the arts of bhutan: botany, landscape & textiles tour 5...

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www.egencia.com.au | Travelforce Pty Ltd trading as Egencia, an Expedia Inc. Company 345 George St, Sydney NSW 2000 Australia phone +61 2 9262 3666 | fax +61 2 9262 3535 ABN 39 001 340 825 Licence 2TA000658 THE ARTS OF BHUTAN: Botany, Landscape & Textiles Tour 5 – 18 April 2013 Led by Dr Holly Kerr Forsyth

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Page 1: THE ARTS OF BHUTAN: Botany, Landscape & Textiles Tour 5 ...media3.artgallery.nsw.gov.au/downloads/files/Arts_of_Bhutan.pdf · The flight to Bhutan takes you over the great Himalayas,

www.egencia.com.au | Travelforce Pty Ltd trading as Egencia, an Expedia Inc. Company 345 George St, Sydney NSW 2000 Australia

phone +61 2 9262 3666 | fax +61 2 9262 3535 ABN 39 001 340 825 Licence 2TA000658

THE ARTS OF BHUTAN: Botany, Landscape & Textiles Tour

5 – 18 April 2013

Led by Dr Holly Kerr Forsyth

Page 2: THE ARTS OF BHUTAN: Botany, Landscape & Textiles Tour 5 ...media3.artgallery.nsw.gov.au/downloads/files/Arts_of_Bhutan.pdf · The flight to Bhutan takes you over the great Himalayas,

www.egencia.com.au | Travelforce Pty Ltd trading as Egencia, an Expedia Inc. Company 345 George St, Sydney NSW 2000 Australia

phone +61 2 9262 3666 | fax +61 2 9262 3535 ABN 39 001 340 825 Licence 2TA000658

Page 3: THE ARTS OF BHUTAN: Botany, Landscape & Textiles Tour 5 ...media3.artgallery.nsw.gov.au/downloads/files/Arts_of_Bhutan.pdf · The flight to Bhutan takes you over the great Himalayas,

www.egencia.com.au | Travelforce Pty Ltd trading as Egencia, an Expedia Inc. Company 345 George St, Sydney NSW 2000 Australia

phone +61 2 9262 3666 | fax +61 2 9262 3535 ABN 39 001 340 825 Licence 2TA000658

Itinerary Day 01: Friday April 5 Arrive by early morning flight from Bangkok: drive from Paro to Thimphu (57kms) The flight to Bhutan takes you over the great Himalayas, offering the most scintillating scenery of the world's highest glacial peaks. Upon your arrival you will be received by Himalayan Dragon Tours and Treks representative and transferred to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan, about an hour’s drive from the airport. After lunch you have free time to relax at the Taj or explore the main street of Thimphu, and your local guide and driver will be available should you wish to explore further afield. Tonight enjoy a welcome dinner at the Taj Tashi Hotel Thimphu: (2400m) is Bhutan’s capital city and centre of government, religion and commerce. It is a unique city with an unusual mixture of modern development alongside ancient traditions. Home to the royal family, civil servants, expatriates and monk body, Thimphu maintains a strong national character in its architectural style. It was a wooded farming valley until 1961 when it became Bhutan’s official national capital. The massive Tashi Choe Dzong, about 500 years old, was carefully revamped in the 1960s by the late King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk and houses the Royal and main government offices. Even today, it still only has a few streets and no traffic lights, with estimated population of 100,000 people. Overnight at Taj Tashi, Thimphu.

Page 4: THE ARTS OF BHUTAN: Botany, Landscape & Textiles Tour 5 ...media3.artgallery.nsw.gov.au/downloads/files/Arts_of_Bhutan.pdf · The flight to Bhutan takes you over the great Himalayas,

www.egencia.com.au | Travelforce Pty Ltd trading as Egencia, an Expedia Inc. Company 345 George St, Sydney NSW 2000 Australia

phone +61 2 9262 3666 | fax +61 2 9262 3535 ABN 39 001 340 825 Licence 2TA000658

Day 02: Saturday April 6 Thimphu After breakfast visit the Takin Zoo to see the national animal of Bhutan, the Nunnery Monastery, the Botanical Garden at Babesa, a traditional paper factory, see people playing archery (the national sport of Bhutan) and in the evening a visit to Tashi Choe Dzong.

Tashi Choe Dzong: This fortress serves as the office of the king, ministers and various government organizations. It is also the headquarters for the central Monastic Body of Bhutan. Bhutan’s spiritual leader Je-Khenpo and the monks of both Thimphu and Punakha reside here during summer.

Overnight at Taj Tashi, Thimphu.

Page 5: THE ARTS OF BHUTAN: Botany, Landscape & Textiles Tour 5 ...media3.artgallery.nsw.gov.au/downloads/files/Arts_of_Bhutan.pdf · The flight to Bhutan takes you over the great Himalayas,

www.egencia.com.au | Travelforce Pty Ltd trading as Egencia, an Expedia Inc. Company 345 George St, Sydney NSW 2000 Australia

phone +61 2 9262 3666 | fax +61 2 9262 3535 ABN 39 001 340 825 Licence 2TA000658

Day 03: Sunday April 7 Thimphu – Punakha (74kms) After an early breakfast depart to Punakha via Dochula Pass (3100m), the drive takes about 2 and a half hours. We will trek to Lungchotse Monastery (3600m) from the Dochula Pass. It takes little less than 2 hours hiking up and about an hour and a half coming down. On clear days, the Pass offers the most spectacular views over the greater eastern Himalayas, including the highest peak of Bhutan. After lunch at the Dochula cafe, we will be driving for about an hour to reach to the Chimi Lhakhang’s (Divine Madman’s Temple) walking trail. The temple of divine madman is also well known as the temple of fertility through the villages and rice fields. In the evening, visit Punakha Dzong, built in 1638. Punakha was the capital city of Bhutan till 1955 and still the Je Khenpo, the Chief Abbot, resides there during the winter season. If time permits visit the Bhutan Souvenir Production Training Centre, a program that trains 20 disadvantaged girls in a one year course to produce souvenir handicrafts. The products include hand woven bags, embroidered purses, Bhutanese paper products, dolls etc.

Road from Thimphu to Punakha: The road climbs from Thimphu to Dochula pass and descends through ever changing forests in to the semi tropical valley of Punakha and Wangdue at about 1200m. On the way you will see the rhododendron flowers blooming everywhere. Dochula pass (3100m) enroute, provides spectacular snowy mountain views of the eastern Himalayas, including Bhutan’s highest mountain (Gangkhar Puensum 7550m) on a clear day. Punakha & Wangdue: are two separate districts, but they are located in one valley (7km apart). Punakha and Wangdue are located at a lower elevation (1200m above sea level) and have pleasant winters. Cactuses, oranges, bananas and sub-tropical plants are found here. Farmers are able to grow more than one crop in a year. Punakha was once the winter capital of Bhutan, a tradition that is still held by the central monastic body and Jekhenpo who reside here in Punakha Dzong during the winters, and then return to Thimphu which is their summer capital. In Wangdue, there is a small town on the ridge and large Wangdue Phodrang Dzong.

Page 6: THE ARTS OF BHUTAN: Botany, Landscape & Textiles Tour 5 ...media3.artgallery.nsw.gov.au/downloads/files/Arts_of_Bhutan.pdf · The flight to Bhutan takes you over the great Himalayas,

www.egencia.com.au | Travelforce Pty Ltd trading as Egencia, an Expedia Inc. Company 345 George St, Sydney NSW 2000 Australia

phone +61 2 9262 3666 | fax +61 2 9262 3535 ABN 39 001 340 825 Licence 2TA000658

Punakha Dzong: or Pungthang Dechen Phodrang “Palace of Great Happiness” is located on the confluence of two rivers (Pho and Mo Chu). It was built in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyel and, following the ancient traditions, it serves as winter residence for the Chief Abbot (Je-Khenpo) and the monks of Central Monastic body who return to Thimphu in the summer. The building was damaged and rebuilt several times due to flooding, fire and earthquakes. It is one exemplary masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture.

Chimi Lhakhang is a fertility temple/monastery dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kuenley, a Tibetan Buddhist saint known popularly as “divine madman” and considered a folk hero in Bhutan for his unconventional ways. Drukpa Kuenley originally built a Chorten on the site in the 14th century on which a temple was later built in 15th Century. The temple, flanked by nearly 100 tall prayer flags, sits atop a picturesque hill. It has long been a pilgrimage site for childless couples. Overnight in Hotel Zangtopelri/Damchen, Punakha

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www.egencia.com.au | Travelforce Pty Ltd trading as Egencia, an Expedia Inc. Company 345 George St, Sydney NSW 2000 Australia

phone +61 2 9262 3666 | fax +61 2 9262 3535 ABN 39 001 340 825 Licence 2TA000658

Day 04: Monday April 8 Punakha - Gangtey (67kms) The drive to Phobjikha Valley takes about 2 hours and 30minutes. Explore Phobjikha valley which is one of the few glacial valleys in Bhutan and the chosen home of Black Necked Crane which migrate from the central Asiatic Plateau to escape its harsh winters. You might also come across Silver Languor, which is a monkey family, on the way to Gangtey. After lunch walk through a nature trail in the valley which takes about 2 hours. Gangtey in Phobjikha Valley: at an average altitude of 3000m, it is a wide and beautiful valley designated as conservation zone within the Black Mountains National Park, a natural habitat for wildlife including endangered Black Necked Cranes from central Asia. Because of the conservation measures there is no electricity in the valley and the lodges use solar powered cells or generators. During the month of April, you will see the rhododendron blooming throughout the valley. Gangtey Goemba: Gangtey Goemba enjoys the valley’s prime real estate, on a hill overlooking the green expanse of the entire Phobjikha Valley. Gantey Goemba was built by Pema Thinlay, the grandson and reincarnation of Pema Lingpa, in 1613. The current Abbot, Kunzang Pema Namgyal, is the 9th Trulku of the mind of Pema Lingpa. The monastery is looked after by 100 or so lay monks, known as Gomchen.

Black Necked Crane, or Thrung Thrung Karmo, is represented in Bhutanese songs and folklore and are seen among the paintings on walls of Temples and Thangka. These endangered cranes migrate from Tibet in late autumn (November) and typically stay until the middle of March. The wetland in the centre of Phobjikha Valley provides their winter roosting grounds and natural habitat. The observation and education centre has an informative display about the cranes and conservation effort in the valley. Overnight in the guest house in Phobjikha Valley (Gangey Valley)

Page 8: THE ARTS OF BHUTAN: Botany, Landscape & Textiles Tour 5 ...media3.artgallery.nsw.gov.au/downloads/files/Arts_of_Bhutan.pdf · The flight to Bhutan takes you over the great Himalayas,

www.egencia.com.au | Travelforce Pty Ltd trading as Egencia, an Expedia Inc. Company 345 George St, Sydney NSW 2000 Australia

phone +61 2 9262 3666 | fax +61 2 9262 3535 ABN 39 001 340 825 Licence 2TA000658

Day 05: Tuesday April 9 Gangtey - Trongsa (78kms) After breakfast the drive to Trongsa across Pelela Passes (3300m) takes less than 3 hours. From Pelela the road drops through hillsides of a strange dwarf bamboo, a favourite food of yaks and horses. Lower down in the valley the vegetation changes to broadleaf species and bamboo. The road passes opposite Rukubji Village with its school and Goemba at the end of a huge alluvial fan believed to be the body of a giant snake. After a few kilometres drive we come across Chendipji Chorten, at a lovely spot by a river confluence. The Chorten was built in 19th Century by the Lama Shida to cover the remains of evil that was killed there. It is patterned after Swayambhunath in Kathmandu. After this we continue onto Trongsa town and check into our hotel. After lunch we will visit Tower of Trongsa museum and Trongsa Dzong. Trongsa: is located at an elevation of 2180m, right in the middle of the country, 8 hours drive from Thimphu and separated from both east and west by high mountain ranges. The Dzong and surrounding town is perched above a gorge, with fine views of the Black Mountains to the southwest. It is a small and relaxed town. Trongsa Dzong: Has a rich history and played a very important part in the political system of Bhutan. The Dzong was built by the Chogyel Minjur Tempa in 1644 with the command of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel. This commanding Dzong, high above the roaring Mangde Chhu, is perhaps the most spectacularly situated Dzong in Bhutan with a shear drop to south that often just disappears in to cloud and mist. Tower of Trongsa: This watch tower on the hill above the Dzong has been converted in to a state of the art museum which was opened in the year 2009. Overnight in Yangkhil Resort, Trongsa. Day 06: Wednesday April 10 Trongsa - Bumthang (68kms) From Trongsa to Bumthang it takes two and half hours drive. We cross Yotongla Pass which is approximately 3400m above sea level. On the way, we will stop at Chume Weaving Centre. The speciality here is Yathra, distinctive strips of woven woollen fabric in numerous colours and patterns. Here every foreign visitor comments that the landscape looks very much like Switzerland. The housing structure and architecture are same throughout the valley. Bumthang Jakar: is located at an elevation of 2580m and is the major trading centre of the region. After lunch, we visit Kurjey Lhakhang where Guru Rinpoche meditated in 8th century.

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www.egencia.com.au | Travelforce Pty Ltd trading as Egencia, an Expedia Inc. Company 345 George St, Sydney NSW 2000 Australia

phone +61 2 9262 3666 | fax +61 2 9262 3535 ABN 39 001 340 825 Licence 2TA000658

Jambay Lhakhang: This temple is believed to have been built in the year 659 by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo on the same day as Kyichu Lhakhang in Paro, in order to subdue a Tibetan demon-ess. This temple was visited by Guru Rinpoche during his visit to Bumthang and was renovated by the Sindu Raja. Kurjey Monastery: This temple was built by Chogyel Minjur Tempa in 17th Century. It was named after the body print of Guru Rinpoche, which is preserved in a cave inside the oldest of the three buildings that make up the temple complex. In the evening take a stroll through Bumthang market area. Overnight in Yugharling Resort, Bumthang. Day 07: Thursday April 11 Bumthang - Mongar (193kms) The journey continues eastwards, winding through more rugged terrain with spectacular views. A long journey today which will take about 8-9 hours. Pass through Ura village, before climbing sharply to the highest motorable pass in the Kingdom, the Thrumshingla Pass at 3800m, with its different species of rhododendron. On a clear day on Thrumshingla Pass you can view Gangkhar Puenshum (7541m). Gradually drop to Sengor, watching cascading waterfalls on the way. The descent stops at 650m. on a bridge over the Kurichu. Ascend again through pine forests, maize fields and eastern hamlets to Mongar town, and visit Mongar Dzong. Mongar Town: is located at an elevation of 1600m at the top of ridge. It is a small town, and the main street is lined with traditional painted wooden Bhutanese buildings decorated with colourful potted plants. Mongar Town was redesigned in 1997 when a bypass road was constructed. The Dzong is on a ridge above the town. Mongar Dzong: The present Dzong was rebuilt in 1953; it is unusual because it has two entrances and because the monk and administrative body share the same courtyard. The Dzong was established here in 1930 to replace the original Shongar Dzong, although the original utse (central tower) dates from an earlier age. Overnight in Hotel Wangchuk, Mongar. Day 08: Friday April 12 Mongar – Luentsi - Mongar (152kms) A day excursion to Lhuensti takes you frequently to the high cliffs above the river valley. The landscape of this valley is very different from the other valleys. The Dzong is one of the most picturesque in Bhutan. It is located at an elevation of 1440m. Bhutan’s Royal family comes from here.

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www.egencia.com.au | Travelforce Pty Ltd trading as Egencia, an Expedia Inc. Company 345 George St, Sydney NSW 2000 Australia

phone +61 2 9262 3666 | fax +61 2 9262 3535 ABN 39 001 340 825 Licence 2TA000658

Lhuentse is famous for its traditional textile weaving (and is where Holly’s Kira, pictured below, was woven 60 years ago). Lhuentse produces some of Bhutan’s most sought after and expensive Kushutara weavings and almost all of the 30 houses in the village have a traditional back strap looms set up in their porches. You will meet several weavers who will trek great distances to meet us and show their craft pieces.

The weavings are so elaborate that they resemble embroidery and are generally used as kiras (women’s traditional dress), though bags and other pieces are produced. From the road we will hike to the village which takes about an hour and a half. After a picnic lunch you will drive back to Mongar. Overnight in Hotel Wangchuk, Mongar. Day 09: Saturday April 13 Mongar - Bumthang (193kms) You head back to Bumthang today, driving across Thrumshing la pass- 4000m. Overnight in Yugharling Hotel, Bumthang.

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www.egencia.com.au | Travelforce Pty Ltd trading as Egencia, an Expedia Inc. Company 345 George St, Sydney NSW 2000 Australia

phone +61 2 9262 3666 | fax +61 2 9262 3535 ABN 39 001 340 825 Licence 2TA000658

Day 10: Sunday April 14 Bumthang - Punakha (194kms) On the way back towards Punakha, you will cross Yotongla Pass to reach Trongsa Dzong. You will stop at Chendipji restaurant at Chendipji Chorten and then continue onto Pele La Pass. From Pelela Pass we descend to Wangi Phodrang in little more than two hours. Visit Wangdue Phodrang Dzong. Wangdue Dzong: Founded by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1638, the Dzong sits atop a high ridge between the Punak Tsng Chu and the Dang Chu. It is obvious that the site was selected for its commanding view of the valleys below. Wangdi is important in the history of Bhutan because in the early days it was the country’s secondary capital. It was a very powerful district those days. Overnight in Zangtopelri/Damchen Resort in Punakha. Day 11: Monday April 15 Punakha – Thimphu – Paro (131kms) After breakfast, drive to Thimphu across Dochula Pass and visit The School of the 13 Arts and Crafts. Enjoy lunch in Thimphu and then drive onto Paro to check in for your stay at the Uma Paro.

Paro: is one of the most beautiful valleys in the country, and the location of Bhutan’s only airport: it is set among the terraced fields, and elegant farm houses. Willow trees line roads, contrasting with bright colours of the fields and the most popular and important sites are also found within Paro District. Paro Town (2280m), locally call Tshongdu, is still a small with one main street and less than one hundred small family run shops.

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www.egencia.com.au | Travelforce Pty Ltd trading as Egencia, an Expedia Inc. Company 345 George St, Sydney NSW 2000 Australia

phone +61 2 9262 3666 | fax +61 2 9262 3535 ABN 39 001 340 825 Licence 2TA000658

To finish our tour we have three nights at the beautiful Uma Paro Hotel, set high above Paro, among a pine forest. The chef at this hotel is renowned, and is a favourite with the King of Bhutan. Also welcome are the Uma Paro’s hot stone baths and spa treatments! Time to relax and unwind, ready to trek to Tiger’s Nest tomorrow. Overnight in Hotel Uma, Paro. Day 12: Tuesday April 16 Paro After breakfast hike to Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) Monastery, the most popular site in Bhutan. The hike to Taktsang takes about an hour uphill to the viewpoint and another hour to monastery. Guru Rinpoche meditated here in 8th century. The Desi Tenzin Rabgye extended the temple in the 17th century to the present structure.

After a picnic lunch, visit ruined Drugyel Dzong and Kyichu Monastery. Kichu Monastery: Tibetan King Songtsen Gompo in the 7th century miraculously built 108 temples, along with Jokhang in Lhasa. Kyichu considered to be one of them and is one of the oldest temples in Bhutan. Drugyel Dzong: 14kms from Paro Town, at the end of paved road stands the ruins of Drugyel Dzong (Victories Fortress). Drugyel was built in 1644-49 to commemorate the Bhutanese victory over the Tibetan-Mongol forces. It was later ruined by fire in 1951. On clear day Bhutan’s holy peak, Mt Jomolhari (7344m), is seen. Enjoy a leisurely walk in Paro Town this evening. Overnight in Hotel Uma, Paro.

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www.egencia.com.au | Travelforce Pty Ltd trading as Egencia, an Expedia Inc. Company 345 George St, Sydney NSW 2000 Australia

phone +61 2 9262 3666 | fax +61 2 9262 3535 ABN 39 001 340 825 Licence 2TA000658

Day 13: Wednesday April 17 After breakfast visit National Museum of Bhutan, Paro Dzong and full day sightseeing. The National Museum: At the top of the hill above Paro Dzong is an old watchtower that was renovated in 1968 to house the National Museum. The unusual round building is said to be in the shape of a conch shell, was completed in 1656 and was originally the Ta Dzong (Watchtower) of Paro Dzong. The National Museum has a good collection of arts and crafts and old thangkas (paintings). Cameras are not allowed inside the museum but you can photograph outside the museum. Rinpung Dzong: was built and consecrated in 1645 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal on the site of five storey castle built in 17th century. Throughout the 17th and 18th centuries it served as a bastion against invasion from the north. It is regarded as one of the finest example of Bhutanese architecture - with intricate wood work, large beams slotted into each other and held together without nails. It houses the giant 30m x 45m Thangka (Thongdrol) commissioned in mid 18th century and displayed on the last day of Paro Tsechu festival. Nowadays, it functions as the administrative and judicial headquarters of Paro District and residence for the 200 monks of Paro Rabdey. Overnight in Hotel Uma Paro with farewell dinner. Day 14: Thursday April 18 Departure for Bangkok. After breakfast transfer to the airport in time for your departure flight.

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www.egencia.com.au | Travelforce Pty Ltd trading as Egencia, an Expedia Inc. Company 345 George St, Sydney NSW 2000 Australia

phone +61 2 9262 3666 | fax +61 2 9262 3535 ABN 39 001 340 825 Licence 2TA000658

Tour Cost USD9130 – USD9320 ** per person twin/double share USD10625 – USD10985 ** single occupancy Program Cost includes: * Exclusively escorted by Holly Kerr Forsyth * All accommodation as noted below * Bhutan visa fee * Bhutan government royalties and taxes * Local English speaking guide and driver at disposal throughout tour * Mini-bus for touring as per the itinerary including arrival and departure transfers * All tours, transfers, special excursions, sightseeing, entry fees and porter assistance * Economy class airfare on Druk Air Bangkok-Paro-Bangkok * One helper per person while hiking to Taktsang Monastery * All meals either in the hotels, local restaurants or picnic spots * Gratuities for local guide and driver Program Cost excludes: * Alcoholic beverages * All other beverages except at meal time and bottled water in vehicle * Items of a personal nature such as laundry, phone calls, minibar, spa treatments etc * International airfare to/from Bangkok * Travel Insurance * Any other items not mentioned in the itinerary Accommodation is included as follows: 2 nights at Taj Tashi Thimphu 2 separate night in Hotel Zangtopelri/Damchen, Punakha 1 night in the guest house in Phobjikha Valley 1 night in Yangkhil Resort, Trongsa. 2 separate nights in Yugharling Resort, Bumthang. 2 nights in Hotel Wangchuk, Mongar. 3 nights in Uma, Paro ** USD9130/USD10625 includes Superior Room category at Uma Paro (maximum 9 available) ** USD9320/USD10985 includes a Deluxe Room at Uma Paro (maximum 3 available).

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www.egencia.com.au | Travelforce Pty Ltd trading as Egencia, an Expedia Inc. Company 345 George St, Sydney NSW 2000 Australia

phone +61 2 9262 3666 | fax +61 2 9262 3535 ABN 39 001 340 825 Licence 2TA000658

Important Information The tour has been constructed entirely for the sole charter of the Art Gallery of NSW with Dr Holly Kerr Forsyth as the exclusive escort. The tour package has been costed from your departure from Bangkok on the 5th of April, until your return to Bangkok on the 18th of April. Egencia can offer you assistance with your air travel to Bangkok, accommodation in Bangkok and any other arrangements you wish to make. Travel insurance is essential for travel to Bhutan. We recommend you take this out as soon as you are ready to pay your deposit. General information on travelling to and within Bhutan will be sent closer to your trip departure. Flight times to and from Bhutan will be confirmed closer to travel, it is recommended to add a night in Bangkok at the end of your trip rather than connecting straight through, as the flights from Bhutan can be delayed due to weather. As the flight from Bangkok to Bhutan will be departing quite early, it is recommended you stay at an airport hotel such as the Novotel Suvarnabhumi the night before (this hotel is connected to the airport by underground walkway). Terms and Conditions Please note this tour will only go ahead with a minimum of 10 people, confirmation will be sent to guests once this number has been reached so you can start planning your travel arrangements to and from Bangkok. This tour has a maximum of 16 places. All costs are correct as of Thursday 19th January 2012 and are subject to change by suppliers without notice. Provisional confirmation will be given upon payment of a deposit to Egencia of AUD4600.00 per person twin share or AUD5300.00 per person single occupancy. All credit card payments incur 3.5% fee. The final balance payment will be required by 1 September 2012. After the initial deposit, the balance can be paid at any time to take advantage of favourable exchange rates; however you will incur the cost of the international bank transfer. Please contact Lisa at Egencia on 02 8235 5514 for the AUD balance at the time you wish to pay. Egencia reserves the right to cancel the tour should we deem it is not safe to travel due to political, environmental or commercial circumstances outside of our control. Some accommodation in the regional areas may be changed closer to the time, but only to equal or better quality. Should the nominated guide not be able to travel due to circumstances outside of our control, we will arrange for someone of equivalent experience to host the group.

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www.egencia.com.au | Travelforce Pty Ltd trading as Egencia, an Expedia Inc. Company 345 George St, Sydney NSW 2000 Australia

phone +61 2 9262 3666 | fax +61 2 9262 3535 ABN 39 001 340 825 Licence 2TA000658

Cancellations Should you need to cancel, we will endeavor to fill your place to minimise losses due to cancellation penalties. If we are unable to fill your place on the tour, the deposit is non-refundable and further cancellation penalties will be determined by each hotel/supplier depending on the advance notice of cancellation, which could be up to 100%. If you have any questions relating to the tour please contact: Lisa Rayner Egencia, formerly Travelforce Level 8, 345 George Street, Sydney NSW 2000 Direct Phone 02 8235 5514 Email [email protected] IATA no: 023 0206 4

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www.egencia.com.au | Travelforce Pty Ltd trading as Egencia, an Expedia Inc. Company 345 George St, Sydney NSW 2000 Australia

phone +61 2 9262 3666 | fax +61 2 9262 3535 ABN 39 001 340 825 Licence 2TA000658

THE ARTS OF BHUTAN: Botany, Landscape & Textiles Tour

Booking Request Form (please fill in one form per person)

Name ( as in your passport )

Mobile Number

Home Number

Home Address

Passport Number

Country of Issue

Date of Issue

Date of Expiry

Date of Birth

Single or Twin/Double Accommodation?

Do you need Travel Insurance?

Would you like assistance with air travel or extending your trip?

Do you have special dietary requirements?

Do you have any mobility difficulties?

Miscellaneous Notes / Comments

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www.egencia.com.au | Travelforce Pty Ltd trading as Egencia, an Expedia Inc. Company 345 George St, Sydney NSW 2000 Australia

phone +61 2 9262 3666 | fax +61 2 9262 3535 ABN 39 001 340 825 Licence 2TA000658

Travelforce Pty Ltd trading as Egencia Bank Details Vendor Name: TRAVELFORCE PTY LTD Bank Name: ANZ BANKING GROUP LTD Bank Address: 20 MARTIN PLACE SYDNEY NSW 2000 AUSTRALIA Account Name: TRAVELFORCE PTY LTD Account Number: 837726946 Branch Number(BSB No): 012055 Swift Code: ANZBAU3M IBAN: 012055837726946 Travelforce Contact: Arthur Zouras (Finance Manager) **********************************************************************************************************************

***** IMPORTANT INFORMATION *****

This document should be used only by those persons to whom it is addressed and its content is not intended for use by any other persons. If you have received this information in error, please notify us immediately. Please also destroy and delete the document from your computer. Any unauthorised form of reproduction of this form is strictly prohibited. **********************************************************************************************************************

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www.egencia.com.au | Travelforce Pty Ltd trading as Egencia, an Expedia Inc. Company 345 George St, Sydney NSW 2000 Australia

phone +61 2 9262 3666 | fax +61 2 9262 3535 ABN 39 001 340 825 Licence 2TA000658

Client Credit Card Authority - Please return by fax to: 02 9262 3535

Personal Details Mr/Mrs/Ms Last Name First Name Middle Initial Address Suburb Postcode email Address Phone Home: ( )

Work: ( )

Mobile:

Fax: ( )

Signature-On-File I authorise Egencia Pty Ltd (Cardmember name in full) at Level 8, 345 George Street SYDNEY 2000 to debit charges (to the value of $ ) (if applicable) for travel arrangements against the following card:

American Express MasterCard Diners Club Bankcard Visa

Card Number

ID Number (if applicable)

Cardmember Name: Billing Address: Card Validity Start Date: / Expiry Date: /

I have read and accept the Signature-on-File Terms & Conditions set out overleaf;

Signature of Traveller X

Date: / /

If Traveller is not Cardholder please have Cardholder sign below Signature of Cardmember X

Date: / /

Page 20: THE ARTS OF BHUTAN: Botany, Landscape & Textiles Tour 5 ...media3.artgallery.nsw.gov.au/downloads/files/Arts_of_Bhutan.pdf · The flight to Bhutan takes you over the great Himalayas,

www.egencia.com.au | Travelforce Pty Ltd trading as Egencia, an Expedia Inc. Company 345 George St, Sydney NSW 2000 Australia

phone +61 2 9262 3666 | fax +61 2 9262 3535 ABN 39 001 340 825 Licence 2TA000658

Signature-On-File - Terms and Conditions

Paid To Egencia

It is a condition of the acceptance of any booking that all monies paid to Egencia may be dispersed by Egencia as and when it sees fit for or in respect of the services to be provided or fees payable to suppliers or carriers, and the payment of a deposit or charge card authorisation for travel or related fees shall be deemed to be a direction by the client to Egencia to disburse such monies as aforesaid.

Prices/Exchange Rates

Price justifications for travel are expressed in Australian Dollars and are based on foreign currency exchange rates, tariffs, taxes and fares valid at time of quoting. These are subject to alteration if there are fluctuations in rates of exchange, taxes or fares, or for other cause, at any time.

Variations of Conditions

Egencia reserves the right to vary these Signature-On-File Conditions at any time, but no such variation shall be binding unless made or confirmed in writing.

Responsibility Clause

I agree to be responsible for all charges to my Card Account authorised by myself or any Authorised Individual via phone, fax, e-mail, or in person, and where I or any Authorised Individual is the beneficiary of the service requested. Where a service is requested for a person other than myself or an Authorised Individual, I understand that you will require a written and signed authorisation to be provided before you book that service. I authorise you to accept instructions from any individual who reasonably appears to be myself or an Authorised Individual. I agree to advise you without delay, of any changes to my Card Account number or status, or any Authorised Individuals. Cancellation of the authority of an Authorised Individual is not effective until you receive it.

Egencia acts as agent for the supplier or service provider in booking or arranging all transport, sightseeing, hotel accommodation and other travel-related services. Egencia does not own, manage, control or operate any supplier of services. All coupons, receipts and tickets are issued subject to the terms and conditions specified by the suppliers. By accepting the coupons and tickets and utilising their services, you agree that neither Egencia nor any of its subsidiary companies or Representatives shall be liable for any loss, injury or damages to you or your belongings or otherwise in connection with any accommodation, transport or other services or resulting directly or indirectly from occurrences beyond its control, including breakdown in equipment, strikes, theft, delay or cancellation or change in itinerary or schedule, etc. Also remember that travel documents, if necessary, and compliance with customs regulations, if applicable are your responsibility.

Refunds

Unused documents for which refund is sought must be returned to Egencia. Refunds are subject to airline and other operator terms and conditions as well as outgoings incurred by Egencia. Because of checking procedures these can take a minimum of 6-8 weeks to be processed. American Express will, however, issue a Temporary credit (without liability), for tickets originally paid by American Express Card only, for cancelled or returned tickets when clients advise ticket number, carrier and place and time tickets were returned. In the case of lost tickets, a Temporary Credit will be passed upon receipt of a copy of the Lost Ticket Indemnity Form.

Page 21: THE ARTS OF BHUTAN: Botany, Landscape & Textiles Tour 5 ...media3.artgallery.nsw.gov.au/downloads/files/Arts_of_Bhutan.pdf · The flight to Bhutan takes you over the great Himalayas,

www.egencia.com.au | Travelforce Pty Ltd trading as Egencia, an Expedia Inc. Company 345 George St, Sydney NSW 2000 Australia

phone +61 2 9262 3666 | fax +61 2 9262 3535 ABN 39 001 340 825 Licence 2TA000658

General Information

This authorisation is valid for 12 months until your American Express Card Account changes (ie: replaced due to lost/stolen Card), expires or is revoked in accordance with the Card Account Agreement. We shall require you to sign a fresh authorisation if the Card Number has changed due to replacement, if it has expired or if you have revoked this authorisation in writing, but then subsequently decide to use the Signature-On-File facility. For other cards (ie: Visa, MasterCard, Bankcard or Diners Club), this authority is for this transaction only. It will be deemed cancelled once the charges listed have been billed. If the American Express Card issued to you is cancelled or authorisation for the Card is refused, you will pay American Express Travel Service office directly any amounts outstanding for travel services. These terms and conditions in no way change or affect your responsibility and obligations as defined in the Card Account Agreement issued to you. In the event any provision conflicts with a provision of the Card Account Agreement, the Card Account Agreement shall prevail.

Authority to Egencia under the Privacy Act:

To provide you with your travel service, Egencia needs to:

collect personal information about you, and obtain your agreement in relation to handling this personal information.

If you do not provide the information requested or give your agreement below, Egencia may not be able to provide you with the travel service.

The Egencia Privacy Policy Statement sets out policies on management of personal information. In accordance with the Privacy Act, you can access personal information about you held by Egencia and advise if you think it is inaccurate, incomplete or out-of-date.

To arrange access to personal information about you, request a copy of the Egencia Privacy Policy Statement or enquire generally about privacy matters, write to - The Privacy Officer, Egencia, Level 8, 345 George Street, Sydney NSW 2000. In this section 'personal information' means information about me, including about my financial circumstances and the use of your travel service. I agree that, subject to the Privacy Act, you and your agents may do the following:

Use personal information for marketing purposes. This includes putting my name and contact details on marketing lists for the purpose of offering me goods or services of an Egencia company or of any third party, by mail, e-mail or telephone or having your related companies do so directly. I understand that you will remove my name from such lists if I ask you to.

Transfer personal information confidentially to your related companies and other organisations which issue or service Egencia travel services, subject to appropriate conditions of confidentiality.

Monitor and record my telephone conversations with you from time to time in order to train your staff and control your service quality.

I also agree that where I have provided you with information about another individual in this application form, I will make sure that the individual is aware of:

my supplying their information to you and the purposes why you have collected the information; their ability to access that information in accordance with the Privacy Act (and to advise you if they think the information is

inaccurate, incomplete or out-of-date); and the contact details of your Privacy Office.