ISSUE 4
THE 2015 COLLECTION
SAVE UP TO
$800
perr couple. couple Book by MARCH 27, 2015 St. Peter’s, Rome
see pa
ge 10 for details
OV ER 10 0 GUIDED VAC ATIONS A ND R I V ER CRUISES including Ita ly, Fr a nce , Gr e at Br ita in & Be yond
EUROPEAN DISCOVERIES 15 DAY 10 DAY 14 DAY 16 DAY 17 DAY
European Whirl NEW Delights of London & Paris European Spotlight Contrasts of Europe NEW Principalities of Europe
CENTR AL & EASTERN EUROPE 12-14 NEW
On-line
8 DAY
On-line
13 DAY
On-line 11 DAY
ITALY & SICILY 9 DAY 13 DAY 15 DAY 8 DAY
10 DAY 10 DAY
10 DAY 14 DAY
9 DAY
Italian Intermezzo Unforgettable Italy Grand Italia Secrets of Italy NEW
18-20
Hidden Journeys
Best of the Italian Lakes NEW Country Roads of Umbria & Tuscany NEW Rome & Tuscan Highlights Country Roads of Southern Italy & Sicily
21-23
10 DAY 15 DAY
On-line
13 DAY
On-line 15 DAY On-line On-line
11 DAY
9 DAY
15 DAY
15 DAY
Grand Tour de France Secrets of France NEW
11 DAY 11 DAY
On-line
27-29
Hidden Journeys
On-line
Normandy, Brittany & the Loire Valley
On-line
14 DAY
14 DAY 14 DAY
19 DAY
Highlights of Spain Unforgettable Spain & Portugal Spain, Morocco & Portugal Splendors of Andalusia & Morocco NEW Treasures of Spain, Portugal & Morocco
30-32
15 DAY
16 DAY
8 DAY 13 DAY 10 DAY 13 DAY 9 DAY
NEW
15 DAY
Hidden Journeys
2
Scenic Scandinavia & its Fjords NEW Spectacular Scandinavia & its Fjords Russia, Warsaw & the Baltic States
36-38
12 DAY 13 DAY
On-line
16 DAY 12 DAY 8 DAY
39-41 42-44
16 DAY
On-line On-line On-line
Mediterranean Fables Grecian Dreams Grecian Fables Grecian Legends Glories of Greece Secrets of Greece including Corfu NEW Hidden Journeys Secrets of Turkey including the Turquoise Coast NEW
12 DAY 16 DAY
Hidden Journeys
Wonders of Turkey Treasures of Turkey
On-line
Best of Ireland & Scotland
Find
15 DAY
12 DAY
Britain & Ireland Highlights Best of Scotland Best of Britain English Country Gardens Country Roads of Ireland Secrets of Ireland
Best of Switzerland Country Roads of Switzerland Vienna, Salzburg, Prague & Budapest Highlights of Eastern Europe The Bohemian Highlights of Poland Highlights of Austria, Slovenia & Croatia Country Roads of Croatia
GREECE & TURKEY
On-line
On-line
Your Perfect Journey Here Or Discover Even More Online At www.GETours.com TOLL-FREE
On-line
48-50 On-line On-line
NEW
33-35
BRITAIN & IRELAND 16 DAY
Hidden Journeys
45-47
On-line On-line
51-53 On-line On-line On-line On-line On-line
RUSSIA & SCANDINAVIA
SPAIN, PORTUGAL & MOROCCO 10 DAY
Best of Holland, Belgium & Luxembourg Best of Holland NEW Country Roads of Bavaria, Switzerland & Austria Best of Germany Secrets of Switzerland NEW
24-26
FR ANCE 15 DAY
11 DAY
15-17
1-800-552-5545
On-line On-line On-line
On-line On-line On-line On-line On-line On-line
On-line On-line On-line
NORTH AMERICA 14 DAY 8 DAY 9 DAY 11 DAY
8 DAY 8 DAY 10 DAY 8 DAY
14 DAY 10 DAY 11 DAY 10 DAY 7 DAY 10 DAY 11 DAY 11 DAY
Scenic Parks Explorer 54-56 The Trailblazer On-line National Parks Wonders On-line Adventures in the Wild Northwest On-line Historic Highlights On-line Great East Coast Cities On-line The Californian On-line San Francisco & Wine Country Delights On-line Route 66 On-line Tastes & Sounds of the South On-line Florida’s Sunshine Trail On-line Best of Hawaii On-line Canada’s Rockies On-line Best of Eastern Canada On-line Best of Canada’s West On-line Newfoundland & Labrador NEW
10 DAY
ASIA
Hidden Journeys
Mexico’s Copper Canyon
On-line On-line
CENTR AL & SOUTH AMERICA 8 DAY 8 DAY
8 DAY 8 DAY
10 DAY
Hidden Journeys
Impressions of South America
Contrasts of Australia & New Zealand
12 DAY 14 DAY
On-line
Hidden Journeys
On-line
Secrets of Thailand On-line Splendors of Japan with Hiroshima NEW
Hidden Journeys
On-line
RIVER CRUISES 9 DAY 11 DAY 9 DAY 11 DAY 14 DAY 16 DAY 16 DAY 9 DAY 9 DAY 9 DAY
12 DAY
19 DAY 16 DAY
Enchanting Danube On-line Delightful Danube & Prague On-line Castles Along the Rhine On-line Rhine Discovery & Prague On-line Legendary Rhine & Moselle On-line European Jewels On-line Grand European Discovery On-line Paris & Normandy On-line Burgundy & Provence On-line Bordeaux, Vineyards & Chateaux On-line Venice & the Gems of Northern Italy On-line Portugal, Spain & the Douro River On-line Grand China & the Yangtze On-line Timeless Wonders of Vietnam, Cambodia & the Mekong On-line
INDEPENDENT CITY BREAKS 11 DAY
On-line
Hidden Journeys
Timeless Essence of Hong Kong & Mainland China NEW
9 DAY
AUSTR ALIA & NEW ZEALAND 19 DAY
11 DAY
On-line On-line
Classic China NEW
9 DAY
Costa Rica Eco Adventure 57-59 Monkeys, Jungles & Volcanoes On-line Highlights of Peru On-line Panama, The Canal & Beyond NEW
10 day
8 DAY 7 DAY
London & Paris London, Paris & Rome London Week Paris Break
On-line On-line On-line On-line
Grand Canyon, USA
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3
Venice, Italy
Getting There
We book you on the most convenient flights available, and we can whisk you to and from your flights with optional 2-way private car service
Find Your Dream Destination
Flip through this catalog or explore online at GETours.com
4
First-Class Hotels
Relax in first-class hotels and deluxe river cruise staterooms
Make Your Reservation
The Warmest Welcome
Call us and talk to our friendly Travel Specialists
We’ll meet you when you land and take you to your hotel
TOLL-FREE
1-800-552-5545
We’ll Handle the Luggage
Don’t lift a finger. We’ll deliver your luggage to your room
Call now for an unforgettable experience. THE BEST OF EUROPE AND THE WORLD
Indulge in wine tastings among the vibrant vineyards of Tuscany. Take an unforgettable trek through Costa Rica’s Monteverde Cloud Forest or marvel at the spectacular sunset from the Greek island of Santorini. Whatever your passions, you can find your perfect vacation in our expertly curated Collection. From leisurely guided vacations to luxurious river cruises, we connect you with unforgettable experiences – yours is just a phone call away.
QUALITY CHOICES
AT YOUR SERVICE
Choose your dream destination knowing we have approved every aspect of your trip. As guided vacation and river cruise experts, we meticulously curate our Collection by selecting only the most leisurely trips that provide the best value to our guests from the wide offerings of the Travel Corporation. No matter what your destination, first-class accommodations, comfortable transportation and seasoned Travel Directors make the perfect vacation at an incredible value.
At Grand European Travel, we are dedicated to providing you with the service and expertise you need to enjoy the perfect vacation. Our seasoned Travel Specialists know each of our guests has their own needs and desires. We personally work with you to recommend great destinations where you enjoy the ideal mix of guided sightseeing and free time to relax, at the best possible price. Call us today – we can answer all your questions and help you find the vacation that’s right for you.
Let our experts help you find the perfect vacation from our 2015 Collection
Experience the Highlights
Enjoy the perfect balance of included sightseeing with free time to experience each destination
Call toll-free
1-800-552-5545
Knowledge, on Tap
Delicious Destinations
Your Travel Director is with you 24/7 and brings your destination to life
Taste the flavors of your destination with authentic highlight meals
Enjoy VIP Priority Access
Tr aveling in Comfort & Style
Don’t wait in line at top sites like the Eiffel Tower – we have VIP reservations
Sit back and relax in modern motorcoaches and boutique river cruise ships
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Lifelong Memories & Friendships
Form new friendships and memories to last a lifetime
5
TR AVEL EXPERIENCE
Paris, France
Where can we take you?
For our 2015 collection, we have selected the best trips throughout Europe, North and South America, Australia and New Zealand. No matter where your journey takes you – from the alpine slopes of the Matterhorn to the hustle and bustle of the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul – you’ll explore stunning scenery and meet incredible cultures every step of the way. How are the accommodations?
We only arrange accommodations that have been independently rated as First Class European Standard. Whether your hotel is a Hilton, Sheraton, Marriott or InterContinental, you’ll stay at centrally located properties, with modern amenities, including complimentary Wi-Fi in most hotels. And before you depart on your journey, we’ll provide an itinerary that shows exactly where you’ll stay each night. What kind of meals will I enjoy?
Sharing a table with friends is central to European life, and we want to carry on
6
TOLL-FREE
the tradition. Throughout your trip, you’ll enjoy wines and meals made from local ingredients that highlight the unique cultures and flavors of your destination. You’ll find all meals detailed on each itinerary throughout this brochure. Who will be my guide?
A seasoned Travel Director leads every trip. These experts possess a wealth of local knowledge, and they fast become trusted friends and travel companions. Not only do they show you around each destination, take you behind the scenes and introduce you to local specialists along the way, but they also handle all the details, so you can enjoy your trip without worrying about schedules, prices or directions. What makes a GET guided vacation special?
As experts in guided vacations and river cruises, we have 30 years experience curating exceptional vacations for travelers just like you. We understand you want an immersive experience on a trip that
1-800-552-5545
offers flexibility, freedom and good value. Talk with one of our experienced travel planners, and they will personally match you with the vacation that fits your needs, budget and desires. Who do I travel with?
Traveling with a group is a rewarding experience that lets you connect and build camaraderie with a fun-loving group of likeminded people. Whether you’re traveling solo or as a couple, you’ll create cherished memories abroad, and make lifelong friends as you join fellow travelers who share your interests in history, culture, food and more. We know traveling solo is one of the best ways to meet new people and see the world. That’s why we offer reasonably priced singleroom supplements on all our trips. On select departures you’ll even find reduced supplements. And for most of our European trips, choose our Room Share option, and we’ll match you with another single traveler of the same gender so you don’t pay the single-room supplement. How do I get around?
We only use the most reliable and relaxing transportation options. Traveling on a modern motorcoach, you see the breathtaking landscapes of Europe through
panoramic windows while you stay cool and comfortable with air conditioning and plush seats – most even have on-board Wi-Fi connections. And today’s river cruise ships are floating boutique hotels, with luxurious staterooms, immaculate public spaces and on-board spas and fitness centers. Why not just travel on my own?
A guided vacation offers a multitude of benefits. We have contracts with the major airlines, hotels and restaurants that can save you up to 40% over traveling independently. We also handle small details like meals and admission fees, so you don’t have to worry about a thing. Plus, expert local guides give you a firsthand look behind the scenes in every city, and our priority access lets you skip to the front of the line at popular historic sites like the Eiffel Tower and the Vatican Museums. What if my plans change?
To help you protect your travel investment, we recommend our exclusive Travel Protection Plan. With this plan, you can cancel your vacation up to 48 hours before departure for any reason, and it also provides coverage if you become sick abroad and need to return home. See the inside insert for details.
Grand European Travel’s dedicated Travel Specialists are available to help plan your next dream vacation. Our 2015 Collection includes an incredible selection of destinations. Whether you prefer a guided vacation, river cruise or an independent city break, we can help you find the trip that fits your travel style.
Call today and discover your dream vacation. Toll Free: 1-800-552-5545 Monday - Friday: 8am–5pm Saturday: 8am–12 noon (PST)
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7
Value Airfares to Europe from over 60 Cities throughout the USA Your vacation starts the moment you leave home and Grand European Travel has made it both affordable and convenient with our “Up-to-the-Minute” airfare pricing. Whether your preference is the lowest cost airfare, the most direct routing, a specific carrier or the comfort of Business Class we offer you options to choose what works best for you. Our guided vacations and river cruises are already a great value. When you bundle your trip with our “Up-to-the-Minute” airfare you’ll also get:
Great Rates Because of our buying power and airline contracts, you save on Economy and Business Class Choice of Airlines Choose the airline you prefer Convenience Make all your travel arrangements at the same time and we’ll find you the best routing and schedule
No Booking Fees We don’t charge an additional fee for managing your airline arrangements Flexible Payment Enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure, or choose to pay in full at the time of booking to lock in your price to avoid airline imposed surcharges Free Airport Transfers From the airport to/from your hotel (Not valid on Independent City Breaks)
Upgrade to Business Class Give us a call and we will find you the most competitive airfare from your chosen departure city with a schedule that suits you. If you are looking to upgrade to Business Class, Grand European Travel offers great rates! Enjoy double the legroom and an additional 2-3 inches of seat width compared to the Economy section. Plus, you’ll be able to recline more. The extra space you’ll have at your seat will make the international flight much more enjoyable and you’ll arrive at your destination more relaxed.
Explore Our Exclusive 2015 Collection Call our experts to plan your perfect vacation today.
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TOLL-FREE
Toll Free:
1-800-552-5545
1-800-552-5545
ROUND TRIP Start Your Vacation with Our Optional
2-Way Town Car Service The cornerstone of our commitment is providing you with outstanding service at every step of your vacation. You can extend that service to the moment you walk out your front door by opting for our 2-way private town car service that delivers you to the airport
• Convenient and stress free start to your vacation • Private town car • Pick-up from and return to your house • No airport parking fees
H OW IT WO R K S meets you curbside to deliver you to your home in comfort
• Ask for our 2-Way Private Town Car service when you make your reservation. We’ll get back to you within 24 hours with a customized quote • We coordinate Town Car service with your flight schedule. You’ll be picked up at your house and driven to the airport. The driver will even carry your bags to the car • At the end of your vacation, don’t worry about hailing a cab at the curb or calling ahead. Your driver has your flight number and
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• This optional service is available to those making airline and guided vacation bookings with Grand European. Town Car Service is available from over 40 airports • Your customized quote will include taxes, tolls, fuel surcharges and tips Service is available per household, up to 3 passengers per household. One-way service is also available, call for details
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9
SAVE ON 2015 GUIDED VACATIONS Combine our 5% Early Booking Discount and $100 AARP Member Discount for savings up to $800 per couple ($400 per person) when you book by March 27, 2015 EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT*
SAVE
UP TO
$800
PER COUPLE
~ PLUS ~
SAVE 5% (up to $300 per person) Book by March 27, 2015 *Discount does not apply to Independent City Breaks or Eastern Mediterranean Guided Vacations
COMBINED SAVINGS
BOOK BY MAR 27, 2015
AARP MEMBER DISCOUNT
AARP members SAVE AN ADDITIONAL $100 per person on guided vacations and receive a free travel gift
SAVE ON SELECT 2015 RIVER CRUISES RIVER CRUISE DISCOUNT
SAVE
UP TO
$1,700
PER COUPLE
COMBINED SAVINGS BOOK BY MAR 27, 2015
~ PLUS ~ AARP MEMBER DISCOUNT
Take advantage of Limited Time Savings up to $1,500 per couple on select itineraries and departures. Offer ends March 27, 2015. See page 60-61 for details.
AARP members SAVE AN ADDITIONAL $100 per person on river cruises and receive a free travel gift
$300 Early Booking Discount based on Contrasts of Australia & New Zealand Guided Vacation available on-line at www.GETours.com $1,500 per couple River Cruise Early Booking Discount based on Legendary Rhine & Moselle River Cruise
Lock in your 2015 vacation and take advantage of these great savings. Questions or Reservations? Call our Travel Specialists today.
10
TOLL-FREE
Toll Free:
1-800-552-5545
1-800-552-5545
SAVE
5% Frequent Traveler Discount
All guests that travel with us or our sister companies join our Frequent Traveler Club and receive 5% savings on their next vacation booked through us. (Not valid on Independent City Breaks. See Terms & Conditions)
Solo Friendly DEPARTURES
Solo Traveler Friendly
NEW! Reduced Single Supplements available on select 2015 guided vacations. Look for this symbol throughout the brochure. (Call for details)
Single Traveler Room Share Program
Join our Room Share Program and we’ll match you with a fellow traveler of the same gender so that you don’t have to pay the single room supplement. If there are no matches available, we’ll provide a single room at no extra cost.
SAVE
(Restrictions apply, see Terms & Conditions for details)
E SAV
E SAV
TRAVEL TWICE TRAV
YOUNG TRAVELERS YO
Book two consecutive guided vacations (commencing within seven days of the first end date) at the same time and save $150 per person on the second trip. Vacation twice with us in the same calendar year, and we’ll credit you $100 per person for your second guided vacation.
Children aged eight to sixteen receive a 10% discount off the advertised Land-Only price. Discount valid for travel on guided vacations during January, February, March, July and August departures only and must be sharing a room with a full paying adult. Limit one child discount per booking.
in the Sam Same Year and Save
E SAV
GROUP TRAVEL GROU wit Family with or Friends
With nine paying passengers, the 10th person will receive a free guided vacation land trip!
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Save 10% Sa
E SAV
PAST TRAVELER P Referral Program Referr
Earn $100 in Travel Credits for each new traveler you introduce to us. Offer valid to past travelers only. Credit issued after friends travel.
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NEW ENGLAND, BELGIUM, THE NETHERLANDS, GERMANY, AUSTRIA, ITALY, SWITZERLAND, FR ANCE
FROM
15 $3,468 PACE
DAYS ACTIVE A G U I D ED ED V VA A C A T I ON AC ON
O U R I N CL OU CLU UDDDEE D
See the Colosseum in Rome
Your Jour ney DAY 1 USA – LONDON
Overnight flight to London.
HIGHLIGHTS
DAY 2 ARRIVE LONDON (2 NIGHTS)
LONDON: Morning sightseeing tour with a local expert includes view of Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey and Big Ben AMSTERDAM: Orientation includes the Tower of Tears and ‘Skinny Bridge’ RHINE VALLEY: Cruise the Romantic Rhine HEIDELBERG: View the ancient Castle MUNICH: View the Olympic Stadium, City Hall and Marienplatz INNSBRUCK: Marvel at the Golden Roof VENICE: Enjoy a canal cruise by private motor launch. Visit St. Mark’s Square and view Doge’s Palace, the Bridge of Sighs and St. Mark’s Basilica. Visit a traditional glass-blowing workshop ROME: Sightseeing tour with a local expert includes a walk through the ancient Roman Forum and views of the Colosseum and Circus Maximus. Visit St. Peter’s Basilica and see Michelangelo’s Pieta FLORENCE: View Signoria Square, Giotto’s Bell Tower, the Baptistery and Santa Croce Basilica with your local expert LUCERNE: View the ancient Chapel Bridge and the Lion Monument PARIS: View Notre Dame Cathedral, the Arc de Triomphe, Champs Élysées and the Louvre with your local expert. Enjoy spectacular city views from an included ascent to the second level of the Eiffel Tower 12
Relax after your journey or spend time exploring this exciting city. THISTLE EUSTON
DAY 3 LONDON SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
See a host of sights including Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and Buckingham Palace during your morning guided sightseeing tour with a local expert. Finishing in central London, you have the rest of the day to discover the city’s delights. (FB) THISTLE EUSTON DAY 4 LONDON – EUROSTAR – BRUSSELS – AMSTERDAM
This morning, meet your Travel Director before traveling to London’s St. Pancras International to board the Eurostar for a highspeed train journey to Brussels. Continue by luxury motorcoach to Amsterdam. Enjoy an orientation of the historic city center before joining your fellow travelers and Travel Director for a Welcome Reception dinner cruise. (FB,WD) MERCURE AMSTERDAM CITY
DAY 5 AMSTERDAM – RHINE CRUISE – HEIDELBERG – RHINELAND
Travel via Arnhem along the Ruhr and Rhine valleys. Enjoy picturesque scenery all the way to Boppard, where an included river TOLL-FREE
1-800-552-5545
cruise takes you past vine-clad hills
and crumbling medieval castles to St. Goar. See the famous Lorelei Rock, named after a siren who lured fishermen to their deaths with spellbinding songs. Later enjoy views of the red sandstone castle towering above Heidelberg. (BB,D) SINSHEIM
DAY 6 RHINELAND – MUNICH – INNSBRUCK
Crossing the Swabian Alps arrive in Munich, the capital of Bavaria, for an orientation drive including the Olympic Stadium and City Hall. View the Glockenspiel on Marienplatz. A short drive through splendid scenery and across the Austrian border brings you to Innsbruck. Admire the architecture including the Hofburg and the Golden Roof. You might consider experiencing traditional Tyrolean entertainment this evening. (BB) HILTON DAY 7 INNSBRUCK – VENICE
Drive along the Brenner Pass into Italy and across the Dolomite Mountains. Arrive in the enchanting city of Venice. Cruise by private launch to St. Mark’s Square, viewing the Bridge of Sighs and Doge’s Palace along the way. Visit a traditional glass-blowing workshop for a local specialist demonstration, then spend the afternoon exploring the sights of your choice. Finish an eventful day with dinner at your hotel. (BB,DW) NOVOTEL VENEZIA MESTRE CASTELLANA
DAY 8 VENICE – ROME (2 NIGHTS)
South across the Veneto plain, you pass by Bologna and over the dramatic Apennine Mountains, continuing into the Lazio region to Rome, the Eternal City. (BB) THE CHURCH PALACE
DAY 9 ROME SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
Your sightseeing begins with a visit to St. Peter’s Basilica – the most significant Christian church in the world – to view Michelangelo’s Renaissance masterpiece, the Pietà. In ancient Rome, view the Forum and see the Colosseum with your local expert. Spend the rest of the day exploring or perhaps take an optional experience to see the Sistine Chapel inside the Vatican Museum. (BB) THE CHURCH PALACE
Visit the Eiffel Tower in Paris
with its impressive sculptures and stunning palazzi. Marvel at the Baptistery and the multimarble Duomo, with its dome designed by Brunelleschi. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. (BB,DW) GRAND DAY 11 FLORENCE – GOTTHARD DRIVE – LUCERNE
From Rome travel north into Tuscany, through rolling countryside and along the valley of the River Arno to Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance. Discover the city’s rich artistic and medieval history with your local expert. Visit the Piazza della Signoria
(2 NIGHTS)
Drive via picturesque Italian Lakes and across the Alps into Switzerland. Spend the next two nights in the beautiful lakeside town of Lucerne. (BB,D) GRAND EUROPE
(BB) GRAND EUROPE
The Netherlands
Amsterdam
London
View the Lion Monument during your morning orientation. Created to commemorate the heroism of Swiss Guards who defended Louis XVI in Paris in 1792, Mark Twain described it as ‘the most moving piece of stone in the world’. Walk along the 14th-century covered Chapel Bridge, crossing the River Reuss. Don’t miss the opportunity to take an exciting mountain excursion with breathtaking views.
HOTEL MEDITERRANEO
DAY 10 ROME – FLORENCE
England
DAY 12 LUCERNE ORIENTATION & FREE TIME
ARRIVAL CITY
Eurostar Train
Brussels
Rhine Cruise
Belgium
St. Goar
Paris
DEPARTURE CITY
Germany
Boppard
NUMBER OF OVERNIGHT STAYS
Rhineland
Heidelberg SIGHTSEEING STOP
Munich France Switzerland
Lucerne
Austria
Innsbruck Venice
Italy
Florence Mediterraean Sea
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Rome www.GETours.com
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(cont in u ed) SAVE SA
FLY FROM OVER 60 CITIES
DAY 13 LUCERNE – PARIS (2 NIGHTS)
Pass Basel and cross the border into France this morning. In every direction, vineyards and picturesque villages provide a memorable backdrop for your journey. Consider an optional experience this evening to a famous Parisian Cabaret. (BB) EVERGREEN LAUREL DAY 14 PARIS SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
See all the famous sights during your morning sightseeing tour with a local expert. View the Champs Élysées, Place de la Concorde and the Arc de Triomphe. Ascend to the second level of the Eiffel Tower for a breathtaking view of the city. Spend the rest of the day exploring the sights that interest you. Perhaps take an optional experience to the Palace of Versailles, the Chateau built by Louis XIV the Sun King of France. This evening, celebrate with your Travel Director and traveling companions at a Farewell Dinner in a local bistro. (BB,FD) EVERGREEN LAUREL
DAY 15 PARIS – USA
Say ‘au revoir’ to Paris and your traveling companions as your memorable European vacation comes to an end. Transfers arrive at Paris Charles De Gaulle Airport at 8am. (BB)
Call for up-to-the-minute airfare from over 60 cities throughout the USA – you’ll get: Free Airport Transfers, s, Choice of Airlines, Choice of Schedule & Routing. Business Class available. See page 8 for full details.
R ates per Person DEPARTURE DATE
Apr 9 Apr 11, 16, 18 Apr 23, 25 Apr 30 May 2 May 7, 9, 14 May 21, 23, 28 May 30 Jun 4, 6, 11, 13, 18 Jun 20, 25, 27 Jul 2, 4, 9, 11, 16 Jul 18, 23, 25, 30 Aug 1, 6, 8 Aug 13, 15 Aug 20, 22 Aug 27, 29 Sep 3, 5, 10 Sep 12, 17, 19 Sep 24, 26 Oct 1, 3, 8 Oct 10, 15, 17 Oct 22 Oct 24
Includes one-way Eurostar train ticket from Paris to London Standard Class, London accommodation at the Thistle Euston and station transfers.
Visit www.GETours.com for full details
PER COUPLE
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT BOOK BY MAR 27, 2015
PRICE AFTER 5% EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT
EAST COAST (JFK)
MIDWEST (ORD)
WEST COAST (LAX)
$3,650 $3,795 $3,950 $3,975 $3,975 $3,995 $3,995 $3,975 $3,975 $3,935 $3,935 $3,935 $3,935 $3,935 $3,950 $3,995 $3,995 $3,995 $3,995 $3,975 $3,975 $3,835 $3,795
$3,468 $3,605 $3,753 $3,776 $3,776 $3,795 $3,795 $3,776 $3,776 $3,738 $3,738 $3,738 $3,738 $3,738 $3,753 $3,795 $3,795 $3,795 $3,795 $3,776 $3,776 $3,643 $3,605
$1,138 $1,138 $1,138 $1,138 $1,138 $1,138 $1,431 $1,431 $1,431 $1,431 $1,431 $1,431 $1,431 $1,431 $1,431 $1,138 $1,138 $1,138 $1,138 $1,138 $1,138 $1,138 $1,138
$1,228 $1,228 $1,228 $1,228 $1,228 $1,228 $1,567 $1,567 $1,567 $1,567 $1,567 $1,567 $1,567 $1,567 $1,567 $1,228 $1,228 $1,228 $1,228 $1,228 $1,228 $1,228 $1,228
$1,331 $1,331 $1,331 $1,331 $1,331 $1,331 $1,661 $1,661 $1,661 $1,661 $1,661 $1,661 $1,661 $1,661 $1,661 $1,331 $1,331 $1,331 $1,331 $1,331 $1,331 $1,331 $1,331
PRICE INCLUDES: with you throughout your journey First Class Hotels twin bedded room with private restroom
FROM $460 PER PERSON ON A TWIN SHARE BASIS
$400
LAND PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
Professional Travel Director
Optional Eurostar Extension
UP TO
19 Meals 13 buffet breakfasts. 6 dinners (including Welcome Reception, 2 three course dinners with wine, 2 three course dinners and Farewell Dinner)
Local Expert in London, Rome, Florence and Paris
Personal Audio Headsets Eurostar High Speed Train from London to Brussels
Airport Transfers arrival and departure transfers included as
AIR ADD-ONS
SAVE AN AARP MEMBERS ADDITIONAL $100 P/P noted in itinerary with the purchase of combined air and land package. See page 62-63 for London arrival information
Luxury Motorcoach Transportation with A/C, reclining seats, panoramic windows and emergency restroom
Complimentary WiFi available in guestrooms and/or public areas of most hotels and on-board the motorcoach. See page 62-63 for details
Travel Documents including travel wallet, travel planner, complimentary keepsake photo and 5% Frequent Traveler Discount upon return for a future trip
Code: WHI. Price is per person and is based on two people sharing a twin-bedded room. Single Supplement: from $950. Air Add-On: Prices listed were effective on January 27, 2015 and their availability is limited. At the time you purchase your trip, air prices may be higher. Prices shown include September 11th Security fee, government fees, taxes and airline fuel surcharges based on destination and routing. Additional Charges: Airline baggage charges collected at check-in are not included. This itinerary is operated by our sister company. Gratuities: Option to pre-pay gratuities for Travel Director and Driver $111 per person. Complimentary London Return: Guests are welcome to return to London by motorcoach at no extra cost. Drop-off in London will be at a London hotel and not at the airport. Please speak with your Travel Specialist at time of booking. Included Meals: WD Welcome Reception FB Full Breakfast BB Buffet Breakfast D Dinner DW Dinner with Wine FD Farewell Dinner 14
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ENGLAND, FR ANCE
NEW FROM
10 $2,921 PACE
DAYS COMFORTABLE A G U I D ED ED V VA A C A T I ON AC ON
O U R I N CL OU CLU UDDDEE D
See the Houses of Parliament in London
Your Jour ney DAY 1 USA – LONDON
Overnight flight to London.
HIGHLIGHTS
DAY 2 ARRIVE LONDON (5 NIGHTS)
LONDON: Sightseeing includes views of Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben WINDSOR: Spend the afternoon at leisure in Royal Windsor OXFORD: Enjoy an orientation tour of Oxford, home to England’s oldest university, and visit one of the colleges STRATFORD-UPON-AVON: Visit Shakespeare’s birthplace and Visitor Center, and view Anne Hathaway’s cottage STONEHENGE: See the famous stone monoliths BATH: Visit the ancient Roman Baths PARIS: View the Arc de Triomphe, Champs Élysées and the Place de la Concorde with your local expert. Enjoy spectacular city views from an included ascent to the second level of the Eiffel Tower and visit the Palace of Versailles
After checking in at your hotel, why not start to explore this magical city. Whether you stroll through one of the Royal Parks, shop in the vibrant West End or visit one of the world famous historical attractions, London has plenty to keep you entertained. Later, meet with your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a traditional English pub Welcome Reception. (WD) CUMBERLAND DAY 3 LONDON SIGHTSEEING & EXCURSION TO WINDSOR
See Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace on your half day
introductory sightseeing tour with a local expert. This afternoon visit the town of Windsor with its vast Royal Castle. Explore the town, visit inside the castle or walk alongside the Thames – the choice is yours. (FB) CUMBERLAND
DAY 4 EXCURSION TO OXFORD & STRATFORDUPON-AVON
Today enjoy a full day excursion from London to two iconic destinations – Oxford and Stratfordupon-Avon. Oxford is famed for its University – the oldest in England and the oldest in the English speaking world. Enjoy free time to explore after an orientation provided by your Travel Director. You will also visit one of the colleges (subject to opening). Later travel to Stratford and visit Shakespeare’s Birthplace and Visitor
Visit Royal Windsor
TOLL-FREE
1-800-552-5545
15
(cont in u ed) Center. Stop to see Anne Hathaway’s
gorgeous thatched cottage before returning to London. This evening, consider joining your Travel Director for dinner at a lively restaurant or perhaps take in a West End show. (FB) CUMBERLAND
DAY 5 LONDON AT LEISURE
A completely free day for you to explore the city – the options are endless and your Travel Director will be available to suggest a number of activities or help with organizing any optional experience. Visit the dinosaurs at the Natural History Museum, have lunch in Covent Garden or explore Camden Markets. Shop in Bond Street and Knightsbridge, enjoy a top stage production or take a further trip outside of the city – the choice is yours! (FB) CUMBERLAND
Perhaps visit the Louvre in Paris
ARRIVAL CITY
Stratford-Upon-Avon England
Wales Oxford
DEPARTURE CITY
Bath
London
Windsor
NUMBER OF OVERNIGHT STAYS
Stonehenge
SIGHTSEEING STOP
Dover English Channel
Calais
France
Versailles
16
TOLL-FREE
Paris
1-800-552-5545
Belgium
DAY 6 EXCURSION TO BATH & STONEHENGE
This morning leave London and travel to Bath. Visit the Roman Baths from which the city derives its name and enjoy an orientation of this World Heritage Site with its beautiful Georgian architecture. After free time for lunch, travel through scenic countryside and stop at Stonehenge to visit the historic stone monoliths. Later return to London. (FB)
SA SAVE
FLY FROM OVER 60 CITIES Call for up-to-the-minute airfare from over 60 cities s, throughout the USA – you’ll get: Free Airport Transfers, Choice of Airlines, Choice of Schedule & Routing. Business Class available. See page 8 for full details.
R ates per Person
UP TO
$356
PER COUPLE
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT BOOK BY MAR 27, 2015
LAND PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
PRICE AFTER 5% EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT
EAST COAST (JFK)
MIDWEST (ORD)
WEST COAST (LAX)
Apr 17
$3,075
$2,921
$1,138
$1,228
$1,331
Apr 24
$3,450
$3,278
$1,138
$1,228
$1,331
May 1, 8
$3,550
$3,373
$1,138
$1,228
$1,331
(3 NIGHTS)
May 15, 22, 29
$3,550
$3,373
$1,431
$1,567
$1,661
This morning, travel through the Kent countryside before boarding your ferry in Dover. See the impressive White Cliffs of Dover on your channel ferry crossing to France. Pass the battlefields of Northern France before arriving in magical Paris. This evening enjoy a regional meal in the City of Light. (FB,D) PULLMAN
Jun 5, 12, 19
$3,525
$3,349
$1,431
$1,567
$1,661
$3,254
$1,431
$1,567
$1,661
CUMBERLAND
DAY 7 LONDON – PARIS
MONTPARNASSE
DAY 8 PARIS SIGHTSEEING & VERSAILLES EXCURSION
Your local expert takes you on a sightseeing tour of Paris this morning. View the Champs Élysées, Arc de Triomphe and Place de la Concorde. Ascend to the second level of the Eiffel Tower and see the city in all its glory. This afternoon enjoy an included visit to the Palace of Versailles. Tonight you might like to round off your day by attending a performance at a spectacular Parisian cabaret. (BB) PULLMAN MONTPARNASSE
DAY 9 PARIS AT LEISURE
Today you are free to do as you please. There is time to sample delicious French breads or cakes in a pâtisserie, to shop in the chic French boutiques or to enjoy a visit to one of the many museums this city has to offer – the choice is yours. This evening, join your companions and Travel Director for a Farewell Dinner in the city. (BB,FD) PULLMAN MONTPARNASSE
DAY 10 PARIS – USA
After breakfast, bid your newfound friends ‘au revoir’ as your memorable trip comes to an end. Transfers will arrive at Paris Charles De Gaulle Airport at 8am and 11.30am. (BB)
DEPARTURE DATE
Jun 26
$3,425
AIR ADD-ONS
Jul 3, 10, 17
$3,425
$3,254
$1,431
$1,567
$1,661
Jul 24, 31
$3,425
$3,254
$1,431
$1,567
$1,661
Aug 7
$3,425
$3,254
$1,431
$1,567
$1,661
Aug 14, 21
$3,425
$3,254
$1,431
$1,567
$1,661
Aug 28
$3,550
$3,373
$1,138
$1,228
$1,331
Sep 4, 11
$3,550
$3,373
$1,138
$1,228
$1,331
$1,228
$1,331
$1,228
$1,331
Sep 18, 25
$3,525
$3,349
$1,138
Oct 2
$3,525
$3,349
$1,138
PRICE INCLUDES:
SAVE AN AARP MEMBERS ADDITIONAL $100 P/P
with you throughout your journey
Luxury Motorcoach Transportation with A/C,
First Class Hotels twin bedded
reclining seats, panoramic windows and emergency restroom
Professional Travel Director
room with private restroom
11 Meals 8 breakfasts (including 5
Complimentary WiFi available
full and 3 hot buffets). 3 dinners (including Welcome Reception, Regional Meal and Farewell Dinner)
in guestrooms and/or public areas of most hotels and on-board the motorcoach. See page 62-63 for details
Local Expert in London, Paris and
Travel Documents including
Versailles
travel wallet, travel planner, complimentary keepsake photo and 5% Frequent Traveler Discount upon return for a future trip
Personal Audio Headsets Ferry from Dover to Calais Airport Transfers arrival and departure transfers included as noted in itinerary with the purchase of combined air and land package. See page 62-63 for London arrival information
Code: DLP. Price is per person and is based on two people sharing a twin-bedded room. Single Supplement: from $1,000. Air Add-On: Prices listed were effective on January 27, 2015 and their availability is limited. At the time you purchase your trip, air prices may be higher. Prices shown include September 11th Security fee, government fees, taxes and airline fuel surcharges based on destination and routing. Additional Charges: Airline baggage charges collected at check-in are not included. This itinerary is operated by our sister company. Gratuities: Option to pre-pay gratuities for Travel Director and Driver $80 per person. Included Meals: WD Welcome Reception FB Full Breakfast BB Buffet Breakfast DW Dinner with Wine FD Farewell Dinner
MORE JOURNEYS AT
www.GETours.com
17
ITALY
9
FROM
$2,613 PACE
DAYS COMFORTABLE A G U I D ED ED V VA A C A T I ON AC ON
O U R I N CL OU CLU UDDDEE D
St. Mark’s Square, Venice
Your Jour ney
DAY 4 VENICE SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
DAY 1 USA – MILAN
Even for the experienced traveler, there can be no better joy than waking up in Venice. Transfer to Giudecca Island to witness the skill of mask makers, glassblowers and gondola builders. Then appreciate the splendor as you cruise by Palladio’s San Giorgio Maggiore to St. Mark’s Square. Your Travel Director will explain the glorious history of ‘La Serenissima’, once one of the greatest trading centers of the world – its wealth and power is echoed by the riches of St. Mark’s Basilica. See the Doges’ Palace and its adjoining Bridge of Sighs. Spend the afternoon as you wish. (BB) BEST WESTERN PREMIER
Overnight flight to Milan.
HIGHLIGHTS VERONA: See the well preserved Roman Arena and Juliet’s balcony in the courtyard of a Renaissance villa VENICE: Cruise to St. Mark’s Square by private launch. See St. Mark’s Basilica, bell tower, clock tower, Doges’ Palace and Bridge of Sighs. Witness handmade Venetian glass-blowing Venice and relax on a gondola ride through the quiet canals PISA: See the Cathedral, Baptistery and ‘Leaning Tower’ FLORENCE: During your guided walking tour, see the Cathedral, bell tower, ‘Gates of Paradise’ on the Baptistery. Visit the Accademia Museum with an art expert to study Michelangelo’s Statue of David ASSISI: A local expert will explain why the Basilica of St. Francis is considered one of the crowning achievements of medieval Europe ROME: See the Forum and visit the ancient Colosseum. Gain VIP fast-track entrance into the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel. Enjoy a special private viewing of the Bramante Staircase and private guided tour of St. Peter’s Basilica
DAY 2 ARRIVE MILAN – COMO
Welcome to Italy! After being greeted by your Travel Director at Milan’s Malpensa Airport, your transfer departs at 9.30am and 12.30pm. This evening, you are invited to a warm and friendly Welcome Reception with the opportunity to mingle and get to know each other over a pleasant evening of dinner and wine. (WD) HOTEL PALACE
DAY 3 COMO – VERONA – VENICE (2 NIGHTS)
Head east to elegant Verona this morning for a leisurely walk past the well-preserved Roman Arena still used for opera performances. Stand beneath the balcony in the courtyard of Juliet’s house, supposed location of the famous balcony love scene. After some free time for browsing around the local market, it’s on to the glorious city of Venice. Later, on your romantic gondola serenade, glide along the atmospheric canals exploring the intimate and hidden parts of this unique city while musicians set the mood with traditional songs. (BB) BEST WESTERN PREMIER HOTEL SANT’ELENA
18
TOLL-FREE
1-800-552-5545
HOTEL SANT’ELENA
DAY 5 VENICE – PISA – FLORENCE (2 NIGHTS)
Bid farewell to Venice and follow the smooth highway across the fertile valley of the river Po, into the peaceful landscapes of Tuscany. Continue to Pisa to see the world famous Leaning Tower in the ‘Meadow of Miracles’ and also the 11th century Cathedral and Baptistry. Now on to beautiful Florence, treasure house of the Renaissance. (BB,D) NH FIRENZE
DAY 6 FLORENCE SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
In the morning, meet a local expert for a walking tour of the historic center. Visit the Accademia Museum to see Michelangelo’s masterpiece ‘Statue of David’. Admire the marble clad Cathedral and Baptistery, where Ghiberti’s ‘Gates of Paradise’ have been recreated in all their glory. Next stop is Signoria Square filled with Renaissance sculpture. Finally, learn all the secrets of traditional Florentine leather-work. Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, Montepulciano – the wines of Tuscany are famous the world over. During your stay, sample some of these robust reds and learn about their origin. During your free time be sure not to miss the magnificent museums and galleries which house some of the most famous works of art in the world. (BB) NH FIRENZE
See Michelangelo’s Statue of David in Florence
delightful Assisi, a stone built town spilling over the steep hillside. With a local expert, visit the tomb of St. Francis and the beautiful frescoes by Giotto in the great basilica, before continuing along the valley of the river Tiber towards the ‘Eternal City’ of Rome. (BB) DEI BORGIA HOTEL
DAY 7 FLORENCE – ASSISI – ROME (2 NIGHTS)
Travel through the vineyards of the Chianti region this morning, past Lake Trasimeno – the Italian Peninsula’s largest lake and site of a great battle in ancient times against Hannibal and his war elephants. Climb into the foothills of the Apennine Mountains to
ARRIVAL CITY
Italian Lake District Lake Garda
Como
Venice Verona
Milan
DEPARTURE CITY
NUMBER OF OVERNIGHT STAYS
Italy Adriatic Sea
Pisa Ligurian Sea
SIGHTSEEING STOP
Florence Lake Trasimeno
Assisi Ap en n ine un Mo
Corsica
t ai ns
Rome Frascati
MORE JOURNEYS AT
www.GETours.com
19
(cont in u edd) DAY 8 ROME SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
Your Intermezzo reaches its crescendo at the independent Vatican State, the richest community in the world! While others wait in line, you are fasttracked through the VIP entrance into the Vatican Museums, treasure house of the Catholic faith. With your local expert, admire the vast collections of ancient and Renaissance art, gathered by Popes over the ages and enjoy a behindthe-scenes private viewing of the Bramante Staircase. Then enter the sublime Sistine Chapel. This is where your audio headset comes into its own, providing clear, expert commentary from your local expert. Gaze up now and truly appreciate the significance of Michelangelo’s famous painted ceiling. Next door, in St. Peter’s Basilica, see one of Michelangelo’s early works, the Pieta and the splendid dome completed after his death. Now relive the glory of ancient Rome as you cross the River Tiber to visit the mighty Colosseum with a local expert, scene of great festivities and occasional martyrdoms in imperial times. Finally, look out over the former epicenter of the whole Roman Empire – the Roman Forum. The afternoon is at leisure – enjoy Rome at your own pace or check with your Travel Director about additional sightseeing options. Tonight, enjoy a quintessential Italian experience! Over a sumptuous dinner of Roman cuisine, fill your glasses with wine, and enjoy an evening of spine-tingling operetta. (BB,CD) DEI BORGIA HOTEL
Call for up-to-the-minute airfare from over 60 cities throughout the USA – you’ll get: Free Airport Transfers, s, Choice of Airlines, Choice of Schedule & Routing. Business Class available. See page 8 for full details.
R ates per Person DEPARTURE DATE
Apr 4, 11, 18, 25
UP TO
$278
Bid farewell to the glories of Italy. Departure transfers arrive at Rome’s Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci Airport at 7am and 9.30am.
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT BOOK BY MAR 27, 2015
LAND PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
PRICE AFTER 5% EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT
EAST COAST (JFK)
MIDWEST (ORD)
WEST COAST (LAX)
$2,750
$2,613
$1,355
$1,477
$1,537
AIR ADD-ONS
May 2, 9
$2,750
$2,613
$1,355
$1,477
$1,537
May 16, 23, 30
$2,750
$2,613
$1,707
$1,841
$1,841
Jun 6, 13, 20
$2,750
$2,613
$1,707
$1,841
$1,841
Jun 27
$2,695
$2,560
$1,707
$1,841
$1,841
Jul 4
$2,665
$2,532
$1,707
$1,841
$1,841
Jul 11, 18, 25
$2,550
$2,423
$1,707
$1,841
$1,841
Aug 1, 8, 15
$2,550
$2,423
$1,707
$1,841
$1,841
Aug 22
$2,550
$2,423
$1,707
$1,841
$1,841
Aug 29
$2,750
$2,613
$1,355
$1,477
$1,537
Sep 5, 12, 19, 26
$2,775
$2,636
$1,355
$1,477
$1,537
Oct 3, 10, 17
$2,750
$2,613
$1,355
$1,477
$1,537
Oct 24
$2,750
$2,613
$1,355
$1,477
$1,537
PRICE INCLUDES: Professional Travel Director with you throughout your journey
First Class Hotels twin bedded room with private restroom 10 Meals 7 buffet breakfasts. 3 dinners (including Welcome Reception, 1 three-course table d’hôte Dinner, plus tea or coffee and Celebration Dinner) Local Expert in Assisi, Florence and Rome
Airport Transfers arrival and departure transfers included as noted in itinerary with the purchase of combined air and land package
SAVE AN AARP MEMBERS ADDITIONAL $100 P/P Luxury Motorcoach Transportation with A/C, reclining seats, extended leg room, panoramic windows and emergency restroom
Complimentary WiFi available in guestrooms and/or public areas of most hotels and on-board the motorcoach. See page 62-63 for details
Travel Documents including travel wallet, travel planner, complimentary keepsake photo and 5% Frequent Traveler Discount upon return for a future trip
Code: INT. Price is per person and is based on two people sharing a twin-bedded room. Single Supplement: from $670. Air Add-On: Prices listed were effective on January 27, 2015 and their availability is limited. At the time you purchase your trip, air prices may be higher. Prices shown include September 11th Security fee, government fees, taxes and airline fuel surcharges based on destination and routing. Additional Charges: Airline baggage charges collected at check-in are not included. This itinerary is operated by our sister company. Gratuities: Option to pre-pay gratuities for Travel Director and Driver $91 per person. Included Meals: WD Welcome Reception BB Buffet Breakfast D Dinner CD Celebration Dinner
20
PER COUPLE
Personal Audio Headsets
DAY 9 ROME – USA
(BB)
SAVE SA
FLY FROM OVER 60 CITIES
MORE JOURNEYS AT
www.GETours.com
ITALY
FROM
13 $3,121 PACE
DAYS ACTIVE A G U I D ED ED V VA A C A T I ON AC ON
O U R I N CL OU CLU UDDDEE D
Spend two nights in Florence
Your Jour ney DAY 1 USA – ROME
Overnight flight to Rome.
HIGHLIGHTS ROME: Guided sightseeing visits St. Peter’s Basilica and the Colosseum. Enter through a VIP entrance to the Vatican Museum to see the famous Bramante Staircase and Sistine Chapel POMPEII: Guided sightseeing includes a tour of the archeological treasures of this Roman city SORRENTO: Dine with a local family in their hill-top home AMALFI COAST: Travel along Italy’s finest coastline and soak up some of Europe’s most breathtaking coastal scenery ASSISI: Free time to visit the Basilica of St. Francis SAN GIMIGNANO: Explore the medieval ‘Manhattan’ of Tuscany FLORENCE: Guided walking tour includes views the Church of Santa Croce, Signoria Square and the Duomo. Visit the Uffizi with a Florentine art expert and enjoy art treasures by Da Vinci, Michelangelo and Botticelli VENICE: Orientation includes St. Mark’s Square, the Bridge of Sighs, Doge’s Palace and a glassblowing demonstration
DAY 2 ARRIVE ROME (3 NIGHTS)
Welcome to Rome! Your transfer leaves Rome’s Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci Airport for the hotel at 9.30am, 12.30pm and 3.00pm. The afternoon is free to explore on your own. This evening join your Travel Director for a Welcome Reception with drinks and dinner. (WD) DEI BORGIA HOTEL
DAY 3 ROME SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
Your first stop this morning is the Vatican. Entering from the VIP entrance, enjoy an expertly guided tour of the priceless Vatican Museum Treasures. Admire the art collection gathered by Popes through the ages and marvel at Michelangelo’s greatest achievement, the unique ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. Your visit also includes access to areas of the Vatican not open to the general public, namely the Bramante Staircase. Visit St. Peter’s Basilica, the largest church in the Christian world, then end the morning with a walk through the famous Colosseum via Circus Maximus & Palatine Hill. (BB) DEI BORGIA HOTEL
TOLL-FREE
1-800-552-5545
DAY 4 ROME AT LEISURE
The day is completely free to explore Rome as you wish. Your Travel Director can offer suggestions, or perhaps join an optional experience. (BB) DEI BORGIA HOTEL DAY 5 ROME – POMPEII – SORRENTO PENINSULA (3 NIGHTS)
Travel past the Roman Hills this morning to the Bay of Naples, where you’ll discover the archeological treasures of Pompeii, the Roman city both destroyed and preserved by an eruption of Mt. Vesuvius nearly 2,000 years ago. Your local expert will bring the old city to life as you walk down the old streets. Your journey continues to the beautiful Sorrento coast, home for three relaxing nights. Tonight enjoy an unforgettable Hands-On home hosted dinner with a local family. (BB,HD) GRAND HOTEL VESUVIO
DAY 6 AMALFI COAST EXPERIENCE
This morning, board your minibuses and travel along Italy’s finest coastline, the Amalfi Coast, UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Europe’s most breathtaking coasts. Stop for a bird’s-eye view of the terraced houses of Positano, before strolling through the town. There’s time to be tempted by the boutiques before returning to your hotel.
21
(cont in u ed) This evening, why not join the locals with a pre-dinner stroll (la passeggiata) or an evening optional experience. (BB) GRAND HOTEL VESUVIO
DAY 7 SORRENTO PENINSULA AT LEISURE
Today is free to relax or maybe take an optional experience across the Bay of Naples to the legendary and idyllic Isle of Capri, once the summer home of Tiberius Cesar and Gracie Fields. There is plenty of time to explore the narrow alleyways, sip a coffee in Piazza Umberto and enjoy sea views before our jetfoil takes you back to Sorrento. (BB) GRAND HOTEL VESUVIO
Enjoy free time in Assisi
of Tuscany, with time free to explore the maze of back streets, shops and trattorias. Our day ends in Florence, birthplace of the Renaissance and your home for two nights. On arrival, why not take an optional experience with a local expert to see Michelangelo’s David in the ‘Accademia’? (BB,D)
enjoy free time to perhaps visit the amazing 13th century Basilica of St. Francis with its impressive fresco paintings by Giotto. (BB,D) GRAND HOTEL ROSEO
DAY 8 SORRENTO PENINSULA – ASSISI
Today, journey into the wild scenery of Umbria to the rosetinted stone built hill-town of Assisi, home of St. Francis. See the Church of St. Mary of the Angels and
DAY 9 ASSISI – SAN GIMIGNANO – FLORENCE (2 NIGHTS)
Departing Assisi, continue through famous, local vineyards to San Gimignano, the medieval ‘Manhattan’
GRAND HOTEL MEDITERRANEO
Slovenia
Italy
Venice-Lido
ARRIVAL CITY
Croatia DEPARTURE CITY
NUMBER OF OVERNIGHT STAYS
San Gimignano
Florence SIGHTSEEING STOP
Assisi Orvieto
Corsica
Rome
Pompeii
Sardinia
Isle of Capri
22
TOLL-FREE
Sorrento
1-800-552-5545
DAY 10 FLORENCE SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
Join a local specialist this morning for a walking tour of the city. View the Church of Santa Croce, the final resting place of Michelangelo, Galileo, Machiavelli and Rossini. Then, enjoy the open air museum of Signoria Square, the façade of the great Cathedral and the ‘Gates of Paradise’ followed by a leather demonstration. The afternoon is at leisure to browse in this shoppers paradise. (BB) GRAND HOTEL
SA SAVE
FLY FROM OVER 60 CITIES Call for up-to-the-minute airfare from over 60 cities s, throughout the USA – you’ll get: Free Airport Transfers, Choice of Airlines, Choice of Schedule & Routing. Business Class available. See page 8 for full details.
R ates per Person
UP TO
$346
PER COUPLE
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT BOOK BY MAR 27, 2015
LAND PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
PRICE AFTER 5% EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT
EAST COAST (JFK)
MIDWEST (ORD)
WEST COAST (LAX)
May 9
$3,435
$3,263
$1,392
$1,385
$1,482
Jul 4
$3,435
$3,263
$1,590 $1,668
$1,853
MEDITERRANEO
Jul 18
$3,285
$3,121
$1,590 $1,668
$1,853
DAY 11 FLORENCE – VENICE LIDO (2 NIGHTS)
Sep 5
$3,450
$3,278
$1,392
$1,385
$1,482
Sep 12
$3,450
$3,278
$1,392
$1,385
$1,482
Sep 19
$3,450
$3,278
$1,392
$1,385
$1,482
Sep 26
$3,450
$3,278
$1,392
$1,385
$1,482
Oct 3
$3,435
$3,263
$1,392
$1,385
$1,482
Oct 17
$3,435
$3,263
$1,392
$1,385
$1,482
A highlight this morning as you visit the Uffizi Gallery with a Florentine expert. One of the richest museums in Florence, and home to one of the greatest collections of Italian paintings, see art treasures by Da Vinci, Michelangelo and Botticelli. This afternoon, drive across the Apennine Mountains to the fertile plains of Emilia Romagna. Cross the River Po and Veneto plain to the Venetian Lagoon and your hotel on Lido Island.
DEPARTURE DATE
PRICE INCLUDES:
Complimentary WiFi available
with you throughout your journey
in guestrooms and/or public areas of most hotels and on-board the motorcoach. See page 62-63 for details
First Class Hotels twin bedded room with private restroom
DAY 12 VENICE SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
16 Meals 11 buffet breakfasts.
(BB,FD) VILLA MABAPA
DAY 13 VENICE – USA
Bid farewell to Unforgettable Italy. Departure transfers arrive at Venice’s Marco Polo airport at 8am and 10am. (BB)
SAVE AN AARP MEMBERS ADDITIONAL $100 P/P
Professional Travel Director
(BB) VILLA MABAPA
The finest way to absorb the unusual sights, sounds and unique Byzantine atmosphere of Venice is on an included cruise to St. Mark’s Square. View the Bridge of Sighs and watch traditional Venetian glassblowers at work. Enjoy plenty of free time to explore narrow alleyways or join an optional Venetian Lagoon cruise to the island of Burano. Tonight, the included Farewell Dinner with your new found friends is the perfect stage to remember the very best of Italy!
AIR ADD-ONS
5 dinners (including Welcome Reception, Highlight Dinner, 2 three course dinners with tea or coffee and Farewell Dinner)
Local Expert in Rome, Pompeii
Travel Documents including travel wallet, travel planner, complimentary keepsake photo and 5% Frequent Traveler Discount upon return for a future trip
and Florence
Personal Audio Headsets Airport Transfers arrival and departure transfers included as noted in itinerary with the purchase of combined air and land package
Solo Friendly
DEPARTURES Call for fo de d tailsl
Luxury Motorcoach Transportation with A/C, reclining seats, panoramic windows and emergency restroom
Code: UNI. Price is per person and is based on two people sharing a twin-bedded room. Single Supplement: from $500. Air Add-On: Prices listed were effective on January 27, 2015 and their availability is limited. At the time you purchase your trip, air prices may be higher. Prices shown include September 11th Security fee, government fees, taxes and airline fuel surcharges based on destination and routing. Additional Charges: Airline baggage charges collected at check-in are not included. Gratuities: Option to pre-pay gratuities for Travel Director and Driver $128 per person. Included Meals: WD Welcome Reception BB Buffet Breakfast D Dinner HD Highlight Dinner FD Farewell Dinner with Wine
MORE JOURNEYS AT
www.GETours.com
23
ITALY
FROM
15 $3,729 PACE
DAYS ACTIVE A G U I D ED ED V VA A C A T I ON AC ON
O U R I N CL OU CLU UDDDEE D
St. Peter’s Basilica, Rome
Your Jour ney
DAY 4 ROME – POMPEII – SORRENTO (2 NIGHTS)
DAY 1 USA – ROME
This morning, head south to the Bay of Naples where your local specialist unveils the archeological treasures of Pompeii, the Roman city both destroyed and preserved by an eruption of Mt. Vesuvius almost 2000 years ago. Your scenic drive continues to beautiful Sorrento for a relaxing two night stay. In the evening, savor a delicious homecooked meal, local wine and lively conversation with a Sorrento family at a special Hands-On dinner.
Overnight flight to Rome.
HIGHLIGHTS ROME: Guided sightseeing includes a VIP entrance to the Vatican Museum, the Bramante Staircase and the Sistine Chapel. Visit St. Peter’s Basilica and the Colosseum with views of the Piazza Venezia and Circus Maximus POMPEII: With a local specialist, explore the archeological treasures of the Roman city
DAY 2 ARRIVE ROME (2 NIGHTS)
Welcome to the Eternal City of Rome! On arrival at Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci Airport, your transfer leaves for the hotel at 9.30am, 12.30pm and 3.30pm. This evening, meet your companions and Travel Director at a Welcome Reception and dinner. (WD) DEI BORGIA HOTEL
SORRENTO: Dine with a local family in their home in the hills
DAY 3 ROME SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
ISLE OF CAPRI: Explore this legendary and idyllic island
A full day in Rome to enjoy this mecca of art and history! First stop: Vatican City, the smallest country in the world. With your local expert, slip past the crowds with VIP access to the Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel. You’ll stand face-to-face with some of the world’s most beloved masterpieces and have exclusive access to the spiraling stone Bramante Staircase – not open to the public. In the Sistine Chapel, Michelangelo’s dramatic ceiling frescoes and Last Judgment altar fresco will take your breath away. Visit St. Peter’s Basilica and the Colosseum, then view the iconic landmarks of Piazza Venezia and Circus Maximus on your way back to the hotel. This afternoon, relax with a glass of Prosecco or explore Rome’s treasures at your own pace.
ASSISI: View the 13th century Basilica of St. Francis BOLOGNA: Free time to explore this gastronomic city VENICE: Orientation includes St. Mark’s Square, the Bridge of Sighs and Doge’s Palace. Watch a glassblowing demonstration on Giudecca Island followed by a Venetian gondola ride VERONA: See Juliet’s balcony from Shakespeare’s “Romeo & Juliet” ITALIAN LAKE DISTRICT: Relax and soak in the beauty of the stunning Italian Lakes and surrounding Alps PISA: View the extraordinary Leaning Tower FLORENCE: Guided sightseeing includes Signoria Square. See Piazza Santa Croce and the Duomo. Visit the Accademia to see Michelangelo’s ‘Statue of David’
(BB) DEI BORGIA HOTEL
24
TOLL-FREE
1-800-552-5545
(BB,HD) GRAND HOTEL VESUVIO
DAY 5 SORRENTO (ISLE OF CAPRI EXCURSION)
Visit the legendary and idyllic Isle of Capri, once the summer home of Roman Emperors, and enjoy time to explore this enchanting island with white washed houses, orange and lemon trees, fashionable shops and restaurants. (BB) GRAND HOTEL VESUVIO
DAY 6 SORRENTO – ASSISI & FREE TIME
Head north into the Umbrian hills to the lovely medieval city of Assisi. Treat yourself to a leisurely walk through the inviting streets up to St. Francis’ Basilica or shop for local handicrafts. (BB,D) GRAND HOTEL ROSEO
DAY 7 ASSISI – BOLOGNA – VENICE (2 NIGHTS)
Travel to the gastronomic city of Bologna where there is free time to explore this refined city. Search for some of the local cheese and ‘prosciutto’ or take time to enjoy the trattorias before continuing on to a relaxing twonight stay on the Venetian Lido. (BB,D) BEST WESTERN HOTEL BIASUTTI
DAY 8 VENICE SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
Experience the unusual sights, sounds and unique Byzantine atmosphere of Venice on an included cruise to St. Mark’s Square to view the Bridge of Sighs and Doges’ Palace. On Giudecca Island watch a glassblowing demonstration of Venetian craftsmen fashioning their delicate objects in an age-old manner. Back in Venice enjoy an included gondola ride through the meandering canals followed by free time. (BB) BEST WESTERN HOTEL BIASUTTI
Enjoy a Venetian gondola ride
DAY 9 VENICE – VERONA – ITALIAN LAKES (2 NIGHTS)
DAY 10 ITALIAN LAKES AT LEISURE
This morning we journey first to the cypress-clad hills of Verona, renowned for Juliet’s balcony from Shakespeare’s famous “Romeo & Juliet.” See the Roman arena and stroll through the picturesque market square before heading across the plains of Lombardy for a relaxing two-night stay in the spectacular Italian Lake District.
A whole day to relax by the shimmering lake surrounded by pine covered mountains. Perhaps join an optional visit to beautiful Isola Bella or take an evening stroll (passeggiata) with the locals? (BB) HOTEL SIMPLON
(BB,D) HOTEL SIMPLON
Italian Lakes
ARRIVAL CITY
Lake Maggiore
Venice-Lido
Verona
Slovenia DEPARTURE CITY
Bologna NUMBER OF OVERNIGHT STAYS
Italy
Pisa
SIGHTSEEING STOP
Florence
Cinque Terre
Siena
Assisi
Corsica
Rome
Pompeii Isle of Capri
MORE JOURNEYS AT
Sorrento
www.GETours.com
25
(cont in u ed) SAVE SA
FLY FROM OVER 60 CITIES
DAY 11 ITALIAN LAKES – PISA – FLORENCE (3 NIGHTS)
Traveling across the rich Po Valley, cross the Apennine Mountains and head south along the Mediterranean coast to Pisa. View the extraordinary Leaning Tower: 180 feet high and no less than 16 feet out of the perpendicular! Then, it’s on to a pleasant three-night stay in Florence, capital of Tuscany and home of the Renaissance. (BB) GRAND
Call for up-to-the-minute airfare from over 60 cities throughout the USA – you’ll get: Free Airport Transfers, s, Choice of Airlines, Choice of Schedule & Routing. Business Class available. See page 8 for full details.
R ates per Person
UP TO
$408
PER COUPLE
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT BOOK BY MAR 27, 2015
DEPARTURE DATE
LAND PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
PRICE AFTER 5% EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT
EAST COAST (JFK)
MIDWEST (ORD)
WEST COAST (LAX)
May 5
$4,065
$3,862
$1,053
$1,227
$1,308
AIR ADD-ONS
May 12
$4,065
$3,862
$1,053
$1,227
$1,308
HOTEL MEDITERRANEO
May 19
$4,065
$3,862
$1,671
$1,848
$1,864
DAY 12 & 13 FLORENCE SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
Jun 2, 23
$4,065
$3,862
$1,671
$1,848
$1,864
Jul 21
$3,925
$3,729
$1,671
$1,848
$1,864
Aug 25
$3,925
$3,729
$1,053
$1,227
$1,308
Sep 1, 8, 15
$4,085
$3,881
$1,053
$1,227
$1,308
$1,227
$1,308
Stroll through Signoria Square and see Santa Croce Basilica and the Duomo with its beautiful Baptistry on your sightseeing tour of Florence and watch a leather work demonstration. End with a highlight visit to the Accademia to view Michelangelo’s magnificent ‘Statue of David’ with our Florentine expert followed by an afternoon at leisure. After a restful night’s sleep, the birthplace of the Renaissance is yours to explore. Or join an optional visit to the picturesque coastal villages of the Cinque Terre. (BB/BB,D) GRAND HOTEL
Sep 22, 29
$4,085
$3,881
$1,053
Oct 6, 13
$4,065
$3,862
$1,053
$1,227
$1,308
Oct 27
$3,975
$3,776
$1,053
$1,227
$1,308
PRICE INCLUDES: Professional Travel Director with you throughout your journey
First Class Hotels twin bedded
SAVE AN AARP MEMBERS ADDITIONAL $100 P/P Luxury Motorcoach Transportation with A/C, reclining seats, panoramic windows and emergency restroom
MEDITERRANEO
room with private restroom
DAY 14 FLORENCE – SIENA – ROME
20 Meals 13 buffet breakfasts. 7 dinners (including Welcome Reception, 1 Highlight Dinner, 4 three course dinners with tea or coffee and Farewell Dinner)
Complimentary WiFi available
Local Expert in Rome, Pompeii,
Travel Documents including
Soak in the views of the Tuscan countryside on the drive south to Siena. Home to the annual Palio horse race in the stunning Piazza del Campo, this medieval walled city is a delightful place to wander. End the day back in Rome for a Highlight Farewell Dinner. As you listen to famous arias and popular Italian music, raise a glass to your companions and la dolce vita. (BB,FD) SHERATON ROMA HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTER
DAY 15 ROME – USA
Bid farewell to Italy. Departure transfers arrive at Rome’s Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci Airport at 6am, 8am and 9.45am.
Capri and Florence
Personal Audio Headsets Airport Transfers arrival and
in guestrooms and/or public areas of most hotels and on-board the motorcoach. See page 62-63 for details travel wallet, travel planner, complimentary keepsake photo and 5% Frequent Traveler Discount upon return for a future trip
departure transfers included as noted in itinerary with the purchase of combined air and land package
Code: ITA. Price is per person and is based on two people sharing a twin-bedded room. Single Supplement: from $830. Air Add-On: Prices listed were effective on January 27, 2015 and their availability is limited. At the time you purchase your trip, air prices may be higher. Prices shown include September 11th Security fee, government fees, taxes and airline fuel surcharges based on destination and routing. Additional Charges: Airline baggage charges collected at check-in are not included. Gratuities: Option to pre-pay gratuities for Travel Director and Driver $160 per person. Included Meals: WD Welcome Reception BB Buffet Breakfast D Dinner HD Highlight Dinner FD Farewell Dinner with Wine
(BB)
26
MORE JOURNEYS AT
www.GETours.com
FR ANCE
FROM
15 $3,577 PACE
DAYS COMFORTABLE A G U I D ED ED V VA A C A T I ON AC ON
O U R I N CL OU CLU UDDDEE D
Visit the beautiful Chateau de Chenonceau
Your Jour ney DAY 1 USA – PARIS
Overnight flight to Paris.
HIGHLIGHTS PARIS: Guided sightseeing views the Arc de Triomphe, Place de la Concorde and the magnificent Gothic Cathedral of Notre Dame with an included visit to the Louvre GIVERNY: Visit Claude Monet’s house and beautiful gardens BAYEUX: Visit the Bayeux Tapestry Museum NORMANDY: Visit the Normandy Landing Beaches, Arromanches, the American Military Cemetery at Omaha Beach and Pointe du Hoc MONT ST. MICHEL: View the famous Benedictine monastery CHÂTEAUX COUNTRY: Visit the Renaissance gardens of Villandry, Château de Chenonceau, and Château d’Amboise BORDEAUX: See Quinconces Square LOURDES: See the basilica on top of St. Bernadette’s grotto CARCASSONNE: Enjoy a full day to explore this unique town NIMES: View the Roman Arena and Maison Carree AVIGNON: Visit the Papal Palace PONT DU GARD: View the threetiered Roman Aqueduct FRENCH RIVIERA: Visit the Principality of Monaco
DAY 2 ARRIVE PARIS (3 NIGHTS)
Welcome to Paris! Your transfer leaves Charles de Gaulle Airport for the hotel at 9am, 12noon and 3pm. This evening join your Travel Director for a Welcome Reception with drinks and dinner and meet your travel companions. (WD) NOVOTEL PARIS TOUR EIFFEL
DAY 3 PARIS SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
Truly one of Europe’s great cities, Paris has an appeal all of her own. Set out along the Champs-Elysées with your resident local expert to view the Arc de Triomphe, Place de la Concorde and the magnificent Gothic Cathedral of Notre Dame. End with a guided visit to the Louvre to admire its masterpieces including the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo. This evening don’t miss the opportunity to see an exciting Parisian Cabaret with the French Cancan. (BB) NOVOTEL PARIS TOUR EIFFEL
DAY 4 PARIS AT LEISURE
Today is free for you to sample Paris your way. Perhaps join optional experiences to Montmartre, the Eiffel Tower or the magnificent Palace of Versailles. (BB) NOVOTEL PARIS TOUR EIFFEL
DAY 5 PARIS – GIVERNY – ROUEN – BAYEUX – NORMANDY (2 NIGHTS)
This morning head to Giverny to visit Claude Monet’s house and beautiful gardens, the inspiration for his “water lily” paintings. After a stop in Joan of Arc’s Rouen, visit the Bayeux Tapestry Museum in Normandy, our home for two relaxing nights. Rediscover the victory of the D-Day Landings as we hear a special Hands-On lecture from a local expert. (BB,D) NOVOTEL BAYEUX
DAY 6 NORMANDY
Today we remember the heroes of the D-Day landings. Visit the Normandy Landing Beaches, the museum at Arromanches, the American Military Cemetery at Omaha Beach, and Pointe du Hoc, heroically secured by the American Rangers. (BB) NOVOTEL BAYEUX
DAY 7 NORMANDY – MONT ST. MICHEL – LOIRE VALLEY (2 NIGHTS)
This morning visit that marvel of French architecture, Mont St. Michel. This mass of granite rising 400 feet from the sea was begun in 709 A.D. View its famous Benedictine monastery added in the 13th century. Next, travel through the lush and picture-perfect Loire Valley, with rolling vineyards, imposing castles and elegant châteaux. Settle in for two relaxing nights in this idyllic “Garden of France”. (BB,D) ALLIANCE HOTEL TOURS CENTRE
TOLL-FREE
1-800-552-5545
27
(cont inn u ed) DAY 8 LOIRE VALLEY CHATEAUX EXCURSION
A full day dedicated to the best châteaux of France! Start with a stroll through the Renaissance gardens of Villandry, with its water, ornamental and kitchen gardens. Next, visit the 16th century Château de Chenonceau, incredibly engineered over the River Cher. After free time in the riverside town of Amboise, end the day with a guided visit to the impressive Château d’Amboise, where Leonardo da Vinci spent the last years of his life and was eventually buried. (BB)
Visit Mount St. Michel
ALLIANCE HOTEL TOURS CENTRE
DAY 9 LOIRE VALLEY – BORDEAUX
principal red wine areas of Bordeaux. This evening, enjoy a Highlight Dinner of ‘mouthwatering’ local specialties with local Bordeaux wine. (BB,HD)
Bid farewell to the Loire Valley and head for the Aquitaine region, which remained English until the end of the Hundred Years’ War in 1453. Stop in St. Emilion, one of the
MERCURE BORDEAUX CENTRE
DAY 10 BORDEAUX – LOURDES – CARCASSONNE (2 NIGHTS)
After a stop to see Quinconces Square in Bordeaux, stop at Lourdes to see the beautiful
Landing Beaches
ARRIVAL CITY
Normandy Mont St. Michel
Bayeux
DEPARTURE CITY
Paris
Giverny
NUMBER OF OVERNIGHT STAYS
Châteaux Country
Loire Valley
SIGHTSEEING STOP
St. Emilion
Switzerland
France
Bordeaux Italy
Lourdes
Pont Du Gard
Avignon
Carcassonne
Monte Carlo Nimes
French Riviera
28
TOLL-FREE
1-800-552-5545
basilica built above the grotto where St. Bernadette saw an apparition of the Virgin Mary. End the day surrounded by Languedoc vineyards in the fairy tale walled city of Carcassonne. (BB,D) BEST WESTERN LE DONJON
DAY 11 CARCASSONNE AT LEISURE
After a restful night’s sleep enjoy a full day at leisure to explore this unique town or perhaps join an optional experience into “Hidden France” to Albi. (BB) BEST
SA SAVE
FLY FROM OVER 60 CITIES Call for up-to-the-minute airfare from over 60 cities s, throughout the USA – you’ll get: Free Airport Transfers, Choice of Airlines, Choice of Schedule & Routing. Business Class available. See page 8 for full details.
R ates per Person DEPARTURE DATE
May 7
UP TO
$394
PER COUPLE
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT BOOK BY MAR 27, 2015
LAND PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
PRICE AFTER 5% EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT
EAST COAST (JFK)
MIDWEST (ORD)
WEST COAST (LAX)
$3,825
$3,634
$1,216
$1,264
$1,387
$1,593
$1,720
AIR ADD-ONS
May 21
$3,875
$3,681
$1,494
WESTERN LE DONJON
Jun 4
$3,875
$3,681
$1,494
$1,593
$1,720
DAY 12 CARCASSONNE – NIMES – AVIGNON
Jun 18
$3,875
$3,681
$1,494
$1,593
$1,720
Aug 13
$3,765
$3,577
$1,494
$1,593
$1,720
Sep 3
$3,935
$3,738
$1,216
$1,264
$1,387
Sep 10
$3,935
$3,738
$1,216
$1,264
$1,387
Sep 17
$3,935
$3,738
$1,216
$1,264
$1,387
Sep 24
$3,935
$3,738
$1,216
$1,264
$1,387
$3,681
$1,216
$1,264
$1,387
Stop in the ancient city of Nîmes to see the first-century Roman Arena and the Roman temple, Maison Carrée. Take a short drive to Pont du Gard to view the threetiered Roman Aqueduct. Then end the day on the Rhone River in Avignon, where you’ll visit the imposing Gothic Papal Palace, flanked by four towers, and see the city’s iconic medieval bridge. (BB) MERCURE PONT D’AVIGNON
Oct 1
$3,875
PRICE INCLUDES:
SAVE AN AARP MEMBERS ADDITIONAL $100 P/P
DAY 13 AVIGNON – FRENCH RIVIERA (2 NIGHTS)
Professional Travel Director with you throughout your journey
Luxury Motorcoach Transportation with A/C,
Travel southeast through Provence, famed for its sunflower fields that inspired the great impressionist painters, for an afternoon arrival on the French Riviera. Stroll the Promenade des Anglais or browse the local shops for a special keepsake of your travels. (BB) HOTEL ELLINGTON NICE
First Class Hotels twin bedded room with private restroom
reclining seats, panoramic windows and emergency restroom
19 Meals 13 buffet breakfasts.
Complimentary WiFi available
DAY 14 FRENCH RIVIERA AT LEISURE
Today is completely free to sample the delights of the Cote d’Azur. Tonight tour the wealthy Principality of Monaco. See the luxury yachts, drive along part of the Grand Prix circuit and bid adieu to your new found friends at a Farewell Dinner. (BB,FD) HOTEL ELLINGTON NICE
DAY 15 FRENCH RIVIERA – USA
Today, we bid “au revoir” to France. Departure transfers arrive at Nice Airport at 8am and 10am.
6 dinners (including Welcome Reception, 1 Highlight Dinner, 3 three course dinners with tea or coffee and Farewell Dinner)
in guestrooms and/or public areas of most hotels and on-board the motorcoach. See page 62-63 for details
Local Expert in Paris, Chateaux Country and Avignon
Travel Documents including
Personal Audio Headsets Airport Transfers arrival and
travel wallet, travel planner, complimentary keepsake photo and 5% Frequent Traveler Discount upon return for a future trip
departure transfers included as noted in itinerary with the purchase of combined air and land package
Code: GTF. Price is per person and is based on two people sharing a twin-bedded room. Single Supplement: from $1,370. Air Add-On: Prices listed were effective on January 27, 2015 and their availability is limited. At the time you purchase your trip, air prices may be higher. Prices shown include September 11th Security fee, government fees, taxes and airline fuel surcharges based on destination and routing. Additional Charges: Airline baggage charges collected at check-in are not included. Gratuities: Option to pre-pay gratuities for Travel Director and Driver $151 per person. Included Meals: WD Welcome Reception BB Buffet Breakfast D Dinner HD Highlight Dinner FD Farewell Dinner with Wine
(BB)
MORE JOURNEYS AT
www.GETours.com
29
SPAIN
FROM
10 $2,313 PACE
DAYS COMFORTABLE A G U I D ED ED V VA A C A T I ON AC ON
O U R I N CL OU CLU UDDDEE D
Enjoy a highlight Flamenco show
Your Jour ney
DAY 4 BARCELONA – VALENCIA
DAY 1 USA – BARCELONA
Follow the sunny Costa Dorada, past the rice fields of the Ebro Delta to stop by Peñíscola and see the sea-lapped castle, used in the film El Cid. Now through the famous orange groves to Valencia where you see the ultra modern Center of Arts and Sciences. Circumnavigate the old town, past the City Gates of Serranos and Quart to reach your central hotel. Valencia is home to one of the world’s greatest dishes. Nowhere will you eat better paella! This evening learn the authentic recipe in a fun cookery demonstration and savor the flavors of this classic dish for dinner washed down with a glass of Sangria!
Overnight flight to Barcelona.
HIGHLIGHTS
DAY 2 ARRIVE BARCELONA (2 NIGHTS)
BARCELONA: Guided sightseeing includes old lanes and squares of the Gothic Quarter and visit inside Gaudi’s extraordinary masterpiece, the Sagrada Familia Church VALENCIA: See the ultramodern Center of Arts and Sciences, the huge City Gates of Serranos and Quart. Join a master chef for a delicious culinary introduction to Valencian culture and their signature dish Paella GRANADA: Guided visit to the Alhambra Palace and the rich scented Gardens of the Generalife SEVILLE: Visit the beautiful Plaza de España in Seville’s Maria Louisa Park. Enjoy a walking tour of the Santa Cruz Quarter with its pretty squares and flower decked balconies and see the Tomb of Columbus in the cathedral CORDOBA: Spend some time in the old Jewish Quarter, see the Roman Bridge and explore the Mezquita’s forest of horseshoe arches with a local expert VALDEPEÑAS: Enjoy a delicious exploration of these wines, with their robust flavors and history MADRID: Your guided tour shows you the statue of Don Quixote in the Plaza de España, Royal Palace, Gran Via, Cibeles Fountain, Parliament and Puerta del Sol. Study the world’s finest collection of Spanish paintings plus an impressive foreign collection as you tour the Prado Museum
30
Airport transfers depart from Barcelona Airport for the hotel at 9.30am, 12.30pm and 3pm. Later, join your Travel Director for a Welcome Reception and the chance to mingle over a delightful evening of dinner and wine. (WD) MELIÁ BARCELONA SARRIÀ
DAY 3 BARCELONA SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
After a restful night’s sleep, join a local expert in the Plaça Nova in the heart of Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter. Walk through the Roman gate to explore the narrow lanes and old squares behind the cathedral. Now drive by the lively Rambla and along the Passeig de Gràcia, adorned with elegant wrought-iron street lamps and some of the most flamboyant Modernist buildings. Continue through the Eixample district for a visit inside Gaudi’s extraordinary masterpiece, the Sagrada Familia Church to see the central nave with its giant, treelike pillars and spectacular vaulting. Enjoy a free afternoon to explore. (BB) MELIÁ BARCELONA SARRIÀ
TOLL-FREE
1-800-552-5545
(BB,HD) BARCELO VALENCIA
DAY 5 VALENCIA – GRANADA
Heading along the Costa Blanca, Benidorm suddenly rises like Manhattan on the Mediterranean. Continue past the castle at Lorca and troglodyte dwellings hollowed out of the soft rock at Purullena. Drive along the Sierra Nevada, with magnificent mountain views and over the Mora Pass to reach glorious Granada. Overlooking the town, stands one of the most remarkable fortresses ever built, the Alhambra. Explore this exquisite palace; a fantasy of stone cut lace, arabesque gardens
and fountains, built as a citadel by the Moors in the 13th century. Also stroll through the exotic water gardens of the Generalife, the Royal summer residence. (BB,D) VINCCI ALBAYZIN
DAY 6 GRANADA – SEVILLE (2 NIGHTS)
This morning, there is time, if you wish, to explore the labyrinthine Albaicin Quarter – from the Church of St. Nicholas, there is one of the most exquisite views of the Alhambra. Then drive to Seville past gleaming white villages and olive groves that stretch as far as the eye can see. This exquisite capital of Andalucía is simply one of Spain’s most charming jewels. Tonight, enjoy the flavors of Andalucía and share in the passion of Spain’s most fiery region at a Flamenco show and dinner. (BB,HD) AYRE
Visit the beautiful Alhambra
stone, set in richly scented gardens. Visit the massive cathedral, burial place of Christopher Columbus and enriched with the spoils of the New World. The energetic can climb the Giralda Tower, former minaret of the Great Mosque and enjoy views over the city. This afternoon is at leisure. (BB) AYRE
DAY 7 SEVILLE SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
Seville has a distinctive character and presence best revealed by a local expert. During your stay, visit the Plaza de España in Maria Louisa Park. Then stroll through the fashionable Santa Cruz Quarter with its flower bedecked wroughtiron balconies. Emerge by the Alcazar – a Moorish fantasy in
France
Portugal
ARRIVAL CITY
Spain DEPARTURE CITY
Madrid
Barcelona
Castilla la Mancha
Costa Dorada
Peñiscola Valdepeñas
Valencia
Córdoba
Seville
Lorca
Granada
Purullena
MORE JOURNEYS AT
NUMBER OF OVERNIGHT STAYS
SIGHTSEEING STOP
Costa del Azahar
Benidorm Costa Blanca
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31
(cont in u ed) DAY 8 SEVILLE – CORDOBA – MADRID (2 NIGHTS)
Set off early along the Guadalquivir Valley, past villages and towns studded with Moorish towers and fortresses. Stop in the perfectly preserved Moorish city of Cordoba. See the famous 2000-year-old bridge and meet a local historian for a visit to the magnificent Mezquita, an 8th century mosque with a Christian church built inside it. Afterwards, there is free time to stroll through the narrow streets of the Old Jewish Quarter. Follow in the footsteps of Don Quixote now as you travel through the Mancha vineyards to the famous winecenter of Valdepeñas, its roads lined with bodegas (wine-cellars). Learn about the wines that make this region so famous and taste their robust flavors. Move on to the capital of Madrid. (BB) HESPERIA DAY 9 MADRID SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
Join a local expert for a sightseeing tour along the noble avenues. Drive by the statue of Cervantes’ fictional hero, Don Quixote, in the Plaza de España. Continue past the Cibeles Fountain and the Parliament and cross the Puerta del Sol. Visit the Prado Museum, a rose colored palace housing works by Botticelli, Velázquez, Goya, Titian, Rubens and others. Take time out to relax at a café or shop in the trendy boutiques. In the evening, join a farewell Celebration Dinner in the heart of town, complete with wine and music. (BB,CD) HESPERIA DAY 10 MADRID – USA
Board your onward flights today, taking home memories and friendships that will last a lifetime. Departure transfers arrive at Madrid Airport at 7am, 9am and 11am. (BB)
SAVE SA
FLY FROM OVER 60 CITIES Call for up-to-the-minute airfare from over 60 cities throughout the USA – you’ll get: Free Airport Transfers, s, Choice of Airlines, Choice of Schedule & Routing. Business Class available. See page 8 for full details.
R ates per Person DEPARTURE DATE
Apr 3, 10 Apr 17, 24
Jun 5, 12
WEST COAST (LAX)
$2,465
$2,342
$1,154
$1,224
$1,264
$2,342
$1,154
$1,224
$1,264
$2,342
$1,154
$1,224
$1,264
$2,342
$1,390 $1,494
$1,552
$2,342
$1,390 $1,494
$1,552
$2,342
$1,390 $1,494
$1,552
$2,313
$1,390 $1,494
$1,552
$2,313
$1,390 $1,494
$1,552
$2,313
$1,390 $1,494
$1,552
$2,313
$1,154
$1,224
$1,264
$2,408
$1,154
$1,224
$1,264
$2,342
$1,154
$1,224
$1,264
$2,328
$1,154
$1,224
$1,264
$2,465
$2,435
Jul 24, 31
$2,435
Aug 7, 14, 21
$2,435
Aug 28
$2,435
Sep 4, 11, 18, 25 Oct 2, 9, 16, 23 Oct 30
MIDWEST (ORD)
$2,465
Jul 3, 10, 17
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT BOOK BY MAR 27, 2015
EAST COAST (JFK)
$2,465
Jun 19, 26
$2,535 $2,465 $2,450
PRICE INCLUDES: Professional Travel Director
AIR ADD-ONS
SAVE AN AARP MEMBERS ADDITIONAL $100 P/P
with you throughout your journey
noted in itinerary with the purchase of combined air and land package
First Class Hotels twin bedded room with private restroom
Luxury Motorcoach Transportation with A/C,
13 Meals 8 buffet breakfasts. 5
reclining seats, extended leg room, panoramic windows and emergency restroom
dinners (including Welcome Reception, 2 three-course table d’hôte Dinners, or Buffets, plus tea or coffee, 1 Highlight Dinner and Celebration Dinner)
Local Expert in Barcelona, Granada, Seville and Madrid Personal Audio Headsets Airport Transfers arrival and departure transfers included as
Complimentary WiFi available in guestrooms and/or public areas of most hotels and on-board the motorcoach. See page 62-63 for details
Travel Documents including travel wallet, travel planner, complimentary keepsake photo and 5% Frequent Traveler Discount upon return for a future trip
Code: SPA. Price is per person and is based on two people sharing a twin-bedded room. Single Supplement: from $860. Air Add-On: Prices listed were effective on January 27, 2015 and their availability is limited. At the time you purchase your trip, air prices may be higher. Prices shown include September 11th Security fee, government fees, taxes and airline fuel surcharges based on destination and routing. Additional Charges: Airline baggage charges collected at check-in are not included. This itinerary is operated by our sister company. Gratuities: Option to pre-pay gratuities for Travel Director and Driver $103 per person. Included Meals: WD Welcome Reception BB Buffet Breakfast D Dinner HD Highlight Dinner CD Celebration Dinner
32
PER COUPLE
PRICE AFTER 5% EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT
$2,465
May 15, 22, 29
$254
LAND PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
$2,465
May 1, 8
UP TO
MORE JOURNEYS AT
www.GETours.com
SPAIN, PORTUGAL
FROM
14 $2,750 PACE
DAYS ACTIVE A G U I D ED ED V VA A C A T I ON AC ON
O U R I N CL OU CLU UDDDEE D
Porto, Portugal
Your Jour ney
DAY 4 LISBON – FÁTIMA – PORTO
DAY 1 USA – LISBON
After a leisurely breakfast, head to Fátima to see the shrine and Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary. Then on to Porto on the Douro River, where the picturesque riverfront Ribeira district is part of the historic center recognized as a World Heritage site. Admire the bridges that span the Douro and deepen your Port wine appreciation at an included tasting in a local cellar. The balance of the afternoon is free to explore the downtown area. (BB,D)
Overnight flight to Lisbon.
HIGHLIGHTS LISBON: Guided sightseeing tour includes a visit to the Monument to the Discoveries, the Tower of Belem, the Hieronymite Monastery, Alfama district and the Liberdade boulevard FÁTIMA: Visit the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary PORTO: See the colorful buildings of Ribeiria and the famous bridges across the Douro Valley. Visit a Port wine cellar for a tasting SALAMANCA: See the Old City and visit Plaza Mayor and the Old University building BILBAO: Visit the modern Guggenheim Museum BARCELONA: Guided sightseeing tour includes the magnificent Cathedral, the old Gothic Quarter and a visit to the Sagrada Familia Church. See the Columbus Monument and Passeig de Gracia Boulevard VALENCIA: View the unique City of Arts and Science building MADRID: Guided sightseeing tour includes views of the Royal Palace, Puerta del Sol, Plaza de Espana and visit to the world famous Prado Museum
DAY 2 ARRIVE LISBON (2 NIGHTS)
Muito bem-vindo! A warm welcome! Airport transfers leave for the hotel at 9.30am, 11.30am, 1.30pm and 3.30pm. This evening enjoy a Welcome Reception with dinner and get to know your travel companions. (WD) REAL PALACIO DAY 3 LISBON SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
Begin your stay with an included tour of the city, stopping at the Monument to the Discoveries, the Tower of Belem perched on the banks of the Tagus, and visit the Hieronymite Monastery. Here we will see the tomb of Vasco da Gama. From this city many navigators set sail and we will hear about Magellan, Dias and Henry as we tour this exciting Portuguese capital. The old Alfama district and the Liberdade tree-lined boulevard, with its beautiful mosaic sidewalks. Rossio and Commerce Squares are also part of our morning sightseeing. In the afternoon, relax or join an optional experience to the beautiful hilltop village of Sintra and the pretty harbor of Cascais. (BB) REAL PALACIO
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1-800-552-5545
TIARA PARK ATLANTIC PORTO
DAY 5 PORTO – SALAMANCA
This morning we drive into Spain on the way to Salamanca, seat of one of the oldest universities in the world. On your included walking tour, see the UNESCO Old City and visit Spain’s most beautiful squares, the Plaza Mayor. Pause to admire the Old University with its adjacent buildings, Escuelas Menores and Cielo de Salamanca, the cloister and its charming chapel (when available). (BB) ALAMEDA PALACE DAY 6 SALAMANCA – BURGOS – SAN SEBASTIAN (2 NIGHTS)
On the way to the Basque Country, we drive past Tordesillas, where the Line of Demarcation was established back in the 15th century, and Valladolid, where Columbus died and was originally buried.
33
(cont in u ed) Stop in Burgos, the land of El Cid, Spain’s 11th century national hero, then continue across verdant valleys to stunning San Sebastian. (BB,D) NH ARANZAZU
DAY 7 BILBAO & THE GUGGENHEIM MUSEUM
Travel to nearby Bilbao to visit the Guggenheim Museum, where the Gehry-designed modern building is as intriguing as the collections inside. Return to San Sebastian for an afternoon at leisure. Stroll along the four-mile oceanfront promenade, take a boat to Isla Santa Clara, or join an optional trip to the nearby French village of Saint-Jean-deLuz, dubbed “Little Paris” in the 17th century. (BB) NH ARANZAZU
DAY 8 SAN SEBASTIAN – PAMPLONA – BARCELONA (3 NIGHTS)
First stop this morning is Pamplona the city of the running of the bulls. Pass through the Rioja wine region and arrive in Barcelona to a warm Catalonian welcome. Unpack for an enchanting three-night stay in Catalonia’s coastal capital, then savor the regional flavors at local restaurant at tonight’s Highlight Dinner. (BB,HD) U232 HOTEL DAY 9 BARCELONA SIGHTSEEING & MONSERRAT
See the sites – from the old Gothic Quarter to the beautiful Passeig de Gracia Boulevard and Columbus Monument on your morning tour. Visit Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia Church; its fanciful sculptural spires are one of
Sagrada Familia, Barcelona
ARRIVAL CITY
France
Bilbao
Porto
San Sebastian
Burgos
DEPARTURE CITY
NUMBER OF OVERNIGHT STAYS
Pamplona
Lisbon
Fátima
Salamanca
Montserrat
Barcelona
Madrid Portugal
Valencia Spain
34
TOLL-FREE
1-800-552-5545
SIGHTSEEING STOP
Barcelona’s most iconic images. Then, continue to Montserrat to marvel at the dramatic peaks surrounding this peaceful place of pilgrimage. (BB) U232 HOTEL DAY 10 BARCELONA AT LEISURE
The day is yours to explore Spain’s most vibrant city! Stroll along the famous Rambla and Gaudi’s Park Guell or visit the superb Picasso Museum. (BB) U232 HOTEL DAY 11 BARCELONA – VALENCIA
Gaze at the sparkling Mediterranean waters of the Costa Dorada on a morning drive past orange groves to Valencia. See the 2000-year-old city, a mix of old ramparts and gateways and the new Santiago Calatrava’s futuristic City of Arts and Sciences complex during a panoramic sightseeing tour. Enjoy free time in the afternoon and save your appetite for a classic Valencian treat. After a Hands-On paella cooking demonstration, savor the delicious results at a festive dinner.
SA SAVE
FLY FROM OVER 60 CITIES Call for up-to-the-minute airfare from over 60 cities s, throughout the USA – you’ll get: Free Airport Transfers, Choice of Airlines, Choice of Schedule & Routing. Business Class available. See page 8 for full details.
R ates per Person
UP TO
$302
PER COUPLE
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT BOOK BY MAR 27, 2015
LAND PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
PRICE AFTER 5% EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT
EAST COAST (JFK)
MIDWEST (ORD)
WEST COAST (LAX)
Apr 26
$2,895
$2,750
$1,163
$1,296
$1,327
May 3
$2,895
$2,750
$1,163
$1,296
$1,327
May 17
$2,895
$2,750
$1,411
$1,520
$1,579
Jun 7
$2,895
$2,750
$1,411
$1,520
$1,579
Jul 19
$2,995
$2,845
$1,411
$1,520
$1,579
Aug 30
$2,995
$2,845
$1,163
$1,296
$1,327
Sep 13
$2,995
$2,845
$1,163
$1,296
$1,327
Sep 20
$2,995
$2,845
$1,163
$1,296
$1,327
Oct 4
$2,895
$2,750
$1,163
$1,296
$1,327
Oct 11
$2,895
$2,750
$1,163
$1,296
$1,327
DEPARTURE DATE
PRICE INCLUDES:
AIR ADD-ONS
SAVE AN AARP MEMBERS ADDITIONAL $100 P/P
(BB,HD) VALENCIA CENTER
Professional Travel Director
DAY 12 VALENCIA – MADRID
with you throughout your journey
Luxury Motorcoach Transportation with A/C,
First Class Hotels twin bedded room with private restroom
reclining seats, panoramic windows and emergency restroom
18 Meals 12 buffet breakfasts. 6 dinners (including Welcome Reception, 2 Highlight Dinners, 2 three course dinners with tea or coffee and Farewell Dinner)
Complimentary WiFi available
Local Expert in Lisbon, Salamanca, Barcelona and Madrid
Travel Documents including
(2 NIGHTS)
Cross La Mancha to Madrid, Spain’s capital city. Your afternoon sightseeing views the Royal Palace, Puerta del Sol and Plaza de España with its monument to Cervantes, the writer of Don Quixote. Then, it’s on to a highlight visit to the palatial Prado Museum, one of the world’s greatest art galleries with works by El Greco, Velazquez, Goya and Italian and Dutch masters. (BB) MELIA GALGOS
Personal Audio Headsets Airport Transfers arrival and
in guestrooms and/or public areas of most hotels and on-board the motorcoach. See page 62-63 for details travel wallet, travel planner, complimentary keepsake photo and 5% Frequent Traveler Discount upon return for a future trip
departure transfers included as noted in itinerary with the purchase of combined air and land package
DAY 13 MADRID AT LEISURE
Enjoy a full day free to explore this cosmopolitan city on your own or consider taking an optional trip to Toledo, Spain’s old capital. Tonight, say your goodbyes during our Highlight Farewell Dinner at a local restaurant. (BB,FD) MELIA GALGOS
Code: USP. Price is per person and is based on two people sharing a twin-bedded room. Single Supplement: from $850. Air Add-On: Prices listed were effective on January 27, 2015 and their availability is limited. At the time you purchase your trip, air prices may be higher. Prices shown include September 11th Security fee, government fees, taxes and airline fuel surcharges based on destination and routing. Additional Charges: Airline baggage charges collected at check-in are not included. Gratuities: Option to pre-pay gratuities for Travel Director and Driver $148 per person. Included Meals: WD Welcome Reception BB Buffet Breakfast D Dinner HD Highlight Dinner FD Farewell Dinner with Wine
DAY 14 MADRID – USA
Departure transfers arrive at Madrid Airport at 7am, 9am and 11am. (BB)
MORE JOURNEYS AT
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35
SPAIN, MOROCCO, PORTUGAL
FROM
14 $2,722 PACE
DAYS ACTIVE A G U I D ED ED V VA A C A T I ON AC ON
O U R I N CL OU CLU UDDDEE D
Plaza de Espana, Seville
Your Jour ney DAY 1 USA – MADRID
Overnight flight to Madrid.
HIGHLIGHTS
DAY 2 ARRIVE MADRID (2 NIGHTS)
MADRID: Guided sightseeing views the Royal Palace, Puerta del Sol, Plaza de Espana and visits the palatial Prado Museum TOLEDO: Guided sightseeing tour includes views of the 13th century Gothic Cathedral and visits Santa Maria La Blanca Synagogue and Santo Tome Church CORDOBA: Guided sightseeing includes a visit to the Mosque of the Caliphs GRANADA: Visit to the famed Alhambra COSTA DEL SOL: Visit a working olive mill and enjoy an Andalusian home-hosted lunch TETOUAN MOROCCO: Experience the Medina GIBRALTAR: Visit St. Michael’s Cave, the famed Rock and see the Barbary Apes SEVILLE: Guided sightseeing tour includes Maria Luisa Park, Plaza de Espana, view the Alcazar Palace, visit the district of Santa Cruz and see the tomb of Christopher Columbus LISBON: Guided sightseeing tour includes the Monument to the Discoveries, the Tower of Belem, the Hieronymite Monastery, Alfama district and the Liberdade Boulevard FÁTIMA: Visit the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary
36
Welcome to Madrid! On arrival at Madrid Airport, your transfer leaves for the hotel at 9am, 11am, 1.30pm and 4pm. This evening enjoy a Welcome Reception and dinner with your Travel Director and traveling companions. (WD) MELIA GALGOS
DAY 3 MADRID SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
Our morning sightseeing views the Royal Palace, Puerta del Sol and Plaza de España with its monument to Cervantes, the writer of Don Quixote. Then, it’s on to a highlight visit to the palatial Prado Museum, one of the world’s greatest art galleries with works by El Greco, Velazquez, Goya and Italian and Dutch masters. Your afternoon is free for individual exploration or perhaps join your Travel Director for an optional experience. (BB) MELIA GALGOS DAY 4 MADRID – TOLEDO – CORDOBA
Just south of Madrid, Toledo rises from a granite hill above the Tagus River. See the 13th century Gothic Cathedral and visit Santa Maria La Blanca Synagogue, one of the oldest synagogue buildings in Europe, and Santo Tome Church, home to
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1-800-552-5545
El Greco’s most famous painting during a guided sightseeing tour of this World Heritage Historic City. Continue south through the rugged landscapes of Don Quixote’s La Mancha with its characteristic white windmills to the Andalusian city of Cordoba. (BB,D) MACIA ALFAROS
DAY 5 CORDOBA – GRANADA
Cordoba, situated in the fertile valley of the River Guadalquivir, has an extensive array of architectural monuments built by the Romans, the Moors and early Christians. Visit the magnificent 8th century Mosque of the Caliphs, famous for its 850 pillars of porphyry, marble and jasper. Then, travel through the endless Andalusian olive groves on our way to Moorish hilltop Granada with its spectacular views of the surrounding Sierra Nevada Mountains. (BB,D) MELIA GRANADA DAY 6 GRANADA – COSTA DEL SOL (3 NIGHTS)
This morning, a highlight visit to the famed Alhambra feels like entering an Arabian Night’s dream! A fantasy of “lace in stone”, surrounded by arabesque gardens and fountains, the Alhambra accords superb views of the Old Quarter and Sacromonte, a mountain occupied by Gypsy cave dwellers. Then, travel south to the vibrant Costa del Sol for a leisurely three-night stay. Stop at a rural olive mill for a fun Hands-On
olive-oil tasting and join the locals at the village square for an Andalusian home-hosted lunch. (BB,HL,D) MELIA COSTA DEL SOL
DAY 7 TETOUAN MOROCCO EXCURSION
Slip away to Morocco for a day! After a morning drive, board a ferry and cross the Strait of Gibraltar, where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean. Experience the exotic scents, sights and sounds of the bustling, exotic Medina in Tetouan and savor the flavors of a Moroccan feast and local entertainment before crossing the sea back to Spain. Visit the Mosque of the Caliphs in Cordoba
(BB,HL) MELIA COSTA DEL SOL
DAY 8 COSTA DEL SOL AT LEISURE
DAY 9 COSTA DEL SOL – GIBRALTAR – SEVILLE (2 NIGHTS)
A whole day to relax by the blue Mediterranean waters, stroll along the beach front or take an optional experience into the hills to visit the quaint white-washed village of Mijas. (BB) MELIA COSTA DEL SOL
A short drive takes us to the British Territory of Gibraltar, where we tour the famed Rock, visit St. Michael’s Cave and meet the infamous Barbary Apes. After free time downtown, we return to Spain and continue through
Portugal Fátima
the vineyards of Jerez, home of sherry, to a pleasant two-night stay in Seville, Andalusia’s most beautiful city. Don’t miss the chance to see an optional Flamenco show tonight! (BB,D) MELIA LEBREROS
ARRIVAL CITY
Madrid DEPARTURE CITY
Lisbon
Spain
Alentejo
Toledo
Córdoba
NUMBER OF OVERNIGHT STAYS
SIGHTSEEING STOP
Seville Granada Costa del Sol Gibraltar
Tétouan Morocco
MORE JOURNEYS AT
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37
(connt in u ed) DAY 10 SEVILLE SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
Step back in time as we observe 800 years of influence by the Moors. After admiring Maria Luisa Park, with its spectacular Plaza de España, view the Alcazar Palace, walk through the old district of Santa Cruz and visit the world’s largest gothic Cathedral to see the impressive tomb of Columbus. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure. (BB) MELIA LEBREROS DAY 11 SEVILLE – LISBON (3 NIGHTS)
Across the border and into the Algarve, this relaxing morning drive takes us through the corkoak forests of Alentejo, also known as Portugal’s granary, into Lisbon, the beautiful Portuguese capital city. (BB) REAL PARQUE
Call for up-to-the-minute airfare from over 60 cities throughout the USA – you’ll get: Free Airport Transfers, s, Choice of Airlines, Choice of Schedule & Routing. Business Class available. See page 8 for full details.
R ates per Person
(BB) REAL PARQUE
DAY 13 FATIMA EXCURSION
Enjoy a morning excursion to Fátima, the famed Portuguese Shrine and pilgrimage center, where we admire the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary. The afternoon is at leisure. Tonight, we say our goodbyes to our newfound friends during an included Farewell Dinner at a local restaurant. (BB,FD) REAL PARQUE
DAY 14 LISBON – USA
It’s “Hasta la vista” or “Adeus” to Iberia as we are transferred to the airport for our return flight home. Departure transfers arrive at Lisbon Airport at 6.30am and 8.30am. (BB)
38
UP TO
$300
PER COUPLE
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT BOOK BY MAR 27, 2015
LAND PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
PRICE AFTER 5% EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT
EAST COAST (JFK)
MIDWEST (ORD)
WEST COAST (LAX)
Apr 30
$2,965
$2,817
$1,163
$1,296
$1,327
Jun 18
$2,965
$2,817
$1,411
$1,520
$1,579
Jul 2
$2,995
$2,845
$1,411
$1,520
$1,579
Sep 3
$2,995
$2,845
$1,163
$1,296
$1,327
Sep 10
$2,995
$2,845
$1,163
$1,296
$1,327
Sep 17
$2,995
$2,845
$1,163
$1,296
$1,327
Sep 24
$2,995
$2,845
$1,163
$1,296
$1,327
$2,722
$1,163
$1,296
$1,327
DEPARTURE DATE
Oct 29
$2,865
DAY 12 LISBON SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
Portugal has a long seafaring history that is evident throughout the morning sightseeing tour. Stop at the 16th century Tower of Belem and the more modern Monument to the Discoveries on the Tagus River. Then visit the Hieronymite Monastery, where Vasco da Gama is entombed. Visit the old Alfama district and see the beautiful mosaic sidewalks of the tree-lined Liberdade, and Rossio and Commerce squares. In the afternoon, relax or join an optional tour to the beautiful hilltop village of Sintra and the pretty harbor of Cascais.
SAVE SA
FLY FROM OVER 60 CITIES
PRICE INCLUDES: Professional Travel Director
AIR ADD-ONS
SAVE AN AARP MEMBERS ADDITIONAL $100 P/P
with you throughout your journey
Luxury Motorcoach Transportation with A/C,
First Class Hotels twin bedded room with private restroom
reclining seats, panoramic windows and emergency restroom
20 Meals 12 buffet breakfasts.
Complimentary WiFi available
2 Highlight Lunches. 6 dinners (including Welcome Reception, 4 three course dinners with tea or coffee and Farewell Dinner)
in guestrooms and/or public areas of most hotels and on-board the motorcoach. See page 62-63 for details
Local Expert in Madrid, Toledo, Cordoba, Granada, Seville and Lisbon
Travel Documents including
Personal Audio Headsets Airport Transfers arrival and
travel wallet, travel planner, complimentary keepsake photo and 5% Frequent Traveler Discount upon return for a future trip
departure transfers included as noted in itinerary with the purchase of combined air and land package
Solo Friendly
DEPARTURES Call for fo de d tailsl
Code: SMP. Price is per person and is based on two people sharing a twin-bedded room. Single Supplement: from $680. Air Add-On: Prices listed were effective on January 27, 2015 and their availability is limited. At the time you purchase your trip, air prices may be higher. Prices shown include September 11th Security fee, government fees, taxes and airline fuel surcharges based on destination and routing. Additional Charges: Airline baggage charges collected at check-in are not included. Gratuities: Option to pre-pay gratuities for Travel Director and Driver $148 per person. Included Meals: WD Welcome Reception BB Buffet Breakfast HL Highlight Lunch D Dinner FD Farewell Dinner with Wine
MORE JOURNEYS AT
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SCOTLAND, ENGLAND, WALES, IRELAND
FROM
16 $3,890 PACE
DAYS COMFORTABLE A G U I D ED ED V VA A C A T I ON AC ON
O U R I N CL OU CLU UDDDEE D
HIGHLIGHTS
Parliament, London
Your Jour ney DAY 1 USA – EDINBURGH
Overnight flight to Edinburgh. DAY 2 ARRIVE EDINBURGH (3 NIGHTS)
EDINBURGH: Guided sightseeing includes Princes Street, Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle and the Military Tattoo (select departures) TROSSACHS: Visit the heart of the Trossachs and Stirling Castle YORK: See the medieval ‘Shambles’ and towering York Minster CHESTER: Visit medieval Chester DUBLIN: Guided sightseeing includes views of O’Connell Street, Phoenix Park, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and visit to Trinity College and the Book of Kells CLIFFS OF MOHER: Enjoy breathtaking vistas of Clare coast from the Cliffs of Moher RING OF KERRY: Drive the famous ‘Ring of Kerry’ BLARNEY: Visit Blarney Castle and kiss the famous stone STRATFORD-UPON-AVON: Visit Shakespeare’s birthplace and Anne Hathaway’s Cottage BATH: Visit the Roman Baths STONEHENGE: Visit the mysterious megaliths HAMPTON COURT PALACE: Explore King Henry VIII’s famous gardens LONDON: Guided sightseeing to view Big Ben, the House of Parliament, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Trafalgar Square and the Changing of the Guard (when held)
Welcome to Edinburgh! Your airport transfer leaves for the hotel at 9am, 12noon and 2pm. The rest of the day is free to explore on your own. Perhaps take a stroll around the shops of Princes Street before joining your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a Welcome Reception with drinks and dinner. (WD) THE ROXBURGHE/HOLYROOD
DAY 3 EDINBURGH SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
Your Edinburgh sightseeing takes in Princes Street, the Royal Mile and Holyrood House, once home to Mary Queen of Scots. The morning’s highlight is a visit to the aweinspiring Edinburgh Castle. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure or perhaps join an optional experience to St. Andrews, the home of golf and the famous Old Course. This evening, selected departures watch the Military Tattoo – a colorful mixture of exhilarating dance and remarkable military maneuvers accompanied by the massed bands of the pipes and drums. (FB) THE ROXBURGHE/HOLYROOD
DAY 4 STIRLING CASTLE & TROSSACHS EXCURSION
First this morning comes mighty Stirling Castle, perched high on a
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rock, home to Scottish kings and one of the grandest in Scotland with its amazing Great Hall of James IV and royal kitchens. From the battlements we overlook the fields of “Braveheart” fame, and the sight of Wallace’s victory in the battle of Stirling Bridge. Then enjoy spectacular scenery as we travel into the heart of the Trossachs, a romantic land of misty lakes and cloud-capped mountains. Return to Edinburgh for an evening at leisure. (FB) THE ROXBURGHE/HOLYROOD
DAY 5 EDINBURGH – LAKE DISTRICT – YORK
En route to the Lake District, begin the day with a stop at Gretna Green, a favorite wedding spot since 1754. Drive through the Lake District National Park to Grasmere, home of the poet William Wordsworth, before continuing through James Herriot country to York, the ‘secret capital’ of northern England. (FB,D) MARRIOTT YORK
DAY 6 YORK – CHESTER
This morning’s stroll through the walled city of York includes the maze of narrow streets in the famous Shambles with views of the towering cathedral, York Minster. Then cross the Peninnes to Chester, a medieval treasure of half-timbered houses and rows, double tiers of shops and covered walkways. (FB,D) CROWNE PLAZA CHESTER
39
(cont in u ed) DAY 7 CHESTER – WALES – DUBLIN (2 NIGHTS)
DAY 9 DUBLIN – GALWAY – CO. CLARE
evening enjoy an interactive cooking demonstration followed by dinner
View medieval Conwy Castle, thought by many the most impressive castle in Wales. Then continue along the northern coast to Holyhead and cross the Irish Sea to Dublin for a pleasant two-night stay. See the sights of this lively city on a guided tour that includes views of statue-lined O’Connell Street, Grafton Street, St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Phoenix Park, one of the largest walled parks in Europe. End with a visit to the 1,200-yearold Book of Kells at Trinity College.
Westward we travel, through the horse country of Ballinasloe and Athlone to view Galway Bay. Then cross the desolate limestone landscape of the Burren to the dramatic Cliffs of Moher, which plunge 700 feet into the sea, for breathtaking vistas of the Clare Coast. This evening perhaps join an optional medieval banquet!
with your travel companions. (FB,D) KILLARNEY TOWERS/ KILLARNEY AVENUE
DAY 11 KILLARNEY – BLARNEY CASTLE – WATERFORD – WEXFORD
Visit the legendary Blarney Castle and kiss the famous Stone of Eloquence! Continue to the quaint town of Waterford, and visit the famous Waterford Crystal Showroom.
(FB) RADISSON BLU LIMERICK
DAY 10 CO. CLARE – RING OF KERRY – KILLARNEY
(FB,D) TALBOT HOTEL
DAY 12 WEXFORD – WALES – BRISTOL (2 NIGHTS)
Today, experience one of the most scenic drives in all of Europe – around the famous “Ring of Kerry.” Spectacular panoramas unfold as you journey through romantic glens with views of Killorglin of Puck Fair fame, Daniel O’Connell’s Cahirciveen and the outstanding Moll’s Gap. This
(FB) MALDRON CARDIFF LANE
DAY 8 DUBLIN AT LEISURE
Enjoy a free day to explore Dublin, or consider an optional visit to the Wicklow mountains and picturesque ruins of Glendalough Abbey. (FB) MALDRON CARDIFF LANE
Take a morning ferry across St. George’s Channel back to Britain. Then travel through southern Wales to Bristol for a two-night stay. (FB,D) MERCURE BRISTOL HOLLAND HOUSE
Scotland Trossachs St. Andrews Stirling
Edinburgh
Northern Ireland
Ireland
Lake District
York
Killarney Waterford
Blarney
Holyhead
Wexford
Chester
Wales
England Stratford-upon-Avon
Bristol Bath Stonehenge
40
NUMBER OF OVERNIGHT STAYS
Gretna Green
Dublin
Cliffs of Moher
Ring of Kerry
DEPARTURE CITY
SIGHTSEEING STOP
Galway
Co. Clare
ARRIVAL CITY
TOLL-FREE
1-800-552-5545
London
DAY 13 BATH, COTSWOLDS VILLAGES & STRATFORD EXPERIENCE
This morning make a stop in England’s best preserved Georgian city, Bath, where we visit the ancient Roman Baths. Later, green countryside, half-timbered Tudor homes and peaceful villages are a common sight, much as they were 400 years ago to the eyes of William Shakespeare. View his birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon, and visit the cottage where his beloved Anne Hathaway lived. Then enjoy a scenic drive through the rolling hills of the Cotswolds, adored for its quaint villages and thatched roof cottages. (FB) MERCURE BRISTOL HOLLAND HOUSE
DAY 14 BRISTOL – STONEHENGE – LONDON (2 NIGHTS)
Visit the mysterious standing stones of prehistoric Stonehenge. After a scenic drive through England’s West Country, stroll through King Henry VIII’s Hampton Court Palace Gardens before you end the day in London. (FB) CUMBERLAND DAY 15 LONDON SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
This morning’s guided city tour includes views of Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, the Changing of the Guard (when held) and Trafalgar Square. This afternoon is free to perhaps visit the Tower of London and St. Paul’s Cathedral. Tonight enjoy a Farewell Dinner at your hotel. (FB,FD) CUMBERLAND DAY 16 LONDON – USA
Bid farewell to London and transfer to the airport via shuttle. (FB)
SA SAVE
FLY FROM OVER 60 CITIES Call for up-to-the-minute airfare from over 60 cities s, throughout the USA – you’ll get: Free Airport Transfers, Choice of Airlines, Choice of Schedule & Routing. Business Class available. See page 8 for full details.
R ates per Person
UP TO
$438
PER COUPLE
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT BOOK BY MAR 27, 2015
LAND PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
PRICE AFTER 5% EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT
EAST COAST (JFK)
MIDWEST (ORD)
May 6
$4,135
$3,928
$1,101
$1,237
$1,313
Jun 3
$4,135
$3,928
$1,459
$1,617
$1,674
Jul 8, 29
$4,135
$3,928
$1,459
$1,617
$1,674
†Aug 5
$4,335
$4,118
$1,459
$1,617
$1,674
†Aug 12
$4,385
$4,166
$1,459
$1,617
$1,674
†Aug 19
$4,385
$4,166
$1,459
$1,617
$1,674
Sep 2
$4,135
$3,928
$1,101
$1,237
$1,313
Sep 9
$4,135
$3,928
$1,101
$1,237
$1,313
Sep 16
$4,135
$3,928
$1,101
$1,237
$1,313
Sep 23
$4,095
$3,890
$1,101
$1,237
$1,313
DEPARTURE DATE
PRICE INCLUDES: Professional Travel Director
AIR ADD-ONS WEST COAST (LAX)
SAVE AN AARP MEMBERS ADDITIONAL $100 P/P
with you throughout your journey
Luxury Motorcoach Transportation with A/C,
First Class Hotels twin bedded room with private restroom
reclining seats, panoramic windows and emergency restroom
21 Meals 14 full breakfasts. 7
Complimentary WiFi available
dinners (including Welcome Reception, 5 three course dinners with tea or coffee and Farewell Dinner)
in guestrooms and/or public areas of most hotels and on-board the motorcoach. See page 62-63 for details
Local Expert in Edinburgh, Dublin
Travel Documents including
and London
Personal Audio Headsets Airport Transfers arrival and
travel wallet, travel planner, complimentary keepsake photo and 5% Frequent Traveler Discount upon return for a future trip
departure transfers included as noted in itinerary with the purchase of combined air and land package. See page 62-63 for London arrival information
Code: BIH. Price is per person and is based on two people sharing a twin-bedded room. Single Supplement: from $1,150. Air Add-On: Prices listed were effective on January 27, 2015 and their availability is limited. At the time you purchase your trip, air prices may be higher. Prices shown include September 11th Security fee, government fees, taxes and airline fuel surcharges based on destination and routing. Additional Charges: Airline baggage charges collected at check-in are not included. †Edinburgh Tattoo: We’ve included Tattoo tickets when you’re in Edinburgh on these departures. Gratuities: Option to pre-pay gratuities for Travel Director and Driver $167 per person. Included Meals: WD Welcome Reception FB Full Breakfast D Dinner FD Farewell Dinner with Wine
The spectacular Ring of Kerry
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41
SCOTLAND
8
FROM
$1,791 PACE
DAYS ACTIVE A G U I D ED ED V VA A C A T I ON AC ON
O U R I N CL OU CLU UDDDEE D
The spectacular Military Tattoo, Edinburgh Castle
Your Jour ney DAY 1 USA – EDINBURGH
Overnight flight to Edinburgh.
HIGHLIGHTS
DAY 2 ARRIVE EDINBURGH (2 NIGHTS)
EDINBURGH: Sightseeing city tour with your local expert includes the famous Princes Street, the Royal Mile and views of the new Parliament Building. Visit the iconic castle EDINBURGH TATTOO: Select departures include the spectacular Military Tattoo ST. ANDREWS: View the 18th hole on the Old Course
On arrival at Edinburgh Airport transfers will operate at 9am, 11.30am and 2pm to the hotel. This evening, meet your companions and Travel Director at a Welcome Pub Reception, which includes a typical Scottish pub meal and drinks. (WD) NOVOTEL CITY CENTRE
EILEAN DONAN CASTLE: View this majestic castle
DAY 3 EDINBURGH SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
ISLE OF SKYE: Visit the beautiful Isle of Skye and the Clan Donald Center
This morning, your local expert takes you on a sightseeing tour of this wonderful city, including
GLENCOE: See Glencoe, also known as the Glen of the Weeping GLASGOW: Visit Glasgow Cathedral and see George Square on your orientation tour STIRLING CASTLE: Visit the castle to explore the great hall and see the Stirling Heads GLENGOYNE WHISKY DISTILLERY: Sample a ‘wee dram’
Visit Edinburgh Castle
42
TOLL-FREE
1-800-552-5545
a visit to Edinburgh Castle, perched high above the city. See the Royal Mile, the elegant Palace of Holyroodhouse in the shadow of Arthur’s Seat, and the new Scottish Parliament building. Admire the elegant Georgian architecture in the New Town. During the Edinburgh Festival, your visit will include tickets to the dazzling Edinburgh Tattoo. (FB) NOVOTEL CITY CENTRE
DAY 4 EDINBURGH – ST. ANDREWS – PITLOCHRY – SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS (2 NIGHTS)
Travel across the Firth of Forth to St. Andrews to view the celebrated ancient university and the home of golf. Continue north across the Tay at Dundee, to visit Pitlochry,
a charming village on the banks of the River Tummel. Explore the village or join an optional experience to visit Blair Castle, ancestral home to the Dukes of Atholl. Dine tonight at your hotel. (FB,D) LAGGAN GASKMORE/STRATHSPEY
DAY 5 ISLE OF SKYE & SCENIC HIGHLANDS EXCURSION
Travel through Inverness, known as the capital of The Highlands and along the banks of the famous Loch Ness. View Eilean Donan Castle before crossing the bridge to the Isle of Skye. Visit the Clan Donald Center and the Museum of the Isles, where you can trace your genealogy or explore the wonderful gardens. Later take the ferry to Mallaig and continue your journey through the lochs and glens of the Scottish Highlands to your hotel. (FB,D) LAGGAN GASKMORE /STRATHSPEY
Highlands Cow
ARRIVAL CITY
Eilean Donan Castle
Isle of Skye
Inverness
DEPARTURE CITY
Loch Ness
Mallaig
Scotland
Ben Nevis
NUMBER OF OVERNIGHT STAYS
Scottish Highlands SIGHTSEEING STOP
Glencoe Pitlochry Stirling Castle St. Andrews
Glasgow Edinburgh
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FLY FROM OVER 60 CITIES
DAY 6 SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS – GLENCOE – GLASGOW (2 NIGHTS)
Stop at the Commando Memorial near Fort William for breathtaking views of Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis. Continue south through Glencoe, ‘Glen of the Weeping’, site of the infamous massacre of the Macdonald clan by the Campbell’s in 1692. Journey along the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond, immortalized in the wellknown Scottish song, to the lively city of Glasgow. This afternoon visit St. Mungo’s Cathedral, dedicated to the patron saint and founder of the city. Your orientation tour of Glasgow also includes magnificent George Square and the River Clyde, former heart of the shipbuilding industry. (FB) RADISSON BLU DAY 7 STIRLING CASTLE EXCURSION
Enjoy some free time this morning in Glasgow to explore this vibrant city. Later visit Stirling Castle, a symbol of national pride and once a place of great power. See the ‘Stirling Heads’ and visit the halls, chapels and bedrooms of this imposing castle. From the castle walls view the Wallace Monument – dedicated to Sir William Wallace and overlooking the battlefield of Stirling Bridge. Later travel into the Trossachs National Park. Here enjoy a visit to Glengoyne Whisky Distillery to sample a ‘wee dram’. Tonight, enjoy a Farewell Dinner at a working hill farm on the banks of Loch Ard. Admire the picturesque Scottish scenery as your hosts serve traditional Scottish cuisine and wine. The perfect way to end your trip! (FB,FD) RADISSON BLU DAY 8 GLASGOW – USA
After a hearty Scottish breakfast, bid farewell to your Travel Director and companions as your vacation in Scotland comes to an end. Transfers will arrive at Glasgow Airport at 7am and 9am. (FB)
Call for up-to-the-minute airfare from over 60 cities throughout the USA – you’ll get: Free Airport Transfers, s, Choice of Airlines, Choice of Schedule & Routing. Business Class available. See page 8 for full details.
R ates per Person
UP TO
$212
PER COUPLE
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT BOOK BY MAR 27, 2015
LAND PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
PRICE AFTER 5% EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT
EAST COAST (JFK)
MIDWEST (ORD)
WEST COAST (LAX)
Apr 25
$1,885
$1,791
$1,150
$1,253
$1,329
May 2
$1,885
$1,791
$1,150
$1,253
$1,329
$1,253
$1,329
$1,632
$1,690
DEPARTURE DATE
AIR ADD-ONS
May 9
$1,925
$1,829
$1,150
May 16, 23
$1,925
$1,829
$1,554
May 30
$1,925
$1,829
$1,554
$1,632
$1,690
Jun 6, 13, 20, 27
$1,885
$1,791
$1,554
$1,632
$1,690
Jul 4, 11
$1,885
$1,791
$1,554
$1,632
$1,690
Jul 18, 25
$1,925
$1,829
$1,554
$1,632
$1,690
Aug 1
$1,995
$1,895
$1,554
$1,632
$1,690
†*Aug 5, 8, 12
$2,125
$2,019
$1,554
$1,632
$1,690
†*Aug 15, 19
$2,125
$2,019
$1,554
$1,632
$1,690
†*Aug 22
$2,125
$2,019
$1,554
$1,632
$1,690
Aug 29
$1,995
$1,895
$1,150
$1,253
$1,329
Sep 5, 12, 19
$1,925
$1,829
$1,150
$1,253
$1,329
Sep 26
$1,925
$1,829
$1,150
$1,253
$1,329
Oct 3
$1,885
$1,791
$1,150
$1,253
$1,329
$1,791
$1,150
$1,253
$1,329
Oct 10
$1,885
PRICE INCLUDES: Professional Travel Director
SAVE AN AARP MEMBERS ADDITIONAL $100 P/P
with you throughout your journey
Luxury Motorcoach Transportation with A/C,
First Class Hotels twin bedded room with private restroom
reclining seats, panoramic windows and emergency restroom
10 Meals 6 full breakfasts. 4
Complimentary WiFi available
dinners (including Welcome Reception, 2 three course dinners and Farewell Dinner)
Local Expert in Edinburgh Personal Audio Headsets Airport Transfers arrival and departure transfers included as noted in itinerary with the purchase of combined air and land package
in guestrooms and/or public areas of most hotels and on-board the motorcoach. See page 62-63 for details
Travel Documents including travel wallet, travel planner, complimentary keepsake photo and 5% Frequent Traveler Discount upon return for a future trip
Code: BBO. Price is per person and is based on two people sharing a twin-bedded room. Single Supplement: from $300. Air Add-On: Prices listed were effective on January 27, 2015 and their availability is limited. At the time you purchase your trip, air prices may be higher. Prices shown include September 11th Security fee, government fees, taxes and airline fuel surcharges based on destination and routing. Additional Charges: Airline baggage charges collected at check-in are not included. This itinerary is operated by our sister company. †Edinburgh Tattoo: We’ve included Tattoo tickets when you’re in Edinburgh on these departures. *Alternative hotels: Departures may be accommodated in alternative locations. All sightseeing and inclusions will remain as described. Gratuities: Option to pre-pay gratuities for Travel Director and Driver $63 per person. Included Meals: WD Welcome Reception FB Full Breakfast D Dinner FD Farewell Dinner
44
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THE NETHERLANDS, LUXEMBOURG, BELGIUM
FROM
11 $2,399 PACE
DAYS LEISURELY A G U I D ED ED V VA A C A T I ON AC ON
Your Jour ney
DAY 4 THE HAGUE – DELFT & ROTTERDAM EXCURSION
O U R I N CL OU CLU UDDDEE D
DAY 1 USA – AMSTERDAM
After a leisurely morning, travel through The Hague to the historic town of Delft. Visit the Royal Delft Pottery workshop for a closer look at the manufacture of this local hand painted porcelain. Continue to Rotterdam, the most important river port in Europe. After a short city orientation, visit the Euromast Tower for spectacular panoramic views of the city and the famous harbor. The rest of the afternoon is yours to spend as you please before returning to Amsterdam this evening. (BB) CROWNE PLAZA
Overnight flight to Amsterdam.
HIGHLIGHTS
DAY 2 ARRIVE AMSTERDAM (3 NIGHTS)
AMSTERDAM: Orientation includes the Mint Tower, Tower of Tears, Dam Square, and ‘Skinny Bridge’. Enjoy a canal cruise and a guided small group sightseeing visit to the Rijksmuseum KEUKENHOF: Visit the magnificent bulb fields (when open) ROTTERDAM: Visit the Euromast Tower for panoramic views of the city and harbor DELFT: Visit the Delft Pottery factory for a look at the creation of this renowned, hand painted, porcelain HAARZUILENS: Visit De Haar Castle and gardens MAASTRICHT: Visit the picturesque fortified city BASTOGNE: Visit the American Memorial at the Battle of the Bulge site LUXEMBOURG: View the Cathedral of our Lady of Luxembourg and Grand Ducal Palace and visit General George Patton’s grave ORVAL: Visit the Cistercian Abbey DINANT: Visit this pretty town on the banks of the Meuse BRUGES: See the Grand Place, the Basilica of the Holy Blood. Visit a lace workshop and enjoy an included cruise along the canals GHENT: Orientation featuring views of the ‘Three Towers of Ghent’ and Castle of the Counts of Flanders BRUSSELS: Orientation includes views of the Atomium, Grand Place, Royal Park and Palaces, Japanese and Chinese Pagodas, and the Manneken Pis
On arrival to Amsterdam Airport transfers will depart for the hotel at 9am, 11.30am and 2.30pm. Tonight, join your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a sightseeing cruise aboard a canal boat. Enjoy a light meal and welcome drink as you travel through Amsterdam’s famous waterways. (WD) CROWNE PLAZA AMSTERDAM SOUTH/WYNDHAM APOLLO/ RAMADA APOLLO
DAY 3 AMSTERDAM SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
In Amsterdam, enjoy an orientation of the historic city center. Admire Rembrandt’s masterpiece, ‘The Night Watch’, during your guided small group sightseeing tour with a local expert of the Rijksmuseum. Visit a historic diamond polishing factory to see the diamond cutters at work for an insight into the cutting and preparing diamonds for export. During the flowering season (April until mid-May), an included visit to the tulip fields of Keukenhof is sure to dazzle, with several million flowering bulbs planted across a 70-acre site. (BB) CROWNE PLAZA AMSTERDAM SOUTH/WYNDHAM APOLLO/ RAMADA APOLLO
TOLL-FREE
1-800-552-5545
AMSTERDAM SOUTH/WYNDHAM APOLLO/RAMADA APOLLO
DAY 5 AMSTERDAM – HAARZUILENS – MAASTRICHT – BASTOGNE – LUXEMBOURG (2 NIGHTS)
In Haarzuilens, visit the magnificent gardens of fairy-tale De Haar Castle. Continue your journey and stop in the historic fortified city of Maastricht. Enjoy free time to explore the city before continuing to Bastogne. View the American Memorial, erected to commemorate the 76,890 American soldiers wounded or killed during the Battle of the Bulge. Arrive later at your hotel in the Duchy of Luxembourg. Dine tonight at your hotel. (BB,D) DOUBLETREE BY HILTON
45
(connt inn u ed) DAY 6 LUXEMBOURG SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
This morning, visit General George S. Patton’s grave. Your walking tour of Luxembourg with a local expert shows you the sights including the breath-taking gorge of the Rivers Alzette and Petrusse, the Cathedral and the Grand Ducal Palace. The rest of the afternoon is yours to spend at leisure. Your Travel Director will be able to advise on how to get the most from your free time in the city. (BB) DOUBLETREE BY HILTON DAY 7 LUXEMBOURG – ORVAL – DINANT – BRUGES (2 NIGHTS)
Visit Orval Abbey, a Cistercian monastery famous for producing Trappiste beer. Continue your journey and stop in the pretty town of Dinant, birthplace of Adolphe Sax – best known for inventing the saxophone. Later, arrive in picturesque Bruges and join your fellow travelers this
Select departures visit Keukenhof Gardens
ARRIVAL CITY
Amsterdam The Hague
DEPARTURE CITY
Haarzuilens
Delft Rotterdam
NUMBER OF OVERNIGHT STAYS
The Netherlands
Bruges
Ghent
SIGHTSEEING STOP
Brussels Maastricht
Germany
Belgium France
Dinant Bastogne Luxembourg Orval
Luxembourg
46
TOLL-FREE
1-800-552-5545
evening for a memorable dinner of Belgian cuisine at an 18th century farmstead near Bruges. The farm is home to cattle, sheep and poultry. Meet the farmer who was born and raised on the farm. (BB,HD) DE MEDICI
DAY 8 BRUGES SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
Admire the sights of Bruges including the town square during your walking tour with a local expert. Cruise along picturesque canals during your sightseeing cruise and visit the Lace Center for an insight in the production of this local specialty. Spend the rest of the day exploring the charming medieval streets at your own pace. (BB) DE MEDICI
DAY 9 BRUGES – GHENT – WATERLOO – BRUSSELS (2 NIGHTS)
Visit the beautiful city of Ghent and see the three famous Ghent towers – Saint Nicholas’ Church, the Belfry and Saint Bavo’s Cathedral. This year is the 200th anniversary of the Battle of Waterloo where the Duke of Wellington defeated Napoleon. Visit the Wellington Museum which is dedicated to the battle. This afternoon in Brussels your Travel Director shows you the city’s highlights, including the Atomium, Royal Palace, Japanese Pagodas, the Grand Place and the famous Mannekin Pis. (BB) THON EU DAY 10 BRUSSELS AT LEISURE
Today is free for you to do as you wish! Explore the Grand Place, join a beer or bike tour, or simply relax in a café and watch the world go by. Your Travel Director will be able to assist you to get the most from this leisurely day. This evening, celebrate a wonderful trip with your travel companions at a Farewell Dinner. (BB,FD) THON EU DAY 11 BRUSSELS – USA
This morning bid farewell to your fellow travelers and take home many special memories. Airport transfers will arrive at Brussels Airport at 8am and 12noon. (BB)
SA SAVE
FLY FROM OVER 60 CITIES Call for up-to-the-minute airfare from over 60 cities s, throughout the USA – you’ll get: Free Airport Transfers, Choice of Airlines, Choice of Schedule & Routing. Business Class available. See page 8 for full details.
R ates per Person DEPARTURE DATE
†Apr 9
UP TO
$260
PER COUPLE
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT BOOK BY MAR 27, 2015
LAND PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
PRICE AFTER 5% EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT
EAST COAST (JFK)
MIDWEST (ORD)
WEST COAST (LAX)
$2,675
$2,541
$1,261
$1,301
$1,400
$1,301
$1,400
AIR ADD-ONS
†Apr 16, 23
$2,675
$2,541
$1,261
†Apr 30
$2,675
$2,541
$1,261
$1,301
$1,400
†May 7, 14
$2,675
$2,541
$1,261
$1,301
$1,400
May 21, 28
$2,595
$2,465
$1,538
$1,653
$1,738
Jun 4, 11
$2,595
$2,465
$1,538
$1,653
$1,738
Jun 18, 25
$2,565
$2,437
$1,538
$1,653
$1,738
Jul 2, 9, 16
$2,525
$2,399
$1,538
$1,653
$1,738
Jul 23, 30
$2,525
$2,399
$1,538
$1,653
$1,738
$1,653
$1,738
Aug 6, 13, 20
$2,525
$2,399
$1,538
Aug 27
$2,595
$2,465
$1,261
$1,301
$1,400
Sep 3, 10
$2,650
$2,518
$1,261
$1,301
$1,400
Sep 17, 24
$2,650
$2,518
$1,261
$1,301
$1,400
PRICE INCLUDES: Professional Travel Director
SAVE AN AARP MEMBERS ADDITIONAL $100 P/P
with you throughout your journey
Luxury Motorcoach Transportation with A/C,
First Class Hotels twin bedded room with private restroom
reclining seats, panoramic windows and emergency restroom
13 Meals 9 hot buffet breakfasts. 4 dinners (including Welcome Reception, Highlight Dinner, 1 three course dinner and Farewell Dinner)
Complimentary WiFi available
Local Expert in Amsterdam, Luxembourg and Bruges Personal Audio Headsets Airport Transfers arrival and departure transfers included as noted in itinerary with the purchase of combined air and land package
in guestrooms and/or public areas of most hotels and on-board the motorcoach. See page 62-63 for details
Travel Documents including travel wallet, travel planner, complimentary keepsake photo and 5% Frequent Traveler Discount upon return for a future trip
Code: EHB. Price is per person and is based on two people sharing a twin-bedded room. Single Supplement: from $720. Air Add-On: Prices listed were effective on January 27, 2015 and their availability is limited. At the time you purchase your trip, air prices may be higher. Prices shown include September 11th Security fee, government fees, taxes and airline fuel surcharges based on destination and routing. Additional Charges: Airline baggage charges collected at check-in are not included. This itinerary is operated by our sister company. †Tickets for Keukenhof Bulb fields are included during the flowering season (April until mid-May). Gratuities: Option to pre-pay gratuities for Travel Director and Driver $93 per person. Included Meals: WD Welcome Reception BB Buffet Breakfast D Dinner HD Highlight Dinner FD Farewell Dinner
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47
GERMANY, AUSTRIA, SWITZERLAND
FROM
13 $3,658 PACE
DAYS COMFORTABLE A G U I D ED ED V VA A C A T I ON AC ON
O U R I N CL OU CLU UDDDEE D
Ride the famous Glacier Express
Your Jour ney DAY 1 USA – MUNICH
Overnight flight to Munich.
HIGHLIGHTS
DAY 2 ARRIVE MUNICH (2 NIGHTS)
MUNICH: See the Marienplatz, Town Hall and Glockenspiel BAVARIAN ALPS: See the Oberammergau Passion Play Theater NEUSCHWANSTEIN: An expert leads you through fanciful rooms fashioned by medieval legend SALZBURG: See the Mirabell Gardens, Mozart’s birthplace on the Getreidegasse and visit the Cathedral in the Old Town
Airport transfers leave Munich Airport for the hotel at 10am and 1pm. An orientation tour shows you the Feldherrnhalle in the Odeonsplatz, the Palace of the Dukes of Wittelsbach, English Garden, Hofbräuhaus, St. Peter’s Church and famous Marienplatz. Later, join your Travel Director for a Welcome Reception and pleasant evening of dinner and wine. (WD)
DÜRNSTEIN: Visit a local winery to learn about and sample the unique Wachau wine
HILTON MUNICH PARK/THE WESTIN GRAND MUNICH
VIENNA: Enjoy a private, guided exploration of Schönbrunn Palace and tour the Ring Road seeing the City Hall and Parliament
DAY 3 BAVARIAN ALPS EXCURSION
ST. MORITZ: Enjoy the freedom of a mountain railways pass GLACIER EXPRESS: Journey through the heart of the Swiss Alps aboard the world-famous Glacier Express in the modern panoramic viewing car LUCERNE: See the emotive Lion Monument, Jesuit Church and Chapel Bridge. Enjoy a spectacular journey by cable car and cogwheel railway to the summit of Mount Pilatus for expansive mountain views over Lake Lucerne
Today is devoted to the beautiful mountain scenery of the German Alps! First to Oberammergau, home of the Passion Play since 1634; see the immense theater and colorful chalets. On a hill close to the fortified town of Füssen, the wildly eccentric King Ludwig II built his ‘fairytale’ Neuschwanstein castle, bristling with turrets and pinnacles. Visit the exuberantly decorated apartments including the Throne Room and Lohengrin Grotto. (BB) HILTON MUNICH PARK/THE WESTIN GRAND MUNICH
48
TOLL-FREE
1-800-552-5545
DAY 4 MUNICH – SALZBURG
A short drive over the Austrian border leads to Salzburg, ‘alive with the sound of music’. Sightseeing with a local expert shows you the formal gardens of Mirabell Palace, the imposing fortress, the cathedral in the Old Town and Mozart’s birthplace. At a local food market, browse the wonderful array of fresh produce and meet a colorful stall holder. This afternoon, perhaps take an optional experience to Hilter’s notorious “Eagles Nest”? (BB) CASTELLANI PARK HOTEL
DAY 5 SALZBURG – WACHAU VALLEY – DÜRNSTEIN – VIENNA (2 NIGHTS)
First stop is at Mondsee to see the ‘Sound of Music’ church, before continuing on through Melk to the beautiful town of Dürnstein, set in the Wachau Valley. Immerse yourself in the vineyards and cellars of a local winery to learn about and sample the unique Wachau style of wine. Finally, head for the Austrian capital of Vienna for dinner, where you choose from a selection of prized restaurants, offering a range of authentic dining experiences from classic Viennese to international cuisine. (BB,DA) HILTON VIENNA
DAY 6 VIENNA SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
DAY 8 ST. VEIT AN DER GLAN – INNSBRUCK
In the morning, a local expert reveals the highlights of Schönbrunn Palace, full of frescoed ceilings, crystal chandeliers, mirrors and gilded ornaments. Spend some time in the formal gardens before going on to view St Charles’ Church, the Hofburg Palace, Parliament and State Opera House. The afternoon is yours to explore the city at your leisure. (BB) HILTON VIENNA
Head for the distinctive rugged peaks of the Dolomites. Enter Italy by way of Lago di Misurina and the Tre Croci Pass to pause in the fashionable ski resort of Cortina d’Ampezzo. Cross back into Austria and continue to Innsbruck, set in a valley of snow-capped mountain peaks. Walk amid the 14th century houses of the old town, seeing the Imperial Palace and delightful Golden Roof. (BB,D) HILTON INNSBRUCK
DAY 7 VIENNA – ST. VEIT AN DER GLAN
Take a delightful drive through undiscovered Austria – the pine forests and sleepy towns of Styria and Carinthia. Climb the dramatic Semmering Pass and stop in Kindberg with its colorful maypole. Continue to St Veit an der Glan, former seat of the Dukes of Carinthia and enjoy exploring the fabulous medieval city walls, the old town square and the ancient Plague column. (BB,D)
DAY 9 INNSBRUCK – ST. MORITZ (2 NIGHTS)
Enter Switzerland this morning and drive along the beautiful Engadine Valley to the chic Alpine resort of St Moritz. Enjoy the marvelous scenery and fresh air or browse in the elegant boutiques? Another option is a ride aboard the Bernina Express – one of Europe’s outstanding train journeys. (BB,D) CRYSTAL HOTEL
Visit Neuschwanstein Castle
BLUMENHOTEL
ARRIVAL CITY
Germany
DEPARTURE CITY
Vienna
Munich
Zurich
Salzburg
Semmering Mondsee Kindberg Berchtesgaden Oberammergau Neuschwanstein Austria
NUMBER OF OVERNIGHT STAYS
SIGHTSEEING STOP
Innsbruck
Lucerne Switzerland Andermatt
ley Val u Dürnstein a ch Wa
St. Viet an der Glan Cortina d’Ampezzo
St. Moritz
Dolomites
Italy
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FLY FROM OVER 60 CITIES
DAY 10 ST. MORITZ AT LEISURE
After a relaxing breakfast, the rest of the day is at leisure. To help you make the most of your stay, we’ve arranged a mountain railways pass providing free travel on all cable cars, funiculars and chairlifts (if open) in Engadin St. Moritz. (BB) CRYSTAL HOTEL
Call for up-to-the-minute airfare from over 60 cities throughout the USA – you’ll get: Free Airport Transfers, s, Choice of Airlines, Choice of Schedule & Routing. Business Class available. See page 8 for full details.
R ates per Person DEPARTURE DATE
Apr 17, 24
DAY 11 GLACIER EXPRESS TO LUCERNE (2 NIGHTS)
An unforgettable journey begins the day as ice-capped mountains, stone-built villages and lush meadows slip by the windows of your Glacier Express train. Ascend through the spiral tunnels of the Albula Pass and cross the Landwasser Viaduct before heading down through the Oberalp Valley to rejoin the coach at Andermatt. Continue north to lovely Lucerne, one of Europe’s most popular cities. Join your Travel Director to see the sorrowful sculpture of the dying lion, hewn out of a limestone cliff to commemorate those Swiss Guards who died at the Battle of the Tuileries.
PER COUPLE
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT BOOK BY MAR 27, 2015
PRICE AFTER 5% EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT
EAST COAST (JFK)
MIDWEST (ORD)
WEST COAST (LAX)
$3,895
$3,700
$1,275
$1,374
$1,464
AIR ADD-ONS
May 1, 8, 13
$4,025
$3,824
$1,275
$1,374
$1,464
May 15, 22, 27
$4,025
$3,824
$1,530 $1,605
$1,748
May 29
$3,950
$3,753
$1,530 $1,605
$1,748
Jun 5, 10, 12
$3,950
$3,753
$1,530 $1,605
$1,748
Jun 19, 24, 26
$3,950
$3,753
$1,530 $1,605
$1,748
Jul 3, 8, 10, 17
$3,850
$3,658
$1,530 $1,605
$1,748 $1,748
Jul 22, 24, 31
$3,850
$3,658
$1,530 $1,605
Aug 5, 7, 14
$3,850
$3,658
$1,530 $1,605
$1,748
Aug 19, 21
$3,850
$3,658
$1,530 $1,605
$1,748
Aug 28
$3,850
$3,658
$1,275
$1,374
$1,464
Sep 2, 4, 9, 11
$3,950
$3,753
$1,275
$1,374
$1,464
Sep 16, 18, 23, 25
$3,950
$3,753
$1,275
$1,374
$1,464
$3,681
$1,275
$1,374
$1,464
$3,681
$1,275
$1,374
$1,464
Oct 2 Oct 9
$3,875 $3,875
PRICE INCLUDES:
Enjoy a morning free in this beautiful city with its 14th century covered wooden bridges, painted gables, old walls and watch towers of the medieval fortifications. Later, embark on a thrilling trip by cable car and cogwheel railway to the summit of Mount Pilatus, offering stunning views over the lakes, countryside and surrounding hills. Here, amid true Alpine majesty, your amazing journey literally peaks with a fabulous farewell Celebration Dinner in a panoramic restaurant. A fantastic bird’s-eye wining and dining experience you’ll never forget!
$402
LAND PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
(BB) RENAISSANCE
DAY 12 MOUNT PILATUS EXCURSION
UP TO
Professional Travel Director with you throughout your journey
First Class Hotels twin bedded room with private restroom 17 Meals 11 buffet breakfasts. 6 dinners (including Welcome Reception, 3 three-course table d’hôte Dinner, or Buffets, plus tea or coffee, Dine-Around Dinner and Celebration Dinner)
Local Expert in Salzburg and Vienna
Personal Audio Headsets Airport Transfers arrival and
SAVE AN AARP MEMBERS ADDITIONAL $100 P/P Luxury Motorcoach Transportation with A/C, reclining seats, extended leg room, panoramic windows and emergency restroom
Complimentary WiFi available in guestrooms and/or public areas of most hotels and on-board the motorcoach. See page 62-63 for details
Travel Documents including travel wallet, travel planner, complimentary keepsake photo and 5% Frequent Traveler Discount upon return for a future trip
departure transfers included as noted in itinerary with the purchase of combined air and land package
(BB,CD) RENAISSANCE
DAY 13 LUCERNE – ZURICH – USA
Your departure transfer arrives at Zurich Airport at 8am. (BB) Please do not schedule any flights before 10am.
50
Code: CRB. Price is per person and is based on two people sharing a twin-bedded room. Single Supplement: from $660. Air Add-On: Prices listed were effective on January 27, 2015 and their availability is limited. At the time you purchase your trip, air prices may be higher. Prices shown include September 11th Security fee, government fees, taxes and airline fuel surcharges based on destination and routing. Additional Charges: Airline baggage charges collected at check-in are not included. This itinerary is operated by our sister company. Gratuities: Option to pre-pay gratuities for Travel Director and Driver $137 per person. Included Meals: WD Welcome Reception BB Buffet Breakfast D Dinner DA Dine-Around Dinner CD Celebration Dinner
MORE JOURNEYS AT
www.GETours.com
AUSTRIA, CZECH REPUBLIC, SLOVAKIA, HUNGARY
FROM
13 $2,655 PACE
DAYS LEISURELY A G U I D ED ED V VA A C A T I ON AC ON
O U R I N CL OU CLU UDDDEE D
Parliament, Budapest
Your Jour ney
DAY 5 VIENNA – MONDSEE – SALZBURG (2 NIGHTS)
DAY 1 USA – VIENNA
Travel along the Blue Danube River pausing to view the castle ruins where Richard the Lionheart was held captive high on a hill in Dürnstein. Drive through the Wachau Gorge, surrounded by quaint villages and vineyards, to the lakeside village of Mondsee. See the famous ‘wedding church’ from the classic movie ‘The Sound of Music’, then continue to Salzburg for two relaxing nights. Sightseeing with a local expert shows you the formal gardens of Mirabell Palace, the imposing fortress, the cathedral in the Old Town and Mozart’s Birthplace. End the day with an age old Austrian tradition and a real culinary treat, ‘High Tea’ in one of Salzburg’s cozy pastry shops.
Overnight flight to Vienna.
HIGHLIGHTS
DAY 2 ARRIVE VIENNA (3 NIGHTS)
VIENNA: Guided visit to the Schönbrunn Palace and gardens followed by views of Hofburg Palace and the State Opera MONDSEE: See the wedding church from the “Sound of Music” SALZBURG: Guided sightseeing tour includes “Sound of Music” locations, Mirabell Gardens and High Tea in a traditional quaint pastry shop. Visit a local organic farm for a fantastic evening in the family’s log cabin and learn about farm life while enjoying a traditional feast of local dishes ČESKÝ KRUMLOV: Explore the medieval city PRAGUE: Guided sightseeing tour includes a visit to the Hradcany Castle, views of the Cathedral of St. Vitus and the Old Town Square BUDAPEST: Guided sightseeing includes views of Gellert Hill, the Royal Palace, the Church of Matthias and Heroes’ Square. Enjoy a fascinating lecture on life growing up during the communist era from a local historian
Wilkommen! On arrival at Vienna Airport, your transfer leaves for the hotel at 9am, 12noon and 3pm. Your relaxing three-night stay in this imperial capital begins with a Welcome Reception and dinner in a local restaurant with your Travel Director and travel companions. (WD) HILTON VIENNA AM STADTPARK
DAY 3 VIENNA SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
Join a local expert for an included sightseeing that reveals both imperial and contemporary Vienna starting with a special highlight visit to Schönbrunn Palace with its magnificently preserved staterooms and exquisite gardens. Stop for photographs at Emperor Franz Josef ’s Hofburg Palace and view the Cathedral of St. Stephen and the State Opera. The afternoon is free to explore this vibrant walkable city. (BB) HILTON VIENNA AM STADTPARK
DAY 4 VIENNA AT LEISURE
Enjoy a full day free to do as you please. Perhaps join an optional experience to the Vienna Woods, ride in a Fiaker (a Viennese horse drawn carriage), or enjoy the atmosphere and traditions at one of the many Viennese coffee houses.
(BB,HT) CASTELLANI PARK HOTEL
DAY 6 SALZBURG AT LEISURE
A whole day free to explore this alpine Austrian gem. Perhaps join an optional visit to the Eagle’s Nest at Berchtesgaden or ride the funicular up to the medieval fortress for unbeatable views of the city. This evening, a truly wonderful Hands-On event! Visit a local organic farm and hear first-hand from an alpine farmer and her son about life in this rural idyll. Sample their award-winning homemade schnapps and enjoy an amazing dinner in the farm’s authentic log cabin. (BB,HD) CASTELLANI PARKHOTEL
(BB) HILTON VIENNA AM STADTPARK
TOLL-FREE
1-800-552-5545
51
(connt inn u edd) DAY 7 SALZBURG – ČESKÝ KRUMLOV – PRAGUE (3 NIGHTS)
This morning, travel through lush farmland and cross the Austrian border. Stop in medieval Český Krumlov, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where time has stood still for centuries and there is free time for lunch or exploring the main square and winding cobbled streets. Continue through the rich and historic countryside of Bohemia to beautiful Prague, “City of a Hundred Spires” for a pleasant three-night stay. (BB,D) PRESIDENT HOTEL PRAGUE
DAY 8 & 9 PRAGUE SIGHTSEEING & AT LEISURE
A morning of fantastic sights await as you join your local expert and visit the 1,000-year-old Hradčany Castle, Prague’s former residence of Bohemian kings. Have your cameras at the ready as you marvel at the fantastic views of the Cathedral of St. Vitus, the Old Town
Spend two nights in beautiful Salzburg
Germany Poland
DEPARTURE CITY
Prague Czech Republic
NUMBER OF OVERNIGHT STAYS
Český Krumlov
Slovakia
Mondsee Dürnstein
Vienna
Austria
Budapest Hungary
Slovenia
52
SIGHTSEEING STOP
Bratislava
Danube Valley
Salzburg
ARRIVAL CITY
TOLL-FREE
1-800-552-5545
Square with its Astronomical Clock
and admire the many spires and bridges from Castle Hill. At leisure visit the Jewish Quarter, take a romantic walk over Charles Bridge, try a Czech beer in one of the local beer halls or join an optional experience to nearby Dresden. (BB/BB) PRESIDENT
Call for up-to-the-minute airfare from over 60 cities s, throughout the USA – you’ll get: Free Airport Transfers, Choice of Airlines, Choice of Schedule & Routing. Business Class available. See page 8 for full details.
R ates per Person
HOTEL PRAGUE
DEPARTURE DATE
DAY 10 PRAGUE – BRATISLAVA – BUDAPEST
May 8
(3 NIGHTS)
A scenic drive south today through the vineyards of Moravia to Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia. After free time to explore the medieval old town, continue across the Hungarian border to Budapest, home for the next three leisurely nights. This evening, join a fascinating Hands-On lecture and hear a firsthand account from a local of Budapest how it was to grow up in the Communist era and the changes in Hungary since ‘the fall of the wall’. (BB,D) DANUBIUS HOTEL ASTORIA
DAY 11 & 12 BUDAPEST SIGHTSEEING & AT LEISURE
The main sights of the twin cities of Buda and Pest are included in your guided city tour with a Hungarian expert. Over in Pest, drive down Andrassy Boulevard and visit Heroes’ Square. Cross the river to Buda and view Gellert Hill, the Royal Palace and visit the 13th century Church of Matthias and the Fisherman’s Bastion. The remainder of your stay in Budapest is free to do as you wish. Perhaps shop with the locals at the Vásárcsarnok (Central Market), indulge in the local pancakes or join an optional evening cruise on the beautiful Danube River. On your last evening, savor local delights at a memorable Highlight Farewell Dinner in a local restaurant. (BB/BB,FD) DANUBIUS HOTEL ASTORIA
DAY 13 BUDAPEST – USA
Departure transfers arrive at Budapest Airport at 7am and 11am. (BB)
SA SAVE
FLY FROM OVER 60 CITIES UP TO
$290
PER COUPLE
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT BOOK BY MAR 27, 2015
LAND PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
PRICE AFTER 5% EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT
$2,795
$2,655
$1,307 $1,464
$1,491
$1,853
$1,850
AIR ADD-ONS EAST COAST (JFK)
MIDWEST (ORD)
WEST COAST (LAX)
Jun 19
$2,795
$2,655
$1,752
Jul 3
$2,795
$2,655
$1,752
$1,853
$1,850
Jul 31
$2,795
$2,655
$1,752
$1,853
$1,850
Sep 4
$2,895
$2,750
$1,307 $1,464
$1,491
Sep 18
$2,895
$2,750
$1,307 $1,464
$1,491
Sep 25
$2,895
$2,750
$1,307 $1,464
$1,491
Oct 2
$2,795
$2,655
$1,307 $1,464
$1,491
PRICE INCLUDES:
SAVE AN AARP MEMBERS ADDITIONAL $100 P/P
Professional Travel Director
Complimentary WiFi available
with you throughout your journey
in guestrooms and/or public areas of most hotels and on-board the motorcoach. See page 62-63 for details
First Class Hotels twin bedded room with private restroom 17 Meals 11 buffet breakfasts. 1 High Tea. 5 dinners (including Welcome Reception, 1 Highlight Dinner, 2 three course dinner with tea or coffee and Farewell Dinner)
Local Expert in Vienna, Salzburg, Prague and Budapest
Travel Documents including travel wallet, travel planner, complimentary keepsake photo and 5% Frequent Traveler Discount upon return for a future trip
Personal Audio Headsets Airport Transfers arrival and departure transfers included as noted in itinerary with the purchase of combined air and land package
Solo Friendly
DEPARTURES Call for fo de d tailsl
Luxury Motorcoach Transportation with A/C, reclining seats, panoramic windows and emergency restroom
Code: VPB. Price is per person and is based on two people sharing a twin-bedded room. Single Supplement: from $750. Air Add-On: Prices listed were effective on January 27, 2015 and their availability is limited. At the time you purchase your trip, air prices may be higher. Prices shown include September 11th Security fee, government fees, taxes and airline fuel surcharges based on destination and routing. Additional Charges: Airline baggage charges collected at check-in are not included. Gratuities: Option to pre-pay gratuities for Travel Director and Driver $137 per person. Included Meals: WD Welcome Reception BB Buffet Breakfast HT High Tea D Dinner HD Highlight Dinner FD Farewell Dinner with Wine
MORE JOURNEYS AT
www.GETours.com
53
NEVADA, UTAH, IDAHO, W YOMING, MONTANA, SOUTH DAKOTA, COLOR ADO, ARIZONA
FROM
14 $3,373 PACE
DAYS ACTIVE A G U I D ED ED V VA A C A T I ON AC ON
Your Jour ney
DAY 4 SALT LAKE CITY – JACKSON
O U R I N CL OU CLU UDDDEE D
DAY 1 ARRIVE LAS VEGAS
Get a glimpse of the route of the pioneers as you cross the Oregon Trail and enter Wyoming. Stop in Montpelier at the Oregon Trail Center. Through interactive exhibits, glimpse the thrills and challenges of the Old Trail. Enjoy lunch before departing to scenic Jackson, standing in the shadows of the icy peaks of the Grand Tetons. The evening is free for you to explore.
HIGHLIGHTS ZION: Discover Zion Canyon’s dramatic towering cliffs BRYCE CANYON: View the colorful and whimsical hoodoos SALT LAKE CITY: Orientation tour including Temple Square JACKSON: Overnight in this authentic Old-West town GRAND TETON: View soaring peaks and abundant wildlife YELLOWSTONE: Guided stroll around the boardwalks to view the geysers, mud pots and bubbling pools in America’s first National Park CODY: Visit the Buffalo Bill Center of the West LITTLE BIGHORN: See the site of Custer’s Last Stand BLACK HILLS: View Mount Rushmore and the Crazy Horse Memorial DENVER: Stay in the heart of America’s Mile High City VAIL: Stretch your legs in this charming alpine village ARCHES NATIONAL PARK: View amazing natural rock formations MESA VERDE: Explore ancient Pueblo cliff dwellings MONUMENT VALLEY: Board an open-air vehicle to tour these iconic buttes and mesas GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK: Marvel at the sights from the South Rim and enjoy an informative presentation
54
Bryce Canyon, Utah
Welcome to Las Vegas! After checking in at the hotel, browse the exclusive shops, hit the slot machines or just lounge a while by the hotel pool. At 6pm, gather at the hotel with your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a Welcome Reception. (WR) TROPICANA LAS VEGAS
DAY 2 LAS VEGAS – ZION & BRYCE CANYON NATIONAL PARKS
Depart Las Vegas for the graceful slot canyons and towering cliffs of Zion National Park. Then it’s onward to Bryce Canyon, home to the world’s largest concentration of hoodoos – tall limestone spires that rise majestically from the desert floor. (FB,D) BW PLUS BRYCE CANYON GRAND
DAY 3 BRYCE CANYON – SALT LAKE CITY
Leave the red rock canyons and travel north to Utah’s capital. See the famed Temple Square, headquarters to the Mormon Church and home to the renowned Mormon Tabernacle Choir. This evening, perhaps enjoy an optional visit to Brigham Young’s former home, followed by dinner at the Lion House, featuring pioneerstyle ambiance and cuisine. (FB) HILTON SALT LAKE CITY CENTER
TOLL-FREE
1-800-552-5545
(FB,L) THE LODGE AT JACKSON HOLE
DAY 5 JACKSON – GRAND TETON & YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARKS (2 NIGHTS)
Rise early for an optional guided raft trip to spot wildlife on the Snake River (seasonal). Then traverse Grand Teton National Park on the way to Yellowstone, established in 1872 as the world’s first national park. Join a local expert to explore the spouting geysers, bubbling hot springs and mud paint pots. (FB,D) NATIONAL PARK LODGES
Note: When the south entrance is closed due to weather conditions, the itinerary will travel west from Jackson via Idaho and enter Yellowstone National Park through the west entrance.
DAY 6 YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
Explore the impressive Grand Canyon of Yellowstone with its stunning waterfalls and a chance to see bison and elk. Watch in
DAY 10 RAPID CITY – DENVER
wonder as Old Faithful’s waters arc over 100 feet (30 meters) into the air. This evening, relax under the great basin of stars. (FB) NATIONAL
Cross some of the West’s most beautiful terrain today as you travel through the expansive grasslands of Wyoming on your way to Denver, the Mile High City. After getting settled at the hotel, enjoy the evening to relax. (FB)
PARK LODGES
DAY 7 YELLOWSTONE – CODY – BILLINGS
Head north to the town of Cody, named for its most famous native son, Buffalo Bill, and get a glimpse into its lively history with a local expert at the Buffalo Bill Center of the West. Then it’s on to Big Sky Country for a Highlight Dinner featuring local cuisine and a host who welcomes you with true Western hospitality. (FB,HD) CROWNE PLAZA BILLINGS
SHERATON DENVER DOWNTOWN
DAY 11 DENVER – VAIL – ARCHES NATIONAL PARK – MOAB Monument Valley
DAY 9 BLACK HILLS EXCURSION
where the ill-fated Custer led his men against a battalion of Sioux and Cheyenne warriors. Then, travel east through the Black Hills to Rapid City. (FB) ADOBA HOTEL
Discover the natural and manmade wonders of the Black Hills with a drive through stunning scenery on your way to visit Mount Rushmore and the Crazy Horse Memorial, a mountain carving of the famed war chief of the Lakota people. Return to Rapid City in the afternoon and join your traveling companions for dinner this evening.
RAPID CITY
(FB,D) ADOBA HOTEL RAPID CITY
DAY 8 BILLINGS – LITTLE BIGHORN – RAPID CITY (2 NIGHTS)
Today begins with a visit to Little Bighorn, the infamous battlefield
Idaho
Yellowstone National Park
Billings
ARRIVAL CITY
Montana Little Bighorn
Cody Crazy Horse Memorial Mount Rushmore
Jackson Montpelier Great Salt Lake
(FB) BW PLUS CANYONLANDS INN
Black Hills
Grand Teton National Park Nevada
Ascend into the Rockies and stretch your legs in Vail before descending to magnificent Arches National Park. Here, the wind and rain have eroded the sandstone into more than 2,000 natural arches. Tonight is on your own – your hotel is in the heart of Moab and close to all kinds of restaurants, whether you’re in the mood for family or fine dining tonight. Or if you’re in the mood for more excitement, choose an optional jetboat ride along the mighty Colorado with a tasty dinner included.
Wyoming Utah
Zion National Park Painted Desert
South Dakota
Rapid City
NUMBER OF OVERNIGHT STAYS
Bear Lake Nebraska
Salt Lake City Bryce Canyon National Park
DEPARTURE CITY
SIGHTSEEING STOP
Colorado
Moab
Vail
Denver
Arches National Park Mesa Verde National Park
Kansas
Monument Valley Las Vegas Grand National Park Canyon National Park Arizona
New Mexico
MORE JOURNEYS AT
www.GETours.com
55
(cont inn u edd) DAY 12 MOAB – MESA VERDE NATIONAL PARK – MONUMENT VALLEY
Between AD 600 and 1300, the Ancestral Puebloan people carved houses and entire communities out of the sandstone of the canyon walls at Mesa Verde National Park, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore some of the cliff-top buildings and look down at the massive Cliff House, the largest cliff dwelling in the world. Head to Monument Valley for the night where you will be treated to a Navajo cookout regional meal.
SAVE SA
YOUR LAND PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS AND SAVINGS
UP TO
$360
PER COUPLE
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT BOOK BY MAR 27, 2015
R ates per Person
LAND PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
PRICE AFTER 5% EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT
$3,525
$3,349
May 24, 26, 28, 31
$3,525
$3,349
Jun 2, 7, 9, 14, 16
$3,525
$3,349
Jun 21, 23, 28, 30
$3,600
$3,420
(FB, HD) GOULDING’S LODGE
Jul 5, 7, 12
$3,600
$3,420
DAY 13 MONUMENT VALLEY – GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK
Jul 19, 21
$3,600
$3,420
Aug 11, 13, 16, 18
$3,600
$3,420
Aug 23, 25, 30
$3,600
$3,420
Sep 1, 3
$3,525
$3,349
Sep 6
$3,550
$3,373
Sep 8, 10, 13, 15
$3,525
$3,349
Sep 17, 20, 22
$3,525
$3,349
Sep 24, 27, 29
$3,525
$3,349
Marvel at Monument Valley’s landscape of towering sandstone buttes in special open-air vehicles accompanied by a local expert. Visit the land of the Navajo people, stopping at historic Cameron Trading Post. Breathtaking views along scenic Desert View Drive just hint at the most spectacular of all vistas – the vast panorama of the Grand Canyon unfolding before you. Meet with a local expert who will enlighten you about the more than 1.7 billion years of geology revealed in the canyon. Tonight, toast your grand adventure and your new life-long memories at a Farewell Dinner inside the park. (FB,FD) NATIONAL PARK LODGES
DAY 14 GRAND CANYON – DEPART LAS VEGAS
If you like, take an optional helicopter or fixed-wing aircraft flightseeing trip to see the canyon from the sky. Hit the road again, stopping in Seligman and Kingman, Route 66 hotspots that have kept the old Mother Road’s culture alive. End your journey back in Las Vegas where a transfer is provided to Las Vegas International Airport or to the Tropicana Las Vegas for guests extending their stay. (FB)
DEPARTURE DATE
May 17, 19, 21
PRICE INCLUDES: Professional Travel Director
SAVE AN AARP MEMBERS ADDITIONAL $100 P/P
with you throughout your journey
Luxury Motorcoach Transportation with A/C,
First Class Hotels twin bedded room with private restroom
reclining seats, panoramic windows and emergency restroom
21 Meals Welcome Reception
Complimentary WiFi available
with light appetizers. 13 full breakfasts. 1 lunch. 6 dinners (including 2 Highlight Dinners, 3 three course dinners and Farewell Dinner)
Local Expert Yellowstone National Park and Grand Canyon National Park
in guestrooms and/or public areas of most hotels. See page 62-63 for details
Travel Documents including travel wallet, travel planner, complimentary keepsake photo and 5% Frequent Traveler Discount upon return for a future trip
Personal Audio Headsets Airport Transfers arrival and departure transfers included as noted in itinerary
Code: SPE. Price is per person and is based on two people sharing a twin-bedded room. Single Supplement: from $1,325. This itinerary is operated by our sister company. Fall Foliage: Enjoy the unforgettable sight of stunning “Fall Foliage” during our September departures (as determined by Mother Nature). Included Meals: WR Welcome Reception FB Full Breakfast L Lunch D Dinner HD Highlight Dinner FD Farewell Dinner with Wine
Please do not schedule any flights before 6.30pm.
56
MORE JOURNEYS AT
www.GETours.com
COSTA RICA
8
FROM
$1,515 PACE
DAYS COMFORTABLE A G U I D ED ED V VA A C A T I ON AC ON
O U R I N CL OU CLU UDDDEE D
HIGHLIGHTS SAN ISIDRO DE HEREDIA: Visit Master Chocolatier Julio Fernandez’s home and small chocolate workshop. Learn about the history of chocolate and how it is produced at a small workshop, enjoy a taste of gourmet chocolate TORTUGUERO NATIONAL PARK: Arrive by river boat; visit Tortuguero Village and the Green Turtle Research Station; cruise the canals in search of wildlife ARENAL: See the volcano and enjoy the thermal pools at your resort MONTEVERDE CLOUD FOREST: Enjoy a two-night stay near the park; take a guided walk through the Cloud Forest Reserve; visit the Sky Walk to experience the chain of suspension bridges high above the Cloud Forest. Meet a Quaker man who will share photos and stories of the old town of Monteverde
Monteverde Cloud Forest Sky Walk
Your Jour ney DAY 1 ARRIVE SAN JOSE
Welcome to San Jose! Your journey begins with a warm greeting at the airport from a local host and a transfer to your hotel. At 6pm, gather at the hotel with your Travel Director and traveling companions for a Welcome Reception. (WR) INTERCONTINENTAL COSTA RICA
DAY 2 SAN JOSE – TORTUGUERO NATIONAL PARK (2 NIGHTS)
After breakfast, head toward the small town of San Isidro de Heredia, where you are welcomed by master chocolatiers, Julio Fernandez and George Soriano, for a taste of gourmet chocolate, a local specialty. Learn about the history of chocolate and how it is produced at this small workshop. Afterward, continue to Siquirres and embark on a river journey through the protected wetlands. Later, stroll the streets of Tortuguero Village and explore the fascinating Green Turtle Research Station. Enjoy dinner at the hotel this evening. (FB,L,D) LAGUNA LODGE TORTUGUERO
Note: For the two night excursion to Tortuguero National Park guests are permitted to bring a maximum of 25 lbs (11 kg) of luggage. Your primary suitcase will be transferred and securely stored at your Sarapiqui hotel.
TOLL-FREE
1-800-552-5545
DAY 3 TORTUGUERO NATIONAL PARK SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
Glide through the canals and waterways of the park today as howler monkeys watch from the treetops, toucans and egrets fly through the air and crocodiles ply the cool waters. If you’re here in July, take an optional trip to see the sea turtles laying eggs on the beach. (FB,L,D) LAGUNA LODGE TORTUGUERO
DAY 4 TORTUGUERO – SARAPIQUI
Board your boat and bid adios to the park. Enjoy lunch along the way before arriving at your hotel this afternoon. With a good portion of the afternoon at leisure, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area surrounding your lodge. With a little luck, you may spot the endangered great green macaw and there is also time for a raft or tubing trip as well horseback riding. Your evening is free. (FB,L) SUEÑO AZUL RESORT DAY 5 SARAPIQUI – ARENAL
For the early risers, join your Travel Director on an easy hike looking for the exotic birds of this region. Then visit a Tico family’s palm plantation to learn about and sample the delicate heart of palm, a local speciality. Later, enjoy a special experience at an eco-friendly hacienda built by the Quintana family as a retirement project. Today, it is home to an organic farm, restaurant and related eco adventures. 57
(coont in u ed) The family will welcome you with a delicious lunch and tell stories of how their retirement dreams have benefited the local community. Afterward depart to the town of La Fortuna de San Carlos, home of the colossal Arenal Volcano. There is time this afternoon to enjoy the thermal pools of your resort as well as the gardens and beautiful birds. Tonight relish some of the best views of the volcano as you enjoy a leisurely dinner. (FB,HL,D) ARENAL PARAISO RESORT & SPA
DAY 6 ARENAL – MONTEVERDE CLOUD FOREST (2 NIGHTS)
A free morning to do as you please. Sleep in or take an optional outing including a hike around Arenal, ziplining, participation in a reforestation project, a float trip or Ecological Park and terrarium with over 200 species of reptiles, rare frogs and other amphibians as well as butterflies. Early this afternoon, head to Monteverde Cloud Forest, straddling the Continental
Divide, and home to luxuriant vegetation, abundant wildlife, coffee plantations and spectacular views. Tonight, you’ll meet a native Quaker, and Local Expert, who will share historical photos and stories of Old Town Monteverde.
at canopy level. Tonight, trade stories of your experiences at a festive Farewell Dinner. (FB,FD) EL ESTABLO MOUNTAIN HOTEL
DAY 8 MONTEVERDE – USA
Transfer to either Liberia or San Jose International Airports or travel on to Guanacaste Beach for those extending their stay. (FB)
(FB,D) EL ESTABLO MOUNTAIN HOTEL
DAY 7 MONTEVERDE CLOUD FOREST SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
Please do not schedule any flights before 12.30pm from Liberia or San Jose.
Join your local expert for an excursion through the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. Covering 26,000 acres of tropical rainforest, the Reserve consists of 6 ecological zones and offers extremely high biodiversity, consisting of over 2,500 plant species (including the most orchid varieties in a single place), 100 species of mammals, 400 bird species, and 120 reptilian and amphibian species. Later ascend to the treetops for a bird’s-eye view of the forest on the unforgettable Sky Walk, a chain of six suspension bridges
Please Note: For the more remote areas of Costa Rica (such as Tortuguero and Sarapiqui), we use the best available hotel facilities with comfortable but simple guestrooms and eco-friendly amenities perfectly suited to the natural surroundings. This journey requires walking on uneven surfaces and steps and sometimes through heavy showers (umbrellas provided). This journey is best enjoyed by the experienced traveler in good health and who can take such conditions in stride.
ARRIVAL CITY
Nicaragua
DEPARTURE CITY
Caribbean Sea
Liberia
Guanacaste Beach Optional Extension
Arenal
Sarapiqui
Tortuguero
Monteverde
SIGHTSEEING STOP
San Jose Costa Rica
Pacific Ocean
58
TOLL-FREE
NUMBER OF OVERNIGHT STAYS
1-800-552-5545
Panama
Add a 2-Night PostTrip Guanacaste Beach Stay FROM $250 PER PERSON (SINGLE FROM $445)
DAY 1 MONTEVERDE – LIBERIA – GUANACASTE
SA SAVE
YOUR LAND PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS AND SAVINGS
UP TO
TAMARINDO DIRIA BEACH AND GOLF RESORT
DAY 2 GUANACASTE FREE TIME
The day is yours to relax at the beach or perhaps head into the small colorful town of Tamarindo with its boutique shops and cafes. Check with the hotel tour desk for optional activities.
R ates per Person
LAND PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
PRICE AFTER 5% EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT
Apr 10, 17
$1,595
$1,515
May 15, 22
$1,595
$1,515
Jun 19, 26
$1,595
$1,515
Jul 10, 24
$1,595
$1,515
Oct 2, 16, 30
$1,595
$1,515
Nov 20, 27
$1,595
$1,515
Dec 4, 11
$1,595
$1,515
†Dec 18
$1,695
$1,610
†Dec 25
$1,750
$1,663
DEPARTURE DATE
PRICE INCLUDES: Professional Travel Director with you throughout your journey
First Class Hotels twin bedded room with private restroom 16 Meals Welcome Reception with light appetizers. 7 full breakfasts. 1 Highlight Lunch, 3 buffet lunches. 5 dinners (including 4 buffet dinners and Farewell Dinner) Local Expert Monteverde Cloud Forest
Personal Audio Headsets
(B) TAMARINDO DIRIA BEACH AND GOLF RESORT
DAY 3 GUANACASTE – LIBERIA – USA
A transfer is provided to Liberia International Airport for your onward flight. Or, stay a while longer on the beach; you can reserve extra night accommodations if you wish to extend your stay. (B)
PER COUPLE
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT BOOK BY MAR 27, 2015
(2 NIGHTS)
Descend from the lush cloud forests of Monteverde and head west to the pristine Pacific coast. Check into your seaside resort, the only hotel located on the white sand of the world-famous Tamarindo Beach, adjacent to Tamarindo National Wildlife Refuge and Las Baulas National Park. Relax and simply enjoy the beach and the amenities of your beautiful resort. With just a short stroll along the shore, you can spot howler monkeys, iguanas, parrots and a variety of wildlife.
$176
SAVE AN AARP MEMBERS ADDITIONAL $100 P/P Airport Transfers arrival and departure transfers included as noted in itinerary Motorcoach Transportation with A/C and panoramic windows
Complimentary WiFi available in guestrooms and/or public areas of most hotels. See page 62-63 for details
Travel Documents including travel wallet, travel planner, complimentary keepsake photo and 5% Frequent Traveler Discount upon return for a future trip
Code: CRA. Price is per person and is based on two people sharing a twin-bedded room. Single Supplement: from $495. This itinerary is operated by our sister company. †Departures over Christmas and New Year will enjoy a special holiday meal. Included Meals: FB Full Breakfast CB Continental Breakfast L Lunch HL Highlight Lunch D Dinner FD Farewell Dinner with wine
Please do not schedule your flight before 12.30pm. Included in your 3-day stay: • 2 nights at the Tamarindo Diria Beach & Golf Resort • 2 Breakfasts • Arrival and Departure airport transfers Please Note: There is no Travel Director on the PostTrip Guanacaste Beach Stay extension. Arenal Volcano
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59
Save up to $1,500 per couple on Select River Cruise Departures – LIMITED TIME OFFER ENDS MARCH 27, 2015 –
Le egendary R hin ne & Moselle 14 DAYS from $4,249
AMSTERDAM, THE NETHERLANDS TO BASEL, SWITZERLAND ENGLAND
SAVE
THE NETHERLANDS
North Sea
Amsterdam
up to $1,500 per couple
12-NIGHT CRUISE
R ates per Person Cologne
DEPARTURE DATE
CRUISE PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
CRUISE PRICE AFTER DISCOUNTS
English Channel
BELGIUM Cochem Ediger-Eller
iver
CRUISE PRICE AFTER DISCOUNTS
R h in e R
DEPARTURE DATE
CRUISE PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
Koblenz Boppard Rüdesheim
LUXEMBOURG
$5,799 $5,299
Apr 22
$5,699 $4,949
Oct 23
$5,399 $4,649
Jul 19
$5,749 $5,249
Nov 4
$4,999 $4,249
Bernkastel
Luxembourg
FRANCE
Trier Speyer r ve
Strasbourg
Rh ine Ri
Jul 31
selle Mo River
RIVER QUEEN
Kaysersberg
GERMANY
Riquewihr
Colmar
Breisach Basel
SWITZERLAND #
Castles A lon ng the R hine
NIGHTS ONSHORE
LAND
CRUISE
UNESCO SITE
BASEL, SWITZERLAND TO AMSTERDAM, THE NETHERLANDS
9 DAYS from $2,449
SAVE
R ates per Person
North Sea
ENGLAND
DEPARTURE DATE
CRUISE PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
CRUISE PRICE AFTER DISCOUNTS
DEPARTURE DATE
CRUISE PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
7-NIGHT CRUISE
Cologne
$2,949 $3,099 $3,649 $3,649 $3,699 $3,999 $3,649
BELGIUM Koblenz Boppard
$3,699 $3,249 $2,899 $2,449 $2,999 $3,099 $3,249 $3,099 $2,999
Rüdesheim
LUXEMBOURG
Speyer
Strasbourg
SS ANTOINETTE
Mar 14 Mar 21 Mar 28 Oct 31 Nov 7
er Riv
$3,399 $3,399 $3,949 $3,949 $3,999 $4,299 $4,099
R h i ne
Mar 31 Apr 7 Apr 21 Apr 28 May 5 Oct 6 Oct 13
Oct 20 Nov 3
THE NETHERLANDS
Amsterdam
CRUISE PRICE AFTER DISCOUNTS English Channel
RIVER EMPRESS
$2,549 $2,799 $2,949 $2,799 $2,549
up to $900 per couple
Germersheim
Riquewihr Kaysersberg
FRANCE
Kehl
GERMANY
Breisach
Colmar
Basel
SWITZERLAND
#
En nch a ntiing Da nube
NIGHTS ONSHORE
LAND
CRUISE
UNESCO SITE
BUDAPEST, HUNGARY TO PASSAU, GERMANY
9 DAYS from $2,449
SAVE
DEPARTURE DATE
CRUISE PRICE AFTER DISCOUNTS
DEPARTURE DATE
CRUISE PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
CRUISE PRICE AFTER DISCOUNTS
GERMANY Passau
Munich
RIVER BEATRICE
$3,199 $3,399 $3,549 $3,849 $4,099 $4,099
$2,749 $2,949 $3,249 $3,549 $3,799 $3,799
Jul 11 Aug 8 Oct 10 Oct 17 Oct 24 Oct 31 Nov 7
$3,899 $3,899 $4,099 $3,699 $3,399 $2,999 $2,899
$3,599 $3,599 $3,799 $3,399 $2,949 $2,549 $2,449
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be
Wachau Valley
R iver
Dürnstein
SLOVAKIA Bratislava Vienna
Melk
an
Salzburg
7-NIGHT CRUISE
ube
R i v er
Budapest
AUSTRIA HUNGARY
SLOVENIA
#
60
Linz
D
Apr 4 Apr 11 Apr 18 Apr 25 May 2 Jun 13
D u an
CRUISE PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
up to $900 per couple
CZECH REPUBLIC
R ates per Person
NIGHTS ONSHORE
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CROATIA
LAND
CRUISE
UNESCO SITE
Pa ar is & Norm m a ndy
PARIS TO PARIS, FRANCE
9 DAYS from $2,599
SAVE up to $900 per couple
R ates per Person English Channel
CRUISE PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
DEPARTURE DATE
CRUISE PRICE AFTER DISCOUNTS
DEPARTURE DATE
CRUISE PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
CRUISE PRICE AFTER DISCOUNTS
Caudebec-en-Caux
Normandy Beaches
Honfleur Rouen
RIVER BARONESS
$3,399 $3,399 $3,499 $3,899 $3,899
$3,099 $2,949 $3,199 $3,599 $3,599
$2,899 $2,899 $3,899 $3,699 $3,499
$2,599 $2,599 $3,599 $3,399 $3,199
Les Andelys Sei
Normandy
ver Ri ne
Mar 28 Apr 4 Apr 11 May 2 Jul 11
Jul 18 Jul 25 Oct 3 Oct 10 Oct 17
Giverny Auvers-sur-Oise
Vernon
FRANCE 7-NIGHT CRUISE
Conflans-Sainte-Honorine
#
NIGHTS ONSHORE
LAND
Bu urgundy & Prov ence
CRUISE
UNESCO SITE
AVIGNON TO LYON, FRANCE
9 DAYS from $3,399
SAVE
CRUISE PRICE AFTER DISCOUNTS
DEPARTURE DATE
CRUISE PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
SWITZERLAND
Saô ne R iver
CRUISE PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
up to $900 per couple
Beaune
R ates per Person DEPARTURE DATE
Paris
CRUISE PRICE AFTER DISCOUNTS
Macon Lyon Burgundy
$4,099 $4,399 $4,399 $4,399 $4,399
$3,649 $3,949 $4,099 $4,099 $4,099
Jul 25 Aug 15 Oct 10 Oct 24 Oct 31
$4,399 $4,399 $4,599 $4,099 $3,699
$4,099 $4,099 $4,299 $3,799 $3,399
Tournon
ITALY
Tain l’Hermitage Viviers 7-NIGHT CRUISE
Tarascon Arles
n e River
Apr 25 May 2 Jul 4 Jul 11 Jul 18
Provence
Rh ô
SS CATHERINE
FRANCE
Avignon
Marseille
SPAIN
Mediterranean Sea
#
NIGHTS ONSHORE
LAND
Bo or deaux, Vineyar ds & Ch ateaux
CRUISE
UNESCO SITE
BORDEAUX TO BORDEAUX, FRANCE
9 DAYS from $2,549
SAVE up to $900 per couple
R ates per Person DEPARTURE DATE
CRUISE PRICE AFTER DISCOUNTS
$2,899 $2,999 $3,199 $3,399 $3,499 $3,599 $3,799 $4,099 $4,199
$2,599 $2,549 $2,749 $2,949 $3,049 $3,299 $3,499 $3,799 $3,899
RIVER ROYALE
Mar 14 Mar 21 Mar 28 Apr 4 Apr 11 Apr 18 Apr 25 May 9 May 23
DEPARTURE DATE
CRUISE PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
CRUISE PRICE AFTER DISCOUNTS
May 30 Jun 6 Jun 27 Aug 1 Aug 8 Aug 15 Oct 3 Oct 10 Oct 24 Nov 14
$4,199 $4,099 $4,099 $3,899 $3,899 $3,899 $4,399 $4,299 $3,899 $3,099
$3,899 $3,799 $3,799 $3,599 $3,599 $3,599 $4,099 $3,999 $3,449 $2,649
Gironde Estuary
Pauillac Bay of Biscay
Blaye Médoc
Libourne Bordeaux SaintÉmilion 7-NIGHT CRUISE
Cadillac
Bergerac Dordogne River Périgord
Sauternes
Aquitaine
#
NIGHTS ONSHORE
ne River ron Ga
CRUISE PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
LAND
FRANCE
CRUISE
UNESCO SITE
View Day-by-Day Itineraries at www.GETours.com
AARP MEMBERS SAVE AN ADDITIONAL $100 PER PERSON Note: Prices shown are per person and includes cruise in base cabin category. Cabin upgrades are available at an additional cost. Call for Single Supplement. Airfare and port charges are not included in the price shown and will be advised at the time of booking. Limited time offer valid for new bookings only and subject to availability. Restrictions Apply. Call 1-800-552-5545 for questions and reservations.
TOLL-FREE
1-800-552-5545
61
Terms & Conditions HOW TO MAKE YOUR RESERVATION: After selecting your itinerary and departure date, call 1-800-552-5545 and a Travel Specialist will take your reservation over the phone. You can pay your $350.00 deposit by credit card, or you can mail a check made payable to GET (“GET”) to the following address: GRAND EUROPEAN TRAVEL 6000 Meadows Road, Suite 520 Lake Oswego, OR 97035 USA. FINAL PAYMENT: For all Land Vacations final payment is due in our Oregon office 60 days before departure. We accept the following types of payment: VISA, MASTERCARD, AMERICAN EXPRESS, DISCOVER CARD, personal check and cashier’s check. If reservations are made less than 60 days prior to departure, payment in full is required at the time of booking. If final payments are not received on time, GET may cancel the reservation and invoke the cancellation fee. For all River Cruises final payment is due 90 days prior to departure. PRICING: Land prices printed in this brochure are per person based on double occupancy. The GET and its affiliated entities that operate various components of your trip reserve the right to adjust prices due to fluctuations in foreign exchange rates, imposed fuel surcharges, taxes, charges and levies imposed by any third party including government and its agencies. Should these change the price of your tour by more than 10% you may cancel without penalty within 7 days after we notify you of the increase. FREQUENT TRAVELER DISCOUNT: All guests that travel with us and our sister companies automatically join our Frequent Traveler Club and receive a credit worth 5% off the Land or River Cruise portion of their next guided vacation or river cruise booked through GET. The 5% Frequent Traveler Credit must be redeemed within five years of issue and is not available retroactively. Only one 5% credit valid per person per trip. Not valid on Independent City Breaks, airfare, flight supplements or pre/post extension packages. CANCELLATIONS, CHANGES & REFUNDS: If a cancellation is made within 30 days after making your reservation your $350.00 deposit will be FULLY REFUNDED. *See Air Reservations section for specific change fee information for air reservations. For cancellations or changes thereafter but more than 61 days prior to departure there will be a $350.00 per person fee assessed. If you must withdraw or make a change 60 days or less prior to departure (90 days or less for all River Cruises), the following fees will apply: NUMBER OF DAYS PRIOR TO DEPARTURE
31 - 60 Days 15 - 30 Days Less than 15 Days NUMBER OF DAYS PRIOR TO DEPARTURE
89 – 60 Days 59 – 30 Days Less than 30 Days
CANCELLATION/CHANGE LAND TOURS – PER PERSON
25% of tour cost 50% of tour cost 100% of tour cost CANCELLATION/CHANGE RIVER CRUISES – PER PERSON
35% of the cost 50% of the cost 100 % of the cost
In addition, no refunds are made for unused portions of a tour or cruise including, but not limited to, missed meals or sightseeing, motorcoach travel and the non-use of hotel room and absent extenuating circumstances that GET reserves the right to determine. AIR RESERVATIONS: Air Add-On prices listed in this brochure were effective on January 27, 2015 and their availability is limited. At the time you purchase your tour, air prices may be higher. Air Add-On prices shown include September 11th Security fee, government fees, taxes and airline fuel surcharges based on destination and routing. The total price at time of purchase may vary slightly due to fluctuations in currency 62
exchange. For the most competitive and up to date pricing from your departure city call our toll free number at 1-800-552-5545. Air transportation is in economy class by scheduled airlines. Business class is available upon request. Some tours are not available from all of the airports. Requests for specific airlines, non-stop or direct flights and/or seat assignments are accepted as preferences only and cannot be guaranteed. Some airlines do not accept advance seat assignments. Frequent flyer programs are under the control of the respective airlines. Your airline tickets will be electronically issued in lieu of paper tickets. Please note that your airline tickets and other tour documentation must bear your FULL name as it appears on your passport; and airline reservations can only be made for dates less than 331 days out. AIRLINE TICKETS ISSUED BY GRAND EUROPEAN TRAVEL: The following charges
apply for cancellations or changes to airline arrangements made by GET: PRIOR TO AIRLINE TICKETING: service fee of $50 per person. AFTER AIRLINE TICKETING: service fee of $75 per person plus any airline imposed penalties which may be up to 100% of the airline ticket value. DOT ADVISORY: The Department of Transportation requires us to inform you of the following conditions. The package price is subject to change as a result of increases in fuel surcharges and/or government taxes until it has been paid in full. You must consent to the possibility that, until you pay for your package in full, your price could go up. Once you have paid in full we would only pass along increases in government taxes if applicable at that time. You have 7 days from receipt of the first invoice to revoke your consent and request a refund, at which time we would cancel your booking. PASSPORTS AND VISAS: A valid U.S passport is required for traveling outside of the U.S., including to Canada & Mexico. Passport application forms may be obtained from your local post office. All passports must contain at least 3 blank visa pages and must be valid for 6 months after the completion of your tour. Entry visa application forms will be sent prior to your departure for U.S. passport holders visiting the following countries: Russia ($233*), China ($198*), Brazil ($248*) and Vietnam & Cambodia ($301*). An entry fee is required upon arrival at the airport in Egypt ($15*), and Zimbabwe ($30*). These countries prefer payment in U.S. dollars rather than local currency. A per person Departure Tax is required in Costa Rica ($28*) and Peru ($31*) paid at the airport. A one time Reciprocity Tax is required upon entry at the airport in Santiago, Chile ($140*). The fee can be paid in local currency, US Dollars, credit card or traveler check; the tax is valid for multiple entries for 10 years or until your passport expires. Proof of a pre-paid reciprocity fee of $160* is required to enter Argentina. Payment can be made at www.migraciones.gov.ar (select “tasa de reciprocidad”). Australia requires an electronic visa ($0*) which is obtained at the time of airline ticket purchase. Turkey requires that you obtain an electronic entry visa ($20) prior to arrival. Cambodia Airport Departure Tax ($25*) is included in the cost of the airfare. *All visa costs and entry/ exit requirements can change at any time. Please visit travel.state.gov for current information. Individuals who do not hold a U.S. passport should contact VisaCentral at 1-866788-1100 to see if visas are required. TRAVEL DOCUMENTS: Approximately 15 days prior to the departure date you will receive a travel information package that will include your airline itinerary, travel tips, hotel list, baggage tag, travel wallet, etc. Visas, when required, will be distributed as soon as they are issued by the countries involved. Please note
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that your airline tickets and other tour documentation must bear your FULL name as it appears on your passport. Please immediately review your travel documents. You are responsible for all terms, conditions and limitations stated therein. PARTICIPATION: Guided Vacations require a blend of adventuresome spirit, physical fitness, walking ability, mental alertness, and a capacity for accepting situations as they exist and not, necessarily, as we would find them in America. If you have health concerns, we suggest that you contact your physician to help determine the suitability of one of these tours for you. We regret that we are unable to accept requests for special diets or itinerary variations. Disabled travelers requiring special attention or treatment on any tour must be reported when reservations are made. A companion who is able to provide the required assistance must accompany any person who is unable to travel independently or who needs any type of assistance. BAGGAGE: Due to limited motorcoach storage capacity, each guest is permitted one large suitcase not to exceed 50 pounds in weight nor 30”x22”x10” in dimension on European programs. Handling of this bag by hotel porters is included in the price. In addition, each person is allowed one small piece of carry-on size luggage that does not exceed the dimensions of 12”x11”x6” and is the complete responsibility of the guest and must be taken on the motorcoach with you. Carry-ons with telescopic handles and wheels will not fit in the overhead compartments and therefore cannot be accepted as carry-on luggage for safety reasons. Other destinations have smaller baggage dimensions which are noted in your pre-tour documentation. GET does not assume any responsibility for loss or damage to baggage or passengers’ belongings. Please note: It is your responsibility to verify the baggage weight restrictions for the individual airlines that you will be traveling on as in some instances baggage is restricted. Airline baggage charges collected at check-in are not included and are at passengers own expense. OPTIONAL PRIVATE TOWN CAR TRANSFER SERVICE IN USA: For an additional fee GET will
arrange transfer service for departing and returning flights in the USA. It is your responsibility to verify that the address, flight times and scheduled pick up time is correct. Cancellation of service or any changes must be made 72 hours prior to scheduled pickup. GET is not responsible for missed flights due to changes made for pickup. Price includes gratuities, taxes, tolls, and fuel surcharges. EARLY DEPARTURE OR EXTENDED STAY: If you wish to depart early or extend your stay in Europe, flight and hotel arrangements can be made by contacting our office. Airport transfers are not included but may be purchased through GET. On most programs you can reserve up to 3 additional nights at the hotel where your itinerary starts and ends, however space may be limited and is subject to availability. Please call for our low cost rates and availability. Luggage handling and breakfast is not included on North American program extensions. LAND ONLY: If you wish to make independent flight arrangements, you may still reserve the land portion. Hotel-airport transfers are subject to availability and flight details must be provided in writing at least 45 days prior to departure. See tour page for specific transfer times. If you make your own air arrangements, GET is not liable for any losses should you not arrive on time and no refunds will be given. AIRPORT TRANSFERS: Complimentary airport arrival and departure transfers are included in the itinerary price when you purchase our land/ air package and operate at fixed times on the first and last day of your itinerary. See the individual itinerary pages for details. Airport transfers are not included on Independent City
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Breaks. For those making their own flight arrangements extending at GET hotels, transfers can be purchased; please call for details. London Heathrow Airport Arrivals: For tours commencing in London, we have included a free group shuttle to/from LHR for clients that have booked our combined land/air packages (Excluding Independent City Breaks). For clients that have made their own flight arrangements GET has negotiated rates for shuttle transfers from LHR to your London hotel (which must be booked through GET) at a price of $65 per person per single trip to/from LHR. London Gatwick Airport Arrivals: Clients arriving at LGW who have booked our combined land/air packages are provided with a Gatwick Express train voucher to Victoria Station, and will need to make their own way from Victoria Station to the tour hotel (Excluding Independent City Breaks). For clients that have made their own flight arrangements we suggest you visit www.gatwickexpress.com for transfer information. To purchase airport transfers for Independent City Breaks please call 1-800-552-5545. SMOKING: Please note that we do not permit smoking on our motorcoaches, however, frequent stops are made while traveling. SURFACE TRAVEL & SIGHTSEEING: Ground arrangements are provided by Grand European Operations Ltd., a separate company, and include inter-city travel by private motorcoach with air conditioning and an emergency restroom*, ferry, train, and ship as per the itinerary. Activities on days indicated in the itinerary as being “at leisure or optional” are left to your discretion. *Some exceptions apply. HOLIDAYS: During local or national holidays some museums, restaurants or sightseeing may be limited or not available. Alternatives will be offered wherever possible. At times, some itineraries may be operated in reverse; you will be advised at the time of booking. HOTELS: The hotels reserved for our programs are rated as European Standard First Class. All hotel rooms provide a private bath (and/or shower) and toilet. Accommodations outside of the United States do not necessarily offer the same level of amenities. These hotels are clean, comfortable and located so as to best facilitate guided sightseeing of the area. Hotels reserved for each program are indicated in the Day-By-Day Itinerary. If, for any reason, it becomes necessary to use other hotels, they will be of a similar standard, where possible. We only contract non-smoking rooms. All accommodations, meals and services have been designated as first class in Russia, Eastern Europe and provincial areas though some tourism facilities are less developed than what might normally be expected in this category. Tours in North and South America use Standard First Class hotels. SINGLE ROOMS: A limited number of single rooms are available at a supplement. While single rooms provide privacy, they are often smaller than twin-bedded rooms. We do offer the option to join our nonsmoking Room Share Program (subject to availability). The Room Share Program is not available on programs to Greece, Mexico, Hawaii, Costa Rica, Peru, South America, China, Independent City Breaks, European River Cruises, Small Groups and all pre or post extensions. GET is not responsible for any claims, damages or losses relating to, or arising out of, the Room Share Program. TRIPLE ROOMS: Triple room accommodations are available on a limited basis at a reduced price. Triple rooms usually consist of a twinbedded room with an additional folding bed or cot for the third person. They may not be comfortable for three adults. Triple rooms are not available on cruises. WI-FI: Complimentary Wi-Fi service is available in many GET hotel guestrooms. When such a service is not available complimentary Wi-Fi
will be available in the public areas of most hotels. In most countries complimentary Wi-Fi is also provided on-board the coaches. The Wi-Fi on the coaches uses the mobile phone network and as a result the connection will be slower than standard broadband and at times may not be available. In some countries this service will not be available. Please note that it is not available on Independent City Breaks or on local transfer/relief coaches when the main GETs coach is not being used. For further information please refer to www.GETours.com. MEALS: Please note in cases of early morning departures, FB (full breakfast) may not be available. We are unable to accept requests for special menus to meet dietary or religious requirements. PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE: Beverages and meals not detailed in the itinerary. Personal expenses including passport and visa fees, alcoholic beverages, optional sightseeing tours, laundry, phone calls, traditional end of the trip gratuity to your Travel Director and Motorcoach Driver, tips to local city guides, crew tips and all other items of a personal nature, airport tax, service & security charges and port taxes. (Subject to change.) Travel Insurance is also not included but is highly recommended. CONSUMER DISCLOSURE NOTICE: Please read the Terms and Conditions carefully, as your deposit and payment for a trip constitutes consent to all conditions and general information contained in this brochure. RESPONSIBILITY: These trips are arranged by Grand European Operations Ltd. (“Operator”) in conjunction with Grand European Tours (2003) Inc. It has made the travel arrangements as agent for the transportation carriers and other suppliers of services connected with the tour (“suppliers”) all of which are independent contractors. Neither GET or the Operator in no way owns or operates the vehicles or facilities to be used during the trip, and does not guarantee or assume responsibility for the acts and/or omissions of suppliers, their employees, agents, etc. Transportation companies, airlines etc. are not to be held responsible for any act, omission or event during the time passengers are not on board planes, transportation or conveyances. We rely on international convention which may apply to the services provided by us, our suppliers or agents with respect to any claim of any nature brought by you against us as a result of the provision of those services. International conventions which apply may include: Warsaw Convention 1929, (as amended by Hague Protocol and Montreal Protocol) in relation to air travel, or Montreal Convention; the Berne Convention for rail travel; Athens Convention 1974 for carriage by sea; the Geneva Convention for carriage by road and the Paris Convention 1962 for Hotels. We are to be regarded as having all benefit of these conventions on limiting our liability in relation to any claim for death, injury, loss, damage and delay to passengers and luggage. Enrollment in and payment for a program shall constitute agreement and acceptance by the passenger of the terms and conditions set forth in this brochure which cannot be varied except in writing by an officer of the Company. All bookings are accepted subject to the conditions imposed by GET, the Operator and any suppliers including airline, cruise line, rail, coach, hotel, restaurants, insurance and other companies, firms or persons concerned with the trip, and the Operator will make no refund in the event of their delay, cancellation, overbooking, strike, force majeure or for elements of the package not used by customer. If there is a difference between the Operator’s Conditions and those published by a supplier, the conditions of supplier shall apply. GET and the Operator reserves the right to cancel a trip or change the itinerary whenever in its sole judgment conditions warrant, or if the
Operator deems it necessary for your comfort, convenience or safety. Trips outside the USA require a valid passport. You are responsible for and release GET and the Operator from, passport, visa, vaccination requirements, and safety conditions in travel destinations. The Operator strongly recommends you purchase appropriate cancellation/medical/baggage insurance for the trip. For medical information, call the Center for Disease Control at 1-800232-4636 or visit www.cdc.gov/travel, and for U.S. State Department travel advisories, call 1-202-647-5225. The Operator reserves the right to decline to accept any person as a member of the tour, or to require any participant to withdraw from the trip at any time who presents a significant risk to the health or safety of himself or others which cannot be eliminated or reduced to an acceptable level by the Operator’s reasonable accommodation. GET and the Operator reserves the right to correct an error in the advertised price prior to your departure. Prices in this brochure are accurate at the time of printing and are subject to change without notice due to changes in market factors including but not limited to foreign currency and supplier cost fluctuations. Prices set forth in future brochures shall supersede the prices in this brochure. Airfare quotes, and Air Add-ons in this brochure are subject to airline capacity limitations and higher airfares may apply depending on seat availability at the time of reservation. A contract is made when your reservation and payment are accepted by the Operator at its office, and any dispute shall be governed by Oregon law and subject to the jurisdiction of Portland, Oregon. In calculating the cost of your trip, Operator has relied on your consent to these terms and in the absence of this release, the trip cost would have been higher. Operator reserves the right to substitute hotels of similar quality at any time or to make changes in itinerary of similar quality. Operator will not be responsible to any person for expense, loss of time, money or other circumstance resulting from a change in itinerary or change of tour arrangements. Operator also reserves the right to cancel a departure, and in such cases all payments made to date will be refunded and shall constitute full settlement. If you purchase an airline ticket separately, ensure that your travel agent explains the conditions under which the ticket is issued, as the Operator assumes no responsibility for such airline ticket cancellation fees. Please understand that not all museums and attractions are open every day of the year. Operator reserves the right to vary the sequence of sightseeing and/ or to re-route the order of cities if that will enable you to visit all listed excursions. In either case, the itinerary content will be maintained to the extent possible and there are no refunds for any unused or unavailable excursions. Promotional offers subject to change. This brochure supersedes any other current brochure in the market. PRIVACY POLICY: Occasionally we make portions of our mailing lists available to carefully selected companies. If you would prefer not to have your name and mailing address made available, please call us at 1-800-552-5545. To review our full privacy policy, visit our website at www.GETours.com/ privacy-policy. Credit and Courtesy for the photos on the following pages goes to: page 48 - Swiss.image.ch
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