Taste of Egypt with Jordan (Sonesta St George)
Taste of Egypt with Jordan (Sonesta St George)
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Taste of Egypt with Jordan (Sonesta St George)
14 Days
Visiting: Egypt, Cairo, Luxor (Embarkation), Edfu, Luxor, Kom Ombo-Aswan, Aswan, Aswan (Disembarkation), Amman, Jordan, Petra, Dead Sea, Dead Sea. Excursion To Jerash Ruins, Africa, Europe, Middle East
Tour Overview
Take an extraordinary journey on this escorted tour of Egypt, beginning and ending in Cairo, followed by a 4-night stay in Jordan. Begin with a 3-night stay in Cairo—called the “Mother of the World”—to explore the legendary sites you’ve dreamed of seeing. Stand before the Sphinx and the Great Pyramid of Giza and Sakkara’s tombs of the kings. Survey King Tutankahmun’s treasures at the Egyptian Museum (note: upon its opening, the Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza will replace Cairo’s Egyptian Museum in this itinerary.)In Old Cairo, visit the Alabaster Mosque, situated on the summit of the Citadel. Visit Abu Serga Church built on the spot where the Holy Family stopped and rested towards the end of their journey to Egypt. Also see the 4th century Church of the Virgin Mary (called the Hanging Church), built on the remains of an old Roman Babylon fortress. These and more exciting discoveries are to be found as you see Egypt’s incredible monuments to pharaohs and gods of Egyptian history.Fly to Luxor to embark on your Nile River cruise. You’ll visit the monument of Karnak with its ancient, Avenue of the Sphinxes and the Temple of Amun-Ra as well as Luxor Temple. Visit the valley of Kings and Valley of Queens, where the pristine tomb of King Tutankahmun was found with undisturbed riches and splendour. This incredible cruise on the Nile River takes you to amazing ancient sites, including the Temple of Edfu, twin temples at Kom Ombo, devoted to the crocodile god Sobek-Ra and the falcon god Horus. Ponder the magnitude of the task of building the pyramids with a visit to the granite quarries—where an unfinished obelisk still remains. Visit the Temple of Isis, then take a return flight to Cairo to explore the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization and its Hall of Mummies before a felucca ride on the Nile and the chance to browse the bustling maze of the endless bazaar in Cairo’s medieval alleys. Your adventure continues with four nights in Jordan, with a flight from Cairo to Amman. Spend one night each in Amman and Petra, and two nights at the Dead Sea. Enjoy superior accommodations, transportation, and guided sightseeing with expert Local Guides to see the red city of Petra, Roman ruins of Amman, the ruins of Jerash, and the Dead Sea.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Cairo,Egypt
Location: Egypt, Cairo
Welcome to Cairo, “Mother of the World”
CAIRO, EGYPT Welcome to Cairo, “Mother of the World”
Day 2: Cairo
Location: Cairo
Meals Included: Breakfast
This evening, enjoy a Guided Visit to the National Museum of Civilization, displaying a collection of 50,000 artifacts, presenting the Egyptian civilization from prehistoric times to the present day.
CAIRO Desert Sands and Secrets of the Sphinx CLASSIC This morning take a close-up look at one of the World’s Seven Wonders and guardian of the great pyramids, the enigmatic Sphinx, and the Great Pyramid of Giza. Cheops, with an original height of 496 feet, is the most colossal pyramid ever built, and of course enjoy the visit to the newly discovered the Noble tombs.Afterwards, enjoy free time for lunch in a local restaurant.CLASSIC Drive to Sakkara, a vast desert necropolis built for kings and nobles, and its “Stairway to the Sky,” the oldest of all pyramids. Also admire the special tomb of Mary Roca and the Step Pyramid of King Zoser.CLASSIC This evening, enjoy a Guided Visit to the National Museum of Civilization, displaying a collection of 50,000 artifacts, presenting the Egyptian civilization from prehistoric times to the present day.(B)
Day 3: Cairo
Location: Cairo
Meals Included: Breakfast
*Note:Upon its opening, the Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza will replace Cairo’s Egyptian Museum for this itinerary.
Drive to “Coptic Cairo” to Abu Serga Church, not only the oldest church in Egypt but built on the spot where the Holy Family stopped and rested towards the end of their journey to Egypt. Proceed to visit the hanging church, which dates back to the fourth century, built on the remains of an old Roman Babylon fortress. Walk to see Cairo’s oldest Jewish synagogue, founded in the 9th century.
CAIRO Ancient Cairo, a Boy King, and the Christ ChildCLASSIC Enjoy a guided visit to the now-famous Tahrir Square and visit the Egyptian Museum*. Peruse King Tutankhamun’s fabulous treasures and many other priceless artifacts of ancient Egypt. CLASSIC Drive to walled city of Old Cairo, with Saladin’s 12th-century citadel, and the Alabaster Mosque of Mohammed Ali. CLASSIC Drive to “Coptic Cairo” to Abu Serga Church, not only the oldest church in Egypt but built on the spot where the Holy Family stopped and rested towards the end of their journey to Egypt. Proceed to visit the hanging church, which dates back to the fourth century, built on the remains of an old Roman Babylon fortress. Walk to see Cairo’s oldest Jewish synagogue, founded in the 9th century.*Note:Upon its opening, the Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza will replace Cairo’s Egyptian Museum for this itinerary.(B)
Day 4: Cairo,Luxor (Embarkation)
Location: Cairo, Luxor (Embarkation)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
See the stunning monuments of Luxor and Karnak, ancient cities whose combined populations swelled to more than one million. Walk among the pillars of the colossal Temple of Amun Ra and along the Avenue of the Sphinxes for an experience you will treasure for a lifetime.
CAIRO–LUXOR (EMBARKATION) The World’s Greatest Open-Air MuseumFly 300 miles up the Nile Valley to Luxor to embark on your Nile River cruise.CLASSIC See the stunning monuments of Luxor and Karnak, ancient cities whose combined populations swelled to more than one million. Walk among the pillars of the colossal Temple of Amun Ra and along the Avenue of the Sphinxes for an experience you will treasure for a lifetime.Consider an Optional Guided Excursion to enjoy the sound and light show in Karnak Temple. This evening enjoy live entertainment on board.OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN LUXOR(B,L,D)
Day 5: Luxor,Edfu
Location: Edfu, Luxor
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This evening enjoy live entertainment on board.
Visit Deir El-Bahri, Queen Hatshepsut’s monumental rock temple. Stop for pictures at the two Colossi of Memnon guarding the valleys.
LUXOR–EDFU Royal Resting Places of Kings and Queens CLASSIC Venture to the Valley of the Kings and Valley of the Queens on the west bank of the Nile where generations of pharaohs and nobles were entombed in Cliffside crypts. See where 62 royal tombs have thus far been discovered, of which one was virtually intact—the splendid tomb of Tutankhamun discovered in 1922.CLASSIC Visit Deir El-Bahri, Queen Hatshepsut’s monumental rock temple. Stop for pictures at the two Colossi of Memnon guarding the valleys.DISCOVERY This evening enjoy live entertainment on board.OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN EDFU(B,L,D)
Day 6: Edfu,Kom Ombo-Aswan
Location: Edfu, Kom Ombo-Aswan
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Join an exclusive lecture on this ancient civilization by your Egyptologist.
Enjoy beautiful Kom Ombo for a short walk to its bluff-top twin temples. The right side is dedicated to the crocodile god Sobek-Ra, while the left side is dedicated to the falcon god Horus.
EDFU–KOM OMBO-ASWAN Egyptian Gods of the River and Sky CLASSIC This morning visit Edfu Temple, also known as the Temple of Horus with its menacing black stone statue of the falcon god. Enjoy a leisurely sail to Kom Ombo.DISCOVERY Join an exclusive lecture on this ancient civilization by your Egyptologist.CLASSIC Enjoy beautiful Kom Ombo for a short walk to its bluff-top twin temples. The right side is dedicated to the crocodile god Sobek-Ra, while the left side is dedicated to the falcon god Horus.Tonight features an Egyptian dinner and a galabeya party onboard.OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN ASWAN (B,L,D)
Day 7: Aswan
Location: Aswan
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Board a Felucca (traditional wooden sailing boat) and cross the blue waters of the Nile. En route, see the ancient water measurement system, “Nilometer,” on the Nile’s Elephantine Island. Visit Kitchener Island’s lush Botanical Gardens and the splendid Aga Khan Mausoleum on the left bank.
ASWAN Temples from Above and Islands BelowThis morning, consider flying to Abu Simbel to join a Guided Optional Excursion of the huge massive sandstone temples (weather permitting).CLASSIC Board a Felucca (traditional wooden sailing boat) and cross the blue waters of the Nile. En route, see the ancient water measurement system, “Nilometer,” on the Nile’s Elephantine Island. Visit Kitchener Island’s lush Botanical Gardens and the splendid Aga Khan Mausoleum on the left bank.Join an Optional Excursion to the Sound and Light show in Philae Temple.OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN ASWAN(B,L,D)
Day 8: Aswan (Disembarkation),Cairo
Location: Cairo, Aswan (Disembarkation)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Board your flight back to Cairo later today, and consider attending an Optional Dinner Cruise on the Nile to celebrate your Egyptian adventure.
Visit the gigantic Aswan High Dam, completed in 1970. Board a motor launch to the island of Agilika between the two dams. Visit the Temple Of Isis, which was dismantled from the submerged island of Philae and reassembled here.
ASWAN (DISEMBARKATION)–CAIRO Work in Progress and the Goddess Isis CLASSIC Join a Guided Sightseeing Excursion at to explore the Granite Quarries that supplied ancient Egypt with its hard stones for the pyramids in Giza. See the famous unfinished obelisk, still remaining in the quarry. CLASSIC Visit the gigantic Aswan High Dam, completed in 1970. Board a motor launch to the island of Agilika between the two dams. Visit the Temple Of Isis, which was dismantled from the submerged island of Philae and reassembled here.Board your flight back to Cairo later today, and consider attending an Optional Dinner Cruise on the Nile to celebrate your Egyptian adventure.(B)
Day 9: Cairo
Location: Cairo
Meals Included: Breakfast
Browse the maze of shops in the vast labyrinths of the Khan al Khali Souk bazaar and Medieval alleyways.
CAIRO Amazing Civilization and Marketplace Mazes CLASSIC Start the day with a guided tour of the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization. No visit would be complete without time to experience the Royal Mummies’ Hall, considered the crown jewel of the museum. CLASSIC Take in a full panoramic view of Cairo from the Nile River—on board a traditional wooden sailing vessel (Felucca). Then enjoy a typical Egyptian light lunch (Coshair or Falafel) with yummy ice cream in downtown Cairo.CLASSIC Browse the maze of shops in the vast labyrinths of the Khan al Khali Souk bazaar and Medieval alleyways. (B)
Day 10: Cairo,Amman,Jordan
Location: Cairo, Amman, Jordan
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Welcome in JordanFlight to Amman, Jordan and enjoy free time in the capital city of Jordan before dinner at your hotel in Amman.
CAIRO–AMMAN, JORDAN Welcome in JordanFlight to Amman, Jordan and enjoy free time in the capital city of Jordan before dinner at your hotel in Amman.(B,D)
Day 11: Amman,Petra
Location: Petra, Amman
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Continue to Petra for dinner at your hotel.
Visit the alleged burial site of Moses at Mt. Nebo and St. George Church in Madaba, with its mosaic floor.
AMMAN–PETRA CLASSIC Start the day with a city tour of Amman, which will take you to visit the citadel and Roman Theatre. Enjoy a walk at downtown, and see the old markets.A motorcoach transfer will take you at Mt. Nebo CLASSIC Visit the alleged burial site of Moses at Mt. Nebo and St. George Church in Madaba, with its mosaic floor.Continue to Petra for dinner at your hotel.(B,D)
Day 12: Petra,Dead Sea
Location: Petra, Dead Sea
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
In the afternoon, depart for the Dead Sea for dinner at your hotel.
Enjoy a visit to the archaeological site of Petra.
PETRA–DEAD SEACLASSIC Enjoy a visit to the archaeological site of Petra. In the afternoon, depart for the Dead Sea for dinner at your hotel.(B,D)
Day 13: Dead Sea. Excursion To Jerash Ruins
Location: Dead Sea. Excursion To Jerash Ruins
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Transfer back to Dead Sea to enjoy free time and dinner at your hotel.
This morning, join a visit to Jerash Ruins.
DEAD SEA. EXCURSION TO JERASH RUINSCLASSIC This morning, join a visit to Jerash Ruins.Transfer back to Dead Sea to enjoy free time and dinner at your hotel.(B,D)
Day 14: Dead Sea,Amman
Location: Dead Sea, Amman
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.Morning transfer to Amman airport in time for homebound flights.
DEAD SEA–AMMANYour vacation ends with breakfast this morning.Morning transfer to Amman airport in time for homebound flights.(B)
Ship Details
Sonesta St George

Ship Overview
The newest ship of the Sonesta Nile fleet is the Sonesta St. George. With 47 deluxe cabins and 10 suites. Noted as one of the most elegant ships on the Nile, the St. George offers a full-service spa and fitness center, restaurant, bars, nightly entertainment and guided excursions. The Sonesta St. George Nile Cruise sails between Luxor and Aswan on four night cruises on the Nile, offering truly memorable experiences of a lifetime.
Ship Details
Ship Name:
Sonesta St George
Adults Only Areas:
kids allowed
Ship Children Facilities:
none
Ship Nursery:
none
Smoking Areas:
some
Ship Size:
boutique
Ship Style:
luxury
Ship Type:
river
Ship Kind:
Riverboat
Ship Currency:
EUR
Ship Language:
en
Number of Cabins:
57
Ship Launch Year:
2011
Ship Length (Meters):
75 M
Deck Plans
Sonesta St George Deck A
Sun Deck
Sonesta St George Deck B
Cabins
Sonesta St George Deck C
Presidential SuitesCabins
Sonesta St George Deck D
Presidential SuitesRoyal SuitesCabins
Cabins
Presidential Suite (Grade P)
Room FeaturesHairdryerIn-room safe & mini barDirect-dial telephoneIndividual climate controlShowerDigital SafeWireless Internet accessMini-bar with complimentary local beer, soft drinks & waterBathrooms equipped with spa unit, including steam bath, Jacuzzi and water massageDouble-glass panoramic french windows that open to bring in fresh breezes from the NilePlasma screen TV, equipped with the latest technology and featuring a live sailing channel
Deluxe Cabin (Grade B,D)
Room FeaturesPremium hairdryerIn-room safe & mini barDirect-dial telephoneIndividual climate controlShowerDigital SafeWireless Internet accessMini-bar with complimentary local beer, soft drinks & waterBathrooms equipped with spa unit, including steam bath, Jacuzzi and water massageDouble-glass panoramic french windows that open to bring in fresh breezes from the NilePlasma screen TV, equipped with the latest technology and featuring a live sailing channel
Suite (Grade S)
Room FeaturesPremium hairdryerIn-room safe & mini barDirect-dial telephoneIndividual climate controlShowerDigital SafeWireless Internet accessMini-bar with complimentary local beer, soft drinks & waterBathrooms equipped with spa unit, including steam bath, Jacuzzi and water massageDouble-glass panoramic french windows that open to bring in fresh breezes from the NilePlasma screen TV, equipped with the latest technology and featuring a live sailing channel
Dining
Main Restaurant
Buffet-style breakfast with variety of cold & hot dishes, cereals, breads, juices, tea & coffee. There is also a chef available to make and egg dishBuffet-style lunch with variety of cold & hot dishes - salad station, carving station, desert station & fresh fruitDinner is a 4-course meal typically including soup & salad station, 3 choices for the main course (one vegetarian option) & a choice of dessertsCoffee & tea as well as one glass of local wine or beer are included with dinner (complimentary)
Entertainment
Bazar Shops
More information coming soon.
Lounge Bar
A full-service bar in the Lounge serves a wide range of cocktails & beverages
Panorama Observation Lounge
More information coming soon.
Piano Bar
Elegant and sophisticated, the Piano Bar is lit by a dramatic, handmade chandelier and serves a variety of cocktails & beverages
Sun Deck
Surrounded by breathtaking views of the Nile, the Sun Deck serves refreshing cocktails & beverages
Kids and Teens
Please note there are no children's facilities on board.
Health & Fitness
Gym
More information coming soon.
Gratuities
Gratuities are included for your Cruise Director and Ship’s Crew only and does not include Local Hosts, Local Guides and drivers.
Useful Information
Age Restrictions
Avalon Waterways do not accept bookings for children under 8. There are no special arrangements or activities on board for children and they cannot accept bookings from unaccompanied children under 18 years of age and any travellers under this age must share the adult’s accommodation.
Disabled Facilities
Any disability requiring special attention should be reported to Avalon at the time of booking. We will make reasonable attempts to accommodate the special needs of disabled travelers, but may not always be able to do so. Access to some establishments may not be convenient for wheelchairs, and other facilities for disabled travelers may be limited. Most transportation services, including the touring motorcoach, are not equipped with wheelchair ramps. We regret that we cannot provide individual assistance to a vacation participant for walking, dining, getting on and off motorcoaches and other vehicles, or other personal needs. Please do not rely on the Cruise Director, Local Guide, or driver to assist with walking or maneuvering through the sites, as he/she has responsibilities to all the travelers within the group. A qualified and physically able companion should always accompany travelers who need such assistance.
Dress Code
Our goal is to make you feel at home on your Avalon cruise. That is why the dress code on board is casual and comfortable. Formality is not our style, and you will not be required to pack dresses or sport coats for your Avalon cruise. Some guests do prefer to dress up for occasions such as the Captain’s Reception or Farewell Dinner. You are welcome to wear what suits you best. We also like to keep things° comfortable for all guests, so we kindly request° that shorts not be worn in the Dining Room or Panorama Lounge in the evenings, and that bathing suits are worn only on the Sky Deck. Some optional excursions, especially those to evening events, may° have dress code requirements. Excursion descriptions include any details you will need to be prepared.
Medications
We recommend you pack an ample supply of drugs/medications you may require while traveling and include copies of your prescriptions and the telephone/fax number of your doctor in case you need them during your travels. Because of strict laws in some countries, drugs/medications you take on doctor’s orders should be carried in their original container showing the prescription label. As long as this conforms to airline regulations, keep medicines safely in your carry-on luggage, as checked luggage may not be easily accessible while traveling and to avoid problems should your luggage get lost, damaged, or delayed.Here are some additional items you may want to pack for your travels:? An extra pair of eye-glasses and/or a copy of your prescription.? Eye drops if you are traveling in a dry climate and for use while on airplanes. Cabin air can dry out your eyes.? Spare batteries for hearing aids. It may be time consuming and difficult to find new batteries in European countries.VaccinationsPlease contact your doctor or healthcare provider before traveling to determine which vaccinations are recommended for your travels. Most countries where we travel do not require any special vaccinations; however, requirements can change at any time. Your healthcare provider can best guide you in selecting vaccinations based on your itinerary. If you would like to research health and safety topics for your travel, we recommend the Center for Disease Control & Prevention web site: www.cdc.gov/travel.
Packing
Sometimes, luggage is briefly delayed during air transport. Therefore, we recommend you take a change of clothing and essential toiletries in your carry-on luggage, or pack some of your clothing in your traveling companion’s luggage, so you don't have to wear the clothes you have traveled in until your luggage is delivered. Do not leave essential medication in your checked luggage; always keep it in your carry-on luggage, as long as this conforms to airline regulations. We also recommend placing a copy of the hotel contacts inside each piece of luggage. If your luggage is lost, this will help the airline find you while you're traveling.Traveling light is recommended. Adopt a simple color coordination plan for your vacation to reduce the quantity of clothing required. For every week of travel, 5-7 tops or shirts and three skirts, shorts, or slacks that can be coordinated are enough. Pack jackets and slacks that have plenty of pockets, so you can carry documents and money in separate places on you, reducing theft and loss risk. Sportswear is fine during the day (there may be a restriction on shorts and bare shoulders for some religious sights). Wrinkle-resistant, easy-care cotton/polyester clothing is preferable for travel.Tip: Put dryer sheets (fabric softener sheets) in your luggage. Your clothes will smell fresh and clean throughout your travels.Below is a list of items to consider when packing for your trip.? Passport, visa(s), Travel Protection/insurance, flight information, and other necessary documents? ATM/debit/credit cards and their PIN codes; do not pack your passport or money in your checked luggage? Jackets and slacks with plenty of pockets and inner pockets? Light bag with a strap that can be worn crosswise over your body; purses/handbags are best avoided unless they can be carried close to your body in front of you? Sportswear/casual wear for daytime? Smart casual outfits for evenings? Shorts, sneakers, or sweatsuits are not considered acceptable attire for lunches or dinners on board your Avalon vessel, nor when dining at your hotel? Enough underwear/socks to avoid frequent laundry; pack at least one pair of warm socks, even in summer, in case of an unusually cold day? Warm sweater for evenings? A dressier outfit for an evening at the theater, an elegant restaurant, or for the Farewell Cocktail Reception (smart casual clothes are usually fine for cabarets/casinos)? Comfortable, sturdy, tried-and-tested walking shoes (rubber soles help grip slippery/uneven surfaces)? Sandals and/or non-slip socks that double as slippers? Swimwear? Warm jacket, socks, scarf, gloves and cap? Sunglasses? Sunscreen? Sun hat? Insect repellent and balm? Toothbrush and toothpaste? Shampoo and soap (if you prefer to use your own brand)? Razor and shaving cream? Comb, brush, hair ties? Female necessities? Band-aids? Aspirin/Tylenol/Ibuprofen/cold medicine/Pepto Bismol? Motion-sickness pills? Chapstick or lip balm? Antibacterial wipes/small bottle of hand sanitizer gel? Travel pack of Kleenex? Medicines (carried in their original container) and copy of prescriptions, phone/e-mail/fax number of your doctor? Manicure and mending kits? Travel alarm clock (to avoid relying on hotel automatic wake-up calls)? Mini umbrella or fold-up poncho for the occasional shower? Glasses plus extra pair and/or copy of prescription; eye drops for contact lenses? Spare batteries for hearing aids? Collapsible walking stick if you have mobility difficulties? Small travel pillow? Electrical converter(s)/adapter(s)? Camera/video equipment with plenty of memory cards/extra film/spare batteries and label with your name and vacation code; should you lose them, there’s a better chance of their being returned? Cellular phone that works overseas, with international calling plan or international phone cards
Safety Hints
General Hints? Carry all documents, money, passport, tickets, traveler's checks, driver’s license, photocopy of your contact information, cash, and credit cards on your person, but not all in the same place to limit the inconvenience in case of loss.? Never keep money or jewelry in your suitcase.? Medicines should be kept in your hand luggage for easy access.? Never leave your carry-on luggage unattended or out of sight in public areas.? Be observant at all times, especially in crowded places.? Avoid excessive displays of wealth (only carry sufficient cash for daily needs).? Divide and carry cash, etc., between yourself and your traveling companion.? Hide a couple of $50 or €50 bills on your person as emergency vacation funds.? Be wary of strangers approaching you in the street asking for directions or wanting to lend assistance. Tricksters also pose as policemen—either plainclothes or in uniform. Do not hand over your wallet containing money unless you are sure of the person’s credentials.? Use hotel/ship safes or leave items with the front desk manager. Be sure to check them before checking out of your hotel or stateroom.? Pay particular attention to bicycle lanes, which are often on the sidewalk? Be wary of anyone offering unofficial taxi services. Always use official taxi desk or taxi lines, and choose only those vehicles with a meter and taxi signHotelsBathtubs may be higher or of a different design than back home. Pay careful attention when entering or exiting a bathtub, as the floor may be lower than the tub. Ask at Reception if you require a non-slip bathmat, which most hotels can deliver to your room. Showers and shower equipment may also be unusual (no shower curtains, half screens), and floors may be more wet than you expect. Please be careful when stepping out of the shower or bathtub.Also check fire exits at each hotel and familiarize yourself with the hotel layout upon arrival. Use door locks in your hotel and verify credentials before opening the door to strangers.MotorcoachWatch stairs and overhead entrances when getting on and off the motorcoach. The doorway may be lower than you think. Fasten your seat belt and stay seated while the motorcoach is in motion. Always check for traffic when exiting and walking away from the motorcoach and when re-entering. Heavy items, bottles, and odd-sized objects, should not be stored overhead, as contents may shift while traveling and removing heavy items can be tricky. Hand luggage should be placed safely under your seat. Please keep aisles clear of bags to prevent tripping hazards.PhotocopiesDue to government or country regulations and laws, some hotels are required to keep your passport at Reception throughout your stay. Therefore, we recommend you bring a photocopy of your passport and visas with you, which you can carry on you at all times. We also suggest you photocopy your airline tickets, credit cards, medical cards (front and back), and perhaps bring a copy of your driver’s license and/or birth certificates. These document copies can help speed up replacements in the event that the originals are lost. Keep the copies in a place separate from your originals. Another suggestion is to scan your passport, airline tickets, and credit card numbers and send them to yourself as attachments to your e-mail. In case of loss, you can access copies to assist in replacement.Please remember to fill out the “Emergency Next of Kin” section in your passport. Make sure your passport does not expire within six months of your date of travel, since a majority of countries insist that your passport be valid for at least a 6-month time period.
Smoking Policy
All ships have non-smoking interiors. Smoking is permitted only in a designated outdoor area of each ship.
Special Dietary Requirements
We know that some traveler's may have specific dietary requests. Unfortunately, dietary requirements cannot be guaranteed on our vacations. We make our best effort to accommodate your requests, but our vessels, as well as hotels and restaurants, may not be able to manage specific diet requirements. Dietary requirements should be advised at time of booking and we ask that you also discuss these with your Hotel Manager upon embarkation.
Wi-Fi
Complimentary Wi-Fi is included on board most of our cruise, apart from Galapagos or Amazon sailings where internet service is unfortunately not available. Please note that the internet service is not always reliable and may be unavailable for part of your cruise.
Notes
- In the event of technical or water level issues, it may be necessary to operate the itinerary by motorcoach or alter the program, including hotel overnight when necessary.
- Guided Tours, Optional Excursions, activities, sailing and docking schedules may be contingent on weather conditions or other issues outside of our control and could therefore be subject to change at any time.
- Please check visa requirements with your local consulate(s); responsibility for obtaining visas rests with the traveler.
Accommodation
Cairo:Marriott Mena HouseCairo:Hilton HeliopolisAmman:Kempinski HotelPetra:Hayat Zaman Hotel & ResortDead Sea:Jordan Valley MarriottCheck out our Q&As
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Cuisine
All meals on board are prepared by accomplished chefs who prepare regional specialties as well as familiar favorites with only the freshest, local ingredients. Our Suite Ships® feature daily buffet-style breakfast and lunch with your choice of soups, main courses with starter, salad, or sandwich, and, of course, dessert. Complimentary room service is also available with Continental breakfast, lunch, and dinner. On the Mekong and Ganges, a mix of Western and local dishes is offered; in the Galápagos, you'll be able to taste some Ecuadorian specialties; and in the Amazon, you will be able to sample Peruvian specialties along with Western dishes.
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Cruise Director
A professional, experienced, English-speaking Cruise Director accompanies every departure. Naturalists are on board in the Amazon and Galápagos. Special Interest cruises typically include an expert specific to the cruise theme—from Wine Masters to History Experts.
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What about young travellers and children?
In our many years of cruising experience, we have found that children under the age of eight typically are too young to fully enjoy a cruise vacation. Because of this and for the safety and enjoyment of all passengers, we do not accept children under eight years of age. In addition, please note that there are no special arrangements or activities for children on our ships.
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What are single room supplements?
For single travellers who prefer the privacy of their own room and stateroom, single accommodation can, of course, be requested.
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Clothing & Dress Code
Your comfort is our first concern. Onboard and onshore dress codes are casual. Please bring comfortable walking shoes for sightseeing. Dinner attire is casual—open-neck shirts and slacks for men; slacks, skirts, or dresses for ladies. Coats and ties may be worn if preferred. The Welcome and Farewell Dinners in Europe are dressy, but not formal. On the Mekong, Ganges, Amazon, and Galápagos, dress attire, including coats and ties, is not recommended due to the warm, humid climate.
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When will I receive my digital travel documents?
Avalon will email you a set of travel documents, which includes a copy of your itinerary and, where applicable, information on your hotels and optional excursions. Electronic Travel documents, including applicable eTicket receipts, itineraries, and other information are sent approximately 2-3 weeks prior to departure, provided full payment has been received.
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Where can I find the docking location for my cruise ship?
Avalon Waterways strives to bring you the best docking locations along Europe’s rivers. In many cities, this includes multiple docking sites. Docking positions at each port are assigned by local authorities, and may vary depending upon the number of ships in port on any given day. This can sometimes result in double-docking with more than one ship assigned to the same dock and the ships “rafted” together, temporarily obstructing some views from on board the ships. Exact docking locations will be available 24-72 hours prior to embarkation. Before your cruise’s docking location is available, you can download a map of all possible docking sites for your embarkation city at www.AvalonWaterwaysPorts.com. Once your ship’s docking assignment is available, you can download a map that shows only that specific location, including address.
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Are Avalon River Cruises Handicap Accessible?
Avalon Waterways makes reasonable attempts to accommodate the special needs of disabled and mobility impaired travellers but is not responsible in the event it is unable to do so. Because we cannot provide individual assistance to travellers in many situations, and most of our transportation services are not equipped with wheelchair ramps, we recommend that you view our terms and conditions for details or contact us to learn more.
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Internet Access
All Avalon ships in Europe have complimentary Wi-Fi available. On the Mekong and Ganges, complimentary Wi-Fi access is available in the Panorama Lounge. The signal is not always reliable, as you will be cruising through remote areas. To access the ship's Wi-Fi Internet network, you will be given a PIN number at reception to use on your laptop, tablet, or mobile device. Wi-Fi is not available in the Amazon or Galápagos.
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Onboard Language
The language on board is English. All staff, crew, and tour guides speak English. All announcements and commentary will be in English.
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Low Deposit
Avalon Waterways requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of avalon waterways charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 35% of booking price.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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