Travel

We’re going to Norway and then to China the end of this summer.  Join us for either trip or both!  We have combined the two trips on this page so you can carefully read through each itinerary and see which one (or both) you would like to join.  Whether you come with us to Norway and/or to China, you can talk to our agent, Sarah, at Morris Murdock Travel and she will help you book your tour.  Her number is 801-483-6473.

NORWAY

Let’s face it, Norway is blessed to be one of the most beautiful countries (if not the most beautiful) on this amazing planet. Did you know that Norway, which is a relatively small country, has more coastline than the United States?! It’s just a unique and stunning country.

My first trip to Norway was 50 years ago when we went there to pick my brother Paul up off his mission. He was among the last missionaries to serve a 30-month mission. My family and I sailed from Newcastle, England (with our car in the belly of the ship) and we arrived on a misty-moisty morning in gorgeous Stavanger. From the moment I saw my brother and his companion emerge from the fog and greet us, Norway was injected into my veins. Though Maurine and I have returned once, we’ve longed to do an extensive visit to the most beautiful fjords in the world. Would you like to come with us? Please!

This is it.

Let yourself relax as you read over the detailed itinerary below. Feel the peace as you look at the photographs. Imagine yourself in these intensely picturesque places. We think it’s on your bucket list. It’s certainly on ours. This may be the only time we do this.

And with our agents at Morris Murdock, we will plan a number of shore excursions that we can do together as a group of Latter-day Saints. Can you imagine having more fun than that?  Do you want to call our agent right now and book this cruise?  Call Sarah at 801-483-6473 and ask her all the questions you want then book the cruise.  Would you rather just book the entire cruise online?  You can CLICK HERE and then scroll down to where it says BOOK NOW.  You click on that, set up your account then secure your place on the cruise!

We can take about 80 people. Let’s do this together!

Pre-Tour Express Literary Package!

For many, our pre-tour literary package will be a not-to-be-missed experience.
We will focus on three places—the Harry Potter Studios in Leavesden, England; spending a day at Oxford with all the richness of this 800 year-old school and, of course, taking a day to be at Stratford upon Avon in the heart of Shakespeare Country.

Our first visit to the Warner Brothers Studio in Leavesden was such a surprise. Yes, we are Harry Potter fans. Yes, we took our kids to the opening-day showings of each of the movies. Yes, we’ve read the books—but we had NO IDEA how much fun and wonder we would experience coming to the original movie sets. They told us to plan for about 3 hours—we stayed six-and-a-half hours and were the very last people to leave! The parking lot was empty as we made our way across to the single-remaining car. Oh, what a day of delight and an exploration into the depths of creativity!

Oxford is endlessly interesting. Though we’ve been here a dozen times, we never tire of it! Whether it be exploring C.S. Lewis territory or walking over the sacred ground of religious martyrs or visiting the Ashmolean or Pitt Rivers Museums, this place is fascinating through and through.

Come a visit the stomping grounds of William Shakespeare and his family. We will visit the home where Shakespeare was born, visit Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, and give you a chance for some shopping in this beyond-charming town.

Here’s the actual day-by-day detailed description for our pre-tour package:

Pre Tour Day 1 and 2 – Tuesday, Aug 21 and Wednesday, August 22^nd, 2018
US Home city to London, England and on to Leavesden

Today you’ll depart from your home city and travel to London! Upon arrival our coach will meet us at the airport and our adventure immediately begins! We head right over to explore the wizarding world of Harry Potter as we tour the Warner’s Brother Studio.   Here we’ll walk in the footsteps of Harry, Ron and Hermione on actual sets used in the movies as well as props, costumes and special effects details! This visit will surely bring out the kids in all of us. (see description above).

We’ll continue to the historic town of Oxford where we’ll stay for the next 3 nights.

Pre Tour Day 3 – Thursday, Aug 23^rd, 2018
Oxford, England

Today after our traditional English breakfast we’ll head off to explore Oxford. On our ½ day walking tour we’ll get to meander through the cobbled streets and quaint alleyways to the heart of Oxford University and pass sights such as University Church, Radcliffe Camera, Old Schools Quadrangle (The Bodleian Library) and The Bridge of Sighs. During the tour your guide will explain the history of Oxford from its humble beginnings to the world class University that we know today. Unlike most other tours that simply view from the outside, we’ll then visit inside Christ Church College. Christ Church has a deep and interesting history and is probably the city’s most famous college, not least because of its connections with the Harry Potter films and its iconic dining hall. The afternoon will be yours at leisure to shop and browse through the wonderful shops and sites of this most charming city.

Pre Tour Day 4 – Friday, Aug 24^th, 2018
Stratford-upon-Avon

Today we explore the Tudor market town of Stratford-upon-Avon, which is the birthplace of poet and playwright William Shakespeare. We’ll visit the place of his birth, a restored 16th-century timbered house as well as the cottage once owned by Shakespeare’s wife, Anne Hathaway. We’ll continue on to the Church of the Holy Trinity, where Shakespeare was laid to rest. Tonight we’ll have a wonderful dinner at a local restaurant in town as we enjoy stories of history and literature.

Pre Tour Day 5 – Saturday, Aug 25^th, 2018
Southampton to board cruise

Today after breakfast we’ll take the scenic drive back to Southampton to board our cruise and meet up with the other tour members to explore magnificent Norway together.

This pre-tour is a bargain package for only $769 per person (based on double occupancy).

Call our agent Wendy at 801-483-5285 for further details or to book.

Here’s a Quick Look at Our Norwegian Adventure Together

Behold the staggering beauty of Norway’s fjords on an unforgettable cruise from Southampton. Feel like you’re floating through a fairy tale as you make your way from charming Hellesylt (an old Viking port) through the Geiranger Fjord, with its pine forests, surrounding mountains, central waterfall and lush valley. Take the funicular to the top of Ft. Floein, one of Bergen’s seven mountains, for magnificent views of the city, harbor and picturesque countryside. And when arriving in Southampton, leave time to explore the rich history and culture of London.

Now let’s do the day by day and see how wonderful this will be.

Cruise Day One – Saturday, August 25, 2018
SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND

Protected from the frequent storms of the English Channel by the Isle of Wight, Southampton has survived a turbulent history to serve as a principal port of the United Kingdom today. Pay homage to one of the most famous ships to sail these shores at the Mayflower Memorial. Visit the stoic walls of Bargate and the Tudor House Museum.

At 5:00 PM we sail for Norway on the newly refurbished Norwegian Jade!

Cruise Day Two – Sunday, August 26, 2018
SEA DAY

Today we will celebrate the Sabbath together with a wonderful devotional centering on the Savior Jesus Christ. Later in the day we will give one or two of our prepared lectures, one of which will be “Eleven Things You Probably Didn’t Know about The Book of Mormon.” This always leads to a wonderful discussion—especially when we are sailing together on The North Sea!

Cruise Day Three – Monday, August 27, 2018
Haugesund, Norway

Although the region of Haugalandet has a rich Viking heritage, Haugesund is a vibrant young city touting culture and arts festivals. The Folgefonna Glacier to the north and the Preikestolen Mountains to the south – creates an enchanting backdrop for seemingly endless possibilities for outdoor exploration. Discover the Langfoss Waterfall – nominated by CNN as “One of the 10 Most Beautiful Waterfalls in the World” – that rushes down a steep mountainside and into the fjord below. Enjoy a scenic hike or bike ride on one of the many trails crisscrossing the landscape or visit the tranquil beaches of Karmøy for breathtaking views.

Cruise Day Four – Tuesday, August 28, 2018
Hellesylt and Geiranger, Norway

Looking for natural wonders that are truly wondrous? Look no further than the Geiranger Fjord. Emerge from a fairy tale pine forest and gaze at the fjord and surrounding mountains. You’ll find much more to amaze here, from a central waterfall to the winding roads and streams of the Moldskreddalen Valley.

In Geiranger you’ll find a quaint village nestled in a valley in western Norway. Geiranger grants a respite to remember. Visitors come from all over to explore the fjord and its gorgeous views of nearby waterfalls, mountainscapes and charming farms.

Cruise Day Five – Wednesday, August 29, 2018
Flam, Norway

Situated deep within the valleys of Norway, Flam is a nature lovers’ escape. The towering mountain cliffs and sweeping waterfalls are a pure splendor. The Flam Railway is a point of interest and so are the various fjord sightseeing tours.

Cruise Day Six – Thursday, August 30, 2018
Alesund, Norway

One of Norway’s most beautiful towns, renowned for its Jugend-style architecture and art nouveau style. Cruise visitors will immediately notice Alesund’s unique layout, as it is built on islands extending to the sea, and offers scenic views of fjords and the Sunnmore Alps. Alesund is the fishing capital of Norway!

Cruise Day Seven – Friday, August 31, 2018
Bergen, Norway

View this lovely and charming Norwegian city from your cruise ship and you’ll see how the city is nestled between seven mountains, seven fjords and the North Sea. The Norwegian King resided here, and many historical events took place in this busy port. These events come alive when you amble down the old streets of Bryggen, past picturesque, wooden buildings and the Romanesque-style St. Mary’s church.

Cruise Day Eight – Saturday, September 1
Kirkwall, Orkney Isles

This starkly beautiful island holds many ancient treasures like the mysterious Standing Stones of Stenness and the 5,000-year-old village of Skara Brae, which was discovered with the furniture and indoor drains preserved. Make sure to visit the striking trio of St. Magnus Cathedral, the nearby ruins of the Earl’s Palace and Bishop’s Palace. After touring, stop in a local pub to chow down on salmon and lamb dishes with the locals. And ask them about the wide range of Kirkwall’s specialty items, which includes cashmere and crafts.

Cruise Day Nine – Sunday, September 2
SEA DAY

Today we sail south across the North Sea and head back to England so full of Norwegian wonder and joyful experiences. We will gather as a group for some special lectures from the Proctors, and, again, we will celebrate the Sabbath with a Christ-centered devotional and enjoy our last day together on this magnificent ship—the Norwegian Jade.

Cruise Day Ten – Monday, September 3
DISEMBARK at SOUTHAMPTON

We arrive early in the morning and will disembark for our journey to London.

Pricing for the Cruise:

Better prices may be available at time of booking in all categories – We will always confirm the BEST PRICE.
Inside Cabin •- $1399.00 ** Inside Guarantee Cabin
Outside Cabin – $1689 *Port Hole view
Outside Cabin – $1839 *Full Picture Window
Veranda Cabin – $2369.00.00 (Better prices may be available at time of booking)
Veranda Cabin – $2459.00 Mid Ship location
Note: Single/triple/quad cabins are based on availability and are subject to change.  Rates will be quoted based on availability.

Please read carefully:  Cruise Tour Add-On Options

Every cruise has numerous ship-sponsored shore excursion options. We have designed our own package so that our Latter-day Saint group can enjoy each other’s company on our own busses and shore adventures with top-quality local guides. Part of the Proctor’s signature is doing everything we can to bring our group together and create a family-like feeling among our participants. This 4-port private shore excursion package includes hand-selected tours in Haugesung, Hellesylt & Geiranger Fjord, beautiful Flam and also stunning Bergen. The cost of this amazing package is only $549! Comparable NCL shore excursions for a similar package would be between $616 and $700+).

Call our amazing and very helpful agent Sarah today with any questions or to send in your deposit for Norway (cabins will fill quickly): 801-483-6473.

Can you imagine having more fun than this Norwegian Cruise?  Do you want to call our agent right now and book this cruise?  Call Sarah at 801-483-6473 and ask her all the questions you want then book the cruise.  Would you rather just book the entire cruise online?  You can CLICK HERE and then scroll down to where it says BOOK NOW.  You click on that, set up your account then secure your place on the cruise!

And finally, here’s the Post-Cruise Package—London!

Many will want to do the post-cruise add on package in London. You’ve come a long way and we wouldn’t want you to miss this opportunity to be up front and personal with London—one of the greatest cities in the world. We always love to spend a day or two extra in London when we come to the British Isles.

Day 1 Extension: Monday, September 3^rd, 2018

Today we’ll be picked up at the Southampton cruise port and transfers into the English capital city of London! We’ll enjoy an extensive ½ day panorama city tour seeing many of the famous and royal highlights of this impressive city. Afterwards we’ll be taken to our hotel in the city center to enjoy the rest of the day and night at your leisure.

Day 2 Extension: Tuesday, September 4^th, 2018

Today is at your leisure. Included in our package is a prepaid Oyster card that will allow you to travel on the iconic double decker buses, trains or tubes throughout London as you explore the city.

Day 3 Extension: Wednesday, September 5^th, 2018

Today after breakfast you will be transferred back to the airport for your return trip home to the US.

Note: The post-cruise package will include visits to St. Paul’s Cathedral designed and master-minded by Sir Christopher Wren; the Tower of London where you will have a chance to meet the Beefeater Guards and see the Crown Jewels. A tour of London would not be complete without seeing Westminster Abbey, Parliament, Big Ben and Buckingham Palace.

This taste of London POST CRUISE package with hotel/breakfast, attractions, oyster card and transfers all included is only $499. This is a bargain considering London is one of the most expensive cities in the world.

Call our wonderful agent, Wendy, to get all the details and pricing for the post-cruise package: 801-483-5285.

Let’s do this amazing trip together!

CHINA

Discover China Tour including three days on The Yangtze River!

China is the most populous nation on earth and it has a fascinating and mysterious history.  Join us in 2018 for a never-to-be-forgotten tour of this beautiful country.  And with our partners in China we have designed an out-of-the-ordinary experience, including the opportunity to trek off the beaten path to a remote section of the Great Wall of China and help restore the Wall by adding your own brick.  We have also designed an amazing add-on tour at the end (your option) to go the Yellow Mountains, one of the most stunning and breathtaking landscapes on planet earth.  Read the itinerary then come and join us for the adventure of a lifetime in China.

To talk directly to our agent, please call Sarah at 801-483-6473 or click HERE to email Sarah.  Would you rather just book this tour online?  CLICK HERE then scroll down to where it says BOOK NOW.  Then you can set up an account (it take less than a minute) and you can book everything online.

Day 1: Thursday, September 6, 2018
Depart USA to Beijing

Today we begin our adventure as we will take flights from our various home cities, make transfers and arrive the following day (Friday, September 7) at the Beijing International Airport, where we will be taken to our comfortable hotel and rest from our travels.

Day 2: Friday, September 7, 2018
Arrive Beijing

Arrive in Beijing, the capital of China. You will be greeted and transferred to your hotel.
Hotel: Oriental Bay Hotel 5* or similar.

Day 3: Saturday, September 8, 2018
Beijing

In the morning we tour the mysterious and beautiful Forbidden City; a huge complex of palaces, pavilions, courtyards and gardens. We will walk through Tian’anmen Square, the site of many history-making events. After lunch, visit the impressive Summer Palace, located in a park full of charming pavilions and scenic views. This evening watch the famous Beijing acrobatic show. (B/L/D)

Day 4: Sunday, September 9, 2017

Beijing

Today, you travel off the beaten track for a walk on a remote section the Great Wall. After climbing the wall with your guide, you have the unusual opportunity to contribute to its restoration by personally adding your own brick. After lunch, drive by the Olympic Village. Tonight you will have the famous Beijing Duck dinner. (B/L/SD)

Day 5: Monday, September 10, 2018
Beijing

After hotel breakfast, transfer to Temple of Heaven, The Temple itself is graceful and indeed impressive, and with the serenity of the grounds, this is among the most notable of all the temples in the city.  We have arranged for a Master to teach participants Tai Ji for around 1 hour. Afterwards, we will visit the hutong neighbourhoods. The hutongs are an excellent look at the historic character that Beijing is trying their best to hold on to as you watch people play mahjong, see inside traditional homes, marvel at traditional Chinese buildings, and more. You will explore the hutongs on foot and by pedicab. (B/L)

Day 6: Tuesday, September 11, 2018
Beijing/Xi’an

Fly to Xian in the morning. Upon arrival, transfer to visit Hanyangling Tomb where participants can experience archaeological excavation by personally being on site. Then transfer to visit the Ming Dynasty City Wall.  Tonight, you may wander around in the Moslem Street. (B/L/D)  Hotel: Titan Times Hotel 5* or similar

Day 7: Wednesday, September 12, 2018
Xian

Today we will visit the famous and incredible Terra-cotta Warriors and Horses, one of the world’s great archeological treasures. This afternoon you will see the Shaanxi History Museum, which boasts more than 370,000 rare cultural relics unearthed in Shaanxi. Tonight, you will be served a dumpling banquet and watch the Dances & Music of the Tang Dynasty. After the Show, clients can take photo with the King or Queen, acted by the actor (B/L/SD)

Day 8: Thursday, September 13, 2018
Xian—Chongqing

Fly to Chongqing in the morning, visit Erling Park, and the Three Gorge Museum, then get onboard the deluxe cruise after dinner. (B/L/D)  Cruise: MS Yangtze Two (5*) or similar

Day 9: Friday, September 14, 2018
Yangtze River Cruise

On your shore excursion today you will visit Shibao Stockaded Village (Shibaozhai), which was built on a skerry (island) named Yu’Ying. It’s formed from three parts: gate, body and cockloft. With 56 meters high, it has 12 floors and is reputed as the one of eight ancient peculiar architectures. Return to the ship and set sail for Yichang. Tonight enjoy the captain’s welcoming dinner. (B/L/D)

Day 10: Saturday, September 15, 2018
Yangtze River Cruise

Today your amazing excursion will take you on a drifting raft ride down the Lesser Three Gorges. You will enjoy the wonderful scenery of deep and quiet gorges, including waterfalls and magnificent peaks. Today’s cruise will pass through Qutang Gorge and Wu Gorge.  This is a day like no other and you will always remember it.  (B/L/D)

Day 11: Sunday, September 16, 2018
Yichang-Shanghai

Today’s excursion is to visit the world’s largest dam–a project in process.Disembark in Yichang and fly to Shanghai. (B/L/D)  Hotel: Holiday Inn Vista Hotel or similar.

Day 12: Monday, September 17, 2018
Shanghai

Today we tour the sights of Shanghai, China’s largest city, the 2nd largest megacity in the world and China’s most important commercial center. We will visit the Jade Buddha Temple, the bund, Yu Garden bazaar, a silk factory and City God plaza. We have arranged a cooking class for participants to learn how to cook dim sum.  The class lasts around 1 hour. (B/L/D)

Day 13: Tuesday, September 18, 2018
Shanghai departure

After breakfast, depart to the airport for your homebound flight. (B)
*Please read to the end to see the details of the not-to-be-missed add-on tour of the Huangshan region and the stunning Yellow Mountains.

Total land cost is only $2,469 and includes:

1. 1st class hotel accommodation based on double occupancy specified as itinerary or equivalent.
2. Daily American buffet breakfast and meals as listed in the itinerary
3. English-conducted sightseeing tour specified in the itinerary
4. Domestic flight within China and China AIF (Include airfare Beijing/Xian/Chongqing, Yichang/Shanghai)
5. Yangtze Two River Boat (outside balcony cabin)

Land cost excludes:

1. International flight
2. China visa
3. Travel insurance
4. Personal expense and Tips

To talk directly to our agent, please call Sarah at 801-483-6473 or click HERE to email Sarah.  To book directly online, just CLICK HERE.

Don’t Miss this very Inexpensive Add-on Tour of the Huangshan Region and the Yellow Mountains 

The Huangshan Region of China is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful regions of planet earth.  You’ve come all this way to China, for only an additional $699 (based on double occupancy) you can add these five days on to your magnificent China tour.  Read the itinerary and look at the pictures to get a feel for this stunning scenery and history you will experience:

Day 1 Extension, Tuesday, September 18, 2018
Shanghai-Tunxi

Meet at our hotel lobby and take our deluxe coach to Tunxi.  We will visit the She County Ancient Wall en-route.  We will stay one night Tunxi.
(B/L/D) Hotel:  Huangshan International Hotel (or similar).

Day 2 Extension, Wednesday, September 19, 2018
Tunxi-Mt. Huangshan

This morning we will take the amazing cable car up to Mt. Huangshan, and visit the Beihai scenic area, the Xihai scenic area, see the famous Flying Stone and also the Bright Summit.  (B/L/D) Hotel: Beihai Hotel (or similar).

Day 3 Extension, Thursday, September 20, 2018
Mt. Huangshan-Tunxi

We will get up early this morning to catch the Magical sunrise and take the cable car down the mountain.

We will visit the wonderful Hongcun Village and then take our deluxe coach to Tunxi and visit the famous Old Street.
(B/L/D).  Hotel:  Huangshan International Hotel (or similar).

Day 4 Extension, Friday, September 21, 2018
Tunxi-Shanghai

Today we take our luxury coach from Tunxi back to Shanghai.  Upon arrival we will transfer to the hotel.  Some free time for shopping.
(B) Hotel:  Holiday Inn Vista (or similar).

Day 5 Extension, Saturday, September 22, 2018
Shanghai – Departure.

We meet at our appointed time in the hotel lobby, packed and ready to go, then transfer to the airport and board our aircraft to come home.
(B)

Cost of this extension is only $699.00 based on double occupancy!
To talk directly to our agent, have your questions answered and to get your reservations for this tour of a lifetime, please call Sarah at 801-483-6473 or click HERE to email Sarah.

Would you rather book this tour online?  CLICK HERE then scroll down to where it says BOOK NOW.  Then you can set up an account (it take less than a minute) and you can book everything online.