WHY GOWAY’S BRAND NEW 2012-13 DOWNUNDER IS TOPS

Goway’s 2012/13 DOWNUNDER catalogue is the most comprehensive and most widely distributed Australia, New Zealand and South Pacific Islands brochure in the USA and Canada. IT IS HOT OFF THE PRESS – order your new copy today.

By numbers, the 2012/13 edition, just released, features:

  • 132 pages
  • Over 450 travel ideas
  • 9 South Pacific countries and all states of Australia
  • 458 inspiring images
  • 30 Classic Independent itineraries including 4 family-friendly and 4 ultimate travel ideas
  • 36 scheduled locally escorted motorcoach and 4WD tours
  • 109 maps
  • 28 boutique cruises
  • 4 unique trains
  • 31 self-drive itineraries
  • 63 “Go as you please” vehicle, hotel, motel, B&B, train and bus passes
  • 37 fun and active adventure ideas
  • 7 long-stay ideas for snowbirds
  • 85 special savings and value added products.
  • 3 Holidays of a Lifetime

The majority of our staff have visited our destinations, lived in our destinations or originally come from our destinations. We have intensive on going education programs to ensure that they know our destinations inside out so that they may create your unique personalized vacation.

Order Your Brochure Here!

TANZANIA: See the Migration in ‘Out of Africa’ Style

The Wildebeest Migration was declared the 7th new Wonder of the Natural World in June 2006 and it is well justified. This annual mass movement of over a million wildebeest has to be one of the most awe inspiring sights on earth. It is very possible that these animals have been making this astonishing trek for millions of years and if that is so then man must have been marveling over this for millennia.

Singita Grumeti Reserves offers an unparalleled eco-safari teeming with magnificent wildlife encounters on the western corridor of the Serengeti. This vast private concession comprises an exclusive trio of luxury lodges positioned ideally on the epic migratory route traversed annually by more than a million wildebeest. If it is solitude you seek then Singita Grumeti Reserves is the place to be!

Each of Singita’s three Grumeti Reserve locations commands a view of the renowned migratory route, and the predators that lie in wait… So whilst June and July is the optimum time to see the migration here, the area is home to large herds of game that provide world-class photo opportunities all year round.  The wildebeest leave behind immaculately trimmed grasses in their wake attracting huge volumes of plains game making September through November a great time too.  Each of the lodges offer a unique experience: Singita Sasakwa Lodge positioned on Sasakwa Hill, presents dramatic, elevated views across the endless plains, Sabora Tented Camp celebrates flat open space as far as the eye can see and Faru Faru Lodge is tucked away in a diverse habitat.

Moira Smith, General Manager for Goway AFRICAExperts has just returned from an intensive trip to East Africa.  Her favourite lodge – Singita Sabora.  She is in good company as Singita Grumeti Reserves was ranked No.1 on the Travel + Leisure World’s best awards 2011 list of top 100 hotels overall. ‘Singita Sabora offers the quintessential authentic ‘Out of Africa’ experience.  Nothing is overlooked when it comes to the guests comfort. And the game viewing is superb,” commented Moira.

Reminiscent of a bygone era, Sabora Tented Camp dishes up lavish doses of romance, exploration and intrigue.  Creating the feel of a lavish tent, each canvas cocoon offers opulent luxury complete with antique mahogany travel chests, Persian rugs and silk curtains.   Game moves freely through the camp and during the migration, it feels as if you’re on an island in a sea of game.  The cuisine is world class and is coupled with vintage wines in surprise settings such as dining beneath a lamp-lit acacia next to a roaring bonfire underneath the incredible starlit African skies.

Singita, meaning place of miracles, is world renowned for providing outstanding safari experiences.  Singita Sabora lives up to the name and provides a life-changing experience.

USEFUL LINKS

Tanzania home page

Africa home page

Singita Sambora

Swim with the Whale Sharks

The mighty whale shark is the largest fish in the world, growing to about 18 metres and weighing up to 40,000 kilograms. Every March they come to Ningaloo Reef off the northwest coast of Australia and usually stay until June feeding on coral spawn.

It is safe to swim with them because whale sharks are filter feed­ers. Whale sharks swim very close to the surface and snorkellers can easily keep up with the slow feeding animals.

Very few travellers have ever enjoyed this unusual experience mainly because of the remoteness of Ningaloo Reef. Goway has a program where you would fly into Learmouth and transfer to beauti­ful Coral Bay. We then arrange for you to join a special cruise to the reef. Other magnificent marine ani­mals you can swim or dive with are manta rays, potato code, dolphins and turtles. Dugongs and migratory humpback whales can also be seen.

Goway’s Ningaloo Reef Package includes return flights from Perth to Learmonth, return transfers to Coral Bay, 2 nights accommodation, full day reef cruise including lunch. The cost is $1209. Depending on your transport arrangements we can separately arrange for the Coral Bay visit. We recommend you stay lon­ger than 2 nights.

USEFUL LINKS

Ningaloo Reef – Swim With Sharks

Western Australia

Australia Home

PERU – Inti Raymi, Largest And Most Sacred Of All Incan Ceremonies

Before the colonial Spaniards banned the ceremonial events occurring each Winter Solstice in Cusco, the native residents – more commonly referred to as Incas – gathered to honour the Sun God, sacrifice an animal to ensure good crops and to pay homage to the Inca, as the first born Son of the Sun.
The Inti Raymi festival as the largest and most sacred of all Incan ceremonies.

The ceremonies took place at the winter solstice, when the sun is farthest from the earth. Fearing the lack of sun and ensuing famine, the ancient Incas gathered in Cusco to honour the Sun God and plead for his return.

Today the ritual is re crated annually in Cusco at the archaeological complex of Sacsayhuaman, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors from all over the world.

It’s the second biggest celebration in South America after Rio’s Carnaval.

Inti Raymi comes from Quechua language, which means “resurrection of the sun”. The Inca emperor – Sapa Inca – was worshiped as a god who was descendant from the Sun god – Apu Inti. The King was the living representative of Inti on Earth.

The festival which falls on June 24 of each year sees Cusco bulge and come close to bursting at the seams but Goway has secured hotel space as well as prime seating to ensure our HOLIDAYS OF A LIFETIME guests the best viewing and experiences of what is an ancient, scared and truly amazing spectacle.   This years’ departure leaves North America June 12.  Check out our Magical Ecuador & Peru Itinerary

Any time in the summer is a great time to visit Peru, we have some great options including our Classic Comfort Peru where you can save $500 pp on set departures dates of 15 May, 19 Jun, 14 Aug and 18 Sep.

Journey by Train Across 1/3 of the World and save $300!

This epic trip of a lifetime along the Trans-Siberian Railway will cross one third of the world starting from the imperial Beijing traversing into Russia’s capital, Moscow. For a limited time only, Globetrotters who book the Tsar’s Gold by 31 March 2012 will save $300 off per couple! This exclusive offer is based on two people travelling together (single travellers save $150) and is valid for any departures in 2012/13. Promo Code: Tsars Gold 300

Enjoy the comforts of travelling in the Tsar’s Gold private train, and journey through the wild Mongolian Gobi desert to Lake Baikal’s remote shores and deep into Russia. Various highlights include the marvelous architecture, Mongolian horse show, boat ride on Lake Baikal, Siberian villages, Ulaan Bator, Irkutsk, Novosibirsk, Ekaterinburg and Kazan, Glorious Cathedrals, informative daily and vodka and caviar tasting, among much more!

With limited departures between May and October, the time to book is now as cabins fill up fast. Visit our Trans-Siberian Rail Tour pages for more information or call to request availability.

Likuliku Named Top 20 The World’s Greatest Escapes

Goway is proud to announce that Likuliku Lagoon in Fiji has made the front cover of “Islands” magazine and has been ranked one of the top 20 World’s Greatest Escapes. The resort is Fiji’s most unique luxury escape for couples. Couples can stay in Fiji’s only overwater bures (bungalows) and indulge in exquisite flavors of the Pacific Rim created by their new Executive Chef Ihaka Peri. Soothe your soul at the Tatadra spa situated against the tranquil green slopes of the island. Go on a bush walk adventure or experience the true depths of beauty on a diving escapade.  Likuliku Lagoon has also been voted “Best Overseas Resort” in Australia’s Luxury Travel Magazine annual 2011 Gold List and was named in the Top 10 Best Luxury Hotels in the South Pacific in Trip Advisor’s annual Travellers’ Choice Awards 2011.

In the Malolo dialect Likuliku literally means “Calm Lagoons or Waters”.  Which is exactly what you will find when you are there.

The island was considered an ancient safe harbour for the war canoes during times of tribal warfare.  It is an important landmark and features prominently in ancient Fijian Mythology and History.   There are four significant Sacred Sites on the island that are a must for visitors.  The Yadra Cave, Ki Ni Wai, Vatu Tagi and Moka can all be accessed by foot from the resort..

Goway has an amazing special to Fiji’s only Overwater Bungalow for ten days from $6849 and includes round trip airfare with Air Pacific from Los Angeles, free helicopter transfers, accommodations for seven nights at Likuliku Lagoon Resort in an overwater bure, all meals, amenities, non-motorized water sports and weekly invitation to the Management cocktail party.

USEFUL LINKS:

Likuliku information

Islands home page

Fiji home page

Dream Honeymoon in Thailand


Planning a dream honeymoon or destination wedding is often seen as a stressful and expensive affair. But couples can relax; we will make our Globetrotter’s dream come true with the perfect honeymoon in Thailand.

Thailand is affordable, incredibly beautiful and the perfect place to relax and spend time with a loved one. Thais are renowned for their friendly hospitality and world-class service. The range of activities, whether it’s riding an elephant through the forest in Chiang Mai, exploring the many temples and shops in dynamic Bangkok or simply sipping a Mai Thai on a pristine island and taking complete advantage of this exotic destination, Thailand is perfect for any couple. In addition, the plethora of accommodation options, from unique eco-lodges to 5-star distinguished resorts, will suit all budgets.

Thailand is a place that gives special attention to new couples. Many resorts have added bonuses exclusive to honeymooners, such as free massages or spa treatments, special private dinners for two and flower bouquets.

We have many stay/pay specials for Globetrotters benefit from. Goway’s 7-12 days Thai beach escapes in Samui or Phuket, which include accommodation, breakfast daily and transfers take advantage of these great deals.  We can help arrange beach weddings and special ceremonies and we also offer an online honeymoon registry.

USEFUL LINKS

Thailand Homepage

Beach Escapes Phuket

Beach Escapes Samui

Classic Thailand

Honeymoon Registry

Motorcoach Touring Downunder: Goway Releases EARLY BOOKING Savings!

Goway has released their extensive 2012/13 brochure which contains motorcoach touring options in Australia and New Zealand. Offering three levels of experiences, from Premier Plus, Premier and Value Plus vacations, the brochure is a complete guide to exploring the South Pacific with a group.

We have 3 options to save you considerable travel dollars!

  1. Early Bird Savings, representing a discount of up to $990 per couple for bookings (with a deposit) made by 30 April 2012.
  2. Early Payment offer, offering a saving of up to $1,980 per couple for bookings that are paid in full 12 months before the tour date.
  3. Extra tour discount of $100 per couple. This discount is applied to a second or subsequent tour booked at the same time.

If you would like to receive a copy of the brochure please send a quick email to info@goway.com with your full name and postal address requesting Goway’s Australia & New Zealand Motorcoach Touring brochure.

COSTA RICA: Do it Differently with Goway

Costa Rica is without doubt one of the most popular, easy to get to, easy to get around destinations within Central America. A short flight from the gateways of Miami or Houston, the compact country offers soft adventure, pristine wildlife, abundant rainforest, virgin beaches, and a night life as “rambunctious” or as sedate as one wants.

Costa Rica offers boutique and eco-based experiences, and Goway Travel has perfected a range of unique and exclusive product to help you experience Costa Rica differently from the typical vacation package.  Forget about your normal all inclusive vacation where you don’t leave the resort and truly explore the nature beauty of both the country and her people.  Being a relatively small country, it’s easy to get around the main highlights (Arenal volcano, Manuel Antonio National Park, Tortuguero, Monteverde Cloud Forest).   We offer Globetrotters in-house experts with the experience to create a custom experience that is tailored specifically to you.  Our Latin America experts (they only sell Latin America, so you’re guaranteed to have the best knowledge!) will recommend accommodation based on budget and travel style, combined with transfer and touring options.

Goway’s exclusive Flexi Touring system includes the best and most popular day excursions in Costa Rica.  The Flexi Touring program offers wide choice and most importantly significant discounts compared to buying tours separately. For more information, see our Flexi Touring Costa Rica page.

USEFUL LINKS

Latin America Homepage

Costa Rica Home Page

25% off Antarctica – Celebrate the launch of the vessel – Ocean Diamond

In celebration of the launch of the vessel – Ocean Diamond – Goway is offering 25% off the cruise price for any departure if booked by April 30th 2012.*  Plus extra value for Globetrotters – see the EGO section.

Ocean Diamond is fast and fuel-efficient. This allows extraordinary value at all price levels. Prices range from a very accessible $3,995 per person for a triple berths, to $29,995 per person for a balcony suite. There are also twenty-four dedicated single cabins starting at $7,995 per person, offering exceptional value to single travelers. Ocean Diamond features more onboard amenities than any other ship in Antarctica and has an extensive list of adventure options and special inclusions.

The ship offers two itineraries for the 2012-13 season.  The first visiting the Falklands, South Georgia and Antarctica.   The Falkland archipelago contains two main islands – East and West, which you will explore by Zodiac excursions and daily landings.  One landing that will surely stick out in your memory is at Port Stanley. This unique British outpost has a ramshackle charm to it. The largest settlement in the Falklands, you’ll spend your day here visiting churches, museums, wandering around town and perhaps mingling with locals at a typical British pub.  In terms of wildlife, the archipelago is home to a variety of penguin species, including Magellanic, Gentoo and Rockhopper. If lucky, you may spot King Penguins here as well! We can also expect to see Black-browed Albatross and many other bird species around the islands, including an opportunity to see the two endemic species; Cobb’s Wren and the Falklands flightless steamer duck.   The Falklands offers unique wildlife that is diverse as that in the Galapagos but with far fewer visitors.

The second itinerary offered visits the magnificent South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula.   You will be able to visit penguin rookeries, scout for Humpback and Minke Whales and search for a number of the southern seal species, including the cunning Leopard Seal.   The majesty of the Peninsula’s mountains will enchant you as you scramble up snowy pathways to vantage points offering you 360° views of your surroundings. One of these in particular, in Orne Harbor, gives the opportunity to visit a Chinstrap Penguin colony high up on a ridge. Here you’ll have the choice between going for a mountain hike or depending on the time of year spend time sitting quietly on a pebbled beach to enjoy the antics of curious penguin chicks. While cruising along the Antarctic Peninsula you will also have the opportunity to take the ultimate Polar Plunge! Cheer on other travelers or strap on a harness yourself to take a dip and swim in the frigid waters of an icy Antarctic bay.

For more detailed descriptions please visit the links provided below.

Please enquire about our great city stopovers in Santiago and Buenos Aires as well as excellent extension ideas such as Iguassu Falls, Patagonia, Falkland Islands and Easter Island.

OCEAN DIAMOND DATES

November 4, 2012 – 18 nights Falklands, South Georgia and Antarctica: Explorers and Kings
November 30, 2012 – 9 nights Antarctic Explorer: The Classic Adventure
December 9, 2012 – 9 nights Antarctic Explorer: The Classic Adventure
December 18, 2012 – 9 nights Antarctic Explorer: The Classic Adventure
December 27, 2012 – 18 nights Falklands, South Georgia and Antarctica: Explorers and Kings
January 14, 2013 – 9 nights Antarctic Explorer: The Classic Adventure
January 23, 2013 – 9 nights Antarctic Explorer: The Classic Adventure
February 1, 2013 – 9 nights Antarctic Explorer: The Classic Adventure
February 10, 2013 – 9 nights Antarctic Explorer: The Classic Adventure