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PATAGONIA

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(contact us if you’re interested, in case we get a cancellation)
Chilean Patagonia
November 26 – December 6, 2018
$7,150 per person double occupancy
$8,995 single occupancy

WOW! Travel Small Group Travel

WOWees have been clamoring for Patagonia for many years – this adventure will fill up quickly!

This itinerary has been carefully designed to showcase the most spectacular scenery of northern and southern Patagonia. The two hotels, Tierra Chiloe and Tierra Patagonia, are deluxe, all-inclusive properties with fabulous spas.

At each of these destinations, you’ll have an opportunity to choose from a variety of activities to connect you with nature at a pace that matches your fitness level. Excursions are led by expert guides in small groups (maximum 8). Your meals, drinks, and daily excursions (half-day or full-day) are included in the package. And – as always – you can count on WOW surprises, too!

Santiago is the starting point, where we’ll spend our first and last nights. The first night at the Ritz-Carlton and the last night at the Hotel Magnolia.

The rugged beauty, hospitality, biodiversity, traditional architecture, and indigenous Mapuche culture of the spectacular Chiloé archipelago are unique in all of Chile. We’ll stay three nights at the luxury lodge, Tierra Chiloé Hotel & Spa, with only 24 rooms with gorgeous views. Throughout history, the destination awed the Spanish conquerors, Jesuit missionaries, European colonists, and Charles Darwin. You’ll be enchanted, too!

Then it’s on to southern Patagonia where its most iconic sights are found in Torres del Paine National Park where nature is wild, barren, and beautiful. We’ll enjoy four nights at the spectacular Tierra Patagonia Hotel & Spawith just 40 rooms. It is an architectural marvel – blending into the landscape with the use of natural materials with furnishings and textiles by Chilean craftspeople. The property enjoys a magnificent location on Lake Sarmiento where all rooms and public spaces enjoy magnificent views the “torres” (towers). You’ll be “wowed” for sure!

Marilyn Murphy visited Chile in April, 2017 and published a blog about her extraordinary experience (in Atacama, the Lake District and Patagonia). She also posted a video on YouTube.  Click here for a PDF flyer of this journey.
And, because a “bad” traveler can spoil the experience for everyone, all WOW! Travel Club members must agree and adhere to the WOW Vows.WOW! Travel Small Group Travel

ITINERARY – Nov 26 – Dec 6, 2018

Mon, November 26: Depart US for SANTIAGO

Depart US on an overnight flight to Santiago, Chile. (General airline info is available on the Transportation tab.)

Tues, November 27: SANTIAGO (the gateway)

Upon arrival at Santiago Airport, you’ll have a private transfer to the Ritz Carlton in the trendy Las Condes District. Regardless of your arrival time, you’ll have access to the Club Lounge where a dedicated Concierge will attend to your questions – and where you can enjoy food and beverage throughout the day. There’s also an indoor pool on the roof, as well as a great spa and fitness center to work out the kinks from your international flight.

Wed/Thu/Fri, November 28 – 30: CHILOÉ (in Northern Patagonia)

Quite frankly, not a lot of people go to Chiloé. It’s one of the largest islands on the continent and hard to get to. Because of its isolation, it has unique cultural traditions, customs and a fiercely independent, seafaring people. A bridge is currently under construction which, once connected by road to the mainland, will change everything about the island. Until then, the Islanders are especially welcoming to visitors who make the effort to get there!

We’ll take the direct 2-hour flight on Wednesday morning from Santiago to the town of Castro. It’s only a 20-minute drive to our intimate and comfortable home base – Tierra Chiloé, which has 24 sea-view bedrooms. The architecturally-distinctive hotel is located amid the blue waters of Chile´s Northern Patagonia, offering every guest a personalized, all-inclusive service. During our 3 nights (2 full days), Tierra’s team of guides will offer a handful of tailored half-day and full day outings in small groups, including cultural trips, boating, horseback riding, biking, trekking and nature excursions. You can choose what you want to do each day, based on your interest and your energy.

One of the most distinctive features is the architecture of Chiloé island, including iconic wooden churches (16 of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites).

Click here for information on the Chiloé region.

Sat/Sun/Mon/Tue, December 1 – 4: PATAGONIA (the iconic southern part)

Later this afternoon, we’ll fly from Puerto Montt to Punta Arenas (3 1/2 hour flight). It’s a lengthy drive (4 1/2 hours) to the lodge – but spectacularly scenic … and the sun doesn’t set till almost 10 pm!

Patagonia’s pristine beauty – and most iconic sights – are to be found here in Torres del Paine National Park. During a four-night stay at the spectacular Tierra Patagonia Hotel & Spa, you’ll have an opportunity to choose from a variety of activities to connect you with its natural beauty at a pace that matches your fitness level. Excursions are led by expert guides in small groups (maximum 8). You choose from among a menu of included excursions each day.

The cozy resort has just 40 rooms and is an architectural marvel – blending into the landscape with the use of natural materials with furnishings and textiles by Chilean craftspeople. It enjoys a magnificent location on Lake Sarmiento with magnificent views the “torres” (towers) from every bedroom.

Wed, December 5: SANTIAGO (overnight)

We’ll take an evening flight back to Santiago, where you will enjoy a comfortable overnight at the luxury boutique Hotel Magnolia, a restored 1929 Spanish Colonial mansion on a tree-lined street in Santiago’s historic downtown. Enjoy a nightcap on the rooftop terrace with amazing city views.

Thur, December 6: Depart or extend …

Transfer to the airport for your homeward flight, or – better yet – extend your stay in Chile at any of a number of amazing destinations! (See info on the Extensions tab.)

WOW! Travel Small Group Travel

Ritz Carlton Santiago

The Ritz-Carlton Santiago, set within the prestigious El Golf district, captures the city’s distinct energy and experience with luxury hotel rooms and suites, a rooftop spa and wellness center, and locally inspired dining. We’ll spend our first night at this classically luxurious hotel before jetting off to Chiloé!

  • WOW! Travel Small Group Travel

Tierra Hotels are luxury adventure lodges offering all-inclusive experiences in the most desirable destinations in Chile. Each is a wondrous architectural masterpiece, designed to perfectly complement the natural landscape.

Tierra Patagonia

We’ll spend four nights at Tierra Patagonia Hotel & Spa, situated on a bluff where the pampa meets Lake Sarmiento. The award-winning architecture complements the flow of the geology and showcases magnificent views of the Torres del Paine National Park from every one of the 40 rooms. Inside, wood clad walls emanate warmth and offer a cozy hideaway after a day spent discovering the amazing Patagonian outdoors. Furnishings and textiles were handmade by Chilean craftspeople, using natural materials from the region, high-quality workmanship and inspiration from the surrounding estancias as well as the influence of the native Tehuelche people.

The ambiance of Tierra Patagonia is casual and friendly. The designers created different spaces so that guests can mingle and get to know one another or find a quiet corner to relax and get away from it all. There is something truly delicious about curling up on a comfortable sofa with a lap blanket, a book, and a glass of wine – then forgetting about the book and just staring out the window at one of the Earth’s most majestic places!

Video of Tierra Patagonia

Tierra Chiloé’s sustainable architecture reflects traditional local houses built on stilts over the water. The 24-room hotel is located amid the blue waters of Chile´s Northern Patagonia, on a mythical island, dotted with picturesque fishing villages. The beauty of this destination is as much in the landscape as it is in the island residents with their deep-rooted culture and timeless traditions. In true Tierra style, the lodge´s distinctive architecture is in step with its breathtaking surroundings. The recently-expanded Uma spa features a heated outdoor pool overlooking the sea. The intimate property offers a wealth of small-group guided experiences from which to choose – and a delightful start to our exploration of Patagonia.

A somewhat dizzying video of Chiloé … but a good overview of what we’ll experience!

Magnolia Hotel, Santiago

Spend one final night in the electric city of Santiago in a recently converted 1929 mansion located in the historic downtown area. This 42-room boutique hotel is the first of its kind in the city’s “El Centro” neighborhood: a seamless fusion of the city’s past and future, offering historic beauty combined with luxe accommodations and a gourmet restaurant.

PACKAGE COST:  $7,150 per person, double occupancy – $8,995 per person, single occupancy

PACKAGE INCLUSIONS:

  • Luxury accommodations for nine nights, as follows:
    • One (1) night at Ritz-Carlton, Santiago
    • Three (3) nights at Tierra Chiloé Hotel & Spa
    • Four (4)nights at Tierra Patagonia Hotel & Spa
    • One (1) night at Hotel Magnolia, Santiago
  • Airport transfers and ground transportation throughout itinerary
  • Access to Club Lounge at Ritz-Carlton
  • Meals, as follows: daily breakfast; seven lunches; seven dinners
  • Open bar and house wine at lunch and dinner
  • Choice of guided small-group excursions (two (2) half-days or one (1) full-day): for two (2) days at Tierra Chiloé and three (3) days at Tierra Patagonia
  • Full-day excursion to Gray Glacier in Torres del Paine National Park
  • Complimentary massage treatment at your choice of Tierra resort
  • WOW! surprises
  • All taxes and service charges
  • Gratuities to drivers, guides, hotel staff and porters throughout itinerary
  • Basic travel medical insurance Services of Marilyn Murphy as tour leader throughout itinerary

    EXCLUSIONS:

  • International airfare
  • Domestic airfare (we will quote as soon as fares are published)
  • Supplemental Trip Cancellation Insurance (recommended)
  • Meals or other activities not specifically listed above
  • WEATHER: Late Nov/early Dec is the best time to visit Chilean Patagonia. It’s springtime in the southern hemisphere – with wildflowers, baby animals, fewer crowds and better value! Daytime temperatures are in the mid-fifties.

    ATTIRE: Plan to wear layers, and pack a good windbreaker, broken-in hiking/walking shoes, hat, gloves.

    VISA?: No visa is required for entry to Chile.

    PAYMENT SCHEDULE: Space is limited and reservations will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. An initial deposit of $1,500 per person is due at time of registration. Final payment is due September 27, 2018 (60 days prior).

    CANCELLATION: If unforeseen events happen that force you to cancel, we will try to resell your space. Penalties vary depending on the date of cancellation. We recommend trip cancellation insurance.

    CANCELLATION DATES & TERMS:

    • From time of booking thru April 1, 2018: Deposit is refundable, minus a $100 per person administrative fee.
    • From April 2 –  August 31, 2018: $500 per person cancellation fee.
    • On or after September 1, 2016: Non-refundable, unless a replacement can be found to fill your space.

    OTHER QUESTIONS?: Don’t hesitate to call Marilyn Murphy at (818) 444-2707.

During your stay in Chiloé (3 nights), and in southern Patagonia (4 nights), you’ll be able to choose from an extensive menu of excursion options – which are included in the package price. An experienced naturalist guide will lead each tour, in small groups (maximum 8 guests). Activities include hikes, horse rides, scenic visits or bicycle rides to discover the places of interest, and are divided into three different levels of difficulty:

    • Easy: appropriate for all ages and capabilities.
    • Medium: requires a reasonable level of physical ability and/or experience
    • High: These activities require excellent physical condition, experience, and ability.

Every day you can choose two half-day excursions or one full-day excursion:

  • Half Day: morning and/or afternoon, lunch is taken in the hotel.
  • Full Day: start in the morning and a lunch box is provided, with return to the hotel in the afternoon, usually after 6pm.

Your all-inclusive WOW! Travel Club package includes gratuities to guides, drivers, and hotel staff. Click below to open PDFs with descriptions of the most current published offerings at both properties. Some excursions are at an additional fee.

Tierra Chiloe Excursion List
Tierra Patagonia Excursion List

CHILE TRANSPORTATION INFORMATION

As you can see from the map, Chile is a vast country which necessitates flying from place to place as well as some lengthy drives. Complicating things further is the fact that domestic air schedules are not published until six months prior – and flights are not necessarily offered every day of the week. But not to worry – the itinerary was purposely designed based on historical information in an attempt to minimize transfer time and hassle.

AIR FLIGHTS & FARES

INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS:
Internationally, you’ll fly into and out of Santiago, Chile (airport code: SCL). Current non-stop flights (not necessarily daily) are available from the following gateways:

  • LAX:  LATAM (airline code LA)
  • ATL:  DL
  • DFW:  AA
  • IAH:  UA
  • JFK:  LATAM
  • MIA:  AA and LATAM
  • YYZ:  AC

For your general information, current economy fares (as of Jan 2018) are in the range of $1,200 – $1,450 (from LAX to SCL).

INTERNATIONAL TICKETING SERVICES:
You may make your own flight arrangements or we can assist with a $75 per person service fee. Air ticketing services are free of charge for WOW Travel Club alumni. We cannot book mileage tickets or upgrades, which must be done directly with the carrier. If you would like us to assist, contact Howard Wise at howard@thectpgroup.com or call him at 818-444-2710.

DOMESTIC FLIGHTS:
The domestic flights and fares within Chile are not published until six months prior, but are expected to not exceed $600 for the three legs, based on the following proposed (unconfirmed) schedule:

Nov 28:  Santiago (SCL) to Castro (MHC):  10am / 1155am
Dec 1:   Puerto Montt (PMC) to Punta Arenas (PUQ):  4:36pm / 6:46pm
Dec 5:   Punta Arenas to Santiago:  7:30pm / 8:50pm

The cost of the domestic flights will be quoted as soon as fares are published, and will be invoiced to you separately. Domestic flights will be booked by WOW! Travel Club.

GROUND TRANSPORTATION WITHIN CHILE

TRANSFERS:
Again – because of Chile’s unique geography, there are some unavoidably long (but scenic) ground transfers. Approximate times are noted in the Itinerary descriptions.

EXCURSIONS:
At the resorts in Chiloé and Patagonia, you’ll participate in small-group excursions with transportation by mini-vans (maximum 8 persons per group). Especially in Patagonia – which is a huge National Park, the drives can be lengthy. Each day, you’ll choose your preferred half-day or full-day activity, which are categorized as an Easy, Medium or High degree of difficulty.

  • WOW! Travel Small Group Travel

As previously mentioned, Chile is big. Nearly 2,700 miles from north to south. The geology and topography are vastly different in each of the various regions. It’s also not very populated, so getting from place to place can take a day of connecting flights (mostly though Santiago). But, as long as you’re already all the way down there, here are some extraordinary places to add to the front or back end of your adventure as independent extensions!

WOW! Travel Small Group Travel

Valparaiso

Bohemian and colorful, Valparaiso’s maze of hills has long inspired poets and writers – like Pablo Neruda. You’ll discover something new at every turn: a gem of a building, a remarkable art gallery or some little gastronomic find. Revel in the crazy architecture of this World Heritage City – only 70 miles from Santiago. Stroll along its narrow streets, climb its endless staircases, ride its historic funicular elevators and enjoy panoramic views from its many lofty lookout points. At the port and fishing wharves, you’ll get a feel for Chile’s quirky seafaring side. Buy or sample freshly-caught seafood at the market and enjoy the fishermen’s banter!

Wine Region

Following are two highly-recommended properties to provide a luxurious base of exploration of Chile’s magnificent wine-growing regions: 
1.  Lapostolle Residence is set within the prestigious Clos Apalta vineyards in the Colchagua Valley, with four beautifully decorated villas. This is the favorite of our agent in Chile. It’s about 2 1/2 hour drive from Santiago Airport. Special nightly rate for WOWees: $860 (double), includes breakfast.
2. Sixty miles west of Santiago lies Chile’s hottest new winemaking region that is making headlines with its mineral-crisp white and spicy red wines. 
Matetic La Casona is a 100-year-old colonial estancia with only 10 rooms, set in beautifully landscaped gardens and surrounded by the rolling hills of the Rosario Valley. Special nightly rate for WOWees: $575 (double), includes breakfast and lunch or dinner.
NOTE: Space is subject to availability.

Easter Island

Tropical Easter Island is a tiny speck of land, 2,300 miles off the coast of Chile – a 51/2 hour flight from Santiago. It’s one of the most isolated places on Earth. Here, the mythical moai statues were carved by the Polynesian colonizers of the island, mostly between 1250 and 1500 A.D. There are about 900 of these massive carvings dotting the island. 

A 3-night package includes: 3 nights at Explora Rapa Nui (Varua room), all meals, open bar, shared transfers, activities with bilingual guide, airport transfers. Special all-inclusive package rate for WOWees:  $2,495 per person (double). Excludes airfare and gratuities.

NOTE: Space is subject to availability.

Atacama Desert

This is an arid, forbiddingly beautiful place in the extreme north of Chile, (a 2-hour flight from Santiago to Calama plus 90-min drive to hotel). Another fabulous Tierra property is located here, offering the same personalized, all-inclusive service as you will enjoy at their properties at Chiloé and southern Patagonia. Tierra is a 20-minute walk to the center of the town of San Pedro de Atacama and, like all the Tierra properties, offers a gorgeous swimming pool and spa. 

A 4-night package includes: 3 nights at Tierra Atacama (Superior room), all meals, open bar, shared transfers, activities with bilingual guide, one night at Hotel Magnolia in Santiago with breakfast (Or – at Matetic in the wine region), round-trip transfers from airport to hotel. Special all-inclusive package rate for WOWees:  $1,995 per person (double). Excludes airfare and gratuities.

NOTE: Space is subject to availability.

Australis Expedition Cruise

Australis is a highly-regarded expedition cruise line offers 4-night one-way itineraries through the waterways of southern Patagonia including Cape Horn, the Strait of Magellan, Tierra del Fuego, and the Beagle Channel. Starting or ending in Punta Arenas (Chile) and Ushuaia (Argentina). The brand-new Ventus Australis (210 passengers) or Stella Australis (also 210 passengers) ships offer a comfortable, all-inclusive opportunity to explore a place visited by only about 1,000 people per year.  Best date options:
– (Pre-trip) Nov 21-25 from Ushuaia to Punta Arenas (onboard Stella Australis)
– (Post-trip) Dec 7-11 from Punta Arenas to Ushuaia (onboard Ventus Australis)

Special all-inclusive 4-night cruise rates for WOWees are approx $2,800 per person, plus additional costs for hotel overnights, as required based on dates and routing. Click here for a PDF of complete Australis cruise brochure with itineraries, photos, etc. Call Marilyn Murphy at (818) 444-2707 for more details.

Antarctica!

As long as you’re almost to the bottom of the world, why not consider Antarctica? There are a number of cruise options as well as the potential to fly on Antarctic Airways to the White Continent for a day or even an overnight!

Call Marilyn Murphy at (818) 444-2707 for more details on any of these suggestions.

NOTES: Rates are approximate, subject to availability and change at the time of booking. The Registration site will prompt you to give an indication of your interest in any/all of these destination suggestions. This is for our general information and is not binding. If you desire a PDF copy of this information, please click here.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

WOW! TRAVEL CLUB – PATAGONIA

November 26 – December 6, 2018 (Depart US on overnight flight Nov. 26, arrive Santiago, Chile Nov. 27)

AIR TRANSPORTATION:

You may make your own flight arrangements or we can assist with a $75 per person service fee.  Air ticketing services are free of charge for WOW Travel Club alumni. We cannot book mileage tickets or upgrades, which must be done directly with the carrier. If you would like us to assist, contact Howard Wise at howard@thectpgroup.com or call him at 818-444-2710.

The domestic flights within Chile cannot be confirmed until six months prior to travel. Airfare for those segments is estimated not to exceed $600, and will be invoiced to each traveler. We recommend that international flights be booked separately, as soon as possible.

It is the responsibility of the traveler to provide the legal name as on the passport. Passport must be valid for six months from return date. Carriers may deny boarding if name on ticket does not match name on passport.

PAYMENT SCHEDULE:

Space is limited and reservations will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Initial deposit of $1,500 pp is payable at time of registration. Final payment is due September 27, 2018 (60 days prior).

CANCELLATION:

For cancellations received via written notice on or before April 1, 2018, an administrative fee of $100 per person will be charged.

For cancellations received via written notice from April 2 – August 31, 2018, a $500 per person cancellation penalty will be charged.*

For cancellations received via written notice on or after September 1, 2018, no refund will be provided unless a replacement can be found to fill your space. *

* The WOW! Travel Club will make every reasonable effort to find a replacement participant should you need to cancel. Domestic air tickets, if they’ve been issued in your name, might be non-refundable.

SUPPLEMENTAL TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR TRIP CANCELLATION/INTERRUPTION:

We recommend insurance to cover financial penalties if you need to cancel your trip. Information will be provided upon receipt of deposit. Here are links of two travel insurance providers: Squaremouth and Travel Guard.

TIPS AND TAXES:

The package includes all service charges and taxes imposed by hotels. Basic gratuities to drivers, guides, hotel staff and porters are included. You are welcome to extend additional gratuities for anyone who has provided exemplary service.

BAGGAGE:

Check with your carrier regarding allowances for your international flights. For domestic flights within Chile, LATAM Airlines allows one piece of carry-on luggage (8 kg; maximum size 55 cm x 35 cm x 25 cm) and one piece of checked luggage (23 kg).  Excess and/or overweight luggage will be charged at the discretion of the airline.

PASSPORT:

You must have a valid passport with at least 6 months validity from the date of re-entry to your home country.

VISA:

No visa is required for entry to Chile by US (or Canadian) passport holders.

HEALTH/VACCINATIONS:

Consult your physician for recommendations. Additional information regarding Traveler’s Health precautions is available at the website for the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).

TRAVEL DOCUMENTS:

Final travel documents will be sent to your mailing address about two weeks prior to departure.

WOW! VOWS:

All guests will be asked to sign and agree to the WOW! Vows for responsible travel:

  1. I vow to travel with my sense of wonder and my sense of humor.
  2. I vow to be a gracious guest and leave a place at least as good as I found it.
  3. I vow to be a respectful traveler – thoughtful of the people and places I visit.
  4. I vow to be on time, or catch up with the group at my own expense.
  5. I vow to communicate any complaints, grievances or missed expectations to the tour leader promptly, privately and appropriately. (e.g.; I will not whine in front of the group!)
  6. I understand that travel requires patience, a positive attitude, and an ability to laugh. If I can’t relax and enjoy the unexpected, I vow to stay home!
  7. A new WOW! VOW (in light of our current political climate: I vow to refrain from any discussions within the group related to US politics.

RISKS OF TRAVEL AND YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES:

International travel involves inherent risks. The CTP Group/WOW! Travel Club (CTP/WOW) cannot be liable for any injury, death or loss of personal property in connection with your participation in CTP/WOW activities. By participating in CTP/WOW Patagonia, you assume risk of inherent dangers (including without limitation, annoyance and expenses) related to military or political action, civil disturbances, quarantine, strikes, detention, mental trauma, pilferage, weather, epidemiological events, acts of God or any other circumstances over which CTP/WOW has no control.

I understand that CTP/WOW reserves the right to refuse as a trip participant or remove from a trip, any person it judges to be incapable of meeting the rigors and requirements of participating in activities, or who it determines to detract from the enjoyment of the trip by others. I agree to follow all written and verbal rules of safety presented to me by CTP/WOW. CTP/WOW reserves the right to make route, hotel, itinerary and trip modifications as required or desirable to improve the trip quality and/or to accommodate the comfort and well-being of guests.

CTP/WOW reserves the right to alter or cancel any trip due to weather, sickness, political climate, and/or insufficient registration or other unforeseen circumstances beyond our control. While CTP/WOW will make every effort to obtain full or partial refunds from suppliers, CTP/WOW cannot guarantee your ability to recoup payment.

The above Terms & Conditions are hereby expressly incorporated into the “Release, Waiver and Indemnity Agreement” to be signed by you as a WOW! Travel Club participant.

CONSENT:

Payment of the deposit OR any other partial payment for registration of a participant for CTP/WOW activities constitutes consent by all guests/participants registered by the party completing on-line registration. You and your guests/participants hereby agree to the Terms & Conditions of this website. The Terms & Conditions set forth on this website may not be modified or amended except in writing by an authorized officer of CTP/WOW.

All guests/participants are required to initial and sign a Release Waiver and Indemnity Agreement, which will be sent prior to final payment due date. Final processing of your registration payment cannot be completed until such time as CTP receives the initialed and signed “Release, Waiver and Indemnity Agreement” of all participants/guests covered by your on-line registration.

January 9, 2018   # 1016440-10

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