SCANDINAVIAParliament buildings, Finlandia Hall and the Opera House. See the Sibelius Monuments and the Temppeliaukio Church (Rock Church). And this being the festive season, Helsinki

SCANDINAVIA 17 DAY SOLO TOUR: JANUARY 2020

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

ITINERARY

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WINTER & NORTHERN LIGHTS

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SCANDINAVIA 17 DAY SOLOS TOUR: 7TH - 23RD JANUARY 2020

NORWAYExperience Norway’s breathtaking beauty and spectacular coastline. The fjords are not to be missed, whilst the capital city of Oslo offers Viking history and a vibrant arts scene including its famous Opera House architecture and the Vigeland Sculpture Park.

FINLANDIn a land of picturesque lakes and forests, pristine landscapes with strong traditions and a modern sense of style, there’s plenty to see and do. From the Gulf of Finland to the Arctic Circle - the home of Santa Claus! In the stylish capital Helsinki there is the chance to take in the harbour, taste local seafood or purchase some famous Marimekko wear.

HURTIGRUTEN (Boat)Discover the Norwegian coast on a spectacular voyage with Hurtigruten. Founded in 1893, it operates daily ship departures on Norway’s western and northern coasts between Bergen and Kirkenes, with a focus on natural beauty, local cuisine and quiet contemplation.


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DAY 1: Tuesday 7th January 2020 HELSINKI (D)Unless arranging to arrive in to Helsinki earlier, your trip will begin today with an airport transfer to your hotel. Helsinki is a vibrant seaside city full of beautiful islands and green parks. Depending on what time your flight arrives, you will have some of the day to enjoy Helsinki at leisure. It will be cold and snowy, so rug up and explore the central avenue- Mannerheimintie. It is flanked by the National Museum, tracing Finnish history from the Stone Age to the present. Also on Mannerheimintie are the imposing Parliament House and Kiasma, a contemporary art museum. The ornate red-brick Uspenski Cathedral overlooks a harbor. This evening you will meet your fellow group participants, Two’s a Crowd tour host and your local english-speaking guide for a welcome dinner and tour briefing.

§ Accommodation: Your own room at ‘Scandic Hotel Simonkenttä’ in Helsinki (4 star)

DAY 2: Wednesday 8th January 2020 HELSINKI / OVERNIGHT TRAIN TO ROVANIEMI (B)This morning you have a guided sightseeing tour past the most interesting pars of Helsinki – the historical centre, City Hall, The Parliament buildings, Finlandia Hall and the Opera House. See the Sibelius Monuments and the Temppeliaukio Church (Rock Church). And this being the festive season, Helsinki will still be aglow with myriads of Christmas lights and the store windows will be beautifully decorated with traditional wares. This evening we will travel by overnight train to Rovaniemi, the capital of Finnish Lapland. Take the opportunity of enjoying dinner and a drink in the onboard restaurant & bar – it’s a great opportunity to meet the locals! No breakfast is included on the train tomorrow morning but this can be purchased in the restaurant on board. Maybe sample a local herring dish!

§ Accommodation: Your own ensuite cabin onboard the VR train

DAY 3: Thursday 9th January 2020 PYHÄTUNTURI (D)This morning we arrive in to Rovaniemi. Here we will visit Santa’s Village. After lunch we will transfer to the hotel in the picturesque country village of Pyhätunturi. Keep a lookout for reindeers on the drive! Situated one and a half hours north east of Rovaniemi the capital of Finnish Lapland, is the mountain resort of Pyhätunturi (meaning ‘Holy Fell’ and pronounced ‘Poo-ha’). With less than 1,000 inhabitants, it is a popular area for the Finns and not overly crowded with visitors during the busy seasons. The village has a hotel, supermarket, post office, cottages, restaurants, souvenir shops. The Nature Centre houses an informative display on the local geology and environment and an interesting digital presentation of the formation of the area can be viewed. A big plus for the area being out in the countryside is that the Polar Night skies are less exposed to light pollution, which makes it easier to observe the magical Northern Lights – when they choose to reveal themselves. Over the next four nights, you will have the opportunity of taking the optional activity of spending

17 DAY SOLOS TOUR: 7TH - 23RD JANUARY 2020

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one night in a glass igloo which gives you the freedom of lying in bed and keeping watch for the Lights. Cost: $750 per person for solo occupancy igloos.Tonight the group will enjoy a delicious dinner at the hotel.

§ Accommodation: Your own room at ‘Hotel Pyhätunturi’ (3 star)

DAY 4: Friday 10th January 2020 PYHÄTUNTURI (B, D)Today it’s your first experience of the wonderful outdoor activities Lapland has to offer - husky mushing. With one person seated in the sleigh and one person driving, set off through the forest with your team of highly-skilled and obliging huskies. If the passenger would like a turn at driving, swapping over half way is the time to do this. Mush mush! Afternoon at leisure. How about trying cross country or downhill skiing? After dinner in your hotel we will take an evening walk searching for the Northern Lights.

§ Accommodation: Your own room at at ‘Hotel Pyhätunturi’ (3 star)

DAY 5: Saturday 11th January 2020 PYHÄTUNTURI (B, D)Another unique experience today – a visit to the northernmost Amethyst Mine in the world. Situated on top of a fell in the nearby resort of Luosto, just 20 kilometres

from Pyhätunturi. Your transport to reach the mine will be very different – in a carriage pulled by a snow tractor! The view from the top of the fell is breathtaking and a definite photo moment. The Mine itself is a shallow sandy one and reached by walking down low stairs. Then armed with a small pick, dig for your own lucky Amethyst! You will have some free time in Luosto to wander around or visit the Amethyst Spa hotel and have a swim and a relax in their jacuzzi, steam room or sauna.. so pack your bathers!Optional Activity: • Three hour snowmobile safari $175.00 per person

sharing a snowmobile.


Day 6 - Sunday 12th January 2020 PYHÄTUNTURI (B, D)Morning visit to the reindeer farm where we are given an informative talk on reindeer husbandry. Next we will have a chance to feel like Santa and have a (sedate) sleigh ride through the breathtaking Lapland forest. Dinner this evening is in a very special venue- right on top of the small mountain (fell) with magical views.




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Day 7 - Monday 13th January 2020 KIRKENES, NORWAY (B) After breakfast it is time to say goodbye to Lapland and head further north to Kirkenes in Norway, stopping in along the way for a visit in the quaint little village of Inari.

§ Accommodation: Your own room at ‘Hotel Kirkenes’ (3.5 star)

Day 8 - Tuesday 14th January 2020 HURTIGRUTEN CRUISE: Kirkenes & Finnmark coast (Full Board - B, L, D)Transfer mid morning to the port for your six day cruise from Kirkenes to Bergen,taking you along the coast past spectacular fjords and picturesque harbours - all of which can be viewed from the panoramic lounge. All meals are included during the cruise and outside cabins have been reserved. Board the ship in Kirkenes, then cruise to Vardo, Norway’s easternmost town, with the enchanting Vardohus Fortress. Continue along the Varanger peninsula before a late evening arrival at Batsfjord.

§ Accommodation: Your own ensuite cabin onboard MS TROLLFJORD, HURTIGRUTEN

Day 9 - Wednesday 15th January 2020 HURTIGRUTEN CRUISE: Arctic coast – Tromso (Full Board - B, L, D) Cruise via Hammerfest, across Soroysund to Oksfjord. The course is set via Lopphavet open sea and the ship finds quiet waters towards Skjervoy island and the Arctic town of Tromso; late evening arrival.Optional Activities:• Morning excursion to the North Cape. • Midnight concert in the Arctic cathedral.


Day 10 - Thursday 16th January 2020 HURTIGRUTEN CRUISE: Vesteralen islands, Trollfjord & Lofoten Islands (Full Board - B, L, D) Through the narrow Risoyrenna channel after leaving Harstad. Stokmarknes with the Hurtigruten Museum, then on to Vesteralen islands & the spectacular Lofoten islands.





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Day 11 - Friday 17th January 2020 HURTIGRUTEN CRUISE: The magic Helgeland coast (Full Board - B, L, D) The ship sails along the beautiful and fabled Helgeland Coast, with the impressive Seven Sisters mountain range and the Vega islands. Make sure to get up early for the call at Ornes, surrounded by magnificent scenery with views of the Svartisen glacier.


Day 12 - Saturday 18th January 2020 HURTIGRUTEN CRUISE: Trondheim, Molde & Alesund (Full Board - B, L, D) The tiny historic island of Munkholmen leads the way to the historic town of Trondheim, with picturesque areas of tiny, wooden houses (Bakklandet) and Norway’s only cathedral. Then passing the beautiful island of Hitra and the open sea of Hustadvika before approaching the town of Molde & Alesund towards midnightOptional Activity:• Excursion to the Atlantic Ocean Road


Day 13 - Sunday 19th February 2020 HURTIGRUTEN CRUISE: Western coast to Bergen (B)Experience the magnificent West Norway scenery with mouths of fjords and a lush, beautiful archipelago, including the island kingdom of Oygarden, before the ship approaches Bergen. Upon arrival in to Bergen, the group will disembark and be transferred to your hotel. The remainder of day is your own to enjoy at leisure.

§ Accommodation: Your own room at ‘Scandic Ørnen’ in Bergen (4 star)


Day 14 - Monday 20th January 2020 BERGEN (B)After breakfast this morning your guide will meet you at the hotel for a two hour panoramic city tour of Bergen. Bergen is the capital of the fjords, Norway’s second largest city and one of the three university cities in the country. During the tour you will see St. Marys Church, Haakon’s Hall, the colourful and picturesque fish markets and the old Bryggen area. The remainder of day is your own to enjoy the gorgeous City of Bergen at your leisure.

§ Accommodation: Your own room at ‘Scandic Ørnen’ in Bergen (4 star)

Day 15 - Tuesday 21st January 2020 BERGEN to OSLO via FLÅM Railway (B)Today you will enjoy a scenic trip from Bergen to Oslo starting with a coach trip to Voss Station from where you enjoy a cruise on the waters of the Sognefjord from Gudvangen to Flåm. The spectacular vista of mountains, forests, lakes and waterfalls surrounding you is stunning and a sight never forgotten. After lunch, board the famous Flåm railway taking you again through spectacular scenery to Myrdal railway station. Upon arrival in to Oslo, you will be transferred to your hotel (your luggage will be collected early morning and transferred by private car to your hotel in Oslo). The evening is your own to enjoy at leisure.

§ Accommodation: Your own room at ‘Thon Hotel Terminus’ in Oslo (4 star)

Day 16 - Wednesday 22nd January 2020 OSLO (B, D)As one of Europe’s fastest growing cities of this decade, Oslo is buzzing with energy from new neighbourhoods and cutting-edge food, to fashion and art scenes. Nestled between the Oslofjord and forested hills, Oslo was named European Green Capital 2019 for its dedication to conserving natural areas and reducing pollution. The compact city centre is easy and safe to explore on foot or by bike, and the efficient public transport system makes the entire city accessible without a car. After breakfast meet your local English Speaking guide at your hotel for a three hour panoramic sightseeing tour of Oslo by private coach. You begin your visit with a walk around the new Opera House, which opened in April 2008. The outdoor terrace provides spectacular views across the Oslo fjord. The tour continues past the Akershus Fortress for a short walk and photo stop. Throughout 700 years, Akershus Fortress has played a central role in Norwegian history. As a Royal residence, centre of administration, and as a military fortification, the fortress and the castle have set the stage for both mundane and dramatic events. Among other highlights, you will visit the Viking Ship Museum with its three Viking vessels on display. During the tour of Oslo, you will also pass by the Royal Palace and the main street, Karl Johan. Return to your hotel for time at leisure. This evening you will enjoy the final group dinner with your TAC Host and fellow explorers.

§ Accommodation: Your own room at ‘Thon Hotel Terminus’ in Oslo (4 star)

Day 17 - Thursday 23rd January 2020 DEPARTURE DAY (B)Your Scandinavia tour comes to an end after breakfast today. There are no activities planned for the final day, other than a group transfer to the airport. Alternately you could request the booking team to organise additional nights to stay on and enjoy the city of Oslo, or travel onward to Europe and explore further.



Thinking of extending your stay?

Two’s a Crowd can book pre-tour accommodation in Oslo from AUD$395 including breakfast. Or stay extra nights in Helsinki from AUD$398 including breakfast. Airport transfers are also available.


MS Trollfjord is named after the stunning Trollfjord, situated on the Southern route between Vesterålen and the Lofoten Islands. This ship was built in 2002 and combines comfort and practicality with a dash of luxury.Ship facilities:• Expedition Team• Two-storey panorama lounge• Bars• Café• Library• Wi-Fi• Restaurant• Separate á la carte dining room• Sauna• Hot tub• Shop• Fitness room

ABOUT THE MS TROLLFJORD

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Modern ComfortsThe interior of the ship is fitted out extensively with Norwegian wood and stone, creating a relaxed ambience and reflecting the environment outside. There are many options of cabins and an outdoor Jacuzzi deck on top of the ship. On board, there are original artworks by Lofoten artist Kaare Espolin Johnsen which were originally on board the old Hurtigruten ship, MS Harald Jarl.Unmatched ViewsThe stand-out feature of MS Trollfjord’s design is the spacious two storey panoramic lounge above the bow (see images to the left). With huge expanses of glass, guests can marvel at extraordinary views in natural light filled surrounds. This abundance of natural light is just one aspect of the ship that makes up its strong environmental profile. On Board Expedition TeamMS Trollfjord has her own on-board Expedition Team which serves as a university at sea. Interesting lectures, presentations and activities inside the ship as well as out on the sun deck make this an exciting and educational journey. Topics depend on the season and the waters we sail in. Out on deck you can participate in live points of interest to learn more about the nature, culture and other phenomena we encounter along the coast. In addition, the Expedition Team will introduce you to the uniquely Norwegian notion of `friluftsliv´ (outdoor life), and encourage you take part in `friluftsliv´ walks and activities during the journey. Our dedicated Expedition Teams have one mission: to enhance your experience by engaging you and interpreting the nature, wildlife, and culture you encounter during the voyage.

ABOUT THE MS TROLLFJORD

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MS TROLLFJORD CABINS

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ARCTIC SUPERIOR CABINS Relaxation and comfort are the hallmarks of the Arctic superior cabins. These cabins have private facilities with a TV and tea/coffee making facilities. The U category Arctic Superior cabins are located forward on Decks 7 and 8.

POLAR OUTSIDE CABINSThe ship’s cabins are located on Decks 3, 4, 6, 7 and 8. Cabins either have twin beds or twin beds plus an upper pull down bed, with an access ladder. These cabins either have a porthole or a picture window. The outside cabins on Decks 3 and 4 all have portholes, and the ones on Decks 4, 7 and 8 have larger picture windows.

CATEGORY J: Picture window

CATEGORY N2: Picture window

CATEGORY O: Picture window

CATEGORY U: Arctic Superior Ocean View Outside


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 January 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: 18/02/19

Tour Inclusions: § Two’s a Crowd Tour Host from Australia

§ 10 nights of accommodation in solo occupancy rooms at the hotels listed.

§ 1 night in a solo occupancy ensuite cabin onboard the Helsinki- Rovaniemi overnight train

§ 5 nights on board MS TROLLFJORD in solo cabin of your choice (choice dictates price)

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

§ Group airport transfers

§ All sightseeing, guided tours and entrace fees as detailed in the itinerary.

§ Outdoor suit and boots for duration of stay in Pyhätunturi

§ Comprehensive Travel Insurance with CHI Travel Insurance (Underwritten by Allianz) . Additional

premium may be payable if over 69 years, have an existing medical condition or wish to extend your travel dates. Refer to the CHI or QBE PDS for more information on policy terms and conditions.

Tour Exclusions: § International airfares and taxes.

§ Gratuities (optional)

§ Expenses of a personal nature, such as laundry and souvenirs

§ Meals and drinks not specified 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: 7TH - 23RD JANUARY 2020 TOUR PRICING: Category J (Polar outside cabin- 1 available): AUD$10,997 Category N2 (Polar outside cabin- 9 available): AUD$11,397 Category O (Polar outside cabin- 2 available): AUD$11,597 Category U (Arctic Superior/ Ocean view outside cabin- 3 available): AUD$12,197

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Documents

SCANDINAVIAParliament buildings, Finlandia Hall and the Opera House. See the Sibelius Monuments and the Temppeliaukio Church (Rock Church). And this being the festive season, Helsinki