Bucket list tours .
YOUR EXPERT ASTRONOMER | PETE LAWRENCE
Pete Lawrence has been a presenter on the long running BBC Sky at Night television programme since 2005. He has been an astronomical consultant for the popular BBC Stargazing Live television series since it began, and appeared on the programme in 2014 as an aurora expert. Pete also writes many of the guides used by the BBC to support the programme. He compiles and writes the monthly Star Guide for the Sky at Night Magazine as well as carrying out equipment reviews on their behalf and acting as their resident imaging expert.
ECLIPSE 2023 - THE WONDERS OF AUSTRALIA
9 April 2023
15 days from £5,999pp
Join us on an unforgettable adventure to witness the grandeur of a total solar eclipse in Western Australia, which promises to be a truly special experience.
This unique tour will be accompanied in Australia by astronomer, astrophotographer and Sky at Night TV presenter Pete Lawrence. Of course the main event and focus of this trip is the magnificent solar eclipse and on the day of this phenomenon, with Pete’s expert advice, we are taken into the path of ‘totality’, close to the centre line of the eclipse shadow track. This will be at a location chosen to give us a good chance of clear skies. Pete will give various presentations and advice during the trip too.
With a stopover in Singapore* to explore this vibrant city state, the rest of this wonderful tour is spent discovering some of Australia’s most iconic sights as we travel across this beautiful country of contrasts. From snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef and enjoying a special sunrise tour of Uluru, to admiring Sydney’s famous landmarks and dolphin watching in Rockingham, this adventure of a lifetime won’t disappoint.
Trip Highlights
Flight to Cairns & return from Perth*
Domestic flights from Cairns to Ayers Rock, Ayers Rock to Sydney and Sydney to Perth
Return charter flight from Perth to Exmouth
Airport taxes & luggage allowance (one piece of checked-in hold luggage per person)
Airport transfers in Australia
12 nights at selected 4-star hotels in Australia with breakfast
1 lunch
Excursions to Uluru, Kata Tjuta, Bondi Beach, Blue Mountains, Featherdale Wildlife Park, Exmouth & Fremantle
Excursion to a carefully-selected location for the eclipse (includes safety viewing glasses)
Outer Great Barrier Reef, Darling Harbour, Rockingham Wildlife & Swan River cruises (includes buffet lunch on Great Barrier Reef & Darling Harbour cruises)
Private Cape Tribulation & Daintree tour
Uluru sunset tour with sparkling wine & nibbles and sunrise tour
Private tour of Sydney Opera House
The Rocks Dreaming Aboriginal Heritage walking tour
Private function at Scitech
Guided tours of Sydney & Perth
Pre & post-eclipse presentations with Pete Lawrence
Tour accompanied throughout by astronomer Pete Lawrence
Local guides on excursions
Services of a tour manager
Itinerary
Sunday 9th & Monday 10th April: Flight to Australia & Cairns
Check in for our flight to Cairns, where we are met by our tour manager on arrival and transfer to the Pacific Hotel, our base for the next three nights. We have the afternoon at leisure to explore the diverse city of Cairns, known as the gateway to Queensland’s tropical north.
Later, we enjoy a welcome meeting at the hotel with our tour manager and Pete Lawrence.
Meals: Breakfast
Tuesday 11th April: Great Barrier Reef
We meet our guide in the hotel lobby and walk to Cairns marina. From here we board our cruise to the Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest coral reef complex and a World Heritage listed natural wonder. Our day includes a marine biologist presentation, morning and afternoon tea, buffet lunch, semi-submersible tour and glass bottom boat tour. Snorkelling equipment is also available for those who would like to experience the Great Barrier Reef underwater.
Meals: Breakfast, Buffet Lunch
Wednesday 12th April: Cape Tribulation & Daintree
This morning we depart for our private tour, which includes a Daintree River ferry to Cape Tribulation, often described as a little slice of tropical paradise where stunning beaches meet dense rainforest. We enjoy a guided rainforest walk, scenic drive past Thornton Beach and lunch at the Rainforest Café as well as free time in Cape Tribulation and the magnificent Alexandra Lookout. We also venture into the heart of the oldest rainforest in the world in search of saltwater crocodiles during our Cooper Creek cruise.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Thursday 13th April: Ayers Rock
We have an early start today to catch our flight to Ayers Rock. Upon arrival, we meet our driver/guide and then spend the day embracing the area’s culture, geology and environment. We begin with a drive around the base of Ayers Rock, a UNESCO World Heritage Site also known by its Aboriginal name of Uluru, followed by a short walk into the natural wonder of the Mutitjulu Waterhole. We then visit rock art sites and the local waterhole to learn about Uluru’s significance to the Anangu (local Aboriginal people). Next we drive around the rest of the base and experience the Mala walk, which follows the north-west side of Uluru, before transferring to the Voyages Ayers Rock Resort for check in.
This evening we enjoy a special sunset tour of Uluru, which includes sparkling wine and nibbles. We stay until after dark for a unique experience – star gazing with the imposing Ulhuru in the background.
Meals: Packed Breakfast
Friday 14th April: Ayers Rock & Flight to Sydney
This morning we are picked up early for a sunrise tour at Uluru, where we watch the desert come to life as the first rays of sunshine hit Australia’s best-known natural landmark. We return to the hotel for a leisurely breakfast before departing for a visit to the Olgas (Kata Tjuta) to view the spectacular rock formations and be dwarfed by these huge, mysterious red domes, with the tallest of them around 546 metres high. After our tour, we transfer to the airport and catch our flight to Sydney.
Upon arrival in Sydney we meet our local guide and transfer to the Metro Marlow Sydney Central Hotel where we stay for the next four nights.
Meals: Breakfast
Saturday 15th April: Sydney & Bondi Beach
A tour of Sydney’s highlights awaits us today, including St Mary's Cathedral, Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House, as well as the suburbs of The Rocks, Paddington, Kings Cross and Chinatown. Later we visit the famous Bondi Beach, where there is free time to relax or you can choose to join a guided walk from Bondi to Bronte. Next we are dropped off at the bustling Circular Quay for time at leisure and a chance to have lunch (not included) before walking to the Sydney Opera House, where we enjoy a private tour.
Meals: Breakfast
Sunday 16th April: Blue Mountains
Following breakfast we meet our guide for a full-day tour of the spectacular Blue Mountains, named after the delicate azure haze that lingers in the region. On the way, we visit the Featherdale Wildlife Park to get up close to Australian native animals before continuing to the Blue Mountains’ Echo Point Lookout to admire the famous Three Sisters, an iconic rock formation. We then have time for lunch (not included) before heading to Scenic World, where we enjoy a unique nature-based experience. With an unlimited pass on all attractions, take in the views at the Eaglehawk lookout before riding on the scenic cableway, railway and skyway or wind your way through the rainforest on the elevated boardwalk.
Afterwards we head back to the hotel and enjoy an informative presentation with Pete Lawrence in the evening.
Meals: Breakfast
Monday 17th April: The Rocks Dreaming Aboriginal Heritage Tour & Captain Cook Cruise
We start the day with a visit to The Rocks, a historic area of Sydney’s city centre. Here we join The Rocks Dreaming Aboriginal Heritage Tour and journey into the culture of Aboriginal people with our guide. Next we head to King Street Wharf to board the famous Captain Cook Cruise and depart on a seafood buffet lunch cruise around Darling Harbour. This afternoon we enjoy time at leisure in Darling Harbour where there is plenty to see, from the Chinese Garden to the Australian National Maritime Museum (entrance not included).
Meals: Breakfast, Buffet Lunch
Tuesday 18th April: Flight to Perth & Scitech
Today we fly to Perth and meet our local guide at the airport. We then transfer to the Quality Hotel Ambassador and enjoy the afternoon at leisure.
This evening we head to Scitech, an interactive and engaging science museum located in the heart of Perth, for a private function, which includes access to the largest planetarium in the Southern Hemisphere. Once inside, experience the wonders of the Universe during one of the internationally-renowned shows.
Meals: Breakfast
Wednesday 19th April: Dolphin, Penguin and Sea Lion Adventure Cruise
We head to the lovely city of Rockingham and depart on our Dolphin, Penguin and Sea Lion Adventure Cruise through the spectacular Shoalwater Islands Marine Park, where dolphins are the star attraction! Look out for them leaping from the wake of our boat or mothers with their new born calves. We then return through the wildlife sanctuary zone to visit the sea lions at Seal Island and to watch out for pelicans, ospreys, cormorants, terns and more. The cruise concludes on Penguin Island to see the penguin feeding, and we then enjoy free time on the island before heading back to the hotel.
Please be aware that we are visiting wild animals in their natural environment and therefore have no control over the animals’ appearance or behaviour.
This evening we enjoy a pre-eclipse presentation with Pete Lawrence who gives advice, information and guidance on the forthcoming eclipse.
Meals: Breakfast
Thursday 20th April: Eclipse Day & Exmouth
This morning we take a packed breakfast and transfer to Perth airport to catch our flight to Exmouth, located on the tip of the North West Cape in Western Australia. Upon arrival we board our coach and are taken close to the centre line of the eclipse shadow track, where we can enjoy the total solar eclipse for the maximum duration. There’s plenty of time to find your own space and set up any equipment ready to take in the wonder of the eclipse.
In the afternoon we visit the beautiful city of Exmouth where we enjoy some free time. Take the chance to explore the city, do some souvenir shopping or simply relax with a cup of coffee. After a few hours we fly back to Perth and are transferred to our hotel.
Meals: Packed Breakfast, In-flight snack
Friday 21st April: Perth
On our last full day we head to Kings Park, the world’s largest inner city park which displays over 3,000 species of the state’s unique flora. During our time here we enjoy a guided walk over the famous glass bridge and visit the war memorial, set against the stunning backdrop of the Swan River and Perth’s skyline.
Next we stop for a photo at Perth’s iconic Cottesloe Beach before arriving in Fremantle, the historic port of Western Australia known for its Victorian architecture and maritime heritage. We drive through the city, passing the Cappuccino Strip, Fishing Boat Harbour and Monument Hill, before stopping at Little Creatures brewery for lunch (not included). Our coach then takes us to the B Shed Jetty, where we depart on a cruise along the Swan River back to Perth. We enjoy complimentary wine tasting and take in famous sights such as the Yacht Club, the magnificent Mansions and Swan Brewery, complete with commentary from our captain. We disembark at Elizabeth Quay and from here our guide accompanies us on the short walk back to the hotel.
This evening we gather for a post-eclipse presentation with Pete Lawrence at the Goodearth Hotel, just across the road from our hotel, which also gives us a chance to share our eclipse experiences with our fellow travellers.
Meals: Breakfast
Saturday 22nd & Sunday 23rd April: Departure
After our last breakfast at the hotel, we transfer to Perth airport for our flight home, arriving back in the UK the following day.
Meals: Breakfast (Saturday)
Please note: as the tour has been planned far in advance, the itinerary and price are subject to change.
Accommodation
The 4-star Pacific Hotel overlooks Trinity Harbour and is located on the Cairns Esplanade, in walking distance of the city’s main attractions. The modern rooms offer a perfect sanctuary at the end of a busy day of sightseeing, with free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV and tea and coffee-making facilities. The hotel also features an outdoor swimming pool with lovely views and a bar and restaurant.
The Voyages Ayers Rock Resort is located in the small town of Yulara, near the iconic natural landmark of Uluru. We stay either at the 4-star Desert Gardens Hotel or the 5-star Sails in the Desert Hotel in the resort. All the rooms feature free Wi-Fi and tea and coffee-making facilities and both hotels also offer a swimming pool, terrace, and a bar and restaurant.
The 4-star Metro Marlow Sydney Central Hotel is located in the heart of Sydney, less than a 10-minute walk from Darling Harbour and Sydney’s main shopping district. The spacious rooms offer cable TV, tea and coffee-making facilities and free Wi-Fi and there is also a rooftop swimming pool and a restaurant at the hotel.
The 4-star Quality Hotel Ambassador Hotel is located on Adelaide Terrace in the centre of Perth. The well-appointed rooms feature free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TV with movies-on-demand and the hotel also offers a gym, sauna, bar and restaurant.
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Eclipse 2023 – The Wonders of Australia
7 April 2023
17 days from £6,299pp
Join us on an unforgettable adventure to witness the grandeur of a total solar eclipse in Western Australia, which promises to be a truly special experience.
This unique tour will be accompanied in Australia by astronomer, astrophotographer and Sky at Night TV presenter Pete Lawrence. Of course the main event and focus of this trip is the magnificent solar eclipse and on the day of this phenomenon, with Pete’s expert advice, we are taken into the path of ‘totality’, close to the centre line of the eclipse shadow track. This will be at a location chosen to give us a good chance of clear skies. Pete will give various presentations and advice during the trip too.
With a stopover in Singapore* to explore this vibrant city state, the rest of this wonderful tour is spent discovering some of Australia’s most iconic sights as we travel across this beautiful country of contrasts. From snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef and enjoying a special sunrise tour of Uluru, to admiring Sydney’s famous landmarks and dolphin watching in Rockingham, this adventure of a lifetime won’t disappoint.
Trip Highlights
Flight to Cairns (stopover in Singapore) and return from Perth*
Domestic flights from Cairns to Ayers Rock, Ayers Rock to Sydney and Sydney to Perth
Return charter flight from Perth to Exmouth
Airport taxes and luggage allowance (one piece of checked-in hold luggage per person)
Airport transfers in Singapore & Australia
2 nights at a selected 4-star hotel in Singapore with breakfast
12 nights at selected 4-star hotels in Australia with breakfast
1 lunch
Excursions to Uluru, Kata Tjuta, Blue Mountains, Featherdale Wildlife Park, Exmouth & Fremantle
Excursion to a carefully-selected location for the eclipse (includes safety viewing glasses)
Outer Great Barrier Reef, Darling Harbour, Rockingham Wildlife & Swan River cruises (includes buffet lunch on Great Barrier Reef & Darling Harbour cruises)
Private Cape Tribulation & Daintree tour
Uluru sunset tour with sparkling wine & nibbles and sunrise tour
Private tour of Sydney Opera House
The Rocks Dreaming Heritage walking tour
Private function at Scitech
Guided tours of Sydney & Perth
Pre & post-eclipse presentations with Pete Lawrence
Tour accompanied in Australia by astronomer Pete Lawrence
Local guides on excursions
Services of a tour manager
Itinerary
Friday 7th & Saturday 8th April: Flight to Singapore
Check in for our flight to Singapore, landing the following day. Upon arrival we are met by our local representative and transfer to our hotel, where we stay for two nights.
The rest of the day is yours to explore the city or relax in the hotel. Founded as a trading post for the British Empire, Singapore is currently the only city-island-nation in the world and offers a wealth of exciting and new experiences.
Meals: None
Sunday 9th April: Singapore
After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a day of sightseeing in vibrant Singapore where there is plenty to see and do. Take a trip to the fascinating ArtScience Museum located in the famous Marina Bay Sands, visit the iconic Gardens by the Bay or enjoy a ride on the Singapore Flyer, a huge observation wheel offering incredible views of the city.
Meals: Breakfast
Monday 10th April: Flight to Australia & Cairns
Check in for our flight to Cairns, where we are met by our tour manager on arrival and transfer to the Pacific Hotel, our base for the next three nights. We have the afternoon at leisure to explore the diverse city of Cairns, known as the gateway to Queensland’s tropical north.
Later, we enjoy a welcome meeting at the hotel with our tour manager and Pete Lawrence.
Meals: Breakfast
Tuesday 11th April: Great Barrier Reef
We meet our guide in the hotel lobby and walk to Cairns marina. From here we board our cruise to the Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest coral reef complex and a World Heritage listed natural wonder. Our day includes a marine biologist presentation, morning and afternoon tea, buffet lunch, semi-submersible tour and glass bottom boat tour. Snorkelling equipment is also available for those who would like to experience the Great Barrier Reef underwater.
Meals: Breakfast, Buffet Lunch
Wednesday 12th April: Cape Tribulation & Daintree
This morning we depart for our private tour, which includes a Daintree River ferry to Cape Tribulation, often described as a little slice of tropical paradise where stunning beaches meet dense rainforest. We enjoy a guided rainforest walk, scenic drive past Thornton Beach and lunch at the Rainforest Café as well as free time in Cape Tribulation and the magnificent Alexandra Lookout. We also venture into the heart of the oldest rainforest in the world in search of saltwater crocodiles during our Cooper Creek cruise.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Thursday 13th April: Ayers Rock
We have an early start today to catch our flight to Ayers Rock. Upon arrival, we meet our driver/guide and then spend the day embracing the area’s culture, geology and environment. We begin with a drive around the base of Ayers Rock, a UNESCO World Heritage Site also known by its Aboriginal name of Uluru, followed by a short walk into the natural wonder of the Mutitjulu Waterhole. We then visit rock art sites and the local waterhole to learn about Uluru’s significance to the Anangu (local Aboriginal people). Next we drive around the rest of the base and experience the Mala walk, which follows the north-west side of Uluru, before transferring to the Voyages Ayers Rock Resort for check in.
This evening we enjoy a special sunset tour of Uluru, which includes sparkling wine and nibbles. We stay until after dark for a unique experience – star gazing with the imposing Uluru in the background.
Meals: Packed Breakfast
Friday 14th April: Ayers Rock & Flight to Sydney
This morning we are picked up early for a sunrise tour at Uluru, where we watch the desert come to life as the first rays of sunshine hit Australia’s best-known natural landmark. We return to the hotel for a leisurely breakfast before departing for a visit to the Olgas (Kata Tjuta) to view the spectacular rock formations and be dwarfed by these huge, mysterious red domes, with the tallest of them around 546 metres high. After our tour, we transfer to the airport and catch our flight to Sydney.
Upon arrival in Sydney we meet our local guide and transfer to the Metro Marlow Sydney Central Hotel where we stay for the next four nights.
Meals: Breakfast
Saturday 15th April: Sydney & Bondi Beach
A tour of Sydney’s highlights awaits us today, including St Mary's Cathedral, Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House, as well as the suburbs of The Rocks, Paddington, Kings Cross and Chinatown. Later we visit the famous Bondi Beach, where there is free time to relax or you can choose to join a guided walk from Bondi to Bronte. Next we are dropped off at the bustling Circular Quay for time at leisure and a chance to have lunch (not included) before walking to the Sydney Opera House, where we enjoy a private tour.
Meals: Breakfast
Sunday 16th April: Blue Mountains
Following breakfast we meet our guide for a full-day tour of the spectacular Blue Mountains, named after the delicate azure haze that lingers in the region. On the way, we visit the Featherdale Wildlife Park to get up close to Australian native animals before continuing to the Blue Mountains’ Echo Point Lookout to admire the famous Three Sisters, an iconic rock formation. We then have time for lunch (not included) before heading to Scenic World, where we enjoy a unique nature-based experience. With an unlimited pass on all attractions, take in the views at the Eaglehawk lookout before riding on the scenic cableway, railway and skyway or wind your way through the rainforest on the elevated boardwalk.
Afterwards we head back to the hotel and enjoy an informative presentation with Pete Lawrence in the evening.
Meals: Breakfast
Monday 17th April: The Rocks Dreaming Aboriginal Heritage Tour & Captain Cook Cruise
We start the day with a visit to The Rocks, a historic area of Sydney’s city centre. Here we join The Rocks Dreaming Aboriginal Heritage Tour and journey into the culture of Aboriginal people with our guide. Next we head to King Street Wharf to board the famous Captain Cook Cruise and depart on a seafood buffet lunch cruise around Darling Harbour. This afternoon we enjoy time at leisure in Darling Harbour where there is plenty to see, from the Chinese Garden to the Australian National Maritime Museum (entrance not included).
Meals: Breakfast, Buffet Lunch
Tuesday 18th April: Flight to Perth & Scitech
Today we fly to Perth and meet our local guide at the airport. We then transfer to the Quality Hotel Ambassador and enjoy the afternoon at leisure.
This evening we head to Scitech, an interactive and engaging science museum located in the heart of Perth, for a private function, which includes access to the largest planetarium in the Southern Hemisphere. Once inside, experience the wonders of the Universe during one of the internationally-renowned shows.
Meals: Breakfast
Wednesday 19th April: Dolphin, Penguin and Sea Lion Adventure Cruise
We head to the lovely city of Rockingham and depart on our Dolphin, Penguin and Sea Lion Adventure Cruise through the spectacular Shoalwater Islands Marine Park, where dolphins are the star attraction! Look out for them leaping from the wake of our boat or mothers with their new born calves. We then return through the wildlife sanctuary zone to visit the sea lions at Seal Island and to watch out for pelicans, ospreys, cormorants, terns and more. The cruise concludes on Penguin Island to see the penguin feeding, and we then enjoy free time on the island before heading back to the hotel.
Please be aware that we are visiting wild animals in their natural environment and therefore have no control over the animals’ appearance or behaviour.
This evening we enjoy a pre-eclipse presentation with Pete Lawrence who gives advice, information and guidance on the forthcoming eclipse.
Meals: Breakfast
Thursday 20th April: Eclipse Day & Exmouth
This morning we take a packed breakfast and transfer to Perth airport to catch our flight to Exmouth, located on the tip of the North West Cape in Western Australia. Upon arrival we board our coach and are taken close to the centre line of the eclipse shadow track, where we can enjoy the total solar eclipse for the maximum duration. There’s plenty of time to find your own space and set up any equipment ready to take in the wonder of the eclipse.
In the afternoon we visit the beautiful city of Exmouth where we enjoy some free time. Take the chance to explore the city, do some souvenir shopping or simply relax with a cup of coffee. After a few hours we fly back to Perth and are transferred to our hotel.
Meals: Packed Breakfast, In-flight snack
Friday 21st April: Perth
On our last full day we head to Kings Park, the world’s largest inner city park which displays over 3,000 species of the state’s unique flora. During our time here we enjoy a guided walk over the famous glass bridge and visit the war memorial, set against the stunning backdrop of the Swan River and Perth’s skyline.
Next we stop for a photo at Perth’s iconic Cottesloe Beach before arriving in Fremantle, the historic port of Western Australia known for its Victorian architecture and maritime heritage. We drive through the city, passing the Cappuccino Strip, Fishing Boat Harbour and Monument Hill, before stopping at Little Creatures brewery for lunch (not included). Our coach then takes us to the B Shed Jetty, where we depart on a cruise along the Swan River back to Perth. We enjoy complimentary wine tasting and take in famous sights such as the Yacht Club, the magnificent Mansions and Swan Brewery, complete with commentary from our captain. We disembark at Elizabeth Quay and from here our guide accompanies us on the short walk back to the hotel.
This evening we gather for a post-eclipse presentation with Pete Lawrence at the Goodearth Hotel, just across the road from our hotel, which also gives us a chance to share our eclipse experiences with our fellow travellers.
Meals: Breakfast
Saturday 22nd & Sunday 23rd April: Departure
After our last breakfast at the hotel, we transfer to Perth airport for our flight home, arriving back in the UK the following day.
Meals: Breakfast (Saturday)
Please note: as the tour has been planned far in advance, the itinerary and price are subject to change.
Accommodation
We spend two nights at a selected 4-star hotel in Singapore.
The 4-star Pacific Hotel overlooks Trinity Harbour and is located on the Cairns Esplanade, in walking distance of the city’s main attractions. The modern rooms offer a perfect sanctuary at the end of a busy day of sightseeing, with free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV and tea and coffee-making facilities. The hotel also features an outdoor swimming pool with lovely views and a bar and restaurant.
The Voyages Ayers Rock Resort is located in the small town of Yulara, near the iconic natural landmark of Uluru. We stay either at the 4-star Desert Gardens Hotel or the 5-star Sails in the Desert Hotel in the resort. All the rooms feature free Wi-Fi and tea and coffee-making facilities and both hotels also offer a swimming pool, terrace, and a bar and restaurant.
The 4-star Metro Marlow Sydney Central Hotel is located in the heart of Sydney, less than a 10-minute walk from Darling Harbour and Sydney’s main shopping district. The spacious rooms offer cable TV, tea and coffee-making facilities and free Wi-Fi and there is also a rooftop swimming pool and a restaurant at the hotel.
The 4-star Quality Hotel Ambassador Hotel is located on Adelaide Terrace in the centre of Perth. The well-appointed rooms feature free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TV with movies-on-demand and the hotel also offers a gym, sauna, bar and restaurant.
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ECLIPSE 2024 - THE BEST OF TEXAS
5 April 2024
6 Days from just £2499pp
Join us to witness the grandeur of a total solar eclipse in the southern state of Texas, USA which promises to be a truly special experience.
This unique tour will be accompanied by an expert astronomer and we’ll also be joined by astronomer, astrophotographer and Sky at Night TV presenter Pete Lawrence for the latter part of the tour. Of course the main event and focus of this trip is the magnificent solar eclipse and on the day of this phenomenon, with Pete’s expert advice, we are taken into the path of ‘totality’, close to the centre line of the eclipse shadow track. This will be at a location chosen to give us a good chance of clear skies. Pete will give various presentations and advice too.
During this wonderful tour we also visit NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston to learn more about space exploration.
Trip Highlights
Flight to Houston and return from Dallas*
Airport taxes and luggage allowance (one piece of checked-in hold luggage per person)
Airport transfers in Texas
2 nights at the 4-star Crowne Plaza Houston River Oaks Hotel with breakfast
2 nights at the 3-star Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Dallas Waxahachie with breakfast
Porterage at the Crowne Plaza Houston River Oaks Hotel
Admission to the Space Center Houston
Excursion to Ennis for the eclipse (includes safety viewing glasses)
Pre & post-eclipse presentations at the Waxahachie Civic Center with Pete Lawrence
Tour accompanied throughout by an expert astronomer
Part of the tour accompanied by astronomer Pete Lawrence
Local guides on excursions
Itinerary
Friday 5th April: Flight to Houston
Check in for our flight to Houston, Texas. On arrival, we are met by our local representative and transfer to the Crowne Plaza Houston River Oaks Hotel, our base for the next two nights.
Meals: None
Saturday 6th April: Space Center Houston
After breakfast we enjoy a welcome presentation by our expert astronomer at the hotel. We then spend the day at NASA’s Johnson Space Center, one of Houston’s top attractions, which boasts many interactive displays with everything from space artefacts to a full-size rocket and space shuttle. Here we can learn about space exploration from fascinating hands-on exhibits.
Later, enjoy dinner (not included) in the collection of historic Houston neighbourhoods known as the Heights, an area dotted with independent shops and trendy restaurants.
Meals: Breakfast
Sunday 7th April: Houston to Waxahachie
Checking out of our Houston hotel, we head to Waxahachie. On arrival, we check in to the Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Dallas Waxahachie where we stay for the last two nights of our tour.
This evening, we enjoy a pre-eclipse presentation with Pete Lawrence at the Waxahachie Civic Center, located next to the hotel.
Meals: Breakfast
Monday 8th April: Solar Eclipse in Ennis
Following breakfast at the hotel, we head to Ennis. Here we can enjoy the total solar eclipse for the maximum duration, scheduled to start around 12.22pm. There’s plenty of time to find your own space and set up any equipment ready to take in the wonder of the eclipse.
Later we return to our Waxahachie hotel.
Meals: Breakfast
Tuesday 9th & Wednesday 10th April: Post-eclipse presentation & overnight flight home
After breakfast we return to the Waxahachie Civic Center for a post-eclipse presentation with Pete Lawrence which also gives us a chance to share our eclipse experiences with our fellow travellers. Afterwards, we transfer to Dallas airport for our flight home, arriving back in the UK the following day.
Meals: Breakfast (Tuesday)
Please note: as the tour has been planned far in advance, the itinerary and price are subject to change.
Accommodation
Located in the centre of Houston, the 4-star Crowne Plaza Houston River Oaks Hotel is ideally situated to enjoy the many shops, restaurants and attractions of the city. All the air-conditioned rooms offer free Wi-Fi, cable TV, microwave and fridge. Hotel amenities include Reeds Restaurant and Bar & Lounge, an outdoor pool (seasonal) and 24-hour fitness centre.
The 3-star Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Dallas Waxahachie is located just beyond the southern suburbs of Dallas in Waxahachie. The hotel features an outdoor pool (seasonal), fitness centre, lounge and free Wi-Fi and all rooms offer a seating area, satellite TV and air-conditioning.
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Eclipse 2024 – The Best of Texas
2 April 2024
9 Days from just £3299pp
Join us to witness the grandeur of a total solar eclipse in the southern state of Texas, USA which promises to be a truly special experience.
This unique tour will be accompanied by an expert astronomer and we’ll also be joined by astronomer, astrophotographer and Sky at Night TV presenter Pete Lawrence for the latter part of the tour. Of course the main event and focus of this trip is the magnificent solar eclipse and on the day of this phenomenon, with Pete’s expert advice, we are taken into the path of ‘totality’, close to the centre line of the eclipse shadow track. This will be at a location chosen to give us a good chance of clear skies. Pete will give various presentations and advice too.
During this wonderful tour we also visit NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, discover the vibrant cities of San Antonio, Austin and Dallas, visit the famous Alamo and enjoy a cattle drive and championship rodeo for an authentic taste of the ‘Lone Star State’.
Trip Highlights
Flight to Houston and return from Dallas*
Airport taxes and luggage allowance (one piece of checked-in hold luggage per person)
Airport transfers in Texas
2 nights at the 4-star Crowne Plaza Houston River Oaks Hotel with breakfast
1 night at the 3-star Hampton Inn San Antonio Downtown Riverwalk with breakfast
1 night at the 3-star Holiday Inn Austin-Town Lake with breakfast
3 nights at the 3-star Hampton Inn & Suites Waxahachie with breakfast
Porterage at the hotels (except the Holiday Inn Austin-Town Lake)
Admission to the Space Center Houston & the Stockyards Championship Rodeo
San Antonio River Cruise
Visits to the Alamo & the Dallas Sixth Floor Museum
Guided tours of Austin & Dallas
Watch the cattle drive at Fort Worth Stockyards
Excursion to Ennis for the eclipse (includes safety viewing glasses)
Pre & post-eclipse presentations at the Waxahachie Civic Center with Pete Lawrence
Tour accompanied throughout by an expert astronomer
Part of the tour accompanied by astronomer Pete Lawrence
Local guides on excursions
Itinerary
Tuesday 2nd April: Flight to Houston
Check in for our flight to Houston, Texas. On arrival, we are met by our local representative and transfer to the Crowne Plaza Houston River Oaks Hotel, our base for the next two nights.
Meals: None
Wednesday 3rd April: Space Center Houston
After breakfast we enjoy a welcome presentation by our expert astronomer at the hotel. We then spend the day at NASA’s Johnson Space Center, one of Houston’s top attractions, which boasts many interactive displays with everything from space artefacts to a full-size rocket and space shuttle. Here we can learn about space exploration from fascinating hands-on exhibits.
Later, enjoy dinner (not included) in the collection of historic Houston neighbourhoods known as the Heights, an area dotted with independent shops and trendy restaurants.
Meals: Breakfast
Thursday 4th April: San Antonio & River Cruise
Checking out of our Houston hotel this morning, we travel to San Antonio. On arrival there’s the chance to enjoy lunch along the San Antonio River Walk (not included). This afternoon we board our boat for a relaxing river cruise along the San Antonio River. The boat’s captain shares fascinating stories about the city’s culture, history and architecture during this 35-minute cruise.
Later we transfer to the Hampton Inn San Antonio Downtown Riverwalk where we stay overnight. This evening we enjoy a presentation with an expert astronomer at the San Antonio Meeting Center.
Meals: Breakfast
Friday 5th April: The Alamo & Austin
After checking out of our hotel this morning we visit the Alamo, site of the famous, pivotal battle in the Texas Revolution in 1836. Next, we depart for Austin, the capital of Texas, where we stay overnight at the Holiday Inn Austin-Town Lake.
This afternoon we enjoy a sightseeing tour of Austin with a local guide. Known as the Live-Music Capital, the city has managed to retain a small-town charm and is home to unique attractions, a vibrant arts scene and beautiful outdoor spaces, from the shores of Lady Bird Lake to the city’s highest vantage point on Mount Bonnell.
In the evening there’s the option to visit the Continental Club, a retro Austin venue that opened in 1957 and is a mecca for roots, rockabilly, country and swing music.
Meals: Breakfast
Saturday 6th April: Fort Worth Stockyards, Championship Rodeo & Waxahachie
We check out of our Austin hotel and head to Fort Worth, arriving at Fort Worth Stockyards in time to watch the late afternoon cattle drive. There’s then time for dinner (not included) before gathering to attend the Stockyards Championship Rodeo at the Cowtown Coliseum.
Afterwards you may choose to cap off the night at Billy Bob’s for a drink, listening to country music and dancing the Texas Two-Step, or try riding a mechanical bull! Later we transfer to the Hampton Inn & Suites in Waxahachie where we stay for the remainder of the tour.
Meals: Breakfast
Sunday 7th April: Dallas
This morning we enjoy an orientation tour of Dallas, a city that offers a unique blend of South-western warmth, cosmopolitan flair, old west charm and modern sophistication. We then visit the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza. The museum, located within the former Texas School Book Depository building, chronicles the assassination of President John F. Kennedy.
In the evening, we enjoy a pre-eclipse presentation with Pete Lawrence at the Waxahachie Civic Center.
Meals: Breakfast
Monday 8th April: Solar Eclipse in Ennis
Following breakfast at the hotel, we head to Ennis. Here we can enjoy the total solar eclipse for the maximum duration, scheduled to start around 12.22pm. There’s plenty of time to find your own space and set up any equipment ready to take in the wonder of the eclipse.
Later we head back to our Waxahachie hotel.
Meals: Breakfast
Tuesday 9th & Wednesday 10th April: Post-eclipse presentation & overnight flight home
After breakfast we return to the Waxahachie Civic Center for a post-eclipse presentation with Pete Lawrence which also gives us a chance to share our eclipse experiences with our fellow travellers. Afterwards, we transfer to Dallas airport for our flight home, arriving back in the UK the following day.
Meals: Breakfast (Tuesday)
Please note: as the tour has been planned far in advance, the itinerary and price are subject to change.
Accommodation
Located in the centre of Houston, the 4-star Crowne Plaza Houston River Oaks Hotel is ideally situated to enjoy the many shops, restaurants and attractions of the city. All the air-conditioned rooms offer free Wi-Fi, cable TV, microwave and fridge. Hotel amenities include Reeds Restaurant and Bar & Lounge, an outdoor pool (seasonal) and 24-hour fitness centre.
As the name suggests, the 3-star Hampton Inn San Antonio Downtown Riverwalk is located in downtown San Antonio. All the rooms include free Wi-Fi, cable TV, coffee maker, microwave and fridge. The hotel also offers a bar, an outdoor pool (seasonal) and a gym.
The 3-star Holiday Inn Austin-Town Lake is situated on scenic Lady Bird Lake (also known as Town Lake), overlooking downtown Austin. The hotel features a Boathouse Grill, fitness centre and an outdoor rooftop pool. The modern rooms offer free Wi-Fi, satellite TV, coffee maker, fridge and microwave.
The 3-star Hampton Inn & Suites Waxahachie is located a short drive from downtown Waxahachie. Hotel amenities include an indoor pool, Jacuzzi and small gym. Cable TV, microwave, fridge and coffee maker are standard in every room and free Wi-Fi is also available.
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ECLIPSE 2024 - A TEXAN ADVENTURE
28 March 2024
14 Days from just £3999pp
Join us to witness the grandeur of a total solar eclipse in the southern state of Texas, USA which promises to be a truly special experience.
This unique tour will be accompanied by astronomer, astrophotographer and Sky at Night TV presenter Pete Lawrence. Of course the main event and focus of this trip is the magnificent solar eclipse and on the day of this phenomenon, with Pete’s expert advice, we are taken into the path of ‘totality’, close to the centre line of the eclipse shadow track. This will be at a location chosen to give us a good chance of clear skies. Pete will give various presentations and advice during the trip too.
During this wonderful tour we also visit NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, discover the vibrant cities of San Antonio, Austin and Dallas, visit the famous Alamo and fascinating McDonald Observatory as well as enjoy a cattle drive and championship rodeo for an authentic taste of the ‘Lone Star State’.
Trip Highlights
Flight to Houston and return from Dallas*
Airport taxes and luggage allowance (one piece of checked-in hold luggage per person)
Airport transfers in Texas
12 nights at selected 2, 3 or 4-star hotels in Texas with breakfast
Porterage at hotels in Houston, San Antonio, San Angelo & Waxahachie ONLY
Admission to the Space Center Houston & the Stockyards Championship Rodeo
San Antonio River Cruise
Visits to the Alamo, Dallas Sixth Floor Museum, Paint Rock & McDonald Observatory
Guided tours of Austin & Dallas
Watch the cattle drive at Fort Worth Stockyards
Excursion to Ennis for the eclipse (includes safety viewing glasses)
Pre & post-eclipse presentations at the Waxahachie Civic Center with Pete Lawrence
Tour accompanied throughout by astronomer Pete Lawrence
Local guides on excursions
Services of a tour manager
Itinerary
Thursday 28th March: Flight to Houston
Check in for our flight to Houston, Texas. On arrival, we are met by our local representative and transfer to the Crowne Plaza Houston River Oaks Hotel, our base for the next two nights.
Meals: None
Friday 29th March: Space Center Houston
After breakfast we enjoy a welcome presentation at the hotel. We then spend the day at NASA’s Johnson Space Center, one of Houston’s top attractions, which boasts many interactive displays with everything from space artefacts to a full-size rocket and space shuttle. Here we can learn about space exploration from fascinating hands-on exhibits.
Later, enjoy dinner (not included) in the collection of historic Houston neighbourhoods known as the Heights, an area dotted with independent shops and trendy restaurants.
Meals: Breakfast
Saturday 30th March: San Antonio & River Cruise
Checking out of our Houston hotel this morning, we travel to San Antonio. On arrival there’s the chance to enjoy lunch along the San Antonio River Walk (not included). This afternoon we board our boat for a relaxing river cruise along the San Antonio River. The boat’s captain shares fascinating stories about the city’s culture, history and architecture during this 35-minute cruise.
Later we transfer to the Hampton Inn San Antonio Downtown Riverwalk where we stay overnight.
Meals: Breakfast
Sunday 31st March: The Alamo & Austin
After checking out of our hotel this morning we visit the Alamo, site of the famous, pivotal battle in the Texas Revolution in 1836. Next, we depart for Austin, the capital of Texas, where we stay at the Holiday Inn Austin-Town Lake for two nights.
This afternoon, we enjoy a sightseeing tour of Austin with a local guide. Known as the Live-Music Capital, the city has managed to retain a small-town charm and is home to unique attractions, a vibrant arts scene and beautiful outdoor spaces, from the shores of Lady Bird Lake to the city’s highest vantage point on Mount Bonnell.
In the evening there’s the option to visit the Continental Club, a retro Austin venue that opened in 1957 and is a mecca for roots, rockabilly, country and swing music.
Meals: Breakfast
Monday 1st April: Austin & ACL Live at the Moody Theater
We begin the day with an orientation tour of downtown Austin to see such sites as the University of Texas, the Capitol Building and 360 Bridge. You may then wish to stop for lunch at one of Austin’s famous Food Trucks.
This afternoon, we enjoy a tour of ACL Live at the Moody Theater, the permanent home of Austin City Limits, the longest running music series in American television history. There’s also time to visit SoCo, a vibrant neighbourhood that oozes homespun character and boasts the story of Austin’s yesteryear with its boutiques, eateries, galleries and music venues.
In the evening we enjoy a presentation with Pete Lawrence at the hotel.
Meals: Breakfast
Tuesday 2nd April: Fredericksburg & San Angelo
We check out of our Austin hotel and head to San Angelo, driving through the hill country and stopping en-route in Fredericksburg, a charming town that proudly embraces its extensive German heritage. Walk the town's streets and pass Gothic-style churches with pointed archways and vaulted ceilings. Enjoy lunch at one of the restaurants serving savoury schnitzels and tall pints of dunkelweizen.
Continuing on to San Angelo we check in to the Pearl on the Concho Hotel where we stay overnight. There’s time to explore the historic downtown, where a mix of modern art and Western heritage create a unique experience.
We enjoy another interesting presentation with Pete Lawrence at the hotel this evening.
Meals: Breakfast
Wednesday 3rd April: Paint Rock & Pecos
Before departing for Pecos, we visit Paint Rock. Texas hosts a number of premier rock art sites, shelters and rock faces painted by history’s Native Americans as well as the prehistoric peoples who came before them. The pictographs reveal clues about the inhabitants who occupied the country up to the arrival of Europeans. The Paint Rock site is considered one of the state’s major pictograph collections.
We continue to Pecos and check in to Best Western Swiss Clock Inn, our base for the next two nights.
Meals: Breakfast
Thursday 4th April: McDonald Observatory
Today we travel to the McDonald Observatory, an astronomical observatory that is part of the University of Texas, located on Mount Locke in the Davis Mountains of West Texas. Visit the exhibit gallery inside the Frank N. Bash Visitors Center, the Solar Viewing Program in the theatre, and tour the 433-inch Hobby-Eberly Telescope. We also take a private viewing tour of the research area.
Meals: Breakfast
Friday 5th April: Abilene
Leaving Pecos, we head to Abilene and check in to the Courtyard by Marriott Southwest/Abilene Mall South where we stay overnight.
This evening we enjoy a presentation with Pete Lawrence at the hotel.
Meals: Breakfast
Saturday 6th April: Fort Worth Stockyards, Championship Rodeo & Waxahachie
We check out of our Abilene hotel and head to Fort Worth, arriving at Fort Worth Stockyards in time to watch the late afternoon cattle drive. There’s then time for dinner (not included) before gathering to attend the Stockyards Championship Rodeo at the Cowtown Coliseum.
Afterwards you may choose to cap off the night at Billy Bob’s for a drink, listening to country music and dancing the Texas Two-Step, or try riding a mechanical bull! Later we transfer to the Holiday Inn Express & Suites in Waxahachie where we stay for the remainder of the tour.
Meals: Breakfast
Sunday 7th April: Dallas
This morning we enjoy an orientation tour of Dallas, a city that offers a unique blend of South-western warmth, cosmopolitan flair, old west charm and modern sophistication. We then visit the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza. The museum, located within the former Texas School Book Depository building, chronicles the assassination of President John F. Kennedy.
In the evening, we enjoy a pre-eclipse presentation with Pete Lawrence at the Waxahachie Civic Center.
Meals: Breakfast
Monday 8th April: Solar Eclipse in Ennis
Following breakfast at the hotel, we head to Ennis. Here we can enjoy the total solar eclipse for the maximum duration, scheduled to start around 12.22pm. There’s plenty of time to find your own space and set up any equipment ready to take in the wonder of the eclipse.
Later we head back to our Waxahachie hotel.
Meals: Breakfast
Tuesday 9th & Wednesday 10th April: Post-eclipse presentation & overnight flight home
After breakfast we return to the Waxahachie Civic Center for a post-eclipse presentation with Pete Lawrence which also gives us a chance to share our eclipse experiences with our fellow travellers. Afterwards, we transfer to Dallas airport for our flight home, arriving back in the UK the following day.
Meals: Breakfast (Tuesday)
Please note: as the tour has been planned far in advance, the itinerary and price are subject to change.
Accommodation
We’ll stay at a selection of 2, 3 or 4-star hotels in Houston, San Antonio, Austin, San Angelo, Pecos, Abilene and Waxahachie.
Helpful Information
Regrettably, Omega Breaks cannot be held responsible for the non-appearance of any named astronomers and no refunds will be given in this event. However, a suitably qualified astronomer will be provided as a replacement in such circumstances.
*Air package holiday prices are correct at the time of publication but are subject to fluctuation and availability. The final price will depend on your chosen airport, airline and flight time. Terms and conditions apply. Errors and omissions excepted. Please visit our website for details.
Operated by Just Go! Holidays Ltd trading as Omega Breaks, ATOL No.10889
Westoe Travel act as agents for Omega Breas
Passport & visa information
A full UK passport is required with at least 6 months validity from your return date.
British Citizens need a visa to enter Australia. You can apply at https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/evisitor-651#Overview
For further advice on travel and current information, please refer to the Foreign & Commonwealth Office website: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/australia
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