Upcoming Trips
The Silk Road Tour briefing session february 22
April 4-23, 2012
Tour Cost: $4,500, International Airfare: $1,600 est.
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Our journey will closely following the ancient routes of the Silk Road, visiting great historical cities such as Khiva, Bukhara and Samarkand.
Through the heights of the Tang Dynasty, until its slow demise six to seven hundred years ago, the Silk Road has had a unique role in foreign trade and political relations, stretching far beyond the bounds of Asia itself. It has left its mark on the development of civilizations on both sides of the continent.
Itinerary and Commitment Form Suggested Reading List Group Flight
Turkey
April 25 to May 7, 2012
Tour Cost: $3,000, International Airfare: $1,370 est.
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Turkey is one of the Council's favorite travel destinations. Our trip will include the highlights of Ankara, Cappadocia, Konya, Pamukkale, Kusadasi, Ephesus, Izmir, and will end in Istanbul with a cruise along the Bosphorus. By traveling in April, we will enjoy mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Turkey is at the crossroads of Europe, Asia and the Middle East. It offers an exciting mix of cultures, great food, and friendly people. Our trip will be personally escorted by Ilyas Hokkaci.
Itinerary and Commitment Form Suggested Reading List Group Flight
Washington, DC
May 2012
Estimated Tour Cost: $1500, Does not include airfare
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Our trip to Washington, DC will be an exciting way to learn about the inner workings of government and the global challenges ahead. The national reputation of the Council assures unparalleled access to policy makers, journalists, and senior government officials. Our trip may include visits to the U.S. Department of State, the Pentagon, the Brookings Institution, and the Center for Strategic and International Studies.
Georgia & Armenia
May 26 - June 10, 2012 dates have changed
Tour Cost: $2,800, International Airfare: $1,150 est.
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The South Caucasus, one of the cradles of civilization, is a beautiful region with a rich history and fascinating culture. It spans rocky highlands, lush forests and serene, turquoise lakes like Lake Sevan. There are remote regions and monasteries to explore like Khor Virap and Mtskheta. While on tour, we will also meet members of newly formed civil society groups.
Itinerary and Commitment Form Suggested Reading List Group Flight
FAQ's Past Council trip to Armenia Suggested Reading List (2)
Sri Lanka
July 23 - August 2, 2012 (dates approximate at this time, pending flight schedule)
Tour Cost: $1,600, International Airfare: $1,650 est.
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Sri Lanka is an island of great beauty and thousands of years of diverse culture. Incredibly fertile and a great producer of exotic fruits, it was for centuries the spice producer of the world famous for its Cinnamon & Pepper. With a rich culture and over 7 UN World Heritage sites, Sri Lanka is one of the most exciting new destinations in Asia. Our trip will include the famous elephant festival in Kandy, high tea at a colonial house over-looking the sea, temples, and nature preserves.
North Korea
August 22 - September 1, 2012
Tour Cost: $3,800, International Airfare: $1,100.00 est.
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North Korea is an unusual destination and access is limited to less than 2000 U.S. tourists per year. The council is an approved group and our members will be welcomed.
Itinerary and Commitment Form Suggested Reading List FAQ's
South Korea
September 1-9, 2012
Tour Cost: $3,000, International Airfare: $1,500 est.
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South Korea offers a sharp contrast with its sister nation in the north. While both dynamic yet conservative South Korea is a wonderful blend of Buddhist temples, relics from ancient Korean dynasties, forested mountains and volcanic scenery. Contrast this with the modern, high tech public facilities and you have a country which provides a truly remarkable touring destination.
Itinerary and Commitment Form Suggested Reading List
Vietnam & Cambodia
November 2012
Tour Cost: $ TBD, International Airfare: $ TBD
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Proposed Itinerary and Comitment Form Suggested Reading List
Myanmar
January 26 - February 7, 2013 just posted!
Tour Cost: $3,500, International Airfare: $1,800 est.
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A trip to Myanmar is like traveling back in time. Forget the internet for awhile and connect with a culture where holy men are honored and beautifully carved temples greet you at every turn. Drift down the Ayeyarwady, trek through pine forests to minority villages around Inle Lake, and marvel at 4000 stupas scattered across the plains of Bagan. The people of Myanmar are gentle, humorous, considerate, and inquisitive. It's a country that fills you with emotion, stimulates your senses, and stays in your heart.
Itinerary Commitment & Health Forms Suggested Reading List
Mali - Timbuktu cancelled
February 2013
Estimated Tour Cost: $5,100, international airfare included, leaving from New York
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Mali, the jewel in West Africa's crown, is rich in culture and history. The country occupies the heart of a territory that once supported Africa's greatest empires. Mali has some of its most dramatic attractions – the legendary city of Timbuktu (Tombouctou), the gloriously improbable mosque at Djenné, and the bustling river port of Mopti are simply three among many. The Festival in the Desert attracts people from around the world for three days of music and tradition.
Mali Itinerary
Contact travel@wachouston.org with questions.
All tour costs are based on double occupancy. Prices are subject to change based on unexpected fuel costs.
