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See more in less time—and with comfort and style! Step aboard a private plane for a unique travel adventure that reveals a life list of iconic destinations and UNESCO World Heritage Sites in one itinerary. With the logistics left to us, you’re free to savor the luxury and convenience of flying private while gaining insight into some of humankind’s greatest achievements, including Stonehenge, the Great Pyramids, Petra, the Taj Mahal, and so much more.
View details and reserve online:
August departure – https://orbridge.com/grp_departures/overview/partner_u_texas_iconic_destinations_by_private_jet_2024
October departure – https://orbridge.com/grp_departures/overview/partner_u_texas_iconic_destinations_by_private_jet_2024_2
Day-to-Day Itinerary:
ITINERARY NOTE: 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 represents a general listing of planned activities and excursions. Guests will receive frequent updates for any needed modifications.
Day 1: En Route from U.S.
Monday, August 26, 2024
Day 2: Arrive in London, England
Tuesday, August 27, 2024
After arriving in London, meet with your Orbridge representative and transfer to the hotel.
The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure.
This evening, join fellow travelers for a special welcome reception and dinner.
Overnight: Sofitel London St James (R,D)
Day 3: Stonehenge / Avebury
Wednesday, August 28, 2024
Following breakfast, 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.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986, Stonehenge begs the eternal question: How did a civilization without modern technology—or even the wheel—create this mighty monument? It has been estimated that the three phases of construction required more than 30 million hours of labor!
During an escorted tour around the Neolithic ruins, learn about speculations and theories surrounding this incredible feat of engineering—from Merlin, the wizard of Arthurian legend, to a historic burial ground, and even a spacecraft landing for aliens.
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 your evening are at leisure.
Overnight: Sofitel London St James (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.
Once on board, delight in a celebratory welcome toast and become acquainted with the dedicated crew. Settle in to lie-flat leather seats and plug into in-flight entertainment and convenient charging stations. Full-size pillows, pajamas, 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. The structures are an awesome sight, and our local guides will 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. Its sides rise at an angle of 51°52′ and are accurately oriented to the four cardinal points of the compass. Approximately 2.3 million blocks of stone were cut, transported, and assembled to create the 5.75-million-ton marvel.
Next, set out for the Great Sphinx of Giza. This enigmatic creature of stone depicts a lion’s body with a man’s face, carved entirely from a single outcrop of limestone bedrock. The Sphinx faces the rising sun, and came to represent strength and wisdom.
Following lunch, join a guided tour of the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities, featuring 107 halls filled with nearly 160,000 pieces of ancient artifacts covering 5,000 years of Egypt’s past. View displays of treasures from royal tombs, royal portraits, and rare artifacts.
Dinner this evening will be at the hotel or a local restaurant.
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 motor coaches, 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. Fun fact: The 1962 film Lawrence of Arabia and 2015’s film The Martian were filmed in this magical ecosystem.
Traversing through Wadi Rum is a voyage through the geological evolution of Earth, and 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. Settle in to your five-star accommodation with time to freshen up 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 Bay Al Siq, notice 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. Settle into your comfortable seat for a nap, get lost in a book, or mingle with fellow guests at the stand-up bar and lounge—the choice is yours.
Lunch will be served on board, with the jet touching down in Delhi by early evening.
Upon arrival, transfer to your five-star hotel. Dinner will be served at the hotel tonight.
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 and bustling 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. The mosque took more than 5,000 workers toiling six years to complete.
Continue to Chandni Chowk—a prominent thoroughfare and popular shopping attraction—in Old Delhi, where the atmosphere pulsates with motorcycles and rickshaws down narrow lanes. Expect to engage all of your senses through this vibrant and authentic cultural immersion.
Following lunch at a local restaurant, explore contrasting New Delhi, a city of wide boulevards bordered by formal parks and attractions, including Rashtrapati Bhawan, the official residence of the president, and India Gate, an Arc de Triomphe-like, 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.
A magical dining experience awaits this evening 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, set out by train approximately four hours to Agra. Nestled on the banks of the Yamuna River, Agra contains UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the iconic Taj Mahal and Agra Fort.
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.
Stroll through the arches to explore the grounds and around the Taj Mahal, admiring the calligraphy, minarets, and intricate lattice screens of the interior.
Later, stop at a local restaurant for lunch before visiting Agra Fort, a powerful fortress of red sandstone near the gardens of the Taj Mahal. Step back in time for an impression of what it was like to live as a Mughal Emperor. The buildings, once used as residences for the royal family, are almost entirely covered with marble and semi-precious stones. Courtyard after courtyard reveal its incredible architecture and immense size.
Return to Delhi with today’s special memories. Dinner is at the hotel.
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.
Jaipur, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the gateway to Rajasthan and part of India’s famed Golden Triangle. It’s also recognized as being the first planned city in India—an early example of urban planning, with streets built on a grid.
After arrival and lunch, embark on a panoramic city tour of Jaipur, affectionately known as the “Pink City” for the baked-salmon color of its historic buildings. These sandstone structures have sported a shade of pink since 1876, when they were painted for a visit by Prince Albert, Queen Victoria’s husband.
Following the tour, arrive at your five-star hotel for time to unwind before dinner on-site with fellow travelers.
Overnight: The Oberoi Rajvilas, Jaipur (B,L,D)
Day 12: Jaipur
Friday, September 6, 2024
One of India’s most well-known and 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.
At the Jantar Mantar Observatory, built in the early 18th century, discover a collection of some 20 instruments constructed by the Rajput King Sawai Jai Singh II, the founder of Jaipur. See the world’s largest stone sundial at what UNESCO describes as “the most significant, most comprehensive, and the best preserved of India’s historic observatories. It’s an expression of the astronomical skills and cosmological concepts of the court of a scholarly prince at the end of the Mughal period.”
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.
Celebrate your time spent in India with a special themed dinner this evening.
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 the city of 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’s highlight is at the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Angkor Wat. Join the group early to marvel at the sun rising and peeking behind the temple’s iconic spires. Angkor Wat is one of the most famous temples in the world, 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.
Today we explore not only the main temple, but also Angkor Thom and Prasat Bayon. The iconic face towers of Prasat Bayon are distinct among the many Angkor temples. Originally there were 49 towers, decorated with large carved faces looking into each of the four cardinal directions.
Lunch at Lum Orng Farm to Table Restaurant is next, followed by an afternoon of included optional experiences (no additional fees apply): 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 agenda features a variety of touring options, or allows for a full day of leisure to indulge in the hotel’s luxurious amenities.
Guests may choose to join 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 a short (approximately 90 minutes) flight to Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam. Enjoy a light sandwich and snack service on board the plane.
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.
There’s nothing quite like wandering through a Middle Eastern souq, 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 check in for your evening at leisure.
Overnight: Sofitel London St James (B,L)
Day 21: Depart London / En Route to U.S.
Sunday, September 15, 2024
After breakfast, it’s time to bid a fond farewell to your fellow travel companions. Guests departing during the suggested times take a complimentary transfer to the airport for flights home. (B)
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, R = Reception
