Follow in the Footsteps of English Explorer James Cook On a Discovery of New Zealand by Land and Sea Presented by FAR&WIDE's High Country Passage.

Business Editors/Travel & Leisure Writers

MIAMI--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oct. 15, 2002

High Country Passage, a company of FAR&WIDE Travel Corporation, is offering sophisticated travelers the opportunity to explore the unique diversity of New Zealand. From crystal- clear lakes to snow-capped mountains, New Zealand offers the inquisitive traveler a close look at such unusual animals as the royal albatross and the yellow-eyed penguin, as well as the chance to visit remote islands and observe the traditional Maori culture.

For a truly remarkable experience, guests board the luxurious Clipper Odyssey and sail from the city of Auckland on New Zealand's North Island to the world-famous Milford Sound on the South Island. Accompanied by Neville Peat, a native New Zealander, noted naturalist, and award-winning author, they explore in-depth the pristine, natural beauty of this remarkable country. Travelers sail in comfort on this deluxe vessel in a relaxed environment, enjoying the luxury of unpacking just once, dining on excellent cuisine, and participating in enriching shore excursions.

More like a private yacht than a cruise ship, the Clipper Odyssey accommodates just 108 passengers in unusually spacious, well appointed outside cabins. With a master chef and a well-stocked wine cellar, the cuisine and service are exceptional, yet the style is informal, accommodating the casual atmosphere and dress suitable for adventure cruising.

The 13-day expedition is offered from January 30 to February 11, 2003, and is priced from $6,390. Guests experience an extraordinary voyage of discovery in New Zealand, a spectacular country of striking contrasts with its tidy English gardens and untamed wilderness, white-suited lawn bowlers and tattooed Maori elders, austere glacial fjords and boiling volcanic mud pots. Travelers looking for a journey that combines adventure and education will find enriching experiences in FAR&WIDE's premier "Ultimate Passages" program to New Zealand. Previously offered exclusively to members of museums, alumni associations, and other affinity groups, this excursion is now available to independent travelers through "Ultimate Passages."

For more information or reservations contact your travel agent, or call 1-800-395-3288, or visit http://www.ultimatepassages.com/new_zealand.html. Air Package rates include roundtrip airfare from Los Angeles.

FAR&WIDE Travel Corporation provides a lifetime of enriching travel experiences to the most diverse and exhilarating array of destinations in more than 90 countries. To learn more about FAR&WIDE or to book a FAR&WIDE travel experience, contact your local travel agent or visit http://www.farandwide.com.

FAR&WIDE's roster of leading travel companies includes Adventure Center, African Travel, Brian Moore International Tours, Central Holidays, FAR&WIDE-London, Grand European Tours, High Country Passage, Intercontinental Travel Company, IST Cultural Tours, Journeys Unlimited, Lion World Travel, Pacific Bestour, Peter Voll Associates, Prism Holidays, Regina Tours, Spanish Heritage Tours, Swain Tours and Downunder Direct, Tourlite and Zeus Tours & Yacht Cruises, as well as several destination management companies in key locales.