Abercrombie & Kent is expanding its Wings Over the World portfolio with four new journeys in Northern Europe, Southern Africa, China and across the Middle East to Israel, Jordan & Egypt that offer the advantages of luxury small-group travel combined with the perk of privately-chartered flights.
“We are continuing to grow our Wings Over the World portfolio with four new regional journeys, designed for culturally-curious travellers who want to make the most of their time in each destination,” said Stefanie Schmudde, vice president, product operations at Abercrombie & Kent. “The Middle East in particular has generated phenomenal interest – so much so that several of our departures have already sold out.”
The new itineraries are:
Wings Over Northern Europe
Limited to 13 guests; 14 days from US$34,995
Explore the historic and cultural links between England, Iceland, Norway, Germany, and Russia on one comprehensive itinerary. Experience London like a local, including a ferry across the Thames, a culinary stroll through Southwark Market and a private tour with afternoon tea at Parliament. Learn about Icelandic horses with the chance to ride one. Take a cooking class at a farm on a Norwegian fjord. Early entry to the Hermitage Museum affords a rare opportunity to view its spectacular collection with fewer crowds. The journey ends with a private farewell concert at the Isaak Brodsky House Museum on Arts Square in the center of St. Petersburg, followed by a caviar tasting with champagne.
Wings Over Southern Africa
Africa, Tanzania, Gibb’s Farm
Limited to 15 guests; 14 days from US$39,995
Experience the best of Southern Africa on an epic adventure from mighty Victoria Falls to the game rich Okavango Delta, the towering sand dunes of Namibia and cosmopolitan Cape Town. Luxurious accommodations include a treehouse on the Zambezi River, a private bush pavilion at Sanctuary Chief’s Camp, an elegant private villa in the vast desert of Sossusvlei, and a chic Cape Town hotel with Table Mountain views. Includes a chance to visit a local school and clinic.
Wings Over Israel, Jordan & Egypt
Egypt, Giza, Guests riding camels near the Great Pyramid of Giza
Limited to 13 guests; 13 days from US$33,995
Explore the cradle of civilization and gain a new perspective on Israel’s varied cultural influences when you see biblical and historical sites first-hand. Marvel at Petra, the city “half as old as time,” and the desert outpost of “Lawrence of Arabia.” Saddle up for a camel ride and savour a traditional Bedouin dinner under the stars in Wadi Rum, an experience that brings the desert to life. A four-night cruise aboard the intimate 12-passenger Sanctuary Zein Nile Chateau reveals the influence of the Nile on ancient Egyptian life. Includes exclusive access to the final resting place of Seti I and the tomb of Nefertari, two of the best-preserved tombs in the Valley of the Kings and Queens.
Wings Over China featuring The Peninsula Hotels
China; The Great Wall (Mutianyu section)
Limited to 18 guests; 12 days from US$34,995
Experience the Forbidden City just as the Emperor did with private access to a hall usually off limits to visitors. Visit the Great Wall of China, ascending to the top of the well-preserved Mutianyu section, before sitting down to a champagne brunch served atop the Wall. Marvel at the remarkably individual face of each Terra Cotta Warrior with an on-site specialist. Enjoy “Pen Moments” such as drinks overlooking Shanghai at Sir Elly’s Terrace; Classic High Tea in Hong Kong; and a ride in a Rolls-Royce, all courtesy of The Peninsula Hotels.
Offering nine different adventures in 2019 and 2020, Abercrombie & Kent’s Wings Over the World journeys explore East and Southern Africa, Australia, Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, Spain & Morocco, the Middle East, India and China featuring The Peninsula Hotels. Each uses privately-chartered air to reach far-flung destinations with much less travel time. Hassle-free flight departures and arrivals avoid layovers due to commercial aviation schedules, with expedited check-in and immigration procedures.
New for 2019, the tour operator is introducing a choice of Design Your Day options on each journey. Guests are invited to personalize their travel experience with a choice of three to five options, selecting the activity that best suits their interests. Depending on the destination, possibilities include a scenic hike, a round of golf, a culinary experience with a local chef or a relaxing spa treatment.
Itineraries are designed with more time to explore alongside an A&K Resident Tour Director, who has lived in the region for decades, and offers personal insights from being a local. With several journeys limited to 12 or 13 guests – and none more than 18 people – A&K offers exclusive experiences only possible for intimate groups such as a private tour of London’s Parliament, champagne brunch atop the Great Wall of China or lunch at a Christian woman’s home in Bethlehem.
