Sail Greece - Santorini to Mykonos (IZSRR)

Santorini / Ios to Mykonos 8 days.

• Route: Santorini / Ios to Mykonos
• Length: 8 days
• Transport: Boat
• Accommodation: Overnight boat

Countries Visited

Greece

Day 1: Santorini / Ios

Get into holiday mode by enjoying the spoils of gorgeous Santorini, one of Europe’s premier holiday destinations – and for good reason.

Making full use of our time today, we set sail right after our 4pm group meeting. Leave the hubbub behind, feeling the rush of the breeze wash over you as we sail through the caldera.

Consider arriving a couple of days early and check out this exiting island, which is one of Europe's top tourist hotspots.

While there are links to civilisation on Santorini as far back as 3600 BC, by far the most significant historical event is the massive volcanic eruption in 1500 BC that rocked the island - believed to have lead to the destruction of Crete's Minoan civilisation. Gargantuan waves and ensuing earthquakes permanently changed the landscape of the Mediterranean. The centre of the once circular Santorini sank, resulting in not only one of the island's key attractions, but also one of the most significant geological formations on the planet - the awe-inspiring caldera.

The exuberant capital of Fira, perched on the edge of the caldera, has an excellent range of restaurants, shops and bars to sample. Or make the most of the great scenery by taking a walk along the rim to Firostefani, Imerovigli and Oia.

The white-washed Cycladic houses mixed in with the grand old Venetian and Byzantium inspired architecture packs a real picturesque punch. A few examples to see include the Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral, Catholic Cathedral and Dominican Convent.

Megaron Gyzi Museum has an interesting display of photographs showing Fira before and after the quake. The Museum of Prehistoric Thera and the Archaeological Museum both have treasures retrieved from Akrotiri, the ancient Minoan site buried by the enormous prehistoric eruption.

Santorini's volcanic beaches are a must-see. Red Beach's tiny red and black pebbles are hemmed in by spectacular red lava-rock cliffs, while the pick of the black beaches are Perissa, Vlhada, Perivolos and Agios Georgios.

After 4 hours gliding across the Aegean for a sunset sail we drop anchor in Ios.

Inhabited since early Cycladic times the Ionians settled Ios around 1050 BC, however throughout time it suffered similar periods of occupation and foreign rule as many of its neighbours. The island proudly claims to be the burial place of epic Greek poet Homer - while there is no proof, this once-myth has become firmly etched as fact into the local psyche.

Despite its premier party island reputation, Ios has managed to retain some allure from the abundance of beaches and preservation of its classic cube houses packed around the laneways of Hora.

A short walk from the harbour, Hora's shops, restaurants, nightclubs, bars and cafes all come alive in the evenings. If you after a more authentic taste of the old town, try to explore during the day while the masses are beachside.

The popular beaches of Gialos and Milopotas are also lively at night with a range of water sports on offer during the day. Valmas, Kolitzani and Tsamaria are all options if looking for something a little quieter, and are within easy walking distance of town.

Accommodation

Overnight boat (1 nt)

Day 2: Amorgos

Set sail over the placid sapphire waters of the Mediterranean towards the island of Amorgos. Jump straight off the boat into the sea, and then hit dry land to explore the island’s rugged landscape. In the evening, enjoy free time relaxing at a portside restaurant.

It takes us around 4 hours to reach the rugged, mountainous island of Amorgos - known as the stunning location of Luc Bresson's film, 'The Big Blue'.

Our first taste of the island's striking beauty comes as we stop by Paradisi Beach, resting place of The Big Blue shipwreck. After a swim we make our way along the coast to port.

Amorgos has a history of colonisation and occupation with evidence of a functioning society back as far as 4,000 BC. It also played a significant role in the development of the Cycladic civilisation. Ravaged by piracy in the late middle ages, the island was ruled by the Venetians, Byzantines and Ottomans until the Greek Revolution.

Katapola, the island's main port, boasts classic Cycladic architecture with windmills and an old Venetian castle. The waterfront is an excellent place to relax with its restaurants, cafés and bars. Or take some time to explore the nearby the ancient Minoan Settlement.

Also worth a visit is the village of Hora (Amorgos town) sitting high up on the rocky mountainside. Stroll through the labyrinth of narrow stone laneways and Byzantine churches surrounding the town square. The Amorgos Archaeological Collection is housed nearby in Gavros Tower, one of the few remaining towers on the island.

Accommodation

Overnight boat (1 nt)

Day 3: Small Cyclades

Stop by an 11th-century monastery before travelling to the sparsely populated island of Small Cyclades, discovering divine beaches, warm locals and cosy tavernas.

The monastery (Moni Hozoviotissis) was built in the 11th century and is spectacular. Built gripping the cliff-face, the panoramic views across the Aegean Sea are breathtaking. Filled with historical relics, it is said to be a must-see for visitors to Greece.

AFter the (optional) visit, we cast off for a 4 hour amble over sparkling water sees us arrive in the Small Cyclades.

While all the islands harboured communities in ancient times, the middle ages saw this reduced to just pirates and goats. Today, only Koufonisia, Iraklia, Shinousa and Donousa have permanent residents with the largest population said to be somewhere around 300.

Featuring clear waters, great beaches, friendly locals and sleepy tavernas all built around quaint fishing villages, the islands are an ideal overnight anchorage. Explore town, sample some fresh seafood in a waterfront taverna, then sit back and simply enjoy the magic of the Mediterranean.

Accommodation

Overnight boat (1 nt)

Day 4 to 5: Naxos

Sail blissfully onwards to vibrant Naxos, dotted with olive groves, timeworn churches and temples, and featuring a lively central town. Perhaps get involved in the host of water sports that are on offer, take an optional sojourn into the countryside or traipse through the impressive Venetian Kastro.

As the largest Cycladic island, Naxos also has one of the most colourful mythological histories. Zeus grew up here hidden away from his destructive father; while the union of the god of wine and feast, and goddess of fertility, are said to have given the island its lush landscape.

The old town areas of Hora are perfect for a stroll or partake in the vibrant nightlife. The best beach choices are to the south, where water-sports are also on offer.

Follow a pathway up to the impressive Venetian Kastro where mansions, monuments and churches all retain their medieval spirit in a mass of winding laneways. While here, stop by the old Roman Catholic Cathedral in the square, and the nearby Archaeological Museum which is housed in the former Jesuit School of Commerce. The massive Portara stands as the gateway to the unfinished Temple of Apollo on the islet of Palatia, just to the north of the marina.

Maybe even join an optional jaunt out into the countryside - glimpse local rural life, visit one of the oldest temples in Greece, then chill out up in the hills with lunch at a family tavern. Get a taste of the local brew with a shot of Kitron, best described as a lemon liquor and top it off with a wander along the beach.

Accommodation

Overnight boat (2 nts)

Day 6: Syros

Enjoy more quality time experiencing the freedom of the ocean as the bow turns towards Syros, an ancient civilisation with twisting stairs, whitewashed houses and a robust, traditional Greek culture.

The cruise today takes around 4 hours.

Dating back to the Bronze Age, Syros has a history of occupation. Its neutral role in the Greek Revolution made it a safe-haven for the persecuted, who in turn helped transition the capital Ermoupolis into a thriving commercial and cultural centre.

Off the main tourist trail, Ermoupolis is a great place to sample some authentic Greek food and culture. Perhaps dinner and drinks at a waterfront taverna or drop-by the cafes near the palm-fringed town square, where the magnificent town hall can also be found.

Catch a bus up the hill to the fortress-like village of Ano Syros. Stone walls and archways, narrow alleyways, twisting stairs and white-washed houses piled atop each other all feature, not too mention the stunning views across the Aegean.

Accommodation

Overnight boat (1 nt)

Day 7 to 8: Mykonos

Cap off the adventure with a final jaunt to marvellous Mykonos, the glamour girl of the Mediterranean. While here, balance time spent sampling chic cafes and trendy bars with explorations of fascinating sites like the Church of Panagia Paraportiani and Little Venice.

The journey to Mykonos takes about 3 hours.

This classic Mediterranean ideal is packed with excitement, beauty and glamour. White-washed architecture seems to cling to the labyrinth of narrow streets and laneways in the town's old area. The hum of the nightlife, chic cafes, restaurants, galleries and boutiques give way to the island's wonderful sandy beaches.

Mykonos has a history of around 5000 years and is said to be named after Apollo's grandson. It was also the mythological base for a deadly battle between Zeus and the Titans, their giant petrified bodies the rocks that form the island.

Check out the Church of Panagia Paraportiani - its unique array of lines and angles are simply fascinating. Soak in the atmosphere by joining fellow sun-seekers and party-goers on the beach or take a day trip to the sacred island of Delos, birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. Little Venice has colourful wooden balconies that hang precariously over the sea - the perfect spot to sit back with a cocktail and enjoy a magical Aegean sunset.

Departure time on Day 8 is by 10am. We recommend you consider booking an extra night's accommodation after this trip to see all the sights of Mykonos.

Accommodation

Overnight boat (1 nt)

What else you need to know

Itinerary disclaimer

Occasionally our itineraries are updated during the year to incorporate improvements stemming from past travellers' comments and our own research. Our brochure is usually released in November each year. The information given in this itinerary may be slightly different to that in the brochure. It's very important that you print and review a final copy of your Trip Notes a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans. For the latest updated Trip Notes please visit our website: www.imaginative -traveller.com

Please note that while we operate successful trips in this region throughout the year, some changes may occur in our itineraries due to inclement weather and common seasonal changes to timetables and transport routes. This can happen with little notice so please be prepared for modifications to the route.

Included activities

Included activities are listed in the day-to-day itinerary, all other activities are optional and at your own expense. If you choose not to participate in the included activities on this itinerary, the cost will not be refunded.

Kitty

On this trip it's compulsory to contribute to a kitty. The kitty is an on-ground payment put into a central fund managed by travellers and overseen by the skipper. It helps fund for breakfast and lunch on the boat and other small items such as ice, water, snacks and drinks. Travellers are responsible for the preparation of these meals onboard and to shop at port where supermarkets are often very close to the mooring. Kitty amounts are subject to change to reflect local price increases. Please check our website for the up-to-date amount 48 hours prior to your trip commencement. Your kitty will be collected when you arrive for your trip, either on day 1 or in stages throughout your trip.

A trip kitty of EUR65.00 CASH will be required.

Optional activities

A selection of optional activities are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only. Prices are for entrance only and don't include transport costs to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination. Optional activities aren't necessarily endorsed or recommended by Imaginative Traveller nor included in price of this trip. If you do any optional activities, you do so at your own risk and it must be clearly understood that your participation is your own decision and doesn't form part of your contract with Imaginative Traveller. You may be required to sign/complete a waiver form or a receipt for some optional activities.

Money Exchange

The Euro (EUR) is the official currency in the following destinations: Austria, Belgium, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Montenegro, the Netherlands, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain. All other European countries still have their own national currencies.

The most convenient and cheapest way to acquire money is via an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) or Bancomat as they are often referred to. Check with your bank in advance concerning the suitability of your account / card overseas and any international fees that will be applied.

You can obtain local currencies easily at airports and major train stations, but be sure to bring some extra emergency cash in a major currency that can be exchanged if the ATMs are not functioning.

When leaving home don't forget your PIN and make sure you know the telephone number for cancelling your card if it is stolen. Keep this in a safe place.

Credit cards are not always accepted in stores and restaurants. While travelling we recommend you carry some cash to pay for restaurant bills and other services. Change can be difficult to obtain so throughout the day, try to gain as many small denominations as you can.

You might be advised to take some of your money as travellers' cheques from a major financial institute. Travellers' cheques have security advantages, however please be aware that the exchange rates may not be favourable and that it is difficult to change Travellers' cheques in most countries. Be particularly aware that after hours money exchanges and hotel receptions carry high commissions- sometimes up to 20%.

For money safety we recommend that you carry your cash and credit cards in a secure money belt or pouch concealed under your clothes.

Spending money

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, participating in optional activities, and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.

Tipping

If you're happy with the services provided, a tip - though not compulsory - is appropriate. While it may not be customary to you, it's of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels, inspires excellent service, and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many destinations. The following amounts are based on local considerations and feedback from our past travellers:

Restaurants: Local markets and basic restaurants - leave the loose change. More up-market restaurants we suggest 5% to 10% of your bill.

Local guides: We suggest EUR1-2 per person per day for local guides.

Of course you are free to tip more or less as you see fit, depending on your perception of service quality and the length of your trip. Remember, a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.

Departure tax

All departure taxes should be included in your international flight ticket.

Group size

Maximum of 8 travellers per group.

Your fellow travellers

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 likely a range of age groups 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.

Single travellers

Our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and don't involve a compulsory single supplement. Single travellers share with people of the same gender in accommodation ranging from twin to multishare. Some of our itineraries have accommodation booked on a mixed gender share basis and where applicable this will be specified in our Trip Notes. On a selection of our trips, you have the option to pay a single supplement to ensure that you have your own room (where available). Please note that this only applies to accommodation during the tour - pre-trip and post-trip accommodation will be booked on a single room basis.

Accommodation

Overnight boat (7 nts)

This trip is accommodated entirely on board a yacht of up to 50ft. A typical 50 ft yacht for 8 travellers is equipped with 5 twin/double share cabins, 3 shared bathrooms and 2 showers. Our boats are real yachts and this is a real sailing trip. Yachts are designed to keep sleeping areas to the absolute minimum of space, while maximising common areas as much as possible. Smaller yachts will be used for smaller groups sizes.

Rooms are allocated on arrival by our skipper according to group composition, which means it is not possible to reserve or guarantee any specific berth or cabin. Single passengers will be paired up with another passenger of the same gender, this may mean sharing a double cabin with a double mattress. Everyone including the skipper shares the bathrooms on board.

While not everyone may feel entirely comfortable living in such close quarters, those who are looking to revel in the adventure and exhilaration of an authentic sailing trip usually find any discomfort from cramped living conditions is more than made up for by the whole experience.

Check out the typical yacht floor plan below, purple areas are sleeping berths and pink are bathrooms.

Meals introduction

While travelling with us you'll experience the vast array of wonderful food available in the world. Your group leader will be able to suggest restaurants to try during your trip. On our camping trips we often cook the region's specialities so you don't miss out. To give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat, generally not all meals are included in the trip price. This also gives you more budgeting flexibility. As a rule our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There's no obligation to do this though.

Meals

7 Breakfasts, 7 Lunches

EUR 210.00

On most days, breakfast and lunch will be taken aboard the vessel and ingredients are purchased as part of your kitty payment. Travellers will shop at ports for these items. This trip is also participation based. This means that during your travels you will have the opportunity to assist with daily activities such as sailing, and will be responsible for preparing meals and clearing dishes. None of this is difficult however many hands make light work and any assistance provided to the skipper is always much appreciated. Most people agree that this type of activity helps you feel like less of a tourist and more of an explorer. If you have any dietary requirements please tell us at the time of booking and also remind your skipper at the welcome meeting. At some of the smaller ports the choice of provisions may be limited or very simple. Vegetarians or those with specific meal requirements might choose to supplement meals with supplies bought from home, e.g. protein bars, dried fruits and so on.

Transport

Boat

Generally we use up to 50ft monohull yachts, mostly between 0 and 5 years old. Smaller yachts will be used for smaller group sizes, As this is a real sailing adventure you may be asked to assist on-deck, particularly when coming into or leaving port. No experience is necessary, but getting to know some 'sailing language' might help to get you into the spirit of the adventure.

Port - left

Starboard - right

Bow - front of the boat

Stern - rear of the boat

Deck - outside, upper area of the boat

Hull - the main part or body of the boat

Keel - part of the boat under water that keeps the boat stable and stops it capsizing

Mainsail - the large sail attached to the mast and boom

Mast - the big vertical pole that supports the mainsail

Boom - the big horizontal pole attached to the mainsail, coming off the rear of the mast (swing from side to side)

Jib, headsail, genoa, foresail - smaller sail near the front of the boat

Sheet - ropes used to control the sails

Lines - other ropes on the boat (ropes are never called ropes on yachts)

Spinnaker - large extra sail

Trim the sails - adjust the position of the sails when the wind changes strength or direction

Tiller or wheel or helm - used to steer the boat

Helmsman - person steering the boat

Running - sailing with the wind

Tack - turning the bow of the boat when sailing through the wind

Jibe - turning the stern of the boat when sailing through the wind

Figure-eight knot - the stopper: often used at the end of lines to stop them getting away.

Bowline (knot) - strong and dependable knot that is commonly used

Clove Hitch (knot) - not as secure it is often used to attach an object to a line

Group leader

On this trip you will be accompanied by one of our skippers. Your skipper's role involves taking charge of the sailing, the safety of the vessel and safety for all passengers on board. Skippers all hold a Yachtmaster Offshore license or higher and have completed an intense training and review process before sailing with us. The aim of the skipper is also to take the hassle out of your travels by organizing the overall operation and smooth-running of the trip, managing trip logistics and coordinating the kitty (where applicable). Your skipper 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 skippers to have a broad general knowledge of the places visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects.

Joining point

Taverna Dimitris

Vlychada 85703 above Vlychada Marina

Santorini

GREECE

Joining point instructions

Please make your way to the port by starting time indicated on day 1 of the trip itinerary. Taverna Dimitris is located right above the Vlychada Marina, www.vlichada-dimitris.gr, 10 minutes from Thira (main town). There is a bus available from Thira "bus square" to Vlychada and our meeting point.

You will depart from Santorini immediately after a short group meeting, if you are late or delayed you will need to catch up with the group in the following destination at your own expense. If you have any difficulties please contact Kutte on +30 694 208 8429.

It is worth booking an extra nights' accommodation before this trip if you wish to experience more of Santorini.

Arriving in Santorini:

Santorini airport is approximately 5 klms south east of Thira. Regular buses are available to Thira as well as a few of the other larger villages. Taxis are available but competition can be fierce during busy times, most hotels can also provide a transfer service.

There are also several different ferry services from Athens which can take 4-10 hours depending if you choose a slow or fast service. Most ferries arrive into the port of Athinios. Booking in advance is recommended if travelling during July & August, as well as Greek public holidays. Buses to Thira and taxis are generally available for all ferry arrivals and to get around the island.

Arrival complications

We don't expect any problems (and nor should you) but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, please refer to the Joining Instructions section above for who to contact.

If you have pre-booked an airport transfer (where available) 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, again following the Joining Instructions in these trip notes. Should this occur, please apply to your travel agent for a refund of the transfer cost on your return.

No refund is available on missed transfers or portions of your trip owing to a different flight arrival or delayed flight arrival. Any additional cost incurred in order to meet up with your group is at your own expense.

Finish point

Matthew Taverna

Pros Neo Limani Right at the interception to "New Port"

Tourlos

Mykonos

GREECE

Finish point instructions

The old port is located around 10 minutes walk from town, while the new port is approximately 2 kilometres to the north (and is where our sailing trip will finish). Taking a taxi is the most convenient way of travelling between Mykonos towns and the new port.

Consider booking an extra nights' accommodation directly with a hotel website or your travel agent after this trip if you wish to experience more of the region.

Mykonos airport is approximately 4 klms from the town centre. The most convenient way to get to the airport is to arrange for a transfer with your accommodation or to take a taxi.

Several different ferry services depart the island for Athens each day, generally taking 4-6 hours. Mykonos has 2 ports, so remember to check which port your ferry will depart from. .

Emergency contact

In the case of a genuine crisis or emergency, our sailing company in Greece can be reached on Tel:+30 6942 088429.

We also have a dedicated 24 hour telephone number which should only be used once you have left the UK and in the event of a real emergency. Should you need to call the number, we will do what we can to help but please bear in mind that real progress or action may not be possible until normal office hours.

If your flight is delayed or cancelled, please let us know and then make your way to the joining hotel as instructed in these trip notes. If you cannot get through leave a message and a contact number as these will be regularly checked. Emergency Number: +44 (0) 7985106564

Emergency funds

Please also make sure you have access to an additional US$400, to be used when unforeseen incidents or circumstances outside our control (eg. a natural disaster, civil unrest or an outbreak of bird flu) necessitate a change to our planned route.

Visas

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. The visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. As a general rule most countries expect that you will have at least 6 months' validity on your passport. On arrival visitors may be asked to present return tickets and evidence of means to cover your intended stay.

We keep the following information up to date as much as possible, but rules do change - it's important that you check for yourself. Residents from other countries must consult the relevant embassies or your travel agent.

GREECE:

Australia: Not required

Belgium: Not required

Canada: Not required

Germany: Not required

Ireland: Not required

Netherlands: Not required

New Zealand: Not required

South Africa: Yes - in advance

Switzerland: Not required

UK: Not required

USA: Not required

Issues on your trip

While we always endeavour to provide the best possible holiday experience, due to the nature of travel and the areas we visit sometimes things can and do go wrong. Should any issue occur while you are on your trip, it is imperative that you discuss this with your group leader or our local representative straight away so that they can do their best to rectify the problem and save any potential negative impact on the rest of your trip.

We recognise that there may be times when your group leader/local partner may not be able to resolve a situation to your satisfaction - if this is the case, please ask the leader to speak to their direct manager.

You may also choose to provide details in your online feedback, which we ask you to complete within 30 days of the end of your trip. But we do ask you to be aware that it is very difficult for us to provide any practical help after the trip is complete.

What to take

What you need to bring will vary according to the trip style you have chosen, the countries you are visiting and when you are travelling. Generally speaking you should pack as lightly as possible. On the vast majority of our trips you are expected to carry your own luggage and although you won't be required to walk long distances with your luggage (max 30 minutes), we recommend keeping the weight under 10kg / 22lb.

Most travellers carry their luggage in a backpack, although an overnight bag with a shoulder strap would suffice if you travel lightly. Smaller bags or backpacks with wheels are convenient although we recommend your bag has carry straps. You'll also need a day pack/bag to carry water and a camera etc for day trips.

Space on board the yacht is very limited - for your own comfort and safety, luggage should be kept to an absolute minimum. The use of a backpack, soft sports bag or duffel bag is recommended - NO hard suitcases will be permitted on board.

Bring along a good-sized daypack as well as a light fleece and/or light windproof jacket. One towel is provided however you might like to consider bringing along an extra for swimming and outdoor use as towels are not changed during the trip. Sports shoes with light coloured soles or sports sandals are recommended while on board, while a pair of cycling gloves can be useful if you wish to participate in sailing. Snorkelling equipment is provided on board.

While there should be electricity on board throughout your trip the voltage is likely to vary widely, from 12V to 220V, and when in port or moored we are dependent on the supply available. Please be aware that the supply may not be sufficient to power some electronic devices all the time and that you may need a voltage adapter or similar.

Health

All travellers need to be in good physical health in order to participate fully on this trip. When selecting your trip please make sure you have read through the itinerary carefully and assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. Please note that if, in the opinion of our group leader or local guide, any traveller is unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group, we reserve the right to exclude them from all or part of a trip without refund.

You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information or for any necessary vaccinations and anti-malarial requirements before departure. We recommend that you carry a first aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements (including a spare pair of glasses) as they may not easily be obtained at the locations on this trip. For legal reasons our leaders and guides are prohibited from administering any type of drugs including headache tablets and antibiotics. Please ensure that you are adequately prepared.

Safety

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. Please refer to our website's safety page for links to major travel advisories and updates on safety issues affecting our trip.

We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe-keeping of your passport, air tickets, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of our hotels have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage.

In addition to any included activities on your trip you'll have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure. Our local representative may be able to assist you with available options in a given location, please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we make 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. Please also note that our local representative has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it's deemed necessary due to safety concerns.

PETTY THEFT AND PERSONAL SAFETY:

While travelling there is always the risk of pick-pocketing and petty theft, particularly in the more touristy cities. We recommend that you exercise caution when walking alone at night and encourage you to walk together and only on main, well-lit thoroughfares. Be particularly vigilant on public transport. Simple measures like carrying your day pack on your front, not hanging your bag over the back of your chair and wearing a money belt will reduce any chance that your valuables should go missing.

WATER SAFETY AT SEA:

Travellers that are able and confident swimmers will be able to enjoy swimming & snorkelling off the boat, but please always note the skipper's advise and instructions on when and where to swim and what precautions to consider. Travellers that are not able to swim are certainly welcome on this trip, but you will be required to wear a life jacket when we are sailing.

Travel insurance

Travel insurance is compulsory for all our trips. 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.

When travelling on a group trip, you won't be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance and the insurance company's 24 hour emergency contact number has been seen by your leader.

If you have credit card insurance your group leader will require details of the participating insurer/underwriter, the level of coverage, policy number and emergency contact number rather than the bank's name and credit card details. Please contact your bank for these details prior to arriving in-country.

Responsible Travel

At Imaginative Traveller we love helping our clients experience the beauty and cultures of the destinations we visit. However, hand in hand with this we have always been aware that we have a responsibility to minimise any negative impacts that tourism can bring.

Responsible Travel is twofold. It's about taking people to the places they want to go in a safe and responsible manner but also about respecting and maintaining the natural and often delicate balance of the destination. Economic gain from tourism is often fundamental to a country, but should never be at the expense of its culture or the environment.

Our Aims

• It is our aim to provide journeys that have minimal negative and maximum positive impact on the places we visit.

• We do not believe that, as visitors, we should impose our own cultures on others; rather that we should experience foreign cultures and appreciate them for what they are.

• Whilst it is our aim to show destinations and cultures in a positive light, we do not believe in papering over the cracks or shielding visitors from the realities of life. This does not mean, however, that we condone or endorse certain situations or regimes that may be in place.

Our guidelines are meant not as rigid instructions but rather as suggestions to make our holidays more enjoyable – for everybody. As cultural and environmental sensitivities vary from country to country more specific guidelines can be found in our individual country and trip dossiers.

Travellers' Guidelines

Before you depart try to spend some time familiarising yourself with the destination you will be travelling to – their culture and customs. The country dossiers on our website offer detailed information about all the regions we visit. They also include some useful phrases in the local language for you to use on your trip! A few words of the local language can open up many more opportunities for you to interact with the people you will meet.

Although it is tempting to give out pens, sweets and money to people begging, and particularly tempting to give to children, we feel that this encourages a begging mentality and has a long-term negative impact on communities. If someone begging earns more than someone in the same community who works this can discourage local employment. If children regularly bring home money it may discourage their parents from sending them to school.

Always ask permission to photograph local people and respect their decision if they would prefer not to have their picture taken.

Respect local dress codes, especially at religious sites. Our tour leaders are always on hand to give you advice about this.

In many of the countries we visit you might see examples of animal cruelty (for example dancing bears, performing monkeys and snake charmers). Please do not take photographs of this or offer money as it encourages the activity.

Respect the environment you are in. It sounds obvious but do not throw litter, take it with you or use rubbish bins! You may see locals throwing rubbish on the street but do not follow their example!

When shopping in countries where haggling is the norm – enjoy it and only pay what you feel is a fair price for the goods you are purchasing. However, remember that the shopkeeper does have to make a living so do stop once you have reached a price you are happy with. Bargaining should be fun but always remember that a small amount can mean much more to the vendor than to you.

Endeavour to take home souvenirs made locally; the money you spend can be very important to the local communities. However, do use your common sense and don't buy anything that you think might be made out of endangered animals or plants.

To help keep as much money as possible in the host country - try to eat in locally owned restaurants and order local drinks and produce rather than international brands.

In hotels do be conscious of how much water you are using. Many of the areas we visit regularly have shortages; try not to have hour long showers! Don't leave lights, air conditioners or fans on when you leave the room – you wouldn't at home!

Respect the environment you are in, especially when in national parks or reserves. Pay attention to rules about keeping on paths, keeping a distance from animals and not removing any of the natural habitat.

Relax and immerse yourself in the differences of the culture you are in – you'll be back home in the familiar soon enough (and wishing you were still on holiday!). These cultural differences are part of what makes your experience special.

If you would like to offset the carbon dioxide that will be produced on your flights you can do this on our website (on our Responsible travel page). We work with climatecare, who will reduce the equivalent amount of carbon dioxide that you produce in another part of the World through their emission reduction projects. These projects are low carbon efficient technologies in developing countries and not only serve to reduce emissions but also help to spread the adoption of low carbon technologies and improve the quality of life for local communities. Details of climatecare's projects can be found on their website.

Please do let us know if you have any comments about responsible travel at rto@imtrav.net

A couple of rules

Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on our 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 Imaginative Travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter and in particular, the local people who make our destinations such special places. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our local representative has the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they use prostitutes.

Carbon offset

Carbon Offset C02-e 50.00 kgs per pax.

These trip notes have been compiled to help you prepare for your journey, once you have booked. They include the full itinerary and dates, information and kit lists, meeting hotels, insurance, vaccinations, visas, and other information that will help you get ready for your trip.

Please ensure you have an up to date version of these Trip Notes

These trip notes were printed on 20/12/2012