![]() |
For questions or to reserve:
uillinois.orbridge.com
(866) 639-0079
|
Around the World by Private Jet
Step aboard a private Boeing 767 jet plane for a once-in-a-lifetime travel adventure to discover some of the world’s greatest icons, destinations, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Stonehenge, the Great Pyramids, Petra, the Taj Mahal, the Jantar Mantar Observatory, Angkor Wat, and the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, to name a few. This uniquely curated program features insight from knowledgeable instructors and planned extraordinary excursions, providing special understanding into some of humankind’s greatest achievements.
NOTE: Tour information is current as of 8/31/2024.
Program Highlights
– Revel in the comfort, convenience, flexibility and efficiency of touring the world by private aircraft.
– With top experts, visit Stonehenge, the Great Pyramids, Petra, Angkor Wat and the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque.
– At Avebury, view the largest prehistoric stone circle in Europe.
– Take a guided tour of the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities.
– See Jama Masjid, perhaps the largest mosque in India, constructed by Shah Jahan of red sandstone and white marble.
– Experience a breathtaking sunrise at Angkor Wat.
– Enjoy a private luncheon coastal cruise in Ha Long Bay.
– Gain a unique understanding of the cultures of seven countries, enjoying authentic interactions with local people at every destination.
What's Included
- 19 nights accommodations at 5-star hotels
- Airfare for 7 flights aboard the private aircraft featuring experienced flight crew of 2 pilots, flight manager, engineer, chef and cabin crew
- A special welcome reception, 19 breakfasts, 17 lunches and 17 dinners including a farewell dinner
- 3 expert-led lectures
- 21 expert-led excursions
- Full guiding services of a team of Orbridge Expedition Leaders
- All excursion transportation and entry fees
- Processing fees for our preferred provider's visa services (price of visas are not included)
- $100,000 medical evacuation insurance for covered reasons
- All gratuities
Itinerary
Travel with peace of mind: You are embarking on a grand adventure where daily activities will be determined by weather, schedules, and various other elements that comprise this robust tour. The itinerary below is flexible and will be adjusted if necessary based on global conditions at the time of departure. Guests will receive updates for any necessary modifications.
Day 1: En Route from U.S.
Monday, August 26, 2024
Day 2: Arrive in London, England
Tuesday, August 27, 2024
Upon arrival to London's Heathrow Airport an Orbridge representative will be waiting to assist with your transfer to the hotel.
The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure followed by a special welcome reception and dinner this evening.
Overnight: Brown's Hotel (R,D)
Day 3: Stonehenge | Avebury
Wednesday, August 28, 2024
Set out on a scenic two-hour journey through England's countryside to discover one of the world's most iconic and mysterious archaeological sites—Stonehenge.
During a guided tour around this UNESCO World Heritage Site, learn about speculations and theories surrounding the engineering of these Neolithic ruins. Stop at the impressive visitors center to view a variety of permanent exhibitions, which offer a glimpse into the unique nature of the Stonehenge site.
After a traditional English lunch at a local pub, survey the lesser-known site of Avebury. While Stonehenge is the most architecturally sophisticated prehistoric stone circle in the world, Avebury is the largest. Similar to other megalithic monuments in the British Isles, Avebury is a composite construction that was added to and altered during several periods. As the site currently exists, the great circle consists of a grass-covered, chalk-stone bank that is 1,396 feet in diameter and 20 feet high.
Return to London where dinner and the remainder of the evening are at leisure.
Overnight: Brown's Hotel (B,L)
Day 4: London | Fly to Cairo, Egypt
Thursday, August 29, 2024
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before transferring to an exclusive terminal at London Stansted Airport to board your privately chartered jet.
After take-off share a celebratory welcome toast and become acquainted with the dedicated crew. Get settled in your lie-flat leather seat and plug into in-flight entertainment and convenient charging stations. Full-size pillows and amenity kits are available for additional comfort.
Lunch will be served during this relaxing, approximately five-hour flight. In-flight meals are served directly to your seat with fine china and cutlery and include a selection of beverages.
Upon arrival transfer to your five-star hotel to refresh and unpack before rejoining the group for dinner.
Overnight: Marriott Mena House Hotel – Cairo (B,L,D)
Day 5: Giza
Friday, August 30, 2024
Today's adventures include a visit to the pyramids of Giza, the only remaining Wonders of the Ancient World still standing. Stand in awe before the massive structures as local guides provide insightful information into the history of these incredible creations.
The Great Pyramid, 700 feet long on each side, is Egypt's largest and represents an astonishing structure completed more than 4,500 years ago. Approximately 2.3 million blocks of stone were cut, transported and assembled to create the 5.75-million-ton marvel. Its four sides are accurately oriented to the cardinal points of a compass.
Next set out for the Great Sphinx of Giza. This enigmatic stone carving—designed entirely from a single outcrop of limestone bedrock—depicts a lion's body with a man's face. The Sphinx faces the rising sun, and represents strength and wisdom.
Enjoy lunch and time at leisure.
This evening visit the Grand Egyptian Museum, a newly opened complex described as the largest archaeological museum in the world and host to more than 100,000 artifacts. Tour the extensive exhibits of royal tombs, portraits and pre-historic relics, and view King Tut’s entire treasure collection. Then be seated for a lovely dinner.
Overnight: Marriott Mena House Hotel – Cairo (B,L,D)
Day 6: Cairo | Fly to Aqaba, Jordan | Wadi Rum | Petra
Saturday, August 31, 2024
Following breakfast return to your private jet for the 60-minute flight to Aqaba, Jordan, on the Red Sea.
Upon arrival meet with local guides, transfer to a motor coach and set out for Wadi Rum for a four-wheel drive desert excursion. Nicknamed the “Valley of the Moon,” encounter Wadi Rum’s visually striking landscape with sweeping red sand dunes and massive rocks formations.
Traversing through Wadi Rum is a voyage through the geological evolution of Earth. Many of the topographical features are older than the Dead Sea Rift that forms the western border of Jordan. Stone Age petroglyphs and a continuing nomadic presence offer a rare window into humanity’s earliest beginnings.
After a lunch of Jordanian specialties transfer by motor coach to the city of Petra with time to freshen up at your five-star accommodations before dinner.
Overnight: Mövenpick Resort Petra (B,L,D)
Day 7: Petra
Sunday, September 1, 2024
This morning discover ancient Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known as the "Rose City" for its red rock carvings, this alluring place was once the thriving capital of the Nabataean Kingdom and a major caravan center during the Roman period. Over time, however, Petra was largely forgotten until the 19th century.
During a guided tour explore elaborate tombs, monuments and religious high places. Along a wide path known as the Bab Al Siq, observe the Obelisk Tomb, a structure that stands as testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of the region. Step inside to discover a resting and dining hall with three benches once used for feasts to honor the dead. Stairs lead to burial halls with interesting light and shadows for photo opportunities.
Those who wish to enjoy lunch and continue exploring Petra may do so while others may choose to return to the hotel for a restful afternoon.
This evening rejoin the group for dinner at the hotel.
Overnight: Mövenpick Resort Petra (B,L,D)
Day 8: Aqaba | Fly to Delhi, India
Monday, September 2, 2024
Early this morning return to your private jet to depart for the next exciting destination—Delhi, India.
During this approximately five-hour flight, sit back, relax and take advantage of the well-appointed onboard facilities. Enjoy a nap, get lost in a book or mingle with fellow travelers at the stand-up bar and lounge.
Lunch will be served on board. The jet will touch down in Delhi by early evening.
Upon arrival transfer to your five-star hotel. Take time to unpack then gather later for dinner.
Overnight: The Oberoi, New Delhi (B,L,D)
Day 9: Old and New Delhi
Tuesday, September 3, 2024
No journey of the world's iconic destinations would be complete without time in the heart of colorful India.
India's capital city, New Delhi, offers a captivating blend of old and new—an amalgam of tombs, temples and monuments existing side-by-side amidst modern suburbs and skyscrapers.
Drive past the Red Fort—Delhi's most iconic monument and one of several UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Massive red sandstone walls standing 75-feet high enclose a complex of palaces, gardens and a mosque. Across the road, and towering over Old Delhi with its tapering minarets and marble domes, stands Jama Masjid—the biggest and perhaps most well-known mosque in India. One of the finest examples of Mughal architecture in India, the Jama Masjid was created by Emperor Shah Jahan, who also commissioned the Taj Mahal.
Next experience renowned Chandni Chowk, Old Delhi's main thoroughfare and oldest market—a sensory delight teeming with a myriad of goods, colors, fragrances and flavors. Absorb the spirit and energy of Old Delhi during an authentic experience with a rickshaw ride weaving through the lively chaos of the city.
Following lunch at a local restaurant continue to New Delhi, a grand city featuring wide boulevards, manicured formal parks and notable landmarks including Rashtrapati Bhavan, the official residence of the president, and India Gate, a 138-foot-tall arch that bears the names of thousands of Indian soldiers who perished in conflicts such as World War I and the Third Afghan War. Admire the arched façade of Humayun’s Tomb built in the mid-16th century. This regal mausoleum is considered the architectural forerunner of the Taj Mahal.
This evening a magical dining experience awaits at Lakhori restaurant in Haveli Dharampura. This wonderfully restored merchant’s mansion is a calming oasis of architectural beauty, featuring traditional cuisine and a delightful ambience.
Overnight: The Oberoi, New Delhi (B,L,D)
Day 10: Delhi | Agra
Wednesday, September 4, 2024
After breakfast take a relaxing four-hour journey by train to Agra situated beside the Yamuna River—home to the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Built between 1631 and 1648 by order of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his favorite wife, the Taj Mahal is an immense mausoleum of shimmering white marble that appears to change color depending on the light. This complex is one of the most outstanding examples of Mughal architecture, combining Indian, Persian and Islamic influences. Strolling the grounds, admire the calligraphy, minarets and intricate lattice screens adorning the structure.
Later stop at a local restaurant for lunch before delving into Mughal history at Agra Fort. This colossal red sandstone fortress houses exquisite palaces, mosques and halls. Get a glimpse into the lifestyle of royalty and learn about the Mughal emperors who once resided here.
Return to the hotel in time for dinner.
Overnight: The Oberoi, New Delhi (B,L,D)
Day 11: Delhi | Fly to Jaipur
Thursday, September 5, 2024
Enjoy a leisurely morning at the hotel before boarding your private jet for the 45-minute flight to Jaipur.
Known as the Pink City, Jaipur—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—was carefully planned and arranged in a grid pattern of eight units around a central square. Its historic buildings were painted terra-cotta pink—a symbolic color of hospitality in honor of a visit by Prince Albert in 1876. A law passed in 1877 declared that any new buildings constructed must also bear this particular color.
Following a panoramic city tour arrive at your five-star hotel with time to unwind before dinner on-site with fellow travel companions.
Overnight: The Oberoi Rajvilas, Jaipur (B,L,D)
Day 12: Jaipur
Friday, September 6, 2024
One of India's most well-known and frequently visited forts is the iconic Amer Fort, or Amber Fort. Sheer size and location make this stop a "must" while in the area. Massive ramparts, successive gates and a zig-zagging cobblestone path leading up a hillside reveal four courtyards, palaces, halls and gardens. Learn about the history of Jaipur and the dynasties that ruled it at this extensive complex.
The City Palace is an impressive collection of courtyards, gardens and buildings. See structures from different eras, some dating from the early 20th century. It's a striking blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture, with surfaces adorned by carvings, silverwork or opulent textiles.
Within the lavish Diwan-i-Am (Hall of Public Audience) is an art gallery. Exhibits include a copy of the entire Bhagavad Gita handwritten in tiny script, and miniature copies of other holy Hindu scriptures, which were small enough to be easily hidden in the event that zealot Mughal armies tried to destroy the sacred texts.
Adjacent to City Palace's entrance is Jantar Mantar Observatory, begun by Jai Singh in 1728, Jai Singh's passion for astronomy was even more notable than his warrior prowess. Before construction commenced Singh sent scholars abroad to study foreign examples of such structures. The Jaipur observatory is the largest and the best-preserved of the five Singh built. See what has captivated the attention of architects and art historians worldwide at this site packed full of interesting instruments.
Walk the streets of Jaipur before stopping at a bazaar known for traditional and modern clothing and linens made using centuries-old techniques of intricately block-printed and tie-dyed textiles. Delight in shopping for one-of-a-kind keepsakes and handcrafted gifts at this colorful market.
Return to the hotel for lunch and an afternoon at leisure.
This evening celebrate your time spent in India with a special themed dinner.
Overnight: The Oberoi Rajvilas, Jaipur (B,L,D)
Day 13: Jaipur | Fly to Siem Reap, Cambodia
Saturday, September 7, 2024
After breakfast return to the airport to board your private jet. Today you will journey far east across southern Asia to Siem Reap, Cambodia.
The approximately four-hour flight presents an opportunity to relax, recharge and reflect on recent sites and experiences with fellow travelers. Enjoy lunch and refreshments at your seat or in the company of others at the stand-up bar and lounge.
Upon arrival transfer to the hotel to unpack before dinner with the group. Tomorrow's adventures begin at dawn.
Overnight: Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort (B,L,D)
Day 14: Angkor Wat
Sunday, September 8, 2024
Today witness a dramatic sunrise at the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Angkor Wat. One of the most famous temples in the world, Angkor Wat is home to a number of impressive religious structures and monuments dating back to the 12th century. The complex is also an architectural and engineering feat. King Suryavarman II's architects, for example, conceived of cooling corridors for heat relief and the formation of a system of reservoirs and waterways for irrigation.
We'll explore not only the main temple but also Angkor Thom and Prasat Bayon.
Prasat Bayon is known for its iconic stone faces carved into its towers. The temple was built in the late 12th century by King Jayavarman VII and is a significant part of the Angkor archaeological site.
Lunch at Lum Orng Farm to Table Restaurant is next, followed by an afternoon of included optional experiences (no additional fees apply). Choose either a local market tour and spa treatment or a visit to the Satcha Handicraft Center and the Old Market.
This evening's dinner is at Malis for authentic Khmer food.
Overnight: Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort B,L,D)
Day 15: Siem Reap
Monday, September 9, 2024
Today's itinerary allows for a variety of touring options or a full day of leisure to indulge in the hotel's luxurious amenities.
Choose either a Jeep tour, a safari by all-terrain vehicle (ATV), a guided visit to the Kulen Elephant Forest or a guided Vespa tour of the Grand Temples.
Alternatively enjoy the facilities of the hotel, whether relaxing by the swimming pool, taking advantage of the fitness center, playing a round of golf at the best golf course in Cambodia, or indulging in luxury wellness and beauty treatments at Sofitel Spa (additional fees may apply for certain services).
Tonight a special dinner experience awaits to round out the remarkable time spent in Cambodia.
Overnight: Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort (B,D)
Day 16: Siem Reap | Fly to Hanoi, Vietnam
Tuesday, September 10, 2024
Board your private jet for the approximately 90 minute flight to Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam. Enjoy a light sandwich and snack service en route.
One of the most ancient cities in the world, Hanoi offers examples of both classical and contemporary architecture right in the city center.
After lunch set out on a panoramic tour of Hanoi including an inside visit to the notorious prisoner-of-war camp, Hoa Lo Prison, also known as "Hanoi Hilton." This property was used for political prisoners during the French colonial era and later for American prisoners of war during the Vietnam War. Today it serves as a museum and a reminder of Vietnam's turbulent history.
Return to the hotel and freshen up before heading out to a unique dinner at the remarkable Hanoi Grand Opera House. Erected between 1901 and 1911, the Hanoi Opera House is one of three opera houses built by the French colonial administration.
Overnight: Sofitel Legend Metropole (B,L,D)
Day 17: Ha Long Bay
Wednesday, September 11, 2024
Journey east by motor coach to the mountainous Quang Ninh province for Ha Long Bay on Vietnam's coast. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, meaning "Land of the Descending Dragon," displays pristine natural beauty. The bay includes some 1,600 islands and islets plus a spectacular seascape of limestone pillars surrounded by turquoise blue waters—making it a popular locale with the Vietnamese and international visitors.
Arriving at the bay, board a private charter boat for a luncheon cruise through the tranquil waters.
Return to Hanoi in the afternoon with time to refresh before dinner at the hotel this evening.
Overnight: Sofitel Legend Metropole (B,L,D)
Day 18: Hanoi | Fly to Muscat, Oman
Thursday, September 12, 2024
Your private jet is ready for the next destination—the Sultanate of Oman on the Arabian peninsula’s southeastern coast.
The Sultanate of Oman is strategically located on the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula at the confluence of the Persian Gulf and Arabian Sea. Its prime location has been, and remains, important for controlling or having a strong presence in the Persian Gulf. Enjoy staying the next two nights in its capital, Muscat, known for its blend of traditional and modern architecture, the rich history and culture found in the city's old and new towns, the hospitality of its people, and its beautiful beaches and lush landscape.
During this approximately seven-hour flight take pleasure in another first-class meal and the exceptional services of your now familiar crew.
After landing and clearing arrival formalities transfer to the hotel to settle in before rejoining the group for dinner at the property.
Overnight: Kempinski Hotel Muscat (B,L,D)
Day 19: Nizwa
Friday, September 13, 2024
An early start today ensures experiencing the best part of the customary Friday cattle market of Nizwa. Glean a genuine slice of traditional Omani life and culture watching locals buy and sell livestock. Buyers bid according to what they need, and sellers raise their prices depending on quality.
Wander through a Middle Eastern souk, or marketplace. Amid the excitement, the air is often fragrant with perfumes and oils as vendors sell their wares. In historic Nizwa, browse devoted sections offering numerous varieties of dates and other fruits, honey, Omani coffee and sweets, pottery, and silver jewelry—all in the shadow of a nearby fort.
While used for centuries as a tool of war and defense, today, the Nizwa Fort stands as a beautiful and strong tribute to Oman’s often turbulent history. It was built in the mid 17th century by Imam Sultan Bin Saif Al Ya'rubi, who defeated the last of the Portuguese occupiers. The structure was erected over the ruins of an older fort which dates back to the 12th century.
See the ancient Omani architecture designed over two levels and the surrounding plantations of green date palms. Ascend to the top of the fort for panoramic views of the Hajar Mountains. The structure also hosts a museum that exhibits how Omanis lived in ancient times.
Stop for lunch before returning to the hotel late in the afternoon.
Tonight celebrate this extraordinary around-the-world adventure of iconic destinations with a special Omani dinner.
Overnight: Kempinski Hotel Muscat (B,L,D)
Day 20: Muscat | Fly to London, England
Saturday, September 14, 2024
Following breakfast tour the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque—Oman's tallest structure and largest mosque. Imposing and glorious, this piece of modern Islamic architecture was a gift to the nation from Sultan Qaboos to mark his 30th year of reign. The mosque can accommodate 20,000 worshippers, including 750 women in a private musalla (prayer hall).
See the beautiful main prayer hall and hand-loomed prayer carpet that took 600 women four years to weave. Equally impressive are extensive manicured gardens, fountains, elegant walkways and one of the world's largest chandeliers. This 24-carat, gold-plated fixture is trimmed with 600,000 Swarovski crystals and houses 1,122 bulbs.
After touring return to the airport to board your private jet one final time for the approximately eight-hour flight to London. Delight in lunch, convivial camaraderie and a traditional English afternoon tea service during the journey.
Transfer to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the evening at leisure.
Overnight: Brown's Hotel (B,L)
Day 21: London | Depart for U.S.
Sunday, September 15, 2024
Following breakfast guests departing during the suggested times will take a complimentary transfer to the airport for flights home. (B)
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, R = Reception