Starting next month, Collette Vacations will launch a 16-day Mysteries of India tour exploring the northern and central regions of India. The vacation takes clients by rickshaw, jeep, train, horse carriage, elephant and boat through cities and countryside to reveal India’s culture.
As they explore ancient towns and villages, clients will observe India’s architectural triumphs, including 16th- and 17th-century palaces, temples, mosques, forts and an astronomical observatory. The Taj Mahal is also a stop along the tour.
“This is about as in-depth an experience you could have on any vacation,” said Nancy Davids, senior product manager, Collette Vacations. “Our goal is to provide travelers with a strong sense of India’s culture and the everyday life of its people; and we are confident that this new tour will accomplish just that. We are especially pleased to announce that this trip will feature five-star accommodations at four-star prices.”
The tour features a two-night stay at the Laxmi Vilas Palace in Udaipur, as well as stays at five-star Taj hotels in Jodhpur, Agra and Khajuraho. Nearly 30 meals are also included.
This inclusive program provides clients with opportunities to experience the personal, spiritual and vocational perspectives of India’s people. The Bishnoi Village outside of Jodhpur unveils a community of believers in the sanctity of plant and animal life. A rural Indian family demonstrates the art of making pottery, a major source of income for India’s population. Clients can also join a retired serviceman and his family at their farmhouse for a traditional native dinner.
“Collette is absolutely thrilled to launch its first vacation package to India, an exotic destination that continues to grow each year,” said Daniel J. Sullivan, Collette Vacations president and CEO. “Americans, as well as travelers from many other areas around the globe, are expressing greater intrigue in exploring India, and our tour will be the first travel experience to India for many of them next year. We believe our newest vacation will give these adventurous travelers a truly insightful and relaxing experience.”
Also included on the tour are visits to Mother Teresa’s Charity Mission in Agra and the Ranthambore School of Art, which recruits students to train traditional artisans. Two game drives in Ranthambore National Park allow clients to discover India’s wildlife and conservation efforts with insight provided by a naturalist.
Collette will offer eight departures for Mysteries of India this year, and six departures from January to April in 2009. Rates start at $3,099 for May through June 2008 and $3,999 for October 2008 through April 2009. Pricing is per person, double occupancy.
Collete Vacations
800-340-5158
www.collettevacations.com
