THE 2015 COLLECTION
ISSUE 6
Discover Europe’s Holiday Markets
EXPERIENCE THE M AGIC OF THE SEASON Choose from Eight different vacation pack ages starting from $1,804 per per son
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT
Save up to $528 per couple — AARP Members save up to $728 per couple BOOK BY JULY 2, 2015 See page 10 for details
Our Collection
HOLIDAY MARKETS
BRITAIN & IRELAND
NORTH AMERICA
ASIA
10 DAY
16 DAY
10 DAY
10 DAY
9 DAY 8 DAY 9 DAY 9 DAY 9 DAY 9 DAY 9 DAY
Alpine Chirstmas Markets 12-14 Christmas Markets of Germany On-line Magical Switzerland On-line Rhine Holiday Markets River Cruise On-line Danube Holiday Markets River Cruise On-line Classic Christmas Markets River Cruise On-line European Holiday Markets River Cruise On-line Parisian Holiday River Cruise On-line
EUROPEAN DISCOVERIES 15 DAY 10 DAY 14 DAY 16 DAY 17 DAY
European Whirl 15-17 Delights of London & Paris 18-20 European Spotlight On-line Contrasts of Europe On-line Principalities of Europe On-line
ITALY & SICILY 9 DAY 15 DAY 13 DAY 8 DAY 10 DAY 10 DAY 10 DAY 14 DAY
Italian Intermezzo 21-23 Grand Italia SALE 24-26 Unforgettable Italy SALE On-line Secrets of Italy Hidden Journeys On-line Best of the Italian Lakes On-line Country Roads of Umbria On-line & Tuscany Rome & Tuscan Highlights On-line Country Roads of Southern On-line Italy & Sicily
SPAIN, PORTUGAL & MOROCCO 10 DAY 14 DAY 14 DAY 14 DAY 19 DAY
Highlights of Spain 27-29 Unforgettable Spain & Portugal SALE 30-32 Spain, Morocco & On-line Portugal SALE Splendors of Andalusia On-line & Morocco Treasures of Spain, Portugal & Morocco 33-35
15 DAY
Grand Tour de France 11 DAY Secrets of France Hidden Journeys 9 DAY Normandy, Brittany & the Loire Valley
8 DAY 13 DAY 10 DAY 13 DAY 9 DAY 15 DAY
13 DAY 11 DAY 8 DAY 13 DAY 11 DAY 9 DAY 10 DAY 15 DAY 15 DAY 11 DAY 11 DAY 15 DAY 15 DAY
Vienna, Salzburg, Prague & Budapest SALE 42-44 Best of Holland, Belgium On-line & Luxembourg Best of Holland NEW On-line Country Roads of Bavaria, On-line Switzerland & Austria Best of Germany On-line Secrets of Switzerland NEW Hidden Journeys On-line Best of Switzerland NEW On-line Country Roads of Switzerland On-line Highlights of Eastern Europe On-line The Bohemian On-line Highlights of Poland On-line Highlights of Austria, On-line Slovenia & Croatia Country Roads of Croatia On-line
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On-line
13 DAY 16 DAY 8 DAY 12 DAY
On-line
16 DAY
On-line
12 DAY 16 DAY
Mediterranean Fables Grecian Dreams Grecian Fables Grecian Legends Glories of Greece Secrets of Greece including Corfu Hidden Journeys Secrets of Turkey including the Turquoise Coast Hidden Journeys Wonders of Turkey Treasures of Turkey
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8 DAY 9 DAY 11 DAY 8 DAY 8 DAY 8 DAY 14 DAY 11 DAY 10 DAY 7 DAY 10 DAY 11 DAY 11 DAY 10 DAY
CENTR AL & SOUTH AMERICA
Costa Rica Eco Adventure 51-53 8 DAY Monkeys, Jungles & Volcanoes On-line 8 DAY Highlights of Peru 54-56 8 DAY Panama, The Canal & Beyond Hidden Journeys On-line 10 DAY Impressions of South America On-line 19 DAY
Contrasts of Australia & New Zealand
On-line
On-line On-line On-line On-line On-line On-line On-line
Classic China Hidden Journeys On-line Timeless Essence of Hong Kong & Mainland China Hidden Journeys On-line On-line DAY Secrets of Thailand DAY Splendors of Japan with On-line Hiroshima Hidden Journeys
11 DAY
12 14
RIVER CRUISES 11 DAY
9 DAY 11 DAY 9 DAY 11 DAY 14 DAY 16 DAY 16 DAY 9 DAY 9 DAY 9 DAY 9 DAY
8 DAY
12 DAY 19 DAY 16 DAY
2016 Tulips & Windmills SALE 57-59 Seat Sale Departures SALE 60-61 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 On-line & Chateaux Venice & the Gems of On-line Northern Italy Portugal, Spain & the On-line Douro River Grand China & the Yangtze On-line Timeless Wonders of Vietnam, On-line Cambodia & the Mekong
INDEPENDENT CITY BREAKS 9 DAY On-line
On-line
GREECE & TURKEY 12 DAY
14 DAY
Tastes & Sounds of the South 45-47 Autumn Colors 48-50 Scenic Parks Explorer On-line The Trailblazer On-line National Parks Wonders On-line Adventures in the On-line Wild Northwest Historic Highlights On-line Great East Coast Cities On-line The Californian On-line San Francisco & Wine On-line Country Delights Route 66 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 Hidden Journeys On-line Mexico’s Copper Canyon On-line
AUSTR ALIA & NEW ZEALAND
15 DAY 16
Scenic Scandinavia & its Fjords NEW DAY Spectacular Scandinavia & its Fjords DAY Russia, Warsaw & the Baltic States
8 DAY
10 DAY
RUSSIA & SCANDINAVIA
On-line
TOLL-FREE
Britain & Ireland Highlights SALE 36-38 Best of Scotland 39-41 Best of Britain On-line English Country Gardens On-line Country Roads of Ireland On-line Secrets of Ireland Hidden Journeys On-line Best of Ireland & Scotland On-line
CENTR AL & EASTERN EUROPE
12 DAY
FR ANCE
2
Guided Vacations & River Cruises
11 DAY 8 DAY 7 DAY
Find
London & Paris London, Paris & Rome London Week Paris Break
On-line On-line On-line On-line
Frankfurt
Your Perfect Journey Here or Discover Even More Online at www.GETours.com
On-line On-line
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Explore Europe & Beyond...
Call now for an unforgettable experience. 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. We are a proud member of The Travel Corporation, a passionately run family-owned business of four generations that spans over nine decades. Each of its 25 fine brands is cared for and managed by some of the most experienced, qualified and zealously committed people in the travel industry. The Travel Corporation owes its success to an unwavering, clear principle: every employee is part of the family, and every customer is the most valued of Guests.
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. 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. 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 Cur ated Collection
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
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Your Dreams Come
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
Enjoy the perfect balance of included sightseeing with free time to experience each destination
Relax in first-class hotels and deluxe river cruise staterooms
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True in 12 Easy Steps Experience the Highlights
First-Class Hotels
Call toll-free
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
We’ll Handle the Luggage
Enjoy VIP Priority Access
Tr aveling in Comfort & Style
Don’t lift a finger. We’ll deliver your luggage to your room
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
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The Grand European TR AVEL EXPERIENCE
What makes a GET guided vacation special?
Why not just travel on my own?
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 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.
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.
Who do I travel with?
Cinque Terre, Italy
Where can we take you?
The best vacation for you is the one that fulfills your desires and fits your travel style. Whether you prefer to explore historic sites on a guided vacation, dream of seeing the sights aboard a relaxing river cruise, or prefer an independent city break designed with the support of local experts, our travel planners work with you one-on-one to find your perfect trip. When you book with us – the experts in guided vacations and river cruises – we help you choose from more than 100 carefully curated itineraries to find the ideal mix of organized sightseeing, freedom to explore on your own, and authentic food and accommodations. For our 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 constantly strive to deliver the best hotels in every city. You’ll find comprehensive hotel information in the accommodations tab for each vacation featured on our website, 6
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and encourage you to read unbiased reviews on tripadvisor.com. 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. What kind of meals will I enjoy?
Sharing a table with friends is central to European life, and we want to carry on 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.
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Traveling with a group is a rewarding experience that lets you connect and build camaraderie with a fun-loving group of like-minded 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. We offer reasonably priced single-room supplements on all our trips, or 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.
What about river cruises?
We offer the best quality and experiences in river cruising available. Unpack once and relax as you explore villages, vineyards and castles along the world’s most historic waterways. Your river cruise ship is an intimate and elegant boutique hotel that travels with you, complete with stunning staterooms and modern amenities. And everything is covered during your allinclusive voyage, from shore excursions with English speaking guides and impeccably prepared meals and all beverages including wine, cocktails and beer, to on-board entertainment and gratuities.
How do I get around on a guided vacation?
What if my plans change?
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.
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 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) MORE JOURNEYS AT
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Getting There 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:
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
Great Rates Because of our buying power and airline contracts, you save on Economy and Business Class
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)
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. A private town car will pick you up from your front door and whisk you to your departing airport to start your vacation in style. When you return, your private town car will be waiting for you in the arrivals hall, ready to safely deliver you home – the perfect ending to an unforgettable vacation.
• Convenient and stress free start to your vacation • Private town car • Pick-up from and return to your house • No airport parking fees
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
H OW IT WO R K S • 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
• 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
• 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 meets you curbside to deliver you to your home in comfort
• 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
#GETCares
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 Extensive Collection
Call our experts to plan your perfect vacation today.
Toll Free:
1-800-552-5545
At Grand European Travel and parent company The Travel Corporation, we value the experience of seeing the world; each destination we visit offers an opportunity to discover another culture, observe its values and encounter its traditions. We are also conscious of our responsibility to the places we visit and the need to protect the world around us. THE TREADRIGHT FOUNDATION Created as joint initiative between The Travel Corporation’s family of brands, TreadRight is a not-forprofit foundation that supports projects to help improve the environment, protect and conserve ecosystems and benefit communities. As part of The Travel Corporation family, Grand European Travel is a proud supporter of TreadRight’s projects and initiatives. TreadRight’s guiding principle is to encourage sustainable tourism development through conservation, leadership and support for communities. We encourage each of our partners to use this principle to guide all of their actions, whether at our regional offices or when taking guests around the world. By providing grants to organizations that encourage sustainability in different destinations, we hope to maintain the natural attractions across the world that define each unique region. To date, TreadRight has helped support more than 35 sustainable tourism projects worldwide. Foundation priorities are set by the Steering Committee, which includes sustainability leaders like Costas Christ and TreadRight Ambassador Céline Cousteau. To learn more about the many projects supported by TreadRight please visit www.treadright.org.
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3 Great Ways to Save $728
5%
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.
Solo Traveler Friendly
Reduced Single Supplements available on select 2016 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.
GUIDED VACATIONS
SAVE
UP TO
SAVE
PER COUPLE
COMBINED SAVINGS
BOOK BY JULY 2, 2015
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT*
~ PLUS ~
AARP MEMBER DISCOUNT
SAVE
Save up to $528 per couple ($264 per person) Book by July 2, 2015
AARP members SAVE AN ADDITIONAL $100 per person on guided vacations and receive a free travel gift
Solo Friendly
DEPARTURES
SAVE
SEAT SALE SAVINGS Look for the SAVE for additional savings up to $200 per person on select departures. Browse all seat sale departures on-line.
E SAV
Plus…
(Not valid on Independent City Breaks. See Terms & Conditions)
(Restrictions apply, see Terms & Conditions for details)
TRAVEL TWICE
E SAV
in the Same Year and Save $264 per person Early Booking Discount based on Treasures of Spain, Portugal & Morocco Guided Vacation *Early Booking Discount does not apply to Independent City Breaks or Guided Vacations to Greece and Turkey
SELECT 2016 RIVER CRUISES
SAVE
UP TO
$1,000
PER COUPLE
COMBINED SAVINGS BOOK BY JULY 2, 2015
RIVER CRUISE DISCOUNT Limited Time Offer
~ PLUS ~
AARP MEMBER DISCOUNT
Take advantage of Limited Time Savings up to $400 per person on select itineraries and departures. Offer ends July 2, 2015. See page 60-61 for details.
AARP members SAVE AN ADDITIONAL $100 per person on river cruises and receive a free travel gift
Lock in your vacation and take advantage of these great savings.
Questions or Reservations? Call our Travel Specialists today.
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TOLL-FREE
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.
E SAV
GROUP TRAVEL with Family or Friends
With nine paying passengers, the 10th person will receive a free guided vacation land trip!
YOUNG TRAVELERS Save 10%
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.
E SAV
PAST TRAVELER Referral Program
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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Alpine Christmas Markets GERMANY, AUSTRIA, FR ANCE, SWITZERLAND
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$1,804
DAY 7 FREIBURG SIGHTSEEING
PACE
DAYS COMFORTABLE OUR INCLUDED
HIGHLIGHTS
Visit stunning Salzburg
Your Journey DAY 1 USA – MUNICH
Overnight flight to Munich. DAY 2 ARRIVE MUNICH (2 NIGHTS)
CHRISTMAS MARKETS: Christmas Markets are open in Munich, Salzburg, Innsbruck, Freiburg, Strasbourg and Zürich for all departures MUNICH: At the Christmas market, meet a market stallholder to taste the fragrant and utterly delicious Lebkuchen with a glass of Glühwein SALZBURG: See Mozart’s family home during your guided orientation sightseeing INNSBRUCK: Enjoy delightful scenery on a cozy horse-drawn carriage ride and experience a special evening with a banquet in Hall in Tirol with wine, entertainment and good cheer FREIBURG: Explore this lively university city with a charming Christmas atmosphere STRASBOURG: Visit the oldest Christmas market in the world ZÜRICH: See the imposing Grossmünster, elegant Fraumünster and Europe’s biggest indoor Christmas extravaganza in the main railway station
Take Austria’s longest road tunnel back into Germany and pause in the tiny island-town of Lindau. Walk through the maze of ancient streets down to the harbor. Across the lake, often shrouded in mist, rises a silhouette of snow-capped peaks. After time to explore, continue along the shores of the Bodensee to your hotel in the Black Forest for three fabulous nights. (BB,D) MARITIM TITISEE HOTEL
FROM
A GUIDED VAC ATION
DAY 6 INNSBRUCK – BLACK FOREST (3 NIGHTS)
On arrival at Munich Airport, your transfer leaves for the hotel at 10am and 1pm. Later, an orientation tour will show you all the city’s major sights, culminating in the Marienplatz, with its soaring Town Hall and Glockenspiel. Here, the Christkindlmarkt is in full swing, an entrancing festival of light and music. Your Travel Director will introduce you to one of the market stallholders for a taste of traditional Bavarian Lebkuchen and a fragrant cup of Glühwein. In the evening, join your Travel Director for a Welcome Reception with dinner and wine. (WD) HILTON MUNICH PARK
DAY 3 MUNICH AT LEISURE
Munich embraces the holiday season with a particular zeal, so today is all yours to enjoy the vibrant festive markets that abound in this city. On crisp winter days, organ music and carols ring out from the ancient churches. If snow has fallen, the vast English Garden provides lovely winter vistas. Another option is to experience the romantic royal castles of the Bavarian Alps. (BB)
DAY 4 MUNICH – SALZBURG – INNSBRUCK (2 NIGHTS)
Drive beside the tranquil waters of Lake Chiemsee on your way to Salzburg in Austria, where the spires and domes of the old town are often draped in snow come December. A walk with a local expert shows you Mozart’s family home and the rosy hues of the 500-year-old market in front of the cathedral. Head through the mountains to your Innsbruck hotel. In the evening, drive to the charming town of Hall in Tirol boasting one of Austria’s bestpreserved historic centers. Soak up the unique atmosphere in a 700-year-old building and delight your palate with a Banquet and wine. (BB,HD) HILTON INNSBRUCK
Visit Freiburg in the morning, a lively university city with a charming Christmas atmosphere. Walk from the medieval Münster through the heart of the historic old quarter, past colorful stalls offering a range of festive goodies from the Black Forest. (BB) MARITIM TITISEE HOTEL
ARRIVAL CITY
DEPARTURE CITY
Germany France
NUMBER OF OVERNIGHT STAYS
Strasbourg
M
DAY 5 INNSBRUCK AT LEISURE
Spend the morning at leisure. Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere of the old town and Christmas Markets, set in front of the Golden Roof and graced by beautifully preserved medieval façades. Do your Christmas shopping here or perhaps join an optional ascent of the famous Olympic ski jump for spectacular views of the Inn Valley and town of Innsbruck below. In the afternoon, enjoy delightful scenery and healthy fresh air on an included horse-drawn carriage ride.
Munich at Christmas time
B F
Neuschwanstein
Freiburg Lindau
Z
Arlberg Tunnel
Switzerland
SIGHTSEEING STOP
Oberammergau Bavarian Alps Hall in Tirol
Bodensee
Salzburg
Austria
I Italy
(BB) HILTON INNSBRUCK
HILTON MUNICH PARK
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Alpine Christmas Markets (cont inued)
SAVE
FLY FROM OVER 60 CITIES
DAY 8 STRASBOURG AND ALSACE EXPERIENCE
Cross the Rhine to the region of Alsace today, wedged between the Black Forest and the Vosges Mountains, which has changed nationality four times since 1870! Visit Strasbourg, the ‘city at the crossroads’ where the Christmas market is the oldest and one of the largest in France. Spend time in a cozy neighborhood of timbered fairytale buildings, with Christmas shops and a gingerbread bakery, warm with fragrant promise. Return to Germany and your Black Forest hotel in time for dinner tonight. (BB,D) MARITIM TITISEE HOTEL
DAY 9 BLACK FOREST – ZÜRICH
Cross the Swiss border and head for Zürich where sightseeing includes the imposing Grossmünster, elegant Fraumünster, and winding alleys of the old town alongside the river Limmat. A highlight is Europe’s biggest indoor Christmas extravaganza in the main railway station, with over 160 wooden chalets and a three-story Christmas tree, dripping with Swarovski crystals. In the evening, toast to the culmination of your Yuletide tour with a festive farewell Celebration Dinner and wine. (BB,CD) MÖVENPICK ZÜRICH AIRPORT
Call for up-to-the-minute airfare from over 60 cities 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.
Rates per Person DEPARTURE DATE
LAND PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
Nov 26, 27
$1,950
UP TO
$292
PER COUPLE
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT BOOK BY JULY 2, 2015
AIR ADD-ONS PRICE AFTER EARLY BOOKING EAST COAST MIDWEST WEST COAST DISCOUNT (JFK) (ORD) (LAX)
$1,804
$1,253
$1,387
$1,480
Nov 30
$1,950
$1,804
$1,253
$1,387
$1,480
Dec 3, 4
$1,950
$1,804
$1,253
$1,387
$1,480
Dec 5, 8
$1,950
$1,804
$1,253
$1,387
$1,480
Dec 10, 11, 12
$1,950
$1,804
$1,253
$1,387
$1,480
$1,804
$1,392
$1,501
$1,594
Dec 13
$1,950
PRICE INCLUDES: Professional Travel Director with you throughout your journey First Class Hotels featuring twin rooms and private facilities 13 Meals 8 buffet breakfasts, 5 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 Guide in Salzburg Personal Audio Headsets 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, 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.
DAY 10 ZÜRICH – USA
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before checking out. Complimentary hotel shuttle transfers to the airport depart every 15 minutes. (BB)
Code: ACM. Price is per person and is based on two people sharing a twin-bedded room. Single Supplement: from $225. Air Add-On: Prices listed were effective on April 28, 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 $77 per person. Please Note: Christmas Markets are open in Munich, Salzburg, Innsbruck, Freiburg, Strasbourg and Zürich for all departures. Seasonal adjustments and/or blackout dates apply. Included Meals: WD Welcome Reception BB Buffet Breakfast D Dinner HD Highlight Dinner CD Celebration Dinner
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20AT1E6S
D BLE AVAIL A
European Whirl
ENGLAND, BELGIUM, THE NETHERLANDS, GERMANY, AUSTRIA, ITALY, SWITZERLAND, FR ANCE
15 $2,678 FROM
PACE
DAYS ACTIVE
A GUIDED VAC ATION
OUR INCLUDED
HIGHLIGHTS
See the Colosseum in Rome
Your Journey DAY 1 USA – LONDON
Overnight flight to London. 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
Relax after your journey or spend time exploring this exciting city. THISTLE EUSTON/CUMBERLAND
DAY 3 LONDON SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
See a host of sights including Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and Buckingham Palace during your morn ing 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/CUMBERLAND
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/ACHAT PREMIUM WALDORF/REILINGEN
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 architec ture including the Hofburg and the Golden Roof. You might consider experiencing traditional Tyrolean entertainment this evening. (BB) HILTON/GRAUER BÄR
DAY 7 INNSBRUCK – VENICE
Drive along the Brenner Pass into Italy and across the Dolomite Mountains. Arrive in the enchant ing 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 tradi tional glass-blowing workshop for a local specialist demonstration, then spend the afternoon explor ing the sights of your choice. Finish an eventful day with dinner at your hotel. (BB,DW) NOVOTEL VENEZIA MESTRE CASTELLANA
15
European Whirl (cont inued) 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/EXECUTIVE STYLE
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
River Arno to Florence, the birth place of the Renaissance. Discover the city’s rich artistic and medieval history with your local expert. Visit the Piazza della Signoria 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)
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.
GRAND HOTEL MEDITERRANEO/ COSMOPOLITAN CONCEPT
DAY 13 LUCERNE – PARIS
(BB) GRAND EUROPE/ASTORIA (2 NIGHTS)
DAY 11 FLORENCE – GOTTHARD DRIVE – LUCERNE
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
Pass Basel and cross the border into France this morning. In every direction, vineyards and pictur esque villages provide a memorable backdrop for your journey. Consider an optional experience this evening to a famous Parisian Cabaret. (BB) EVERGREEN LAUREL/
PALACE/EXECUTIVE STYLE
EUROPE/ASTORIA
RENAISSANCE LA DEFENSE
DAY 10 ROME – FLORENCE
DAY 12 LUCERNE ORIENTATION & FREE TIME
DAY 14 PARIS SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
(2 NIGHTS)
From Rome travel north into Tuscany, through rolling country side and along the valley of the
England
View the Lion Monument during your morning orientation. Created to
The Netherlands
A
L
See all the famous sights during your morning sightseeing tour
Eurostar Train
Brussels
ARRIVAL CITY
Boppard
Belgium
St. Goar
P
Germany
DEPARTURE CITY
Rhine Cruise
R
NUMBER OF OVERNIGHT STAYS
Heidelberg SIGHTSEEING STOP
Munich France Switzerland
L
Austria
I V
Italy
F Mediterraean Sea
16
TOLL-FREE
R
1-800-552-5545
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 exper ience 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/ RENAISSANCE LA DEFENSE
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)
Optional Eurostar Extension
SAVE
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, Choice of Airlines, Choice of Schedule & Routing. Business Class available. See page 8 for full details.
Rates per Person LAND PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
DEPARTURE DATE
Jun 13, 18
$3,975
UP TO
$468
PER COUPLE
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT BOOK BY JULY 2, 2015
AIR ADD-ONS PRICE AFTER EARLY BOOKING EAST COAST MIDWEST WEST COAST DISCOUNT (JFK) (ORD) (LAX)
$3,776
$1,431
$1,567
$1,661
$1,567
$1,661
Jun 20, 25, 27
$3,935
$3,738
$1,431
Jul 2, 4, 9
$3,935
$3,738
$1,431
$1,567
$1,661
Jul 11, 16, 18
$3,935
$3,738
$1,431
$1,567
$1,661
Jul 23, 25, 30
$3,935
$3,738
$1,431
$1,567
$1,661
Aug 1, 6, 8
$3,935
$3,738
$1,431
$1,567
$1,661
Aug 13, 15
$3,935
$3,738
$1,431
$1,567
$1,661
Aug 20, 22
$3,950
$3,753
$1,431
$1,567
$1,661
Aug 27, 29
$3,995
$3,795
$1,138
$1,212
$1,314
Sep 3, 5, 10
$3,995
$3,795
$1,138
$1,212
$1,314
Sep 12, 17, 19
$3,995
$3,795
$1,138
$1,212
$1,314
Sep 24, 26
$3,995
$3,795
$1,138
$1,212
$1,314
Oct 1, 3, 8
$3,975
$3,776
$1,138
$1,212
$1,314 $1,314
FROM $460 PER PERSON ON A TWIN SHARE BASIS
Oct 10, 15, 17
$3,975
$3,776
$1,138
$1,212
Oct 22
$3,835
$3,643
$1,138
$1,212
$1,314
Includes one-way Eurostar train ticket from Paris to London Standard Class, London accommodation at the Thistle Euston and station transfers.
Oct 24
$3,795
$3,605
$1,138
$1,212
$1,314
Oct 31
$2,895
$2,678
$1,074
$1,148
$1,249
*Nov 7, 14, 21, 28
$2,895
$2,678
$1,074
$1,148
$1,249
*†Dec 12
$2,995
$2,770
$1,074
$1,148
$1,249
*†Dec 19
$2,995
$2,770
$1,138
$1,212
$1,314
*†Dec 25
$3,125
$2,891
$1,074
$1,148
$1,249
*Jan 2, 9, 16
$2,895
$2,678
$1,074
$1,148
$1,249
*Jan 23, 30
$2,895
$2,678
$1,074
$1,148
$1,249
$1,148
$1,249
Call for details
2016 DEPARTURES
Code: WHI. Price is per person and is based on two people sharing a twin-bedded room. Single Supplement: from $710. Air Add-On: Prices listed were effective on April 28, 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. * These departures follow the winter itinerary and hotels and inclusions may vary. † Dec 12 Christmas Highlight Dinner in Paris. Dec 19 Christmas Highlight Dinner in Venice and New Year’s Eve in Paris. Dec 25 New Year’s Eve in Venice. These additional dinners will replace dinners shown in the itinerary. 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
*Feb 6, 13, 20, 27
$2,895
$2,678
$1,074
*Mar 5, 12
$2,895
$2,678
$1,074
$1,148
$1,249
*Mar 19, 21
$2,995
$2,770
$1,074
$1,148
$1,249
PRICE INCLUDES: Professional Travel Director with you throughout your journey First Class Hotels twin bedded room with private restroom 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
MORE JOURNEYS AT
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 motor coach. 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
www.GETours.com
17
Delights of London & Paris ENGLAND, FR ANCE
10 $3,254 FROM
PACE
DAYS COMFORTABLE A GUIDED VAC ATION
OUR INCLUDED
HIGHLIGHTS
See the Houses of Parliament in London
Your Journey DAY 1 USA – LONDON
Overnight flight to London. 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
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 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.
Visit the Eiffel Tower in Paris
ARRIVAL CITY
Stratford-Upon-Avon England
Wales
Oxford
DEPARTURE CITY
Bath
L
Windsor
NUMBER OF OVERNIGHT STAYS
Stonehenge
Shakespeare’s Birthplace and Visitor Center. Stop to see Anne Hathaway’s
SIGHTSEEING STOP
Dover English Channel
Calais
Belgium
France
Versailles
P
Visit Royal Windsor
18
TOLL-FREE
1-800-552-5545
MORE JOURNEYS AT
www.GETours.com
19
Delights of London & Paris (cont inued) After free time for lunch, travel through scenic countryside and stop at Stonehenge to visit the historic stone monoliths. Later return to London. (FB) CUMBERLAND
SAVE
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, Choice of Airlines, Choice of Schedule & Routing. Business Class available. See page 8 for full details.
Rates per Person
DAY 7 LONDON – PARIS (3 NIGHTS)
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
DEPARTURE DATE
LAND PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
UP TO
$356
PER COUPLE
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT BOOK BY JULY 2, 2015
AIR ADD-ONS PRICE AFTER EARLY BOOKING EAST COAST MIDWEST WEST COAST DISCOUNT (JFK) (ORD) (LAX)
Jun 26
$3,425
$3,254
$1,431
$1,567
$1,661
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
MONTPARNASSE
Aug 28
$3,550
$3,373
$1,138
$1,212
$1,314
DAY 8 PARIS SIGHTSEEING & VERSAILLES EXCURSION
Sep 4, 11
$3,550
$3,373
$1,138
$1,212
$1,314
$1,212
$1,314
$1,212
$1,314
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)
20
Sep 18, 25
$3,525
$3,349
$1,138
Oct 2
$3,525
$3,349
$1,138
PRICE INCLUDES: Professional Travel Director with you throughout your journey First Class Hotels twin bedded room with private restroom 11 Meals 8 breakfasts (including 5 full and 3 hot buffets). 3 dinners (including Welcome Reception, Regional Meal and Farewell Dinner) Local Expert in London, Paris and Versailles Personal Audio Headsets Ferry from Dover to Calais
SAVE AN AARP MEMBERS ADDITIONAL $100 P/P 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
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 March 10, 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
20AT1E6S
D BLE AVAIL A
Italian Intermezzo ITALY
9
FROM
$1,734 PACE
DAYS COMFORTABLE A GUIDED VAC ATION
OUR INCLUDED
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
St. Mark’s Square, Venice
Your Journey DAY 1 USA – MILAN
Overnight flight to Milan. 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/AC MILANO
Note: November – March departures stay in Milan and do not visit the Italian Lake District or Lake Como
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.
DAY 4 VENICE SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
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 HOTEL SANT’ELENA/ CARLTON VENICE
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
(BB) BEST WESTERN PREMIER HOTEL SANT’ELENA/CARLTON VENICE
Note: November – March departures do not include the Gondola serenade
TOLL-FREE
1-800-552-5545
21
Italian Intermezzo (cont inued)
DAY 8 ROME SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
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 leatherwork. 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
ROMANICO PALACE
ARRIVAL CITY
Italian Lake District Lake Garda
C Note: November - March departures stay in Milan and do not visit the Italian Lake District or Lake Como
V
Verona
Milan
NUMBER OF OVERNIGHT STAYS
Italy Adriatic Sea
Pisa Ligurian Sea
SIGHTSEEING STOP
BORGIA HOTEL/ROMANICO PALACE
DAY 9 ROME – USA
F Lake Trasimeno
DEPARTURE CITY
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 spinetingling operetta. (BB,CD) DEI
Bid farewell to the glories of Italy. Departure transfers arrive at Rome’s Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci Airport at 7am and 9.30am.
Assisi
(BB)
SAVE
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, Choice of Airlines, Choice of Schedule & Routing. Business Class available. See page 8 for full details.
Rates per Person LAND PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
DEPARTURE DATE
Jun 20
$322
PER COUPLE
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT BOOK BY JULY 2, 2015
AIR ADD-ONS PRICE AFTER EARLY BOOKING EAST COAST MIDWEST WEST COAST DISCOUNT (JFK) (ORD) (LAX)
$2,750
Jun 27
UP TO
$2,695
$2,613
$1,414
$1,672
$1,860
$2,560
$1,414
$1,672
$1,860
Jul 4
$2,665
$2,532
$1,414
$1,672
$1,860
Jul 11, 18, 25
$2,550
$2,423
$1,414
$1,672
$1,860
Aug 1, 8, 15
$2,550
$2,423
$1,414
$1,672
$1,860
Aug 22
$2,550
$2,423
$1,414
$1,672
$1,860
Aug 29
$2,750
$2,613
$1,359
$1,387
$1,444
Sep 5, 12, 19, 26
$2,775
$2,636
$1,359
$1,387
$1,444
$1,387
$1,444
Oct 3, 10, 17
$2,750
$2,613
$1,359
Oct 24
$2,750
$2,613
$1,359
$1,387
$1,444
*Oct 31
$1,875
$1,734
$1,359
$1,387
$1,444
*Nov 21
$1,875
$1,734
$1,203
$1,243
$1,335
*†Dec 20
$1,965
$1,818
$1,203
$1,243
$1,335
*†Dec 27
$2,150
$1,989
$1,203
$1,243
$1,335
$1,875
$1,734
$1,203
$1,243
$1,335
2016 DEPARTURES
*Jan 2 *Feb 6
$1,875
$1,734
$1,203
$1,243
$1,335
*Mar 19
$2,025
$1,873
$1,359
$1,387
$1,444
*Mar 26
$1,925
$1,781
$1,359
$1,387
$1,444
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 Personal Audio Headsets 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
Ap en n ine un Mo
Corsica
t ai ns
R Frascati
Code: INT. Price is per person and is based on two people sharing a twin-bedded room. Single Supplement: from $350. Air Add-On: Prices listed were effective on April 28, 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. * These departures stay in Milan and do not visit the Italian Lake District or Lake Como and inclusions may vary. † Includes Christmas Highlight Dinner with Gift in Florence/New Year’s Eve Dinner in Florence. These additional dinners will replace dinners shown in the itinerary. 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
22
TOLL-FREE
1-800-552-5545
MORE JOURNEYS AT
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23
Grand Italia
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.
ITALY
(BB,D) BEST WESTERN HOTEL BIASUTTI
DAY 8 VENICE SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
15 $3,729 FROM
PACE
DAYS ACTIVE
A GUIDED VAC ATION
OUR INCLUDED
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 SORRENTO: Dine with a local family in their home in the hills ISLE OF CAPRI: Explore this legendary and idyllic island 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’
St. Peter’s Basilica, Rome
Your Journey DAY 1 USA – ROME
Overnight flight to Rome. 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 compan ions and Travel Director at a Welcome Reception and dinner. (WD) DEI BORGIA HOTEL
DAY 3 ROME SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
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.
DAY 4 ROME – POMPEII – SORRENTO (2 NIGHTS)
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 home-cooked meal, local wine and lively conversation with a Sorrento family at a special Hands-On dinner. (BB,HD) GRAND
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
Explore the island of Capri
DAY 9 VENICE – VERONA – ITALIAN LAKES (2 NIGHTS)
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.
HOTEL BIASUTTI
HOTEL SIMPLON
I L
ARRIVAL CITY
Lake Maggiore
V-L
Verona
HOTEL VESUVIO
Slovenia DEPARTURE CITY
Bologna NUMBER OF OVERNIGHT STAYS
Italy
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, fashion able shops and restaurants. (BB)
Cinque Terre
GRAND HOTEL VESUVIO
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)
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)
(BB,D) HOTEL SIMPLON
DAY 5 SORRENTO (ISLE OF CAPRI EXCURSION)
DAY 6 SORRENTO – ASSISI & FREE TIME
DAY 10 ITALIAN LAKES AT LEISURE
Pisa
SIGHTSEEING STOP
F Siena
A
Corsica
R
GRAND HOTEL ROSEO
Pompeii Isle of Capri
S
(BB) DEI BORGIA HOTEL
24
TOLL-FREE
1-800-552-5545
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25
Grand Italia (cont inued)
SAVE
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 perpen dicular! 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, Choice of Airlines, Choice of Schedule & Routing. Business Class available. See page 8 for full details.
UP TO
SAVE
DEPARTURE DATE
LAND PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
$100 Jul 21
PER COUPLE
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT BOOK BY JULY 2, 2015
Rates per Person EXTRA SEAT SALE SAVINGS
$408
AIR ADD-ONS PRICE AFTER EARLY BOOKING EAST COAST MIDWEST DISCOUNT (JFK) (ORD)
WEST COAST (LAX)
$3,925
$3,729
$1,574
$1,634
$1,903
$3,925
$3,729
$1,434
$1,402
$1,514
$1,402
$1,514
$1,402
$1,514
HOTEL MEDITERRANEO
Aug 25
DAY 12 & 13 FLORENCE SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
Sep 1
$4,085
$3,881
$1,434
Sep 22
$4,085
$3,881
$1,434
$1,402
$1,514
$1,402
$1,514
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 MEDITERRANEO
DAY 14 FLORENCE – SIENA – ROME
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
SAVE
$100 Sep 29
$4,085
$3,881
$1,434
SAVE
$200 Oct 13
$4,065
$3,862
$1,434
PRICE INCLUDES: Professional Travel Director with you throughout your journey First Class Hotels twin bedded room with private restroom 20 Meals 13 buffet breakfasts. 7 dinners (including Welcome Reception, 1 Highlight Dinner, 4 three course dinners with tea or coffee and Farewell Dinner) Local Expert in Rome, Pompeii, Capri 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
SAVE AN AARP MEMBERS ADDITIONAL $100 P/P 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: 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 April 28, 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
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.
Explore Venice at leisure
(BB)
26
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20AT1E6S
D BLE AVAIL A
Highlights of Spain SPAIN
10 $1,753 FROM
PACE
DAYS COMFORTABLE A GUIDED VAC ATION
OUR INCLUDED
HIGHLIGHTS
Enjoy a highlight Flamenco show
Your Journey DAY 1 USA – BARCELONA
Overnight flight to Barcelona. 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
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
DAY 4 BARCELONA – VALENCIA
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! (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. Over looking 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.
27
Highlights of Spain (cont inued)
climb the Giralda Tower, former minaret of the Great Mosque and enjoy views over the city. This afternoon is at leisure. (BB)
Also stroll through the exotic water gardens of the Generalife, the Royal summer residence.
AYRE/MELIA SEVILLE
DAY 8 SEVILLE – CORDOBA – MADRID (2 NIGHTS)
(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/MELIA SEVILLE
DAY 7 SEVILLE SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
Seville has a distinctive character and presence best revealed by a
Visit the beautiful Alhambra
Alcazar – a Moorish fantasy in 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
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
France
Portugal
ARRIVAL CITY
Spain DEPARTURE CITY
M
B
Castilla la Mancha
Costa Dorada
Peñiscola Córdoba
V
Valdepeñas
Costa del Azahar
NUMBER OF OVERNIGHT STAYS
SIGHTSEEING STOP
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/ MELIA GALGOS
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/MELIA GALGOS
DAY 10 MADRID – USA
S
Lorca
G
Purullena
Benidorm Costa Blanca
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
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, Choice of Airlines, Choice of Schedule & Routing. Business Class available. See page 8 for full details.
Rates per Person LAND PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
DEPARTURE DATE
UP TO
$304
PER COUPLE
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT BOOK BY JULY 2, 2015
AIR ADD-ONS PRICE AFTER EARLY BOOKING EAST COAST MIDWEST WEST COAST DISCOUNT (JFK) (ORD) (LAX)
Jun 19, 26
$2,465
$2,342
$1,390
$1,494
$1,552
Jul 3, 10, 17
$2,435
$2,313
$1,390
$1,494
$1,552
Jul 24, 31
$2,435
$2,313
$1,390
$1,494
$1,552
Aug 7, 14, 21
$2,435
$2,313
$1,390
$1,494
$1,552
Aug 28
$2,435
$2,313
$1,228
$1,313
$1,353
Sep 4, 11, 18, 25
$2,535
$2,408
$1,228
$1,313
$1,353
Oct 2, 9, 16, 23
$2,465
$2,342
$1,228
$1,313
$1,353
Oct 30
$2,450
$2,328
$1,228
$1,313
$1,353
*Nov 6, 20
$1,895
$1,753
$1,072
$1,142
$1,138
*Nov 27
$1,895
$1,753
$1,072
$1,142
$1,138
*†Dec 19
$1,895
$1,753
$1,228
$1,313
$1,353
*†Dec 26
$1,950
$1,804
$1,072
$1,142
$1,138
*Jan 1
$2,025
$1,873
$1,072
$1,142
$1,138
*Jan 15
$1,895
$1,753
$1,072
$1,142
$1,138
*Feb 5
$1,895
$1,753
$1,072
$1,142
$1,138
$1,142
$1,138
$1,313
$1,353
2016 DEPARTURES
*Mar 4, 11
$1,895
$1,753
$1,072
*Mar 18, 25
$1,925
$1,781
$1,228
PRICE INCLUDES:
SAVE AN AARP MEMBERS ADDITIONAL $100 P/P
Professional Travel Director with you throughout your journey
extended leg room, panoramic windows and emergency restroom
First Class Hotels twin bedded room with private restroom
Personal Audio Headsets
13 Meals 8 buffet breakfasts. 5 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 Airport Transfers arrival and departure transfers included as noted in itinerary with the purchase of combined air and land package
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
Luxury Motorcoach Transpor tation with A/C, reclining seats,
Solo Friendly
DEPARTURES Call for details
Code: SPA. Price is per person and is based on two people sharing a twin-bedded room. Single Supplement: from $365. Air Add-On: Prices listed were effective on April 28, 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. * These departures follow the winter itinerary and hotels and inclusions may vary. † Includes Christmas Highlight Dinner with Gift in Seville/New Year’s Eve Dinner in Seville. These additional dinners will replace dinners shown in the itinerary. 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 28
TOLL-FREE
1-800-552-5545
MORE JOURNEYS AT
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Unforgettable Spain & Portugal SPAIN, PORTUGAL
14
$2,750
(3 NIGHTS)
PACE
DAYS ACTIVE OUR INCLUDED
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
See the Monument to the Discoveries in Lisbon
Your Journey DAY 1 USA – LISBON
Overnight flight to Lisbon. 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 sight seeing. 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
DAY 4 LISBON – FÁTIMA – PORTO
After a leisurely breakfast, head to Fátima to see the shrine and Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary. 30
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 fourmile 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
FROM
A GUIDED VAC ATION
DAY 7 BILBAO & THE GUGGENHEIM MUSEUM
TOLL-FREE
1-800-552-5545
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 apprecia tion at an included tasting in a local cellar. The balance of the afternoon is free to explore the downtown area. (BB,D)
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 a local restaurant at tonight’s Highlight Dinner. (BB,HD) U232 HOTEL
Visit Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia, Barcelona
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 Barcelona’s most iconic images. Then, continue to Montserrat to marvel at the dramatic peaks surrounding this peaceful place of pilgrimage. (BB) U232 HOTEL
TIARA PARK ATLANTIC PORTO
ARRIVAL CITY
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 square, 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
France
P
Bilbao Burgos
L
Fátima
Portugal
S
Pamplona Montserrat
NUMBER OF OVERNIGHT STAYS
SIGHTSEEING STOP
B
M V
(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. 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
S S
DEPARTURE CITY
Spain
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31
Unforgettable Spain & Portugal (cont inued) Call for up-to-the-minute airfare from over 60 cities 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.
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
Gaze at the sparkling Mediter ranean 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 after noon and save your appetite for a classic Valencian treat. After a Hands-On paella cooking demonstra tion, savor the delicious results at a festive dinner. (BB,HD) VALENCIA CENTER
DAY 12 VALENCIA – MADRID (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/ MIGUEL ANGEL MADRID
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
UP TO
EXTRA SEAT SALE SAVINGS
SAVE
SAVE
DEPARTURE DATE
LAND PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
$300
PER COUPLE
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT BOOK BY JULY 2, 2015
Rates per Person
DAY 11 BARCELONA – VALENCIA
D BLE AVAIL A
SAVE
FLY FROM OVER 60 CITIES
DAY 10 BARCELONA AT LEISURE
20AT1E6S
AIR ADD-ONS PRICE AFTER EARLY BOOKING EAST COAST MIDWEST DISCOUNT (JFK) (ORD)
$2,845
$1,159
$1,248
$1,356
Sep 13
$2,995
$2,845
$1,159
$1,248
$1,356
$150 Sep 20
$2,995
$2,845
$1,159
$1,248
$1,356
$2,895
$2,750
$1,159
$1,248
$1,356
Oct 4
PRICE INCLUDES:
SAVE AN AARP MEMBERS ADDITIONAL $100 P/P
Professional Travel Director 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, 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) Local Expert in Lisbon, Salamanca, Barcelona and Madrid Personal Audio Headsets Airport Transfers arrival and departure transfers included as
SPAIN, PORTUGAL, MOROCCO
WEST COAST (LAX)
$2,995
$150 Aug 30
Treasures of Spain, Portugal & Morocco
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: 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 April 28, 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
19 $2,835 FROM
PACE
DAYS COMFORTABLE A GUIDED VAC ATION
OUR INCLUDED
HIGHLIGHTS
DAY 14 MADRID – USA
TOLEDO: Visit an authentic Damascene workshop and view El Greco’s masterpiece in the Church of Santo Tome FATIMA: Pay homage at the Chapel of Apparitions LISBON: Visit Jeronimo’s church and see the Monument to the Discoveries and Belem Tower SEVILLE: Explore Santa Cruz Quarter, see the Alcazar and visit the Cathedral FES: Visit the Medina and shop for Moroccan carpets MARRAKESH: Visit the exquisite Palais de la Bahia, soak up the atmosphere in Djemaa el-Fna Square and see the Koutobia Minaret
RABAT: See the Royal Palace and Hassan Tower GIBRALTAR: Tour of the Rock of Gibraltar and see the famous apes
Departure transfers arrive at Madrid Airport at 7am, 9am and 11am. (BB)
MIJAS: Journey to this whitewashed village GRANADA: Visit Alhambra Palace and the water gardens VALDEPEÑAS: Enjoy a delicious exploration of the wines of La Mancha
32
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Your Journey DAY 1 USA – MADRID
Overnight flight to Madrid. DAY 2 ARRIVE MADRID (2 NIGHTS)
MADRID: See the Don Quixote statue in Plaza de España, Gran Via, Cibeles Fountain, Parliament , Puerta del Sol and visit the Prado Museum
CASABLANCA: See the Hassan II Mosque
Porto, Portugal
Tannery in Fes
On arrival at Madrid Airport, your transfer leaves for the hotel at 9am, 11am, 1.30pm and 4pm. Later, join your Travel Director for a Welcome Reception and a pleasant evening of dinner and wine. (WD) TRYP AMBASSADOR/ NH ABASCAL
DAY 3 MADRID SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
After a restful night’s sleep, drive with a local expert down the Gran Via to the Cibeles Fountain on the wide Paseo de la Castellana. Cross the Puerta del Sol and see the Cervantes Monument in the Plaza de España. A highlight is a visit to the Prado Museum, a magnificent palace housing works by Velázquez, Goya, Rubens and others. The afternoon is at leisure. (BB) TRYP AMBASSADOR/NH ABASCAL
DAY 4 MADRID – TOLEDO – SALAMANCA
Set off for the city of Toledo. Join a master craftsman in a Damascene workshop for a personal insight into this ancient craft. Walk through the cobbled streets to visit the Church of Santo Tomé, housing El Greco’s famous painting. Later, pass the walls of Ávila en route to Salamanca. (BB) ALAMEDA PALACE TOLL-FREE
1-800-552-5545
DAY 5 SALAMANCA – FATIMA – LISBON (2 NIGHTS)
Cross the Portuguese frontier and skirt the Estrela Mountains en route to Fatima. Join the pilgrims flocking into the great Basilica commemorating the miraculous appearance of the Virgin Mary to three young shepherds in 1917. Then continue to Lisbon. (BB)
TIARA PARK ATLANTIC/REAL PALACIO
DAY 6 LISBON SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
Sightseeing with a local expert takes you along the avenues of the Lower Town to the Terreiro do Paço, finest square in the city. Visit the Belem Quarter where sailing ships set forth to discover unknown lands. Visit a patisserie and enjoy a demonstration and tasting of the famous ‘Pasteis de Belem’. See the Monument to the Discoveries and the more ancient Belem Tower – a for tress originally set in the middle of the river. Next, visit Jeronimo’s Church with its Manueline Architecture. Enjoy free time in the afternoon. (BB) TIARA PARK ATLANTIC/REAL PALACIO
DAY 7 LISBON – SEVILLE (2 NIGHTS)
On arrival in Seville, join a local expert for a tour of the immense Cathedral, burial place of Christopher Columbus s and the slender Giralda Tower. Explore the labyrinthine Santa Cruz Quarter and see the Alcazar. In the evening sit back and enjoy a fiery Flamenco show with dinner. (BB,HD) AYRE SEVILLE 33
Treasures of Spain, Portugal & Morocco (cont inued) This day is yours to completely relax, perhaps enjoy an optional trip to Cordoba to visit the magnificent Mezquita. (BB)
DAY 14 CASABLANCA – RABAT – TANGIER
Call for up-to-the-minute airfare from over 60 cities 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.
Drive northwards to Rabat to see the Royal Palace and Hassan Tower. Continue to Tangier, Morocco’s great port, overlooking the Straits of Gibraltar. Sights include the Sultan’s Palace and the famous Casbah, with its variety of Moroccan wares. (BB,D) ANDALUCIA GOLF/
AYRE SEVILLE
DAY 9 SEVILLE – FES (2 NIGHTS)
Set sail across the Straits of Gibraltar to Morocco, a world of veils, musky spices, souks and snake charmers. Continue to Fes, Morocco’s most ancient imperial city. (BB,D) PALAIS MEDINA & SPA
Visit the Plaza de Espana in Seville
DAY 10 FES SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
DAY 11 FES – MARRAKESH (2 NIGHTS)
Sightseeing with a local expert shows you the Medina – the walled city of hidden courtyards, mosques and workshops, the bazaar and one of the world’s oldest universities. Learn about the ancient craft of carpet making, see artisans at work and gain an insight into the motifs and colors used in the designs. Then you are at leisure.
Koutoubia Minaret dominating
Travel via the Atlas Mountains, past mud-walled villages to Marrakesh. (BB) ATLAS MEDINA & SPA
the skyline. Also included is a visit to the Palais de la Bahia, built in the late 19th century, intended to be the greatest palace of its time. (BB) ATLAS MEDINA & SPA
DAY 12 MARRAKESH SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
Enjoy the atmosphere in Djemaa el Fna Square where acrobats, dancers and fortune tellers entertain you. A guided tour shows you the Medina with its many souks and the
(BB,D) PALAIS MEDINA & SPA
Say goodbye to Marrakesh and head for Casablanca on the coast. Did Humphrey Bogart really say ‘Play it again Sam’? Find out during
ARRIVAL CITY
Portugal
S Fátima
M
Avila
L
Segovia
Toledo
S
Consuegra Valdepeñas
G C S
Mijas
T
Gibraltar
DEPARTURE CITY
SIGHTSEEING STOP
Rabat
M
34
as At l
Mt
Morocco
TOLL-FREE
1-800-552-5545
AIR ADD-ONS PRICE AFTER EARLY BOOKING EAST COAST MIDWEST WEST COAST DISCOUNT (JFK) (ORD) (LAX)
$3,919
$1,383
$1,489
$1,556
$4,125
$3,919
$1,383
$1,489
$1,556
DAY 15 TANGIER – GIBRALTAR – COSTA DEL SOL (2 NIGHTS)
Aug 6
$4,125
$3,919
$1,383
$1,489
$1,556
Aug 27
$4,125
$3,919
$1,227
$1,305
$1,340
Cross back over to Spain and visit Gibraltar. Visit the famous Rock, St. Michael’s Cave and see the Barbary apes. Later, take the scenic route along the Costa del Sol to your hotel. (BB) MELIA COSTA DEL SOL
Enjoy a free day on the Costa del Sol. (BB) MELIA COSTA DEL SOL DAY 17 COSTA DEL SOL – MIJAS – GRANADA
Drive to the white-washed village of Mijas. Stroll through the old streets and gardens and take in the views of the coast. Continue to Granada to visit the magnificent Alhambra Palace and water gardens. In the evening, choose from our Dine-Around selection of restau rants. (BB,DA) VINCCI ALBAYZIN Journey northwards through countryside immortalized by Don Quixote. In the wine center of Valdepeñas, visit one of the ‘bodegas’ for a taste. Drive up to the windmills on the ridge above Consuegra for views over the plains of La Mancha. Back in Madrid this evening, bid farewell to your newfound friends with a lively farewell Celebration Dinner at a local restaurant. (BB,CD) TRYP
Departure transfers arrive at Madrid Airport at 7am, 9am and 11am. (BB)
ns
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT BOOK BY JULY 2, 2015
$4,125
DAY 19 MADRID – USA
F .
PER COUPLE
Jul 2, 9, 16
AMBASSADOR/NH ABASCAL
C
LAND PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
DEPARTURE DATE
$528
Jun 18, 25
DAY 18 GRANADA – MADRID NUMBER OF OVERNIGHT STAYS
Rates per Person
UP TO
GOLDEN TULIP FARAH TANGIER
DAY 16 COSTA DEL SOL AT LEISURE
DAY 13 MARRAKESH – CASABLANCA
Spain
Sintra
FLY FROM OVER 60 CITIES
(BB,D) GOLDEN TULIP FARAH
DAY 8 SEVILLE AT LEISURE
SAVE
orientation sightseeing and see the largest mosque in the country.
Sep 3, 10, 17
$4,250
$4,038
$1,227
$1,305
$1,340
Oct 1, 8
$4,150
$3,943
$1,227
$1,305
$1,340
Oct 22
$4,095
$3,890
$1,227
$1,305
$1,340
*Nov 5, 19
$3,065
$2,835
$1,073
$1,137
$1,126
*Nov 26
$3,065
$2,835
$1,073
$1,137
$1,126
*†Dec 20
$3,525
$3,261
$1,073
$1,137
$1,126
*†Dec 27
$3,225
$2,983
$1,073
$1,137
$1,126
*Jan 7
$3,065
$2,835
$1,073
$1,137
$1,126
*Feb 25
$3,065
$2,835
$1,073
$1,137
$1,126
*Mar 10
$3,125
$2,891
$1,073
$1,137
$1,126
*Mar 17
$3,185
$2,946
$1,073
$1,137
$1,126
*Mar 24
$3,125
$2,891
$1,227
$1,305
$1,340
2016 DEPARTURES
PRICE INCLUDES: Professional Travel Director with you throughout your journey First Class Hotels featuring twin rooms and private facilities 25 Meals 17 buffet breakfasts. 8 dinners (including Welcome Reception, 4 three-course table d’hôte Dinners or Buffets, plus tea or coffee, 1 Highlight Dinner, Dine-Around Dinner and Celebration Dinner) Local Expert Guide in Madrid, Lisbon, Seville, Fes, Marrakesh Personal Audio Headsets
SAVE AN AARP MEMBERS ADDITIONAL $100 P/P 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
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 details
Code: SPM. Price is per person and is based on two people sharing a twin-bedded room. Single Supplement: from $190. Air Add-On: Prices listed were effective on April 28, 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. * These departures follow the winter itinerary and hotels and inclusions may vary. † Includes Christmas Highlight Dinner with Gift in Lisbon/New Year’s Eve Dinner in Marrakesh (20 Dec) and Lisbon (27 Dec). These additional dinners will replace dinners shown in the itinerary. Gratuities: Option to pre-pay gratuities for Travel Director and Driver $205 per person. Included Meals: WD Welcome Reception BB Buffett Breakfast D Dinner DA Dine-Around Dinner HD Highlight Dinner CD Celebration Dinner
MORE JOURNEYS AT
www.GETours.com
35
Britain & Ireland Highlights SCOTLAND, ENGLAND, WALES, IRELAND
16
FROM
$3,928 PACE
DAYS COMFORTABLE A GUIDED VAC ATION
OUR INCLUDED
HIGHLIGHTS
Visit mystic Stonehenge
Your Journey 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)
36
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
TOLL-FREE
1-800-552-5545
DAY 4 STIRLING CASTLE & TROSSACHS EXCURSION
First this morning comes mighty Stirling Castle, perched high on a 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
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
DAY 7 CHESTER – WALES – DUBLIN (2 NIGHTS)
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. (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)
DAY 9 DUBLIN – GALWAY – CO. CLARE
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! (FB) RADISSON BLU LIMERICK
DAY 10 CO. CLARE – RING OF KERRY – KILLARNEY
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 evening enjoy an interactive cooking demonstration followed by dinner with your travel companions.
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,D) TALBOT HOTEL
DAY 12 WEXFORD – WALES – BRISTOL (2 NIGHTS)
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
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.
(FB,D) KILLARNEY TOWERS/ KILLARNEY AVENUE
MALDRON CARDIFF LANE
Scotland Trossachs St. Andrews Stirling
E
ROXBURGHE/HOLYROOD
Northern Ireland
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)
DAY 11 KILLARNEY – BLARNEY CASTLE – WATERFORD – WEXFORD
Ireland Galway Cliffs of Moher
C. C
D
Lake District
K
Waterford Ring of Kerry
Gretna Green
Blarney
Holyhead
W
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.
B
NUMBER OF OVERNIGHT STAYS
SIGHTSEEING STOP
Y
England Stratford-upon-Avon
Bath Stonehenge
MORE JOURNEYS AT
DEPARTURE CITY
C
Wales
MARRIOTT YORK
ARRIVAL CITY
L
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37
Britain & Ireland Highlights (cont inued) Call for up-to-the-minute airfare from over 60 cities 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.
EXTRA SEAT SALE SAVINGS
DAY 14 BRISTOL – STONEHENGE – LONDON
DEPARTURE DATE
LAND PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
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)
PER COUPLE
AIR ADD-ONS PRICE AFTER EARLY BOOKING EAST COAST MIDWEST DISCOUNT (JFK) (ORD)
WEST COAST (LAX)
$1,459
$1,617
$1,674
$75 †Aug 19
$4,385
$4,166
$1,459
$1,617
$1,674
SAVE
$100 Sep 2
$4,135
$3,928
$1,101
$1,237
$1,313
SAVE
$75 Sep 9
$4,135
$3,928
$1,101
$1,237
$1,313
SAVE
PRICE INCLUDES:
AARP
MEMBERS SAVE AN ADDITIONAL $100 P/P
Professional Travel Director with you throughout your journey
See page 62-63 for London arrival information
First Class Hotels twin bedded room with private restroom
Luxury Motorcoach Transportation with A/C, reclining seats, panoramic windows and emergency restroom
21 Meals 14 full breakfasts. 7 dinners (including Welcome Reception, 5 three course dinners with tea or coffee and Farewell Dinner) Local Expert in Edinburgh, Dublin and London Personal Audio Headsets Airport Transfers arrival and departure transfers included as noted in itinerary with the purchase of combined air and land package.
SCOTLAND
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT BOOK BY JULY 2, 2015
$4,118
CUMBERLAND
DAY 15 LONDON SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
$438
$4,335
†Aug 5
(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)
UP TO
Rates per Person
(FB) MERCURE BRISTOL HOLLAND HOUSE
Best of Scot land
SAVE
FLY FROM OVER 60 CITIES
View his birthplace in Stratfordupon-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.
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
8
FROM
$1,791 PACE
DAYS ACTIVE A GUIDED VAC ATION
OUR INCLUDED
HIGHLIGHTS
The spectacular Military Tattoo, Edinburgh Castle
Your Journey DAY 1 USA – EDINBURGH
Overnight flight to Edinburgh. 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
DAY 3 EDINBURGH SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
This morning, your local expert takes you on a sightseeing tour of this wonderful city, including a visit to Edinburgh Castle, perched high above the city. See the Royal Mile, the elegant Palace of Holyrood house 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
EILEAN DONAN CASTLE: View this majestic castle
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 April 28, 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
ISLE OF SKYE: Visit the beautiful Isle of Skye and the Clan Donald Center 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’
Parliament, London
Visit Edinburgh Castle 38
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TOLL-FREE
1-800-552-5545
39
Best of Scot land (cont inued)
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 well-known 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)
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.
RADISSON BLU
DAY 7 STIRLING CASTLE EXCURSION
(FB,D) LAGGAN GASKMORE/ STRATHSPEY
DAY 5 ISLE OF SKYE & SCENIC HIGHLANDS EXCURSION
DAY 6 SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS – GLENCOE – GLASGOW (2 NIGHTS)
Museum of the Isles, where you can
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
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)
Stop at the Commando Memorial near Fort William for breathtaking views of Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis. Continue south through Glencoe, ‘Glen of
LAGGAN GASKMORE /STRATHSPEY
ARRIVAL CITY
Eilean Donan Castle
Isle of Skye
Inverness
DEPARTURE CITY
Loch Ness
Mallaig
Scotland
S H
Ben Nevis
NUMBER OF OVERNIGHT STAYS
SIGHTSEEING STOP
Glencoe Pitlochry Stirling Castle St. Andrews
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, Choice of Airlines, Choice of Schedule & Routing. Business Class available. See page 8 for full details.
Rates per Person
$212
PER COUPLE
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT BOOK BY JULY 2, 2015
AIR ADD-ONS PRICE AFTER EARLY BOOKING EAST COAST MIDWEST WEST COAST DISCOUNT (JFK) (ORD) (LAX)
DEPARTURE DATE
LAND PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
Jun 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 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
Oct 10
$1,885
$1,791
$1,150
$1,253
$1,329
PRICE INCLUDES: Professional Travel Director with you throughout your journey First Class Hotels twin bedded room with private restroom 10 Meals 6 full breakfasts. 4 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
SAVE AN AARP MEMBERS ADDITIONAL $100 P/P 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: 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 April 28, 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.
E
TOLL-FREE
UP TO
Included Meals: WD Welcome Reception FB Full Breakfast D Dinner FD Farewell Dinner
G
40
SAVE
FLY FROM OVER 60 CITIES
1-800-552-5545
Scottish Highlands
MORE JOURNEYS AT
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41
Vienna, Salzburg, Prague & Budapest AUSTRIA, CZECH REPUBLIC, SLOVAKIA, HUNGARY
13
$2,655
DAY 8 & 9 PRAGUE SIGHTSEEING & AT LEISURE
PACE
DAYS LEISURELY OUR INCLUDED
HIGHLIGHTS
Spend three nights in Budapest
Your Journey DAY 1 USA – VIENNA
Overnight flight to Vienna. 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
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
FROM
A GUIDED VAC ATION
DAY 7 SALZBURG – ČESKÝ KRUMLOV – PRAGUE (3 NIGHTS)
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 state rooms 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.
DAY 5 VIENNA – MONDSEE – SALZBURG (2 NIGHTS)
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.
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 Square with its Astronomical Clock and admire the many spires and bridges from Castle Hill. At leisure visit the Jewish Quarter, take a
Germany
Poland
P
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
Czech Republic
NUMBER OF OVERNIGHT STAYS
Mondsee Dürnstein
SIGHTSEEING STOP
Bratislava
Danube Valley
S
ARRIVAL CITY
DEPARTURE CITY
Český Krumlov
(BB,HT) CASTELLANI PARK HOTEL
DAY 6 SALZBURG AT LEISURE
Visit beautiful Mirabell Gardens in Salzburg
Slovakia
V
Austria
B Hungary
Slovenia
PARKHOTEL
(BB) HILTON VIENNA AM STADTPARK 42
TOLL-FREE
1-800-552-5545
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43
Vienna, Salzburg, Prague & Budapest (continued) romantic walk over Charles Bridge, try a Czech beer in one of the local beer halls or join an optional experience to nearby Dresden.
FLY FROM OVER 60 CITIES
DAY 10 PRAGUE – BRATISLAVA – BUDAPEST
Rates per Person
Call for up-to-the-minute airfare from over 60 cities 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.
(BB/BB) PRESIDENT HOTEL PRAGUE
(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 fascina ting 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
SAVE
EXTRA SEAT SALE SAVINGS
SAVE
SAVE
DEPARTURE DATE
LAND PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
UP TO
$290
PER COUPLE
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT BOOK BY JULY 2, 2015
AIR ADD-ONS PRICE AFTER EARLY BOOKING EAST COAST MIDWEST DISCOUNT (JFK) (ORD)
WEST COAST (LAX)
Jul 3
$2,795
$2,655
$1,635
$1,735
$1,850
Sep 4
$2,895
$2,750
$1,307
$1,464
$1,491
$50 Sep 18
$2,895
$2,750
$1,307
$1,464
$1,491
Sep 25
$2,895
$2,750
$1,307
$1,464
$1,491
$2,795
$2,655
$1,307
$1,464
$1,491
$75 Oct 2
PRICE INCLUDES: Professional Travel Director with you throughout your journey 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 Personal Audio Headsets 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, 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: 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 April 28, 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
DAY 13 BUDAPEST – USA
Departure transfers arrive at Budapest Airport at 7am and 11am. (BB)
44
Visit medieval Cˇeský Krumlov
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Taste & Sounds of the South TENNESSEE, MISSISSIPPI, LOUISIANA
10 $2,465 FROM
PACE
DAYS LEISURELY
Visit the French Quarter in New Orleans
A GUIDED VAC ATION
Your Journey
OUR INCLUDED
DAY 1 ARRIVE NASHVILLE
HIGHLIGHTS NASHVILLE: Explore the city, enjoy a special meeting with a member of Johnny Cash’s family, visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum and take a tour of Studio B, attend a live recording at the Grand Ole Opry MEMPHIS: Explore the “Birthplace of Rock ‘n’ Roll”; enjoy a private tour of the Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum GRACELAND: Visit Elvis Presley’s estate, collections and gravesite. NATCHEZ: Tour the city and visit an historical antebellum mansion FROGMORE PLANTATION: Learn about past and present cotton production NEW ORLEANS : Stroll through the historic French Quarter and Garden District; visit an aboveground cemetery
Welcome to Music City! Get settled at your hotel and enjoy some time on your own this afternoon to explore. At 6 p.m., gather at the hotel with your Travel Director and fellow traveling companions for a Welcome Reception. (WR) RENAISSANCE NASHVILLE HOTEL – MARRIOTT
DAY 2 NASHVILLE SIGHTSEEING
Start the morning with a sightseeing tour of Nashville! No visit to Nashville is complete without a visit to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. See memorabilia from stars such as Hank Williams, Loretta Lynn and Garth Brooks as you explore this shrine to country music. Gain a unique insight into the life and music of Johnny Cash during a private performance and discussion with Johnny and June’s son, John Carter Cash.
John (or a member of his family) entertains with his own original music, as well as a few numbers made famous by his legendary family. Ask your own questions about the legend at a meet and greet. Wrap up your exploration of musical history with a tour of RCA’s Studio B, one of the world’s most successful recording studios where musicians such as Elvis Presley recorded their iconic sounds.
TOLL-FREE
1-800-552-5545
Explore the world’s country music capital, starting with Music Row, the heart of Nashville’s entertainment industry, and home to record labels, radio stations and recording studios. Tonight, enjoy a Regional Meal. (FB,RM) RENAISSANCE NASHVILLE HOTEL – MARRIOTT
DAY 3 NASHVILLE AT LEISURE & SIGHTSEEING
The day is yours to discover Nashville as you wish. Perhaps visit the famous Ryman Auditorium or enjoy some live music at a honky tonk on Broadway street. This evening, head to the Grand Ole Opry, home to America’s longest-running live radio program. Dinner is on your own tonight to venture out and sample delicious Southern cuisine. (FB) RENAISSANCE NASHVILLE HOTEL – MARRIOTT
DAY 4 NASHVILLE – MEMPHIS
This morning, hit the highway to Memphis along the Mississippi Delta. Upon arrival in Memphis, visit the National Civil Rights Museum before joining a local expert who shares stories about Beale Street and Sun Studios, the Birthplace of Rock N’ Roll. See the hotel where Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated and savor the lateafternoon light on the Big Muddy. Enjoy the evening at leisure to explore or embark on a culinary adventure and enjoy a delectable meal at one of Memphis’ many restaurants. (FB) SHERATON MEMPHIS DOWNTOWN
45
Taste & Sounds of t he Sout h (cont inued)
of the Top 20 women chef’s in America by USA Today, hosts a four-course dinner with wine featuring a true taste of Natchez and the Deep South. (FB,HD)
before it opens to the rest of the public. Then depart for Natchez. Founded by the French in 1716, Natchez was home to a flowering antebellum culture. Take in more of the nation’s Southern history in Natchez and see the gracious homes overlooking the river. Tonight, enjoy an incredible evening highlighting Southern hospitality at a Highlight Dinner.
DAY 5 GRACELAND EXCURSION
Graceland is as much an object of pilgrimage as a museum dedicated to the late, great Elvis Presley. From the flowers and painted signs outside the gates, to the tearstreaked cheeks of fans inside, see the effect that Elvis and his music had on popular American culture. Marvel at the Jungle Room, the private jets, custom cars and walls full of gold and platinum records. Stroll the grounds and you just might find yourself humming “Blue Suede Shoes;” if so, don’t worry, there’s leisure time this afternoon to pick up a pair before embarking on a Your Choice Dining experience where you choose from a selection for local eateries for the evening’s meal.
NATCHEZ GRAND HOTEL
DAY 7 NATCHEZ – OAK ALLEY – NEW ORLEANS
After breakfast, stop at Frogmore Plantation and Gins to learn about the
white gold of the Mississippi Delta. With your costumed hosts, tour a reconstructed 19th century cotton plantation and compare it to the modern-day operation that produces more than 900 bales of the local specialty each day. From Natchez, travel to the countryside to marvel at Oak Alley Plantation. This classic antebellum home sits on the Mississippi River and amazes visitors with its quarter mile canopy of 300-year-old live oak trees. In this grand dame of Southern mansions, learn about the lives of the plantation owners. Late this afternoon, arrive in New
Explore the private residence of Joe Stone, whose home, built in the
1850s, contains a gallery collection of rare maps, a quaint billiards hall, and exquisite ornamental glasswork. Joe performs on his 1903 Steinway grand piano and delves into the meaning and inspiration behind each piece of music as you enjoy a cocktail. Later, head over to the residence of Esther Carpenter, built in 1804, to hear the stories, past and present, about this historic estate in Natchez. Esther, a former Four Seasons Chef and once named one
(FB,DA) SHERATON MEMPHIS DOWNTOWN
DAY 6 MEMPHIS – NATCHEZ
This morning, enjoy an exclusive tour of the Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum
N
Tennessee
M
Graceland
NUMBER OF OVERNIGHT STAYS
Rive si ssi ppi Mi s
Louisiana Cotton Country
Frogmore Plantation Atchafalaya Basin
46
DEPARTURE CITY
r
Arkansas
Mississippi
SIGHTSEEING STOP
Alabama
N
TOLL-FREE
NEW ORLEANS MARRIOTT
DAY 8 NEW ORLEANS SIGHTSEEING & AT LEISURE
Delight in a hearty New Orleans breakfast and coffee before today’s exploration of the Crescent City. Join a tour with a local expert and see the atmospheric French Quarter and Jackson Square, originally called Place d’Armes when it was the center of the old city, and tour one of the city’s above-ground cemeteries. Then it’s out to the lovely Garden District, home to some of the best preserved Southern mansions in the United States. This afternoon, enjoy some time on your own: grab a po’ boy or some fresh beignets, stroll down Bourbon Street or hit the lively waterfront area. (FB) NEW ORLEANS MARRIOTT
DAY 9 NEW ORLEANS AT LEISURE
Enjoy a leisurely day to explore this vibrant city. If you’re feeling adventurous, head out to the bayou for a guided tour deep into the swamps. Look out for alligators! Or stay downtown and stroll Magazine Street, visit Marie Laveau’s Historic Voodoo Museum or catch a little jazz piano while cooling off and watching the world go by. This evening, join your Travel Director and traveling companions for a Farewell Dinner at the famed Court of Two Sisters.
SAVE
YOUR LAND PRICE
UP TO
Florida
$260
Rates per Person LAND PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
PRICE AFTER EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT
Sep 9
$2,595
$2,465
Sep 16
$2,595
$2,465
Sep 23
$2,595
$2,465
Oct 7
$2,595
$2,465
Oct 21
$2,595
$2,465
DEPARTURE DATE
PRICE INCLUDES: Professional Travel Director with you throughout your journey First Class Hotels featuring twin rooms and private facilities 15 Meals Welcome Reception with light appetizers. 9 full breakfasts. 5 dinners (including 1 Highlight Dinner, 2 Regional Meals, 1 Dine-Around Dinner and Farewell Dinner) Local Expert Guide Memphis and New Orleans Personal Audio Headsets
PER COUPLE
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT BOOK BY JULY 2, 2015
SAVE AN AARP MEMBERS ADDITIONAL $100 P/P 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. 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.
Airport Transfers arrival and departure transfers included as noted in itinerary
Code: TSS. Price is per person and is based on two people sharing a twin-bedded room. Single Supplement: from $875. This itinerary is operated by our sister company. Included Meals: WR Welcome Reception FB Full Breakfast D Dinner HD Highlight Dinner RM Regional Meal FD Farewell Dinner with Wine
(FB,FD) NEW ORLEANS MARRIOTT
DAY 10 DEPART NEW ORLEANS
Natchez Trace Parkway
Oak Alley Plantation
ARRIVAL CITY
Orleans. This evening, visit the New Orleans School of Cooking located in the heart of the French Quarter. Discover the flair of Creole cuisine during a fun cooking class before enjoying your culinary creations during a Regional Meal. (FB,RM)
Oak Alley Plantation
Extend your stay at the New Orleans Marriott or say ‘Au Revoir’ to the Big Easy this morning with a complimentary transfer provided to New Orleans International Airport. (FB)
N O
1-800-552-5545
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47
Autumn Colors
After dinner, get acquainted with the local flora and fauna during an engaging talk by a local expert. (FB,D) RED JACKET MOUNTAIN VIEW RESORT
MASSACHUSETTS, MAINE, NEW HAMPSHIRE, VERMONT
8
Spectacular fall foliage awaits as you journey through Crawford Notch. See the Silver Cascade Waterfall and Bretton Woods offering stunning views of Mount Washington, the tallest peak in northeast. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure. (FB) RED JACKET MOUNTAIN VIEW RESORT
FROM
$2,114
DAY 6 NORTH CONWAY – LUDLOW
PACE
DAYS ACTIVE A GUIDED VAC ATION
OUR INCLUDED
HIGHLIGHTS MAINE: Enjoy a traditional Maine
lobster dinner
ACADIA NATIONAL PARK: Admire the view from the top of
Cadillac Mountain
PINKHAM NOTCH: Enjoy a scenic drive through the wooded valley formed during the ice age QUECHEE: Visit a historic woolen mill NORTH CONWAY: Visit Vermont’s Billings Farm and Museum STOCKBRIDGE: Visit the Norman Rockwell Museum LEXINGTON AND CONCORD: See where the first shots of the American Revolution were fired
Vermont’s striking Fall colors
Your Journey DAY 1 ARRIVE BOSTON
Welcome to Boston! Get settled at your hotel and then set out on your own to spot some of Boston’s historic sites or enjoy a stroll along the waterfront before gathering at the hotel at 6pm with your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a Welcome Reception. (WR) BOSTON PARK PLAZA
DAY 2 BOSTON – MAINE COAST – BAR HARBOR (2 NIGHTS)
Begin your journey through the vibrant colors of a New England fall with a trip up the coast to Maine. Pass by old whaling villages dotted with lighthouses and widows’ walks, the playgrounds of New England’s rich and famous, and rocky beaches pounded by the great Atlantic swells on your way to Bar Harbor on Maine’s Mount Desert Island. Once home to the largest hotel in North America, Bar Harbor also played host to the grand summer homes of the American aristocracy, including the Rockefellers, Vanderbilts and Astors. This evening, join your traveling companions for a traditional Maine lobster dinner
and learn about lobster fishing from a fisherman. (FB,D) BAR HARBOR REGENCY
48
DAY 5 WHITE MOUNTAINS EXCURSION
TOLL-FREE
1-800-552-5545
DAY 3 ACADIA NATIONAL PARK EXCURSION & BAR HARBOR FREE TIME
At 1,523 feet (464 meters), Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park is the first spot in the United States where you can see the sunrise. You won’t be getting up that early, but you still have plenty of time to admire the view from the top of the peak before descending to discover the natural riches of New England’s only national park. Marvel at granite cliffs overlooking dramatic, windswept beaches, graceful stone bridges arching over rushing streams and stands of ancient maples, their leaves glow ing fiery red, burnt orange and mustard yellow in the crisp fall air. Back in Bar Harbor, enjoy an afternoon on your own. Sip a coffee by the sea, stroll the quaint Main Street or take an optional nature cruise on Frenchman Bay. (FB) BAR HARBOR REGENCY
DAY 4 BAR HARBOR – PINKHAM NOTCH – NORTH CONWAY (2 NIGHTS)
Bid farewell to the coast and travel over rolling hills ablaze with color on your way to the wooded valley of Pinkham Notch, formed during the last ice age as glaciers scoured the earth. Late this afternoon, arrive in the pretty town of North Conway on the edge of the White Mountain National Forest.
AUT
Visit an historic woolen mill in Quechee that now houses the Simon Pearce glassblowing workshop. Relish a Highlight Lunch featuring local ingredients delicately arranged on Simon Pearce’s beautiful stem and flatware and delve into the art and science of glassblowing. Later, get a glimpse of agricultural life at the Billings Farm and Museum, a lovely estate that’s home to one of
Vermont’s finest dairy producers. Arrive in Ludlow and enjoy dinner with your traveling companions this evening.
DAY 7 LUDLOW – STOCKBRIDGE – SPRINGFIELD
From the Green Mountains, cross back into Massachusetts and the gorgeous Berkshires, alight in
(FB,HL,D) JACKSON GORE INN
Quebec
ARRIVAL CITY
Maine
B H
Vermont
N C
Green Mountains
Pinkham Notch
Acadia National Park
Woodstock Quechee
L Berkshire Mountains
Massachusetts Stockbridge
S Connecticut
DEPARTURE CITY
NUMBER OF OVERNIGHT STAYS
SIGHTSEEING STOP
White Mountains
Maine Coast
New Hampshire Lexington & Concord
B Rhode Island
MORE JOURNEYS AT
Atlantic Ocean
Cape Cod
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49
Autumn Colors (cont inued)
fall with the autumn colors that have made New England famous. Stop in Stockbridge to visit the Norman Rockwell Museum and learn about this beloved artist and his iconic paintings of small-town Americana. Continue on to Springfield, nestled on the banks of the Connecticut River. This evening, join your Travel Director and newfound friends for a festive Farewell Dinner. (FB,FD) SHERATON SPRINGFIELD MONARCH PLACE
DAY 8 SPRINGFIELD – LEXINGTON AND CONCORD – DEPART BOSTON
Travel east to see the birthplace of the American Revolution and the “shot heard round the world” as made famous in Ralph Waldo Emerson’s “Concord Hymn.” The battles of Lexington and Concord were the first skirmishes in the American war for independence and these small towns are still rich in history. See the famous statue of the Minute Man, adjacent to Concord’s historic North Bridge. Stop at Lexington Green, which saw the first drops of blood spilled in what George Washington laconically called “the dispute with the British.” Then it’s back to Boston where you are transferred to Boston Logan International Airport or to the hotel in Boston if you’d like to extend your stay. (FB) Please do not schedule any flights before 4 p.m.
SAVE
YOUR LAND PRICE
UP TO
$222
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT BOOK BY JULY 2, 2015
Rates per Person LAND PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
PRICE AFTER EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT
Sep 16, 17
$2,225
$2,114
Sep 18, 19
$2,225
$2,114
Sep 20, 23
$2,225
$2,114
Sep 24, 25
$2,225
$2,114
Sep 26, 27
$2,225
$2,114
Sep 30
$2,225
$2,114
Oct 1, 2
$2,225
$2,114
Oct 3, 4
$2,225
$2,114
Oct 7, 8
$2,225
$2,114
DEPARTURE DATE
PRICE INCLUDES: Professional Travel Director with you throughout your journey First Class Hotels twin bedded room with private restroom 13 Meals Welcome Reception with light appetizers. 7 full breakfasts. 1 Highlight Lunch. 4 dinners (including 3 three course dinner and Farewell Dinner) Local Expert Bar Harbor and North Conway Personal Audio Headsets Airport Transfers arrival and departure transfers included as noted in itinerary
PER COUPLE
SAVE AN AARP MEMBERS ADDITIONAL $100 P/P 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. 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: AUT. Price is per person and is based on two people sharing a twin-bedded room. Single Supplement: from $750. This itinerary is operated by our sister company. Included Meals: WR Welcome Reception FB Full Breakfast D Dinner FD Farewell Dinner with Wine
50
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Costa Rica Eco Adventure
201E6S
COSTA RICA
DAT BLE AVAIL A
8
FROM
$1,515 PACE
DAYS COMFORTABLE A GUIDED VAC ATION
OUR INCLUDED
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 Journey 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, restau rant and related eco adventures. 51
Costa Rica Eco Adventure (cont inued)
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)
FROM $250 PER PERSON (SINGLE FROM $445) DAY 1 MONTEVERDE – LIBERIA – GUANACASTE (2 NIGHTS)
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. (FB,D) EL ESTABLO MOUNTAIN HOTEL
DAY 7 MONTEVERDE CLOUD FOREST SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
DAY 8 MONTEVERDE – USA
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 at canopy level. Tonight, trade stories of your experiences at a festive Farewell Dinner. (FB,FD)
Transfer to either Liberia or San Jose International Airports or travel on to Guanacaste Beach for those extending their stay. (FB) Please do not schedule any flights before 12.30pm from Liberia or San Jose. 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.
EL ESTABLO MOUNTAIN HOTEL
ARRIVAL CITY
Caribbean Sea
Liberia
Guanacaste Beach Optional Extension
A
S
T
M
52
Costa Rica
TOLL-FREE
DEPARTURE CITY
UP TO
LAND PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
PRICE AFTER EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT
Jun 26
$1,595
$1,515
Jul 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
Jan 15, 22, 29
$1,775
$1,686
BEACH AND GOLF RESORT
Feb 5, 12
$1,775
$1,686
DAY 2 GUANACASTE FREE TIME
Feb 19, 26
$1,775
$1,686
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. (B) TAMARINDO DIRIA
Mar 4, 11, 18
$1,775
$1,686
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)
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 Post-Trip Guanacaste Beach Stay extension.
PER COUPLE
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT BOOK BY JULY 2, 2015
Rates per Person DEPARTURE DATE
$178
2016 DEPARTURES
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
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
NUMBER OF OVERNIGHT STAYS
S J
Pacific Ocean
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 worldfamous 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. TAMARINDO DIRIA
Please do not schedule your flight before 12.30pm.
Nicaragua
SAVE
YOUR LAND PRICE
Add a 2-Night Post-Trip Guanacaste Beach Stay
1-800-552-5545
Arenal Volcano
SIGHTSEEING STOP
Panama
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53
20AT1E6S
D BLE AVAIL A
Highlights of Peru
the Rio Vilcanota to the town of Aquas Calientes. Upon arrival, take a short ride up to the entrance gate and begin your exploration of one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Visit the ruins of this oncegreat fortress built in the 15th century and abandoned nearly 100 years later with the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors. See the highlights of this UNESCO World Heritage Site – the great Temple of the Sun, the House of the Priest, the Sacred Plaza and the Intihuatana, an intricately carved rock most likely used as a sundial by the ancient Incas. Dinner is served at the hotel.
PERU
8
FROM
$2,233
(FB,D) HOTEL EL MAPI BY INKATERRA
PACE
DAYS ACTIVE
Sacred Valley, Peru
A GUIDED VAC ATION
Your Journey
OUR INCLUDED
DAY 1 ARRIVE LIMA (2 NIGHTS)
HIGHLIGHTS LIMA: Join Doctor Francisco Diez Canseco, the descendant of a distinguished Peruvian family, for a Welcome Reception and typical Peruvian lunch; visit the beautiful estate and learn about the Canseco family’s and Peru’s history. Guided city tour followed by lecture about the Larco Museum’s largest private collection of pre-Columbian art in the world during a presentation by the museum’s curator SACRED VALLEY: View native wildlife at Awanakancha. Visit the outdoor Pisac market and the ruins at Ollantaytambo. See a special weaving presentation in the Sacred Valley and watch artisan weavers at work THE VISTADOME: Iconic train journey between the Sacred Valley and Aguas Calientes aboard the Vistadome train MACHU PICCHU: Immerse yourself in the history and atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage Site CUSCO: City tour of Cusco including the baroque Cathedral on the main Plaza de Armas
Bienvenidos a Lima, founded in 1535 by conquistador Francisco Pizarro who dubbed it the “City of Kings.” A local host will greet you and take you to your hotel in San Isidro, one of Lima’s exclusive neighborhoods bustling with shops and restaurants (check in time 3pm). NOVOTEL LIMA DAY 2 LIMA FREE TIME & SIGHTSEEING
Kick back, relax and enjoy your morning at the hotel, or perhaps venture out to do some exploring of your own. At lunchtime, meet your Travel Director and head to Casa Diez Canseco, the private home of an illustrious Lima family, and meet the friendly owner for a Welcome Reception and Highlight Lunch. Learn about the history of your host’s ancestors and tour his historic home before celebrating your arrival in Peru with a sumptuous home-cooked meal of traditional Peruvian delicacies. After lunch, bid farewell to your host and spend the afternoon exploring Peru’s capital with your local expert. Immerse yourself in the colonial splendor of Lima’s Historic Center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, including the expansive Plaza de Armas with its impressive cathedral and the stately government palace. Then see the Church of San Francisco and discover its hidden catacombs and splendid architecture. The evening is free. (FB,HL) NOVOTEL LIMA
54
Note: On the train to Machu Picchu, only hand luggage (overnight bag) can be taken. Your primary suitcase will be securely stored and returned to you in Cusco.
TOLL-FREE
1-800-552-5545
DAY 3 LIMA – CUSCO – SACRED VALLEY
Take a morning flight to Cusco and head for the Sacred Valley. Stop at Awanakancha, a living museum of the Peruvian Andes, where you can see and interact with llamas, alpacas and vicuñas. Enjoy a picnic box lunch before visiting the vibrant Pisac market. Spend some time browsing the stalls, sip a cup of coca tea to help you acclimate to the altitude and keep your ears open for roving bands playing the traditional music of the Andes. Later this afternoon, arrive at your lovely hotel, a former 18th century colonial-style monastery, sur rounded by beautiful gardens in the heart of the Sacred Valley. Learn about the local specialty of Peruvian weaving as you observe centuries-old methods of spinning, dyeing and weaving Andean tradi tional textiles. This evening, enjoy a convivial dinner with your traveling companions at the hotel. (CB,L,D) SONESTA POSADAS DEL INCA YUCAY
DAY 4 SACRED VALLEY – MACHU PICCHU
After breakfast, head to Ollantay tambo to visit this famous Inca stronghold built from immense blocks of stone. Learn about Inca history as you tour the ruins of the hilltop fortress. Next, board the Vistadome train for the journey to the great citadel of the Incas (light snack included). Panoramic windows allow you to appreciate the incredible scenery as you follow
DAY 5 MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO (2 NIGHTS)
PAR
Return to Machu Picchu to con tinue exploring on your own. If you’re feeling adventurous, hike up to the Gate of the Sun for stunning views over the fortress and the valley below. Or view the incred ible stonework and the amazing feats of engineering required to transport the huge blocks of stone to the top of this isolated mountain. In the early afternoon, descend from your mountaintop aerie and board the train to the Sacred Valley. Then head toward the great colonial city of Cusco by coach. On the way, stop at a local chicheria for a taste of chicha, a local specialty, and learn how this Peruvian corn beer is made only by women. (FB)
NOVOTEL CUSCO
Add a 7-Day Post Trip Extension including a 4-Night Galapagos Islands Cruise – Yacht Isabela II FROM $3,836 PER PERSON (SINGLE FROM $5,061) Galapagos entrance fee of $100.00 for adults and $60.00 for children. Galapagos Transit Card of $10.00 included. DAY 1 LIMA – QUITO (2 NIGHTS)
Fly to Quito where you will be greeted at the airport and taken to your hotel. (FB) HILTON COLON QUITO
DAY 2 QUITO SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
Visit the historical center of the city, which was the first place in the world to be designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then travel to the “Middle of the World” to stand on the Equator. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. (FB,L,D) HILTON COLON QUITO
DAY 3 QUITO – GALAPAGOS CRUISE (4 NIGHTS) – SANTA CRUZ ISLAND
Fly to Baltra Island and transfer by ferry to Santa Cruz Island. Visit “Los Gemelos,” two large craters, and the Charles Darwin Research Station in Puerto Ayora. Board your boat and enjoy a Welcome Drink before dinner. (FB, L,D) YACHT ISABELA II DAY 4 GALAPAGOS CRUISE – SOUTH PLAZA ISLAND
Visit Santa Fe Island where the small tranquil bay of Bahia Barrington is home to green sea turtles and spotted eagle rays. This afternoon, see South Plaza Island, home to the famed Galapagos sea lions, yellow-gray land iguanas, and the unusual prickly pear cactus tree. (FB,L,D) YACHT ISABELA II
DAY 5 GALAPAGOS CRUISE – SANTA CRUZ ISLAND
Land near a long sandy beach on North Seymour Island where sea lions and marine iguanas hang out on the rocks. Later, swim and snorkel at Las Bachas, a saltwater lagoon and important feeding ground for flamingos. (FB,L,D) YACHT ISABELA II
DAY 6 GALAPAGOS CRUISE – SANTIAGO ISLAND
Visit Bartolome Island whose landscape is breathtaking. Hike to the summit for impressive views. The island is also home to the Galapagos Penguin, the only existing species of penguin in the equator area. Arrive at Sullivan Bay and enjoy a farewell cocktail this evening. (FB,L,D) YACHT ISABELA II
DAY 7 GALAPAGOS CRUISE – BALTRA ISLAND – DEPART GUAYAQUIL
Transfer to Baltra Airport for your flight to Guayaquil where you’ll be assisted with your connection to your international flight (not included in vacation price) or transferred to the Guayaquil hotel if you wish to extend your stay. (FB) Please do not schedule flights before 8pm.
Land & Intra-Air: 7-day post-tour extension package includes economy air and air-related charges for the flights Lima-Quito, Quito-Galapagos and Galapagos-Guayaquil and require purchase of the Highlights of Peru vacation as well as air transportation on LAN Airlines to/from your gateway city; if flying with another carrier to/from your gateway city, published pricing will be higher. Prices are accurate as April 28, 2015. Extension package not available on every departure. Alternative itineraries operate on select departures. Call for details.
Peru
ARRIVAL CITY
Galapagos Islands Optional Extension
S V
L M P
DEPARTURE CITY
NUMBER OF OVERNIGHT STAYS
SIGHTSEEING STOP
C MORE JOURNEYS AT
www.GETours.com
55
Highlights of Peru (cont inued) DAY 6 CUSCO SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
This morning, embark on a tour of Cusco, the “Imperial City,” and the capital of the Incas during their reign. Enjoy an introduction to the highlights of the city, including the incredible baroque Cathedral on the main Plaza de Armas at the heart of the city. Delve deeper into the history of this ancient place at the 17th century Church of Santo Domingo, which was built atop the foundations of the Inca Temple of the Sun, often referred to as Korikancha. Just outside of town, visit the ruins of the fortress of Sacsayhuaman, perched on a hill overlooking Cusco and see nearby shrines and warehouses where the Incas stored their grain. Spend the rest of the afternoon on your own in Cusco. This evening, gather with your traveling companions for a regional meal at a local restaurant, enjoying delicious Cusquenian dishes and ancestral dance performances. (FB,HD)
SAVE
YOUR LAND PRICE
UP TO
$250
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT BOOK BY JULY 2, 2015
Rates per Person LAND PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
PRICE AFTER EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT
Jul 4
$2,425
$2,304
Aug 15, 22
$2,425
$2,304
Aug 29
$2,375
$2,256
DEPARTURE DATE
Sep 5, 26
$2,375
$2,256
Oct 17, 24, 31
$2,425
$2,304
Nov 7, 14, 21, 28
$2,425
$2,304
Dec 12
$2,350
$2,233
†Dec 19
$2,525
$2,399
†Dec 26
$2,550
$2,423
$2,450
$2,328
2016 DEPARTURES
Jan 9, 16, 23, 30 Feb 6, 13, 20, 27
$2,495
$2,370
NOVOTEL CUSCO
Mar 5, 12
$2,495
$2,370
DAY 7 CUSCO – LIMA FREE TIME
Apr 2, 9, 16, 23
$2,525
$2,399
Fly back to Lima late this morning and enjoy an afternoon on your own to do some more exploring, pick up souvenirs or just relax. Later, meet a local expert, a curator at the Larco Museum, which houses the largest private collection of pre-Columbian art in the world, and learn about the evolution and cultures of Ancient Peru societies. Then gather with your traveling companions for a Farewell Dinner in the museum’s garden restaurant. (FB,FD) NOVOTEL LIMA
DAY 8 LIMA – USA
Extend your stay at the hotel in Lima or say hasta luego this morning and transfer to the airport for your flight home. Depending on your flight schedule, you may be transferred to Lima International Airport in the late evening of Day 7 for overnight flights home arriving on Day 8. (CB/FB)
PRICE INCLUDES: Professional Travel Director with you throughout your journey First Class Hotels twin bedded room with private restroom 13 Meals 7 breakfasts. 1 picnic box lunch. 1 Highlight Lunch. 4 dinners (including 2 dinners, 1 Highlight Dinner and Farewell Dinner) Local Expert in Lima Personal Audio Headsets Airport Transfers arrival and departure transfers included as noted in itinerary
SAVE AN AARP MEMBERS ADDITIONAL $100 P/P Motorcoach Transportation with A/C, reclining seats, 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: PAR. Price is per person and is based on two people sharing a twin-bedded room. Single Supplement: from $625. All inter-trip air related charges in economy class for flights between Lima - Cusco and Cusco - Lima are included in the Land Only price shown based on accurate airfare of as April 28, 2015. At the time you purchase your trip the inter-trip air prices may be higher. 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 HD Highlight Dinner FD Farewell Dinner with wine
Please Note: In some locations you will be required to walk on uneven terrain and climb stairs without handrails. You should be in good health and be able to walk without assistance. The highest elevation point on this tour is 11,000 ft. 56
PER COUPLE
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201E6S
DAT BLE AVAIL A
Tulips & Windmills THE NETHERLANDS, BELGIUM
11 $3,149 FROM
PACE
DAYS LEISURELY
Hoorn
A R I V ER CRUISE
Your Journey
city on your own. (BB,L,D) UNIWORLD RIVER CRUISE SHIP
OUR INCLUDED
DAY 1 USA – AMSTERDAM
Overnight flight to Amsterdam.
Note: Lunch is not included with the full day at Keukenhof Gardens.
DAY 2 ARRIVE AMSTERDAM
DAY 5 HOORN (ENKHUIZEN)
HIGHLIGHTS AMSTERDAM: Choice of Amsterdam by canal with either Van Gogh Museum or Rijksmuseum visit or exclusive “Do as the Locals Do” Amsterdam walking tour HAARLEM: Choice of full day at Keukenhof Gardens or Haarlem Walking Discovery tour with Tyler Museum visit HOORN: Hoorn walking tour and “Life on the Zuiderzee” outdoor museum visit GROESBEEK OR NUENEN: Choice of National Liberation Museum or exclusive “Village Day” in Nuenen “Walk in Van Gogh’s Footsteps” KINDERDIJK: See the UNESCOdesignated windmills dating back to the 1500s VEERE: Delta Works museum and guided stroll into artists’ village of Veere BRUGES OR GHENT: Choice of full-day Bruges with canal cruise and walking tour or Ghent walking tour ANTWERP: Choice of Antwerp walking tour with Cathedral of Our Lady or exclusive “Do as the Locals Do” Antwerp walking tour
Arrive at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, where you will be transferred to the ship. (D) UNIWORLD RIVER CRUISE SHIP
DAY 3 AMSTERDAM
See beautiful Amsterdam from its historic waterways via a canal cruise and then choose between the Van Gogh Museum, home to the largest collection of his paintings in the world, or the Rijksmuseum, which offers the world’s largest collection of Dutch and Flemish art. Or take a guided stroll through the heart of Amsterdam’s canal district to the Museum Van Loon, a wonderfully restored 17th-century canal house. In the evening, enjoy a Captain’s Welcome Reception and Gala Dinner. (BB,L,WD) UNIWORLD RIVER CRUISE SHIP
DAY 4 AMSTERDAM (HAARLEM)
Your senses will be in for a treat as you visit the Keukenhof Gardens, a seventy-acre showcase of over seven million flowers. This is one of the most extraordinary public gardens in the world. Or, visit charming and lively Haarlem. You’ll explore the historic city center on foot before seeing the remarkable Tyler Museum, the oldest extant museum in the Netherlands. You’ll then have some free time to enjoy this captivating TOLL-FREE
1-800-552-5545
Uncover a rich seafaring history as you tour Hoorn on foot. Your local expert will explain the markings on medieval buildings that denote the former inhabitants’ trades. Your next port of call, Enkhuizen, is home to the fascinating Zuiderzee outdoor museum, a reconstructed 19th-century village that lets you see how life was lived in a busy fishing port over a century ago. Prefer some active sightseeing? Enjoy one of the ship’s complimen tary bicycles and bike around City Ring, an earthen dike. (BB,L,D) UNIWORLD RIVER CRUISE SHIP
DAY 6 NIJMEGEN (GROESBEEK OR NUENEN)
Nijmegen, the oldest city in the Netherlands, is your launching point for one of two adventures. You may choose to head to the National Liberation Museum in nearby Groesbeek. During your guided visit, get an eye-opening view of WWII by experiencing the occupation, celebrating the liberation, and witnessing the rebuilding of Europe after the war. Or opt instead to learn about Van Gogh’s years in the village of Nuenen, where his father was the vicar and where he created the character studies that became The Potato Eaters. (BB,L,D) UNIWORLD
RIVER CRUISE SHIP
57
Tulips & Windmills (cont inued)
beautifully restored medieval city center is made for strolling or biking; its museums house works by artists from Hieronymus Bosch to Joseph Beuys, while St. Bavo Cathedral holds the Ghent Altar piece, one of the world’s great artistic treasures. A walking tour of the historic center will provide an up-close look at some of Ghent’s most striking and impressive monuments, canals, and architec ture. (BB,D) UNIWORLD RIVER
DAY 7 ROTTERDAM – KINDERDIJK – DORDRECHT
Cruise through busy Rotterdam harbor, the third largest port in the world, and explore the city on your own in the morning. Then sail to Kinderdijk, where you’ll discover 19 astonishingly wellpreserved, UNESCO-designated windmills dating back to the 1500s. (At one point, there were more than 10 thousand windmills in the country; your local expert will explain why they were so important.) You’ll even get a chance to enter one of Kinderdijk’s historic windmills. Climb the set of steep stairs that lead to its upper level, or simply admire the historic structure from the outside. (BB,L,D)
UNIWORLD RIVER CRUISE SHIP
Note: If docking in Kinderdijk is not possible, the excursion will be arranged by motorcoach from Rotterdam.
DAY 8 VEERE
Enjoy a visit to the engineering marvel known as the Delta Works, where you’ll learn about the Netherlands’ two-thousand-yearlong fight to hold back the sea.
RIVER CRUISE SHIP
DAY 9 GHENT (BRUGES OR GHENT)
Visit Bruges, one of the bestpreserved medieval cities in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, seeing its handsome old brick buildings from the water. Or explore Ghent, one of the oldest cities in Belgium, with a history dating back to the Stone Age. The
ARRIVAL CITY
The Netherlands Enkhuizen
Hoorn NIGHTS
home of a group of English artists. Then you can relax onboard as the ship cruises the picturesque Zeeland area. (BB,L,D) UNIWORLD
Haarlem
Amsterdam NUMBER OF OVERNIGHT STAYS
Rotterdam
Kinderdijk Dordrecht
Veere
e R ive r
Ghent
Germany
R h in
Antwerp
Bruges
SIGHTSEEING STOP
Nijmegen
Groesbeek Nuenen
Brussels Belgium
58
TOLL-FREE
1-800-552-5545
Choose one of two ways to spend a full day in Antwerp. Walk with your local expert to the Cathedral of Our Lady, which houses four master pieces by Peter Paul Rubens, who spent most of his life in Antwerp. Along the way, see the stunning guild houses and other architec tural highlights of this wellpreserved city. Or, experience Antwerp “as the locals do.” Catch a metro to the beautiful and historic central station and then walk to the main shopping district, where you’ll stop at a celebrated chocolatier’s for samples. You’ll also have a chance to visit a frietkot to savor one of Belgium’s iconic foods – French fries. Despite their name, French fries were invented in Belgium and there is no better place to try them. In the evening, enjoy a Captain’s Farewell Reception and Gala Dinner. (BB,L,FD) UNIWORLD RIVER CRUISE SHIP
DAY 11 ANTWERP – USA DEPARTURE CITY
EARLY BOOKING SAVINGS Save $400 per couple
OFFERS END JUNE 30, 2015
Rates per Person EXTRA SEAT SALE DEPARTURE DATE SAVINGS
CRUISE PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
PRICE AFTER EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT
2016 DEPARTURES RIVER QUEEN
DAY 10 ANTWERP
Were it not for the mighty windmill, this region would have surrendered to the water a long time ago; here you’ll see how technology has evolved over the centuries. You’ll also have a few hours to explore the charms of Veere and its cozy harbor. You can see the bell tower of the 15thcentury Town Hall from almost any point in town. Keep an eye out for the well-known Scottish Houses, which were built early in the 16th century for Scottish wool merchants and in 1896 became the
Save $800 per couple on when you pay in full at time of booking – OR –
Call for up-to-the-minute airfare from over 60 cities 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.
CRUISE SHIP
Visit Keukenhof Gardens
PAY-IN-FULL SAVINGS
FLY FROM OVER 60 CITIES
Disembark the ship in Antwerp and transfer to Brussels Airport for your flight home. (CB/BB)
SAVE
$300 Mar 25
$3,349
$3,149
SAVE
$300 *Apr 3
$3,649
$3,449
Apr 12
$4,349
$4,149
*Apr 21
$4,799
$4,599
$3,599
$3,399
RIVER DUCHESS
Mar 28 *Apr 6
$4,199
$3,999
Apr 15
$4,699
$4,499
*Apr 24
$4,799
$4,599
*Mar 27
$3,849
$3,649
Apr 5
$4,199
$3,999
*Apr 14
$5,199
$4,999
S.S. MARIA THERESA
CABIN UPGRADES
Prices shown include cruise in Category 5. Add the following per-person price to upgrade to a higher category stateroom: S.S. MARIA THERESA
RIVER QUEEN / RIVER DUCHESS
Category 4
$365
Category 4
$310
Category 3
$875
Category 3
$625
Category 2
$1,465
Category 2
$995
Category 1
$1,925
Category 1
$1,495
Suite
$3,650
Suite
$2,895
Royal Suite
$5,550
Code: TAW. Price is per person and includes cruise in category 5, double occupancy. Single Supplement: call for details. Port Charges: $225 per person. Air Add-On: Prices listed were effective on April 28, 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 Uniworld. *Cruise operates from Antwerp to Amsterd am. Note: Order of sightseeing may change throughout the itinerary. Substitute visits to other sites may occur during your trip due to water levels or other uncontrollable factors.
PRICE INCLUDES:
Included Meals: WD Captain’s Welcome Reception & Gala Dinner BB Buffet Breakfast CB Continental Breakfast L Lunch D Dinner FD Captain’s Farewell Reception and Gala Dinner
Complimentary WiFi
Professional Cruise Manager with you throughout your journey Deluxe Stateroom with private bath, river views and mineral water All Meals Onboard 9 breakfasts. 7 lunches. 9 dinners (including Captain’s Welcome and Farewell Gala Receptions) Unlimited Beverages including fine wine, beer, spirits, soft drinks, specialty coffee and tea, and mineral water Local Expert on all city tours
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SAVE AN AARP MEMBERS ADDITIONAL $100 P/P Personal Audio Headsets All Gratuities onboard and offshore Airport Transfers arrival and departure transfers included as noted in itinerary with the purchase of combined air and land package. Flights must arrive between 5am5pm and depart between 6am-6pm Travel Documents including travel wallet, cruise companion booklet and 5% Frequent Traveler Discount upon return for a future trip
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59
Announcing 2016 River Cruises
Castles Along the Rhine
North Sea
ENGLAND
BASEL, SWITZERLAND TO AMSTERDAM, THE NETHERLANDS
SAVE
$800
THE NETHERLANDS
PER COUPLE BOOK BY JULY 2, 2015
Amsterdam
7-NIGHT CRUISE
Cologne English Channel
BELGIUM
DEPARTURE DATE
CRUISE PRICE AFTER DISCOUNTS
CRUISE PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
River
Koblenz Boppard
R ates per Person
With true All-Inclusive River Cruising, you’ll be treated to the ultimate stress free, luxury cruise experience in Europe. From shore excursions with English speaking guides and impeccably prepared meals and all beverages including wine, cocktails and beer, to exquisitely appointed staterooms, on-board entertainment and gratuities – everything is included.
R h i ne
9 DAYS from $2,799
Rüdesheim
LUXEMBOURG
RIVER EMPRESS
Mar 22 Mar 29
$3,199 $3,299
Germersheim
Riquewihr Kaysersberg
FRANCE
$2,799 $2,899
CZECH REPUBLIC
Speyer
Strasbourg Kehl Breisach
Colmar
GERMANY
Basel
SWITZERLAND
AUSTRIA ITALY
FOR A LIMITED TIME take advantage of exclusive savings for GET guests on select 2016 departures – up to $800 per couple when you book by July 2, 2015
Enchanting Danube
$800
PARIS TO PARIS, FRANCE English Channel
9 DAYS from $2,949
Caudebec-en-Caux
Normandy Beaches
R ates per Person DEPARTURE DATE
PER COUPLE BOOK BY JULY 2, 2015
CRUISE PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
Honfleur
Les Andelys Se
RIVER BARONESS
Mar 12 Mar 19 Mar 26
$3,349 $3,449 $3,549
er Riv ine
Normandy
Giverny Auvers-sur-Oise
Vernon
$2,949 $3,049 $3,149
D
Passau Munich
R ates per Person
ub e
Wachau Valley
R iver
Dürnstein
SLOVAKIA
Bratislava Vienna
Da
Salzburg
AUSTRIA
Apr 2 Apr 9 Apr 16
FRANCE
PER COUPLE BOOK BY JULY 2, 2015
Melk
CRUISE PRICE AFTER DISCOUNTS
CRUISE PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
Linz
RIVER BEATRICE
Rouen
CRUISE PRICE AFTER DISCOUNTS
9 DAYS from $2,799 DEPARTURE DATE
$800
GERMANY an
SAVE
Paris & Normandy
SAVE
CZECH REPUBLIC
BUDAPEST, HUNGARY TO PASSAU, GERMANY
$3,199 $3,399 $3,549
$2,799 $2,999 $3,149
Conflans-Sainte-Honorine
SLOVENIA
CROATIA
Paris AUSTRIA
Bordeaux, Vineyards & Chateaux
SAVE
$800
Gironde Estuary
BORDEAUX TO BORDEAUX, FRANCE
9 DAYS from $2,599
PER COUPLE BOOK BY JULY 2, 2015
Pauillac Bay of Biscay
CRUISE PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
Blaye
SWITZERLAND
SAVE
$800
Libourne
Bordeaux
SaintÉmilion
English Channel
Cadillac
7-NIGHT CRUISE
$2,999 $3,149 $3,249
$2,599 $2,749 $2,849
Bergerac Dordogne Riv er Périgord
Aquitaine
SAVE
Saôn e Riv er
9 DAYS from $2,899
Macon
R ates per Person
Tournon
$3,399 $3,399 $3,599
Ravenna
Ligurian Sea
$2,999 $2,999 $3,199
Adriatic Sea
ITALY
SAVE
$800
ITALY
Guimarães
12 DAYS from $3,549 R ates per Person DEPARTURE DATE
CRUISE PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
CRUISE PRICE AFTER DISCOUNTS
Tyrrhenian Sea
PER COUPLE BOOK BY JULY 2, 2015
Pinhão Douro Riv Barca d’Alva er Vega de Terrón Castelo Rodrigo Salamanca
Coimbra
$3,949 $4,049
$3,549 $3,649
SPAIN Lisbon
PORTUGAL
Provence
Marseille
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7-NIGHT CRUISE
Atlantic Ocean
QUEEN ISABEL
Mar 23 Mar 30
Lixa Bitetos Régua
Porto Mediterranean Sea
3
Avignon
SPAIN
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RIVER COUNTESS
n e River
7-NIGHT CRUISE
Tarascon Arles
$2,899 $2,999 $3,099
Tain l’Hermitage
Rh ô
S.S. CATHERINE
$800
PER SWITZERLANDCOUPLE BOOK BY JULY 2, 2015
Lyon
Burgundy
FRANCE
CRUISE PRICE AFTER DISCOUNTS
Viviers
60
Garonne River
Beaune
$3,299 $3,399 $3,499
Ferrara Bologna
Venice Chioggia Po Delta area Taglio di Po
LISBON TO PORTUGAL, PORTUGAL & SPAIN
AVIGNON TO LYON, FRANCE
Mar 19 Mar 26 Apr 2
Polesella
Portugal, Spain & the Douro River Valley
Burgundy & Provence
DEPARTURE DATE
Verona
Po River
CRUISE PRICE AFTER DISCOUNTS
CRUISE PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
Padua
FRANCE
Normandy
CRUISE PRICE BEFORE DISCOUNTS
7-NIGHT CRUISE
R ates per Person DEPARTURE DATE
PER COUPLE BOOK BY SLOVENIA JULY 2, 2015
Sauternes
River onne Gar
Mar 12 Mar 19 Mar 26
9 DAYS from $2,999
Apr 2 Apr 9 Apr 16
Médoc
CRUISE PRICE AFTER DISCOUNTS
RIVER ROYALE
Budapest
FRANCE
7-NIGHT CRUISE
VENICE TO VENICE, ITALY
DEPARTURE DATE
7-NIGHT CRUISE
River
HUNGARY
Venice & the Gems of Northern Italy
R ates per Person
n ube
Mediterranean Sea
View our full collection of river cruises online at www.GETours.com Note: Prices shown are per person and includes cruise in base cabin category. Cabin upgrades are available at an additional cost. Call for Single Supple ment. 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
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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 supple ments 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, motor coach 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 April 28, 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 Transpor tation 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 ($25*), 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 arrange ments as agent for the transportation carriers and other suppliers of services connected with the tour (“suppliers”) all of which are indepen dent 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 condi tions 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 partici pant 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 circum stance 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 super sedes 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.
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