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The
Connections Adventures Tours (Australia)
Extended
Tours
Selection
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Beach
and Bush 19 Days
Sydney
to Alice Springs or
Alice Springs or Ayers Rock Airport to Sydney
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Northern
Territory: Better known as the “NT”, this is Australia’s
most barren and least populated area, with 1% of the nation’s
population spread over 20% of the nation’s total landmass
– phew! But don’t let this remoteness fool you – there is
still a huge amount to do. The NT is split into two main
areas- the ‘Top End’, which is tropical in nature and includes
Kakadu, Katherine and Litchfield National Parks and the
‘Red Centre’, best known for being home to the ‘Rock’ (Uluru)
and Olgas (Kata Tjuta) PLUS Queensland: This is Australia’s
holiday state. Home to 3.5 million lucky locals, it encompasses
stunning coastline, untouched national parks and tropical
rainforest. The path up the Coast, starting at Surfers Paradise,
then onto Airlie Beach and Cairns was created for people
that want to combine partying with exploring, especially
on (or under) the crystal blue waters of the Pacific Ocean
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Tour
Prices:
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| 1st
April 2006 - 30th September 2006 |
JQL19
- Ex Sydney |
JQL19R-
Ex Alice Springs |
| 1st
December 2005 - 31st December 2005 |
AUD
$2290.00 |
AUD
$2210.00 |
| 1st
January 2006 - 31st March 2006 |
AUD
$2240.00 |
AUD
$2160.00 |
| 1st
April 2006 - 31st September 2006 |
AUD
$2375.00 |
AUD
$2295.00 |
| Triple
Supplement |
AUD
$149.00 |
AUD
$149.00 |
| Couple
Supplement |
AUD
$530.00 |
AUD
$530.00 |
| Single
Supplement |
AUD
$1656.00 |
AUD
$1656.00 |
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All
prices are in Australian Dollars
SPECIAL-
Conditions apply: BOOK
this tour thru this site and receive a 5% discount
of the recommended price.
Optional 17 day from Bryon Bay available. Please email
us for a quote. This would start on Day 3 of the 19
day tour.
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| Tour
Depart Dates: |
| 2005
–Dec 10, 17, 19*, 26* |
2006
–Jan 7, 14, 16*, 23* |
| 2006
–Feb 4, 11, 13*, 20* |
2006
–Mar 4, 11, 13*, 20* |
| 2006
–Apr 1, 8, 10*, 17*, 29 |
2006
–May 6, 8*, 15*, 27 |
| 2006
–Jun 3, 5*, 12*, 24 |
2006
–Jul 1, 3*, 10*, 22, 29, 31* |
| 2006
–Aug 7*, 19, 26, 28* |
2006
–Sep 4*, 16, 23, 25*Oct 2* |
| 2006
–Oct 2* |
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| *Departure
dates marked with an asterisk operate in reverse. |
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| Tour
Departs: |
JQL19
– Normal Itinerary
7am: Wake Up!, 509 Pitt Street, Sydney
7.15am: Travelodge Sydney,27-33 Wentworth Avenue, Sydney |
Tour
Departs:
– Reverse Itinerary |
JQN19R
– Reverse Itinerary
7.30am: Heavitree Gap Outback Lodge, Palm Circuit, Alice Springs
2pm: Information Desk, Ayers Rock
Airport, Ayers Rock |
| Tour
Finishes: |
JQN19
– Normal Itinerary
5pm: Heavitree Gap Outback Lodge, Palm Circuit, Alice Springs
|
Tour
Finishes:
–
Reverse Itinerary |
JQN19R
– Reverse Itinerary
7pm: Travelodge Sydney,27-33 Wentworth Avenue, Sydney
7.15pm: Wake Up!,509 Pitt Street, Sydney |
| Vehicles
+ People: |
We
use vehicles that can accommodate from 18 to 34 passengers
depending on the location and terrain. This means you will
not get lost in the crowd but there will be enough people
to provide variety and depth to your personal experience whilst
on tour. Our passengers |
| What
to Bring: |
Suggestions:
hat & sunscreen, walking boots, swimming gear and toiletries
and sunscreen
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| What's
Included: |
*2 nights in vibrant Byron Bay
*Explore Springbrook National Park and “Natural Arch”
*Sightseeing on the Gold Coast
*Entrance fee to Forest Glen Wildlife Park
*Return ferry crossings to Fraser Island
*Visit “Central Station” and Lake Birrabeen in a 4 wheel drive
vehicle on Fraser Island
*A night at the Capricorn Caves Environmental Park
*Sightseeing in Brisbane
*Return ferry crossing to Long Island
*3 nights on Long Island in the Whitsunday Passage at Club
Crocodile Resort
*Sightseeing in Cairns
*Sightseeing in Alice Springs
*Entrance fees to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park
*Explore Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park (Ayers Rock and the
Olgas)
*Explore Kings Canyon
*Visit the Royal Flying Doctor Base
*Hike Standley Chasm
*Visit Simpson’s Gap
*All meals as follows: 18 Breakfasts, 8 Lunches, 13 Dinners
*Meal Symbols : B Breakfast - L Lunch - D Dinner |
| What's
Not Included: |
What’s
Not Included in Our Prices: Personally incurred expenses such
as alcoholic drinks, souvenirs, telephone, email, laundry
charges, optional excursions etc. Meals or accommodation whilst
travelling to or from your homeport to connect with your holiday.
Any travel cost incurred of whatever nature to or from your
homeport. Any charges levied by island resorts for use of
their facilities. All Options ie: rides, cruises or flights
etc are not included unless stated. |
| Places
of Interest: |
Byron
Bay, Cairns, Gold Coast, Fraser Island , Brisbane , Whitsunday
Passage at Club Crocodile Resort, Uluru-Kata Tjuta National
Park (Ayers Rock and the Olgas), Kings Canyon, Alice Springs
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| Tour
Code: |
CA/JQL19
or CA/JQL19R (Reverse Option) |
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Itinerary:
Beach and Bush 19 Days
Sydney to Alice Springs or Alice Springs to Sydney
Itineraries may vary due to seasonal weather conditions. |
DAY
1: SYDNEY TO BYRON BAY
We cross Sydney’s magnificent Harbour Bridge and begin our
trek northwards. Travel through the townships of Kempsey,
Port Macquarie and Grafton on our way to Byron Bay, Australia’s
most easterly point. We will stop en route for a roadside
dinner. (L) Overnight: Lodge |
DAY
2: BYRON BAY
The perfect place to relax, Byron Bay is renowned for its
great surf beaches and counter culture. We can take a scenic
walk to the lighthouse, try a surfing lesson, go diving or
even kayaking. Or just enjoy the worldwide cuisine from over
a hundred different cafes and restaurants. The galleries and
craft shops are also sure to be of interest. (B, D) Overnight:
Lodge |
DAY
3: BYRON BAY TO GOLD COAST
Time to cross the state border and enter Queensland via the
Numinbah Valley, home of the “Natural Arch” – a spectacular
waterfall that plummets through a stone archway into a rock
pool below – then to the Gold Coast, Australia’s holiday playground.
The restaurants here are great, as we’ll find out tonight.
(B, L) Overnight: Resort |
DAY
4: GOLD COAST
A free day to choose your own activity. Stroll along the
esplanade, hire a jet ski or maybe take in a theme park. The
surfing is great too! Tonight we’ll sample the nightlife.
(B, D) Overnight: Resort |
DAY
5: GOLD COAST TO FRASER ISLAND
A short drive to Queensland’s capital, Brisbane. Time here
to explore the inner city complex followed by a visit to the
Forest Glen Wildlife Park. On to Hervey Bay where we board
our ferry to Fraser Island, followed by a 4 wheel drive excursion
across the island to our surfside accommodation. En route
we will check out the magnificent rainforests at “Central
Station”. (B, D) Overnight: Hotel |
DAY
6: FRASER ISLAND
The world’s largest sand island awaits and the best way to
see this magnificent national park is on an optional 4 wheel
drive tour. Drive along unspoilt beaches, swim in pristine
inland freshwater lakes and walk amongst sub-tropical rainforest.
World Heritage listed Fraser Island is stunning. (B, L, D)
Overnight: Hotel |
DAY
7: FRASER ISLAND TO CAPRICORN CAVES
Returning to the mainland via our 4 wheel drive vehicle we
will visit beautiful Lake Birrabeen. Then it’s on to Rockhampton
(Rocky), situated on the Tropic of Capricorn and known as
the “Beef Capital of Oz”. Then to the geologically unique
Capricorn limestone caves which we can access for an optional
candlelit exploration. Wildlife abounds including kangaroos,
echidnas, possums and of course the insectivorous bats. (B,
D) Overnight: Lodge |
DAY
8: CAPRICORN CAVES TO THE WHITSUNDAYS
This morning we drive to Mackay commercial centre of Queensland’s
huge sugar industry, then to Airlie Beach – gateway to the
Whitsunday Passage. We board our ferry at Shute Harbour for
our short cruise to Long Island, one of the many beautiful
islands that make up this very special waterway. (B, D) Overnight:
Resort |
DAY
9 & DAY 10: THE WHITSUNDAYS
Two days to relax on Long Island and enjoy the facilities
of the Club Crocodile Resort. Experience one of the great
bushwalks, try some of the many aquatic activities including
jet skiing, perhaps a game of beach volleyball or just relax
and enjoy a cocktail by the pool. (Bx2, Dx1) Overnight: Resort
|
DAY
11: THE WHITSUNDAYS TO CAIRNS
Returning to the mainland we continue on to Townsville, North
Queensland’s largest city and headquarters for the Great Barrier
Reef Marine Park Authority. Time for a quick stroll along
the Strand and take in the sights of Cleveland Bay and across
to Magnetic Island. This evening we’ll arrive in Cairns in
time for a visit to the night markets. (B, D) Overnight: Resort |
DAY
12 & Day 13: CAIRNS and GREAT BARRIER REEF OPTION
Let yourself go on a huge range of optional activities available
in Cairns. For the adventurous, white water rafting on the
Tully River is a must. Or perhaps a day trip to the World
Heritage listed Daintree Region. For those that want to experience
an unforgettable trip to the Great Barrier Reef, you will
have a full day to embark on an optional adventure aboard
a magnificent cruising yacht with Passions of Paradise. (Bx2,
Dx1) Overnight: Resort |
DAY
14: CAIRNS
A short drive brings us to the village of Kuranda nestled
in the rainforest at the top of the Manchester Range. Alternatively
you can travel to Kuranda through the rainforest canopy on
an optional “Skyrail” cableway journey. Either way the views
are great! At Kuranda we have time to browse the local markets
before we head back to Cairns for an optional visit to Tjapukai
Aboriginal Cultural Centre to learn of the history and lifestyle
of the local Tjapukai tribe. (B, L) Overnight: Resort |
DAY
15: CAIRNS TO ALICE SPRINGS
Our morning flight from Cairns takes us to the contrasting
scenery of Alice Springs. After transferring to our accommodation,
the rest of the day is free to explore this fascinating outback
town. Tonight, grab a meal at a local restaurant. (B) Overnight:
Motel |
DAY
16: ALICE SPRINGS TO AYERS ROCK RESORT
Our journey this morning takes us across some of the oldest
river systems in the world on our way to Uluru-Kata Tjuta
National Park home of mighty Uluru (Ayers Rock). After lunch
we will visit the Cultural Centre for a great introduction
to the area. Next a short drive to the Sunset viewing area
to enjoy champagne and nibbles while we watch the fascinating
change of colours as an outback sun sets on Australia’s most
famous monolith. (B, L, D) Overnight: Lodge |
DAY
17: ULURU, KATA TJUTA NATIONAL PARK AND KINGS CANYON
An early morning start as we head to the base of Uluru, (Ayers
Rock) to experience the dawn, before we undertake a walking
tour of the base of the Rock to learn the importance of the
area to the Aboriginal people. Time is available for those
who choose to climb to the summit of Uluru, undertake a scenic
flight or perhaps a Harley Davidson ride around the base.
Next up Kata Tjuta (The Olgas), before we head for Watarrka
National Park and the appropriately named Kings Canyon. Tonight
we set up camp at Kings Creek Station, beneath the outback
stars. (B, L, D) Overnight: Camping |
DAY
18: KINGS CANYON
Today we explore Kings Canyon, a wonder of the Outback. Our
walk along the rim above soaring sandstone cliffs takes us
to the humble beginnings of Kings Creek. Along the way we
will see some unique and ancient vegetation and tranquil waterholes
at the Garden of Eden and the Lost City before we head back
to Kings Creek Station for a chance to go quad bike riding
before a night spent swapping stories around the campfire.
(B, L, D) Overnight: Camping |
DAY
19: KINGS CANYON TO ALICE SPRINGS
This morning there is time to experience an optional quad
bike ride or an outback camel ride. On our return to Alice
Springs we’ll visit Anzac Hill and check out the Royal Flying
Doctor Base for a fascinating insight into the provision of
medical services in the Outback. Our outback journey finishes
here late in the afternoon. (B, L) |
|
| About
your trip and Connections Adventures |
Who
are Connections Adventures?
Connections Adventures started as a small family run business
in Tasmania some 26 years ago. Through a great deal of hard
work Connections Adventures has become Australasia's premier
youth tour operator. In 2000 the business was acquired by
the Australian Pacific Group and became an integral part of
your Youth & Adventure division. Whilst we maintain the size
and feel of a small family business we have the security and
backing of Australia's finest touring operation. |
| What’s
Included In Our Prices: All coach transportation as outlined
in our itineraries. Services of a Driver/Tour Leader and Host/Cook.
(Mini-coaches - 18 seats) have a Driver/Tour Leader only)
All accommodation costs incurred during the tour. All meals
as specified in our itineraries. All camping equipment on
applicable tours excluding sleeping bags. All entrance fees
to places of interest as outlined in the "What’s Included"
sections of each tour page. All ferry crossings and launch
cruises as outlined in our itineraries. |
Suitability
for Connections Adventure Tours:
Our passengers come from around the globe, including many
from both Australia and New Zealand. We get an even balance
from the Northern and Southern hemispheres with an equally
balanced mix of men and women. Our passengers will be in the
18 to 35 year old age group, young and adventurous like you.
Our style of adventure: Our culture has always been
based on three key ingredients fun, adventure and involvement.
We firmly believe that to experience the adventure is far
better than to be a bystander. You will travel with like-minded
people Am I an Adventurous type? Well only you can
answer that. The great thing about Connections is that if
you like adventure we have an enormous amount to share with
you. If on the other hand you're not too sure then we can
suggest alternatives that suit your own sense of adventure.
Either way we're the company to help you "Connect to Adventure"
|
Level
of fitness required:
Are there fitness requirements? Our tours are designed for
active, independent travellers between 18-35. Our passengers
will be in the 18 to 35 year old age group, young and adventurous
like you. Clients must inform Connections Adventures of any
pre-existing medical problems. In certain circumstances Connections
Adventures may request a doctor's certificate certifying fitness
to travel. |
Getting
there and back:
Connections Adventures, have secured special fares with Qantas
and McCafferty’s Coaches. These fares are only available when
booked in Australia and used in conjunction with a Connections
Adventures holiday. These fares are also subject to availability
and have strict conditions imposed by the respective carriers.
For further information on these fares, contact your Travel
Agent or nearest Connections Adventures booking office. |
Will
I be collected and dropped off at my accommodation?
Connections have designated pick up and drop off locations,
these can be found in both the brochure and on the web site.
|
Where
will I stay?
Our accommodation varies depending on the location and availability
of suitable facilities. At the top of the range you can expect
3.5 to 4 star hotels and resorts e.g. Rydges Lakeland Resort
Queenstown and Palm Royale in Cairns. Alternatively in more
remote locations we stay on working cattle stations or in
authentic swags under the stars. No matter what style we've
selected you can be assured it's the best value option for
that location. Do I have to share a room? Our tours
are costed on multi-share accommodation, that is four people
of the same gender to a room. We'll do our very best to ensure
that you are sharing with like minded people of the same gender.
If however you wish to share either a twin, double or simply
stay on your own then we can accommodate your request at the
time of booking. Just let us know your preference and we will
provide you with the price for alternate accommodation configuration.
Sleeping Bags: A sleeping bag (Not required for our
NT tours) is required for West Australian tours only, which
is indicated on the appropriate tour page. If you do not have
a sleeping bag please advise us when making your reservation
as these may be hired for $25 AUD per person per tour. A travelling
rug (blanket) and inflatable pillow are also useful on camping
tours. |
I
cannot speak English will there be a translator?
Our tours are all conducted in English, some of our Tour Leaders
can speak a second language but we do not promote it as an
inclusion. It is highly likely that given our diverse nationalities
that one of the other passengers may be able to assist. |
What
Do I Eat?
An adventurous feast Our Host/cook will keep you vitalised
and full of energy to enjoy the many activities throughout
your holiday. You will find that Connections includes most
meals, with a selection and variety that will leave you stunned.
If the meal is not included then we'll point you in the right
direction to sample the best on offer at our overnight stay.
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What
about special dietary requirements?
Our talented cooks can cater for just about anything, so
long as they have enough advance warning. Just let us know
what it is you require and we'll confirm our ability to
meet your needs.
|
How
much water do clients need to drink?
Some Doctors advise that between 2 and 3 litres (10-12 glasses)
of water per day is essential when travelling in Northern
Australia. All vehicles carry adequate water supplies. |
What
are the vehicles like?
Our fleet of modern air-conditioned vehicles feature reclining
seats, video, and compact disc player, plenty of luggage space
and spacious windows to take in the scenery. Depending on
the tour and itinerary these vehicles may range from 18 seater
Toyota Coaster in Tasmania up to our largest vehicles, the
34 seater mid size coaches we use for most of our other tours.
No matter what the size they all share the same creature comforts
to ensure a smooth pleasant ride. |
How
much free time will there be?
We know that holidays are about relaxation. We also know that
you want to see and do as much as possible. Accordingly we
have planned as much free time as possible, basically there
will always be a choice to do as little or as much as you
like. The one thing we cannot change is that both New Zealand
and Australia have an awesome amount of great things to see
and to get to most of them there will be some days that involve
travelling in the coach. Where possible we have punctuated
these days with two or three night stopovers at key locations
so you can kick back and relax! |
The
nightlife:
Both Australia & New Zealand feature simply amazing nightlife.
The southern skies are filled with the most amazing light
shows each and every night. Whether you're under the myriad
of natural splendor in the outback or the dazzling streetscape
of a sophisticated city centre, there is always plenty to
see and do on a Connections Adventure. |
| Luggage:
How much luggage is allowed? We ask that clients limit
their luggage. Luggage is restricted to one reasonable sized
suitcase and a small airways bag. Will my bags be delivered
to my room each night? If you expect porterage, then this
probably isn't the adventure program for you. We'll generally
try and assist where and if it's completely necessary but
many of our accommodation houses are not designed for this
kind of service. |
What
to bring: A sleeping bag is required for West Australian
tours only, which is indicated on the appropriate tour page.
If you do not have a sleeping bag please advise us when making
your reservation as these may be hired for $25 AUD per person
per tour. A travelling rug (blanket) and inflatable pillow
are also useful on camping tours. A suggested clothing list
can be viewed on our web-site: www.connections1835.com.au.
Clients have also present a valid ticket
from us 'Australia 4 Wheel Drive Rentals' for travel to the
guide at departure. |
|
Do
clients need to reconfirm their tour? Yes, passengers
must contact the Reservations Department nominated on their
ticket quoting their 6 digit booking number before 4pm the
day prior to travel with both the name of their accommodation,
room number and pick up time. Failure
to do so could result in the cancellation of their booking!
|
Children:
This tour is not design for children |
| Insurance:
Please consider it an important service to your clients to
encourage them to purchase comprehensive travel insurance
before leaving home. We strongly recommend that all passengers
be fully covered by insurance. Liability: Whilst we
make every effort to safeguard our clients and their belongings,
we cannot be held responsible for personal injury or loss
due to events which are beyond our control. Passengers should
note that adventure travel involves a higher than normal risk
and a signed release will be required from all participants
before tour departure. You are required to take out travel
insurance to cover for loss of deposit, cancellation charges,
medical expenses, damage to luggage and additional expenses.
Your nearest Connections Adventures booking office or Travel
Agent will be happy to arrange your insurance cover. You will
not be accepted on a holiday unless you have arranged insurance
cover. |
Terms:
Please note that all itineraries are a guideline only and
are subject to change. Conditions
of Travel:This tour company reserves the right to alter
the route or itinerary of any of its tours and arrange alternative
carriers to those advertised if necessary. No refunds will
be given in these circumstances or in the event of any delay,
curtailment or alteration of a trip resulting from any cause
including severe weather conditions or mechanical failure.
A minimum number of passengers is required to operate each
tour. It may therefore be necessary to cancel a scheduled
departure and to offer an alternative or full refund for that
tour. Adventure Tours can't guarantee pick up or drop off
times and are not liable for passenger failure to connect
with other services. We accept no responsibility for loss
or damage to personal belongings or baggage.
Smoking & Drinking: Australian Government regulations
prohibit smoking and the drinking of alcohol inside tourist
vehicles in Australia (smoking and drinking should be limited
to stops along the route). |
| Cancelation
fees |
| Outside
42 Days |
Loss
of deposit $100 person + 15% of Gross Fare Plus Deposit |
| 16-42
Days |
20%
of Gross Fare Plus Deposit |
| 2-15
Days |
50%
of Gross Fare Plus Deposit |
| 48
hours to pickup-including no show |
100%
of Fare Including Plus Deposit |
| |
| Weather
Reports and Currency
Conversion Guide for your use. |
| Booking
Conditions: Payment in full is required for this tour
at the time of booking. |
| 2004
Australia4tours Website by RAB 2005 |
|
MISSION
STATEMENT
As
one of the Northern Territory's leading small group safari
specialists "Australia 4 Wheel Drive Rentals (incorporating
www.australia4tours.com) , we seek out tours to some of
Australia's most famous landmarks including Uluru
(Ayers Rock) and Kakadu National Park. From the tropical
Top End to the spiritual heart of the Red Centre, from Aboriginal
Culture to abundant wildlife - then onto Adelaide and Cairns
we have sourced an excellent range of tours for your next
vacation in Australia.
Our
experienced staff will help you discover the best of these
unique and special tours offers across Australia. Get connected
to where you’re going. Australia is an amazing country with
vast open spaces and incredible scenery in every region.
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