2019 / 2020 WORLDWIDE TOURS & CRUISES
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Our Travel Collection Book an unforgettable journey. Choose your preferred departure date now.
4 The Smithsonian Journeys Story 6 Our Experts 8 Travel Styles 12 At Home in the World By land or sea
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14 Europe Holland to Switzerland 52 Polar Regions Svalbard to Antarctica 54 The Americas Panama to the U.S.A. 74 Asia & the PaciďŹ c Japan to New Zealand
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84 Africa Kenya to Egypt 90 Around the World by Private Jet 92 Active Journeys The Cotswolds to Kilimanjaro 98 Family Journeys The Rhine to Yellowstone 102 Tailor-Made Journeys Europe to Asia 105 Travel Calendar 107 More Online!
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Curating the world
through travel to enrich and transform lives Smithsonian Journeys travelers enjoy a festive dinner at the Cannes Film Festival
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Celebrating 50 years Since 1846 people have placed their trust in the Smithsonian’s mission of the “increase and diffusion of knowledge.” Fifty years ago, Smithsonian Journeys was born, to bring this mission of education to life in experience-rich travel. When you join our community of curious travelers, you will engage with the world through the Smithsonian lens, enjoying a memorable, immersive, and transformative experience. And, importantly, your participation benefits the work of the Smithsonian, helping to make the world a better place by preserving and celebrating what we cherish from our common past, present, and future.
Why choose Smithsonian Journeys?
The Smithsonian lens Simply put, our trips mirror the reputation, varied collections, and research of the Institution. And just as our curators and scientists hone in on the details of a topic, our journeys bring you up close to the culture and natural world of your destination, providing a deep, authentic, and unique perspective—like a visit to CERN, attending D-Day ceremonies, and settling into a class at Oxford. Some trips also provide special access to Smithsonian research, people, and facilities. For example, you can meet Smithsonian scientists at a research station in Kenya or Panama, observe astrophysicists at work at Smithsonian observatories in Arizona or Hawaii, or find yourself on a behindthe-scenes tour of a Smithsonian Affiliate Museum.
A quality experience Smithsonian Journeys is renowned for top-notch service, engaging experts, and some of the most experienced travel directors and local guides, all of whom revel in the opportunity to share their insights with our curious travelers. You’ll always find that you have plenty of time for conversation with your Smithsonian Journeys Expert, exploring sites in more depth, and developing a special camaraderie with other group members. Educational emphasis Travelers return again and again to Smithsonian Journeys due to the fun and engaged learning at the core of every tour and cruise. Our world-class, insightful, and charismatic Smithsonian Journeys Experts bring meaningful enrichment and insider perspectives to more than 300 departures on all seven continents. And with a broad range of travel styles, the opportunities for lifelong learners are endless. The Smithsonian community On any given trip, you’ll travel with intellectually curious, worldly, and adventurous lifelong learners. And the enthusiasm lingers long after the trip is over. Often one of the most lasting elements of a journey are the friendships that develop with other interesting travelers who share your passion for deeper learning and exploration.
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Providing in-depth understanding and a sense of wonder Our Experts
Among the experts who accompany you on your journey are scholars from around the world—with in-depth understanding of history, culture, politics, the natural world, or the fine arts—who have been selected by Smithsonian Journeys for their special knowledge and ability to connect with people. You may also find by your side a Smithsonian scientist who has spent a lifetime studying and interpreting biology, ecology, geology, astronomy, or another discipline. Our travelers continue to tell us that our experts are a major reason they come back to Smithsonian Journeys again and again. Meet some of our experts and read about the tours they will lead in the pages that follow. And go online to read more about them . . . and the accolades shared by our travelers.
Michelle Thaller is Deputy Director of Science for Communications at NASA in Washington, D.C. and a highly respected astrophysicist who specializes in the life cycles of stars. Her research interests include hot stars, colliding stellar winds, binary star evolution, and evolved stellar companions. She has appeared in many television programs about the universe, including How the Universe Works and The Known Universe. Michelle will serve as Smithsonian Journeys Expert for Art Meets Science in Switzerland and Adventure in Iceland. 6
Hugh Neighbour is a former diplomat and U.S. Navy officer who worked overseas for most of his career. He has received many awards for distinguished service from the U.S. Department of State. Following his retirement, he has worked as a consultant, official observer for several international elections, and director of a course in advanced foreign studies. Hugh will lead departures in 2020 of The Silk Road: A Journey to Central Asia and Exploring Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Armenia, and in 2021 Cruising the Mekong.
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Thomas Doughton is a Senior Lecturer at the Center for Interdisciplinary Studies at the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Mass., where he has taught for 20 years. In scholarship and instructing undergraduate and adult learners, he has specialized in African American studies, the Holocaust, Native American studies, and comparative genocide. A longtime former resident of Paris, Tom did graduate work at the University of Paris. He will lead both departures of the new Cultural Stay, Paris: The African American Experience.
Janetta Rebold Benton is an art historian who has lectured at Smithsonian for many years. Janetta was a longtime resident of Paris and has also lived in St. Petersburg and Hangzhou, while serving as a Visiting Professor during two Fulbright Senior Scholar Awards. She is the author of eight books focusing on art history as well as many scholarly articles and reviews. Janetta will accompany the new Classic Land Journey Through Provence, as well as departures of our London City Stay and St. Petersburg and the Baltics tour.
Q. As a scientist, tell us about an experience you had on the Galápagos Islands that made it special to you. A. As an evolutionary biologist I am always asking the question “why” when it comes to the appearance of a species. Why does it look the way that it does, or more specifically, what factors lead to the evolution of particular anatomical structures? I am as fascinated by plants as I am by animals and reading some of Darwin’s work made me wonder about the plants on the Galápagos long before I ever visited. When you visit the Galápagos Islands you will see some beautiful and interesting native plant species in addition to the amazing animals. One of my favorites is the tree cactus (Opuntia echios). It is a type of prickly pear cactus that grows in the form of a tree with an astonishingly large trunk. When I first saw this species, I asked my usual question, what factors led to the evolution of a cactus species with a tall, solid tree trunk? It occurred to me that a primary factor might have been herbivory by the giant tortoises! There is nothing more satisfying than understanding evolution through direct observation of nature in the field. Throughout her life, Nina Zitani has been both a scientist and an artist, moving back and forth between both worlds. After earning a fine arts degree from the Rhode Island School of Design, she went on to pursue a Ph.D. in biology, becoming a highly accomplished field research biologist with special expertise in entomology. Nina can be found at the University of Western Ontario in London, Ontario, where she is curator of zoological collections and assistant professor in the biology department. Her fields of scientific interest lie in biodiversity and conservation, evolutionary biology, and species diversity. A popular Smithsonian Journeys Expert, Nina will lead the February departure of Around the World by Private Jet as well as two departures of Machu Picchu and the Galápagos and a departure of Amazon River Cruise. Q. Tell us a bit about the biodiversity of the Amazon and what makes this area so unique and important to the planet? A. Global biodiversity is humanity’s life support system and unique and interesting species and habitats can be found all over the world. It is important to understand that the Amazon is a river system covering an enormous land area, including thousands of tributaries from multiple sources high in the Andes, which eventually form a major river that dumps into the Atlantic Ocean. One of the unique aspects of the Amazon basin is the density of species. There are more species of plants, animals, fungi and other types of life per unit area in the Amazon basin than anywhere else in the world. In other words, the Amazon is the most biodiverse place on Earth. There are also many kinds of life forms that are endemic to the Amazon basin, meaning they occur nowhere else on Earth.
Q. What types of topics do you like to include in your presentations? A. My lectures are always in series, where each lecture builds upon information and concepts in earlier lectures. (However I have learned from Hollywood that each presentation should also be stand-alone!). My lectures are richly illustrated with my own photography, examples of my field work when germane, and some video. I also incorporate personal stories into my lectures and humor where appropriate. I teach concepts that are applicable nearly anywhere on Earth, such as pollination, the evolution of birds, and conservation principles. By the end of our trip, travelers will have learned a great deal about the natural history of the places we visited, as well as useful information that can be applied at home. Q. What do you enjoy most about accompanying Smithsonian Journeys travelers? A. Smithsonian Journeys travelers are truly a pleasure! They love to learn and they ask excellent questions. As a group they have knowledge about a wide variety of subjects and wisdom from life experiences. A perk for me is that I learn new and interesting things from our varied conversations. Smithsonian Journeys travelers are also good-natured people, and big smiles and warm-hearted laughter accompany each day. One couldn’t ask for better travel companions! See more bios and interviews with Smithsonian Journeys Experts at SmithsonianJourneys.org/Experts
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Find your perfect journey With Smithsonian Journeys you can be certain to find a trip that matches your aspirations and interests. All of our programming reflects exactly what you expect—a unique blend of enriching insights, exceptional quality, intellectual camaraderie, and personal attention. So how do you choose the right journey? The easiest way to narrow your search is to use our online Trip Finder, which features simple steps to filter your choices by travel style, interest, activity level, destination, dates, and trip duration. You will discover your perfect journey in just seconds! Go to SmithsonianJourneys.org to learn more about our array of amazing journeys.
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Classic Land Journeys Spin the globe and chances are you’ll hit on a destination featured on one of our many Classic Land Journeys—exciting forays into the history, culture, and natural world of a single country or region. Meticulously planned to include iconic sites and hidden gems, these 10 to 23-day programs are comprehensive but never rushed. You may travel the full breadth of a country or just one region, but you’ll always see the highlights up close with an intimate group of newfound friends—generally just 16 to 24 travelers. You’ll stay in a variety of accommodations that reflect the cultural traditions of your destination—and most of these tours include airfare for even more value! Many of our Classic Land Journeys are popular itineraries that we’ve offered for years, simply because they’ve been honed to perfection! New Classic Land Journeys for 2020 include Journey Through Provence, Classical Greece, Safari in Kenya and Tanzania, Ancient Egypt and the Nile, Seascapes of the Canadian Maritimes, plus Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan!
Small-Ship Cruises—Ocean and River Unpack once and wake up to a brand-new world every day on an ocean or river voyage aboard a fleet of ideal ships that accommodate 18 to 220 guests (with only a few that are larger). You’ll enjoy exceptional itineraries to popular destinations worldwide as well as unique voyages. All of our cruises share the same hallmark qualities of upscale ships with superb amenities, excellent cuisine, an informal ambiance, and a top-notch Smithsonian Journeys Expert who travels with you. Some cruises exclusively host Smithsonian Journeys guests, while others are shared with cultural institutions and universities. Find more information on our ocean cruises on page 13, international river cruises on page 16, and U.S. cruising on page 84. New Cruises for 2020 spotlight Loire Valley Canal Cruise, A Seine River Cruise, Mekong River Cruise, and Global Symposium Featuring a Danube River Cruise. And in 2021, we’ll feature the new ocean cruise Solar Eclipse 2021: Antarctica and the Path of Totality.
Cultural Stay Journeys Our one-week Cultural Stay Journeys allow you to unpack once and enjoy your time to discover a destination’s unique sense of place in more depth. Choose from a single European cultural capital or a smaller city that showcases the intrinsic flavor of the region. Whichever you choose, you’ll enjoy an insightful experience that features both highlights and lesser known sites and opportunities to meet with local people. Plus, centrally located accommodations that reflect the culture of your destination makes it all the more delightful! Or choose an immersive threeweek “Living In” stay for a well-balanced program of themed activities and independent exploration. New One-Week Cultural Stay Journeys feature an iconic city Stay with a new perspective—Paris: The African American Experience—and two new regional Stays that spotlight off-the-beaten-path destinations—France and Spain’s Basque Region featuring a stay at the Parador de Hondarribia and Italy’s Apulia with a stay in Polignano a Mare (featured in photo above).
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Active Journeys—New! Be engaged, energized, and inspired in an entirely new way! Experience the world up close while hiking, rafting, cycling, or trekking. With a small group of only 18 travelers, you’ll develop a strong sense of camaraderie quickly, go off the beaten path, get to know the local people, and stay in lodgings that reflect the culture of your destination. In association with MT Sobek, top adventure travel specialists for 50 years, we’re providing the best in Active Journeys. Find more information on our 14 Active Journeys—including seven new and exciting adventures—on pages 92–97. New Active Journeys for 2020 feature A Literary Hike Through the Cotswolds, Hiking and History Along El Camino de Santiago, Hiking Norway’s Fjords, Mont Blanc Hiking, Vietnam Cycling Adventure, Hikes and Cuisine of Peru’s Sacred Valley, and Alaska Adventure. Train Journeys There’s a magical quality to traveling by train as you watch your destination unfold from the comfort of your train car. Whether you are a true train buff or simply enjoy the “romance of the rails,” you will find many fascinating worldwide train trips to fulfill your dreams. Join us to experience the engineering feats of the Alpine Glacier Express in Switzerland, the romance of Africa’s legendary Rovos Rail or Southeast Asia’s Eastern & Oriental Express, or an adventure on the Golden Eagle as you cross Russia’s Siberia or the Arctic Circle. Our new Train Journey Treasures of the Alps features historic train rides in Switzerland on the Alpine Glacier Express, the Gornergrat Bahn, and the Pilatus Railway.
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Special Interest Tours Pursue your passion in depth on one of our special interest tours that are truly unique! With Smithsonian Journeys you can join travelers who share your interest in art to astronomy and from British mystery writers to cars. Become a student at Oxford or St Andrews, learn about Galileo in Florence and Padua, view art and science in Switzerland, or experience the challenges of NASA astronauts at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center! Whatever your interest, Smithsonian Journeys ensures a unique and top-notch learning experience. New Special Interest Tours for 2020 include In the Footsteps of Galileo, The Battle of Britain, European Cars and the German Grand Prix, and 2020 Solar Eclipse: A Journey Through Argentina and Chile’s Lake District. Family Journeys Eager to introduce kids or teens to a different culture or the wonders of the natural world? Relax and enjoy a memorable time exploring the world together with your family. We offer a selection of family journeys featuring thoughtfully planned itineraries aimed at inspiring and enriching travelers of all ages. From actively learning about the cultural traditions of Europe or the natural wonders of Iceland or Wyoming, you’ll join new friends and inspiring guides who bring new insights to everyone. Experience the magic of discovery with your entire family on a Smithsonian Journeys family trip. For more information see pages 98–101. Our New Greece: A Family Journey features Athens and the islands of Crete and Santorini.
Our Activity Levels Our Activity Level Ratings provide an understanding of the physical expectations for each tour or cruise, making it easier for you to find the journey that is right for you. Activity Level Ratings are featured on our website’s Trip Finder as a filter, but more importantly, a detailed description of the activity expectations can be found on the individual trip’s web page (on the “Tour Details” tab). These descriptions summarize the ease or rigors of activities, as well as information regarding length of walks or hikes; longer coach rides; internal flights; train travel; altitude; and more. An overview of our Activity Level Ratings: Level 1/Easy travel programs include leisurely journeys such as Smithsonian at Chautauqua. █
Level 2/Moderate travel usually includes most Cultural Stays, River Cruises, and some Classic Land Journeys.
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Level 3/Moderate/Active travel opportunities include longer Classic Land Journeys, Wildlife Safaris, Ocean Cruises, International Train Journeys, U.S. National Parks Tours, and many Active Journeys.
Level 4/Active programs feature Active Journeys with longer or more rigorous hikes.
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Level 5/Challenging is for those seeking the true challenge of Climbing Kilimanjaro.
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Around-the-World Journeys For the ultimate trip of a lifetime, join our spectacular Around-the-World by Private Jet Journey and witness the wonders of the world that have long captured the imagination. You’ll visit an incredible array of far-flung destinations in one itinerary and in style, made possible by the convenience and comfort of a custom-configured Boeing 757 for just 80 guests. Our knowledgeable and engaging experts and staff share their insights during action-packed days filled with iconic sites and unforgettable activities that allow you to experience firsthand the people, cultures, and natural world of each country—all in one trip! For more information on our departures in 2020, see pages 90–91.
Tailor-Made Journeys Sometimes you just want help creating your own personalized travel. Maybe you’re celebrating a milestone event—a special birthday, graduation, honeymoon, or family reunion. Or maybe you want to travel as a couple, solo, or with a group of friends. These are a few of the reasons travelers have chosen to work with us to design their perfect, custom-built itinerary. With our Tailor-Made Journeys, a country specialist will work with you to design the perfect custom-built itinerary from start to finish at the budget you want. Since our country specialists know their destinations intimately, you’ll get an in-depth perspective on whatever destination you desire. For more information on Tailor-Made Journeys see pages 102–103.
Our Around-the-World Journeys are truly amazing! “Whatever your expectations, multiply them a thousand-fold! This was truly a trip of a lifetime and will be in our memories forever!” – Smithsonian Journeys traveler
New European destinations in 2020 for our TailorMade Journeys include Greece, Spain, and Portugal. Plus, we can plan insightful, fun journeys for you in Italy, France, Ireland, and the U.K.
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SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS
At home in the world
By land, river, or sea, let the journey begin Distinctive Properties
Whether you’re enjoying the cultural treasures of Europe or the wildlife of a safari adventure in Africa, your accommodations enhance your overall experience and are often integral to a memorable trip. Traveling with Smithsonian Journeys, you can be assured of distinctive properties that feature the character and ambiance of the local culture plus the quality service that meets the high standards you expect.
Travelers on our new Hikes and Cuisine of Provence, an Active Journeys trip, will enjoy lodgings at a former seminary, a family-run château, and a 17th-century farmhouse. And on our popular Machu Picchu and the Galápagos journey, you’ll stay near the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu at the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge, which provides exceptional access to the site.
Experience the royal lifestyle of maharajas on Mystical India when staying at the Jai Mahal Palace in Jaipur, a heritage hotel. Take in commanding panoramic views of the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater from Serena Safari Lodges on both of our safaris in Tanzania. During our two tours featuring the paradores and pousadas of Spain and Portugal, you’ll be completely immersed in the history of the Iberian Peninsula during stays in a palace, convent, castle, and town hall! And families will be delighted with a one-week stay at a charming 14th-century Tuscan villa outside of Florence on Treasures of Tuscany: A Family Journey.
During our one-week Cultural Stays in Europe you’ll find the ideal home away from home as our properties feature the local character and ambiance, plus high standards and a central location! On the new France and Spain’s Basque Region, you’ll stay at a historic parador in the charming Spanish town of Hondarribia, overlooking the Bay of Biscay near the French border. On Palermo and Taormina: A Stay in Sicily, dreamy water views are the norm at the Grand Hotel Atlantis Bay. And during our one-week stay in London, you’ll feel like a local by staying in posh Kensington at the Radisson Blu Edwardian Vanderbilt.
Parador in Ronda, Spain
Jai Mahal Palace, Jaipur, India
Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge, Tanzania
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Grand Hotel Atlantis Bay, Taormina, Sicily
Learn more about our cruises on European rivers on page 16 and in the U.S. on page 84!
Ideal Small Ships
With the mindset of explorers and the goal of fresh experiences, Smithsonian Journeys travelers ply the waters of the oceans, rivers, lakes, and canals around the world. Unpack once and enjoy an informal, relaxed ambiance aboard our ideal small ships—accommodating just 18 to 220 guests—where casual clothes and attitudes, mixed with curious travelers and engaging conversation, combine for an exceptional experience. You’ll easily become acquainted with fellow travelers and your Smithsonian Journeys Expert in the ship’s lounges and dining rooms—and get to know members from other leading cultural institutions who may share the ship with our group. Yet you’ll also feel free to slip off to read a book or, depending on the ship, enjoy a soothing spa treatment. Plus, our ships feature excellent cuisine that can be savored in refined dining rooms or al fresco on deck, and staff members are known for their friendly and efficient demeanor.
Cruising the ocean, you’ll often find yourself aboard the elegant French Ponant fleet—on either the sister ships Le Boréal or L’Austral or the new generation of luxury ships, Le Champlain, Le Bougainville, Le Dumont d’Urville, Le Bellot, and Le Jacques Cartier. Each ship reflects a chic décor with all-suite cabins, upscale amenities, various lounges for conversation, and a theater for presentations. You’ll enjoy French cuisine prepared by expert chefs, served in two stylish dining rooms. You’ll also find a full complement of upscale services, from 24-hour room service to an open bar throughout the cruise. Plus, the newer ships feature an underwater observation lounge! With Smithsonian Journeys, you can also enjoy sailing aboard an iconic tall ship such as Sea Cloud II; explore the natural wonders of the Amazon or Galápagos on small, sophisticated expedition ships (Zafiro and Santa Cruz II); and enjoy the intimacy of the private yacht Queen Eleganza while cruising the Dalmatian Coast.
Le Boréal
Smithsonian travelers in Antarctica
L’Austral
Queen Eleganza
Zafiro
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EUROPE / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS
Europe
Holland to Switzerland
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Waterways of Holland and Belgium A River Cruise from Amsterdam to Antwerp Aboard the 160-guest Amadeus Star CRUISE
9 days from $3,390 Includes $250 early booking savings! No Single Supplement—Limited Availability Special air rates & services available Sells out quickly! Book now! April 3–11, April 10–18*, April 17–25, April 24–May 2*, 2020
Our popular cruise of Holland and Belgium showcases magnificent art and architecture, spellbinding gardens, and enchanting medieval villages. Observe windmills, fields of flowers, and cultural traditions of the Low Countries as you cruise along delightful canals and rivers from Amsterdam to Antwerp and enjoy a choice of insightful included excursions.
Keukenhof Gardens
Highlights Include Amsterdam: Take a private cruise along Amsterdam’s historic canals, lined with 16th- and 17th-century gabled row houses, which have been designated a World Heritage site. Then choose from three excursions, including a trip to the world-renowned Keukenhof Gardens, where more than seven million tulips, daffodils, and other spring flowers are expected to be in bloom; an active bicycle trip in rural Waterland, an area of historical villages and wetland north of the city; or a more leisurely day featuring a guided tour of the Old Masters at the Rijksmuseum balanced with time at leisure. Giethoorn: Glide along the waterways of Giethoorn, regarded as the most picturesque village in Holland with its abundance of interlacing canals, and explore the town of Kampen.
Woman in Blue Reading a Letter Johannes Vermeer, The Rijksmuseum
The Hague or Delft: Choose from two compelling day excursions. In The Hague, see sites associated with the seat of Dutch government during a panoramic city tour, including the Parliament Building and the Peace Palace. Then visit the Mauritshuis Museum to view paintings by Vermeer and other Dutch Masters. Or travel to the charming town of Delft. Here, you’ll stroll through Market Square with its cultural highlights and learn about the history and production of Delft porcelain at the renowned Royal Delft Porcelain Factory. Zeeland Coast: Come to understand the country’s continuous battle with the sea at the educational Delta Expo, then visit one of the storm surge barriers. Bruges and Antwerp: The World Heritage site of Bruges features treasured 15th-century architecture, picturesque canals, and arched footbridges. Following a walking tour, choose from three excursions that focus on Flemish art, Belgian chocolate, or Belgian beer. Your cruise concludes in Antwerp with a walking tour of this medieval city. Space reserved for 34 to 74 Smithsonian Journeys guests depending on departure. *The April 10 and April 24 departures will run in reverse. Learn more about Amadeus Star on page 16 and on our website. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Paula Swart (April 3) and Henry Luttikhuizer (April 10)–art historians with expertise in Europe. Tim Blanning (April 17)– expert in modern European history.
Canal in Bruges Port of Call
NETHERLANDS
Featured Site Ship
Giethoorn Kampen
Motorcoach
North Sea
Keukenhof Gardens Amsterdam The Hague/ Delft
Zeeland Coast Veere
Bruges
Antwerp Brussels
BELGIUM
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EUROPE / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS Amadeus ship on the Rhine River
European River Cruising Experience leisurely river cruising through Europe aboard a deluxe riverboat and sail into the heart of your destination. Small enough to dock in renowned towns and cities, our ships are large enough to provide upscale amenities and fascinating shore excursions. Return each day to a sophisticated home away from home and enjoy a convivial ambiance with other lifelong learners. You’ll often find yourself aboard the deluxe Amadeus river fleet, accommodating just 160 guests. These riverboats are stylishly appointed with all the modern amenities. Meals are served in a single unassigned seating in the elegant restaurant, showcasing continental cuisine, with complimentary wine and beer served during lunch and dinner. Guests can enjoy a panoramic deck lounge and bar, complimentary Wi-Fi, and large windows for viewing the changing landscape.
A Seine River Cruise
You’ll find a similar ambiance and amenities aboard CroisiEurope’s fleet of smaller boats–Amalia Rodrigues, Van Gogh, and Renoir, which accommodate just 105 to 132 guests. See our European river cruise itineraries on the following pages and find all the ship details online at SmithsonianJourneys.org/ships.
Aboard the 105-guest Renoir CRUISE
9 days from $4,390 Includes $250 early booking savings No Single Supplement—Limited Availability Special air rates & services available May 23–31, June 6–14, 2020
The River Seine, an important trade route from earliest times, led to the development of Paris as the center for French trade, politics, religion, and culture. Like travelers of old, cruise the legendary Seine and discover the significant historic, artistic, and cultural highlights of Ile-de-France and Normandy.
Gaillard, the Château de Martainville, and the abbeys of Jumieges and Wandrille. Visit the Rouen cathedral during a walking tour of Normandy’s capital.
Highlights Include
Honfleur: Enjoy a walking tour of the historic and charming Old Port, which dates to the 17th century and served as a favorite subject of the Impressionist painters.
Paris: Take a walking tour focused on the city’s history and architecture and enjoy an evening cruise aboard the Renoir. At the Musée de l’Orangerie, gaze upon Monet’s stunning Water Lilies paintings. View examples of high culture by visiting Versailles or the Opéra Garnier, then enjoy an afternoon at leisure. Giverny: Trace Monet’s passion for gardening to his artistic genius while touring his house and gardens. Châteaus, Abbeys, and Rouen: Explore historic sites along the Seine, including the fortress of Château 16
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Caen and D-Day Beaches: Focus on modern history at the Memorial Peace Museum, Omaha Beach, Pointe du Hoc, and the American Military Cemetery.
Space reserved for 35 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Learn more about the Renoir on our website.
Smithsonian Journeys Experts Arthur Kaplan (May)–expert in the arts of France. Gail Cornell (June)–architectural historian.
A Danube River Cruise
From the Czech Republic and Germany to Bulgaria Aboard the 160-guest Amadeus Star or Amadeus Queen 15/16 days from $5,790 Includes $250 early booking savings No Single Supplement—Limited Availability Special air rates & services available July 7–21, July 16–31*, Aug. 29–Sept. 12, Sept. 7–22*, 2020 The fabled Danube River flows through the heartland of Central and Eastern Europe— an evocative landscape of ancient capitals, lovely villages, and magnificent churches, palaces, and castles. Join us for this unique itinerary that showcases nine countries and many World Heritage sites, plus features a choice of specialty excursions in many cities.
Passau, Germany Budapest, Hungary
Highlights Include
Czech Republic: Begin your journey in Prague, the capital of Old World Europe. Your three-night hotel stay features tours of Charles Bridge and the historic district; a choice of excursions, including Lobkowicz Palace, the Jewish Quarter, or Prague’s architectural treasures; and some time at leisure. Germany: Travel to Passau, located at the confluence of three rivers—the Danube, Inn, and Ilz—and board your ship. Here, you’ll visit the magnificent St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the Old Town Hall, and other sites. Austria and the Wachau Valley: Sail through the beautiful Wachau Valley, a World Heritage site, stopping at the Benedictine abbey at Melk and lovely Dürnstein. In Vienna, tour the lavish Imperial Apartments of the Hofburg Palace, the incredible Schönbrunn Palace, or Klosterneuburg Monastery, plus enjoy an evening focused on the Viennese waltz. Slovakia: Discover Bratislava, Slovakia’s capital and largest city. View St. Michael’s Gate and the Primate’s Palace during a walking tour, bike along the storied Slovak-Austrian border, or explore venues associated with renowned composers. Hungary: Cruise into the heart of Budapest, one of Europe’s most striking capitals, nestled along the banks of the Danube. Visit the Great Market Hall, join a tour through the old Jewish Quarter, or explore both the Buda and the Pest sections of the city. In Pécs, you’ll see Ottoman mosques and enjoy a wine tasting. Croatia: Visit the small village of Kopač evo and the culturally significant towns of Osijek and Vukovar. Serbia: In Belgrade, a choice of excursions features the Nikola Tesla Museum, a culinary tour, or a city highlights tour with a stop at Kalemegdan Park. Romania: Follow the Danube along the Serbian-Romanian border and sail through the Iron Gate Gorge, a remarkable passage just 530 feet wide. Bulgaria: A stop in Vidin showcases a 17th-century church and a 19th-century synagogue. Conclude with a two-night hotel stay in Sofia, where you’ll learn about its history and culture during a panoramic tour featuring the Royal Palace and Battenberg Square. Space reserved for 34 to 90 Smithsonian Journeys guests depending on departure. *The July 16 and Sept. 7 departures will run in reverse. Learn more about both ships on page 16 and on our website.
GERMANY Prague Danube River Passau
CZECH REPUBLIC Dürnstein SLOVAKIA
Melk
Bratislava
HUNGARY
Vienna
AUSTRIA
The Danube River, Romania
Budapest
Pécs
Kalocsa
ROMANIA
Iron Gate Belgrade Gorge Vidin
SERBIA BULGARIA
Port of Call/Overnight
Sofia
Smithsonian Journeys Experts Hugh Agnew (July 7), Joanne Ferraro (July 16), and Bertrand Patenaude (Aug.)–historians with expertise in Europe.
Featured Site Ship Motorcoach
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EUROPE / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS
Great European Journey
A River Cruise and Train Trip from Holland to Switzerland Aboard the 160-guest Amadeus Silver III and Featuring Three Historic Swiss Railways 11 days from approximately $3,995 Includes $1,000 early booking savings / Sells out quickly! Book now! July 7–17, 2020 Reminiscent of the 19th-century “Grand Tour,” this unique and popular journey features the heart of Western Europe—with both river cruising and train travel. In Amsterdam, board your deluxe riverboat for a five-night cruise through Holland, Germany, and France, and then enjoy panoramic vistas of the Swiss Alps from the windows of historic trains. Highlights Include
each in Lucerne and Zermatt, dramatically set beneath the iconic Matterhorn. Explore these charming towns and experience the soaring majesty of the Swiss Alps from three legendary railways: the Gornergrat Bahn, the Glacier Express, and the Pilatus Railway, the world’s steepest cogwheel railway. Space reserved for 90 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Learn more about Amadeus Silver III on page 16 and on our website.
Holland: Take a private cruise along Amsterdam’s legendary canals, with their 16th- and 17th-century gabled row houses, designated a World Heritage site.
THE NETHERLANDS Amsterdam
Germany and the Rhine River: Visit Cologne’s Old Town and historic cathedral, Germany’s finest example of High Gothic architecture. Cruise through the most scenic section of the Rhine River Valley, a World Heritage site where each bend in the river features a medieval castle and tranquil village. Travel to a vineyard renowned for its Riesling where you’ll enjoy a private wine tasting. And in Heidelberg, visit the magnificent 13th-century castle perched above the river. France: Arrive in Alsace, a region whose ownership has moved between Germany and France for generations. In lovely Strasbourg, visit the Old City, a World Heritage site featuring medieval houses and covered bridges spanning picturesque canals. The Swiss Alps and Legendary Railways: Cross the rolling Swiss countryside to Bern, the historic capital and a World Heritage site. Travel through the spectacular Bernese Oberland to the snowcapped mountain peaks of the Alps, and the towering Jungfrau. Enjoy two nights
Rhine River
GERMANY
Cologne Koblenz RhineValley Rüdesheim Mosel River Mannheim Heidelberg Alsace
FRANCE Port of Call/Overnight
Basel
Featured Site
Bern
Ship Motorcoach Train
Geneva
Strasbourg
SWITZERLAND
Lucerne/Mt. Pilatus Andermatt
Zermatt/ Täsch Matterhorn The Alps
Smithsonian Journeys Expert Alexander Motyl–expert in political science of Eastern Europe.
The Matterhorn and Gornergrat Bahn
Amadeus Silver III, Cologne
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David Cameron
Global Symposium
The Power and Potential of the U.S.–European Relationship / Featuring Budapest, Berlin, and a Danube Cruise Aboard the Crystal Mahler CRUISE
Budapest and the Danube River
Doris Kearns Goodwin
12 days from $14,990 Sept. 5–16, 2020
For decades, the bond between Europe and the U.S. has created the foundation for the world’s economic, political, and security order. This special program celebrates their shared history and accomplishments and also looks at the future of this vital relationship. Join us for a major symposium in Budapest, then continue the discussions during a luxury cruise of the Danube and a three-night stay in Berlin. Highlights Include Budapest Symposium: Gather for a symposium featuring renowned political figures, authors, and thought leaders who will lecture and participate in discussions. An additional day showcases the history of Budapest through a choice of insider excursions, concluding with a gala welcome dinner and performance at a historic site. Speakers: David Cameron, former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, 2010-2016, will serve as the Symposium’s keynote speaker. Presidential Historian and Pulitzer-Prize winning author Doris Kearns Goodwin is featured as one of the many eminent speakers. Danube River: A five-night cruise aboard the Crystal Mahler provides the ultimate experience in European river cruising. From Budapest, ply the Danube through the Wachau Valley to Vienna and select from a variety of fascinating thematic excursions certain to appeal to your interests, topped off by a private concert. Berlin: Take a charter flight to Berlin for a two-day stay. Following morning lectures, choose from in-depth excursions focused on modern history, art and architecture, or cuisine. Space reserved for 26 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Expert Tim Blanning–highly respected historian with expertise in modern Europe.
Voyage Through Europe
Featuring the Rhine, Main, and Danube Rivers Aboard the 160-guest Amadeus Queen CRUISE
16 days from $5,990 Includes $250 early booking savings No Single Supplement—Limited Availability Special air rates & services available Oct. 3–18, 2020
Explore the cultural landscapes of five countries situated along three legendary rivers on this cruise, featuring a choice of excursions and many World Heritage sites. Highlights Include Holland: Enjoy time in canal-laced Amsterdam, where you can take a tour of the Rijksmuseum, a walking tour of the Herengracht canal district, or a picturesque bicycle ride north of the city. Germany: Gaze upon hilltop castles as you sail through the breathtaking Rhine Gorge and enjoy walking tours in Cologne and Koblenz. Then continue on the Main River and stop in the medieval towns of Miltenberg and Würzburg and Bavarian Bamberg. Cruise along the Danube to Nuremberg, known for its associations with World War II, as well as Regensburg and lovely Passau. Austria: Cruise along the beautiful Wachau Valley and stop at the Benedictine abbey at Melk. In Dürnstein, enjoy a walking tour, a bicycle ride along the river, or a tour and tasting at a local winery. Arriving in elegant Vienna, tour Hofburg Palace, Schönbrunn Palace, or Klosterneuburg Monastery. Slovakia: Choose a tour featuring Bratislava’s musical heritage, medieval architecture, or Castle Hill. Hungary: Conclude your cruise in Budapest and explore the city’s highlights, Jewish heritage, or cuisine. Space reserved for 68 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Learn more about the Amadeus Queen on page 16 and on our website. Smithsonian Journeys Expert Tim Blanning–highly respected historian with expertise in modern Europe.
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Rabelo boats on the Douro River
Portrait of Portugal
Cruising the Douro River Aboard the 132-guest Amalia Rodrigues 12 days from $4,790 Includes $250 early booking savings No Single Supplement—Limited Availability Special air rates & services available Sept. 29–Oct. 10, Oct. 6–17, 2020 Portugal is renowned for the Age of Discovery, Old World towns and centers of learning, rabelo (sail boats) loaded with casks of port plying the Douro, and distinctive blue azuelos (tiles). Encounter all this and much more during our land and river cruise program featuring seven nights aboard an intimate riverboat. Highlights Include Lisbon to Coimbra: Explore the treasures of Lisbon, including the Jeronimos Monastery, Tower of Belém, and Monument to the Discoveries, and enjoy a performance of traditional fado music. Then travel to the ancient town of Sintra and fishing villages of Cascais and Estoril. In Coimbra, gaze upon the spectacular university library and tour the fortress-like cathedral. Cruising the Douro: In Porto, discover city sites during a walking tour or tram tour, and savor a taste of the area’s port wine. Visit the town of Guimarães or take a hike along the river. Cruise along the meandering Douro River to Pinhão, stopping off at traditional towns and vineyards along the famous wine trail. Plus, spend a day exploring the glories of Spain’s Salamanca.
Chambord
Loire Valley Canal Cruise Aboard the 22-guest MS Deborah
12 days from $5,790 Includes $250 early booking savings Special air rates & services available Sept. 21–30, 2020 Discover the beauty, history, and culture of the Loire Valley as you ply the tree-lined canals adjacent to the Loire River. Enjoy visits to spectacular châteaus, wineries, farmsteads, and small villages, plus savor delicious cuisine and wine and take optional afternoon bike rides. Highlights Include Royal Châteaus: Begin your journey with visits to celebrated royal châteaus. Learn about King Francis I at his royal residence, Amboise; hunting lodge, Chambord; and birthplace, Château de Clos Luce. You’ll also stroll through the elegant Château de Chenonceau, which spans the River Cher. While visiting the Loire Valley châteaus, enjoy two nights at the Hotel Le Choiseul, a historic property located at the foot of Château Amboise. Six-Night Canal Cruise: From Briare to Nevers, ply the waters of the Loire canals aboard your intimate boat. Along the way, visit charming villages and imposing châteaus and churches. Meet local purveyors as you savor wines from Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé and sample cheese and other fare from local farms. Some afternoons may be spent enjoying the views of the countryside or bicycling along pathways to explore independently.
Amalia Rodrigues: A gracious staff welcomes you to this upscale riverboat that features panoramic views from cabins and public spaces. Find more details on our website.
MS Deborah: Launched in 2016, the MS Deborah shines among CroisiEurope’s fleet of fine small river boats. With a distinctive décor, superb regional cuisine, thoughtfully designed cabins, and an intimate ambiance, this small boat is a delightful way to see the French countryside. Learn more about the MS Deborah (and view photos) on our website.
Space reserved for 30 Smithsonian Journeys guests.
Exclusively reserved for 18 Smithsonian Journeys guests.
Smithsonian Journeys Expert Stephen Clancy (Sept.)–art historian with expertise in Portugal.
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Smithsonian Journeys Expert Joan Grimbert–expert in medieval French literature, history, culture, and language.
Evening film preview on the beach, Cannes
Lyon
A River Cruise of Provence Aboard the 105-guest MS Van Gogh
9 days from $4,390 Includes $250 early booking savings Special air rates & services available No Single Supplement—Limited Availability May 3–11, Oct. 3–11, 2020 Feel the essence of sun-drenched Provence as you cruise along the Rhône and Saône Rivers from Arles to Beaune. Trace the history of the Romans in southern France, hear stories of medieval popes, savor Burgundy and Beaujolais wines, and see many World Heritage sites. Highlights Include Historic Sites: In Arles, explore the magnificently restored Roman amphitheater, built in the first century B.C., and the Romanesque Cathédrale de St. Trophime. In Avignon, visit the 14th-century Palais des Papes, a World Heritage site. Choose to see other ancient sites such as the Pont du Gard aqueduct or the Roman theater and Triumphal Arch in Orange, and medieval sites such as Vieux Lyon and the Benedictine Abbey of Cluny. Plus, everyone explores the World Heritage site of Beaune with its 15th-century Hôtel Dieu. Rhône Wine: In Beaune, longtime capital of Burgundy wine, enjoy a tour of the “Côte de Beaune” and famed wine-growing villages, concluding with a wine tasting. Wine lovers can choose other excursions featuring the history and wine culture of the Beaujolais vineyards, situated along the Saône River. Memorable Landscapes: View the horses, birds, and marshy fields of the coastal Camargue and choose other nature excursions such as a tour to the Ardèche Gorges and a cycling tour along the Rhône River. Space reserved for 36 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Learn more about the Van Gogh on our website. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Mary O’Neill (May) and Stephanie Jeanjean (Oct.)– both art historians.
Smithsonian at the Cannes Film Festival SPECIALTY
9 days from $6,195 May 17–25, 2020
The Cannes Film Festival is an annual international event—one of the most prestigious in the world—that celebrates the best in film. Through a special accreditation granted by the Festival, Smithsonian Journeys takes you into a world reserved only for film professionals. Plus, you’ll stay at the centrally located Montaigne Hôtel. Highlights Include Special Festival Pass: With your Festival pass, join industry professionals to watch films from the “Official Competition.” You’ll also view films by young directors in the Un Certain Regard competition, watch directors introduce their “Short Films,” and enjoy hearing from an actor, director, or producer about a newly restored Cannes Classic. Restricted Access Areas: Visit the Film Market where the business of film is conducted and tour the International Village along the waterfront, possible only through your special pass. Private Reception: Experience the festivity of a private reception exclusively for Smithsonian Journeys travelers at the waterfront American Pavilion. Morning Briefings: Attend briefings with your Smithsonian Journeys Expert to discuss the previous day’s films and hear suggestions for other screenings. Limited to 30 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Expert Marta Lamperova–head of the production department at FAMU, Europe’s top film school, and formerly a production manager, producer, and managing director for various film production companies. 21
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Living In... Immersive three-week stays in Aix-en-Provence and Florence Fulfill your dream of living abroad during one of our three-week immersion programs! A memorable opportunity awaits solo travelers, couples, and friends eager to live the famously relaxed and graceful lifestyles of Provence or Tuscany while becoming immersed in its culture, history, and language. With these wellbalanced programs you’ll explore many of the must-see sites as well as off-the-beaten-path treasures with a local expert, yet also enjoy time on your own (or with new friends!) to pursue personal interests. A choice of special enrichment tracks plus ideal apart/hotel accommodations provide further opportunities for a semi-independent experience. Each departure is limited to 36 Smithsonian Journeys guests.
Smithsonian Journeys offered a once-in-a-lifetime experience with their Living in France program. The resident director was exceptional and excursions were hosted by knowledgeable local experts. Plus, the hotel/apartment was perfect for a long stay. I will be going on another Smithsonian tour! – Deborah W.
Living in France
A Three-Week Stay in Aix-en-Provence 23 days from $4,790 Includes $250 early booking savings Special air rates & services available May 6–28, Sept. 3–25, Sept. 24–Oct. 16, 2020 Provence. The very name evokes images of idyllic days of dazzling light illuminating the countryside’s lush olive groves and sloping vineyards. It was the same colorful scenery and light that drew artists such as Cézanne, Chagall, and van Gogh to this region. On this special immersive cultural stay in Aix-en-Provence, let this charming small city, which boasts a 600-yearold university and numerous art and cooking schools, become your home for three weeks. You’ll stroll elegant cobblestone streets on your way to class or to a bustling outdoor market. Explore medieval hilltop villages, Roman ruins, and the lovely countryside. Plus, linger over a glass of wine at a neighborhood café and dine in 22
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restaurants that few tourists could hope to find. Stay in an apartment at the Adagio Aix-en-Provence Centre, located on a peaceful street near the shops along Cours Mirabeau. Highlights Include Excursions, Day Trips, Presentations: Take an indepth walking tour of Aix-en-Provence led by an expert guide. Learn about the region’s history as you explore greater Provence during day trips to Avignon and the Pont du Gard, Marseille, and the Luberon Valley. Plus, enjoy a wine tasting and attend sessions on history and art by a local expert during your stay.
Program Features
Local Experts: Enjoy learning from local experts who share their knowledge of art, history, and culture and join you on select excursions.
Resident Director: An engaging and resourceful resident director handles logistics and helps you plan your free time.
Special Enrichment Tracks: Personalize your experience with special enrichment tracks (at an additional cost). Take one or all three! Language Lessons: An immersive course tailored to your skill level. Cuisine: Interactive cooking demonstrations, classes, and shopping excursions. Art and Architecture: Additional site visits of artistic and architectural significance.
Social Connection: In addition to group activities, you’ll enjoy the camaraderie of convivial gatherings of Smithsonian Journeys travelers as well as many group meals throughout the program. You’ll also enjoy the independence of heading off to explore or dine with a smaller group of new-found friends.
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Relaxing in Florence Market at Aix-en-Provence
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Apart/Hotel: Stay in an apart/hotel centrally located in the historic city center. Accommodations offer satellite TV, complimentary Wi-Fi, a well-equipped kitchen, plus a friendly, helpful staff and other services—combining independence with easy support services. (See photos of your apartment on our website!)
Living in Italy
A Three-Week Stay in Florence 23 days from $5,390 Includes $250 early booking savings Special air rates & services available May 8–30, Sept. 4–26, Oct. 2–24, 2020 Florence—the city where Brunelleschi, Leonardo, and Michelangelo all lived for a time—boasts a wealth of Renaissance splendors, yet many of its riches elude all but the most experienced travelers. During our threeweek immersive cultural stay, you’ll soon feel at home and enjoy the time and opportunity to reach new depths of understanding into Italy’s arts, history, and culture. Walking tours and museum visits plus day trips into greater Tuscany provide insight into this favorite Italian destination. Yet, you’ll also enjoy la dolce vita (the sweet life) as you meet new friends and find yourself irresistibly lulled into the unhurried pace of daily life, sipping espresso at a local bar, getting to know vendors at the
market, and savoring the cuisine at neighborhood restaurants. Reside in a newly renovated, spacious apart/hotel at the Hotel Palazzo Ricasoli, located in the heart of the city’s historic center. Highlights Include Excursions, Day Trips, Presentations: Take an indepth walking tour of Florence led by an expert guide and enjoy tours of the Uffizi and Accademia galleries. Learn more about Tuscany during day trips to Chianti, Lucca, Siena, Colle di Val d’Elsa, and Cortona. Plus, enjoy a wine tasting and attend sessions by a local expert on Renaissance art and contemporary life. 23
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Provence landscape
Journey Through Provence 12 days from $4,997 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees April 20–May 1, Aug. 24–Sept. 4, Sept. 14–25, 2020 Join us for a new, comprehensive journey through Provence, spotlighting the diverse landscapes, Roman monuments, medieval villages, and celebrated art of southern France, as well as its relaxed lifestyle and exquisite cuisine. Highlights Include
Aix-en-Provence: Discover this lovely university town during a walking tour of the delightful Old Town and tour of Paul Cézanne’s studio. Later, enjoy a wine tasting and dinner at a nearby winery. Take a day excursion to the hilltop villages of the beloved Luberon region. Highlights include a tour of the Château de Lourmarin, an olive farm, and the ochre-colored town of Roussillon, favored by many artists. Stop in Arles, where van Gogh lived and painted for a time, and feel the essence of the city’s Roman history during a visit to the Roman amphitheater. The Camargue: Spend two days exploring the Camargue, the southern region of Provence designated a World Heritage Biosphere Reserve for its vast plains and wetlands. From your seaside resort, travel to the Pont de Gau ornithological reserve, to see pink flamingos, herons, birds of prey, and migratory birds. And at a traditional ranch, learn about the region’s unique breeds of white horses and bulls. You’ll also spend time at Aigues-Mortes, a medieval walled town surrounded by unique pink-colored salt marshes. Avignon: Gaze upon the impressive Roman Pont du Gard before arrival in Avignon. Here visit the historic city center, a World Heritage site, with its cathedral, Saint-Bénézet Bridge, and the Palais des Papes, the seat of Western Christianity and home to six popes during the 14th century. Enjoy time at leisure in Avignon as well as a private cooking class. During a day excursion, Iris field near Aix-en-Provence
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visit the beautiful village of Les Baux, the ancient city of Saint Rémy, and the nearby monastery and asylum where Vincent van Gogh once lived and painted. Reside in a converted 17th-century convent while in Avignon. Côte d’Azur: Conclude your journey on the sunny Côte d’Azur by first exploring the medieval village of St.-Paulde-Vence, home to artists such as Marc Chagall. In Nice, enjoy a walking tour of the Old Town with its colorful pastel buildings and colorful flower market, tour the impressive Chagall Museum, and enjoy time to explore this cosmopolitan city at leisure. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.
FRANCE Pont du Gard
Provence Avignon
Camargue Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer
Roussillon Luberon Aix-en-Provence Nice Arles Saint-Paul-de-Vence Marseille
Mediterranean Sea Overnight Featured Site Motorcoach
Smithsonian Journeys Experts Joan Grimbert (April)–expert in French and medieval studies. Janetta Benton (Aug.)–art historian with expertise in France.
Aigues-Mortes, the Camargue
Château de Chenonceau, Loire Valley
Mont St. Michel
Normandy France Through the Ages 15 days from $5,997 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees April 20–May 4, May 15–29, Sept. 7–21, Sept. 28–Oct. 12, 2020 Discover the essence of France—its rich history, culture, and scenic beauty—on this popular comprehensive tour, featuring many World Heritage sites. Highlights Include Southern Treasures: In the fortified town of Carcassonne, view the longest medieval city walls in Europe. Stroll through the market town of Albi, known for the artist Toulouse-Lautrec. Travel to the breathtaking Dordogne region, where you’ll tour the International Center for Cave Art at Lascaux IV, visit medieval Sarlat and the pilgrimage site of Rocamadour, and cruise by cliffside castles along the Dordogne River. Loire River Valley: Experience this legendary landscape of spectacular châteaux, including the romantic Château de Chenonceau, a Renaissance masterpiece that spans the River Cher; the Château Clos Luce, where Leonardo da Vinci spent his final years; and the World Heritage site of Fontevraud Abbey. Normandy: Gain insight into the extraordinary events of D-Day while visiting Utah Beach, Sainte-Mère-Église, Pointe du Hoc, the American cemetery which overlooks Omaha Beach, and the Caen Memorial Museum. You’ll also stop in Bayeux to see the renowned Bayeux Tapestry and ascend cobblestone streets to the pilgrimage site of Mont St. Michel, Normandy’s famed medieval abbey.
A One-Week Stay in France 9 days from $4,990 Includes $250 early booking savings Special air rates & services available May 9–17, Sept. 15–23, Oct. 3–11, 2020 Normandy is renowned as a center of Impressionism and for its charming towns and fine cuisine. It’s also remembered for major military efforts, from the Norman Conquest to the D-Day invasion of World War II. Join us for a one-week stay in the chic seaside resort of Cabourg, the ideal base to explore the many themes of this fascinating region. You’ll stay at Le Grand Hotel Cabourg, which overlooks the beach and English Channel. Highlights Include Cradle of Impressionism: During a walking tour of Honfleur, see why artists flocked to this charming seaside town. In Giverny, explore the beloved home, studio, and gardens of Claude Monet and visit the Musée des Impressionnismes. And in Rouen, see the cathedral often painted by Monet, plus other important sites. Battle of Normandy: Spend a solemn day along the beaches where World War II’s Operation Overlord took place. Stirring sites include Omaha Beach, the museum at Arromanches, Pointe du Hoc, the Normandy American Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer, and the Caen Memorial Museum. You’ll also stop in Bayeux to view the historic tapestry depicting the Norman conquest of 1066. Mont St. Michel: Discover this breathtaking tidal island with its iconic abbey and historic church (founded in 709), which is one of the most remarkable sites in France and a World Heritage site.
Along the Seine: Stroll through Monet’s gardens at Giverny then conclude in Paris with a highlights tour.
Cultural Traditions: Savor traditional culinary products such as Calvados (a fortified apple brandy), and visit a nearby estate farm to sample Norman cheeses.
Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.
Limited to 28 Smithsonian Journeys guests.
Smithsonian Journeys Experts Cassandra Potts Hannahs (April/Sept. 28)–historian with expertise in France and the U.K. Stephanie Jeanjean (May)–art historian.
Smithsonian Journeys Experts Lisa Passaglia Bauman (May)–art historian. Charles Urbanowicz (Sept.)–anthropologist with expertise in World War II.
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Enjoying Paris
Paris: The African American Experience SPECIALTY
9 days from $4,590 Includes $250 early booking savings Special air rates & services available May 2–10, May 9–17, Oct. 10–18, 2020
In the early 20th century, Paris became a center for creative spirits seeking a welcoming artistic milieu. After both World Wars, African Americans turned to Paris to embrace the open French culture, and in the process made a lasting impact on the cultural world through their music, writing, and art. During this cultural stay at the centrally located Hotel Les Jardins du Marais, immerse yourself in the “City of Light” and see it through the lens of the African American experience. Highlights Include
African American Experience: Discover neighborhoods related to W.E.B. Dubois, Langston Hughes, James Baldwin, and Richard Wright. During special walking tours, trace the impact of the Harlem Renaissance and jazz on Paris, from the early 1920s through post World War II. You’ll gain insight into entertainer and activist Josephine Baker; famous nightclub owners such as singer Ada “Bricktop” Smith and World War I flying ace and drummer Eugene Bullard; and later musicians Miles Davis and Bud Powell. See how their influence continues during a live jazz concert. Special Insider’s View: Meet with award-winning novelist and journalist Jake Lamar, an American expatriate, who discusses his experience in modern Paris. Other Highlights: Enjoy special tours of cultural Paris, such as a thematic tour of the Louvre, a culinary walking tour, and excursion to Versailles. You’ll also savor a luncheon and city views on your Seine River cruise through the city.
The Tuileries Gardens, Paris
Paris
A One-Week Stay in France 9 days from $4,590 Includes $250 early booking savings Special air rates & services available April 25–May 3, Sept. 12–20, 2020 Paris is the center of French history, culture, and art. During a one-week stay in this European capital, enjoy a balanced program of scheduled activities, talks by experts, and time at leisure to follow your own interests. You’ll stay in the well-located Les Jardins du Marais. Highlights Include Cultural Insights: Gain a deeper appreciation of the city’s neighborhoods through a walking tour of Le Marais (one of the oldest neighborhoods in Paris) and a Seine River cruise. Gaze upon powerful art at the Rodin and Picasso museums and savor the flavors of France during a special culinary tour. Versailles and Dijon: Go beyond Paris to the Palace of Versailles and the Burgundian town of Dijon on special day excursions. Flexible Schedule and Museum Pass: Pack your time full of activities or enjoy a more leisurely pace—it’s your choice! Talks given by experts provide background knowledge for afternoon explorations—either solo or with new travel friends. Your two-day museum pass provides free and expedited entry to more than 60 city museums so that you can choose your schedule and follow your passion! Plus, you’ll get around easily with Metro passes, and your travel director is always available to advise you on other activities. Limited to 28 Smithsonian Journeys guests.
Limited to 28 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Expert Thomas Doughton (May 2/Oct.)–historian with special expertise in the African American experience in Paris.
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Smithsonian Journeys Experts Aneta Georgievska-Shine (April)–art historian with interests in history, politics, and languages. Yves Thomas (Sept.)–expert in French history.
Highlights of Italy 16 days from $5,674 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees April 13–28, April 20–May 5, May 2–17, May 18–June 2, Sept. 5–20, Sept. 14–29, Oct. 19–Nov. 3, Oct. 27–Nov. 11, 2020 Experience the best of Italy’s famed cities—Rome, Florence, and Venice—on this Smithsonian Journeys “top 10” tour. From the dramatic landscapes of the Amalfi Coast to the captivating St. Mark’s Square in Venice, our comprehensive journey showcases ancient sites, priceless art, and smaller towns off the beaten path.
The Duomo, Florence
Highlights Include Amalfi Coast and Pompeii: View the stunning Amalfi Coast from the sea, explore some of the magical hill towns, and enjoy the breathtaking drive high above the azure Mediterranean. Spend time in Pompeii to witness the remains of everyday life from A.D. 79, when ash from Mt. Vesuvius entirely covered the town. En route to Rome, stop at the Benedictine abbey of Montecassino, lovingly rebuilt following its destruction in World War II. Rome: Capture the essence of ancient Rome with a tour of the Colosseum, currently being restored to new glory, and the Forum. Step inside the Borghese Gallery to view masterpieces by Bernini, Titian, Caravaggio, and other major artists. Plus, a day at the Vatican showcases St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel and Vatican Museums, featuring works by Michelangelo and Raphael. Umbria and Tuscany: Discover the arts, churches, and unique ambiance and history of these regions. Visit the scenic town and cathedral of Orvieto and view Giotto’s priceless frescoes in the basilica at Assisi. See how the traditions of hand-painted Majolica ceramics continue today in Deruta. Stop in San Gimignano, famous for its medieval watchtowers that once guarded the town, many of which still pierce the sky. Walk along the medieval streets of ochre-colored Siena to explore the fan-shaped Campo and visit the Duomo with art by Michelangelo and Donatello. Florence: Take a walking tour of the crown jewel of Tuscany. See Michelangelo’s David and other sculptures at the Galleria dell’ Accademia and visit the revered Duomo with its stupendous dome by Brunelleschi. Enjoy time to explore more of the city’s treasures on your own.
The Last Judgment, Sistine Chapel
Venice
ITALY
Venice: Tour St. Mark’s Square, then explore the museums and canals of this magical city at leisure.
Siena
Florence San Gimignano Assisi
Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Stephen Clancy (April 13)–historian. Marta Staudinger (April 20), Valerie Hedquist (May 2), Allan Langdale (May 18), and Sara James (Sept. 5)–art and architectural historians. All with expertise in Italy.
Adriatic Sea
Orvieto Rome
Montecassino Overnight Featured Site Motorcoach
Naples
Tyrrhenian Sea
Pompeii Amalfi
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Facsimile of Galileo’s telescope, Florence
Vernazza
Northern Italy In the Footsteps of Galileo SPECIALTY
8 days from $5,395 Oct. 11–18, Nov. 1–8, 2020
Four hundred years ago Galileo Galilei developed a telescope that forever changed our views of the heavens— literally and philosophically. This new special interest tour explores the man and his achievements through the Smithsonian lens of scientific discovery. Highlights Include Venice: Ascend the steps of the campanile in Piazza St. Marco, and, using replica telescopes, see how Galileo demonstrated his telescope. Travel to nearby Murano where the astronomer obtained glass for his telescope lenses and learn about the art and science of glass-making during a special tour of the Seguso glass studio (est. 1397). Padua: Visit the 800-year-old university where Galileo taught and made astronomical discoveries. Gain insight from astronomical exhibits at La Specola Museum and view the world’s oldest anatomy theater. Florence and Arcetri: Take an in-depth tour of the Museo Galileo, featuring some of his personal instruments, letters, and important texts. Follow in Galileo’s footsteps during a walking tour that includes Santa Maria Novella, where his theories were first attacked from the pulpit, and Santa Croce, where his remains are entombed. In nearby Arcetri, enjoy exclusive access to the Villa Il Gioello, where he spent the final years of his life under house arrest and wrote his most seminal work. Plus, take an exclusive tour of the Arcetri Observatory followed by an evening of stargazing. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Expert An expert in astronomy, the history of science, or a related field will lead this specialty tour.
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15 days from $5,974 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees April 29–May 13, May 13–27, Sept. 23–Oct. 7, Oct. 7–21, 2020 Discover the diverse landscapes, culture, arts, and history of Italy’s northern regions. Highlights Include Italian Lake District: Enjoy a delightful three-night stay in Stresa, situated along beautiful Lake Maggiore and nestled amid the lower Alps. From here, cruise to Isola Bella to tour the stunning 17th-century palazzo and extravagant gardens and, later, visit lovely Lake Orta. Italian Riviera: En route to the Riviera, stop in Barolo for lunch and sample the “king of wines.” From the resort town of Santa Margherita, visit charming Portofino and take a full-day boat excursion along the rugged coastline of the Cinque Terre, a World Heritage site, to explore some of its pastel-colored villages. Florence and Tuscany: Travel to Florence where you’ll stay in a restored 14th-century Franciscan convent and discover Renaissance treasures at the Accademia and Duomo. In Siena, explore the fan-shaped Piazza del Campo and striking cathedral. Alpine Tyrol: Journey to Bolzano, gateway to the Dolomites, where highlights include breathtaking mountains and the archaeology museum (home to Ötzi the Iceman). Plus, stop in lovely Verona, renowned for its Roman arena and setting for three Shakespeare plays. Venice: Take a walking tour of St. Mark’s Square, visit St. Mark’s Basilica, and time at leisure. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Allan Langdale (April)–art and architectural historian. David Guinee (May) and Glenn Bugh (Oct.)– historians with expertise in the classics. Ross King (Sept.)–best-selling author. All with expertise in Italy.
Isola Bella, Lake Maggiore
Italy’s Lake District
A One-Week Stay in Stresa Lake Maggiore, Lake Como, and Lake Orta
Harbor at Valletta, Malta
Voyage from Rome to Malta
9 days from $4,590 Includes $250 early booking savings Special air rates & services available Sells out quickly! Book now! May 5–13, June 9–17, Sept. 15–23, 2020 Italy’s breathtaking Lake District has inspired painters, writers, and poets. Immerse yourself in this lovely region during a one-week stay in Stresa at the Hotel La Palma, featuring views of Lake Maggiore and Alpine mountains. Highlights Include Lake Maggiore: Take a private boat to Isola Madre to tour its impressive English-style gardens, then visit Isola dei Pescatori and Isola Bella with its baroque villa, outstanding art collection, and exquisite gardens. During your stay in Stresa, enjoy a regional cooking class and presentations on the area’s gardens, arts, and contemporary life, plus a day at leisure. Lake Orta: Stroll along lovely streets in Orta San Giulio, then cruise to the enchanting Isola San Giulio. Lake Como: Discover charming Bellagio with its villas and pastel houses and admire sweeping vistas during a private boat ride to the town of Como. Milan: See world-famous treasures, including the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, a World Heritage site and home to Leonardo’s The Last Supper; the museum at the legendary opera house, La Scala; and the exquisite Duomo, a Gothic masterpiece. Limited to 28 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Sara James (May)–art historian with expertise in Italian gardens. Allan Langdale (June) and Marta Staudinger (Sept.)–art and architectural historians with expertise in Italy.
Aboard the 180-guest Le Bougainville
9 days from $4,595 Includes $1,000 early booking savings Sells out quickly! Book now! May 24–June 1, June 7–15, 2020 For thousands of years, waves of civilizations have left their imprint on the Mediterranean. Explore a multitude of World Heritage sites in southern Italy, Sicily, and Malta—considered the crossroads of this complex history. Highlights Include Southern Italy: Take in stunning panoramic views from the Amalfi Coast, with its cliff-side villages that seem to plunge to the sea. Enjoy time in Sorrento and on the Isle of Capri, which has drawn visitors since Roman times. Plus, explore many of the highlights of Pompeii, excavated 17 centuries after Mt. Vesuvius buried it in an eruption. Sicily: In Taormina, visit the well-preserved Greek theater, with its backdrop of breathtaking views of Mt. Etna and the sea. In Syracuse, explore the historic quarter of Ortygia and the impressive Greek and Roman sites of the Archaeology Zone. Finally, walk through Agrigento’s exceptional Valley of the Temples and fine archaeology museum. Malta: Founded in 1566, Valletta was one of the world’s earliest planned cities and today is a World Heritage site and recently the 2018 European Capital of Culture. Take a walking tour that showcases architecture from the 16th century onward, including splendid examples of high Baroque, neoclassical, and modern styles. Later, enjoy a tour of a private palazzo. Space reserved for 40 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Learn more about Le Bougainville on page 13 and on our website. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Al Leonard (May)–archaeologist with expertise in cross-cultural connections in the Mediterranean. Janet Duncan Jones (June)–expert in classics and classical archaeology.
EUROPE / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS
Alberobello’s trulli houses
Sorrento
Italy’s Apulia Southern Italy and Sicily 15 days from $5,874 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees April 13–27, April 25–May 9, Sept. 13–27, Oct. 23–Nov. 6, 2020 Explore Italy’s southernmost regions, where each area reflects a unique history, architecture, and cuisine. Highlights Include Sicily: In lovely Taormina, visit the Greek theater and 13th-century cathedral and enjoy four days at a boutique hotel overlooking the Ionian Sea. Take an excursion to Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples, participate in a private cannoli-making lesson, and venture to Mt. Etna for lunch at a family-run farm. Apulia and Basilicata: Travel to Apulia and the town of Lecce to view the town’s distinctive baroque architecture and savor a wine tasting and dinner in the gardens of a palazzo. View some of Alberobello’s famous 400 trulli (conical houses, designated a World Heritage site), and visit an artisan’s workshop. In Basilicata’s Matera, walk amid ancient troglodyte churches and sassi cave houses (a World Heritage site), and experience a renovated cave dwelling during an overnight stay. Amalfi Coast: During a four-night stay in Sorrento, take a breathtaking drive along the winding Amalfi Coast, high above the Tyrrhenian Sea. In fascinating Pompeii, which faced destruction in A.D. 79, view remains of homes and shops and learn about ongoing archaeological work. And on the isle of Capri, a resort town since Roman times, tour the terraced Gardens of Augustus. You’ll also enjoy a hands-on Neapolitan cooking lesson. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.
A One-Week Stay in Polignano a Mare 9 days from $4,090 Includes $250 early booking savings No Single Supplement—Limited Availability Special air rates & services available May 20–28, Sept. 16–24, Oct. 14–22, 2020 Gaining new recognition, Italy’s southeastern Apulia (or Puglia) is a magical landscape of ancient towns with unique architecture, diverse cultural sites, and outstanding culinary traditions. Explore this region during a one-week stay in Polignano a Mare, at the Hotel Covo dei Saraceni, perched on dramatic cliffs overlooking the Adriatic. Highlights Include
Unique Trulli and Sassi: In Alberobello, walk amid iconic trulli, the whitewashed limestone buildings with conical roofs found nowhere else in the world. Named European Capital of Culture in 2019, Matera (located in nearby Basilicata), is home to the rock-hewn cave dwellings known as sassi. Experience this unique town during a walking tour and visit to a cave house and rock church. Both the trulli and sassi are World Heritage sites. Greek to Baroque Towns: Explore the presence of early Greeks and Romans at Egnazia, an archaeological site dating back to the 13th century B.C. Stop in the “white town” of Ostuni, with its tightly packed white homes perched on the coastline, and take a tour of Trani, noted for its medieval fort, cathedral, and Jewish neighborhoods. And in Lecce, witness the town’s exuberant and minutely detailed Baroque architecture. Culture and Cuisine: Savor regional specialties and learn about culinary traditions at a family olive mill and local vineyard. Plus, hear about the rich cultural heritage, slowpaced lifestyle, and cuisine of Apulia from local speakers. Limited to 28 Smithsonian Journeys guests.
Smithsonian Journeys Experts Allan Langdale (April 13)–art and architectural historian with expertise in Italy. David Guinee (April 25) and Rebecca Schindler (Oct.)–historians with expertise in classical studies.
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SMITHSONIANJOURNEYS.ORG / 877.338.8687 / BOOK YOUR TRIP
Smithsonian Journeys Experts Gary Radke (Sept.)–expert in Italian art and architecture. David Guinee (Oct.)–historian with expertise in classical studies.
Architectural remains at Pompeii
Sorrento
A One-Week Stay in Italy 9 days from $4,290 Includes $250 early booking savings Special air rates & services available April 22–30, May 13–21, Sept. 16–24, Oct. 7–15, 2020 From sunny Sorrento, experience Italy’s southern Campania region—renowned for the Amalfi Coast, World Heritage archaeological sites, sophisticated resorts, and distinctive cuisine—during your one-week stay at the centrally located Hotel Plaza Sorrento. Highlights Include The Amalfi Coast: Drive along the breathtaking Amalfi Coast with its dramatic hairpin curves and spectacular views. Visit Positano, a town built along sheer seaside cliffs, then take a private boat to the charming town of Amalfi with its lovely Cathedral of Saint Andrea. Archaeological Sites: Travel to Paestum to see three of the most well-preserved Greek temples in the world. Later, spend a day exploring the ancient Roman towns of Pompeii and Herculaneum, both destroyed by the catastrophic eruption of Vesuvius in A.D. 79. Naples: Gaze upon the stunning art and artifacts of everyday life discovered at Pompeii and Herculaneum, now housed at the Museo Archeologico Nazionale, plus see other cultural highlights in Naples. Capri: Explore the enchanting Isle of Capri, a sophisticated resort area since Roman times. Regional Cuisine: Visit a farm that produces Italy’s famed olive oil and buffalo mozzarella, savor Neapolitan pizza, and sip traditional limoncello at leisure. Limited to 28 Smithsonian Journeys guests.
Greek theater, Taormina
Palermo and Taormina A Stay in Sicily
10 days from $4,990 Includes $250 early booking savings Special air rates & services available April 29–May 8, May 13–22, Sept. 2–11, Oct. 28–Nov. 6, 2020 At the crossroads of the Mediterranean, Sicily reflects a fascinating blend of cultural influences—from the Greeks, Romans, Moors, and Normans to later civilizations. Explore this fascinating island from two locations, staying in the upscale hotels of the Mercure Palermo Excelsior City in Palermo and the Grand Hotel Atlantis Bay in Taormina a Mare. Highlights Include Palermo and Environs: Stand in wonder before stunning Byzantine mosaics in Palermo’s Palatine Chapel and Monreale’s cathedral. Venture to the medieval hilltown of Erice where you’ll see the Castle of Venus and panoramic sea views. Discover the picturesque fishing village of Cefalù, home to one of Italy’s most important Romanesque cathedrals. Taormina and Environs: En route to Taormina, explore the Greek temples of Agrigento and the Roman Villa of Casale at Piazza Armerina. During your stay along Taormina’s beach, ascend to the upper village by cable car to visit the famed Greek theater. In the ancient Greek town of Syracuse, once a strong rival of Athens, tour the Old Town of Ortygia and the extensive archaeological park, featuring a Greek theater with perfect acoustics. History and Cuisine: Gain insight into Sicily as a crossroads of cultures and learn about prize-winning virgin olive oil during lunch at a family farm. Limited to 28 Smithsonian Journeys guests.
Smithsonian Journeys Experts Valerie Hedquist (April) and Sheri Shaneyfelt (May)– art historians, Gillian Hovell (Sept.)–historian and field archaeologist, and Pedar Foss (Oct.)–expert in classical art and archaeology.
Smithsonian Journeys Experts Sheri Shaneyfelt (April) and Gary Radke (May)–art historians. Luca Zavagno (Sept.)–historian with expertise in Byzantium.
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EUROPE / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS La Place Masséna, Nice
Gaudi’s La Sagrada Familia
Cruising the Rivieras of Italy, Barcelona France, and Spain A One-Week Stay in Spain From Barcelona to Rome Aboard the 180-guest Le Jacques Cartier
9 days from approximately $4,995 Includes $1,000 early booking savings Sells out quickly! Book now! Oct. 10–18, 2020 Cruise the sparkling waters and legendary coastlines of the Mediterranean as you explore its history and culture. Highlights Include Carcassonne: Tour this well-preserved walled town and travel to the Cistercian Abbaye de Fontfroide. Aix-en-Provence and Marseille: Drive to Aix to explore the heart of France’s sun-drenched Provençal region, then enjoy a panoramic tour of the Old Port of Marseille. Monaco and Nice: Capture the essence of the Côte d’Azur during walking tours of Nice and Monaco, including a visit to the Prince’s Palace in Monaco. Cinque Terre and Portofino: Explore this picturesque area and World Heritage site by private boat, visit the villages of Vernazza and Riomaggiore, and spend a leisurely evening in Portofino. Florence or Pisa and Lucca: In Florence, admire art treasures at the Accademia and at the famous Duomo and Baptistery. Or, choose to visit the beautifully preserved medieval cities of Lucca and Pisa. Corsica: Enjoy a walking tour of Bonifacio, which reflects a French character with strong Italian imprint. Space reserved for 44 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Learn more about Le Jacques Cartier on page 13 and on our website. Smithsonian Journeys Expert Ruth MacKay–historian with special expertise in the Mediterranean.
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SMITHSONIANJOURNEYS.ORG / 877.338.8687 / BOOK YOUR TRIP
9 days from $4,190 Includes $250 early booking savings Special air rates & services available May 9–17, Sept. 12–20, Oct. 10–18, 2020 Become immersed in the essence of Barcelona, a Catalan jewel with stunning artistic and architectural wonders. Settle into the centrally located Renaissance Barcelona Hotel, savor traditional cuisine, and enjoy the lively ambiance of this cosmopolitan coastal city. Highlights Include
History, Art, and Culture: Stroll through one of the most complete Gothic Quarters in Europe; tour Palau de la Música Catalana, a Moderniste concert hall and World Heritage site; and visit El Born district, site of medieval jousting and trade guilds. Antoni Gaudí: Come to understand this architect’s unique vision of Modernisme during a day of visits to Casa Batlló, La Sagrada Familia, and Parque Güell (together designated a World Heritage site). Early Picasso: Explore sites connected to Picasso’s early life and tour the Picasso Museum, a showcase for his formative art work. Girona and Montserrat: Travel to medieval Girona, then continue to Figueres and the museum devoted to surrealist artist Salvador Dalí. Journey to the Benedictine monastery at Montserrat and sample famous sparkling cava in the Penedès wine region. Limited to 28 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Marta Staudinger (May)–expert in European art and architecture. Brian Catlos (Sept.)–expert in medieval and Mediterranean studies. Ana Afzali (Oct.)–expert in medieval history and literature of Spain.
White hill town of Antequera
San Sebastian
Spain’s Andalusia
A One-Week Stay in Antequera 9 days from $3,990 Includes $250 early booking savings No Single Supplement—Limited Availability Special air rates & services available April 30–May 8, May 14–22, Oct. 1–9, 2020 Explore the influence of Moorish, Christian, and Jewish cultures in Andalusia—as reflected in its art and architecture, cuisine, and culture—during this one-week stay in Antequera. Located in the heart of Andalusia, this lovely white hill town and the Parador de Antequera are ideal for exploring the region. Highlights Include Antequera: Take delight in this classic medieval town, where you’ll also find the largest megalithic tomb in Europe, a 14th-century fortress that watches over the city, and more than 30 churches and cathedrals. Granada, Seville, Ronda, Córdoba: Gaze at the elaborate Moorish design of Granada’s Alhambra, a palace with ornate buildings, courtyards, and gardens. In Seville, admire the tile work at the Plaza de España and visit the immense Gothic cathedral and Alcázar. Explore the smaller towns of Ronda, dramatically perched on the El Tajo gorge, and Córdoba, with its grand Le Mezquita (mosque) later transformed into a cathedral. And in Málaga, take in the art of native son Pablo Picasso at the Museo Picasso.
France and Spain’s Basque Region
A One-Week Stay at the Parador de Hondarribia 9 days from $4,290 Includes $250 early booking savings Special air rates & services available May 16–24, Sept. 12–20, Sept. 26–Oct. 4, 2020 Settle in and explore the cultural traditions and wideranging soul of the Basque region in both France and Spain. Your one-week stay at the Parador de Hondarribia, a historic upscale Spanish property that overlooks the Bay of Biscay near the French border, adds to the special spirit of this cultural program. Highlights Include
France: Learn about the heritage of Bayonne, capital of the French Basque region and designated a “Town of Art and History.” Spend time in the fashionable seaside resort of Biarritz. Explore smaller gems nested in the shadow of the Pyrenees, such as Espelette, with its traditional Basque homes, and St. Jean Pied de Port, a crossroad for pilgrimage routes to Santiago de Compostela. Spain: Venture to Bilbao to visit the renowned Guggenheim Museum, designed by architect Frank Gehry. Explore nearby San Sebastian as well as legendary Pamplona, nestled in the foothills of the Pyrenees. And reside in the seaside village of Hondarribia, a charming medieval town known as a Basque mecca for foodies, and be fully immersed in the Spanish Basque culture.
Cultural Traditions: Admire the passionate music and dance of flamenco and savor the region’s culinary specialties, including a wine tasting.
Culture and Cuisine: Meet with Spanish residents in Hondarribia and French residents in Maison Ortillopitz to discuss Basque history and culture. Visit a wine cellar to hear about and taste local French vintages.
Limited to 28 Smithsonian Journeys guests.
Limited to 28 Smithsonian Journeys guests.
Smithsonian Journeys Experts Allen Fromherz (May)–historian with expertise in the Mediterranean and Middle East. Aneta Georgievska-Shine (Oct.)–art historian.
Smithsonian Journeys Experts Nathanael Greene (May)–historian with expertise in modern Europe. Gail Cornell (Sept. 26)–architectural historian with special expertise in the Iberian peninsula.
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EUROPE / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS
Seville’s Alcázar, architectural detail
The Alhambra, Granada
Treasures of Southern Spain and Portugal
A Cruise of Spain and Portugal
Featuring Historic Paradores and Pousadas 15 days from $5,374 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees March 12–26, April 16–30, April 30–May 14, May 14–28, Sept. 12–26, Sept. 26–Oct. 10, Oct. 12–26, 2020 Discover the fascinating cultural history that is etched across the landscapes of the Iberian Peninsula. Highlights Include
From Lisbon to Barcelona Aboard the 180-guest Le Jacques Cartier CRUISE
9 days from approximately $4,595 Includes $1,000 early booking savings Oct. 3–11, 2020
Next autumn, board a sleek new yacht for a voyage along the southern shores of Portugal and Spain. Discover important cultural treasures as you cruise from Lisbon and the Atlantic to Barcelona and the Mediterranean. Highlights Include
Paradores and Pousadas: Experience Iberia’s history up close as you spend eight nights in distinctive inns, including a medieval monastery, a Moorish castle, a stately Renaissance palace, and a medieval town hall.
Portugal’s Algarve: In the scenic port town of Lagos, admire the baroque Church of St. Anthony.
Lisbon and Evora: Delight in Portugal’s lively capital with visits to Belém Tower and the Jeronimos Monastery, plus travel to Evora and the National Palace in Queluz.
Gibraltar: Look out from the top of the Rock, the 1,400foot-high limestone promontory guarding the strait that separates Europe and Africa.
Merida, Seville, Córdoba: Crossing into Spain, explore Merida’s impressive Roman sites, Seville’s large Gothic cathedral and ornate Moorish Alcázar, and Córdoba’s rich multicultural legacy as reflected in the magnificent mosque.
Granada: Explore the Alhambra Palace and magnificent Generalife Gardens, a World Heritage site and masterpiece of medieval Moorish art and architecture.
Ronda and Granada: Stroll Ronda’s medieval streets and enjoy time at your parador, perched on a bluff overlooking a plunging gorge. In Granada, take in the legendary Alhambra palace, the epitome of Moorish architecture and gardens and a World Heritage site. Toledo and Madrid: Explore the city of El Greco with its Gothic cathedral and exquisite synagogue. In Madrid take a city tour featuring Plaza Mayor and the opulent Royal Palace and enjoy a day at leisure. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.
Seville: In this lively capital, visit the Plaza de España, the legendary Alcázar, and the immense late Gothic cathedral.
Valencia and Spain’s Balearic Island: In Valencia, known as the “City of Arts and Sciences,” take a panoramic tour featuring the Gothic masterpiece of the Silk Exchange, a World Heritage site. In Palma de Mallorca, visit the Carthusian Monastery and home of Frederic Chopin, and enjoy a piano recital. Le Jacques Cartier: Enjoy the sleek design of this new yacht, where you’ll find luxurious comfort and a full complement of upscale amenities as well as two lounges, a theater for presentations and entertainment, and an elegant restaurant. Find more details on our website. Space reserved for 44 Smithsonian Journeys guests.
Smithsonian Journeys Experts Ana Afzali (March) and Francisco Garcia Serrano (April 16)–historians, and Steven Wolf (April 30/Sept. 12)–expert in Islamic and Italian art and architecture.
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SMITHSONIANJOURNEYS.ORG / 877.338.8687 / BOOK YOUR TRIP
Smithsonian Journeys Expert Michael Ryan–historian with expertise in Spain and Portugal.
Santiago de Compostela
Across Northern Spain and Portugal
Featuring Historic Paradores and Pousadas 17 days from $5,974 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees April 3–19, May 5–21, May 26–June 11, Sept. 20–Oct. 6, Oct. 4–20, Oct. 25–Nov. 10, 2020 Discover a landscape of fortified cities, rugged Atlantic coastline, and the commanding Pyrenees Mountains. Highlights Include Paradores and Pousadas: Stay at distinctive inns, including a former palace, a hospital for pilgrims, and historic pilgrimage lodgings in the Pyrenees. Lisbon and Porto: Discover the treasures of Lisbon, the rococo-style Queluz Palace, plus Obidos and seaside Nazare. In Porto, a World Heritage site, enjoy a short cruise on the Douro River and a winery tour and tasting.
Sea Cloud II under sail
Sailing the Coast of Iberia From Lisbon to Bilbao Aboard the 94-guest Sea Cloud II CRUISE
11 days from $6,990 Includes $1,000 early booking savings May 17–27, 2020
Board the iconic tall ship Sea Cloud II next spring and cruise along the northern coast of Portugal and Spain for an exhilarating sea voyage. From Lisbon to Bilbao, you’ll experience many of the cultural highlights of each country. Highlights Include Portugal: Reflect on Portugal’s seafaring past in Lisbon at the Tower of Belém and Discoveries Monument, and visit Jeronimos Monastery and the superb art collections of the Gulbenkian Museum. Nearby, explore the royal palace of Sintra and the elaborate Regaleira Gardens, both World Heritage sites, plus the fishing village of Cascais. Then transfer to Porto, located at the mouth of the Douro River.
León and Bilbao: In León, visit the medieval cathedral and Gaudí’s Casa Botines. In Bilbao, see the Old City and tour the Guggenheim Museum and Fine Arts Museum.
Spain: Set sail for the delightful nature reserve of Islas Cies. Later, experience the grandeur of the great cathedral at Santiago de Compostela and feel like pilgrims as you watch the swinging of the large botafumeiro (by special arrangement). Stop at the Altamira Museum, devoted to northern Spain’s paleolithic cave art. Disembark your ship in Bilbao and enjoy a tour of the Guggenheim Museum, designed by Frank Gehry.
The Basque Country and the Pyrenees: Stop in poignant Gernika, then enjoy mountain scenery as you travel through the Pyrenees to Pamplona and Bielsa.
Cultural Enhancements: Enjoy the poignant music of traditional fado and sample outstanding wines and distinctive regional cuisines.
Barcelona: Pay homage to Antoni Gaudí and his surreal architecture, designated a World Heritage site, and stroll through the Gothic Quarter and Las Ramblas.
Sea Cloud II: Embark one of the most elegant tall ships in service for a five-night sailing voyage from Porto to Bilbao. During a full day at sea, enjoy the thrill of watching the skilled crew set its 23 sails to catch the winds. Find more details on our website.
Santiago de Compostela: Follow in the footsteps of pilgrims who walked along the Way of St. James to the magnificent cathedral, now a World Heritage site.
Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Ana Afzali (April) and Allen Fromherz (May 26)– historians and Lawrence Butler (May 5) and Marta Staudinger (Oct. 4)–art historians.
Space reserved for 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Expert Stephen Clancy–art historian with expertise in Iberia.
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EUROPE / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS
Main square, Ljubljana, Slovenia
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Pearls of Croatia and Slovenia 15 days from $5,584 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees April 20–May 4, Sept. 12–26, Sept. 24–Oct. 8, Oct. 1–15, 2020 Situated along the exquisite Adriatic Sea and at the crossroads of Europe and the Balkans, Croatia and Slovenia showcase charming towns that reflect a blend of cultures, plus pristine parklands and coastlines, and many World Heritage sites. Highlights Include Lake Bled and Ljubljana: Discover the fairy-tale setting of Slovenia’s Lake Bled as you tour the castle and take a cruise on the scenic lake. Then spend a day strolling the charming heart of Ljubljana, the nation’s capital. Zagreb and Environs: Your visit to Croatia’s capital features the Old Town, Art Nouveau architecture from the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Later, explore Plitvice Lakes National Park with its string of 16 turquoise-colored lakes and dazzling waterfalls. Istrian Peninsula: Highlights include Opatija, once a resort of Habsburg princes; Pula, with its Roman amphitheater; and Rovinj, a charming Venetian port. Dalmatian Coast: Delight in the many treasures along this legendary coastline. In seaside Split, explore the city’s core, comprised of the massive remains of Roman Emperor Diocletian’s palace. On the island of Hvar, see the lingering influence of the Venetians in its 17th-century squares. And in Dubrovnik, walk along the medieval city walls, visit many of the treasures in the Old City, and enjoy time at leisure in the “Pearl of the Adriatic.” Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Stephen Clancy (Sept. 12)–art historian with expertise ` in the Mediterranean region. Denis Crnkovic (Sept. 24)–expert in Russia and Eastern Europe with a specialty in language and literature. Carol Reynolds (Oct.)–expert in European art and music history.
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Cruising the Dalmatian Coast Featuring Croatia and Slovenia Aboard the 34-guest Queen Eleganza CRUISE
12 days from $6,990 June 8–19, 2020
Take a leisurely seven-night cruise of the Adriatic— showcasing Croatia’s Istrian Peninsula and Dalmatian Coast—aboard an intimate yacht, and enjoy two days exploring neighboring Slovenia. Highlights Include Slovenia: Begin your journey in the capital of Ljubljana with a walking tour of the historic center. Take in the idyllic views of Lake Bled during an afternoon gondola ride. Then, driving south, explore the Skocjan karst caves, a World Heritage site, before arriving at seaside Piran. Croatia’s Istrian Peninsula: Enjoy a walking tour of charming Rovinj, then cruise to Velika Brijuni Island, a national park. A walking tour of Pula showcases its wellpreserved Roman ruins, especially the immense arena. Dalmatian Coast: Continue your voyage along this pristine coastline. From the small town of Zadar, travel inland to visit Plitvice Lakes National Park. In Split, walk through the immense retirement palace of Roman Emperor Diocletian, spread out along the waterfront. Then enjoy cruising to delightful Hvar and Korčula Islands and lovely Dubrovnik. Queen Eleganza: Launched in 2018, this intimate yacht features a casual ambiance and the ability to call at small islands. Find more details on our website. Space reserved for 17 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Expert Charles Ingrao–historian with expertise in modern Europe.
Hvar, Croatia
A Cruise of the Adriatic and the Aegean From Venice to Athens Aboard the 180-guest Le Bougainville CRUISE
9 days from approximately $4,495 Includes $1,000 early booking savings Sells out quickly! Book now! Sept. 10–18*, Sept. 17–25, 2020
Cruise along the dazzling Adriatic coastline and experience five countries, six World Heritage sites, and the cultural influence of Greek, Roman, Venetian, Byzantine, and Slavic civilizations. Highlights Include Croatia: From Venice, cruise along the Dalmatian Coast to visit historic ports. Enjoy a walking tour of Split’s historic center, known for the immense retirement palace built by Roman Emperor Diocletian. Tour the charming island cities of Hvar and Korčula and see the most famous landmarks of the exquisite 15th-century walled city of Dubrovnik, a World Heritage site. Montenegro and Albania: Sail into the spectacular Bay of Kotor and admire the Venetian baroque Old Town of Kotor. In Butrint, now designated a World Heritage site, see a splendid 3rd-century B.C. amphitheater. Greece: On Corfu, take a walking tour of the Old Town, then stop along the Gulf of Corinth to ascend the trail to Delphi, home to the mythical Oracle. En route to Piraeus, cruise through the dramatically narrow Corinth Canal, navigable only by small ship. Space reserved for 40 Smithsonian Journeys guests. *The Sept. 10 departure will run in reverse. Learn more about Le Bougainville on page 13 and on our website. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Bella Vivante (Sept. 10)–respected expert in the classics. Dennis Romano (Sept. 17)–historian with expertise in early modern Europe.
The Parthenon, Athens
Classical Greece 14 days from $6,392 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees April 23–May 6, May 14–27, Sept. 17–30, Oct. 15–28, 2020 Trace the spark of Greek genius—from the Cycladic and Minoan civilizations to the classical era—that blossomed in the Aegean and left an indelible mark on our heritage. Highlights Include
Athens and Delphi: Gaze upon the grandeur of the Parthenon and the Acropolis and see important artifacts at the Acropolis Museum and the National Archaeological Museum. At nearby Delphi, explore the ancient Sanctuary of Apollo, where the oracle presided over the ancient world; walk the marble Sacred Way; climb to the ancient theater; and visit the superb museum. The Peloponnese: Travel south to the magnificent archaeological sites of Mycenae and Epidaurus, both World Heritage sites. Epidaurus is home to the Sanctuary of Asklepios and its 2,300-year-old theater known for perfect acoustics. Linked to Homer’s epics, Mycenae features the Tomb of Agamemnon and the Lion’s Gate. Other highlights include Ancient Corinth, Nafplion, Hydra, and the Corinth Canal. Crete and Santorini: Fly to Crete, where you’ll tour ancient Knossos, the political center of Minoan civilization and legendary home of King Minos, the Labyrinth, and the Minotaur, plus visit the the superb archaeological museum. Take a high-speed ferry to spectacular Santorini, whre you’ll tour Akrotiri, once a flourishing Bronze Age Minoan town. Enjoy time at leisure to explore the towns of Thira and Oia. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Veronica Kalas (April/Oct.)–art historian and field archaeologist and Jodi Magness (May)–highly respected archaeologist, both with expertise in classical studies.
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The town of Poros
The Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao
Athens and Poros A Stay in Greece
10 days from $3,740 Includes $250 early booking savings No Single Supplement—Limited Availability Special air rates & services available Oct. 31–Nov. 9, 2019 & April 30–May 9, Sept. 3–12, 2020 Immerse yourself in the history and culture of Greece during this special program featuring two nights in Athens and a six-night stay on the quiet island of Poros at the New Aegli Hotel, located on the beach. Highlights Include Athens: Ascend the steps of the mighty Acropolis to view the Parthenon, then see many of its artifacts in the Acropolis Museum. You’ll also take a panoramic tour of the city that includes the university area. Poros Town: Travel by hydrofoil to the island of Poros where you’ll feel the essence of quiet Greek life. Explore the lovely main town during a walking tour, visit the archaeological museum, and get to know the residents. Epidaurus and Mycenae: Take two full-day excursions to visit these World Heritage sites. Epidaurus was renowned for its Greek theater and Mycenae was the most powerful kingdom in Greece, and according to legend, the seat of Agamemnon’s kingdom. Hydra: Cruise to this nearby Saronic Island—noted for its distinctive architecture, rugged terrain, and lack of cars—for a day of exploration. Corinth Canal: Returning to Athens by land, stop off to see the famous Corinth Canal. Limited to 28 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Veronica Kalas (Oct.)–art historian and field archaeologist, Stephen Clancy (April)–art historian, and David Price Williams (Sept.)–archaeologist.
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A Cruise from Lisbon to London
Aboard the 180-guest Le Dumont d’Urville 10 days from $5,295 Includes $1,000 early booking savings April 27–May 6, May 8–17*, 2020 Experience some of the rich highlights of Portugal, Spain, France, and England—four nations that have had a major impact on European and world history. Highlights Include Portugal: Explore charming Porto, located at the mouth of the Douro River, which is renowned for its port wine. Spain: Walk in the footsteps of pilgrims on St. James Way in Santiago de Compostela and visit the impressive cathedral, a World Heritage site. Then delve into the dynamic city of Bilbao, with its Gothic Old City and sophisticated contemporary aesthetic, reflected in the Frank Gehry-designed Guggenheim Museum. France: Enjoy a leisurely day cruising along the French coast. Stop at the World Heritage site of Mont St. Michel, one of the most iconic sites of France. Walk along Normandy’s historic D-Day beaches with Dwight David Eisenhower II, historian and grandson of General and President Dwight D. Eisenhower. England: Cross the English Channel and sail up the historic River Thames for London, possible only by small ship. Space reserved for 34 Smithsonian Journeys guests. *The May departure will be aboard Le Boréal. Learn more about both ships on page 13 and on our website. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Dianne Konz (April)–expert in the culture and literature of Spain and Portugal. Al Leonard (May)– expert in European history.
Thames River, London
London
A One-Week Stay in England 9 days from $4,290 Includes $250 early booking savings Special air rates & services available July 16–24, Aug. 13–21, Oct. 29–Nov. 6, 2020 Delve into the historic and engaging city of London during our one-week cultural stay. You’ll feel like a Londoner in no time as you explore the city in depth and get around by the Tube and London bus system. Enjoy your stay at the elegant Radisson Blu Edwardian Vanderbilt Hotel, located in posh Kensington. Highlights Include
History and the Arts: Take special tours that showcase the art, architecture, and history of England and its capital, including the British Museum, Victoria and Albert Museum, Shakespeare’s Globe, Westminster Abbey, and St. Paul’s Cathedral. Plus, take a walking tour of “The City,” London’s oldest, most historic neighborhood. Government: Trace the course of British government during visits to Henry VIII’s Hampton Court Palace and the Houses of Parliament, plus a walking tour of the Inns of Court. Oxford and the Cotswolds: Journey through the rolling countryside and quintessential villages of the Cotswolds, and visit the university town of Oxford, including a look at one of its storied colleges. British Traditions: Savor an afternoon tea with fellow travelers and pub fare for lunches on your own. Limited to 28 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Janetta Benton (July)–art historian. Carol Ann Lloyd (Aug.)–historian with expertise in the Tudors and Shakespeare. Cassandra Potts Hannahs (Oct.)–historian with expertise in Celtic, Viking, and Anglo-Saxon studies.
Coastal Devon
Classic Mystery Lover’s England 9 days from $6,295 Oct. 16–24, Oct. 30–Nov. 7, 2020 Back by popular demand, our one-of-a-kind British mystery tour features peaceful Devon, academic Oxford, and cosmopolitan London, all of which have served as settings for stories by mystery and detective writers. Gain insight into the lives and works of famous detective novelists from our expert and, by special arrangement, from contemporary authors. Highlights Include
Exclusive Meetings: Enjoy insider meetings with contemporary mystery writers who offer a glimpse into their work and lives, including crime novelist Andrew Taylor (2019). Plus, attend an exclusive reception featuring a discussion with a London-based mystery writer. Devon and Dartmoor: Experience the landscapes and sites associated with Agatha Christie, including her beloved holiday home Greenway. Then set off through mysterious Dartmoor, with its enormous granite tors, wild ponies, mist, and rain, which Sir Arthur Conan Doyle used for inspiration. The Cotswolds and Oxford: Step into a Dick Francis mystery during an excursion focused on horse racing. Discover the ancient towers and hidden quads of Oxford, a mystery lover’s paradise given the abundance of crime writers who have used it as a setting, including Dorothy Sayers, P.D. James, and Colin Dexter. London: Conclude in cosmopolitan London, where you’ll explore the legal district at the Inns of Court, featured as a favorite backdrop in the works of James and Sayers. Limited to 30 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Expert Rosalind Hutchinson (both dates)–popular expert in English history and literature, who lives in England.
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Immersive Academic Stays at Oxford and St Andrews
Smithsonian Journeys traveler
Merton College
Join fellow Smithsonian Journeys travelers who share a deep and unbridled love of learning and wish to study a subject in depth! Immerse yourself in the intellectual and cultural environment of Oxford University—where Smithsonian Journeys travelers have congregated since 1979—or the University of St Andrews—two of the most prestigious academic institutions in the world.
The warm reception we received at Merton College made us feel that we really were Oxford students—a very special sense of belonging. – Lyn G. Smithsonian Journeys lecture, Oxford University
Smithsonian at Oxford
Featuring New Courses of Study for 2020 8 days from $5,250 Book early! Course capacity is limited! July 4–11, Sept. 19–26, 2020 Given the popularity of our Smithsonian at Oxford program, and enthusiastic requests for new courses, we once again return to Merton College—a prestigious academic institution that has produced multiple Nobel laureates and cultural giants such as J.R.R. Tolkien and T.S. Eliot. Explore the libraries and grounds, dine in the college hall, and sample life as an Oxford student. You’ll study with Oxford tutors after choosing a course from five fascinating themes for the summer program or from two themes for the autumn program. Highlights Include Courses of Study: Stimulate your mind in pursuit of knowledge as you spend your mornings learning from an Oxford tutor. Course selections in July include The Rise and Fall of the British Empire, Myths and Legends of the British Isles, The Age of Winston Churchill, The Archaeology of Anglo-Saxon England, and The English Garden in History. The September courses are Vikings and The Fight for Liberty–Georgian England and the American Revolution. Find full course descriptions on our website. Excursions: Explore highlights of Oxford, including the connection between James Smithson (founding donor of the Smithsonian Institution) and the university, which 40
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he attended as a student. Plus, take an excursion tailored to your specific course. For example, The Age of Winston Churchill includes a visit to Chartwell, his home in Kent. Lifestyle: Stay at historic Merton College, featuring the university’s oldest quadrangle, and sample life as an Oxford student. Live in a dormitory room (with en suite bathroom), dine in the college hall (including High Table, a privileged tradition), and use Merton’s common rooms and gardens. Explore the charming town of Oxford, take tea at local eateries, and enjoy Evensong at Christ Church College. Optional London Extension: Add a four-day extension that includes guided excursions related to the Oxford courses, plus accommodations, meals, and transfers. Course capacity is limited—book early to ensure your preferred choice. Limited to 80 Smithsonian Journeys guests in July and 30 guests in September. Oxford Tutors Historians, authors, and heritage professionals from the Oxford community will serve as Smithsonian faculty. See our website for more information.
St Andrews University
Merton College dining hall
Smithsonian Journeys travelers, Oxford
Smithsonian at St Andrews, Scotland 8 days from $4,995 June 27–July 4, 2020 As the oldest university in Scotland, St Andrews holds centuries of history within its walls. The renowned university’s alumni include notable politicians, Nobel Prize winners, and public figures. Feel like a student as you walk these storied halls, attend a bespoke course taught by its faculty, and explore the charming town. Highlights Include Course of Study: A course taught by St Andrews faculty will explore the evolution of the Scottish mystery story from traditional folklore to contemporary crime fiction. It will cover several important periods in the development of the genre, including the rise of the Victorian novel, Golden Age detective stories of the early 20th century, and the current trend for “Tartan Noir.” The course will also feature discussions of two mystery novels that were set on the St Andrews campus. Excursions: Combine classroom learning with engaging excursions that bring your subject to life. You’re sure to enjoy a literary tour of Edinburgh, a favorite setting for Scottish crime writers and renowned for its castle. In St Andrews, take a walking tour of locations featured in two mystery novels, and visit the St Andrews
archives. There will also be guest readings by contemporary authors, a talk and performance by a traditional ballad singer, and visits to distilleries and museums in the area. Lifestyle: Perched on the east coast of Fife, St Andrews reflects a combination of history and contemporary charm. While here, reside in a student dorm in historic McIntosh Hall (rooms with shared bath), or choose to upgrade to the nearby Ardgowan Hotel at a supplemental cost. Castle ruins and a rugged coastline abut a lively Scottish town where shops, pubs, and restaurants are only a short walk away. Optional Glasgow Extension: Join an optional three-day extension to Glasgow to explore the life and works of Charles Rennie Mackintosh, the renowned Scottish architect and designer. Limited to 30 Smithsonian Journeys guests. St Andrews Tutor Dr. Garry MacKenzie–expert in literature and creative writing at the University of St Andrews and the University for Creative Arts in southern England.
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HMS Belfast, London
World War II Spitfires
The Battle of Britain
The 80th Anniversary Featuring the Farnborough or Duxford Air Shows SPECIALTY
9 days from $6,795 July 17–25, Sept., 2020
“Never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few.” Churchill’s words still ring true today at the outset of the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Britain. Join us to commemorate this decisive turning point in World War II, which proved the strength of air power. Highlights Include London: Witness the hardest hit areas of the London Blitz during a city tour, visit the Churchill War Rooms, and view period aircraft at the nearby RAF Museum/Hendon. Imperial War Museum Duxford: Examine hundreds of iconic aircraft up close at the best-preserved World War II airfield in the U.K. Plus, explore the Battle of Britain exhibition, the American Air Museum, and the reconstructed 1940 Operations Room. Other Aviation Sites: Visit the Biggin Hill Heritage Hangar (responsible for protecting southeast England), the RAF Bentley Priory, and the RAF Uxbridge. Bletchley Park: Tour Bletchley Park, where the famous Enigma code was cracked. At the National Museum of Computing, view a reconstruction of the electromagnetic device used to decipher enemy messages. Air Shows: In July, attend the celebrated Farnborough Air Show, which occurs only once every two years. In September (dates to be announced), attend the Duxford Battle of Britain Air Show, plus travel to the White Cliffs of Dover where some of the most intense aerial fighting took place. Limited to 28 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Expert Paul Sanders (July)–military historian with expertise in World War II aviation.
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D-Day: A Journey from England to France SPECIALTY
8 days from $6,595 June 1–8, 2020
Exclusive tours, poignant excursions, and thoughtful lectures provide in-depth insight to your understanding and appreciation of the monumental military feat of Operation Overlord. Plus, you’ll attend the special 76th anniversary ceremonies on June 6, when dignitaries, officials, and the public gather to pay homage to the brave soldiers who changed the course of history. Highlights Include England: Learn about the “behind the scenes” preparations necessary to stage the largest amphibian landing in history. In London, visit Winston Churchill’s underground Cabinet War Rooms and step aboard the HMS Belfast, the most significant surviving Royal Navy warship of World War II. You’ll also travel to Bletchley Park where a curator will explain the story behind the Enigma codebreakers and to Portsmouth to tour the newly refurbished D-Day Museum. France: After crossing the Channel by ferry, stand atop the dramatic bluffs of Pointe du Hoc and visit the village of Sainte-Mère-Église, where paratroopers dropped from the sky in a hail of gunfire. Walk along Utah and Omaha beaches with an expert historian for an in-depth perspective on the historic coastal landings and air invasion. Stop at Arromanches, where prefabricated concrete harbors (or mulberries) still dot the water. During your four days in Normandy, you’ll also tour museums that offer deeper understanding of the Battle for Normandy. Limited to 25 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Expert Mitch Yockelson Yockelson–military historian with expertise in World War II, with special emphasis on the Normandy campaign.
Manor house at Bodnant Garden, Wales
Highlights of Britain England, Scotland, and Wales
14 days from $5,971 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees June 13–26, July 13–26, Aug. 8–21*, Sept. 14–27, 2020 Join us for an insightful tour that showcases the history, culture, and natural beauty of England, Scotland, and Wales. Highlights Include
Edinburgh: In medieval Old Town, explore Edinburgh Castle, perched high atop a promontory, and walk down the Royal Mile to visit Holyrood Palace. Plus, view the urban design of the Georgian-style New Town as well. *A special highlight of the August departure features the famed Royal Military Tattoo. England’s Lake District: Delve into the beloved landscape of lakes, woodlands, and small villages where Dove Cottage, Hawkshead, and Lake Windermere evoke English literary associations. Northern Wales: Understand how the brute appearance of medieval Caernarfon Castle symbolizes the “land of castles” and view the natural beauty of both Snowdonia National Park and Bodnant Garden. Bath to London: Explore the Roman baths, abbey, and Georgian-style Assembly Room in Bath and Shakespeare’s birthplace and Anne Hathaway’s Cottage in Stratfordupon-Avon. Take an excursion through the quintessential landscape of the Cotswolds, then conclude your journey with a stop at the Neolithic monument of Stonehenge and a city tour of cosmopolitan London. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Rab Houston (June)–expert in modern British history. Sara James (July)–expert in British art, architecture, and gardens. Miriam Davis (Aug.) and Cassandra Potts Hannahs (Sept.)–experts in early British history.
The Royal Mile, Edinburgh
Scotland’s Treasures
Featuring the Royal Military Tattoo* 12 days from $5,996 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees June 20–July 1, July 30–Aug. 10*, Aug. 10–21*, Aug. 29–Sept. 9, 2020 Discover Scotland’s enduring appeal as you enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the Highlands, learn about the legacy of its clans, and explore historic treasures of Glasgow and Edinburgh. Highlights Include
Glasgow and Edinburgh: View Glasgow’s unique 19th- and 20th-century architecture, visit Kelvingrove Art Gallery and other museums, and take a private curator-led tour of Pollok House. Enjoy two days in the stately city of Edinburgh with tours of Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace. *The July and August 10 departures also feature the famed Royal Military Tattoo. Northern Highlands and Isle of Skye: Savor the enchanting landscape of Loch Lomond and learn about the history of Glenfinnan Monument. Then make a fullday excursion to the Isle of Skye, known for its strong Gaelic influence and ruggedly beautiful landscapes. Continue to the shores of Loch Ness and explore the ruins of Urquhart Castle. And travelling farther north, you’ll learn more about Scottish history at Culloden Moor and Dunrobin Castle. Cultural Insights: Gain insight into Scottish traditions as you watch falconry and sheepdog demonstrations and visit a whisky distillery. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Jennifer Paxton (June) and Katherine Forsyth (Aug. 29)–experts in the early history of Scotland. Rab Houston (Aug. 10)–expert in the modern history of Scotland.
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Cliffs of Moher
The Emerald Isle 13 days from $5,792 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees May 17–29, June 14–26, Aug. 20–Sept. 1, Sept. 10–22, 2020 Journey from lively Dublin to the Aran Islands and Ring of Kerry and discover a country steeped in history and boasting a rich tapestry of cultural traditions and ethereal landscapes. Highlights Include Dublin: Enjoy a day in Dublin, where highlights include tours of St. Patrick’s Cathedral and the library at Trinity College with its legendary medieval Book of Kells. Cultural Insights: Hear about Irish culture firsthand from a native of the Aran Islands who shares stories of their oral tradition and during a dinner at a local familyrun B&B near Killarney. Magnificent Landscapes: Take in breathtaking scenery as you travel through Connemara, view the dramatic Cliffs of Moher stretching for five miles along the fabled coastline of Country Clare, and pass through the Burren, the rocky landscape of craggy gray karst limestone formations. You’ll also take a full-day excursion to the Ring of Kerry with its stunning mountain and coastal scenery, a 1,000-year-old ring fort, and mysterious monument stones. Castles and Abbeys: Learn about Ireland’s history during visits to the early monastic site of Clonmacnoise, Kylemore Abbey, Muckross House (an Elizabethan-style manor house), the Kerry Folklife Centre, Blarney Castle, and the legendary Rock of Cashel and Kilkenny Castle. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Cassandra Potts Hannahs (May)–expert in Celtic, Viking, and Anglo-Saxon studies, Christopher Griffin (Aug./Sept.)–expert in Irish literature and humanities. Katryn Wiese (June)–expert in geology and oceanography.
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Westport town center
County Mayo
A One-Week Stay in Northwest Ireland 9 days from $4,190 Includes $250 early booking savings No Single Supplement—Limited Availability Special air rates & services available May 30–June 7, Sept. 12–20, 2020 Experience the essence of Irish culture in Westport, County Mayo, where you’ll view Ireland through the eyes of its people. During this charming stay program, enjoy day trips to iconic landscapes and historic sites, always returning to your intimate small town and the comfortable Westport Plaza Hotel. Highlights Include Irish Traditions: In Westport, visit the National Museum of Ireland–Country Life and historic Westport House. Enjoy a local dance and music performance, watch craftspeople at work, and join local residents at the nearby pub. County Sligo: Visit the Yeats Society, where an expert will talk about the poet William Butler Yeats, plus view Ireland’s largest cemetery of megalithic tombs. Achill Island: Experience this remote island that has inspired artists and writers like Graham Greene. Travel along the Atlantic Coastal drive and witness more than 80 abandoned cottages in the deserted village of Slievemore, which was ravaged by the Great Famine. Connemara: Explore one of Ireland’s most scenic regions known for its “savage” beauty. Here, you’ll gain a breadth of insight during visits to the National Famine Monument, Kylemore Abbey and garden, and Glen Keen farm, which features a sheep dog demonstration. Galway: During a guided culinary tour, visit local food artisans, then enjoy time to explore this colorful city, often referred to as the “most Irish” of Ireland’s cities. Limited to 28 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Christopher Griffin (May) and Hilary Lennon (Sept.)–both experts in Irish literature and humanities.
Skara Brae, Orkney Islands Fountain by Bernini, Piazza Navona
Iona Abbey, Scotland
A Celtic Cruise
From Glasgow to Honfleur Aboard the 220-guest Le Boréal 11 days from $6,895 Includes $1,000 early booking savings May 30–June 8, June 7–16*, 2020
Scottish Isles and Norwegian Fjords
A Cruise from Glasgow to Bergen Aboard the 180-guest Le Champlain CRUISE
9 days from $5,295 Includes $1,000 early booking savings May 16–24, May 23–31*, May 30–June 7, 2020
Trace the strands of Celtic, Viking, and Norman civilizations during this special cruise from Glasgow to Honfleur, which concludes with a focus on D-Day.
Voyage in the wake of Viking seafarers and experience the rugged beauty of remote islands and dramatic coastlines forever linked by their heritage.
Highlights Include
Highlights Include
Scotland: Witness the landscapes and history of Scotland during visits to Eilean Donan Castle, the Isle of Skye, the monastery on the Isle of Iona, and the town of Tobermory on the Isle of Mull. Aboard ship, attend a talk about Sir Winston Churchill by Allen Packwood, director of the Churchill Archives Center at Cambridge. Wales: In this cradle of Celtic culture, explore the imposing Caernarfon Castle and lush Bodnant Garden. Ireland: Enjoy a city tour of Dublin and view the Celtic heritage found in the 9th-century Book of Kells, then enjoy time to explore on your own. England’s Isles of Scilly: Stop at the sub-tropical 19th-century Tresco Abbey Garden, often compared to London’s Royal Botanic Garden. France’s Normandy: Walk the D-Day beaches where Allied forces landed, including Utah Beach and Omaha Beach, and visit Sainte-Mère-Église and Pointe du Hoc. Dwight David Eisenhower II, historian and grandson of General and President Dwight D. Eisenhower, accompanies you on this special excursion. Space reserved for 40 Smithsonian Journeys guests. *The June departure will run in reverse. Learn more about Le Boréal on page 13 and on our website. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Hilary Lennon (May)–expert in Irish literature and humanities. Miriam Davis (June)–expert in early British history.
Scottish Highlands: Visit legendary Glencoe and Glenfinnan Monument, then sail to Kyle of Lochalsh to tour Eilean Donan Castle. And on the Isle of Skye, experience the beautifully rugged Cuillin Mountains. Orkney Islands: In this hub of Neolithic civilization, visit the settlement of Skara Brae, the ceremonial Stones of Stenness, and the Ring of Brodgar. Shetland Islands: Discover the crossroads where Scotland meets Scandinavia and legacies linger in archaeology, dialect, and traditional music. At Jarlshof, see late Neolithic stone houses, a Bronze Age village, Iron Age broch, Norse longhouses, and more. Viking Homelands: Cross the North Sea and enjoy a day cruising through Norway’s famous fjords with their sheer cliffs and sparkling waterfalls. Plus, take a thrilling ride through this landscape aboard the Flam Railway. Norway’s Bergen: Continue to Bergen, once an old Viking settlement and later part of the Hanseatic League’s trading empire. Enjoy a walking tour of Bryggen, a World Heritage site, and visit the home of composer Edvard Grieg. Space reserved for 40 Smithsonian Journeys guests. *The May 23 departure will run in reverse. Learn more about Le Champlain on page 13 and on our website. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Colleen Batey (May 16) and Gillian Hovell (May 23)–highly respected archaeologists. Terje Leiren (May 30)–expert in Scandinavian studies.
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Display at the BMW Museum
European Cars and the German Grand Prix SPECIALTY
Full details to be announced in late 2019 July 2020–Register your interest online
Start your engines and experience German automotive engineering and French style at its very best on this exclusive behind-the-scenes specialty tour. Trace the history of the German auto industry and enjoy in-depth curator-led tours to BMW, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, and Porsche museums and tour modern production lines. Cross the French border to admire the Musée National de l’Automobile and encounter automotive over-stimulation of the most welcome kind. Plus, a highlight for any car enthusiast—entrance to the German Formula 1 Grand Prix at Hockenheim. Highlights Include
Factory Tours: Go behind the scenes at the BMW factory in Munich, spend a day at the Daimler-Benz factory and museum, and watch experts restore vintage Mercedes at the Mercedes Classic Car Center. Museum Visits: Learn about Ferdinand Porsche and his influence on the first Volkswagen and Mercedes designs before creating his own famous 356 and 911 models. Visit the auto collection at the Deutsche Museum, Germany’s great technology museum. Grand Prix: Attend Germany’s Formula 1 Grand Prix race at the famed Hockenheim circuit, where the world’s greatest drivers compete. Mulhouse, France: Admire the world’s largest Bugatti collection at the Musée National de l’Automobile. Limited to 30 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Expert An expert on German automobiles will lead this specialty tour.
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Main square, Kraków
Kraków
A One-Week Stay in Poland STAY
9 days from $4,290 Includes $250 early booking savings Special air rates & services available May 1–9, June 5–13, Sept. 18–26, 2020
Considered one of Europe’s most enchanting cities, Kraków is a major center for Poland’s cultural and academic life. Explore the city’s history as well as many important sites nearby during this one-week stay at the Hotel Unicus Palace, situated in the historic center. Highlights Include
Krakόw: Highlights of your city tour include the Old Town (a World Heritage site), Wawel Castle courtyard and royal cathedral, Market Square, the Gothic Basilica of the Virgin Mary, and the 16th-century Renaissance Cloth Hall. Wieliczka Salt Mine: Walk amid extensive sparkling salt carvings and underground lakes (442 feet below ground) in Europe’s oldest salt mine, a World Heritage site. Ojcow National Park: Explore the park’s unusual rock formations, plus the Renaissance Pieskowa Skala castle. World War II Sites or Nowa Huta: Visit Auschwitz and Birkenau to commemorate the many lives lost here during World War II. Or choose to spend the day at a model communist community that transformed from a center of political propaganda to a place of revolution. Warsaw: Take the train to this capital city where you’ll visit the Chopin Memorial, the Warsaw Ghetto Memorial, Madame Curie’s house, the Royal Castle, and St. Anne’s Church in delightful Old Town. Limited to 28 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Laurie Koloski (June)–historian with expertise in modern Europe. Carol Reynolds (Sept.)–expert in European art and music history.
Lucerne, Switzerland
Prague cityscape
Old World Europe
Poland, Hungary, Austria, and the Czech Republic 16 days from $5,497 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees April 21–May 6, May 12–27, Aug. 29–Sept. 13, Sept. 19–Oct. 4, Sept. 26–Oct. 11, 2020 Discover four distinctly different and fascinating nations in Central and Eastern Europe, featuring many World Heritage sites. Highlights Include Poland: Tour the Old Town areas of Warsaw and Kraków and the Wieliczka Salt Mine, and attend a private piano recital. Plus, spend time at Auschwitz and Birkenau. Hungary: In Budapest, widely regarded as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, explore both the Buda and Pest sides of the Danube, attend a curator-led tour of the art museum, and indulge in some time at leisure. Austria: Travel past medieval castles and along the Danube River en route to Vienna. Here, follow in the footsteps of imperial Habsburgs with tours of the opera house and Schönbrunn Palace and a concert of classical music. You’ll also take an excursion to the Vienna Woods, once a royal hunting ground, and visit the spa town of Baden, once the summer residence of Habsburg monarchs. The Czech Republic: Immerse yourself in medieval Prague. Explore the Hradčany castle district and the Jewish area of Josefov, plus enjoy time at leisure and a festive farewell dinner. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Hamish Scott (April)–historian with expertise in 17th- and 18th-century Europe. Carol Reynolds (May)–expert in European art and music history. Christopher Brennan (Aug.)–historian with expertise in Central and Eastern Eruope. Laurie Koloski (Sept. 19)–historian with expertise in modern Europe.
Treasures of the Alps 10 days from $6,492 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees May 21–June 3, June 4–17, Aug. 13–26, Sept. 10–23, 2020 The awe-inspiring Alps have drawn visitors to Switzerland and Austria throughout history. This exciting new journey spotlights the region’s history and its Alpine trains. Highlights Include Historic Swiss Trains and Charming Towns: Gaze upon panoramic mountain views from the legendary Glacier Express and Pilatus Railway. Aboard the Gornergrat Bahn, Europe’s highest open-air railway, absorb the dramatic vistas of 29 Alpine peaks, including the majestic Matterhorn (at 15,000 feet). Enjoy stays in charming Lucerne, with its pristine lake and distinctive covered bridge, and Zermatt, gateway to the Swiss Alps. Ticino and the Swiss Lake District: During three days along Lake Lugano, take in nearby castles, gardens, and magnificent landscape. Plus, take a scenic drive to Stresa and Lake Maggiore in the Italian Lake District. Austria’s Innsbruck and Salzburg: Enjoy a walking tour of charming Innsbruck, then take a cable car into the mountains for a panoramic view of the city and the Alps. Traveling through the stunning scenery of the Tyrol, arrive in Salzburg for a delightful stay in the home town of Mozart. Here you’ll visit the Baroque Old Town, the cathedral, medieval Hohensalzburg Fortress, and Mirabell Gardens (as seen in The Sound of Music), and attend a chamber music concert. Your final day features a trip to the cliff-top Eagle’s Nest, the Nazi Party’s alpine retreat. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Alexander Motyl (May)–expert in political science of Europe. Carol Reynolds (Aug.)–expert in European arts and music. Diana Toman (Sept.)–expert in comparative literature and German language.
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Inside the Large Hadron Collider, CERN
Basalt columns at Reynisfara
Art Meets Science in Switzerland
Adventure in Iceland
Featuring a Rare Visit to the Supercollider at CERN SPECIALTY
9 days from $8,995 May 7–15, Sept. 3–11, 2020
Art and science enthusiasts will delight in this special journey to Switzerland. As you travel to Zurich, Bern, and Geneva, follow in the footsteps of Albert Einstein, tour an Alpine observatory, and view the art of Paul Klee. A special highlight features a behind-the-scenes look at the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN). Highlights Include Science: Follow Albert Einstein’s career as student and professor in Zurich, then in Bern visit his flat and office (Swiss Patent Office) as well as the Einstein Museum. Take a private tour of the Sphinx Observatory, perched on a shockingly steep precipice in the Alps. CERN: Located just outside Geneva, CERN is home to the world’s most powerful particle accelerator—the Large Hadron Collider (LHC). In 2020 a scheduled shutdown allows the rare opportunity to descend into the heart of the underground operation for an up-close look at the LHC and its massive detectors. Arts and Culture: View one of Switzerland’s most important art collections and works by Paul Klee in Zurich and Bern. Take in stunning Alpine panoramas from the windows of a cog railway as you ascend the Bernese Alps to the “Top of Europe.” Enjoy a relaxing day in the Swiss countryside with a private wine tasting and savor meals at Michelin-starred restaurants and a traditional raclette lunch in Gruyere.
11 days from $5,697 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees May 21–31, July 2–12, July 23–Aug. 2, Aug. 6–16, Sept. 12–22, Oct. 13–23, 2020 Join us for this exceptional and popular highlights tour of Iceland, showcasing its powerful landscapes of waterfalls, geologic features, and myriad sea birds. You’ll journey to both the southern and northern regions and take delight in its natural wonders, gracious hospitality, and relaxed pace. Highlights Include Dramatic Waterfalls: Feel the power of a variety of waterfalls, each unique and breathtaking, including popular Gullfoss, Seljalandsfoss, and Skogafoss in the south and Godafoss, the “waterfall of the gods,” and jaw-dropping Dettifoss in the north. Other Geologic Wonders: Gaze upon bizarre rock formations and a vast lava field on the Snaefellsnes Peninusla. In the north travel to lovely Lake Myvatn and the phenomenal national park with its bubbling mud flats, lava fields, and lunar-like volcanic craters. And near southern Vik, walk along the black-sand beach at Reynisfjara, lined with columnar basalt-filled caves. Cultural Treasures: Learn about the Icelandic saga writers, stroll through small fishing villages, and explore coastal Vik. At Thingvellir National Park witness the spot where the world’s oldest Parliament met. Later, enjoy sophisticated Reykjavik. Northern Lights: The September and October departures fall over the new moon when there is a greater chance of viewing the Northern Lights (though not guaranteed). Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.
Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Expert Michelle Thaller (May)–highly respected astrophysicist and Deputy Director of Science for Communications at NASA.
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SMITHSONIANJOURNEYS.ORG / 877.338.8687 / BOOK YOUR TRIP
Smithsonian Journeys Experts Allen Glazner (May), Scott Burns (July 2), Katryn Interior courtyard, British Wiese (July 23), Brent Garry (Aug.), andMuseum Stephanie Grocke (Oct.)–all highly respected geologists. Michelle Thaller (Sept.)–highly respected astrophysicist.
Iceland Voyage
A Circumnavigation Cruise Aboard the 180-guest Le Bellot CRUISE
9 days from $6,595 Includes $1,000 early booking savings and airfare from select East Coast gateways Sells out quickly! Pre-register now* June 21–29, June 28–July 6, July 5–13, 2020
Once remote and difficult to visit, Iceland has emerged as a top travel destination due to its breathtaking landscapes and geologic formations, myriad bird life, and friendly hospitality. This unique cruise, which circumnavigates the island, offers an exceptional opportunity to experience Iceland unlike most visitors. You’ll go off the beaten path to places of immense beauty and interest by boat, as the Vikings did when they first arrived.
Puffins
Highlights Include
Reykjavik: Learn about Iceland’s heritage at the National Museum, where nearly 3,000 objects trace its history from an early Viking settlement. Plus, a city tour showcases the capital’s lively, cosmopolitan ambiance. West Fjords: This peninsula is one of Iceland’s most dramatically beautiful areas, yet one of its least visited due to its remote location. Take in breathtaking landscapes, including the mountainous fjord of Djup, and tour the Ósvör Maritime Museum, which illustrates the climatic and geographic challenges faced by residents. Northern Wonders: In Siglufjördur, visit museums devoted to the herring industry (one of the country’s most important industries) and to the country’s musical heritage. Spend a day near cerulean Lake Myvatn, where volcanic activity—both past and current—is seen in a steaming geothermal field, unique craters, and surreal lava formations, while another highlight is legendary Godafoss, “waterfall of the gods.” You’ll also cross the Arctic Circle on an afternoon cruise to Grimsey Island, a birdwatcher’s paradise. Stunning East Coast: Meet local people and learn about Icelandic culture in Seydisfjordur. Then enjoy a full-day excursion to the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, where a small private boat offers an up-close view of dramatic icebergs as well as the scenic backdrop of Vatnajokull, Europe’s largest glacier. Southern Islands: At Heimaey Island witness one of Iceland’s largest puffin colonies nesting amid tall cliffs and see “Fire Mountain” or Mount Eldfell with its still-warm lava fields. Cruise past Surtsey Island to view this fragile, young island, designated a World Heritage site.
Godafoss waterfall Grimsey Island
Arctic Circle
Ísafjördur
Siglufjördur
Westfjords
Godafoss Lake Myvatn Seydisfjordur
ICELAND
*Best booking availability before December. Space reserved for 40 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Learn more about Le Bellot on page 13 and on our website. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Peter Bobrowsky (both June dates) and Pat Dickerson (July)– highly respected geologists.
Húsavík
Djúpivogur
Reykjavik Heimaey Island/ Surtsey Island
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Port of Call Featured Site Ship
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EUROPE / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS
Geirangerfjord, Norway
Journey Through Norway* With a Three-day Stay in Copenhagen
16 days from $6,794 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees June 1–16, July 16–31, Aug. 27–Sept. 11, 2020 Travel on and off the beaten path amid the spectacular landscapes and cosmopolitan cities of Norway and Denmark, and experience the Midnight Sun as it illuminates long summer days. Highlights Include Denmark: Stroll the historic streets of Copenhagen, see City Hall Square, and behold the dazzling crown jewels at Rosenborg Palace. Journey to nearby Elsinore to visit Kronborg Castle, setting for Shakespeare’s Hamlet, and tour the house museum and bird sanctuary at the home of Karen Blixen, known as author Isak Dinesen (Out of Africa). Norway’s Fjords: Marvel at breathtaking fjords with soaring snowcapped mountains, lush forests, and deep crystalline waters. Highlights include a cruise through the dramatic Geirangerfjord, a World Heritage site, and a thrilling ride on the Flåm Railway. Bergen and Oslo: Tour the 14th-century merchants’ quarter of Bryggen, a World Heritage site. Gain insight into modern life when you meet a family at a nearby orchard and visit a salmon farm. Learn more about Norway’s history and contemporary culture at Oslo’s Viking Ship Museum and Munch Museum. *Previously titled Scandinavian Journey. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Anne-Charlotte Gavel Adams (June) and Patrick Wen (Aug.)–experts in Scandinavian studies with special interest in culture and literature. Terje Leiren (July)–expert in Scandinavian studies with special interest in history and culture.
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SMITHSONIANJOURNEYS.ORG / 877.338.8687 / BOOK YOUR TRIP
Harbor at Gdańsk, Poland
Cruising the Baltic Sea
From Copenhagen to Stockholm Aboard the 180-guest Le Dumont d’Urville CRUISE
10 days from approximately $6,695 Includes $1,000 early booking savings June 29–July 8, July 7–16*, 2020
Cruise the Baltic Sea for eight nights during nearconstant daylight on this popular six-country voyage. A special highlight includes insightful presentations by Lech Walesa, former president of Poland and Solidarity leader. Highlights Include Gdańsk: Explore the many cultural sites of Poland’s capital, from a walking tour showcasing its impressive architecture to the Lenin Shipyard. Tallinn: Revel in the medieval charms of Estonia’s Tallinn, a World Heritage site. St. Petersburg: Spend two days exploring the treasures of Russia’s St. Petersburg, including visits to the worldacclaimed Hermitage Museum as well as Catherine Palace and Peterhof, both World Heritage sites. Helsinki: Discover Finland’s stunning architecture and modern design aesthetic. Visby and Stockholm: Walk through the well-preserved walled city of Sweden’s Visby, a Baltic hub of the former Hanseatic League and now a World Heritage site. Then cruise through Stockholm’s scenic archipelago. Space reserved for 60 Smithsonian Journeys guests. *The July 7 departure will run in reverse. Learn more about Le Dumont d’Urville on page 13 and on our website. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Joe Snyder (June)–former diplomat serving in posts worldwide. Tim Blanning (July)–historian with expertise in modern Europe.
Royal Palace, Peterhof, Russia
Sleigh ride at Suzdal
Arctic Explorer by Private Train St. Petersburg and the Baltics 14 days from $5,198 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees May 16–29, July 28–Aug. 10, Sept. 15–28, 2020 Explore the vibrant cultural capitals and rich heritage of Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia, plus the imperial riches of Russia’s St. Petersburg on this exciting tour. Highlights Include Lithuania: In the capital of Vilnius stroll through the well-preserved Old Town, a World Heritage site. You’ll see Cathedral Square, Gedimino Tower, Vilnius University, and the President’s Palace, plus visit the KGB Museum. You’ll also travel beyond Vilnius to the medieval castle at Trakai. Latvia: Riga, the largest of the Baltic capitals, showcases lovingly restored architecture from medieval to Art Nouveau, a delightful Old Town, and the magnificent St. Mary’s Cathedral with its 6,789-pipe organ. Outside Riga you’ll visit Gauja National Park, the ruins of Turaida Castle, and the restored baroque palace of Rundale. Estonia: See layers of Tallinn’s tumultuous history during a city tour of its well-preserved Old Town. Plus, travel beyond this capital to Rocca al Mare, an outdoor museum that depicts country life from the past. Russia: Explore many of St. Petersburg’s exquisite treasures, including St. Isaac’s Cathedral, Peter and Paul Fortress, and the world-renowned Hermitage Museum. Enjoy lunch with a local family and take an excursion to the Grand Royal Palace and gardens at Peterhof. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Janetta Benton (May) and Pamela Kachurin (Sept.)– art historians. Carol Reynolds (July)–expert in art, culture, and music. All with expertise in Russia.
A Russian Train Journey Aboard the Golden Eagle A Holiday Program in Search of the Northern Lights SPECIALTY
13 days from $14,795 Dec. 28, 2019–Jan. 9, 2020
Celebrate winter and the polar night on this unique trip showcasing Russian treasures and a private train journey to the Arctic Circle. Highlights Include St. Petersburg: Gaze upon the gems of the Hermitage Museum, the Peter and Paul Fortress, and St. Isaac’s Cathedral. Plus, go beyond the city to see Catherine Palace. Crossing the Arctic Circle: Board your train and journey north during the polar night to Nikel where you’ll travel by coach to Kirkenes, Norway, for a two-night stay. Here, visit the Snow Hotel, enjoy chilled vodka, see reindeer and huskies, and in the evenings, set off in search of the Northern Lights! Later, your train takes you to the port city of Murmansk to tour the first nuclear-powered icebreaker. Golden Ring: Travel south to Petrozavodsk to see the 18th-century Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. In the Golden Ring towns of Vladimir and Suzdal, you’ll visit important religious sites, attend a choral concert by monks, and feel the excitement of a sleigh ride on a traditional troika. Moscow: During a day in Moscow, visit Novodevichy Convent and the Kremlin’s Armory Museum and view St. Basil’s Cathedral during a walk through Red Square. Golden Eagle: Comfortable for adventurous travel, this modern private train features a choice of cabin levels (each with private en suite bathroom/shower). Dine on traditional Russian and European cuisine and enjoy a lecture in the bar/lounge car. Find more details on our website. Space reserved for 31 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Expert Sharon Hudgins–expert in Russian studies.
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POLAR / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS
An Arctic Cruise of Norway’s Svalbard Aboard the 220-guest L’Austral
11 days from $6,995 Includes $1,000 early booking savings June 9–19, 2020
Polar bears in Svalbard
Under the Midnight Sun, only 600 miles from the North Pole, lies Norway’s Svalbard archipelago. Join us to cruise along the west coast of Spitsbergen to experience a strikingly beautiful wilderness known only to the adventurous few and learn about the environmental challenges to the Arctic. Highlights Include
Monaco Glacier, Svalbard Arctic Ocean
S VALBARD
A RCHIPELAGO Puerto VarasRaudfjorden and Lake Llanquihue
Nordaustlandet
Smeerenburgbreen Monaco Glacier Woodfjorden Kongsfjorden Kings Glacier
Ny-Ålesund Spitsbergen
Barents Sea
Longyearbyen
Greenland Sea Bellsund
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Wildlife: Watch for the majestic polar bear in its native habitat (one of the very few places in the world). View herds of walrus hauled out on scoured granite beaches, bearded and ring seals lazing about, and some of the world’s largest whales. You may also spot Arctic fox scurrying across the snow and iconic reindeer grazing the tundra. And you’re sure to see teeming bird colonies nesting amid the sea cliffs, including kittiwakes, guillemots, hawks, puffins, and king elders. Space reserved for 40 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Learn more about L’Austral on page 13 and on our website.
Edgeoya
Calypsobyen Burgerbukta
Port of Call Ship Air
Paris
Spitsbergen: Following an overnight stay in Paris, arrive in Longyearbyen. Embark your ship and enter a world where nature is in its purest form. You’ll cruise through an ethereal gallery of rare wilderness, secluded fjords, and the glittering ice of glacier– fronted shores—an unforgettable landscape enchanted by the glow of the Midnight Sun. Throughout your voyage, enjoy Zodiac excursions that bring you up close to geological formations and to the shore for wildlife observation. Hear the sound of calving ice crashing into the sea from southern Samarin Glacier and northern Monaco and Kings Glaciers. Stop at former mining settlements along the southern coast. And in the north, visit the former Dutch-Danish whaling station of Smeerenburg and learn about the scientific importance of the research town of Ny-Alesund, one of the world’s northernmost year-round communities.
Smithsonian Journeys Expert Kirt Kempter–highly respected geologist with expertise in volcanology and plate tectonics.
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Solar Eclipse 2021: Antarctica and the Path of Totality A Round-trip Cruise from Ushuaia, Argentina Aboard the 200-guest L’Austral SPECIALTY
14 days from $12,995 Includes $1,000 early booking savings Nov. 27–Dec. 10, 2021
Experience Earth’s most wondrous cosmic event when you witness a total solar eclipse in pristine Antarctica on December 4, 2021. Cruising far out into the Weddell Sea, your Five-Star, ice-class ship will be positioned in the Path of Totality, revealing the spectral glow of the corona, an evocative moment for both umbraphiles and first-time observers. During your 10-night journey to the White Continent, you’ll also witness fantastically shaped icebergs, sparkling turquoise glaciers, bustling penguin rookeries, and aweinspiring whales. All combined, this is a voyage to Antarctica unlike any other!
Ethereal ice mountain
Highlights Include Cruising Antarctica: Embark your ship in Ushuaia, Argentina, the world’s southernmost city and gateway to Antarctica. Cruise through the Beagle Channel and cross the Drake Passage en route to the outer islands of the Antarctic Peninsula. Highlights of your voyage feature the South Shetland Islands, including King George Island and Elephant Island, which played an important role in Ernest Shackleton’s Endurance story; Coronation Island, one of the South Orkney Islands; Heroina Island, part of the Danger Islands; and Deception Island. Board sturdy Zodiacs with expert naturalists for continental landings at Brown Bluff and Bernardo O’Higgins Station, where you’ll explore landscapes with towering ice-capped volcanic cliffs and diverse wildlife habitats. Wildlife: Observe the antics of chinstrap penguins on King George Island; large groups of elephant seals on Elephant Island; chinstrap penguins and Southern and Cape Petrels on Coronation Island; and more than 1.5 million Adélie penguins in the Danger Islands. And watch for breaching fin, humpback, and minke whales; crabeater and Leopard seals; Gentoo penguins; and countless other seabirds such as the endangered albatross. Total Solar Eclipse at Sea: Cruise out to a location that is within the Path of Totality and with a reasonable prospect of clear skies to view the Total Solar Eclipse.* *Program Note: Viewing of the eclipse will be weather dependent and unexpected schedule changes could affect the program. Space reserved for 30 Smithsonian Journeys guests (max. ship capacity is 200 guests). Learn more about L’Austral on page 13 and on our website. Smithsonian Journeys Expert C. Alex Young–noted astrophysicist and Associate Director for Science in the Heliophysics Science Division at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center. He also leads the NASA Space Science Education Consortium.
Total Solar Eclipse
ARGENTINA Ushuaia Elephant King George Island Island Coronation Island Buenos Aires Deception Puerto Varas and Lake Llanquihue Island Heroina Island Beagle Channel Bernardo Ushuaia O’Higgins Station Brown Bluff Pacific Ocean
SOUTH AMERICA Atlantic Ocean
Total Solar Eclipse Path of Totality
Drake Passage
Weddell Sea ANTARCTICA
ANTARCTICA
Port of Call/ Overnight Ship Air
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THE AMERICAS / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS
The Americas Panama to the U.S.A.
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A Cruise of Panama and Costa Rica From Puerto Caldera to Colón Featuring a Panama Canal Transit and a Visit to the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute Aboard the 180-guest Le Dumont d’Urville 9 days from $4,995 Includes $1,000 early booking savings Feb. 5–13, Feb. 19–27, 2020
Panama Canal lock
Join us for a spectacular cruise featuring the rain forests of Costa Rica and a full daylight transit of the historic Panama Canal. As you journey through its waterways and mighty locks, which opened more than a hundred years ago, come to understand the worldwide impact of this amazing engineering feat. Get up close to spectacular flora and fauna at important national parks. Plus, enjoy an exclusive in-depth visit to the highly respected Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI), where scholars and scientists take you beyond the visual world to the science of ecology, biology, botany, and more. Highlights Include
Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute: Visit STRI’s Punta Culebra Nature Center to view the Institute’s work firsthand. Here, Director Matt Larsen and STRI scientists will discuss the latest investigations in tropical ecology and evolution. Panama Canal: Make a full daylight transit of the Panama Canal, one of the greatest man-made wonders worldwide. Also visit the Aqua Clara Visitor Center to view the Panama Canal Expansion (flight times permitting). Costa Rica: Discover the magnificent flora and fauna of Manuel Antonio National Park and Curú National Wildlife Refuge. And in San José visit the National Museum and National Theater. Active Adventure: Go snorkeling or walk the beach at Panama’s Isla Cébaco. San Blas Islands: In these pristine remote islands, meet the indigenous Guna people, renowned for their colorful mola art work. Space reserved for 30 to 80 Smithsonian Journeys guests depending on departure. Learn more about Le Dumont d’Urville on page 13 and on our website. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Kirt Kempter (Feb. 5)–highly respected geologist. Ralph Nurnberger (Feb. 19)–expert in international affairs with a special focus on the Panama Canal treaties.
The biodiversity of flora, Panama Port of Call Featured Site Ship
COSTA RICA
Puerto Curú National Caldera San José Wildlife Refuge Isla Tortuga Manuel Antonio National Park Drake Bay
Caribbean Sea
Motorcoach
San Blas Islands Colón Panama Panama Canal STRI City
PANAMA
Gulf of Panama Isla Cébaco
Pacific Ocean
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THE AMERICAS / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS
Amazon River Cruise Round-trip from Lima Aboard the 36-guest Zafiro Red-and-green Macaws
9 days from $5,295 Includes $1,000 early booking savings Jan. 18–26, Oct. 24–Nov. 1, 2020 Exploring the mysterious Amazon River Basin—one of Earth’s most exotic natural realms and our planet’s largest rain forest ecosystem— is an unforgettable and once-in-a-lifetime experience. Witness a spectacular variety of lush flora and extraordinary fauna during daily expeditions by excursion boat and nature walks. As you experience this enthralling world of verdant tropical waterways and rain forests, learn about the relationship the local villagers have with their environment as well as the critical global issues of biodiversity and sustainability. Highlights Include
Lima and Iquitos: Tour the historic center of Peru’s capital city, a World Heritage site, and vibrant Iquitos, an important rubber boom city in the 19th century.
Zafiro
PERU Iquitos Amazon River Marañón River
Pacific Ocean
Pacaya-Samiria NationalReserve
Overnight Featured Site
Lima
Pucate River
Ucayali River
Ranger Station
Ship Motorcoach Air
Smithsonian Journeys Experts Dennis Wille Sáenz (Jan.) and Nina Zitani (Oct.)–highly respected naturalists with expertise in biodiversity and conservation.
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Nauta
River Exploration: In an authentic atmosphere of exploration, cruise past the confluence of the Río Ucayali and Río Marañón— the legendary inception of the Amazon River—where the primeval calls of birds and wildlife echo across the rain forest. Far removed from civilization, cross into the Pacaya-Samiria Reserve, the largest wetlands refuge in the world. Here, cruise along sinuous tributaries and serpentine blackwater rivers and see rare indigenous wildlife as well as the Victoria amazonica waterlilies, which can grow nine feet in diameter. Tropical Wildlife: Gain up-close views of gray and pink Amazon River dolphins, red howler and squirrel monkeys, monk sakis, sloths, and other animals. Walk through forests where the number of butterfly species climbs into the thousands, and see colorful large-billed toucans, blue-and-gold and scarlet macaws, kites, hawks, jabiru storks, and the distinctive hoatzin. River Villages: Visit villages along the shore, accompanied by your local guides. You’ll learn about the ribereños people who live here and about their special relationship with the environment, meet a local shaman who explains indigenous medicinal plants, and watch preparations of a traditional meal. Zafiro: Launched in 2015, this deluxe small riverboat is ideal for traveling on the Amazon, given its modern comforts (including air-conditioned cabins), spacious public areas, and superb service. The delightful top deck features a lounge with floor-to-ceiling windows, which serves as a hub for lectures, while the outdoor bar is ideal for stargazing. Find more details on our website. Space reserved for 36 Smithsonian Journeys guests.
SMITHSONIANJOURNEYS.ORG / 877.338.8687 / BOOK YOUR TRIP
Oak Tiger butterfly
Costa Rica’s Natural Treasures 11 days from $3,981 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees Jan. 16–26, March 16–26, 2020 Nestled between the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, Costa Rica possesses a wealth of natural beauty and a variety of wildlife that belies its diminutive size. Discover its pristine landscapes, exotic flora and fauna, and unique environments of cloud and rain forests. Highlights Include Monteverde Biological Reserve: During nature walks in this unique cloud forest, be amazed by hundreds of species of plants, mammals, and birds, plus visit a hummingbird gallery and butterfly garden. Palo Verde National Park: Explore this important park, comprising both an extraordinary wetland and one of the world’s last tropical dry forests.
The Pitons, St. Lucia
Cruising the Caribbean’s Windward Islands A Cruise from Grenada to Barbados Aboard the 180-guest Le Champlain
8 days from $3,995 Includes $1,000 early booking savings Feb. 22–29, 2020 With its balmy island breezes and centuries-old maritime traditions, the Caribbean is an ideal winter interlude. Discover the rarely visited Windward Islands as you learn about the Caribbean’s complex history, visit verdant gardens, and enjoy exquisite beaches and clear blue waters. Highlights Include Grenada: Highlights on the Spice Island include historic Fort St. George, a local herb and spice garden, plus a special rum tasting at the island’s largest distillery. Martinique: In Fort-de-France tour the Clement Plantation and former rum distillery and the lush Balata Gardens.
Volcanoes: Gain insight into geology at Poas and Arenal volcanoes.
St. Lucia: See the iconic Pitons, a World Heritage site, and stroll through the Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens.
Adventure: Discover the forest canopy from hanging bridges and enjoy a “float safari” featuring plentiful wildlife sightings along the river. Plus, engage in optional active adventures at a resort overlooking the Pacific.
St. Vincent and the Grenadines: Enjoy the pretty port city of Kingstown and tour colonial Fort Charlotte. On the verdant island of Bequia, “the jewel of the Grenadines,” enjoy sweeping views from Mt. Pleasant. Go snorkeling among the vibrant marine life and coral reefs of Tobago Cays Marine Park or observe it from the “Blue Eye,” your expedition ship’s extraordinary underwater observation lounge.
Cultural Experiences: Learn about Costa Rica’s coffee industry (one of its largest exports) and impressive educational system during special visits, plus enjoy a private cooking class. Limited to 17 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Tom Mirenda (Jan.)–expert in horticulture and former specialist for the Smithsonian’s orchid collection. Dennis Wille Saénz (March)–highly respected naturalist from Costa Rica with expertise in biodiversity and conservation.
Time at Leisure: Enjoy the beach, swim, or go snorkeling in Rodney Bay, St. Lucia; Saline Bay, Mayreau; and St. George’s, Grenada. Space reserved for 40 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Learn more about Le Champlain on page 13 and on our website. Smithsonian Journeys Expert Kirt Kempter–highly respected geologist.
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THE AMERICAS / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS
Machu Picchu and the Galápagos 16 days from $8,793 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees Jan. 11–26, Feb. 29–March 15, April 11–26, May 2–17, May 16–31, May 30–June 14, July 11–26, Aug. 29–Sept. 13, Sept. 26–Oct. 11, Oct. 31–Nov. 15, 2020
The legendary Machu Picchu
South America is home to many unique and amazing sites, and this popular tour features two of its most important cultural and natural treasures—the World Heritage sites of Machu Picchu and the Galápagos Islands. Journey first to Cusco and the Sacred Valley to learn about ancient Inca culture and ascend into the Andes where you’ll experience the enigmatic site of Machu Picchu. Then immerse yourself in the fascinating world of the Galápagos Islands for three magical days and explore the unique wildlife that Charles Darwin encountered during the early 1800s. Highlights Include
Cusco and the Sacred Valley: Venture to the World Heritage site of Cusco, where you’ll visit the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art, as well as Sacsayhuaman and meet a local family during a traditional meal. Come to understand the Inca culture, both past and present, during excursions to Pisac, Chinchero, and Ollantaytambo. Machu Picchu: Explore the stunning “Lost City of the Incas” as your small group moves nimbly throughout the site. By staying overnight nearby at the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge, you’ll experience Machu Picchu without the crowds—allowing you to feel its true spirit. The Galápagos Islands: Witness Darwin’s theories of natural selection in a fascinating landscape during an exciting three-night stay on Santa Cruz Island. Here, settle into a beautiful hotel in the lush highlands and visit a family to see and learn about the giant Galápagos tortoises. Explore other islands, including North Seymour and Santa Fé, during excursions on a privately chartered yacht. Blue-footed Boobies Overnight/Featured Site
Wildlife: In addition to giant Galápagos tortoises, observe sea lions and iguana, reefs teeming with colorful fish, and sea birds such as Bluefooted and Red-footed Boobies, Nazca Boobies, and Frigate birds.
Quito
Air Train
ECUADOR
Extension (Air)
Iquitos (Amazon)
Pacific Ocean
PERU North Seymour Lima
Baltra Santa Cruz
South Plaza
G ALÁPAGOS I SLANDS
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Active Adventure: Experience the natural wonders of the Galápagos while swimming and snorkeling and during nature walks and boat rides.
Machu Picchu Cusco/Sacred Valley
Limited to 19 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Franklin Knight (Jan.)–expert in social, political, and cultural aspects of Latin America. Anita Cook (Feb.) and Matt Sayre (May 16)–experts in anthropology and archaeology specializing in the Central Andes. Pat Dickerson (April), Wayne Ranney (May 30), and Peter Bobrowsky (Sept.)–highly respected geologists. Nina Zitani (May 2/Aug.)–accomplished field research biologist. Regina Harrison (July)–expert in the culture, language, and literature of the Incas.
SMITHSONIANJOURNEYS.ORG / 877.338.8687 / BOOK YOUR TRIP
Mother seal with pup
Wonders of the Galápagos Islands
A Voyage Aboard the 90-guest Santa Cruz II 9 days from $5,995 Includes $1,000 early booking savings Jan. 23–31, 2020 The Galápagos Islands comprise a mysterious landscape of wonder, beauty, and the most unusual wildlife found anywhere on Earth. Wake up to new vistas each day, cruise to six of the Galápagos Islands, and learn about this fascinating World Heritage site. Highlights Include Unique Wildlife: Watch the antics of Blue-footed Boobies and observe the beauty of Nazca Boobies, flamingos, and Frigate birds. And during nature walks, swimming, or snorkeling, get up close to sea lions, seals, Sally Lightfoot crabs, iguana, penguins, and giant land tortoises. Featured Islands: Cruise from Baltra Island to San Cristobal to encounter sea lion colonies and dozens of bird species and reptiles. See prickly pear cacti and scarlet succulents on Santa Fé then continue to nearby South Plaza Island. Learn about efforts to protect rare giant tortoises at the Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz. Cruising to Española Island—the southernmost and one of the oldest islands—see the famous Punta Suarez blowhole spray water nearly 100 feet high. Swim, snorkel, or sea kayak off Gardner Bay’s picturesque white coral beach and watch Blue-footed Boobies dive into the ocean for prey. Enjoy the natural wonders of North Seymour Island before concluding your cruise. Santa Cruz II: Sail for six nights aboard this newly refurbished ship, an ideal size that allows for a choice of excursions and also offers an intimate experience. Find more details on our website. Space reserved for 30 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Expert Wayne Ranney Ranney–highly respected geologist.
Island on Lake Titicaca
Legendary Peru
World of the Inca and Machu Picchu 11 days from $4,987 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees Nov. 11–21, 2019 & March 16–26, April 20–30, May 25–June 4, Aug. 31–Sept. 10, 2020 A land of archaeological, cultural, and natural treasures, Peru offers a memorable travel experience. The Inca Empire was a highly developed civilization and at one time comprised some six million people. During this journey you’ll view spectacular sites and artifacts that bear silent testimony to this culture and learn about contemporary Peruvian culture from local people. Highlights Include
Machu Picchu: Stay overnight near this World Heritage site (in Aguas Calientes) and view it with the early morning sun bathing the stones—the ideal time to explore, before the crowds appear. Sacred Valley: Observe a native ceremony and weaving demonstration and spend an afternoon at Ollantaytambo. Cusco: Enjoy a traditional meal in the home of a local family, visit the Pre-Columbian Art Museum, and see the massive Inca ruins of Sacsayhuaman. Lake Titicaca: Travel through the rugged altiplano with its snowcapped Andean peaks. Stop at the Llama and Alpaca Research Center, then continue to Lake Titicaca, at 12,500 feet above sea level, and meet with the tophatted Uros people who live on islands made of reeds. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Bill Sapp (Nov./March)–expert in archaeology and anthropology with a focus on Inca sites. Jim Reynolds (April/May)–noted geologist with special expertise in volcanology and the Andes.
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Patagonian Explorer
Argentina and Chile by Land and Sea Featuring a four-night cruise aboard the 210-guest Stella Australis 16 days from $8,582 / Includes airfare, taxes & all fees Jan. 19–Feb. 3, Feb. 12–27, March 7–22, 2020 Follow in the footsteps of intrepid explorers as you travel to the southernmost tip of South America. From the bustling cities of Buenos Aires and Santiago to the dramatic vistas of Torres del Paine and the Patagonian Channels, explore by land and sea and gain insight into the natural and cultural elements of this breathtaking region. Highlights Include Buenos Aires: Capture the essence of Argentina’s cultural capital during visits to well-known neighborhoods, including La Boca, San Telmo, and Palermo, plus the Colón Opera House and a premier tango house. Cruise of the Patagonian Channels: From Ushuaia, sail for four nights aboard the expedition ship Stella Australis. Cruise the Strait of Magellan and the Beagle and Murray Channels. Watch for sea lions and Antarctic fur seals as you cruise to Cape Horn National Park and take a guided walk at the sheltered Wulaia Bay. Plus, observe an immense colony of more than 120,000 Magellanic penguins at Magdalena Island.
Stella Australis: Cruise for four nights aboard this comfortable expedition ship, featuring indoor and outdoor lounges, all-inclusive bar, and dining room offering flavorful cuisine. Plus, an expert expedition team provides Zodiac excursions. Find more details on our website. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Bob Smolik (Jan.)–former diplomat with special expertise in economics and trade. Dennis Wille Sáenz (Feb.)–highly respected naturalist with expertise in biodiversity and conservation.
Pacific Ocean Santiago
Buenos Aires
ARGENTINA
Torres del Paine National Park: Enjoy two days exploring this World Biosphere Reserve, renowned for its mountain peaks, glaciers, turquoise lakes, rushing rivers, and thunderous waterfalls. Santiago: Conclude your journey in the sophisticated Chilean capital, discover the old port city of Valparaiso, and attend a private winery tour and tasting. Plus, enjoy meeting gracious Santiago families when you are dinner guests in their homes.
Iguazu Falls
CHILE
Atlantic Ocean
Overnight/Featured Site Air
Torres del Paine Punta Arenas Cape Horn
Motorcoach
Ushuaia
Cruise Extension (Air)
Cormorants along the Beagle Channel
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Solar Eclipse 2020: Chile, Argentina, and the Path of Totality SPECIALTY
11 days from $8,290 Sells out quickly! Book now! Dec. 6–16, 2020
Puerto Varas and Lake Llanquihue
Appreciate the beauty and science of both the celestial and earthly natural wonders in the Lakes District of Chile and Argentina. Renowned as a mythic land of glaciers, volcanoes, primeval forests, and pampas, it will also be one of the best places to view the total solar eclipse on December 14, 2020. Highlights Include Santiago: Savor Chile’s capital during visits to select historic sites and museums, including the Lastarria neighborhood, the Plaza de Armas, the Precolumbian Museum, and poet Pablo Neruda’s La Chascona home. Patagonian Lake District: Be immersed in a landscape of pristine lakes, forests, snowcapped mountains, and the rural life of the renowned Lakes District of Chile and Argentina. Fly to Chile’s Puerto Montt and visit Lahuen-Nadi Natural Monument Park for a walk among the trees of Chile’s temperate rain forest. Continue to the lakeside town of Puerto Varas and from your lakeside hotel explore the scenic countryside around Lake Llanquihue. Visit the Fulmer Museum, which details the lives of the early German pioneers to this region in the 1800s, and explore the lakeside town of Frutillar, famous for art, classical music, and German kuchen. Then spend a day making the famous “Lakes Crossing” from Chile to Argentina, first visiting the beautiful Petrohue waterfalls, with Osorno Volcano as a backdrop. Cruise the waters of Lakes Todos Los Santos and Nahuel Huapi and enjoy panoramic vistas of the Andes. Later, drive along the “Route of the Seven Lakes,” stopping for walks and a picnic lunch at several lakes and waterfalls within Nahuel Huapi and Lanin National Parks. Total Solar Eclipse: Accompanied by a noted astronomer, experience the eclipse from a specially chosen viewing site at a private estancia (ranch), located in the middle of the Path of Totality and in a dry area known for clear skies.* In preparation for this special event, visit the Andean Astronomical Observatory (in Santiago) for a preview of the constellations of the southern skies. Limited to 37 Smithsonian Journeys guests. *Despite being in a prime location to experience the total solar eclipse, this event is weather dependent. Smithsonian Journeys Expert C. Alex Young–noted astrophysicist and Associate Director for Science in the Heliophysics Science Division at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center. He also leads the NASA Space Science Education Consortium.
Osorno Volcano and Petrohue Falls
Total Solar Eclipse
CHILE Santiago
Puerto Varas and Lake Llanquihue
Pacific Ocean
Puerto Varas/ Puerto Montt
Buenos Aires
ARGENTINA Santo Tomas Lago Correntoso Bariloche
Overnight Featured Site Air Motorcoach
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Observatory at Haleakala, Maui
Astronomy and Natural Wonders of Hawaii 9 days from $6,895 Sells out quickly! Book now! April 18–26, Nov. 11–19, 2020 Explore the wonders of the Universe and marvel at Earth’s immense geological forces and undersea world during this unique tour of Hawaii and Maui. Highlights Include Astronomy: Learn about distant planets, star clusters, and galaxies in a location of unmatched clarity for sky viewing. On the summit of Hawaii’s Mauna Kea, enjoy special access at the Submillimeter Array, run by the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory, plus stargaze through a powerful telescope. Later, trace the history of Hawaiian celestial navigation at the Imiloa Astronomy Center. On Maui, visit another important observatory at the summit of Haleakala. Plus, take a stargazing cruise on a new moon evening with an astronomer. Geology and Natural History: Spend a day with a resident geologist on the Big Island exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and learn about its ongoing volcanic activity. Plus, take a walk in the northern backcountry, known for its waterfalls and breathtaking views. And on Maui, explore the moon-like crater, endemic plants, and native birds at Haleakala National Park.
The MMT at Smithsonian’s Whipple Observatory
Astronomy in Arizona
Featuring Smithsonian’s Whipple Observatory 5 days from $3,490 Sells out quickly! Book now! April 19–23, 2020 Few places on Earth offer better opportunities to study astronomy than the ultra-clear skies of southern Arizona. Join us on a spectacular intergalactic journey and discover for yourself an infinite array of celestial phenomena during hands-on telescope viewing, in-depth lectures, and tours of some of the world’s great centers for astronomical research. Highlights Include Smithsonian’s Whipple Observatory: Gain special insight during an exclusive visit high atop Mt. Hopkins. Enjoy a VIP visit to see the massive 6.5-Meter Mirror Telescope (MMT) and other powerful optical telescopes. University of Arizona Steward Observatory Mirror Lab: Tour this incredible scientific production facility, which is producing the most advanced giant telescope mirrors in the world.
Marine Biology: Join a marine biologist on a private tour of the Maui Ocean Center. You’ll also see green sea turtles along a black-sand beach on Hawaii.
Active StarGazing: Visit Mt. Lemmon SkyCenter, part of the University of Arizona Steward Observatory, where you’ll view planets, stars, and galaxies through the center’s 32-inch Shulman telescope and smaller telescopes. Learn how to photograph stars and planets and use sky charts to view the night sky.
Limited to 22 Smithsonian Journeys guests.
Limited to 28 Smithsonian Journeys guests.
Smithsonian Journeys Expert Richard Wainscoat (Nov.)–astronomer at the University of Hawaii who works with the PanSTARRS telescope atop Haleakala.
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Smithsonian Journeys Expert David Aguilar–astronomer, author, and former director of public affairs and science information at the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics.
The U.S. Space and Rocket Center
Smithsonian at Space Academy 5 days from $3,995 Nov. 17–21, 2019 & March 8–12, Nov. 8–12, 2020 To mark the 55th anniversary of man’s first space walk, join fellow travelers who share a passion for the history and future of space exploration. Join us on a VIP experience at the renowned U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama, a Smithsonian Affiliate. Here, you’ll attend daily discussions and panels with NASA scientists and engineers and participate in classic Space Academy activities with two astronauts as your mission leaders. Highlights Include Special Speakers: Partner with an astronaut who will train your group and share insights for your missions. Attend a private lecture by a former astronaut and by Homer Hickam, former NASA engineer and author of the best-selling memoir Rocket Boys. Participate in daily discussions and attend panels with NASA scientists and engineers who have worked on the most important projects in the history of the space program. Behind the Scenes: Explore nearby Marshall Space Flight Center, the largest NASA center and home of the U.S. government’s rocketry and spacecraft propulsion research. Visit historic rocket launch testing sites and the Payload Operations and Integration Center—the NASA facility that oversees scientific operations on board the International Space Station. Space Academy Activities: Participate in classic Space Academy activities, including group missions that simulate a lunar shuttle launch, and address the challenges of surviving on Mars. The adventurous have the option to try out the astronaut training simulators, featuring the spinning Multi Axis Trainer and the Underwater Astronaut Trainer, which creates a feeling of weightlessness that prepares astronauts for performing tasks in reduced gravity. Limited to 32 Smithsonian Journeys guests.
Inside model of International Space Station Mission simulation, International Space Station
Smithsonian Journeys Enrichment Astronauts Hoot Gibson (all dates) and Mike Foreman (2020 dates) will be mission leaders for this specialty tour. Scientists and speakers from the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, including former NASA engineer Homer Hickam, will provide further educational insight. Plus, emeritus docents who are former employees of NASA and Marshall Space Flight Center with decades of firsthand knowledge will add to your experience. (Please note that speakers are subject to change.)
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See America’s waterways through the Smithsonian lens Experience our national treasures from aboard small ships By popular demand, Smithsonian Journeys has expanded its cruise offerings of America’s scenic waterways! You can now choose from five exceptional voyages featuring in-depth insight into various regions of the U.S.
Cruise the Columbia and Snake Rivers aboard the paddle wheeler American Pride
Voyage on the Mississippi
Cruise aboard a fleet of upscale small ships— Independence, American Harmony, and American Star and the paddle wheeler American Pride—that accommodate just 100 to 187 guests and take you into historic towns and gracious ports where larger vessels can’t visit. Relax and enjoy informal conversation with your Smithsonian Journeys Expert and fellow travelers on deck, in the lounges, and at meals and attend presentations that bring additional insight to fascinating shore excursions. Our ships are stylishly appointed with modern amenities, spacious all-suite cabins with large opening picture windows (and many with private balconies), complimentary Wi-Fi, and more. Meals are prepared by executive chefs who feature locally sourced ingredients and regional menus, all served in a single unassigned seating in casual restaurants, with complimentary wine and beer. Learn more about U.S. cruising on the following pages and find ship details online at SmithsonianJourneys.org/ships.
A River Cruise from New Orleans to Memphis Aboard the 187-guest American Harmony CRUISE
9 days from $6,590 / Includes $250 early booking savings May 23–31, Oct. 22–30, 2020
Journey to the heart and soul of the American South aboard a modern riverboat. From spirited New Orleans to lively Memphis, learn about the region’s complex history and its enormous influence on American history and culture. Highlights Include Historic Towns and Plantations: Take a walking tour of the historic French Quarter in New Orleans and visit Oak Alley plantation, a National Historic Landmark. From Baton Rouge, explore the complex wetland of Atchafalaya Basin. Continue to Natchez, renowned for its 19thcentury prosperity and more than 500 stately antebellum homes. At Frogmore Plantation, walk through the house of Natchez planters and learn about the life, customs, and music of the enslaved people who lived there. Civil War Sites: Learn how the Union controlled the Mississippi River when you tour Vicksburg National Military Park, where more than 1,400 monuments and memorials dot the landscape and visit the restored ironclad gunboat USS Cairo. 64
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Civil Rights Movement: During a city tour of Memphis, visit the National Civil Rights Museum, a Smithsonian Affiliate, and view the robust collections that trace the culture of slavery, African-American history, and the American Civil Rights Movement. Mississippi River Cruise: Feel the spirit and tradition of cruising this historic river and savor the finest in southern cuisine aboard the elegant new American Harmony. Find more details on our website. Space reserved for 36 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Expert Wilson Greene (May)–military historian, executive director of two Civil War historical sites, and former National Park Service historian. Richard Kleese (Oct.)–expert and author on the Civil War, with a focus on the Shenandoah Valley battlefields.
Cruising Southern Coastlines A Cruise between Charleston and Jacksonville Aboard the 100-guest Independence CRUISE
9 days from $5,995 Includes $250 early booking savings April 3–11, 2020
Savor the splendors of the South on this delightful coastal voyage! Explore the historic gems of Charleston and Savannah and see how the vivid and varied culture of the Low Country has evolved from colonial beginnings to modern day. Plus, discover whitesand beaches, wooded barrier islands, and vast stretches of golden marshes that are home to a myriad of wildlife. Highlights Include
Great Blue Heron
Picturesque Ports and U.S. History: In Charleston, savor the city’s colorful hues and see antebellum homes embellished with fanciful wrought ironwork during a tour that includes Rainbow Row. Take a carriage tour of Beaufort, South Carolina’s tree-shaded community, which is included on the National Register of Historic Places. Dock directly in the famous River Street area of Savannah, Georgia, then tour the 40-block historic district with cobblestone streets lined with classic wrought-iron fences and 150-year–old, moss-draped oaks predating the Civil War. You’ll also visit the Mighty Eight Airforce Museum with its impressive collection of World War II aircraft. Cruising along the barrier islands, arrive at Jekyll Island to visit “Millionaire’s Village,” a National Historic Landmark with extravagant winter cottages built more than a century ago. St. Simons features 18th-century battlefields and sprawling antebellum plantations. At Amelia Island’s Fernandina Beach, enjoy the treasure trove of history, antiques, and Victorian-style mansions and cottages. Natural Beauty: Embark on a private boat tour of Hilton Head’s 600-acre Sea Pines Resort Forest Preserve, featuring indigenous plants and animal species, including the American alligator. On Jekyll Island tour the Georgia Sea Turtle Center. Take in spectacular views from the ship’s deck as you meander the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway, where spartina cordgrass forms a band behind the barrier islands, creating one of the most extensive and productive marshland systems on the planet. Discover Amelia Island’s natural beauty, with its miles of quartz beaches and rolling sand dunes. Independence: Perfect for coastal cruising, our ship features a spacious sun deck and lounge deck with panoramic windows. Master chefs prepare superb regional menus, and spacious staterooms feature upscale amenities. Learn more on our website. Space reserved for 36 Smithsonian Journeys guests.
Historic home in Charleston
South Carolina Charleston Beaufort
Georgia
Hilton Head Island Savannah
Atlantic Ocean St. Simons Island Jekyll Island Amelia Island
Smithsonian Journeys Expert Alan Gallay–expert in American history.
Jacksonville
Florida
Port of Call Ship
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Pulling the Dory by Winslow Homer, Farnsworth Art Museum
Portland Head Lighthouse
Art Along the Coast of Maine A Round-trip Cruise from Portland Aboard the 100-guest Independence
9 days from $6,295 Includes $250 early booking savings Aug. 7–15, 2020 Discover the unique and enduring appeal of Maine’s magnificent coastline—a delight to visitors and an inspiration to many American artists. Join our art historian on this popular cruise, which showcases evocative seascapes, charming towns, and art by Maine’s most famous painters—the Wyeths, Winslow Homer, and Thomas Cole. Highlights Include Picturesque Ports: Cruise through protected waters to experience some of Maine’s most picturesque ports, including Bar Harbor, Rockland, Castine, Boothbay Harbor, Bath, and Camden, considered the “tall ship capital of Maine.” The Arts: Take an exclusive tour of the Portland Museum of Art with its superb paintings by Winslow Homer, Rockwell Kent, and Frederic Church among others. At the Farnsworth Art Museum, learn about the Wyeth family of artists—N.C., Andrew, and James—one of America’s most important artist families, as you visit the renowned Wyeth Center and the Olson House, where Andrew painted many works. History: Gain further insight into the area’s rich seafaring history at the Penobscot Marine Museum, with its paintings, scrimshaw, models, and 19th-century sea captain’s home. And in Bath, you’ll tour the Maine Maritime Museum, located on the site of a 19th-century shipyard. In Castine, visit the historical society and take a walking tour featuring beautiful Federal and Greek revival homes, including the former summer homes of literary figures Mary McCarthy, Robert Lowell, and Elizabeth Hardwick. You’ll also stop at Bar Harbor’s Abbe Museum, a Smithsonian Affiliate, which showcases the history and cultures of the Wabanaki, Maine’s Native people. Parks and Gardens: Travel through the natural beauty of Acadia National Park, made famous by Thomas Cole and Frederic Church. Enjoy a scenic tour of Camden Hills State Park, high atop Mount Battie, and visit the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens in Boothbay Harbor. Space reserved for 35 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Learn more about the Independence on page 64 and on our website. 66
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Painter in Camden Port of Call Ship
MAINE
Bath Portland
Bar Harbor Castine Northeast Harbor Somes Penobscot Sound Camden Bay Deer Isle Rockland Belfast
Boothbay Harbor Mohegan Island
Atlantic Ocean
Smithsonian Journeys Expert Janice Simon–art historian with expertise in American artists, especially of New England.
Fall foliage, New York City’s Central Park Window by Marc Chagall Union Church of Pocantico Hills
Art Along the Hudson
A Fall Foliage Cruise Round-trip from New York City Aboard the 100-guest American Star 9 days from $6,890 Includes $250 early booking savings Oct. 9–17, Oct. 16–24, 2020 Experience the blazing fall colors of the Hudson River Valley, often the subject of paintings by Thomas Cole, Frederic Church, and Jasper Cropsey, during this popular and unique cruise. From New York City to Albany, you’ll tour museums featuring superior collections of fine art, plus historic homes of artists and political figures. Highlights Include New York City: View the extensive American art collections of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, including spectacular paintings by Hudson River School artists—the ideal introduction to this cruise. You’ll also enjoy a city tour of Manhattan with a stop at the reflective pools at the World Trade Center Memorial. Lower Hudson: Cruise up the Hudson to Tarrytown and Kykuit, the palatial estate that was home to three generations of the Rockefeller family. Take an in-depth tour of the house, featuring superb art and antiques, lush gardens and grounds, and panoramic view of the Palisades. Other highlights include a stop at the nearby Union Church of Pocantico Hills, with its exquisite windows designed by Matisse and Chagall, and a tour of the Gothic Revival mansion of Lyndhurst. Mid-Hudson: Tour the United States Military Academy at West Point, founded in 1802, including the imposing Cadet Chapel with its impressive church organ. At Storm King Art Center, an impressive outdoor sculpture park, view nearly 100 artworks by prominent modern artists. Across the Hudson is historic Hyde Park and the home of Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt. Walk through rooms filled with history, including the room where he gave his famous fireside chats, and visit the Presidential Library and visitors center. At Vassar College, view impressive art collections that feature many Hudson River School painters, then enjoy an afternoon of cruising the Hudson amid the brilliant fall foliage. Upper Hudson: Arriving in Albany, tour the history and 19th-century art collections at the Albany Institute of History and Art, as well as the more modern art at the Empire State Plaza. Then step into the private world of Frederic Church, a founder of the Hudson River School. Tour his Moorish-style home, Olana, which offers special insight into this important painter, plus magnificent views across the river of the Catskills. Space reserved for 60 Smithsonian Journeys guests per departure. Learn more about American Star on page 64 and on our website.
Port of Call Featured Site Ship
Albany
N EW Y ORK
Catskill
Olana
Hudson River
Kingston Poughkeepsie/ Vassar College
Wilderstein Hyde Park
West Point Storm King Yonkers
N EW J ERSEY
Kykuit/ Long Island Lyndhurst New York City
Atlantic Ocean
Smithsonian Journeys Experts Janice Simon (Oct. 9) and Jason LaFountain (Oct. 16)–art historians with expertise in the Hudson River School. 67
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In the Wake of Lewis and Clark Cruising the Columbia and Snake Rivers Aboard the 150-guest American Pride
9 days from $6,390 Includes $250 early booking savings Oct. 9–17, 2020 Enjoy autumn colors and clear blue skies while cruising one of America’s great waterways—the Columbia and Snake Rivers—from Astoria to Clarkston. Explore the westernmost route of Lewis and Clark’s Corps of Discovery expedition, which carved a pathway to the West, and take in the natural beauty, museums, and historic sites that feature the best of Oregon and Washington. Highlights Include History: Reflect on Lewis and Clark’s expedition during a choice of excursions. Walk through the full-scale reconstructed Fort Clatsop, located near the mouth of the Columbia River, where the explorers hunkered down for the wet winter of 1805–1806. Or, at Cape Disappointment, stand in the same spot where expedition members beheld their first view of the Pacific Ocean and gain insight at the interpretive center. At the Nez Perce National Historic Park, hear stories of the Nez Perce people, who saved the expedition from starvation after their trek through the Bitterroot Mountains. Plus, stop at the Tamatslikt Cultural Institute for a look into the storied past of the Cayuse, Umatilla, and Walla Walla tribes. Northwest Beauty: Admire dramatic landscapes, including Mt. Hood, Multnomah Falls, and the Columbia River Gorge near Portland, as well as Mount Saint Helens. Plus, enjoy an exciting jet boat ride in Hells Canyon, one of America’s deepest river canyons. Learn about the geologic causes that created this varied landscape at various educational sites throughout your voyage. River Navigation: Visit the Columbia River Maritime Museum in Astoria, which chronicles the history of river Columbia River
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navigation, then gain further perspective as you transit a series of eight locks that lift or lower your ship some 700 feet. Farm to Table: Savor award-winning wines at a local vineyard and enjoy the region’s coveted culinary scene aboard ship. American Pride: Feel the spirit of the Golden Age of riverboats as you cruise the Columbia and Snake Rivers aboard a traditional paddle wheeler. The ship features spacious state rooms with private balconies or picture windows, upscale amenities, and elevator access to all decks. Find more details on page 64 and on our website. Space reserved for 60 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Port of Call Featured Site
UNITED STATES
Ship
Palouse River
W ASHINGTON Astoria Fort Clatsop
Mt St. Helens Cascade Mountains
Richland
Snake River
Portland Multomah Falls
Willamette River
I DAHO
Clarkston/ Lewiston
Pendleton Hells Canyon Columbia River Columbia The Dalles River Gorge
O REGON
Smithsonian Journeys Expert Harry Fritz–historian with expertise in the Lewis and Clark expedition.
Fort Clatsop
Bryce Canyon National Park
Grand Canyon National Park
Bryce, Zion, and the Grand Canyon 10 days from $3,995 April 19–28, Sept. 2–11, Oct. 4–13, 2020 Enjoy an overview of the natural wonders of three iconic national parks in Arizona and Utah, all in one exciting tour! Highlights Include Sedona: Travel through the beautiful desert landscape from Phoenix to Sedona, known for its towering red sandstone formations. Explore this dazzling landscape during an exciting off-road jeep excursion. Grand Canyon National Park: Considered one of the seven wonders of the natural world, this World Heritage site stretches nearly 300 miles through the Arizona desert. Witness truly awe-inspiring vistas of banded layers of rock that rise to plateaus and bluffs thousands of feet overhead, while the mighty Colorado River rushes below. Gaze in wonder as you walk through the sinuous red slot canyon of Upper Antelope Canyon, and later, see the Grand Canyon up close during a float trip on the Colorado River. Learn about the canyon’s cultural history and geological significance during almost three days here. Bryce Canyon National Park: Gaze in awe at a stunning array of hoodoos—thousands of delicate red, orange, and pink stone pillars and spires that have been dramatically sculpted by erosion. Learn about the park’s unusual geology at the Visitor Center, then enjoy the day to explore as you wish, by visiting many of the overlooks or hiking down into the park.
Zion National Park: Spend a day exploring the diverse landscapes of this wondrous park, including deserts, forests, rivers, canyons, buttes, and natural arches. Take a guided hike to observe the sandstone cliffs ranging in color from cream to pink and rusty red, then enjoy ample free time. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. U TAH Zion National Bryce Park Bryce Canyon National Park Springdale
N EVADA
Page Grand Canyon National Park Tusayan/ Grand Colorado River Canyon
Las Vegas
Sedona
A RIZONA Phoenix OvernightJourneys Experts Smithsonian Site Howard Featured Topoff and Carol Simon (April)–biologists Motorcoach specializing in animal behavior, ecology, and evolutionary biology. Allen Glazner (Sept.)–highly respected geologist.
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Alaska’s Glaciers and the Inside Passage A Cruise from Vancouver to Juneau Aboard the 220-guest Le Soléal
8 days from approximately $3,995 Includes $1,000 early booking savings July 29–Aug. 5, 2020
Calving glacier
Join us for an adventure of a lifetime as you experience the magnificent natural wonders and mosaic of cultural traditions of Alaska during our popular small-ship cruise featuring southeast Alaska and the Inside Passage. Highlights Include Dramatic Landscapes: Explore scenic treasures, from coastlines near Vancouver to tiny Elfin Cove in the north. Venture through narrow straits and into the heart of Tracy Arm and Endicott Arm, where sheer cliffs rise thousands of feet. Listen to the thunder of large ice calving into the water at South Sawyer Glacier and Dawes Glacier and see their iconic icebergs up close on naturalist-led expeditions. Wildlife: As nature unfolds before you, take delight in watching hundreds of harbor seals basking on icebergs, a pod of whales feeding off the ship’s bow, and Steller sea lions and sea otters in the water. Look to the sky to see bald eagles soaring overhead, plus myriad other birdlife, including guillemots and Arctic terns. You may even spot brown bears hunting for fish on nearby banks. Clan house totems, Ketchikan Point Adolphus Juneau Elfin Icy Strait CANADA Cove Tracy Arm Endicott Arm Dawes Glacier A LASKA Frederick Sound Sitka Petersburg
Le Conte Bay
Chatham Strait
Gulf of Alaska Port of Call
Misty Fjords National Monument Ketchikan
Featured Site Ship
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Cultural Experiences: In Ketchikan, visit a recreated Native Alaskan village with totem poles and clan houses at Potlatch Totem Park, where you’ll watch a master carver during an exclusive demonstration. Sitka is laden with the art and history of its Tlingit culture and 19th-century Russian fur-trading era. Converse with Tlingit artisans in Sitka National Historical Park, where trails are lined with intricately carved totem poles. Marvel at priceless Russian Orthodox icons in the onion-domed St. Michael’s Cathedral. And get up close to eagles, hawks, and falcons at the Alaska Raptor Center. Space reserved for 40 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Learn more about Le Soléal on page 13 and on our website. Smithsonian Journeys Expert Peter Bobrowsky–highly respected archaeologist and geologist.
Vancouver
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Alaska’s Natural Wonders 11 days from $6,495 June 2–12, July 7–17, Aug. 18–28, 2020 Experience the natural wonders of Alaska on our new journey featuring three important national parks. From Denali to Wrangell-St. Elias and Kenai Fjords, feel the excitement of seeing bountiful wildlife, majestic snow-covered mountains, and dramatic glistening glaciers. Plus, gain a better understanding of the Alaskan way of life from insightful visits in Anchorage and along your journey. Highlights Include
Denali National Park: Enjoy Alaska’s dramatic scenery from a train window as you travel from Anchorage to Denali. The centerpiece of this six-million-acre preserve is Mount Denali, America’s tallest peak. Traveling deep into the park (to Eielson Visitor Center), your expert ranger talks about all that you’ll encounter: the landscape of forests, alpine tundra, and snow-covered mountains and wildlife such as grizzly bear, moose, and caribou that you’ll likely see along the road. Plus, enjoy an easy walk through the tundra.
Mount Denali Bald eagles in Alaska
Wrangell-St. Elias National Park: Journey by coach to remote Chitina, then board a prop plane for the half-hour scenic flight to this isolated park. At 13.2 million acres, Wrangell-St. Elias is the largest park in the U.S. and a World Heritage site. Settle deep within the rugged wilderness, home to some of North America’s highest mountains and largest collection of glaciers. You’ll don crampons for a half-day hike out to icefields, cascading waterfalls, and deep canyons and spend time exploring Kennecott, once a bustling copper mining camp. Seward and Kenai Fjords National Park: Travel through the Chugach National Forest en route to Seward. From here, an exciting day cruise of Kenai Fjords National Park features up-close views of glaciers and pristine fjords, along with plenty of marine wildlife such as whales, harbor seals, and sea lions, as well as bears, mountain goats, and moose along the shore, and memorable puffins and other species of birds. Anchorage: Learn more about the Alaskan experience in Anchorage during visits to the Alaska Native Heritage Center, the Anchorage Museum with its Smithsonian Arctic Studies Center, and the Wildlife Conservation Center, plus a city tour featuring the historic downtown area. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Howard Topoff and Carol Simon (Aug. 18)–experts in animal behavior, ecology, and evolutionary biology.
Overnight Air
Denali National Park
Motorcoach
A LASKA
Train
Chitina Talkeetna
Anchorage
Seward Kenai Fjords National Park
Knik Valley
Wrangell-St. Elias National Park
Gulf of Alaska
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THE AMERICAS / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS
The Northern Rockies
Featuring Glacier, Banff, and Jasper National Parks 11 days from $5,691 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees June 24–July 4, July 6–16, Aug. 26–Sept. 5, 2020
Glacier National Park Mother bear with cubs
Discover some of the most spectacular landscapes of the Northern Rocky Mountains during our journey to Glacier, Banff, and Jasper National Parks. Within these three World Heritage site parks, you’ll enjoy leisurely hikes and drives that showcase magnificent vistas of snowcapped mountain peaks, glaciers, lakes, and lush forests, plus plentiful wildlife sightings. Highlights Include Glacier National Park: Drive along the fabled Going-to-the-Sun Road, famous for breathtaking views of deep valleys, craggy mountains, and wildlife. Hike along St. Mary Lake, which showcases the divide between the Great Plains and the Rocky Mountains. And in the nearby resort town of Whitefish, Montana, you’ll go hiking, visit a nature center, and enjoy vistas from the mountain summit. Banff National Park: During your drive to Banff, enjoy striking scenery that showcases forests, lakes, and high plains. Arriving at Lake Louise, take a hike along this emerald lake, often called the “Jewel of the Canadian Rockies.” Journey to the Columbia Icefield for a oncein-a-lifetime “ice coach” tour of Athabasca Glacier, the most visited glacier in North America. Other highlights include a gondola ride to the top of 8,000-foot Sulphur Mountain, overlooking the town of Banff, and a drive along Tunnel Mountain Road where you’ll see the Hoodoos and Bow Falls.
Bull elk
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Jasper National Park: Explore the geological marvel of Maligne Canyon and enjoy a cruise on cerulean Maligne Lake, the largest glacially formed lake in the Canadian Rockies. Later, drive along the Columbia Icefields Parkway, which parallels the CANADA Whistlers Inn Jasper Continental Divide National Park and features dramatic B RITISH C OLUMBIA Columbia Icefields Parkway landscapes and wildlife Rimrock Resort Hotel Lake Louise such as bear, moose, Calgary Banff National Park elk, and mountain goat. You’ll also stop at the Glacier Skywalk, a transparent-bottomed St. Mary observation deck UNITED STATES Going Lodge to the Whitefish Sun suspended nearly 1,000 Glacier Overnight feet above the valley M ONTANA National Park Motorcoach floor, providing an exhilarating experience. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Patty Hostiuck (June)–highly respected Limited to 24 naturalist. Martin Magne (July)–expert in Smithsonian the early history and archaeology of Canada. Journeys guests.
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Charming Lunenburg, Nova Scotia
Seascapes of the Canadian Maritimes 12 days from $5,397 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees June 21–July 2, July 19–30, Aug. 23–Sept. 3, 2020 The Canadian Maritimes—New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island—are known for their dramatic maritime landscapes, unique historic sites, and quiet lifestyle. Experience all this and more on this new tour. Highlights Include Nova Scotia and Cape Breton Island: Discover the historic sites of British Lunenburg and French Acadian Grand-Pré, and see picturesque Mahone Bay and Peggy’s Point Lighthouse. On Cape Breton Island, visit the home of Alexander Graham Bell in Baddeck and an 18thcentury French fortress in Louisbourg. During a scenic drive, view the rugged landscape of ocean waters crashing against steep cliffs. New Brunswick: Cross the Bay of Fundy by ferry for historic Saint John, then focus on the area’s natural history. During a whale watching cruise, view many of the bay’s 12 species of whales. At Hopewell Rocks, gaze upon the ocean’s power as the Bay of Fundy’s water level changes 45 feet, the world’s highest tidal cycle. Prince Edward Island: In Charlottetown, learn about the cultural and musical traditions of the Acadian people and the area’s early political history. Admire the striking landscapes along the North Shore and stop to tour the Anne of Green Gables Museum.
March for suffrage
Smithsonian at Chautauqua The Battle for Women’s Suffrage 8 days from $3,990 July 25–Aug. 1, 2020 Join us at Chautauqua in celebration of the 100th anniversary of the passage of the 19th Amendment. Southwestern New York’s Chautauqua Institution has been a renowned summertime destination for educational pursuits for more then a century, hosting an astonishing array of programs clustered around specific “theme weeks.” During a thought-provoking week, attend lectures and discussions on the topic of women’s suffrage as well as the contemporary issues surrounding women’s rights and position in modern society. Highlights Include
Engaging Discussions: Attend Main Stage scholar lecture series and listen to thought leaders discuss such topics as women’s suffrage, the history of gender bias, and the Equal Rights Amendment. Delve into themes surrounding the increasing representation of women in government positions and on the ballot today. Plus, enjoy daily in-depth presentations by your Smithsonian Journeys Expert and learn about the Smithsonian American Women’s History Initiative. Performances: Immerse yourself in Chautauqua’s theater and musical performances through selected included event tickets and attend other planned activities each day!
Culinary Traditions: Enjoy a lobster dinner aboard a working lobster boat as you learn about this vital regional industry, and savor a lunch of specialty scallops in Digby.
Historic Hotel: Stay at the Athenaeum Hotel, situated in a central location and within walking distance to all activities. Your stay features all meals, comfortable accommodations, and sweeping views of Lake Chautauqua.
Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.
Limited to 28 Smithsonian Journeys guests.
Smithsonian Journeys Expert An expert in the Canadian Maritimes will accompany this tour. See our website for details.
Smithsonian Journeys Expert An expert in women’s studies will accompany this specialty tour. See our website for details.
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ASIA & THE / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS ASIA ASIA & THE &PACIFIC THE PACIFIC PACIFIC / SMITHSONIAN / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS JOURNEYS
Asia & the Pacific Japan to New Zealand
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A Cruise of Japan
From Himeji to Matsue and Osaka With a Stop in South Korea Aboard the 220-guest Le Soléal CRUISE
12 days from $6,195 Includes $1,000 early booking savings Sells out quickly! Book now! May 19–30, 2020
Experience the timeless splendors of Japan in the spring as you cruise the full length of the tranquil Inland Sea of Japan and along the coast to Matsue. Then stop in the port of Ulsan, South Korea, for a special visit to historic Gyeongju, the “museum without walls.”
Pagoda, Itsukushima Shrine, Miyajima
Highlights Include Kyoto: Discover an ethereal setting of grand imperial castles and serene Zen gardens, which reflect Japanese culture in its purest form. Highlights include the World Heritage sites of Nijo Castle and the temples of Kinkaku-ji and Ryoan-ji, plus Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Himeji: From the hilltop grounds, admire the impressive Himeji Castle Complex, the finest surviving example of medieval Japanese architecture from the Shogun period and a World Heritage site. Hiroshima and Miyajima: Witness the compelling Peace Memorial Park, a tranquil space filled with memorials to those who lost their lives at the end of World War II. In Miyajima, tour the impressive 6th-century Itsukushima Shrine, which appears to float on water. Hagi: Visit the old samurai quarter, the evocative 17th-century Toko-ji Temple of Japanese Zen Buddhism, and the Hagi Uragami Museum. Matsue: Travel through Matsue, the “City of Water,” to the Adachi Museum of Art, featuring a collection of Japanese modern art and perfectly landscaped gardens. Gyeongju, South Korea: Explore the cradle of the 8th-century Silla Kingdom, a World Heritage site, and see the glorious Bulguksa Temple, Royal Burial Mounds, and the Gyeongju National Museum. Moji: From this port city, cross the strait to visit the beautiful Akama Shrine as well as the Karato Ichiba Fish Market. Uno: Travel to the picturesque town of Kurashiki, known for its willow-lined canals and 17th-century mercantile buildings (with distinctive black-and-white designs), and visit beautiful Korakuen Garden, one of Japan’s most famous gardens. Space reserved for 100 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Learn more about Le Soléal on page 13 and on our website. Smithsonian Journeys Expert Paula Swart Swart–art historian with expertise in Asian art, culture, and history.
Garden at the Adachi Museum of Art
SOUTH KOREA
Gyeongju Ulsan
Matsue
JAPAN
Hagi Miyajima
Himeji Kurashiki Uno Hiroshima Inland Sea
Kyoto Osaka
Moji
Port of Call/Overnight Featured Site Ship Motorcoach
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ASIA & THE PACIFIC / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS
Classic China Featuring Tibet And a three-night Yangtze River Cruise CRUISE
19 days from $7,487 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees April 1–19, April 23–May 11, May 7–25, Sept. 10–28, Sept. 24–Oct. 12, 2020
Immerse yourself in the cultural landscapes of China! Our comprehensive journey features highlights of Beijing, Xi’an, Lhasa, and Shanghai, plus a Yangtze River cruise. And during three days in the Himalayas you’ll get an insider’s look at Tibet’s Buddhist culture. Highlights Include
Beijing: Explore legendary sites such as the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven, and the Great Wall—all World Heritage sites. You’ll also view the collections of the National Museum of China and take a pedicab ride through Beijing’s hutongs (older neighborhoods). Xi’an: Witness the extraordinary Terra-Cotta Warriors and walk along the city’s ancient walls. Explore the treasures of the impressive history museum, and, at the Great Mosque, reflect on the eastern terminus of the Silk Road. Lhasa, Tibet: See evidence of traditional Buddhism at the 17th-century Potala Palace (a World Heritage site), the vast Sera Monastery, and at Jokhang, Tibet’s holiest temple. You’ll also enjoy a specially arranged meeting with a Tibetan family in their home and visit Norbulingka. Chongqing: Stroll through the local zoo, home to beloved pandas, and go beyond the city to the ancient Dazu Rock Carvings, a World Heritage site. Yangtze River Cruise: Gaze upon panoramic views showcasing spectacular gorges that evoke scenes from ancient Chinese scroll paintings during a three-night cruise on the legendary Yangtze. Plus, tour the immense Three Gorges Dam Project, one of the largest feats of modern engineering worldwide.
The Great Wall, Beijing
Shanghai: Discover the treasures of dynamic Shanghai during visits to the Shanghai Museum, with its renowned art collections, and the peaceful gardens of Yu Yuan. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Overnight/Featured Site Air River Cruise
Beijing
CHINA
Yellow Sea
Xi’an Tibet Lhasa
Yangtze River Yichang
Shanghai
Chongqing
Smithsonian Journeys Experts Robert Shepherd (April 1) and Ed McCord (May)– experts on international affairs and contemporary East China Sea Chinese culture. Rose Lee (April 23)–art historian, curator, and editor of Asian art. Robert Foster (Sept.)–expert in East Asian studies.
ALSO AVAILABLE
Imperial China & the Yangtze
Featuring Beijing, Xi’an, Yangtze cruise, and Shanghai
14 days from $5,484 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees May 6–19, Sept. 16–29, Oct. 14–27, 2020
Potala Palace, Lhasa, Tibet
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Kinkaku-ji, Kyoto
Eternal Japan 13 days from $6,984 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees April 18–30, April 25–May 7, May 11–23, Aug. 29–Sept. 10, Sept. 12–24, Oct. 3–15, Oct. 24–Nov. 5, 2020 Join us to discover the essence of Japan, a land of sublime art, unsurpassed natural beauty, and fascinating traditions, plus bustling commerce and modernity. Highlights Include Tokyo: See the highlights of this cosmopolitan city, including the Shinto Meiji Shrine, a peaceful enclave of temples and gardens; the important Edo-Tokyo Museum; the Imperial Palace garden; and Tokyo’s oldest temple, Buddhist Asakusa Kannon. Mt. Fuji and Japanese Alps: Delight in breathtaking Mt. Fuji and take a relaxing cruise on nearby Ashi Lake. Go off the beaten path to lovely Takayama, one of the country’s most attractive towns. Later, visit the World Heritage site of Shirakawago Gassho-zukuri Village. Kanazawa: Tour the breathtaking Kenrokuen Garden, a national landmark with origins dating to 1676. Also see Ishikawa Gate, the only remaining section of the town’s original castle; a museum celebrating the art and craft of gold leaf technology; the Higashi Chayagai tea house and geisha area; and visit the Kutani Pottery Kiln. Kyoto and Nara: Enjoy two days exploring Kyoto’s many temples, shrines, gardens, and well-preserved architecture, including the Temple of the Golden Pavilion, Nijo Castle, and the Fushimi Inari shrine. In Nara, Japan’s ancient capital, take a walking tour that features Todai-ji Temple, the Kasuga Taisha Shrine, and the Nara National Museum.
Amber Palace, Jaipur
Mystical India
The Golden Triangle and Varanasi With an Optional Extension to Nepal 17 days from $5,787 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees Dec. 1–17, 2019 & Jan. 9–25, Feb. 13–29, March 12–28, 2020 Mystical and spiritual, chaotic and confounding, India is a land rich in contrasts. Explore northern India’s culture, history, and traditions as you travel through the classic Golden Triangle and east to Varanasi. Highlights Include Delhi: Tour both Old and New Delhi with visits to important sites and ride a pedicab through colorful Chandni Chowk market. Jaipur: Explore the historic Amber Fort, considered the pinnacle of Rajput architecture, and gaze upon magnificent art at the City Palace Museum. Learn about the fixed monumental instruments of the Jantar Mantar observatory, completed in 1734. Ranthambore National Park: Search for the elusive Bengal tiger, langur monkey, and exotic birds. En route to Agra, stop in Abhaneri to see the anicent Chand Boari stepwell, whose 3,500 steps descend 13 stories. Agra: Stand in awe at the majestic Taj Mahal, the magnificent tomb built by Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz, and tour the imposing Agra Fort. Varanasi: In the holiest city in Hinduism, witness the powerful spiritual rituals along the Ganges River.
Cultural Experiences: Meet local people, stay in a genuine ryokan (inn), and experience age-old cultural traditions, including a ritualized tea ceremony and a sake tasting.
Cultural Experiences: Learn about the ancient discipline of yoga at a private demonstration, watch craftsmen work at traditional block printing, enjoy a cooking lesson, and meet local Meena tribespeople in their homes.
Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.
Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.
Smithsonian Journeys Experts Jonathan Hall (April 18/Sept.)–expert in Japanese film, culture, literature, and history. Constantine Vaporis (May)–historian with expertise in Asian studies. Paula Swart (Aug.) and Barry Till (Oct. 3)–art historians with expertise in Asian art, culture, and history.
Smithsonian Journeys Experts Minhazz Majumdar (Dec.)–writer and curator of art, living in India. Rita Sodha (Jan./March)–art historian and studio artist living in India. Jonathan GoldbergBelle (Feb.)–expert in South Asian literature, philosophy, and religion.
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ASIA & THE PACIFIC / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS
The Silk Road: A Journey to Central Asia Featuring the Five “Stans” of Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Kazakhstan 16 days from $7,895 April 18–May 3, Aug. 29–Sept.13, Oct. 3–18, 2020 Central Asia is the exotic heart of the Silk Road, ancient caravan routes used for the silk and spice trade between East and West. Experience the past and present of five Central Asian countries as you explore legendary cities, visit religious sites and museums, attend cultural programs, and meet local experts. Highlights Include Turkmenistan: Beginning in Ashgabat, visit the National Museum of History and Ethnography, plus tour the ancient site of nearby Nisa with an archaeologist. Uzbekistan: Explore the legendary cities of Khiva, Bukhara, Samarkand, and Tashkent, with their noble squares and breathtaking architecture. Highlights feature religious sites, including madrassahs and important mosques such as the 20th-century Tillya Sheikh Mosque, home to the oldest Koran in the world, and Bibi Khanum Mosque, built by Tamerlane to be the largest mosque in the world. You’ll meet with the scientific advisor of the Ark Citadel, artists at a renowned ceramics studio, and other local experts. Tour one of the ancient world’s most advanced observatories, drive across the Red Sands Desert, and enjoy performances of traditional music and dance. Tajikistan: Visit Penjikent, an isolated city of 130,000 that was built in the 5th century and most famous for its past as an important Sogdian trade center. Visit the site of an archaeological dig at Old Penjikent, where excavations began over 50 years ago. Tour the remains of Shakristan, two Zoroastrian temples, the citadel, and the Rudaki Museum of History and Regional Studies, named after the founder of Tajik and Persian poetry. Kyrgyzstan: In the capital of Bishkek, tour the central square, the National History Museum, and the State Museum of Fine Arts, and meet with a Kyrgyz resident who participated in the 2010 revolution. In a nearby
village, enjoy lunch with a family in their home and watch a demonstration of Kyrgyz horse games. Later, delight in a Kyrgyz Manas folk performance. Kazakhstan: Highlights in Almaty include the Zenkov Cathedral, the delightful Museum of Musical Instruments, and the State Central Museum. Outside the city, see the Small Almaty Gorge and visit a traditional Kazakh falcon farm. Limited to 28 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Ronald Wixman (April/Oct.)–expert in the history, politics, and folklore of the Balkans and consultant on ethnic and nationality issues for the CIA, U.S. Department of State, and the Pentagon. Hugh Neighbour (Aug.)–former diplomat with expertise in the history, culture, and current affairs of Central Asia. KAZAKHSTAN
Sarygamysh UZBEKISTAN Red Sands Desert Lake Tashauz Tashkent Khiva Aydar Lake Gijduvan Bukhara Panjikent TURKMENISTAN Samarkand Ashkabad
Overnight Featured Site Air Motorcoach Train
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Almaty Issyk Kul
KYRGYZSTAN
TAJIKISTAN
Sher Dor Madrassah, Samarkand
Falcon in Kazakhstan
Bishkek
Exploring Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Armenia 17 days from $7,995 May 20–June 5, Sept. 16–Oct. 2, 2020 Wedged between the Caspian and Black Seas, the less visited countries of Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan showcase a wealth of cultural and historical treasures. Discover these special gems on this unique journey. Highlights Include Azerbaijan: Explore Baku, the burgeoning capital on the Caspian, with its ancient and modern architecture. Walk the Old City, and visit the Museum of Azerbaijan Carpets and the swooping Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center. Venture outside the city to discover archaeological sites, including the World Heritage petroglyphs at Gobustan, as well as Atashgah Zorastrian Fire Temple. Spend the night in Sheki, one of the country’s oldest cities, and enjoy a performance of traditional Azeri music, mugham, a fusion of Persian and Turkic traditions noted on UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage. Georgia: Cross into Eastern Georgia’s Kakheti region, renowned for its vineyards and some of the country’s most important sacred architecture. Learn about qvevri, the huge clay vessels for fermenting wine naturally, an 8,000-year-old method. Celebrate Georgian culinary traditions with a Georgian Table feast, complemented by traditional polyphonic singing. Revisit the past with stops at Stalin’s Museum in Gori and at the vast 12th-century Vardzia cave complex. Stop in Phoka Nunnery en route to Tbilisi, Georgia’s capital city. Enjoy a walking tour of old Tbilisi, see the National Museum’s archaeological collection, learn about modern day politics, and enjoy a classical music concert. Armenia: Designed with input from Smithsonian’s Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage, enjoy the best of Old and new in Baku, Azerbaijan
Armenia. Continue into Armenia’s Lori region and stop in at the Nurik Center, an NGO supporting women through tourism development. Learn to make traditional Armenian dishes with a local family and stop at Lake Sevan for a view of one of the largest alpine lakes in the world. In Yerevan, explore the Cafesijan Museum of Modern Art and the Matenadaran Museum, filled with beautifully decorated manuscripts. Enjoy day trips to World Heritage Geghard Monastery, Noravank, and the Areni-1 cave at Vayots Dzor with an archaeologist. Limited to 28 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Overnight Featured Site Motorcoach
Greater Caucasus Mts
GEORGIA Black Sea
Vardzia
Borjomi
Caspian Sea
Gori Tbilisi
Lesser Caucasus Mts
ARMENIA
Signagi
Sheki
Yerevan Greghard Monastery
AZERBAIJAN
Baku
Smithsonian Journeys Expert Hugh Neighbour (May) and Bob Smolik (Sept.)– former diplomats with expertise in the south Caucasus.
Old Town, Tbilisi, Georgia
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ASIA & THE PACIFIC / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS
Archers, Naadam Festival, Mongolia
The Trans-Siberian Express
A Private Train Journey from Mongolia to Moscow Featuring the Naadam Festival Aboard the Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express 14 days from $17,395 July 9–22, 2020 Join us for an adventure of a lifetime! Attend Mongolia’s incomparable Naadam Festival, then board the legendary Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express for one of the most epic train journeys on Earth, traveling nearly 4,000 miles through five time zones and across two continents. You’ll learn about diverse cultures as you meet with local people and attend a variety of traditional performances. Highlights Include Ulaanbaatar: Observe Mongolian cultural traditions during the Naadam Festival, a centuries-old celebration featuring colorful pageantry and athletic competitions. After three days, board your train for Russia. Lake Baikal: Learn about the unique cultural identities of the indigenous Buryat people and a group of “Old Believers” in Ulan Ude. Admire the magnificent scenery of Lake Baikal, a World Heritage site. Gain insight into the people who settled in Irkutsk, the “capital” of Siberia, during a visit to the Decembrist House Museum. Siberia to the Urals: See historic trains at the open-air Trans-Siberian Museum in Novosibirsk. Crossing from Asia to Europe, visit Yekaterinburg and the site where Russia’s last tsar and family were executed. The Volga and Moscow: Tour the Kazan Kremlin, a World Heritage site, and learn about the cultural history of Tatars, Cossacks, and Russians. See major landmarks of the Russian capital during a panoramic tour. Space reserved for 30 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Learn more about the Golden Eagle on page 51 and on our website. Smithsonian Journeys Expert Sharon Hudgins–scholar and author with expertise in Russian studies, including Siberia, Russian culture, and cuisine.
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Pavillion in Hué
Discovering Vietnam 17 days from $4,597 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees Dec. 1–17, 2019 & Feb. 9–25, Feb. 23–March 10, 2020 With its breathtaking beauty and enduring traditions, Vietnam provides endless rewards for the thoughtful traveler. Discover both the ancient and modern worlds of Vietnam on this popular and magical journey. Highlights Include Royal Cities: Experience the grandeur of the imperial capital of Hué and the fascinating ancient traditions of village life in Hoi An, both World Heritage sites. Tour the acclaimed Cham Museum in Da Nang. Plus, take a cruise along Hué’s Perfume River and visit peaceful Thien Mu Pagoda, a Buddhist monastery, and the palatial Tomb of Minh Mang. Ha Long Bay: Enjoy a boat ride through this breathtaking waterway, a World Heritage site comprising 3,000 islands and a karst landscape of limestone cliffs. Mekong River: Spend two days on the Mekong, where boats take you along small tributaries and inlets to the bustling floating market at Cai Rang and to other traditional villages. Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City: Take in-depth tours of the political and cultural capital of Hanoi and spirited and cosmopolitan Ho Chi Minh City. Cultural Experiences: Savor local cuisine during a private cooking lesson, visit a farming settlement, and have lunch in the home of a local historian. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Jonathan Hall (Dec.)–expert in Asian film, culture, liteature, and history. Ronald Wixman (Feb. 9)– expert in the history, politics, and culture of Vietnam. James Anderson (Feb. 23)–historian with expertise in Vietnam and China.
Fishing at sunset
Ha Long Bay
Cruising the Mekong River Featuring Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam Aboard the 68-guest Mekong Navigator
CRUISE
16 days from $7,740 Includes $250 early booking savings Special air rates & services available Feb. 7–22, 2021
Venture off the beaten path on a thought-provoking cruise of the Mekong River, one of Asia’s vital waterways. You’ll also enjoy hotel stays in Luang Prabang, Siem Reap, and Ho Chi Minh City. Highlights Include Luang Prabang: Explore Laotian culture as you visit graceful temples, gardens, and cultural sites in and around Luang Prabang. Rise early to experience “Tak Bat,” when hundreds of saffron robed monks move silently through the streets to collect alms at dawn. Siem Reap: Discover the treasures and temples of one of the largest religious sites worldwide: Cambodia’s World Heritage site of Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Ta Prohm, and the recently restored Thommanon. Seven-Night Mekong Cruise: Learn about the culture, history, economy, and market and village life along the Mekong River. In Cambodia, tour the temple complex of Wat Hanchey, meet villagers in Angkor Ban, and explore important sites in Phnom Penh. In Vietnam, highlights include sampan rides to Sa Dec, Vinh Long, and Tien Loi Island. Your cruise concludes with a day exploring the highlights of Ho Chi Minh City. Mekong Navigator: This all-suite ship combines elegant French colonial décor with exotic Asian notes, upscale amenities in cabins and public areas, and regional FrenchIndochine cuisine as well as western dishes. Find more details on our website. Limited to 28 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Expert An expert in Southeast Asia will accompany this journey. See our website for details.
A Cruise Along Vietnam’s Coast
From Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City And featuring Cambodia’s Angkor Wat Aboard the 180-guest Le Lapérouse
CRUISE
15 days from approximately $6,995 Includes $1,000 early booking savings Nov. 3–17, 2020
Discover the mystique of ancient traditions and many World Heritage sites as you cruise along Vietnam’s coast, then spend three nights at Cambodia’s Angkor Wat. Highlights Include Hanoi and Ha Long Bay: During two nights in Hanoi, visit the ancient Temple of Literature and Hoa Lo Prison (the infamous “Hanoi Hilton”) and see the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Plus, enjoy cruising amid mist-shrouded Ha Long Bay. Hué and Hoi An: Tour the highlights of Hué, an imperial city that is one of Vietnam’s most alluring destinations. Explore the ancient trading post of Hoi An, where more than 800 period buildings remain intact. Ho Chi Minh City: Old Saigon reflects the vibrant convergence of French and Vietnamese cultures. See the 19th-century European-style Central Post Office and Notre Dame Cathedral, then visit Reunification Hall, the War Remnants Museum, and other sites that offer a unique perspective on the Vietnam War. Angkor Wat: Fly to Siem Reap for two days of exploring Angkor Wat, known for its Khmer architecture, sacred temples, and World Heritage sites. Enjoy time at Angkor Thom, Ta Prohm, and Banteay Srei. Space reserved for 30 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Learn more about Le Lapérouse on page 13 and on our website. Smithsonian Journeys Expert Paula Swart–art historian with expertise in Asian art, culture, and history.
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Maori sculpture
Monk at Angkor Wat
Singapore, Thailand, and Angkor Wat
Featuring the Eastern & Oriental Express 14 days from $8,290 Includes $250 early booking savings Special air rates & services available Feb. 22–March 6, Nov. 6–19, 2020 Take an exotic journey to the East, traveling through breathtaking landscapes that showcase ancient histories, diverse cultures, and many World Heritage sites. Highlights Include Singapore: Explore this modern city-state on a tour that showcases the diverse neighborhoods of Kampong Glam, Chinatown, Little India, and more. Aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express: Take a twonight journey on this opulent train. (Find more details on our website.) Stop to explore the royal Malaysian town of Kuala Kangsar, boat down the River Kwai, and learn about the Thailand-Burma Railway.
Journey Through New Zealand
From Auckland to Queenstown 16 days from $8,174 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees March 19–April 3, April 16–May 1, 2020 From Auckland to Fiordland National Park, explore the magnificent landscapes of New Zealand’s North and South Islands and meet the “Kiwi” people. Highlights Include Breathtaking Landscapes: A full-day excursion to renowned Fiordland National Park features a cruise of serene Doubtful Sound, noted for its mountain peaks and waterfalls. Take an exciting rail journey to the Southern Alps and Arthur’s Pass. And in Westland National Park, encounter the spectacular Franz Josef Glacier, walk through the Glacial Valley, and see rare kiwi birds at a wildlife center. On the North Island, witness geysers and hot springs at the Te Puia Thermal Reserve.
Accommodations: Enjoy stays in top hotels, including the Shangri-La Singapore and Peninsula Bangkok.
Cultural Enrichment: Cruise Auckland’s glittering harbor and see prized cultural artifacts at the Auckland Museum. In Rotorua, gain insight into the indigenous Maori at the Maori Cultural Center, where you’ll meet elders and enjoy a hangi feast and performance, plus visit Rainbow Springs National Park. Savor private wine tastings at celebrated Hawke’s Bay and the acclaimed Church Road Vineyard. Learn about sheep farming at a private farm, visit Wellington’s acclaimed Te Papa National Museum, and discover the English heritage of Christchurch as you tour the Botanic Gardens and Cathedral Square. Conclude your trip with a day at leisure in Queenstown, situated on Lake Wakatipu.
Space reserved for 28 Smithsonian Journeys guests.
Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.
Bangkok: Visit the Grand Palace with its Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the famous Reclining Buddha at Wat Pho, and Siam’s ancient capital of Ayutthaya. Enjoy a leisurely cruise along the Chao Phraya River and watch a captivating Thai dance performance. Angkor Wat: Fly to Cambodia’s Siem Reap for a threenight stay to discover the City of Temples, including Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Ta Prohm, and the recently restored temple of Thommanon. Traditional performances and a visit with local artisans complement your stay.
Smithsonian Journeys Experts Barry Till (Feb.)–art historian with expertise in Asain art, culture, and history. Sandra Cate (Nov.)–anthropologist and folklorist with expertise in Southeast Asia.
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Smithsonian Journeys Experts Peter Bobrowsky (March)–highly respected archaeologist and geologist. Don Wilson (April)–senior scientist and curator emeritus at Smithsonian’s Museum Natural History. Historic train inof the White Mountains
Splendors of Australia and New Zealand 22 days from $10,184 / Includes airfare, taxes & all fees Jan 11–Feb. 1, March 14–April 4, April 6–27, 2020 Venture “Down Under” for an exploration of some of the world’s most stunningly diverse landscapes—from colorful coral reefs and lush forests to stark deserts and dramatic fjords! Highlights Include Great Barrier Reef: Learn about this World Heritage site from a marine biologist and see the reef up close as you swim, snorkel, or view it from a glass-bottomed boat. You’ll also take a thrilling journey aboard the historic Kuranda Railway and travel through the rain forest canopy on the world’s longest gondola cableway. The Australian Outback: Watch the sun set over Ayers Rock at Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Relax around a campfire and look for the Southern Cross as you savor a traditional “bush” dinner. Learn about the Walpiri Aboriginal people during a “Dreamtime” tour. Sydney: Enjoy two fascinating days exploring Sydney, where highlights include tours of the iconic Sydney Opera House and Featherdale Wildlife Park (home to koalas, kangaroos, and wallabies), plus a luncheon cruise around Sydney Harbour. New Zealand’s South Island: Venture to the Southern Alps and Mt. Cook to experience the mountainscape and visit the Hillary Gallery, which commemorates Sir Edmund’s achievements, including the first ascent of Mt. Cook’s south face. Look in awe upon breathtaking Milford Sound, a World Heritage site, during an afternoon cruise through the fjords. Plus, savor a wine tasting and enjoy independent time in Queenstown. Koala bears
The North Island: In Rotorua, meet with a group of Maori people and enjoy a traditional hangi dinner and cultural performance. Plus, observe famed geothermal features such as geysers and thermal hot springs at a nearby park. Conclude your spectacular journey with a two-night stay in Auckland, the “City of Sails,” where a half-day city tour features the War Memorial Museum, Auckland Harbour, and the America’s Cup Village. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Great Cairns Barrier Reef
Coral Sea
Alice Springs Ayers Rock
AUSTRALIA Sydney
Auckland Rotorua
Overnight Featured Site Air Motorcoach
Tasman Sea
Mount Cook National Park Milford Sound Queenstown
Christchurch
NEW ZEALAND
Smithsonian Journeys Experts Grant Nel (Jan.)–naturalist with expertise in conservation. George Losey (March)–naturalist and marine biologist. Brent Garry (April)–highly respected geologist.
Moorish Idol fish, Great Barrier Reef
Cass Scenic Railroad
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AFRICA / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS
Africa Kenya to Egypt
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Safari in Kenya and Tanzania From the Serengeti to the Masai Mara
16 days from $10,396 / Includes airfare, taxes & all fees July 12–27, Aug. 9–24, Aug. 30–Sept. 14, Oct. 1–16, 2020 Renowned for their vast plains, the Serengeti and Masai Mara comprise one large contiguous region teeming with wildlife, including lion, leopard, cheetah, zebra, giraffe, gazelle, wildebeest, elephant, buffalo, hippo, and rhino. Visiting these parks, along with Ngorongoro, Amboseli, and Lake Manyara, is truly a classic safari. Join us on this new African safari in 2020. Highlights Include
The Serengeti and Masai Mara: The Serengeti spans approximately 12,000 square miles in Tanzania and is considered one of Africa’s finest parks, while Masai Mara is Kenya’s premier game reserve and the traditional homeland of the native Maasai people. Gaze in awe at the diversity of mammals during game drives in both parks. Amboseli: In the shadow of snowcapped Mt. Kilimanjaro stands Kenya’s Amboseli National Park, known for its dry plains and large elephant population, which you’ll witness during game drives. At a nearby Maasai village, see everyday life up close as you meet with villagers and visit a school. Lake Manyara: See abundant birdlife, tree-climbing lions, and hippos during game drives in one of Tanzania’s smallest and most diverse parks.
Safari Comfort: Stay in deluxe Serena Safari Lodges, offering the most upscale lodge experience in Tanzania. In Kenya, the Sarova Mara Game Camp offers a luxurious three-night tented camp experience. Extension to Mount Kenya: During an optional three-day extension, spend a day at Mpala Research Centre, where Smithsonian fellows and research staff lead important research projects. You’ll also visit the Jane Goodall Chimpanzee Sanctuary and stay at the famed Mount Kenya Safari Club. Limited to 17 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Robyn Keene-Young (July) and Tiiu Lukk (Aug. 30)–writer and journalist respectively with expertise in southern Africa. Grant Nel (Aug. 9/Oct.)– respected naturalist with expertise in biodiversity and conservation, who lives in Botswana. Mt. Kenya
Lake Victoria
Ngorongoro: This UNESCO Conservation Area is home to the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera, measuring 100 square miles. On the crater’s floor is Africa in microcosm: grassland, swampland, lakes, forest, mountains, and unparalleled wildlife. Descend into the crater to see all of Africa’s “Big Five”—lion, elephant, rhino, Cape buffalo, and leopard—in one place! Nairobi: Tour the Karen Blixen Museum, former home of the author of Out of Africa (as Isak Dinesen) and see the endangered Rothschild’s giraffe at the Giraffe Centre.
KENYA
Masai Mara Game Reserve Nairobi
Serengeti National Park
Amboseli National Park
Ngorongoro Crater
Mt. Kilimanjaro
Lake Manyara
TAZNANIA
Overnight Motorcoach or Safari Vehicles Air
Indian Ocean
Optional Extension (Motorcoach)
Watching a cheetah on safari
Elephants at Amboseli with Mt. Kilimanjaro
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AFRICA / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS
The dramatic Victoria Falls
Lion pride in Botswana
African Safari
South Africa, Botswana, Zambia, and Victoria Falls 14 days from $8,584 / Includes airfare, taxes & all fees March 28–April 10, May 2–15, July 1–14, Aug. 1–14, Sept. 12–25, Oct. 31–Nov. 13, 2020 Our exceptional African Safari—a Smithsonian Journeys “top 10” tour—is truly the trip of a lifetime! Enjoy thrilling game drives in search of the “Big Five,” marvel at magnificent Victoria Falls, and discover Lower Zambezi National Park by guided canoe and sunset river cruises. Plus, stays in deluxe lodges add to your safari experience.
during a special tour of Johannesburg’s Soweto. You’ll see the former home of Archbishop Desmond Tutu, visit Nelson Mandela’s home and the Hector Pieterson Museum (a monument to the Soweto Uprising), and meet a local Sowetan who shares stories of contemporary life in this township.
Highlights Include
Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.
Victoria Falls Private Game Reserve: During three days at this World Heritage site, experience the thundering falls with its 300-foot-deep gorge. Look for hippo, elephant, crocodile, and the elusive rhino in the surrounding jungle and from the deck of a “sundowner” dinner cruise boat on the Zambezi River. And, on an exhilarating tour of the iconic Victoria Falls Bridge, learn about its construction from atop the catwalks. Botswana’s Chobe National Park: With 7,000 square miles of protected land, this park features an exceptional array of wildlife. During your three-day stay, take early morning game drives and boat safaris that provide abundant opportunities to view the wildlife, including the world’s largest elephant population (120,000), along with zebra, lion, giraffe, impala, and wildebeest, and some of the park’s 450 species of birds. Zambia: From your 14-room luxury lodge on the banks of the Zambezi River, enjoy two days of game viewing in Lower Zambezi National Park, along with guided canoe trips, bushwalks, boat safaris, and sunset river cruises. The park is known for its elephant herds and large lion prides, plus buffalo, antelope, impala, zebra, and leopard. South Africa: Learn about the history of South Africa 86
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Smithsonian Journeys Experts Robyn Keene-Young (March)–travel and nature writer with expertise in southern Africa. Patty Hostiuck (May) and Grant Nel (July/Sept.)–highly respected naturalists with expertise in conservation. Don Wilson (Oct.)–senior scientist and curator emeritus of mammals at Smithsonian’s Museum of Natural History. ZAMBIA
Lusaka Lower Zambezi Nat’l Park
Chobe Nat’l Park
Livingstone/ Victoria Falls
ZIMBABWE Indian Ocean
BOTSWANA
Johannesburg
SOUTH AFRICA
Overnight/Featured Site Air Air (private charter) Safari Vehicles
Southern African Adventure
South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, and Zimbabwe Featuring the 26-guest Zambezi Queen 17 days from $9,995 Includes $1,000 early booking savings Feb. 11–27, 2020 Among the many highlights of this special journey, enjoy a unique three-night private river safari on the Chobe River and five days exploring the history of South Africa. Highlights Include
Chobe National Park and Zambezi Queen: From the unique vantage of your deluxe riverboat, enjoy extraordinary game viewing that is distinctly different from a land safari. Your riverboat, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, was designed specifically for wildlife viewing. (Find more details on our website.) Later, enjoy a game drive in Chobe National Park, renowned for its immense elephant population, plus lion, cheetah, leopard, zebra, impala, hyena, and wildebeest. Victoria Falls: Walk the trail along the edge of thundering Victoria Falls, situated on the Zambezi River. MalaMala Private Game Reserve: Enjoy exciting game drives in South Africa’s largest private “Big Five” game reserve, especially renowned for its leopards. South Africa’s Cultural and Political History: In Johannesburg, Soweto, and Pretoria, visit sites associated with Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu and the antiapartheid movement. Near Cape Town, tour the prison on Robben Island where political prisoners made strides in attaining equal rights. Plus enjoy a comprehensive overview of Cape Town, a day devoted to the extraordinary Cape Winelands, and dinner in a private home.
Treasures of South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Botswana Featuring Rovos Rail
16 days from $8,990 Includes $250 early booking savings Special air rates & services available Jan. 21–Feb. 5, Sept. 8–23, Sept. 22–Oct. 7, 2020 This extraordinary adventure features the heritage of South Africa, a rail journey aboard the legendary Rovos Rail, safaris in three important parks, and a stay at dramatic Victoria Falls. Highlights Include
South Africa: Enjoy a comprehensive overview of Cape Town and a tour of Robben Island prison where Nelson Mandela and other important leaders made strides in attaining equal rights. In Soweto township, visit other sites associated with the anti-apartheid movement. Safari Adventures: Experience the thrill of seeing animals in the wild—lion, elephant, leopard, Cape buffalo, rhino, zebra, giraffe, hippo, and more—during safaris at three important parks. Spot the “Big Five” on game drives during a three-night stay at South Africa’s Thornybush Nature Reserve. Stop at Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park and see the renowned elephant herds at Chobe National Park. Rovos Rail: Savor the romance of the Golden Age of train travel during a three-night rail journey from Pretoria to Victoria Falls. Ride in vintage carriages restored to mint condition and take in sweeping landscapes and wildlife from the observation car. Find more details on our website. Victoria Falls: Feel the power of Victoria Falls, a World Heritage site and one of the Seven Wonders of the Natural World, during a two-night stay at the Victoria Falls Hotel. Space reserved for 28 Smithsonian Journeys guests.
Space reserved for 22 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Expert Robert Schrire–highly respected political analyst with expertise in southern Africa.
Elephants along the Chobe River
Smithsonian Journeys Experts Robyn Keene-Young (Jan.)–travel and nature writer and Robert Schrire (Sept. 8)–highly respected political analyst, both with expertise in southern Africa.
Watching wildlife from Rovos Rail
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Herds of wildebeest and zebra during the Great Migration
Fortified village of Ait ben-Haddou
Splendors of Morocco Tanzania’s Great Migration 12 days from $8,495 Includes $500 early booking savings March 10–21, 2020 One of the most breathtaking moments in nature is to observe thousands of large mammals moving through Tanzania’s Serengeti during the Great Migration. Join us on safari during the best months to view this amazing once-in-a-lifetime spectacle. You’ll enjoy daily game drives and a privately chartered flight, which provides the best way to witness panoramic vistas of the wildlife. Highlights Include
Spectacular Wildlife and Renowned Parks: Take exciting game drives in Serengeti National Pak, a World Heritage site, to experience the breathtaking sight of more than a million wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle crowding the grasslands during the Great Migration. Watch for the “Big Five”—lion, elephant, rhino, Cape buffalo, and leopard— plus hundreds of bird species and giraffe, cheetah, and other wildlife. At Ngorongoro Conservation Area, another World Heritage site, descend 2,000 feet to the crater floor to view a remarkable sanctuary for hundreds of mammal and bird species, then return to your lodge perched on the crater rim. You’ll also explore the natural wonders of Lake Manyara and Tarangire National Parks. Anthropology: Listen to an expert illuminate the prehistory of humans at Oldupai Gorge, the most famous archaeological site in East Africa, where Mary and Louis Leakey made important discoveries. Safari Comfort: Stay in the deluxe Serena Lodges and a comfortable tented camp, all located near the largest concentration of wildlife—often seen up close at your lodges. Limited to 30 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Expert Tiiu Lukk–journalist with expertise in southern Africa.
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14 days from $5,879 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees March 3–16, March 24–April 6, April 14–27, Sept. 22–Oct. 5, Oct. 6–19, Nov. 27–Dec. 10, 2020 Morocco is a land of vast deserts and snowcapped mountains, sacred mosques, imposing fortresses, spirited markets, and many World Heritage sites. Explore all of this and more on this popular tour. Highlights Include Ancient Imperial Capitals: In Rabat, discover the fortified Kasbah of the Oudaias, Andalusian Gardens, and the necropolis of Chellah. In Meknes, visit the Bab el Mansour gateway and other sites, then travel to the nearby Roman ruins of Volubilis. During two days in Fez explore its medina and view the artisans’ quarters and madrassahs (religious schools). You’ll also visit the royal gates, the Museum of Fez, and the old Jewish quarter. Atlas Mountains and Sahara Desert: Watch the sun set on breathtaking sand dunes at Merzouga from atop a camel and stay at a kasbah-style hotel near the Sahara. Journey to the spectacular Todra Gorge and along the “Route of a Thousand Kasbahs,” an ancient caravan route known for its fortified villages such as Ait ben-Haddou. Marrakech and Casablanca: In the imperial city of Marrakech, see the Koutoubia Mosque and visit the Berber Museum, Majorelle Garden, and the city’s famous square Djemaa el-Fna. Conclude in Casablanca with a tour featuring the magnificent Hassan II Mosque. Cultural Experiences: Meet with a family in Fez and with a local imam in Marrakech. Enjoy dinner at a familyrun riad, watch artisans make pottery, and attend a concert of enchanting Arabic music. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Carola Stearns (March 24)–field geologist and geophysicist. Mary-Jane Deeb (April)–expert in international relations, Lawrence Butler (Sept.)–art historian, and Wil Rollman (Oct.)–historian, all with expertise in North Africa.
Hieroglyphs and Horus, the falcon god
Pyramids of Giza
Ancient Egypt and the Nile Featuring Abu Simbel CRUISE
14 days from $5,297 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees Feb. 22–March 6, March 14–27, April 4–17, April 11–24, 2020 See our website for Fall 2020 dates
The wonders of ancient Egypt have drawn visitors for millennia. Astounding temples and pyramids, legendary pharaohs, and elaborate hieroglyphs comprise its timeless legacy. Join us on this new tour to unravel Egypt’s mysteries at a host of World Heritage sites. Highlights Include Cairo and Giza: Delve into the ancient world by visiting the acclaimed Egyptian Museum, a renowned repository of treasured artifacts, including those of Tutankhamen. Then cross the Nile to visit Memphis, Egypt’s first capital, and the necropolis at Sakkara, home to the step pyramid of Imhotep. Finally, in the afternoon light, gaze in awe upon the astounding Pyramids of Giza and the enigmatic Sphinx. Aswan and Abu Simbel: Flying to Abu Simbel, stand before the immense statues of Ramses II and his wife Nefertari, who guard massive rock temples housing incredibly well-preserved murals. You’ll see the Aswan High Dam, considered a marvel of engineering when completed in 1965; tour the Temples of Philae; then board small feluccas to sail past Elephantine Island and the botanical gardens on Kitchener’s Island. Nile River Cruise: Experience Egypt from the Nile as you cruise the river for two nights, taking in scenes unchanged for centuries. Stop along the way to visit Kom Ombo with its double temple dedicated to Sobek and Horus, and Edfu with its Temple of Horus. Luxor: Arrive in ancient Thebes, where vast temple complexes, tombs, and statues represent the pinnacle of early Egyptian architecture and design. Explore the Valley of the Kings, stopping to enter a few of the royal tombs
and the stunning Temple of Hatshepsut and see the Collossi of Memnon. Spend time at Karnak, the most magnificent temple complex with a breadth and diversity of structures not seen elsewhere, which stretch for more than a mile. You’ll also tour the smaller but lovely Luxor Temple and the Luxor Museum, with its astonishing treasures. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. See our website for information on the five-day extension to Jordan. Mediterranean Sea
Amman
JORDAN
Cairo Giza
Petra
Red Sea
EGYPT Luxor
Overnight Featured Site
Nile River Aswan
Ship Air Extension (Motorcoach) Extension (Air)
Abu Simbel
Lake Nasser
Smithsonian Journeys Experts Mary-Jane Deeb (Feb.)–expert in international relations in the Middle East and Africa. Rozenn Bailleul-LeSuer (April 4)–Egyptologist with expertise in social history and the environment.
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PRIVATE JET / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS Monk at Angkor Thom
Around the World A Classic Journey by Private Jet
25 days from $89,950 Feb. 21–March 16, Oct. 24–Nov. 17, 2020 Featuring a complimentary hotel upgrade on Easter Island for Smithsonian Journeys guests
PRIVATE JET
Join our incredible around-the-world journey and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and culture of each destination, creating transformative moments along the way! Our engaging and knowledgeable experts and staff share their insights while you travel in the comfort of a custom-configured Boeing 757 for just 76 to 80 guests. Enjoy “experience-rich” days filled with iconic sites, remote places, and unforgettable activities that allow you to learn firsthand about the people, customs, and natural world of each country—all in one trip! Highlights Include Climb the terraced steps of the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. Feel the protective gaze of the moai statues of Easter Island and receive a complimentary upgrade at the Explora Rapa Nui for Smithsonian guests. Bask in the radiant beauty of tropical Samoa. Immerse yourself in the underwater splendor of the Great Barrier Reef. Welcome the sun among Angkor Wat’s evocative temples. Watch the play of light on the magnificent, beloved Taj Mahal and on the February departure discover the fascinating city of Jaipur. Experience the thrill of the Serengeti Plain alive with one of the world’s greatest concentrations of wildlife. Step into the well-preserved ancient world of Jordan’s “Lost City” of Petra. Explore the colorful souks and treasures of Berber kings in the celebrated medina of Marrakech.
Cheetah on the Serengeti
Smithsonian Journeys Expert Nina Zitani (Feb.)–accomplished field research biologist with expertise in natural history, evolutionary biology, biodiversity, and conservation science.
Marrakech, Morocco Begin / End Orlando, Florida
Petra & Wadi Rum, Jordan Jaipur & Agra, India Angkor Wat, Cambodia
Apia, Samoa Easter Island, Chile
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Cusco & Machu Picchu Or North Coast, Peru
SMITHSONIANJOURNEYS.ORG / 877.338.8687 / BOOK YOUR TRIP
Serengeti Plain Or Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania Great Barrier Reef & Daintree Rainforest, Australia
Whatever your expectations are, multiply them a thousand-fold! This was truly a trip of a lifetime! Past traveler, Around the World
Moai on Easter Island Father and son musicians, Jaipur
Working on textiles in the Andes
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TAILOR-MADE / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS
Journeys Designed for You Smithsonian Tailor-Made Journeys by Audley Travel This is the beauty of Smithsonian Tailor-Made Journeys. Tailor-made travel means experiencing the world your way—when and how you want, with whom you want, and nothing more. To begin, you will be paired with a country specialist with extensive firsthand knowledge of their region. With their guidance and insider knowledge, you will work together to curate a day-by-day itinerary with seamless transfers, excellent guides, immersive excursions, and ideal accommodations, all hand-selected to match your interests and preferences. For trip inspiration, see some of our suggested itineraries online at SmithsonianJourneys.org/Tailor-Made. Then speak with a country specialist to create your own dream trip!
Call 855.215.8690 Speak with a country specialist today 102
Our tailor-made trip to Australia was a fantastic experience! The guidance from our Country Specialist throughout the planning process was great and very thorough. – Richard S.
SMITHSONIANJOURNEYS.ORG / 855.215.8690 / BOOK YOUR TRIP
Europe England I France NEW! Greece Ireland I Italy I Portugal Russian Federation Scotland I Spain
How Tailor-Made Works Speak with a specialist Our country specialists offer in-depth knowledge of the best excursions, guides, off-the-beaten path locations, and ideal accommodations in their destination. Share your travel goals and interests and they’ll pinpoint the options that will be most meaningful to you. Build your dream trip We’ll keep perfecting the details until you’re completely happy with the plan, accommodations, guides, transportation, and your budget! Once you confirm the trip, your specialist will finalize the details. Feel free to call whenever you wish with questions about your journey. Experience the world worry-free Our service continues after you step on the plane. Upon arrival in your destination, you’ll be in the capable hands of our partners overseas. And, for peace of mind, you’ll have access to a number monitored 24 hours a day so you can always reach us should you need additional assistance.
Need help deciding where to go next? Speak with a member of our Concierge Team! They’ll take a vague idea of what you’re looking for and recommend the best options for your next trip. Once you narrow down your ideas, they’ll connect you with a dedicated country specialist to get you started for your next journey of a lifetime.
Asia Bhutan I Borneo Cambodia I China I India Indonesia I Japan I Laos Malaysia I Maldives I Nepal Sri Lanka I Thailand Tibet I Vietnam
Africa & the Middle East Botswana I Jordan I Kenya Madagascar I Mauritius Morocco I Mozambique Namibia I Rwanda Seychelles I South Africa Tanzania I Zambia Zanzibar I Zimbabwe
Central & South America Argentina I Belize Bolivia I Brazil I Chile Costa Rica I Ecuador The Galápagos Islands Guatemala I Panama Paraguay I Peru I Uruguay
Australia & the Pacific Australia I The Cook Islands Fiji I French Polynesia New Zealand 103
Newly Announced Dates!
UPCOMING / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS
Holiday Markets
Featuring a Rhine River Cruise Aboard the 168-guest Amadeus Silver III 12 days from $3,290 Includes $250 early booking savings No Single Supplement—Limited Availability Special air rates & services available Nov. 24–Dec. 5, Dec. 4–15*, 2020
CRUISE
Welcome the start of the holiday season during a delightful river cruise along the Rhine as you explore traditional Christkindlmarkts (Christmas markets) in each of the cities on your journey. Personalize your cruise with a choice of included excursions in select ports of call and visit four World Heritage sites. Begin in the heart of the Swiss Alps as you enjoy a three-night hotel stay in Interlaken and enjoy tours of nearby Thun and Bern. From Basel, set off for a delightful seven-night Rhine River cruise featuring Strasbourg, Riquewihr, Heidelberg, Rudesheim, and one of the most scenic sections of the Rhine Gorge, designated a World Heritage site, then conclude your cruise in Cologne. Space reserved for 50 Smithsonian Journeys guests. *The December departure will run in reverse. Learn more about the Amadeus Silver III on our website. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Carol Reynolds (Nov.) and Tim Blanning (Dec.)– experts in European arts, culture, and music history.
Berlin
A One-Week Stay in Germany 9 days from $4,740 Includes $250 early booking savings Special air rates & services available Aug. 19–27, Oct. 7–15, 2020 Join us in Berlin in 2020 and experience this European cultural capital fully transformed since reunification. Masterful contemporary architecture and a strong new visual identity are balanced with carefully preserved art treasures along with iconic sites that reflect its turbulent history. Stay at the Hilton Berlin, ideally located in the Mitte district in the city center on Berlin’s most beautiful square. Highlights of this stay include visits and discussions with local experts that spotlight political Berlin, the history of World War II, and the Cold War, as well as the city’s impressive cultural venues. Visit the last standing section of the Berlin Wall, the Schoeneberg neighborhood, and the Reichstag and explore the city’s art and music at the Gemäldegalerie, the Pergamon Museum, a behind-thescenes tour of the Berlin Statsopera, and a concert. Limited to 28 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Expert Christopher Brennan (Oct.)–historian specializing in Germany and Central and Eastern Europe.
Cruising the Great Lakes CRUISE
Aboard the 180-guest Le Champlain September 2020 Find more details on our website
The Great Lakes region is one of the most magnificent and historic inland waterways in the world. Join us on this popular cruise, now featuring a new itinerary.
PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS Alamy, Getty Images, iStock, Dreamstime, Shutterstock, Adobe Stock. Alamy: Cover/Alhambra, Granada, Spain: Paul Williams; Cover/Zebra: Franz Aberham; Back Cover/Siena cathedral: Eddy Galeotti; Page 73/Women’s suffrage: Science History Images. Getty Images: Page 28/Telescope with Duomo: Jim Sugar. iStock: Back Cover/Monk at Angkor Wat: wanderluster. Additional photos courtesy of the following: Wade Jennings: Pages 4-5, page 21, pages 40-41. Page 13/Smithsonian Journeys Travelers: Kirt Kempter; Page 19/Doris Kearns Goodwin: Annie Leibovitz; Page 40/Merton College: Bamber/Merton College; Page 45/Skara Brae: Linda Currie; Page 46/BMW exhibit: BMW; Page 48/Atlas Calorimeter: CERN; Page 63/U.S. Space & Rocket Center; Page 66/Winslow Homer painting: Farnsworth Art Museum; Page 67/Union Church: Jaime Martorano; Page 91/Musicians: Linda Currie; Page 91/Women in the Andes: Richard Stanoss; Page 99/Family bicycle outing: Catherine Davis; Page 100/Children at the Parthenon: Barbara Tuceling. Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest: Page 57/Oak Tiger butterfly: Phil Parsons; Page 81/Fishing in Vietnam: Tuan Nguyen Manh; Page 82/Monk at Angkor Wat: Chris Palmer. Tourism Bureaus: Page 14/Vermeer painting: Netherlands Tourism Bureau; Page 39/River Thames: Julian Lovel-London and Partners/London Tourism Bureau; Page 44/Westport: Ireland Tourism Bureau; Page 65/House and carriage: South Carolina Tourism Bureau; Page 66/ Camden painter: Maine Tourism Bureau. Additional Photos: Smithsonian Institution, Smithsonian Journeys Experts, travelers, staff, tour operators, and providers. Printed August 2019
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Smithsonian Journeys 2019/2020 Planning Calendar
For additional trips and more details on what’s featured in this catalog go to SmithsonianJourneys.org PG# TOUR DAYS JAN
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C 9 C/L 12 C 9 C/L 15/16 SP/C 12 C 16 C/T 11 C 9 L/C 12 C 9 C 9 C 9 L 16 ST 9 L 15 ST 9 ST 9 ST 10 L 15 ST 23 ST 23 SP 8 SP 9 L 15 L 12 ST 9 ST 9 ST/SP 9 ST 9 ST 9 ST 9 L 15 C 9 L 17 C 11 C 10 ST 9 ST/SP 8 ST/SP 8 SP 9 SP 8 SP 9 L 14 L 12 C 11 C 9 L 13 ST 9 L 16 ST 9 SP L 10 SP 9 C 12 L 15 C 9 L 14 ST 10 L 11 C 9 L 16 L 14 C 10 T/SP 13 C 11 C 14
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TOUR TYPE: L–Land; ST–Stay; SP–Specialty; C–Cruise; T–Train; F–Family; AJ–Active Journey; A–Air W–Website ■–2019 Departure ●–2020 Departure ★–2021 Departure
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EUROPE
TOUR / CRUISE TITLE
Waterways of Holland and Belgium NEW Loire Valley Canal Cruise A River Cruise of Provence A Danube River Cruise NEW Global Symposium: Danube River Cruise Voyage Through Europe: From Holland to Hungary Great European Journey: From Holland to Switzerland NEW A Seine River Cruise Portrait of Portugal: Cruising the Douro River River Cruise of Provence Voyage from Rome to Malta Cruising the Rivieras of Italy, France, and Spain Highlights of Italy Italy’s Lake District: A One-Week Stay Northern Italy NEW Italy’s Apulia: A One-Week Stay Sorrento: A One-Week Stay Palermo and Taormina: A Stay in Sicily Southern Italy and Sicily Living in Italy: A Three-Week Stay in Florence Living in France: A Three-Week Stay in Provence NEW In the Footsteps of Galileo Smithsonian at the Cannes Film Festival France Through the Ages NEW Journey Through Provence Normandy: A One-Week Stay Paris: A One-Week Stay NEW Paris: The African American Experience NEW France and Spain’s Basque Region Spain’s Andalusia: A One-Week Stay Barcelona: A One-Week Stay Treasures of Southern Spain and Portugal A Cruise of Spain and Portugal Across Northern Spain and Portugal Sailing the Coast of Iberia Aboard Sea Cloud II A Cruise from Lisbon to London London: A One-Week Stay Smithsonian at Oxford Smithsonian at St Andrews, Scotland NEW The Battle of Britain D-Day: A Journey from England to France Classic Mystery Lover’s England Highlights of Britain Scotland’s Treasures A Celtic Cruise: From Glasgow to Honfleur Scottish Isles and Norwegian Fjords The Emerald Isle / Ireland County Mayo / Ireland: A One-Week Stay Old World Europe / From Poland to the Czech Republic Kraków: A One-Week Stay NEW European Cars & German Grand Prix NEW Treasures of the Alps Art Meets Science in Switzerland Cruising the Dalmatian Coast—Croatia and Slovenia Pearls of Croatia and Slovenia A Cruise of the Adriatic and the Aegean NEW Classical Greece Athens and Poros: A Stay in Greece Adventure in Iceland Iceland Voyage: A Circumnavigation Cruise Journey Through Norway St. Petersburg and the Baltics Cruising the Baltic Sea Arctic Explorer by Private Train An Arctic Cruise to Norway's Svalbard Expedition to Antarctica
Smithsonian Journeys 2019/2020 Planning Calendar
For additional trips and more details on what’s featured in this catalog go to SmithsonianJourneys.org
106
PG# TOUR DAYS JAN
A Cruise of Japan 75 Eternal Japan 77 Classic China Featuring Tibet & Yangtze River Cruise 76 Mystical India 77 The Silk Road 78 NEW Exploring Georgia and Armenia Azerbaijan 79 The Trans-Siberian Express 80 Singapore, Thailand, and Angkor Wat: E&O Express 82 Discovering Vietnam 80 NEW Cruising the Mekong River 81 A Cruise Along Vietnam’s Coast 81 Splendors of Australia and New Zealand 83 Journey Through New Zealand 82 NEW Safari in Kenya and Tanazania 85 Treasures of South Africa, Zimbabwe, Botswana 87 Tanzania’s Great Migration 88 Southern African Adventure: Chobe River Cruise 87 African Safari 86 Splendors of Morocco 88 NEW Ancient Egypt and the Nile 89 Patagonian Explorer: Argentina & Chile 60 NEW Solar Eclipse 2020: Chile and Argentina 61 Wonders of the Galápagos Islands 59 Machu Picchu and the Galápagos 58 Legendary Peru 59 Amazon River Cruise 56 A Cruise of Panama and Costa Rica 55 Costa Rica's Natural Treasures 57 NEW Cruising the Caribbean’s Windward Islands 57 Cruising Southern Coastlines 65 Voyage on the Mississippi 64 Art Along the Coast of Maine 66 Astronomy in Arizona 62 Art Along the Hudson 67 Cruising the Great Lakes W In the Wake of Lewis and Clark 68 NEW Seascapes of the Canadian Maritimes 73 Alaska’s Glaciers and the Inside Passage 70 Alaska’s Natural Wonders 71 Smithsonian at Space Academy 63 Astronomy and Natural Wonders of Hawaii 62 The Northern Rockies 72 Smithsonian at Chautauqua 73 Bryce, Zion, and the Grand Canyon 69 Cruising the Rhine: A Family Voyage 99 Treasures of Tuscany 100 NEW Greece for Families 100 Iceland Explorer 101 Exploring London and Paris 101 Yellowstone and the Tetons 101 Around the World by Private Jet 90 NEW A Literary Hike Through the Cotswolds 94 Hiking Scotland’s Hebrides and Highlands 93 Hiking the Emerald Isle 93 Hikes and Cuisine of Tuscany 94 Hikes and Cuisine of Provence 94 NEW Hiking and History Along El Camino de Santiago 94 NEW Hiking Norway’s Fjords 95 Rafting Cataract Canyon on the Colorado River 96 NEW Mont Blanc Hiking 95 Hiking Through Patagonia 96 NEW Hikes and Cuisine of Peru’s Sacred Valley 96 NEW Vietnam Cycling Adventure 97 NEW Alaska Adventure 96 Climbing Kilimanjaro 97 102-103 Smithsonian Tailor-Made Journeys
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TOUR TYPE: L–Land; ST–Stay; SP–Specialty; C–Cruise; T–Train; F–Family; AJ–Active Journey; A–Air W–Website ■–2019 Departure ●–2020 Departure ★–2021 Departure
ACTIVE JOURNEYS
FAMILY
THE AMERICAS
AFRICA
ASIA & THE PACIFIC
TOUR / CRUISE TITLE
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