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Graham from Noller & Turner Travel Associates shares his experiences in Chile and Peru with luxury tour company Abercrombie & Kent.
As a luxury travel company renowned for its exclusive and individual experiences, those familiar with A & K will appreciate the travel group was in extremely good hands from the outset.
The group enjoyed staying at some magnificent properties including the Grand Hyatt in Santiago, the Rio Sagrado in the Sacred Valley (a short distance from Cusco), plus the famous Hotel Monasterio in Cusco and the Miraflores Park Hotel in Lima. Ultimately, the accommodation experienced on tour would satisfy even the most discerning traveller, as A & K incorporated uniquely beautiful hotels in the regions most breathtaking locations.
Well-organised city tours in Santiago, Cusco and Lima provided an excellent overview of each city's cultural and gourmet experiences, while also allowing ample opportunities to dabble in the art of shopping along the way.
Undoubtedly, the highlight of the trip was the day spent experiencing Machu Picchu - "The Lost City of the Incas". Travelling aboard the Vistadome train to the township of Aguas Calientes, the group then boarded a bus for the short ascension to the most revered and spectacular archaeological site on the continent. After arriving at Machu Picchu, the group enjoyed a short exploration of the lower site before a generous lunch was served. The afternoon was spent enjoying the higher regions of the ruins, providing spectacular photo opportunities and some wonderful memories. Naturally, the trip was enhanced by an expert guide employed by A & K, who explained the history and significance of what we were experiencing. With an extensive knowledge, the guide brought the attraction to life, and a late afternoon departure allowed for further exploration of the ruins in a less crowded atmosphere. As the day's adventure drew to a close, highlights were shared over a wonderful dinner aboard the luxurious Hiram Bingham during the 4 hour rail journey back to Cusco.
With the flexibility of flights departing daily from Sydney via Auckland into Santiago, LAN Airlines provided a great choice of carrier for these South American destinations. Economy class featured seating which slides forward when you recline, providing a little extra room, and the business class seats lay flat, making them extremely comfortable and desirable for the night flight home.
