and meet new people on one of our singles trips or vacations like on our Escorted Australia Singles Travel Group. Guaranteed Roommate Matching Available. Avoid Single Supplements!
Erik's Adventures LLC is a registered tour operator and will work with individuals, group clients, and also with travel agents
Erik's Adventures LLC is a registered tour operator and will work with individuals, group clients, and also with travel agents
Australia Singles Tour- March 22nd until April 4th, 2008
Cairns, Alice Springs, Ayers Rock & Sydney- An Upscale Trip!
Australia is the only country that has a whole continent to itself. World famous for its natural wonders and wide open spaces (beaches, deserts and "the bush" or outback), Australia is ironically one of the world's most highly urbanized countries and is well known for the cosmopolitan attractions of its globally significant cities, renowned worldwide for its vast, untouched landscape and its unique culture. Join our Singles Travel Group which is composed of singles from all over the USA as we explore Australia on this upscale and fully escorted tour.
Cairns is a vibrant, eclectic city framed by the spectacular twin backdrops of rainforest mountain ranges and the sparkling Coral Sea. Few places on earth can boast such unique natural attractions with the Great Barrier Reef offering an underwater treasure trove of dazzling coral and sea life, and superb World Heritage listed tropical rainforests within easy reach. This area is truly a tropical paradise of beaches, islands, mountains, rivers, waterfalls and lakes, of the legendary outback and a vast wilderness fringed by the Coral Sea. Along with its rich ecology the Tropical North has inherited wealth of cultures from its Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders.
Alice Springs is Australia's most inland town, sitting around 125 miles south of the absolute centre of the continent. Alice Springs grew around a permanent waterhole that was a key terminal for the Overland Telegraph Station in 1870. It became a tough frontier town serviced by camel trains from the railhead at Oodnadatta, until the railway reached it in 1929 and it became a major terminus centre. Today the city, with a population of 25,000 and stylish shopping and dining facilities, provides a perfect base from which to access all of the surrounding natural wonders, including Uluru (Ayer's Rock), and learn more about the local Arrernte Aboriginal tribal group who have inhabited the area for 20,000 years.
Enjoy Sydney's rich cosmopolitan lifestyle, its fine restaurants and cool shopping, as well as the natural beauty of its world famous harbor. A great city to explore with your Singles Travel friends and travel companions. Laze on a long, sandy beach, hike in the high country, make a journey to the red outback, soothe your soul in one of the State's many World Heritage national parks, and follow the leisurely drives through country New South Wales. Be amazed by the quality of local food and wine, kick your heels up at lively festivals and events, discover Aboriginal heritage tours, see amazing landscapes and meet the friendly locals.
Whether you're after adrenalin-pumping adventure, relaxing on sun-kissed beaches, trekking through ancient rainforest or snorkeling on the Great Barrier Reef, there's an experience waiting to become your treasured memory in Australia on this great singles adventure trip!
Cairns is a vibrant, eclectic city framed by the spectacular twin backdrops of rainforest mountain ranges and the sparkling Coral Sea. Few places on earth can boast such unique natural attractions with the Great Barrier Reef offering an underwater treasure trove of dazzling coral and sea life, and superb World Heritage listed tropical rainforests within easy reach. This area is truly a tropical paradise of beaches, islands, mountains, rivers, waterfalls and lakes, of the legendary outback and a vast wilderness fringed by the Coral Sea. Along with its rich ecology the Tropical North has inherited wealth of cultures from its Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders.
Alice Springs is Australia's most inland town, sitting around 125 miles south of the absolute centre of the continent. Alice Springs grew around a permanent waterhole that was a key terminal for the Overland Telegraph Station in 1870. It became a tough frontier town serviced by camel trains from the railhead at Oodnadatta, until the railway reached it in 1929 and it became a major terminus centre. Today the city, with a population of 25,000 and stylish shopping and dining facilities, provides a perfect base from which to access all of the surrounding natural wonders, including Uluru (Ayer's Rock), and learn more about the local Arrernte Aboriginal tribal group who have inhabited the area for 20,000 years.
Enjoy Sydney's rich cosmopolitan lifestyle, its fine restaurants and cool shopping, as well as the natural beauty of its world famous harbor. A great city to explore with your Singles Travel friends and travel companions. Laze on a long, sandy beach, hike in the high country, make a journey to the red outback, soothe your soul in one of the State's many World Heritage national parks, and follow the leisurely drives through country New South Wales. Be amazed by the quality of local food and wine, kick your heels up at lively festivals and events, discover Aboriginal heritage tours, see amazing landscapes and meet the friendly locals.
Whether you're after adrenalin-pumping adventure, relaxing on sun-kissed beaches, trekking through ancient rainforest or snorkeling on the Great Barrier Reef, there's an experience waiting to become your treasured memory in Australia on this great singles adventure trip!
Day 01 Arrive Cairns (D)
Met on arrival and transferred by private coach to your hotel.
Your tour director Erik from USA will meet you on arrival at the hotel and assist you to check in.
Rest of the day at leisure to relax and unwind from your flight.
This evening there will be a briefing followed by a welcome 3 course dinner at your hotel restaurant where you will get a chance to meet everyone in the Singles Travel Group.
Overnight stay at The Hotel Cairns (4*) - Tower Rooms
<http://www.thehotelcairns.com/>
Day 02 Cairns (B/L)
Buffet Breakfast at your hotel. Travel by coach north along the spectacular coastal road to Port Douglas, where you join a full day cruise to the outer Barrier Reef.
After just 90 minutes you arrive close to Australia’s continental shelf where you will moor over one of the most beautiful sections of the Great Barrier Reef. It offers some of the best snorkeling and diving anywhere in the world, with the warm waters of the Coral Sea affording crystal-clear visibility, and the marine life is a riot of living color. You can take a closer look at the breathtaking beauty of this seascape with its sunlit valleys and coral cliffs, teaming with brilliant fish by swimming, snorkeling (equipment provided) or cruising in the Subsea Explorer or glass bottom boat. Sometimes described as the largest living structure on the planet, the Great Barrier Reef is actually a collage of nearly three thousand individual reefs and islands stretching for more than 1243 miles along the Queensland coast.
Enjoy a sumptuous smorgasbord lunch including fresh seafood and tropical fruits. Morning and afternoon tea are also included.
Return to your hotel. Explore Cairns by night including the exciting nighlife and culture at your leisure. Overnight stay at The Hotel Cairns
Day 03 Cairns (B)
Buffet Breakfast at your hotel
This morning visit the Cairns Tropical Zoo, where you will meet Australia’s native animals, including Kangaroos, wombats, and crocodiles. You can even have your photo taken with a koala (at extra cost).
Return to your hotel
This afternoon is at leisure on your own. Options include famous beach areas like Trinity and Palm Cove beaches, Cairns Reef Casino, or the Regional Art Center.
Overnight stay at The Hotel Cairns
Day 04 Cairns (B/D)
Buffet Breakfast at your hotel.
Your Erik's Adventures Singles Travel Director can set up a wide range of activities for you in Cairns.
Full day at own leisure or you may join an optional Kuranda tour
Kuranda all inclusive tourUS$ 170 per person
Pick up from hotel- 7.30 am
Approx return to your hotel- 5.15 pm
Experience the contrast of the regions oldest and most picturesque railway and the invisible technology of the world’s most beautiful Cableway in one day. Enjoy your day knowing that we have taken care of all the details.
Pick up from your hotel and proceed to the Freshwater Station. Here you will meet your hostess for the day who will run through the day’s schedule. Once aboard the train, sit back and enjoy the spectacular views as you journey through 15 hand cut tunnels and past spectacular waterfalls. Following this you have 1½ hours free time to do some of your own exploring; check out the local markets (Heritage Markets daily).
Your hostess will be waiting for you at Skyrail with your tickets. Once aboard, you will be amazed as you glide silently over the rainforest canopy on the world’s most beautiful rainforest experience. There are two stations en-route where you can alight and enjoy a walk through the rainforest to spectacular lookouts and views or visit the CSIRO Interpretive Centre at Barron Falls Station to discover more about the special plants and animals that inhabit this unique environment. The Skyrail journey may end at Caravonica Lakes, but not the fun.
A short distance from the Skyrail Terminal is the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park and first stop there is the extravagant buffet lunch. Afterwards you have ample time to explore all the attractions of Tjapukai including movie theatres, stage shows, craft demonstrations, the Aboriginal village and of course, the famous Tjapukai Dance Troupe.
Your hostess will meet you at the entrance at 4:40 pm to say goodbye as you board the coach for return transfer to Hotel - the end of a day that you will never forget.
Please note: A fuel levy of AUD $2 (Approximately US$ 1.75) is applicable and will be collected directly by a representative on the day of travel. All passengers will be issued with a receipt confirming their payment.
This evening meet your director who will split your group into smaller groups of 4 to 5 people, where you will visit a local home for an Aussie family dinner.
Overnight stay at The Hotel Cairns
Day 05 Cairns / Alice Springs (B/D)
Buffet Breakfast at your hotel.
Transfer by private coach from your hotel to Cairns Domestic Airport and board your flight to Alice Springs. (Flight not included). On arrival in Alice Springs, you will be met and taken on an Alice Springs Town tour en-route to your hotel.
Visit the historic Old Telegraph Station to discover how the locals had live in this remote area and the history of the early settlers who explored the region and developed communication. Continue up to Anzac Hill to enjoy spectacular views of the town before visiting the Royal Flying Doctors Base. Appreciate how an aerial medical service is provided to those living in extremely remote regions. A highlight of your day is the opportunity to ride a camel (at own expense), the transport of the desert, at the Camel Farm.
This evening transfer to Heavitree Gap. The contemporary Aboriginal performance Red Centre Dreaming will honor their ancestors by creating an interactive evening of unique entertainment and dining that can be enjoyed & shared by everyone. Enjoy a highly authentic traditional and contemporary Aboriginal performance featuring dancing, weaponry, interaction, didgeridoo playing and cultural history. Includes 3 course Territorian style meal using indigenous native fruits, seeds and herbs, with wine and soft drink
Return to your hotel
Overnight stay at Crowne Plaza Resort (Garden view Rooms)
<http://www.ichotelsgroup.com/h/d/cp/1/en/hotel/aspbd?&>
Day 06 Alice Springs (B)
Buffet Breakfast at your hotel
This morning meet up with your Erik's Adventures singles tour director and re-join your coach for your Australia Aboriginal Dreamtime & Bushtucker Tour.
A specially trained guide will introduce you to local traditional Aboriginal people who are still "living the culture". Try your hand at throwing Boomerang or Spear and learn about the different types of weapons and implements used. Taste various bush foods including some Witchetty Grub and learn of traditional hunting and gathering techniques, bush survival skills, the Kinship system, spiritual beliefs and much more including a traditional corroborree performance (unchanged over hundreds of years). Morning tea is (one of the many highlights) oven baked damper with Cocky's Joy and Billy Tea and Coffee. A once in a lifetime opportunity to discover and learn about a totally unique culture, meet traditional Aboriginal Elders and respecting their lifestyle and beliefs today in an ever changing world.
Return to your hotel.
Afternoon and Evening at leisure to explore Alice Springs.
Overnight stay at Crowne Plaza Resort
Day 07 Alice Springs / Ayers Rock (B)
Buffet Breakfast at your hotel
Morning at leisure or you may enjoy an optional Hot Air Balloon ride.
Outback Ballooning (30 Minute Flight)US$ 195 per person
Pick up from Crowne Plaza 4.00 am
Approx return to your hotel9.00 - 9:30 am
Your pre-dawn ballooning adventure begins alongside the majestic MacDonnell Ranges. The balloon is inflated and rises to meet the first rays of a new day in the Australian Outback. Drifting over the rugged landscape one is able to appreciate the ancient red land and watch it awaken. To spot a kangaroo or wallaby, fly amongst the green and pink flashes of budgerigars and galahs is an experience not to be forgotten. After your flight you are taken to their outback breakfast site for their famous piping hot chicken and champagne breakfast.
Please note: A Civil Aviation Recovery Levy of AUD 20 (Approximately US$ 18) per person is to be paid by all passengers, on the morning of the flight.
Later this morning meet your singles group director who will assist you with your transfers by private coach to Alice Springs Airport and board your flight to Ayers Rock. (Flight not included). Met on arrival in Ayers Rock and transfer by private coach to your hotel.
This afternoon travel through desert plains for the short journey to The Olgas - known to the Aborigines as ‘Kata Tjuta’. You will be amazed by the sheer size and grandeur of these 36 massive domes of conglomerate red rock. Enjoy a guided walk to Olga Gorge and explore the unusually shaped formations.
Late afternoon, travel to Ayers Rock sunset viewing area, to witness and photograph the striking color changes that can occur on the world’s largest monolith in the desert plain - Uluru (Ayers Rock) and enjoy a complimentary glass of wine. On completion of the tour you will return to your hotel.
Overnight stay at Desert Gardens Hotel - standard rooms
<http://www.ayersrockresort.com.au/desert/>
Day 08 Alice Springs / Sydney (B)
Buffet Breakfast at your hotel
Travel by private charter coach to visit Uluru. Begin with a drive around the base of Uluru (Ayers rock). Your driver/guide will point out a number of interesting features of the monolith. Thereafter take a walking tour of Mutitjulu Waterhole where you can view Aboriginal rock art. There is also time to visit the Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre.
Later this morning, your tour director will assist you with your transfer transferred to Ayers Rock airport to board your flight to Sydney. (Flight not included). Upon your arrival in Sydney, met and transfer by private coach to your hotel.
Rest of the day at leisure
Overnight stay at The Grace Hotel - superior rooms
<http://www.gracehotel.com.au/>
Day 09 Sydney (B)
Buffet breakfast at your hotel
Meet your driver/guide at the hotel and tour Sydney City sights and Southern Beaches Tour.
Visit the Rocks - Sydney’s birthplace and see fascinating relics and buildings of the city’s turbulent past. At the Sydney Opera House you will be taken on a private guided tour of this famous Sydney Icon. Located on Bennelong Point, the Opera House is one of the most recognizable sights of Sydney. Built in 1973 this building was designed by Danish architect Joern Utzon and is considered to be one of the 20th century’s architectural triumphs. Continue on to Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair for spectacular views of Sydney Harbor.
Return back to the city to visit Darling Harbor and China town prior to heading out through Paddington with its maze of quaint terrace houses decorated with cast iron lace balconies, galleries and offbeat shops. Continue onto Sydney’s southern beaches and drive through exclusive Double Bay and Rose Bay. View the Pacific Ocean from the Gap and view world famous Bondi Beach.
Return to the city, where you will be boarding one of Matilda’s luxury catamarans for an afternoon coffee cruise. Enjoy live commentary with fresh coffee or tea and a selection of cakes and assorted cookies. Enjoy the incredible harbor views, including Sydney Harbor Bridge, the Opera House and Fort Denison. It’s a day you’re sure to remember.
Upon disembarkation at Circular Quay, you will be taken to one of the country’s leading Opal Companies to discover how the beautiful gems are mined.
The rest of the day is at leisure. Enjoy Sydney's spectacular nightlife with your new singles friends!
Overnight stay at The Grace Hotel
Day 10 Sydney (B)
Buffet breakfast at your hotel
Full day at leisure or you may opt to take an optional tour to Hunter Valley
Magnificent Hunter Valley Winetaster US$ 125 per person
Pick up from The Grace Hotel 7.30 am
Approx return to your hotel6.45 pm
Operates: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays
Explore the fertile Hunter Valley and taste award-winning regional foods and wines. Enjoy private vineyard inspections and learn of the winemaking process. Spend your time strolling amongst the vineyards, purchase some wines, or just enjoy the beautiful Australian countryside. Be treated to magnificent views of the Hawkesbury River in the morning. See the remains of a convict built road winding into the Hunter Valley and stroll around historic Wollombi Village. Home to Australia’s oldest wine producing region, the Hunter Valley owes its fame to world class viticulturalist's and fertile soils, enjoy a guided tour of McWilliams Mount Pleasant Estate, founded in 1921 and part of the largest family owned 100% Australian wine company.
A delicious luncheon is accompanied by wine tasting. Your two-course lunch will be complemented with specially chosen wines. Further tasting includes a visit to McGuigans Winery. Be sure to taste their renowned Australian wines. Your last stop will take you to Hunter Valley Gardens, a quaint little township within the Hunter Valley, enjoy the opportunity to taste premium wines in a unique atmosphere of the Hunter Valley's only underground cellars.
Overnight stay at The Grace Hotel
Day 11 Sydney (B/D)
Buffet breakfast at your hotel
Full day at leisure or you may opt to take an optional tour and visit Blue Mountains. Your Erik's Adventure singles travel Australia tour guide can take you around Sydney or set up optional tours for you.
Blue Mountains & Wildlife Encounter US$ 100 per person
Pick up from The Grace Hotel 7.30 am
Approx return to your hotel5.45 pm
Discover the spectacular Blue Mountains and see native wildlife Explore World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains National Park. This rugged and beautiful region forms part of the Great Dividing Range, linking tropical north to temperate south, while dividing coastal cities from the vast Outback. Pass by Homebush Bay, site of the 2000 Olympics. Discover Leura village, a delightful blend of groomed gardens and quaint shops, enjoy free time to wander the streets of Leura. Next stop at Echo Point and see the famous Three Sisters rock formation.
Travel through Katoomba, heart of the resort region within the Blue Mountains National Park and discover the remarkable beauty of Blue Mountains National Park, enjoy an easy walk or Visit Echo Point Lookout, see the Three Sisters and hear the ancient Aboriginal legends of this impressive rock formation, hear traditional Aboriginal Dreamtime tales interpreting the creation of local landmarks.
Join the optional Blue Mountain rides - Scenic Railway, Cableway or Skyway (own expense). These rides are great ways to see the steep valleys, canyons and Three Sisters rock formation. Enjoy a short stop at Cahills Lookout for impressive mountain scenery.
Next enjoy an afternoon encounter at the Featherdale Wildlife Park see kangaroos, wombats, dingoes and cute little fairy penguins.
This evening meet your singles travel Australia tour guide who will assist you for your farewell dinner at the Waterfront Restaurant.
The Waterfront Restaurant has a unique nautical decor and breathtaking views across Sydney Harbor, overlooking the Opera House and Harbor Bridge. The Waterfront is recognized as one of Australia’s great seafood restaurants, offering the best quality seafood available. Includes return transfers from hotel & a 3 course set menu.
Overnight stay at The Grace Hotel
Day 12 Sydney (B)
Buffet breakfast at your hotel
Last day with the singles travel group- Farewell. Your Erik's Adventures Australia tour director will assist you in your transfer to the airport.
Transfer by private coach to Sydney International airport to meet your onward flight.
Land Cost:
US$ 3,650 per person sharing twin room
US$ 1,285 single supplement rate for a single room
Land Cost Includes:-
¶Accommodation for 4 nights at The Hotel Cairns (tower rooms) or similar
¶Accommodation for 2 nights at Crowne Plaza Resort, Alice Springs (garden view rooms) or similar
¶Accommodation for 1 night at Desert Gardens Hotel, Ayers Rock (standard rooms) or similar
¶Accommodation for 4 nights at the Grace Hotel, Sydney (superior room) or similar
¶Hotel porterage - is mandatory at most hotels for groups and is included in the above cost, where porters are available. Hotel porterage is usually based on a maximum of one large suitcase per person.
¶Meals as mentioned in the itinerary: B - breakfast, L - lunch & D - dinner
¶Transportation - All tours and transfers are in private modern, air-conditioned coaches, (except on day 2, where transfers are carried out by Quicksilver Connections own coaches and the group may travel with other passengers). The driver will act as the tour guide on all tours.
¶Sightseeing tours as specified in the above itinerary inclusive of entrance fees.
¶Local Guides - includes the services of a local English speaking guide for Meet & Greet on arrival in Cairns only.
¶Current 10% Goods and Services Tax (GST) - subject to change
¶Professional Singles Travel Tour Director from the USA to escort the trip
¶Transfers to and from the Airport for your international flights
Land Cost Excludes:-
¶All air tickets (USA / Cairns / Alice Springs / Ayers Rock/ Sydney / USA) and taxes. We can help you arrange these flights!
¶Visa fees.
¶Tips & Gratuities to local guides, drivers etc.,
¶Airport Porterage - luggage trolleys at all domestic terminals in Australia are not Free of Charge and may incur a charge of AUD 2 to 3 (Approximately US$ 1.75 to 2.65) per luggage trolley. Therefore we recommend that you keep change handy. Cairns Airport is the only Airport where luggage porterage service is available, and we have included group porterage for your arrival and departure flights in Cairns.
¶Extra visits and meals not indicated.
¶Optional sightseeing tours/activities (The optional tours are currently based on “Seat in Coach”, tour times are subject to change and cancellation fees will apply once confirmed)
¶Items of a personal nature such as telephone calls, laundry, beverages etc.
Personal medical and travel insurance.
Met on arrival and transferred by private coach to your hotel.
Your tour director Erik from USA will meet you on arrival at the hotel and assist you to check in.
Rest of the day at leisure to relax and unwind from your flight.
This evening there will be a briefing followed by a welcome 3 course dinner at your hotel restaurant where you will get a chance to meet everyone in the Singles Travel Group.
Overnight stay at The Hotel Cairns (4*) - Tower Rooms
<http://www.thehotelcairns.com/>
Day 02 Cairns (B/L)
Buffet Breakfast at your hotel. Travel by coach north along the spectacular coastal road to Port Douglas, where you join a full day cruise to the outer Barrier Reef.
After just 90 minutes you arrive close to Australia’s continental shelf where you will moor over one of the most beautiful sections of the Great Barrier Reef. It offers some of the best snorkeling and diving anywhere in the world, with the warm waters of the Coral Sea affording crystal-clear visibility, and the marine life is a riot of living color. You can take a closer look at the breathtaking beauty of this seascape with its sunlit valleys and coral cliffs, teaming with brilliant fish by swimming, snorkeling (equipment provided) or cruising in the Subsea Explorer or glass bottom boat. Sometimes described as the largest living structure on the planet, the Great Barrier Reef is actually a collage of nearly three thousand individual reefs and islands stretching for more than 1243 miles along the Queensland coast.
Enjoy a sumptuous smorgasbord lunch including fresh seafood and tropical fruits. Morning and afternoon tea are also included.
Return to your hotel. Explore Cairns by night including the exciting nighlife and culture at your leisure. Overnight stay at The Hotel Cairns
Day 03 Cairns (B)
Buffet Breakfast at your hotel
This morning visit the Cairns Tropical Zoo, where you will meet Australia’s native animals, including Kangaroos, wombats, and crocodiles. You can even have your photo taken with a koala (at extra cost).
Return to your hotel
This afternoon is at leisure on your own. Options include famous beach areas like Trinity and Palm Cove beaches, Cairns Reef Casino, or the Regional Art Center.
Overnight stay at The Hotel Cairns
Day 04 Cairns (B/D)
Buffet Breakfast at your hotel.
Your Erik's Adventures Singles Travel Director can set up a wide range of activities for you in Cairns.
Full day at own leisure or you may join an optional Kuranda tour
Kuranda all inclusive tourUS$ 170 per person
Pick up from hotel- 7.30 am
Approx return to your hotel- 5.15 pm
Experience the contrast of the regions oldest and most picturesque railway and the invisible technology of the world’s most beautiful Cableway in one day. Enjoy your day knowing that we have taken care of all the details.
Pick up from your hotel and proceed to the Freshwater Station. Here you will meet your hostess for the day who will run through the day’s schedule. Once aboard the train, sit back and enjoy the spectacular views as you journey through 15 hand cut tunnels and past spectacular waterfalls. Following this you have 1½ hours free time to do some of your own exploring; check out the local markets (Heritage Markets daily).
Your hostess will be waiting for you at Skyrail with your tickets. Once aboard, you will be amazed as you glide silently over the rainforest canopy on the world’s most beautiful rainforest experience. There are two stations en-route where you can alight and enjoy a walk through the rainforest to spectacular lookouts and views or visit the CSIRO Interpretive Centre at Barron Falls Station to discover more about the special plants and animals that inhabit this unique environment. The Skyrail journey may end at Caravonica Lakes, but not the fun.
A short distance from the Skyrail Terminal is the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park and first stop there is the extravagant buffet lunch. Afterwards you have ample time to explore all the attractions of Tjapukai including movie theatres, stage shows, craft demonstrations, the Aboriginal village and of course, the famous Tjapukai Dance Troupe.
Your hostess will meet you at the entrance at 4:40 pm to say goodbye as you board the coach for return transfer to Hotel - the end of a day that you will never forget.
Please note: A fuel levy of AUD $2 (Approximately US$ 1.75) is applicable and will be collected directly by a representative on the day of travel. All passengers will be issued with a receipt confirming their payment.
This evening meet your director who will split your group into smaller groups of 4 to 5 people, where you will visit a local home for an Aussie family dinner.
Overnight stay at The Hotel Cairns
Day 05 Cairns / Alice Springs (B/D)
Buffet Breakfast at your hotel.
Transfer by private coach from your hotel to Cairns Domestic Airport and board your flight to Alice Springs. (Flight not included). On arrival in Alice Springs, you will be met and taken on an Alice Springs Town tour en-route to your hotel.
Visit the historic Old Telegraph Station to discover how the locals had live in this remote area and the history of the early settlers who explored the region and developed communication. Continue up to Anzac Hill to enjoy spectacular views of the town before visiting the Royal Flying Doctors Base. Appreciate how an aerial medical service is provided to those living in extremely remote regions. A highlight of your day is the opportunity to ride a camel (at own expense), the transport of the desert, at the Camel Farm.
This evening transfer to Heavitree Gap. The contemporary Aboriginal performance Red Centre Dreaming will honor their ancestors by creating an interactive evening of unique entertainment and dining that can be enjoyed & shared by everyone. Enjoy a highly authentic traditional and contemporary Aboriginal performance featuring dancing, weaponry, interaction, didgeridoo playing and cultural history. Includes 3 course Territorian style meal using indigenous native fruits, seeds and herbs, with wine and soft drink
Return to your hotel
Overnight stay at Crowne Plaza Resort (Garden view Rooms)
<http://www.ichotelsgroup.com/h/d/cp/1/en/hotel/aspbd?&>
Day 06 Alice Springs (B)
Buffet Breakfast at your hotel
This morning meet up with your Erik's Adventures singles tour director and re-join your coach for your Australia Aboriginal Dreamtime & Bushtucker Tour.
A specially trained guide will introduce you to local traditional Aboriginal people who are still "living the culture". Try your hand at throwing Boomerang or Spear and learn about the different types of weapons and implements used. Taste various bush foods including some Witchetty Grub and learn of traditional hunting and gathering techniques, bush survival skills, the Kinship system, spiritual beliefs and much more including a traditional corroborree performance (unchanged over hundreds of years). Morning tea is (one of the many highlights) oven baked damper with Cocky's Joy and Billy Tea and Coffee. A once in a lifetime opportunity to discover and learn about a totally unique culture, meet traditional Aboriginal Elders and respecting their lifestyle and beliefs today in an ever changing world.
Return to your hotel.
Afternoon and Evening at leisure to explore Alice Springs.
Overnight stay at Crowne Plaza Resort
Day 07 Alice Springs / Ayers Rock (B)
Buffet Breakfast at your hotel
Morning at leisure or you may enjoy an optional Hot Air Balloon ride.
Outback Ballooning (30 Minute Flight)US$ 195 per person
Pick up from Crowne Plaza 4.00 am
Approx return to your hotel9.00 - 9:30 am
Your pre-dawn ballooning adventure begins alongside the majestic MacDonnell Ranges. The balloon is inflated and rises to meet the first rays of a new day in the Australian Outback. Drifting over the rugged landscape one is able to appreciate the ancient red land and watch it awaken. To spot a kangaroo or wallaby, fly amongst the green and pink flashes of budgerigars and galahs is an experience not to be forgotten. After your flight you are taken to their outback breakfast site for their famous piping hot chicken and champagne breakfast.
Please note: A Civil Aviation Recovery Levy of AUD 20 (Approximately US$ 18) per person is to be paid by all passengers, on the morning of the flight.
Later this morning meet your singles group director who will assist you with your transfers by private coach to Alice Springs Airport and board your flight to Ayers Rock. (Flight not included). Met on arrival in Ayers Rock and transfer by private coach to your hotel.
This afternoon travel through desert plains for the short journey to The Olgas - known to the Aborigines as ‘Kata Tjuta’. You will be amazed by the sheer size and grandeur of these 36 massive domes of conglomerate red rock. Enjoy a guided walk to Olga Gorge and explore the unusually shaped formations.
Late afternoon, travel to Ayers Rock sunset viewing area, to witness and photograph the striking color changes that can occur on the world’s largest monolith in the desert plain - Uluru (Ayers Rock) and enjoy a complimentary glass of wine. On completion of the tour you will return to your hotel.
Overnight stay at Desert Gardens Hotel - standard rooms
<http://www.ayersrockresort.com.au/desert/>
Day 08 Alice Springs / Sydney (B)
Buffet Breakfast at your hotel
Travel by private charter coach to visit Uluru. Begin with a drive around the base of Uluru (Ayers rock). Your driver/guide will point out a number of interesting features of the monolith. Thereafter take a walking tour of Mutitjulu Waterhole where you can view Aboriginal rock art. There is also time to visit the Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre.
Later this morning, your tour director will assist you with your transfer transferred to Ayers Rock airport to board your flight to Sydney. (Flight not included). Upon your arrival in Sydney, met and transfer by private coach to your hotel.
Rest of the day at leisure
Overnight stay at The Grace Hotel - superior rooms
<http://www.gracehotel.com.au/>
Day 09 Sydney (B)
Buffet breakfast at your hotel
Meet your driver/guide at the hotel and tour Sydney City sights and Southern Beaches Tour.
Visit the Rocks - Sydney’s birthplace and see fascinating relics and buildings of the city’s turbulent past. At the Sydney Opera House you will be taken on a private guided tour of this famous Sydney Icon. Located on Bennelong Point, the Opera House is one of the most recognizable sights of Sydney. Built in 1973 this building was designed by Danish architect Joern Utzon and is considered to be one of the 20th century’s architectural triumphs. Continue on to Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair for spectacular views of Sydney Harbor.
Return back to the city to visit Darling Harbor and China town prior to heading out through Paddington with its maze of quaint terrace houses decorated with cast iron lace balconies, galleries and offbeat shops. Continue onto Sydney’s southern beaches and drive through exclusive Double Bay and Rose Bay. View the Pacific Ocean from the Gap and view world famous Bondi Beach.
Return to the city, where you will be boarding one of Matilda’s luxury catamarans for an afternoon coffee cruise. Enjoy live commentary with fresh coffee or tea and a selection of cakes and assorted cookies. Enjoy the incredible harbor views, including Sydney Harbor Bridge, the Opera House and Fort Denison. It’s a day you’re sure to remember.
Upon disembarkation at Circular Quay, you will be taken to one of the country’s leading Opal Companies to discover how the beautiful gems are mined.
The rest of the day is at leisure. Enjoy Sydney's spectacular nightlife with your new singles friends!
Overnight stay at The Grace Hotel
Day 10 Sydney (B)
Buffet breakfast at your hotel
Full day at leisure or you may opt to take an optional tour to Hunter Valley
Magnificent Hunter Valley Winetaster US$ 125 per person
Pick up from The Grace Hotel 7.30 am
Approx return to your hotel6.45 pm
Operates: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays
Explore the fertile Hunter Valley and taste award-winning regional foods and wines. Enjoy private vineyard inspections and learn of the winemaking process. Spend your time strolling amongst the vineyards, purchase some wines, or just enjoy the beautiful Australian countryside. Be treated to magnificent views of the Hawkesbury River in the morning. See the remains of a convict built road winding into the Hunter Valley and stroll around historic Wollombi Village. Home to Australia’s oldest wine producing region, the Hunter Valley owes its fame to world class viticulturalist's and fertile soils, enjoy a guided tour of McWilliams Mount Pleasant Estate, founded in 1921 and part of the largest family owned 100% Australian wine company.
A delicious luncheon is accompanied by wine tasting. Your two-course lunch will be complemented with specially chosen wines. Further tasting includes a visit to McGuigans Winery. Be sure to taste their renowned Australian wines. Your last stop will take you to Hunter Valley Gardens, a quaint little township within the Hunter Valley, enjoy the opportunity to taste premium wines in a unique atmosphere of the Hunter Valley's only underground cellars.
Overnight stay at The Grace Hotel
Day 11 Sydney (B/D)
Buffet breakfast at your hotel
Full day at leisure or you may opt to take an optional tour and visit Blue Mountains. Your Erik's Adventure singles travel Australia tour guide can take you around Sydney or set up optional tours for you.
Blue Mountains & Wildlife Encounter US$ 100 per person
Pick up from The Grace Hotel 7.30 am
Approx return to your hotel5.45 pm
Discover the spectacular Blue Mountains and see native wildlife Explore World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains National Park. This rugged and beautiful region forms part of the Great Dividing Range, linking tropical north to temperate south, while dividing coastal cities from the vast Outback. Pass by Homebush Bay, site of the 2000 Olympics. Discover Leura village, a delightful blend of groomed gardens and quaint shops, enjoy free time to wander the streets of Leura. Next stop at Echo Point and see the famous Three Sisters rock formation.
Travel through Katoomba, heart of the resort region within the Blue Mountains National Park and discover the remarkable beauty of Blue Mountains National Park, enjoy an easy walk or Visit Echo Point Lookout, see the Three Sisters and hear the ancient Aboriginal legends of this impressive rock formation, hear traditional Aboriginal Dreamtime tales interpreting the creation of local landmarks.
Join the optional Blue Mountain rides - Scenic Railway, Cableway or Skyway (own expense). These rides are great ways to see the steep valleys, canyons and Three Sisters rock formation. Enjoy a short stop at Cahills Lookout for impressive mountain scenery.
Next enjoy an afternoon encounter at the Featherdale Wildlife Park see kangaroos, wombats, dingoes and cute little fairy penguins.
This evening meet your singles travel Australia tour guide who will assist you for your farewell dinner at the Waterfront Restaurant.
The Waterfront Restaurant has a unique nautical decor and breathtaking views across Sydney Harbor, overlooking the Opera House and Harbor Bridge. The Waterfront is recognized as one of Australia’s great seafood restaurants, offering the best quality seafood available. Includes return transfers from hotel & a 3 course set menu.
Overnight stay at The Grace Hotel
Day 12 Sydney (B)
Buffet breakfast at your hotel
Last day with the singles travel group- Farewell. Your Erik's Adventures Australia tour director will assist you in your transfer to the airport.
Transfer by private coach to Sydney International airport to meet your onward flight.
Land Cost:
US$ 3,650 per person sharing twin room
US$ 1,285 single supplement rate for a single room
Land Cost Includes:-
¶Accommodation for 4 nights at The Hotel Cairns (tower rooms) or similar
¶Accommodation for 2 nights at Crowne Plaza Resort, Alice Springs (garden view rooms) or similar
¶Accommodation for 1 night at Desert Gardens Hotel, Ayers Rock (standard rooms) or similar
¶Accommodation for 4 nights at the Grace Hotel, Sydney (superior room) or similar
¶Hotel porterage - is mandatory at most hotels for groups and is included in the above cost, where porters are available. Hotel porterage is usually based on a maximum of one large suitcase per person.
¶Meals as mentioned in the itinerary: B - breakfast, L - lunch & D - dinner
¶Transportation - All tours and transfers are in private modern, air-conditioned coaches, (except on day 2, where transfers are carried out by Quicksilver Connections own coaches and the group may travel with other passengers). The driver will act as the tour guide on all tours.
¶Sightseeing tours as specified in the above itinerary inclusive of entrance fees.
¶Local Guides - includes the services of a local English speaking guide for Meet & Greet on arrival in Cairns only.
¶Current 10% Goods and Services Tax (GST) - subject to change
¶Professional Singles Travel Tour Director from the USA to escort the trip
¶Transfers to and from the Airport for your international flights
Land Cost Excludes:-
¶All air tickets (USA / Cairns / Alice Springs / Ayers Rock/ Sydney / USA) and taxes. We can help you arrange these flights!
¶Visa fees.
¶Tips & Gratuities to local guides, drivers etc.,
¶Airport Porterage - luggage trolleys at all domestic terminals in Australia are not Free of Charge and may incur a charge of AUD 2 to 3 (Approximately US$ 1.75 to 2.65) per luggage trolley. Therefore we recommend that you keep change handy. Cairns Airport is the only Airport where luggage porterage service is available, and we have included group porterage for your arrival and departure flights in Cairns.
¶Extra visits and meals not indicated.
¶Optional sightseeing tours/activities (The optional tours are currently based on “Seat in Coach”, tour times are subject to change and cancellation fees will apply once confirmed)
¶Items of a personal nature such as telephone calls, laundry, beverages etc.
Personal medical and travel insurance.
Depart USA You will depart your home city two days before your arrival into Cairns because you will loose a day on the way there while crossing the International Date Line
Contact Us or call 312 925 0287 for more information
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