Rhapsody Tours Overview Brochure

Moving Encounters, Exploring the World Since 1992, 145 countries, 6 continents The premier concert tour company for the world’s great orchestras and choirs, Classical Movements creates meaningful cultural experiences through music in 145 countries.

An industry leader for nearly 30 years, Classical Movements is happy to now offer Rhapsody! Tours for individuals and small groups, enabling lovers of the arts to travel around the world and experience the finest of local culture.

Rhapsody! Tours consists of two programs: Wonderful World and Hidden Gems. See following pages for more information. All programs are sample itineraries, and additional destinations can be offered on an individual basis.

T: +1 703 683 6040 | www.classiclmovements.com | info@classicalmovements.com

Join us in exploring some of the world’s most fascinating places, led by Classical Movements’ inhouse experts. Tours are available for individuals or small groups, and private departures are available. These comprehensive multi-city tours are built to give you a comprehensive look at each destination and are specially designed for our discerning client base. From privately-led tours of world-famous landmarks to intimate workshops with native cultural practitioners, Rhapsody’s Wonderful World tours will take you beyond the usual and into the extraordinary.

India

From Mumbai to Jaipur and New Delhi to Agra, the second-most populous country in the world stretches over a vast geographical and cultural range. Experience Indian cuisine and religion firsthand, with private workshops led by master practitioners in India’s famous culinary tradition and time-honored spiritual practices. The culture of the sub-continent is characterized by its own centuries-old music and dance forms, but plays host to a rising love and practice of Western art music. See tigers and elephants up close, gaze at ancient monuments, but above all, soak up the sights and sounds of this extraordinary nation at the other side of the world.

Iceland

Let nature be your guide as you experience the wild beauty of mystical Iceland. From geysers to volcanoes to glaciers, fire and ice rule this ancient land. With history dating back to 9th-century Viking explorers, the island has always attracted travelers who crave adventure. Modern-day Iceland is no different, and is dotted with opportunities for kayaking, horseback riding, and whale-watching. Iceland is also known worldwide for its unique cultural offerings. With some of the best choirs in the world, religious architecture unlike anywhere else, and history dating back over a thousand years, be transported into the mists by the wonders of Iceland.

T: +1 703 683 6040 | www.classiclmovements.com | info@classicalmovements.com

South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Botswana Siyahamba! As the famous South African hymn goes, so you too will be walking, in the footsteps of ancestors.

The history of Southern Africa dates not in the thousands of years, but in the millions. Witness the natural, cultural, and human beauty of this ancient land. See classic African wildlife, from elephants to penguins, and marvel at Victoria Falls. Get a firsthand experience of South Africa’s vibrant tradition of choral music, and contribute to the lives of music students in some of the poorest neighborhoods. Be a witness to history as you tour Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was held prisoner. Visit Southern Africa to truly experience the full spectrum of humanity.

Sicily and

Malta From Turkey to Spain, the mighty Mediterranean has served as a mixing-bowl of culture from the earliest origins of humanity. Experience the natural and cultural beauty of the islands of Sicily and Malta. Feast your eyes on volcanoes by picturesque bays, and revel in the musical and dance forms forged by centuries of geographic isolation. Marvel at the finest examples of art and architecture created by many centuries of migration, political upheaval, and cultural mixing. From Roman ruins to neo-Classical opera houses to exquisite and unique cuisine, the islands of Sicily and Malta leave nothing to be desired for any traveler.

Peru and Bolivia Today, the Andes are in the heartland of Latin America. But great native rulers once lorded over vast empires and gazed down onto mountains, farmlands, and coastlines. Follow in their footsteps, as you marvel at Incan ruins hidden in lush valleys and cast your eyes upward at towering stone cathedrals. You will get a firsthand experience of the indigenous customs of the land and learn the ancient practices of those whose ancestors settled the region, while also experiencing the finest of modern local offerings. The colors, sights, sounds, and tastes of the Andes are famed around the world. Don’t hesitate to experience them for yourself.

T: +1 703 683 6040 | www.classiclmovements.com | info@classicalmovements.com

Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands From the seaside, to the Amazon rainforest, to the volcanic high plains, the landscape of Ecuador is wideranging and fascinating. With one of South America's most prominent and thriving indigenous populations, the possibilities for cultural exposure and exchange are endless. Discover breathtaking churches from the colonial era, explore a cloud forest with native butterflies and hummingbirds, and take an excursion to the Galapagos Islands with its native and world-famous wildlife that is not found anywhere else. Drink in the incomparable natural landscapes and revel in the warm hospitality of this often-overlooked and diverse South American nation that is not to be missed.

Croatia

Classical Movements has been hosting tours to Croatia since 1995, the first American tour company to do so.

Balkan music, dance, and traditional food and costume have enchanted the world for centuries, and the migration of countless peoples through the region has left its mark. Experience the warmth and exceptional beauty of Croatia, from the renowned Plitvice Lakes, to the exquisite inland hills, to the almost-tropical beaches of the seemingly endless coast. Stop by lush vineyards, trek through ancient towns, and marvel at the ten UNESCO World Heritage sites you will see on your tour. Home to movie sets and monasteries alike, the hospitality and luxurious climate of Croatia will leave you wanting more.

Kenya and Tanzania The savannas and nature preserves of East Africa are undeniably some of the most well-known destinations in the world. Masai Mara, Ngorongoro, and, of course, Serengeti are names associated with lush natural beauty and breathtaking diversity of flora and fauna. Americans will know this region from its iconic portrayals in popular culture, but there is much more to Kenya and Tanzania then lions, elephants, and giraffes. Your tour will start in bustling Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, and move on to no less than five famous nature preserves.

Witness the human beauty of the region, as well as the iconic animals and famous safaris. From cooking to traditional dance to conservation, get a full picture of life in the incredible countries of Kenya and Tanzania.

T: +1 703 683 6040 | www.classiclmovements.com | info@classicalmovements.com

Vietnam

The beauty and culture of Vietnam has captured the imagination of the world for centuries. While Americans are familiar with its recent history and relationship with the United States, many are unaware of the country’s unique traditions of music, dance, and visual art. Experience the finest of Vietnamese performing arts as you travel the length of this ancient nation. Traverse down Vietnam’s famous waterways, and get up close and personal with the industries that make the country famous for its ingenuity and creativity. A visit to this coastal nation will change your perspective on art as well as politics, and ultimately leave you in awe at the power of the human spirit.

Scandinavia and the Baltic States From the narrow streets of Stockholm and Helsinki to the rich forests of Estonia, the Baltic and Scandinavian states are full of obvious and world-famous natural beauty. But the culture of these countries, unique and unparalleled, really drives home the value of travelling to the region. Latvia, famous for a rich and ancient tradition of choral music and folk songs, and Lithuania, home to a folk art practice that reflects centuries of migration and intermingling, are often overlooked by less discerning travelers. Find yourself astonished at the art, architecture, and music of a corner of the world you will never forget.

“The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.”

T: +1 703 683 6040 | www.classiclmovements.com | info@classicalmovements.com

Get away from the crowds and experience the hidden wonders of Europe. These leisurely and accessible tours are crafted to be not only top-notch cultural experiences, but escapes from the stress and press of the big city. Let Classical Movements give you your very own international “stay-cation”, with week-long stays at the same hotel to let you experience each magical destination like a local. Take day trips to historical and cultural sites, national parks, and other picturesque wide-open spaces. Give yourself room to breathe again with Rhapsody’s Hidden Gems tours.

Czech Republic Made famous by the iconic Queen song, the idyllic countryside of western Czech Republic, historically known as Bohemia, is home to dozens of medieval castles and churches. The rolling hills and peaceful forests of the region are dotted with red-roofed villages that are easily at home on postcards and in photography books. Not only that, as a crossroads of Europe, the region has played host to dozens of composers, from Mozart to Dvorak, and to this day is a hotbed of music and culture. Spend a week in the town of Tabor, an easy distance from all the most picturesque vistas of Czechia. Let the landscapes of Bohemia refresh and inspire you.

Portugal

The Iberian Peninsula of Spain and Portugal is home to many historical cities and ancient monuments to empires past, but no region merges history with beauty like the coastline of northern Portugal. From beaches and secluded coves to the breathtaking pastel villas of Sintra, immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of this often-overlooked Westernmost corner of Europe. Spend a week in the coastal retreat of Cascais, the historical vacation spot for the Portuguese royal family. Find yourself blown away by the natural beauty and rich culture of the Iberian coast.

T: +1 703 683 6040 | www.classiclmovements.com | info@classicalmovements.com

Switzerland

While the yodelers of yore may not be heard too often anymore, the peaks and valleys of the Swiss Alps still carry all the majesty (not to mention acoustics) that they always have. The lakeside town of Interlaken is your home base for the week in this centuries-old vacation region that still manages to keep its distinctive historical charm.

Feel the mountain breezes as you take excursions on sky-high train lines, cruise the cool waters of Lake Lucerne, and visit a real working farm to get an intimate sense of the humanity of this world-famous region. Get a breath of fresh air in Switzerland, the crystal crown of Europe.

France

The southern coast of France is a storied vacation spot, home to some of the world’s most exclusive resorts and beaches. But tucked away inland is a landscape unlike anywhere else. Spend a week in the city of Avignon, and take day trips to marvels like the Verdon Gorge and the Camargue, a marshy area famous for its ponies, folk music, and even unique dialect. Trips to Aix-en-Provence and the surrounding countryside will give you a taste of the region’s flare. See for yourself why the lavender fields, soaring cliffs, and leisurely beaches of Provence have captured the world’s imagination.

Ireland

Far from the hustle and bustle of Dublin lies the southwest of Ireland, known for its cliffs, villages, and most of all, green as far as the eye can see. Centuries of ocean breezes and pounding surf have carved a unique combination of rocky coastlines and verdant hills. The Ring of Kerry is perhaps the region’s most-visited landmark. After a week in the town of Killarney, though, you’ll have a unique look at the real Ireland. Visit the seaside town of Dingle for an authentic Irish experience, as you sing alongside traditional musicians of the Emerald Isle while sipping a Guinness, all in the confines of a cozy pub. Your eyes will be smiling as you take in the tranquil pleasures of Ireland.

T: +1 703 683 6040 | www.classiclmovements.com | info@classicalmovements.com

Greece

Once the realm of Spartan emperors, the Peloponnesian peninsula of southwestern Greece now sits as a peaceful escape from the tourist hotspots of the coasts further north. Nestled in the waters of the Aegean, the peninsula is a magical place unto itself. Settle in to the ancient town of Nafplio, overlooking a tiny bay of breathtaking blue.

Take trips to the ruins of Mycenae and Epidavros and marvel at the history of the region that so shaped our modern world. Get a chance to learn real Greek cooking, and take a private boat trip to the island of Hydra.

You’ll get a look at the part of Greece that lies off the beaten track. Take your own personal odyssey to serenity.

Italy

Just next-door to the more famous province of Tuscany, the stony hills of Umbria offer a unique appeal to the discerning traveler. From world-famous spots like Assisi to tiny towns like Foligno, the region boasts an impressive range of culinary, visual, and artistic delights. Visit the Carpina Valley, famous for truffles, and taste wine in Orvieto. Italy is more than just a culinary capital, however. Visit some of the most beautiful churches in the world, most untouched since the height of the Renaissance. Let your spirit rest for a week in Perugia. Let the hilltop towns of Umbria, embrace you with Italian warmth and hospitality.

“Traveling — it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.”

Classical Movements 711 Princess Street, Alexandria, VA 22314 T: +1 703 683 6040 | E: info@classicalmovements.com | www.classicalmovements.com

T: +1 703 683 6040 | www.classiclmovements.com | info@classicalmovements.com