2020
NORTH AMERICA S M A L L G RO U P T O U R S UP TO
18
GUESTS
WELCOME
02
Picture a touring holiday that delves a bit deeper. One that doesn’t simply
drop by top sights and major cities, but invites you to see a destination through the eyes of the people who know it best: the locals who call it home. We know that the best kind of adventure is one that introduces you to authentic experiences, never-to-be-forgotten views and hand-picked retreats brimming with local charm – while providing you with the time and space to explore independently. At Back-Roads Touring, we’ve spent over 30 years perfecting our small group tours in the UK, Europe and Asia – and now we’re pleased to offer our guests the same immersive experience in an all-new destination: North America. The key ingredient? Experienced Tour Leaders who can turn an exciting getaway into something truly extraordinary. They’ll tell you the stories and secrets behind historic homes as you wander the corridors; show you the perfect position to see the sunset over a city skyline; and point you towards the foodie hotspots that the locals love. All the while, you can be confident that your Back-Roads tour is being run responsibly and with sustainable tourism in mind. In fact, our commitment to green practices has earnt us a Silver Green Tourism rating. Turn the page to explore our new range of inspiring tours of North America – and discover the Back-Roads Difference.
CONTENTS
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Contents Back-Roads Touring Where We Go
04
The Back-Roads Difference
06
Travelling in Style
08
Luggage Allowance
08
Save with Us
09
The Back-Roads App
09
Feed Your Curiosity
10
Discover a Local Way of Life
11
Guided by the Best
12
What Our Guests Say
13
Hand-picked Accommodation
14
FAQs
30
Terms and Conditions
31
Our North America Tours
New Orleans
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6 DAY Classic California Coast
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9 DAY A Taste of Northern California
18
9 DAY Heart of the Deep South
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10 DAY Charming New England: Scenic Summer
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10 DAY Charming New England: Fall Foliage
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10 DAY Historic America: Freedom and the Civil War
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11 DAY Stories of the Southwest
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WHERE WE GO
04
Where We Go
California
Southwest
Where better to embrace adventure on the scenic
Famous for its dramatic canyon landscapes, remote
route than sun-kissed California? The natural beauty
highways and wide prairies, the American Southwest is
that awaits you in the enchanted Golden State is as
wild, untamed, and quite unlike anywhere else in the
diverse as it is captivating – from sleepy vineyards and
world. Experience it to believe it – Navajo legends,
alpine lakes to iconic coastal views.
cowboy stories and all.
EUREKA CHICO MENDOCINO
DENVER NAPA VALLEY SAN FRANCISCO
MONTEREY CAMBRIA
CALIFORNIA
UTAH
COLORADO
BLUFF DURANGO ARIZONA
TAOS
SANTA FE FLAGSTAFF
SANTA BARBARA LOS ANGELES
PHOENIX
NEW MEXICO
UK, Europe and Asia Tours Did you know that Back-Roads Touring also offers a wide range of tours through UK, Europe and Asia? Visit our website to find out more.
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WHERE WE GO
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New England Whether you choose to visit in summer or autumn, New England is the destination that has it all. A delightful blend of seaside villages, pretty harbours, rolling hills and vibrant forests, its spectacular scenery, maritime history and undeniable quaintness are all part of its charm.
Mid-Atlantic Trace America’s history in the cities where it all began. In the unforgettable Mid-Atlantic States you’ll explore Revolutionary and Civil War battlefields, visit important monuments and museums, and learn amazing stories
MAINE BURLINGTON JACKSON VERMONT WOODSTOCK PORTLAND NEW HAMPSHIRE WILLIAMSTOWN BOSTON MASSACHUSETTS NEWPORT
of the fight for independence.
PENNSYLVANIA GETTYSBURG
NEW JERSEY
PHILADELPHIA
WASHINGTON, DC VIRGINIA TENNESSEE MEMPHIS
NATCHEZ
JACKSON MISSISSIPPI
LOUISIANA NEW ORLEANS
Deep South Welcome to the Deep South, an incomparable region built on warm hospitality, soulful music and hearty cuisine. Bursting with quirkiness and flavour, the cheerful atmosphere is practically contagious – guaranteeing fun, frivolity and endless memories.
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THE BACK-ROADS DIFFERENCE
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The Back-Roads Difference
White Mountain National Forest
THE BACK-ROADS DIFFERENCE
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Enjoy the company of a small group
Feed your curiosity
Embrace the view
With small group sizes of no more
Stories waiting to be unravelled.
Immerse yourself in nature on
than 18 people, you can expect
Secrets waiting to be revealed.
uplifting journeys through evocative
a more personalised touring
Fascinating cultures, delicious flavours
landscapes. From rolling hills and
experience – and with like-minded
and unexplored terrain. Feed your
swathes of forest to shimmering
travellers at your side, you’ll find
curiosity and embark on a voyage of
coasts, islands and canals,
that a journey shared is a journey
discovery with Back-Roads – and let
breathtaking views lie around every
best enjoyed.
the new and exciting take centre stage.
corner when you take the scenic route.
Discover a local way of life
Savour each moment
Guided by the best
There’s no better way to understand
Slow the pace and take it all in;
Insightful, attentive and passionate,
the essence of a destination than by
there’s plenty of time to enjoy each
our Tour Leaders will unlock the
meeting the people that call it home.
step of the journey. Whether you’re
experiences that make your
Learn traditional crafts, stories and
touring a historic home, enjoying a
Back-Roads tour truly special – from
recipes as you venture off the tourist
meal or indulging in a wine tasting
adding personal touches to your
trail and behind the scenes with
session, you can do so safe in the
itinerary to bringing destinations to
exclusive local experiences.
knowledge that you won’t be rushed.
life with their local knowledge.
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TRAVELLING IN STYLE | LUGGAGE ALLOWANCE
08
Travelling in Style Cast thoughts of long journeys spent zipping up and down motorways from your mind. A Back-Roads tour promises a more leisurely style that gives you the freedom of travelling in your own vehicle – but with none of the hassle. We travel in premium mini-coaches that come equipped with comfortable seats, air conditioning and large windows for enjoying the view. With far more flexibility than a standard-size coach, we’re able to take the scenic route – winding through beautiful countryside to the heart of buzzing cities and coastal towns. Along the way, your Tour Leader can offer intriguing insights about the places we see over the onboard PA system. And, with long drives kept to a minimum, you’ll have plenty of time to stretch your legs and explore sites for yourself.
Luggage Allowance How much luggage can I bring? As we travel in mini-coaches, luggage space is limited.
1 x suitcase
+
1 x handbag / small backpack
Here’s what you can take with you on tour:
20 KG 158 CM If you have more luggage, please make arrangements to store it prior to joining the tour. We are unable
Length plus Width plus Height must equal 158cm
to carry extra luggage on the mini-coach.
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Save With Us TRAVELLED WITH US BEFORE?
BOOKING MORE THAN ONE TOUR?
Save £90 GBP per person
Save £90 GBP per person
The Back-Roads App
Check in for your tour with the Back-Roads App VIEW YOUR B OOK I NGS • CHECK YO U R ITINER A RY • VIEW TOUR MAPS C H AT W I T H O T H E R G U E S T S O N YO U R T O U R • K E E P T R A C K O F YO U R B U D G E T U S E T H E C U R R E N C Y C O N V E R T E R • L E AV E F E E D B A C K Apple and the Apple logo are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc. Google Play and the Google Play logo are trademarks of Google Inc.
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SAVE WITH US | THE BACK-ROADS APP
09
FEED YOUR CURIOSITY
10
Feed Your Curiosity AWAKEN YOUR SENSE OF ADVENTURE AND DELVE INTO NEW PLACES, NEW CULTURES AND NEW FLAVOURS.
Tour the Gettysburg Battlefield with a specialist guide
Enjoy a lunch and wine pairing at the MichelSchlumberger Winery
Walk in the footsteps of the soldiers that served
All aboard the Mt
Take part in a cooking class at Vermont’s culinary hotel
Washington Cog
Don an apron and join the
There’s no more
Railway! On this
chef’s team for a three-
quintessentially Californian
breathtaking three-
course cooking class at
in the American Civil
experience than touring a
hour trip, we’ll see the
Vermont’s famous Essex
War on a tour of one
sun-soaked vineyard – and
remarkable landscapes
Hotel. Using seasonal
of its most important
at the beautiful
of the White Mountain
ingredients, you’ll learn how
battlefields. With an
Michel-Schlumberger
National Forest from
to whip up tasty local dishes
expert guide on hand
Winery, we’ll do just that.
the best possible
like a true professional –
to bring the tour to
The key difference?
perspective while
and of course, you’ll have
life with true stories
A sumptuous five-course
carving our way to the
the opportunity to sample
and local insights, this
lunch and wine pairing
top of Mt Washington
the fruits of your labour
unmissable experience
will be waiting for us once
in an old-fashioned
afterwards.
is as poignant as it is
we’ve learnt the tricks of
steam locomotive.
TOUR: Charming New
fascinating.
the trade.
TOUR: Historic
TOUR: A Taste of
New England: Scenic
the Civil War, page 26
page 18
Charming New
America: Freedom and
Northern California,
Ride the famous Mt Washington Cog Railway
TOUR: Charming
Summer, page 22
England: Fall Foliage,
England: Scenic Summer, page 22
Charming New England: Fall Foliage, page 24
page 24
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Discover a Local Way of Life VENTURE OFF THE TOURIST TRAIL AND GET TO THE HEART OF EACH DESTINATION WITH GENUINE LOCAL EXPERIENCES.
Visit the magnificent Oak Alley Plantation
Taste fresh oysters at Matunuck Oyster Farm
Step back in time and experience the antebellum south at Oak
Find out more about sustainable aquaculture and gain a
Alley Plantation. A spectacular country mansion surrounded
fascinating insight into how shellfish are cultivated at the
by wide pastures, Oak Alley is famous for its iconic shaded
celebrated Matunuck Oyster Farm in Rhode Island. After
walkway lined with leaning oaks – but once here, you’ll
learning about the many different species on offer, we’ll get
discover there’s far more to delve into than its grand exterior.
to the main attraction: a fresh oyster tasting session.
TOUR: Heart of the Deep South, page 20
TOUR: Charming New England: Scenic Summer, page 22
Enjoy a tantalising food tour of New Orleans
Embark on a Jeep tour of Monument Valley
New Orleans’ iconic French Quarter is famous for its
The sacred heartland of the Navajo people, the rugged
mouthwatering Creole dishes, so it’s only right that we take the
Monument Valley has served as the backdrop to a plethora
time to sample its local specialities on a food tour. Prepare to
of classic Western movies. Lose yourself in its magic as you
taste an abundance of delicious new flavours – from jambalaya
tour the buttes and mesas with a local Navajo guide – and
and muffuletta to sweet butter praline confections.
savour a traditional Navajo lunch along the way.
TOUR: Heart of the Deep South, page 20
TOUR: Stories of the Southwest, page 28
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DISCOVER A LOCAL WAY OF LIFE
11
GUIDED BY THE BEST
12
Guided by the Best JUST LIKE ON OUR EUROPE AND ASIA TOURS, YOU CAN REST ASSURED THAT
YOUR NORTH AMERICA TOUR LEADER WILL BE PASSIONATE AND KNOWLEDGEABLE – AND WILL HAVE WHAT IT TAKES TO MAKE YOUR TRIP TRULY SPECIAL.
Meet some of our Tour Leaders from around the world for an idea of what to expect.
Micaela Hobbs What inspired you to become a Tour Leader? A desire to share my passion for the culture, history and spectacular scenery of the places we visit. What better way to earn a living than by visiting amazing places while giving others the opportunities to fulfill their dreams?
How do you create memorable experiences for your guests? I endeavour to go above and beyond by paying attention to even the little things and keeping the tours flexible and fun. It is so rewarding to create experiences that connect us emotionally, whether it’s from sharing laughter, stories, music, scenery, or meals.
Kriszti Imre What is it that you enjoy most about Back-Roads? First, it’s the guests we have from all over the world on board – and taking those guests on the back roads to tour different countries and showing them the hidden gems of a country that only locals would know about. Secondly, there is no divide between myself as Tour Leader and the guests at the dinner table. This is not the case on tours run by many bigger tour operators. At Back-Roads, I always sit with guests and we have a chat, a laugh and continue getting to know each other over a delicious meal.
What is your favourite thing about being a Tour Leader? Sharing my love for travel with people who have been dreaming about these destinations for years is really what it’s about for me. Seeing guests’ faces when they see the highlights that they were looking forward to for years prior to the trip, or seeing their reactions to something completely unexpected, really makes me realise I have the best job in the world.
Agnes Bukowiecka What’s the most rewarding part of your job? Expanding my knowledge and curiosity of the world, as well as being able to see and explore places I probably would never have had the chance to visit and share them with fellow travellers. Experiencing beauty is most intense when it is shared with others.
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WHAT OUR GUESTS SAY
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What Our Guests Say ‘Our Tour Leader was a mine of knowledge and catered for everything we needed or wanted to know. An extremely nice person.’ - Barbara Cheeseman
‘I will only travel with Back-Roads. The small size of the group makes it impossible for solo travellers to feel left out or lonely.’ - Maureen McKenna
‘We enjoyed our week and are so glad that we did it. We felt so spoilt – all arrangements were done and it really took the stress out of our travels. Thank you.’ - Anne Barnes
‘I enjoyed my tour and found that the small group we had mixed well. We got to see things that wouldn’t have been possible with larger groups.’ - Leonie Vincent
‘This is a first class touring company.’ - Peter DeGaris
Lassen Volcanic National Park, California
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HAND-PICKED ACCOMMODATION
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Hand-Picked Accommodation LOOKING FOR A COMFORTABLE STAY LOADED WITH CHARACTER AND LOCAL CHARM? FOR THOSE THAT VALUE A LITTLE BIT OF ‘ME TIME’, THESE ARE SURE TO DO THE TRICK.
Hotel Mazarin
Oceanpoint Ranch
The ‘Diamond of the French Quarter’, Hotel Mazarin is
Located just a stone’s throw away from the dramatic coastline
an elegant oasis of calm tucked away from the hustle and
of Moonstone Beach, Oceanpoint Ranch makes for a
bustle of New Orleans. Boasting luxurious gold décor,
truly picturesque California retreat. Known for its beautiful
black porcelain floors and crystal chandeliers, this boutique
grounds and gardens, the hotel combines rustic chic with
property is relaxing, charming – and all in all, refined.
contemporary furnishings for a comfortable, homely feel.
TOUR: Heart of the Deep South, page 20
TOUR: Classic California Coast, page 16
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HAND-PICKED ACCOMMODATION
15
The Essex
The Wolfeboro Inn
Widely known as ‘Vermont’s Culinary Resort and Spa’, The Essex
Situated on the eastern shore of Lake Winnipesaukee, The
is a hub for ‘cuisine culture’ – and with cooking classes on offer
Wolfeboro Inn is a cosy, welcoming hotel with mesmerising
(plus a range of rooms inspired by the colours and textures of
views over the water. While you’re here, be sure to try a
food), there’s no better place to unleash your indulgent side.
tipple or two at Wolfe’s Tavern – one of very few authentic
TOUR: Charming New England: Scenic Summer, page 22
New England pubs in the Lakes Region.
Charming New England: Fall Foliage, page 24
TOUR: Charming New England: Fall Foliage, page 24
Pre and Post Accommodation Did you know that we can organise pre and post-tour accommodation? The hotels we select are chosen for their convenience – ensuring your holiday is hassle-free from start to finish. Contact us direct for a quote.
Airport Transfers Want to arrive (or depart)
The Inn and Spa at Loretto
in style? We can also organise your transfer
The striking adobe-style Inn and Spa at Loretto is quirky,
from the airport to your
colourful and casually sophisticated. With unique interiors that
hotel doorstep. Contact
pay homage to New Mexico’s ancient peoples, the Inn offers an authentic, captivating glimpse into the Santa Fe of old – not to mention a range of indulgent holistic treatments. TOUR: Stories of the Southwest, page 28
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us direct for a quote.
CLASSIC CALIFORNIA COAST
1616
Half Moon Bay
Classic California Coast Santa Barbara | Cambria | Monterey 6
DAYS
Filled with awe-inspiring nature, delicious flavours and layers of fascinating history, the sunkissed West Coast is an adventure just waiting to happen. Experience California’s legendary Highway 1 on this unforgettable tour from Los Angeles to San Francisco.
•
5
NIGHTS
•
UP
TO
18
GUESTS
SAN FRANCISCO HALF MOON BAY MONTEREY
2
BIG SUR STATE PARK CAMBRIA
1
CALIFORNIA
SAN LUIS OBISPO SANTA BARBARA
DAY 1 LOS ANGELES – SANTA
2 MALIBU
BARBARA
LOS ANGELES
Welcome to Los Angeles – a city known for bright lights, year-round sunshine and of course, Hollywood. After meeting the group, we’ll
Tour Start/End Point
make our way to Santa Barbara –
Overnight Stop
Day Stop
DAY 3 SANTA BARBARA –
but not before a visit to Malibu en
Mission, one of Santa Barbara’s
route. Rugged beaches are Malibu’s
major landmarks, which was
CAMBRIA
main attractions (keep an eye out
established in 1786. Here you’ll
After a wine tasting and lunch in the
for surfers in the waves as we pass
find a grand church, a museum, a
heart of the Santa Rita hills, we’ll
through). Once in Santa Barbara,
gift shop, a cemetery and twelve
move on to Cambria – swinging by
we’ll settle in for dinner with the
acres of surrounding gardens. After
San Luis Obispo County along the
group. (D)
immersing yourself in the Mission’s
way. Much more than just a pit stop
history, you’ll be free to explore
on the legendary Highway 1, this area
the Old Town at your leisure this
has plenty of beautiful beaches and
afternoon. (B)
old world charm – and there’s even
DAY 2 SANTA BARBARA After breakfast, it’s time to explore Santa Barbara. Our highlight of
the chance to spot humpback whales
the day will be a visit to the Old
here from May to October. (B,L)
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CLASSIC CALIFORNIA COAST
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TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Travel the Pacific Coast Highway, one of the world’s most celebrated coastal drives Santa Barbara
Enjoy a delicious wine tasting and lunch at the family-owned Sanford Winery in Santa Barbara County Meet the animals at Harley Farms Goat Dairy and indulge in a cheese tasting session
State Park, Big Sur
DAY 4 CAMBRIA – MONTEREY
Hearst Castle
DAY 6 MONTEREY –
INCLUSIONS
•• •• •• •• ••
5 nights in hand-picked accommodation Experienced Back-Roads Driver
Today we’ll visit Hearst Castle,
SAN FRANCISCO
which was designed by California’s
The last leg of our journey takes us
first female architect: Julia Morgan.
upwards to San Francisco. After a
Finished in 1947, the castle was
morning stop at Santa Cruz, we’ll
built as the home of Randolph
drop by the Harley Farms goat dairy
Hearst (known for developing the
in Pescadero for a farm visit and
famous Hearst Communications).
cheese tasting session. Half Moon
Don’t forget your camera –
Bay will be our final stop. This small
this private residence is truly
city is known for its vast beaches,
including: Old Mission Santa
impressive! This afternoon, a classic
great surf and views of the Rancho
Barbara, Hearst Castle, Big Sur
Californian coastal drive is on the
Corral de Tierra area. Once in San
State Park, Point Lobos State
agenda as we make our way to
Francisco, we’ll say farewell to the
Big Sur State Park. Beautiful and
group. (B)
Natural Reserve
unspoiled, this famous park is high on many travellers’ must-see lists – and we’ll see why at McWay Falls and Ragged Point. Don’t forget
This tour can be combined with A Taste of Northern California, page 18.
and Tour Leader Premium mini-coach transportation 5 breakfasts (B), 1 lunch (L), 3 dinners (D) Entrance included to all attractions in the itinerary,
For tour exclusions please see our FAQs on p.31
TOUR CODE: BUHCCLS-0
P R I C E S £ 1 , 8 8 9
to keep an eye out for the skunks, deer and raccoons that call the area home! (B,D)
Single room from £2,609 GBP
DAY 5 MONTEREY
2020
Wake up to Monterey, a city that’s best known for historic Cannery
F R O M G B P
P P
DEPARTS
FINISHES
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APR
19
APR
5
MAY
10
MAY
Steinbeck novel of the same name).
02
JUN
07
JUN
We’ll pay a visit to Point Lobos
14
JUL
19
JUL
State Natural Reserve today. With
04
AUG
09
AUG
Row and its old sardine-canning factories (immortalised in a John
its dramatic rocky coastline, it’s the
15
SEP
20
SEP
perfect place to enjoy wilderness
06
OCT
11
OCT
27
OCT
01
NOV
walks both short and long. If you’re lucky, you may see some of the resident sea lions frolicking in the sea below! (B,D)
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DATES SHOWN IN GREEN ARE GUARANTEED DEPARTURES For up-to-date availability and pricing, please visit our website.
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A TASTE OF NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
1818
Napa Valley
A Taste of Northern California Mendocino | Eureka | Napa Valley 9
DAYS
•
8
NIGHTS
From towering ancient trees and soaring peaks to rugged coastlines and fertile hillsides, Northern California is home to an abundance of romantic natural scenery that captures the heart and soul of those lucky enough to experience it. Join us on this round tour of the region’s most intoxicating sights, from San Francisco to Eureka, the Napa Valley and back again.
•
UP
TO
18
GUESTS
REDWOOD NATIONAL PARK
EUREKA
1
2
AVENUE OF THE GIANTS
MENDOCINO COAST
1
CHICO
1
BODEGA BAY
1
SAN FRANCISCO
DAY 1 SAN FRANCISCO –
MT SHASTA
Tour Start/End Point
2
NAPA VALLEY CALIFORNIA
Overnight Stop
Day Stop
BODEGA BAY
Welcome to San Francisco! After meeting the group, we’ll begin our Northern Californian road trip along the Point Reyes National Seashore. Our first stop will be Bodega Bay, where we’ll get to know each other a little better over a welcome dinner. (D) DAY 2 BODEGA BAY – MENDOCINO COAST
After a leisurely breakfast in Bodega Bay, it’s onwards to our
next scenic destination: Mendocino.
will take in the spectacular Avenue
With its abundance of white picket
of the Giants highway, so called
fences and well-kept gardens, this
as it is flanked by towering giant
charming cliffside community is like
redwoods. When we reach our stop
a slice of New England on the West
for the night, there’s an included
Coast. (B)
dinner to look forward to. (B,D)
DAY 3 MENDOCINO COAST –
DAY 4 EUREKA
EUREKA
There’s more natural majesty on
You can rest assured that today’s
the agenda today, with a visit to
journey will be just as much fun as
Redwood National Park all lined up
the destination! Our route to Eureka
for us. Here, we’ll wander the area’s
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A TASTE OF NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
19
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Visit the famous Redwood National Park, a World Heritage site Sausalito
Indulge in a wine tasting and lunch in the Napa Valley Take in the beauty of the magnificent Mt Shasta INCLUSIONS
Mt Shasta
Redwood National Park
many hiking trails and experience
DAY 7 CHICO – NAPA VALLEY
the ‘cathedral hush’ as we stand in
Today our road will take us through
the shadow of some of the world’s
the lush green hills and tiered
tallest (and most ancient) trees.
vineyards of the Napa Valley. Later
Be sure to keep an eye out for
on, the evening will be yours to
Roosevelt elk, mountain lions and
immerse yourself in the area’s
black bears while you’re here. (B)
stellar scenery, sample some more
DAY 5 EUREKA – MT SHASTA
Experienced Back-Roads Driver and Tour Leader Premium mini-coach transportation 8 breakfasts (B), 1 lunch (L), 5 dinners (D) Entrance included to all attractions in the itinerary, including: Redwood National
unwind back at the hotel. (B)
the Sierra Nevada Brewery
DAY 8 NAPA VALLEY
Shasta is our next stop. A lone peak
We’ve one more day to enjoy the
rising from the horizon, this natural
verdant Napa Valley before we
icon’s forested slopes are a place
return to San Francisco tomorrow
of pilgrimage for hikers, bikers and
– and what better way to spend
rafters alike. Tonight we’ll regroup
it than by clinking glasses and
to share a sumptuous three-
enjoying lunch at a local winery?
course meal at our mountainside
Tonight, we’ll reminisce about the
accommodation. (B,D)
times we’ve shared over one last spectacular dinner. (B,L,D)
A labyrinthine series of natural DAY 9 NAPA VALLEY –
wonderland of the Lake Shasta
SAN FRANCISCO
Caverns is only accessible by
On the final leg of our journey, we’ll
boat – and today we’ll have the
stop off in lovely Sausalito – where
opportunity to see its fascinating
postcard-perfect houseboats, a
rock formations up close. After
famous boardwalk and excellent
emerging back into the daylight,
views of the Golden Gate Bridge
we’ll hit the Sierra Oro Farm Trail
are sure to provide endless photo
– where we’ll have the opportunity
opportunities. This afternoon, our
to taste some local produce – and
trip will come to a close as we say
take a tour of the Sierra Nevada
goodbye to the group back in San
Brewery. (B,D)
Francisco. (B)
This tour can be combined with Classic California Coast, page 16.
backroadstouring.com
accommodation
Park, the Lake Shasta Caverns and
this morning – the magnificent Mt
limestone caves, the subterranean
8 nights in hand-picked
of its finest produce, or simply Prepare for a soul-stirring sight
DAY 6 MT SHASTA – CHICO
•• •• •• •• ••
For tour exclusions please see our FAQs on p.31
TOUR CODE: BUHNCSS-0
P R I C E S £ 2 , 8 3 9
F R O M G B P
P P
Single room from £3,909 GBP 2020 DEPARTS
FINISHES
20
APR
28
APR
11
MAY
19
MAY
08
JUN
16
JUN
20
JUL
28
JUL
10
AUG
18
AUG
21
SEP
29
SEP
12
OCT
20
OCT
02
NOV
10
NOV
DATES SHOWN IN GREEN ARE GUARANTEED DEPARTURES For up-to-date availability and pricing, please visit our website.
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HEART OF THE DEEP SOUTH
20 20
Oak Alley Plantation, Louisiana
Heart of the Deep South New Orleans | Natchez | Memphis 9
DAYS
Music, food and lots of fun – this tour of the Deep South’s most iconic cities, wellpreserved antebellum towns and gastronomic delicacies is a sure-fire way to experience life’s most soul-nourishing pleasures. From New Orleans to Natchez, Memphis and back again, we’ll take the roads less travelled to discover vibrant cultures, unique flavours and unmistakable sounds. DAY 1 NEW ORLEANS
•
8
NIGHTS
•
UP
TO
18
MEMPHIS
2
TENNESSEE
TUPELO
CLARKSDALE GREENWOOD
GUESTS
MISSISSIPPI
1 1
VICKSBURG
JACKSON
LOUISIANA
NATCHEZ
2
BATON ROUGE
2 Tour Start/End Point
NEW ORLEANS
Overnight Stop
Day Stop
Buzzing, soulful and unique, New Orleans is the place where our journey begins. After meeting the group, we’ll start things with a bang – a delicious group dinner awaits. Ready to eat, drink and be merry? You’ve come to the right place! (D) DAY 2 NEW ORLEANS We’ve got another full day to experience the many varied delights New Orleans has to offer. And what better way to get to the
heart of the city than on a leisurely
in store for us. When we’ve gained
food tour? As we make our way
an insight into the rich history of
around, we’ll have the opportunity
this grand mansion, we’ll move on
to sample authentic Creole, Cajun
to our next stop: Louisiana’s vibrant
and Soul food delicacies, just the
state capital, Baton Rouge. Tonight,
way they’re supposed to taste. (B)
we’ll dine in Natchez – the ‘Jewel of the Mississippi’. (B,D)
DAY 3 NEW ORLEANS – NATCHEZ After breakfast, it’s out of the big
DAY 4 NATCHEZ
city and all aboard the mini-coach
Today we’ve a full day to spend
to Vacherie – where there’s a tour of
experiencing Natchez’s famous
the Oak Alley sugarcane plantation
southern hospitality. Filled with
backroadstouring.com
HEART OF THE DEEP SOUTH
21
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Visit the famous Oak Alley plantation
French Quarter, New Orleans
Taste authentic Creole and Cajun dishes in New Orleans Experience Elvis Presley’s Graceland INCLUSIONS
Live music, New Orleans
BBQ, Memphis
beautiful parks, wonderful views
for a guided tour. Not only is the
over the Mississippi, pristine
mansion a fascinating way to spend
antebellum homes and over 300
a day in Memphis, it’s also the
years of history, one thing’s for sure
perfect place to immerse ourselves
– Natchez is a small city with plenty
in the city’s incredible musical
of character. (B)
legacy. (B)
DAY 5 NATCHEZ – GREENWOOD
DAY 8 MEMPHIS – JACKSON
Back on the road! Today we’ll
One more dose of rock ‘n’ roll
take to the legendary Natchez
(in the form of a visit to Elvis’
Trace Parkway for the journey to
birthplace), then we’ll roll out
charming Vicksburg, a city perched
of Memphis and on to Jackson,
at the top of a bluff overlooking
the ‘City with Soul’. After making
the Mississippi. Our final stop of
ourselves at home (it’s easily done
the day will be the Delta town of
in a city so welcoming), we’ll round
Greenwood, where we’ll tuck into
off our trip with one final dinner
an included dinner together. (B,D)
together. (B,D)
DAY 6 GREENWOOD – MEMPHIS
DAY 9 JACKSON – NEW
•• •• •• ••••
8 nights in hand-picked accommodation Experienced Back-Roads Driver and Tour Leader Premium mini-coach transportation 8 breakfasts (B), 5 dinners (D) Entrance included to all attractions in the itinerary, including: the Oak Alley plantation, Graceland, Elvis Presley’s birthplace, Sun Studio
For tour exclusions please see our FAQs on p.31
TOUR CODE: BUHHSOO-0
P R I C E S £ 2 , 8 3 9
F R O M G B P
P P
Single room from £3,679 GBP 2020 DEPARTS
FINISHES
15
APR
23
APR
06
MAY
14
MAY
10
JUN
18
JUN
08
JUL
16
JUL
the home of the blues. Then:
05
AUG
13
AUG
onwards to Memphis! Famous
26
AUG
03
SEP
Today’s itinerary has a distinctly
ORLEANS
musical theme. After breakfast,
Our tour will wind up back where we
we’ll leave Greenwood behind and
started, in vibrant New Orleans. (B)
move on to welcoming Clarksdale,
for Elvis Presley, Sun Studio and of course, barbecue food, the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll needs no introduction. (B,D) DAY 7 MEMPHIS Memphis isn’t just a holiday destination – for some, it’s a pilgrimage site. We’ll get caught up in the the magic as we pay a visit to Graceland, the former private retreat of Elvis Presley himself,
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CHARMING NEW ENGLAND: SCENIC SUMMER
2222
Head Light, Portland
Charming New England: Scenic Summer Portland | Jackson | Cape Cod 10
DAYS
There’s nothing quite like New England in the summer. Brimming with historic towns, beautiful harbours, vast forests – and of course, delicious seafood, this picture-perfect slice of smalltown America is the perfect place to relax and get back to nature. DAY 1 BOSTON – PORTLAND
•
9
NIGHTS
•
UP
BURLINGTON
1
TO
2 LAKE WINNIPESAUKEE
1
JACKSON MAINE
2
CASCO BAY PORTLAND
PORTSMOUTH NEW HAMPSHIRE
MASSACHUSETTS BOSTON STOCKBRIDGE PLYMOUTH 2 CAPE COD
1
After meeting the group amidst the hustle and bustle of Boston, we’ll set
NEWPORT RHODE ISLAND
a course for the invigorating seaside town of Portland. Along the way, we’ll
GUESTS
VERMONT
MANCHESTER WILLIAMSTOWN
18
Tour Start/End Point
Overnight Stop
Day Stop
stop off at the quaint New Hampshire city of Portsmouth for our first dose of elegance, history and salty sea air. Tonight, we’ll get to know each other over an included dinner. (D) DAY 2 PORTLAND
Feel free to take things slowly – we’ve a full day to wander cobblestone streets, explore beaches and get to the heart of this historic red-brick town. Later on, we’ll board the mini-coach and set
a course for the magnificent Casco
breathtaking surroundings than with
Bay, which is home to dozens of
a leisurely cruise on the iconic Lake
islands, plenty of lobster boats – and
Winnipesaukee? Tonight, dinner
no fewer than seven lighthouses. (B)
awaits us in Jackson. (B,D)
DAY 3 PORTLAND – JACKSON
DAY 4 JACKSON
Today we’ll move on to another
With a pretty covered bridge, a
scenic wonder: White Mountain
spectacular wooded backdrop
National Forest, home to towering
and lots of welcoming inns and
alpine peaks, mountain lakes and
restaurants to choose from, Jackson
acres of evergreen trees. And
could very well be described as the
what better way to drink in your
quintessential New England town.
backroadstouring.com
CHARMING NEW ENGLAND: SCENIC SUMMER
23
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Taste fresh oysters at an oyster farm
Matunuck Oyster farm
Take part in a cooking class at The Essex, Vermont’s famous Culinary Resort and Spa Visit the famous Cape Cod National Seashore INCLUSIONS
Portland
Cape Cod
Not only that, but it’s the perfect base
see, lovely Newport is our final
from which to explore the nearby
destination of the day. (B,D)
White Mountain hiking trails. (B) DAY 8 NEWPORT – CAPE COD DAY 5 JACKSON – BURLINGTON
Newport is famous for its seafood –
All aboard the Mt Washington Cog
so it’s only right that today’s lunch will
Railway! On this breathtaking three-
take place at a local oyster farm. Our
hour trip, we’ll see the verdant
next stop will be charming Sandwich
landscapes of the National Forest
– a town whose nickname is ‘post tot
from the best possible perspective
naufracia portus’, or ‘after so many
as we carve our way to the top of
shipwrecks, a haven’. (B,L)
•• •• •• •• ••
9 nights in hand-picked accommodation Experienced Back-Roads Driver and Tour Leader Premium mini-coach transportation 9 breakfasts (B), 1 lunch (L), 5 dinners (D) Entrance included to all attractions in the itinerary, including: Lake Winnipesaukee cruise, the Mt Washington Cog Railway
For tour exclusions please see our FAQs on p.31
the mountain on a charming steam locomotive. Then: onwards to
DAY 9 CAPE COD
Burlington, where there’s a cooking
Another day, another delightful
class in store at the luxurious Essex
stretch of coastline to explore. Today
resort. (B,D)
we’ll set our sights on Provincetown,
TOUR CODE: BUHNSBB-0
P R I C E S £ 3 , 3 6 9
F R O M G B P
P P
Single room from £4,369 GBP
a quirky village at Cape Cod’s tip DAY 6 BURLINGTON – WILLIAMSTOWN
that simply oozes character. Expect
On our way to Williamstown and
art galleries, boutiques and antiques
the scenic Purple Valley, we’ll
shops in abundance – not to
travel through the Green Mountain
mention fantastic beaches. Tonight,
10*
MAY
19
MAY
National Forest to picturesque
we’ll toast the end of our trip with a
31
MAY
09
JUN
Manchester – a sleepy town filled
farewell dinner. (B,D)
21
JUN
30
JUN
19
JUL
28
JUL
DAY 10 CAPE COD – BOSTON
09
AUG
18
AUG
with white church steeples, and tree-shaded walkways. (B)
One more breakfast, then it’s back DAY 7 WILLIAMSTOWN – NEWPORT
to Boston we go – with a stop
Visiting historic Stockbridge is
at Plymouth, the site of the first
rather like stepping back in time.
Pilgrim settlement, along the way.
We’ll spend a few hours soaking
What a week it’s been! (B)
up the town’s sleepy atmosphere before making our way to Rhode Island. Filled with Colonial-era architecture, sparkling waters and boats as far as the eye can
backroadstouring.com
2020 DEPARTS
FINISHES
DATES SHOWN IN GREEN ARE GUARANTEED DEPARTURES
G
For up-to-date availability and pricing, please visit our website.
* Please note: The Lake Winnipesaukee cruise is unavailable on this departure. Instead, we will visit the Wright Museum of World War Two – where we’ll learn more about America’s involvement in the war.
CHARMING NEW ENGLAND: FALL FOLIAGE
24 24
Montpelier
Charming New England: Fall Foliage Burlington | Jackson | Portland 10
DAYS
Brilliant red, orange and gold – New England is famous around the world for its spectacular fall foliage. Travelling only on the picturesque back roads, this seasonal tour takes in the region’s most scenic towns, mountain forests and ports, with an emphasis on seeking out the unique colours of each breathtaking destination.
•
9
NIGHTS
•
UP
BURLINGTON
TO
2
18
STOWE
MONTPELIER VERMONT
WOODSTOCK MANCHESTER WILLIAMSTOWN
1
GUESTS
JACKSON
2
1
1
MAINE CASCO BAY
2
LAKE PORTLAND WINNIPESAUKEE NEW HAMPSHIRE
BOSTON WESTMINSTER MASSACHUSETTS
DAY 1 BOSTON – WILLIAMSTOWN
This tour kicks off in historic Boston –
Tour Start/End Point
Overnight Stop
Day Stop
where we’ll meet the group, board the coach and prepare for the adventure
next stop: Manchester, a famed
old-world New England heritage.
ahead. Our first stop? Unspoiled
fishing and hiking hotspot. When
We’ll take some time to explore the
Westminster, Massachusetts. After
we’ve had ample time to take in
city before making our way to our
taking our first glimpse of the area’s
the area’s remarkable scenery, we’ll
hotel in beautiful Burlington – an artsy,
spectacular fall foliage, we’ll move on
move on to colourful Woodstock
cultured town perched at the edge of
to Williamstown. (D)
– with a stop at the town of
the peaceful Lake Champlain. (B)
Rockingham along the way. (B,D) DAY 2 WILLIAMSTOWN – WOODSTOCK
DAY 4 BURLINGTON
After this morning’s breakfast, we’ll
DAY 3 WOODSTOCK – BURLINGTON
Today there’s a treat in store for the
hit the road through the Green
The smallest state capital in the US,
aspiring chefs among us. Before
Mountain National Forest to our
charming Montpelier is steeped in
lunchtime, we’ll visit The Essex
backroadstouring.com
CHARMING NEW ENGLAND: FALL FOLIAGE
25
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Take part in a cooking class at The Essex, Vermont’s famous Culinary Resort and Spa Mt Washington Cog Railway
Enjoy a cruise on Lake Winnipesaukee Ride the famous Mt Washington Cog Railway INCLUSIONS
White Mountain National Forest
Lake Winnepesaukee
Culinary Resort and Spa for a hands-
was named ‘Smile of the Great Spirit’
on cooking class conducted by a
by the Native Americans – and today
foodie expert. Then: Burlington is
we’ll experience its majesty first-hand
yours to roam as you please. Take it
on a cruise through its 44,000 acres
from us – this town really does look its
of sparkling waters. Back on dry land,
best during the autumn months! (B,L)
this afternoon will be yours to spend exploring the area at your leisure. (B,D)
DAY 5 BURLINGTON – JACKSON
Mountain State, there’s just enough
DAY 8 LAKE WINNIPESAUKEE – PORTLAND
time to fit in a visit to Stowe, the
Today we’ll make the scenic drive
quintessential Vermont slopeside
from the National Forest of Hampshire
village. This afternoon, we’ll take in
to Portland, in the state of Maine.
some magnificent views of the White
From the Old Port to the beach and
Mountain National Forest from the
the buzzing arts district, you’ll find
comfort of a steam train, winding up to
that this lively town has plenty to
the peak of Mt Washington along the
keep you occupied (not to mention an
famous Cog Railway. Tonight, we’ll rest
abundance of fresh seafood to try). (B)
Before we say goodbye to the Green
our heads in old-fashioned Jackson. (B)
DAY 9 PORTLAND
DAY 6 JACKSON
Today we’ll board the coach for a short
The town of Jackson looks like
drive to the picture-perfect Casco Bay,
something from a movie set – with
whose many islands are sometimes
breathtaking peaks and valleys in every
referred to as ‘The Calendar Islands’.
direction. Why not make the most of
After taking some time to spot the
your seasonal surroundings with a hike
bay’s lobster boats, lighthouses and
along one of the area’s many mountain
playful harbour seals, we’ll return
trails? If you’d rather take things easy,
to Portland for our grand finale: a
there are plenty of welcoming inns and
sumptuous farewell dinner. (B,D)
restaurants where you can pull up a chair and take in the atmosphere. (B) DAY 7 JACKSON – LAKE WINNIPESAUKEE
Vast and serene, Lake Winnipesaukee
backroadstouring.com
DAY 10 PORTLAND – BOSTON
Today we’ll come full circle as we make the journey back to Boston. Time to say goodbye! (B)
•• •• •• •• ••
9 nights in hand-picked accommodation Experienced Back-Roads Driver and Tour Leader Premium mini-coach transportation 9 breakfasts (B), 1 lunch (L), 4 dinners (D) Entrance included to all attractions in the itinerary, including: the Mt Washington Cog Railway, Lake Winnipesaukee cruise
For tour exclusions please see our FAQs on p.31
TOUR CODE: BUHNFBB-0
P R I C E S £ 3 , 3 6 9
F R O M G B P
P P
Single room from £4,369 GBP 2020 DEPARTS
FINISHES
24
SEP
03
OCT
08
OCT
17
OCT
22*
OCT
31
OCT
DATES SHOWN IN GREEN ARE GUARANTEED DEPARTURES
G
For up-to-date availability and pricing, please visit our website.
* Please note: The Lake Winnipesaukee cruise is unavailable on this departure. Instead, we will visit the Wright Museum of World War Two – where we’ll learn more about America’s involvement in the war.
HISTORIC AMERICA: FREEDOM AND THE CIVIL WAR
26 26
Arlington National Cemetery
Historic America: Freedom and the Civil War Philadelphia | Gettysburg | Charlottesville | Alexandria 10
DAYS
On this fascinating and moving tour of the USA’s most iconic Revolutionary and Civil War towns, landmarks and battlefields, we’ll travel back in time to trace the footsteps of the brave soldiers who fought and died, both for their country and their beliefs.
•
9
NIGHTS
•
UP
TO
18
GUESTS
PENNSYLVANIA GETTYSBURG
ARLINGTON NATIONAL CEMETERY CHARLOTTESVILLE
DAY 1 WASHINGTON, DC – PHILADELPHIA
VIRGINIA
After meeting the group in
2
ANTIETAM HARPERS FERRY
1
CHARLES TOWN
VALLEY FORGE
2
2
2
PHILADELPHIA
WASHINGTON, DC ALEXANDRIA
RICHMOND
Washington, DC, we’ll hit the road to the World Heritage City of Philadelphia. A city steeped
Tour Start/End Point
Overnight Stop
Day Stop
in US colonial and revolutionary history, Philadelphia is home to
for the freedom of others) and
Next is Lancaster, where an Amish
innumerable monuments and
Independence Hall, where the
experience awaits. The final stop of
institutions – making it the perfect
Declaration of Independence and
the day will be Gettysburg, the site
place to begin our adventure. (D)
the US Constitution were signed. (B)
of one of the most important battles
DAY 2 PHILADELPHIA
DAY 3 PHILADELPHIA –
of the American Civil War. (B,D) What better way to get to know
GETTYSBURG
DAY 4 GETTYSBURG
Philadelphia than with a walking
After this morning’s breakfast,
On today’s agenda: a visit to the
and driving tour? On our travels,
we’ll leave Philadelphia behind
Gettysburg Museum and Visitor
we’ll make pit stops at the Johnson
us and move on to Valley Forge,
Center. With interactive exhibits and
House (a house that was owned by
the site of the Continental Army’s
plenty of time to walk in the soldiers’
a family of Quakers who laboured
1777-78 winter encampment.
footsteps, this immersive experience
backroadstouring.com
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Embark on a driving tour of the battlefields of Gettysburg with a specialist guide Philadelphia
Learn about Amish heritage on a village tour Visit Arlington National Cemetery INCLUSIONS
Battlefield, Gettysburg
will give us a real insight into the
Burnside’s Bridge, Antietam
DAY 8 CHARLOTTESVILLE –
lives of the soldiers who served in
ALEXANDRIA
the Civil War. This afternoon, we’ll
After breakfast, we’ll bid farewell
take a closer look at the area’s
to Charlottesville and continue
battlefields on a driving tour. (B)
our journey to Richmond. After a
•• •• •• ••••
9 nights in hand-picked accommodation Experienced Back-Roads Driver and Tour Leader Premium mini-coach transportation 9 breakfasts (B), 5 dinners (D) Entrance included to all attractions in the itinerary,
walking tour of the city’s cobblestone
including: the Johnson House,
streets, we’ll stop off at the Museum
Independence Hall, the
CHARLES TOWN
of the Confederacy, which hosts an
Gettysburg Museum and Visitor
Today we’ll set a course for Charles
enormous collection of Confederate
Center, the National Museum of
Town – but before we get there,
artefacts. We’ll have just enough time
Civil War Medicine, Monticello,
we’ve two stops to make. First,
to visit Fredericksburg, the site of the
the Museum of the Confederacy,
we’ll visit the National Battlefield at
eponymous 1862 battle, before we
Antietam, a site that commemorates
reach Alexandria. (B)
Mount Vernon, Arlington
DAY 5 GETTYSBURG –
the bloodiest day in American history. Then, it’s on to Frederick,
DAY 9 ALEXANDRIA
where we’ll learn of the war’s
One of the best-preserved
surgical innovations at the National
historical districts in America,
Museum of Civil War Medicine. (B,D)
the quaint town of Alexandria is
National Cemetery For tour exclusions please see our FAQs on p.31
TOUR CODE: BUHHAWW-0
a fitting place to round off our DAY 6 CHARLES TOWN –
tour. And the grand finale? A visit
CHARLOTTESVILLE
to George Washington’s Mount
From Charles Town to
Vernon, the interior of which has
Charlottesville, via the scenic route:
been restored to appear exactly
Shenandoah National Park, Harpers
as it was when Washington passed
Ferry and the Blue Ridge Mountains
away in 1799. (B,D)
of Virginia. Later, in Charlottesville, we’ll discover more about Thomas
P R I C E S £ 3 , 1 7 9
DAY 10 ALEXANDRIA –
Single room from £4,409 GBP 2020 DEPARTS MAY
12
31
MAY
09
JUN
21
JUN
30
JUN
19
JUL
28
JUL
AUG
25
AUG
SEP
22
SEP
WASHINGTON, DC
mountain-top plantation: Monticello,
En route back to Washington, we’ll
which is now a museum, research
make one last stop at the Arlington
institute and library. (B,D)
National Cemetery to pay tribute
16
to those who fell during war – and
13
perhaps to seek out ancestors’
Charlottesville is often ranked as one
graves. Back in Washington, the
of the best places to live in the USA.
tour will come to a close. (B)
Today we’ll find out why, with a day to spend exploring the city at leisure. (B)
backroadstouring.com
FINISHES
03
Jefferson at his spectacular
DAY 7 CHARLOTTESVILLE
F R O M G B P
P P
MAY
DATES SHOWN IN GREEN ARE GUARANTEED DEPARTURES For up-to-date availability and pricing, please visit our website.
G
HISTORIC AMERICA: FREEDOM AND THE CIVIL WAR
27
STORIES OF THE SOUTHWEST
28 28
Monument Valley
Stories of the Southwest Grand Canyon | Durango | Santa Fe | Colorado Springs 11
DAYS
The American Southwest is famous for its magnificent landscapes – from red rock canyons to towering peaks, pine forests and swathes of desert. On this trip from Phoenix to Denver, we’ll travel via the scenic route as we explore some of the most picturesque areas the region has to offer. DAY 1 PHOENIX – FLAGSTAFF The gateway to the incredible desert landscapes of the Southwest, Phoenix is where our all-American adventure will begin. After meeting the group, we’ll kick off our journey and set a course for Flagstaff, with a stop at scenic Sedona on the way. (D)
•
10
NIGHTS
•
UP
TO
18
GUESTS
DENVER GARDEN OF THE GODS
UTAH
MONUMENT VALLEY
COLORADO SPRINGS
COLORADO
DURANGO
1 2
CORTEZ
1 2
GRAND CANYON
2
2
TAOS SANTA FE
NEW MEXICO
FLAGSTAFF
SEDONA ARIZONA PHOENIX
Tour Start/End Point
Overnight Stop
otherworldly, this breathtaking site
Day Stop
oasis of Cortez for dinner. (B,L,D)
must be seen to be believed. (B) DAY 3 FLAGSTAFF – CORTEZ
DAY 4 CORTEZ – DURANGO On our way to Durango we’ll stop
DAY 2 FLAGSTAFF – GRAND
The sacred heartland of the Navajo
off at Mesa Verde National Park,
CANYON NATIONAL PARK –
people, the rugged Monument
which is known for its fascinating
FLAGSTAFF
Valley has served as the backdrop to
Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings,
Delightfully pine-scented (the world’s
innumerable Western movies. Today
archaeological sites and panoramic
we’ll lose ourselves in its magic as
canyon views. We’ll take some time
we take a jeep tour of the buttes
to drink in our amazing surroundings
and mesas with a local Navajo
before checking into our hotel for a
guide. Then: onwards to the desert
group dinner. (B,D)
largest ponderosa pine forest is just a stone’s throw away), Flagstaff is our base for exploring the Grand Canyon today. Iconic, ancient and
backroadstouring.com
STORIES OF THE SOUTHWEST
29
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Travel on the historic railroad between Durango and Silverton General Store, Route 66
Experience Monument Valley with a Navajo guide Visit the majestic Grand Canyon INCLUSIONS
Grand Canyon National Park
Santa Fe
DAY 5 DURANGO
stop: magical Taos. From the town’s
Filled with Victorian saloons and tree-
soaring mountain backdrop to the
lined streets, Durango boasts old
staggering Rio Grande Gorge (not
Western charm in abundance. Today
to mention the remarkable adobe
we’ll step back in time with a ride
pueblo), Taos has an otherworldly
on the Durango & Silverton Narrow
aura that’s especially evident when
Gauge Railroad, a heritage railway
you see it at sunset. (B,D)
that’s been in continuous operation
•• •• •• •• ••
10 nights in hand-picked accommodation Experienced Back-Roads Driver and Tour Leader Premium mini-coach transportation 10 breakfasts (B), 1 lunch (L), 6 dinners (D) Entrance included to all attractions in the itinerary, including: Grand Canyon, National Park, Monument Valley,
DAY 9 TAOS – COLORADO
Mesa Verde National Park, the
we’ll travel through is inaccessible
SPRINGS
by any road – making our ride a truly
Framed by the towering eastern
Gauge Railroad, the Garden of
unique experience. (B)
Rockies, Colorado Springs is a hub
the Gods
since 1882. The beautiful wilderness
for outdoor recreational activities DAY 6 DURANGO – SANTA FE
including hiking, biking and wildlife
Known as ‘the city different’,
watching. It’s here that we’ll rest our
Santa Fe sits nestled in the foothills
heads for the night after making the
of the Sangre de Cristo mountain
scenic journey from Taos. (B)
Durango & Silverton Narrow
For tour exclusions please see our FAQs on p.31
TOUR CODE: BUHSSPD-0
P R I C E S £ 3 , 3 9 9
range. Today we’ll explore its many museums, adobe buildings
DAY 10 COLORADO SPRINGS
and traditional Native American
The most famous park in an area
galleries before coming together
renowned for its natural beauty, the
to sample some authentic New
captivating Garden of the Gods is
Mexican cuisine. (B,D)
up next. We’ll spend the last full day of our tour taking some time
F R O M G B P
P P
Single room from £4,699 GBP 2020 DEPARTS
FINISHES
DAY 7 SANTA FE
to walk its trails, explore its striking
19
APR
29
APR
Another day to take in the sights,
red rock formations and to breathe
10
MAY
20
MAY
sounds and unique atmosphere of
in the cool mountain air. Tonight,
31
MAY
10
JUN
Santa Fe. We’ll tick off the city’s
there’s a delicious farewell dinner to
23
AUG
02
SEP
most famous landmarks (including
look forward to. (B,D)
13
SEP
23
SEP
04
OCT
14
OCT
the Palace of the Governors, the Loretto Chapel and the Cathedral
DAY 11 COLORADO SPRINGS –
Basilica of St Francis of Assisi) on
DENVER
today’s walking tour. (B)
After breakfast we’ll say goodbye to
DATES SHOWN IN GREEN ARE GUARANTEED DEPARTURES
Colorado Springs and hit the road DAY 8 SANTA FE – TAOS
to Denver, where our adventure will
After a visit to the Bandelier National
end. (B)
Monument, it’s onwards to our next
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
30 30
Frequently Asked Questions ARE TRIPLE ROOMS AVAILABLE? Unfortunately we are unable to offer triple rooms. DO THE HOTELS HAVE LIFTS (ELEVATORS)? Most of the hotels we use do not have lifts. For this reason, we recommend that you only join a Back-Roads tour if you are able to walk upstairs unassisted. DO WE DINE AT THE HOTELS? Breakfasts will be served daily – whether in the hotel or nearby cafés/restaurants. Included evening meals come in the form of a threecourse dinner, either in our hotel or at a local restaurant. Please note that drinks will not always be included. WHAT KIND OF ROOM SHOULD I BOOK? At the time of booking, you will need to specify whether you would like a twin room (two single beds) or a double room (one standard-sized bed for two people). Room types are not interchangeable. WHAT GRADE OF HOTEL DO YOU USE? We use a 3-star/4-star standard of accommodation ranging from country inns to town centre hotels. Rather than going by the official grading (based solely on facilities rather than the standard of the accommodation), we base our choices on quality, charm and character – although pre and post accommodation is chosen for its convenience and location. In all hotels, the rooms have en-suite bathrooms. IS PORTERAGE INCLUDED? Porterage is included wherever possible. CAN BACK-ROADS ARRANGE PRE AND POST TOUR ACCOMMODATION IN THE CITIES OF ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE? Yes. You can request for us to arrange pre and post accommodation (chosen for its convenience and location) at the time of booking. Please note: most tours start at 8.30am or 6pm on Day 1 of your tour. If your tour departs in the morning, we advise that you arrive at
the hotel the night before so you’re ready to meet your guide in the morning. If your tour commences in the evening, you may not require pre tour accommodation – so you can arrive at your leisure. Most tours end in the early evening. We cannot usually drop you off at the airport, so we suggest you return home the day after your trip finishes to ensure that you don’t miss your flight due to unforeseen circumstances. WHAT HAPPENS IF I HAVE TO CANCEL? Please see our Cancellation Policy. If you need to cancel, a charge will be incurred. Travel insurance is required to cover any cancellations. IS MY PAYMENT PROTECTED WHEN BOOKING A TOUR WITH BACK-ROADS? Yes. We are a member of ABTA – a trusted travel brand that supports high service standards and promotes responsible tourism. All holidays sold by ABTA Members are financially protected. See our Terms and Conditions: backroadstouring.com/ terms-and-conditions WHO GOES ON BACK-ROADS TOURS? The majority of our guests come from Canada, the USA, the UK, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. All tour commentaries are in English. Our tours appeal to those looking for a more relaxing style of travel, and who enjoy culture, good food, meeting like-minded people and exploring destinations in depth. We welcome first-time travellers, but also find that many of our passengers have travelled with us before! ARE THE TOURS GUARANTEED TO RUN? Guaranteed tours are identified on our website, and your travel agent will be able to advise you of a tour’s ongoing status. If we are forced to cancel a tour, you will be advised at least 6 weeks in advance. You will then have a choice of a full refund of the amount paid for the tour, or an alternative tour.
WHAT LEVEL OF MOBILITY DO I NEED ON A BACK-ROADS TOUR? You need to be fit enough to get on and off the vehicle on a regular basis – and to walk to attractions, around towns and villages and through national parks. You also need to able to walk up and down stairs in the hotels and use a shower over the bath. We frequently use traditional style hotels and the majority will not have lifts or ground floor rooms. Unfortunately we are unable to accommodate mobility scooter or wheelchair users. I HAVE SOME HEALTH ISSUES. WILL THIS BE A PROBLEM? If you are able to manage your health issue without the need for additional care and special facilities, and if it does not present a risk to your fellow passengers, we should be able to accommodate you on a Back-Roads tour. If you are unsure, please check Clause 30 of our Terms and Conditions or contact us. IS BACK-ROADS REGISTERED WITH ANY TOURIST ORGANISATIONS? Yes. We are Associate Members of the United States Tour Operator Association. ARE BACK-ROADS TOURS SUITABLE FOR CHILDREN? Our tours are designed principally for adults, but we will consider accepting children aged 12 or over on request. Please note: family rooms are not always available. We do not offer child rates. DO I NEED TO PURCHASE TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR A BACK-ROADS TOUR? Yes. While you are welcome to purchase a travel insurance policy of your choosing, we will require you to provide the policy number and company information to us prior to departure. This is to ensure that our Tour Leaders have all of your information prior to arrival – in case they need to step in and assist you before or during the tour.
CAN YOU DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY OUT ON TOUR? Our tours are conducted at a leisurely pace. Stops are made frequently during the day to avoid extended periods of time on the coach. On a typical day, we might leave at 9am and arrive at our hotel at 5pm. We endeavour to build rest and relaxation time into our itineraries, and most inclusions are not mandatory – so if you’d rather explore on your own, you’re welcome to meet up with the group at the designated meeting point. HOW FLEXIBLE ARE BACK-ROADS ITINERARIES? Some of the visits listed in our itineraries are fixed and included in the overall price of the tour. However, there is some flexibility to adapt the itinerary according to such things as the weather, special events and group wishes. This is one of the beauties of small-group touring! If you have a specific request that’s not on the itinerary, we will do our best to accommodate it – but this will depend on the agreement of your fellow travellers and the judgement of your Tour Leader. AM I EXPECTED TO LEAVE GRATUITIES? Gratuities are not included in your tour price. Tipping your Driver and / or Tour Leader is entirely at your discretion. HOW MUCH DRIVING IS THERE ON BACK-ROADS TOURS? We design our tours so that there is as little time as possible on the mini-coach and plenty to see while on board. We travel along the scenic route wherever possible, meaning you’ll see more of the countryside and local village life than on a regular tour. Inevitably, there are days when travelling between locations may involve freeway driving (the USA is a big country!) – but of course, taking to the open road to explore the states is part of the appeal. Generally, driving time will not last for more than three or four hours per day.
WHAT MEALS ARE INCLUDED? Breakfast (B) is included daily. We also include some lunches and dinners, either in our hotels or in local restaurants. These are indicated by L (lunch), or D (dinner) in the itineraries. You will have some free evenings to try the local cuisine independently. ARE YOU ABLE TO CATER FOR MY DIETARY RESTRICTIONS? We will do our best to accommodate your dietary needs. Please ensure that any restrictions are made clear to us at the time of booking so we can pass the information on to our hotels, restaurants and suppliers. HOW MUCH SPENDING MONEY SHOULD I BRING? Although many meals and entrance fees are included within the price of our tours, you will need to bring spending money to cover non-included meals, drinks and activities. ARE ENTRANCE FEES TO ATTRACTIONS INCLUDED? Unlike many tour companies, we include a selection of entrances in our tour prices. Any other entrance fees will be at your own expense. WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED IN A BACK-ROADS TOUR? Many aspects of your tour will be included in the overall trip price – such as entrance fees to sites listed within the itinerary, and included breakfasts and dinners. However, some costs are not covered. These include: Airfares*. Transfers*, Lunches*, Driver/Tour Leader gratuity is at your discretion. Social drinks. Meals on free nights. Items of a personal nature. Entrance fees not listed in the tour itinerary. Incidental expenses, such as room service charges incurred at hotels (all expenses of this kind must be settled prior to leaving the accommodation). Laundry costs. Shipping charges for the return of purchases made on tour. Charges for the return of property lost on tour. Pre and post tour accommodation. *unless otherwise specified in the listed inclusions
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
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Terms and Conditions Your contract will be with us as tour operator, unless you have booked a Locally Operated Tour, in which case your contract for tour services will be with the relevant Local Operator specified in the reference table above and will be subject to that Local Operator’s terms and conditions, in addition to the booking conditions set out below. For any Locally Operated Tour, the Local Operator will also be identified on your itinerary or travel documents and their respective terms and conditions will be available directly on their websites or by contacting them. Should we book a flight on your behalf it will be subject to the conditions of the respective airline, including but not limited to deposit/full payment and cancellation terms. Please read all booking conditions carefully. You must not make any booking unless you understand and agree with these booking conditions and any additional terms and conditions as indicated above and/or at the time of booking. Bookings can be made through your local travel agent or directly with us and must be secured with a deposit of the amount shown above. A contract between you and us (or between you and the relevant Local Operator) will exist as soon as: (i) we issue an invoice in response to your request for a booking; and (ii) your deposit is paid to us or your travel agent. If your booking is made through a travel agent, we will address all correspondence to that agent. PRICE & PAYMENT The deposit is non-refundable unless we cancel your tour. The balance of your tour must be paid no later than 60 days prior to your tour departure date. If you do not pay within this period we may cancel your booking and your deposit will be forfeited. Full payment is required if you make a booking within 60 days of the departure date. If your booking is a special offer we may require full payment (including any pre and post accommodation and sundry service charges) by such earlier time as specified in the offer. All discounts apply to the tour price only and do not apply to any flights, visitor taxes, stopovers, pre & post accommodation or transfers. Applicable and valid discounts can be combined to a maximum discount of 10% off the tour price. Like many other tour operators, our prices are dynamic and subject to change according to market conditions and seasonality. Prices quoted in our brochures are base prices, but the price of your selected tour may be higher. Please check our website for applicable current pricing. We may alter prices and other particulars contained in our brochures and on our website at any time. After you have booked, changes to (i) the price of fuel; (ii) the level of taxes or fees imposed by third parties including tourist taxes, landing taxes or embarkation or disembarkation fees at ports and airports; and (iii) exchange rates, mean that the price of your tour may change. There will be no change within 20 days of your departure. We will absorb any increase equivalent to 2% of the price of your tour. However, we may charge you for the amount over and above that. If this results in an increase equivalent to more than 8% of the price of your tour, you will have the option of accepting a change to another tour (we will refund any price difference if the alternative is of a lower value), or cancelling and receiving a full refund of all monies paid. Should the price of your tour go down due to the cost changes mentioned above, then any refund due will be paid to you. We will deduct from this refund our administrative expenses incurred. Please note that tours arrangements are not always purchased in local currency and some apparent changes have no impact on the price of your tour due to contractual and other protection in place. TRAVEL DOCUMENTS Please ensure you carefully read your invoice, tickets and all other documents we send to you as soon as you receive them and contact us or your travel agent immediately if any information appears to be incorrect. We will not accept any liability if you fail to notify us of any inaccuracy in any document within 14 days of us sending them to you or the travel agent. You are responsible for ensuring that you have the correct and valid travel documents including passports, visas and vaccination certificates. We strongly recommend that you verify current documentation requirements with your travel agent or us. Please note requirements change and you must check with your consulate for the most up to date information, including but not limited to visa requirements for the countries visited on your tour. Passports must have an expiry date of at least six months after completion of the tour. IF YOU CHANGE OR CANCEL YOUR BOOKING If you want to change or cancel any aspect of your booking including but not limited to a change to a tour of shorter
duration or different departure date you must notify us in writing. We will do our best to accommodate your requested change but it may not always be possible. All change/ cancellation fees must be paid within seven days of the invoice date or on the date of departure, whichever is the sooner. You may make a request to transfer your booking to another person who satisfies all the conditions applicable to the tour. A transfer request must be made in writing not less than 7 days prior to departure and must include proof of acceptance of the transfer by the new traveller. Both you and the new traveller will remain jointly liable and responsible for the additional costs involved, which will include our Booking Transfer Administration Fee as well as any other applicable travel service provider’s charges. Please note that some airlines may refuse such requests and treat the transfer as a cancellation and rebooking. CANCELLATION OR MODIFICATION BY US Every effort will be made to operate all tours as advertised but it must be remembered that our tours are planned up to eighteen months in advance. In the event of unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances we may be required to cancel or materially modify your tour. In these booking conditions “unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances” means a situation beyond our control, the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all reasonable measures had been taken (including, but not limited to, war, threat of war, riot, civil disturbances, industrial dispute, terrorist activity and its consequences, natural or other disaster (such as volcanic ash or hurricanes), nuclear incident, fire, adverse weather conditions (actual or threatened, including snow and fog), closed or congested airports or ports, unavoidable technical problems with transport, unforeseen alterations to public transport schedules, changes to immigration, labour and free-movement laws resulting from BREXIT, rescheduling of aircraft or boats and similar events). If this happens we will offer you a refund of all money paid or, if available, alternative travel arrangements of comparable standard (we will refund any price difference if the alternative is of a lower value). A material modification is one that has a serious impact on your tour and includes a change of departure date, departure point or airport, or change of departure time of more than twelve hours, which would cause substantial inconvenience to you. A change of accommodation, or transport method/style is not a material modification. We may alter or substitute the type or size of vehicle, or method/style of transport mentioned in the brochure, depending on the number of passengers carried, which can vary from tour to tour. Normally the maximum group size is 18 passengers. The minimum number of participants required for each tour is displayed on our website. In the event that insufficient bookings have been made as at 60 days prior to departure, we may cancel the scheduled tour, whereupon all money paid by you for your tour will be refunded and no further compensation will be paid. OUR LIABILITY TO YOU FOR BACK-ROADS OPERATED TOURS If the tour does not materially comply with the description in the brochure, we may compensate you to a maximum value equal to three times the price of the tour. We will only be liable to pay the maximum amount of compensation where there has been a total failure of consideration for your payment. We will not be liable where any failure in the performance or provision of your tour is due to: (i) your acts or omissions or the acts or omissions of another member in your group; (ii) any third party not connected with the provision of your travel arrangements and where that failure is unforeseeable or unavoidable; or (iii) unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances. Our liability will in all cases be limited in accordance with and/ or in an identical manner to relevant international conventions, including the Carriage by Air Conventions (within the meaning given in section 1(5) of the Carriage by Air Act 1961), the Athens Convention of 1974 on the Carriage of Passengers and their Luggage by Sea and the Convention of 1980 concerning International Carriage by Rail. We will not be responsible for any loss or damage sustained by you as a result of a contravention of any law or regulation of any of the countries visited while on the tour. OUR LIABILITY TO YOU FOR LOCALLY OPERATED TOURS If your tour is a Locally Operated Tour our obligation to you is to (and you expressly authorise us to) make tour bookings on your behalf with reasonable skill and care and to arrange a contract between you and the relevant Local Operator. We exercise
BACK-ROADS' DETAILS
Back-Roads Touring Co. Limited, company no. 02473373, 109 Power Road, London, W4 5PY, UK
LOCALLY OPERATED TOURS
All tours are operated by DMC Operations USA Inc. trading as Blue-Roads Touring Co.
DEPOSIT
£150 per person, payable at the time of booking.
BOOKING TRANSFER ADMINISTRATION FEE
If you transfer your booking to another individual, you must pay our fee of £125 (as well as any other applicable travel service provider charge)
GOVERNING LAW AND JURISDICTION
These booking conditions are governed by the laws of England. Any dispute in relation to these booking conditions shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of England.
BROCHURE VALIDITY DATE
Prices quoted in our brochures are calculated on costs and exchange rates at 1 April 2019.
care in the selection of reputable Local Operators but we have no control over, or liability for, the services provided by third parties. All bookings are made on your behalf subject to these and all other terms and conditions, including any conditions of carriage and limitations of liability imposed by the Local Operator. Your legal rights in connection with such tours are solely against the Local Operator and are not against us, except to the extent a problem is caused by fault on our part. SEATBELTS You must wear a seatbelt at all times whilst you are in any vehicle. Neither we nor any Local Operator will be liable for any injury, death or claim howsoever arising from any accident if you have failed to comply with this requirement. FLEXIBILITY DURING TOUR Every effort will be made to operate all tours featured in this brochure but there may be a necessity to vary the itinerary from that stated in the brochure, and delays may occur for a variety of reasons beyond our control. The need for a flexible attitude to this type of travel is important. All decisions relating to a tour itinerary will be taken by the Tour Leader, as appointed by us in the interest of the group as a whole. Please note that due to public holidays some sights or activities may not be available on a particular tour. No refund will be made for services which for whatever reason are not used by you once the tour has departed. OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES AND EXCURSIONS Neither we nor our employees, agents and contractors make any representation or warranty in relation to implied or explicit suggestions or recommendations of services, activities and events not highlighted as included in a tour. You are responsible for all risks associated with the transportation to/from, and your participation in, or visitation to, any place, activity or excursion not listed as an inclusion. During your tour you may be offered the chance to purchase various optional excursions and activities. We do not own, operate or control any of the companies or individuals which provide the optional activities or excursions. Some of the optional activities and excursions may be inherently dangerous and risky. If you want to take part in such optional activities or excursions you must be fit enough to do so and must follow all reasonable instructions. The standards of health and safety which will be adopted by the company or the individual providing the optional activity or excursion will be those of the country where the optional activity or excursion takes place. Please note that these standards may not be the same as you would find in your home country. If you wish to book any optional excursion or activity, you may do so subject to the operator’s terms and conditions. Your contract will be with the operator of the activity or excursion and will be governed by local law. We act only as their agent. We accept no liability for any act or omission of any operator or operator’s employees, agents or sub-contractors or any losses (whether direct or indirect and howsoever caused) arising therefrom. DIETARY, HEALTH AND SPECIAL REQUIREMENT You must clearly state all your dietary requirements at the time of booking. We cannot guarantee that special dietary requirements can be met and we cannot take responsibility for any such requirements not being fulfilled. Walking is a fundamental part of our tours. Our tours are not suitable for people with reduced mobility. We are unable to accommodate mobility aids such, as but not limited to wheelchairs, scooters, walking frames etc. If you have a medical condition or require special arrangements that may affect your tour, we ask that you inform us in writing at the time of booking. We will ask you to complete a medical assessment form to assist us. If we cannot reasonably accommodate your particular needs we may (at out absolute discretion) decline the booking or ask for you to be accompanied by a person who is able to provide full assistance to you throughout your tour. Please be aware that your fellow travellers may be of a diverse age range and from various nationalities. YOUR LIABILITY TO US You will not be permitted to embark or continue on the tour if your mental or physical condition is, in the reasonable opinion of our representative, such as to render you incapable of caring for yourself, or where you become objectionable to other passengers, or you become a hazard to yourself or other passengers, or where you have engaged in any illegal activity during a trip. We will not be responsible for expenses resulting in you being precluded from completing the tour for any reason, nor will we refund you any part of your tour cost. In all cases we will notify you of the reasons why we have taken this action. We will have no obligation to arrange for your return to the point of the tour departure if your condition manifests itself after the tour
departure. Further, if the tour involves travel by air, the captain of your aircraft can refuse to allow you to fly on the aircraft if he believes that you could be dangerous or disruptive to other passengers on the flight. You agree to indemnify us in full against all losses (direct and indirect and howsoever caused) arising from any third-party actions taken against us for loss or damage caused by you or arising from your participation on the tour. INSURANCE & CLAIMS You must take out comprehensive travel insurance before you travel on your tour. Your insurance protection must include cover for cancellation, medical and repatriation expenses, personal injury and accident, death, and loss of personal baggage and money and personal liability insurance. Evidence of such insurances must be produced to us on request and normally on day one of your tour. Insurance cover offered by credit card companies or reciprocal medical cover agreements are often not comprehensive. If you make a claim against us you agree to assign to us or our insurers any rights to take action against any third party supplier/ tour operator or any other person or party that may have been wholly or partly responsible for the claim or who we reasonably consider should be a party to the action. You must co-operate fully with us should we or our insurers wish to enforce those rights which have been assigned to us. If you make a claim against us which is covered by your insurance policy, you agree to pursue the claim through your insurer either in addition to, or in substitution for, your claim against us (if any). We agree to indemnify you in respect of reasonable expenses incurred in successfully pursuing such a claim and acknowledge that any settlement made by the insurer shall not prejudice your rights against us. TRAVEL ADVICE We recommend that you visit your government’s travel advice website prior to the commencement of travel. In the UK, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office issues travel advice and warnings at fco.gov.uk. The Australian government provides an equivalent service at smartraveller.gov.au. COMPLAINTS In the event of any dissatisfaction with the accommodation or any other service provided by us, you must report it immediately to the Tour Leader so that action can be taken to remedy the problem. Failure to immediately notify the Tour Leader of any problem may result in your claim for compensation from us being denied or reduced. Any complaint made to us following the conclusion of the tour should be made in writing within 28 days of completion of the tour. In the event that you do not notify us in writing within 28 days, our ability to investigate the complaint may be prejudiced. In the UK, we can also offer you ABTA’s scheme for the resolution of disputes which is approved by the Chartered Trading Standards Institute. If we can’t resolve your complaint, go to www.abta.com to use ABTA’s simple procedure. Further information on the Code and ABTA’s assistance in resolving disputes can be found on www.abta.com. DATA PROTECTION We are committed to protecting your personal information and agree to process your personal information in accordance with our Privacy Notice, which is available online at backroadstouring.com/about-us/privacy-notice. In order to make your booking and ensure that your travel arrangements run smoothly, we need to use the information you provide and pass it on to other relevant suppliers who are responsible for parts of your travel arrangements. In many cases this will include transferring your data to overseas recipients (including to recipients outside of the European Union). Personal information may also be provided to public authorities such as customs or immigration if required by them, or as required by law. SMOKING We enforce a non-smoking policy on our coaches (although we make frequent stops for breaks) and in most of our accommodation. LUGGAGE There are strict weight limits for coaches when fully loaded. You are only entitled to have one piece of main luggage of standard size Length plus width plus height must not equal more than 158cm and not weighing more than 20kg. In addition you may bring a daypack. PUBLISHING CONSENT You acknowledge and agree that our future advertising and publicity material may include statements made by passengers, or their photographs, and you consent to such use of your comments or photographic/video likeness.
CONSUMER PROTECTION
We are a member of ABTA (Y6180/P6732) and are bonded to provide for your financial protection in the event of our insolvency. Any package which includes a flight as part of the package is protected by our ATOL: 11395. More information in relation to the financial protection of your booking can be viewed at: backroadstouring.com/legal/financial-protection. Your tour is a “package” within the meaning of the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018 (“Package Travel Regulations”). Therefore, you will benefit from all EU rights applying to packages. We, or, if applicable, the Local Operator, will be fully responsible for the proper performance of the package as a whole. Additionally, as required by law, there is protection in place to refund your payments and to ensure your repatriation in the event that we become insolvent. More information on key rights under the Package Travel Regulations can be viewed at: backroadstouring.com/legal/package-travel-rights.
CHANGE AND CANCELLATION FEES
Days before departure
Change and Cancellation Fee (% of tour price)
Pre/post accommodation
Pick Ups/ Transfers
Over 60
Deposit (cancellations)
Nil
Nil
31-60
50%
Nil
Nil
0-30
100%
100%
100%
GBP
• UK & EUROPE •
• ASIA •
Contact Us Call us on 0208 987 0990 • info@backroadstouring.com www.backroadstouring.com • 109 Power Road, Chiswick, London W4 5PY or visit your Professional Travel Agent
Backroadstouringco
YOUTUBE
Back-Roads Touring
Backroadtouring
INSTAGRAM 11395
Backroadstouringco