journey through azerbaijan georgia and armenia · • tbilisi - old town walking tour tbilisi...

JOURNEY THROUGH

15 DAY SOLOS TOUR: OCTOBER 2020

§ Exclusively for Solo Travellers § Your Own Room Always § Visit Amazing Destinations

ITINERARY

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AZERBAIJAN GEORGIA

& ARMENIA

AZERBAIJAN GEORGIA AND ARMENIA

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AZERBAIJAN, GEORGIA & ARMENIA 15 DAY SOLOS TOUR: 5TH - 19TH OCTOBER 2020

From Baku to Yerevan, step off the tourist trail in the Caucasus Mountains.

Watch arid landscapes give way to verdant hillsides and majestic snow-capped mountains on this eye opening adventure through Azerbaijan, Georgia and Armenia.

Explore a land where the walls speak of centuries of rich history and where ancient traditions intersect with a modern way of life. Journey through forests and past tall mountain peaks to find medieval mosques and villages.

Wander through cosmopolitan Baku and Tbilisi, and make friends with the friendly Georgian locals over a glass of Qvevri wine.

Why you’ll love this trip:

• Be serenaded by traditional singers while sampling regional food and wine prepared by our Georgian friends

• Azerbaijan’s cosmopolitan capital of Baku is often referred to as the ‘new Dubai’. Enjoy a guided walking tour around the city’s World Heritage-listed Old Town

• Mud volcanoes, ancient mosques, lush forests and tall peaks – the Caucasus Mountains will take your breath away

• See the historical sights of Mtskheta, Georgia’s 3,000-year old ancient capital and religious centre

• Explore the city of Yerevan in Armenia and gaze at the majestic Mt Ararat

Will you join us?

AZERBAIJAN, GEORGIA & ARMENIA


DAY 1: Monday 5th October 2020 BAKU (D)Salam eleykim! Welcome to Azerbaijan. On arrival at Baku Airport you will be met and transferred to your hotel (approx 40 minute drive). The adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6pm in the evening, followed by a group dinner where you can get to know your Two’s a Crowd Host, fellow tour participants and local guide.

§ Accommodation: Your own room at ‘Aksent Hotel,’ in Baku (3 star)

DAY 2: Tuesday 6th October 2020 BAKU (B)Get to know Baku with a tour of the city, taking in a visit to the Old City, including time at Shemakha gate, Shirvanshahs` Palace, Maiden Tower, and Old Market Square. Next we head off on a tour of the Absheron Peninsula, visiting the Ateshgah fire temple, Mardakan medieval fortress and the eternally burning Yanardagh fire mountain. Return to Baku in the evening.Baku Included Activities• Maiden’s Tower• Shirvan Shah Palace• Caravanserai• Absheron Peninsula Tour




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DAY 3: Wednesday 7th October 2020 BAKU (B)After breakfast today we will enjoy a day trip to Gobustan, located around 60 kilometres south of Baku. Visit one of the world’s largest open-air archaeological museums and wander past ancient rock art dating back 40,000 years. The prehistoric carvings depict scenes of hunting, fishing and gathering. Return to Baku in the afternoon and finish your day with a visit to the much loved Carpet Museum, perhaps afterwards stroll along the waterfront and find a cafe for dinner.Baku Included Activities• Gobustan - Petroglyphs• Carpet Museum


DAY 4: Thursday 8th October 2020 BAKU - SHEKI (B) Today we depart Baku and head for the Caucasus Mountains in the northwest of Azerbaijan. Watch arid landscapes slowly give way to densely forested mountains. En route to Sheki there will be stops at an active mud volcano, Diri Baba Shrine in Maraza, the Yeddi Gumbez Tomb, and the Juma Mosque in Shemakha. We also stop in to visit a family to see how they make yoghurt the traditional way and enjoy some local snacks. On arrival in Sheki, we will stop at a local craft workshop where the famous ‘shebeke’ – stained-glass windows with intricately carved frames – are made by hand. You will also visit the well-known Sheki Khan’s Palace to see its magnificent frescoes and stained glass. Tonight will be spent in Sheki.Sheki Included Activities• Mud volcano• Khan’s Palace• Craft Workshop VisitSpecial Information Please note that the mud volcanos are not accessible in foggy or wet weather and will only be included if road conditions are suitable. It may be necessary to change vehicles to access the volcano and walk a short distance. October weather is usually ideal for this region though.

§ Accommodation: Your own room at either ‘Sheki Palace’ or ‘Sheki Saray’ in Sheki (4 star)



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DAY 5: Friday 9th October 2020 SHEKI - KVARELI (B, L, D) Today we will have breakfast at the hotel before visiting the local Sheki bazaar. Next we will drive to Lagodecki, a town at the Azerbaijan-Georgia border. Here we will collect our new tour leader and change transportation. From here we travel to Georgia’s Kakheti region, famous for its wine making and welcoming hospitality. There will be a visit to the Gremi Architectural Complex and its museum, followed by lunch with a local family. Together we will feast on delicious homemade cuisine and wine, discover the importance of bread in the Georgian diet and learn how they make and bake this staple. Next we continue to a winery and sample different kinds of the famous Georgian drink. Listen to unique Georgian polyphonic songs, a traditional style of music prevalent in the Kakheti region. Afterwards, travel to the hotel in Kvareli. Our hotel this evening is located in a picturesque area on the bank of Ilia Lake, between the Kvareli Mountains and the Duruji River.Included Activities• Sheki - Bazaar• Gremi - Architectural Complex• Kvareli - Lunch with a Local Family and Winery Visit

§ Accommodation: Your at ‘Royal Batoni’ in Kvareli

Day 6 - Saturday 10th October 2020 SIGHNAGHI - TBILISI (B)Following breakfast, journey to the beautiful 18th-century town of Sighnaghi, known for its quaint stone walls, small houses, terracotta roofs and decorated balconies. After taking some time to admire the picturesque views of Alazani Valley and the Great Caucasus mountains, we depart for Tbilisi to explore the capital of Georgia. Wander the old districts of the city, which are structured like terraces, and walk through the narrow streets to appreciate the colourful houses, patterned balconies and revamped modern architecture. We get to know the city on a guided walk which begins from the 13th-century Metekhi church, with its magnificent views over old Tbilisi, before visiting the main sights of the city. In the afternoon we enjoy some free time to explore at our own pace.Included Activities• Sighnaghi - Town Stopover • Tbilisi - Old Town Walking TourTbilisi Optional Activities• Anchiskhati Church (entry is free) • Sioni Cathedral (entry is free)

§ Accommodation: Your own room at ‘Citadines City Centre,’ in Tbilisi (4 star)




Day 7 - Sunday 11th October 2020 TBILISI (B) This morning we enjoy panoramic views of the whole town from the ancient Narikala fortress, then head to the historical domed sulphur bath area. Visit the stunning treasury of the Golden Fund at the Natural History Museum, which will prove that Georgia is truly the land of the Golden Fleece. From here visit a local art studio and become acquainted with Georgian cloisonne enamel, also known as Minanqari, and see how it is made. Enjoy an afternoon of free time to further explore this charming city at your own pace.Tbilisi Included Activities• National History Museum• Narikala Fortress• Enamel Workshop

§ Accommodation: Your own room at ‘Citadines City Centre,’ in Tbilisi (4 star)

Day 8 - Monday 12th October 2020 MTSKHETA - BORJOMI - AKHALTSIKHE (B, L, D)Today visit Mtskheta, the ancient capital and religious center of Georgia. See UNESCO Heritage Sites such as the 6th century Jvari Monastery and the impressive Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, where the Robe of Christ is alleged to be buried. Afterwards, visit a wine cellar in the village of Chardakhi and taste unique BIO wines, produced using traditional Georgian methods. Meet the owners of the winery cellar over a delicious lunch and sample the ‘Qvevri’ wines. In the afternoon we drive to the south western part of Georgia and visit Borjomi Spa town, famous for its mineral water “Borjomi”. We then journey on to spend the night in Akhaltsikhe. Included Activities• Chardakhi - Georgian Wine Tasting & Home Cooked

Lunch• Mtskheta - Svetitskhoveli Cathedral

§ Accommodation: Your own room at ‘Hotel Lomsia,’ in Akhaltsikhe (3 star)




Day 9 - Tuesday 13th October 2020 VARDZIA (B, D) Today drive to the the magnificent cave town of Vardzia, which stretches over half a kilometer along the river Mtkvari and has 19 tiers of winding cobbled streets. There is a church hewn out of rock with amazing 12th century frescos, and the complex also includes dwellings quarters, small hall-type churches, refectories and wine cellars. En route to Vardzia you’ll also visit the 10th century Khertvisi fortress. In the afternoon return to Akhaltsikhe and visit the multicultural complex of Rabati.Included Activities• Akhaltsikhe - Rabat Fortress• Meskheti - Khertvisi Fortress• Vardzia - Cave Town Special InformationWe recommend wearing sturdy shoes. Steep weathered stairs, sandy platforms and narrow tunnels means you need to watch your footing. Access to monastery is by way of a 15 min walk that can be considered a steep incline. There are local buses available that make this journey for the price of 1 GEL. (AUD 50 cents)

§ Accommodation: Your room at ‘Hotel Lomsia,’ in Akhaltsikhe (3 star)

Day 10 - Wednesday 14th October 2020 UPLISTSIKHE - GUDAURI (B, D) In the morning visit the town of Gori, home to the Stalin Museum, and historical Uplistsikhe Cave Town. Uplistsikhe is the place where the Great Silk Road used to pass. This is an old and interesting complex with dwelling quarters, wine-cellars, bakeries, a three-nave basilica church hewn out in rock and even a theatre. Afterwards, drive up the famous Georgian Military Highway (leading to the Georgian-Russian border). On the way you’ll visit the Ananuri architectural complex – two churches and a fortress that overlook the Zhinvali water reservoir. The carvings on the churches are one of the best surviving examples of Georgian art. Enjoy a scenic drive through the Caucasus Mountains, before we arrive inyo Gudauri and settle into our hotel prior to enjoying a group dinner.Included Activities• Gori - Stalin Museum• Uplistsikhe - Cave Complex• Ananuri - Architectural Complex

§ Accommodation: Your room at ‘Marco Polo Hotel,’ in Gudauri (4 star)



Day 11 - Thursday 15th October 2020 GUDAURI (B, D) Enjoy a stunning drive from Gudauri along the Tergi River before arriving in Kazbegi. From here it’s a leisurely 2 hour walk each way through beautiful valleys and woodlands to Gergeti Trinity Church, located at 2170 metres above sea level. If the weather is good it’s possible to catch a glimpse of Mt Kazbegi, one of the highest glaciers in the Caucasus. Return to Gudauri for an evening meal together.Included Activities• Stepantsminda - Gergeti Trinity Church walkSpecial InformationThe walk involves changes in elevation of up to 470m. It is possible to sit this walk out if you prefer. It is also possible to drive up by local 4WD. This service is available by local residents who have 4WD vehicles and ferry people to the church for $30 USD/ 6 Persons in Vehicle. Talk to your Tour Leader about options.

§ Accommodation: Your room at ‘Marco Polo Hotel,’ in Gudauri (4 star)

Day 12 - Friday 16th October 2020 DILIJAN (GEORGIA - ARMENIA BORDER) (B) Enjoy a final breakfast in Gudauri before driving to Sadakhlo, a

village at the Georgia-Armenia border. Here we will once again change tour leaders and transportation. Begin the Armenian leg of your adventure with a visit to Haghpat monastery, which is listed as a World Cultural Heritage Site by UNESCO. Haghpat stands as an example of one of the most outstanding works of medieval Armenian architecture. Afterwards, continue on to the picturesque resort town of Dilijan, often refered to as the “Little Switzerland of Armenia’’. Dilijan’s central Sharambeyan Street has been preserved and maintained as a charming “old town”, complete with craftsman’s workshops, a gallery and a museum. Stay overnight in the quaint town of Dilijan.Special InformationToday is a long travel day, but the scenery is spectacular and there are plenty of stops to break the day and stretch your legs.Included Activities• Haghpat Monastery

§ Accommodation: Your room at ‘Best Western Paradise Hotel,’ in Dilijan (4 star)







Day 13 - Saturday 17th October 2020 LAKE SEVAN - GARNI - YEREVAN (B) After breakfast we drive to the reflective waters of Lake Sevan, nicknamed “The Pearl of Armenia”. Sevan is one of the largest fresh-water high-altitude lakes in the world. Visit the romantic Sevanavank Monastery, which overlooks the water on the Peninsula. Move on to the village of Garni to visit the 1st century Garni Temple, built by the Armenian King Tiridates and dedicated to Mithra the ‘God of the Sun’. Here we will be treated to a local performance in the temple of the magnificent sounds of the Duduk, a flute like instrument which is indigenous to Armenia, and currently listed on the UNESCO in-tangible Cultural Heritage List. Travel northeast of Garni, higher up the gorge of the Azat River, where there is a magnificent Geghard monastery. The site is partly carved out of a mountain and surrounded by cliffs. In the afternoon we will drive to the capital city of Armenia, Yerevan, where we will stay for the next few nights.Included Activities• Armenia - Geghard Monastery - UNESCO World Heritage site• Lake Sevan - Sevanavank Monastery• Yerevan - Garni Temple and Duduk Performance

§ Accommodation: Your room at ‘Ani Plaza / Royal Plaza’ or similar in Yerevan (4 star)

Day 14 - Sunday 18th October 2020 YEREVAN (B, D) After breakfast, become familiar with the streets of Yerevan on a guided city tour. Established in 782 BC, Armenia’s capital is one of the oldest cities in the world. Nowadays it’s a lively city, where ancient culture is mixed with a modern lifestyle. Visit the Matenadaran, a depository of ancient manuscripts that contains historical documents from all over Europe and Asia. The building also holds the first copy of the Bible in Armenian. In the afternoon, depart for Zvartnots Temple, a stunning example of 7th century Armenian architecture. Return to the capital in the afternoon and discover Armenian Carpet Making and learn about the weaving process and then we will swing past the local fruit market to see what is in season. This evening we will head out for a final farewell dinner together at an authentic Armenian restaurant.Yereven Included Activities• City Tour and Zvartnots Temple

§ Accommodation: Your room at ‘Ani Plaza / Royal Plaza’ or similar in Yerevan (4 star)

Day 15 - Monday 19th October 2020 YEREVAN (B) Our journey comes to an end today after breakfast and you will be transferred to the airport to board you onward flight. There are no activities planned for your final day. If you wish to stay longer in Yereven, or would like us to organise your further travels, please do let us know.

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AMAZON AND INCA ADVENTURE 16 DAY SOLOS TOUR – MARCH/APRIL 2017

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NEED MORE INFORMATION? CONTACT THE TEAM: (Phone: 1300 55 45 01 (AUS) or 0800 895 145 (NZ) Email: [email protected]

ABOUT TWO’S A CROWD: We are an award winning tour company exclusively dedicated to the needs of solo travellers. At Two’s a Crowd, single and solo travellers have access to fantastic itineraries at great prices without ever feeling like a third wheel to someone else’s

private getaway. Our travellers enjoy the best of both worlds: private time, personalised attention, low single supplements, as well as thecamaraderie of like-minded travellers. For your peace of mind we are ATAS accredited (No A13850).

Our commitment is to make solo travel more enjoyable and affordable.Terms & Conditions: • Prices are per person and based on sole use rooms throughout • Pricing correct at July 2019 and is subject to change until paid in full.

• Refer to our website www.twosacrowd.com.au for full terms and conditions. ©️Travel Passion Pty Ltd ABN 32 140 754 856 - Australian Federation of Travel Agents (AFTA) Member No: 13874. Approved participant in the AFTA Travel Accreditation Scheme (ATAS) No: A13850. Two’s a Crowd, Travel Solo but Never Alone and the disc logo are registered trademarks of Travel

Passion Pty Ltd. All rights reserved.

Issued: 15/07/19

Tour Inclusions: § Escorted by an experienced Two’s a Crowd Tour

Host from Australia

§ 14 nights accommodation in solo occupancy rooms at local and authentic hotels – no sharing!

§ Meals as per itinerary (B=breakfasts, L=lunches, D=dinners)

§ Arrival and departure airport transfers § All sightseeing, guided tours and entrance fees, as

detailed in the itinerary

§ Professional guide for each of the 3 Countries + additional local English speaking guides for specialised city and monument sightseeing

§ All transport is in a comfortable, air-conditioned and private bus

§ All tips and gratuities § Comprehensive Travel Insurance with CHI

(underwritten by Allianz) or NIB Travel Insurance

(underwritten by Lloyds) . Additional premium may be payable if over 69 years, have an existing medical condition or wish to extend your travel dates. Refer to the respective PDS for more information on policy terms and conditions.

Tour Exclusions: § International airfares and taxes (we can assist). § Expenses of a personal nature, such as laundry,

taxis, souvenirs and phone calls.

§ Meals and drinks not specified as included in the itinerary.

§ Porterage at hotels. § Pre and post tour accommodation (we can assist). § Visa costs (if applicable). § Any tours listed as ‘Optional Tours’ (and are subject

to change, depending on weather and schedule changes).

TOUR DATES: 5TH - 19TH OCTOBER 2020 TOUR PRICING: $5,980 AUD




Special Visa Information: AZERBAIJAN VISA: All travellers to Azerbaijan require a visa. It is not possible to get a visa on arrival at Baku Airport or at any land border into Azerbaijan. All travellers must apply for a Single Entry Tourist E-Visa to Azerbaijan in advance. Nationals of many countries can apply for an Azerbaijan e-visa. The e-visa currently costs USD 20 and takes 3-5 days to be issued. Once issued, please print out copies to carry with you as this will be required to board your flight to Azerbaijan as well as when going through immigration.

GEORGIA VISA: Most nationalities do not currently require a visa for Georgia, including Australia, New Zealand, Canada, UK, USA & all EU member states for stays of up to 30 days. The full list of countries and terms can be found on the official Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.ARMENIA VISA: Many countries including Australia, New Zealand, UK and the USA are no longer required to obtain a visa for visits to Armenia up to 180 days in duration. Nationalities requiring a visa to enter Armenia are listed in the drop down menu on the following link and subsequent application for E-Visas are available. https://evisa.mfa.am/check-eligibility

journey through azerbaijan georgia and armenia · • tbilisi - old town walking tour tbilisi...

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