<?xml version="1.0" encoding="iso-8859-1"?>
<trip>
  <tripDescription>Nusa Tenggara, the islands west of Bali, are part of a relatively unexplored archipelago.  With fierce Komodo Dragons, stunning coral reefs, isolated beaches and volcanoes, this 10-day journey will give you an insight to Indonesia that few others have the opportunity to experience.  </tripDescription>
  <tripName>East Indies SeaTrek</tripName>
  <tripStyle>Original</tripStyle>
  <year>2008</year>
  <brochureSupplier>GPA</brochureSupplier>
  <groupSize>
    <minimum>6</minimum>
    <maximum>15</maximum>
    <note>Min 4, Max 15 
</note>
  </groupSize>
  <tripContinents>Asia</tripContinents>
  <tripCountries>Indonesia</tripCountries>
  <StartCountry>Indonesia</StartCountry>
  <FinishCountry>Indonesia</FinishCountry>
  <tripActivities>Culture/History, Wildlife/Nature, Yacht/Sailing based, Chill Out</tripActivities>
  <duration>10</duration>
  <physicalRating>3</physicalRating>
  <cultureShockRating>3</cultureShockRating>
  <map>http://www.gapadventures.com/images/dossier_maps/2008/AEST.jpg</map>
  <tourimage></tourimage>
  <itinerary dossierCode="AEST" name="AEST">
    <itinItem label="Day 1 Arrive Ubud">Arrive in Ubud at any time. </itinItem>
    <itinItem label="Day 2 Lombok/Boat">Depart Bali and head for the island of Lombok where we'll board our boat and set off on our voyage!</itinItem>
    <itinItem label="Days 3-9 Sailing (7B,7L,7D)">Our voyage of discovery follows the ancient trade routes between the paradise islands of the Archipelago. As we hop on and off our boat over seven days, we'll explore the wonders of this region from the active volcano of Sangean to the mysteriously coloured lakes of Mount Kelimutu. Hike through Dongoo villages on Bima Island, and go wild boar spotting on Riung. The small island of Komodo is the perfect location for a 'dragon hunt' to catch a glimpse of the famous three metre long lizards.</itinItem>
    <itinItem label="Day 10 Depart Denpasar">Disembark from our boat after sailing back to Lombok. A short ferry takes us back to Bali where you are free to depart anytime.</itinItem>
    <detailedItinItem label="Day 1 Arrive Ubud">Arrive in Ubud at any time.  Check with the reception staff for a message from your group leader announcing the evening meeting time. </detailedItinItem>
    <detailedItinItem label="Day 2 Senaru/Sailing">Today we embark on our schooner for our sea voyage through the beautiful and untouched isles of Eastern Indonesia. After meeting our crew and settling into our cabins we cruise to the Gili Isles off West Lombok. We stop at Gili Trawangan, the largest of the three tiny Muslim islets. With its white sandy beaches, beautiful coral reefs and abundance of iridescent tropical fish, this is a snorkellers paradise. We’ll spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach and snorkelling on the reef before setting sail later this evening to cruise overnight to Sumbawa Besar. <br/><br/>Our home for the next nine days is an elegant two-masted Pinisi schooner, of a type that has been used for centuries as cargo-carriers by the Bugis people of South Sulawesi. Adapted for more modern living, the boat nevertheless has the charm and grace of its more traditional forebears and Pinisi are still hand-built by native craftsmen from tropical hardwoods and fitted out with traditional riggings. <br/><br/>Facilities aboard comprise eight air-conditioned, en-suite cabins,a cozy dining/recreational area and large deck-space with comfortable deck-chairs. Games, body boards, deck-mattresses, hammocks and snorkelling equipment are provided to make life on board as pleasant as one can <br/>imagine. <br/><br/>7.5 nights aboard Schooner (Included meals: B, L, D). </detailedItinItem>
    <detailedItinItem label="Day 3 Sailing/ Sumbawa and Moyo">Arriving at Sumbawa this morning we disembark and explore the town of Sumbawa Besar, on the west side of the island. We will visit the Sultan’s Palace this morning, built in 1885 by Sultan Jalashuddin. Once the centre <br/>of the old sultanate capital, the palace is a raised wooden building, built on huge pillars on the site of three former palaces. We also aim to visit a traditional Sumbawanese village before lunch, after which we will sail to the southern tip of the island of Moyo to enjoy some swimming and snorkelling in the crystal waters of the Indian Ocean. This evening we will sail to Bima.</detailedItinItem>
    <detailedItinItem label="Day 4 Sailing/ Wawo Maria and Sangean Island">Today we will visit the traditional villages of Wawo Maria. Located on high land, the houses of this village ("lumbung") are the finest examples of traditional Bima architecture. From there, we may get a chance to watch the traditional dances performed by local people. Returning to the boat we set sail towards Sangean Island, an active volcano towering some 2000 metres above the tranquil waters below. Later this afternoon we stop to visit the small settlement on the island, before resuming our voyage to the Island of Rinca. <br/></detailedItinItem>
    <detailedItinItem label="Day 5 Sailing/ Rinca and Riung Archipelago">Rinca is a wild looking place. Barren rock towers above the ocean waters, its slopes covered with lontar palms and shrub. We will stop here this morning, in a beautiful bay where dolphins can often be seen playing in the wake of passing boats and sperm whales and dugongs are occasionally seen offshore. <br/>There is the opportunity to take a hike into the islands interior, in search of wild horses, buffalo, monkeys, boar and also the extraordinary megapode bird. There is even the prospect of a Komodo dragon or two! <br/>Around midday we will set sail again, towards the Sabalon reef, where we will stop for more snorkelling and a chance for some beach combing, before heading for the Riung archipelago, north of Flores.</detailedItinItem>
    <detailedItinItem label="Day 6 Sailing/ Riung and Ropa">Riung is a small archipelago of some 17 islets, known as Pulau Tujuhbelas, that lie just off the coast of Flores’s verdant shores. This morning we have the chance for some more optional activities around the area. You may of course just prefer to relax on deck and take in the beautiful idyllic setting, or perhaps swin and snorkel in the clear waters <br/><br/>This is some of the best snorkelling in Flores. For the more active amongst you though, a trek up to one of the nearby summits might be more to your liking, with some fabulous views of the surrounding islands. This afternoon we will continue sailing, to the small harbour of Ropa. <br/> </detailedItinItem>
    <detailedItinItem label="Day 7 Sailing/ Ropa and Labuhanbajo">Arriving in Ropa this morning we take a bus to Kelimutu Volcano (1620m), without doubt one of the highlights of any visit to Flores. This now extinct giant is a magnificent volcano with three craters, all containing lakes of differing colours, which seem to be continually changing over time. It is believed that the colour change is due to the dissolving of chemicals in the waters. The locals believe the lakes to be the final resting place of the souls of the dead – one for the young, one for the old and one for thieves and murderers. Returning to the schooner we set sail again, for Labuhanbajo, at the western edge of Flores. Flores is a <br/>breathtakingly beautiful island, with imposing mountains and lush, verdant slopes. The Portuguesue called it the Cape of Flowers and as we sail along its shores we can more than appreciate the majestic beauty of its setting. <br/></detailedItinItem>
    <detailedItinItem label="Day 8 Sailing/ Red Beach">Early this morning, if weather conditions permit, we hope to have a sailing demonstration aboard ship. The boat is equipped with engines to make our journey more practical and less dependant upon Mother Nature, but the vessels of old would have very much relied on the prevailing winds to take them through these waters, and we will hopefuly get some idea this morning as to what that entailed for the crew. Later this morning we arrive at Labuhanbajo and disembark in this small port and visit a nearby village, where we will attend the so-called caci (whip) dance. Midday will see us setting sail again, for a ‘red’ beach. Many of the beaches are red because of traces of red coral in the sand – we intend to have a barbecue lunch on one of these beaches and perhaps do some swimming or snorkelling around the coral this afternoon. </detailedItinItem>
    <detailedItinItem label="Day 9 Sailing/ Komodo Island">This morning we land on Komodo Island – one of the greatest wildlife regions of the world. Only 37km long by 21km wide, Komodo is a rather desolate place inhabited by a few fishermen and their outriggers. <br/>Walking through dry and dusty scrub we head to a point from which we may observe the awesome Komodo Dragons. The largest of the monitor lizards, they have been extinct elsewhere since the Jurassic Age and almost identical fossilised remains date from the age of dinosaurs. Up to three metres long and weighing up to 150 kilograms, their unique size and bulk results from the lack of any serious competing species or predator. Yet they can move swiftly to hunt and their powerful jaws and sharp claws can easily tear apart wild pig, goat or deer. <br/>This afternoon there is the option to climb to the summit of Lawa Darat, before we set sail again, heading west. <br/></detailedItinItem>
    <detailedItinItem label="Day 10 Depart Denpasar">Today we disembark from our boat after sailing back to Lombok. A short ferry takes us back to Bali where you are free to depart anytime.<br/><br/></detailedItinItem>
    <departInfo availability="0" startDate="2008-11-16" endDate="2008-11-25" cabinType="" roomingCode="" tripCode="GPAAEST081116-O1" guaranteedToDepart="1">
      <price>
        <AUD>2140</AUD>
        <CAD>1875</CAD>
        <EUR>1315</EUR>
        <GBP>940</GBP>
        <NZD>2590</NZD>
        <USD>1875</USD>
        <EUL>1490</EUL>
      </price>
      <localPayment>Local Payment 200 USD</localPayment>
    </departInfo>
  </itinerary>
  <metadata>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>Accommodation</metaName>
      <metaBody>Aboard our schooner with air-conditioned cabins (8 nts), hotel (1 nt).</metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>Brief Highlights</metaName>
      <metaBody>Ubud, 8 day sailing trip through the East Indies, Denpasar</metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>Departure</metaName>
      <metaBody>Departs selected Sundays</metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>DepEnd</metaName>
      <metaBody>Sun-Tues</metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>Group Leader</metaName>
      <metaBody>Group leader throughout.</metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>Group Size</metaName>
      <metaBody>Min 4, Max 15 <br/></metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>Included Highlights</metaName>
      <metaBody>Eight day full board sailing safari through the East Indies. </metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>Local Payment</metaName>
      <metaBody>USD200</metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>Max Pax</metaName>
      <metaBody>15</metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>Meal Budget</metaName>
      <metaBody>Allow USD50 for meals not included. For additional expenses, see trip details.</metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>Meals Included</metaName>
      <metaBody>Full board while sailing.</metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>Min Pax</metaName>
      <metaBody>6</metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>StartFinish</metaName>
      <metaBody>Ubud to Denpasar</metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>Transport</metaName>
      <metaBody>Mini-bus, plane, schooner, walking.</metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>A Couple of Rules</metaName>
      <metaBody>Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for G.A.P Adventures Adventure travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our group leader has the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or they use prostitutes.<br/></metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>About Accommodation</metaName>
      <metaBody>A NOTE REGARDING SMALL SPACES ON SAILBOATS: Please note that the rooming for these boats is done on a first-come, first-serve basis and no particular cabins nor berths<br/>can be guaranteed. Our skippers will pair up travel partners or if you are travelling single with someone of the same sex individuals. Please be aware that as this is a real sailboat and not a cruise vessel that the space on board is tight. You will be sharing a small room with one of your fellow passengers or travel partner and sharing all the facilities onboard. The sleeping quarters on sailboats are generally kept to a minimum size in order to maximize public space and performance. Some people are not comfortable with the type of close quarter arrangements typically found on sailboats, however if a real sailing experience on a real sailboat is what you are after, then this experience should more than make up for cramped quarters. Please note that the skipper will also be sharing the ship's quarters and amenities with you.</metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>Arrival Complications</metaName>
      <metaBody>We don't expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, as soon as possible please contact your starting point hotel, requesting that you speak to or leave a message for your trip leader (if you are not on a group tour please refer to the emergency contact details provided in this dossier). If you are unable to get in touch with your leader, please refer to our emergency contact details. If you have pre-booked an airport transfer and have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions. Please apply to your travel agent on your return for a refund of the transfer cost if this occurs.<br/></metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>Brochure Intro</metaName>
      <metaBody>Nusa Tenggara, the islands west of Bali, are part of a relatively unexplored archipelago.  With fierce Komodo Dragons, stunning coral reefs, isolated beaches and volcanoes, this 10-day journey will give you an insight to Indonesia that few others have the opportunity to experience.  </metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>Checklist</metaName>
      <metaBody>Travel documents: passport, visa, travel insurance, air tickets and vouchers<br/>Health requirements arranged<br/>Travellers cheques/cash/credit card<br/>Money pouch<br/>First aid kit including blister treatment <br/>Day pack (30-35 liters/8-9 gallons) for over night stays - waterproof rubber bags with a water-tight roll down neck (kayak/canoe bag style) work well in Borneo! (Good as a day bag and back pack liner)<br/>Alarm clock <br/>Torch/flashlight (a head-torch is the best to leave hands free) <br/>Spare globe and batteries <br/>Mosquito repellent <br/>Ear plugs<br/>Sun cream/hat<br/>Durable walking shoes/boots with ankle support and good grip - they will get wet!<br/>Small towel<br/>A warm hat and water proof gloves (the summit of Mt. Kinabalu is 4095 metres and at time reaches zero degrees) <br/>Thermal underwear/warm clothes all year round (thermal trousers and top are lightweight and warm) <br/>Windproof jacket/raincoat and windproof pants <br/>Sleeping sheet/inner sheet<br/>Heavy duty plastic bags for waterproofing gear and valuables - ziplock plastic food-bags work well in the rain-forest for cameras etc <br/></metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>Departure Tax</metaName>
      <metaBody>All departure taxes should be included in your international flight ticket. <br/><br/></metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>Dossier Disclaimer</metaName>
      <metaBody>The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and G.A.P Adventures. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary.  Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year.  Ultimately, our goal is  to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary. <br/><br/>VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.<br/></metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>Dossier Intro</metaName>
      <metaBody>Nusa Tenggara, the islands west of Bali, are part of a relatively unexplored archipelago.  With fierce Komodo Dragons, stunning coral reefs, isolated beaches and volcanoes, this 10-day journey will give you an insight to Indonesia that few others have the opportunity to experience.  </metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>Emergency Contact</metaName>
      <metaBody>Should you need to contact G.A.P Adventures during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call our local office. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible.<br/><br/>G.A.P Adventures Local Office – Bangkok, Thailand<br/>Bangkok Office Tel: +66-2-307-0211 or +66-2-661-4845<br/><br/>South East Asia Manager Emergency Mobile: +66-849 105 265 - Ailsa (Thailand)<br/><br/>Asia Operations Manager Mobile: +66-879 118 802 - Gabe (Thailand)<br/><br/>If you are unable for any reason to contact our local office, we have a toll-free line for North America, which will connect you directly with our Toronto office. In the event that you cannot get through, you can reach a member of our Operations department at the mobile number below.<br/><br/>Toll-free, North America only: 1 800 465 5600.<br/>Calls from the UK: 0870 999 0144.<br/>Outside North America and the UK: +1 416 260 0999.<br/>Mobile: + 1 647 504 6467 <br/><br/><br/></metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>Emergency Fund</metaName>
      <metaBody>Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (eg. a natural disaster) necessitate a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!<br/></metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>Feedback</metaName>
      <metaBody>After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us that you'll receive a special discount code for free online prints and we'll give you 5% off the price of your next G.A.P Adventures trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 30 days of finishing your trip. Please visit http://www.gapadventures.com/evaluations<br/></metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>FIT A Couple of Rules</metaName>
      <metaBody></metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>FIT Arrival Complications</metaName>
      <metaBody></metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>FIT Dossier Disclaimer</metaName>
      <metaBody>The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and G.A.P Adventures. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.<br/><br/>VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.</metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>FIT Insurance</metaName>
      <metaBody></metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>FIT Itinerary Disclaimer</metaName>
      <metaBody>While it is our intention to adhere to the route described, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit travel with G.A.P Adventures can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. </metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>FIT Safety and Security</metaName>
      <metaBody></metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>Free Online Trip Journals</metaName>
      <metaBody>An online Trip Journal is a great way to record stories and photos as you travel, not to mention sharing your experiences with friends. Encourage your family and friends to follow in your footsteps as you explore the world! With templates for over 300 G.A.P Adventures trips already online all you have to do to get started is log in, choose your trip and your departure date, it's quick and easy! Head to http://www.gapadventures.com/trip_journal.</metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>Group Leader Description</metaName>
      <metaBody>All G.A.P Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our group leaders. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds.</metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>Health</metaName>
      <metaBody>You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements. Please be aware that sometimes we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities, and for legal reasons our leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc. In Asia pharmacies tend to stock the same western drugs as you get at home but they are usually produced locally so please bring the full drug name with you when trying to purchase a prescription drug. When selecting your trip please carefully read the brochure and itinerary and assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. Please refer to the Physical and Culture Shock ratings for trip specific information. For travellers over 70 years a completed Medical Form is required. G.A.P Adventures reserves the right to exclude any traveller from all or part of a trip without refund if in the reasonable opinion of our group leader they are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group. </metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>Itinerary Disclaimer</metaName>
      <metaBody>While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit travel with G.A.P Adventures can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission. <br/><br/>Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.</metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>Joining Hotel</metaName>
      <metaBody> <br/></metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>Keeping in Touch</metaName>
      <metaBody>If you need to be contacted while travelling we recommend that you set up an email address that can be accessed on the road, rather than relying on postal mail. Email cafes are becoming increasingly commonplace and cheap throughout the regions we visit, and have quickly become the preferred way for our leaders and travellers to stay in touch. If someone wishes to contact you in an emergency while you are on one of our trips we recommend that they contact your local booking agent, or refer to our Emergency Contact. We recommend that family and friends don't try to contact you through phoning hotels en route, as our hotels are subject to change, and our hotel receptions often don't have English speaking staff.<br/></metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>Laundry</metaName>
      <metaBody>Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap. <br/></metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>Local Dress</metaName>
      <metaBody>When packing be aware that dress standards are conservative throughout Asia. Malaysia is a predominantly Muslim country. To respect this and for your own comfort, we strongly recommend modest clothing. This means covering shoulders and no short shorts. Loose, lightweight, long clothing is both respectful and cool in the predominantly hot Asian climate. Shorts should be knee-length. Singlets and tank tops are not acceptable. One piece bathing suits are recommended and topless sun bathing is unacceptable. </metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>Local Flights</metaName>
      <metaBody>All local flights are included in the cost of your tour unless otherwise noted. It is important that we have your passport information at the time of booking in order to process these tickets. Internal flight tickets are issued locally and will be given to you prior to the flight departure. <br/><br/></metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>Local payment description</metaName>
      <metaBody>Most of our adventure tours involve a Local Payment that is paid to the Leader/Representative in cash on day 1 of your tour. This Local Payment is put towards local expenses, such as arranging internal flights as well as entrance and guide fees.  Local Payments also reduce the need to wire or transfer funds which can become very expensive. This lowers our operational costs so we can pass the savings on to you. The local payment is in addition to, and is not included in, the base tour price. <br/></metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>Meals</metaName>
      <metaBody>Eating is a big part of traveling. Travelling with G.A.P Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your group leader will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. Included breakfasts will usually be asian style consisting of noodles or congee (rice porridge) or bread and eggs. Vegetarians will be able to find a range of different foods, although in some areas the choice maybe limited. While trekking in remote regions food is included, plentiful and made of fresh local ingredients. For all trips please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets. <br/><br/></metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>Medical Form</metaName>
      <metaBody>Our small group adventures bring together people of all ages. It is very important you are aware that, as a minimum, an 'average level of fitness and mobility' is required to undertake our easiest programs. Travellers must be able to walk without the aid of another person, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own luggage at a minimum. Travellers over the age of 70, or travellers with a pre-existing medical condition, are required to complete a short medical questionnaire, which must be signed by their physician.  This is to ensure that senior travellers have the necessary fitness and mobility to comfortably complete their chosen trip. While our leaders work hard to ensure that all our travellers are catered for equally, it is not their responsibility to help individuals who cannot complete the day's activities unaided.  Please refer to the physical and culture shock ratings in this Trip Details document for more information.<br/><br/>Please note that all passengers, regardless of age traveling to Antarctica are required to fill out this questionnaire.<br/><br/>The medical questionnaire can be found online at:<br/><br/>www.gapadventures.com/online_medical_form.<br/></metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>Newsletter</metaName>
      <metaBody>Our adventure travel e-newsletter is full of travel news, trip information, interesting stories and contests. To avoid missing out on special offers and updates from G.A.P Adventures, subscribe at www.gapadventures.com/newsletter_signup<br/></metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>Our Commitment to Responsible Travel in Antarctica</metaName>
      <metaBody></metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>Planeterra-The G.A.P Adventures Foundation</metaName>
      <metaBody>Through G.A.P Adventures’ commitment to responsible tourism we have developed Planeterra – the G.A.P Adventures Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of people and communities around the world through support of international charities, local organizations and community projects in the places that we visit on our tours. G.A.P Adventures matches all individual donations and pays all administration fees, which means that 100% of each donation is doubled and goes directly to support our projects. For more information about Planeterra and the projects we support, or to make a donation, please visit www.planeterra.org<br/><br/>Planeterra Dollar-A-Day Program<br/>Our Dollar-A-Day Program provides travellers with the opportunity to help us give back to the people and places visited on our tours by donating one dollar per day for the duration of their tour. 100% of these proceeds will go directly to support our Planeterra projects.<br/><br/>To participate in this program please indicate at the time of booking that you would like to participate in G.A.P Adventures’ Dollar-A-Day program, either by clicking the check box online, or by advising your GA.P Adventures specialist or travel agent.  (Note: Donation will be charged in the currency of your booking)</metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>Responsible Travel</metaName>
      <metaBody>Being a responsible tour operator is at the heart of what G.A.P Adventures is all about. From the start, G.A.P Adventures has been committed to offering low-impact tours that benefit traveller and host alike. While our sustainable tourism policies are constantly evolving, our commitment to socially conscious, grassroots style travel has never changed. We work with local communities, businesses and individuals to develop sustainable tourism opportunities that help local economies while minimizing negative environmental and cultural impacts.<br/><br/>For more information about our commitment to responsible travel, please visit the Sustainable Tourism section of the G.A.P Adventures website: www.gapadventures.com<br/></metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>Safety and Security</metaName>
      <metaBody>Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure. We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travellers' cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. When travelling on a group trip, please note that your group leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Your leader will accompany you on all included activities. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure. While your group leader will assist you with options available in a given location please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgement when selecting an activity in your free time.  Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night.  It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions.<br/><br/></metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>Single Travellers</metaName>
      <metaBody>We believe single travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and single travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.<br/></metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>Spending Money</metaName>
      <metaBody>Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.<br/></metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>Tipping</metaName>
      <metaBody>It is customary in Asia to tip service providers such as waiters, at approximately 10%, depending on the service. Tipping is expected - though not compulsory - and shows an expression of satisfaction with the people who have assisted you on your tour. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There are several times during the trip where there is opportunity to tip the local guides or drivers we use. You may do this individually, or your Tour Leader will offer to collect the money and tip as a group. Recommendations for tipping drivers and local guides would range from $1-$2 USD per person per day depending on the quality and length of the service; ask your tour leader for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and culture. Also at the end of each trip if you felt your G.A.P Adventures Tour Leader did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline $20-25 USD per person, per week can be used. </metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>Travel Forum - The Watering Hole</metaName>
      <metaBody>Be sure to stop by The Watering Hole, our adventure travel forum. If you're interested in meeting others booked on your upcoming trip, check out the Departure Lounge section of our forum and introduce yourself. Otherwise, just drop in at anytime to share some travel tips, ask questions, meet other travellers and quench your thirst for travel. Our forum is located at wateringhole.gapadventures.com.</metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>Travel Insurance</metaName>
      <metaBody>Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.<br/></metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>Validity</metaName>
      <metaBody>Valid for all trips departing January 1, 2008 - December 31st 2008.</metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>Visas</metaName>
      <metaBody>It is your responsibility to arrange visas before you travel. Your travel agent can assist. Below are the visa requirements for Malaysia at the time of printing:Malaysia: A visa is not required for the following nationalities: Australian, British, Irish, New Zealand, Canadian, American, Belgian, Swedish, Swiss, German, Danish and Dutch. Refer to your travel agent for other nationalities. <br/><br/></metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>We Want Your Photos</metaName>
      <metaBody>Want to see your photos and/or stories in print or on the web? Then enter our "Great G.A.P Adventures Photo Story Contest". Simply go online to www.gapadventures.com/contests/photo-story-contest to upload your photo stories! There are travel and camera prizes worth more than $5000 available to be won! If you prefer to submit slide film or photos instead of digital entries online, just make sure they are clearly marked with your name and contact details on each and the place where it was taken. Unfortunately, we are unable to return any entries. Send mailed entries to "Photo Editor" at our head office.<br/></metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>What to Take</metaName>
      <metaBody>There is limited space on the yachts. We recommend the use of a duffel bag or backpack. A good size daypack is also essential. PLEASE NOTE: No hard suitcases are permitted.</metaBody>
    </metaItem>
    <metaItem>
      <metaName>Your Fellow Travellers</metaName>
      <metaBody>As you travel on a group trip you will be exposed to all the pleasures and maybe some of the frustrations of travelling in a group. Your fellow travellers will probably come from all corners of the world and are likely to be of a variety of ages too. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group - patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone's travel experience. Remember too that you have responsibilities to the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, ensure that you don't keep the rest of the group waiting. We have found time and time again that the very best trips we operate are those where the dynamics within the group work well - this takes just a little effort on your part.<br/></metaBody>
    </metaItem>
  </metadata>
</trip>
