Once-in-a-lifetime expeditions for daring travellers.
Forget your preconceptions of "adventure travel" - Abercrombie & Kent, the leading authority on luxury and experiential travel has created an entirely new portfolio of 15 Extreme Adventures, set to exceed expectations by combining the most spectacular destinations; the finest guides and A&K's trademark mixture of insider access, outstanding service and impeccable organisation on the ground. The result is nothing short of extraordinary: a collection of expeditions in the true Amundsen, Hillary and Shackleton sense of the word, designed to include extreme experiences and guaranteed to push each client to the limit.
Imagine guiding a team of huskies through the Taiga forest in Northern Norway, the silence broken only by the scrape of the sleigh’s runners; bracing against the G-force in a vertical 60,000ft climb in the cockpit of a fighter jet; standing alone on a glacier hundreds of miles from the nearest road, surrounded by a colony of 15,000 emperor penguins, or turning the safari clock back a 100 years, exploring Tanzania's wild Rufiji River.
"How many things have you done that you know, with absolute certainty, you will remember for the rest of your life?” says Peter Boese, Senior Vice President of A&K’s Extreme Adventures. “In the end, these experiences are all about providing the kind of memories that change the way we think about the world.”
“We each interpret 'challenge' in different ways," Boese continues. "Test your mettle against unforgiving forces of nature in the mountains or the desert, harness the raw power of mighty machines and open the door to the most awe-inspiring places on Earth.”
The first of A&K’s extraordinary new adventures will take place in Autumn 2008 - an extreme walking safari in Tanzania’s Selous, Africa’s largest protected wilderness and a UNESCO World Heritage site. After that, the programme will include mountain trekking to Everest Base Camp; climbing Mount Kilimanjaro; following in the footsteps of Lawrence of Arabia on desert expeditions in Egypt and Jordan; satisfying a need for speed in South Africa with a supersonic 50,000ft climb in a Hunter Hawker jet; tackling nature at its most challenging, navigating the vigorous Canning River in Alaska and arriving at the South Pole on skis.
Every expedition will be led by an A&K Extreme Adventure guide, all of whom have mastered the necessary bush and survival skills, are sensitive to human capabilities and limitations and know how to keep people motivated in tough conditions to bring the best out in each individual. Whether river rafting through grizzly bear territory or diving with whale sharks in Belize, A&K’s guides are experienced, educated and supremely qualified. They will evaluate every situation afresh, make the correct decision and carry it through with courage and resolve.
With Extreme Adventures, Abercrombie & Kent comes full circle. Its pioneering tented safaris were born from an insatiable desire to experience the world in ways that few dare, to consistently deliver journeys that defy all expectations. These Extreme Adventures are backed by nearly half a century of experience in satisfying the world’s most discerning travellers, a heritage which is unmatched in the travel industry. Abercrombie & Kent will take you to the ends of the earth and bring you back with incredible memories, skills and knowledge – and new insight into who you really are.
One of nature’s greatest wonders of the animal kingdom.
In the Masai Mara excitement is building up as the past few days have seen several river crossings by the zebra population who usually come ahead of the wildebeest. This is an indication that the Migration will enter the Mara plains earlier than anticipated.
The incredible wildebeest migration only happens in East Africa and is one of the most impressive displays of wildlife around the world. It is estimated that over 2 million animals migrate in a year-round pattern within Tanzania and Kenya, following the rain and greener pastures. Around mid July, August and September the grasslands of the Masai Mara in Kenya are covered by a mass of moving wildebeest as far as the eye can see (this is an act of nature and timings may vary slightly from year to year). It is a sight that will amaze you as you take in all the sights and sounds of nature and drama unfolding before your eyes as predators take advantage of the large numbers of the animals in the plains. Around October the main herds begin their journey towards Tanzania. The migration is also amazing when seen from above in a hot air balloon.
At Olonana, a luxury camp in the Mara, a wide range of activities are offered and apart from excellent game viewing you will also have an opportunity to experience Kenya’s rich cultural heritage by visiting the Maasai village which is adjacent to the camp and which 
Olonana supports. The camp holds a Silver rating from Ecotourism Kenya's Eco-rating scheme and guests may visit the wetland
project which cleanses wastewater naturally before returning it to the environment. There is also an opportunity to be a part of conservation efforts through a tree planting project where guests purchase and plant an indigenous tree which is then tagged and guests receive a certificate to recognize their contribution in helping curb deforestation in the Mara.
Olonana is offering an incredible migration special.
4 nights for the price of 3.
Offer valid until 31st August, 2008 and is subject to availability at the time of booking.
Offer is for accommodation and does not include flights and park fees.
The newly launched Unforgettable Walks to Take Before You Die is the fifth title in an international bestselling series of books that will help you search out essential sights and experiences around the world.
Photographers and writers Steve Watkins and Clare Jones draw on their years of international travel experience in selecting 30 of the world's most inspiring, spectacular and beautiful walks, each of which can be done within the space of a two-week break.
Over a period of just eight months during 2007, they travelled to 24 countries on five continents to photograph and research the book.
Their choices include a wide range of locations, from urban walking tours along Boston's Freedom Trail and the stunning temples of Kyoto, to the open countryside of the Yellowstone National Park in the USA and Peru's Inca Trail. There are leisurely jaunts, such as Frank Lloyd Wright's Fallingwater property and a stroll around the picturesque canals of Amsterdam, as well as a few demanding walks such as the Alpine Tour du Mont Blanc, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania and China's Tiger Leaping Gorge trek, for those who like a challenge.
Richly illustrated throughout with over 300 of Steve and Clare's specially commissioned photographs, Unforgettable Walks to Take Before You Die is for anyone looking for an inspirational trip of a lifetime.
Star entry in the book is the Inca Trail, a unique route rich in cultural, archeological and natural wonders. On his second visit Steve Watkins finds 21st century comforts perfect the experience.
INCA TRAIL OPTIONS
Steve Watkins took the Abercrombie & Kent Original Inca tour. This 4 day, 3 night journey
includes private guide, camping in two-man tents, all meals and drinks
(excluding alcohol), return train fares and permits and costs from £795
per person sharing (cost for the 4th night in Machu Picchu not included).
Alternatively you can do the Inca trail in style and luxury with the A&K
Deluxe Inca trail. This private guided trek includes the best 4 season allweather
tents, thermarest sleeping bags and pillows and your own private
shower with hot water. After a day’s trekking, let your private massage
therapist ease your aching muscles with a rejuvenating massage. This
is followed by a gourmet meal prepared by your own dedicated chef
and served silver service style, washed down with a glass of chilled
champagne! Prices from £2,685 per person sharing. Once you arrive
at the Machu Picchu Sun Gate, A&K can help you make the most of
your citadel visit, by arranging for Alfredo Mormontoy, the head of
research and excavations in Machu Picchu and probably the world’s
leading authority on Machu Picchu, to personally show you around the
site. Prices from £375 per person sharing. A&K can arrange a 10-day
trip to Peru, including international flights, accommodation, horse riding
and rafting in the Sacred Valley, with the Original Inca trail from
£3,155 per person.
With calm returned to Kenya and business going on as usual, the mood in country is one of relief and celebration. The Kenyan people are delighted to see an end to the political stalemate and to start working together on the road to bring the country back to its position as one of Africa’s more promising economies and politically-stable countries.
On 27th December 2007, Kenyan voters went to the polling stations in large numbers and peacefully cast their votes. This was followed by three days of politically charged vote tallying. Allegations of fraud in the tallying process led to protests that, in some areas of the country, turned into riots and looting. Kofi Annan, former UN Secretary-General led mediation talks and worked with a distinguished team of other African leaders. Increased pressure from the Kenyan people and the local media who created a joint cry for peace under the banner ‘Save Kenya’, together with mounting pressure from the international communities led to the signing of a power-sharing agreement between President Mwai Kibaki and ODM opposition leader, Raila Odinga. Kenya's political deal has come as a great relief to the international community who have shown their support for the power sharing deal which creates the new posts of Prime Minister and two deputy prime ministers.
Kenya’s stability determines regional access to energy supplies and basic commodities for its neighboring countries, it also guarantees a safe environment for hundreds of refugees and has been a leading light in its neighboring peace processes.
In the tourism industry numerous cancellations, even though the tourism areas have remained relatively unaffected by the violence, have led to losses running into tens of millions of US dollars and thousands of job lay offs. Last year was a record year for Kenya's tourism industry (about USD 1 billion dollars) and accounting for 15 percent of GDP and this year was forecast to be better still. A huge slump in tourist bookings was experienced as the international media rushed in and beamed their images to the world. Calm had returned to most of the country in just a few weeks but the images kept rolling, one media house would report that Nairobi streets were peaceful, while another would give updates using repeated clips to show images of chaos. During this period tourists returning home after their safari in Kenya could hardly believe what they were seeing on TV as they had just returned from the country and had not seen or felt any of the violence they were hearing about in the media.
Western countries have relaxed their travel advisories for Kenya, some charter flights have resumed ferrying tourists to the country and generally the bookings have started trickling in. In February, even before the power-sharing agreement was signed we saw over 300 tourists arrive in the coastal town of Mombasa on charter flights and cruise ships.
Mr. Kibaki as the President and Mr. Odinga as the new Prime Minister have both pledged to reunite the nation and agreed to form a Grand Coalition to run the country. They have also agreed to a 50/50 spilt in cabinet positions and to lead the process of rewriting the constitution to accommodate all the new changes envisaged to build a stronger and more united Kenya. Mr. Kibaki will preside over the initial parliamentary session on March 6th and the two major parties have agreed to have a common legislative agenda aimed at bringing the country back together.
It should be noted that most of the areas visited by tourists were largely unaffected during this challenging period and clients from around the World did continue visiting the country albeit in less than usual numbers. With its scenic beauty and abundant wildlife, Kenya is one of Africa's major year round safari destinations, offering a unique combination of wildlife, white sandy beaches, breathtaking scenery with a fine blend of landscapes, good climate and ancient cultural experiences.
Abercrombie & Kent, the leading authority on luxury adventure and experiential travel, is delighted to unveil its Private Jet Programme for 2008/09. When time is of the essence, money no object and luxury a priority, forget scheduled flights – discover the world by Private Jet.
Increasingly, privileged travellers are opting to fly by Private Jet, enabling them to see the world with like-minded companions and private hosts, ensuring airport procedures are accelerated, luggage goes where it should, transfers are smooth, and the whole experience is as luxurious and seamless as possible.
A&K’s Private Jet Journeys use a custom-fitted Boeing 757-200 ER aircraft, which has been redesigned to accommodate a maximum of 52 passengers in VIP seats. Designer amenities and sumptuous in-flight meals are complemented by a spacious on-board lounge and unprecedented levels of comfort and service. All itineraries also include the services of A&K’s Professional Travel Directors to ensure each day’s activities are tailored to suit the client’s personal tastes and interests.
In an age where life changing experiences are more in demand than material goods, A&K’s Private Jet portfolio boasts a range of exclusive ‘insider access’ opportunities – such as private openings of Egypt's Museum of Antiquities and St. Petersburg’s Hermitage; entry to the private Dubai Polo Club for a match and lunch afterwards with the players; dinner at Groote Schuur, Cape Town’s former residence of Cecil Rhodes – all of which contribute to ensure that A&K clients enjoy a truly unrivalled travel experience.
A&K’s Sample Itineraries:
Nine World Wonders (13 January – 06 February OR 07 February – 02 March 2008)
Highlights include: The lost city of Machu Picchu, Peru; the stunning Moai monuments on Easter Island; a Fia Fia feast in Samoa; a tour of Sydney and its iconic Opera House; the wonders of Angkor Wat, Cambodia; Jodhpur and the Taj Mahal; the ‘Rose-Red City’ of Petra and Wadi Rum in Jordan and the Pyramids and Sphinx in Cairo.
Cultural Treasures Around the World (10 October – 03 November 2008)
Highlights include: Bora Bora, the heart of Polynesia; Sydney and its iconic Opera House; a Myanmar cruise aboard the Orient Express Road to Mandalay; the Taj Mahal, India’s monument to love; an authentic Arabian experience in Dubai; the art treasures of Pisa and Florence; historic Prague and Russia’s elegant St. Petersburg.
Africa: Cultures, Caravans & Safaris (03 – 22 November 2008)
Highlights include: The rock-hewn churches of Lalibela in Ethiopia; a big game safari in the Masai Mara; luxury accommodation in South Africa; rich game drives in Singita; the raw beauty of Cape Town & Cape Pointe; the magnificent Victoria Falls; the caravan outpost of Timbuktu and a chance to experience the blend of Berber traditions and modern luxuries in Marrakech.
Southward from the Peak: Hong Kong to Bora Bora (27 December 2008 – 19 January 2009)
Highlights include: Bringing in the start of 2009 in Hong Kong; travelling through Vietnam from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh; exploring the wonders of Angkor Wat, Cambodia; journeying aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express from Singapore to Bangkok; enjoying the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef and finally, relaxing in the beautiful island paradise of Bora Bora.
Africa: Desert Kingdoms & Natural Splendours (14 February – 08 March 2009)
Highlights include: Ethiopia, Mauritius, and the Victoria Falls - an all encompassing tour of desert, ocean and savannah; the unforgettable wildlife of the Serengeti and Kruger National Parks; the caravan outposts of remote Timbuktu and cosmopolitan Marrakech.
Emperors & Pharaohs (04 – 25 April 2009)
Highlights include: The Hypogeum, Malta’s only UNESCO site; a visit to Kochi in southern India’s Kerala; the Mekong town of Luang Prabang in Laos; Hanoi and Hue in Vietnam; the Taj Mahal and Rajasthan’s Jaipur; a Nile Cruise from Aswan to Luxor, including a tour of the stunning temples at Abu Simbel; the Pyramids of Giza, and Ephesus and Istanbul, Turkey.
For reservations please call A&K Private Travel on 0845 618 2206.
We are delighted to announce the launch of our first stand alone cruising brochure featuring the exclusively chartered M/V Clipper Odyssey for six exciting cultural and wildlife itineraries for 2008.
The 118-passenger vessel is large enough to offer space and all the comforts one would expect but small enough to reach remote areas which larger ships cannot access. The ship’s facilities include 64 well-appointed outside cabins and suites, some of which have private balconies; a sundeck, swimming pool, gymnasium, massage service, library and gift shop. In addition, M/V Clipper Odyssey is equipped with Zodiac dinghies enabling passengers to land closer to the shoreline and explore destinations inaccessible by road.
An expert team of expedition leaders and lecturers - comprising seasoned naturalists, geologists, historians and adventurers - have been carefully selected by A&K to accompany each voyage, providing an in-depth insight into places visited and wildlife encountered en route. The itineraries mainly focus on the wildlife and culture of each destination, providing once in a lifetime opportunities and experiences such as spotting a rare ‘spirit’ bear (a black bear with a completely white coat), witnessing humpback whales bubblenet feeding or meeting the nomadic Chukchi people of Kamchatka who rarely, if ever, encounter westerners.
Brightest and most spectacular of all the tombs in Luxor's 'City of the Dead', Nefertari’ s Tomb has long been closed to the general public. To preserve this pristine tomb private groups of no more than five people are allowed to visit, and stay a maximum of five minutes.
Nefertari was the wife of Ramesses the Great, and most unusually for a queen is honoured with her own temple at Abu Simbel. Her tomb in the Valley of the Queens is the largest and most beautifully decorated of all, an ancient marvel with bright living colours and spectacular craftsmanship. To step inside is to feel that time has stood still since 1255 BC when Nefertari died at a young age.
Prior arrangement is needed: allow four weeks for permission. Groups of up to five can book private visits through Abercrombie & Kent for £3,126 per party.
Sir Steve Redgrave and his family recently spent three weeks soaking up the rich colours and culture that Thailand has to offer, taking in the hustle and bustle of Bangkok, the paddy fields of Chaing Mai, the 'Golden Triangle' and the pristine beaches on the island of Koh Samui.
With a bespoke itinerary created using Abercrombie & Kent's insight and knowledge of the region, the Redgrave family experienced the very best of Thailand.
In Bangkok, A&K guide Dennis Tan took the family on a tour of the city's many fascinating sights, including the Royal Palace, the Golden Buddha and of course the network of Klongs which criss-cross the city. The Klongs proved to be an irresistible draw for Olympic gold medallist Sir Steve, who once again took to the water, rowing a traditional Thai boat.
North of Bangkok in Chang Mai, the Redgrave's experienced first hand the making of many traditional Thai crafts including silverware, woodcarvings and paper umbrellas, set in amongst the areas striking paddy fields which stretch for as far as the eye can see.
Further north at Chaing Rai in the heart of the 'Golden Triangle' - where Thailand, Burma and Laos border one another - Sir Steve and his family stayed in a luxury tented camp where they both learned the art of 'mahout' elephant trekking, and enjoyed luxurious, open-air spa treatments in the rainforest.
On the island of Koh Samui, situated in the azure waters of Thailand’s east coast, Sir Steve Redgrave, his wife and three children relaxed, enjoying the island's countless pristine beaches and seemingly unending blues skies and sunshine.
The Redgrave family's holiday itinerary was tailor-made by Abercrombie & Kent (0845 618 2204; www.abercrombiekent.co.uk/thailand).
Similar two-week itineraries cost from £4,179 per person. The price includes three nights' B&B at the Oriental Bangkok, three nights' B&B at Four Seasons Chiang Mai, three nights' full board at Four Seasons Tented Camp Chiang Rai and three nights' B&B at the Four Seasons Koh Samui; transfers; sightseeing; local assistance from the Bangkok A&K office; and return British Airways flights between Heathrow and Bangkok. Business class supplements start at £939 per person each way.
With the results announced, interest in some of the world's classic tourist destinations has been revived. At Abercrombie & Kent we go that little bit further to ensure your experiences at these incredible destinations are made that more special with our unique insider knowledge and attention to detail. Whether you wish to watch the unique light of dawn flush on the marble domes of the Taj Mahal to having a private tour of Macchu Picchu with the resident archaeologist, our wish is to ensure you have an inspiring experience.
Chichen Itza, Mexico
Grasp the sheer enormity of the advanced culture of the Maya civilisation in Central America already in decline whilst we were facing the French at the battle of Hastings…Observatories that show a superb understanding of the constellations, the Mayan calendar, perfect pyramids set with the solstice to show the shadow of a snake descending the pyramid. A&K would recommend staying for 1 night near the ruins so to avoid possible crowds that arrive around 11am from Cancun! This way you can also enjoy the son et lumiere show in the evening which is cleverly done and quite ‘chilling’ at some stages.
Private Journeys
The Royal Road, Mexico: Mexico City (3 nts) - Oaxaca (3 nts) - San Cristobal de las Casas (2 nts) - Palenque (1 nt) – Merida (2 nts) - Riviera Maya (3nts)
This incredible trip includes visits to the stunning ancient pre-Aztec City of Teotihuacan, the beautiful colonial city of Oaxaca and the traditional Mayan sites of Uxmal and Chichen Itza
A 15-day tour from £3795 per person inclusive of international flights and certain meals.
More details.
Hotels
Hacienda San Jose - A short drive east of Mérida, this exclusive Hacienda has just 15 delightfully decorated and spacious guestrooms which create an atmosphere of divine comfort. More details.
Escencia, Riviera Maya - Sited on the Riviera Maya, Esencia is a perfect example of how elegance and simplicity excels in such a perfect setting as Xpu-Ha beach. More details.
Christ the Redeemer, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
One of the most powerful images of Latin America presiding over one of the most beautiful cities in the world - Rio, a city of stunning bays, legendary beaches, granite mountains and beautiful people. Who better also to look down on the largest Catholic nation in the world? Any image of this statue immediately evokes samba, football, sunshine and bikinis…
A&K can arrange a helicopter tour around the famous statue and then continue on to Sugarloaf Mountain, Copacabana Beach and Maracana Stadium.
Private Journeys
Signature Brazil: Rio (3nts) - Iguaçu (2nts) - Pantanal (3nts) - Salvador (1 nt) - Praia do Forte (3nts)
This amazing 14-day tour evokes the very essence of Brazil, visiting the vibrant cities of Rio de Janeiro and Salvador, wondering at the world’s most impressive falls at Iguaçu, watching the unique Pantanal wildlife and delighting in the golden beaches of the northeast.
A 14-night tour from £3295 per person inclusive of flights, bed and breakfast and certain meals. More details.
Hotels
The Ipanema Plaza is a new, modern hotel, well located near the bars and restaurants, 100 metres from the fashionable Ipanema Beach and only five minutes walk from Copacabana. More details.
Copacabana Palace, Rio - A glance through the pages of the Copacabana Palace’s Golden Book is enough to confirm the hotel’s status among the world’s great hotels. More details.
Great Wall of China
The Great Wall, built and maintained between the 5th century BC and the 16th century is a testament to man's strength and perseverance. A UNESCO heritage site, the wall slithers and snakes its way 6,700 kilometres from east to west, bearing not just a little resemblance to a moving dragon.
Private Journeys
Signature China Tour: Beijing (3nts) – Xian (2nts) – Yangzi River Cruise (3nts) – Shanghai (3nts)
Fly a kite on the Great Wall; Dance to the beat of a Chinese drum. Work alongside a traditional farming family. Learn Chinese calligraphy. Watch acrobats train. Wander through Shanghai with a local or meet the Terracotta Warriors up close and personal. Let A&K make your holiday a truly inspiring experience.
This 15-day tour takes you through the wonderful sights, smells and sounds that is China. On this trip, see China in all its vibrancy as you visit the Forbidden City, the Great Wall of China, the Terracotta Warriors and embark on a Yangzi Cruise.
A 15-day tour from £4375 per person inclusive of international flights and most meals. More details.
Hotels
The Peninsula, Beijing - The Peninsula hotel offers 525 superbly appointed and spacious guest rooms and suites, based on The Peninsula's tradition of comfort, subtly blended with Chinese influences. More details.
Machu Picchu, Peru
The fact that this amazing site was forgotten and undiscovered for centuries, Machu Picchu evokes mysteries and tales of hidden civilisations, yet ultimately it is a serene sanctuary and testimony to the fascinating Inca culture.
Private Journeys
Spirit of the Andes: Lima (2 nts) - Arequipa (1 nt) - Colca Canyon (2 nts) - Lake Titicaca (2 nts) - Cusco (3 nts) - Machu Picchu (1 nt) - Cusco (1 nt) - Lima (1 nt)
This amazing and comprehensive tour literally highlights the 'spirit' of Peru, with visits to such places as Machu Picchu, The Sacred Valley of the Incas and the beautiful Lake Titicaca whilst also enjoying spectacular rail journeys.
A 14-day tour from £3935 per person inclusive of international flights, bed and breakfast and certain meals. More details.
Hotels
Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge - Nestled within the unique setting of the Machu Picchu Inca citadel itself, the Sanctuary Lodge allows you to enjoy a place rich in ancient heritage, spirituality and stunning natural beauty. More details.
Machu Picchu Pueblo Lodge - Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel is located in a private five-hectare cloud forest garden, alongside the Urubamba River and just on the edge of the village of Aguas Calientes. More details.
Petra, Jordan
Petra… found deep within a narrow gorge, the iconic sheer red cliffs rise 80 meters high, protecting it from the desert heat and helping it to remain hidden from the outside world until 1812. There is no other place, perhaps, in the whole of Jordan as famous as this incredible city, once the capital of the Nabateaeans, a 3rd century Arab dynasty. Best seen in the early morning or late afternoon to see the shadowy emphasis (make sure you have your camera with you!), the Treasury is perhaps the most recognisable, being featured as the home of the Holy Grail in 'Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade'.
Private Journeys
Signature Jordan Tour: Amman (2nts) – Petra (3nts) – Dead Sea (2nts)
Float in the Dead Sea, bathe in mud and bask in moonlight. Climb a mountain below sea level. Say hello to a mountain gazelle. Explore the Rose Red City carved from rock. Stroll through Roman Gerasa, meander past marching legionnaires. Watch gladiators fight and chariots race. See where Moses was buried and Jesus was baptised. See 200 years emerge before your eyes.
This eight-day tour takes you through the heart of Jordan, from desert to sea, Roman to Byzantium. Unravel the secrets of Amman, capture the dusky-pink light of Petra and revive your body and soul in the Dead Sea. This wonderful tour is complemented by carefully-selected luxury properties to ensure your experience is the best it can possibly be. More details.
Hotel
Movenpick Resort Petra - Located near the entrance to the Petra site, this property features oriental architecture. The resort offers 183 spacious rooms and suites with modern amenities, a wellness centre with pool, steam bath and gym. More details.
The Colosseum, Rome
The Colosseum - the greatest amphitheatre of the antiquity - rises behind the Roman Forum and was built in Rome about 1920 years ago. It is considered an architectural and engineering wonder, and remains as a standing proof of both the grandeur and the cruelty of the Roman world. The emperors held shows here which often began with animals performing circus tricks. Then on came the gladiators who fought each other to the death. The monument was designed to hold 55,000 spectators, and it had approximately eighty entrances so crowds could arrive and leave easily and quickly.
Private Journeys
Signature Italy: Rome (3nts) - Florence (3nts) - Venice (3nts)
This lovely tour takes a gentle meander through three of Italy's grandest cities, introducing you to the spectacle, culture and romance that is quintessentially Italian. Through this tour you will also benefit from staying in the best hotels Italy has to offer.
A 10-day tour from £2699 per person inclusive of international flights, first class rail, transfers and bed and breakfast.
More details.
Hotels
Hotel de Russie - Entered through an internal courtyard, the Hotel de Russie is located on the Via del Babuino between the Spanish Steps and the Piazza del Popolo. More details.
The Taj Mahal, India
The ultimate symbol of love, devotion and loss... what symbol could be more evocative than that of the Taj Mahal, commissioned by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan for his favourite wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Began in 1632 and completed in approximately 1648, this Wonder surely represents the intensity of human love.
Private Journeys
Signature North India Tour: Delhi (3 nts) - Agra (2 nts) - Jaipur (2 nts) - Jodphur (2 nts) - Devi Garh (1 nt) - Udaipur (2 nts)
Sleep in the Mahrani's room built by a thousand artisans, wake up to views of the desert. Play elephant polo in Jaipur. Design your own curry in Delhi. Be surrounded by stars in your bedouin tent. Breakfast at the Monsoon Palace, the Lake Palace or the Summer Palace. Let A&K make your holiday a truly inspiring experience.
This incredible 14-day tour takes you on a colourful tour of Northern India's stunning palaces and bustling bazaars. Visit the vibrant cities of Rajasthan, witness the sunrise and sunset at the Taj Mahal and marvel at the romantic Amber Fort in Jaipur.
A 14-day tour from £3709 per person inclusive of international flights, bed and breakfast. More details.
Hotels
The Oberoi Amarvilás - Just 600 meters from the Taj Mahal, Oberoi Hotel’s Amarvilás is a triumph of classic and contemporary lines and imposing features; a fitting complement to its illustrious neighbour. More details.