Smithsonian Journeys Summer Catalog by Smithsonian Enterprises

2021 TRAVEL CATALOG SmithsonianJourneys.org

EUROPE / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS

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66 Our Travel Collection Book an unforgettable journey.

4 8 Reasons to Travel with Smithsonian Journeys 6 Our Experts 8 Travel Styles 12 At Home in the World By Land, River, or Sea 14 The Americas The Andes to Alaskaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Inside Passage 26 Europe World Heritage Sites and Immersive Stays 64 Polar Arctic to Antarctic 66 Africa Pyramids to Safaris 74 Asia & the Pacific Temples to Coral Reefs 84 Tailor-Made Journeys Private Departures 86 More Tours Online

88 List of Tours & Calendar

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Start exploring again with Smithsonian in 2021

Dear Smithsonian Journeys travelers, Like many of you, my wanderlust is a defining part of who I am. And though travel is on “pause” right now, that passion for discovering new places and delving further into a place visited previously is still very much alive. For those who have traveled with Smithsonian in the past, we know that the desire to explore new and favorite places in the company of fellow Smithsonian Journeys travelers and experts is still high in many of your thoughts. We hope to welcome you back in 2021! Our new 2021 catalog celebrates some of the annual events we haven’t been able to experience this year, such as the spectacular tulips on Waterways of Holland and Belgium, the Royal Military Tattoo on Scotland’s Treasures, and Africa’s great wildlife migration on Tanzania’s Great Migration. We also offer many opportunities to go off the beaten path on journeys like Alaska’s Natural Wonders or our Adventure in Iceland. Or if you’d prefer to travel with just your spouse or family or a small group of friends, our Tailor-Made Journeys let you explore the world your way—you decide where and when you want to go, and who you want to travel with. Our country specialists will work with you to craft your own itinerary and provide special experiences, such as joining a cooking class, meeting with a resident crafts person, or biking through local villages or magnificent landscapes. To assure your peace of mind, we have made our payment terms more flexible so you can make future travel plans with the confidence of knowing you can change your plans, if needed. Reserve your 2021 journey before December 31, 2020 and you may cancel up to 95 days before the departure date and receive a full refund.* We are committed to ensuring that all of our journeys meet the health and safety guidelines established by the U.S. Travel Association and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and are working now to implement those measures across all of our trips. We hope you will find some inspiration as you browse through our catalog, and that we’ll have an opportunity to welcome you on a Smithsonian Journeys trip in 2021. Sincerely,

Lynn Cutter Senior Vice President, Smithsonian Travel

*Offer valid for new 2021 bookings received between June and December 31, 2020. This offer is available for all Smithsonian Journeys trips except for Private Jet, Active, and Tailor-Made journeys. 5

8 Reasons to Travel with

Smithsonian Journeys 1. The Smithsonian Difference Our trips reflect the vast knowledge and experience Smithsonian has gathered since its founding in 1846. All of our itineraries are carefully crafted to provide a deep, authentic, and unique experience, and many also provide special access to Smithsonian research, people, and facilities. For example, meet Smithsonian scientists at a research station in Kenya or Panama, observe astrophysicists at work at a Smithsonian observatory in Arizona, or find yourself on a behind-the-scenes tour of a Smithsonian Affiliate Museum. 2. A Name You Can Trust Smithsonian has worked hard over the past 175 years to earn its reputation as one of America’s most trusted institutions. And, as you would expect from Smithsonian, our journeys are known for top-notch service, engaging experts, and some of the most experienced trip leaders and local guides. And when you travel with Smithsonian, you know that your safety and well-being are always a top priority. 3. Travel with Our Experts Our travelers tell us one of their favorite aspects of our journeys is the fun and engaging learning at the core of every trip. Our world-class experts bring meaningful enrichment and insider perspectives to hundreds of departures on all seven continents. You’ll find that some of your best times with your Smithsonian Journeys Expert take place during informal conversations, at meals, and while exploring sites in more depth. In addition to traveling with a Smithsonian Journeys Expert, you’ll be accompanied by a top professional trip leader and local guides who are the best in the industry. They know their destination and itinerary intimately and can make adjustments on a moment’s notice. 4. 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 some of the most lasting elements of a journey are the friendships that develop with other travelers who share your passion for deeper learning and exploration. 6

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5. Small Groups and Big Experiences Now more than ever, the idea of traveling with a small group of fellow travelers is reassuring. Almost all of our land trips feature guaranteed small groups of 12 to 24 people, allowing for more flexibility. You’ll experience the world in a bigger way, getting up close to renowned sites and taking the path less traveled. And with small-group travel, it’s all about the people. You’ll meet with the local people, participate in cultural traditions, and get to know your fellow travelers and trip leaders. 6. Great Value Once you add up the extras that we include—experts, enrichment, most meals, excursions, transfers, most gratuities, and even airfare inclusive pricing on many trips—you’ll find that many of our trips are a very good value in addition to being an exceptional experience. 7. Supporting the Smithsonian Mission When you travel with Smithsonian Journeys, your participation benefits the work of the Institution, supporting our educational mission to preserve our heritage, discover new knowledge, and share our resources with the world. And, you have the comfort of knowing that you are traveling with an organization that is committed to sustaining the character and biodiversity of the places we visit by selecting partners and suppliers who meet our standards for responsible travel and supporting regional economies through our use of distinctive local guides and accommodations. 8. Peace of Mind To assure your peace of mind during these times, we’ve made our payment terms more flexible. Reserve your 2021 journey before December 31, 2020 and you may cancel up to 95 days before the departure date and receive a full refund.* And we are working on implementing new protocols to ensure that all of our trips meet the health and safety guidelines established by the U.S. Travel Association and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

*Offer valid for new 2021 bookings received between June and December 31, 2020. This offer is available for all Smithsonian Journeys trips except for Private Jet, Active, and Tailor-Made journeys.

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 worldâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;with in-depth understanding of history, culture, politics, the natural world, or the fine artsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;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 see the accolades shared by our travelers. 8

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1 Carol Reynolds expert in European 6 Michelle Thaller astrophysicist specializing in the life cycle of stars music, art, history, and culture 2 Solange Ashby Egyptologist 3 Patty Hostiuck naturalist with expertise in biodiversity and conservation 4 Grant Nel expert in biodiversity, conservation, and zoology 5 Cassandra Potts-Hannahs historian with expertise in Celtic, Viking, and Anglo-Norman studies

7 Stephen Clancy expert in ancient, medieval, and Renaissance art and architecture

See bios and interviews with Smithsonian Journeys Experts at SmithsonianJourneys.org/Experts

8 Debora Heard anthropologist and archaeologist 9 Jim Zimbelman planetary geologist at Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum

Celebrating 50 years of Smithsonian Journeys Find your perfect trip With Smithsonian Journeys you can always find a trip that matches your aspirations and interests—all with a unique blend of enriching insights, exceptional quality, engaging travel companions, 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 allows you to filter your choices by travel style, interest, activity level, destination, dates, and trip duration. You will discover your perfect journey in just seconds! At right, see descriptions of the many different trip types that you’ll find in this catalog.

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Classic Land Journeys Spin the globe and chances are you’ll land 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 trips are comprehensive and exciting. 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 12 to 24 travelers. You’ll stay in a variety of accommodations that reflect the cultural traditions of your destination—and most of these trips include airfare for even more value! Cultural Stay Journeys Our one-week Cultural Stay Journeys allow you to unpack once and enjoy time to discover a destination’s unique sense of place in more depth. Choose from a single European cultural capital or a smaller town that showcases the intrinsic character 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. Or choose an immersive three-week “Living In” stay for a well-balanced program of themed activities and independent exploration.

Special Interest Tours Join travelers who share your interest in art to astronomy or military history. Become a student at Oxford, delve into art and science in Switzerland, or learn about the lives of African Americans in Paris. You can also go behind the scenes at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center to understand the challenges of NASA astronauts! Whatever your interest, Smithsonian Journeys ensures a unique and top-notch learning experience. 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 range from yachts of just 18 guests to small vessels that accommodate only 180 guests. All of our small upscale cruises share the same hallmark qualities of superb amenities, excellent cuisine, an informal ambiance, and a top-notch Smithsonian Journeys Expert who travels with you. And while some cruises exclusively host our Smithsonian Journeys guests, others are shared with similar cultural institutions and universities. Find more information on our ocean cruises on page 13, European river cruises on page 36, and U.S. cruising on page 24.

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 several fascinating 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, Southeast Asia’s Eastern & Oriental Express, or an adventure in Russia aboard the Golden Eagle. Tailor-Made Journeys With Smithsonian Journeys, our Tailor-Made trips are custom built just for you. A country specialist will work with you to design your perfect itinerary from start to finish. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone moment or traveling just for fun as a couple, solo, or with a group of friends, the when and where are up to you! (Find more information on pages 84–85.)

At home in the world

By land, river, or sea, let the journey begin Distinctive Properties

And on our popular Machu Picchu and the Galápagos journey, you’ll stay at the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge (adjacent to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu), and at a secluded private estate on Santa Cruz Island.

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.

During our one-week Cultural Stays in Europe, you’ll find the ideal home away from home as our properties feature local character and ambiance, high standards, and a central location! On 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 three-week Living In immersion programs in Florence and Aix-en-Provence, you’ll stay in a centrally located residential hotel where your studio or one-bedroom apartment features all the amenities to be self-sufficient, but with hotel services that make life easy.

Take in commanding panoramic views of the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater from Serena Safari Lodges on both of our safaris in Tanzania. During many of our tours in Spain and Portugal, you’ll be completely immersed in the region's history during stays in paradores and pousadas (former palaces, convents, and castles)! Feel like a modern-day bedouin when you stay at the Sahrai Fez on our Splendors of Morocco trip. This hotel, which opened in 2014, was designed to resemble the architectural layout of the World Heritage site of the Fez medina, located nearby.

Pousada de Porto Palace, Portugal

Sahrai Fez, Morocco

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 36 and in the U.S. on page 24!

Intimate 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—ranging from 18-passenger yachts to small sophisticated ships accommodating up to 180 guests—where curious travelers and engaging conversation along with casual clothes and attitudes create a truly enjoyable and 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 helpful demeanor.

Sea Cloud II

Cruising the ocean, you’ll often find yourself aboard the elegant French Ponant ﬂeet—on the new generation of luxury ships Le Lapérouse, Le Champlain, Le Bougainville, Le Dumont d’Urville, Le Bellot, and Le Jacques Cartier. Each ship reﬂects a casually elegant 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

Le Lapérouse

Queen Eleganza

Zafiro

THE AMERICAS / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS

The Americas The Andes to Alaskaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Inside Passage

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Machu Picchu and the Galápagos 16 days from $9,293 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees Feb. 27–March 14, April 3–18, May 8–23, June 5–20, July 17–Aug. 1, Sept. 25–Oct. 10, Oct. 9–24, 2021 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.

The legendary Machu Picchu

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. Active Adventure: Experience the natural wonders of the Galápagos while swimming and snorkeling and during nature walks and boat rides. Wildlife: In addition to giant Galápagos tortoises, observe sea lions and iguana, reefs teeming with colorful fish, and sea birds such as Blue-footed and Red-footed Boobies, Nazca Boobies, Frigate birds, and perhaps the Galápagos hawk.

Blue-footed Boobies Overnight/Featured Site Train

ECUADOR

Extension (Air)

Iquitos (Amazon)

Pacific Ocean

PERU

Limited to 19 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Bill Sapp (Feb.), Dennis Ogburn (May/July) and Anita Cook (Oct.)–archaeologists with expertise in the Inca Empire and other ancient societies in Andean South America. Pat Dickerson (June)–highly respected geologist.

Quito

Air

North Seymour Lima

Baltra Santa Cruz

South Plaza

G ALÁPAGOS I SLANDS

Machu Picchu Cusco/Sacred Valley

THE AMERICAS / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS

Wonders of the Galápagos Islands A Voyage Aboard the 90-guest Santa Cruz II CRUISE

Seal pup and Sally Lightfoot crab

9 days from $5,495 Includes $1,000 early booking savings Feb. 8–16, 2021

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—cruising to six of the Galápagos Islands, including rarely visited western islands. You’ll learn about this fascinating World Heritage site, where Darwin developed his research on evolution, from a highly qualified and diverse team of experts. Highlights Include Unique Wildlife: Watch the antics of Blue-footed Boobies and observe the beauty of Nazca Boobies, flamingos, and Frigate birds. Along sparkling white-sand beaches, get up close to sea lions, seals, Sally Lightfoot crabs, iguana, penguins, giant land tortoises, and other amazing wildlife in their native habitat.

Flora of the Galápagos Islands

Port of Call/Overnight

Quito

Ship Air

ECUADOR Guayaquil

G ALÁPAGOS I SLANDS Punta Vicente Punta Espinoza Fernandina

Isabela

Baltra Santa Cruz Puerto Ayora

Champion Islet Post Office Bay Floreana Cormorant Point

Featured Islands: Enjoy a day in an area that is rarely visited—the Western Galápagos Islands. Cruise through the Bolivar Channel, offering stunning views of the volcanic peaks of Isabela and Fernandina Islands. Your time at seahorse-shaped Isabela features snorkeling along the cliffs and searching the northern shores for wildlife. Isabela is also known for its orca whale and dolphin populations and land iguana and tortoises. Then continue to the moon-like landscapes of Fernandina, which showcases one of the densest concentrations of wildlife in the archipelago. On Santa Cruz, learn about efforts to protect the rare giant tortoises at the Charles Darwin Research Station. You’ll also call at Floreana, one of the first islands to be settled by European whalers and buccaneers; the small Champion Islet, known for its sea horses, coral hawkfish, and other aquatic wonders; and Baltra Island. Active Adventure: Throughout your voyage, discover the islands through nature walks, kayaking, snorkeling, swimming, or excursions by glass-bottom boat. Santa Cruz II: Cruise for four nights aboard our upscale small expedition-style ship, featuring a fleet of Zodiacs and everything you need to explore the islands. Our vessel is the ideal size—large enough to provide a choice of excursions but also offering an intimate experience. Find more details on our website. Quito: Spend two days in Quito, which features tours of the Old City, a World Heritage-designated historic colonial district; a private museum of pre-Columbian art; and the fascinating Ethnographic Museum (located at the equator). Space reserved for 30 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Expert Brent Garry–geologist at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center and former postdoctoral fellow at the Smithsonian.

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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. 21–March 1, 2021 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.

Panama Canal lock

Highlights Include Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute: Visit STRI’s Punta Culebra Nature Center to view the Institute’s work firsthand. Here, 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. Costa Rica: Make a wet landing at Curú Wildlife Refuge and take a guided walk to see an abundance of wildlife, including spider, howler, and capuchin monkeys, the scarlet macaw, and more than 230 species of birds. At Manuel Antonio National Park, walk with your expert naturalist to experience a lush tropical paradise of rain forest, beaches, and coral reefs—home to more than 100 species of mammals, almost 200 species of birds, and various reptiles and amphibians. And in San José, visit the National Museum and National Theater. Active Adventure: Go swimming or snorkeling amid the sheltered waters of Isla Toruga with its angelfish and sea horses. Enjoy snorkeling in the emerald waters of the rarely visited Isla Cébaco, where schools of vibrantly colored fish, giant manta rays, and four different species of turtles swim amid spectacular coral reefs. Plus, in the clear turquoise waters of the pristine Golfo de San Blas, enjoy another opportunity for swimming and snorkeling. San Blas Islands: In these remote islands, meet the indigenous Guna people, renowned for their colorful mola art work.

Red Macaw Port of Call Featured Site Ship

COSTA RICA

Puerto Curú National Caldera San José Wildlife Refuge Isla Tortuga Manuel Antonio National Park Drake Bay

Motorcoach

San Blas Islands Colón Panama Panama Canal STRI City

PANAMA

Space reserved for 60 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Learn more about Le Dumont d’Urville on page 13 and on our website. Smithsonian Journeys Expert Thomas Mirenda–horticulturist and former specialist with Smithsonian Gardens.

Caribbean Sea

Gulf of Panama Isla Cébaco

Pacific Ocean

THE AMERICAS / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS Red Howler monkey

Amazon River Cruise Round-trip from Lima Aboard the 36-guest Zafiro

9 days from $5,295 Includes $1,000 early booking savings Feb. 13–21, Oct. 9–17, Oct. 28–Nov. 5, 2021 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 discover 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

Pucate River

Pacaya-Samiria NationalReserve

Overnight Featured Site

Lima

Ranger Station

Ship Motorcoach Air

Smithsonian Journeys Expert Nina Zitani (Feb./Oct. 28)–highly respected naturalist with expertise in biodiversity and conservation.

Nauta

Ucayali River

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 river ship 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.

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Patagonian Explorer

Argentina and Chile by Land and Sea Featuring a four-night cruise aboard a 210-guest Australis ship 16 days from $9,282 / Includes airfare, taxes & all fees Jan. 8–23, Feb. 13–28, March 12–27*, 2021 Follow in the footsteps of intrepid explorers as you travel throughout the southernmost tip of South America by land and sea. From the bustling cities of Buenos Aires and Santiago to the dramatic vistas of Torres del Paine and the Patagonian Channels, you’ll gain insight into the nature and culture of this breathtaking region. Highlights Include Santiago: In this sophisticated Chilean capital, visit the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art, 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. 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. Cruise of the Patagonian Channels: From Ushuaia, sail for four nights aboard the expedition ship Ventus or 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. You’ll also observe an immense colony of more than 120,000 Magellanic penguins at Magdalena Island. 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.

Ventus or Stella Australis: Cruise for four nights aboard a comfortable expedition ship, featuring indoor and outdoor lounges, all-inclusive bar, and dining room offering flavorful cuisine. Zodiac excursions are accompanied by an expert expedition team. Find more details on our website. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. *The March departure will run in the reverse direction. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Jim Reynolds (Jan.)–expert in natural and Earth sciences. Madalena Patacho (March)–highly respected naturalist with expertise in biodiversity and conservation. Iguazu Falls

CHILE Pacific Ocean Santiago

Buenos Aires

ARGENTINA Atlantic Ocean

Overnight/Featured Site Air

Torres del Paine Punta Arenas Cape Horn

Motorcoach

Ushuaia

Cruise Extension (Air)

Torres del Paine National Park

THE AMERICAS / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS

Mission simulation of the International Space Station

Reed boat on Lake Titicaca

Legendary Peru

World of the Inca and Machu Picchu 11 days from $5,187 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees Nov. 9–19, 2020 & March 22–April 1, May 17–27, Sept. 6–16, Nov. 3–13, 2021 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 Regina Harrison (Nov. 9)–expert in the language of the Incas and Latin American literature. Anita Cook (May) and Bill Sapp (Nov. 3)–experts in archaeology and anthropology with a focus on Inca sites.

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Smithsonian at Space Academy 5 days from $3,995 Nov. 8–12, 2020 & March 7–11, Nov. 7–11, 2021 Join fellow travelers who share a passion for the history and future of space exploration, and mark the 55th anniversary of the first spacecraft docking, during a VIP experience at the renowned U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama, a Smithsonian Affiliate. Highlights Include Special Speakers: Partner with an astronaut who shares his insight and trains your small group. Attend private lectures by a former astronaut and NASA engineer, participate in daily discussions, and attend panels with NASA scientists and engineers who have worked on the most important projects in the space program. Behind the Scenes: Explore the nearby Marshall Space Flight Center, home to 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. You can also try out the astronaut training simulators such as the spinning Multi-Axis Trainer and the Underwater Astronaut Trainer, which prepares astronauts for performing tasks in reduced gravity. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Enrichment Astronauts Hoot Gibson and Mike Foreman will each lead one departure. Scientists and speakers from the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, including former NASA engineer Homer Hickam or David Hitt will provide further educational insight. (Please note that speakers are subject to change.)

Observatory at Haleakala, Maui

The MMT at the Harvard / Smithsonian Whipple Observatory

Astronomy in Arizona Astronomy and Natural Wonders of Hawaii 9 days from $6,995 April 6–14, Sept. 29–Oct. 7, 2021

Behind the Scenes with Smithsonian 5 days from $3,590 April 11–15, 2021

Discover the wonders of the universe and marvel at Earth’s immense geological forces and the undersea world during this unique tour of the Hawaiian islands of Maui and Hawaii.

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

Astronomy: On Maui, visit an important observatory on the summit of Haleakala where an array of astronomical cameras, telescopes, and computing facilities search the sky for new asteroids, comets, and other celestial objects. You’ll also take a stargazing cruise with an astronomer. On the island of Hawaii, learn about distant planets, star clusters, and galaxies in a location of unmatched clarity for sky viewing as you look through a powerful telescope into the night sky. Later, trace the history of Hawaiian celestial navigation during a curator-led tour of the Imiloa Astronomy Center. And, pending final confirmation, visit Smithsonian’s Submillimeter Array, high atop Mauna Kea. Geology and Natural History: Spend a day with a resident geologist on the Big Island, exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and learning about its ongoing volcanic activity. And take a walk in the North Kohala backcountry, known for its waterfalls and breathtaking views. On Maui, explore the moon-like crater, endemic plants, and native birds at Haleakala National Park.

Exclusive Access: Gain special insight during a VIP visit to the Center for Astrophysics / Harvard & Smithsonian’s Fred Lawrence Whipple Observatory. This four-story structure, high atop Mt. Hopkins, includes offices, workshops, and computer labs that rotate with the impressive MMT telescope during nightly observations. Lower down on The Ridge, get to know the astronomers and staff during a special dinner at the Astronomers’ Quarters, who then join you for night sky viewing through small telescopes. Engineering, Technology, and Manufacturing: Take a private tour of the University of Arizona Richard F. Caris Mirror Lab to learn about the production of 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: Ascend more than 9,000 feet to Mt. Lemmon SkyCenter (part of the University of Arizona Steward Observatory), to take part in an exclusive night of astronomy. Here, you’ll view planets, stars, and galaxies through the center’s 32-inch Shulman telescope, the largest publicly dedicated telescope in the Southwest. You’ll also learn how to photograph stars and planets and use sky charts to view the night sky.

Limited to 22 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Expert Richard Wainscoat (both dates)–astronomer at the University of Hawaii who works with the Pan-STARRS telescope atop Haleakala.

Smithsonian Journeys Expert David Aguilar–astronomer, author, and former director of public affairs at the Harvard & Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics.

THE AMERICAS / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS

Bryce, Zion, and the Grand Canyon 10 days from $4,195 Oct. 4–13, 2020 & April 18–27, Sept. 1–10, Oct. 6–15, 2021 Explore three iconic national parks in one engaging tour! Travel from Phoenix to Sedona, known for its towering red sandstone formations and explore this dazzling landscape during an exciting off-road jeep excursion. Look in awe upon the inspiring landscape of the Grand Canyon, considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Natural World and a World Heritage site. Continue learning about the area’s geology as you walk through the sinuous red slot canyon of Upper Antelope Canyon and observe soaring sandstone cliffs during a float trip on the Colorado River. During leisurely hikes in Bryce, enjoy panoramic and up-close views of the colorful red “hoodoo” rock formations. And in Zion, go hiking amid the varied terrain of deserts, forests, rivers, canyons, and red-rock bluffs. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Upper Antelope Canyon

Seascapes of the Canadian Maritimes 12 days from $5,597 / Includes airfare, taxes & all fees May 30–June 10, July 11–22, Aug. 22–Sept. 2, 2021 The Canadian Maritimes—Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island—are known for their dramatic maritime landscapes, unique historic sites, and quiet lifestyle. 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 and an 18th-century French fortress in Louisbourg. Cross the Bay of Fundy by ferry for historic Saint John, where you’ll take a whale watching cruise, and at Hopewell Rocks, gaze upon the ocean’s power as the Bay of Fundy’s water level changes 45 feet. In Charlottetown, learn about the area’s early political history and cultural and musical traditions, plus stop to tour the Anne of Green Gables Museum. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Hopewell Rocks at low tide

The Northern Rockies

Featuring Glacier, Banff, and Jasper National Parks 11 days from $5,891 / Includes airfare, taxes & all fees June 21–July 1, July 5–15, Aug. 23–Sept. 2, 2021

Mother bear with cubs

Discover the spectacular Northern Rocky Mountains during leisurely hikes and drives through three World Heritage site parks. In Glacier National Park, take in breathtaking vistas along the famous Going-tothe-Sun Road and go hiking along St. Mary Lake, which showcases the divide between the Great Plains and the Rocky Mountains. In Banff, hike along the emerald Lake Louise, often called the “Jewel of the Canadian Rockies,” and journey to the Columbia Icefield for a oncein-a-lifetime “ice coach” tour of Athabasca Glacier. In Jasper National Park, explore the geological marvel of Maligne Canyon and take a cruise on cerulean Maligne Lake. You’ll also drive along the Columbia Icefields Parkway, which parallels the Continental Divide and features plentiful wildlife, and stop at the Glacier Skywalk, suspended nearly 1,000 feet above the valley floor. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

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Alaska’s Natural Wonders 11 days from $6,495 June 1–11, July 6–16, Aug. 3–13, Aug. 17–27, Aug. 31–Sept. 10, 2021 Experience the natural wonders of Alaska during this unique journey featuring three important national parks. From Denali to WrangellSt. Elias and Kenai Fjords, feel the excitement of seeing bountiful wildlife, majestic snow-covered mountains, and dramatic glistening glaciers. You’ll also gain a better understanding of the Alaskan way of life from insightful visits in Anchorage and throughout your trip. Highlights Include

Mount Denali

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. 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 mine. 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 Patty Hostiuck (June)–highly respected naturalist with many years of experience in Alaska. John Grabowska (July/Aug. 31)– award-winning filmmaker of natural history films on the Alaskan wilderness. Wayne Ranney (Aug. 17)–highly respected geologist.

Gray wolf in Alaska 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

THE AMERICAS / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS

Alaska’s Glaciers and the Inside Passage Bald eagle in flight

A Cruise from Vancouver to Juneau Aboard the 200-guest Le Soléal

8 days from approximately $4,395 Includes $1,000 early booking savings July 26–Aug. 2, 2021 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. Totems in Sitka 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 Featured Site Ship

Misty Fjords National Monument Ketchikan To/From Vancouver

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 Patty Hostiuck–highly respected naturalist with expertise in biodiversity and conservation and many years of experience in Alaska.

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In the Wake of Lewis and Clark Cruising the Columbia and Snake Rivers Aboard the 150-guest paddle wheeler American Pride 9 days from $6,390 Includes $250 early booking savings Oct. 9–17, 2020 & Oct. 7–15, Oct. 21–29, 2021 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. And, 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. Look into the storied past of the Cayuse, Umatilla, and Walla Walla tribes at the Tamatslikt Cultural Institute. And spend a morning in Pendleton, Oregon, to explore the infamous underground city, then tour the Pendleton Woolen Mill. 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 select educational sites throughout your voyage. River Navigation: Visit the Columbia River Maritime Museum in Astoria, which chronicles the history of river

Columbia River

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 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 Multnomah Falls

Willamette River

I DAHO

Clarkston/ Lewiston

Pendleton Hells Canyon Columbia River Columbia The Dalles River Gorge

O REGON

Smithsonian Journeys Experts Harry Fritz(Oct. 9/Oct. 7) and Keith Edgerton (Oct. 21)–historians, both with expertise in the Lewis and Clark expedition.

Clark, Lewis, and Sacajawea

EUROPE / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS

Europe

World Heritage Sites and Immersive Stays

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Immersive Academic Stay at Oxford University 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—one of the most prestigious academic institutions in the world, where Smithsonian Journeys travelers have congregated since 1979.

Smithsonian Journeys travelers in Oxford

The warm reception we received made us feel that we really were Oxford students—a very special sense of belonging. – Lyn G.

Merton College

Smithsonian at Oxford

Featuring Five Courses of Study for 2021 8 days from $5,450 Book early! Course capacity is limited! July 4–11, 2021 Given enthusiastic interest in our Smithsonian at Oxford program, Smithsonian Journeys travelers can look forward to a sojourn in Oxford in 2021. Once again we 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. Highlights Include Courses of Study: Stimulate your mind in pursuit of knowledge as you spend your mornings learning from an Oxford tutor. Course selections 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. 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 he attended as a student. You’ll also take an excursion tailored to your specific course. Find details on our website.

Optional Activities: For returning students (and firsttimers as well), tour staff will be happy to help arrange alternative afternoon outings (at an additional fee), including punting, a guided tour of the Ashmolean Art Museum, and a walking tour based on the popular British drama, Inspector Morse. 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. The average course size is 12–14 guests. Book early to ensure your preferred choice.

Oxford Tutors Historians, authors, and heritage professionals from the Oxford community will serve as Smithsonian faculty. See our website for more information.

EUROPE / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS

Thames River, London

Musicians at a local pub

County Clare

A One-Week Stay in Western Ireland

London: The African Diaspora SPECIALTY

9 days from $4,890 Includes $250 early booking savings Special air rates & services available May 13–21, June 3–11, Sept. 16–24, 2021

Gather in the vibrant city of London to explore in depth the history and remarkable resilience of the African American and other African communities of this capital city. You’ll visit museums and neighborhoods related to the African diaspora in London and focus on the art, literature, film, folklore, music, and dance of these communities. Stay at the elegant Radisson Blue Edwardian Vanderbilt Hotel, centrally located in Kensington. Highlights Include Museums: Delve into the vast collections and exhibitions at the Museum of London Docklands, the Black Cultural Archives, and the National Gallery to focus on the history, culture, and legacy of people of Africa and the Caribbean in Britain. Neighborhood Discoveries: Take walking tours of Brixton, Soho, Trafalgar Square, and St. Paul’s Cathedral and explore important links between the African, Caribbean, American, and Indian communities. Plus, enjoy a leisurely Thames River cruise through the city.

9 days from $4,390 Includes $250 early booking savings No Single Supplement—Limited Availability Special air rates & services available May 29–June 6, Sept. 4–12, 2021 Experience the essence of Irish culture in Ennis, County Clare, where you’ll view Ireland through the eyes of its people. This exciting new Cultural Stay showcases Ireland’s renowned traditions as well as its dramatic landscapes. The Old Ground Hotel, situated in the heart of Ennis, provides the perfect base for your discoveries. Highlights Include Music: Listen to live music throughout your stay in Ennis, a stronghold of traditional Irish music. Enjoy exclusive performances and more informal gatherings in charming local pubs. Plus, meet a musician in his home to hear more about Irish musical history. Other Cultural Traditions: Learn about the Irish game of Hurling, dating back 2,000 years, and the Gaelic Athletic Association. Sample the four pillars of Irish whiskey during a pub tour led by a whiskey expert. Travel to Cork for a culinary excursion focused on Irish apple brandy and a special luncheon. Plus, learn about Irish history and genealogy from a local expert. Dramatic Landscapes: Enjoy walking along the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren, special areas of outstanding geology and beauty. You’ll also drive along the Wild Atlantic Way and the scenic Loop Head Peninsula.

Discussions with Local Experts: Attend discussions with local experts on the struggles of the Black British and U.S. Civil Rights Movements and on important literary figures and activists who lived in London.

Aran Islands: Travel to Inishmore, inhabited since ancient times and a center for the Gaelic language. Learn about its history and meet a family who are modern culinary purveyors of seaweed.

Music: Enjoy a special jazz performance at one of London’s hottest jazz venues.

Castles and Gardens: Learn about Irish castles, gardens, history, and science at Birr Castle and Bunratty Folk Park.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Expert A historian with expertise in the African experience in London will accompany this specialty tour.

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Smithsonian Journeys Expert Christopher Griffin (both dates)–expert in Irish literature and the humanities.

Landscape of the Aran Islands

The Emerald Isle 13 days from $5,992 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees May 16–28, June 13–25, Aug. 15–27, Sept. 5–17, 2021 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 later during a dinner at a local family-run 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 County 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 and a 1,000-year-old ring fort. 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 Jennifer Paxton (May)–historian with expertise in medieval Ireland, Scotland, and England. Cassandra Potts Hannahs (June)–expert in Celtic, Viking, and Anglo-Saxon studies. Christopher Griffin (Aug.)– expert in Irish literature and humanities.

View of Edinburgh

Scotland’s Treasures

Featuring the Royal Military Tattoo* 12 days from $5,996 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees May 22–June 2, July 29–Aug. 9*, Aug. 12–23*, Aug. 30–Sept. 10, 2021 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 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 12 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 Cassandra Potts Hannahs (May) and Miriam Davis (July/Aug. 12)–experts in early British history. Rab Houston (Aug. 30)–expert in modern British history.

EUROPE / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS

Scottish Isles and Norwegian Fjords

A Cruise from Glasgow to Bergen Aboard the 180-guest Le Dumont d’Urville CRUISE

9 days from approximately $5,495 Includes $1,000 early booking savings May 30–June 7, June 6–14*, June 13–21, 2021

Voyage in the wake of Viking seafarers and experience the rugged beauty of remote islands and dramatic coastlines forever linked by their heritage. Cruise into ports in Scotland’s rarely visited Orkney and Shetland Islands and through some of Norway’s magnificent fjords, visit World Heritage sites, and enjoy plentiful sea birds and spring flowers.

Skara Brae, Orkney Islands

Highlights Include Scottish Highlands: Cruise from Glasgow to Fort William, then drive through the breathtaking landscape to legendary Glencoe as well as Glenfinnan Monument, where Bonnie Prince Charlie rallied Jacobite Highlanders against King George II. Sail to the lovely Kyle of Lochalsh to tour Eilean Donan Castle, then continue to the Inner Hebrides and the Isle of Skye, where you’ll experience the beautifully rugged landscape. Orkney Islands: In the remote Orkney Islands, a hub of Neolithic civilization, visit the settlement of Skara Brae, see the ceremonial Stones of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar, and gain further insight from archaeologist and site director Nick Card. Plus, explore the Viking town of Kirkwall. Shetland Islands: Farther north, explore 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: Crossing the North Sea, enjoy the vistas once known by Vikings as they plied the waters on their longships. View imposing mountains, sheer cliffs, and sparkling waterfalls during a day cruising through Norway’s famous fjords, including Sognefjord. Plus, take a thrilling ride through this landscape aboard the Flåm Railway. Norway’s Bergen: Continue to Bergen, founded on 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 June 6 departure will run in reverse. Learn more about Le Dumont d’Urville on page 13 and on our website. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Roff Smith (May)–writer, archaeologist, and geologist with expertise in neolithic Britain. Wayne Ranney (June 6)–highly respected geologist. Colleen Batey (June 13)–field archaeologist with expertise in the northern British Isles.

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Sognefjord, Norway Port of Call

NORWAY

Featured Site Ship Train

Sognefjord Shetland Islands Orkney Islands

Lerwick

Bergen

Flåm Myrdal

Kirkwall

SCOTLAND

North Sea Isle of Skye Kyle of Lochalsh/ Portree Eilean Donan Glenfinnan Fort William Glencoe

Glasgow

Eilean Donan Castle, Scotland

A Celtic Cruise

From Scotland to France / Aboard the 180-guest Le Jacques Cartier 10 days from approximately $6,995 Includes $1,000 early booking savings April 30–May 9, May 21–30, 2021 Trace the strands of Celtic, Viking, and Norman civilizations and discover the evocative legends and lore, historic sites, and breathtaking landscapes as you cruise from Scotland to Normandy. Plus, commemorate D-Day during visits in Normandy. Highlights Include Scotland: Cruise to the Kyle of Lochalsh and tour the dramatic 13th-century Eilean Donan Castle in the Highlands, then enjoy a scenic excursion to the Isle of Skye. Continue cruising to the Isle of Mull, where highlights include the town of Tobermory with its vividly painted houses. At the nearby Isle of Iona, visit the serene restored monastery and see the churchyard’s intricate Celtic crosses. And aboard ship, attend talks about Sir Winston Churchill by Allen Packwood, director of the Churchill Archives Center at Cambridge. Wales: Sail to northern Wales, a cradle of Celtic culture, where people maintain old traditions and Welsh remains the mother tongue. Explore the imposing 13th-century Caernarfon Castle and Bodnant Gardens, a fine example of 19th-century Victorian landscape artistry. Ireland: Enjoy a city tour of Dublin, stroll through the quadrangles of Trinity College, and view the Celtic heritage found in the 9th-century Book of Kells. Enjoy time to explore on your own, then attend a performance of traditional Irish music and dance aboard ship. England’s Isles of Scilly: Stop at the sub-tropical 19th-century Tresco Abbey Garden, often compared to London’s Botanic Garden. France: Spend two in-depth days along the coast of Normandy. First, stop at Pointe du Hoc, where heroic U.S. Rangers scaled the 100-foot cliffs to capture German

gun emplacements. Then continue to Utah Beach and Sainte-Mère-Eglise, the first French village to be liberated by American forces. Gain further insight from Dwight David Eisenhower II, historian and grandson of General and President Dwight D. Eisenhower, when you walk the shores of Omaha Beach and visit the American Military Cemetery and Arromanches. (Or see the legendary Bayeux Tapestry, chronicling the Norman Conquest of 1066.) Space reserved for 40 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Learn more about Le Jacques Cartier on page 13 and on our website.

SCOTLAND

Isle of Skye Portree Tobermory Isle of Iona

Kyle of Lochalsh Eilean Donan Castle

Isle of Mull Glasgow

Dublin

IRELAND

Irish Sea

Holyhead Caernarfon

WALES

ENGLAND

Celtic Sea Port of Call Featured Site Ship Motorcoach

Isles Tresco of Scilly

English Channel

FRANCE

Normandy Honfleur Beaches Caen

Paris

Smithsonian Journeys Experts Miriam Davis (April)–expert in the medieval history and archaeology of Britain. Joe Snyder (May)–former diplomat who served in posts worldwide.

EUROPE / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS

Gold Beach, Arromanches, Normandy

D-Day: A Journey from England to France SPECIALTY

8 days from $6,695 May 31–June 7, 2021

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 77th 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.

Mont St. Michel

Normandy

A One-Week Stay in France 9 days from $4,590 Includes $250 early booking savings No Single Supplement–Limited Availability Special air rates & services available May 1–9, June 26–July 4, Oct. 2–10, Oct. 16–24, 2021 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 at the centrally located Hotel Mercure in Honfleur, the ideal base to explore this region. Highlights Include

Impressionism: During a walking tour of Honfleur, see why artists flocked to this charming seaside town. Explore the beloved home, studio, and gardens of Claude Monet in Giverny, visit the Musée des Impressionnismes, and see the cathedral he painted in Rouen. 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.

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.

Cultural Traditions: Savor traditional culinary products such as Calvados (apple brandy), and visit a nearby estate farm to sample Norman cheeses.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Expert Mitch Yockelson–military historian with expertise in World War II, with special emphasis on the Normandy campaign.

SMITHSONIANJOURNEYS.ORG / 877.338.8687 / BOOK YOUR TRIP

Mont St. Michel: Discover this breathtaking tidal island with its iconic abbey and historic church, one of the most remarkable sites in France and a World Heritage site.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts Robert Dalessandro (May/Oct. 16) and Cathal Nolan (June)–military historians. Lisa Passaglia Bauman (Oct. 2)–art historian.

Château de Chenonceau

Jazz concert in Paris

France Through the Ages 15 days from $6,297 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees April 26–May 10, May 17–31, Sept. 6–20, Sept. 27–Oct. 11, 2021 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 Lucé, 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 that 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. Along the Seine: Stroll through Monet’s gardens at Giverny, then conclude in Paris with a highlights tour. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Stephen Clancy (Sept. 6)–art historian with expertise in ancient, medieval, and Renaissance art and architecture. Cassandra Potts Hannahs (Sept. 27)– historian with expertise in France and medieval studies.

Paris: The African American Experience SPECIALTY

9 days from $4,590 Includes $250 early booking savings Special air rates & services available April 24–May 2, May 1–9, Aug. 28–Sept. 5, 2021

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. 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 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 special tour of the Quai Branly Museum, a culinary walking tour, and excursion to Versailles. You’ll also savor a luncheon and city views on a Seine River cruise through the city. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Expert A historian with special expertise in the African American experience in Paris will accompany this specialty tour.

EUROPE / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS

Village of Roussillon

Journey Through Provence 12 days from $5,197 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees April 19–30, June 14–25, Aug. 30–Sept. 10, Sept. 27–Oct. 8, 2021 Join us for a magical journey through Provence featuring evocative landscapes, Roman monuments, medieval villages, celebrated art, and the relaxed lifestyle of southern France. Highlights Include Aix-en-Provence: Stroll through the delightful Old Town, step inside the Atelier Cézanne, and enjoy a wine tasting. During a day in the Luberon region, you’ll visit 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 for a time, to view the Roman amphitheater and enjoy time at leisure. The Camargue: Spend two days exploring the landscapes of the Camargue, including a bird sanctuary, a traditional ranch, and time at Aigues-Mortes, a medieval walled town surrounded by the unique pink-colored salt marshes. Avignon: Gaze upon the impressive Roman Pont du Gard before arrival in Avignon. Here, you’ll trace the footsteps of six popes at the medieval Palais des Papes and enjoy a cooking class. Visit the nearby villages of Les-Baux-deProvence and Saint-Rémy-de-Provence and enter the asylum where Vincent van Gogh lived and painted. Côte d’Azur: Conclude your journey on the sunny Côte d’Azur. Explore the medieval hilltop village of St.-Paulde-Vence en route to Nice. Then enjoy a walking tour of this cosmopolitan city, visit the impressive Chagall Museum, and enjoy an afternoon at leisure. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Expert Joan Grimbert (Aug.)–historian in French and medieval studies specializing in literature, language, civilization, and culture.

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San Sebastian Spain

France and Spain’s Basque Region

A One-Week Stay at the Parador de Hondarribia 9 days from $4,590 Includes $250 early booking savings Special air rates & services available April 24–May 2, May 15–23, Sept. 11–19, 2021 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. 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 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Margaret Monnier (April/Sept.) and Nathanael Greene (May)–both historians with expertise in France and Spain.

Waterways of Holland and Belgium A River Cruise from Amsterdam to Antwerp Aboard the 160-guest Amadeus Star or Amadeus Queen CRUISE

9 days from $3,490 Includes $250 early booking savings No Single Supplement—Limited Availability Special air rates & services available April 10–18, April 17–25*, April 19–27, April 26–May 4*, 2021

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.

The Milk Maid by Johannes Vermeer, The Rijksmuseum

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.

Keukenhof Gardens

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 17 and April 26 departures will run in reverse. Learn more about both ships on page 36 and on our website. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Henry Luttikhuizen (April 10), Mary O’Neill (April 17), Valerie Hedquist (April 19), and Catherine Scallen (April 26)–all art historians with expertise in Europe.

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

EUROPE / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS The Pont du Gard, Provence

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. You’ll find a similar ambiance and amenities aboard CroisiEurope’s fleet of smaller boats, the Amalia Rodrigues, Van Gogh, and Renoir, which accommodate just 105 to 132 guests. Read about our European river cruises on the following pages and find all the ship details online at SmithsonianJourneys.org/ships.

A River Cruise of Provence Aboard the 105-guest MS Van Gogh CRUISE

9 days from $4,490 / Includes $250 early booking savings No Single Supplement—Limited Availability / Special air rates & services available Sept. 15–23, Sept. 22–30*, 2021

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.

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.

Highlights Include

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.

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 36

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Space reserved for 36 Smithsonian Journeys guests. *The Sept. 22 departure will run in reverse. Learn more about the Van Gogh on our website. Smithsonian Journeys Expert Stephen Clancy (Sept. 22)–art and architectural historian with expertise in France.

Paris and the Seine River

A Seine River Cruise 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 16–24, May 30–June 7, 2021

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. Highlights Include

Paris: Take a walking tour focused on the city’s history and architecture and enjoy an evening cruise aboard the Renoir. 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. Châteaux, Abbeys, and Rouen: Explore historic sites along the Seine, including the fortress of Château Gaillard, the Château de Martainville, and the abbeys of Jumieges and Wandrille. Visit the Rouen cathedral during a walking tour of Normandy’s capital. Caen and D-Day Beaches: Focus on modern history at the Memorial Peace Museum, Omaha Beach, Pointe du Hoc, and the American Military Cemetery. 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. Space reserved for 35 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Learn more about the Renoir on our website. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Stephen Clancy (May 16)–art and architectural historian and Arthur Kaplan (May 30)–historian, both with expertise in France.

Château du Chambord

Loire Valley Canal Cruise Aboard the 22-guest MS Deborah

12 days from $5,990 Includes $250 early booking savings Special air rates & services available May 10–19, June 21–30, Aug. 30–Sept. 8, 2021 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 châteaux, wineries, farmsteads, and small villages, plus savor delicious cuisine and wine and take optional afternoon bike rides. Highlights Include Royal Châteaux: Begin your journey with visits to celebrated royal châteaux. Learn about King Francis I at his royal residence, Amboise; hunting lodge, Chambord; and birthplace, Château de Clos Lucé. You’ll also stroll through the elegant Château de Chenonceau, which spans the River Cher. While visiting the Loire Valley châteaux, 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 châteaux 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. MS Deborah: Launched in 2016, the MS Deborah shines among CroisiEurope’s fleet of fine small river boats, and features a distinctive décor, superb regional cuisine, thoughtfully designed cabins, and an intimate ambiance. Find more details (and view photos) on our website. Exclusively reserved for 18 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Cassandra Potts Hannahs (May/Aug.)–historian and Janetta Benton (June)–art historian, both with expertise in France.

EUROPE / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS

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 Oct. 6–17, 2020 & May 18–29, Sept. 15–26, Sept. 29–Oct. 10, Oct. 6–17, 2021 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 azulejos (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.

Budapest and the Danube River

Voyage Through Europe

Featuring the Rhine, Main, and Danube Rivers Aboard the 160-guest Amadeus Imperial 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* & Sept. 21–Oct. 6, 2021

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 Hungary: Begin your cruise in Budapest as you explore the city’s highlights, Jewish heritage, or cuisine. Slovakia: Choose a tour featuring Bratislava’s musical heritage, medieval architecture, or Castle Hill. Austria: Arriving in elegant Vienna, tour Hofburg Palace, Schönbrunn Palace, or Klosterneuburg Monastery. Cruise along the beautiful Wachau Valley and stop in Dürnstein to enjoy a walking tour, bicycle ride along the river, or tour and tasting at a local winery. Then cruise to the Benedictine abbey at Melk for a tour of this impressive site.

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 Barca d’Alva, stopping off at traditional towns and vineyards along the famous wine trail. Plus, spend a day exploring the glories of Spain’s Salamanca.

Germany: Cruise along the Danube to lovely Passau and Regensburg, as well as Nuremberg, known for its associations with World War II. On the Main River, stop in the medieval towns of Bavarian Bamberg, Würzburg, and Miltenberg. Gaze upon hilltop castles as you sail through the breathtaking Rhine Gorge and enjoy walking tours in Koblenz and Cologne.

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.

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.

Space reserved for 30 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Hamish Scott (Oct. 2020) and Margaret Monnier (May)–historians with expertise in early modern Europe and the Iberian peninsula, respectively. Lawrence Butler (Sept. 15)–art historian with expertise in the Iberian peninsula.

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Space reserved for 55 Smithsonian Journeys guests. The Oct. departure is aboard Amadeus Queen and will run in reverse. Learn more about both ships on page 36 and on our website. Smithsonian Journeys Expert Tim Blanning (both dates)–highly respected historian with expertise in modern Europe.

A Danube River Cruise

From the Czech Republic and Germany to Bulgaria Aboard the 160-guest Amadeus Queen or Amadeus Silver II 15/16 days from $5,990 Includes $250 early booking savings No Single Supplement—Limited Availability Special air rates & services available July 9–23, July 18–Aug. 2*, Aug. 23–Sept. 6, Sept. 1–16*, 2021 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

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.

Dürnstein, Austria

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 18 and Sept. departures will run in reverse. Learn more about both ships on page 36 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 Featured Site Ship Motorcoach

Sofia

Smithsonian Journeys Experts Alexander Motyl (July 9)– expert in political science of Eastern Europe. Tim Blanning (July 18), Bertrand Patenaude (Aug.), and Christopher Brennan (Sept.)–historians with expertise in Central and Eastern Europe. 39

EUROPE / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS

Great European Journey

A River Cruise and Train Trip from Holland to Switzerland Aboard the 160-guest Amadeus Imperial and Featuring Three Historic Swiss Railways 11 days from approximately $3,995 Includes $1,000 early booking savings June 30–July 10, 2021 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

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 Imperial on page 36 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 each in Lucerne and Zermatt, dramatically set beneath

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 Experts Ralph Nurnberger–expert in international relations and Stephen Clancy–art historian with expertise in Europe.

The Matterhorn and Gornergrat Bahn

Amadeus Imperial, Cologne

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Voyage from Malta to Rome Aboard the 180-guest Le Bougainville

9 days from approximately $4,795 Includes $1,000 early booking savings May 30–June 7, 2021 Ply the waters of the azure Mediterranean and experience the cultural legacy of southern Italy, Sicily, and Malta, often called the crossroad of civilizations. Here, layers of history— from the Phoenicians to the Greeks, Romans, and Normans— have left a magnificent mosaic of cultures. Join us on this fascinating voyage of discovery where each day showcases impressive World Heritage sites that will astonish you. Highlights Include

Malta: Founded in 1566, Valletta is one of the world’s earliest planned cities. This European Capital of Culture (2018) showcases impressive architecture, including splendid examples of high Baroque, neoclassical, and modern styles. During a walking tour, see the iconic and lavishly decorated St. John’s Co-Cathedral, the Barrakka Gardens, and the striking Grand Master’s Palace. You’ll also enjoy a tour of a private palazzo. Sicily: Taormina commands one of the most impressive settings on the island, which you’ll see from the wellpreserved Greco-Roman theater, with its breathtaking views of Mt. Etna and the sea. Extolled for its beauty and grandeur, Syracuse once rivaled its sister city of Athens. Explore the historic quarter of Ortygia and admire the baroque cathedral, built on the ruins of a 5th-century temple, and view the remains of the Temple of Apollo. In the Archaeology Zone, visit the impressive Greek theater, where Aeschylus spoke to ancient Siracusans; the Roman amphitheater, where gladiators once competed; and the impressive archaeological museum. You’ll also walk through Agrigento’s exceptional Valley of the Temples, where impressive Greek temples dot the landscape, then admire ancient artifacts in its fine archaeological museum. Greek theater, Taormina

Southern Italy: Gain an intimate look into the lifestyle of the people of Pompeii, excavated 17 centuries after Mt. Vesuvius buried it in an eruption. Highlights include the impressive amphitheater, the house of the wealthy Vetti family, and the Temple of Jupiter. Cruise along the stunning Amalfi Coast for panoramic views of cliff-side villages that seem to plunge to the sea, and enjoy time in Sorrento and on the Isle of Capri, which has drawn visitors since Roman times. Space reserved for 40 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Learn more about Le Bougainville on page 13 and on our website. Civitavecchia

Capri

Pompeii Sorrento Positano

ITALY Rome

Adriatic Sea

Amalfi Coast

Tyrrhenian Sea Stromboli Naxos for

Ionian Sea

Sicily Taormina Porto Empedocle for Agrigento

Syracuse

Port of Call Featured Site

MALTA

Valletta

Ship

Smithsonian Journeys Expert Charles Ingrao (May)–historian with expertise in Europe and the Mediterranean world.

Harbor at Valletta, Malta

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The Sailing Experience of a Lifetime Aboard the 94–guest Sea Cloud II White sails billowing aloft three tall masts. A vision to behold against a brilliant blue sky and azure Mediterranean waters. Nothing can top the bespoke experience of sailing aboard the square rigger Sea Cloud II. And in 2021, Smithsonian Journeys offers a choice of three superb itineraries aboard this evocative ship to make your dreams come true. You’ll not only enjoy a magnificent voyage but a unique itinerary that features private events and venues and a choice of excursions that speak to your interests and pace. Sailing aboard a tall ship is a unique and exciting journey in itself. Sea Cloud II is a genuine barque with 23 sails, modeled after the original Sea Cloud owned by heiress Marjorie Merriweather Post. During your voyage, you’ll be immersed in the history of sailing as you watch in awe as crew members

climb the rigging to set the sails. Each of our itineraries is specially designed to allow ample time for sailing so that you can enjoy this breathtaking maritime tradition. Plus, you’ll enjoy the elegance, comforts, and relaxed ambiance of the Sea Cloud experience. Savor fine dining in the luxurious saloon or on the open teak deck, enjoy engaging presentations and casual conversation in the piano lounge, and depending on your interests, discover the library, fitness studio, spa services, or swim platform. Yet you’ll also feel comfortable retiring to your cabin or suite—a spacious, stylish, and delightful retreat. And throughout your voyage, indulge in the personalized, exemplary care lavished by 60 crew members. Join us in 2021 to experience the excitement, tranquility, and grandeur of sailing the open seas aboard Sea Cloud II.

Sailing the French and Italian Rivieras

the Isle of Elba, learn about Napoleon’s exile and visit a vineyard, then enjoy a final sailing opportunity that afternoon en route to Rome.

From Nice to Rome

Space reserved for 23 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

CRUISE

9 days from $4,990 / May 1–9, 2021

Antibes... Nice... Monte Carlo... Èze... Cinque Terre... Lucca... the Isle of Elba... These are places that evoke images of medieval history, sun-drenched beaches, glamorous seaports, and rich masterpieces of art and architecture—in short, the quintessential Mediterranean journey. Join us for a three-night luxury hotel stay on the French Riviera, then board Sea Cloud II for a relaxed four-night cruise along the Italian coast. Highlights Include French Riviera: From your base at the Hotel du CapEden-Roc in Antibes, explore the Old Town, the Picasso Museum, and the Fondation Hans Hartung, a special private entrée. Later, choose to explore the serene Chapelle du Rosaire by Matisse and the Maeght Foundation in SaintPaul-de-Vence or a perfume factory in Grasse. From Nice, take delight in other choices: the Old Town of Monaco and the Prince’s Palace; a special tour of modern architecture, including Corbusier’s Cabanon and Eileen Gray’s Villa E-1027; or the medieval village of Èze, perched high atop the Riviera. Then choose to visit either the Chagall or Matisse Museum in Nice before boarding your tall ship. Italian Riviera: Spend an afternoon exploring (by boat or by foot) some of the five Ligurian villages that comprise Italy’s Cinque Terre. From Livorno, choose a full-day excursion to Florence or Lucca. During a morning on 42

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Smithsonian Journeys Expert Mary O’Neill–expert in art history.

Sicily by Sea

Round-trip from Malta

CRUISE

9 days from $6,995 / May 29–June 7, 2021

Ancient civilizations converged and flourished along the shores of Sicily, leaving a legacy of artistic masterpieces and important archaeological sites. Aboard Sea Cloud II, discover the island’s rich history as you circumnavigate its idyllic shorelines, enhanced by colorful spring wildflowers. Highlights Include Malta: Select from four full-day excursions focusing on Malta’s archaeology, military history, the Valletta harbor, or featured architecture. Board Sea Cloud II in the late afternoon and set sail for Sicily. Segesta and Erice: Following a full day under sail, arrive on the west coast of Sicily. Stop to explore the Greek Doric temple of Segesta, then choose to see the hilltop fortress of Erice or savor a wine tasting in Marsala. Palermo: The morning highlight showcases the Norman cathedral of Monreale and Cappella Palatina of Palermo,

Billowing sails of Sea Cloud II

Relaxing on deck

both featuring renowned Byzantine mosaics. Then choose from a wide variety of afternoon excursions. Aeolian Islands: Discover the island of Lipari by foot, e-bike, or a drive, returning to the ship for lunch and afternoon swim. Enjoy sailing through the Strait of Messina at sunset. Taormina: Tour the renowned Greek Theater, ride the cable car to the summit of Mt. Etna, or hike in Alcantara Gorge. Cruise to Syracuse in time for the evening passegiatta. Syracuse: Explore the treasures of the Archaeological Park and the Old Town of Ortygia, including the Church of Santa Lucia with the famed Caravaggio painting. Visit a private palazzo as guests of the owner before cruising back to Malta. Space reserved for 25 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Expert Gary Radke–art historian with expertise in Italian medieval and Renaissance art.

Sailing the Greek Islands

Round-trip from Piraeus

CRUISE

10 days from $6,995 / July 26–Aug. 4, 2021

Known as the “Cradle of Western Civilization,” Greece is an enticing blend of history, diverse cultural influences, archaeological gems, and stunning natural beauty. Embark Sea Cloud II for a seven-night voyage to famous and lesser-known sites on the Greek Islands and along the Peloponnese.

Sea Cloud II

Highlights Include Athens: Enjoy dramatic night-time views of the Acropolis and Parthenon during your welcome reception and dinner at the Hotel Grande Bretagne. The next morning, view the collections of the Goulandris Museum of Cycladic Art, featuring art and artifacts from one of the three earliest Aegean cultures, dating from c. 3300 to 1100 B.C. In the afternoon, board Sea Cloud II and cruise to the center of the Cycladic Islands. Greek Islands: Spend three days exploring the Cyclades. Delos is considered the most sacred isle as it’s the mythological birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. On Naxos, walk the cobblestone streets of Apeiranthos village and see the Kouros statue in Melanes. And on Milos, learn about the obsidian mines and volcanic geological features of this island chain. Your afternoons feature swimming in the Aegean or sailing between the islands. The Peloponnese: Travel to the fortified town of Mystras, situated near ancient Sparta and designated a World Heritage site. Later, cruise to Nafplion and marvel at the impressive site of Mycenae, known for the story of Agamemnon, and Epidaurus, with its impressive 4thcentury theater and important asclepeion temple. Back aboard ship, stop at the Saronic island of Hydra, a quiet island with no cars where Athenians go for respite. Space reserved for 23 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Expert Veronica Kalas–art historian and field archaeologist with expertise in classical studies.

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Panorama of Athens

Delphi, Greece

In the Footsteps of Alexander the Great 9 days from $5,595 April 15–23, Oct. 1–9, 2021 History and military buffs will be intrigued by our new specialty tour on the life and legacy of Alexander the Great. Son of Philip II, king of Macedonia, Alexander succeeded his father at 20 and became one of the most significant military leaders in history, building an empire that stretched from the Eastern Mediterranean to Persia and northern India. His legacy of spreading the Hellenic civilization is still felt today. During this unique history tour, make your base in Thessaloniki to explore the capital of Greek Macedonia and the setting of Alexander’s youth, plus spend a day in Athens, center of the Hellenistic world. Highlights Include

Athens: Be immersed in the essence of Greece with visits to the Acropolis and Acropolis Museum, and take a special tour of the Agora with a renowned local expert. Alexander and Philip II: Travel to Pella, Alexander’s birthplace and capital, and to Mieza where you’ll walk amid archaeological sites that include the School of Aristotle (tutor to Alexander) and ancient Macedonian tombs. In modern Vergina, visit the state-of-the-art underground museum and royal tombs, including that of Philip II. A local archaeologist adds insight at both sites. Thessaloniki: Gain insight into this city’s Greek, Roman, and Byzantine history from a professor of history and architecture. Explore an impressive collection of Hellenistic artifacts at the Archaeological Museum and view the Roman Arch of Galerius and Byzantine churches and monasteries. Philippi: Visit this important city, founded by Philip II, which was the site where Saint Paul established the first Christian community in Europe. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Tobias Myers (April) and David Ratzan (Oct.)– classicists with a focus on the history of the Greek world.

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A Cruise of the Adriatic and the Aegean From Venice to Athens Aboard the 180-guest Le Bougainville CRUISE

9 days from approximately $4,795 Includes $1,000 early booking savings Sept. 24–Oct. 2, 2021

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, and tour the charming island cities of Hvar and Korčula. In Dubrovnik, the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” you’ll see the most famous landmarks of this exquisite walled city, a World Heritage site. Albania and Montenegro: Sail into the spectacular Bay of Kotor and admire the Venetian baroque Old Town of Kotor. And in Butrint, now designated a World Heritage site, see a splendid 3rd-century B.C. amphitheater. Greece: In Corfu, take a walking tour of the Old Town. Continue to the Gulf of Corinth and ascend the trail to Delphi, home to the mythical Oracle. Then, en route to Piraeus, cruise through the dramatically narrow Corinth Canal, navigable only by small ship. Space reserved for 40 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Learn more about Le Bougainville on page 13 and on our website. Smithsonian Journeys Expert Al Leonard–archaeologist with expertise in crosscultural connections in the Mediterranean.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Lake Bled, Slovenia

Pearls of Croatia and Slovenia Cruising the Dalmatian Coast Featuring Croatia and Slovenia Aboard the 34-guest Queen Eleganza CRUISE

12 days from $6,990 June 3–14, 2021

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 Veliki Brijun 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 Aneta Georgievska-Shine–art historian with expertise in European art.

15 days from $5,884 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees April 19–May 3, May 13–27, Sept. 9–23, Sept. 23–Oct. 7, Oct. 2–16, 2021 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 Christopher Brennan (April)–historian with expertise in Central and Eastern Europe. Aneta Georgievska-Shine (May)–art historian with expertise in European art. Adam Tanner (Sept. 9)– journalist with a focus on Europe.

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Meteora

Traditional site amid the Greek Islands

A Cruise to Ancient Greece Aboard the 180-guest Le Bougainville

9 days from approximately $4,995 Includes $1,000 early booking savings Oct. 1–9, Oct. 8–16, Oct. 15–23, 2021 Discover gems of the Greek islands on this exceptional Aegean odyssey that also features the Peloponnese and Meteora. You’ll discover the cradle of Western civilization and the Classical world, see important World Heritage sites, and gaze upon breathtaking landscapes when the weather is mild and the sites are less crowded. Highlights Include

Meteora: An extraordinary Orthodox monastery, this breathtaking World Heritage site seems almost suspended in air due to its location perched atop sandstone pillars. Visit an active monastery where early Christian traditions have continued uninterrupted for hundreds of years. Delos and Mykonos: Mystical birthplace of Apollo and Artemis, Delos is a paramount religious sanctuary of the ancient Greek world. Walking along the Sacred Way to the Sanctuary of Apollo, you’ll see an archaeological site with early temples, a theater, and the legendary Terrace of the Lions. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure to explore nearby Mykonos, which epitomizes the beauty of the Greek Isles. Pátmos: Visit the Greek Orthodox Monastery of St. John, built in 1088 and still inhabited by monks who preserve it as a place of religious study. Rhodes: In Rhodes Town, a World Heritage site, trace the history of the Knights of St. John who erected the 14th-century Palace of the Grand Masters. Also travel to Lindos for some time at leisure or ascend the stairs to the clifftop acropolis for breathtaking views. Santorini: Be on deck to enter the spectacular harbor of Santorini, a natural caldera. Tour the phenomenal Bronze-age ruins of Akrotiri, recently reopened to visitors, where streets reveal the sophisticated culture of its Minoan inhabitants. You’ll also see the treasures of the Museum of Prehistoric Thera in Fira. 46

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Mycenae and Epidaurus: Sail to the Peloponnese, known for its treasured antiquities and World Heritage sites. Here, you’ll visit the ancient citadel of Mycenae, the classical stage of Homer’s The Iliad. Continue to Epidaurus and its Sanctuary of Asklepios, a masterpiece of classical Greek architecture with its 14,000-seat theater known for nearly perfect acoustics. Cultural Traditions: Meet local residents who discuss contemporary life on these ancient islands. Space reserved for 40 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Read more about Le Bougainville on page 13 and on our website.

Port of Call

Meteora

Featured Site

Aegean Sea

Ship

Volos

GREECE Athens/ Piraeus Mycenae Nafplio

Epidaurus Delos

Mykonos

Santorini

Pátmos

Rhodes Lindos

Smithsonian Journeys Experts Bella Vivante (Oct. 1)–classicist with a focus on Homer, oral traditions, Greek drama, and the role of women. John Dobbins (Oct. 8) and Diane Harris Cline (Oct. 15)–experts in the classics, archaeology, and history.

Classical Greece 14 days from $6,692 / Includes airfare, taxes & all fees April 15–28, May 2–15, May 16–29, Aug. 29–Sept. 11, Sept. 9–22, Sept. 16–29, Oct. 7–20, 2021 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.

Cultural Experiences: Enjoy visits to a winery and olive oil factory, plus time devoted to exploring traditional towns at leisure with their seaside cafés and taverns.

Highlights Include

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

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. Enjoy time at leisure during an afternoon in Nafplion, a gem of a Venetian-Byzantine town, and a day on the nearby island of Hydra, a car-free Saronic island that exudes a traditional old way of life and charming waterfront cafés. Other highlights include Ancient Corinth 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, where you’ll tour Akrotiri, once a flourishing Bronze Age Minoan town. Enjoy time at leisure to explore the towns of Thira and Oia.

GREECE Delphi Athens Corinth Mycenae Nafplion Epidaurus Kantia Hydra Peleponnese Santorini Thira Overnight Featured Site Air Motorcoach High Speed Ferry

Crete

Heraklion Knossos

Spinalonga Agios Nikolaos

Smithsonian Journeys Experts Veronica Kalas (April/Oct./Sept. 9)–art historian and field archaeologist with expertsie in classical studies. Rebecca Schindler (May 2) and David Guinee (May 16)–classicists specializing in language and literature, culture, and other areas. David Price Williams (Aug.)–archaeologist with expertise in cross-cultural connections in the Mediterranean. Bella Vivante (Sept. 16)–classicist with a focus on Homer, oral traditions, Greek drama, and the role of women.

Oia, Santorini

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Prague cityscape

St. Mary’s Basilica, Kraków

Old World Europe

Kraków

Poland, Hungary, Austria, and the Czech Republic 16 days from $5,797 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees

April 20–May 5, May 6–21, Aug. 31–Sept. 15, Sept. 16–Oct. 1, 2021 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 Carol Reynolds (April/Aug.)–expert in European art, music, history, and culture. Laurie Koloski (May)– historian with expertise in modern Europe. Hugh Agnew (Sept.)–historian with expertise in Central and Eastern Europe.

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A One-Week Stay in Poland STAY

9 days from $4,390 Includes $250 early booking savings Special air rates & services available May 7–15, June 18–26, July 30–Aug. 7, 2021

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 Warsaw Uprising Museum, Warsaw Ghetto Memorial, Chopin Memorial, the Royal Castle, and St. Anne’s Church in delightful Old Town. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Carol Reynolds (May/June)–expert in European art, music, history, and culture. Laurie Koloski (July)– historian with expertise in modern Europe.

Brandenburg Inside theGate Reichstag dome

Berlin

A One-Week Stay in Germany STAY

9 days from $4,940 Includes $250 early booking savings Special air rates & services available June 9–17, Sept. 15–23, 2021

Join us in Berlin 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 and the best of its cultural legacy, along with iconic sites that reflect its turbulent history. Stay at the Hilton Berlin, ideally located on Berlin’s most beautiful square. Highlights Include Political Berlin: Take a city tour featuring Berlin’s historic sites, visit the last standing section of the Berlin Wall, and get up close to the impressive architecture of the Reichstag. In the Schoeneberg neighborhood, see a poignant exhibit about the Jewish residents who lost their lives during the Holocaust and the site where President Kennedy made his famous 1963 speech. Art and Music: Explore the Old Masters collection of the Gemäldegalerie, the jewel of the Kulturforum museum complex. Tour the imposing Pergamon Museum, showcasing magnificent collections of ancient treasures. Enjoy an evening musical performance, plus a behind-thescenes tour of the State Opera House.

GlobeInside of Science, the Reichstag CERN dome

Art Meets Science in Switzerland 9 days from $7,995 May 6–14, Sept. 2–10, 2021 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, view the art of Paul Klee, and take in breathtaking panoramas of the Bernese Alps. A special highlight features a visit 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. CERN: Located just outside Geneva, CERN is home to a vast international community of scientists who seek answers to the most fundamental questions of physics. Visit this amazing site and learn about the work that has taken place here since 1954. During a meeting with a scientist above ground, hear about the ongoing research, the LHC, and the particle accelerator facilities that enable researchers to push the limits of science technology.

Potsdam: Tour the Rococo palace of Sanssouci and Schloss Cecilienhof, site of the decisive Potsdam Conference at the end of World War II.

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.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Local Insight: Join discussions with local experts about wartime Berlin and the Cold War and learn about the city’s musical legacy.

Smithsonian Journeys Expert Ralph Nurnberger (June)–expert in international relations.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts Michelle Thaller (May) and Richard Miller (Sept.)– highly respected astrophysicists.

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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. 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 accommodations in a residential hotel provide further opportunities for a semi-independent experience. Each departure is limited to 36 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Piazza della Signoria, Florence

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 accommodations were 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 $4,890 Includes $250 early booking savings Special air rates & services available April 7–29, May 5–27, Aug. 4–26, Sept. 1–23, 2021 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 50

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restaurants that few tourists could hope to find. Stay in a modern apartment at the Adagio Aix-en-Provence Centre, a residential hotel 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 Panorama of Florence Market in Aix-en-Provence

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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Living in Italy

Accommodations: Stay in a residential hotel located in the historic city center. Studio and one-bedroom apartments offer satellite TV, complimentary Wi-Fi, a well-equipped kitchen, plus some hotel services and a friendly, helpful staff—combining independence with easy support services. (Learn more on our website!)

A Three-Week Stay in Florence 23 days from $5,390 Includes $250 early booking savings Special air rates & services available Oct. 2–24, 2020 & May 7–29, Sept. 3–25, Oct. 1–23, 2021 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 renovated, spacious apartment 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. 51

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Highlights of Italy 16 days from $6,074 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees Oct. 8–23, 2020 & April 12–27, April 20–May 5, May 4–19, May 18–June 2, Sept. 7–22, Sept. 14–29, Oct. 12–27, Oct. 19–Nov. 3, 2021 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. 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.

The Duomo, Florence

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, Rome

Venice

ITALY Siena

Venice: Tour St. Mark’s Square, then explore the museums and canals of this magical city at leisure.

Florence San Gimignano Assisi

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Adriatic Sea

Orvieto Rome

Montecassino Overnight Featured Site Motorcoach

Naples

Tyrrhenian Sea

Pompeii Amalfi

Smithsonian Journeys Experts Allan Langdale (Oct. 8/May 4/May 18) and Gary Radke (April 20)–art and architectural historians with expertise in Italy. Ashley Elston (April 12)–art historian with expertise in medieval and Renaissance art. Ross King (Sept. 7)–best-selling author on Italian art and history. Trudy Harrington Becker and Andrew Becker (Sept. 14)–experts in Roman history and Roman literature and culture, respectively.

SMITHSONIANJOURNEYS.ORG / 877.338.8687 / BOOK YOUR TRIP

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Southern Italy and Sicily 15 days from $6,174 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees April 24–May 8, May 2–16, Sept. 12–26, Oct. 10–24, Oct. 22–Nov. 5, 2021 Explore Italy’s southernmost regions—from striking Sicily to the “boot heel” of Apulia and the breathtaking Amalfi Coast—where each region reflects a unique history, architecture, and cuisine. Highlights Include Sicily: Stay in lovely Taormina for four days, where your boutique hotel overlooks the Ionian Sea. Visit the ancient Greek Theater and 13th-century cathedral and enjoy an afternoon at leisure exploring the town or walking along the beach. Take an excursion to the Valley of the Temples, the archaeological zone of Agrigento, whose Doric temples date to Greek rule in the 5th century B.C. Venture to Mt. Etna, the world’s largest active volcano and enjoy lunch at a family-run farm amid acres of lemon trees, plus participate in a private cannoli-making lesson. Apulia and Basilicata: Crossing to the mainland, travel to Apulia. In the town of Lecce, visit the cathedral and piazza with the town’s distinctive barocco leccese design (ornate sandstone carvings), and savor a wine tasting and dinner in the gardens of a palazzo. Discover Alberobello, famous for its 400 trulli (conical houses, designated a World Heritage site), and step inside an artisan’s workshop, a replica of an inhabited trulli home. In Basilicata’s Matera, walk amid ancient troglodyte churches and sassi cave houses (a World Heritage site), and stay in a renovated cave dwelling in the historic district. Amalfi Coast: Spend four nights in the lovely town of Sorrento, overlooking the Bay of Naples. From here, embark on a breathtaking drive high above the glistening Tyrrhenian Sea along the winding Amalfi Coast. Devote

Valley of the Temples in Agrigento

Fresco at Pompeii

most of a day to exploring fascinating Pompeii, the city that faced destruction in A.D. 79. Walk along the ancient streets, view the remains of homes and shops, and learn about the ongoing archaeological work. Take a hydrofoil to the storied isle of Capri, a popular resort since Roman times, where you’ll tour the terraced Gardens of Augustus set over the azure sea. You’ll also take part in a hands-on Neapolitan cooking lesson. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Janet Duncan Jones (May)–expert in classics and classical archaeology. Joanne Ferraro (Sept.)–historian with expertise in cross-cultural connections. Overnight Motorcoach

Adriatic Sea

ITALY

Featured Site

Naples

Pompeii

Sorrento

Alberobello Matera

Lecce

Tyrrhenian Sea

Catania/ Taormina Agrigento

Sicily

Ionian Sea

Cathedral in Lecce

EUROPE / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS

Positano

Trulli in Alberobello

Italy’s Amalfi Coast

A One-Week Stay in Vietri Sul Mare 9 days from $4,590 Includes $250 early booking savings Special air rates & services available April 21–29, May 5–13, Sept. 1–9, Oct. 20–28, 2021 Italy’s Amalfi Coast is renowned for its stunning coastline of pastel-colored villages perched on steep cliffs above the Mediterranean. For centuries, writers, artists, and emperors have found inspiration and respite in this stunning region, as have travelers like us. Join us at a new location on the Amalfi Coast, the Hotel Raito in Vietri sul Mare, and enjoy a leisurely sojourn to explore World Heritage sites, sophisticated resorts, and luscious cuisine and wine. Highlights Include The Amalfi Coast: Spend two days exploring the Amalfi Coast, with its dramatic hairpin curves and stunning views. Enjoy a leisurely day in iconic Positano and another day in charming Ravello and Amalfi, plus board a local ferry to admire the coastal views from the water. 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 stunning art and artifacts discovered at Pompeii and Herculaneum, now housed at the Museo Archeologico Nazionale, plus see other cultural highlights. Sorrento and Capri: Sample a limoncello as you stroll along Sorrento’s Corso Italia and spend an afternoon on the enchanting Isle of Capri. Local Culture: Savor the traditional cuisine of Campania during meals and gain insight into contemporary Italy. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Sara James (April) and Sheri Shaneyfelt (May)–art historians, Luca Zavagno (Sept.)–historian, and David Guinee (Oct.)–classicist, all with expertise in Italy.

SMITHSONIANJOURNEYS.ORG / 877.338.8687 / BOOK YOUR TRIP

Italy’s Apulia

A One-Week Stay in Polignano a Mare 9 days from $4,190 Includes $250 early booking savings No Single Supplement—Limited Availability Special air rates & services available April 14–22, May 19–27, Sept. 15–23, Oct. 13–21, 2021 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 the archaeological site of Egnazia. 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 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Trudy Harrington Becker and Andrew Becker (May)–experts in Roman history and Roman literature and culture, respectively. Allan Langdale (Sept./Oct.)–art and architectural historian with expertise in Italy.

Greek Theater in Taormina

Palermo and Taormina A Stay in Sicily

10 days from $5,290 Includes $250 early booking savings Special air rates & services available April 28–May 7, May 12–21, Sept. 1–10, Oct. 27–Nov. 5, 2021 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 Grand Hotel Piazza Borsa in Palermo and Eurostars Monte Tauro 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 hill town 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 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Glenn Bugh (April)–highly respected classicist. Gillian Hovell (May)–historian and field archaeologist specializing in ancient history. Allan Langdale (Sept.) and Sara James (Oct.)–art and architectural historians with expertise in Italy.

Segovia’s Royal Palace

Segovia

A One-Week Stay in Spain 9 days from $4,190 Includes $250 early booking savings No Single Supplement—Limited Availability Special air rates & services available April 20–28, May 25–June 2, Sept. 7–15, 2021 Join us in the World Heritage town of Segovia where a soaring Roman aqueduct, fairytale royal palace, and dramatic Gothic cathedral are set against a small, but vibrant modern city. Your stay at the Hotel Eurostars Convento Capuchinos is the ideal blend of historic setting and modern comfort. Highlights Include

Segovia: No town typifies the glory of Old Castile more than Segovia. Immerse yourself in this fascinating town for a week as you visit its important sites, learn about Spain’s history and culture, and enjoy the paseo, or leisurely evening stroll, with local residents. Madrid: Take a special tour of the Prado’s extensive collections featuring Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco, then continue with a panoramic tour with stops at Plaza Mayor and Palacio Real and time at leisure. World Heritage Towns of Castile and León: Stroll through the medieval Old Town of Ávila, renowned for its 11th-century walls interspersed with crenelated towers and gates. Toledo’s medieval Arab, Jewish, and Christian sites reflect a period of cross-cultural connections, which you’ll observe at many of its sites. In Salamanca, old and new blend seamlessly as contemporary university students walk through their medieval campus and town. You’ll also stroll the elaborate gardens and royal palace of La Granja de San Ildefonso. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Ana Afzali (April)–expert in Spanish history, culture, and literature. Henry Luttikhuizen (May)–art historian with expertise in medieval Spain.

EUROPE / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS Plaza in Ronda

Belém Tower, Lisbon

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 Oct. 15–23, 2020 & April 29–May 7, May 13–21, Sept. 16–24, Sept. 30–Oct. 8, 2021 Immerse yourself in the heart of Andalusia and explore the influence of Moorish, Christian, and Jewish cultures as reflected in its art and architecture, cuisine, and culture. Settle into the lovely white hill town of Antequera and the Parador de Antequera, ideal settings 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.

Across Northern Spain and Portugal

Featuring Historic Paradores and Pousadas 17 days from $6,374 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees April 13–29, May 14–30, June 1–17, Sept. 14–30, Oct. 1–17, Oct. 24–Nov. 9, 2021 Explore 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. 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. 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. 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 Traditions: Admire the passionate music and dance of flamenco and savor the region’s culinary specialties, including a wine tasting.

Barcelona: Pay homage to Antoni Gaudí and his unique architecture, designated a World Heritage site, and stroll through the Gothic Quarter and Las Ramblas.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts Margaret Monnier (Oct./Sept. 30) and Allen Fromherz (April)–historians with expertise in the Iberian peninsula and the Islamic world.

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Smithsonian Journeys Experts Allen Fromherz (April) and Francisco Garcia-Serrano (May/June)–historians with expertise in the Iberian peninsula and the Islamic world.

Treasures of Southern Spain and Portugal

Featuring Historic Paradores and Pousadas 15 days from $5,674 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees Oct. 12–26, 2020 & March 15–29, April 15–29, Sept. 13–27, Sept. 27–Oct. 11, Oct. 11–25, 2021 Discover the fascinating cultural history that is etched across the landscapes of the Iberian Peninsula. 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. 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. 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. 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. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Stephen Clancy (Oct. 12)–historian and Lawrence Butler (March)–art historian, both with expertise in the Iberian peninsula.

Architectural detail of Seville’s Alcázar

A Cruise of Spain and Portugal From Lisbon to Barcelona Aboard the 180-guest Le Jacques Cartier CRUISE

9 days from approximately $4,995 Includes $1,000 early booking savings Sept. 29–Oct. 7, 2021

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 Portugal’s Algarve: In the scenic port town of Lagos, admire the baroque Church of St. Anthony. Seville: In this lively capital, visit the Plaza de España, the legendary Alcázar, and the immense late Gothic cathedral. Gibraltar: Look out from the top of the Rock, the 1,400foot-high limestone promontory guarding the strait that separates Europe and Africa. Granada: Explore the Alhambra Palace and magnificent Generalife Gardens, a World Heritage site and masterpiece of medieval Moorish art and architecture. Spain’s Balearic Island: In Palma de Mallorca, visit the Carthusian Monastery and home of Frederic Chopin, and enjoy a piano recital. Space reserved for 44 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Learn more about Le Jacques Cartier on page 13 and our website. Smithsonian Journeys Expert Lawrence Butler–art historian with expertise in the Mediterranean and Islamic world.

The Alhambra, Granada

EUROPE / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS

A Cruise from Lisbon to London Aboard the 180-guest Le Champlain

10 days from approximately $5,595 Includes $1,000 early booking savings May 2–11, 2021

Experience the rich highlights and profound historical signiﬁcance of Portugal, Spain, France, and England— four European nations that have had a major impact on each other and the world throughout history. Highlights Include

Portugal: Discover charming Porto, situated on the Douro River and renowned for its port wine. Enjoy a walking tour of the historic city center, a World Heritage site, and visit the Gothic Church of São Francisco and the neoclassical Stock Exchange. Spain: Walk in the footsteps of pilgrims on the Way of St. James in Santiago de Compostela and visit the impressive cathedral, then cruise along Spain’s breathtaking Costa Verde. Delve into the dynamic city of Bilbao, with its Gothic Old City and sophisticated contemporary aesthetic, as reﬂected in the Frank Gehry-designed Guggenheim Museum. France: Spend a leisurely day cruising through the Bay of Biscay while attending presentations by your expert. Continue past the coastline of Brittany to arrive at the World Heritage site of Mont St. Michel, one of the most iconic sites of France. Enjoy a walking tour of this fortress island and its impressive abbey. The next day, visit the beaches and other hallowed sites associated with Normandy’s historic D-Day landings, accompanied by Dwight David Eisenhower II, historian and grandson of General and President Dwight D. Eisenhower. Cathedral at Santiago de Compostela

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England: Cross the English Channel, then cruise up the historic River Thames to London, passing under Tower Bridge, which is possible only by small ship. Space reserved for 34 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Learn more about Le Champlain on page 13 and online. Port of Call Featured Site Ship

London

ENGLAND

Normandy Beaches

English Channel

St. Malo

Caen Mont St. Michel

Atlantic Ocean

Gold Beach Omaha Beach Arromanches

Pointe du Hoc

FRANCE Bay of Biscay

A Coruña

Bilbao Santander Santiago de Compostela

Leixões

Porto

PORTUGAL

SPAIN

Mediterranean Sea

Lisbon

Smithsonian Journeys Expert Al Leonard–archaeologist with expertise in crosscultural connections in the Mediterranean as well as historic culinary traditions.

Puffins

Iceland Voyage

A Circumnavigation Cruise Aboard the 180-guest Le Champlain CRUISE

9 days from approximately $6,795 Includes $1,000 early booking savings and airfare from select East Coast gateways July 17–25, July 31–Aug. 8, 2021

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 who travel by land. You’ll go off the beaten path to places of immense beauty and interest by ship, as the Vikings did when they first arrived. 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. Westfjords: 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 a museum devoted to the herring industry (one of the country’s most important industries), where you can also experience 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 the “Hill of Fire” 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 Grímsey Island

Arctic Circle

Ísafjördur

Siglufjördur

Westfjords

Godafoss Lake Myvatn Seydisfjördur

ICELAND

Space reserved for 40 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Learn more about Le Champlain on page 13 and on our website. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Wayne Ranney (July 17) and Peter Bobrowsky (July 31)–highly respected geologists.

Húsavík

Djúpivogur

Reykjavík Heimaey Island/ Surtsey Island

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Port of Call Featured Site Ship

EUROPE / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS

Seljalandsfoss

Adventure in Iceland 11 days from $5,597 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees May 20–30, June 8–18, July 6–16, Aug. 17–27, Sept. 30–Oct. 10, Oct. 28–Nov. 7, 2021 Join us for this exceptional and popular highlights tour of Iceland, which showcases the island’s powerful landscapes, geologic and celestial features, myriad sea birds, and a fascinating cultural history. You’ll journey to both the southern and northern regions and take delight in its gracious hospitality and relaxed pace. Highlights Include Dramatic Waterfalls: Feel the power of Iceland’s many waterfalls, each one unique and breathtaking. You’ll see popular Gullfoss, Skogafoss, and Seljalandsfoss in the south and Godafoss, the “waterfall of the gods,” and jawdropping Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall, in the north. The Snaefellsnes Peninsula: Walk along the shellsand beach at the abandoned fishing village of Budir, surrounded by a vast lava field. Explore the caves and bizarre basalt rock formations near Arnarstapi, site of thousands of nesting cliff birds. Lake Myvatn: Discover the many natural wonders of the north when you travel to lovely Lake Myvatn and its environs. The national parks feature bubbling mud flats, bizarre lava formations, and lunar-like volcanic craters. From Husavik, embark on a bird-watching cruise to Puffin Island to see thousands of seabirds (seasonal), including puffins, black guillemots, and Arctic terns. Vik and Reykjavik: At Thingvellir National Park witness the spot where the world’s oldest Parliament met and walk along the rift valley where the fissure between the geological plates of North America and Europe is most evident. Along the coast, observe the black-sand beach at Reynisfjara, lined with columnar basalt-filled caves. Stop in lovely Vik, see the geothermal exhibit at the Hellisheidi Power Plant, and learn about renowned Icelandic saga 60

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writers. Plus, take a city tour of Reykjavik and enjoy a day at leisure to explore this sophisticated capital city or join an optional tour to the Blue Lagoon and spa. The Northern Lights: Iceland is one of the most ideal places to view the aurora borealis. Join us on the September or October departure when this celestial phenomena is more likely to occur. (Viewing conditions however are based on weather and solar activity and not guaranteed.). Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Siglufjordur

Puffin Island

Akureyri

Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Reykjavik

Godafoss Lake Myvatn

ICELAND Borgarbyggo Gullfoss Thingvellir Nat’l Park Selfoss

Skogafoss Vik

Overnight Featured Site Air Motorcoach

Smithsonian Journeys Experts Peter Bobrowsky (May/Sept.), Jim Zimbelman (June), and Jim Reynolds (Aug./Oct.)–all highly respected geologists. Elisabeth Ward (July)–expert in Scandinavian literature and languages, with special focus on Icelandic literature and the Viking Age.

Cruising the Baltic Sea

From Stockholm to Copenhagen / Aboard the 180-guest Le Dumont d’Urville CRUISE

10 days from approximately $6,995 / Includes $1,000 early booking savings July 24–Aug. 2, Aug. 1–10*, 2021

Discover the rich history and culture of the Baltic States, including the magnificent imperial riches of St. Petersburg, on this spectacular six-country Baltic Sea program. You’ll also gain special insight into the region’s modern history through talks by Lech Walesa, former president of Poland. Beginning in Stockholm, cruise for eight nights in Scandinavia during near-constant daylight. Highlights Include

Stockholm: Depart through the scenic Stockholm archipelago as your voyage begins from Sweden’s capital. Visby: Call at the Baltic island of Gotland, one of Sweden’s richest historical regions with more than 90 medieval churches. Visit the well-preserved walled city of Visby, evocative of the Viking era, the Baltic hub of the Hanseatic League, and a World Heritage site. Helsinki: Discover Finland’s stunning architecture and modern design aesthetic as reﬂected in Temppeliaukio Church during a panoramic city tour, then explore lively Market Square at leisure. St. Petersburg: Spend two days exploring the treasures of Russia’s St. Petersburg, including visits to the worldacclaimed State Hermitage Museum, the Peter and Paul Fortress, and the impressive baroque cathedral devoted to these saints. Outside the city, tour the World Heritage sites of Catherine the Great’s rococo palace at Pushkin (including the extraordinary Amber Room), and the Grand Palace of Peterhof with its exceptional gardens and fountains. Tallinn: Revel in the medieval charms of Estonia’s Tallinn, a World Heritage site that has remained virtually unchanged for 600 years. See historic churches and

Toompea Castle and visit the medieval Town Hall, the only intact Gothic-style hall in northern Europe. Gdańsk: Explore the many cultural sites of Poland’s historic city, from a walking tour featuring a medieval guildhall and Renaissance and baroque mansions to the historic Lenin Shipyard and its Monument to the Fallen Shipyard Workers. Space reserved for 40 Smithsonian Journeys guests. *The Aug. 1 departure will run in reverse. Learn more about Le Dumont d’Urville on page 13 and on our website. Port of Call/ Featured Site

FINLAND

Ship

Helsinki Stockholm

SWEDEN DENMARK Copenhagen

Visby Gotland

Tallinn

ESTONIA

St. Petersburg

RUSSIA

Baltic Sea Gdansk

POLAND

Smithsonian Journeys Experts Adam Tanner (July)–journalist and author with expertise in colonialism and globalization. Glenn Kranking (Aug.)–historian with expertise in Scandinavian studies.

Motława River, Old Town, Gdańsk, Poland

EUROPE / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS

Grand Royal Palace, Peterhof, Russia

St. Petersburg and the Baltics 14 days from $5,498 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees May 18–31, July 27–Aug. 9, Aug. 10–23, Sept. 14–27, 2021 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. Then 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 Denis Crnkovic (May)–expert in Russian and Eastern European studies and comparative literature. Carol Reynolds (July/Aug.)–expert in European art, music, history, and culture, with special focus on Russia. Pamela Kachurin (Sept.)–art historian specializing in Russian and Soviet art and architecture.

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Geirangerfjord, Norway

Journey Through Norway With a Three-day Stay in Copenhagen

16 days from $7,094 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees June 7–22, July 13–28, Aug. 12–27, Aug. 30–Sept. 14, 2021 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. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Ann-Charlotte Gavel Adams (June)–expert in Scandinavian studies with special interest in culture and literature. Terje Leiren (July/Aug. 12)–expert in Scandinavian studies with special interest in history and culture.

An Arctic Cruise of Norway’s Svalbard Aboard the 220-guest Le Boréal

11 days from approximately $6,995 Includes $1,000 early booking savings and round-trip airfare from Paris June 16–26, 2021

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 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. 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 Le Boréal on page 13 and on our website. Smithsonian Journeys Expert Katryn Wiese–highly respected expert in geology and oceanography.

Monaco Glacier, Svalbard Arctic Ocean

S VALBARD A RCHIPELAGO Nordaustlandet Puerto Varas and Lake Llanquihue Raudfjorden Smeerenburgbreen Monaco Glacier Woodfjorden Kongsfjorden Kings Glacier

Ny-Ålesund Spitsbergen

Barents Sea

Longyearbyen

Greenland Sea Bellsund

Edgeoya

Calypsobyen Burgerbukta

Port of Call Ship Air

Paris

POLAR / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS

Sleigh ride, Vladimir

Arctic Explorer by Private Train

A Russian Train Journey Aboard the Golden Eagle A Holiday Program in Search of the Northern Lights SPECIALTY

The Northern Lights

13 days from $15,195 Dec. 28, 2020–Jan. 9, 2021 Dec. 28, 2021–Jan. 9, 2022

Join us for an exciting, adventurous rail journey to celebrate winter and discover both the natural and cultural treasures of Russia and the Arctic Circle. In the north, you’ll search for the aurora borealis, experience twilight at noon, and sip vodka at the Snow Hotel. Farther south, view the masterpieces of the Hermitage in St. Petersburg, ride in a traditional horse-drawn troika near Vladimir, and enjoy New Year’s Eve with local villagers! From Moscow to Murmansk and St. Petersburg, watch the taiga landscape from aboard the Golden Eagle and feel the essence of the Arctic Circle. This is truly an adventure of a lifetime! Highlights Include Moscow: Begin your journey with visits to Red Square, where you’ll see St. Basil’s Cathedral, the Kremlin’s Armory Museum with its national treasures, and Novodevichy Convent, a World Heritage site. Golden Ring: Travel by train to the Golden Ring towns of Vladimir and Suzdal, both World Heritage sites. Among the oldest of Golden Ring towns, they feature some of the most beautiful churches in Russia and offer intimate views into the past. After visiting some of the religious sites, celebrate the New Year in a nearby village, where you’ll enjoy a choral concert sung by monks, ride a traditional troika through the snow, and join villagers for a fireworks display. Crossing the Arctic Circle: Journey north during the polar night to the port city of Murmansk and tour the first nuclear-powered icebreaker. Continue by coach to Kirkenes, Norway, for a two-night stay. Here, visit the Snow Hotel, enjoy chilled vodka, see reindeer and huskies, go on an Arctic King Crab fishing adventure in the frozen fjords, and in the evenings, set off in search of the Northern Lights!

Kirkenes

Overnight Featured Site

NORWAY Nikel

Motorcoach Train

uerto Varas and Lake Llanquihue

Murmansk Arctic C

ircle

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 lectures in the bar/lounge car. Find more details on our website.

Petrozavodsk St. Petersburg

RUSSIA

Baltic Sea Suzdal Moscow Vladimir

St. Petersburg: Gaze upon the cultural gems of this beautiful city, conceived by Peter the Great. You’ll view priceless masterpieces at the Hermitage Museum, plus the famous re-created Amber Room at Catherine’s Palace in Pushkin. Visit the recently reopened Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood and the breathtaking St. Isaac’s Cathedral with its interior of lapis lazuli, malachite, and frescoes. Plus, attend a ballet performance at one of the city’s world-renowned theaters.

Space reserved for 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Nadia Kizenko (2020) and Sharon Hudgins (2021)–experts in Russian studies.

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Expedition to Antarctica Aboard the 200-guest Le Boréal

14 days from $9,995 Includes $1,000 early booking savings Jan. 13–26, 2021 Experience the White Continent of Antarctica in its unspoiled state—fantastically shaped icebergs, vast rocky promontories, and turquoise glaciers—during the lingering light of the austral summer. And discover firsthand how a diverse array of marine wildlife flourishes in this seemingly harsh environment. Highlights Include Cruising Antarctica: From Ushuaia, Argentina, the world’s southernmost city, cruise through the Beagle Channel and cross the legendary Drake Passage en route to the outer shores and islands of the Antarctic Peninsula, the Earth’s last frontier. Here, below the 60th parallel, explore some of the world’s most pristine wilderness, where towering mountains of ice and lava have created precipitous coastlines and islands and constantly changing patterns of ice stretch as far as the eye can see. Wildlife: Observe the antics of chinstrap penguins on Half Moon Island. In Paradise Bay (named by 19th-century whalers who sought shelter in its coves), and other fascinating stops along your route, watch for breaching fin, humpback, and minke whales; crabeater and leopard seals; Gentoo penguins; and countless seabirds. Elsewhere, marvel at a colony of Adélie penguins who may approach you for an up-close encounter. Zodiac and Land Excursions: Embark on sturdy Zodiacs with expert naturalists for unforgettable excursions amid ice floes. During shore excursions, explore rocky landscapes and diverse wildlife habitats. Walk along the black-sand beaches of Deception Island’s Telefon Bay and learn how volcanic activity played a pivotal role in

Adélie penguins

Antarctica’s natural history. Visit Port Lockroy, originally constructed as an intelligence post for British espionage during World War II and later converted into a whaling station and scientific base. Buenos Aires: In Argentina’s colorful capital, explore the city’s many diverse neighborhoods, including the La Boca District, Monserrat, Palermo, Puerto Madero, and San Telmo, plus Recoleta Cemetery. Space reserved for 30 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Learn more about Le Boréal on page 13 and on our website. Port of Call/Overnight

SOUTH AMERICA

Ship Air

Buenos Aires Drake Passage Ushuaia Drake Passage

South Shetland Islands Deception Half Moon Island Island Antarctic Neumayer Sound Channel

Gerlache Strait Port Lockroy Neko Harbor Booth Paradise Island Bay Petermann Island

Lemaire Channel Larsen Ice Shelf

ANTARCTICA Smithsonian Journeys Expert Wayne Ranney–highly respected geologist.

Ice sculpture

AFRICA / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS

Africa

Pyramids to Safaris

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Ancient Egypt and the Nile Featuring Abu Simbel CRUISE

14 days from $5,897 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees Oct. 31–Nov. 13, Nov. 7–20, Nov. 28–Dec. 11, 2020 & Jan. 2–15, Jan. 9–22, Jan. 30–Feb. 12, Feb. 13–26, Feb. 20–March 5, March 6–19, March 13–26, March 20–April 2, April 3–16, April 10–23, 2021

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 insightful 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.

Pyramids and Sphinx at Giza

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: Take in scenes that have been unchanged for centuries during a three-night Nile River cruise. Stop along the way to explore two important temples of the Ptolemaic Kingdom: Kom Ombo, with its double temple dedicated to Sobek and Horus, and Edfu, the largest temple dedicated to Horus, one of the most significant Egyptian deities. 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 and 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.

Felucca on the Nile Mediterranean Sea

JORDAN

Cairo Giza

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. See our website for information on the five-day extension to Jordan. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Veronica Kalas (Nov. 7)–expert on ancient art and architecture and classical archaeology. Debora Heard (Nov. 28/Feb. 13)– anthropologist specializing in Nubian archaeology. Solange Ashby (Jan. 2)–Egyptologist with expertise in ancient Egyptian language and religion. Rozenn Bailleul-LeSuer (April 10)–Egyptologist with expertise in the environment.

Amman

Petra

Red Sea

EGYPT Luxor

Overnight Featured Site

Nile River Aswan

Ship Air Extension (Motorcoach) Extension (Air)

Abu Simbel

Lake Nasser

AFRICA / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS

Watching a cheetah on safari

Lion pride

Safari in Kenya and Tanzania From the Serengeti to the Masai Mara

16 days from $10,696 / Includes airfare, taxes & all fees July 11–26, Aug. 8–23, Aug. 29–Sept. 13, Sept. 30–Oct. 15, Oct. 21–Nov. 5, 2021 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 2021. 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 Grant Nel (July/Aug. 8/Oct.) and Patty Hostiuck (Aug. 29)–respected naturalists with expertise in behavioral ecology, biodiversity, and conservation. Robyn Keene-Young (Sept.)–travel and nature writer on southern Africa. 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. 68

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KENYA

Masai Mara Game Reserve Nairobi

Serengeti National Park

Amboseli National Park

Ngorongoro Crater

Mt. Kilimanjaro

Lake Manyara

Overnight Motorcoach or Safari Vehicles Air

Optional Extension (Motorcoach)

TAZNANIA Indian Ocean

Herd of zebra

Elephant calf with mother

African Safari

South Africa, Botswana, Zambia, and Victoria Falls 14 days from $8,584 / Includes airfare, taxes & all fees March 27–April 9, May 1–14, July 4–17, Aug. 15–28, Sept. 11–24, 2021 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

Smithsonian Journeys Experts Grant Nel (March/Sept.)–respected naturalist with expertise in biodiversity and conservation. Robyn Keene-Young (May/Aug.)–travel and nature writer on southern Africa. Don Wilson (July)–senior scientist and curator emeritus of mammals at Smithsonian’s National 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

AFRICA / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS

Treasures of South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Botswana Featuring Rovos Rail

16 days from $9,190 / Includes $250 early booking savings Special air rates & services available Jan. 26–Feb. 10, Sept. 7–22, 2021 Discover the rich natural and cultural heritage of southern Africa as you explore three of the continent’s most fascinating countries: South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Botswana. Our extraordinary adventure features the cultural and political 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: A comprehensive overview of Cape Town includes views from Table Mountain and Cape Point, a visit to Boulders Beach to see African penguins, and a tour of Robben Island prison where Nelson Mandela and other political dissidents made strides in attaining equal rights. In Soweto township, visit many of the sites associated with important leaders in the anti-apartheid movement. Safari Adventures: Experience the thrill of up-close encounters with 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 to watch animals gather at The Hide’s water hole. Plus, see the renowned elephant herds at Botswana’s 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 that have been restored to mint condition and take in sweeping Watching wildlife from Rovos Rail

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landscapes and wildlife from the observation car or lounge. Find more details on our website. Victoria Falls: Feel the awesome power of Victoria Falls, a World Heritage site and one of the Seven Wonders of the Natural World. These immense falls plunge into the basalt gorges below creating a mist that can be seen for 50 miles. Enjoy a two-night stay at the historic Victoria Falls Hotel. Space reserved for 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Chobe Victoria Falls River Chobe ZIMBABWE National Park Hwange National Park BOTSWANA

Kruger National Park Thornybush Nature Pretoria Reserve Johannesburg

SOUTH AFRICA Cape Town

Overnight Featured Site Air Motorcoach Train

Smithsonian Journeys Expert Robert Schrire (both departures)–highly respected political analyst with expertise in southern Africa.

Victoria Falls

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 $8,595 Includes $500 early booking savings Feb. 14–25, March 2–13, 2021 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 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

14 days from $6,079 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees Oct. 25–Nov. 7, 2020 & Feb. 2–15, March 2–15, March 23–April 5, April 13–26, April 20–May 3, Sept. 3–16, Sept. 21–Oct. 4, Oct. 5–18, 2021 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 Kate Evans (Feb.)–field biologist with expertise in behavioral ecology and conservation. Don Wilson (March)–senior scientist and curator emeritus of mammals at Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts Alia Kate (Oct. 25/Feb./April 20/Oct. 5)–expert in international relations, Wil Rollman (March 2) and Allen Fromherz (March 23)–historians, and Lawrence Butler (April 13)–art historian.

ASIA & THE / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS ASIA ASIA ASIA & & THE THE &PACIFIC THE PACIFIC PACIFIC PACIFIC // SMITHSONIAN SMITHSONIAN / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS JOURNEYS JOURNEYS

Asia & the Pacific Temples to Coral Reefs

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Eternal Japan 13 days from $7,184 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees April 5–17, April 14–26, April 26–May 8, May 10–22, May 22–June 3, Aug. 28–Sept. 9, Sept 11–23, Oct. 4–16, Oct. 23–Nov. 4, 2021 Join us to discover the essence of Japan. From Tokyo to Mt. Fuji, Kanazawa, and Kyoto, you’ll explore a land of sublime art, unsurpassed natural beauty, and fascinating traditions, plus bustling commerce and modernity. Throughout your trip, meet local people, stay in a genuine ryokan (inn), and experience age-old cultural traditions, including a ritualized tea ceremony and a sake tasting. Highlights Include

Kinkaku-ji, Kyoto

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: Delight in breathtaking Mt. Fuji and take a relaxing cruise on nearby Ashi Lake. Japanese Alps: Go off the beaten path to lovely Takayama, one of the country’s most attractive towns with its 16th-century castle and old buildings. Later, visit the World Heritage site of Shirakawago Gasshozukuri Village, a vibrant community whose residents work to preserve its unique traditional architecture. Plus, visit Gokayama Village to see how traditional washi paper is made by hand. 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; and the Higashi Chayagai tea house and geisha area. Kyoto and Nara: Enjoy two days exploring Kyoto’s many temples, shrines, gardens, and well-preserved architecture. Highlights include visits to Kinkaku-ji (the lakeside Temple of the Golden Pavilion) and lavish Nijo Castle, where the shogun asserted control over the city and its people. You’ll also see the Gion District, where geishas gather, as well as other neighborhoods. During a day trip to nearby Nara, Japan’s ancient capital, take a walking tour that features Todai-ji Temple, the Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Kofukuji Temple, and the Nara National Museum.

Kimonos

Kanazawa

Shirakawago

Takayama

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Lee Makela (April 5/Oct. 4)–historian with expertise in urban architecture, garden design, and popular culture. John Freedman (April 26)–expert in Japanese history and culture. Barry Till (May 22)–art historian with expertise in Asian art, culture, and history. Jonathan Hall (Aug.)–expert in Japanese film, culture, literature, and history. Constantine Vaporis (Sept.)–historian and Carol Morland (Oct. 23)–art historian, both with expertise in the Edo period.

JAPAN

Kyoto Osaka

Lake Biwa

Mt. Fuji

Tokyo Hakone

Nara

Pacific Ocean

Overnight Featured Site Motorcoach Train

ASIA & THE PACIFIC / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS

A Cruise of Japan

From Himeji to Matsue and Osaka Aboard the 180-guest Le Lapérouse CRUISE

Pagoda, Itsukushima Shrine, Miyajima

12 days from approximately $6,595 Includes $1,000 early booking savings May 16–27, 2021

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.” 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.

Buddha statues, Himeji

SOUTH KOREA

Gyeongju Ulsan

Moji: From this port city, cross the strait to visit the beautiful Akama Shrine as well as the Karato Ichiba Fish Market.

Sakaiminato for Matsue

JAPAN

Hagi Miyajima

Kyoto

Himeji Kurashiki Uno Hiroshima Inland Sea

Osaka

Moji

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 90 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Learn more about Le Lapérouse on page 13 and on our website.

Port of Call/Overnight Featured Site Ship Motorcoach

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.

Smithsonian Journeys Expert Paula Swart–art historian with expertise in Asian art, culture, and history.

SMITHSONIANJOURNEYS.ORG / 877.338.8687 / BOOK YOUR TRIP

The Silk Road: A Journey to Central Asia Featuring the Five “Stans” of Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Kazakhstan 17 days from $7,995 April 14–30, Sept. 8–24, Oct. 6–22, 2021 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: Penjikent is 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, visit a traditional Kazakh falcon farm. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Barry Till (April/Sept.)–art historian with expertise in Asian art, culture, and history. Hugh Neighbour (Oct.)–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 Ashkabat

Bishkek

Almaty Issyk Kul

KYRGYZSTAN

TAJIKISTAN

Overnight Featured Site Air Motorcoach Train

Registan complex, Samarkand, Uzbekistan

ASIA & THE PACIFIC / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS

Khor Virap Monastery, Armenia

Exploring Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Armenia 17 days from $7,995 May 19–June 4, Sept. 1–17, Sept. 15–Oct. 1, 2021 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, as you walk through the Old City and explore the Museum of Azerbaijan Carpets and the Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center. Venture outside the city to discover the archaeological sites of Gobustan and the Atashgah Zorastrian Fire Temple. Spend a night in Sheki, one of the country’s oldest cities, and enjoy a performance of traditional Azeri music. Georgia: Cross into eastern Georgia’s Kakheti region, renowned for its vineyards and some of the country’s most impressive religious architecture. Celebrate Georgian culinary traditions with a Georgian Table Feast, complemented by traditional polyphonic singing. Stop at the Stalin Museum in Gori, the impressive 12th-century Vardzia cave complex, and the Phoka Nunnery. In Tbilisi, Georgia’s famed capital, explore the Old Town, see the National Museum’s archaeological collection, learn about modern politics, and enjoy a classical music concert. Armenia: With input from Smithsonian’s Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage, you’ll enjoy the best of Armenia. In the Lori region, stop in at the Nurik Center, an NGO supporting women through cultural tourism, and learn to make traditional Armenian dishes with a local family. Enjoy day trips to Geghard Monastery and Noravank. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Veronica Kalas (May)–art historian and field archaeologist. Hugh Neighbour (Sept. 1)–former diplomat with with expertise in Central Asia.

SMITHSONIANJOURNEYS.ORG / 877.338.8687 / BOOK YOUR TRIP

Mongolian landscape

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 $17,895 July 9–22, 2021 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 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Learn more about the Golden Eagle on page 64 and on our website. Smithsonian Journeys Expert Nadia Kizenko–expert in Russian and Eastern European history, culture, religion, and literature.

Taj Mahal, Agra

Wat Arun, along the Chao Phraya River, Bangkok

Mystical India

Singapore, Thailand, and Angkor Wat

The Golden Triangle and Varanasi With an Optional Extension to Nepal 17 days from $6,187 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees Jan. 10–26, Feb. 11–27, 2021 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: 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. Smithsonian Journeys Expert Rita Sodha (both departures)–art historian and studio artist, living in India.

Featuring the Eastern & Oriental Express 14 days from $8,790 Includes $250 early booking savings Special air rates & services available Jan. 14–27, Feb. 4–17, Oct. 19–Nov. 1, 2021 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. 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. Accommodations: Enjoy stays in top hotels, including the Shangri-La Singapore and Peninsula Bangkok. Space reserved for 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Sandra Cate (Jan.)–anthropologist and folklorist with expertise in Southeast Asia. Barry Till (Feb./ Oct.)–art historian with expertise in Asain art, culture, and history.

ASIA & THE PACIFIC / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS

Ha Long Bay

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 15 days from $6,995 Includes $1,000 early booking savings Nov. 3–17, 2020 & Oct. 23–Nov. 6, 2021 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 Barry Till (Nov.)–art historian with expertise in Asian art, archaeology, culture, and history.

SMITHSONIANJOURNEYS.ORG / 877.338.8687 / BOOK YOUR TRIP

Flower seller along the Mekong

Discovering Vietnam 15 days from $4,997 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees Jan. 28–Feb. 11, Feb. 22–March 8, 2021 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 Dana Sachs (Jan.)–expert in the culture and literature of Vietnam. Elvira Masson (Feb.)–historian with expertise in Southeast Asia.

Legendary Bora Bora Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu

Wind Spirit

Voyage to French Polynesia

Featuring Tahiti and Bora Bora Aboard the 148‑guest Wind Spirit CRUISE

11 days from approximately $6,995 Includes $1,000 early booking savings and includes airfare from Los Angeles Jan. 26–Feb. 5, 2021

This winter, escape the cold and bask in the warmth and pristine beauty of Tahiti, “the Pearl of the South Pacific,” as well as the sister islands of Pape’ete, Mo’orea, Ra’iatea, Taha’a, Bora Bora, and Huahine. Trace the voyages of legendary explorer Captain Cook and explore the places that sparked the imaginations of scores of writers and artists as your four-masted sailing ship plies a course through deep-blue waters, its sails billowing majestically in the wind. Our South Pacific adventure will excite your senses and provide a deeper appreciation for these exotic islands and their remarkable cultures. Highlights Include

Unique Seascapes: Part of the allure of the South Pacific are the iconic island seascapes—volcanic islands, coral atolls, and motus set amid deep blue waters fringed by dazzling white-sand beaches. Inland, thick tropical forests cloak black basalt peaks silhouetted against turquoise waters, and the sweet scent of vanilla, gardenia, and jasmine delicately permeate the island air. Learn about the flora and fauna of the Society Islands during excursions and active adventures. Culture: Walk to imposing sacred marae (temples) to learn about Polynesian deities and traditions. Gain a deeper understanding of the traditional Polynesian trade economy as you tour the fragrant grounds of a vanilla plantation and visit a farm where lustrous black pearls are meticulously cultivated for export. Witness the art of dyeing traditional Polynesian pareo (sarongs). Savor the island’s abundant fruits and enjoy local island cuisine and entertainment at a traditional Polynesian feast on a private motu. Nature Activities: Enjoy warm-water swimming from

unspoiled beaches and snorkeling amid pristine coral reefs and tropical fish. Board an outrigger canoe to explore the only navigable river in Polynesia. Wind Spirit: Experience this paragon of paradise on an elegant yacht designed to sail among the atolls and motus of French Polynesia, its year-round home. This award-winning ship features spacious teak decks, upscale amenities, two elegant restaurants, a watersports marina, plus complimentary beverages and included gratuities. Find more details on our website. Space reserved for 40 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Port of Call Ship

FRENCH POLYNESIA

Bora Bora

Taha’a

Ra’iatea

Huahine

Cook’s Bay

South Pacific

Mo’orea

Pape’ete

Tahiti

FRENCH POLYNESIA

Smithsonian Journeys Expert Charles Urbanowicz–anthropologist with expertise in the peoples and cultures of the Pacific.

ASIA & THE PACIFIC / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS

Maori sculpture

Journey Through New Zealand

From Auckland to Queenstown 16 days from $8,074 Includes airfare, taxes & all fees Feb. 18–March 5, March 25–April 9, 2021 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. Cultural Traditions: 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. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Smithsonian Journeys Experts Geoff Cox (Feb.) and George Losey (March)– experts in the natural sciences, the environment, and marine biology.

SMITHSONIANJOURNEYS.ORG / 877.338.8687 / BOOK YOUR TRIP

Milford Sound

New Zealand by Sea

Featuring Auckland and a 7-day Cruise Aboard the 180-guest Le Bellot CRUISE

13 days from approximately $5,995 Includes $1,000 early booking savings Feb. 17–March 1, 2021

New Zealand is a country of breathtaking natural beauty, astonishing flora and fauna, and towns and villages reflecting distinctive cultures. Join us to circumnavigate the South Island by ship, just as early Polynesians and explorers once did, and explore Auckland as well! Highlights Include

Fiordland National Park: Cruise the breathtaking landscapes of this World Heritage site—including Milford Sound and Dusky and Doubtful Sounds—over two exciting days. Enjoy Zodiac rides that feature panoramic vistas and up-close looks of plunging fjords, mystical waterfalls, lush forests, and glacier-grooved cliffs. South Island Wildlife: From Dunedin to the west coast, look for amazing birdlife such as the northern royal albatross (the largest seabird in the world), and rare species of penguin, as well as bottlenose dolphins, sea lions, whales, and other marine wildlife. Cultural Sites: Tour charming Christchurch, “the most English city outside of England,” and the country’s capital city of Wellington, a historic site for the Maori people. Auckland and Marlborough Valley: Spend two days exploring the “City of Sails,” featuring the War Memorial Museum with its Maori treasures. Visit New Zealand’s wine region, the Marlborough Valley, plus stop at a farm to watch traditional sheep shearing and herding demonstrations. Space reserved for 36 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Find more details about Le Bellot on page 13 and on our website. Smithsonian Journeys Expert Neville Peat–expert in New Zealand’s history, geography, and nature.

Splendors of Australia and New Zealand 22 days from $10,184 / Includes airfare, taxes & all fees Oct. 24–Nov. 14, 2020 & Jan. 13–Feb. 3, Feb. 15–March 8, March 8–29, April 5–26, 2021 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 Uluru (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 koala, 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

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 George Losey (Oct.)–expert in the natural sciences. Jim Zimbelman (Jan.)–planetary geologist at Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum. Peter Bobrowsky (Feb./April) and Brent Garry (March)–highly respected geologists.

Moorish Idol fish, Great Barrier Reef

TAILOR-MADE / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS

Journeys Designed for You Smithsonian Tailor-Made Journeys by Audley Travel Tired of meeting up with family or friends by phone or video? Eager to explore the world again, but just with your personal, initimate group? Tailor-made travel means experiencing the world your way—when and how you want and with whom you want. This is the beauty of Smithsonian Tailor-Made Journeys. You will be paired with a country specialist with extensive firsthand knowledge of the region you would like to visit. With their guidance and insider knowledge, you’ll 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 call us at 855.215.8690 to speak with a country specialist to create your own dream trip!

Call 855.215.8690 Speak with a country specialist today

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.

Europe England I France New! Croatia New! Greece New! Iceland 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, all customized to fit 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 Throughout your journey, you’ll be accompanied by top local guides who will share their insights into and passion for the region you’re visiting. You will also have plenty of free time to explore on your own. And for peace of mind, you’ll have access to a 24-hour phone number so you can reach us anytime if 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

SEE OUR WEBSITE / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS

More Travel Opportunities for 2021 For details, go online at SmithsonianJourneys.org London, England

Specialty Tours

Michelangelo’s David, Florence

Smithsonian at the Cannes Film Festival May 2021

British Cars and the Goodwood Revival Sept. 2021

Classic Mystery Lover’s England

Pearl Harbor Memorial, Hawaii

Oct. 2–10, 2021

Michelangelo

In Florence and Rome Autumn 2021

Pearl Harbor

Commemorating the 80th Anniversary Dec. 3–8, 2021

Classic Land Tours

Costa Rica’s Natural Treasures Jan. 18–28, Feb. 13–23, March 11–21, 2021

Oak Tiger butterfly, Costa Rica

Northern Italy

April 21–May 5, May 22–June 5, Sept. 22–Oct. 6, Oct. 6–20, 2021

Treasures of the Alps

Featuring Switzerland, the Italian Lakes District, and Austria June 3–16, Aug. 12–25, Sept. 6–19, 2021

Highlights of Britain

England, Scotland, and Wales June 7–20, July 12–25, Aug. 14–27, Sept. 6–19, 2021 84

Historic train and the Matterhorn, Switzerland

SMITHSONIANJOURNEYS.ORG / 877.338.8687 / BOOK YOUR TRIP

XXXXXXXXX Cotswolds village, England

Maine

Cultural Stays

Italy’s Lake District

A One-Week Stay in Stresa May 4–12, June 8–16, Sept. 7–15, 2021

Cruises

Voyage on the Mississippi

A River Cruise from New Orleans to Memphis Aboard the 187–guest American Jazz March 20–28, Nov. 6–14, 2021

Art Along the Coast of Maine Olana, New York

A Round-trip Cruise from Portland Aboard the 100–guest Independence Aug. 6–14, 2021

Great Lakes Grand Voyage From Milwaukee to Toronto Aboard the 180–guest Le Champlain Sept. 30–Oct. 7, 2021

Art Along the Hudson

A Round-trip Cruise from New York City Aboard the 175–guest American Constitution Oct. 1–9, Oct. 8–16, 2021

Cruising the Rhine and Moselle: A Family Voyage From Basel to Amsterdam Aboard the 168–guest Amadeus Silver III July 4–12, 2021

Holiday Markets Lake Como, Italy

Featuring a Rhine River Cruise Aboard the 168–guest Amadeus Silver III Nov. 25–Dec. 5, Dec. 4–14, 2021 85

Smithsonian Journeys Calendar 2021 For additional trips and more details on what’s featured in this catalog go to SmithsonianJourneys.org 2021 Departure 2020 Departure

Classic Land Tours

Machu Picchu and the Galápagos Patagonian Explorer: Argentina and Chile Legendary Peru Bryce, Zion, and the Grand Canyon Seascapes of the Canadian Maritimes The Northern Rockies Alaska’s Natural Wonders The Emerald Isle / Ireland Scotland’s Treasures France Through the Ages Journey Through Provence Pearls of Croatia and Slovenia NEW! Classical Greece Old World Europe Highlights of Italy Southern Italy and Sicily Across Northern Spain and Portugal Treasures of Southern Spain and Portugal Adventure in Iceland Journey Through Norway St. Petersburg and the Baltics Ancient Egypt and the Nile African Safari Safari in Kenya and Tanzania Tanzania’s Great Migration Splendors of Morocco Eternal Japan The Silk Road / A Journey to Central Asia NEW! Exploring Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Armenia Mystical India Discovering Vietnam Journey Through New Zealand Splendors of Australia and New Zealand

Cultural Stays

NEW! County Clare / Ennis, Ireland Normandy, France NEW! France and Spain’s Basque Region Kraków, Poland Berlin, Germany Living in France: A Three-week Stay in Aix-en-Provence Living in Italy: A Three-week Stay in Florence NEW! Italy’s Amalfi Coast Italy’s Apulia Palermo and Taormina: A Stay in Sicily NEW! Segovia, Spain Spain’s Andalusia / Antequerra

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PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS Getty Images, Alamy, Danita Delimont, iStock, Dreamstime, Shutterstock, Adobe Stock. Dreamstime: Cover/Glacier National Park: Dan Breckwoldt. Getty: Back Cover/Rwenzori three-horned chameleon: Jonne Seijdel; Page 4/Bears in Alaska: Barrett Hedges; Page 7/Fisherman on the Mekong: Sangkomhungkhunthod; Page 66/Egyptian temple: James Strachan. Alamy: Page 3/Esna Temple, Egypt: Raga Jose Fuste; Page 26/Oxford don and Bodleian Library doors: Oxford; Page 83/Trogir, Croatia: JanWlodarczyk. Danita Delimont: Page 82/Icy Landscape: Jon Arnold. iStock: Page 72/Buddhist shrine, Kyoto: Drazen Lovric. Additional photos courtesy of the following: Page 2/Travelers: Emily Lundquist; Page 11/Travelers: Sharon Boyle; Page 11/cooking demonstration: Jeffrey Keefer; Page 20/Simulation: U.S. Space & Rocket Center; Page 25/Lewis & Clark at Three Forks: Wikimedia Commons; Page 27/Travelers: Wade Jennings; Page 27/Merton College: Bamber/Merton College; Pages 43/Sea Cloud II: Sea Cloud; Page 49/Globe of Science: CERN; Page 69/Zebra: Kirt Kempter; Page 85/Olana: Steve Cohn Photography. Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest: Page 14/Woman in the Andes: Christopher Newman; Page 78/Woman in Vietnam: Nhiem Hoang; Page 84/Butterfly: Phil Parsons. Tourism Bureaus: Page 28 & 84/River Thames: Julian Lovel-London and Partners/London Tourism Bureau; Page 28/Pub Musicians: Ireland Tourism Bureau; Page 35/Vermeer painting: NBTC Holland. Additional Photos: Smithsonian Institution Museums and Research Stations, Smithsonian Journeys Experts, travelers, staff, tour operators, and providers. Posted June 2020.

SMITHSONIANJOURNEYS.ORG / 877.338.8687 / BOOK YOUR TRIP

Specialty Tours

Smithsonian at Space Academy Astronomy and Natural Wonders of Hawaii Astronomy in Arizona Smithsonian at Oxford NEW! London: The African Diaspora D-Day: A Journey from England to France Paris: The African American Experience NEW! In the Footsteps of Alexander the Great Art Meets Science in Switzerland

River Cruises Amazon River Cruise In the Wake of Lewis and Clark Waterways of Holland and Belgium A River Cruise of Provence NEW! Seine River Cruise NEW! Loire Valley Canal Cruise Portrait of Portugal / Cruising the Douro River Voyage Through Europe / From Budapest to Holland A Danube River Cruise / Prague & Germany to Bulgaria Great European Journey / From Holland to Switzerland

Ocean Cruises Wonders of the Galápagos Islands A Cruise of Panama and Costa Rica Alaska’s Glaciers and the Inside Passage Scottish Isles and Norwegian Fjords A Celtic Cruise: From Scotland to France Voyage from Malta to Rome NEW! Sailing the French and Italian Rivieras / Sea Cloud II NEW! Sicily and Malta by Sea / Sea Cloud II NEW! Sailing the Greek Isles / Sea Cloud II A Cruise of the Adriatic and the Aegean Cruising the Dalmatian Coast A Cruise to Ancient Greece A Cruise of Spain and Portugal A Cruise from Lisbon to London Iceland Voyage: A Circumnavigation Cruise Cruising the Baltic Sea An Arctic Cruise of Norway’s Svalbard Expedition to Antarctica A Cruise of Japan A Cruise Along Vietnam’s Coast Voyage to French Polynesia New Zealand by Sea

Train Journeys Arctic Explorer by Train Treasures of South Africa / Rovos Rail The Trans-SIberian Express Singapore, Thailand, and Angkor Wat

Tailor-Made Journeys Tailor-Made Journeys

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Gardens of the World

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Book Your Journey of a Lifetime SmithsonianJourneys.org / 877.338.8687 Cover: Glacier National Park, Montana. Back Cover: African lizard.