The Award-Winning Tour Specialist
Complete each module to become a Specialist Wendy Wu Agent
Wendy Wu Tours has been operating tours to Asia and beyond for over 25 years. We offer escorted group tours, private tours and short stay/extension packages as well as special groups for your clients. Destinations include Japan, China, Southeast Asia, India; Sri Lanka, Central Asia, South America, Europe and the Middle East. Stopover options are also available to destinations such as Hong Kong, Singapore, Dubai, Kuala Lumpur and Macau. This course is made up of a series of modules with quiz questions at the end. We recommend before completing this course to familiarise yourself with our collection of brochures to help you get the best out of this training platform.
Wendy Wu Tours offers FULLY INCLUSIVE escorted tours, offering unique and authentic experiences across Asia & beyond. Our tour groups are accompanied from beginning to end by a dedicated English speaking guide with local knowledge, offering greater insights into each destinations at every stage. Our international group tours operate with a maximum of 28 passengers, and our prices include international economy flights and taxes, all domestic internal flights and taxes, all accommodation, transport and transfers, meals as per each itinerary, entrance fees and visa's for UK passport holders and more. Your clients will be looked after throughout their holiday and best of all, everything is arranged for them from start to finish by our expert team.
Our tours are broken down into a five categories, and whilst completing WUniversity you will learn all about them: - Fully Inclusive Classic Group Tours - Go Beyond Tours - Solo Departures - Private Tours - Short Stay/ Tour Extension packages
As the experts in travel to Asia and beyond, we can also arrange independent travel itineraries for your clients. We can help you find the perfect private tour or FIT itinerary to suit your clients holiday needs, covering all the sights and attractions that they want to see, along with local guides and private transportation with the flexibility to travel any date they choose.
Popular independent travel options include:
There are many reasons why you should sell Wendy Wu Tours our top picks are:
• 25+ years experience making us the experts
• We pay commission on everything from flights to meals and visas = More money for you.
• Price parity means the price you see on our website is the price your customers pay.
• We take care of everything including Visa’s, making booking easy.
• Authentic Experiences
• Dedicated Agent Portal and booking engine
• Award Winning Trade Support team on hand to aid you and provide marketing material
• Top rated – Feefo 4.7/5 based on 4000+ reviews
• Touring options for every client
• No hidden extras on fully inclusive tours
• Unique destinations not visited by many operators
With a private tour, you can travel when you want with whoever you choose, enjoy the company of an expert guide to yourself and set a pace that suits you. ? The private touring option still has all of Wendy Wu’s key benefits including international flights, accommodation, transfers, entrance fees, guides, daily tours, most meals, and visas! Plus, the extra option of flexibility and for a lower cost than you may think… Currently, we offer private tours exploring Chile, Argentina, Brazil, Ecuador, Botswana, Zimbabwe, China, Taiwan, USA, Canada, Sri Lanka, Maldives, India, Vietnam, and Cambodia - and the range is rapidly expanding.
Our solo tours have become exceedingly popular… We now provide dedicated solo departures on a large variety of our tours which are marked down in purple throughout our brochures. Customers will have the option of a single supplement or the ‘Happy to share’ option where they opt in to share a twin room with someone of the same gender. We think the best thing about our dedicated solo departures alongside guaranteed carefree travel is that many of our customers come back from solo tours having made friends for life.
Our award-winning Trade Support team are here to help you every step of the way with everything you need, from brochures and point of sale material to joint marketing and in–store training. Contact our team at tradesupport@wendywutours.co.uk for details, more information or to discuss joint marketing initiatives.
On our trade website: https://www.wendywutours.co.uk/agents/ you will find downloadable PDF brochures and flyers, social Media Packs, trade sales tools including incentive information, product info, window posters and more. You can make a booking online anytime and find the contact details for your area BDM.
Wendy Wu information events offer excellent opportunities to promote and sell our product to your clients. Invite your clients along to learn all about Wendy Wu Tours and our destinations from our local experts. Our Wendy Wu BDM will help you plan the event, provide marketing tools to promote the event including point of sale material to display at the event plus they will prepare and present a presentation tailored specifically for your agency.
Your clients flights are an important part of their Wendy Wu Tours experience, which is why we only work with our preferred airline partners who have the best reputations for service, facilities, reliability and punctuality. We only use reputable domestic airlines for internal routes.
How big are Wendy Wu's Groups?
Maximum of 28 passengers.
Do you need to be very fit to complete a Wendy Wu Tour?
For the majority of Wendy Wu's tours, an average level of fitness is sufficient. Each tour has an advised physical rating; Level 1 through to 5, 1 being non-strenuous and 5 being the most physically demanding of our tours. For full details refer to our website or brochures. For a more active itinerary, Wendy Wu suggests our Go Beyond Tours. These tours include activities like cycling through the rural area of Hoi An in Vietnam or hiking on remote sections of the Great Wall in China or travelling longer distances on the road in Central Asia.
What is the food like?
Meals are included as per each itinerary, which is found in our brochures. Breakfast is a combination of western and local, normally buffet style. Lunch and dinners consist of traditional local cuisine with specialty meals included in selected cities, for an authentic experience. Covid safe protocols are adhered to in each destination. Special dietary requirements such as vegetarian can be catered for, please let our reservations team know at the time of booking.
What type of hotels do you use?
Wendy Wu Tours chooses their hotels for convenience of location, comfort or character. Hotels are of local 3 or 4 star standard. Private tours, Short Stays / tour extensions and stopovers are able to upgrade to 4 or 5 star accommodation on request and subject to availability. See our brochures and tour dossiers for more specific hotel information.
What vaccinations do you need?
We recommend that they see their doctor at least 6-8 weeks prior to departure to ensure they have all the correct and up-to-date vaccinations. In some parts of Indochina precautions against Malaria may need to be taken. Please refer to our website for more information https://www.wendywutours.com/help-and-advice/travel-health/.
Home to over 5,000 years of history, China combines a fascinating cultural heritage with the modern world to offer a truly diverse destination. From the Great Wall and Terracotta Warriors, to beautiful natural wonders in Guilin or Zhangjiajie and the majestic Yangtze River, there is so much to discover.
Our China brochure has been designed to showcase all our tours across China, Tibet, Taiwan and South Korea. Our Classic Tours take your clients to see the highlights of the destination. Our Go Beyond Tours will take your clients off the tourist trail and delving further into the fascinating history and wild landscapes of China and beyond. We can arrange any tour itinerary as a Private Tour with local guides also Tailor-made options designed for the more flexibility with bespoke inclusions to suit your clients holiday needs. Throughout the brochure you will find all the necessary information, including prices and departure dates as well as helpful hints and stopover options.
China is packed with extraordinary sights, so picking our favourites has been really difficult! After all you've got megacities, monumental landmarks, a huge diversity of breathtaking landscapes and a rich heritage to delve into…here are some of our favourite sights:
Capital city and gateway to the country, Beijing has loads to see, including the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, the Summer Palace and, of course, the Great Wall. Built over 2,000 years ago there are many sections of the wall to visit, depending on what you are looking to experience. We think the best section is the Juyongguan Pass, which is well restored but not as crowded as other sections. The views from the top are spectacular!
Xian is best known as the home of the renowned Terracotta Warriors, the life-size, life-like army of Qin Shi Huang, first emperor of China, created to protect him in the afterlife. The city also has huge old city walls – one of the few remaining in China, that you are able to walk or cycle around.
China's megacity, Shanghai is a place of gleaming skyscrapers, great shopping, lovely restaurants and entertainment. There is still bits of the past scattered throughout – the classic Yu Garden for example, whilst the Bund showcases the colonial architecture of the city’s golden age in the 1930s. A relaxed cruise on the Huangpu River is the perfect place to get a glimpse of all aspects of the city.
The longest river in Asia and the third longest in the world, a cruise on the Yangtze is not only the perfect way to slow down, sit back and relax on tour, but also showcases the spectacular scenery of the Three Gorges. You'll also get to see the world's largest dam, the Three Gorges Dam.
Chengdu is the best place to go to see those mischievous, roly-poly fluffballs that are the Giant Pandas! Chengdu is capital of Sichuan province, the part of China that you find the most Giant Pandas in the wild and the Panda Conservation Centre just outside the city is the largest Giant Panda reserve in the world! If you're lucky, there might even be some babies to see.
This is the place to come to cruise down the beautiful Li River, known as the "hundred-mile gallery". The scenery here is absolutely magical thanks to the towering limestone columns that the river winds its way through. Cruises start in the city of Guilin and end in the lively town of Yangshuo, which is also the perfect base to explore these landscapes further.
Zhangjiajie is one of China’s mystical wonders. Located in the Hunan province and home to China’s first national forest park, Zhangjiajie is a breathtaking natural beauty waiting to be explored. With its streams, pools, waterfalls and cascading hills, it's easy to see why the destination inspired the film Avatar.
The Nine Villages Valley, or Jiuzhaigou National Park, is an area of spectacular mountain scenery dotted with virgin forest and dazzling blue lakes. It is named after the nine Tibetan villages that nestle within it. It is also Wendy's very favourite place to visit in China!
Chongqing peninsula is the gateway to the Yangtze river, featured on many of our tours. Its stark contrast of cityscape and mountainous backdrop make it a truly unforgettable destination. Don't forget that Chongqing is home to an incredible panda house which is a must see here!
Taiwan is the perfect fusion of contrast, located off the southeastern coast of China, this island is steeped in religion while also being perfectly complemented by futuristic skylines in its largest city Taipei. A must see on this beautiful island is Sun Moon Lake, home to one of Taiwan’s aboriginal tribes. Also check out Taroko National Park, the impressive landscape carved by the Philippine and Eurasian tectonic plates.
Set in eastern China, Tibet is a mystical place bordering Nepal and Bhutan. It is very different to most regions in China with impressive snow capped landscapes and spiritual monasteries. One of the most spectacular ways to see Tibet is by rail, the region features the highest railway in the world spanning from Xining to Lhasa. And a must see experience on one of our tours is watching the sun rise over Mount Everest.
Spring & Autumn?March, April, May and September, October, November tend to be the most comfortable seasons for travel to China, when the temperatures are pleasant, the rainfall minimal and (in early spring and late autumn) less people travelling. Summer?June, July and August are typically hot and may be wetter and more humid than at other times of year. Winter?December, January and February are cold, and in the north can bring snow, but there are fewer travellers and often the best prices.
Southeast Asia is a destination that has it all – paradise beaches, tranquil temples, sensational food and everything inbetween. It is also incredibly fun and easy to explore, with an exciting range of historical, cultural and activity experiences that will appeal to every sort of traveller.
Rich in history and culture, Vietnam has been heavily influenced by 2000 years of Chinese domination, French colonialism and the independence movement of the 20th century. Natural beauty, friendly people, delicious food and memories of a turbulent history are what bring people to this enchanting nation.
Cambodia has emerged from a tragic past to become one of Asia's most charming destinations. With beautiful old colonial cities, undiscovered beaches and unspoiled tracts of forest, it is still the polite and lovely Khmer people that will stick in your memories. Oh and of course, there's the magnificence of Angkor…need we say more? (We do, it's a few slides on!)
A country that encapsulates Asia old and new, Thailand is the only country in Southeast Asia that was never occupied by a colonial power, so Thai culture is wonderfully undiluted. Discover capital city Bangkok, a bustling, modern city, meet hilltribes of the hilly north or utterly chill out on the beaches of the south, Thailand has something for everyone.
A destination unlike any other, Myanmar offers unsurpassed encounters for those with an adventurous spirit and an open mind. Long closed to the outside world and only recently fully reopened to tourists, the lack of outside influence gives those who explore Myanmar a taste of an Asia of times gone by. But hurry, things are changing rapidly!
Still somewhat overlooked for its close neighbours, Laos is Southeast Asia’s most captivating destination. Quiet, less developed and devoutly Buddhist, this is also a country of incredible beauty, from the lush hills of the north to the unique river islands of the Mekong in the south. You won't be able to help delighting in this gorgeous destination!
Borneo is a true melting pot of Brunei, Malaysian and Indonesian influence. The island is covered in lush jungle, vast rainforest and undiscovered natural habitats and is globally renowned for its incredible Orangutan sightings. If your customers are avid nature fans, we urge you to recommend our “Best of Borneo” tour. Cruising down the Kinabatangan River whilst spotting Orangutans and so much more, they will also have the chance to experience life in a traditional tribal longhouse.
From the bustling capital Manila (influenced by a variety of cultures) to the lush green hills of Pampanga in the north and the beautiful white sand beaches scattered across all the islands, the Philippines really has it all! While we could sing the praises of the Philippines all day, here are a few unique experiences your customers could enjoy on one of our tours. Hike the incredible Mount Pinatubo and enjoy views of the blue crater lake whilst passing through Tarukan Village home to indigenous settlements. Wander through the stunning Hapao rice terraces and meet the local farmers. Find out more about the second smallest primate in the world, the Tarsier at the Philippine Tarsier sanctuary.
Southeast Asia covers so many wonderful places, choosing our favourites has not been easy! We are looking at many countries each with a wealth of fascinating history – old and more recent, a diverse range of landscapes, beaches, golden temples and so much more. Here they are, some of our favourite sights:
Halong Bay, the 'Bay of Descending Dragons', is one of Vietnam's top tourist sights, and it's easy to see why! Here, turquoise waters are studded with thousands of jagged karst towers, islets and islands, creating a wonderfully picturesque panorama, said to have been created by great dragons – hence the name. Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is best explored on a cruise. These cruises usually include visits to caves, floating villages and opportunities to kayak.
You can't go on a trip to Vietnam and miss out on the capital Hanoi. This city is steeped in history and the narrow streets and strong French & Chinese influence tell a story of a city that is consistently transforming whilst always keeping its history in focus. A must visit is the Ho Chi Minh Quarter.
Saigon is unlike anywhere else in Vietnam, located in the south, this metropolis is the most densely populated city in the country and perfectly fuses old and new. Here is it easy to reach the infamous Cu Chi Tunnels, the network of underground tunnels that were dug by hand during the Vietnam war. Saigon is also conveniently located near the Mekong Delta.
This delightful riverside town was once a major port, a heritage that can still be seen in the grand old buildings and shophouses that line its traffic-free cobbled streets. The influence of traders from around the world means that the architecture is eclectic – you'll spot Chinese, Japanese and European flourishes throughout the town. Hoi An is a laidback place that is just as much about strolling, eating at the plethora of lovely cafes and restaurants and browsing in the shops as exploring.
Known as Vietnam's 'rice bowl' due to the amount of rice and other produce grown here, the Mekong Delta, close to Saigon in Vietnam's south, is lush, green and plentiful. It is a patchwork of orchards, rice paddies, palm tree, sugar plantations and fields of vegetables, and crisscrossed with waterways. These canals are a hive of activity, plied by boats piled high with produce and local fishermen building up their daily catch. The Mekong Delta is best explored by boat, and there are plenty of local cottage industries, such as coconut candy factories, to visit as you explore.
The temples of Angkor occupy the Angkor Archaeological Park, a 400-kilometre squared area just outside the town of Siem Reap. The seat of the Khmer Empire between the 9th and 15th centuries, the temples were lost to the jungle before being bought to the attention of the West by Frenchman Henri Mouhot in 1860. Whilst the whole site is UNESCO World Heritage-listed, the most famous temple is the magnificent Angkor Wat. Built in the early 12th century, it is the largest religious monument in the world and even appears on Cambodia's flag.
Cambodia's capital city, Phnom Penh sits on the banks of the Mekong River. It is a charming city, a blend of old colonial and modern development, with plenty of restaurants, cafes, museums and things to do and see. Phnom Penh is the best place in Cambodia to learn about the horrific reign of the Khmer Rouge in the 1970s, whilst the glittering Royal Palace and National Museum give a taste of rich Khmer culture.
Sat at the confluence of the Mekong and Khan rivers, Luang Prabang is a small city in the north of Laos and its most popular destination to visit. Considered the spiritual heart of the country, it is home to a high concentration of wats – 34 of them are UNESCO-listed, and is home to over 1,000 monks. Visiting wats and temples in Luang Prabang is extra special as they are still working institutions, and there are usually a few monks around who would love to practice speaking English! Luang Prabang's night market is an excellent place to buy handicrafts from the ethnic minority groups that live in the hills around the city, and Kuang Si Falls are a great visit too.
Located in Thailand's north, Chiang Mai is a laidback, atmospheric city popular as the gateway to the Thailand's rugged highlands. The city itself is full of historical gems – within its old city there are 30 old temples that date from the Lanna Kingdom (13th to 18th century), as well as traditional architecture and a couple of excellent museums. The hills close to the city are home to many hilltribes who are still living the subsistence lifestyles of their ancestors – there are plenty of options for visiting a community, be it by hiking or road.
Bangkok is the gateway to the rest of Thailand, stepping off the plane you will immediately be immersed in the hustle, bustle and excitement of the city. From sleek rooftop bars to lively street markets, Bangkok really gives you a flavour of an Asian metropolis. It’s not just all soaring towers though, Bangkok is home to opulent religious buildings like the impressive Grand Palace and glorious temples where you'll discover the deep significance of Buddhism to this country.
The temples of Bagan are scattered across a plain in a bend of the Irrawaddy River. Once part of the Kingdom of Bagan, these 2,000 structures are a seriously impressive sight, especially if you can climb up into a high place for an overview of the scene. It is thought that in the golden age of Bagan, between the 9th and 13th centuries, that there were more than 10,000 temples, pagodas and stupas on the plain – today you still have the largest concentration of Buddhist temples anywhere in the world. Venturing inside many of the temples reveals beautiful frescoes and carvings or spaces that are still used for worship today.
Up in the Shan Hills of Shan State, Inle Lake offers a fascinating glimpse of a different side of Myanmar. The Intha people live close to or on the water in stilt villages and grow produce in innovative floating gardens. They also have an intriguing row technique – you’ll see fishermen doing it – which makes use of their leg rather than arms. The lake is, of course, best explored by boat, but there are also plenty of interesting sights on the banks of the lake, ranging from local markets to the atmospheric Indein.
Although topography plays a big part in the weather of each of Southeast Asia’s nations, very generally they all share a typical tropical climate with a dry season and a wet season. Here is a very quick overview of the climate of each country:? Myanmar May to October – wet season. Although hot and regular heavy rain showers it is still possible to travel in Myanmar at this time. November to May – dry season. This season starts cool and dry and gets gradually hotter and more humid as the monsoon season approaches once again. Cambodia June to October – wet season. Starting very humid and gradually cooling as the season progresses – the heaviest rain is August and September. November to May – dry season. This season is spilt into two parts, cool and dry from November to February (temps in the mid to late 20s) and hot and dry from March to May (temps in the early to mid 30s). Laos October to April – dry season. The cool and dry season is November to February and the hot and dry season is March and April, the build up to the monsoon. May to September – wet seasons. Rain gets heavy and more constant from late July to early September. Thailand North of Bangkok, the dry season is November to May and the monsoon arrives in May and stays until October. South of Bangkok, the rainy season depends on the coast. The east coast (Andaman), September to December is rainy, whilst on the west coast (Gulf of Thailand), April to October is rainy. The rest of the time both coasts are dry and sunny. Vietnam In Vietnam there are big variations between the north and south of the country. In the north, May to October brings rain and humidity and November to April is cool and dry, whilst in the south, May to October is warm and wet and November to April is dry and hot. There are variations again in the central region – January to August is hot and dry and September to November is rainy!
Japan is an archipelago packed with futuristic cities, imperial heritage and unique culture. Add in epic natural beauty and phenomenal cuisine, and you have a dream destination begging to be explored…here are some of our must sees.
Mount Fuji, or Fujisan in Japanese, is an active Volcano located on the Honshu Island in Japan.? It is the highest mountain in Japan, standing at 3,776m tall and with its near perfect cylindrical apex, it is considered one of the countries most iconic symbols.?? Mount Fuji is a popular destination for hikers and climbers, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. In addition to its natural beauty, Mount Fuji is also considered a sacred site in the Japanese Culture. It has been depicted in countless works of art, literature and poetry throughout history and has even been declared as a UNESCO world heritage site.??
Visiting Hiroshima offers a unique opportunity to pay respects at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and museum, which commemorates the tragic atomic bombing that occurred there in 1945.? In addition to its historical? significance, Hiroshima is a vibrant city with rich culture, delicious cuisine and beautiful parks and gardens.? Visitors can explore the historic Hiroshima castle, stroll though the picturesque Shukkei-en garden and try local delicacies like okonomiyaki and oysters. With its blend of poignant history and modern attractions, Hiroshima is a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to Japan.?
Kyoto was once Japan's largest city and ancient capital having held this title for over 1000 years. It today is Japan's cultural hub, boasting over 3000 temples and shrines including 17 UNESCO-listed monuments, with the pinnacle being Kinkaku-JI, the Golden Pavilion. Kyoto is the best place in all of Japan to experience traditional temples, shrines, gardens, Geisha, shops, restaurants and festivals.??
A city famous for its bowing deer and being the birthplace of Japanese culture; The city was once the capital of Japan and is even older than the city of Kyoto, however the city was at its peak 1200 years ago. The city is most noted for the many ancient Japanese Buddhist buildings and artifacts in and around the city, including the seven Great Temples of Nara.?
Koya-san, also known as Mount Koya, is a sacred mountain located in Wakayama.? It is the home to over 100 temples, including the famous Okunoin cemetery, where the founder of Shingon Buddhism, Kob Daishi, is believed to be resting in eternal meditation. Visiting Koya-san offers a unique opportunity to experience Japan's rich cultural and religious heritage, as well as to explore the stunning natural beauty of the surrounding forest.? It is a place where our customers learn about traditional Japanese Buddhism and witness how the resident monks live.?
There are countless reasons to visit Tokyo, one of the most exciting and dynamic cities in the world.? Tokyo offers a unique blend of traditional Japanese culture and cutting-edge technology, with plenty of sights and experiences to keep your clients entertained.? Some of the must-see attractions include the iconic Tokyo tower hailing 634m high, the beautiful cherry blossom lined streets of Ueno park, the bustling Shibuya crossing where 3000 people can cross at any one point and the historic Sensoji Temple in Asakusa.? Other top places to see in Tokyo include Meiji Shrine, the imperial palace and the trendy areas of Harajuku and Shinjuku.?
The Japanese Macaque are a delight to watch as they frolic around the natural hot pools close to the alpine town of Yudanaka in the Nagano Prefecture. Meet them on several of our Japan tours including our popular Japan Uncovered tour.
Himeji Castle, also known as White Heron Castle due to its elegant, white appearance, is widely considered Japan's most spectacular castle for its imposing size and beauty and its well preserved, complex castle grounds.? The castle is both a national treasure and a world heritage site.
Kanazawa, located on the west coast of Japan, is a city steeped in rich history, culture and natural beauty.? It is known for its beautifully preserved Edo-period district, Samurai district, its impeccable Geisha and the famous Kenroku-en garden, which is considered one of the three most beautiful gardens in all of Japan.?
Like most destinations in Japan, Osaka is full of delicious street food, most famously Takoyaki (tempura dough filled with octopus, onion and pickled ginger). A must see is Osaka castle, built in the 16th century, it is an impressive architectural structure, surrounded by luscious green and cherry blossom gardens. Combined with a short cruise on the Yodogawa River and a stroll through Dontonburi (Osaka's food district), you have the perfect itinerary for this intriguing city.
Food is a gateway to the culture of a nation, and Japan’s focus is on the freshest and most seasonal produce, which means there is an array of delicacies to excite the palette. Soba noodle making?– Japan is home to a variety of noodles, but around Tokyo the buckwheat soba noodle is king. In this class you will learn to create the dough, roll it out and slice it with a special soba knife, then sit back and enjoy the fruits of your labour – yum! Street Food tour?– Osaka’s motto is ‘eat, drink and enjoy life’ and who can argue? We can arrange a walking tour which allows you to experience all the culinary wonders of this city, from the restaurant mecca of Dotonbori to those spots which the locals like to keep a secret.
We often suggest to customers that if you’re already exploring a region, why not take the opportunity to see more? Japan is a great example – why not add a stop in South Korea while you’re there? Here at Wendy Wu Tours we love what South Korea has to offer. From the buzzing city that is Seoul, full of bustling street markets, sensational food and impressive sky-high scrapers. To Busan in the south, scattered across a beachy and mountainous terrain and steeped in culture and religion.
Here at Wendy Wu, our goal isn't just to bring customers to a country; it's to help you truly experience it. Our Japan tours offer a variety of authentic activities and experiences that will fully immerse you in Japanese culture. From discovering the art of wasabi cultivation on a traditional farm to navigating Tokyo's iconic Shibuya Crossing, crafting your own sushi for lunch, and savouring authentic sake. Experience the elegance of a traditional tea ceremony, get hands-on with Washi paper making, or spend time in the UNESCO-listed, snow-capped village of Shirakawago on our 'Christmas in Japan' tour. There truly is something for everyone.
A huge, vibrant and enchanting land, India is an incredibly diverse country ranging from the towering peaks of the Himalaya in the north to the beaches of Kerala at the southern tip. Inbetween you’ve got mega-metropolises, desert forts, holy cities, cave art, tea plantations, temples, just to name a few! Add in the cultural treasures of Sri Lanka and the magical mountain kingdoms of Nepal and Bhutan and you’ve got a subcontinent full of wonders.
India is a country of vast difference, there truly is something here for everyone. Whether that be the exciting chaos of Delhi, the country's capital. Delhi is home to the country's largest Mosque, the Jama Masjid. The Red Fort is also a must see, considered the pinnacle of Mughal architecture. We all know Agra as the home to the magnificent Taj Mahal, however it also boasts two more World Heritage sites, Agra Fort & Fatehpur Sikri. Agra is a great gateway to reach neighbouring cities in India. The colourful city of Jaipur is situated just south of Delhi and is home to the beautiful buildings of the 'Pink City' including the City Palace and Hawa Mahal. The city of Varanasi is spread across the River Ganges, watching the pilgrims and sacred rituals is a magical experience especially with the beautiful backdrop of a sun rise or sun set. Head down to the south and you will eventually reach relaxing Kerala, made up of beautiful beaches, calming rivers and green plantations, it is the perfect place to end a trip in India.
The island of Sri Lanka sits just off the tip of India in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. As a destination, Sri Lanka is pretty hard to beat – on this island that is smaller than Great Britain you’ve got spectacular highlands covered in tea plantations, the remains of several old civilisations, seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites and national parks packed with elephants, leopards and all sorts more! And we haven’t even mentioned the fantastic beaches yet…
Nepal is best known for its spectacular location amongst the soaring Himalayan Mountains, but the country also encompasses an area of steamy subtropical forest where you’ll find some of Asia’s best wildlife viewing in Chitwan National Park. The old streets of the cities of the Kathmandu Valley are lined with old temples and stupas and full of locals going about their daily business, whilst in the lakeside town of Pokhara, the clean air and mountain views will blow all of the cobwebs away.
Bhutan has to be one of the world’s most interesting destinations. Wedged in the Himalayas and protected by mountains the country has always been isolated, giving it a magical and enigmatic appeal. It also means that Bhutan's culture is perfectly intact ad to keep it that way the government tightly controls tourism. In fact, the preservation of culture and Bhutan’s spectacular environment are two of the pillars of the concept of ‘gross national happiness’ which governs Bhutanese society and slows the process of modernisation. Get in there fast, before it changes!
The Indian Subcontinent is full of incredible treasures, but unfortunately, we’ve only been able to pick our top 10 here, but trust us when we say there are plenty more! From mountain-backed monasteries to glittering temples, scenic train rides and boat rides on holy rivers, it’s safe to say that this region has something for everyone. Here they are, some of our favourite sights:
Considered one of the world’s most beautiful buildings, the Taj Mahal was built by Emperor Shah Jahan as a mausoleum for his favourite wife Mumtaz Mahal. It took 20,000 workmen to realise Shah Jahan’s vision, but what a vision it was! The perfect symmetry and white marble give the building an ethereal quality only enhanced by the way that the fa?ade reflect the moods of the sky throughout the day. Anyone who is visiting India needs to make sure the Taj Mahal is on their itinerary, it really is that good!
The city of Varanasi sits on the banks of the River Ganges and is believed to be one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. It is one of Hinduism most sacred places – it is believed that if you die in Varanasi, you go straight to nirvana. Whilst the ancient streets are lined with old temples, it is at Varanasi’s riverfront ghats that you’ll experience what the city is really about. Here, thousands of Hindus come to bathe, perform religious rituals and cremate their dead every day – it is a rich and magical but confronting place to be. The ghats are best viewed at sunrise from the river.
Amongst the lush greenery of India’s most southerly state are a network of rivers, canals and lagoons that make up the backwaters. The backwaters are usually explored by houseboat, locally called a kettuvalam, which travels at a delightfully leisurely pace along the waterways. You’ll get to see what life is like for those living on and around the water, spot bird and wildlife and enjoy the verdant scenery.
India’s most famous national park, visitors flock to Ranthambore for one thing; Bengal tigers. Formerly the hunting ground of the Maharajahs of Jaipur, the park is centred around the old Ranthambore Fort, which is easy to spot when out on safari. Easily accessible between Jaipur and Agra, there are about 50 tigers known to live within its boundaries – they are also known for being reasonably easy to spot. Other animals that call the park home are leopards, nilgai, sloth bear and 300 species of bird.
Sigiriya, Lion Rock, rises out of the flat, arid land of Sri Lanka’s central plains. It is part of the island’s ‘Cultural Triangle’, an area that stretches between the ruins of the old cities of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa and the town of Dambulla and is a treasure trove of rich Sri Lankan culture. On top of the rock at Sigiriya you’ll find the remains of the palace of King Kassappa from the 5th century AD – you’ll have to pass through the gigantic lion’s paws, through galleries and up staircases and past frescoes to reach it. It’s been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1982.
Elephants, elephants, elephants – that’s Udawalawe National Park! A vast tract of grassland around the Udawalawe Reservoir, there are about 600 elephants here, along with serpent eagles, wild buffalo, sambar deer and even a few leopards. Close by is the Elephant Transit Home, supported by the Born Free Foundation, a project that takes in and prepares orphaned juvenile elephants to be returned to the wilds of the national park. Visit at feeding time to see the boisterous youngsters having their milk.
Located in Sri Lanka’s highlands, the cool climes of Nuwara Eliya are perfect for the cultivation of tea and the area is covered in lush green plantations. The town itself was built by the British in the 19th century - charmingly Victorian, it is a delight to wander and provides some excellent colonial style accommodation. Time in Nuwara Eliya is the perfect way to escape the heat of the lowlands, and it is the perfect place to do a bit of hiking. There are plenty of trails to beautiful waterfalls through untouched wilderness for those who fancy it.
Nepal’s vibrant capital, Kathmandu is a hub of cultural and artistic heritage as well as the heart of the country. The city is full of beautiful medieval buildings from its time as the capital of the Malla kings from the 13th to 16th centuries – some of the city’s greatest monuments such as the Durbar Square date from this time. Wandering the narrow streets of the old town is the best way to soak up the buzz of the city and catch a glimpse of the diverse groups of people who call it home. Kathmandu is also the gateway to Nepal as a whole – from here you can reach the country’s many other wonders.
On the shores of Lake Phewa, Pokhara sits in a balmy valley in the shadow of the Annapurna and Manaslu mountain ranges, each containing 8,000 metre plus peaks. As you can imagine, the scenery is spectacular and the town is wonderfully laidback, even though it is also the hub of Nepal’s adventure activity scene. Pokhara is home to the International Mountain Museum and the Gurkha Museum, whilst the bustling waterfront is lined with hotels, bars and restaurants. Away from the town the lakeshores are densely forested and good for hiking, and there are a number of viewpoints to ascend to.
Bhutan’s most iconic sight, Taktsang Monastery or Tiger’s Nest, sits precariously on a cliff face 900 metres above the Paro Valley, about 12 kilometres from the town of Paro. The monastery was built in 1692 around eight caves in the cliffs, where it is said that Guru Padmasambhava meditated after he bought Buddhism to Bhutan. To reach it you must walk up through a beautiful woodland for about 1 hour 30 to 2 hours – a walk that is well worth the effort!
The weather for each of these nations varies significantly, so here is a quick overview of the climate of each:
India
Due to its size, India’s climate is very varied but is dictated by the monsoon. The main monsoon works northwards from Kerala from June to September, whilst the east coast gets a second soaking between October and December. Winter, which is the same time as ours, brings cold winds to the north but hot weather in the south. There is somewhere to go in India at any time of year.
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka has a tropical climate with two seasons, wet and dry. There are two monsoon seasons – one from May to October that hits the south, west and central regions of the country, and the second from December to March which hits the northeast of the country. Temperatures stay in the late 20s all year round.
Nepal
The altitude of Nepal’s north means cool summers and severe winters, but in the lowland south you get mild winters and tropical summers. June to September is monsoon season.
Bhutan
The south of Bhutan, near the border with India, has a hot, humid subtropical climate year-round, whilst the slightly higher central region has warm summers and cool dry winters (at the same time as ours). The farther north you go, the higher the altitude and therefore lower temperatures.
Armenia truly is a beautiful slice of Central Asia, bordering Azerbaijan, Georgia, Turkey and Iran, this country is a melting pot of European and Middle Eastern influence. Visiting the capital Yerevan, you feel like you have gone back in time, walking through medieval style cobbled streets with backdrops of lush gardens and mountains. However, there is so much more to see than just Yerevan, if you head to the south, you will reach Noravank Monastery, an old relic of the Silk Road. Or a stark contrast of Dilijan in the north, coined “Armenia's Switzerland” and also home to the beautiful national park.
Visiting Azerbaijan on one of our tours combines Central Asian opulence with stunning natural landscapes and forested mountains. The country where East meets West is a must visit destination for anyone that's want to learn more about this fascinating corner of the world. Baku, the country's capital was originally an essential stop on the infamous Silk Road, the city's extravagant architecture really tell a story of how this beautiful settlement has preserved its historic culture while embracing the modernisation of both Eastern and Western worlds that influence it. On our Georgia, Armenia & Azerbaijan tour, customers will really delve into the city's past with a walking tour through the Icheri Sheher (old city). To get real flavour of what Azerbaijan is like, we also guide customers through the Absheron Peninsula, home to the Yanar Dag Fire Mountain, and into the northwest of Azerbaijan to the renowned Caucasus Mountains, where guests can experience an unforgettable drive through the Girdimanchay River Canyon.
Georgia will be unlike any destination you will ever visit, this hidden gem truly has remained hidden for so long due to previous Soviet rule however it is now waiting to be explored. It's location on the Black Sea allows perfect space for settlements to scatter across beautiful beaches, but that's not all – the hilltop towns and cities like Tbilisi serve as a gateway to explore the full richness of Georgia. Our Georgia, Armenia & Azerbaijan tour provides guests with unique experiences including lunch at a local family's resident in Lagodekhi, Georgian wine tasting in the Khareba Winery and exploring Tbilisi, the country's capital, which offers a cosmopolitan vibe that contrasts with the narrow lanes of the old town, where charming squares and the magnificent 17th century Narikala Fortress can be found.
Kazakhstan is where the ancient and modern, traditions and innovation intertwine. The country's capital, Astana, is modern, with futuristic architecture wherever you look. Set against the vivid backdrop of the Tian Shan range, the influence of Russia is most evident in Almaty, the country's former capital. Our tours to Kazakhstan usually focus on the south border, where this country meets the rest of Central Asia.
Nestled in the heart of Central Asia is where you will find Kyrgyzstan, bordering China, it resembles the rest of this part of the world, characterised by its notorious rocky mountain peaks and expansive valleys. One of our favourite places in this beautiful country is Bishkek, a city that tells the story of celebration of a post Soviet world through architecture and culture. We can't speak about Kyrgyzstan without explaining how immersed you feel in this countries traditions whilst traveling through. You will not only see snow-capped mountains and glaciers but also pass by traditional yurt homes. On our Journey Through Central Asia tour, your customers will have the chance to take in the daily life in Ashu Village, meeting local people and even participating in some optional horse riding through the stunning foothills of Chon-Kemin.
When we say Tajikistan is mountainous, we're really not joking. Over 90% of land in this region is made up of incredible mountainscapes where traditional settlements remain working in the same way they did many years before. Here you will find ancient relics of the Silk Road in cities like Dushanbe. A must see in this beautiful city is the Fortress of Hissor, the Medrassah Kuhna and the Museum of Tajik Way of life.
Much like all the other countries in this region, Turkmenistan has a key significance in the history of the Silk Road. Exploring these cities really gives you a feel of what life had been like back then, the monasteries themselves are truly one of a kind. One of our favourite must-sees is the Darvaza Gas Crater, famously coined at the 'Door to Hell'.
Uzbekistan is by far our most popular destination in Central Asia and we know why, steeped in historic, outstanding architecture and friendly people, this country should be at the top of everybody's bucket list. Samarkand has been an impressive trading city for hundreds of years; however, it is the truly opulent Registan Square that lures most travellers to this city. Its turquoise tiles and impressive mosaic patterns really do make it a feast for the eyes. On our 'Ultimate Uzbekistan' tour, guests can also enjoy wine tasting at the Khovrenko Winery. Khiva is also a destination not to be missed, our unique experiences include exploring the beautiful ancient walled town of Itchan Kala, it is truly breathtaking. With rugged and rocky landscapes, spectacular countryside and incredible Islamic architecture, what more can you want!
How do we begin to describe Latin America? It's impossible to capture how incredible this part of the world is in one short summary, however at Wendy Wu Tours, we're confident there's something here for everyone. From the coffee-growing regions and lush Amazon rainforest in the north to the snow-capped peaks of Patagonia in the south, South America offers endless experiences. Whether you're enjoying the lively rhythm of salsa in Rio, spotting monkeys swing through the Costa Rican tree lines, marveling at Bolivia's vast mirrored salt flats, or hiking the heights of Machu Picchu, we're sure it will blow you away…
Argentina lies on the southeastern coast of South America, it's vibrant capital Buenos Aires – home of the Tango – is a destination not to be missed. Wander through its charming backstreets, enjoy salsa music flooding the squares, savour a mouthwatering steak, and sip on a fine Argentinian Malbec. On our tours, guests will explore iconic districts like La Boca, San Telmo, Puerto Madero, Palermo, and Recoleta. We're all about unique experiences here at Wendy Wu Tours. A highlight in Argentina is visiting the Mendoza wine region nestled in the Andean foothills, guests can learn more about the intricate process of wine-making and of course sample! Another memorable day includes a visit to a traditional ranch in the pampas, where guests can enjoy a folklore show. Contrary to the hustle and bustle of Buenos Aires is Ushuaia in the south, famously known as the gateway to Antarctica. Here is the perfect opportunity to spot penguins and sea lions along the Beagle channel.
Brazil spans over more than half of South America, with its capital Rio de Janeiro as the beating heart of the country. In Rio, you'll find the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue towering over the city and overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. From the ocean's perspective, this metropolis is a sprawling cityscape nestled amongst lush hilltops and mountains. Must see attractions in this city include the Tijuca Rainforest, the famous sands of Copacabana beach, and the cable car journey up to Sugar Loaf Mountain. On the border of Brazil and Argentina lies Iguazu Falls, an incredible two-step waterfall spread across two national parks. This breath-taking natural wonder is a must see. And we can't forget Manaus, set in the state Amazonas and is famous for being the gateway to the Amazon Rainforest.
Chile is a country of remarkable contrast, with its long narrow land mass spanning a vast distance bringing a variety of climates and landscapes. From the rugged Atacama desert in the north to the snowcapped peaks of Patagonia in the south, this country is full of surprise! Our 'Chile Top to Toe' tour takes guests to the oasis town of San Pedro de Atacama, where they can explore the stunning Death and Moon Valleys and witness the striking orange hues of the landscapes. Other unique experiences include a cruise through the Serrano Glacier in the south and the chance to explore the UNESCO-recognised Torres del Paine National Park. Of course, we can't forget to mention the vibrant capital, Santiago. Nestled in the Andean mountains, nearly half of Chile's population reside here, and it's easy to see why. The streets offer endless impressive viewpoints, a blend of colonial and modern architecture, and a wealth of incredible galleries, museums, restaurants, and bars. There really is something here for everyone.
Colombia truly offers a vibrant taste of South America, filled with sounds of salsa, lush coffee regions, the vast Amazon rainforest, and the beautiful Caribbean coastline. In the capital of Bogata, you can take a cable car up to the mountaintop Santuario de Monserrate, overlooking sweeping views of the heart of the country. Bogota itself is known for its impressive colonial architecture and lively markets. In the Valle de Cocora, home to the iconic towering palm trees, you'll find the quaint town of Salento. This bustling town is known for its local handicrafts, and guests on our tour can enjoy a traditional basket weaving class. Nearby, in the Andean foothills, lies Pereira, a key region in Colombia's renowned coffee production. Heading further north you'll find Medellin, a city nestled within a lush valley. Once troubled by its past, Medellin has transformed into a vibrant and resilient city, with strong community led efforts which have paved the way for the city to bounce back and sculpt it into the thriving green metropolis it is today. Along the north Caribbean coast, you'll discover Cartagena, a beautifully preserved Spanish colonial port. Its colourful buildings and cobbled streets live within a picturesque walled city. Cartagena boasts some of the best food in Colombia, and our tours offer an immersive street food and rum tasting experience. In our opinion, one of Colombia's most stunning destinations is Tayrona National Park. Rarely do you hike through dense rainforest, tropical woodlands and sandy trails to stumble upon some of the most breathtaking beaches in the world. It's an unforgettable must-see in this corner of the continent.
Costa Rica is a picturesque paradise, situated between the Pacific and Caribbean coasts. This country is a land of dense jungles, active volcanoes, sandy beaches and misty cloud forests making it home to an incredibly diverse range of wildlife. Monteverde, cloaked in mist and a mystical feel is home to canopy bridges connecting an ecosystem of treetops providing perfect birdwatching opportunities. On the warmer Caribbean coast is Tortuguero, where turtles come to lay their eggs. You may even be able to spot the magical moments when the eggs hatch and the baby turtles make their first trip towards the ocean. For those eager to spot monkeys swinging through the trees, Manuel Antonio on the Pacific coast is the perfect destination. This town is home to an incredible range of wildlife thanks to its sheltered coves and rugged shorelines.
Peru, home to the iconic Machu Picchu, is unsurprisingly at the top of many avid traveller's bucket list. However, there is so much more to explore beyond its famous landmarks. In the capital Lima, like many cities in Latin America you will find a blend of Spanish colonial architecture and modern skyscrapers, with the city extending all the way to the coast. Explore Peru's rich history at the UNESCO recognised historic centre and visit Huaca Pucllana to learn about the pre-Incan civilisation. In Cusco, vibrant traditional dress fills the streets, here you will really be immersed in the original Quechua culture. Cusco also serves as the gateway to the breathtaking Sacred Valley and the world-renowned Machu Picchu. Further south of Peru, you will find Arequipa, known as the "White City" due its striking buildings constructed from white volcanic stone. This beautiful city is watched over by the dormant Misti Volcano. Puno is where you may feel most immersed in traditional Peruvian culture, set on Lake Titicaca, this area holds historical significance with the lakes famous floating islands. Guests on our 'Panoramic Peru' tour will get to experience a boat trip on the lake while learning more about the local handcrafted trade.
At the heart of Bolivia, you’ll find the Uyuni Salt flats, these vast mirrored landscapes are a must see for anyone in heading to South America. La Paz, Bolivia's capital, is nestled within the snow-capped Andes and boasts a rich history and vibrant culture. Nearby, the Valley of the Moon offers striking rock formations shaped by erosion, creating a striking moon like terrain.
Ecuador sits on the northwest coast of South America, nestled between Colombia and Peru and serves as a gateway to the Galapagos. Ecuador's capital Quito, is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its rich Incan history. Here, visitors can stroll through colourful streets, admire beautifully preserved monasteries and historic architecture and marvel at the renowned Virgin of Quito statue. Unique experiences on our tours in Ecuador include meeting a traditional medicine healer and indulging in chocolate tasting. The Galapagos need no introduction, this incredible group of islands boast some of the world’s most diverse and impressive wildlife. Due to strict conservation efforts, the islands’ beauty remains untouched, and species continue to flourish. On our tour guests can witness giant tortoises hatching in their natural habitat, explore lava tunnels, hike the Pinnacle Rock volcanic cone to spot penguins and so much more…
As your clients are venturing all the way over to South or Central America, they might as well make the most of their time over there! We’ve got a range of awesome extensions that they can pop on pre- or post- tour. Some, such as the Galapagos Islands, Easter Island or a Patagonia cruise, offering even more adventure, whilst others, beach stays in Costa Rica, Panama and Brazil, are purely for relaxation.
Are your clients looking for unforgettable experiences this Christmas holiday? Whether they seek winter sun or want to change up their usual Christmas routine, our Christmas collection is perfect. Imagine waking up Christmas morning to the stunning views of Halong Bay, Kyotos's snow-covered Golden Temple, or watching the sunset behind the Taj Mahal.
China might be the ultimate place to spend Christmas, with views of the Great Wall and Peking duck on Christmas day, what more could you want? Christmas in China Unique Experiences: - Visit Leshan Grand Buddha towering over the water below - On Christmas Day, dine on an authentic Peking Duck feast - On Boxing Day, enjoy a thrilling Chinese Acrobatic show China: Winter Wonderland Unique Experiences: - Take part in a Terracotta warriors' workshop - Indulge in China's finest delicacies including Shui Jiao dumplings - Bring in the new year in style with champagne at the Great Wall
Does soaking up the views of Halong Bay or spending Christmas Day with elephants sound nice? These are just some of the reasons we think Christmas in Southeast Asia may be perfect for your clients... Christmas in Vietnam Unique experiences: - Enjoy a spectacular outdoor river performance in the Quintessence of Tonkin show - Practice ancient cultivation techniques with members of the local farming community in Tra Que village - Spend Christmas Eve and Christmas Day soaking up the spectacular views of Halong Bay Christmas in Thailand Unique experiences: - Visit a traditional tea plantation and learn about the cultivation of tea - Tuck into a Thai Christmas Dinner at a converted colonial mansion - Spend Christmas day morning getting to know the elephants at the local sanctuary
India truly is a magical place to spend the festive period in, we have carefully curated these tours to ensure your clients have a Christmas they will remember for a lifetime... Christmas in India Unique experiences: - Admire Udaipur on a cruise of Lake Pichola - Immerse yourself in local life on a Pushkar walking tour - Take part in block printing at Jaipur's Handicraft Centre Christmas in Sri Lanka Unique experiences: - Join in the wonderful conservation efforts at the Kosgada Turtle Hatchery - Spot a variety of wildlife at Yala National Park - Soak up the views of misty pine forests and lush tea plantations on a scenic rail route Christmas in Kerala Unique experiences: - Witness the vibrant Kathakali Dance Performance - Marvel at the traditional Kalarippayattu Martial Arts - Immerse yourslef in the traditional Aarti Hindu ritual ceremony
At Wendy Wu, we believe all of our Japan tours offer something truly special. However what makes our 'Christmas in Japan' tour truly unique is the possibility of seeing key cultural sites including Mount Fuji blanketed in snow! Christmas in Japan Unique Experiences: - Experience the perfect display of Japanese culture in a traditional tea ceremony - On Christmas Day, enjoy a Wagashi sweet making class - Soak up the rural scenery in the UNESCO listed village of Shirakawago
What better way to spend Christmas than in the beating heart of Africa, switch up old school traditions and enjoy our incredible 'Christmas in South Africa' tour... Christmas in South Africa Unique experiences: - Participate in a traditional African drumming experience - Enjoy a guided tour of an ostrich farm and learn more about these incredible birds - Observe the penguins at the renowned Boulders Beach nestled against the rugged beauty of the Western Cape
The Middle East is the land of the undiscovered, where incredible sandy dunes meet a rich tapestry of cultural and political history, creating a destination waiting to be explored. Here at Wendy Wu Tours, we are all about designing tours with unique experiences that really immerse our customers in the depths of these destinations. Our Middle East collection includes; Egypt, Israel, Jordan and Saudi Arabia.
We know that many avid travellers have been to Egypt however in true Wendy Wu style, we want to take you to every corner and immerse you in the full experience of traditional Egypt. Cairo, also known as the ‘city of a thousand minarets’ is set on the Nile River and perfectly blends old and new, this city is most famous to being the gateway to the Pyramids of Giza. You cannot visit Egypt without seeing this wonder of the ancient world, sat next to the iconic Sphinx, the Pyramids of Giza are steeped in history and truly open your eyes to the impressive methods of Egyptian architecture. On our 'Dreams of Egypt' tour, customers will also be able to explore Luxor, on the East bank of the Nile. A luxurious 4-night, 5 star river cruise will venture past ancients temples, tombs and historical sites. And we can't forget to mention, the beautiful city of Aswan, known for its Nubian culture where guests can visit the infamous Philae Temple.
Israel has one of the most fascinating, complex and intricate histories, serving as a melting pot of religions and cultures. This country offers a multitude of must-see sights that truly capture the diverse heritage of this destination. Jerusalem, coined as on of the worlds most holy cities, it has an incredible myriad of architecture and local cuisine. Other key religious landmarks that are featured on our tours to Israel include; Bethlehem and the Sea of Galilee and often a highlight for anyone visiting Israel, standing by the ancient Masada Fortress which overlooks the beautiful Dead Sea.
Jordan is a much-loved destination here at Wendy Wu Tours. While Petra may be deemed as the major highlight, this iconic country offers so much more to discover, and we can’t wait to share it all with you… Starting with the vast landscape of Wadi Rum, these striking red sand dunes have featured in many top Hollywood movies including; Dune, Lawrence of Arabia and the Martian. On our 'Journey through Jordan' tour, guests will have the unique thrill-seeking experience of navigating these dunes by 4x4, before spending the night in a luxurious 5-star desert camp for a night under the stars. Jerash, known as "Pompeii of the East" is home to ancient Roman ruins, historic castles and the Temple of Artemis. And located just south of Jerash is the Dead Sea, due to the high density of saltwater, people can float with little effort at all. The Dead Sea is also renowned for its high concentration of mineral rich mud, perfect for mud baths to rejuvenate the skin! Finally, how can we talk about Jordan without mentioning Petra. The UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an ancient city carved into the steep rock landscapes over 2000 years ago and guests on our tours will explore the variety of temples and amphitheaters. They will visit by day and even have a spectacular experience by candlelight.
Saudi Arabia appears to be a destination that has been long closed off to tourists, remaining largely undiscovered and waiting to be explored. It is a country that really exceeds all expectations and challenges preconceptions. It perfectly mixes old and new, with ancient empires and holy cities contrasting with modern skylines and metropolises in Riyadh. Riyadh is a capital city that is ahead of its time, its bustling financial districts and skyscrapers are scattered in between old souqs and ancient architecture. Just outside of Riyadh is Diriyah, the original capital of the Saudi dynasty and home to Souq Al-Zah, one of Riyadh's oldest markets. On a Wendy Wu Tour, customers also get the opportunity to visit the hustle and bustle of the ancient Buraidah camel market, explore Medina and enjoy a bullet train journey to the vibrant city of Jeddah.
We're big fans of all things that Europe has to offer and have carefully curated tours in both Portugal and Turkey which we think really show off the richness and culture of Europe.
Portugal really has it all: beautiful traditional architecture, historic castles, vibrant metropolitan cities, stunning sandy beaches, mouth watering cuisine, and the sound of Fado music coming from tucked away alleyway bars.
Nestled in a hilly coastal region, Portugal's vibrant capital does nothing but impress. You can be anywhere in Lisbon and take in incredible views of the city and beyond, with white- domed cathedrals and intricately tiled buildings scattered over the landscape. The charming yellow trams make their way up cobbled streets past quaint alleyways that are home to traditional family run restaurants and bars often playing Fado music. Enjoy discovering more about Portugal's rich history whilst enjoying a pastel de nata in the historic Belem region.
Running through the heart of the city lies the Douro River, home to six incredible bridges that connect Porto. A must see here is the Douro valley winelands, guests on our Portugal Uncovered tour can visit a family-run winery to learn about and taste the local wines. Porto is best explored by foot, where you can fully immerse yourself in the rich religion, culture, and history of Portugal.
UNESCO recognised Sintra is a beautiful 19th century town, the famous Palacio Nacional da Pena sits on a hilltop surrounded by lush parks and gardens overlooking the whole region, it truly is something out of a fairy tale and often a highlight of a trip to Portugal.
With heavy influence of both Europe and Asia, Turkey is a melting pot of food, religion, culture and history. Whether its exploring the ancient ruins of Ephesus in the West, watching the beautiful display of hot air balloons fill the morning skies in Cappadocia in the south or immersing yourself in the hustle and bustle of the countries capital, Istanbul in the north – there truly is something for everyone in this incredible country.
Steeped in Roman, Ottoman and Greek history, Istanbul lies at the end of the silk road and the city still has the same bustling atmosphere that it would have done over a hundred years ago. Home to some of the most impressive architecture in the world and a delectable variety of food, this city has so much to explore. Some of our favourites include, the Grand Bazaar, one of the worlds largest and oldest covered markets, Hagia Sophia and the UNESCO recognized Fener and Balat districts.
Cappadocia is unlike anywhere else in the world, where the sky is often full of hot air balloons floating through the air above the unique rocky terrain. The region is known for the tall cone-shaped rock formations, created by erosion, which create a magical fairy tale landscape. Guests on our 'Treasures of Turkey' tour will get to marvel at the magnificent scenery in this region and explore the Soganli Valley while enjoying traditional lunch prepared by locals.
Learn more about Turkeys intricate history at the UNESCO recognised site of Ephesus. On our tour, guests will be able to walk through the ancient streets, passing by the grand theatre and aqueduct system gaining insight into daily life in this remarkable Roman city.
Now we will be taking you on a journey through what we think are the highlights of this vast continent...
Morocco is an incredible country, with a rich tapestry of culture, religion and cuisine, this country extends far beyond Marrakech. However here at Wendy Wu, we couldn't talk about Morocco without explaining our love for Marrakech. Navigating the souks, you'll be immersed in the energetic atmosphere, while the serene Ourika Valley, nestled in the Atlas Mountains, offers a peaceful retreat where our guests can partake in a traditional tea ceremony. We then take you to Essaouira, a striking difference to bustling Marrakech, this seaside town has a much slower pace where you can enjoy walking around the medina. Other unique experiences include a pottery workshop in the beautiful 9th century town of Fez and a Berber cooking class in the Erg Chebbi Desert.
The Cape region offers something for everyone. Firstly, you have Cape Town, located on a peninsula in the southwest, this vibrant city is a cultural hotspot. Explore the city by foot or even take a cable car to soak in the breathtaking views of the ocean along the Western Cape. We can't forget to mention Boulders Beach, home to the African penguin colony, watch as they waddle through their daily lives. The Cape is also renowned for its Winelands, on our 'Kruger to the Cape Explored' tour, guests can enjoy learning more about the art of wine making in the Stellenbosch and Franschhoek regions. Kruger National Park is renowned for its incredible diversity of wildlife, home to 860,000 acres of protected land, it offers endless opportunities to see a wide range of habitats and species including: leopards, giraffes, lions, cheetahs, elephants and much more. Our guests will head out from their private game lodge and embark on two 4x4 safaris a day, one a dawn and one in the late afternoon to ensure they spot as much as possible.
Namibia is one of our newer destinations featured here at Wendy Wu, and we are so excited to showcase the wonders of this extraordinary country. Starting in the central capital, Windhoek, boasting breathtaking views of the rolling hilltops framed by urban skylines. Windhoek's complex history of German colonisation has resulted in a unique blend of traditional and German architecture, giving the city a modern yet historic charm. Far away along impressive desert landscapes is the Sossusvlei region, beautiful desert divided by the Tsauchab River, where guests on our tour will be staying. Other highlights in Namibia include the beautiful coastline of Swakopmund, vast Damaraland (home to the indigenous San people) and of course impressive Etosha National Park, home to more than 144 different species of animal.
At Wendy Wu, we understand how much our customers adore our award winning tours. We also recognise the growing popularity of cruise holidays. That's why we've combined the best of both worlds. By partnering with exceptional cruise lines, we've developed our exclusive Cruise & Tour Collection.
So what makes our Cruise & Tour packages better than the rest? - Similar to our land only tours, our Cruise & Tour holidays include all meals pre & post cruise, all visas, 4* accommodation and a maximum 28 pax group size - We like to provide the best for our customers, that's why we are only offering outside or balcony cabins - We have partnered with established and reliable cruise operators including: Royal Caribbean, Celebrity & Azamara - We have recognised that customers also enjoy relaxing while on holiday, which is why the cruise is the perfect option for those also wanting to wind down
To start off our Cruise & Tour range, we would like to introduce you to our fabulous 'Beijing to Singapore' journey with Celebrity Cruises. This tour begins with exploring China's iconic landmarks, including Beijing's Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City and of course the Great Wall. Travel in style via bullet train to see the impressive Terracotta Warriors in Xian and the fluffy pandas in Chengdu and continue to Hong Kong to experience all that this vibrant metropolis has to offer. Day 12 is where you will board your Celebrity Cruise, where you'll explore incredible destinations in Vietnam, such as the stunning Halong Bay, the historical city of Hue and the bustling Saigon. You will journey through the Gulf of Thailand, stopping to enjoy buzzing Bangkok and tropical Ko Samui. Finally, arrive in Singapore, where you'll experience excursions at Gardens by the Bay and Marina Bay.
Our 'China by land, Japan by sea' itinerary truly incorporates the best of a Wendy Wu land tour with a Royal Caribbean sea cruise. The journey begins with visits to Beijing's key sights, including Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and the Great Wall, followed by a trip to Xian to see the Terracotta Warriors. In Chengdu, you'll spend time with the cuddly pandas before heading to cosmopolitan Shanghai. From the shores of Shanghai is where you will board your Royal Caribbean cruise, where you can relax on the 4* ship before arriving in Kobe, known for its beef, coined as some of the best in the world! Sail to Osaka, a foodies dream and indulge in some traditional delicacies before heading to Kyoto, the home of Geisha. On Day 15, you'll arrive in Tokyo, where the iconic skyline awaits you before finally returning to Shanghai for your flight back to the UK.
What better way to fuse iconic sights of Southeast Asia with the rich cultural tapestry of India. Your journey begins with an international flight from the UK to Bangkok, here you can immerse yourself in the culture of the beating heart of Thailand. Before boarding your cruise, spend a day in Kanchanaburi, home to the infamous Bridge on the River Kwai. Once aboard your Azamara Cruise, you'll explore the Malay Peninsula, with stops in Kuala Lumpur and Penang, before enjoying the beauty of Phuket's stunning white sand beaches. Throughout your cruise, you will have days at a time for leisure as your ship crosses the seas, here relax as the Azamara crosses the Bay of Bengal. Your cruise will then stop on India's southeast coast in Chennai, where you'll have time to explore the colourful temples. Next, stop in Colombo, Sri Lanka, where you'll even have the chance to visit an elephant orphanage before cruising up the west coast of India. The final leg of your journey includes exploring bustling Mumbai, joining a block printing class in Jaipur, meeting the tigers in Ranthambore National Park, marveling at the Taj Mahal and visiting India's largest mosque in Delhi.
One of our most popular land tours 'Taj, Temples & Tigers' explores the Golden Triangle of India and everything this region has to offer. We have now paired this popular tour with a sensational cruise around Southeast Asia. Begin the tour in Delhi by exploring Jama Masjid, India's largest mosque, and savouring the delicious local street food. Next, head to Agra to witness an unforgettable sunrise at the Taj Mahal, followed by a visit to Ranthambore where you will spend time with the tigers. From there, fly to Singapore and board the Celebrity Solstice cruise, which will take you on an incredible journey through Ko Samui, Bangkok, Saigon, Nha Trang, Hue, and Hanoi.
Combine Singapore, Vietnam, Hong Kong, Japan, and Taiwan into one unforgettable 24-day cruise and tour with our carefully curated 'Singapore to Tokyo' adventure. Begin by flying into Singapore, where you'll get a taste of this dynamic city, including Marina Bay and the incredible light show at Gardens by the Bay. Then, enjoy days relaxing at sea aboard the Azamara Pursuit as it takes you to explore Saigon and the UNESCO-listed imperial city of Hue. On day 11, you'll arrive in Hong Kong, where you can dive into its unique blend of cosmopolitan and rich cultural heritage before continuing your journey to Taiwan's capital, Taipei. The second part of your cruise will be spent exploring Miyakojima, Naha, Kobe, Kyoto, Fuji, Tokyo and meeting the snow monkeys.
When you think of an immersive Japan tour, our 'Japan by Land and Sea' offers the ultimate experience. This journey takes you to every corner of this beloved country. Begin in Tokyo, where you'll participate in a sushi making workshop and immerse yourself in the bright lights of this city at Shibuya crossing. Spend days 4 and 5 meeting the famous Japanese macaque monkeys and admiring the breathtaking Mount Fuji. Your final day on land will be spent in Kyoto, where you will spend time with Geishas and stroll past the iconic red torii gates. On day 8, you'll board the Azamara Pursuit for a cruise to Kobe, Kochi, and the peaceful city of Hiroshima. You'll also discover lesser known gems like Kitakyushu, Sakaiminato (the home of anime), Kanazawa, and relax in the hot springs of Akita.
At Wendy Wu, we believe the blend of Japan and South Korea come together to create the ultimate adventure. Our 22 day 'Osaka to Seoul' itinerary, in partnership with Celebrity Cruises showcases the true beauty of Japan. Highlights include marveling the Golden Pavilion and spotting Geisha in Kyoto, boarding a bullet train to the iconic Mount Fuji, staying in a traditional ryokan, watching the snow monkeys in Jigokudani Park, and immersing yourself in the bright lights of Tokyo. On day 8, your cruise begins, taking you along the UNESCO Geopark coastline of Kochi, the historic city of Hiroshima, and Kagoshima, known for the active Sakurajima volcano. You'll wrap up your Japan adventure with visits to Nagasaki and Fukuoka before the final part of this journey, where the ship takes you to Busan in South Korea - boasting mountains, beaches and hot springs, and ending your trip in the vibrant metropolis of Seoul.
We are proud to present one of our newest tours in this collection 'Journey through Southern Africa". This journey combines South Africa's top landmarks with Botswana's Chobe National Park and iconic Victoria Falls. This tour begins with two game drives in Chobe National Park, where you'll spot elephants and over 440 different bird species. The following day, board the luxurious Livingstone Express steam train as you travel to the remarkable Victoria Falls. On day 6, you'll fly to Cape Town to explore the V&A Waterfront, take in the views of Table Mountain, and you might even get the chance to spot the penguins on Boulders Beach! Next, board your Azamara cruise for a relaxing two days at sea before exploring cosmopolitan Durban The following days will be spent spotting wildlife in Richards Bay, enjoying the beaches and wilderness of Port Elizabeth and wandering through the streets of Mossel Bay along the Garden Route. The tour concludes in Cape Town, where you'll enjoy the final days exploring the infamous Winelands, with wine tastings in Stellenbosch, Franshoek, and Paarl.
More than 25 years expertise offering extraordinary tours
