Kansas City Winter 2017

Page 1

february 2017-december 2017 volume IX

5913 Woodson Rd. #213 Mission, KS 66202 (913) 681-2202 travelsunrise.com

National Parks Donation

The National Parks Service celebrated their 100th anniversary in 2016. To help celebrate we pledged $5 per traveler who visited a National Park on tour with Sunrise to Tourism Cares, a national charity partnering with the National Parks Foundation to support parks across the country. We’re pleased to announce that we have made a donation of almost $2500 on behalf of those travelers. Thank you for helping us support the National Parks!

Canadian Rockies Loyalty Program The glacially fed mountain lakes of the Canadian Rockies are known for their stunning blue color seen here. Immerse yourself in the immense natural beauty of Alberta, Canada on the Pacific Northwest & Canadian Rockies tour on page 20 or Canadian Rails & Rockies on page 37.

We’re happy to continue offering the loyalty program again in 2017. So, on your 2nd tour (of four days or more) with us in 2017, subtract $50 off your tour price. On the 3rd tour (of four days or more) with us in 2017, subtract $100 and so on. The more you travel, the more you save! (Program is based on the calendar year, so all eligible tours depart within 2017.)


Travelogue Please join us for an informative presentation about 2017 tour offerings, featuring refreshments and prizes. RSVP to 913-681-2202 or victoria@travelsunrise. Bring a friend! Tomahawk Ridge Community Center Thurs. Feb 16, 2017 @1:30PM 11902 Lowell Avenue Overland Park, KS 66213

TABLE OF CONTENTS FEBRUARY 2017 Biloxi p. 3 MARCH 2017 New Orleans & Cajun Country p. 4 Royals Spring Training p. 5 New York Encore p. 5 APRIL 2017 Spotlight Texas Georgia on my Mind National Parks of the SW

p. 6 p. 7 p. 8

MAY 2017 Embassies of DC Pella Tulip Festival Canyonlands of Utah Creme de la Creme Spring in the Southwest

p. 9 p. 9 p. 10 p. 11 p. 12

JUNE 2017 5 Boroughs of NYC p. 13 Castles of Ireland p. 14 Grandparent Tour - St. Louis p. 15

JULY 2017 Let Freedom Ring Shores of Lake Ontario Fly Mystery Yellowstone Canadian Whale Route Pacific Northwest Bar Harbor & Canada

p. 16 p. 17 p. 17 p. 18 p. 19 p. 20 p. 21

AUGUST 2017 Washington Waterways Cape Cod & more “Sunsational” Central MO Wonders of Oregon Northwest Coast The Dakotas Alaska Cruisetour Mid-California

p. 22 p. 23 p. 23 p. 24 p. 25 p. 26 p. 27 p. 28

SEPTEMBER 2017 Great American Music California National Parks Yellowstone, Badlands Blue Danube River Cruise Canyonlands

p. 29 p. 30 p. 31 p. 32 p. 33

Watch for these blue stars as they indicate the tour includes a “tour manager favorite”.

Colorado Trains Route 66 Buffalo Round-up Canadian Rails & Rockies Upper Peninsula/Grand

p. 34 p. 35 p. 36 p. 37 p. 38

OCTOBER 2017 Southwest Grand Adventure p. 39 New England Coastal Colors p. 40 Laurel Highlands & Gettysburg p. 41 NOVEMBER 2017 Gulf Shores Getaway p. 42 DECEMBER 2017 Colorado New Year’s Eve p. 43 Rose Parade p. 44 JULY 2018 Iceland

p. 45

Policies Booking Forms

p. 46 p. 47

“All inclusive” Remember, a Sunrise Tour is an inclusive product. All activities, tickets, taxes and typically two meals per day (included meals are indicated in the daily itinerary; b=breakfast, l=lunch, d=dinner, hot apps= extensive appetizers that could replace a dinner) are included so that your only expenses on the road will be meals that are not included, souvenirs and a gratuity for your tour manager, driver and step-on guides if you so desire. On a few tours, 2 meals a day may not be included, and will be indicated as such.


Biloxi Winter Break

Day 1: Tunica, MS Leave winter behind as we head south for warmer winds. Overnight in Tunica, MS. D

Day 2: Beau Rivage Travel south through Mississippi and arrive in Biloxi at the luxurious waterfront, four-diamond Beau Rivage Resort and Casino for a 3-night stay! The resort features a dozen restaurants, shopping, a world class spa and salon, and an expansive casino for your enjoyment. B, D Day 3: New Orleans visits Explore New Orleans and its unique and colorful heritage with a local guide before lunch at Mulate’s. Then explore the French Quarter area on your own and browse the shops, boutiques and grab a traditional beignet from the original Café du Monde. B, L Day 4: Beauvoir Estate – The Jefferson Davis Home

and Presidential Library At Beauvoir, meet your guide in period dress for a tour into the past of this notable historic post-war home of the former President of the Confederate States of America, Jefferson Davis. Construction of the home began in 1848 and was completed in 1852. Since Hurricane Katrina the Beauvoir Estate has been totally refurbished and rebuilt. You will also visit the Presidential Library and Museum. Walk through Mrs. Varian’s Garden and you might even see “Sir Camelot”, the camel that Kansas lives on the grounds! The afterCity noon is free to explore Biloxi on your own or return to the Beau Rivage. B Day 5: Jackson, MS Depart Biloxi for Jackson, MS to visit the Old Capital Museum. Mississippi’s first capital building, built in 1839, has been fully restored to its original state. Taste true southern cooking at lunch today at one of Jackson’s famous restaurants. Return to Tunica for an overnight stay. B, L Day 6: Home Arrive home ready for spring. B

February 12-17, 2017 Per person rates double $925 triple/quad $868 single $1074 Same price as 2016!

IL

MO

KY AR

TN

First night Last night

11

Tunica

Overnight Highlight Tour route

LA

MS

Biloxi 3

New Orleans

3-night stay at the Beau Rivage

Happenings at Sunrise Tours... Happy New Year! I hope you had a happy holiday season with friends and family. We are very excited about our newest catalog, highlights of which include a new tour to Big Bend National Park (p. 8), a much reduced price on a luxurious trip to Ireland (p. 14), our first ever visit to see the Buffalo Roundup (p. 36) in Custer State Park and a scenic ride in the Canadian Rockies on Canada’s Via Rail (p. 37).

We also have several “KC only” tours planned for our growing contingent of guests from the Kansas City area, including Royals Spring Training (p. 5), Pella Tulip Festival (p. 9), and St. Louis Grandparent Tour (p. 15). Here’s to a happy and healthy 2017 and I hope you take the opportunity to spend a bit of it traveling with Sunrise Tours! Hope to see you on the road soon, Brent Dalrymple

3


New Orleans & Cajun Country

Day 1: Let the Good Times Roll Laissez les bon temps rouler; Let the Good times Roll. Fly into New Orleans and spend three nights near the iconic French Quarter. This evening at Tujague’s Restaurant located in the heart of the French Quarter, begin your authentic Creole experience. D

First night Last night AR Overnight Highlight Tour route

TN

Day 5: Acadian Heritage This morning in Crowley, LA our local step-on guide will take you to a working farm to learn how two crops, rice and crawfish, are farmed on the same land. Enjoy a homemade lunch at the farm. Back in Lafayette visit with costumed interpreters at Vermilionville, a heritage and folk-life museum. The Village boasts original buildings and artifacts which reflect early Acadian life. After a stop at the Acadian Cultural Center you will complete your Cajun experience with dinner and live music at a Lafayette landmark that showcases traditional French Cajun heritage, Prejean’s Restaurant. B, L, D

Day 2: New Orleans MS Experience the Old World ambiance of New Orleans as our local step-on guide highlights the distinctive history, customs and architecture of this romantic city. Lafayette Visit a local cemetery to learn of 2 New their unusual burial practice. See 3 Orleans Houmas the elegant homes in the GarHouse den District with their columned Plantation porches, mighty oaks and verdant gardens. Lunch is at the legendary Mulate’s, the Original Cajun Restaurant. Enjoy a magical tour at Mardi Gras World to see where the colorful floats Day 6: Houmas House Plantation and Gardens are made. The evening is free for you to enjoy at your Travel to the spectacular Houmas House Plantation leisure. B, L, Hot Apps and Gardens, the crown jewel of Louisiana’s River Road. A costumed hostess will be your guide through Day 3: National WWII Museum & the French Quarter the 16-room antebellum estate filled with period anVisit the #1 attraction in New Orleans; The National tiques and Louisiana art. Walk outside amongst the WWII Museum. Visit the various Galleries at your own majestic ancient Live Oak Trees, lush gardens filled pace, experience the popular Beyond All Boundaries with vibrant flowers, fountains, ponds and sculpture as 4-D Movie and enjoy lunch at The Stage Door Canteen well as the charming garconniere. Enjoy lunch at Café located in the museum. The distinctive sound of The Burnside on the property before transfer to the New Vic-Tones, a male vocal trio showcasing Swing, Big Orleans airport for your flight home. B, L Band and Jazz, will entertain and delight. This evening we will offer a walking tour through the unforgettable French Quarter including iconic landmarks and a stop for a set at Maison Bourbon Jazz Club right on Bourbon Street. B, L, Hot Apps

LA

Day 4: Cajun Country Marvel at the sheer size of Lake Pontchartrain during our visit to the New Canal Lighthouse Museum located right on the water’s edge before we depart for Houma, LA where you will enjoy lunch at Copelands of New Orleans. The owners of Greenwood Gator Farm will take you on a boat cruise into the Bayou cypress swamp and demonstrate the fascinating industry of Alligator Farming. Are you brave enough to hold a gator? Arrive in Lafayette for a two-night stay. B, L, Hot Apps Houmas House Plantation

March 6-11, 2017

Per person rates* double $1698 triple/quad $1591 single $2009 * Includes roundtrip airfare from MCI

Same price as 2016!

4


Day 1: Phoenix Take a direct flight to Phoenix and check into the Drury Inn and Suites – Phoenix Airport for a fournight stay. Average March temperatures in Phoenix range between 52 and 77 degrees! Enjoy a welcome dinner at a local favorite this evening. D

Royals Spring Training Overnight Highlight Tour route

Surprise Stadium

UT

CO

AZ

tion for Valley of the Sun residents for over 10 years. Then watch the Royals play a home game against the Milwaukee Brewers at Surprise Stadium, a complex they share with the Texas Rangers that features 6 practice fields and a stadium for 10,500. B, L

March 23-27, 2017 Per person rates* double $1679 triple/quad $1499 single $2099 * Includes roundtrip airfare from MCI.

NM

Day 4: Game Three Visit Tempe Diablo Stadium in nearScottsdale by Tempe, AZ for a game against the 4 powerful LA Angels. Many questions Phoenix about the 2017 season will have been answered by now as the Royals near Day 2: Game One the start of an exciting season. TemExplore historic Old Town Scottsdale; featuring ev- pe is the home of Arizona State University and features erything from authentic western wear to high end a charming and walkable downtown. Take a stroll and boutiques, Scottsdale is a premier desert destination experience the with character. Take a short drive to the Peoria Sports college vibe beComplex to watch the Royals take on the Seattle Mari- fore returning ners. Will snagging Jorge Soler from the World Cham- to the hotel for pion Cubs put the Royals over the top in the AL Cen- the night. B, D tral? B, D Day 5: Home Fly home. B Day 3: Game Two See the impressive bounty of desert agriculture at the Phoenix Open Air Market, a Saturday morning tradi-

New York Encore

Day 1: New York City Catch a flight to New York City and check into our hotel, the Belvedere, a hidden jewel in the heart of the theater district that was built during the 1920’s Art Deco period. Located a little over a block away from Times Square, our centrally located hotel provides an excellent starting point to explore NYC. D

Day 2: NYC Tour and Broadway Each morning, dine at a local diner to start your day. Enjoy a local guided tour of the most important borough of New York City; Manhattan. See Central Park, Rockefeller Center, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Chinatown, and much more. This evening after dinner, redeem your golden ticket to experience Willy Wonka’s chocolate world first-hand, at a special preview performance of “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory”. Premiering for the first time on Broadway, the show has broken house records in London where it has been seen by more than 1.8 million people since it opened in June 2013. B, D Day 3: Lower Manhattan and St. Louis Symphony Visit the poignant 9/11 Memorial at Ground Zero and the 9/11 Memorial Museum. Rise to the top of the new One World Observatory, the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere, for incredible panoramic views of New York City! This afternoon is free to explore NYC

as you wish. Head down to Battery Park to take the ferry to Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty, visit the MET or Guggenheim Museum, shop on 5th Ave or relax in Central Park. Your Tour Manager will be available to help plan your afternoon. Tonight you may attend an optional pre-concert talk at 6:30pm in Carnegie Hall’s Stern Auditorium (same as the performance) with Composer John Adams, St. Louis Symphony Music Director David Robertson, and Director of Artistic Planning Jeremy Geffen. At 7:30pm see the St. Louis Symphony, led by David Robertson, return to Carnegie Hall as they perform John Adams’s critically acclaimed, The Gospel According to the Other Mary. Merging New Testament stories with twentieth century texts, the electrifying score will amaze as the oratorio from Mary Magdalene’s voice unfolds. Seating is located in the Dress Circle for this special performance which is in celebration of Composer John Adams’s 70th birthday. B

Day 4: Return Home Take a short early morning walk to Rockefeller Center to catch NBC’s Today Show live or over to Times Square (optional) before a return flight home. B

March 29-April 1, 2017 Per person rates* double $1495 triple/quad $1371 single $1799 * Includes roundtrip airfare from MCI

Bronx Manhattan

New York City 3

Times Square 9/11 Memorial

Queens

Brooklyn

Overnight Highlight Flight to/from NYC

5


Spotlight Texas

Featuring beachfront Galveston, highlights of Dallas and San Antonio Fiesta! Day 1: Dallas, TX Fly into Dallas and meet a local expert for a guided tour of Dallas, including a visit to the Dealey Plaza Historic District and The Sixth Floor Museum which chronicles the assassination and legacy of President John F. Kennedy. Check into our Dallas hotel for a 2-night stay. B, D

OK Dallas 2

George W. Bush Presidential Library

TX

AR night First Last night Overnight Highlight Tour route LA route Flight

Hurricane and touring where sculpture artists have breathed life into what Mother Nature attempted to destroy from Hurricane Ike in 2008 on a Tree Sculpture tour. Unpack your bags for a 2-night stay at the beachfront DoubleTree resort where each room includes a balcony and views of the ocean! B, D

Day 4: Space Center A crown jewel of TX is the NASA JohnSan son Space Center where a behind2 Antonio Space the-scenes look at space exploration Center 2 is arranged. Get up close and tour Galveston The Alamo Island Day 2: Presidents and historic mission control and iconic exCowboys hibits featuring our nation’s revered Visit the George W. astronauts. Experience the thrill of Bush Presidential Library and Museum. Opened in watching a space shuttle launch in the Blast Off! TheApril 2013 on the campus of SMU, the Museum fea- ater and touch a real moon rock. This afternoon, enjoy tures Freedom Hall and includes a 67-foot video wall views of the ocean or walk the historic Strand. B, L depicting a montage of the 44 US presidents. Don’t miss the 9/11 Memorial exhibit! Visit Fort Worth Stock- Day 5: San Antonio, TX yards National Historic district and witness a live cattle Enjoy the springtime wildflowers reaching up for the drive, explore the TX Cowboy Hall of Fame before a warm Texas sunshine as we travel through central hearty TX lunch! What does a $1.1billion stadium fea- Texas to San Antonio. Unpack for a 3-night stay in the turing the world’s largest column free interior look Drury Plaza Hotel located on the Riverwalk. Origilike? Find out with a VIP tour of AT&T Stadium, home nally a bank, the hotel retains the charm of its stunning of the Dallas Cowboys to include the locker rooms, architectural history with modern amenities, a rooftop luxury suites and the field. B, L pool and direct access to the Riverwalk. Tonight, enjoy your reserved seats on the bank of the San Antonio Day 3: “It’s Island Time” River for the Fiesta Texas Cavaliers River Parade and Travel south to Galveston Island, TX for a tropical get- watch as music fills the air and vibrant floats pass by away. Upon arrival, tour a retired Ocean Star jack-up with bold colors of Fiesta! B, hot apps drilling rig turned museum! This one of a kind tour shows offshore drilling equipment and exhibits detail- Day 6: Fiesta Time! ing the oil and gas production process. Explore Galves- Texans describe the Fiesta as a blend of New Orleans’ ton with a local guide, relaying the history of the 1900 Mardi Gras and Pasadena’s Rose Parade. The color, the pageantry and celebrations recognize the City’s diverse history and culture. Catch the spirit with a pin proudly worn and traded during the Fiesta! Enjoy a sightseeing tour of the city and visit the “queen of the missions” Mission San Jose and shopping at El Mercado, an authentic Mexican Marketplace. History comes to life visiting the Alamo where Davy Crockett and 185 other “Texans” fought against Mexico. This evening, take some free time to explore the Riverwalk. B, L, hot apps

San Antonio parade on the Riverwalk

LA

Day 7: Return Flight Home Enjoy a comfortable flight home. B

April 20-26, 2017 Per person rates* double $2049 triple/quad $1843 single $2578 * Includes roundtrip airfare from MCI.

Visit 3 of Texas’ cities featuring a visit to the new George W Bush Library and Museum, ABA’s top 100 Fiesta San Antonio highlighting history/culture and a beachfront 2-night stay on Galveston Island!

Great company to travel with. San Antonio and Dallas guides were excellent! Ann R., 2016 Spotlight Texas

Combine this tour with National Parks of the Southwest on page 8 and take $450 off the combined per person rate!

6


Georgia on my Mind

featuring Jekyll Island, Savannah and more we visit the Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation Historic Site. The Plantation was owned and occupied by the same family from 1804 to 1973 until the land was donated to the state. Visit St. Simons Island to explore the charming shops, restaurants and take a walk on the pier for a gorgeous view of St. Simons Sound. In the late 1800’s, a group of millionaires sent a team of experts to locate an area with great natural beauty, excellent weather and privacy. They found Jekyll Island and proceeded to build the Jekyll Island Club Hotel, our home for the next two nights. Upon arrival tour the property before dinner in the historic Federal Room. B, D

Day 1: Charleston, SC Fly into Atlanta and drive to historic Charleston, SC and dine at a local favorite before check in. B, D Day 2: Charleston, SC Visit the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, an estate acquired by the Dalton Family in 1676. Tour the gorgeous blooming gardens and home and take a tram excursion for a picturesque nature tour of the plantation’s wetlands and marshes. Enjoy lunch and shopping in the historic City Market area, then a local guide will share her expertise aboard our coach as we further explore Charleston. After our tour, depart for “Georgia’s First City,” Savannah, and dine riverside at River House Seafood before we check into the B Historic Savannah Hotel for 2 nights. B, D

Day 5: Jekyll Island Enjoy a leisurely morning on the property before a tram tour of Jekyll Island takes you throughout the Historic Landmark District and past the grand “cottagDay 3: Savannah, GA Board an open-air trolley to tour this enchanting South- es” which were the winern town filled with amazing architecture, rich history ter getaways for The and the pleasant aromas of spring! Enjoy free time for Rockefellers, Vanderlunch, where you may want to visit Mrs. Wilkes Dining bilts and J.P. Morgan. Room or The Lady and Son’s Restaurant. Explore the Have lunch on property Historic River Street full of shops, restaurants, galler- at the historic Crane ies, in a revitalized historic area located on the river. Cottage, which was inBoard the Savannah Riverboat for an evening cruise spired by an Italian Redown the river while enjoying historic sights, dinner naissance villa and built in 1917. After lunch enand entertainment. B, D joy the rest of the afterDay 4: St. Simons & Jekyll Island noon to explore Jekyll Continue our journey to the Golden Isles of Georgia as Island at leisure. You may choose to rent a bike, Hay House in Macon, GA First night Highlight relax at the resort or take the hotel shuttle TN Last NC night Tour route down to the beach. B, L

Overnight

Flight route

SC

1

Atlanta Macon

Charleston 2

AL FL

GA

2

1

Savannah

Jekyll Island

Day 6: Macon, GA Macon is our next stop on our Southern Adventure. Tour the Hay House, considered the most advanced antebellum building in America for its style, craftsmanship and technological innovations. The house has also been featured on A&E’s “America’s Castles.” Enjoy a catered lunch on the main level of the house before a tour with a local guide featuring a scenic drive through beautiful neighborhoods of Macon that date back to the mid 1800’s. Overnight Atlanta area. B, L Day 7: Return home Return flight home from Atlanta. B

April 22-28, 2017

Per person rates* double $2219 triple/quad $2009 single $2757 * Includes roundtrip airfare from MCI.

Spend two nights at the Jekyll Island Club Hotel, named by Travel and Leisure Magazine as one of the top 500 resorts in the world.

Favorite Historic Hotel: Jekyll Island Club Hotel, Janel

7


NE

WT OU

R!

National Parks of the Southwest

Day 1: El Paso, TX Fly to El Paso, TX to begin your journey to the Old West. Enjoy a cowboy steak dinner and overnight stay. D

Day 2: Marfa, Texas Travel to Marfa, home to the puzzling “Marfa Lights” and the historic Hotel Paisano, site of the James Dean movie GIANT. Continue to Big Bend National Park, the eighth largest national park in the lower 48 situated on the boundary with Mexico along the Rio Grande, for a two-night stay in the spectacular Chisos Basin at the Chisos Mountain Lodge. B, D

International

2

UFO Museum Inn of the Mountain Gods White Sands National Monument 1

Las Cruces 1

El Paso

NM

2

Carlsbad

the evening with a tranquil sun- April 27-May 5, 2017 set cruise on the Pecos River. B, Per person rates* D

double $2299 Day 6: International UFO Mu- triple/quad $2102 single $2779 seum

Travel to Roswell to explore the International UFO Museum and Research Center complete with a museum guide talk. Stop TX at Hondo Iris Farm for a tour through the glorious irises, lilies and desert botanical plants and sit on the hummingbird porch to Marfa watch the birds feed, fight and fly. Enjoy dinner and a two-night Chisos Mountain stay with lake view rooms and Lodge 2 private balconies at the luxuriBig Bend National Park ous Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort, owned and operated by the Mescalero Apache tribe. B, D

Carlsbad Caverns National Park

First night Last night Overnight Highlight Tour route

Day 3: Big Bend National Park Explore one of the last remaining wild corners of the United States during our guided tour of Big Bend National Park, covering 801,000 acres of west Texas in the place where the Rio Grande makes a sharp turn. Visit Sam Nall Ranch and Santa Elena Canyon plus a picnic lunch in the park. Spend the evening exploring the ruins of the former Chisos Mine company in Terlingua Ghost Town and dine at the old-timey Starlight Theatre. B, L, D Day 4: Fort Davis National Historic Park and West of the Pecos Museum Travel into the Davis Mountains to tour Fort Davis National Historic Park, a major frontier military post established in 1854 to protect travelers and freight from Comanche raiders along the San Antonio-El Paso Trail. Enjoy a cowboy-style lunch at Historic Prude Ranch, established over 100 years ago by Grandmother Prude who came to Fort Davis by covered wagon. Tour the West of the Pecos Museum located in the 1896 Orient Hotel and Saloon before a two-night stay in Carlsbad, NM. B, L Day 5: Carlsbad Caverns National Park Explore Carlsbad Caverns National Park in the Guadalupe Mountains of southeastern New Mexico. Descend the elevator for a self-guided tour along a paved trail of the Big Room, a massive, eight-acre chamber with an incredible 255-foot high ceiling filled with huge columns, and delicate stalactites and stalagmites. End

* Includes roundtrip airfare from MCI.

Combine this tour with Spotlight Texas on page 6 and take $450 off the combined per person rate! Or combine this tour with Canyonlands on page Day 7: Billy the Kid Country and Valley of Fires 10 and take $400 off Travel the Billy the Kid National Scenic Byway to the the combined rate!

Lincoln County Courthouse, the historic frontier site of Billy’s infamous escape in 1881. Learn about the symbol of forest fire prevention during a visit to the Smokey Bear Historical Park. Enjoy a guided tour of Fort Stanton Historic Site, established to protect settlements along the Rio Bonito in the Apache Wars. See the gigantic Malpais Lava Flow during a stop at the Valley of Fires recreation area in Carrizozo. B, L

Carlsbad Caverns Day 8: White Sands National Monument and Old Mesilla Tour the New Mexico Museum of Space History with docent guides. Visit White Sands National Monument, an incredible expanse of snow-white, gypsum sand dunes covering 275 square miles and rising to 60 feet. Travel the 16- mile Dunes Drive with a local guide and have the chance to scale convenient dunes along the route. Head to Las Cruces, NM to explore the local shops in historic Old Mesilla Plaza, enjoy an authentic Mexican dinner and overnight stay. B, D Day 9: Fly home from El Paso B

8


NE

WT OU

R!

The Embassies of DC and more! Day 1: Embassy Dinner Fly into our nation’s Capital city in time to enjoy dinner inside an International Embassy (TBD, past embassies hosting dinner have included Jordan, Phillipines and Ethiopia) As we walk into an Embassy in Washington DC we are welcomed by our host embassy to their country* - a once in a lifetime experience! Check into Hyatt Place located in the vibrant NoMa neighborhood for a 4-night stay. B, D Day 2: National Cathedral and Library of Congress Tour our nation’s oldest federal cultural institution, the Library of Congress, and see Thomas Jefferson’s personal library, Presidential Papers and the Gutenberg Bible amongst other works from 1815 forward. Tour the National Cathedral adorned with arrangements from the Flower Mart, an outdoor festival that encircles the Cathedral with extraordinary floral displays, shopping and entertainment. Did you know that Woodrow Wilson is the only President to make DC their permanent home? Tour their Georgian Revival

OH

First Night Last Night Overnight

WV Tour highlight Flight to/from Washington DC

mansion located in the Embassy Row area since 1915 before dinner in DC proper. B,D

May 4-8, 2017

a local expert and your included Passport to DC in hand affording rare behind-the-scenes tours of the Embassies of Washington DC, many of which are among Washington’s historic and architectural treasures (TBD, possible tours include Indonesia, Peru, Brazil and Korea). Each Embassy will welcome guests and present activities highlighting their country’s cuisine, music and more. B, D

* Includes roundtrip airfare from MCI.

Per person rates* double $1859 Day 3: Around the World Embassy Tour Start the day with an exclusive private tour of an In- triple/quad $1699 ternational Embassy*! Spend the rest of the day with single $2269

Day 4: Guided tour of DC Today, a local guide boards the coach to visit the historical highlights of DC. Stand where global events have taken shape and view the many historic monuments and memorials. Honor the 16 million who have served at the National World War II Memorial, reflect at the Martin Luther King, Jr National Memorial, see the inscriptions PA from his Gettysburg Address at The Lincoln Memorial and more. AfEmbassy ter a stop for a photo at the White House, enjoy time to explore the Row National Mall and Smithsonian, Washington 4 the world’s largest museum comD.C. plex. B, D

VA

Mount Vernon

Day 5: Return home Board return flight home. B

Each May, DC Embassies open their doors for a chance to visit these beautiful and striking buildings. They offer cultural performances, indigenous treats and shopping of native crafts and goods representing their homeland.

*Subject to change. Last minute cancellation due to security and/or official business is possible, although unlikely. The specific international Embassy scheduled will be confirmed closer to the actual date.

Pella Tulip Festival Day 1: Pella Tulip Festival Our celebration of Spring brings us to Pella, IA, beautiful all year long but truly alive during Tulip Time. Three days each spring, Pella transforms into the Netherlands during the Pella Tulip Festival – filled with colorful blooms, Dutch attire, parades, food and fun. Enjoy reserved seating for the Volks Parade, featuring historical floats, bands and attractions highlighting the town’s Dutch heritage. Spend the afternoon exploring the city with a local guide before experiencing “Feesthouden,” the festival’s Grandstand show. Delight in Dutch dancing, the Parade of Provinces costume show, cheese market demonstrations, the

famous street scrubbing and the best views of the May 4-5, 2017 lighted parade floats. Overnight at the Cobblestone Per person rates Inn and Suites in Knoxville, IA. D double $325

triple/quad $293

Day 2: Return Home single $397 Join our local guide for a tour of the culture and history of Pella. Stroll through West Market Park and visit the booths at the Dutch Craft Market. Marvel in the beauty of over 100 quilts on display at the Quilters Guild Quilt Show. Tour the home of Domini Scholte, founder of Pella, filled with original furnishings from Holland and surrounded by colorful tulip gardens before our return drive to Kansas City. B

9


Canyonlands of Southern Utah Day 1: Las Vegas, NV Our journey west begins with a flight to Las Vegas. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at the four-star Golden Nugget Hotel and Casino. D Day 2: Grand Canyon Travel through the vast expanse of the Mojave Desert to visit a masterpiece of modern engineering, the Hoover Dam. Follow the Colorado River to the aweinspiring Grand Canyon National Park. Explore Grand Canyon Village and walk along the canyon edge before dinner and an overnight stay in the South Rim of the park. B, D Day 3: Lake Powell, AZ Join our local guide to explore the beauty of the West Rim of the Grand Canyon. Travel along West Rim Road, originally an old wagon road built by the Sante Fe Railway, with scenic stops at spectacular overlooks. Head to Page, AZ for a cruise on beautiful Lake Powell. The boat takes us through the tapestry laden walls of one of Lake Powell’s famous canyons, Navajo Canyon and Antelope Canyon. Enjoy dinner overlooking the lake and an overnight stay at Lake Powell Resort, located in the heart of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. B, D Day 4: Monument Valley and Moab Take a guided tour of the second largest concrete arch dam in the United States, Glen Canyon Dam, which holds back an amazing 26,215,000 acre-feet of water from the Colorado River. Head to Monument Valley and learn about the Native American heritage of this area as we explore the back roads of the eighth wonder of the world with a Navajo guide. Continue west to Moab, UT for a jet boat ride on the mighty Colorado River and a two-night stay. B, D

Day 5: Canyonlands National Park Explore the wilderness of countless canyons and buttes carved by the Colorado River with a guided tour of Canyonlands National Park. Visit one of the most photographed scenic sights, Dead Horse Point State Park, located 2,000 feet above a gooseneck in the Colorado River. After a riverside picnic lunch, discover the red rock landscape of Arches National Monument, the world’s largest concentration of natural stone arches. Explore Moab’s quaint western charm during your evening of leisure. B, L

May 7-15, 2017 Per person rates* double $2729 triple/quad $2496 single $3286

* Includes roundtrip airfare from MCI.

Same price as 2016!

Day 6: Capitol Reef National Park Visit Capitol Reef National Park, known for the Waterpocket Fold, a 65 million year-old wrinkle in the Earth’s crust. After a picnic lunch amongst the park’s colorful canyons, domes and monoThe hoodoos at Bryce Canyon liths and dessert at the Gifford House Store and Museum, travel to Cedar City, UT for our two-night stay. B, L, D Day 7: Bryce Canyon National Park Discover the impressive but often missed Cedar Breaks National Monument, which rests on top of the Colorado plateau and looks down into a half-mile deep geological amphitheater. Enjoy lunch at Bryce Canyon’s Lodge restaurant, rated one of the area’s best dining experiences, before exploring Bryce Canyon National Park, famous for its multi-colored Hoodoos and some of the world’s best air quality. B, L

Day 8: Zion National Park Follow the lush Virgin River into Zion National Highlight First night Park where you will be surrounded by massive Tour route Last night Arches canyon walls and a unique landscape of petriFly to/from Overnight National Park Las Vegas fied sand dunes during our narrated open-air 2 Moab Capitol Reef tram ride. Grab lunch on your own at the Zion National Park Lodge before continuing back to Las Vegas. Canyonlands National Park Visit Nevada’s oldest and largest state park Cedar City Bryce Canyon filled with red sandstone formations and 3,000 2 National Park year-old Indian petroglyphs, Valley of Fire Zion Monument State Park, before a final night at the Golden National Park Valley Nugget Hotel and Casino. B, D 1 Lake Powell Resort Day 9: Fly Home Grand Las Vegas Canyon 1 Reflect on the incomparable natural beauty we 11 have explored as we fly home. B

Combine this tour with National Parks of the Southwest on page 8 and take $400 off the combined per person rate!

UT

NV

AZ

10


Creme de la Creme Featuring the Great Dames of Eastern Canada: Quebec, Ottawa, Montreal and Toronto w Just a fe

ft!

spots le

Day 1: Toronto, Ontario Fly into Toronto for a 2-night stay at the Fairmont Royal York in the heart of Toronto. Tonight attend a live theater production (TBD) in The Toronto Theatre District, the largest in Canada. B, DIL

QC

First night

Highlight

Last night

Tour route

Overnight

Flight route

Québec City Ottawa

Toronto

MI 1

Cleveland

Niagara Falls

PA

OH

Day 2: Toronto, IN Ontario Explore the bustling city of Toronto with a local expert. Rise 1,136 ft in 58 seconds to the observation deck of the CN Tower for lunch with a view! B, L Day 3: Ottawa, Ontario Journey to Canada’s beautiful city of Ottawa for a 2-night stay at the Fairmont Château Laurier, a magnificent limestone edifice with turrets and masonry reminiscent of a French Château. Visit Canada’s largest and most popular cultural institution, The Canadian Museum of History. B, D Day 4: Canadian Tulip Festival Discover the sites of Ottawa and the Tulip Festival featuring more than three million tulips, with our personal step-on guide. Visit Commissioner’s Park, Parliament Hill, Sussex Drive, view the official residences of the Prime Minister and Governor General and many other sights. Tour the capital of Canada, Parlement du Canada, and discover the history and functions with a guided tour of Centre Block, home to the Senate and House of Commons (pending availability). The evening is free for you to explore. B Day 5: Quebec City, Quebec Get your cameras ready as we approach our hotel for the next three nights. Standing high on a bluff overlooking the mighty St. Lawrence River, Fairmont Le Château Frontenac is not merely a hotel located in the heart of Old Québec - it is the heart of Old Québec. B, D Day 6: Quebec City, Quebec

3

Montreal

NY

2

1

1

2

ON

May 11-21, 2017*

Sainte-Annede-Beaupré

Join our local guide for an informative tour of the most European of North American cities, Quebec City. See the massive stone architecture, the heavily fortified walls and the charm of Old Quebec City. This afternoon enjoy some free time before dinner featuring a traditional sugar shack meal, live entertainment and poured “taffy on snow” for dessert! B, D

Day 7: Quebec City, Quebec Travel along the St. Lawrence River to St. Anne de Beaupre, with time to experience the basilica and this little town that attracts more than a million pilgrims and visitors each year! Visit Montmorency Falls and take a memorable cable car ride to the top for lunch and time to enjoy the views of the Isle de Orleans and the Saint Lawrence River. B, L

Per person rates double $3389 triple/quad $3039 single $4277

* Includes roundtrip airfare from MCI.

Crème de la crème “the best of the best” is the perfect description for this tour. Highlights include 7 nights in 3 luxurious and historic Fairmont hotels of eastern Canada and enjoy distinctive experiences and elegance!

Day 8: Montreal, Quebec Enjoy breakfast before we travel to Montreal for a stay at the Ville-Marie Hotel. This afternoon, our local tour guide will acquaint us with Montreal’s cultural heritage and cosmopolitan blend of the old and new as we see all the “must see sights” including Montreal’s crown jewel, the NotreDame Basilica. B, D Day 9: Niagara USA Cross the US border and into the Niagara Falls, NY area for an overnight stay. Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac B, D Day 10: Niagara Falls State Park Experience the majestic beauty of Niagara Falls. Did you know 3,160 tons of water flows over the falls every second? Board the world-famous Maid of the Mist for a thrilling boat ride under the falls! This afternoon, travel west to Ohio for dinner and an overnight stay. B, D

11


Spring in the Southwest

Featuring a nostalgic overnight journey on Amtrak’s Southwest Chief from Kansas City to Flagstaff, AZ! Day 1: Kansas City This evening, board Amtrak’s Southwest Chief train. Meals and roomette are included, or you can upgrade to a private bedroom (see right for information).

Day 6: Petrified Forest National Park Travel east to Santa Fe, NM where the sun shines 310 days a year. Enroute, explore the Petrified Forest National Park and learn about the new dinosaur paleontologists have identified early 2016. See petrified logs with unexpectedly bright colors at the Rainbow Forest Museum and view the impressive Painted Desert from the Whipple Point lookout. After lunch at the historic El Rancho Hotel Restaurant, get comfortable for 3 nights at the Drury Inn and Suites in Santa Fe, NM in historic downtown. B, L

Day 2: Southwest Chief Train Relax as the train hums along across Kansas and Colorado to Arizona. The spectacular landscape filled with blooming spring flowers is coupled with delicious meals and comfortable accommodations. This evening arrive Flagstaff, AZ for an overnight stay. B, L, D Day 3: Sedona Travel to Sedona, AZ, and enjoy a narrated trolley ride including a stop at the Chapel of the Holy Cross and views of the renowned red rocks. Enjoy lunch and leisure time to browse local shops and galleries. Unpack for a 2-night stay at the Inn of Sedona where the terraced patio views showcases 360 degree views of the red rocks. B, D

Day 7: Santa Fe, NM Learn about Santa Fe’s unique culture with a local expert who guides us through the sights of this capital city teeming with spring color. Highlights include Saint Francis Cathedral, San Miguel Mission and the Loretto Chapel. Do you know the mystery that surrounds the construction of the miraculous staircase at the Chapel? Tour Georgia O’Keeffe’s museum whose paintings reflect her passion for this area she eventually called home. Free time this evening. B, Hot Apps

Day 4: Verde Canyon Railroad The Verde Canyon is full of wildflowers in bloom and lush green springtime growth. Visit the newly opened Copper Art Museum in quaint Old Town Cottonwood. Board the Verde Canyon Railroad for a roundtrip wilderness ride though scenic riparian canyon only accessible by rail (or horse!) on tracks that hug the Verde River. Blazin’ M Ranch welcomes us for dinner, western music show and activities! B, D

Day 8: Bandelier National Monument Glimpse into the ancient culture of the Anasazi Pueblo people and view the pueblo-style dwellings in the Frijoles Canyon during a visit to Bandelier National Monument. Lunch at Rancho de Chimayo, a 100-year-old adobe home turned restaurant for a taste of why they were awarded 2014 NM Culinary Treasure of the year. Enjoy a guided tour of El Santuario de Chimayo, a National Historic Landmark, before returning to Santa Fe. B, L

Day 5: Grand Canyon & Winslow Take time to explore the South Rim’s stunning views and Visitor Center. Travel to Winslow, AZ for a unique overnight stay at the historic La Posada Hotel, the last of the grand trackside hotels, built by Fred Harvey in 1929. Enjoy dinner in the hotel’s Turquoise Room this evening. B, D

AZ

Highlight

Last night

Tour route

Overnight

Amtrak/flight routes

Grand Canyon National Park Petrified Forest National Park

Flagstaff 1

Sedona

First night

1

2

Winslow

La Posada Hotel

Day 9: Return home Return flight home from Santa Fe or Albuquerque. B

Kansas City

Amtrak Train Ride 1

CO

KS OK

Chimayo

TX

3

Santa Fe

NM

May 15-23, 2017 Per person rates* double $2519 triple/quad - please call single $3349 * Includes return airfare to MCI.

Included in price: Superliner Roomettes: Ideal for one or two passengers, with two comfortable reclining seats on either side of a big picture window. At night, the seats convert to a comfortable bed, and an upper berth folds down from above. Located on the upper or lower level. No in-room toilet or shower Optional Upgrade: Superliner Bedrooms: Ideal for two passengers, but can accommodate three (two passengers must share the lower berth). Each room has a large sofa with two individually reclining sections, and a reclining easy chair. At night, the sofa converts to a comfortable bed, and an upper berth folds down from above. All Superliner Bedrooms feature private, self-enclosed restrooms with toilet, sink and shower. And are on the upper level of our double-decker Superliner train cars. $450 per person double $700 per person single

12


Exploring the 5 Boroughs of NYC

June 3-7, 2017

the Chocolate Factory, with orchestra Per person rates* double $2189 seating. B, D

Day 1: New York Fly into New York City area and check into the Crowne Plaza Englewood for an overnight stay. B, D

Hu dso nR ive r

Day 3: Manhattan Explore New York City with a local guide. Spend Day 2: The Bronx and the day exploring Broadway Central Park, St. Visit the Woodlawn Patrick’s CatheCemetery, a National dral, Fifth Avenue, Historic Landmark people watching located in the Bronx. at Rockefeller CenSee the stunning ter and visiting the monuments and mauunique area of Chisoleums designed by natown in lower some of the nation’s Manhattan. A highmost accomplished See the classic brownstones in Brooklyn. light of the tour will architects, landscape designers and sculptors. Tour the amazing Cloisters be a visit to the poignant 9/11 Memorial at Ground Museum, devoted to the art and architecture of medi- Zero. Ascend to the top of the tallest building in the eval Europe. Take a behind the scenes tour and go on Western Hemisphere, the new One World Observastage at one of America’s most iconic music halls, the tory at One World Trade Center, for an incredible panApollo Theater. Check into the Belvedere Hotel, a hid- oramic view of the city. B, D den jewel in the heart of the theater district that was built during the 1920’s Art Deco period. Enjoy a din- Day 4: Free Day in NYC ner before catching a hit Broadway Show, Charlie and The day is yours to explore New York City on your own. Our hotel is located just a short walk from multiple subway stops and Times Square! You may choose to hop on the ferry to Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty, visit Bronx the MET or Top of the Rock, catch another 1 Broadway show or do a little shopping on Manhattan Meadowlands 5th Ave. Your Tour Manager will be avail3 NJ able to help you plan your day. B New York

* Includes roundtrip airfare from MCI.

Did you know?

- Manhattan is the oldest and the most denselypopulated of the five boroughs of New York City - Brooklyn is the most populous of New York City’s five boroughs. If Brooklyn were its own city it would now be the fourth largest in the US, right behind Chicago and Los Angeles. - Queens is the largest in area, but has the second largest in population.

City

Times Square 9/11 Memorial

Queens

Brooklyn

First night 1

triple/quad $1991 single $2701

Staten Island

Last night

Coney Island

Overnight

Highlight Tour route

Flight in/out of New Jersey

Day 5: Queens & Brooklyn Journey to Queens and tour the Museum of the Moving Image, a one-of-a-kind destination and the country’s only museum dedicated to the art, history, technique and technology of the moving image in all its forms. A personal guide will then board our bus to show us the highlights of Brooklyn. See the Brooklyn Bridge, Grand Army Plaza, Coney Island, Prospect Park, and charming 19th century row houses in historic Park Slope. Overnight on Staten Island. B, D Day 7: Return Home. B Catch a return flight home. B

13


NE

WT OU

R!

“Castles” of Ireland Day 1: Overnight flight to Dublin D, B in flight Day 2: Kinnitty Castle Morning arrival in Dublin Airport and depart for Kinnitty Castle. Visit the Irish National Stud and Japanese Gardens, a staterun bloodstock farm, founded in 1900 by an eccentric Anglo-Irish colonel called William Walker. After a tour of the stud farm, take a walk through the Japanese Gardens, which were laid out in 1906 to represent the “Life of Man.” Overnight in Kinnitty Castle Hotel, a gothic revival castle turned 37-room hotel located on a site that traces its history to the 13th century! D

First night

Highlight

Last night

Tour route

Overnight

Flight route

owned and operated by June 19-29, 2017 the Huggard family for Per person rates* over 100 years. B, D

double $3999 single $4639

Derry 2

Lough Eske Castle

Day 4: Ring of Kerry Enjoy a visit to a moun- * Includes Overnight flight to tain sheep farm for a roundtrip airfare from MCI Ireland sheep dog demonstraIreland New lower price! tion and tour the faAbbeyglen mous Ring of Kerry via Castle Dublin Killorglin, Glenbeigh, Cliffs of Waterville, Coomakesta Kinnitty Bunratty Moher Castle Castle Pass with it magnificent views over Derrynane, Limerick Dingle the home of Daniel O’ Peninsula Killarney Connell who was known as “The Liberator”, and Blarney Castle to Caherdaniel to savor lunch and a pint in the The Blind Piper Pub. Continue on to Castlecove and return to Killarney Day 3: Killarney along the Lakes of Killarney. B, L, D Depart for Killarney via Tipperary and Cork and visit The Rock of Cashel, the seat of kings and medieval Day 5: Dingle Peninsula bishops for 900 years until the early 17th century. Visit Explore the scenic Dingle Peninsula and its early the Old Midleton Distillery for an Irish whiskey tast- Christian sites including the 6th century Gallarus Oraing and continue to Blarney Castle and a quick peck at tory. Take in the spectacular views from Slea Head the Blarney Stone. Travel the beautiful valley of the and Connor Pass and walk the Atlantic beaches of the River Lee to the old market town of Macroom, site of Peninsula. Continue to Limerick and visit the beautiMacroom Castle which was once home of Sir William ful thatched village of Adare. Enjoy a special dinner; Penn, whose son later founded the state of Pennsyl- a Medieval Banquet in the 15th century Bunratty Casvania. Spend two nights at the Lake Hotel Killarney, tle featuring harp and violin musicians in period attire. A unique Sunrise Enniskillen Northern Castle Ireland

2

1

1

1

2

Tours itinerary featuring all 4 and 5 star properties! These smaller properties require that we limit this tour to under 30 travelers.

...itinerary continued on bottom of page 15 Lough Eske Castle, your home for 2 nights

14


Grandparent Tour - St. Louis Day 1: Amtrak train ride Board Amtrak’s Missouri River Runner in Lee’s Summit for a scenic ride across the great state of MO. Arrive in the historic town of Hermann, MO and enjoy a delicious German lunch at the Hermann Wurst Haus. Explore the newly opened Hermann Farm and Museum, a 200-acre farm of meticulously restored buildings that illustrate how German farmers lived and farmed upon arriving in the area in the mid-19th century. Also featured on the Farm are chickens, sheep, cattle and several show-stopping Shire draft horses. Check into the Drury Inn St. Louis-Southwest and take a dip in the indoor/outdoor pool before a relaxing evening. L, Hot Apps

NE

WT OU

R!

sociation and home of the St. Louis Walk of Fame, for June 19-21, 2017 dinner amid music history at Blueberry Hill. B, D Per person rates Day 3: Winston Churchill Museum Visit the Winston Churchill Museum in Fulton, MO before continuing west for a guided tour of Warm Springs Ranch, home to the famous Anheuser Busch Clydesdales. B

double $539 single $632

* Accompanying children under 18, $200 each and do not count towards occupancy

Day 2: St. Louis Downtown St. Louis is experiencing a surge in redevelopment, and the $250 million CityArchRiver project remaking the Arch Grounds is a key to the excitement. Ascend the famous Gateway Arch and enjoy incredible views of the Mississippi River and downtown St. Louis. Explore the City Museum, a unique world of sculpture and reclaimed objects which artist Bob Cassilly created amid skepticism but which has become the most popular attraction in downtown St. Louis. Take the brand new Delmar Loop Trolley from the Missouri History Museum to Delmar Street, named one of “10 Great Streets in America” by the American Planning As-

“Castles” of Ireland continued from page 21 Overnight in Clarion Hotel Limerick overlooking the famous River Shannon. B, D Day 6: Cliffs of Moher Depart for Connemara via the Atlantic coast of Clare and visit the dramatic 650ft Cliffs of Moher. Marvel at The Burren (Gaelic for rocky land) and enjoy free time in Galway City, known as the “City of the Tribes”. Spend two nights in Abbeyglen Castle, featuring views of the Twelve Bens Mountains and just a short walk to the bustling village of Clifden. B, D Day 7: Kylemore Abbey Tour the spectacular Inagh valley as you travel to Leenane. Visit picturesque Kylemore Abbey, nestled at the base of Duchruach Mountain, in the heart of the Connemara Mountains, it is regarded as one of Ireland’s most romantic buildings. Explore Connemara National Park and take an optional hike up Diamond Hill for spectacular views of Connemara’s hills, bays and inlets. Return to Clifden and perhaps enjoy a pint in Griffins Bar on Main Street. B, D Day 8: Donegal Travel up the Famine Relief Road to the beautiful town of Westport to see Ireland’s holy mountain, Croagh Patrick (weather/Fog permitting) and continue to Mayo and Sligo before arriving in Donegal for two-night stay at 5-star Lough Eske Castle. Surrounded by 43 acres

of woodland between the shores of Lough Eske and the Blue Stack Mountains, the Castle was named “World’s Best Luxury Country Hotel” 5 years in a row! B, D Day 9: Derry After a leisurely morning on the grounds of Lough Eske Castle, depart for the historic fortified walled city of Derry for a guided walking tour. The city fortifications were completed in 1618 to defend the city from the Gaelic chieftains in Donegal (they were never breached!) and are some the best preserved in Europe. Return to Lough Eske Castle for dinner and a stroll of the grounds. Can you find the 1621 date stone still to be found on property? B, D Day 10: Dublin Visit Enniskillen Castle to learn about the Maguire Chieftains and continue to Dublin. Visit the famous Guinness Storehouse at St. James Gate and enjoy a pint of Guinness in the Sky Bar, located at the top of a glass tower that commands spectacular views of Dublin City and County in every direction. Enjoy a song-filled farewell dinner at the Merry Ploughboy Pub. Overnight at Brooks Hotel in the heart of Dublin. B, D Day 11: Return flight home Transfer to Dublin Airport and flight home. B, D (in flight)

15


Let Freedom Ring! Day 1: Philadelphia, PA Fly into Philadelphia in time for dinner. Philly is known for its eclectic “foodie” culture. Tonight savor a Brazilian dinner at Fogo de Chao where servers carve the meat tableside! Get comfortable in our midtown hotel for a 2-night stay. B, D

tion of cultural heritage held on the Mall featuring musicians, storytellers and craftspeople. Watch the “Rockets Red Glare” (in our private Sunrise Tours chairs) as the spectacular fireworks display lights up the night sky. Nothing beats seeing the fireworks against the DC skyline of monuments and memorials! B, D

July 1-7, 2017*

Per person rates double $2059 triple $1879 single $2510

* Includes roundtrip airfare from MCI

Did you hear?

Day 2: “We the people…” The Museum of the AmerExperience the power, fasican Revolution will open cination and drama of the The home of Thomas Jefferson, Monticello National Constitution Day 5: President homes its doors to the public on Center, the world’s first and only museum devoted to A freedom tour would not be complete without a April 19, 2017! Thanks to the U.S. Constitution including a live drama presenta- visit to the homes of some of our fine presidents. This supporters from all fifty tion, Freedom Rising. With our personal expert, tour morning we depart for Mount Vernon, George Wash- states, they will bring the “Americas most historic square mile” in Independence ington’s mansion, gardens and grounds. Then we’re off dramatic story America’s National Historical Park to view the revered Liberty to Charlottesville, VA to tour Monticello, the estate of War for Independence Bell, Independence Hall (where the Declaration of In- Thomas Jefferson. You will get an intimate look at the home to Philadelphia, dependence and the US Constitution were signed) and house Thomas Jefferson built and furnished for himself the headquarters of the the site of the first President’s “White” House because and his family including glimpses of the books and ob- Revolution. And Sunrise from 1790 to 1800 Philadelphia was capital of the Unit- jects that reveal Jefferson’s sharp mind. Enjoy dinner Tours will visit this signified States. B, D and an overnight stay at the Stonewall Jackson Hotel. cant museum on Day 4 of The hotel, which originally opened in 1924, is consid- the tour! Day 3: DC ered an excellent example of a Colonial Revivalist style Good Morning Philly! After breakfast, head to the with modern amenities. B, D exciting new Museum of American Revolution. Immerse yourself in the early road to Independence Day 6: George Washington National Forest through immersive gallery experiences, object the- After some time to relax and explore the quaint comaters and recreated historical scenes. “The Revolution munity of Staunton, VA, continue our travels west, was in the minds and hearts of the people…” Adams, passing through the George Washington National For1818. Reflect on our nation’s history with lunch in the est, to arrive in Lexington, KY for our overnight stay. museum before traveling to celebrate the holiday in B, D our nation’s capital. It is a time to celebrate! Unpack your bags for a 2-night stay in the DC area. B, L Day 7: Return home Today, fly home from Kentucky. B Day 4: God Bless America Today we celebrate Museum of the the 4th of July in our American Revolution Highlight First night Nation’s Capital. A Philadelphia 2 guided tour will eduLast night Tour route Liberty cate and entertain as Bell Overnight Flight route we tour DC and learn Smithsonian of its immense hisOH tory. Explore the NaWashington D.C. 2 tional Mall SmithDE Mount MD sonian museums WV Vernon 1 Thomas and the Smithson1 Staunton ian Folklife Festival Jefferson’s Monticello Lexington which is an exposi-

PA

OH

KY

VA

16


Shores of Lake Ontario Part 3 of 5 Great Lakes Series

Day 1: Toronto Fly into trendy Toronto for a 2-night stay in the heart of downtown. This evening is a treat as we enjoy dinner and a Broadway performance of “Beautiful - the Carole King Musical” at Ed Mirvish Theatre, located in one of the largest theatre districts in the Englishspeaking world. B, D Day 2: Toronto Experience the hustle and bustle of Canada’s largest city with our local guide. Visit St. Lawrence Market, Bloor Street, the University of Toronto campus, historic riverfront and more. Cruise through the tranquil waters of Toronto’s naturally protected harbor aboard the Oriole during a narrated scenic cruise. Experience the best views of Toronto’s iconic and ever-changing city skyline while enjoying the relaxing harbor breeze. Explore downtown Toronto during your evening of leisure. B, L Day 3: Thousand Islands Travel east along the Lake Ontario shoreline for a stop in Kingston, the oldest city in Ontario and gateway to the world-famous Thousand Islands. Tour the home of Canada’s first Prime Minister, Bellevue House, beautifully restored to its original 1840s style. Explore Ontario’s oldest market, Kingston Public Market, before arriving in Alexandria Bay, NY, located in the heart of the Thousand Islands. Enjoy a 2-night stay at the Riveredge Resort with breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River from your personal balcony. B, D Day 4: Thousand Islands Grab your camera and sunglasses as we board our triple-deck vessel for a cruise of both the Canadian and American sections of the Thousand Islands. Journey through narrow island passages, surrounded by the natural beauty of the islands, and marvel at the majesty, diversity and originality of the island homes, while enjoying a lovely lunch on board. Spend the afternoon exploring Boldt Castle, a 129 room replica of a Rhineland castle, built at the turn of the 19th century by en-

trepreneur George C. Boldt for his wife as a ‘summer home’. B, L

July 9-15, 2017 Per person rates*

Day 5: Sackets Harbor to Niagara Falls double $2248 Join our local guide for a driving tour of the historic, triple/quad $2051 coastal town of Sackets Harbor. Visit battlefield sites single $2753 from one of the most crucial battles in the War of 1812 * Includes and experience the city’s diverse architecture back- roundtrip air from dropped by sweeping vistas of Lake Ontario. Follow MCI the Seaway Trail for a stop at the picturesque Sodus Bay Lighthouse, a pillar in the Lake’s most scenic harbor since 1824. Arrive in Niagara Falls for dinner and a 2-night stay at the Sheraton at the Falls Hotel. B, D Combine this tour with

Canadian Whale Route

on page 19 and take Day 6: Exploring Niagara Falls Step back in time during a tour of Old Fort Niagara, $450 off the combined which played a vital role during the colonial wars by per person rate! protecting access to the Great Lakes region. Visit original 18th century buildings, enjoy incredible views of Niagara River and take part in exciting living history programs. Experience the majestic and humbling power of the great NiFirst night agara Falls when we Last night board the Maid of the Boldt Castle Mist boat for a ride to Overnight Bellevue House the base of the falls. Highlight 2 Take a thrilling walk Alexandria Tour route into the stormy mist Bay Flight route Toronto zone of the Falls dur2 Lake Ontario ing an optional Cave of the Winds tour (ad2 Niagara Falls ditional expense). End Maid of the Mist boat tour the evening with an elBuffalo Lake egant meal at the Top Erie PA of the Falls Restaurant. B, D

ON

QC

MI

NY

Day 7: Return Home Revived and refreshed, fly home from Buffalo to share your pictures and memories! B

Fly Mystery Tour Have you ever been on your way to the airport but not known where you’re flying? Join us for some adventure as we embark on a fly mystery tour!

July 12-15, 2017 Per person rates* double $920 triple/quad $840 single $1115 * Includes roundtrip air from MCI

17


Yellowstone National Park & more!

Day 1: Sioux City, IA Travel into Iowa for an overnight stay in Sioux City. D

Day 2: Rapid City, SD Explore the Badlands of South Dakota today and enjoy dinner at the famous Wall Drug Store. Get comfortable for a 2-night stay in Rapid City at the newly renovated Rushmore Plaza Holiday Inn. B, D

to enjoy the best of Yellowstone today with our own guide. Old Faithful! Geysers! Paint Pots! All in all, a day of geological wonders and plenty of wildlife. Enjoy dinner in the Old Faithful Inn this evening and time to explore the area afterwards. The Old Faithful Inn is one of the few remaining log hotels in the United States. Highlights include the 65-foot ceiling in the lobby and the rhyolite fireplace. B, D

Grand Tetons

Day 3: Rapid City, SD A local guide will take us to visit Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Monument and the Black Hills. Travel to Custer State Park featuring 71,000 acres of unspoiled land, pristine lakes and roaming buffalo. Enjoy a Buffalo Safari Jeep Tour into one of the largest herds of bison in North America. Enjoy lunch in the historic State Game Lodge where Presidents Eisenhower and Coolidge dined. B, L Day 4: Cody, WY Depart Rapid City this morning and begin our trek to Cody, WY. Along the route, we will see Devil’s Tower and pass through the beautiful Big Horn Mountains. Tonight, we will relax in the comforts of Cody Cowboy Village, a luxury log cabin lodging located in Cody with all rooms attractively appointed with a cowboy/ western flair. This is the real thing...real log cabins with open beam ceilings. Cody is surrounded by scenic mountains to be enjoyed from the chairs on your cabin’s porch. Dinner and entertainment at the acclaimed Cody Cattle Company this evening. B, D Day 5: Yellowstone National Park Visit the Buffalo Bill Center of the West before traveling into Yellowstone Park. Unpack your bags for a 2-night stay at the newly remodeled Grant Village, located near the West Thumb inside the park, which affords us easy access to the many sites featured in “the first national park in the world”. B, D Day 6: Yellowstone comes alive! Bring your cameras and be prepared

towards the aromatic campfire smoke to savor a good old fashioned Dornan’s Chuckwagon lunch. Next, enjoy a scenic float on the Snake River with the Grand Tetons as the backdrop and a narration about the region’s wildlife, history, and geology. Continue into historic Jackson for leisure time to explore Jackson Square, located in the heart of Jackson, WY. B, L Day 8: Grand Tetons - Salt Lake City, UT After a leisurely morning in Jackson, board the coach and travel south along scenic highways into Salt Lake City. This evening, we will meet our guide for a tour of Temple Square and a guided “pin drop” tour. B, D Day 9: Return home Fly home from Salt Lake City. B

1

Jackson

ND

MT

Cody Yellowstone Park 2

ID

Per person rates* double $2548 triple/quad $2269 single $3276 * Includes return flight to MCI

Combine this tour with Pacific Northwest page 20 and take $450 Day 7: Jackson, WY off the combined per Head south to Moose, Wyoming and follow your nose person rate!

Old Faithful Inn Snake River Scenic Float

July 12-20, 2017

Rapid City

1

WY

2

Custer State Park

First night Last night Overnight Badlands National Park

This was one of our best tours! Excellent!!

- Vince and Kathy W. 2015 Yellowstone National Parks and more!

Highlight Tour route

SD 1

NE

Temple Square

Sioux City

1

Salt Lake City

UT

CO

18


Day 1: Buffalo Fly into the Buffalo, NY area for an overnight stay. D

Canadian Whale Route Saguenay

Val-Jalbert Historical Village Charlevoix First night Last night

QC

mountains and the sea. B, L

Saguenay Fjord

1

Copper Art Museum

2

Tadoussac Whale Watching Cruise

2

Québec

City Day 2: Garden of the Overnight Highlight Great Spirit Tour route Notre Dame Visit 1000 islands Basilica Flight route where St. Lawrence 2 Montreal meets Lake OntarBoldt io. Depart AlexanON Castle VT dria Bay, aboard the NH award-winning Uncle 1 MA Sam Boat Tours to Upstate Buffalo New York NY RI enjoy a narrated lunCT cheon cruise of the central part of the 1000 Islands stunning scenic region. Catch a glimpse of vacation retreats for some of the wealthiest people in North America! Visit historic Boldt Castle on Heart Island and then travel to Montreal for a 2-night stay. B, L

Day 3: Bonjour Montreal! Montreal is renowned for its duality of Old World charm infused with North American energy. A local expert will acquaint us with Montreal’s sights including spectacular Notre-Dame Basilica, the colorful port area, the modern bustling underground shopping and Mount Royal for panoramic views of this lovely city. B, D Day 4: Val-Jalbert Depart Montreal for Chambord and enjoy the scenery of the Laurentian Mountains along the rocky Canadian Shield. Did you know these mountains consist of Precambrian rocks over 540 million years old? Explore Val-Jalbert Historical Village, an authentic village that recreates and celebrates the 1920’s. Board the old Trolleybus and learn how the village’s Quiatchouan Falls helped this community have the luxury of electricity 25 years before anyone else in the province! B, D Day 5: Rendezvous with Nature In the gorgeous Charlevoix region, the Saguenay Fjord, carved by Ice Age glaciers, is the only navigable fjord in North America. The best way to view the precipitous cliffs, the statue of Notre Dame du Saguenay and stunning scenery is aboard a cruise boat with Les Croisieres du Fjord. Ah, simply a majestic landscape! Disembark in picturesque L’Anse-Saint-Jean for lunch before traveling the countryside to the charming village of La Malbaie for a 2-night stay at the 4-star Fairmont Manoir Richelieu copper roofed castle, turned luxury hotel. Relax this evening and connect with the

NB ME

Day 6: Whale Watching Cruise Parked at the foot of a dramatic fjord sits Tadoussac, a 416 year old historic town situated where warm fresh waters of the Saguenay mix with the frigid, salt waters of the St. Lawrence River and attract krill, which attracts whales! Board a “croissiers” (cruise) boat for a narrated whale watching cruise. Enjoy a meal at 1870 Hotel Tadoussac, a landmark resort on a beautiful bay and explore the island including the Tadoussac Chapel, built in 1747 is the oldest wooden church in Canada. B, L

Day 7: Charlevoix to Quebec City Tour the factory of Laiterie Charlevoix and learn how the terrain and culture of Baie-St-Paul cultivates a sustainable cheese enterprise. Arrive Rue Saint-JeanBaptiste “main street” to stroll, shop or enjoy eats. Enroute to Quebec City, visit the family owned Copper Art Museum and learn how copper ore is transformed into beautiful art. A special treat is planned for a traditional sugar shack dinner meal with live entertainment and poured “taffy on snow” for dessert! Unpack for a 2-night stay in Quebec City. B, D

July 16-24, 2017

Per person rates* double $2898 triple/quad $2617 single $3634

* Includes roundtrip airfare from MCI

Featuring two-night stays in Montreal, Charlevoix and Quebec City!

Great variety. Something new every day! This was our first trip and it was very nice. We will be repeat customers!

- Sheryl and Roger H. 2015 Canadian Whale Route

Day 8: Quebec City Freestyle Day This morning, a local expert joins our coach for an informative tour of the most European of North American cities, Quebec City. See the massive stone architecture and the heavily fortified walls and charm of Old Que- Fairmont Manoir Richelieu, 2 night stay bec City. The rest of the day is yours to explore this re- Combine this tour with markable UNESCO World Heritage treasure. Perhaps Shores of Lake Ontario you will shop in the cobblestone streets of Old Town, on page 17 or Bar Harride the Funiculaire, visit historical sites of interest or bor on page 21 and simply relax while dining in a café. B Day 9: Au Revoir! Flight home from Quebec City. B

take $400 off the combined per person rate!

19


Pacific Northwest & Canadian Rockies Day 1: Arrive in Seattle, Washington Fly into Seattle for dinner and overnight stay. D

cellent opportunities to view beaver, elk, and osprey July 22-Aug. 1 2017 complete with up close views of Three Sisters MounPer person rates* tain and some of the tallest peaks in the Rockies Front range. Arrive for a 2-night stay at the Banff Caribou double $3579 triple/quad $3213 Lodge & Spa. B, D

Day 2: Boeing Tour & Vancouver, BC Enjoy a guided tour of the world’s largest building by volume, the Boeing Factory. Cross the border into Canada and join our local guide for a tour of the bustling British Columbia seaport city of Vancouver. Check in for a 2-night stay at the four-diamond River Rock Casino Resort, overlooking the Fraser River. B, D

single $4509

Day 6: Athabasca Glacier Join our local guide for a scenic journey north on the Icefield Parkway into Jasper National Park. Experience the azure blue waters of the glacier-fed Peyto Lake and explore the most photographed spot in the Canadian Rockies, Lake Louise. Enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience during a “snow coach” trek onto the surface of Athabasca Glacier, part of the largest icefield in the Canadian Rockies. B, D

Day 3: Vancouver Island, BC Ferry over to Vancouver Island and experience an explosion of color at the world-famous Butchart Gardens, featuring 55 acres of stunning and meticulously kept gardens. Enjoy lunch overlooking the beautiful rose garden before an afternoon of leisure to explore British Columbia’s capital city, Victoria, with an ocean or mountain vista around every corner. B, L

Day 7: Kootenay National Park, BC Travel through Kootenay National Park, filled with icy mountain rivers and steamy hot springs, to Radium Hot Springs, BC for a European luncheon at Helna’s Stube Restaurant. Cross back into the United States and unpack for a 2-night stay in Whitefish, Montana. B, L

Day 4: Revelstoke, BC Journey along the scenic Trans-Canada Highway to the inland mountains of British Columbia for an overnight stay nestled between the crystal clear waters of Three Valley Lake and sheer cliffs of the Monashee Mountains in Revelstoke. Step back in time to the pioneer days of a typical 1800’s British Columbia western town during a guided tour and BBQ Dinner. B, D

Day 8: Glacier National Park Board the narrated “red bus jammers” for a journey along the Going-to-the-Sun-Road, the only road that crosses Glacier National Park. Enjoy the fresh air and views of Glacier’s pristine forests, alpine meadows, rugged mountains and spectacular lakes. After lunch in the park, enjoy an afternoon of leisure to experience Whitefish’s laid-back western vibe. B, L

Day 5: Bow River Float Trip and Banff, Alberta Travel through Rogers Pass, Glacier and Yoho National Parks into Banff National Park, Canada’s oldest national park. Enjoy the grandeur of the Canadian Rocky Mountains while floating on the Bow River with experienced river guides. This leisurely float offers exFirst night

Highlight

Last night

Tour route

Overnight

Flight route

Athabasca Glacier Lake Louise 1

Revelstoke

2

Vancouver

2

Banff

11

AB

BC

Glacier National Park

WA

Seattle

Day 9: Cascade Mountains, Washington Travel through Coeur D’Alene National Forest and the fertile farmlands of Wenatchee Valley to Leavenworth, WA nestled in the heart of the Cascade Mountains. Enjoy dinner with German entertainment and an overnight stay at the charming Bavarian Lodge. Herzlich Willkommen! B, D

2

Whitefish

Leavenworth 1

ID

MT

Day 10: Leavenworth and Cashmere, Washington Learn about the cycle-of-life for wild salmon during a guided tour of the Leavenworth Fish Hatchery before a visit to the historic Cashmere Museum and Pioneer Village. After a scenic drive through the Cascades, enjoy a final overnight stay near Seattle. B, D Day 11: Return flight Fly home from Seattle. B

* Includes roundtrip airfare from MCI

The Rocky Mountains roll on for a thousand miles with snowcapped peaks, thick forests and clear glacial lakes. Banff was the first of the Canadian Rockies’ National Parks established in 1885. Join us as we explore this incredibly majestic region. Combine this tour with Yellowstone & more on page 18 or Washington Waterways on page 22 and take $450 off the combined per person rate!

…thanks for making the tour of the Northwest and Canada such a success. The meals and hotels were wonderful. We enjoyed all the beautiful scenery and…look forward to another trip in the near future. - B. and T. Ringer

20


Bar Harbor & the Canadian Maritime Provinces

Day 1: Fly to Boston area Board a flight for Boston and travel north to Bangor, ME for a two night stay. D

Day 5: Baddeck After a leisurely 2 2 Baddeck breakfast, take QB Saint Caribou time to explore John Ferry 1 more of historic Halifax 2 Bangor Bay of Fundy 2 downtown HaliAugusta VT Cruise 1 fax on your own. Peggy’s Cove Acadia NS Day 2: Bar Harbor Continue our jourNational Park NH First night Depart this morning for ney to Baddeck. Highlight Last night picturesque Bar Harbor, Spend the next Tour route Overnight Maine. Nowhere along 2-nights at the SilBoston Fly in/out of Boston the Atlantic seaboard ver Dart Lodge, a MA is the “stern and rockhuge hit with past bound coast” more picturesque than Acadia National Sunrise travelers, and experience the warm Cape BretPark! A scenic carriage ride through the park enhances on hospitality. B, D our visit to this enchanting area. Enjoy a delightful dinner at the Jordan Pond House. B, D Day 6: Cabot Trail Spend the day on one of Canada’s most famous sceDay 3: Bay of Fundy Ferry nic drives – The Cabot Trail. Stop to visit the “hookers” With passports in hand we are off to St. John, NB to making rugs, and take many photos from viewpoints board a ferry for a cruise across the Bay of Fundy, one high above the Atlantic Ocean. B, L of Canada’s Natural Wonders. Enroute, you may spot a whale playing in the high tides before arriving in coast- Day 7: Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island al Digby, Nova Scotia. From there travel across scenic Visit the Alexander Graham Bell Museum before travNova Scotia before arriving in Halifax for a two night eling by ferry to Prince Edward Island for a two-night stay at the Courtyard by Marriott. B, D stay in Charlottetown. B, D

ME

NB

Day 4: Peggy’s Cove and Hailfax Today is full of history and fun, so, bring your cameras and sunglasses! This morning, make the journey to picturesque Peggy’s Cove to visit the rustic charm of this famous fishing village and lighthouse. A local guide will lead us back to Halifax to explore its legacy and charm. B, D

Charlottetown

Cabot Trail

July 25-Aug. 4, 2017 Per person rates* double $3129 triple/quad $2856 single $3799 * Includes roundtrip flight from MCI

Combine this tour with Canadian Whale on page 19 or combine with Cape Cod on page 23 and take $450 off the combined rate!

Day 8: Prince Edward Island Explore this intriguing island and visit an Anne of Green Gables site, see some of the famous coastline and travel through the quaint villages. Enjoy Charlottetown waterfront before dinner and a performance at the Confederation of the Arts Centre (Show TBD). B, D Day 9: St. John, NB Cross the Confederation Bridge into New Brunswick where we see two natural phenomena –the Reversing Falls and the Hopewell Rocks – you have to see them to believe them! This evening dine at the historic Union Club, which was founded in 1884, before checking into the luxurious Chateau Saint John. B, D Day 10: St. Andrews Today, visit the charming town of St. Andrews before we continue on to central Maine. Enjoy a farewell dinner at the Governor Hill Mansion, a grand Colonial Revival home built with brick from St. Louis! B, D Day 11: Return flight home B

Lobster boats on Prince Edward Island

21


Washington’s Waterways & Olympic National Park

Day 1: Pacific Northwest Fly to Seattle, WA, enjoy dinner and get settled in Hotel Murano, Tacoma for a 4-night stay. This full-service boutique hotel is rated as one of the best in the northwest by Conde’ Nast Magazine. D Day 2: Emerald City Home to Microsoft, Starbucks, and a burgeoning food culture, Seattle’s hip and vibrant culture promises an engaging day! A local guide will share historical narration and include visits to the colorful waterfront and pioneer square. Visit Pike’s Place Market to watch the fish fly at the nation’s oldest farmer market before ascending into the iconic Space Needle for spectacular views. B, D

Day 3: Mount Rainier National Park Mount Rainier is the highest mountain in the Cascade Range boasting wildflower meadows and waterfalls from its glacier-clad peaks. Board the Mt. Rainier steam train for a scenic ride across the glacial fed Upper Nisqually River in the foothills of Mt. Rainier. With our personal expert, learn of the mountains’ secrets and stories as we travel up to Paradise to enjoy lunch in the Lodge and sweeping mountain views! Before, trekking down, take time to breathe in the fresh air and explore the Henry M Jackson Visitor Center. Keep your camera ready for the possible bear cub sighting! B, L Day 4: Chihuly Feeling creative? Tacoma is home to the Museum of Glass and our guided tour of the vibrant gallery includes a unique hands on glass making experience. Cross the Chihuly Bridge of Glass filled with artist’s glass works and see the inspiration behind their work. Celebrate America’s love affair with the automobile at LeMay’s America’s Car Museum, opened in 2012, a popular attraction featuring classic antique cars dating from 1903. B, D Day 5: Olympic National Park Explore a place of remarkable beauty and diversity. The park sprawls across several dramatic ecosystems encompassing glacier-capped mountains, rain forests and a wild coastline. As we travel through the park, view sea stacks on the beach, the rainforest and a glacier carved lake comprising this Biosphere Reserve and World Heritage Site. Tour the lush Quinault Rainforest with an interpretive guide and enjoy dinner and an

overnight stay at the park’s pinnacle Lake Crescent Lodge. With accommodations in the park, take time August 3-11, 2017 to enjoy the spectacular scenery. B, D Per person rates*

Day 6: Island Livin’ Get another peek of Olympic National park with a trek up the mountain to the Hurricane Ridge visitor center boasting spectacular views of snow-capped peaks from this famous vista. Arrive in Port Townsend with time to leisurely explore main street with charming Victorian homes on one side and the Puget Sound on the other. Aboard the ferry, cross the Sound to Whidbey Island. Surrounded by water racing through the narrow passage below, cross the Deception Pass State Bridge to unpack for a 2-night stay at Swinomish Lodge where the natural beauty of the Bay and Channel offer a relaxing stay. B, L

double $2825 triple/quad $2549 single $3529

* Includes roundtrip airfare from MCI

This was my first experience with Sunrise Tours and I was very impressed with this trip!

Day 7: San Juan Islands National Monument Boat Cruise Once a mountain range, now an archipelago, the 100 Chris O. million year old San Juan Islands feature spectacular 2015 Washington’s scenery and wildlife. Board a cruise boat and relax as Waterways an experienced wildlife guide navigates the waters of the San Juan Islands to view Orca Whales while sharing the history of the area. Enjoy lunch San Juan Islands Boat Cruise on board the boat followed by a 2 Swinomish Lodge Friday shore visit to the vibrant seaside Museum of Flight Harbor 1 Seattle Port 1 town of Friday Harbor filled with 4 Tacoma Angeles shops, galleries and the largest Chihuly Olympic Glass whale museum in the Northwest. National Mt Rainier Mt Rainier Return to the hotel for an evening Park Railroad at leisure to relax or try your hand at lady luck in the casino. B, L First night

Last night Day 8: Future of Flight Overnight Arrive in Mukilteo, WA and marvel as millions of parts and pieces are Highlight transformed into a modern aircraft at the Future of Flight-Aviation Center. Our customized docent led tour explores the evolution of flight. Learn the history and operations of 100-year-old Ballard Locks, our Nation’s busiest “locking through” of nearly 50,000 vessels per year. At the visitor center, catch a glimpse of Sockeye Salmon migrating up the Cedar River Watershed to spawn. Relax at a farewell dinner and overnight stay in Seattle. B, D

Day 9: Return flight home from Seattle B

Tour route Flight in/out of Seattle

WA

Combine this tour with Pacific Northwest on page 20 or Wonders of Oregon on page 24 and take $450 off the combined per person rate!

22


Cape Cod and More! Day 1: Fly into Boston Arrive in Boston and check into area hotel for a twonight stay. D

the timeless and enchanting Martha’s Vineyard; rich in history, inspiration, Boston 2 Hyannis creativity, and beauty. NY Accompanied by a local Day 2: Boston guide, visit the island’s 3 Providence 1 Enjoy a full day with a local treasures - the picturRI CT guide as we explore historic esque whaling communidowntown Boston. So much Newport Martha’s ty of Edgartown, the lacy NJ history and culture in this gingerbread Vineyard Victorian city, including the site of the cottages of Oak Bluffs, Boston Massacre, the Paul the magnificent stone Highlight First night Revere House and the USS walls surrounding ocean Last night Tour route Constitution! B, D view fields of Chilmark to the grand cliffs of AquinOvernight Flight route Day 3: Plymouth and Cape nah (Gay Head), the rustic Cod feel of West Tisbury, and Visit historic Plymouth for the port town of Vineyard a look at the “rock” and embark on a half day whale Haven. Martha’s Vineyard has something to offer evwatching cruise! Embrace Cape Cod for a 3-night stay eryone. B, D at the brand new Fairfield Inn and Suites Cape Cod and dine at a local favorite tonight, Alberto’s Restaurante. Day 6: Newport, RI B, D Visit the coastal town of Newport, RI, the onetime summer home of America’s Day 4: Cape Cod millionaires. Tour one of Tour Cape Cod with a local these opulent “cottages”, guide, view picturesque windThe Breakers, which is a mills, lighthouses, Cape Cod symbol of the Vanderbilt National Seashore Park and family’s social and finanmore. There will be plenty of cial preeminence in turn of time to shop, stroll, and peothe century America. Enjoy ple watch in quaint Provincesome free time in historic town. This evening take in the downtown before traveling serene beauty of Cape Cod at to Providence, RI for overdinner. B, D night stay B, D

VT

NH

MA

Day 5: Martha’s Vineyard Board the ferry for a ride to Cape Cod, MA

August 4-10, 2017 Per person rates* double $2209 triple/quad $2014 single $2708

* Includes roundtrip airfare from MCI

Combine this tour with Bar Harbor on page 21 and take $450 off the combined per person rate! Favorite chowder: Lobster Pot in Provincetown, Brent

This was my first trip with Sunrise and I think it was wonderful! I will travel again and recommend it! - Carol S. 2016 Cape Cod

Day 7: Return home Return flight home. B

“Sunsational” Central Missouri

featuring Arrow Rock, Jefferson City and a view of the total Solar Eclipse! Day 1: Arrow Rock Lyceum Theatre Laugh and be merry as you enjoy a Sunday matinee performance of comedy “The Greater Tuna” in the historic Lyceum Theatre in Arrow Rock followed by a delicious dinner. Then travel to Missouri’s capital, Jefferson City, for an overnight stay. D Day 2: Jefferson City, Solar Eclipse Enjoy a tour of the Missouri State Penitentiary 18362004, known as the “Alcatraz of the Midwest”. Next, we join others to revel in a once in a lifetime experience, an early afternoon total eclipse of the sun. We will be on the pathway the solar eclipse will take across the United States from Oregon to South Carolina and across Missouri from St. Joseph to Ste. Genevieve/Per-

ryville. Don your provided glasses and watch the sun disappear except for its glowing corona (weather per- August 20-21, 2017 mitting of course). B Per person rates

double $329 triple/quad $306 single $400

NE

WT OU

R!

23 23


Wonders of Oregon Day 1: Flight into the Northwest Enjoy a welcome dinner and unpack for a 2-night stay in Portland, OR area. D Day 2: Portland The city of Portland has a regular spot on the “top places to live” lists. Discover why as our local guide shows us the city including stops at the famous International Rose Test Gardens. Enjoy a spectacular drive along the scenic byway of the Columbia River Gorge and into the foothills of Mount Hood. Stops include the gorgeous, 620 foot Multnomah Falls for picturesque views and lunch at Timberline Lodge on top of Mount Hood! B,L Day 3: To the Coast Oregon’s pristine, public coastline is made up of diverse terrain that changes from rugged cliffs to evergreen forests to Sahara-like dunes and boundless sandy beaches. See coastal cities such as Cannon Beach and Tillamook with a visit to the Tillamook Cheese Factory. This evening arrive in Newport to check into the oceanfront Elizabeth Street Inn for a 2-night stay. Each room features a view of the Pacific Ocean, balcony and warm cookies in the evening! B, D Day 4: Newport Board the 65’ Discovery for a marine discovery cruise. Whales, sea lions, sea birds, seals, lighthouses and an historic bridge will be visible during our naturalist-led cruise. After the cruise, enjoy lunch at the Oregon Coast Aquarium before free time to explore and perhaps even catch a sea lion feeding! Enjoy leisure time to shop and browse the Newport quaint shops or visit Yaquina Head Lighthouse before returning to the Inn. This evening we will enjoy a beachfront bonfire while gazing upon the stars! (weather permitting) B, L

Portland 2 1 2

Mount Hood

Newport

OR

Marine Giant Dune Cruise Buggy Ride 1

Bandon

1

Crater Lake Lodge

Hellgate Canyon 2 Ashland Cruise Shakespeare Festival Production

First night

Day 5: Sand Dunes Travel south on Hwy 101 to Florence, OR, home to some of the world’s largest sand dunes, for a scenic Giant Dune Buggy tour. Continuing down the lighthouse dotted coast, arrive in Bandon, OR for a visit with an amazing organization whose works take ocean pollution and create art. Washed Ashore truly is saving the sea! Dinner and an overnight stay at the Bandon Inn. B, D Day 6: Hellgate Canyon on the Rogue River Badgers, bobcats and bears, oh my! Are just a few of the rehabilitated animals you will visit at the Wildlife Images Sanctuary. Board a boat for a guided excursion into Hellgate Canyon on the Rogue River amidst remarkable rock shapes carved by the river’s hydraulics. This is the canyon where John Wayne and Katherine Hepburn filmed “Rooster Cogburn”. Our boat cruise will include a country BBQ dinner at the O.K. Corral. Unpack your bags for 2 nights at the Ashland Hills Hotel in Ashland, OR. B, D Day 7: Ashland Enjoy a relaxing morning in your suite at the hotel which sits on 14 acres in scenic southern Oregon. You may want to shop the Ashland Saturday Market featuring fresh produce, crafts and delicious goodies. Ashland is also home to the Tony Award winning Oregon Sheakespeare Festival. Attend a production (TBD) that will include a prologue or backstage tour for an enhanced experience. B, L Day 8: Crater Lake Lodge Unpack your camera and travel east through the Umpqua National Forest, featuring verdant stands of hemlock and fir trees, to Crater Lake National Park. Deep, pure, and brilliantly blue in color, Crater Lake is a jaw-dropping scenic Oregon icon and one of the most photographed lakes in the country! Our evening includes dinner and an overnight stay at the incomparable Crater Lake Lodge. Be sure to take in a glimpse of the starry sky without all of the city lights! B, D

Last night Overnight Highlight Tour route Flight in/out of Portland

August 13-22, 2017 Per person rates* double $2998 triple/quad $2689 single $3799 * Includes roundtrip flight from MCI

Oregon has a strikingly scenic coast, volcanic mountains, crystal clear lakes, deserts, world-class diverse dining and folks who are proud of their home! Join us as we explore wonders of Oregon. Combine this tour with Washington Waterways on page 22 or Northwest Coast on page 25 and take $450 off the combined per person rate!

Sunrise does it right! Great trip! Lots of beautiful scenery and a great variety of activities. We continue to be amazed at how well the daily schedule is timed and coordinated. Day 9: Cascade Mountains Sherry M., After breakfast at Crater Lake Lodge, we will 2012 OR Coast & travel scenic byways through the Willamette National Forest and Cascade Mountains to- Crater Lake

wards the Portland area for dinner and an overnight stay. B, D Day 10: Return flight from Portland B

24


Northwest Coast

Travel south from Portland to San Francisco and discover the magic of this corner of the world where August 22-31, 2017 the coastal terrain is a beautiful combination of sandy beaches, towering rock cliffs and an endless Per person rates* array of marine creatures and remarkable tall trees. double $3189 Day 1: Fly to Portland, Oregon See the canyon where John Wayne and Katherine triple/quad $2823 Fly into Portland and unpack for a 2-night stay. D Hepburn filmed “Rooster Cogburn” before dinner and single $4154 overnight stay in Crescent City, CA. B, D

Day 2: Mt. Hood and Columbia River Gorge Join our local guide on a Columbia River Gorge tour through Mt. Hood National Forest to the 620 foot waterfall at Multnomah Falls. Enjoy a ranger-guided tour and lunch at the National Historic Landmark Timberline Lodge perched 6,000 feet above sea level. Stop at the Vista House at Crown Point for sweeping views of the Columbia River Gorge. B, L Day 3: Newport, Oregon Head west to the legendary Pacific Coast Highway 101. Enjoy a leisurely walk along Cannon Beach and see “Haystack Rock”, a geological Oregon landmark. Take a self-guided tour and sample some of the awardwinning products at Tillamook Cheese Factory. Visit the “Whale Watching Capitol of the Oregon Coast,” Depoe Bay, and watch for the resident pod of Gray Whales. Enjoy a 2-night stay with private ocean view balconies at the Elizabeth Street Inn. B, D Day 4: Oregon Coast Board the 65’ Discovery for a marine discovery cruise. Whales, sea lions, sea birds, seals, lighthouses and more will be explored during our naturalist-led cruise. Visit the top attraction on the Oregon Coast, the Oregon Coast Aquarium, for a behind-the-scenes tour and lunch overlooking the Passages of the Deep exhibit. Marvel at spectacular ocean views from the tallest lighthouse in Oregon, Yaquina Head Lighthouse. This evening, enjoy a beachfront bonfire with s’mores. (weather permitting) B, L Day 5: Sand Dunes Travel south along the coast past the Heceta Head Lighthouse, the most photographed lighthouse on the Pacific Coast. Stop in Florence, OR to experience an exhilarating Giant Dune Buggy Ride up and over the massive sand dunes that characterize this coastal area. Enjoy dinner at McMenamins Breweries, located in a historic train station, and overnight stay in Roseburg, OR. B, D Day 6: Hellgate Canyon Board a boat for a guided excursion of Hellgate Canyon on Rogue River. Travel amidst close-ups of remarkable rock shapes carved by the river’s hydraulics.

* Includes roundtrip airfare from MCI

Day 7: Magnificent Redwoods Grab your camera and feast your eyes on the magnifiSame price as 2016! cent redwoods from the trails below and from an aerial view during a gondola ride at the Trees of Mystery. Stop at both Redwood National Park and Humboldt State Park to walk among the tallest living things on earth for a truly magical experience. Overnight in Wil- Combine this tour with lits, CA. B, D

Wonders of Oregon on page 24 or Mid-CaliDay 8: Scenic Train Ride Board the famous Skunk Train, a steam engine in op- fornia on page 28 and eration for 131 years. Travel as the train did in 1885 take $450 off the comfrom Willits to Northspur chugging along through the bined per person rate! beautiful redwoods. Bring your camera as common sightings include blue heron, egrets, osprey, ducks and the occasional lounging turtle. Did you know the trains were nicknamed for their original gas engines, which prompted folks to say “you can smell ‘em before you can see Portland ‘em”? In the midst of the Red2 Columbia wood Forest, enjoy a delicious caRiver Gorge tered BBQ lunch. Cross over the 2 Newport bay on the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and unpack your bags for Dune Buggy Ride a 2-night stay at the Embassy Suites San Francisco Airport - Wa1 Roseburg terfront. B, L, hot apps

OR

Hellgate Jetboat

Day 9: San Francisco 1 Crescent First night City It’s off to explore the “city by the Last night bay” with our local guide. We’ll see the architecture of the city, Overnight CA Chinatown, Golden Gate Park, Highlight Nob Hill, Cable Cars and many Tour route 1 Willits Skunk breathtaking views of the bay Flight route Train and the bridges. Enjoy some leisure time and lunch in Sausalito 2 San Francisco this afternoon before returning to Pier 43 ½ to board a comfortable boat for a narrated Golden Gate Bay Cruise featuring views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island. B, L hot apps Day 10: Return home Return flight home from San Francisco. B

25


Day 1: South Sioux City, NE Saddle up for our Dakota Adventure! Depart mid-day and travel to South Sioux City, NE for dinner and an overnight stay at the Marina Inn Hotel. D

The Dakotas

Day 6: Exploring Medora Join our local expert for a 1 guided tour of Theodore Bismarck MT Roosevelt National Park, MN a habitat for bison, elk and prairie dogs where the SD Laura Ingalls Great Plains meets the rugWilder Memorial Rapid Pierre Mount City Day 2: Sioux Falls, SD ged Badlands. Return to 1 Rushmore 2 Minuteman Sioux Falls, the largest city in South Medora for an afternoon Missile Silo Dakota, is our first stop in the Daat leisure to explore this Custer kotas. Take a guided tour of the authentic Old West cow Badlands National Park State Park IA U.S.S. South Dakota Battleship town. Enjoy the nationally 11 Sioux City WY 1 1 First & last nights Memorial, commemorating the acclaimed Pitchfork Steak lead ship of her class in the United Fondue dinner before we Overnight NE States Navy from 1942 to 1947. Afmosey over to the BurnHighlight ter a visit to the triple waterfall at ing Hills Amphitheatre for Tour route Falls Park, travel to the setting of a live performance of the six Laura Ingalls Wilder books, De musical variety show, MeSmet, for a guided tour and the dora Musical. B, D chance to relive the pioneer days of growing up on the Dakota prairie. Overnight in Pierre, SD. B, D Day 7: Bismarck, ND Journey across North Dakota to the capital city of BisDay 3: Badlands National Park marck. Experience the state’s 600 million years of geoAfter a guided tour of the South Dakota State Capitol logic past during a visit to the North Dakota Heritage building, head south through the Fort Pierre National Center. Enjoy a catered lunch at the Heritage Center Grassland and visit the Minuteman Missile National before heading to Fargo for our overnight stay. B, L Historic Site. This one-of-a-kind site presents the history and significance of the Cold War arms race. Be- Day 8: Sisseton, SD hold the rugged beauty of Badlands National Park, Travel to Moorhead, MN to tour the Hjemkomst Interwhere striking geologic deposits contain one of the pretive Center including a Hopperstad Stave Church world’s richest fossil beds. Arrive for a 2-night stay in replica and the Hjemkomst Viking Ship. Head into Rapid City. B, D South Dakota for a stop at the Redlin Art Center to experience the work of artist Terry Redlin, then back to Day 4: Black Hills South Sioux City, NE for an overnight stay. B, D Enjoy spectacular views of the Black Hills of South Dakota as we take a jeep tour amidst herds of buffalo Day 9: Return home and elk through Custer State Park. After lunch at the Return home mid-day with a greater appreciation of State Game Lodge, visit Crazy Horse Memorial and the days of yore in the Wild West. B the iconic Mt. Rushmore National Monument, including a unique view and photo stop at the side profile of George Washington. B, L Medora 2

ND

Fargo

Day 5: Medora, ND Get an up-close view of over 20 species of North American mammals at the drive-through wildlife park, Bear Country USA. See firsthand where legendary Wild Bill Hickok, Calamity Jane and other gold rush characters walked and were laid to rest during a guided tour of the wildest town in the west, historic Deadwood. Head north to the North Dakota Badlands for a BBQ cookout and 2-night stay at the historic Rough Riders Hotel in the heart of downtown Medora. B, D Badlands National Park

August 23-31, 2017 Per person rates double $1868 triple/quad $1657 single $2394

This tour was great! Couldn’t have asked for anything more. Fully above my expectations in every way. -Shirley H. 2016 Dakotas

Little-known jewel: Custer State Park, Deb

Did you know?

- North Dakota has recently been ranked the friendliest state in the U.S., according to Cambridge University. - South Dakota has one of the largest Native American populations, with nine official tribes.

26


Alaska Cruisetour

See Alaska by land and sea on this cruisetour adventure with Holland America. Featuring a 2- night Aug. 24-Sept. 3, 2017 stay in Denali, a scenic ride aboard a domed rail car and a seven night cruise aboard the MS Zaandam, accommodating 1432 passengers creating the feel of a small ship but with large ship amenities. Per person rates Day 1: Anchorage Fly into Anchorage and transfer for an overnight stay.

Day 7: Haines/Skagway The best of two ports — stay in Haines for an uncrowded experience, or go to Skagway for excursions and shopping. B, L, D

Day 2: Denali National Park Board the luxurious domed rail cars of the McKinley Explorer to Denali for a two night stay at this magnificent national treasure. Day 3: Denali National Park Today features the unforgettable Tundra Wilderness Tour. This 6-8 hour fully narrated sightseeing excursion is a deep dive into Denali National Park — the very best chance of seeing both the mountain itself and Denali’s iconic wildlife. Day 4: Seward Enjoy some of Alaska’s most spectacular scenery via deluxe motorcoach to Seward where you will embark your ship. L, D Day 5: At Sea (Gulf of Alaska) Enjoy a leisurely day of cruising. B, L, D Day 6: Glacier Bay Cruise the ice-studded fjords of this national treasure for a full eight hours as a Park Service Ranger narrates. B, L, D

Day 8: Juneau Enjoy a full day of exploring Alaska’s capital — choose from exciting shore excursions and still have time to shop. B, L, D Day 9: Ketchikan Explore this uniquely Alaskan port, famous for its rich native culture, salmon fishing, and scenic Misty Fjords. B, L, D

(based on double occupancy)

Inside cabin $3483 Outside cabin $3703 Balcony $5023

• Includes airfare, cruise fare, port charges, hotel, activities and meals as indicated. Does not include optional insurance. • Deposit of $1200 per stateroom due with reservation • Final payment due May 24, 2017 • Please call for single or triple rates • Sunrise tour manager (minimum number of passengers required)

Day 10: At Sea Relax and enjoy a full day of scenic Inside Passage cruising and immerse yourself in Holland America Line elegance. B, L, D Day 11: Vancouver Disembark the cruise ship this morning in Vancouver and catch return flight home. B McKinley Explorer domed rail car

27


Mid-California Day 1: Monterey, CA Fly into San Francisco and head to the Monterey Peninsula, wrapped by the Pacific Ocean on three sides. Check in for a 2-night stay at the Best Western Plus Victorian Inn. D Day 2: Exploring Monterey Get up close and personal with sea otters, penguins, sharks, jellies and more during a visit to the worldrenowned Monterey Bay Aquarium. Board Monterey Movie Tours’ multimedia luxury motor coach for a scenic tour of Monterey, Pacific Grove, and the stunning 17-mile drive in Pebble Beach, complete with scenes from some of the 200 movies filmed in the area and a stop at the world famous Pebble Beach Golf Club. Enjoy free time to explore the charming shops and boutiques in historic Cannery Row, made famous by local author John Steinbeck. B, D Day 3: Carmel by the Sea Visit Carmel by the Sea and the Carmel Mission, a US National Historic Landmark and the only California Mission that has its original bell tower. Enjoy free time to explore scenic Carmel, an artist colony turned chic coastal community that claims Clint Eastwood as a former mayor. Continue south to Cambria, CA and check into Cambria Pines Lodge, nestled amid 25 acres of world-class gardens and Monterey pine forest, for a two-night stay. B, D Day 4: Hearst Castle Travel back in time to Hearst Castle, the legendary “Enchanted Hill” estate surrounded by 127 acres of gardens, terraces and pools. Take a guided tour of the Castle’s opulent social rooms filled with 25,000 artifacts before exploring the serene gardens and estate grounds. Stop at the San Simeon Elephant Seal Rookery and marvel at some of the 17,000 elephant

seals who call this section of the beach their home. EnAug. 31-Sept. 7, 2017 joy leisure time in the seaside village of Cambria before Per person rates* returning to the Lodge for a delicious dinner. B, D

double $2498

Day 5: Morro Bay triple/quad $2260 Continue south along Hwy 1 to the Gibraltar of the Pa- single $3112 cific, Morro Bay, to board the two-story Chablis river- * Includes roundtrip boat for a relaxing cruise on beautiful Morro Bay Har- airfare from MCI bor. Highlights of Solvang, settled in 1911 by a Danish group of settlers tired of Midwest winters, include a copy of the famous Little Mermaid statue of Copenhagen San Francisco and Mission Santa Ines, one of the original 21 California Mis- Carmel First night sions. Enjoy beautiful ocean Last night Overnight views as we continue south on 2 Monterey Highlight CA 101 to Santa Barbara, the CA Tour route coastal epicenter of “AmeriHearst ca’s Riviera”, for a two-night Castle 2 Cambria stay. B, L Day 6: Exploring Santa BarSolvang Santa bara 2 Barbara Nestled between the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Santa Barbara’s Mediterranean climate has beckoned visitors for generations. Enjoy a guided tour of Santa Barbara including the historic Granada Theater, hilltop Mission Santa Barbara, and Stearns Wharf, the hub of Santa Barbara’s waterfront since its construction in 1872. A visit to the area wouldn’t be complete without a wine tasting! Visit Santa Barbara Winery, one of the pioneers in winemaking in this world-renowned viticultural area, before some free time to explore the waterfront shops and cafes of Santa Barbara. B, D Day 7: Los Angeles Enjoy an early lunch in Malibu before exploring the Getty Villa. Dedicated to ancient Greek and Roman exhibitions, the Getty Villa is a world class museum set in the scenic hills above Malibu. Continue to Santa Monica and enjoy a walk on the famous Pier, a landmark on the Pacific for over 100 years, or kick off your shoes and take a stroll in the sand of the wide beaches of the Santa Monica State Beach. Overnight near Los Angeles Airport. B, L Day 8: Return Home Fly home from Los Angeles. B

View from 17-mile drive

1

Los Angeles

Combine this tour with California National Parks on page 30 or Northwest Coast on page 25 and take $450 off the combined per person rate!

28


Great American Music Tour Day 1: St. Louis Travel to St. Louis and visit the new National Blues Museum, dedicated to exploring the musical history and impact of the blues. Overnight in St. Louis. B, D

expansion in 2014, making it an essential stop in any IN music fan’s travels. Enjoy a tasty and “historic” cuKY linary tour of the Belle IL Meade Plantation, the International Bluegrass scenic location of one of Music Museum MO the most famous American thoroughbred farms First night TN of the 19th century. Tour Last night 2 the mansion and particiOvernight Day 2: Nashville & pate in cooking Southern Nashville 2 Memphis Opryland Hotel food classics for a delicious Highlight The International lunch and wine tasting. Graceland Tour route Bluegrass Music Enjoy a local guided tour MS AL Museum features of Nashville featuring the a Hall of Fame, State Capitol, Vanderbilt instrument display and exhibits of great bluegrass University and Music Row, home to hundreds of busimusicians like genre creator Bill Monroe. Explore the nesses catering to Nashville’s world renowned music history and hear a real bluegrass band before heading scene. B, L to Nashville with a song in your heart! Check into the legendary Opryland Hotel and relax in your room or Day 4: Memphis explore the 9 acres of lush gardens and indoor pools If Nashville is the current Music Capital of the World; at this iconic property. Enjoy dinner and then a show Memphis is the “birthplace of great American music”. (TBD) at the famous Grand Ole Opry, the heart and Travel to Memphis, home of fabulous Blues, Rock ‘n soul of country music. D Roll and Soul music. Take a peek inside the brand-new Bass Bro Shop erected in the Memphis Pyramid. EnDay 3: Country Music Hall of Fame joy local music and food on Beale Street located near Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame, an immersive hotel for two nights, the Doubletree Memphis Downexperience of the sights and sounds of this uniquely town. B, D American form of music. Located in downtown Nashville, the Hall underwent a $100 million renovation and Day 5: Graceland Explore Graceland, Elvis Presley’s 14acre estate featuring his home, original business office, trophy building and Meditation Garden where Elvis and members of his family are laid to rest. Enjoy a local guided tour of Memphis with special attention paid to Elvis and the music that has made Memphis famous. Return to the hotel and enjoy free time to relax at the hotel, or visit the Memphis Music Hall of Fame (additional cost) located just 3 blocks from the hotel and featuring exhibits chronicling the careers of Jerry Lee Lewis, B.B. King, Al Green and of course, Elvis Presley. Your evening is free to explore bustling Beale Street, the center of Memphis’s culinary and music scene. B, L 1

St. Louis

Beale Street in Memphis, TN

Day 6: Return home B

NE

WT OU

R!

September 1-6, 2017 Per person rates double $1349 triple/quad $1216 single $1679

29


California National Parks & Las Vegas! Day 1: Fly into Sacramento, CA Make our way to the west on a flight to Sacramento, CA. D

nated national parks in our country, with our personal guide. These parks are home to giants: immense mountains, deep canyons and huge trees. Behold the oldest living thing in the world as you view the General Grant Tree, named the Nation’s Christmas Tree by Calvin Coolidge in 1926. Return to the Ranch for an evening of food and fun entertainment. B, L, D

Day 2: Yosemite National Park Experience California’s rich history on a guided tour of the state Capitol of the most populous state in the union. Travel south through central California to Yosemite National Park. Explore Mariposa, CA’s Old Town with its authentic adobe brick buildings and quaint shopping. After lunch in Mariposa, travel to El Portal to unpack your bags for a 2 night stay on the western edge of Yosemite featuring rooms overlooking the scenic Merced River. B, L

Day 6: Tumpisa Cross the edge of the Mojave Desert into Death Valley National Park. Named by Native Americans as “Tumpisa” meaning rock paint for its clay bottom, the Valley is known as having the lowest point in the western hemisphere. Our overnight stay puts us right in the center of the Park at the Furnace Creek Ranch! Take a swim in a spring fed pool and enjoy the stars which blanket the brilliant sky. B, D

Day 3: Yosemite Valley Awake to the impressive scenery and travel into the park to the award winning Majestic Lodge Dining Room in the heart of the Park for a gourmet lunch. Explore the rugged beauty of Yosemite Valley this afternoon aboard an open air tram and discover full views of waterfalls, deep valleys and rock formations! With such spectacular scenery it’s easy to understand why Yosemite is one of the nation’s most photographed parks. B, L

Yosemite View Lodge

Majestic (Ahwahnee) Lodge

2

Sugar Pine Railroad

Kings Canyon National Park

Wonder Valley Ranch

CA

First night

Yosemite National Park

2

Sequoia National Park

NV

Death Valley National Park 1

Furnace Creek Ranch

* Includes roundtrip airfare from MCI

Combine this tour with Canyonlands on page 33 or Mid-California on page 28 and take $450 off the combined per person rate!

Day 5: Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks After breakfast, it’s time to explore Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, the second and third desig-

Sacramento

Per person rates* double $2725 triple/quad $2529 single $3199

Day 7: Death Valley National Park Embark on a journey of a wonderland that stretches as far as the eye can see on a guided tour of Death Valley National Park. Our exclusive guide from the Field Institute will share Unique landscape of Death Valley National Park all the interesting features and stories of the Park including the stunning Mesquite Flats, Stovepipe Wells, Zabriskie Point and Badwater. This After tours with evening, travel to Las Vegas, NV and The Golden Nugother companies, I get for a 2-night stay. B, D

Day 4: Sugar Pine Train and Wonder Valley Ranch The sounds and scenes from the era of steam powered railroad logging come to life aboard the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad. After a delicious lunch, travel to Wonder Valley Ranch, nestled in the scenic Sierra Nevada foothills, for a 2-night stay. Tonight, mosey on over for some delicious ranch “grub”, enjoy a campfire with cowboy entertainment. B, L, D

1

Sept. 8-16, 2017

Last night Overnight Highlight Tour route Flight route

Las Vegas 2

Day 8: Spirited Las Vegas After a gourmet breakfast buffet, you have the option to spend the day in Las Vegas on your own or join us to see the spirited side of Las Vegas. An optional tour to the Valley of Fire State Park is planned. For those who choose to tag along, enjoy the beautiful vistas, unique stone formations, ancient trees and 3,000-year-old petroglyphs. Continue our excursion with a visit to Hoover Dam (additional expense). Return to Las Vegas for dinner. B, D Day 9: Return flight home B

have to say that Sunrise is the best. The choices of hotels and meals make Sunrise stand above the rest. Sandy S., 2015 California National Parks

30


Yellowstone, Badlands & Jackson

Day 1: Sioux City, IA Travel into Iowa for an overnight stay in Sioux City. D

Day 7: Jackson, WY Head south to Moose, Wyoming and follow your nose towards the aromatic campfire smoke to savor a good old fashioned Dornan’s Chuckwagon lunch. Enjoy a scenic float on the Snake River with the Grand Tetons as the backdrop and a narration about the region’s wildlife, history, and geology. Continue into historic Jackson for leisure time to explore Jackson Square. This evening, get ready to laugh and cry at the Broadway style production (show TBD) at the Jackson Hole Playhouse. Unpack for a 2-night stay in Jackson. B, L

Day 2: Rapid City, SD Explore the impressive Badlands of South Dakota today and enjoy dinner at the famous Wall Drug Store. Get comfortable for a 2-night stay in Rapid City in a suite at the western themed Comfort Suites. B, D Day 3: Rapid City, SD A local guide will take us to visit Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Monument and the Black Hills. Travel to Custer State Park featuring 71,000 acres of unspoiled land, pristine lakes and roaming buffalo. Enjoy a Buffalo Safari Jeep Tour into one of the largest herds of bison in North America. Enjoy lunch in the historic State Game Lodge where Presidents Eisenhower and Coolidge dined. B, L

Day 8: Jackson, WY Tour the National Museum of Wildlife Art boasting award-winning architecture and overlooking the National Elk Refuge. Enjoy free time this afternoon and evening to explore Jackson Hole at leisure and experience how this true western town keeps its Wild West spirit alive. B

Day 4: Cody, WY Depart Rapid City this morning and begin our trek to Cody, WY. Along the route, we will see Devil’s Tower and pass through the beautiful Big Horn Mountains. Tonight, we will relax in the comforts of Cody Cowboy Village, a luxury log cabin lodging located in Cody with all rooms attractively appointed with a cowboy/ western flair. This is the real thing...real log cabins with open beam ceilings. Cody is surrounded by scenic mountains to be enjoyed from the chairs on your cabin’s porch. Dinner and entertainment at the acclaimed Cody Cattle Company this evening. B, D

Day 11: Return home mid-day. B

2

Jackson

Rapid City

1

WY

WY Frontier Prison

UT

ND

MT

Cody Yellowstone Park 2

ID

Join us on an all motorcoach western tour featuring 2 nights in Yellowstone National Park, 2 nights in Jackson, WY, 2 nights in Rapid City and time to explore Cheyenne, WY where it is not strange to see a horse in town!

Day 10: Union Pacific Rail Line The East meets West on the Rail Line in North Platte, NE. Our visit to the Golden Spike Tower starts with a BBQ lunch then a guided tour of the Canteen and Tower whose bird’s eye view over the world’s largest railroad yard is impressive. More than 150 trains and 10,000 rail cars a day enter Bailey Yard. By the end, you will know why they call it “Golden Spike Tower”! Overnight in Lincoln, NE. B, L

Old Faithful Inn Snake River Scenic Float

Per person rates double $2678 triple/quad $2343 single $3551

Day 9: Cheyenne, WY On the way to Cheyenne, stop in Rawlins, WY for a guided tour of the Wyoming Frontier Prison whose colorful past is a remnant of the grizzly old west. Roll into Cheyenne for dinner and an overnight stay. B,D

Day 5: Yellowstone National Park Visit the Buffalo Bill Center of the West before traveling into Yellowstone Park. Unpack your bags for a 2-night stay at the newly remodeled Grant Village, located near the West Thumb inside the park, which affords us easy access to the many sites featured in “the first national park in the world”. B, D Day 6: Yellowstone comes alive! Bring your cameras and be prepared to enjoy the best of Yellowstone today with our own guide. Old Faithful! Geysers! Paint Pots! All in all, a day of geological wonders and plenty of wildlife. Enjoy dinner in the Old Faithful Inn this evening and time to explore the area afterwards. The Old Faithful Inn is one of the few remaining log hotels in the United States. Highlights include the 65-foot ceiling in the lobby and the rhyolite fireplace. B, D

Sept. 10-20, 2017

2

Custer State Park

Cheyenne 1

First night Last night Overnight Badlands National Park

NE

Golden Spike Tower

Highlight Tour route

SD 1

Sioux City 1

CO

Lincoln

31


Legendary Blue Danube River Cruise

Day 1: Depart the USA Overnight flight to Prague, Czech Republic. D, B in flight Day 2: Prague, Czech Republic Free day in Prague, “the city of a hundred spires”, and a welcome dinner. D

Day 9: Bratislava, Slovakia Enjoy a panoramic city tour of Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia and the former capital of Hungary, on the exclusively chartered Bratislava City Train for a unique touring experience. This evening, enjoy a Call for brochure musical performance onboard by local artists. B, L, D

on this cruise!

Day 3: City Tour of Prague Guided tour of Prague, including Old Town Square, the famous Astronomical Clock, the 9thcentury Prague, Wenceslas Square and the Charles Bridge. B

Day 4: Nuremberg, Germany Depart Prague by motorcoach for a city tour of Nuremberg and board the MV Emerald Sun, a 180-passenger capacity deluxe river cruise vessel built in 2015 and your home for the next seven nights. B, D Day 5: Regensburg Arrive in Regensburg, one of Germany’s best-preserved medieval cities, for a guided tour through the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, before continuing to Passau aboard the MV Emerald Sun. B, L, D Day 6: Passau, Germany and Salzburg, Austria Arrive in Passau, one of Germany’s oldest cities, situated at the confluence of the Inn, Ilz and Danube Rivers, for a guided walking tour through this beautiful and fascinating fairytale town that has a history dating back more than 2,000 years. This afternoon enjoy an optional excursion to Mozart’s birthplace, Salzburg, Austria. B, L, D Day 7: Melk and Dürnstein, Austria Join an optional excursion in Melk to visit the glorious and magnificent 900-year-old Benedictine Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which boasts a breathtakingly opulent Baroque interior. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the Wachau Valley as we cruise along the Danube River before arriving in Dürnstein— ”The Pearl of the Wachau” for a stroll through this pretty, medieval town. B, L, D Day 8: Vienna, Austria Enjoy a guided tour of Vienna, including the lavish Hofburg Palace, the impressive Vienna Opera House, the majestic Ringstrasse and Shönbrunn Palace. This evening, join an optional excursion for a musical concert in one of the famous music venues of the city. B, L, D

Day 10: Budapest, Hungary Enjoy a city tour of Budapest, which straddles both banks of the Danube linked by seven bridges, including the famous Chain and Elizabeth Bridges. Enjoy a photo stop at Gellert Hill, see historic Buda Castle, 500-year-old Matthias Church, Heroes Square, St. Stephen’s Basilica, the distinctive Fisherman’s Bastion and the marvelous Royal Palace. B, L, D Day 11: Budapest After disembarking the ship, enjoy a tour featuring the Parliament Building* and Opera House*. The tour concludes at the hotel with the remainder of the afternoon at leisure. B Day 12: Budapest / USA Bid a fond farewell to Europe and return home with memories of life enriching experiences from our cruise along the Danube River. B * If inside visits of the Parliament or Opera House are not available, a visit to the House of Terror historical museum will be provided. All staterooms offer river views and have a private bathroom and shower, hair dryer, radio, flatscreen TV, individually controlled heating and air conditioning, safe and telephone.

Wachau Valley

Sept. 11-22, 2017 Per person rates*

Riviera Deck (window): double $4984 single $6133 Vista Deck (indoor balcony): double $5284 single $6673 Horizon Deck (indoor balcony): double $5484 single $6993 Grand Balcony Suites (walk-out balcony): SOLD OUT Owners Suite (walk-out balcony): SOLD OUT * Pricing includes air if booked before 5/4/17. After that date, please call for pricing. Optional travel protection available for $429 per person.

Featuring custom Sunrise Tours Budapest extension.

32


Canyonlands of Southern Utah Day 1: Cedar City, UT Fly into Las Vegas and begin our journey west with a two-night stay in Cedar City, UT. D Day 2: Bryce Canyon National Park Discover the impressive but often missed Cedar Breaks National Monument, resting on top of the Colorado plateau and looking down into a half-mile deep geological amphitheater. Enjoy lunch at Bryce Canyon’s Lodge restaurant, rated one of the area’s best dining experiences, before exploring the park’s famous multicolored Hoodoos, a unique geological formation. B, L Day 3: Capitol Reef and Moab Visit Capitol Reef National Park, a hidden treasure known for the Waterpocket Fold, a 65 million yearold wrinkle in the Earth’s crust. After a picnic lunch amongst the park’s colorful canyons, domes and monoliths, and dessert at the Gifford House Store and Museum, head to the small resort town of Moab, UT for our two-night stay. Tonight’s treat, a hearty barbeque dinner followed by an exhilarating jet boat ride with Canyonlands by Night. B, L, D Day 4: Canyonlands National Park Explore the wilderness of countless canyons and buttes carved by the Colorado River with a guided tour of Canyonlands National Park. Visit one of the most photographed scenic sights, Dead Horse Point State Park, located 2,000 feet above a gooseneck in the Colorado River. After a riverside picnic lunch, discover the world’s largest concentration of natural stone arches at Arches National Monument. Explore Moab’s quaint western charm during your evening of leisure. B, L Day 5: From Monument Valley to Lake Powell Head to Monument Valley and learn about the Native American heritage of this area as we explore the back First night Last night Overnight

UT

Highlight Tour route Fly to/from Las Vegas

2

NV Las Vegas 1

Zion National Park

Kanab

Day 6: Grand Canyon – North Rim Take a guided tour of the country’s second largest concrete arch dam, Glen Canyon Dam, which holds back an amazing 26,215,000 acrefeet of water from the Colorado River. Head for the north rim of the Grand Canyon, less visited than the south The hoodoos at Bryce Canyon rim, but truly as beautiful. After dinner in the Lodge and a spectacular sunset over the Grand Canyon, enjoy an overnight stay in the rustically-comfortable Frontier Cabins, just footsteps from the Canyon’s rim. B, D

Sept. 16-24, 2017 Per person rates* double $2729 triple/quad $2496 single $3286

* Includes roundtrip airfare from MCI

Same price as 2016!

Combine this tour with California National Parks on page 30 or Wild West Buffalo Round-Up on page 36 Day 7: North Rim Explored take $450 off the comWake up to the still of the Park and a leisurely break- bined per person rate!

fast buffet in the main lodge before exploring the park at leisure. Join our local guide for a narrated tour of Grand Canyon National Park and see incredible views from the highest point on the canyon rim, Point Imperial, before heading to Kanab, UT for an overnight stay. B, D

Day 8: Zion National Park Follow the lush Virgin River into Zion National 2 Moab Park where you will be surrounded by massive canyon walls and a unique landscape of petrified Canyonlands sand dunes during our narrated open-air tram ride. National Park Grab lunch on your own at the Zion Lodge before heading back to Las Vegas to check into the four Monument star Golden Nugget Hotel and Casino. B, D Valley

Arches National Park

Capitol Reef National Park

Cedar City

roads of the eighth wonder of the world. A Navajo guide will lead us through the most enduring and definitive images of the American West. Cross into Arizona for a cruise on beautiful Lake Powell, through the twisted, narrow slot canyons of Antelope Canyon. Enjoy dinner overlooking the lake and an overnight stay at Lake Powell Resort, located in the heart of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. B, D

Bryce Canyon National Park

1

Grand Canyon Lodge 1

1

Lake Powell Resort

AZ

Day 9: Fly Home Reflect on the incomparable natural beauty we have explored as we fly home. B

33


Colorado Trains amid Fall Color

Day 1: Hays, KS All aboard! Our journey west begins with a mid-day departure and an overnight in Hays, KS. D Day 2: Colorado Springs, CO Get your first glimpse of the Rocky Mountains as we arrive in Colorado Springs. Take a guided tour of the iconic U.S. Air Force Academy Cadet Chapel, known for its seventeen spires and stained glass windows. Enjoy a cowboy-style dinner before our two-night stay at the Drury Inn. B, D

Day 3: Pike’s Peak It is no wonder the song “America the Beautiful” was inspired by the views from Pikes Peak. See for yourself when we board the Pike’s Peak Cog Railway, which has been taking thousands of people to the 14,115 ft summit since 1891. After lunch at the foot of Pikes Peak in historic Manitou Springs, take a guided tour of the Garden of the Gods, one of the most photographed natural wonders in the U.S. B, L, Hot Apps Day 4: Canon City, CO Travel to Canon City and board the Royal Gorge Train for a 24-mile journey into the canyon adorned with brilliant gold fall foliage. Visit Great Sand Dunes National Monument, where the wind-swept dunes rise 750 feet high against the beautiful backdrop of the rugged Sangre de Cristo Mountain. Overnight in Alamosa, CO. B, D Day 5: Cumbres and Toltec Railroad Next stop – 1880! The historic, coal-fired steam locomotives of the Cumbres and Toltec scenic railroad will take us on a memorable journey over high trestles and along narrow shelves above yawning gorges as we ride from Antonito to Chama, NM. Arrive in Durango for a two-night stay. B, L

Day 6: Mesa Verde National Park Sept. 19-28 2017 Join a local guide for a fantastic adventure exploring Mesa Verde National Park. This UNESCO World Heri- Per person rates tage Site is home to over 4,000 known archeological double $2199 sites and cliff dwellings. Return to Durango with some triple/quad $1966 free time to explore the charming downtown area be- single $2782 fore dinner in the Historic Hotel of the Rockies – Strater Hotel, built in 1887 and adorned with a large collec- Come with us to extion of antiques. B, D. plore Colorado’s majes-

tic mountains, natural beauty and friendly folk during fall color. Take the world’s highest cog railroad to the summit of Pikes Peak, a scenic train ride through the Royal Gorge, and the vintage steam train Durango & Silverton on this great adventure. Gaze at the aweinspiring scenery while Day 8: Colorado National Monument Experience sheer-walled, red rock canyons along the traveling between histwists and turns of Rim Rock Drive during a visit to toric and lively, colorful Colorado National Monument – keep an eye out for Colorado cities!

Day 7: Durango-Silverton Railroad Relive the sights and sounds of yesteryear aboard the Durango-Silverton narrow-gauge train and enjoy views of Colorado’s colorful mountain splendor inaccessible by highway. The line was originally constructed to haul silver and gold ore from the San Juan Mountains but passengers soon realized it was the VIEW that was truly precious! Drive the “Million Dollar Highway” for lunch in the little mountain town of Ouray, known as “Switzerland of the Rockies.” Stop for an eagle’s eye view of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park before an overnight stay in Grand Junction. B, L

bighorn sheep and soaring eagles! Travel east through the rugged 12.5 mile scenic Glenwood Canyon, with walls climbing as high as 1,300 feet above the Colorado River. Overnight in Denver. B, D Day 9: Mid-Kansas We say adieu to the mountains and elevations to travel east into Kansas, B, D Day 10: Return Home Arrive home mid-day with treasured memories of our adventure in majestic Colorado. B

1

Denver 1

Grand Junction

Mesa Verde National Park

Pike’s Peak Cog Railway

Alamosa 1 2

Durango

Durango-Silverton Railroad

2

Mid Kansas

Colorado Springs

CO

1 1

Hays First night Last night Overnight

KS

Highlight Tour route

Favorite Fall color: Shimmering yellow aspens in Colorado on the Cumbres Toltec Rail trip, Charlene

Do you know why Colorado is nicknamed the Centennial State? Colorado is nicknamed the Centennial State because it entered the union as the 38th state in 1876, 100 years after the signing of the Declaration of Independence!

34


NE

WT OU

R!

Day 1: Joplin, MO Travel to Joplin for a guided tour of the town’s history, including Bonnie & Clyde’s hideout apartment, and an overnight stay. D Day 2: Oklahoma City, OK Continue into Oklahoma for a Petrified Forest day filled with more classic Route 66 roadside attractions. Stop in Chelsea to marvel at the World’ Largest Concrete Totem Pole. Learn about the life of humorist Will Rogers during a visit to his memorial museum in Claremore. Take photos of the iconic Blue Whale in Catoosa and the Old Round Barn in Arcadia before arriving in Oklahoma City for dinner and overnight stay. B, D Day 3: Amarillo, TX Visit the National Route 66 Museum for an interactive journey through the eight states of Route 66. Stop in Shamrock, TX to visit the U-Drop-Inn Café before learning about the history of barb wire at the Devil’s Rope Museum in McLean. Join a local guide for a tour of Amarillo, including a stop of Cadillac Ranch. Where else will you see 10 Cadillacs buried nose down and covered in spray paint except on Route 66! Enjoy an overnight stay and cowboy steak dinner at the Big Texan Motel. B, D

Route 66

your-own at the Painted Desert Diner, head out for a scenic drive through the park’s 28 miles, enjoying breathtaking views of the park’s Painted Desert vistas and colorful badlands. B, D

Sept. 26-Oct. 3, 2017 Per person rates double $1448 triple/quad $1290 single $1824 * Includes return airfare to MCI

Day 6: Kingman, AZ Our tour continues west to Arizona, home to the longest original stretch of Route 66. Make a photo stop at the classic Jack Rabbit Trading Post before another diner-style lunch at Cruiser’s Route 66 Café. Did you know that hidden within the Grand Canyon are an estimated 1,000 caves? Take the Grand Canyon Caverns exploration elevator 21 stories underground to explore the largest dry caverns in the United States during an optional guided walking tour (additional cost). Visit the inspiration for the Pixar movie Cars, Peach Springs, before an overnight stay at the Route 66-themed Ramada Kingman in Kingman, AZ. B, L

Join us for the ultimate American road trip! Route 66 was America’s iconic motorway of the 20th century and it still evokes memories of a slower, more relaxing journey. Feel like you’re traveling back in time as we see the well-preserved motels, diners, gas stations and roadside attractions of a simpler era.

Day 7: Las Vegas Explore Arizona’s Route 66 Museum, located on Andy Divine Road in historic Powerhouse before it’s full speed ahead to glittering Las Vegas. Visit the Hoover Dam en route before enjoying time on your own to explore the Strip. Take a group photo at the iconic Welcome to Vegas sign before arriving for dinner and overnight stay at the four-star Golden Nugget Hotel and Casino. B, D

Combine this tour with Southwest Grand Adventure on page 39 and take $450 off the combined per person rate.

Day 4: Gallup, NM You’ve reached the halfway point of Route 66! Stop Day 8: Fly home in Adrian, TX for a photo at the iconic mid-point sign Bid farewell to Route 66 as we fly home from Las Vebefore continuing along the Mother Road to Albu- gas. B querque, NM. Enjoy a classic 50s-stye blue plate special lunch at the 66 Diner, complete with their NV MO UT CO KS 1 famous milkshake. Explore the history of racing 1 Joplin Las Vegas during a guided tour at the Unser Racing Museum. Oklahoma Unpack for a 2-night stay at the historic El Rancho Amarillo 1 Kingman 1 City CA Hotel, which served as home base to movie stars 2 1 AR Petrified OK National Albuquerque who came to the desert for their films. B, L Forest

NM

Day 5: Petrified Forest National Park Spend the day exploring the Petrified Forest National Park, known for its fallen tree fossils dating back to 225 million years ago. The park represents 13,000 years of human history ranging from prehistoric peoples to Route 66 motorists. After a stop at the Painted Desert Visitor Center and lunch on-

AZ

Cadillac Ranch

TX

First night

Highlight

Last night

Tour route

Overnight

Flight route

LA

35


NE

WT OU

R!

Wild West Buffalo Roundup

Each fall the Great Buffalo Roundup allows for sorting, vaccination and branding of these Sept. 26-Oct. 2, 2017 prehistoric beasts. See this special event and more during a 4-night stay in Rapid City, SD. Per person rates* double $1392 triple/quad $1262 Day 4: Giddy-up! Today’s the day! single $1705

Day 1: Denver, CO Let the journey begin with a flight into Denver and an overnight stay just north of the city. D

your hotel. B, D

Day 2: Rapid City, SD In Hot Springs, SD, visit the impressive Mammoth Site museum and paleontological site that contains the remains preserved by entrapment in a karst sinkhole during the Pleis- Mount Rushmore tocene era. Travel through Wind Cave National Park to enjoy an old west supper at Blue Bell Lodge before getting comfortable for a 4-night stay in your suite room at the Comfort Suites Hotel in Rapid City, SD. B, D Day 3: “Paha Sapa” (the Black Hills) Start the day with a factory tour of Black Hills Gold manufacturing site. A local expert will guide us to visit Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Monument and the Black Hills. Don’t forget your camera! Ride to the base of Crazy Horse for an up-close view will promise great photos. This evening is quite a special experience visiting The Cyclorama History Mural Gallery for a private dinner followed by “Sequoia” who will dance, play the flute and share Sioux Indian culture stories. Return to

Deadwood 1880Train Mount Rushmore

WY

Crazy Horse

4

SD

Rapid City

Buffalo Roundup

Boulder

Mammoth Site

Flight into Denver

CO

Day 5: Western Frontier Indulge in the rich mining heritage with a guided tour of the Black Hills Mining Museum in Lead, SD. Gold mining is the #1 industry, perhaps you will want to try gold panning! With our personal guide, experience the Wild West history of Deadwood, SD and visit Mount Moriah Cemetery where the graves of Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane are located. There will be free time to explore Deadwood before dinner at the Deadwood Social Club, located in historic Saloon #10. B, D

Badlands

Sioux City

1

NE

1

A bright and early morning in Custer State Park for the 52nd annual Great Buffalo Roundup. Feel the thunderous rumble as cowboys and cowgirls saddle up to drive the Park’s some 1,200 buffalo herd into the Corrals to maintain a strong and healthy herd. Enjoy lunch in Keystone, SD before boarding the 1880 Train for a journey through the Black Hills National Forest on a vintage like train that helped develop the West. Return to Rapid City with optional time to view the City of Presidents lifesize bronze statues of our nation’s leaders. B, L

IA First night

Highlight

Last night

Tour route

Overnight

Flight route

KS

* Includes airfare from MCI

Did you know?

Custer State Park is South Dakota’s first and largest park famous for its photogenic herd of wild bison. But just as impressive is the scenery! It’s everything you think of when you close your eyes and picture the great American West laid out amidst 71,000 acres of open land.

Combine this tour with Canyonlands on page 33 and take $450 off the combined per person rate!

Day 6: Buttes, Canyons and Pinnacles Explore the Badlands of South Dakota against the landscape of dramatic, sculptured pinnacles and surreal painted gullies in layers of colorful sediment. Savor a homestyle lunch at the famous Wall Drug Store established in 1931 and satisfying customers ever since that first free ice water! After shopping in the store, travel to Sioux City for an overnight stay. B, L Day 7: Return Home mid-day B

36


NE

WT OU

R!

Canadian Rails & Rockies Day 1: Flight Fly to Seattle, WA to begin this scenic adventure. Overnight north of the city. D

Jasper

Maligne Canyon

2

VIA Train “The Canadian” from Vancouver to Jasper 1

Athabasca Glacier Lake Louise

AB

2

Banff

1

Calgary

experience the spectacular Canadian Rocky Mountains and the small-town charm that Banff offers. Unpack your bags for a 2-night stay at the premier Rundlestone Lodge conveniently located in downtown Banff. B, D

Day 2: Vancouver/ The Military BC Museums VIA Rail train ride Cross the border Day 6: Banff 1 Vancouver into Canada and Experience Banff with a local First night tour cosmopoliexpert. Savor a gourmet lunch Highlight WA Last night Tour route tan Vancouver and at the 4-star Fairmont Banff Flight into Overnight MT Seattle ID its beautiful parks Springs Hotel. Heighten your with a local expert. senses traveling up 7,486 feet This evening, board VIA Rail’s, The Canadian, luxury on the all-new Banff Gondola to experience a birds-eye train for an adventure of a lifetime through the ma- view of six incredible mountain ranges. The observajestic Rockies. Leave the city center behind and get tion deck at the summit of Sulphur Mountain offers comfortable in your private, VIP cabin featuring upper/ breathtaking alpine views of the Canadian Rockies! lower beds, private washroom, private daytime sitting Educate yourself in the Gondola’s new interpretive area and a large window! B, D center and watch the multi-sensory movie made to create a feeling that you are flying like an eagle. B, L Day 3: VIA Rail train ride Relax and relish the charms of train-travel as it glides Day 7: Calgary through fall foliage, waterfalls, picturesque towns and Appreciate the palette of fall colors traveling on Hwy the snowy peaks of the Rockies. Savor freshly cooked 1 through the east side of the Rockies to Calgary, AB. meals featuring regional specialized dishes and enjoy Visit the Military Museums of Calgary for a guided the train’s entertainment, lounges and cars with glass program on the Canadian Forces from WWII to presceilings. What an experience! Arrive Jasper this eve- ent. See Churchhill Tanks, M4 Shermans, Easy8s, ning for a 2-night stay at the Sawridge Inn, a property Leopard Tank and more while learning about the vicwhich offers premier lodging in the midst of the vast, tories and sacrifices of the Canadian navy, army and air unspoiled grandeur of 4,200 square mile Jasper Park, force. After dinner, overnight in Calgary. B, D Canada’s largest park. B, L Day 8: Return home Day 4: Jasper Return flight home from Calgary, AB. B Explore the many features of Jasper National Park highlighted by Medicine Lake and Maligne Canyon and the history of this 100-year-old charming mountain village of Jasper with our personal guide. Taste local fare while dining in the shadow of the Rockies at the Pyramid Stables Gazebo then it’s free time to leisurely explore Jasper. This evening, try star viewing in this unique setting where the Rockies act as a natural shield from the glow of neighboring cities! B, L Day 5: Athabasca Glacier Enjoy a snow-coach ride on an all-terrain Ice Explorer across the surface of the Athabasca Glacier. Take a picture at the azure blue Peyto Lake with the Canadian Rockies in the backdrop! Traveling through Banff National Park, visit Lake Louise, the most photographed spot in the Canadian Rockies. Take time to walk to the edge of the Lake for a picture. Continue to Banff to

Railroad through Canadian Rockies

Sept. 28- Oct. 5, 2017 Per person rates* double $3799 triple/quad $3591 single $4309

* Includes roundtrip airfare from MCI

Featuring a train ride aboard VIA Rail’s The Canadian and 2-nights in Banff, recently recognized as one of the “Best of the World” places to see in 2017 by National Geographic Traveler’s Magazine.

37


Michigan’s Upper Peninsula & the Grand Hotel Day 1: North Illinois Travel to northern Illinois for an overnight stay. D Day 2: Sault Sainte Marie Enjoy the stunning fall scenery of Michigan as we travel to historic Sault Sainte Marie, MI, known as the Northern Gateway to Canada. Unpack for a 3-night stay. B, D

Sault Ste. Marie

3 2

Agawa Canyon Train Ride

Grand Hotel Mackinac Island

WI

the great wonders of the world and it is one of the largest waterway traffic systems on earth. See the locks up close as we board ship and travel through this astounding system along the international shoreline of the lower harbor on a sunset dinner cruise. B, D

Day 5: Mackinac Island Enjoy some free time to explore downtown Sault Ste. Marie or visit Locks Park 1 South Haven to view ships passing through from their 1 observation deck. Tinley Upon our arrival to First night Park Mackinac Island we Last night OH are transported by IN Overnight horse and carriage to Highlight Day 3: Agawa the island’s premier St. Louis 1 Canyon luxury resort, the inTour route Grab your passcomparable Grand port as we head Hotel, where the Soo Locks north of the border into Canada and board the Agawa longest porch in the world overlooks Canyon Train. Heading deep into the heart of the Ca- the Straits of Mackinac. This evening nadian Wilderness, we are transported 114 miles north enjoy a 5-course dinner in the Grand Dining Hall with of Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, over towering trestles, evening entertainment. B, D alongside pristine lakes and rivers and through the amazing granite rock formations and forests of the Ca- Day 6: Free day on Mackinac Island nadian Shield filled with gorgeous fall foliage. B, L After breakfast in the Grand Dining Room you are free to spend your day as you wish until we meet again Day 4: Soo Locks this evening for another elegant dinner and evening A local guide will join us as we travel along gorgeous of entertainment. You may take a carriage tour of fall color to Tahquamenon Falls State Park to take the island, browse the quaint shops, rent a bicycle to in the breathtaking falls. Board an express elevator to ride around the island, play lawn bowling, or explore be lifted 210 feet above Sault Ste. Marie and take in The Grand and learn a little more about its history. You the spectacular panoramic views at the Tower of His- have all day to be as active or relaxed in your wonderful tory. The Soo Locks have been referred to as one of surrounding. Your Sunrise Tour Manager will be available to help you plan your day (cost of afternoon activities not included). B, D Lake Michigan

Per person rates double $2028 triple/quad $1862 single $2584

MI

IL

Day 7: South Haven, MI After another restful night in one of the Grand’s magnificent rooms and a superb breakfast, depart Mackinac Island and begin our journey home. Overnight near the charming beach town of South Haven, MI. B. D Day 8: St. Louis, MO Travel to St. Louis for an overnight stay. B, D Day 9: Return home B Fall colors around Lake Superior

Sept. 28-Oct. 6, 2017

Two-night stay at the Grand Hotel!

Did you know?

• Sault Ste. Marie was founded by Father Jacques Marquette in 1668. It is the third oldest remaining settlement in the United States. • Tahquamenon Falls consist of two falls. The Upper Falls, one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi has a drop of nearly 50 feet, more than 200 feet across and a water flow of more than 50,000 gallons per second.

38


Southwest Grand Adventure Day 1: Fly into Las Vegas, NV Fly into Las Vegas and check into the four-star Golden Nugget Hotel and Casino with time to take in the Fremont Experience, right outside the hotel’s doors. D Day 2: Walnut Canyon National Monument, Grand Canyon AZ After stops in Kingman and Williams, AZ, visit Walnut Canyon National Monument. Cliff dwellings, former homes of ancient inhabitants, are evident among the remarkable geological formations of the canyon. Dinner with entertainment tonight in Flagstaff. Unpack for three comfortable nights at charming Little America Hotel. Telescope viewing at Lowell Observatory, weather permitting (optional, at your own expense). B, D Day 3: Grand Canyon National Park Marvel at the canyon’s sheer majesty and its powerful and inspiring beauty where the unique geologic colors change throughout the day. A step-on guide joins us as we travel along the scenic East Rim Drive, stopping for breathtaking photos and learning more about the biological diversity of this World Heritage Site. Enjoy lunch on the South Rim. B, L Day 4: Oak Creek Canyon & Sedona, AZ Pass through Oak Creek Canyon on your way to Sedona, AZ. USA Today called this canyon the “most scenic drive in North America.” Take a narrated trolley ride through Sedona with a stop at the Chapel of the Holy Cross. Enjoy lunch in Sedona with time to browse the local galleries and shops. Back in Flagstaff learn about a local family’s history at the Riordan Mansion. B, L Day 5: Albuquerque, NM Travel east out of Arizona and across New Mexico to Albuquerque, host to the dazzling 2017 International Balloon Fiesta, the world’s premier balloon event. Enjoy a guided tour and dinner at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center which showcases the traditions, art and craftsmanship of the 19 New Mexican Pueblos. Settle in for three nights at the Drury Inn located right near the Fiesta Park. B, D

NV

Las Vegas 1

Day 6: Balloon Fiesta Mass Ascension & Santa Fe, NM Rise and shine! The Dawn Patrol Show and glorious Mass Ascension are a thrilling experience as hundreds of vividly colored hot air balloons fill the morning sky. Watch it all from your reserved seats right on the launch field or walk amongst the balloons. Today’s chef at the Santa Fe School of Cooking, as featured on the Food Network, will educate and entertain while you sample the unique flavors of New Mexico. Discover the many charms of Santa Fe with our local step-on guide. Do you know the mystery that surrounds the construction of the Miraculous Staircase at the Loretto Chapel? B, L, Hot Apps Day 7: Sandia Peak & Fiesta Balloon Glow This morning, you will have the opportunity to take a hot air balloon ride (at your own arrangement and expense). After lunch, board the Sandia Peak Aerial Tram, the world’s longest tramway, and ride 2.7 miles above the Cibola National Forest to the Sandia Peak and enjoy the panoramic vista. Your adventure continues later this afternoon as you stroll amongst the balloons on the launch field and then, as the sun sets, enjoy the dazzling evening Balloon Glow. What a sight as the balloons glow in the evening desert sky! Following the Glow, the Fiesta offers a spectacular AfterGlow Fireworks show. Watch it all from your reserved seats right on the launch field. B, L, D

Per person rates* double $2398 triple/quad $2191 single $3019 * Includes roundtrip airfare from MCI

Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, Santa Fe and the Albuquerque Balloon Festival! Combine this tour with Route 66 on page 35 and take $450 off the combined per person rate.

Favorite Event: Mass Hot Air Balloon Ascension in Albuquerque, Charlene

Day 8: Return home Return flight home. B

UT GrandCanyon National Park

Sedona 3

AZ

October 2-9, 2017

CO

NM

KS

Santa Fe

3

Flagstaff Albuquerque

TX

First night KSLast night Overnight Highlight OK Tour route Flight route

39


New England Fall Coast and Color

Day 1: Ogunquit, ME Fly into Boston and board our deluxe motor coach. See our first views of gorgeous fall colors during our trip north to Ogunquit, Maine. Arrive for a 3-night stay in the Anchorage by the Sea Towers, with private balconies and easy access to Maine’s picturesque coast. D

ford Station. Head to Lincoln, NH for a private winery tour and tasting at Seven Birches Winery. Sample red wine aging in one of their oak barrels, chat with the winemaker and taste some delicious New Hampshire wines. Unpack for a 2-night stay at the brand-new Fairfield Inn & Suites in Plymouth, NH. B, D

Day 2: Kennebunkport, ME After a delicious breakfast at a Sunrise favorite, Wild Blueberry Café, head to Kennebunkport. Board our private trolley for a narrated sighting tour of the town’s 300 years of history from early settlements to President Bush’s summer home. Continue to Cape Elizabeth for a visit to the historic Portland Head Light, Maine’s oldest lighthouse situated at the entrance to the primary shipping channel into Portland Harbor. B, D

Day 5: Lincoln, NE Spend the morning exploring Franconia Notch State Park. This stunning natural wonder will leave Franconia Notch you spellbound as you State Park stroll the Flume Gorge Conway Scenic boardwalk passing casVT Railroad cading waterfalls, gla2 cial pools and more. Plymouth Experience the world’s First night Lake first mountain-climbWinnipesaukee Last night ing cog railway for a Overnight trip to the top of Mount Highlight Washington – the highTour route est peak in New England Flight in/out for gorgeous views of of Boston New Hampshire, Maine and Vermont. Return to Plymouth for an evening of leisure. B, L

Day 3: Portland, ME Travel to Portland for a leisurely train ride aboard a historic two-foot gauge railcar along the eastern coast of Casco Bay and a tour of the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum. After free time to explore Portland’s Old Port, enjoy a delicious lunch while floating on the bay at DiMillos on the Water. Return to Anchorage by the Sea Towers for an evening of leisure in downtown Ogunquit. Take a sunset stroll along the Marginal Way, visit a variety of quaint shops or relax at the hotel. B, L Day 4: Plymouth, NH All board the Conway Scenic Railroad Notch Train for a ride along Maine Central Railroad’s famed Mountain Division line. Enjoy dramatic natural scenery as you travel through Crawford Notch, past sheer bluffs, steep ravines, cascading brooks, and panoramic mountain vistas filled with fall colors enroute to Craw-

October 10-16, 2017

Per person rates* double $2269 triple/quad $2102 single $2678

* Includes roundtrip airfare from MCI

ME Portland Kennebunkport

NH

MA

Day 6: Boston, MA Boston Board the M/S Mount Washington for a scenic cruise of crystal clear Lake Winnipesaukee, the largest lake in New Hampshire located in the foothills of the White Mountains. Stop at Castle in the Clouds, the 5,500-acre mountain estate overlooking the Ossippee Mountains. Explore the 16-room mansion built by millionaire shoe manufacturer Thomas Gustave Plant in 1913. Continue to Boston for dinner and an overnight stay. B, D

3

Ogunquit

1

Day 7: Return home Fly home from Boston. B Lake Winnipesaukee

40


Laurel Highlands & Gettysburg Day 1: Columbus, OH Fly into Columbus, OH for an overnight stay. D

how doctors treated the soldiers and used that expeOctober 14-20, 2017 rience to study diseases and how soldiers recovered. Per person rates* Overnight in Gettysburg for two nights. B, L

Day 2: Nemacolin Woodland Resort View the cornucopia of fall colors traveling to Farmington, PA located in the lower Laurel Highlands nestled in the Allegheny Mountains. Check into the luxurious Nemacolin Woodland Resort, a Forbes Five-Star and AAA Five-Diamond lodging, for a two-night stay. Explore this unique resort and savor the chef’s culinary treats while enjoying dinner at the Resort. B, D Day 3: Frank Lloyd Wright home The morning is yours for leisure time at the beautiful Nemacolin Resort where you may wish to take a shuttle to some of the several attractions available at the resort such as the multi-million dollar Hardy Family Art Collection, The Wildlife Academy of Nemacolin, or visit the spa. Or you may choose to visit the nearby Fort Necessity National Battlefield. (Optional activities may involve cost). This afternoon enlightens your architectural interests with a guided tour at the Kentuck Knob home, a masterpiece of the 20th Century, by America’s most famous architect, Frank Lloyd Wright. Visit the Christian Klay Winery, Fayette County’s first commercial winery, before dining at a local restaurant. B, D Day 4: July 1, 1863 Depart for Orrtanna, PA to explore Hickory Bridge Farm located on 65 acres at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. Taste the flavors of a home style cookin’ luncheon while seated in their beautifully restored 165-year-old barn. Step inside the Seminary Ridge Museum, and delve into the personal side of the Civil War focusing on the First Day Battle, field hospitals and dilemma discussions. Attend an exclusive program called “Mending the Wounded” and learn

First night Last night

MI

Overnight

OH

Salt Fork Lodge

PA

1

2

1

Columbus WV

double $1929 triple/quad $1858 Day 5: Gettysburg The Battle of Gettysburg was a turning point in the Civ- single $2386

il War and the setting for President Abraham Lincoln’s * Includes roundtrip “Gettysburg Address”. Today we’ll have a guided tour airfare from MCI of the Shriver House Museum from attic to cellar and learn what families experienced in their homes during the Civil War. Explore the David Wills House, the home where President Lincoln stayed the night before he gave the Gettysburg Address. Visit the Gettysburg National Military Park including its visitor center and museum. A professional expert Kentuck Knob Home will guide a tour of the battlefield grounds. Enjoy a colonial style meal at the Historic 1776 Dobbin House Tavern which was used as a station on the Underground Railroad. B, D Day 6: Lincoln Highway Travel west on the Lincoln Highway, the first automobile road to cross the United States. Enjoy a guided tour of the Compass Inn Museum, an authentically restored stagecoach stop, listed on the National Register of Historic Places and sample donuts made just for us in the cookhouse! Take in the abundance of fall color out your coach window as we travel to Salt Fork Lodge for dinner Highlight and an overnight stay. This grand Tour route park lodge invites relaxation and exploration of its lush wooded surFlight to/from roundings. Be sure to save room Columbus for s’mores by the bonfire after dinner! B, D Gettysburg

Kentuck Knob

Nemacolin Woodlands Resort

National Military Park 2

Gettysburg MD

Day 7: Return flight home Return flight home from Columbus, OH. B

41


NE

WT OU

R!

Gulf Shores Getaway

Day 1: Memphis, TN Depart for one of the largest retail stores in the world, Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid. Enjoy southerninspired comfort food while dining at the apex of the Pyramid overlooking the Mississippi River. Overnight in the south Memphis area. D

Day 2: Gulf Shores Arrival Arrive in Orange Beach, AL for a 5-night stay along the Gulf of Mexico at the luxurious, full service Perdido Beach Resort. Nestled on an island oasis with a private sugar white sand beach and turquoise waters, the Perdido Beach Resort features contemporary rooms with private balconies, indoor/outdoor pool, tennis courts, 4 restaurants and more! Enjoy a welcome dinner at the resort on arrival. B, D Day 3: Mobile, AL Spend the morning exploring 65 acres of year-round floral pageantry in a Southern estate garden during our visit to Bellingrath Gardens. Head to Mobile, AL, the cultural center of the Gulf Coast, for lunch and tour at GulfQuest: National Maritime Museum of the Gulf of Mexico, filled with immersive, interactive exhibits covering early settlements and trade routes, marine life, weather, shipbuilding and more. Travel along the eastern shore of Mobile Bay for an afternoon at leisure to explore the village of Fairhope complete with picturesque waterfront and quaint French Quarter district. B, L Day 4: Pensacola, FL Head to Pensacola for a guided tour of the world’s largest Naval Aviation museum. See more than 150 beautifully restored aircraft representing Navy,

Marine Corps, and Coast Guard aviation during a trolNovember 4-11, 2017 ley tour of the flight line. Visit the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk for free time to explore the unique 1 Jackson shops and open-air res1 taurants along the Santa Rosa Sound. Board our AR Memphis First night private glass bottom catamaran to see wild Last night dolphins frolic and play Overnight in their natural environHighlight ment during a sunset dolphin cruise on the Tour route pristine waters of the back bays of Orange Beach. B, D

TN

MS

AL

Day 5: New Orleans, LA Pensacola Head to New Orleans Bellingrath Gardens for an optional day trip LA FL 5 to the “Big Easy” ($100 Fort Morgan Perdido per person). After a deNew Beach Orleans licious lunch at a Sunrise Resort favorite, Tujagues Restaurant, join our local expert for a walking tour of the French Quarter and Jackson Square. Or enjoy a Per person rates Poolview room full day of leisure at the Perdido Beach Resort. B Day 6: Fort Morgan Journey to the southern-most point of Gulf Shores for a guided tour of Fort Morgan. Standing guard where the bay meets the Gulf of Mexico, the fort played a significant role during the Spanish American War. Visit Alabama’s last remaining undisturbed coastal barrier habitat during our stop at Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, an important stopover for migratory songbirds. Celebrate our final night at Perdido Beach with a glowing bonfire on the sugar-white sandy beach. B, D

double $1699 triple/quad $1518 single $2141 Per person rates Gulfview room double $1849 triple/quad $1630 single $2402

Day 7: Jackson, TN Bid farewell to the Gulf Shores as we start our drive back home. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in Jackson, TN. B, D Day 8: Return home. B Naval Aviation Museum

42


Colorado New Year’s Eve

Day 1: Aurora CO Head west and enjoy lunch at a Sunrise Tour’s favorite, Gella’s Diner in Hays, KS, a frontier town that was once home to Calamity Jane and “Buffalo Bill” Cody. Arrive in Colorado for our overnight stay in the capital city, Denver. B, L, hot apps

WY Amtrak Train Ride

Glenwood Springs 2

1

NE Denver

First night Last night Overnight

Dec. 29-Jan. 3, 2018 Highlight Tour route

MO

Per person rates double $1528 triple/quad $1353 single $1973

Featuring a ride on the California ZephHays The Broadmoor yr, one of Amtrak’s most scenic routes, and an overnight Day 2: Amtrak to Glenwood Springs CO stay at the AAA Glenwood Spring’s Main Street or take a dip in our hoAll aboard the California Zephyr for an adventure from tel’s hot springs pool which boasts water around 100 5-diamond BroadDenver to Glenwood Springs – one of Amtrak’s most degrees and filled with rich natural minerals to restore moor Hotel! Redstone

1

scenic routes. Pass through snow-covered mountain peaks, crystal-coated pines, glistening streams, quaint mountain villages and awe-inspiring tunnels. Your grand finale to this ride is the spectacular Glenwood Canyon with walls that climb as high as 1,300 feet! Board the Iron Mountain Aerial Tram where you’ll experience the magnificent Rocky Mountain scenery as you skim over the tops of the trees for panoramic eagle eye views of the striking mountains and a cozy dinner at the top. Unpack your bags for a 2-night stay at the Glenwood Hot Springs Lodge. B, D Day 3: Redstone, CO & New Year’s Eve Experience the serenity of the mountains on a horse drawn sleigh ride through the canopy of snowy pine trees in Redstone, CO, a unique village originally developed as a turn-of-the-century “Camelot” and now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure exploring the shops on

Broadmoor Resort

1

CO

Kansas City

KS

the body. Delight in the Glenwood Vaudeville Revue complete with comedic skit, songs, dance, laughter and a champagne toast before a delicious New Year’s Eve dinner at the Historic Hotel Colorado. B, D

Day 4: AAA Five-Diamond “The Broadmoor Resort” Happy New Year! Trek to Colorado Springs and unpack your bags for an overnight stay at the AAA FiveDiamond Broadmoor Resort. Nestled at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, this distinguished Colorado mountain retreat upholds a legacy of elegance and impeccable service. Built in 1918, the resort features many grand touches that still exist: beams painted with motifs from classical mythology, a marble staircase, ornate chandeliers, and ceiling frescoes by European artists. B, D Day 5: Garden of the Gods, Hays, KS Join a local guide for a tour of one of the most photographed natural wonders in the United States, Garden of the Gods. With its spectacular red rock formations against a backdrop of snow-capped Pikes Peak and brilliant blue skies, the park is truly awe-inspiring. Travel to mid-Kansas for an overnight stay. B, L Day 6: Return home Depart for home this morning with many memories of an incredible New Year’s vacation. B

Train ride had beautiful scenery and great views. Trip was great. Met a few new friends. Sunrise did a great job once again!

Sandra H., 2013 Colorado New Year’s Eve

43


The 129th Rose Parade and more!

Stop and smell the roses at the 129th Rose Parade in Pasadena, California! Always a favor- Dec. 29- Jan. 3, 2018 ite with Sunrise Tours travelers, this wonderful New Year’s trip packed with lots of activity Per person rates* including a behind the scenes visit to Warner Brothers Studio. Day 1: Fly into Los Angeles Catch a flight into Los Angeles and check into the comfortable and centrally located Renaissance Los Angeles airport hotel for a 5-night stay. D

double $2339 celebrating “New Year’s Eve”! triple/quad $2145 Return to the hotel to be ready single $2829

NV

CA

UT

to rise early the next morning * Includes roundtrip airfor the celebrated Rose Parade! fare from MCI B, D

Day 4: Tournament of Roses Parade Day 2: Get to know LA! Enjoy a great view of the TourSpend the day sightseeing The City 5 nament of Roses Parade from of Angels with a local expert. See AZ your reserved seating - you the Hollywood Bowl, Mann’s Chican’t help but nese Theatre, Hollywood Walk of get caught up in the exciteFame, Sunset Strip, Beverly Hills, ment of the crowd as the strikRodeo Drive and so much more. Celebrate the holidays with dinner at Tam O’Shanter ing floats and well-rehearsed marching bands pass by! Chat about the parade over lunch then kick off the and tap your toe to caroling by local musicians. B, D New Year with free time to relax or explore LA at your leisure. B, L Day 3: Behind the Parade Scenes Go behind the scenes to see how the Rose Bowl floral floats are constructed and decorated. The volunteers Day 5: Reagan Library are thrilled to let you discover the final stages of float Take a scenic drive along the coast and over mountains decorating before their debut in the parade! Enjoy to Simi Valley for a visit to the Ronald Reagan Library lunch on your own before a guided tour of the legend- and Museum. The exhibits are designed to honor his ary entertainment mecca, Warner Brothers Studio accomplishments and patriotic spirit. Tour the muTour. You’ll get closer than ever before to iconic back- seum, view a full-size replica of the White House Oval lots and soundstages of today’s hottest TV shows and Office, the office in which President Reagan never movies. Gather ‘round the table for a special dinner took off his suit jacket, and walk onboard the actual Air Force One aircraft, tail number 27000, which flew 7 US presidents. Travel up 1,134 feet to the Griffith Observatory on the slope of Mount Hollywood; the site offers spectacular views of LA and the Hollywood Sign. Grab a telescope and see why Mr. Griffith said, “If all mankind could look through that telescope, it would change the world!” This evening, tour the mystery and history of the Queen Mary before dinner onboard the boat. B, D

Same price as 2016!

Los Angeles

Day 6: Return flight home B

Float at the Rose Bowl Parade

This was my first tour with anyone. Had a great time and saw so much of L.A. that I had always heard about. Janie. C., 2015 Rose Bowl Parade

Best Parade: To u r n a m e n t of Roses Parade, Pat

44


NE

WT OU

R!

Icelandic Wonders Day 1: Depart USA Day 2: Welcome to Iceland After an overnight flight, arrive in Reykjavik and enjoy a short guided tour of the capital of Iceland, the northernmost capital in the world, before a short journey to Hella for a 5-night stay at the Stracta Hotel. D

Iceland Gullfoss Waterfall

1

2

Blue Lagoon

Hekla Reykjavik Volcano 5 Hella Skogar Museum

Day 6: Vatnajökull National Park Soak in amazing scenery on a trip to the southern part of the Vatnajökull National Park, home of Europe’s largest glacier and Jökulsárlón, a glacier lagoon with floating icebergs. B, D

July 4-12, 2018 Per person rates* double $4400 single $4995

* Includes roundtrip airfare from MCI. Please note: final payment is due May 1, 2018.

Join Sunrise Tours on a

Day 7: Golden Circle custom tour of beautiWestman Islands An awe-inspiring visit to ful Iceland, the most three of Iceland’s most sparsely populated First night: Flight in/out important spots: Gull- country in Europe and Overnight flight of Reykjavik Day 3: Þjórsárdalur foss Waterfall, Geyser home to volcanic splenTour Route Last 2 nights Travel alongside the Hot Springs and Þingveldors and spectacular Hekla Volcano and visit lir National Park. GullHighlight Overnight Despite its the Hjálparfoss Waterfoss, “the golden falls”, scenery. proximity to the Arctic fall. Explore the Viking is a double waterfall farm ruins at Stöng and that tumbles 34 meters Circle, Iceland benefits enjoy a leisurely hike to Gjáin, a green oasis in an oth- into the Hvítá River. See the steam from the Geysir from the warming air of erwise rocky, barren moonlike landscape. Þjórsárdalur geothermal fields as you arrive. The original geyser the Gulf Stream makis off-the-beaten-path and is dominated by Hekla and is now dormant and been replaced by Strokkur, “the ing summer a delightful other volcanoes in the vicinity. Hekla is one of Iceland’s Churn”, which erupts at 5-10 minute intervals. Next time to visit. most active volcanoes; over 20 eruptions have oc- stop is at the ancient curred since 874. During the Middle Ages, Europeans Viking Parliament area called the volcano the “Gateway to Hell”. B, D of Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Day 4: South Shore with optional glacier hike Heritage Site. Return Highlights today include the famous Eyjafjallajökull to Reykjavik for a twoVolcano, the 60-meter-high Skógafoss Waterfall and night stay at the Icelanthe narrow Seljalandsfoss Waterfall with a trail that dair Hotel Natura. B, D leads behind the falls – be prepared to get wet! Visit Skogar Folk Museum with a selection of turf houses. Day 8: Reykjanes PenTake an optional glacier walk or a visit to the bird cliffs insula, Blue Lagoon and lava beaches near Vík, together with our guide. B, and Reykjavik D Take a less traveled route around Reykjanes Day 5: Westman Islands Peninsula as diverse Ahoy! Take a short ferry ride to the Westman Islands. geological features, the Explore the town of Heimaey and this extraordinary hot springs of Krýsuvík, island by foot and by bus. The volcanic eruption here mountains, lava fields, in 1973 is considered the largest natural disaster in amazing bird cliffs, Iceland in recent history. After the evacuation of the moonlike landscapes inhabitants, and during the 5 months while the erup- and fishing villages are tion lasted, there was much uncertainty as to whether on today’s itinerary. The the island could ever be repopulated. During our tour tour ends with a Reykjato the Westman Islands we explore bird cliffs, walk up vík city tour after a visit the volcano crater and visit “Pompeii of the North”, a to the famous Blue Lavolcanic excavation project. Enjoy a free afternoon to goon. B, D See the separating tectonic wander around the town of Heimaey. B, D plates inÞingvellir National Park Day 9: Return home

45


Policies

Cancellations - please review Our cancellation fees schedule varies according to the type of tour. Your deposit is fully refundable up to the final payment due date. On any cancellation made after final payment is due, the following fee schedules apply. All motorcoach cancellation fee (final payment due 45 days before departure): Cancel 45-30 days before departure 25% of total price Cancel 30-6 days before departure 50% of total price Cancel within 5 days of departure 100% of total price Fly/Train cancellation fee (final payment due 60 days before departure): Cancel 60-30 days before departure 25% of total price Cancel 30-6 days before departure 50% of total price Cancel within 5 days of departure 100% of total price Cruise and International tours: Refund for cancellation of cruises and international tours depend on the cruise line or tour operator. Please call for questions on a specific cruise or tour. Final Payment Final payment is due 45 days before departure for an all-motorcoach tour and 60 days before departure for tours involving air or train unless otherwise noted. One-day tour payments are due in full upon reservation. Please call in reference to cruise payment deadlines. Tour Price Inclusions (and tipping policy) The price of the tour includes all attractions, lodging, motorcoach transportation, breakfast and dinner daily (unless noted otherwise), and tips for hotel, airport, and restaurant personnel. If the tour involves air travel, the cost of the ticket is included unless otherwise noted. Some airlines charge for checked baggage and that is not included in the tour price. Tips for the driver, tour managers, and step-on guides are left to the discretion of the traveler and should be in accordance with services received. Typical gratuities for tour manager and driver are $3-$5 per person, per day. Trip Insurance We have always felt that travel insurance is an individual decision, and therefore have not included it in the cost of our tours. That being said, we strongly recommend that you purchase the optional travel insurance described within. This coverage protects you against many unforeseen circumstances that can occur when traveling. There are many reasons to purchase insurance, but the following are two main reasons we highly recommend the insurance offered by NTA/Aon Insurance. 1) Trip cancellation - If you are forced to cancel a tour for medical reasons (for you or an immediate family member), having insurance ensures a complete refund of monies paid (except for the cost of insurance). 2) Trip interruption – Unfortunately, there are circumstances that can prevent passengers from fully participating in a tour and may require an early departure or extended stay. For example, if a passenger suffers an injury which requires immediate care and prevents the traveler from continuing on the tour, insurance will cover the cost of the extended stay, the cost of transportation home and the value of the missed tour (subject to claim submission and acceptance by AON Insurance). If you do not have insurance, you will personally incur these costs. From experience, we can tell you that this can be very expensive. To purchase trip insurance, reference the enclosed info and call 800388-1470 or visit nta.aontravelprotect.com. You must use Tour Operator Location #256061 to purchase insurance for a Sunrise Tour. Pick-up points

For each trip, we determine the pick-up points based on point requests. All pick-up points allow parking for your vehicle. In some cases we will not utilize a point if there is very limited demand. Sunrise’ pick up point partners offer the use of parking spaces during tour as a courtesy to Sunrise travelers. Neither Sunrise Tours nor parking lot owners assume responsibility for incidents occurring to

parked cars. For overnight tours, you will be notified which pickups we are using for your tour in a letter about 2 weeks prior to departure. If our routing allows, we may pick up along the way in outlying areas.

Identification A passport is required on any tour that leaves the United States, including Canada. Photo ID’s are required on all fly tours and recommended on all tours. Singles Requesting Roommates If you would like to go on tour with us, but do not have a roommate for a specific trip, let us know and we will match you with someone else (same sex of course). Just let us know at least 60 days before departure and we will room you with another traveler at the double rate. If there is no roommate available on the tour you request, you will still only have to pay the price of a double. If you decline the roommate assigned, you will be responsible for the single supplement. Of course, if you prefer to travel individually, you can still sign up for the single fare. This offer is not valid on cruises, and some select tours. Method of Payments For deposits we accept checks or cash. For final payment we accept Visa, Mastercard, Discover, check or cash. Seating on the Motorcoach Seating is assigned and will be rotated on a daily basis. Special seating requests are honored on the basis of availability. Paying the single fare does NOT ensure you will have a seat to yourself on the coach, it only ensures you a room by yourself. Responsibility Sunrise Tours is not responsible for any injury, delay, loss or accident due to any act or negligence on the part of any person or company rendering services on any of our tours. We reserve the right to change any itinerary. After You Book A Tour... After you have booked a tour and we have received your deposit, the following is a schedule of correspondences: 1) confirmation of deposit received 2) your final payment is due 45 days before departure for an all-motorcoach tour or 60 days before departure for tours involving air or Amtrak trains (please note you will NOT receive an invoice when final payment is due) 3) you will receive a letter about 2-3 weeks prior to departure that will include your luggage tags and important details such as pick-up times and locations, hotel phone #’s, what to bring, and a detailed itinerary (subject to change). Please bring this with you on tour. Pictures By signing up for and participating in a tour, you are agreeing to have any pictures taken on tour published in Sunrise Tours printed or web material. If you do not wish to have your picture used in any form by Sunrise Tours, please notify us prior to traveling. Maps The maps provided in brochure are general outlines and not meant to outline specific routes to be driven. We reserve the right to change routing on any tour.

46


Booking Forms & Procedures Name (as it appears on valid ID) Nickname (if applicable) Tour:

Birthdate (required if traveling by air or train)

Tour departure date:

Address: Phone number: Cell phone: Email address: Roommate (s): Pickup point most convenient for you (actual pickup point may vary by demand): Overland Park, Holiday Inn, 8787 Reeder Rd. La Quinta Inn Olathe, 20570 W 151st St

Gomers KC, 99th and Holmes Lee’s Summit, Hy-Vee, 310 SW Ward

Please check appropriate boxes: single triple double quad Smoking rooms are not available at most properties. I have read, understand and agree to Sunrise Tours policies as they appear on page 46.

Name (as it appears on valid ID) Nickname (if applicable) Tour:

Birthdate (required if traveling by air or train)

Tour departure date:

Address: Phone number: Cell phone: Email address: Roommate (s): Pickup point most convenient for you (actual pickup point may vary by demand): Overland Park, Holiday Inn, 8787 Reeder Rd. La Quinta Inn Olathe, 20570 W 151st St

Gomers KC, 99th and Holmes Lee’s Summit, Hy-Vee, 310 SW Ward

Please check appropriate boxes: single triple double quad Smoking rooms are not available at most properties. I have read, understand and agree to Sunrise Tours policies as they appear on page 46.

How to Book a Tour:

1. When you decide on a tour, you are welcome to give us a call to reserve your space and then continue to com- plete the following steps, or you can simply move on to step #2 2. Complete the above booking form. Please include any special requirements (diet, room, no steps etc.) 3. Determine what deposit is necessary for your tour according to the following: motorcoach or fly/coach tours 5 or more days long - $100 per person motorcoach or fly/coach tours less than 5 days - $50 per person cruises and overseas tours - please call (deposits vary) 4. Mail in the form along with the deposit to: (make checks payable to) Sunrise Tours 5913 Woodson Rd. #213 Mission, KS 66202

47


5913 Woodson Rd. #213 Mission, KS 66202 (913) 681-2202 travelsunrise.com

Get the Inside Scoop you on

Are Facebook? If so we would like to let you know about our Facebook page. By becoming a fan you will receive timely updates from Sunrise Please join us for an informative presentation about 2017 tour Tours, learn of new and upofferings, featuring refreshments and prizes. RSVP to 913coming trips, be able to view 681-2202 or victoria@travelsunrise. Bring a friend! photos from past trips, and be eligible for contests only availTomahawk Ridge Community Center Thurs. Feb 16, 2017 able to our Facebook Fans. If @1:30PM 11902 Lowell Avenue you aren’t on Facebook, conOverland Park, KS 66213 sider joining to get access to the pictures and up to date information. Be sure to click the “Like” box to become a friend of Sunrise Tours! www.face- We create vacation experiences that exceed customer expectations - every traveler, every time; so that they recommend Sunrise Tours to a friend. book.com/SunriseTours

Travelogue

Sunrise Tours Mission Statement


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.