VOL. 32, NO. 1
8,887 Active Members
43,453 Members Since 1979
JULY/AUG., 2010
Our 2010-11 Tour & Vacation Preview Day Featuring the Food and Folk Festival
Saturday, September 11th • Marriott Hotel Sunrise Blvd. & Hwy. 50 • FREE Parking • Admission $5 in advance, $10 after August 30
3 showtimes to choose from: 9:00-11:45am • 12:45-3:30pm • 4:15-7:00pm Door prizes at all shows, plus special drawings at the 4:15pm show only! • GUEST SPEAKERS – learn more about our NEW 2011 programs • Hawaii, Mystery Tours, The Lincoln Highway, The Carolinas, Big Bend and Yellowstone Nat‘l Parks, Scotland and Ireland, Cape Cod, West Virginia, Montana, plus over two dozen new adventures • 2010 Holiday Tour Review • Entertainment, LIGHT refreshments, lots of free goodies • Complimentary transportation for each show from selected areas – call for details • Get your advance copy of our NEW 2011 tour catalog
Lori Brandon will perform
Bring your wheels or hitch a ride with us!
H ADVANCE RESERVATIONS REQUIRED, SEATING LIMITED H
CALL TODAY! Monday through Friday 8:00am – 4:30pm to reserve your seats, or reserve online anytime!
(916) 361-2051 or (800) 951-5556 9812 Old Winery Place, Suite 1 • Sacramento, CA 95827 • (916) 361-2051 • Toll-Free (800) 951-5556 • www. sportsleisure.com • CA Travel #2011549-40
Just One Man’s Opinion The Luck and a Legend Came Together
a trip to one or more ballparks in the far corners of our country. We’ve had some memorable days. Like the afternoon at Dodger Stadium when Tommy Lasorda, the great Dodger manager, For a little over appeared during a tour of the ballpark. Or 31 years now, this the day in Kansas City when the A’s were has been the way the opponent and we had a field level box. I’ve made my living. One of the A’s players spotted a Rivercats Not a bad job, some hat on one of our group, and came over to would say. I would certainly agree. Like us to mention that he had just been called anything it has its up and down moments, up from Sactown to the big leagues. When but the ups far outnumber the downs. he found out the entire group was from Perhaps the best thing about that equation Sacramento, he called all the guys over who is that you never know when or where one had played for the Rivercats on the way to of those particularly memorable moments Oakland and we had 6-8 major leaguers will occur, like the Wednesday morning in casually chatting with our gang before the Clifton, New Jersey when we came face-togame in KC. That was cool. face with an American Legend. But none of those will ever top the day We’ve been making trips to ballparks since we met Lawrence (Yogi) Berra. Our band day one here at Sports Leisure. As many of of wandering baseball minstrels went to you know, it’s how our company got its start. New York, Chicago and St. Louis to catch While our hearty band of fans of America’s some games and follow Yogi’s life. He was pastime has shrunk slightly in recent years, born in St. Louis and of course, played for we still gather together every year and make and managed the Yankees. (Chicago was a stopover point for us, and a chance to visit Wrigley Field.) At Monclair State University in Clifton, there is a nice museum dedicated to Yogi, his life and career. It’s just adjacent to the school’s baseball stadium, a perfect match. We went there to learn a little more about the hall-of-famer. We had arranged to have Dale Berra, Yogi’s son who played in the majors for a few years himself, speak to our group. For 20 minutes he regaled us with stories of his father. It was fascinating and we were all soaking up every word. Towards the end of his presentation, Dale told us, “Wait just a minute, I have a piece of memorabilia to share with you,” before disappearing Sports Leisure Travelers chat with baseball legend Yogi Berra
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Sports Leisure Vacations / July–August 2010
behind a door and leaving us wondering what he could possibly share with his small private audience. The museum had opened in the morning, just for us. A few seconds passed. Dale reappeared. Just behind him was… his father. We didn’t know whether to gasp, applaud or wet ourselves (ok, only I had that problem and fortunately for all, it passed quickly without incident). Yogi is 85. He’s an 18-time All Star who played in 13 World Series and is undoubtedly one of the most recognized faces in America, thanks to his memorable quotes and Aflac commercials. In person, Yogi is, well, just Yogi. Same guy. We chatted with him, took a few pictures and went on our way. In St. Louis, we saw the house he grew up in, met his niece (who shared more stories of her uncle) and had a great Italian lunch on “The Hill.” Oh, and we saw 4 baseball games. Normally, that would have been important. But it’s not every day you get to meet a legend. Yogi Berra. Amazing. And that, is Just One Man’s Opinion.
Mark Hoffmann, CTP Owner/Founder
INSIDE THIS ISSUE Just One Man’s Opinion..................................... 2 Clayton Place......................................................... 3 The Customers Always Write........................... 4 The Human Side................................................... 5 Day Trips.............................................................. 6-8 Casino Trips & Baseball...................................... 8 Teasers..................................................................... 9 New Vacations & Getaways..................... 10-12 The Barber Pole..................................................14 Tour Calendar............................................13 & 15 Discounts.............................................Back Cover HHHHHHHHHHHH Editor........................................... Mark Hoffmann Executive Editor .........................Kevin Murphy Contributing Writers......................... P. Hansen, R. Goodge, S. Angeletti & C. Whitehead Contributing Photographer.........C. Galloway
Clayton Place Hello Friends: Effective this November 1, 2010, the Transportation Safety Admini stration (TSA) is requiring of all airlines (therefore, the airlines are requiring of us) full SFPD from everyone who flies to, from or within the United States. SFPD!?!? What the heck is that? Well it’s not the San Francisco Police Department! It stands for Secure Flight Passenger Data, which as of this deadline the TSA is defining as your full first, middle and last names, your date of birth and your gender. If your trip is international, including Canada or Mexico, we will additionally need your passport number. Some airlines may already require this information or certainly will soon as they ramp up and test their systems in advance of the deadline. It is now our company policy to ask everyone signing up for trips involving air and/or visiting an international destination for this information when we see blanks in your membership record. You should also be aware it is not just airlines that require this information. A growing number
of marine vessels ask us to provide a passenger manifest containing some of your personal information as per Coast Guard requirements. This is sometimes the case even on short daytime sightseeing cruises. A very few “high profile” facilities we visit regularly, such as the United Nations in New York, also require a list of visitors’ names in advance of our visit. If you only take trips that travel entirely by motorcoach, don’t cruise or visit the UN, we do not need this information from you. Of course we’ll keep you posted as the requirements for travel continue to evolve and change. And please remember, if you’re a William who wants to be called “Bill” or a Mildred who wants to be called “Millie,” just let us know. We have a special place for nicknames in our database. It is from here that we print your nametags. You can rest assured all your personal information is kept safely and securely by our computer database. It is guarded by a strong security and firewall system, and is continuously monitored and upgraded. We’re doing all we can to protect your privacy and security. Remember, our names and personal information are in that computer, too! And please note your credit card information is never kept past the processing of your charge. (This is why
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we must ask for your number again when refunds are necessary.) If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to call me personally, or, as I’m a frequent traveler and often out of the office, contact me by e-mail at clayton.whitehead@sportsleisure.com. You can also check out www.tsa.gov for the latest traveler advisories, requirements and security. “Your Tour Guy,”
Clayton Whitehead, CTP Vice President
Remembering Our Sports Leisure Family… We pause for a moment to remember members of our Sports Leisure family who recently passed. Bill Davis, Chris Galloway’s grandfather, passed away in Boulder, CO. Bill had been an avid traveler until his health declined. Bertha Goodge, Ramona’s mother, passed on at the age of 89 after a short illness. Many of us had met her for the first time at Tour Preview Day. A delightful lady, and you should have seen Ramona and her together. Two peas in a pod for sure. Funny how that works. I wish we had the time to get to know her better. Ramona will have to share some stories someday. Cards can be sent to Ramona care of the Sports Leisure office if you like. We also say goodbye to Karl Lorentzen. He and Jane have traveled with us for many years. The adventures we shared would fill many a book. Jane, don’t be a stranger now. Finally, we lost Barbara Semas from our family. A nice lady with a lovely smile, we will miss her. We say goodbye to our dear friend Fern Drake, an original member of the Gold Club and the Happy One-Derers. We wish her four daughters the very best. May all of their travels be on the wings of angels. Forever.
Sports Leisure Vacations / July–August 2010
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The Customers Always Write Dear Mark and Clayton: We have traveled with Sports Leisure Vacations for many years and we can’t count the number of great meals we have eaten with our fellow travelers in restaurants of your choice. However, when left on our own without knowledge of local eateries we usually end up in the bad ones. The price of food has risen, whether we pay out of our own pockets or pay you in advance to pick a good restaurant. In our opinion, you have had a very good track record in making choices over the past 20+ years, and we would like to see you return to that track. The food does not have to be gourmet fare. We enjoy eating with our fellow travelers, and we hope to continue that enjoyment for many years. Your friends, Tom and Mercedes Grosen Dear Tom and Mercedes – Thank you for writing. What an interesting note. Can’t remember ever getting one like that before. Thank you for your confidence in our dining selections. We work very hard to try and find the right balance between fun and fancy culinary experiences. We are also very aware of the increase in the cost of dining out and try not to contract for huge meals where half the food is left behind. We have stepped up the number of meals included on tour, after people told us they liked having breakfast included, but are trying to balance the portion sizes for lunch and dinner with our needs. Appreciate your comments. Be well. Thanks for being loyal travelers for many years. Mark Dear Sports Leisure: I wanted to tell you that using the Vallejo Ferry to get to the ball park (June 13, Giants/ A’s) was SO MUCH FUN… Also, row 30 is perfect as it is in a bit of sun but gets shady fast, which works for those of us who cannot sit directly in the sun due to medications and such. So row 30 or 29, etc., works good for me. Diana did a nice job as did the bus
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driver. Sorry forgot his name. Thank you on behalf of all in my party for a fun day at the ball park. And the Giants won… Susan Velasco From the Internet: I just love your new web newsletter. One of these days I want to take the Route 66 trip before I move to Boise, ID. Of course I may have to come back for that trip since I will be moving this year. Thanks for the many years I have been with you. Sincerely, Dixie Morley Mark– We just wanted to thank you for bringing your tour group to the Markworth Residence to experience OMAHA THEATRE PIPE ORGAN TOURS on your recent Lincoln Highway tour. Your group was the most interested and reactive tour group we have recently entertained. I hope all had a good time. Again, thanks on behalf of OMAHA THEATRE PIPE ORGAN TOURS. Bob Markworth & Jerry Pawlak Dear Mark – The Lincoln Highway Association wishes to thank you for your kind donation toward our 18th Annual LHA Conference in Dixon, IL. We would further like to extend our thanks for your interest in the Lincoln Highway by providing tours of this historic roadway. We are most appreciate of your giving publicity to our efforts. Thank you again for all your work and efforts in promoting the Lincoln Highway! Most gratefully, Bob Dieterich, President Sue Jacobson, Secretary National Lincoln Highway Association Ed. Note – Next year’s annual Lincoln Highway gathering will be in South Lake Tahoe. Our final leg of the trip, from Cheyenne to Sacramento on SuperCoach will take place then. President Bob, by the way, lives right here in Fair Oaks! (Did you know the Sports Leisure office is located just one block off the historic highway [Folsom Blvd.]? )
Sports Leisure Vacations / July–August 2010
Hi Mark & Clayton – I have moved to Sun City Roseville. I like the new look of The Traveler! Congrats to Chris Galloway. He sure was kind to my grandson on the trip to New York City. More boxes to unpack. Have a great travelin’ summer. June McElhannon Mark – Went to Sonora Saturday and Patty Thayer was our Tour Director. In the times I’ve traveled with SLV I have never had the pleasure of being with her. She is so professional, organized and a great guide. She has a very gentle voice that lends to calm surroundings. She is awesome. Phyllis Rodgers, #42100 Dear Mark & Clayton – Several major medical problems have made me leave my home. I am in a very nice senior residence, lovely apartments and lots of good care. I will remember all the great times traveling – some people don’t have those memories. Thanks for over 25 years of good friends and great trips. Audrey Sienkiewicz Ed. Note – A retirement letter from a wonderful traveler and friend. Audrey and her late husband Hank were among our longest and most loyal travelers. Thank you Audrey, happy trails to you.
If you have a comment, suggestion or tour idea, we invite you to drop us a line. Due to space limitations, not all letters can be printed (others may be edited). Mail to: Sports Leisure Vacations Attn: Mark/Clayton 9812 Old Winery Place, Suite 1 Sacramento, CA 95827 Or e-mail Mark or Clayton at: markslt@aol.com clayton.whitehead@sportsleisure.com
The Human Side Those Boots are Made for Walkin’… A teenage boy had just passed his driving test and inquired of his father as to when they could discuss his use of the car. His father said he’d make a deal with his son: “You bring your grades up from a C to a B average, study your Bible a little, and get your hair cut. Then we’ll talk about the car.” The boy thought about that for a moment, decided he’d settle for the offer, and they agreed on it. After about six weeks his father said, “Son, you’ve brought your grades up and I’ve observed that you have been studying your Bible, but I’m disappointed you haven’t had your hair cut. The boy said, “You know, Dad, I’ve been thinking about that, and I’ve noticed in my studies of the Bible that Samson had long hair, John the Baptist had long hair, Moses had long hair… and there’s even strong evidence that Jesus had long hair.” You’re going to love the Dad’s reply: “Did you also notice they all walked everywhere they went?”
Hotel/Motel Scam This is kinda scary if only because of how simple it is. You arrive at your hotel and check in at the front desk. When checking in, you give the front desk your credit card (for your room charges). You get to your room and settle in. Someone calls the front desk and asks (for example) for Room 620 (which happens to be your room). Your phone rings in your room. You answer and the person on the other end says, “This is the front desk. When you were checking in, we came across a problem with your charge card information. Please re-read me your credit card number and verify the 3 digit security code on the back of your card.” Not thinking anything amiss, you might give this person your information, since the call seems to come from the front desk. But actually, it is a scam, operated by someone calling from outside the hotel/front desk. They ask for a random room number. Then when you answer, the
caller asks you for credit card information, sounding so professional that you think you are talking to the front desk. If you ever encounter this problem on your vacation, tell the caller that you will immediately come down to the front desk to clear up any problems. Then, go to the front desk and ask if there was a problem. If there was none, inform the hotel manager.
Be Careful Who You Mess With! My wife and I were traveling by car from Victoria to Prince George. Being seniors, after almost eleven hours on the road, we were too tired to continue, and decided to take a room. When we checked out the next day, the clerk handed us a bill for $350.00. I exploded and demanded to know why the charge was so high. I told the clerk although it’s a nice hotel, the rooms certainly aren’t worth $350.00 a night. I insisted on speaking to the Manager. The Manager appeared, listened to me, and then explained that the hotel had an Olympic-sized pool and a huge conference centre that were available for us to use. “But we didn’t use them,” I said. ‘’Well, they
are here, and you could have,” explained the Manager. He went on to explain that we could also have taken in one of the shows for which the hotel is famous. “We have the best entertainers from New York , Hollywood and Las Vegas perform here,” the Manager said. “But we didn’t go to any of those shows,” I said. “Well, we have them, and you could have,” the Manager replied. No matter what amenity the Manager mentioned, I replied, ”But we didn’t use it!” The Manager was unmoved, and eventually I gave up and agreed to pay. I wrote a check and gave it to the Manager. The Manager was surprised when he looked at the check. “But sir, this check is only made out for $50.00.” ‘’That’s correct. I charged you $300.00 for sleeping with my wife,” I replied. “But I didn’t!” exclaimed the Manager. I said, “Well, too bad, she was here, and you could have.” The moral of the story: Never mess with folks who have been around the block more times than you have. They’ll get you every time.
Travel Club Members gather at a celebration for the life of Cliff Potter, top row from left: Bill Witt, David Davenport, Muriel Davenport, Gloria McAdams, Ed McAdams, Irene Potter, Dee Bellows, Clayton Whitehead Seated, from left: Dottie “2” L’Heureux, Jayne Witt, Bob Bellows Sports Leisure Vacations / July–August 2010
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Day Trips and Theatre Outings A Mission, Murals, and Margaritas
Labor Day Sunday on the Bay
Monday, August 30 San Francisco is a city of murals. Our guide Craig Smith leads you on this walking tour through one of San Francisco’s oldest and most colorful neighborhoods. A tour of the Mission Dolores sets the historical stage for your viewing of the murals as you walk along 24th Street, known as the Street of Flags of Latin America. Lunch is included at the Blue Muse and at the end of the day celebrate with a margarita at Puerta Allegra before returning to Sacramento. $116
Sunday, September 5 There’s no better place to see San Francisco than from the waters of San Francisco Bay. And what better way to ply those waters than on board a Hornblower Yacht? Enjoy a sumptuous Champagne Sunday Brunch served in style as Hornblower shows you some of the most scenic views of San Francisco, Angel and Alcatraz Islands, and Sausalito. Free time is included at Pier 39/Fisherman’s Wharf following the cruise. $134
Fort Baker and Marine Mammals
Dreamgirls
Tuesday, August 31 Historic Fort Baker on the north side of the Golden Gate Bridge is a hidden gem. Enjoy a docent-led tour of the buildings constructed for military housing and magnificent views of the majestic bridge from the parade grounds. Lunch is at your leisure in Sausalito before a visit to the Marine Mammal Center and its newly rebuilt hospital, research and education center. During a tour learn about marine mammals and the work done at this unique animal rehabilitation facility. $89
Master Class East Sonora Theater Saturday, September 4 Glamorous, larger than life, and dropdead funny, opera diva Maria Callas teaches a master class as we look on and offers us an intimate look into her life: her tumultuous affairs, her ugly duckling start; fierce hatred of rivals; and the unforgiving press. Beautiful arias weave through this tour-de-force of creative passion and immense sacrifice for art. The show won the Tony Award and Drama Desk Award for Best Play. Lunch is included at the National Hotel prior to the 2pm matinee. $118
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Curran Theater, San Francisco Saturday, September 18 A sensational new stage production of this Tony and Academy award-winning show comes to San Francisco for a limited run. Dreamgirls is a Broadway musical based on the rhythm and blues aspirations of such groups at The Supremes, The Shirelles, and others and the triumphs and tribulations that come with fame and fortune. Our Saturday departure provides time for lunch on your own in Union Square before the 2pm performance. Return to Sacramento immediately following the show. $162
Camelot Woodland Opera House Sunday, September 19 Rediscover the grandeur of one of history’s greatest love stories in Camelot, Lerner and Loewe’s timeless musical masterpiece! Set in a fabled land where honor and chivalry reign, Camelot explores the love triangle of the genial King Arthur, his flirtatious wife Queen Guenevere and the charming young egoist Lancelot with one of the most hauntingly romantic scores of all time: “If Ever I Would Leave You”, “How To Handle A Woman”, and “Follow Me.” An early dinner is included at Sports Leisure favorite, Morrison’s Upstairs, following the 2pm matinee. $119
Sports Leisure Vacations / July–August 2010
Red, White & Tuna Fallon House Theater, Columbia Saturday, October 9 Like a tumbleweed, the characters of Tuna, Texas just keep on rollin’ along. The much anticipated third installment in the Tuna trilogy (following Greater Tuna and A Tuna Christmas) takes the audience on another satirical ride to Texas’ third smallest town. Your favorite characters, played by the two cast members, plus some new Tuna denizens set the stage as they prepare to celebrate the 4th of July in a town where the Lion’s Club is too liberal and Patsy Cline never dies. Lunch precedes the 2pm matinee at the National Hotel in Jamestown. $119
Ed Asner as FDR Gallo Center for the Arts Sunday, October 10 Ed Asner, recipient of seven Emmy Awards (“Mary Tyler Moore Show”, “Lou Grant”), five Golden Globe Awards, and a member of the TV Academy Hall of Fame, stars in the solo performance drama FDR based upon the Broadway hit Sunrise at Campobello, which won four Tony Awards when it debuted in 1958 with Ralph Bellamy in the lead role. Join us as Mr. Asner explores the life of Franklin D. Roosevelt , one of America’s best-loved presidents. Enjoy dinner at Sports Leisure favorite Dewz Restaurant prior to the 7pm evening performance. $163
Teatro ZinZanni Breve Sunday, October 17 We return to Teatro ZinZanni in San Francisco for its matinee performance of “love, brunch, and chaos.” A blend of European cabaret, circus arts, and vaudeville, Teatro ZinZanni has something to amuse and please everyone. Along with a three-course brunch, enjoy non-stop entertainment of music, magic, mischief, dance, divas, laughs, and zanni humor. Enjoy a little free time at Pier 39 following the performance before returning to Sacramento. $153
Van Gogh, Gauguin, Cezanne & Beyond Post-Impressionist Masterpieces from the Musee d’Orsay De Young Museum in San Francisco Tuesday, October 19 or Wednesday, October 20 The second part of this exquisite collection of masterpieces from the Musee d’Orsay presents 120 of its most famous late Impressionist paintings including the individualistic styles of the early modernist masters Cezanne, Gauguin, Lautrec, Van Gogh, Bonnard, Vuillard, and Pointillist painters Seurat and Signac. An audio-guide of the exhibit is included for your enjoyment. An optional afternoon shuttle is provided to the Legion of Honor for its companion exhibit, “Japanesque: The Japanese Print in the Era of Impressionism.” Lunch is on-yourown in the museum café. $90
Fall in The Sierra Featuring the Historic Corley Ranch Thursday, October 21 Enjoy the beautiful fall color scenery along Highway 50 and the American River, passing through the Tahoe Basin as you make your way to the historic western working ranch owned by the Corley Family in Gardnerville, Nevada. Paula and her crew have an afternoon of entertainment and a BBQ planned, then we’ll drive home on Highway 88 through the spectacular Hope Valley looking for the shimmering aspens. $108
An Evening with Mitch Albom: Have A Little Faith Gallo Center for the Performing Arts Friday, October 22 The bestselling author, nationally acclaimed newspaper columnist for the Detroit Free Press, and host of two popular radio shows comes to the Gallo Center in Modesto to share his thoughts and observations from his latest book, “Have A Little Faith.” Mr. Albom’s nine books include The Five People You Meet in Heaven, For One More Day, and Tuesdays with Morrie. Dinner is included prior to the 8pm show at the popular Dewz Restaurant. $163
Cranes and Champagne Featuring a sunset viewing of the Sandhill Cranes Monday, November 1 An estimated 7,000 Sandhill Cranes return to the rich farmland of the Delta each year as they make their way down the great Pacific Flyway from Alaska. The optimum time to view these large birds is at dusk when they take flight, returning to the Isenberg Crane Reserve at sunset. At the reserve, sip champagne as docents join us to watch the cranes fly in for the night and listen to their haunting calls that are like the sound of a distant French horn. A late lunch is included along the Sacramento River at The Point in Rio Vista. $108
Westside Story Curran Theatre in SF Wednesday, November 3 or 17 or Saturday, November 13 From the first notes to the final breath, Westside Story is one of the most memorable musicals and greatest love stories of all time. Relive old favorites such as “Tonight,” “America,” “Maria,” and “I Feel Pretty” in what is widely regarded as one of the best musical scores ever written. The Saturday departure provides time for lunch on your own in Union Square before the 2pm matinee performance. Our Wednesday trip includes a light lunch en route to San Francisco and dinner on your own on Pier 39 following the 2pm show. Wed. – $140 Sat. – $160
Veteran’s Day on the Bay Thursday, November 11 Celebrate Veterans Day with a visit to Jack London Square along the waterfront in Oakland. Board the USS Potomac, the former “floating White House” of President Franklin Roosevelt, for a cruise by several current and former military sites including the Naval Station at Alameda and The Coast Guard Station at Yerba Buena Island. Return to the mainland and head to Alameda and the USS Hornet where we’ll have a chance to join in Veterans Day festivities and tour the venerable aircraft carrier. Lunch is on your own at Jack London Square or from the vendors at the USS Hornet. $115
Hilmar’s Holiday Basket Extravaganza Saturday, November 13 This is a great opportunity to get in the holiday spirit. Begin with a visit to the Sciabica Olive Oil company for a talk and olive oil tasting then it is off to Hilmar Cheese for an afternoon of sampling wine, cheese and other goodies. At Hilmar, everyone will have the opportunity to create their own holiday basket… keep it for yourself, or give it as gift, you can decide as you create it. A buffet lunch is included at the Hilmar Cheese Visitors Center. $119
The New Crocker Art Museum Thursday, November 18 Be one of the first to visit and tour our own newly remodeled Crocker Art Museum and Teel Family Pavilion. With Crocker docents as our guides, we’ll view the exciting changes, new wing, and rehanging of the permanent collection. With over 15,000 works of art, the new Crocker truly takes its place as both a historic and prominent Sacramento showpiece. We’ll enjoy an included lunch at nearby Il Fornaio Restaurant before concluding our picturesque day touring the art works in Sacramento’s City Hall with docents from the Sacramento Arts Commission. $109
Holiday Sweets and Goodies Tuesday, November 23 Visit with Walter and Lenneke at their Oakdale Cheese Factory where they are still crafting rich gouda-style cheeses in the old world tradition. Sample a variety of their cheeses and learn about the old-style Dutch cheeses. In Waterford, you will hear about the accidental founding of the Mallory family’s candy and nut company and sample their famous treats. A final stop of the day finds you in greenhouses filled with blooming poinsettias. Lunch is included at The Fruit Yard in Modesto and of course there will be time for picking up sweets and goodies throughout the day. $105 Continued on page 8
Sports Leisure Vacations / July–August 2010
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Casino Daytrips, Overnighters & Baseball Le Grand Cirque At the Eldorado September 2-3 Le Grand Cirque is a jaw-dropping, visual feast of breathtaking group acrobatics and white-knuckle stunts. The international company of champion acrobats and performers have been handpicked from around the globe for their death-defying abilities and precision skill. A buffet dinner is included if you are seeing the show. Your accommodations will be at the Silver Legacy where you will receive $5 cash and a $3 food credit. There will be an optional casino stop on day two at John Ascuaga’s Nugget; those who go will receive an additional $5 cash bonus. 200/225 GPP $185 p.p./dbl.occ., $205 single with show, $145 p.p./dbl.occ., $165 single without show
Thanksgiving at the Nugget
November 25-26 Join Sports Leisure Vacations for our annual Thanksgiving outing to John Ascuaga’s Nugget in Sparks. The package includes overnight accommodations with $5 cash gaming bonus and $3 food bonus. Leave the cooking for someone else as The Nugget has prepared a holiday buffet feast just for you! The evening is yours to enjoy as you please. Before returning the following day there is a three hour stop at the Silver Legacy in downtown Reno where you will receive an additional $5 cash bonus. 200/225 Gold Passport Points $189 p.p./ dbl.occ., $209 single
Spirit of Christmas At the Eldorado December 1-2 This wonderful holiday presentation features everything that is best about this most wonderful time of the year. The Broadwaystyle holiday presentation features breathtaking scenery, gorgeous costumes, wonderful Christmas songs, and the highest kicking chorus girls this side of the North Pole. Your accommodations will be at the Silver Legacy where you will receive $5 cash and a $3 food credit. There is a buffet dinner included at the Eldorado if you choose to see the show. There will be an optional casino stop at John Ascuaga’s Nugget before returning to Sacramento. Those who go will receive an additional $5 cash bonus. 200/225 Gold Passport Points $189 p.p./dbl.occ., $209 single with show, $149 p.p./dbl.occ., $169 single without show
The Champagne Express to Tahoe Harvey’s Casino Thursday, September 14 Stop at Apple Hill – Mon., Oct. 18 or Fri., Oct. 29 Join our September trip to Harvey’s Lake Tahoe Casino on the South Shore of Lake Tahoe or come with us in October to enjoy a brief stop at Apple Hill’s High Hill Ranch for a free apple treat and a cup of coffee on us before continuing up the highway. The 6 hour stay at Harvey’s includes a slot credit of $20 and a free buffet or $7 food credit. You must belong to Harvey’s Total Rewards program to receive the bonuses. $40
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Sports Leisure Vacations / July–August 2010
The 2010 Ballpark Express Since 1978, the BEST way to get to the ballparks in Oakland and San Francisco has been with Sports Leisure Vacations. The original Ballpark Express allows you to travel to the game in comfort without the traffic, tolls, gas and food stops, etc. You’ll enjoy Lower Deck seating for all games. Refreshments are served on board the motorcoach on your way to and from each game.
San Francisco Giants Saturday, October 2 Giants vs. Padres 6:05pm Just added! October 3rd game sold out. Seating in Section 130, lower level in left field.
$99
Oakland A’s Sunday, September 12 A’s vs. Red Sox 1:05pm Seating in field level, first base side, Section 106.
$102
Giants Postseason Ticket Information
Sports Leisure Vacations has inquired about receiving tickets to one or more postseason games if the Giants make it to the playoffs. Because information will not arrive in time to be printed in the newsletter, please contact our office to be placed on Priority Notification List. If we are able to confirm space for postseason trips, those on the list will be contacted by mail. If you joined our Classic Ballparks: Berra & The Bambino tour in June, your name has already been added to the list.
Day Trips and Theatre Outings Continued from page 7
Madame Butterfly San Francisco War Memorial Opera House Sunday, November 14 This great tragic love story returns in a new production by Broadway legend Harold Prince. With beautiful costumes, colorful sets, and a brilliant score by Giacomo Puccini, this classic story of a Japanese geisha who falls for a charismatic but callous American sailor is poignant, memorable, and a true grand opera experience. We are again offering a choice of seating in the side orchestra or the dress circle of the first balcony. Be advised that seating in the dress circle involves stairs with no handrails. Before the 2pm matinee, enjoy time for lunch on your own in the Union Square area. Return to home after the performance. Orchestra – $207, Dress Circle – $158
Beach Blanket Babylon Club Fugazi in San Francisco Sunday, November 28 or December 5 It’s back for the holidays and both relevant and irreverent at the same time! After all, this is the show that makes fun of everyone – actors, politicians, and countless other public figures. Lunch is included prior to the 2pm matinees at Sports Leisure favorite Viva Italian Restaurant in North Beach. $151
Teasers/Priority Notification Lists It’s catalog building time at Sports Leisure, the time of year when we strongly solicit your ideas about destinations for the coming 12-18 months. Often just one comment from one person results in a dream (or two) coming true. On this page are some of our “A-List” ideas. Would you be strongly interested in one or more? If so, call our office and ask to be placed on the Priority Notification List for that trip or trips. If it becomes part of the tour schedule, we will attempt to contact you in advance of the trip’s public release, giving you a bit of an advantage. Questions? Contact our office.
Picasso in Seattle Early January The Picasso Museum in Europe is undergoing a renovation, and much of its art has been placed on loan to the Seattle Art Museum. The display is only there until January 17. Perhaps a rail trip to Seattle on the Coast Starlight (3 Days) and fly home? Or a fly up overnight? Express your preference when calling.
Ben Franklin Comes to California, a Museum Trip
Poland & Prague 10 Days • September 2011 Back in 1999, we first visited these two destinations. Polish people are wonderful hosts, and Prague is absolutely one of the most magnificent cities in Europe, having escaped WWII bombing raids. Our itinerary takes us to Gdansk, home of Lech Walesa, the man who helped bring down the Iron Curtain and the city where WWII started. Then a short stop in Warsaw before traveling to Krakow, an amazing city in the south of the country. See Zakopane, the mountain village that delights travelers, and learn the horrifying but historically important story of Auschwitz. You have expended stays in both Krakow and then Prague, in the Czech Republic. Prague is so amazing. A castle right in the heart of the city, classical music concerts to choose from every night, a wonderful marketplace in the town square. Sights to see, exquisitely decorated hand-painted eggs to buy, it’s a destination you will never forget. We would likely travel after Labor Day to get better air fares. Interested? Call our office now!
Canada Coast-to-Coast by Rail 10 Days • September 2011 After a successful revival this year, we aim to bring this cross-country excursion back again in fall color season next year. Fly to Halifax and then make your way back by rail, with stops in Montreal and Toronto, and the magnificent Canadian Rockies on the last leg. But before we book the space, does anyone want to make this trip next fall?
Disneyland, Walk with Walt 3 Days • February – March It’s the happiest place on earth. OK, it’s not the newest, or even the biggest any longer. But it still holds a special place in many of our hearts. What if we created a trip that gave you a visit to Disneyland from a more historical point of view? Learn about Walt Disney, visit and have lunch in the park, spend as much or as little time as you wish. Two nights at an Embassy Suites or a brand new Red Lion Hotel. Should be a lot of fun. But does a visit to Disneyland interest you? Would you prefer it be at a time when you could bring grandchildren? Let us know…
3 Days • February Last year’s trip to see the Renoir exhibition in LA was a hit. Many asked for another museum-based excursion. About 75 artifacts from the life of Ben Franklin will be on display at the Bowers Museum in Costa Mesa. Add perhaps The Nethercutt Collection in San Sylmar, the Getty Villa in Malibu and perhaps other museums (ideas?).
A Return to Iceland 7-8 Days • Summer 2011 It’s been several years now since our popular Iceland tour. We’d like to find out if there’s enough interest to set up a return visit. We can now fly from Sacramento to Seattle to Iceland (and return) very easily. A land of volcanoes and unparalleled beauty, it is a truly unique experience. Amaze your friends with a visit to Iceland.
The Old Water Tower of Prague is one of the city’s many famous landmarks
© Prague Information Service
Sports Leisure Vacations / July–August 2010
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New Vacations and Getaways Antarctica: the Land of Ice and Penguins Featuring eight possible landings on the White Continent 14 Days • December 30 – January 12 H Highlights H • Gentoo, Chinstrap and Adélie penguins will surround you on your landings • Surreal landscapes, glaciers and icebergs • Rich marine and bird life • Peak season, penguin chicks are learning to swim • 2 nights in Buenos Aires • Visit the Argentinean city of Ushuaia • All meals included while on the ship • Round trip airfare • Door-to-door airport service • Tour Director: Scott Angeletti • 10300/15000 Gold Passport Points This 10-day Antarctica voyage features several landings. You will sail in comfort and safety on the custom-built luxurious exploration ship MS Fram. Built in 2007 she carries a maximum of 280-passengers. This exploration ship has 8 decks with 97 modern cabins and 39 luxurious suites. 1-2. Depart Sacramento at noon arriving in Buenos Aires, Argentina the following morning. Check into the Panamericano Hotel for an orientation
meeting. Tonight try to stay up to help reduce the affects of jet lag and ring in the New Year! 3. A city tour is scheduled with the rest of the day at your leisure to explore Buenos Aires, or join one of the optional excursions. 4. After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost city. You will enjoy an orientation tour of this popular and attractive resort town, surrounded by snowcapped mountains, rivers, and waterfalls, before boarding the MS Fram. In the evening a welcome meeting will be held. (B,D) 5. Less than two days will be spent crossing the Drake Passage. During the crossing numerous lectures will be held on fascinating Antarctica, considered the most breathtaking and beautiful continent in the world. (B,L,D) 6-11. Antarctica, “The White Continent,” is more than half the size of North America. On the Antarctic Peninsula you’ll experience the narrow, glacier-lined Lemaire Channel, considered one of most beautiful passages in Antarctica – where humpback and killer whales, various penguins, and elephant seals are a common sight. Visits by PolarCirkel boats will be attempted in various locations (weather permitting), including Whaler’s Bay, on Deception Island, with its warm
springs and black volcanic sand. Half Moon Island with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains is famous for its large Chinstrap penguin rookery. Whale spotting is also common here. Yankee Harbor is home to a variety of seals and an estimated 4,000 Gentoo penguin pairs. It is a common feeding area for whales as well. Almirante Brown in Paradise Harbor is named for its beauty, with ice cliffs and floating icebergs. Petermann Island is home of the southernmost Gentoo penguin colony, blue-eyed shags and Adelie penguins nest here too. Wilhelmina Bay has feeding grounds for whales and seals. Antarctic Sound is where huge mile-long tabular icebergs can be seen. The sound is also home to an estimated half-million Adélie penguins as well as Gentoo penguins, leopard seals and killer whales. (B,L,D) 12. Returning from Antarctica, a series of lectures will be held onboard summing up topics related to Antarctica. (B,L,D) 13. In the morning, you will reach Ushuaia. After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Buenos Aires. Depart for Sacramento this same evening arriving home the following day. (B) 14. Arrive home in the late morning. Outside cabins start at $10,299 p.p./dbl.occ., $14,899 single $ave $300 until Aug. 31 Note to single cruisers: If you wish to find a person to share your cabin and avoid the high single price, call Scott Angeletti at the SLV office for assistance.
Death Valley and the Eastern Sierra Nevada Featuring Manzanar National Historic Site, Scotty’s Castle, and the breathtaking scenery of Highway 395 6 Days • March 6 -11 H Highlights H • Travel along Highway 395 enjoying the spectacular scenery of the Eastern Sierra Nevada The Gentoo penguins are amused by a visiting cruise ship off the coast of Antarctica
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Sports Leisure Vacations / July–August 2010
• Visit Manzanar National Historic Site, a poignant tribute marking a disturbing period of history, situated at the base of the Eastern Sierra Nevada • Spend two full days touring in Death Valley National Park, visiting Scotty’s Castle, Ubehebe Crater, Zabriske’s Point, Devil’s Golf Course, & Badwater Salt Flats • 12 meals: 1 expanded continental breakfast, 3 breakfasts, 1 brunch, 5 lunches, 2 dinners • Door-to-door transportation • Travel on SuperCoach III • 1600/1900 Gold Passport Points Death Valley… its name alone conjures many images. It is one of California’s hidden treasures; one of her most misunderstood natural beauties; home to one of California’s most colorful and loveable scoundrels. You are sure to be surprised by the beauty, intrigued by the stories, and awed by the splendor that is Death Valley National Park and the Eastern Sierra Nevada. 1. Begin your adventure with door-todoor service by Carey Transportation to the Sports Leisure office to meet your fellow travelers. Enjoy a leisurely ride to Lake Tahoe for brunch high above the south shore at Harrah’s Forest Buffet. The journey continues along the rugged eastern Sierra Nevada down Highway 395, past Mono Lake and Mammoth Mountain. Best Western Creekside Inn (BR) 2. South of Bishop, tucked into the base of the Sierra Nevada, sits Manzanar National Historic Site, a windswept reminder of the indomitable spirit of those interred here during WWII. A docent guide will share the story of the over 10,000 Americans of Japanese ancestry that were housed here between 1942 and 1945. In the afternoon, travel over the Panamint Mountains past Stovepipe Wells and the famous sand dunes and arrive into Death Valley late in the day. A stop at the visitors center will get you well-oriented for your stay in the valley. Accommodations are at the historic Furnace Creek Ranch, once part of the Borax Company’s holdings and a working ranch. Today it is the main visitor service center with all recently renovated rooms. Bring your bathing suit as the pool is fed by the
warm waters of Furnace Creek. Furnace Creek Ranch – 3 nights (ECB,L,D) 3. Death Valley is a land of rich ore and history filled with a cast of characters who traversed the valleys and canyons seeking their fortunes here. Travel north through the valley today to Scotty’s Castle, and learn the colorful story of Death Valley Scotty and the Spanish Villa that bears his name. Following a tour of the castle, the afternoon will be spent touring the Upper Valley (B,L) 4. This morning explore the treasures and surprises of the Lower Valley, learning about more of the people who called this amazing place home; and those characters who passed through. Lunch at the elegant Furnace Creek Inn is sure to please both the eye and palate. This afternoon, enjoy a free afternoon to take in the valley at your leisure. Maybe try out the pool or walk through the Borax Museum. (B,L) 5. A morning walk in the desert along the boardwalk at Salt Creek shows signs of life few expect to find in the desert. Leaving the valley, cross the Tehachapi Mountains for an evening arrival at our hotel in Bakersfield. Enjoy dinner tonight as you recall the delights of Death Valley with your fellow travelers. Sheraton Four Points (B,L,D) 6. Return to Sacramento along Highway 99, capturing a few glimpses of the western slopes of the Sierra Nevada as you make your way north with a few stops along the way. Arrive in the early evening where you will be greeted by Carey Transportation and returned to your front door. (L) $1590 p.p./dbl.occ., $1895 single $ave $50 until Aug. 31
The Colorful Carolina Coast Meander the beautiful Southern Atlantic coastline from Norfolk to Jacksonville 10 Days • March 15-24 • Visit North Carolina’s Outer Banks, Kitty Hawk, Wilmington, USS North Carolina and Tyron Palace • See South Carolina’s Myrtle Beach, The Carolina Opry, Brookgreen Gardens, Charleston and Ft. Sumter • Enjoy Georgia’s first city, Savannah, and historic Jekyll Island
• 2-night stays oceanfront on Myrtle Beach and in Charleston and Savannah’s Historic Districts • Overnights in Norfolk, Buxton (Outer Banks) and New Bern • 17 meals: 4 breakfasts, 3 expanded continentals, 5 lunches, 5 dinners • Round trip air to Norfolk/from Jacksonville • Door-to-door airport service • Tour Director: Clayton Whitehead • 3150/3600 Gold Passport Points 1. Travel east to Norfolk, your gateway to the Carolina Coast, arriving in the late afternoon. Hilton Hotel 2. Your tour begins as you slip south of the border and drive along one of America’s most unique and scenic geological features, the Outer Banks. Your stops include the birthplace of flight, Kitty Hawk National Monument, and the great Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. Comfort Inn of Buxton (B,L,D) 3. A picnic lunch aboard the ferry steamer through Pamlico Sound highlights this day of travel. Your destination, New Bern, was Carolina’s Royal Capital City, where you’ll tour Lord Tryon’s Palace before checking into your riverside hotel. New Bern Hilton Hotel (ECB,L) 4–5. Say hello to Wilmington with a visit to the Battleship USS North Carolina for a tour and lunch. Beautiful South Carolina awaits you with her most popular spot for fun and sun, Myrtle Beach. Your home is an oceanfront condominium, complete with a kitchen. You can choose to have your meals in or out, whatever allows you to enjoy your stay to the fullest. Dinner and the musical comedy of The Carolina Opry OR Engelbert Humperdinct live at the Alabama Theater (you choose) highlight your second day. Beach Cove Resort – 2 nights (B,L,D 6. Brookgreen Gardens, the nation’s largest outdoor sculpture display, is your host for a beautiful morning. Continue south to Charleston for a harbor cruise to Fort Sumter National Monument, where in 1860 the first shots of the Civil War were fired and a nation was born. Your hotel is well-positioned on famed Meeting Street between the Battery and the City Market. Mills House Hotel – 2 nights (D)
Sports Leisure Vacations / July–August 2010
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7. Begin the day with a city tour by horse and carriage. Following lunch at the City Market, join Clayton for a stroll to the Battery, take in a museum or kick back in you’re historic accommodations. (Robert E. Lee stayed here in 1863!) (B,L) 8. It’s off to Georgia and the shining city of Savannah. Following hotel check-in, embark on a progressive dinner with libations and appetizers passed on a river cruise, a traditional “Low Country Boil” served on Tybee Island for dinner and a visit to “Clayton Place” for Toot’s famous prune cake dessert. Staybridge Suites Hotel – 2 nights (B,D) 9. A morning trolley tour passes sites related to Savannah’s rich past and present, followed by free time for personal exploration. In the evening, a mouthwatering dinner of real Southern cooking at Mrs. Wilkes’ Boarding House is followed by a rousing display of music, dance and comedy at the historic Savannah Theatre. (ECB,D) 10. Depart to the south for Jekyll Island, the little-known Georgia hideaway of the rich and famous in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Dine in the historic Millionaire’s Village, then head to Jacksonville for your return flight to Sacramento in the late afternoon. (ECB,L) $3130 p.p./dbl.occ., $3580 single $ave $125 until Aug. 31
Carlsbad & Big Bend National Parks 8 Days • March 26 – April 2, 2011 H Highlights H • Overnight in the Chisos Basin of Big Bend National Park • Two nights at the Lajitas Resort • Visit Carlsbad Caverns National Park • Tour White Sands National Monument • Cruise on the Pecos River • Visit the Petroleum and CAF Airpower museums • 17 included meals: 7 breakfasts, 1 brunch, 6 lunches, and 3 dinners • Round trip airfare • Door-to-door airport service • Tour Director: Scott Angeletti • 2900/3100 Gold Passport Points Several years ago Scott Angeletti took the first Sports Leisure group to remote Big
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Bend National Park in Texas. The 44 travelers gave the tour great reviews so we have decided to go back. 1. Fly to El Paso, Texas then travel by motorcoach to Las Cruces, New Mexico. Dinner is hosted after checking into your accommodations for the evening. Hotel Encanto de Las Cruces (D) 2. White Sands National Monument is one of the world’s great natural wonders. Tour with a park ranger and explore the breath taking wave-like dunes of snow-white gypsum that stretch for 275 square miles. Learn how the animals have adapted in this harsh desert climate. A Champagne brunch is scheduled in a lovely mountain setting at the Lodge in Cloudcroft before checking into your brand new hotel (opening summer 2010) this evening in Carlsbad. Hampton Inn – 2 nights (B,BR) 3. Carlsbad Caverns is often called the eighth wonder of the world. Descend by elevator 830 feet and view the gigantic subterranean chambers and fantastic cave formations. A narrated cruise on the Pecos River is planned for the afternoon. (B,L) 4. Travel south into Texas to the Lajitas Resort and Spa, the finest destination resort in the Big Bend, offering the ultimate in relaxation and luxury with the charm and ambience of the Old West. Each guest room has been individually appointed; grace and elegance combine magnificently with denim and cowboy in the dramatic Big Bend landscape. A true diamond in the rough. Lajitas Resort and Spa – 2 nights (B,L,D) 5. Today choose from a number of included optional activities. Take a jeep tour stopping along the way to see 80 million year old fossils, old mining sites, and a variety of rare Big Bend cacti. Rio Grande rafting trips (if water levels are high enough), a round of golf, or a horseback ride are among some of the other activities available. For those who want a more relaxing experience, enjoy a facial or massage at the Agave Spa, read a book by the swimming pool, or take a leisurely walk along the river trail. (B,L) 6. One of the last untouched, unique landscapes in North America is Big Bend National Park. Encompassing more than 1,100 square miles of rugged mountains,
Sports Leisure Vacations / July–August 2010
painted desert badlands and towering river canyons, Big Bend is one of the biggest and least visited of our country’s national parks. The park has three distinct areas: the mountains, desert and river. With a local guide travel along the scenic drive through the Chihuahuan Desert, stopping at scenic photo spots and historic sites and Santa Elena Canyon with vertical walls 1,500 feet tall. The tour finishes in the center of Big Bend at the Chisos Mountain Lodge. Set in a basin with mountains all around, except for a hole that is called the “window” that looks down into the valley, the lodge’s restaurant boasts the best view in Texas. Chisos Mountain Lodge (B,L) 7. Say farewell to Big Bend and head north to Midland with lunch hosted along the way before checking into your hotel this afternoon. Join your fellow travelers this evening for a farewell dinner. Hilton Midland Plaza (B,L,D) 8. The Permian Basin Petroleum Museum offers an amazing journey through 500 million years of history. The museum’s exhibits cover all aspects of the petroleum industry from geology, the formation of oil, its exploration and pipelining. Also view the Chaparral Cars display considered the most innovative vehicles of their time. The Museum also holds the nation’s largest collection of works by famed western artist, Tom Lovell. The CAF Airpower Museum holds the largest World War II military collection among private museums today. It also boasts the world’s largest World War II Nose Art Collection and an exhibit that chronicles the story of Peter Hurd, one of seven American artist-correspondents sent to war by LIFE magazine. Peter Hurd painted memorable portraits, landscapes, and other scenes that became part of what LIFE called “the first full record on canvas of the U.S. at war.” Fly home to Sacramento this afternoon. (B,L) $2870 p.p./dbl.occ., $3100 single $ave $125 until Aug. 31
office hours: 8:00am – 4:30pm MON. thru FRI. Closed weekends & major holidays CLOSED TUES. 12:00pm – 1:15pm
Tour Calendar (Previously Announced Tours) 9/8-10
3 Days
Peter, Paul, Chester & Sue
Like the mountains? Close to home getaways? Learn about wild burros, stay in Susanville and Chester, learn about the history of the mountain towns on this “just after Labor Day crowds are gone” tour. 5 meals, SuperCoach transportation. $775 p.p./dbl. occ., $860 single 9/16-17
2 Days
The Santa Cruz Follies & The Roaring Camp RR
An annual overnighter to see an “all over 50” talent show, visit the botanical gardens at the university and ride the Roaring Camp Railroad into the redwoods where you enjoy a barbecue luncheon. 2 meals, overnight Hilton Scotts Valley. $555 p.p./dbl.occ., $630 single 9/18-21
4 Days
Oceans Away, An Oregon Coast Adventure
10/10-13
4 Days
The Catalina Island Getaway
An annual affair. Fly to LA, enjoy Sunday Brunch on the Queen Mary, then board the express ferry to Catalina, where you stay 3 nights at the Pavilion Lodge, right at the beach. 3 continental breakfasts, 3 meals, airfare, lots of sightseeing on the island. $1295 p.p./dbl.occ, $1495 single 10/16-24
9 Days
Cruising the Columbia with Cap’n Jeff
7 nights on the Island Spirit. Sail from Portland, post-cruise overnight at the Davenport Hotel in Spokane, all meals on board (24), crew gratuities, cocktails and shore excursions included. Call for itinerary. $4095 p.p./dbl.occ., $4295 single 10/24-28
5 Days
Santa Barbara & Santa Maria by SuperCoach
3 nights in ocean view rooms at the Elizabeth Street Inn in Newport, harbor dinner cruise, Hatfield Marine Science Center Tour, lighthouses, Tillamook Air Museum, 8 meals, airfare, Tour Directors: Mark and Chris, $1295 p.p./dbl.occ., $1490 single
Stay in beautiful accommodations, including the Fess Parker Resort in Santa Barbara, the Santa Maria Inn and the Apple Farm Inn. Sunday Brunch at the Hayes Mansion in San Jose. Santa Maria BBQ dinner, guided tour in Santa Barbara, Solvang and 7 meals. $1390 p.p./dbl.occ., $1630 single
9/22-25
10/26 – 11/3
4 Days
Flying High Over Cowboy Country
Ruby Mountain Balloon Festival in Elko, 3 nights Red Lion Inn, Amtrak to Elko/SuperCoach return, unique sighsteeing, 6 meals, Tour Director: Scott Angeletti. $1070 p.p./dbl.occ., $1180 single 10/1-16
16 Days
Route 66 – Entire Route – Chicago to Santa Monica
Cover the entire route with Route 66 historian Mark Hoffmann, meet authors and expert guides along the way, leisurely itinerary, several 2-night stays, a true off-the-beaten-track itinerary. Small towns all along the way, meet the people who make Route 66 a legend. Call the office or visit our website for a complete day-by-day itinerary. $4495 p.p./dbl.occ., $5195 single 10/5-11
7 Days
Santa Fe & San Antonio
3 nights in each city at Hilton family hotels with excellent locations, sightseeing featuring Loretto Chapel, the Alamo and much more. 13 meals, airfare, Tour Director: Scott Angeletti. $2575 p.p./dbl.occ., $3015 single 10/21-24
4 Days
“Not An Oktoberfest” Mystery Tour
You’d think an October Mystery tour would have something to do with beer and brats and Germans dancing and carrying on. Nope. This regional mystery tour salutes a president, looks high and low for Indian artifacts, and gets a new viewpoint on the world. Many things you see and sample will be homegrown or handmade. 5 meals and airfare are included. $1195 p.p./dbl.occ., $1340 single
9 Days
Italy, That’s Amore
Italy’s greatest cities with Clayton as your leader (plus an Italian guide throughout). 3 nights Rome, 2 nights Venice, 2 nights Florence, Vatican City tour, St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, the Colosseum, Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Square in Venice, 12 meals. $4025 p.p./dbl.occ., $4610 single 10/30 – 11/8
10 Days The REAL Hawaii, 3 Islands
The most unique Hawaii itinerary in America. Tour chocolate, mushroom, vanilla and tea farms to learn how products are produced in the islands. Spend a day walking in the footsteps of America’s first Hawaiian-born president, enjoying a “shave ice” and a “plate lunch.” Stay in luxurious Marriott Hotels on Kauai, Oahu and the Big Island. A dolphin cruise, an educational botanical gardens tour, lunch at the beautiful new St. Regis in Princeville, a Sea Horse Ranch, traditional and fine dining, this is a spectacular package. 15 meals, airfare from Sacramento, limited to 20 travelers. $3945 p.p./dbl.occ., $4665 single 11/6-11
6 Days
Tonopah, Laughlin & Las Vegas by SuperCoach
The tradition continues. Each November, a hearty group of Sports Leisure Travelers makes the motorcoach trip through the Eastern Sierra to Tonopah, then Laughlin, Las Vegas and back home. This year, stay at the Golden Nugget in Laughlin (2 nights) and Treasure Island in Vegas (2 nights). 6 meals, see the original London Bridge, Fremont Street visit in Vegas. $1140 p.p./dbl. occ., $1275 single Continued on page 15 Sports Leisure Vacations / July–August 2010
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The Barber Pole… … or Once Over Lightly
California Zephyr, a beautiful ride through the afternoon and evening. Then stay three Three Great Short Trips nights at a top notch Red Lion Inn, with a Coming in September casino no less (only one hotel, no packing This is your last chance to register for three and unpacking). The balloon festival, while outstanding short excursions, all of which smaller than some, will offer plenty of will depart with 20-25 passengers, making opportunity to “see them fly” and maybe for a wonderful tour experience. The three even climb aboard one yourself. That trip are the first ones listed on page 13. offers the train ride, the balloons and local Peter, Paul, Chester & Sue takes you sightseeing, featuring a visit to the huge all around Plumas County, staying in Newmont mining operation and the fire mountain towns and enjoying small town training center. Both are pretty interesting. entertainment. Even with door-to-door Scott Angeletti will be hosting this trip and service included, it’s only about $250 a he has room for a few more from his “fan day. If you’ve never explored this part of club.” California, you couldn’t pick a better time. So, remember all you “last minute” folks Hot temperatures and summer crowds will out there, that even these short trips have be history and you’ll benefit. Too early for fall to be finalized three weeks before departure colors, but also too early for snow. Fair trade. and while we will try to get you if you wait Next is The Santa Cruz Follies. A until the week before, in reality it’s a lot of longtime favorite of SL Travelers, it’s a talent work and we’d sure appreciate it if you could show with all mature performers, over the call just a little sooner. If you find you can age of 50. If you watch America’s Got Talent go at the last minute, heck, we’d still love on TV, you know age has nothing to do with to have you on any trip. Just makes the staff talent. You don’t have to be 18 to sing and beat their heads against the wall. As long as dance and entertain people. That’s what this it’s their own office… just kidding. show is about. Throw in a ride through the Chris Galloway and I (Mark) will be redwoods on the Big Trees Railroad and an hosting our “every three years” journey overnight stay in a beautiful Hilton Hotel along Route 66 in early October. We are in Scotts Valley and you have a delightful taking a maximum of 25, so there are only overnight getaway. 4 spots available. It will make your all-time Finally there is Flying High Over Cowboy top five, I promise you. Only 150 miles a day Country. You ride to Elko on Amtrak’s on average, lots of two night stays, dozens of unique people and places you would never find on your own. Plus, the joy of traveling “The Main Street of America.” Not to mention a treat from Fred Drewes Frozen Custard in St. Louis and dinner in the Turquoise Room at La Posada in Arizona. Oops, I mentioned them. Darn. You could be The Lincoln Highway Tour stopped in Omaha for an organ concert and tour
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Sports Leisure Vacations / July–August 2010
there in person. If you think you’d like to take the trip, or even half of it, call me at the office and I’ll tell you all about it. Odds and Ends, Mostly Ends… Our money guy in the office, Bob Veliky, has asked me to remind all of you to first contact him directly if you ever see a charge on your account from Sports Leisure that appears incorrect. Bob says it’s way easier to clear those things up person to person. I’ll take his word for it… Hope to see you at Tour Preview Day… And so it goes…
Things to Know Before You Go: Airfare: On all trips where air travel is indicated, airfares are included in the listed prices. Home Pick-up: Our exclusive home pick-up is included on all trips listed here. Carey Limousines and their partners provide transportation to/ from the airport or the Sports Leisure Vacations office. Meals: Please refer to the day-byday itinerary for a break down of the included breakfasts, brunches, lunches and dinners. **Early Registration/Payment Discounts: Trips with a note like this after the price “$40 EPD**,” indicates there is a discount available for Early Registration and Payment. Please refer to the back page of the newsletter for more details on Early Registration/ Payment Discounts. The Fine Print: Our Special Tour & Vacation Notes brochure contains the answers to many often-asked questions. A copy is sent with your reservations. Sports Leisure on-line: You are invited to visit our website at www.sportsleisure.com for more information on any tour listed here, or call our office and we will be happy to send you a detailed itinerary.
Tour Calendar (Previously Announced Tours – continued) 11/9-14
6 Days
Veteran’s Day in Branson with Christmas Shows
See the Gatlin Brothers with Debbie Boone, Johnny Mathis, Tony Orlando and the Lennon Sisters, Andy Williams or Shoji Tabuchi, Yakov Smirnoff, Jim Stafford and The Hughes Brothers (7 shows in all). Small town Veterans Day Parade and museum, tour of Branson and College of the Ozarks visit, 5 nights Hilton Hotel Branson Landing, fly to/from Branson’s new airport. $2585 p.p./ dbl.occ., $2935 single 11/20-21
2 Days
Sonora Christmas Theater Overnighter
The Andrews Sisters’ Christmas of Swing, and the classic White Christmas are featured shows. Overnight BW Sonora Oaks Inn, 2 meals. $499 p.p./dbl.occ., $549 single 11/24-26
3 Days
Thanksgiving Train to LA
Ride a private vintage rail car to LA, return by air. Thanksgiving dinner on the Queen Mary, 2 nights 4-diamond Glendale Hilton, 7 meals. $1265 p.p./dbl.occ., $1375 single, $20 EPD** 11/21-26
6 Days
Thanksgiving in New York, with a New Twist
5 nights at the Hilton Times Square, in the heart of the theater district; tickets to two Broadway shows, plus the Rockettes Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall. 5 meals, including dinner at Sardi’s and lunch in the Delegate’s Dining Room at the United Nations, theater talk, guided sightseeing in Manhattan, optional Ellis Island Cruise, Thanksgiving Statue of Liberty Dinner Cruise. $3190 p.p./dbl.occ., $3765 single. $40 EPD** 12/6-12
7 Days
Christmastime in New England, featuring The Boston Pops and The Berkshires
Last year’s Christmas Lights Mystery Tour is this year’s new holiday extravaganza. Fly to Albany, then spend two nights at the historic Red Lion Inn (not the chain) in Stockbridge, then visit the mansions of Newport, Rhode Island, and finally finish in Boston with a Pops Holiday Concert at Symphony Hall. Drive-through Christmas Lights in Springfield, Norman Rockwell Museum, 13 meals, airfare. $2750 p.p./dbl.occ., $3070 single, $100 EPD** 12/8-12
5 Days
Holiday Lights Along The Oregon Coast
To Coos Bay you go, to see the lights at Shore Acres State Park and learn the story behind the oceanfront estate. Victorian Ferndale (all decked out for Christmas), the Trucker’s Christmas Parade in Eureka, holiday shopping at Oregon Jams and the House of Myrtlewood, 8 meals. $1170 p.p./dbl.occ., $1355 single
12/7-11
5 Days
The Christmas Lights Mystery Tour
An annual affair that is nearly sold out. Closer to home than last year’s Boston trip, but full of lights and holiday fun. Of course, we can’t tell you where you are going, but we have some clues: It’s early December, but it’s already winter in our destination. Maybe. Wow, those lights look different up here than they did down there. Those mountains look like they are right in our backyard. Have you ever heard music like that before? Pretty amazing, but what’s the “point?” 9 meals, airfare, an overnight and a 3-night stay. Reserve now, this tour will be sold out very soon. $1800 p.p./dbl.occ., $1930 single 12/15-18
4 Days
Christmas at the Castle
2 nights Apple Farm Inn, overnight San Simeon, holiday afterhours tour of Hearst Castle (very exclusive) plus regular tour, 5 meals. $1050 p.p./dbl.occ., $1229 single 12/23-26
4 Days
Christmas in Ashland
Perhaps you’ve seen one of Oregon’s prettiest towns during the theater festival in the summer. Well, it’s just as charming in winter. Stay at the Ashland Springs Hotel, right downtown. Enjoy a Christmas concert by our own Lori Brandon, see the musical White Christmas, visit Harry and David’s for a special tour, 7 meals. $1075 p.p./dbl.occ., $1205 single 12/29-31
3 Days
A Wunda-ful Life, Big Band Holiday
The Welk Resort in Escondido provides two great entertainment spectaculars, a presentation of It’s a Wonderful Life, and A Big Band Holiday Concert. Two nights at the Hilton Garden Inn, Rancho Bernardo, San Diego Wild Animal Park, USS Midway Museum, 2 shows, 6 meals, home in time to celebrate New Year’s Eve. $1095 p.p./dbl.occ., $1185 single. $35 EPD** 12/30 – 1/1/11
3 Days
Reagan & The Rose Parade
First offered last year, this quick Rose Parade trip was originally an overnighter. We’ve expanded it to allow you to see the floats being built before the big parade. There’s still lunch under the wing of Air Force One at the Reagan Presidential Library, 2 nights at the luxurious Marriott Burbank, a visit to a real Silent Movie Theatre, 4 meals. $1215 p.p./dbl.occ., $1365 single, $25 EPD** 1/15-21, 2011
7 Days
Key West, Miami and, The Everglades
4 night extended stay in Key West, overnights in Miami and Key Largo, travel the intracoastal waterway to Key West, ride an air boat in the Everglades, see the upscale neighborhoods of Coral Gables and Miami Beach, coral reef cruise, Key West Butterfly Conservatory, Little White House, Hemingway House, optional Clipper Ship cruise, 13 meals, airfare, Tour Director: Mark Hoffmann, $3375 p.p./dbl.occ, $3750 single, LIMITED SPACE! $40 EPD** Sports Leisure Vacations / July–August 2010
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PRST STD U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
Sacramento, CA PERMIT NO. 517
LLC
9812 Old Winery Place, Suite 1 Sacramento, CA 95827 ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
EARLY PAYMENT Di$count Coupon Early Registration Di$counts listed here are per person and will expire on August 31, 2010; or may be withdrawn when 50% of the available space has been reserved. To receive the discount, you must pay in full with ten days of registration. If you accept this option, the monies paid, including the cost of Cancellation Protection; are returned to you if you cancel more than: 60 days prior to departure (U.S. & Canadian Tours) or 75 days prior (international Tours) to departure, regardless of the reason for cancellation. Within the time limits listed above, restrictions on refunds apply. See the Special Tour Notes brochure for complete details. Nov. – Thanksgiving in New York – $ave $40 Nov. – Thanksgiving Train to LA – $ave $20 Dec. – New England Christmas – $ave $100 Dec. – Wunda-ful Big Band Holiday – $ave $35 Dec. – Reagan & The Rose Parade – $ave $25 Dec. – Antarctica, Land of Ice – $ave $300 Jan. – Key West and The Everglades – $ave $40 Mar. – Death Valley – $ave $50 Mar. – Colorful Carolina Coast – $ave $125 Mar. – Carlsbad & Big Bend – $ave $125
VALUABLE Coupon
$ave $10–$40 per person on Cancellation Protection Valid only when used with the adjacent coupon, on the tours listed. Your savings depend on the double occupancy price of your tour. $ave $10 on tours priced from $451-$800, $ave $20 on tours priced from $801-$2250, $ave $30 on tours priced from $2251-$3500, $ave $40 on tours priced at $3501 or more. The regular cost of this protection is $15-$295, depending on the tour price. To receive the above discounts, you must pay in full within ten days of registration and purchase the protection at the time you pay for your tour. Within 60/75 days of departure (see adjoining coupon), coverage is limited to verified medical emergencies. Please refer to the Special Tour Notes brochure for details, or call our office.
TOUR UPDATE… A brief list of tours which are sold out, or have only a limited amount of space (10 or fewer seats, number in parenthesis) remaining. Tour Update A brief list of tour which are sold out, or have only a limited amount of space (10 or fewer seats, number in parenthesis) remaining. Day trips are not listed. Sold-Out and Nearly Sold Out Tours (waiting list available) Aug. – Oregon Trail Sept. – Michigan and Mackinac Sept. – Old Man River Oct. – Vermont Fall Foilage
Matilda Greule hops on a “hog” during our Harley-Davidson plant tour on the recent Born In The USA Mystery Tour
Limited Space (10 or fewer seats) Sept. – Oceans Away (8) Dec. – Christmas Mystery (5) Oct. – REAL Hawaii (5) Jan. – Key West (6) Nov. – Italy (3)