European Journeys

Page 1

European Journeys 2014-15


A Legacy Like No Other As the world’s longest-running travel company, Cox & Kings has been designing, organizing and leading exceptional journeys since we operated our first expedition to India in 1758. Since then, we’ve been at the forefront of exploration, organizing the first attempted expedition to Mount Everest in 1922 and bringing Mahatma Gandhi to Europe in 1933. Over the past quarter millennium, we’ve broken down barriers, unlocked doors, seen new vistas and laid the world at the feet of those who’ve traveled with us. In other words, we’ve been around the world a few times… and we’re passionate about delivering vibrant and indelible travel experiences.

Glamis Castle, Scotland

And these days, traveling with Cox & Kings is a bit more comfortable than in those expeditionary days of old, but no less exciting. On each journey, you’ll reap the benefits of over two and a half centuries of relationships — local experts, insider experiences and cultural interactions you simply cannot get elsewhere. At Cox & Kings, we believe that travel changes lives, and we’re dedicated to creating authentic travel experiences, full of surprises, wonder and excitement. So whether you want to celebrate with the locals at Barcelona’s biggest street party, indulge in some of Italy’s finest gastronomic experiences or trace the history of Western civilization through Athens, Rome and Istanbul, we’ve got the expertise and the relationships to ensure that your journey is completely unforgettable.


Florence, Italy

Europe: The Joy of Discovery Travel to Europe with Cox & Kings for a new take on the Old World. With innovative itineraries, some off-the-beaten-path destinations, and several lifetimes’ worth of local relationships and on-the-ground knowledge, Cox & Kings delivers once-in-a-lifetime European travel experiences — every time. 2014 DREAM TRIPS New for 2014, join a group of like-minded travelers and one of our Destination Experts on their Dream Trip, a Luxury Escorted Journey to Spain. Indulge in fiestas, food and flamenco in Madrid, Granada and Seville — and immerse yourself in the passion of Barcelona at the city’s largest street party, the festival of La Mercé, which celebrates the end of the summer in grand style. Or travel with European Destination Manager Bernhard Steiner on his Dream Trip, a small-group Luxury Escorted Journey to Rome, Athens and Istanbul. In a small group of curious explorers, take in the highlights of these three pillars of Western civilization, while also discovering their lesser-known treasures in the company of local experts in art, history and culture. Innovative Travel Experiences Immerse yourself in the Celtic and Anglo-Saxon heritage of Europe on journeys through Ireland, Scotland and England. Delve into the wonders of southern and northern France — and visit some of the country’s best wineries to sample their world-famous creations. Embark on a journey through Spain and Portugal to experience the wine culture of La Rioja, explore the seafaring cities of Porto and Lisbon, and discover the duende of Andalucía in the sultry city of Seville. Italy has been enticing travelers for millennia; on a culinary journey or any

of several shorter extensions, indulge in inimitable Italian food, drink, history and culture. On the shores of the Adriatic, visit Croatia’s walled cities, gorgeous beaches and historic monuments. Walk along the ancient roads of Romania as you step off the beaten path and experience a part of Old Europe rarely seen by travelers. Poland’s famed cities of Krakow and Warsaw are just the beginning of an extraordinary journey through one of the continent’s most fascinating countries. Up north, uncover the rich past of the vibrant capital cities of Denmark and Sweden. Explore remote fjords and walk on a glacier in spectacular Norway. And indulge your love of the wilderness in Iceland — green and gorgeous with striking glaciers, active volcanoes and a multitude of outdoor activities. Across the Baltic Sea, the nations of Estonia, Lithuania and Latvia are home to beautifully preserved medieval towns and castles that sit sideby-side with charming, cosmopolitan cities. Or travel to the heart of imperial Russia as you explore the grand metropolises of Moscow and St. Petersburg. Journey south to the Ukraine, Europe’s largest country, which boasts the Crimean seaport of Yalta and the history-rich city of Kiev. Or trace the history of empire from the Greeks to the Ottomans in Turkey, where East meets West on the shores of the Bosporus. Wherever you choose to travel in Europe, we’ll be right there with you, making sure your journey is authentic, innovative and utterly unforgettable.

SCOTT WISEMAN President, Cox & Kings, The Americas

Florence, Italy

FAMILY FRIENDLY: A shared journey can bond generations of family like no other experience. Our Destination specialists can design these trips complete with activities to keep the kids engaged, the grownups relaxed and everybody inspired. Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

NEW: Our expert Destination specialists have harnessed their regional knowledge to craft groundbreaking, engaging journeys that take you off the beaten path with exclusive insider access and unforgettable cultural experiences.

Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

3


Contents

SWEDEN

ICELAND

INTRODUCTION

28

Italy Extensions

52

7

The Cox & Kings Difference

30

Picturesque Germany

NORDIC COUNTRIES

9

Your Journey, Your Way

32

Europe Extensions

54

Landscapes of Iceland

55

Iceland: The Northern Lights

56

Icelandic Immersion

58

Cities & Fjords:

MY DREAM TRIPS

FINLAND

NORWAY

HELSINKI

UNITED KINGDOM

RUSSIA

LITHUANIA

IRELAND GERMANY

34

UKRAINE

Salzburg, Prague,

60

38

Balkan Discoveries

INFORMATION

40

Romania – In The

63

Travel in Europe

64

Europe Fact File

69

Festivals in Europe

Latvia & Estonia

70

Weather Chart

46

Russian Dreams

73

Distance Chart

& Culinary Journey

48

The Wonders of Ukraine

74

Travel Insurance

Italy: Food, Wine & Fashion

50

Marvels of Turkey

75

Terms & Conditions

British Town & Country

16

Roving Ireland

18

Landscapes of Scotland

20

Northern France –

ITALY

BULGARIA MACEDONIA ALBANIA GREECE

Burgundy, Lyon &

26

Spain & Portugal – A Wine

Scenic Norway

Footsteps of Tradition 42

Old World Poland

44

The New Baltics: Lithuania,

Southern France 24

Scandinavian Contrasts

Bratislava & Budapest A Journey through Croatia

14

22

Storybook Cities – Vienna,

36

Normandy & Paris

FRANCE SWITZERLAND SLOVENIA HUNGARY ROMANIA CROATIA

SPAIN

La Mercé Festival

SOUTH-EASTERN EUROPE

POLAND

CZECH REP. SLOVAKIA AUSTRIA

PORTUGAL

12

LATVIA

DENMARK

ENGLAND

The Pillars of Civilization

WESTERN EUROPE

ESTONIA

SCOTLAND

10

CENTRAL, EASTERN &

Europe Extensions

TURKEY For pricing and daes refer o he pricing shee in fron of he brochure or coxandkingsusa.com The magnificent St. Basil’s Cathedral consists of nine churches—all built on a single foundation—which were consecrated in memory of the battles Ivan the Terrible won in his 16th-century war against the Khan of Kazan. For a long time, St. Basil’s was the tallest building in Moscow. And even when the church was confiscated from the Russian Orthodox community after the Communist Revolution, it remained the ceremonial heart of both the city and the country. It’s been a division of the State Historical Museum since 1928, and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site (along with Red Square and the Kremlin) in 1990. European Journeys

2014-15

MOROCCO

4

Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

5


Big Ben, London

The Cox & Kings Difference We live for exceptional moments... we’ll help you live yours. Traveling with Cox & Kings means the difference between “seeing” and “doing”. We deliver hands-on travel experiences that will deepen your understanding of what you see and where you are. When you travel with Cox & Kings, you won’t just hear about local culture — you’ll be immersed in it. Blaze new paths The well-trod path is not on our map. When others go west, we head east. We have our ear to the ground in every country we operate, and we constantly discover new and unique experiences — so that you have a one-of-a-kind, unforgettable trip. Everyone is different, with different dreams, different interests, different pace and different aspirations. A well-designed journey should send

your heart soaring, surprise you and stimulate your sense of wonder. And unlike other travel companies, you will speak directly with our Destination Experts, who have firsthand knowledge of the places you want to go — and can give you insider tips on the can’t-miss highlights as well as some less-visited gems. Leave the planning to us Don’t worry — we’ll sweat the details, pay constant attention to world events, stay in close contact with our people on the ground. We offer some of the best travel insurance coverage in the industry — even for pre-existing conditions — to protect your travel investment. And as a well-respected global company, Cox & Kings has tremendous buying power. So whether you’re on an adventurous excursion or a beyondall-dreams luxury venture, we deliver trusted services and great value. We invite you to join us on some of the world’s finest travel adventures. Stonehenge, UNESCO World Heritage, England

Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

7


Lake Bled

Your Journey, Your Way Every traveler is different, with different goals, different dreams and different aspirations. At Cox & Kings, we celebrate these differences with choices in how you travel with us.

Private Journeys

the details to us, and get started making memories on an enlightening, enlivening, and worry-free journey.

HANDCRAFTED ITINERARIES FOR ONE OR MORE TRAVELERS

The Private Journeys listed here are just a sampling of what’s possible. Interested in a destination you don’t see? All you have to do is contact us and we’ll start turning your dream into a reality.

Our Destination Experts are some of the best in the business at designing innovative, authentic and remarkable travel programs. In this book, we’ve highlighted the best of the custom programs they’ve put together over the years for discerning travelers like you.

Lofoten, Norway

When you take a Private Journey with Cox & Kings, you know you’re getting a custom-designed itinerary that takes advantage of our centuries of relationships around the world. We’ve got the insider knowledge and the expertise to tailor a trip to your needs — whether you want to travel with an extended family group, sail the seas on a small-ship cruise, embark on a romantic honeymoon, or go where few have gone before on an adventurous exploration. Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758 You can relax and enjoy your travels knowing that you’ve got on-theground support from a Cox & Kings representative, a private, Englishspeaking guide, and a private vehicle and driver for all road trips. Leave

Escorted Group Journeys EXPLORE THE WORLD IN STYLE WITH LIKE-MINDED TRAVELERS At Cox & Kings, we offer two styles of escorted journeys: • Handcrafted Dream Trips organized and accompanied by our Destination Experts. • Adventurous Discovery Escorted Journeys that take you off the beaten path. Well paced and expertly designed, these programs are renowned for their friendly fellow travelers, exciting touring options, veteran guides and great value. When you travel on a Cox & Kings Escorted Group Journey, you’ll benefit from insider access and exclusive experiences that only we can deliver.

not available to larger groups. With over 20 Discovery Escorted Journeys departing with a minimum of two travelers, you’ve got the Cox & Kings guarantee that the trip you book is the trip you’ll take. Are you interested in taking one of our Escorted Group Journeys with your own group? They’re perfect for families traveling together — just look for the Family Friendly icon and you’ll know that our Destination Experts have planned the trip to appeal to a multigenerational group, choosing hotels and sightseeing that will keep the kids engaged, the grownups relaxed and everybody inspired. Swiss Guards, Vatican

You’ll travel the world in style, accompanied by a veteran Tour Director who knows the ins and outs of every corner of your destination, while expert guides give you the low-down on all the sights and illuminate the local culture. Whether you’re on an adventurous exploration of a remote land, a family-focused safari, or an exotic cruise, Cox & Kings Escorted Journeys offer convenience and value, not to mention extraordinary experiences at every turn. With an average group size of only 16 compatible, convivial travelers, you’ll have access to cultural experiences and activities that are simply Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

9


Escorted Luxury Group Journey

Escorted Luxury Group Journey

St. Peters Square, Rome

The Cox & Kings Experience

My Dream Trip – The Pillars of Civilization 10 D A Y S & 9 N I G H T S

Rome Istanbul

Rome, Athens & Istanbul

Athens

Few cities can claim the heritage that Rome, Athens and Istanbul share. Revel in ancient archeology, admire amazing art and architecture, and embark on private and expertly guided visits to world-class museums. Discover little-known treasures such as the Aventine Keyhole in Rome, and Anafiotika in Athens’ Plaka District — and draw your own comparisons between the pillars upon which modern Western civilization rests.

MY DREAM TRIP by Bernhard Steiner Europe Destination Manager

10

Day 1: Arrive Rome Upon arrival in Rome, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings local representative and transferred to your hotel. Admire the splendors of the Eternal City during a private illumination tour before indulging in Italian specialties during your welcome dinner. Gran Melia Rome – 3 nights (D)

Join our local historian for a private visit to the most significant archeological sites to understand the impact Rome had on the ancient, as well as modern, world. Your afternoon is free to explore the Baroque city center on your own. Take a leisurely stroll through some of the most famous urban areas in Europe and feel the power. (B)

Day 2: Rome This morning is dedicated to the Rome of antiquity.

Day 3: Rome Begin the day with a visit to the Pantheon, the best-

Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

Grand Bazaar, Istanbul

Sculpture of the Man, Vatican

preserved Roman temple and dome construction. Then see the Aventine Keyhole: a sweeping view of Rome is perfectly contained in the keyhole of a nondescript looking door on the Aventine Hill, neatly placing the dome of St. Peter’s right in the center. This is one of the unique sights of the city often mentioned in conjunction with Dan Brown’s popular novel Angels and Demons. In the afternoon, you may want to explore the Vatican Museums to contemplate the works by Michelangelo and Raphael. (B)

directly at the base of the bridge. Four Seasons Istanbul at the Bosphorus – 3 nights (B, D)

Day 4: To Athens This morning, transfer to the airport for the flight to Athens, Greece. Tonight, join your local expert on a walk through the Plaka district; head up the steps to the small area of Anafiotika, a small Greek island village transplanted to Athens by the migrant workers who came from the island of Anafi to build the Presidential Palace in the 19th century. Then enjoy a lavish feast with your fellow travelers, accompanied by Bouzouki music, in a local taverna. Hotel Grand Bretagne – 3 nights (B, D)

Day 8: Istanbul Today is dedicated to Istanbul’s famous sights including the Grand Bazaar, the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. Stop for lunch at the famed “Pudding Shop” restaurant before visiting Topkapi Palace and the Spice Bazaar. (B, L) Day 9: Istanbul Drive to the Asian side of Istanbul today. See Baghdad Boulevard, then visit the Sakip Sabanci museum, one of Istanbul’s finest art collections. Return to the European side for an afternoon at leisure. Dine on local specialties while sharing impressions with your travel companions during a celebratory dinner on your last night in Istanbul. (B, D) Day 10: Depart Istanbul Bid farewell to Istanbul and head to the airport for your onward flight. (B)

• • • • • • •

Intimate small group of like minded travelers, never more than 25 travelers Discover the classic sights and hidden treasures of Rome, the key to Antiquity Immerse yourself in the glory of an ancient civilization with your private historian Experience Athens, including the famed Plaka District and the fascinating village of Anafiotika Enjoy a private tour of the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum Explore the amazing metropolis of Istanbul, the city that straddles the continents of Europe and Asia Dine on local specialties in unique and locally favored restaurants

Acropolis, Athens

Day 5: Athens Today embark on a visit to the Acropolis, the new Acropolis Museum, the ancient Agora, and the Temple of Zeus. Your afternoon is at leisure; why not head to the seaside area of Glyfada for a dinner of fresh local fish and seafood? (B) Day 6: Athens Savor a full day on your own in Athens. If you like, why not escape the city for a cruise of the Argosaronic islands. Highlights of these beautiful islands include the ancient temple in Aegina, the lush landscapes of Poros and its waterfront, and the auto-free island and town of Hydra. (B) Day 7: To Istanbul Transfer to the airport for your flight to Istanbul. This evening, take a private drive to view the illuminated city and Bosphorus Bridge, before sampling local specialties in the Ortaköy area, Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

11


Escorted Luxury Group Journey

Escorted Luxury Group Journey

The Cox & Kings Experience

Seville Cathedral, Spain

Alhambra Palace, Spain

Day 3: Barcelona Spend the day at La Mercé, experiencing some of the many festival activities accompanied by your guide. Tonight, enjoy dinner with your group at El Celler de Can de Roca, which claimed the number one position on The World’s 50 Best Restaurants list this year. (B, D)

This afternoon, savor a traditional flamenco show and tapas dinner with your traveling companions. (B, D)

Day 4: To Madrid This morning, transfer to the railway station for your first-class train journey to Madrid. Upon arrival in Madrid, you will be welcomed and transferred to you hotel. Although Madrid is one of the younger European capital cities, it boasts amazingly rich history and culture, including the atmospheric lanes of the old city, handsome plazas filled with regal statues, and world-class museums. Hotel AC Retiro – 2 nights (B) Musicians, La Merce Festival, Barcelona Barcelona

My Dream Trip – La Mercé Festival 10 D A Y S & 9 N I G H T S

Barcelona, Madrid, Granada & Seville

Madrid

Seville Granada

Day 5: Madrid In the morning, you will tour the Spanish capital. Begin in Madrid de los Austrias, or the Austrian quarter, which boomed during the Hapsburg dynasty. Stroll through the Plaza Mayo, explore the Royal Palace complex, the Sabatini Gardens and much more on this lively introduction to the city. This afternoon, relish a private tasting of chocolate and wine. (B)

Day 8: To Seville Board your first-class train to Seville today, and admire the whitewashed villages of Andalucía along the way. Originally founded as a Roman city and now home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Seville is bursting with antique charm. This evening, hone your dancing skills at a flamenco class. Hotel Alfonso XIII – 2 nights (B) Day 9: Seville Join a local Cox & Kings historian for a sightseeing tour of Seville, including the grand cathedral (the third largest church in the world), the royal fortresses, the Archive of the Indies and the 13thcentury Torre del Oro, which was part of the ancient city walls. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure to browse the markets or take a cruise on the slow, stately Guadalquivir River. (B) Day 10: Depart Seville After breakfast, bid adiós to España and your fellow travelers as you head to the airport for your onward flight. (B)

• Celebrate the end of summer at Barcelona’s biggest street party, La Mercé • Admire Barcelona’s modernist and avant-garde architecture • Marvel at iconic works by famed architect, Antonio Gaudi • Indulge in a world-class dining experience in Girona • Discover the splendor of Madrid’s monuments and palaces • Put on your dancing shoes for a fun lesson in flamenco • Explore Granada’s awe inspiring Alhambra and the gardens of the Generalife • Taste mouthwatering tapas in Granada’s friendly tapas bars • Visit the magnificent Seville Cathedral and see the tomb of Christopher Columbus

Olympic Village in Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona, Spain

Discover Spain’s cultural heritage in several of the country’s iconic cities. Experience the passion of Barcelona at the city’s largest street party, the festival of La Mercé, which celebrates the end of the summer. Then explore the fusion of modern and traditional architecture in Madrid, immerse yourself in Moorish magic at the majestic Alhambra and the gorgeous Gardens of Generalife in Granada, and visit Christopher Columbus’ tomb in Andalucia’s most famed city, Seville.

MY DREAM TRIP by Nydia Mejia

Europe Destination Specialist

12

Day 1: Arrive Barcelona Upon arrival in Barcelona, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings local representative and transferred to your hotel. The capital of Catalonia is unequivocally a Mediterranean city, not only because of its geographic location, but also because of its history, tradition and cultural influences. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure to relax and explore this captivating city on your own. Hotel Casa Fuster – 3 nights

Day 2: Barcelona Embark on a half-day tour of the city. Explore beautiful examples of modernism and 20thcentury avant-garde architecture. On your tour, visit the Plaza Sant Jaum, Olympic Village, the monument to Christopher Columbus and brilliant works by Antonio Gaudi, including the Sagrada Familia Cathedral and Park Güell. This afternoon, you will be escorted to La Mercé so that you begin celebrating with the locals. (B)

Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

Day 6: To Granada After breakfast, transfer to the railway station for your first-class train journey to Granada. Upon arrival in this ancient city, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings local representative and transferred to your hotel. This evening, indulge in an exclusive olive oil and wine tasting. Hotel Hospes Palacio Patos – 2 nights (B) Day 7: Granada Today visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Alhambra Palace, which was the residence of the Sultan when the Arabs ruled over Spain. Then spend some time exploring the Generalife, the country residence of the Sultan, where the rich orchards provided the palaces with provisions. Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

13


Private Journey

Private Journey

Guard Buckingham Palace, London

The Cox & Kings Experience

British Town & Country London, Salisbury, Bath, Cotswolds & Oxford 6 DAYS & 5 NIGHTS

Oxford Bath

London

On this family-friendly exploration of Great Britain, you’ll be educated, inspired and entertained by your expert local Cox & Kings guides as you immerse yourself in the history and legends of England. Thrill to the storied past and vibrant present of London before traveling onward to Salisbury Cathedral and enigmatic Stonehenge. After discovering the Roman heritage of Bath, visit the charming villages of the Cotswolds and the lively town of Oxford. Day 1: Arrive London Upon arrival in London, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings local representative and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure to rest up from your travels or begin your explorations of one of the world’s greatest cities. London is a diverse and exciting city, home to an array of some of the world’s most famous attractions, landmarks and sites of historic significance. The Savoy – 2 nights

14

Day 2: London Join a local Cox & Kings expert for an exciting tour of London. See the Royal Borough of Chelsea and Kensington, Kensington Gardens and the Victoria & Albert Museum. Stop to take photos of Sir Christopher Wren’s St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the Changing of the Guards. Your guide will regale you with incredible tales of the Tower of London. Last, but not least, cross the River Thames and explore the historic south

bank. The afternoon is yours at leisure to shop or visit the British Museum to see the treasures of antiquity. (B) Day 3: To Bath Drive west today to explore some of the most intriguing sights in the U.K. The beautiful Salisbury Cathedral is an international symbol of Christianity and one of England’s most striking architectural monuments. Visit The Chapter House, home to

Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

City of Bath in Somerset

Statue of William Herbert, Oxford

one of only four surviving copies of the Magna Carta, and then see the oldest working clock in Europe, which dates back to 1386. Next stop will be Stonehenge; 5,000 years ago, these huge 40ton stones were dragged from over 280 miles away in Wales. Who built the site, and why, remains a mystery, but Stonehenge continues to enthrall the imagination and captivate the heart of travelers from all over the world. In the afternoon, continue to beautiful Georgian Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover stunning architecture, including the crescents, Pulteney Bridge (modeled on the Ponte Vecchio in Florence), and Bath Abbey. Then explore the Roman Baths, which were built more than 2,000 years ago and are beautifully preserved. Hotel Royal Crescent – 1 night (B)

date back to the 13th century and among the university’s famous students were Bill Clinton, C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien and Lewis Carroll. Embark on a fascinating walking tour, which includes the Great Hall in Christ Church, where many scenes from the Harry Potter movies were filmed. Continue to the Bodleian Library and the picture-perfect college courtyards for which Oxford is famous. After ample free time to enjoy the historic town, return to London for a last night at leisure in the capital. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not head out for a pint at the local pub, followed by a celebratory dinner? Hotel Grosvenor House – 1 night (B)

Day 4: To Oxford Stop in the vibrant port city of Bristol this morning. The city grew up around the original junction of the River Frome and the River Avon, adjacent to the original Bristol Bridge in the eleventh century. Despite its inland harbor location, in the 17th and 18th centuries, Bristol was one of the world’s greatest ports. In 1497, explorer John Cabot discovered the land that would become the Canadian province of Newfoundland, and the merchants of Bristol made fortunes from the New World’s sugar, tobacco and rum. Travel on to the Cotswolds, an expanse of gently sloping green hills and ancient, picturesque villages in southwestern and west-central England. Designated as an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the largest in the country, the Cotswolds’ quintessentially English charm spans the counties of Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire. See quaint villages, impressive churches and stained-glass windows, and discover Britain’s oldest bowling green. In the late afternoon, drive to the city of Oxford to spend the night. Old Bank Hotel – 1 night (B)

Day 6: Depart London Mayfair, the district your hotel is located in, is all about class, sophistication and finery. Explore fine retailers this morning on Regent and Old Bond Street before bidding farewell to England as you meet your driver for a private transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B)

• • • • • • •

Explore the highlights of London and enjoy some time to chart your own path through one of the world’s great cities Learn about the Tower of London’s lurid history Visit Salisbury Cathedral, and see one of the only four copies of the Magna Carta in existence Immerse yourself in the magic and mystery of Stonehenge See the Georgian city of Bath, and discover its Roman heritage Enjoy the storybook villages, hills and vales of the Cotswolds Experience the history and glory of Oxford and uncover hidden treasures on a walking tour

St Paul’s Cathedral in London

Day 5: To London Join your local Cox & Kings guide this morning for a comprehensive discovery of one of England’s most famous cities. The colleges in Oxford Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

15


Private Journey

Private Journey

Cliffs of Moher, Ireland

The Cox & Kings Experience

Colorful Shop, Dingle

St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin

Day 4: To Limerick Once cited as “the most beautiful place on earth” by National Geographic, the stunningly scenic Dingle Peninsula will enchant you with its rugged landscapes, emerald green fields and achingly blue waters. Embark on a scenic drive around the peninsula with opportunities for great photo stops. Then continue to Limerick for the night. No. 1 Pery Square Hotel & Spa – 1 night (B)

Day 8: To Dublin Return to Dublin after a leisurely morning at Ashford Castle. Four Seasons Dublin – 1 night (B) Day 9: Depart Dublin This morning, bid farewell to the Emerald Isle as you meet your driver for a private transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B)

Roving Ireland 9 DAYS & 8 NIGHTS

Galway & Cong

Galway

Dublin

Dublin, Killarney, Limerick,

Limerick

Killarney

Discover the Emerald Isle in style. Begin in Dublin where St. Patrick’s Cathedral and the cobbled courtyards of Trinity College greet you with their architectural splendor. As you travel throughout Ireland, visit Killarney, home of the country’s most vibrant and friendly pubs; kiss the Blarney Stone; stand atop the Cliffs of Moher; and enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience spending two nights in the deluxe 13th-century Ashford Castle. Day 1: Arrive Dublin Welcome to the Emerald Isle! Upon arrival in Dublin, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings local representative and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure. Merrion Hotel – 2 nights Day 2: Dublin After breakfast, you will begin your discovery of Dublin’s unique treasures on a city tour with a visit

16

to St. Patrick’s Cathedral and a chance to admire the colorful doorways of several of the capital’s stately Georgian squares. See the Guinness Storehouse, then stop at the Gravity Bar for a freshly pulled pint and an amazing view of the city. Take a leisurely walk through the cobbled courtyards of Trinity College Library, which houses one of Ireland’s treasures, the 8th-century Book of Kells. A visit to the National Museum completes your introduction to Dublin. (B)

Day 3: To Killarney Drive south and visit the Rock of Cashel, a storied pre-Christian fortress perched atop a hill. Continue to Blarney Castle to kiss the fabled Blarney Stone and come away with “the gift of the gab.” In the afternoon, continue west to Killarney, where you’ll have a brief tour and then savor some free time to exercise your newfound eloquence with the locals at the town’s shops and pubs. Killarney Park Hotel – 1 night (B)

Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

Day 6: To Cong Gaelic-speaking Connemara in the West of Ireland is an area of many contrasts. With its famous stone walls, thatched cottages and countless small lakes, it presents the visitor with unforgettable impressions. Discover why some consider this rugged realm of mountains, lakes and bogs to be the real emerald of Ireland. Visit Kylemore Abbey, beautifully located on a lake, and explore the Connemara Marble Factory, sculptors of Connemara marble for generations. In the afternoon, cruise across Lough Corrib to arrive at Ashford Castle. Tonight, have a seat in the castle’s sumptuous dining room for a once-ina-lifetime dining experience. Ashford Castle Hotel – 2 nights (B, D)

Day 5: To Galway Depart Limerick for the coast. The magnificent Cliffs of Moher rise 700 feet from the waters of the Atlantic Ocean and stretch for nearly five miles along County Clare’s west coast. Take a stroll around the area and gaze out over the seemingly endless blue waters of the ocean as gulls wheel in the sky above. Continue to Galway in the afternoon. Park House Hotel – 1 night (B) Ashford Castle

• See the highlights of Dublin, including Trinity College and the Guinness Storehouse • Visit the pre-Christian fortress of the Rock of Cashel • Kiss the Blarney Stone and come away with the “gift of gab” • Savor the scenic magic of Dingle Peninsula’s Rugged, Rocky Landscapes • Stand in awe on the Cliffs of Moher as you look out over the Atlantic Ocean • Experience the Thatched Cottages, Rustic Stone Walls and Picture-Perfect Lakes of the Gaelic Connemara region • Indulge in the luxuries of Ashford Castle

Ashford Castle Blarney House, County Cork, Ireland

Day 7: Cong Tour Ashford Castle in the morning; the afternoon is at leisure to indulge in local activities, or you can play a round of golf. The estate’s beautiful ninehole 2996-yard par 35 parkland course provides the perfect environment for golfers of all ages to hone their skills. The course was designed by the renowned Irish golf architect, Eddie Hackett. (B) Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

17


Private Journey

Private Journey

Inveraray Castle

The Cox & Kings Experience

Landscapes of Scotland Edinburgh, Inverness, Fort William & Auchterarder 8 DAYS & 7 NIGHTS

Inverness

Fort Willam Auchterader

Edinburgh

Embark on this spectacular chauffeur-driven journey through Scotland. After exploring Edinburgh, discover mystical Loch Ness and stand in awe before the battlements of Inverlochy Castle. Travel along the Caledonian Canal, and observe local wildlife at the Moray Firth. Pass through the Highlands before concluding at the Gleneagles resort. Along the way, indulge your tastes for the finer things with a wealth of private visits and exclusive experiences. Day 1: Arrive Edinburgh Upon arrival at Edinburgh International Airport, you will be met by your Cox & Kings representative. See the stunning architecture of 18th century Georgian New Town on the way to your luxury hotel. The Balmoral – 2 nights Day 2: Edinburgh Join your local guide on an exclusive private tour of the “Jewel in Scotland’s Crown” — Edinburgh

18

Castle. See Holyroodhouse, which is the grand, official residence of the Queen when visiting Scotland. Spend some time exploring the city on your own. Wander around the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Old Town, stroll down the Royal Mile, and browse some of the bespoke retail outlets selling soft cashmere and beautiful silver gifts. Or visit the Royal Yacht Britannia, a magnificent ship that has played host to some of the most famous people in the world. (B)

Day 3: To Inverness Your journey today will take you through the hauntingly beautiful Scottish Highlands ending just outside the city of Inverness. On your travels, see and experience the wondrous, ever-changing scenery Scotland is so famous for. At your hotel, once described as the most beautiful Regency House in Scotland, check in and freshen up before you head out to explore your surroundings. Boath House – 2 nights (B)

Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

Red Deer stag, Scotland

Glenfiddich Distillery, Speyside, Scotland

Day 4: Inverness After breakfast, depart for Drumnadrochit, which is situated just outside Inverness, the location of the mythical Loch Ness. Here, the real inner secrets of Britain’s greatest lake are revealed, shedding some much unexpected light upon the mystery for which it is so widely known. After your day of exploring, you will be taken back to your hotel in plenty of time for you to freshen up and head out for dinner. Inverness has a vibrant restaurant and pub scene, whether you want to eat on the banks of Loch Ness or in the city center overlooking the River Ness and Inverness Castle. (B)

Day 7: Auchterarder Today, explore the historical city of Stirling, a short half-hour drive from Gleneagles. The history of Stirling dates back over 800 years with the heart of the old town still surviving today. Stirling’s importance came from the fact that it controlled the lowest crossing point of the River Forth and was the ancient Royal Capital of Scotland. Stirling is also home to Stirling Castle, one of the largest and most important castles, both historically and architecturally, in Scotland. (B)

Day 5: To Fort William Today travel toward Inverlochy Castle; your drive will take you along the majestic Caledonian Canal where you will have plenty of opportunities to stop and experience the beautiful surroundings. The Caledonian Canal is considered to be one of the greatest waterways of the world. Running from Fort William to Inverness, this 60mile coast-to-coast channel passes through the beautiful Scottish countryside, along the shores of several spectacular lochs and through many towns and villages. As you drive, keep your eyes open for Scottish red deer munching on the local foliage. Stop at Moray Firth to search for some of Scotland’s wildlife, including bottlenose dolphins, common seals, gray seals and porpoises. Inverlochy Castle – 1 night (B)

Day 8: Depart Edinburgh Wake up to a magnificent day in the Scottish Highlands. Gleneagles offers a plethora of activities to enjoy this morning: its three 18-hole championship courses have attracted some of the most famous golfers in the world, and the onsite shooting and equestrian schools are among the finest in the world. When it is time, meet your driver for a private transfer to Edinburgh airport for your onward flight. (B)

• Explore Edinburgh including a private visit to the castle • Experience the mysteries of Loch Ness • Spend an evening in the most beautiful Scottish Regency House • Admire the breathtaking beauty of the Scottish Highlands • Search for bottlenose dolphins and seals in Moray Firth • Spend a night within the walls of a royal stronghold of Inverlochy Castle • Immerse yourself in fascinating Scottish history at Stirling Castle • Revel in the legacy of Gleneagles Hotel, where golf is celebrated in 2014 with the Ryder Cup, hosted at the resort’s own PGA Centenary Course

Eilean Donan Castle, Durnie, Scotland

Day 6: To Auchterarder After a night in one of Scotland’s renowned historic castles, it will be time to travel to the last destination of your journey: Gleneagles, home of the 2014 Ryder Cup. Once more you will traverse Scotland’s beautiful highlands on your way to one of the world’s finest golf resorts. Having arrived at Gleneagles, explore the grounds, set within the gentle beauty of 850 acres of Perthshire countryside. Gleneagles boasts one of the country’s finest spas. Gleneagles Hotel – 2 nights (B) Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

19


Private Journey

Private Journey

Sculptures on Trocadero, Eiffel Tower

The Cox & Kings Experience

Northern France – Normandy & Paris 7 DAYS & 6 NIGHTS

Normandy Paris

Normandy Beaches & Paris

Experience the best of French culture and gain fresh perspective on French-American relations through history and culture. Delve into the history of World War II in Normandy and visit the incredible island monastery of Mont Saint-Michel. In Paris, the City of Light, cruise the Seine, and spend some time strolling the legendary Champs-Elysees. Then head out of town to explore the history and architecture of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Versailles on a private visit. Day 1: Arrive Paris and travel to Normandy Upon arrival in Paris, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings local representative. A scenic drive takes you to Normandy and your hotel in Audrieu, a Relais & Chateaux property located between Caen and Bayeux. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure to relax in your accommodations or venture out into the city for a pleasant stroll in the historic center. Chateau d’Audrieu – 3 nights

20

Day 2: Normandy After breakfast, begin your exploration of Normandy by focusing on sights related to D-Day. Relive June 6, 1944, and discover why it is known as “The Longest Day.” You will follow the roads taken by the Allied liberators while listening to the local anecdotes that your guide will be happy to share with you. Visit Omaha beach, depicted in the opening scenes of Steven Spielberg’s Saving Private Ryan. This beach was the

site of some of the most vicious fighting of World War II: approximately 34,000 soldiers of the 1st, 2nd and 29th Infantry Divisions landed here on D-Day. Continue to the American Cemetery, the Caen Memorial, and other locations related to World War II. If time permits and depending on your interests, you may take a guided tour of Bayeux and the museum of its famous tapestry, which has been designated a “Memory of the World” by UNESCO. (B)

Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

Paris Cityscape France

Chateau de Chenonceau, Loire

Day 3: Normandy After breakfast this morning, depart your hotel and embark on a full-day excursion to the fascinating island of Mont Saint-Michel. This commune in the middle of the mouth of the Couesnon River was erected back in the 8th century and its architecture mirrors that of the feudal society that existed at the time, with the monastery sitting atop the Great Halls, which in turn are above the storehouses, while outside the walls are the homes of the common people. Many writers have tried to define what has been named the “Marvel of the Occident.” Some say that it is to the sea what the pyramid of Cheops is to the desert, while others describe it as an imaginary manor house. Surrounded by the sea, the island is assailed daily by Europe’s highest tides. Mont Saint-Michel is undeniably unique and a must-see for any traveler to the region. (B)

you will also pass the two natural islands, Île de la Cité and Île Saint-Louis. (B)

Day 4: To Paris Today, you will be privately transferred to the Hotel Napoleon in Paris, located in the heart of the city, just steps away from the mythical Champs-Élysées. Enjoy the rest of your day at leisure, shopping on France’s most glamorous avenue! This evening, why not head out for dinner at one of the city’s classic brasseries? Hotel Napoleon – 3 nights (B)

Day 6: Paris After a leisurely breakfast, depart the city for a halfday tour of the Château de Versailles, a UNESCO World Heritage site for over thirty years. Your guide will enlighten you about the fascinating history of the palace and French royalty. Upon returning to Paris, the remainder of the afternoon is yours to explore the city’s amazing museums, or to catch up on your shopping. (B) Day 7: Depart Paris The morning is yours to stroll among the book vendors on the banks of the Seine, mingle with the artists on Montmartre, or explore the legacy of Honoré de Balzac, the first novelist to place Paris, the great capital city of his time, at the heart of his work. Then bid farewell to France as you are transferred to the airport for your onward flight. (B)

• Stay in the area’s best hotels and chateaux • Walk in the footsteps of history on the beaches of Normandy • Relive D-Day and follow the road taken by the Allied liberators in June of 1944 • Take in the magic of Mont Saint-Michel • Experience the highlights of Paris with your private local Cox & Kings historian first-hand on a tour of the French capital • Learn about the story of Eiffel Tower • Admire Paris from the water as you cruise along the Seine River • Explore the Palace of Versailles, center of political power in France prior to 1789, on a privately guided visit

Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy, France

Day 5: Paris After breakfast, embark on a half-day private, guided sightseeing tour of the City of Light. You’ll pass the Arc de Triomphe and stop at the Trocadero, the best vantage point to take your picture-perfect Eiffel Tower photo. In the late afternoon, a private cruise on the Seine River allows you to admire Paris from a different perspective as you get a better understanding of the city’s intertwined relationship with the water. The Seine bisects the city into Right and Left Bank, and its 37 bridges within Paris include Pont Neuf, the Pont de l’Alma near the Eiffel Tower, and the most opulently decorated Pont Alexandre III. During your journey on the water, Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

21


Private Journey

Private Journey

Burgundian Vineyard

The Cox & Kings Experience

Roman Theater, Lyon

Monaco

hotel is located. Suitably oriented to the city, you’ll have some time late this afternoon and evening to do some exploring on your own. You’ll have your choice of friendly local bistros or one of Lyon’s Michelin-starred restaurants. In the home of famed chef Paul Bocuse, hearty, traditional fare shares the menu with the nouvelle cuisine that has set the culinary world on fire. Hotel La Cour des Loges – 2 nights (B)

bounty of the good life in the South of France. If you like, why not take an excursion to Grasse, the center of perfume making? Stop by the renowned 11th-century cathedral of Notre Dame de Puy to admire its striking architecture and small collection of paintings by Flemish master Peter Paul Rubens. The fascinating International Museum of Perfume is also worth a visit. Or just do as the locals do and relax on one of the city’s beach clubs and contemplate the very French question whether you are more partial to Pernod or Ricard. For your last evening in France, why not take a stroll along the promenade before indulging in a feast of fresh seafood and sparkling Champagne? (B)

Day 4: Lyon This morning, continue your tour of the city by car, including a visit to the Fourviere Hill, and the nearby Roman theater, one of the gems of ancient architecture in France. This afternoon, enjoy a cooking class in the intimacy of an acclaimed local chef’s personal home. After learning how to prepare some signature dishes, sit down to a sumptuous lunch with local wine. (B, L)

Burgundy, Lyon and Southern France 8 DAYS & 7 NIGHTS

Dijon Beaune

Lyon

Beaune, Lyon, Nice & Monaco Nice

Indulge your palate on this culinary exploration of France. Commence your journey in Burgundy, known for its Boeuf Bourguignon and unique and rich variety of world-class wines. Then it’s onward to Lyon, often referred to as the food capital of the world. Here, gastronomy is a way of life, as seen by the delightful “Bouchons,” restaurants, which can be found all over the city. Your journey concludes on the glamorous French Riviera, for a relaxing ending to the perfect journey through the South of France. Day 1: Arrive Dijon and travel to Beaune Upon arrival in Dijon, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings local representative and transferred to your charming hotel in the medieval town of Beaune. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. If you’re feeling adventurous, head out to explore the well-preserved Old Town. Don’t miss the incredible Hotel-Dieu, the most architecturally stunning example of France’s many medieval charity hospitals. Why not begin your

22

culinary exploration of the South of France with dinner at one of the many classic restaurants located near your hotel? Hotel Le Cep – 2 nights

region’s most famous wineries, such as Cote de Beaune, Puligny Montrachet, Meursault or Pommard. (B)

Day 2: Burgundy The raison d’être of Burgundy is making and drinking wine. Spend a full day in the heart of the region, admiring its rolling countryside and vineyard landscapes. Stop along the way to taste wine and explore the grounds of some of the

Day 3: To Lyon After breakfast, depart Beaune and head toward Lyon, the regional capital of Rhône-Alpes and one of the world capitals of gastronomy. Upon arrival, enjoy a half-day walking tour of the city, concluding in the historic city center where your

Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

Day 5: To Nice This morning, depart Lyon for the Côte d’Azur. En route, stop in picturesque Saint Tropez, and enjoy some time to stroll down its cobblestone streets and take in the beauty of its glorious coastline. Continue to Nice, the glamorous capital of the French Riviera, and check in to your hotel, which is ideally located on the famous La Promenade des Anglais. Hotel La Perouse – 3 nights (B)

Day 8: Depart Nice After a sumptuous breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a morning at your own pace in the environs that inspired generations of travelers – and create memories to last a lifetime. Then bid Adieu to La Grande Nation as you are transferred to NiceCôte D’Azur Airport for your onward flight. (B)

• • • • • •

Stay in the South of France’s finest hotels and classic chateaux Discover the charm of the cobblestone streets of the medieval city of Beaune Sample phenomenal Burgundy wines at the vineyards that made them famous Indulge in gourmet food and attend an exclusive cooking class in Lyon Feel the cosmopolitan vibe in Monaco as you wander through the Old Town of Monte Carlo In Nice, stay at Hotel La Perouse, perched on a promontory high above the Bay of Angels, where the entrance is as discrete as if you were visiting a private home

NIce

Day 6: Eze and Monaco After breakfast, embark on a half-day trip to the medieval village of Eze and the Principality of Monaco, beginning with a scenic drive along the coast. Eze is a beautiful village perched dramatically high on a hilltop. You’ll have some time here to explore and immerse yourself in the ultimate Provencal experience. Then, travel across the border into Monaco for a glimpse of how the rich, the famous, and the royal live and play. Stop in Monte Carlo and stroll through its Old Town before returning to Nice. (B) Day 7: Nice – Côte D’Azur Enjoy a full day at leisure today to relish the Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

23


Private Journey

Private Journey

Plaza de Espana, Spain

The Cox & Kings Experience

Restaurant, Rioja

Bolhao Market, Portugal

Marques de Riscal winery, which has the area’s oldest wine cellar. The afternoon is yours to treat yourself to a Vinotherapie treatment at the hotel’s spa, or explore the area on your own. (B)

Day 9: To Seville Traverse southern Portugal on your way back into Spain. Reach Seville in the afternoon, just in time to take in the tapas culture that made the city famous. Participate in a tapas walk through the historic center, sampling small dishes like sardines, dates with Serrano ham or Tortilla Española in various local bars. Alfonso XIII – 2 nights (B, D)

Day 5: To León Drive west today and stop in Burgos, an important stop on the Pilgrim’s Road to Santiago and home to a masterpiece of Spanish-Gothic architecture, the cathedral, which has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Continue to León and check in to your hotel. Parador Hostal San Marcos – 1 night (B)

Spain & Portugal - A Wine & Culinary Journey Madrid, La Rioja, León, Porto, Lisbon & Seville

11 D A Y S & 10 N I G H T S

Leon La Rioja Porto Madrid

Lisbon Seville

On this fascinating expedition, you’ll travel straight into the heart of Iberia as you experience the duende (spirit) of Spain and Portugal. Begin in the grand city of Madrid, immerse yourself in the wine culture of La Rioja and marvel at the iconic cathedral in Burgos. Cross the border into Portugal where you’ll walk in the footsteps of explorers of a long-gone era in the seafaring cities of Porto and Lisbon. Then return to southern Spain to discover Andalucía and the sultry city of Seville. Day 1: Arrive Madrid Upon arrival in Madrid, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings local representative and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy your night at leisure. Hotel Westin Palace – 2 nights (B)

Calle Mayor, stop at Retiro Park and the bullring. Then explore the Prado Museum, one of the greatest museums in the world, which boasts a fantastic collection of Spanish painting from 11th18th centuries. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure. (B)

Day 2: Madrid Take in the highlights of Madrid during your private sightseeing with a local historian: see the elegant Plazas de Oriente and España, drive to

Day 3: To La Rioja Located just north of Madrid, La Rioja is also Spain’s most famous wine-producing area. Explore Logroño, the capital of the region, and

24

its well-preserved old center, before visiting a local winery for a tasting. Later, check in to your hotel and dine in style this evening at the hotel restaurant overseen by Michelin-starred chef Francis Paniego. Hotel Marqués de Riscal – 2 nights (B, D) Day 4: La Rioja Discover Museo del Vino Dinastía Vivanco, Europe’s largest wine museum, before visiting the

Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

Day 6: To Porto Spend some time in León this morning before heading toward the Portuguese border and the city of Porto. Situated on the banks of the Douro River, the country’s second-largest city looks like a colorful tumbledown dream with medieval relics, soaring bell towers, extravagant baroque churches and stately Beaux Arts buildings piled on top of one another. Porto’s historic center is the Ribeira district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. InterContinental Porto Palacio das Cardosas – 2 nights (B)

Day 10: Seville Join your local Cox & Kings historian for a private sightseeing tour of Seville, including the grand cathedral (the third largest church in the world), the royal fortresses, the Archive of the Indies and the 13th-century Torre del Oro, which was part of the ancient city walls. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure to browse the markets or take a cruise on the slow, stately Guadalquivir River. (B) Day 11: Depart Seville After breakfast, bid farewell to Iberia as you head to the airport for your onward flight (B)

• • • • • • • •

Discover the splendor of Madrid’s monuments and palaces Sample the famous Rioja reds and stay in La Rioja’s wine country See the soaring cathedral in Burgos and explore romantic León Sample the famous Rioja reds and stay in La Rioja’s wine country Explore the ancient city of Lisbon with your private historian guide Taste mouthwatering tapas in Seville’s friendly tapas bars Visit the magnificent Seville Cathedral and see the tomb of Christopher Columbus take a cruise on the placid guadalquivir river or spend some time exploring seville’s markets

City View, Torre del Oro

Day 7: Porto Experience the vibrant Bolhão Market, explore the majestic cathedral, and wander around the atmospheric Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then stroll along the banks of the Douro River, which provides excellent conditions for growing the grapes used in Porto’s famous port wine, which you can sample from the Caves Crofts cellars. (B) Day 8: To Lisbon En route to Lisbon, stop to see the religious site of Fatima on the way. Upon arrival in Portugal’s capital, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Tower of Belem, explore the narrow streets of the charming Alfama district, and see the Castelo de Sao Jorge. Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon – 1 night (B) Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

25


Private Journey

Private Journey

Palazzo Vecchio, Italy

The Cox & Kings Experience Cinque Terre, Italy

Vasari Corridor, Florence

Arrive in Rapallo on the Portofino coast this evening. Hotel Excelsior Palace – 2 nights (B, L)

Campo where the famous Palio horse races are held. Two times a year, ten horses and riders wearing the traditional colors of various sections of the city race around a dirt track; the jockeys ride bareback, so it’s not unusual to see several horses finishing the race without their riders. Then it’s on to the picturesque town of Greve in Chianti, and Verazzano Castle where you’ll dine on fresh Tuscan fare and sample worldrenowned Chianti Classico wines. (B, L)

Day 4: Rapallo Your day is at leisure. Explore Rapallo, the largest seaside resort on the Italian Riviera, or enjoy a full-day excursion to Cinque Terre, five villages perched on the cliffs, connected by trails. You can explore the marina of Riomaggiore, and perhaps take a stroll along the breathtakingly scenic Lover’s Walk. This evening, why not venture out to one of the city’s famed seaside restaurants for an unforgettable dinner of fresh fish prepared in the traditional fashion? (B)

Milan

Italy: Food, Wine & Fashion 8 DAYS & 7 NIGHTS

Rapallo Florence

Milan, Rapallo & Tuscany

II Borro

On this exquisite exploration of Italy, discover the culinary highlights of Piedmont, and dabble in some local history and art in the great maritime city of Genoa. Continue your journey to the seaside resort of Rapallo, your base for a visit to the five cliff-side villages of Cinque Terre. Then it’s on to Tuscany, and Il Borro, a medieval village refashioned as a luxury retreat. While there, tour Florence with an art historian, explore Siena, and sample some Chianti Classico wines. Day 1: Arrive Milan Upon arrival in Milan, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings local representative and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure to relax at your hotel or begin your explorations of Italy’s capital of fashion. Four Seasons Milan – 2 nights Day 2: Milan Embark on a private sightseeing tour, including

26

the Duomo, Galleria Vittorio Emmanuele and La Scala opera house, which was built in 1778 and has played host to many of the world’s most revered artists. Then admire Leonardo da Vinci’s “Last Supper” and Sforza Castle. In the afternoon, catch up on your shopping in the fashion boutiques of Via Montenapoleone, home to such famous boutiques as Gucci, Valentino, Armani, Prada and Versace. If you like, a private shopper is available to assist. (B)

Day 3: To Rapallo Depart Milan and stop at Gavi, a picturesque town in the Piedmont region, for lunch and wine tasting. Later visit the port city of Genoa, La Superba, birthplace of the great Christopher Columbus and during the 16th century one of the great maritime republics. Time is set aside to explore the old town, part of which has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as the port before you continue your journey.

Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

Day 5: To Il Borro Drive along the Ligurian coast and stop in Lucca, famous for its imposing 16th-century ramparts. Continue past Florence to the region of Arezzo, and the village of Il Borro. With its fascinating thousand-year history, the Borro village and surrounding estate have been restored as a wonderful, medieval village nestled in the heart of the Tuscan countryside. The resort, complete with a renowned wine estate and blissful spa is the perfect place to rest and enjoy the splendors of Tuscany. After checking in, the evening is yours at leisure to revel in the luxury of your home for the next three nights. Il Borro Relais & Chateaux – 3 nights (B)

Day 8: Depart Florence After breakfast, your morning is free to enjoy Il Borro’s plethora of offerings. Pay a visit to Ferruccio Ferragamo’s private collection of antique prints on exhibit at the Estate Gallery, or visit the wine cellar to discover the secrets hidden behind the bouquets and tastes of the Estate’s distinctive Syrah. Then your private Cox & Kings driver will chauffeur you to Florence airport in time for your onward flight. (B)

• • • • • • • •

Delve into the history and style of Milan Travel through Piedmont, and savor its local specialties Visit Genoa, Italy’s chief port city and birthplace of Christopher Columbus Stay by the sea in picturesque Rapallo Indulge in wine and spa treatments at the Ferragamo resort of Il Borro Explore Siena and the Chianti Classico wine region Sample local wines at the venerable Castello Verrazzano Immerse yourself in Renaissance history in Florence, and tour the secret Vasari Corridor

Piazza Duomo with Cathedral, Milan

Day 6: Il Borro Join our local art expert this morning for an insider’s view of Florence. See Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia, then take a private tour of the Vasari Corridor, a secret passageway commissioned by the Medici family that links the Palazzo Vecchio with their home at Pitti Palace. Relish lunch at a well-known local restaurant before enjoying a bit of free time before returning to your Tuscan retreat. If you’re feeling fatigued from the day’s sightseeing, we recommend a visit to the resort’s wonderful spa. (B, L) Day 7: Il Borro Drive to Siena this morning and see Piazza del Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

27


Italy Extensions

Rome

Italy Extensions

4 DAYS & 3 NIGHTS

4 DAYS & 3 NIGHTS

4 DAYS & 3 NIGHTS

Venice

Sorrento/Capri

Day 1: Arrive Rome Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings representative and transferred to your luxury boutique hotel in the center of the city. The legacy of Rome’s 3,000-year history is visible everywhere, from its ancient ruins to early Christian churches, medieval bell towers and Renaissance palaces. Tonight, accompany your local guide to admire the Eternal City by night. Afterwards, why not dine on Roman specialties on Piazza dei Mercanti in the historic Trastevere district? Hotel Gran Melia – 3 nights

Day 1: Arrive Florence Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings representative and transferred to your centrally located luxury hotel. Florence offers a spectacular array of Renaissance art and architecture within its vibrant center, as well as the finest olive oil, cured meats and Chianti wines in the country. Hotel St. Regis – 3 nights

Day 1: Arrive Venice Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings representative and transferred to your luxury boutique hotel in the center of the city. For centuries, Venice has inspired many of the world’s greatest artists and writers. Whether you are exploring it on foot or by boat, this romantic city is a constant inspiration with its grand palazzos and piazzas and its magnificent courtyards and churches. After checking in to your luxurious hotel, the rest of the day is yours at leisure. Aman Canal Grande – 3 nights

Day 1: Arrive Positano/Amalfi Coast Upon arrival at Naples airport or train station, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings representative and transferred to Positano. Built into the hillside, Positano is the Amalfi Coast’s most picturesque and photogenic town, with steeply stacked houses tumbling down to the sea in a cascade of sun-bleached peach, pink and terracotta colors. John Steinbeck visited in 1953 and wrote about the city in an article for Harper’s Bazaar: “Positano bites deep. It is a dream place that isn’t quite real when you are there and becomes beckoningly real after you have gone.” Hotel Le Sirenuse – 3 nights

Day 2: Rome Meet your driver and guide for a tour of some of the most beautiful attractions in the historic center of the city, including the Pantheon, a sacred temple to all the old Roman gods that has been used since the 7th century as a Roman Catholic church. Pay a visit to the Colosseum, which was constructed between 70 and 80 AD and was used for gladiatorial contests and re-enactments of famous military battles. Nearby is the famed Roman Forum, the center of Roman life for centuries. In the afternoon, visit the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s to appreciate amazing art by Rafael and Michelangelo. (B)

Florence

Day 2: Florence After breakfast, embark on a privately guided walking tour of Florence. Begin with a visit to Michelangelo’s masterpiece, the statue of David. Next on the itinerary is Santa Croce Square and church, showcasing tombs of many famous locals including Michelangelo, Galileo and Machiavelli. Stop for ice cream at Vivoli before visiting the awe-inspiring Duomo, crowned by Brunelleschi’s dome. End your Florence sightseeing with a visit to the magnificent Uffizi Gallery. (B)

Day 2: Venice Today, take a private guided walking tour of Venice and admire its hidden treasures nestled amid charming squares, hump-back bridges and narrow streets. Explore the world’s most romantic city as you wander through picturesque cobblestone alleyways and visit some of the grand historic landmarks that epitomize Venice. Later, embark on a gondola ride on the Grand Canal, as well as its narrow tributaries. (B)

4 DAYS & 3 NIGHTS

Day 2: Sorrento - Capri Meet your driver and guide at the hotel for a transfer to the port of Sorrento, where a hydrofoil will whisk you to Capri. Upon arrival, visit the fabled Blue Grotto. Back on the Isle of Capri, embark on a private tour with a visit to Villa San Michele and a chairlift ride to Monte Solaro. Return by hydrofoil and transfer back to Sorrento where you may join the traditional evening passegiata along Via San Cesareo, the main street of the old town. (B)

Day 3: Rome Enjoy a day at leisure to follow your own passions in Rome. If you like, embark on an optional tour to Tivoli, or indulge in a delectable exploration of Roman sights and cuisine on Via Appia Antica. (B)

Day 3: Florence Relish a day at leisure in the capital of Italian culture and art. If you like, take an optional tour of Siena to see Piazza del Campo where the famous Palio horse races are held. Two times a year, ten horses and riders wearing the traditional colors of various sections of the city race around a dirt track; the jockeys ride bareback, so it’s not unusual to see several horses finishing the race without their riders. Or head out to the countryside to visit local vineyards and the picturesque town of Greve in Chianti. (B)

Day 3: Venice Take a private boat trip to the colorful island of Burano. Shop for lace, then continue to the island of Torcello, a peaceful retreat from the bustle of the city. Enjoy fresh local seafood for lunch at Osteria al Ponte del Diavolo before continuing your journey to Murano, the island of the glass blowers. If you like, observe a local glassblowing artist performing his magic before returning to the center of Venice. (B)

Day 3: Amalfi Coast Enjoy the day at leisure, take an excursion to Amalfi and Ravello, or explore ancient ruins in Pompeii and Herculaneum. If the weather permits, you may even want to ascend Mt. Vesuvius. For dinner, try chef Alfonso Caputo’s Taverna del Capitano in Marina del Cantone at the very tip of the peninsula. (B, D)

Day 4: Depart Rome Enjoy the morning at your own pace, then take a private transfer to the airport or railway station. (B)

Day 4: Depart Florence Bid arrivederci to Florence as you take a private transfer to the airport or railway station. (B)

Day 4: Depart Venice The morning in Venice is yours to enjoy; later, transfer to the airport or railway station. (B)

Day 4: Depart Positano Wake up to a morning at leisure, before embarking on your private transfer to the airport or railway station. (B)

28

Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

29


Private Journey

Private Journey

Bode Museum, Berlin

The Cox & Kings Experience Castle in Dresden

Opera House Statue, Dresden

Rothenburg’s iconic monuments, including the Franciscan Monastery and St. James’s Church. Consider joining the local Night Watchman on his rounds for an hour of exciting tales of Old Rothenburg. Hotel Eisenhut – 1 night (B)

history at Cecilienhof, where the structure of postwar Europe was coined by the signing of the Potsdam Agreement in 1945. (B)

Day 4: To Dresden Stop in Nuremberg this morning to take guided walk through one of Germany’s oldest cities. Your next destination will be Bayreuth, capital of Upper Franconia and famous for its Wagner Festival and opera house. In the afternoon reach Dresden, meticulously rebuilt after the infamous Fire Bombing in 1945 left a majority of the city in rubble. Hotel Kempinski Taschenberg – 1 night (B)

Berlin

Picturesque Germany 7 DAYS & 6 NIGHTS

Munich, Rothenburg, Dresden & Berlin

Dresden

Rothenburg Munich

Experience the unique cultural landscape of Germany in style, from the beer gardens in Bavaria to most romantic Rothenburg ob der Tauber, fascinating Dresden and the cosmopolitan capital of Berlin. Walk in the footsteps of the Saxon Kings, explore the heritage of a nation divided for forty years before being reunified under much international attention, and sample local delicacies like Sauerbraten and Currywurst. Day 1: Arrive Munich Upon arrival in the charming city of Munich, capital of Bavaria, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings local representative and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. The Kempinski is ideally located in the heart of Munich, and a stone’s throw from Marienplatz Square, the Bavarian State Theater as well as the worldfamous Hofbräuhaus beer hall. Kempinski Vier Jahreszeiten – 2 nights

30

Day 2: Munich Join a local historian for a comprehensive tour of the city. See Marienplatz Square and the Glockenspiel, the late-gothic Frauenkirche church, and Old Pinakothek museum. In the afternoon, you may want to explore the English Garden, or join a private tour of the BMW factory and museum. The evening is yours at leisure; why not head out on the town for a savory dinner of local specialties. (B)

Day 3: Romantic Road to Rothenburg Travel via the Romantic Road and the towns of Nördlingen and Dinkelsbühl to Rothenburg. This charming town stands for everything Germany is known for, and your private guide will reveal some of Rothenburg’s well-kept secrets during a walking tour of the walled center. Near the end of the 13th century, Rothenburg was declared a Free Imperial City, which stimulated the expansion of the city and the construction of some of

Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

Day 5: To Berlin Join your local guide for a tour of the city center. See the Church of Our Lady, and Green Vault museum, which showcases the amazing treasures collected by the Saxon royal family. Later, why not take a leisurely drive up the Elbe River to Pillnitz Castle, gardens and Water Palace? In the afternoon drive to Germany’s capital and largest city, Berlin. Your first evening here is at leisure to begin your explorations of one of the world’s most vibrant cities on your own. Alternatively, why not make some new friends at one of Berlin’s rollicking beer gardens or taverns? Rocco Forte Hotel De Rome – 2 nights (B)

Day 7: Depart Berlin With a morning at leisure, you may want to explore the Berlin Wall Memorial. Situated at the historic site on Bernauer Strasse, the memorial contains the last piece of Berlin Wall with the preserved grounds behind it and is thus able to convey an impression of how the border fortifications developed until the end of the 1980s. Or consider indulging in the Fine Arts at Museum Island. Options include the Pergamon Museum (famous for the Pergamon Altar, the Ishtar Gate of Babylon and the Pergamon frieze), the Bode-Museum, the New Museum (featuring the Egyptian Museum and bust of Nefertiti), the Alte Nationalgalerie, and the Old Museum. When it is time to leave, say goodbye to Germany as you take a private transfer to Berlin airport for your onward flight. (B)

• • • • • • • •

Discover the charming Bavarian capital of Munich Stay in one of Munich’s most luxurious and renowned hotels Travel along the Romantic Road Experience the walled city of Rothenburg Walk on historic cobbles of Nuremberg, and view the city from the balcony of its magnificent castle Witness the rebuilding of historic Dresden, now one of the country’s liveliest cities on the banks of the River Elbe Savor the eclectic vibe of Berlin’s bustling streets and markets Straddle former East and West Germany as you stand where the Berlin Wall once stood

Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Day 6: Berlin First thing this morning, your local Berlin expert will take you to the top of the revamped Reichstag building, home of the German Bundestag. The landmark glass dome was designed by Sir Norman Foster on the occasion of the Reunification of Germany, and it offers magnificent views of Berlin. Potsdamer Platz, Checkpoint Charlie and Unter den Linden Boulevard are some of the highlights of your sightseeing program. During your free afternoon, visit one of the magnificent museums on Museum Island, or take a drive to Potsdam to visit King Frederick of Prussia’s Sans Souci Palace, and learn about 20th century Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

31


Europe Extensions

Paris

Europe Extensions

4 DAYS & 3 NIGHTS

6 DAYS & 5 NIGHTS

4 DAYS & 3 NIGHTS

Vienna

Switzerland

Day 1: Arrive Paris Upon arrival in the City of Lights, you will be met by a Cox & Kings representative who will escort you to your private transfer from the airport to your luxurious hotel on the Rue du Faubourg Saint Honoré in the middle of the city’s fashion, design and arts district. The rest of the day is yours to spend as you please. Take a stroll, visit a local café for a café au lait and a freshly baked croissant, or just relax and enjoy the amenities of your hotel. Le Bristol – 3 nights

Day 1: Arrive Palermo Upon arrival in Palermo, your Cox & Kings representative will take you to your hotel. Later, join your local historian for a private tour of the city. Villa Igiea – 2 nights

Day 1: Arrive Vienna Upon arrival in Vienna, you will be met by a Cox & Kings representative who will escort you to your private transfer from the airport to your luxurious hotel in the center of the city. This evening, dine on traditional Austrian fare infused with an innovative element at Steirereck, one of the city’s finest restaurants. Ritz-Carlton Vienna – 3 nights

Day 1: Arrive Zurich - Lucerne Upon arrival at Zurich airport, you will be met by a Cox & Kings representative who will escort you to your private car. Your personal chauffeur will take you to Lucerne this morning. See the historic Chapel Bridge, and shop for Swiss watches at one of the boutiques in town. In the afternoon, take a cable car up to Mt. Pilatus, the highest peak in the region. As you gaze out out over the icy splendor of the Swiss Alps, you’ll understand exactly why this scenic region has inspired so many painters and poets. Then descend by cogwheel train, and return to Lucerne by steamer. Palace Hotel – 1 night (B)

Day 2: Paris After an opulent breakfast at the hotel, embark on a private half-day sightseeing excursion with your local art expert who will illuminate the artistic side of one of the world’s most famous cities. Stroll along Champs Élysées, cross Place de la Concorde, step into the gothic naves of Notre Dame, and visit a local perfume boutique. Conclude today’s journey with a private visit to the Louvre, the Musée d’Orsay or another art museum of your choice. (B) Day 3: Paris Let the magic and elegance of Paris unfold before you today: the entire day is at your leisure to explore Montmartre, discover the Latin Quarter, or walk in the footsteps of novelist and playwright Honoré de Balzac. Tonight, why not celebrate your final day in Paris with a traditional dinner in a local bistro? (B) Day 4: Depart Paris Enjoy breakfast and a morning in Paris at your own pace before you bid adieu to Paris today as you take a private transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B)

32

Sicily

Day 2: Palermo Visit the Cathedral of Monreale with your private art historian guide. The cathedral’s swirling golden mosaics animated by biblical scenes and depictions of saints, kings and angels have enchanted art lovers for centuries. (B) Day 3: To Taormina Travel via private car into the Sicilian heartland. After lunch at a local country inn, stop and see the historic town of Enna. Then continue to the east coast of the island; after a brief visit to Catania, arrive in Taormina. San Domenico Palace – 3 nights (B, L) Day 4: Taormina Embark on a guided walk through Taormina today. Visit the Greek Amphitheater, and enjoy splendid views of the Bay of Naxos and Mt. Etna. Savor the afternoon at leisure. (B) Day 5: Taormina Visit Mount Etna with your local guide. After your exploration, indulge in a picnic of traditional Sicilian cuisine accompanied by outstanding local wine. Return to Taormina for the evening. (B, L) Day 6: Depart Catania Take a private transfer to the Catania airport for your onward flight. (B)

Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

Day 2: Vienna After breakfast, join your local historian for a private tour of Innere Stadt, the historic center of Vienna. See St. Rupert, Vienna’s oldest church; learn how coffee became popular in Vienna as a result of the Ottoman siege of 1683; and discover the Roman heritage of Vindobona, as the city was called in ancient times. Then descend into the Imperial Crypt, the burial place of 145 members of the Habsburg family. If classical music inspires you, why not attend a concert or opera performance tonight in this most musical of cities? (B) Day 3: Vienna The Giant Ferris Wheel in the Prater, the Vienna sewers, Orson Welles and the haunting zither music of Anton Karas — The Third Man, shot in 1948, painted a picture of Vienna previously unseen on the big screen. Retrace the footsteps of characters Harry Lime and Holly Martins during a private theme walk today. In the afternoon, you may want to explore Vienna Woods, or take time to visit one of the city’s spectacular museums. (B) Day 4: Depart Vienna Say Auf Wiedersehen to Vienna today as you transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B)

6 DAYS & 5 NIGHTS

Day 2: Interlaken Travel to Interlaken today for an alpine adventure. Board a cogwheel train to Jungfraujoch, at 11,300 feet Europe’s highest railway station. From the top, marvel at the breathtaking (literally) views of the surrounding peaks. Alternatively, take the cable car to Schilthorn peak, and enjoy unimpeded views of the Bernese Alps and points as distant as the Black Forest in Germany from the revolving restaurant. Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa – 1 night (B) Day 3: Zurich The morning is yours to relax at the hotel, enjoy the spa, or do some exploring in one of Europe’s prettiest towns. Return to Zurich this afternoon. Upon arrival, you’ll have some time to shop the famous Bahnhofstrasse boutiques and Swiss watch purveyors. Baur-au-Lac – 1 night (B) Day 4: Depart Zurich Enjoy your morning at leisure before transferring to the airport for your onward flight. (B)

Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

33


Private Journey

Private Journey

Budapest by Night

The Cox & Kings Experience

Prague Astronomical Clock

Schönbrunn Palace, Vienna

at leisure; why not head out on the town for a grand dinner of local specialties, such as roast pork, sauerkraut and potato dumplings? Hotel Goldener Hirsch – 1 night (B)

evening in your new surroundings. Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace – 2 nights (B)

Day 4: To Prague Visit Mirabell castle and its gardens, which are famous throughout Europe for their impressive water fountains. Then cross into Germany and stop in Passau to see the confluence of the Danube, Inn and Ilz rivers, as well as the impressive Passau Cathedral. Continue your journey through Central Europe to Prague, capital of the Czech Republic. Four Seasons Hotel Prague – 2 nights (B)

Storybook Cities – Vienna, Salzburg, Prague, Bratislava & Budapest Vienna, Salzburg, Prague, Bratislava & Budapest

Day 5: Prague Spend the day exploring the city, including visits to the 12th-century Strahov Monastery and Library, Prague Castle (the official residence of the president of the Czech Republic), the Jewish Quarter and the iconic Old Town Square. Finish with a visit to the museum dedicated to Art Deco painter Alphonse Mucha. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy time to relax or continue your immersion in Prague on your own. (B)

Prague

Salzburg

Vienna

9 DAYS & 8 NIGHTS

Day 2: Vienna Embark on an in-depth tour of the city, including the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace, the former

34

summer residence of the emperors of the Hapsburg Empire; the Ringstrasse Boulevard, which is home to some of the city’s most iconic buildings, including the Vienna Opera House, the parliament building, and University of Vienna; and a walk through the oldest parts of Vienna in the historic First District. Return to the hotel to freshen up for this evening’s cultural activity: a concert of classical music or an opera performance at a local theater. (B)

Budapest

Day 3: To Salzburg Head west through the romantic Wachau Valley, which boasts castles, forests, mountain peaks and the broad, majestic Danube River. Stop to visit Dürnstein Castle where, according to legend, the great king Richard Lionheart was held captive. Then continue to Salzburg and see where Mozart was born, as well as some of the sights familiar from the movie The Sound of Music. After checking in to your hotel, the evening is yours

Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

Day 9: Depart Budapest Wake up to a sumptuous breakfast amid the extraordinary Art Noveau architecture, inspired by the city’s coffeehouse culture. Enjoy the morning at your own pace, and when it is time for departure say goodbye — viszlát! in Hungarian — to Budapest as you take a private transfer to Ferihegy International Airport for your onward flight. (B)

Stay in landmark hotels acclaimed for their location, legacy and extraordinary amenities and service Discover the impressive palaces and public squares of Vienna Immerse yourself in the Viennese music scene at a performance of classical music or opera Admire the scenic Wachau Valley, and see Mozart’s childhood home of Salzburg Explore the charms of Prague on a two-night stay Tour serene Strahov Monastery and regal Prague Castle Fall in love with picturesque Bratislava Indulge in the regal charm of Budapest, including a private, exclusive visit to the parliament

Village of Dürnstein

Bratislava

Discover the myriad delights of the cultural capitals of Imperial Europe. Explore the old Habsburg capital of Vienna and then follow in the footsteps of Mozart and the Von Trapp family in Salzburg. Wander through the atmospheric streets of Prague’s historic quarter and stand upon the iconic Charles Bridge, the city’s connection between Prague Castle and the Old Town. Enjoy the charming small-town atmosphere of Bratislava, then experience the glories of Budapest as you explore the city with a historian. Day 1: Arrive Vienna Upon arrival in the Austrian capital of Vienna, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings local representative and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Bristol – 2 nights

Day 8: Budapest This morning after breakfast, begin your private sightseeing excursion with a local expert. Gain insight into the history and culture of Budapest as you visit Gellert Hill, the Castle District, Heroes’ Square and Andrassy Boulevard. In the afternoon, enjoy a private visit to the grand Parliament building, winning entry by architect Imre Steindl at a late 19th-century competition. (B)

• • • • • • • •

Day 6: To Bratislava Drive south through the former crown land of Moravia and stop in its vibrant capital Brno. During an orientation tour with our local Cox & Kings guide learn about the secret of the church bells at St. Peter & Paul’s Cathedral, then stop at the square called Cabbage Market. In the afternoon cross the border into Slovakia and arrive in Bratislava. The evening is yours at leisure; why not dine at one of the city’s many fine restaurants? Kempinski River Park - 1 night (B) Day 7: To Budapest After crossing the border into Hungary, stop in Esztergom to admire the country’s religious capital. Continue to Visegrad, and its aweinspiring citadel, then stop in Szentendre, local center of arts and crafts. In the afternoon, reach Budapest and check into your hotel and enjoy the Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

35


Private Journey

Private Journey

Croation National Theater, Zagreb

The Cox & Kings Experience

Zagreb

A Journey through Croatia 7 DAYS & 6 NIGHTS

Plitvice Lakes N. P.

Zagreb, Split & Dubrovnik Split Hvar Island

Dubrovnik

From atmospheric Roman ruins to fabulous Renaissance palaces, discover the historic and natural wonders of Croatia, an ancient land on the Adriatic Sea. Explore the fortified capital city of Zagreb, the stunning natural beauty of Plitvice Lakes National Park, the pleasant Port of Split with Diocletian’s Palace still an integral part of the city, and the idyllic island of Hvar. This beguiling journey culminates with a sojourn in Dubrovnik, the “ pearl of the Adriatic”, and once upon a time capital of the Maritime Republic of Ragusa. Day 1: Arrive Zagreb Upon arrival in Zagreb, the capital of the Republic of Croatia, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings local representative and transferred to your hotel. With its cobbled streets, old city quarter and baroque architecture, it is reminiscent of the other great Central European capitals of Budapest and Vienna. After some time to rest, take a guided tour of the city. Explore Zagreb’s fortified old town, which has a majority of

36

the museums, as well as the lower town. See the Cathedral of St. Stephen, the lovely church of St. Mark’s, the Croatian National Theater and the esteemed university. Hotel Esplanade – 1 night Day 2: Plitvice Lakes National Park – To Split This morning after breakfast, depart for the beautiful Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your private

driver/guide will take you on a three-hour drive to the park where you will experience a unique blend of continental and maritime Croatia on 16 remarkable cascade lakes. The park’s landscapes feature cascading waterfalls, dense forests and a wide diversity of animal life. Stroll the forest pathways and wooden walkways and soak up the lovely scenery before traveling onward to the city of Split in the late afternoon. Judica Palace – 3 nights (B)

Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

Windsurfing School, Dalmatian Coast

Ornate Carved Columns, Dubrovnik

Day 3: Split This morning, meet your guide for a tour of the ancient port city of Split. Croatia’s second largest city is located on a peninsula in the heart of the Dalmatian coast, set against a backdrop of high coastal mountains. The city itself has a fascinating historic Old Town with a pretty palmlined harbor, where you can find the UNESCO site of Diocletian’s Palace, the immense walls of which loom over everything in the area. Wander through the charming streets, see Jupiter’s Temple, visit the grand cathedral and admire the elegant peristyle surrounding the grand square at the heart of the palace. (B)

time to freshen up at your hotel, meet your guide for a city tour. Hilton Imperial – 2 nights (B)

Day 4: Split After breakfast, embark on a full-day trip to sunny Hvar Island, sometimes referred to as the “Croatian Madeira.” The island receives more sunshine than anywhere else in the country. The traffic-free streets and beautifully ornamented buildings of Hvar Town are reminiscent of Venice, and the island is known for its rolling green meadows, rocky terrain, clear blue water, islets and coves, as well as for its many fields of lavender and wine estates. It was once a major shipping hub of strategic importance, which resulted in a colorful history and through the ages the island has fallen under Greek, Venetian, Hungarian, Austrian and French rule. Return to Split in the evening. (B)

Day 6: Dubrovnik After breakfast this morning, enjoy a day of leisure in Dubrovnik. Stroll the city walls, poke around in the numerous art galleries and shops of the Old Town, stop for a snack and a drink at a cozy café and marvel at the enchanting views that greet you at every turn. Alternatively, embark on an optional day trip to neighboring Montenegro. Cross international borders and spend the day in one of Europe’s lesser-visited gems. Enjoy a scenic drive around Kotor Bay with its numerous small settlements, including Risan, once the seat of the Illyrian queen Teuta, and picturesque Perast. Take a break in the medieval town of Kotor, encircled by walls and fortresses and listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site. (B) Day 7: Depart Croatia Transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B)

• Explore the intricate fortifications of Zagreb’s old town • Stroll through the forest and admire the lake views in Plitvice Lakes National Park • Discover the historic palace of Diocletian in the ancient port city of Split • Spend a day amid the lavender fields and sun kissed beach of Hvar Island, the “Madeira of Croatia” • Wander through the UNESCO World Heritage Old Town of Dubrovnik • Enjoy a day to follow your own passions in the “Pearl of the Adriatic” or take a day trip to to the neighboring countries of montenegro or bosnia herzegovina

Dubrovnik & Adriatic Sea

Day 5: To Dubrovnik This morning, meet your driver and transfer to Dubrovnik. Described by Byron as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” Dubrovnik boasts a unique political history and world-famous cultural heritage and beauty. Founded 1,300 years ago, Dubrovnik’s appeal lies in the old town of Stari Grad, with its marble-paved squares, steep cobbled streets, tall houses, convents, churches, palaces, fountains and museums, all cut from the same light-colored stone. The intact city walls are impressive, and the town has an agreeable climate and lush vegetation, due to its location at the southern end of the country’s Adriatic coast. After some Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

37


Private Journey

Private Journey

Skanderbeg Museum

The Cox & Kings Experience

Balkan Discoveries 9 DAYS & 8 NIGHTS

Dubrovnik

Budva Krujë Tirana

Dubrovnik, Budva, Berat, Ohrid & Tirana

Albania

Ohrid

Berat

Experience the wonders of the Balkans on this extraordinary journey. In Croatia, stroll the city walls of Dubrovnik, see the Rector’s Palace, and explore the Adriatic coastline. Across the border in Montenegro, enjoy the sun on Budva’s beaches and see the fortified town of Kotor. Go on a pilgrimage to Macedonia’s Sveti Naum monastery, overlooking Lake Ohrid. The long-closed doors of Albania open up for you to stroll the ancient streets of Berat, shop at Krujë’s bazaar, and visit the capital of Tirana. Day 1: Arrive Dubrovnik Upon your arrival in Dubrovnik, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings local representative and transferred to your hotel. After an orientation tour of the Old Town, spend the day relaxing and unwinding from your travels. Alternatively head out to continue your explorations of one of the Adriatic’s most attractive and walkable cities on your own. Hotel Bellevue – 2 nights (B)

38

Day 2: Dubrovnik Enjoy a day at leisure to explore Dubrovnik. Take the recently reopened cable car to Srd Hill or relax on the green island of Lokrum. In the evening, embark on a sunset cruise by private launch to the nearby fishing village of Cavtat, and savor a dinner of fresh local seafood. (B, D) Day 3: To Budva Cross the border into Montenegro to visit the

Bay of Kotor, and its namesake walled town. Ascend what is arguably the most spectacular road in the country to the village of Njegusi, famous for its air-dried ham and cheese. In the afternoon, continue to the Budva Riviera, home to picturesque Old Budva and adjacent spectacular beaches. The evening is yours at leisure; why not venture out into the city for a succulent dinner of local specialties, such as black risotto with cuttlefish? Hotel Splendid – 1 night (B)

Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

Albania Women

Old Town Roofs, Dubrovnik

Day 4: To Berat Today, drive into neighboring Albania and head past Skodër with its impressive Rozafa Castle, and the seaside town of Durrës to Berat. Located in central Albania, Berat bears witness to the coexistence of various religious and cultural communities down the centuries. It features a castle, locally known as the Kala, which was built in the 13th century, although its origins date back to the 4th century BC. The citadel area is home numerous 13th century Byzantine churches as well as several mosques built under the Ottoman era. After checking in to your hotel, we suggest a pre-dinner stroll around the ancient streets of the city. Hotel Mangalemi – 1 night (B)

guide, explore the National Museum, the lovely Et’hem Bey Mosque, and the iconic clock tower that overlooks the main square. More and more excellent local restaurants have been opening in the capital; if you’re in the mood, the hotel concierge would be happy to direct you to a convivial spot to sample some Albanian specialties. Sheraton Towers – 2 nights (B)

Day 5: To Lake Ohrid Spend the morning exploring Berat with your local guide. In the afternoon, travel east toward Elbasan and the Macedonian border, stopping en route to discover the remains of an ancient Ottoman fort. Cross the border and arrive in Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage site situated on the east shore of gorgeous Lake Ohrid, the largest and most beautiful of Macedonia’s three lakes, and the deepest lake in the Balkans. Inex Gorica Hotel – 2 nights (B)

Day 8: Tirana Take a morning trip to the hillside city of Krujë with its impressive fortress and bustling bazaar. Delve into the history of Albania at a museum celebrating its national hero, George Skanderbeg, who defended Albania from the Ottoman Empire. The afternoon is yours upon returning to Tirana. (B) Day 9: Depart Tirana After breakfast today you will meet your driver for a private transfer to the airport and your onward flight. (B)

• • • • • • • • •

Stroll the fourteenthcentury ramparts of the city of Dubrovnik, once capital of the maritime republic of R agusa Experience the UNESCOlisted, fjord-like Kotor Bay Admire the Venetian-style palaces of Old Town Kotor Lounge on one of Budva’s 17 beaches View the remains of over 42 churches within the walls of Berat’s castle Delve into the past at Ohrid Ascend Sveti Naum, and cruise translucent Lake Ohrid, one of Europe’s deepest and oldest lakes Visit Krujë’s impressive fortress, and learn about Albania’s Ottoman heritage Stay in Albania’s vibrant capital Tirana

Lake in Albania

Day 6: Ohrid On a leisurely walking tour of the old town of Ohrid, visit the National Museum, the churches of St. Sofia and St. Clement (where the first university in Europe was founded) and the Gallery of Icons, home to the largest collection of religious icons in the world. This afternoon, take a pilgrimage to Sveti Naum, a Byzantine church and monastery perched high on a cliff overlooking the lake. You’ll share your time here with the resident peacocks that stroll the grounds of the monastery where they are regarded as divine birds. (B) Day 7: To Tirana After arriving in Tirana, embark on a tour of this reclusive nation’s capital. With your private Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

39


Private Journey

Private Journey

Sibiu Aerial, Romania

The Cox & Kings Experience

Suceava

Romania – In The Footsteps of Tradition 9 DAYS & 8 NIGHTS

Targu Mures Sibiu

Bucharest, Sibiu, Targu Mures & Suceava

Bucharest

With its rich heritage, picturesque villages and wonderful scenery, Romania offers a cornucopia of delights to the adventurous traveler. Discover the country’s highlights on this in-depth journey, including Transylvania’s fortified Saxon churches, Bucovina’s exquisite painted monasteries, the dramatic castles of the Romanian countryside and the beautiful landscapes of the Carpathian Mountains. Along the way, learn about the art of woodcarving in a unique museum, and visit the birthplace of the ruler who was the inspiration for Count Dracula. Day 1: Arrive Bucharest Upon arrival in Bucharest, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings local representative and transferred to your hotel. Later today, embark on a tour of the city with your local guide. JW Marriott – 2 nights Day 2: Bucharest Embark on a full-day excursion to the city of Brasov. Founded by the Teutonic Knights in 1211

40

on an ancient Dacian site and settled by the Saxons as one of the seven walled citadels, giving the region the German name Siebenbürgen, Brasov exudes a distinct medieval ambiance and has been used as backdrop in many recent period films. With your expert local guide, you’ll delve into the history and legends of this beautiful town. (B) Day 3: To Sibiu After breakfast in your hotel, depart Bucharest

for Curtea de Arges, the former capital of Wallachia. Visit the Episcopal Church where the Romanian kings are buried. Then drive through the picturesque Olt Valley to Sibiu, one of the oldest towns in Transylvania. Originally named Hermannstadt, Sibiu is home to a multitude of historical treasures. Upon arrival, embark on a privately guided walking tour of the medieval town, including the grand main square; the 14thcentury Evangelic Church, which boasts the tallest

Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

Orthodox Cathedral, Târgu Mures

Medieval Knight Statue

tower in Transylvania; and Romania’s oldest castiron bridge, the Liars Bridge, which was named for the sweet-talking merchants that set up shop nearby. Hilton – 2 nights (B)

before arriving in Suceava, the former capital of Moldova, for the evening. Hotel Sonnenhof – 2 nights (B)

Day 4: Sibiu This morning, depart for the city of Alba Iulia, which played an important role in the social and political life of Transylvania. One of the oldest settlements in Romania, known in ancient time as Apulum, Alba Iulia served as the largest military and economic center during Roman times. Temples, mosaics, thermal baths and statues, Amphitheaters, the governor’s palace “Daciarum Trium” – all rendered the original Dacian Apulul as the miniature copy of Mother Rome. Visit the city center to learn about the area’s history before leaving for Cluj Napoca, the second largest city in Romania and a center of culture, the arts and education. Return to Sibiu this afternoon and enjoy the evening at leisure. (B)

Day 7: Suceava Your drive today will take you to the Moldovita and Sucevita monasteries, which feature vivid mural frescoes, created to educate and entertain illiterate soldiers and peasants of the 15th and 16th centuries. Late this afternoon, return to Suceava. (B) Day 8: To Bucharest Enjoy a leisurely morning in Suceava before transferring to the airport for your domestic flight to Bucharest. Transfer to your downtown hotel and enjoy an evening at leisure. Athénée Palace Hilton – 1 night (B) Day 9: Depart Bucharest Bid farewell to Romania. Take a private transfer to the airport for you onward flight home. (B)

• • • • • • • • •

Explore the capital of Bucharest with your local guide Marvel at the medieval architecture of the city of Brasov Discover the cultural and historical wonders of Sibiu Visit the birthplace of Bram Stoker’s fictional Count Dracula Discover medieval Sighisoara’s UNESCO World Heritage–listed citadel Learn about Romania’s Roman heritage in Alba Iulia Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Carpathian Mountains Trace the artistry of Romanian craftspeople Make a pilgrimage to Bucovina’s magnificent painted monasteries

Day 5: To Targu Mures Travel to Sighisoara after breakfast. Designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, this perfectly intact 16th-century gem with towers, cobbled streets, burgher houses and ornate churches rivals the historic streets of Old Prague or Vienna. It is also the birthplace of Vlad Dracula, also known as Vlad the Impaler, ruler of the province of Walachia. It was he who inspired Bram Stoker’s fictional creation, Count Dracula. In the afternoon continue to Targu Mures. Named literally for a “market” on the Mures River, the town enjoys the best of both Romanian and Hungarian cultures. See the Culture Palace, the Eastern Orthodox Churches, the fortress, the famous Teleki library. Hotel Plaza V – 1 night (B)

Museum in Sinaia

Day 6: To Suceava Drive to Bucovina, home of the UNESCO World Heritage painted monasteries. In Campulung Moldovenesc, visit the fascinating Wood Art Museum, which contains more than 15,000 pieces of highly decorated wood. Travel onward Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

41


Private Journey

Private Journey

Traditional Dress, Poland

The Cox & Kings Experience

Castle Square, Warsaw

Royal Castle, Poland

site. Descend 750 feet below the surface of the Earth to discover chapels sculpted in salt, spacious chambers, crystal grottoes and underground ponds. • Half-day in-depth exploration of Jewish Krakow and the remains of Oskar Schindler’s factory, made famous by the movie Schindler’s List. Day 4: To Wroclaw Depart Krakow and drive toward the Eagles’ Nests castles, a chain of medieval strongholds picturesquely elevated over the scenic landscape. Your private guide will take you to Pieskowa Skala Castle, called the “Pearl of Polish Renaissance,” and Ogrodzieniec Castle, which offers a grand panorama. In the afternoon, arrive in Wroclaw. Sofitel Wroclaw Old Town – 1 night (B)

Gdansk

Old World Poland 10 D A Y S & 9 N I G H T S

Gdansk & Warsaw

Poznan Warsaw

Krakow, Wroclaw, Poznan,

Situated in the heart of Europe, Poland boasts rolling, beautiful countryside, dotted with medieval towns, castles and villages. See Krakow’s stunning Old Town and Royal Wawel Castle, walk Wroclaw’s 13th-century main square, and learn about Polish origins in Poznan. Explore the ancient hanseatic city of Gdansk and Malbork Castle, once the stronghold of the Teutonic Knights. End your journey in the Polish capital of Warsaw.

Day 2: Krakow Enjoy a private tour of the highlights of Krakow

42

Day 9: Warsaw Discover Warsaw with your private driver and guide. Admire the city’s churches, monuments, historic buildings and palaces, many of them housing embassies and ministries. Stop in front of the Parliament and walk through the Lazienki Park with its famous Palace on the Water, the monument to Chopin and Belvedere Palace. Then explore the new Museum of the History of Polish Jews, which is located in the former Warsaw Ghetto. (B) Day 10: Depart Warsaw Transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B)

Polish Countryside

Wroclaw Krakow

Day 1: Arrive Krakow Upon arrival in Krakow, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings local representative and transferred to your hotel, perfectly located on the banks of the Wistula River, and a short walk from the historic center. Sheraton Krakow Hotel – 3 nights

Day 5: To Poznan A local historian will take you on a private tour of Wroclaw, the historical capital of Silesia. See the 10th-century cathedral, the main market square (“Rynek”) and Wroclaw Town hall. In the afternoon, drive north to Poznan. Sheraton Hotel Poznan – 1 night (B)

Day 8: To Warsaw Continue your journey to Warsaw. Stop at Malbork Castle, once the seat of power for the Order of the Teutonic Knights, and home to a huge maze of tunnels, twisting towers, and vaulted rooms. Arrive in the Polish capital late this afternoon. Le Meridien Bristol – 2 nights (B)

• Discover Krakow’s Old Market Square and Royal Wawel Castle • Visit Auschwitz-Birkenau, the Wieliczka Salt Mine or the former factory of Oskar Schindler • View the Eagle’s Nests Castles • Explore Wroclaw, the former German city of Breslau • Experience historic Torun, a UNESCO World Heritage Site • Discover the Hanseatic city of Gdansk, birthplace of the Solidarity movement • Explore the 13th-century Malbork castle, home of the Order of the Teutonic Knights • See the historical sites and monuments in Warsaw

with a local historian. Ascend Royal Wawel Hill to visit the Gothic castle, which was built on the remains of the 10th-century settlement and extended in Renaissance style during the 16thcentury. The nearby cathedral contains reminders of the first, Romanesque cathedral, dating back to the 11th century. Then, explore the Old Town with its grand Market Square, historic Cloth Hall, St. Mary’s Church and the Florianska Gate. End your tour by walking across the Planty Gardens,

a belt of greenery that replaced the fortified medieval walls. (B) Day 3: Krakow Today choose from any one of the following excursions. (B) • Half-day trip to Auschwitz-Birkenau — explore the former concentration camp and museum. • Half-day visit to Wieliczka Salt Mine, a unique

Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

Day 6: To Gdansk Depart Poznan and head north. Enroute, stop at historic Torun, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest cities in Poland. With numerous monuments dating back to the beginning of the Middle Ages, the city is famous for its monumental churches, the Town Hall and burgher houses. Continue to Gdansk in the afternoon. The Hilton Gdansk – 2 nights (B) Day 7: Gdansk Embark on a walking tour of this famed hanseatic city. Experience pre-war Gdansk on the charming Mariacka Street before completing your journey on Dlugie Pobrzeze, the street that runs alongside the calm Motlawa Canal. In the afternoon, visit the Solidarity Monument, a tribute to the shipyard workers who set off a chain reaction of peaceful revolutions across the entire continent. (B) Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

43


Private Journey

Private Journey

Old Town Riga

The Cox & Kings Experience

The New Baltics: Lithuania, Latvia & Estonia 8 DAYS & 7 NIGHTS

Tallinn Muhu

Riga

Vilnius, Riga, Muhu Island & Tallinn Vilnius

As you journey through the tiny states of the Baltic, a vast, vibrant pageant of history unfurls before you. Once home to pirates and empires, conquered by Russia, and freed by the collapse of the Soviet Union, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia welcome inquisitive travelers with open arms. Travel in style through these northern lands, exploring medieval walled cities, relics of the Soviet empire, magnificent castles, striking cathedrals, grandiose palaces and remote islands—all while enjoying a bit of inimitable Baltic hospitality. Day 1: Arrive Vilnius Upon arrival in Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings representative and transferred to your luxury hotel in the heart of the Old Town. Stikliai Hotel – 3 nights Day 2: Vilnius After breakfast, meet your private guide for a walking tour of Vilnius’ Old Town, a UNESCO

44

World Heritage site, with impressive Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque and classical buildings You’ll see the historical and cultural highlights, including the cathedral, Gediminas Castle Museum, the University Campus and the Dawn Gate with its spectacular icon of the Virgin Mary. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure to do some exploring of the city on your own if you like, opt to visit the Jewish Museum or the bohemian Uzupis neighborhood, home to many of the capital’s artists. (B)

Day 3: Vilnius In the morning, visit the Museum of Genocide Victims, also known as the KGB Museum. The building served as the headquarters for the Gestapo during WWII and for the KGB during the Cold War. The sobering museum includes the former KGB prison and execution room in the basement. In the afternoon, drive to Trakai, the ancient capital of Lithuania, famed for its 15th century castle and its scenic location. (B)

Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

Vilnius Cathedral, Baltic States

Kuressaare Village, The Episcopal Palace

Day 4: To Riga After breakfast, your private driver and guide will meet you at your hotel. On your way to Latvia, stop at the striking Hill of Crosses memorial near Siauliai, the unofficial capital of northern Lithuania. Cross the border and visit the fabulous baroque Rundale Palace before arriving in Riga late this afternoon. The capital of Latvia is a wonderful place to walk around; we suggest going out for a stroll followed by dinner this evening. Grand Palace Hotel – 1 night (B)

UNESCO World Heritage site. Stroll the winding cobblestone streets, delve into Estonian history and spot almost all of the major landmarks of the city. This afternoon, immerse yourself in the grandeur of the tsars at Kadriorg Palace and gardens, a summer retreat built by Peter I for his wife, Catherine. Designed to resemble the Italian palaces of the early 18th century, the palace has a facade which is three levels at the front and sides and two levels at the rear in a mix of architectural styles. Today, it’s also home to an art museum. Then fast-forward to the present at the Kumu Art Museum, home to the country’s finest collection social realist art from the Cold War period, as well as an impressive display of contemporary art. This evening, why not go out on the town for a festive last dinner in Estonia? (B)

Day 5: To Muhu Island This morning, take a private walking tour of Old Riga, visiting the Dome Cathedral, which boasts one of the world’s largest pipe organs. Ascend to the steeple of St. Peter’s Cathedral for magnificent views over the city. Explore the shared Latvian past at the Freedom Monument, erected in 1935 to celebrate Latvia’s independence, as well as a number of historical buildings from the 15th– 17th centuries. This afternoon, drive to the coast to catch your ferry to Muhu Island. On the way to your stylish 14-century manor hotel, visit the workshops of several artisans. Padaste Manor – 1 night (B, D)

Day 8: Depart Tallinn Bid farewell to the Baltics today as you are transferred to the airport for your onward flight. (B)

• • • • •

Trace the history of the secret services at the former headquarters of the KGB in Vilnius Survey the former empire of Lithuania from the Trakai Castle Stroll the streets of Riga’s Old Town and ascend to the steeple of St. Peter’s Cathedral Explore pastoral Muhu Island for a glimpse into rural life in the Baltics Discover the wonders of the medieval walled city of Tallinn and visit spectacular 18th-century Kadriorg Palace

Extensions • Russia Past & Present • Scandinavian Capitals & the Fjords

St. Anne’s Church, Vilnius

Day 6: To Tallinn After a breakfast in the manor, embark on an exploration of the island, inhabited for more than 5,000 years and once the home of famed Estonian pirates. Visit Estonia’s last working windmills in Angla on the way to Saaremaa and the Asva Fortified Settlement, one of the most archaeologically important bronze-age sites in Northern Europe. Continue to Kuressaare Castle, the only intact medieval castle in the Baltics. Return to the mainland and arrive the Estonian capital of Tallinn in the late afternoon or early evening. Hotel TeleGraaf – 2 nights (B) Day 7: Tallinn This morning, embark upon a private, guided walking tour of Tallinn’s Old Town, one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval towns and a Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

45


Private Journey

Private Journey

Catherine Palace, Pushkin

The Cox & Kings Experience

Russian Dreams 8 DAYS & 7 NIGHTS

46

Day 4: To St. Petersburg After breakfast this morning, meet your guide for a walking tour and independent lunch on Arbat Street, one of the oldest streets in Moscow and home to many book stores, jewelry and clothing stores, art galleries, theaters, cafes and restaurants. This afternoon, take a private transfer to the railway station to catch the Sapsan highspeed train to St. Petersburg, which makes the journey between Russia’s two leading cities in just under four hours. Upon arrival, take a private transfer to your hotel. Grand Hotel Europe – 4 nights (B)

before returning to St. Petersburg this afternoon. This evening, attend a performance of the classic Swan Lake at one of St. Petersburg’s historic theaters. (B)

of wonders, including palaces, cathedrals and the treasures of the tsars. (B) Day 3: Moscow Embark on half-day excursion to Zagorsk Monastery in the town of Sergiev-Posad. For 500 years, the monastery has been the chief Russian Orthodox pilgrimage site. This evening, head to the famed Bolshoi Ballet or the Moscow Circus for an unforgettable performance. (B)

Day 6: St. Petersburg Take a private transfer to the dock for your halfhour hydrofoil voyage to Peterhoff, Peter the Great’s former summer residence. Explore the splendid palace, which is surrounded by some of the most magnificent gardens in the world. Don’t forget to stop by the famed fountain

St. Petersburg

Moscow

Russia’s two greatest cities provide an ideal lens through which to view the country’s rich and diverse cultural and historical heritage. Moscow is the epicenter of the new Russia, while St. Petersburg’s magnificent palaces, superlative museums and grand architecture still hold sway over the country’s fascinating past. Cultural highlights of this journey include an evening at the famous Balshoi Theatre in Moscow as well as a privately guided tour of the Hermitage Collection in St. Petersburg. Day 2: Moscow After breakfast, meet your private driver/guide for a full-day exploration of Moscow. Explore Red Square, home to the lovely church of St. Basil’s and Lenin’s Mausoleum. Drive along Tverskaya Boulevard past the Arbat, the city’s commercial center, on your way to Vorobyovy Gori. Here, at the highest point in Moscow, savor the panoramic views of Russia’s megalopolis. This afternoon, explore the Kremlin’s multitude

Emperor Nicholas I, St. Petersburg

Day 5: St. Petersburg After breakfast at the hotel, meet your private driver/guide for a full-day exploration of St. Petersburg. One of the world’s most beautiful cities, St. Petersburg has all the ingredients for an unforgettable travel experience: high art, lavish architecture, an extraordinary history and rich cultural traditions that have inspired and nurtured some of the modern world’s greatest literature, music, and visual art. See the historic area on the banks of the Neva River, the Nevsky Prospect and St. Isaac’s Square, home to a gorgeous church. Make a stop at the striking Church of Our Savior on Spilled Blood. This afternoon, discover one of the world’s greatest collections of art at the Hermitage. Stroll through the elegant halls and admire works by Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael and Titian; a unique collection of Rembrandts and Rubens; many Impressionist works by Renoir, Cezanne, Monet and Pissarro; and numerous canvasses by Van Gogh. Return to your hotel late this afternoon. (B)

Moscow & St. Petersburg

Day 1: Arrive Moscow Upon arrival in Moscow, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings local representative and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to spend at leisure relaxing in your grand hotel or venturing out to begin your explorations. Your hotel is located near Red Square, the Kremlin, and other central Moscow highlights. Why not venture out for a stroll before enjoying an independent dinner? Ritz Carlton – 3 nights

Bolshoi Ballet

Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

Day 7: St. Petersburg Meet your driver/guide for a full-day excursion to Catherine’s Palace, a former country residence of the tsars. Wander through the parks, admire the pavilions and sculptures. Return to St. Petersburg this afternoon. Freshen up at the hotel before attending a performance of traditional Russian folk songs and dances. If you’ve still got some energy, head out into the city for a late-night snack or a farewell cocktail at one of St. Petersburg’s stylish bars. (B) Day 8: Depart St. Petersburg Savor a final breakfast in St. Petersburg today before bidding farewell to Russia as you are taken to the airport for your onward flight. (B)

• Discover the cathedrals and palaces of the Kremlin, a historic fortified complex at the heart of Moscow • Wander through iconic Red Square, home of St. Basil’s Cathedral and Lenin’s mausoleum • Attend an unforgettable performance of the Bolshoi Ballet • Explore the lush gardens of Peter the Great’s summer palace • Stroll the galleries of the Baroque-style Hermitage in St. Petersburg • See a performance at a historic St. Petersburg theater • take a full-day excursion to catherine’s palace, a former country residence of the tsars

Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

Kremlin, Moscow

47


Private Journey

Private Journey

Orthodox Monastery, Ukraine

The Cox & Kings Experience

Kiev Pechersk Lavra

St. Andrew’s Church

wonderful city in which to walk around, and you can visit local galleries, do some shopping and stop for a coffee and some pampushky, a typical snack similar to a donut. (B)

for an adventure in the Catacombs museum, which preserves a complex of subterranean tunnels used by Ukrainian nationalists during World War II. This labyrinthine system of underground passages is the longest in the world, winding for more than 1,500 miles over three levels underneath the city. Although the first catacombs were probably built in the 1600s, the network expanded during the 1800s when limestone quarried from below ground was used to construct buildings during the explosive growth of the city. Enjoy your last afternoon in Odessa at leisure. This evening, we suggest sampling some of the incredibly fresh and delicious seafood that can be found at many of the city’s restaurants. Raise a glass to your travels in Ukraine and start making plans to return. (B)

Day 3: Kiev Embark on a visit to the museum of Folk Architecture and Life at Pirogovo, which is set in rolling hills and includes 17th-20th century wooden cottages and churches, farmsteads and windmills representing every traditional region of Ukraine. Back in the city, the afternoon is yours at leisure. This evening, why not go out on the town for a festive final dinner in Kiev? Near your hotel are several restaurants that offer typical Ukrainian cuisine, including the specialty of the city, the delectable Chicken Kiev. (B)

Kiev

The Wonders of Ukraine 7 DAYS & 6 NIGHTS

Kiev & Odessa Odessa

Venture off the beaten path to explore the cultural treasures of historic and picturesque Ukraine. From gold-domed cathedrals to whitewashed churches and wooden cottages, Kiev offers a beguiling blend of elegance and tradition. Head south to Odessa on the shores of the Black Sea, where you’ll walk the iconic Potemkin steps, marvel at the Gold Room at the archaeological museum and delve into the subterranean catacombs. Day 1: Arrive Kiev Upon arrival in Kiev, you will be welcomed by your Cox and Kings representative and transferred to your hotel. Despite having a population of approximately three million, Kiev has a spacious and open feel. The Soviet-style housing blocks on the left bank of the Dnieper River give way to the old city with its parks, ancient churches, golden domes and the elegant main street of Kreschatyk, on the right bank. In the center of

48

the river are series of islands linked by tram and metro and used as holiday resorts by many of the city’s population. Kiev is a rapidly changing city, with construction and restoration happening everywhere. Nevertheless, it has a welcoming character and a cosmopolitan atmosphere, and Kreschatyk provides excellent opportunities for dining, shopping or simply promenading with the citizens of Kiev. Fairmont Grand Hotel Kiev – 3 nights

Day 2: Kiev This morning, meet your guide for a tour of Kiev. The old town stands on the wooded hills above the great Dnieper River and the tour includes visits to the 11th-century St. Sophia Cathedral with its dazzling gold domes, the Golden Gate, the grand St. Vladimir’s Cathedral, the National Opera House and Marinsky Palace. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure. If you like, why not go out and do some exploring on your own. Kiev is a

Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

Day 4: To Odessa Explore the 11th-century UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kievo Pecherskaya Lavra, an enormous ensemble of white church halls with green and gold rooftops that has come to represent the spiritual heart of the country. In the evening, fly from Kiev to Odessa and transfer to the Bristol Hotel. Tonight enjoy a traditional Black Sea dinner before boarding your private transfer to see a performance at the grand Odessa State Academical Opera and Ballet Theater. After the show, take a private transfer back to your hotel for the night. Bristol Hotel – 3 nights (B)

Day 7: Depart Odessa Following breakfast at the hotel, bid farewell to Odessa as you board your private transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B)

• • • • • • •

Explore the lively area of Kreschatyk, home to restaurants, boutiques and verdant parks Admire the spectacular gold domes of St. Sophia Cathedral Wander through the underground passages of the Pechersk Lavra Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site visit the museum of folk architecture and life Savor a special dinner and a performance at Odessa State Academical Opera and Ballet Theater Embark on a guided tour of the highlights of Odessa, the Pearl of the Black Sea Go underground to visit the incredible complex of tunnels in the largest system of catacombs in the world

Autumn, Kiev, Ukraine

Day 5: Odessa This morning, meet your guide for a city tour of Odessa including a visit to the famous Potemkin steps made famous by Sergei Eisenstein in his movie The Battleship Potemkin. This afternoon, visit the fantastic archaeology museum. Established in 1875, it was the first museum of its kind in the former Russian Empire. The highlight is the Gold Room, which features jewelry and coins from early Black Sea civilizations. (B) Day 6: Odessa After breakfast this morning, head underground Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

49


Private Journey

Private Journey

Whirling Dervish

The Cox & Kings Experience

Traditional Costume, Istanbul

Mosque, Istanbul

at the spice, craft, food and carpet shops of Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest markets and destination of travelers for hundreds of years. (B)

Roman archaeological site of Ephesus, which flourished as a prominent city and seaport between 600 B.C. and 500 A.D. Walk along the Royal Road, a 4th-century white marble chariot thoroughfare, whose most striking sight is the two-story Library of Celsus. Uniquely beautiful, with its restored façade, now the famed symbol of Ephesus, the library once housed 12,000 scrolls of papyrus manuscripts, making it the second largest in the ancient world after the library in Alexandria. As you continue along the Royal Road, your private guide illuminates the history behind some of the ancient city’s major buildings, including the Ephesus Theater and the Terrace Houses, which are currently undergoing excavation. After a traditional Turkish lunch, visit the House of the Virgin Mary, a lovely chapel set in the hills behind Ephesus. (B, L)

Day 4: To Cappadocia Fly east to the fascinating region of Cappadocia. Upon arrival, drive to Kaymakli, the extensive underground city. Then, ascend to the top of Uchisar Castle for stunning, panoramic views. As you travel through Cappadocia, take time to stop and gaze for a moment at some of the world’s most marvelous landscapes. The deep valleys and towering rock formations have been slowly eroding to create the unique “fairy chimneys,” which in turn have been hollowed out by people to create homes, tombs and churches in the rock. Argos in Cappadocia – 2 nights (B)

Istanbul

Marvels of Turkey 8 DAYS & 7 NIGHTS

Istanbul, Cappadocia & Sirince

Izmir

Cappadocia

Sirince

Begin your travels in vibrant Istanbul, where East meets West on the banks of the Bosphorus. The capital of the great Ottoman Empire enjoyed more than four centuries of imperial patronage, which created one of the most famous skylines in the world. Then venture east to explore the fantastic otherworldly landscapes and cave churches of Cappadocia. End your journey through the highlights of Turkey with a stroll on Ephesus’ Royal Road to see what was once the world’s second greatest library. Day 1: Arrive Istanbul Upon arrival in Istanbul, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings local representative and transferred to your luxury hotel in the heart of the old city. The rest of the day is yours at leisure. Four Seasons Sultanahmed – 3 nights Day 2: Istanbul After breakfast, depart with your expert Cox & Kings local guide to begin your exploration

50

of Istanbul in Sultanahmet Square. Spend the morning on Seraglio Point, marveling at the 4thcentury reliefs on the obelisk of Theodosius in the ancient Hippodrome. Then, stroll over to one of the city’s iconic monuments — the 17th-century Sultanahmet Camii (Blue Mosque). Nearby, examine the superb mosaics of the great church of Hagia Sofia, built in 360 by Emperor Justinian, as well as the Basilica Cistern, one of the first and largest cisterns in the city. (B)

Day 3: Istanbul Following breakfast, your journey through history continues at the legendary Topkapi Sarayi, the palace of the Ottoman sultans for over 300 years. In the heyday of the Ottoman Empire, the palace was home to as many as 4,000 people and contained mosques, a hospital and even a mint. Immerse yourself in the opulent world of the Ottomans for the rest of the morning. This afternoon, bargain with friendly shopkeepers

Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

Day 5: Cappadocia Embark on an exploration of Goreme National Park with its cave churches and monasteries. Continue to the Ihlara Valley and the Selime Monastery, the largest monastery in Cappadocia. During the 13th century, monks settled in this cave and began carving out the kitchen, living quarters and church that we see today. Don’t miss the elaborate frescoes created hundreds of years ago. (B)

Day 8: Depart Sirince Today, you will be transferred to Izmir airport for your onward flight. (B)

• • • • • •

Discover the Blue Mosque and elegant Topkapi Palace in Istanbul Search for carpets, clothing, jewelry and other treasures at Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar Browse the specialty food stores of the historic Kadikoy Market, then dine in the renowned Ciya restaurant Explore the cave churches of Goreme National Park and the subterranean city of Kaymakli Visit the little hilltop Ottoman town of Sirince to experience the charm of rural turkish life Immerse yourself in the past in the fascinating Greco-Roman ruins of Ephesus

Camel Rock Cappadocia, Turkey

Day 6: To Sirince Fly southwest to Izmir and then drive up into the scenic hills before arriving in Sirince. After checking in to your hotel, relax for a while on the terrace, which overlooks the picturesque village. Then, perhaps enjoy a walk in town and immerse yourself in the age-old traditions of Turkish country life. This evening, you may like to dine at your hotel or venture out into the village to enjoy a dinner of local delicacies at one of Sirince’s popular restaurants. Gullu Konaklari Hotel – 2 nights (B) Day 7: Sirince After breakfast at the hotel, explore the GrecoCall Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

51


Europe Extensions

Istria

Europe Extensions

4 DAYS & 3 NIGHTS

4 DAYS & 3 NIGHTS

Crimea

Greek Islands by Helicopter 7 DAYS & 6 NIGHTS

4 DAYS & 3 NIGHTS

Day 1: Arrive Trieste or Zagreb / To Rovinj Upon arrival in Trieste or Zagreb, your local Cox & Kings representative will welcome you and transfer you to Istria and Rovinj. Hotel Lone – 3 nights

Day 1: Arrive Simferopol / To Alushta Upon arrival in Simferopol, you will be taken to your hotel in Alushta, on the shores of the Black Sea. Radisson Blu Resort & Spa Alushta – 3 nights

Day 1: Arrive Leros / To Patmos Upon arrival at the Leros airport, you will be transferred to the island of Patmos by helicopter or private boat. Patmos Aktis Suites & Spa – 3 nights

Day 1: Arrive Sofia Upon arrival at the Sofia airport, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings local representative and transferred to your hotel. Grand Hotel Sofia – 3 nights

Day 2: Rovinj After breakfast this morning, spend a few hours on a private sightseeing excursion in beautiful Rovinj. Explore the old city’s narrow cobblestone streets and stepped alleys. See the rich, patina-tainted Mediterranean houses with brightly painted shutters, balconies overflowing with flowers and views of the stunning harbor — and visit the church of St. Euphemia, which was built in the 17th century in Venetian-Baroque style. In the afternoon, your private guide will take you to Pula. Experience the Roman heritage of Croatia firsthand as you discover the 1st-century amphitheater, which overlooks the sparkling waters of the harbor. End your day in style on a relaxing sunset cruise through the Bijuni Islands National Park. (B, D)

Day 2: Yalta Meet your private guide and driver and begin your day of exploration at Count Vorontsov’s Alupka Palace, which bristles with stunning elements of Russian, Moorish and Gothic architecture. Then drive up to the Swallow’s Nest, perched 130 feet above the Black Sea on the edge of a cliff. Afterwards visit Livadia Palace — the summer residence of the last Russian Tsars and site of the 1945 conference that mapped out post-war Europe. Then stroll along Yalta’s seaside promenade and visit the Alexander Nevski Cathedral. (B)

Day 2: Patmos Patmos is a UNESCO World Heritage Site also famed for its lace-like coastline, sheer cliffs and volcanic soil. Your local guide will introduce you to the island’s capital of Chora, before taking you to visit the Cave of the Apocalypse and the Monastery of St. John. (B)

Day 3: Rovinj Travel to the interior of the Istrian peninsula today. Visit a local winery and sample local varietals, learn about the Istrian truffle harvest. The world’s largest truffle, which weighed nearly three pounds and made the Guinness Book of World Records, was found in this region. In the town of Motovun, savor lunch at a local Konoba, where the chef turns local delicacies into works of art by infusing them with Istrian truffles. (B, L) Day 4: Depart Trieste or Zagreb Your morning is at leisure before bidding farewell to the Istrian Peninsula today as you take a private transfer to Trieste or Zegreb for you onward flight. (B)

52

Day 3: Balaklava - Sevastopol After breakfast, head to Balaklava to tour an underground, formerly classified submarine base that was operational until 1993. The base was said to be virtually indestructible and designed to survive a direct atomic impact. During that period, Balaklava was one of the most secret residential areas in the Soviet Union. Almost the entire population of Balaklava at one time worked at the base; even family members could not visit the town without a good reason and proper identification. Continue to Sevastopol, former home of the Soviet Black Sea Fleet. Tour the harbor and picturesque Nakhimov Square, which houses a monument to its eponymous hero. Visit the Panorama Museum; its stunning rotunda centerpiece depicts the defense of Sevastopol during the assault in 1855. (B) Day 4: Depart Simferopol Take a private transfer to Simferopol for your onward flight. (B)

Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

Day 3: Patmos Savor the whole day at leisure to enjoy the beach, or explore the hidden bays of Patmos by private boat. (B) Day 4: To Santorini Transfer to Santorini today via private helicopter (alternatively, transfer to Leros and fly to Santorini via Athens). Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel in Oia. Katikies Hotel – 3 nights (B)

Bulgaria

Day 2: Sofia Explore the 7,000-year-old city with your local historian and see the magnificent Alexander Nevski Cathedral, the 5th-century St. Sofia Church, Palace of the Holy Synod, Church of Seven Saints, Orthodox Theological Academy, Sofia Central Synagogue, mineral baths and the covered market. Later, drive to Rila Monastery, Bulgaria’s largest and most beautiful monastery, which is situated in the heart of the Rila Mountains and ringed by mighty walls. Founded in the 10th century by John of Rila, the monastery was destroyed and rebuilt several times during the centuries. (B)

Day 6: Santorini Savor a day at leisure to enjoy your resort’s amenities. (B)

Day 3: Sofia Your local expert takes you to Plovdiv today for a tour of one of the most ancient urban settlements in Europe. Founded about 8,000 years ago, Plovdiv was the capital of Ancient Thrace and a major trade center in the Middle Ages. The city’s historic quarter boasts beautifully decorated period houses, ancient fortress walls, a Roman forum and stadium, as well as magnificent churches. In the afternoon, visit Bachkovo Monastery, which is known for its unique architecture and amazing wall paintings and icons. Return to Sofia for a traditional dinner followed by local entertainment — including fire walking — at an acclaimed restaurant in the foothills of Mount Vitosha. (B, D)

Day 7: Depart Santorini Take a private transfer to Santorini airport for your onward flight. (B)

Day 4: Depart Sofia Take a private transfer to the Sofia airport for your onward flight. (B)

Day 5: Santorini Take a private tour of the island before visiting a local winery to taste the award-winning wines made from grapes grown in the island’s volcanic soil. (B)

Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

53


Private Journey

Solheimajokull, Glacier

Private Journey

Iceland

Akureyri

Landscapes of Iceland 5 DAYS & 4 NIGHTS

Reykjavik

5 DAYS & 4 NIGHTS

Reykjavik

Hvalfjorur Fjord

Explore Reykjavik, and then visit the local puffin colonies or search for whales. Head to the south shore of the island to experience the majesty of the Solheimajokull glacier. End your journey by traveling through volcanic terrain to relax in the healing waters of the Blue Lagoon.

The Cox & Kings Experience

Day 1: Arrive Reykjavik Upon arrival in Reykjavik, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings local representative and transferred to your hotel. If you’re here during the summer months, hit the water this morning to cruise by the one of the small islands near Reykjavik, inhabited by great colonies of puffins. During spring, autumn or winter, embark instead upon a voyage to search for humpback whales, minke whales, and white-beaked dolphins in the North Atlantic. Hotel Borg– 4 nights Day 2: Reykjavik Embark on a daylong exploration of some of the country’s most impressive natural sights, including Pingvellir National Park where you can stand atop the edge of two tectonic plates; Gullfoss, the Golden Waterfall, which the locals consider the queen of Iceland’s waterfalls; and the famed Great Geyser and geothermal field. Enjoy lunch at the Hotel Geysir, including Geysir Bread baked by the heat of the geyser. (B, L)

54

Iceland: The Northern Lights

Day 3: Reykjavik Embark on a full-day adventure via 4x4 Super Jeep to the Solheimajokull glacier. Strap on some crampons and take an easy walk along the ice. After your adventure on the glacier, indulge yourself as you relish the lobster tasting menu at the seaside restaurant Fjöruborðiðr. After dinner, return to Reykjavik for the night. (B, D) Day 4: Reykjavik On a day at leisure, choose to discover the inside of a dormant volcano, explore some lava fields on horseback or raft the scenic Hvítá River. (B) Day 5: Depart Reykjavik After breakfast, drive with your guide through the craggy landscape to the Blue Lagoon, a unique, natural pool of mineral-rich geothermal water, located in the middle of a lava field. Relax in the pools, get a massage or a mud bath, and feel the cares of the world slip away. Continue to Keflavik airport for your onward flight. (B)

• • • • • • • •

Embark on an expedition to see puffins or North Atlantic whales Stand near the junction of two tectonic plates in Pingvellir National Park Feel the mist on your face at Gulfoss waterfall Explore a geothermal field to see hot springs, bubbling mud pools and geysers Walk along the ice of Solheimajokull glacier Indulge in the delectable lobster tasting menu at a seaside restaurant Go inside a volcano, take a horseback adventure or raft a river Relax in the mineral waters of the Blue Lagoon hot springs

Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

Lake Myvatn

Reykjavik, Lake Myvatn &

Hvalfjorur Reykjavik

Just below the Arctic Circle, discover the beauty and unique attractions of Iceland in winter. Dine with a local family, explore an active geothermal field and a volcanic crater, and immerse yourself in nature and unique Icelandic culture while the Aurora Borealis dances in the clear winter skies.

The Cox & Kings Experience

Day 1: Arrive Reykjavik Upon arrival in Reykjavik, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. This afternoon, take an unforgettable trip into the world of whales and sea birds. Hotel 101 – 1 night Day 2: To Lake Myvatn Fly north to Akureyri. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch at a local Icelandic family’s home and sample some traditional home cooking. Continue to Lake Myvatn via the spectacular Godafoss Waterfall, an especially incredible sight in the winter ice and snow. Check in to your hotel for dinner, before meeting your guide to hunt for the Northern Lights. Hotel Reynihlid – 2 nights (B, L, D) Day 3: Lake Myvatn Explore the natural wonders of the Lake Myvatn area, including the mystic Dimmuborgir (Dark Cities) full of lava pillars, a warm underground river and the geothermal area of Hverir. Marvel at the view over Leirhnjúkur volcano from the

Víti crater. Return to the hotel for dinner, before heading out again to search for the Northern Lights. (B, D)

Day 4: To Hvalfjorur Return to Reykjavik this morning. Upon arrival, travel to the Gullfoss waterfall, then walk around an active geothermal field. Savor lunch at the Hotel Geysir, including Geysir Bread baked by the heat of the geyser. Drive to gorgeous Hvalfjorur Fjord. This evening, enjoy the luxury as you soak in your hot tub and watch for the Northern Lights. Hotel Glymur – 1 night (B, L, D)

Day 5: Depart Reykjavik After a morning at leisure, drive to the Blue Lagoon, a natural pool of mineral-rich geothermal water. Relax in the Exclusive Bath and Lounge, get a massage or a mud bath, and feel the cares of the world slip away. Late this afternoon, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight. (B)

• • • • • • •

Search for whales, dolphins and porpoises in the North Atlantic Dine with a traditional Icelandic family in their home Take a Super Jeep adventure through lava fields past bubbling mud pots Go underground to experience the unique environment of the dimmuborgir (dark cities) Search for the spectacular northern lights near Lake Myvatn Discover Gullfoss waterfall and an active geothermal field with geysers Relax in the mineral waters of the Blue Lagoon hot springs

Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

55


Private Journey

Private Journey

Icelandic Horses

The Cox & Kings Experience

Akureyri

Icelandic Immersion 7 DAYS & 6 NIGHTS

Reykjavik, Akureyri & Hvalfjörur Fjord

Hvalfjorur Reykjavik

On this adventurous journey through the northern land of Iceland, you’ll walk on a glacier, search for whales from a traditional fishing boat and explore 1,000- year-old lava caves. In Pingvellir National Park, visit the site of the country’s first parliament, straddle the Great Atlantic Rift, marvel at the thundering spray of the Golden Waterfall, and take a stroll around an active geothermal field. Conclude your travels by riding on Viking horses, cruising a glacial lake and soaking in mineral-rich thermal pools. Day 1: Arrive Reykjavik Upon arrival in Reykjavik, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings private guide and taken on an exploration of Iceland’s capital, including the Old Town, the pretty harbor area and the soaring architecture of the Hallgrimskirkja church. Ascend to the top of the Pearl for stunning views over the city. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure to relax or explore some more on your own. Hotel Borg – 3 nights

56

Day 2: Reykjavik Depart Reykjavik today for a full-day adventure via 4x4 Super Jeep. Stop at the waterfalls of Seljalandsfoss, and Skógafoss falls, before continuing your journey to the Solheimajokull glacier, where a wonderland of ice sculptures, ridges and deep crevasses await your discovery. Strap on some crampons and take an easy walk along the ice. After your adventure on the glacier, indulge yourself as you relish the fabulous

lobster tasting menu at the seaside restaurant, Fjöruborðiðr. After your dinner, return to Reykjavik for the night. (B, D) Day 3: Reykjavik Begin your discovery of some of the country’s most impressive natural sights with a scenic drive to Pingvellir National Park, home to the site where Iceland’s first parliament convened in 930 AD. Stand atop the edge of two tectonic plates

Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

Aurora Borealis over Reykjavik

Golden Waterfall, Iceland

near the Great Atlantic Rift, which will eventually split Iceland into two. Travel on to Gullfoss, the Golden Waterfall, and watch the enormous quantities of water tumble violently into a deep, jagged gorge. Then, walk around an active geothermal field, home to hot springs, pools of bubbling mud and a multitude of geysers, some of which, including Strokkur, erupt nearly every five minutes. Enjoy lunch at the Hotel Geysir, including Geysir Bread baked by the heat of the geyser. Afterwards, take a cruise on Hvítárvatn Lake before returning to Reykjavik for an evening at leisure. (B, L)

Upon arrival, take a private car to a local farm and art studio in Hvalfjorur Fjord. Get introduced to Icelandic farming life and visit the charming Gallery Álfhóll with beautiful handicrafts and local artwork. Sample freshly baked homemade treats, mussels, smoked lamb, whale carpaccio and home-brewed dandelion wine as you enjoy a live performance of traditional Icelandic music. Check in to the Hotel Glymur, which offers incredible views over the sparkling waters of the fjord. Hotel Glymur – 1 night (B, L, D)

Day 4: To Akureyri After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight north for the day, to Akureyri. Upon arrival, indulge yourself in the culinary delights of Iceland. On fascinating visits throughout the Akureyri countryside and coastline, we will meet enthusiastic local food producers, farmers, fishermen and brewers who will share with you their gastronomic knowledge, passion and food and drink, including local blue mussels, beer, Icelandic beef, lamb and homemade ice cream. Enjoy a tasty lunch on the island of Hrísey before returning to your hotel for the evening. Kea Hotel – 2 nights (B, L)

Day 7: Depart Reykjavik After a morning at leisure, drive with your private guide to the Blue Lagoon, a unique, natural pool of mineral-rich geothermal water, located in the middle of a lava field. Relax in the Exclusive Bath and Lounge, get a massage or a mud bath, and feel the cares of the world slip away. Late this afternoon, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight. (B)

• • • • • • •

Walk along the ice of Solheimajokull glacier and discover a wonderland of ice sculptures See the highlights of Iceland’s famed “Golden Circle,” including the Golden Waterfall and the Strokkur Geyser Discover hot springs, bubbling mud pools and geysers Go on a gourmet food tasting tour of Northern Iceland See the Goðafoss waterfall and soak in the thermal pools of Lake Mývatn Visit a bucolic Icelandic farm and enjoy a performance of traditional music Relax in the mineral waters of the Blue Lagoon hot springs

Myvatn, Iceland

Day 5: Akureyri Head toward Lake Mývatn, stopping on the way at the beautiful Goðafoss waterfall. Explore the natural wonders of the Lake Mývatn area, including the mystic Dimmuborgir (Dark Cities) full of lava pillars, a warm underground river and the geothermal area of Hverir. Marvel at the view over Leirhnjúkur volcano from the Víti crater. Finally, visit the Mývatn Nature Baths where you can relax for two hours in a completely natural pool of geothermal water located in the middle of lava fields with spectacular views over the beautiful lake. (B) Day 6: To Hvalfjorur Fjord Transfer to the airport for your flight to Reykjavik. Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

57


Private Journey

Private Journey

Old Town Gamla, Stockholm

The Cox & Kings Experience

Royal Guard, Stockholm Palace

Oseberg Viking Ship, Oslofjord

famed statues and the old harbor of Nyhavn. This afternoon, continue your explorations on your own or take an optional four-hour culinary walking tour of Copenhagen or a three-hour private biking tour with a private guide who will introduce you to the lesser-known highlights of the city.

Hanseatic Quarter with its historic buildings. For a great view, ride the funicular to the summit of Mt. Fløien. (B)

Day 5: To Oslo After a morning at leisure, transfer to Copenhagen airport, and board your short flight to Oslo. Upon landing, you will be welcomed by a Cox & Kings representative, and chauffeured to your hotel. Grand hotel – 2 nights (B, D)

Day 10: Depart Bergen After breakfast this morning, you may want to take a leisurely walk on the Hanseatic Wharf, where time seems to stand still. Then transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B)

Cities & Fjords: Scandinavian Contrasts 10 D A Y S & 9 N I G H T S

Oslo, Flåm & Bergen

Day 6: Oslo Meet your local guide for a tour of Norway’s capital, including the Viking Ship museum; the polar expedition ship, the M/S Fram; and the outdoor Vigeland Sculpture Park. This afternoon, do some more exploring on your own. (B) Bergen

Flåm Oslo Stockholm

Stockholm, Copenhagen, Copenhagen

Discover the wonders of Scandinavia — the perfect blend of culture and nature – on this journey. Explore the rich past and vibrant present of the region’s capitals in the cities of Stockholm, Copenhagen and Oslo. Conclude your travels in western Norway, home to magnificent fjords and dense forests, roaring waterfalls and snow-capped peaks. Along the way, enjoy some leisure time to indulge your own interests, including a literary tour in Stockholm, a culinary exploration of Copenhagen or a kayaking and hiking adventure in the western fjords. Day 1: Arrive Stockholm Upon arrival in Stockholm, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings local representative and transferred to your hotel. Grand Hotel – 2 nights Day 2: Stockholm Take an invigorating walking tour of the Old Town, the royal palace, the parliament buildings and the beautiful island of Djurgården. Enjoy a special visit to the Blue and Golden Rooms of

58

Stockholm’s City Hall where the Nobel Prize banquet is hosted each year. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure. If you’re feeling adventurous, embark on one of several optional tours including a rooftop exploration of Stockholm, a tour following in the footsteps of acclaimed literary creations Mikael Blomkvist and Lisbeth Salander, an introduction to the city as it relates to the history of musical group ABBA or a day trip to Vaxholm in the Stockholm Archipelago. (B)

Day 3: To Copenhagen Take a private transfer to the railroad station to catch your high-speed train to Copenhagen. Upon arrival, you will be met and taken to your hotel. Hotel St. Petri – 2 nights (B) Day 4: Copenhagen Embark on a half-day guided tour of the cosmopolitan, chic Danish capital. As you travel through the city, visit palaces, civic landmarks,

Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

Day 7: To Flåm After breakfast, take a private transfer to the railroad station as your bags are forwarded to your next hotel. On your first-class rail journey to Myrdal, marvel at eastern Norway’s wide expanses of forests, secluded lakes and towering waterfalls, fertile valleys and tidy farmsteads. In Myrdal, change trains for the famous Flåm Railway line, the steepest railway line in Northern Europe. Arrive in picturesque Flåm on the shores of the Aurlandfjord. This evening, enjoy a special dinner and beer tasting overlooking the fjords. Flåmsbrygga Hotel – 1 night (B,D)

• Discover Stockholm’s Old Town and unique heritage on a walking tour • See the Little Mermaid statue in wonderful Copenhagen • Visit Oslo museums highlighting the Vikings and the polar voyages of the Fram • Admire the unique sculptures at Vigeland Sculpture Park in Oslo • Ride the Flåm Railway for magnificent views of the forest and water • Enjoy a special beer tasting and dinner overlooking the fjords • Cruise Norway’s spectacular Grand Sognefjord • Embark on a private walking tour of medieval Bergen and its picturesque cobbled streets

Cruise ship, Naeroyfjorden View over Bergen

Day 8: To Bergen This morning, continue your journey to Bergen. This afternoon, immerse yourself in nature on an optional kayaking and hiking trip. Clarion Collection Havnekontoret – 2 nights (B) Day 9: Bergen On your private walking tour of Bergen, visit the fish and flower market, the harbor or the old Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

59


Private Journey

Private Journey

Briksdal Glacier, Norway

The Cox & Kings Experience

Solvorn

Scenic Norway 8 DAYS & 7 NIGHTS

FlÅm

Bergen

Stavanger, Bergen, Flåm, Solvorn Stavanger

Relish the grandeur of Norway’s western coast on this summer journey through its spectacular fjords. Travel from Stavanger passing remote forests, snow-capped mountains, sparkling waterways and immense glaciers. As you explore these enchanting landscapes, paddle through clear waters in a kayak, cruise along astoundingly beautiful fjords, hike through forested terrain, walk upon a glacier and gaze at thundering waterfalls. You’ll also enjoy some time to explore the ancient city of Bergen, tour a local brewery and take a breath-taking ride on the Flåm Railway. Day 1: Arrive Stavanger Upon arrival in Stavanger, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings representative and transferred to your hotel in a private car. The rest of the day is yours at leisure to relax or venture out into the city. Clarion Collection Skagen Brygge – 2 nights (B) Day 2: Stavanger This morning, board a regularly scheduled cruise

60

along Lysefjord, which includes the famed Pulpit Rock along with an impressive supporting cast of waterfalls and idyllic islands. If you’re looking for something more active, why not take a fourhour round-trip hike to the top of Pulpit Rock for some impressive views? (B) Day 3: To Bergen Board a short flight for Bergen, the Gateway of the Norwegian Fjords, this morning, which has

been beguiling traveler for nearly a millennium. Norway’s kingdom’s second largest city, Bergen is home to 225,000 people and is situated in a stunningly picturesque location on the west coast of Norway. Upon arrival, a private transfer will take you to your hotel. Clarion Collection Havnekontoret – 1 night (B) Day 4: To Flåm Enjoy the morning at leisure. If you’re feeling

Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

Bergen Waterfront, Norway

Mt. Fløien

adventurous, head out on your own to explore the many museums and sights of Bergen. Why not take a ride on the Fløibanen Funicular, which in 8 minutes will take you from the city centre to the top of Mount Fløien, 1,050 feet above sea level? The view of Bergen and the surrounding fjords is unrivalled and will take your breath away! In the afternoon, experience Western Norway’s wide expanses of forests, secluded lakes and dizzying waterfalls as you ride the train toward Myrdal. Upon arrival, change trains for the famous Flåm Railway, the steepest railway line in Northern Europe. Marvel at thundering waterfalls, forested mountainsides and lush river valleys as you descend toward the spectacular Kjosfossen waterfalls where you may disembark to take photographs or just admire the thundering cascades. After arriving in Flåm this evening, check in to your hotel for dinner and a tour of the local brewery. Flamsbrygga – 2 nights (B, D)

continue your nautical explorations, take the ferry across the fjord to Urnes and visit the berry farm and historic stave church. Late this afternoon, board a private transfer to Leikanger for your express boat to Bergen. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel. Clarion Collection Havnekontoret – 1 night (B)

Day 5: Flåm This morning, immerse yourself in the glory of the surrounding landscape. First, hop into a kayak and paddle to Fronneset, a place of historical importance with grave mounds from the Viking era. Disembark and continue on foot as you follow a winding path along a wild river, passing amazing waterfalls and bubbling lagoons. Return to Flåm this evening to savor dinner at your hotel. (B, D)

Day 8: Depart Bergen Make it a morning to remember and visit the fish and flower market, the harbor or the old Hanseatic Quarter with its historic buildings. No visit to Bergen would be complete without a stroll through the UNESCO protected Bryggen harbor area, taking you 900 years back in time and providing an intimate image of Bergen as a medieval town, where Hanseatic traders maintained one of their four European headquarters. For a great view, ride the funicular to the summit of Mt. Fløien. Then bid farewell to the fjords as you take your private transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B)

• • • • • • •

Experience historic Stavanger, whose origins date back to 1125 Cruise the enchanting waters of Lysefjord and see famed Pulpit Rock Visit the old Hanseatic wharf of medieval Bergen Ride the rails on the worldrenowned Flåm Railway, the steepest of its kind in Northern Europe, past waterfalls and alpine scenery to Norway’s most famous village Paddle along the Naerfjord on your way to old Viking burial mounds Hike a forested trail past towering waterfalls and bubbling lagoons Walk atop the blue ice of the Jostedal Glacier, Northern Europe’s largest

Pulpit Rock, Norway

Day 6: To Solvorn Rise early for your boat along the Sognefjord en route to the village of Sogndal. Upon arrival, take a private transfer to the Glacier Center in the Jostedal National Park, home to the largest glacier in Northern Europe. There you’ll get up close and personal with one of nature’s most majestic sights as you walk along the surface of the mighty glacier. After your journey on the ice, transfer to lovely Solvorn for the evening. Walaker Hotel – 1 night (B, D) Day 7: To Bergen Enjoy the morning at leisure in Solvorn, which lies upon the spectacular Luster Fjord. If you want to Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

61


Travel in Europe At Cox & Kings we believe that a good travel experience is not luck but judgment. We have compiled the following advice to outline the nature of travel in Europe and to help you prepare for your trip. Even with the most meticulous planning, however, minor problems can occur and, while our local representatives are always on hand to rectify such occurrences, we do request that you have a patient and broadminded approach to traveling in Europe. Road Travel The road conditions you will experience in Europe are generally fairly good. The majority of the roads are sealed and in reasonable condition. Please be aware that some tours involve driving on smaller, more uneven roads, which may be uncomfortable, dusty and quite strenuous. The distance covered in some of our programs is also considerable, especially on our programs to Albania, Armenia, Georgia, Romania and regional Turkey. If you have any problems with long journeys, please discuss this with your consultant. Types of vehicles vary according to the country visited and the numbers on a tour. Early Starts A number of flights within Europe arrive / depart early in the morning, and while we will endeavour to schedule your tour with a flight which arrives / departs at a reasonable time, sometimes there is little or no alternative and early check-in / check-out times may be required. Accommodation Accommodation standards vary dramatically throughout Europe, and hotels in Eastern Europe, Albania, Macedonia and regional Turkey, should not generally be compared to Western European standards. For our tours we have chosen hotels primarily for their location and the facilities available. We will endeavour to supply any extra information that you may require on these hotels. The hotels listed in the itineraries may occasionally be unavailable for the required dates. In this event, we will advise you of alternative hotels, which will, where possible, be of the same or of a higher standard than those featured in the itineraries. There are many new hotels being built in Europe and we may upgrade those featured in the brochure if better options in the same category become available.

Dress Although tourism is not a new concept in most parts of Europe, many of the areas visited are still extremely traditional. Therefore kindly respect local customs and dress codes. Visa Please ensure that all traveling members, including infants and children, are in possession of a valid passport, valid for at least 6 months, after completion of all travel. It is convenient and safe to have the visa process facilitated by Cox & Kings from the concerned Consulates / Authorities on your behalf. Please note that it is totally at the discretion of the concerned Consulates / Authorities to grant / reject your visas. The consulate may require further documentation and / or personal appearance. Meals Meals included in the programs are indicated in the itineraries at the end of each day with codes: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L) and Dinner (D). Travel Documents It is the guest’s personal responsibility to hold and carry on tour valid travel documents, including airline tickets, service vouchers, passport, which must be valid for a period of minimum six months from the date of travel on the tour with necessary Visa/s and Immigration clearance (if applicable), confirmed air tickets, documents confirming insurance to cover risk to life, limb and property for the entire duration of the tour, medical clearances, inoculation / vaccination certificates, as the case may be, to be able to travel. Maps Type of travel is indicated in the maps at the beginning of each ), Air Travel ( ), itinerary with symbols: Surface Travel ( ), Cruise Travel ( ). Train Travel ( Pfossental, South Tyrol, Italy

Check-in & Check-out Times: For all group and individual tours, hotel checkin/out time is normally 2:00 pm but this does vary between hotels. Early check-ins and late check-outs cannot be pre-booked, but can sometimes be negotiated on site.

2101 Rosecrans Avenue, Suite 5264 El Segundo, CA 90245 310 640 8989 reservation.lax@thy.com | turkishairlines.com You can also contact your Calltravel Youragent. Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

Walking Many of the sites in Europe are quite spread out, and our programs consequently involve a reasonable amount of walking. Whilst the walking is normally easy going, a full-day’s sightseeing can be quite tiring and sometimes strenuous. Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

63


Europe Fact File ALBANIA Capital: Tirana Population: 3,155,271 Area: 11,100 sq. miles Currency: Lek Official Language: Albanian What To See The capital, Tirana, has several interesting museums, a great diversity of architectural styles and a vibrant cultural scene. Once home to former Albanian leader Enver Hoxha, the hill city of Gjirokastra has been proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage site. Albania’s most southerly city, Saranda offers beautiful beaches and an idyllic setting on the sea. Don’t forget to check out the nearby Greco-Roman ruins at Butrint. Vlora, located in southwestern Albania where the Adriatic and Ionian meet, has a real southern Mediterranean feel to it. One of the country’s oldest port cities, Durresi lies on a small peninsula on the coast of the Adriatic Sea. AUSTRIA Capital: Vienna Population: 8,364,095 Area: 32,377 sq. miles Currency: Euro Official Language: German What To See Vienna is a splendid historical city, with its grand imperial palaces, museums flanking magnificent squares and, above all, the Hofburg — where the Habsburg rulers lived. Visit Salzburg for alpine beauty, an incredible fortress and some seriously scrumptious cakes. Suspended above the deepgreen Inn River, the Alps are Innsbruck’s monumental attractions: creeping up on street corners, reflecting in glass façades and sneaking into every snapshot. Graz is an attractive place with verdant green parkland, red rooftops and a small, fast-flowing river gushing through its center. Zell Am See attracts travelers looking to relax and rejuvenate — and enjoy some excellent skiing in the winter. CROATIA Capital: Zagreb Population: 4,432,001

64

Area: 21,829 sq. miles Currency: Kuna Official Language: Croatian What To See Zagreb boasts a gorgeous Baroque ambience and charming markets, as well as a wide variety of restaurants and hotels. Built in the 13th century, the Old City of Dubrovnik is a UNESCO World Heritage site on the shores of the Adriatic. There are two main portals to the old town, Pile and Ploce, both leading to the Stradun, Dubrovnik’s main boulevard. Split remains one of the Adriatic’s most fascinating ports, and offers a wealth of museums and Roman ruins between dramatic mountains and a vast expanse of sea. DENMARK Capital: Copenhagen Population: 5,557,709 Area: 16,630 sq. miles Currency: Danish Krone Official Language: Danish What To See Once a Viking fishing village, Copenhagen has evolved to become a major city filled with history, interesting museums and exciting design. For admirers of Hans Christian Andersen, Odense is his birthplace, and its residents have built a cottage industry based on his storytelling. Jutland is a great place to visit for a Danish countrystyle vacation. Aalborg is a good place to start your trip, offering culture and history, and Århus (Aarhus) is Jutland’s largest and most vibrant city. Visit the fascinating island of Bornholm, home to several unique round churches, which may have a connection to the Knights Templar and the search for the Holy Grail. ESTONIA Capital: Tallin Population: 1,286,479 Area: 17,413 sq. miles Currency: Euro Official Language: Estonian What To See Estonia is the smallest, most northerly and possibly the most scenic of the three Baltic

states, bordered to the north and west by the Baltic Sea, to the east by Russia and to the south by Latvia. It is a country renowned for its huge forests, vast wetlands and many offshore islands. Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, has an abundance of historical and architectural monuments. The World-Heritage UNESCO listed Old Town is dominated by the soaring steeple of the medieval Town Hall. For a wonderful view of the town, take a walk up Toompea Hill, in the middle of the Old Town. The town of Pärnu is definitely worth a visit, about 2 hours drive from Tallinn, it is most visited for its 3km beach and Von Krahl theater. FRANCE Capital: Paris Population: 62,814,233 Area: 212,935 sq. miles Currency: Euro Official Language: French What To See Everyone loves Paris, as much for its shady boulevards, cafe life and general romantic atmosphere as for the more famous sights such as the Eiffel Tower or Notre Dame Cathedral. The Burgundy region is famous for its attractive countryside — including the Morvan Regional Park — and its wine. The Loire Valley in northerncentral France boasts lovely vineyards and quaint little towns. GERMANY Capital: Berlin Population: 81,879,976 Area: 137,858 sq. miles Currency: Euro Official Language: German What To See Loaded with mountainside castles that appear as if they must be from fairy tales, Bavaria boasts a storybook atmosphere and the fabled German Alps. München offers some of the best castles in Germany and numerous galleries, exceptional museums, wonderful opera and a world-class symphony orchestra Crossing idyllic countryside and winding its way through quintessential Germany, the Romantic Road, wanders from Würzburg to Füssen Augsburg offers fine churches,

Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

Europe Fact File good food, and a pleasant location. Rothenburg, the most authentic medieval town on the Romantic Road, is the prototypical walled town with dramatic architecture and great shopping.

Budapest alone having over 100 spas, baths and volcanic heated pools. ICELAND Capital: Reykjavik Population: 319,062 Area: 39,769 sq. miles Currency: Icelandic Krona Official Language: Icelandic

GREECE Capital: Athens Population: 10,815,197 Area: 50,949 sq mi Currency: Euro Official Language: Greek What To See Greece is one of those rare places where ancient history is still very much a part of modern life. Visitors are as much drawn to the country’s epic intellectual history as its beauty and charm. Make time for the iconic features of the Acropolis of Athens, which include the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike. Mythology buffs will appreciate Crete, Olympia, Samos, and Naxos for their mythological significance. If you are looking for some R&R, visit one of the beautiful islands such as Santorini or Mykonos. HUNGARY Capital: Budapest Population: 9,942,000 Area: 35,919 sq mi Currency: Forint Official Language: Hungarian What To See The spotlight has long shone on the capital of Budapest, a beautiful city divided in two by the River Danube. Buda, the older and hillier part of the city has cobbled streets, gothic buildings and the historic castle to explore. Whilst Pest is flat and has wide leafy boulevards, charming coffee houses and Hungary’s oldest church. The two were not united politically until 1873. Architecturally, Budapest is a hidden treasure, for example Heroes’ Square and the Chain Bridge. However there is more to Hungary than just Budapest, there are baroque style towns, castles, palaces and monuments of bygone eras together with natural wonders. Hot springs and thermal baths are abundant throughout the country, with

What To See Besides being the center of Icelandic culture, Reykjavik is the main gateway to the country’s beautiful and pristine landscapes. The city has a number of thermal pools and spas popular with locals and travelers. Pingvellir National Park is situated on the tectonic plate boundaries of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, and is home to spectacular geysers, gorgeous waterfalls and the site of the world’s oldest parliament. In Arnarstapi, on the Snæfellsnes peninsula in West Iceland, marvel at the beautiful columnar basalt and cliff formations and one of Iceland’s most beautiful harbors. IRELAND Capital: Dublin Population: 6,399,115 Area: 32,595 sq. miles Currency: Euro Official Language: English, Gaelic What To See Ireland is situated in the Atlantic Ocean and separated from Great Britain by the Irish Sea. Half the size of Arkansas, it occupies the entire island except for the six counties that make up Northern Ireland. Ireland resembles a basin—a central plain rimmed with mountains, except in the Dublin region. The country has become famous for its scenic coastline and villages and towns by the shoreline. The most widely known of these are situated in the west of Ireland, mostly in Munster, but other areas of the country have their own individual resorts as well. The Cliffs of Moher are the most famous cliffs in Ireland, but the highest cliffs in Ireland and Great Britain are the Croaghaun, on the Atlantic coast of Achill Island off Co. Mayo, which rise to 688m, over three times higher than the Cliffs of Moher.

ITALY Capital: Rome Population: 60,221,211 Area: 116,304 sq. miles Currency: Euro Official Language: Italian What To See The magical city of Venice, often referred to as La Serenissima (the most serene), has enchanted travelers for centuries. Florence boasts worldrenowned galleries, and is still a living center of artisan crafts, with busy workshops nestled in the stunning Renaissance architecture. In Pisa, don’t forget to pay a visit to the famed leaning tower. The Amalfi Coast offers striking landscapes, sparkling seas, and breathtaking cliffs. While there, visit the Isle of Capri, an idyllic island gem in the Bay of Naples. Spend some time exploring the forests, fields and vineyards of Tuscany. And don’t forget to immerse yourself in the fascinating metropolis of Rome. LATVIA Capital: Riga Population: 2,013,400 Area: 24,938 sq. miles Currency: Lats Official Language: Latvian What To See Latvia, one of the more recent members to join the EU, is one of the three Baltic states along with Lithuania and Estonia. Riga, the capital, is filled with church spires and fine Gothic, Baroque, Classical and Art Noveau buildings. For fantastic views over the city it is worth climbing the 72-metre-high viewing tower of St. Peter’s church. LITHUANIA Capital: Vilnius Population: 2,955,986 Area: 25,212 sq. miles Currency: Lithuanian litas Official Language: Lithuanian What To See Lithuania, one of the three Baltic states, has much

Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

65


Europe Fact File to offer visitors. The capital of Vilnius is dotted with cobbled streets, 18th century town houses and Baroque churches. It also has the largest Old Town in Europe, with the Gedimas Square at the heart of it. Other sights in the city include the white colonnaded Cathedral, the Peter & Paul Church and The Gate of Dawn, the only survivor of nine gates that once studded the walls of Vilnius, inside which is found the most sacred image of the city, the Madonna of the Gate of Dawn. Klaipeda, with its half-timbered houses is reminiscent of provincial Germany. While, the Amber Museum and the Hill of Crosses, a place of national pilgrimage, are also well worth a visit. NORWAY Capital: Oslo Population: 4,923,038 Area: 125,182 sq. miles Currency: Norwegian Krone Official Language: Norwegian What To See Oslo, the capital and largest city of Norway, is home to many fascinating museums and lovely parks. The North Cape offers breath-taking views, unusual climatic conditions, dramatic cliffs and of course the fact that one is standing at Europe’s northern end. The beauty of the Geirangerfjord with its waterfalls and cliffs is hard to surpass. The ancient city of Bergen is famous as the gateway to Norway’s western fjords. From there, you can take a cruise on one of Hurtigruten’s coastal steamers for incredible views. Picturesque Lillehammer boasts some great shopping and unique accommodation in one of the city’s traditional wooden houses. POLAND Capital: Warsaw Population: 38,518,241 Area: 120,725 sq. miles Currency: Zloty Official Language: Polish What To See Krakow’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a great place for an enchanting stroll. The city’s famous merchant town surrounds large

66

market square and historical houses with opulent interiors. Although much of the Old Town of Warsaw has been rebuilt, the city boasts many historical and cultural attractions. Zakopane is the winter capital of Poland with incredible skiing and mountaineering.

and beautiful coastal waters, all in one place. The Volga Delta is a must-see for anyone interested in wildlife. Its marshland climate has become a refuge for beavers, otters, and countless birds from herons to the great bald eagle. Another must for nature lovers is the Samara Bend National Park, famous for its woodland hikes.

ROMANIA Capital: Bucharest Population: 21,330,000 Area: 92,043 sq. miles Currency: Leu Official Language: Romanian What To See The capital, Bucharest, lies between Transylvania’s Carpathian Mountains and the Black Sea. Once known as “Little Paris”, it had entire neighborhoods designed by French architects. Some of these gems are now slightly obscured by more drab post-Stalinist buildings, but nonetheless a Byzantine-style chapel is not too hard to come by. With its rich folkloric heritage, picturesque villages such as Maramures have carefully preserved the culture and traditions of the old Romania. Visitors should be prepared to travel back in time to enjoy the medieval homes and beautiful handmade traditional costumes. RUSSIA Capital: Moscow Population: 141,850,000 Area: 6,592,800 sq. miles Currency: Ruble Official Language: Russian What To See Formerly the capital of Russia and home of the tsars, St. Petersburg is a city of canals and cathedrals, palaces and terraces. A diverse and vibrant city, Moscow boasts Red Square, St. Basil’s cathedral, the Kremlin and many famed museums and galleries. One of the most fascinating regions in Russia is the Golden Ring of cities to the northeast of Moscow, with their whitewashed city walls and venerable onion-domed churches. Adventurous explorers will fall in love with Kamchatka, as it is the only place on earth that boasts active volcanic activity, mountains, rough river rapids and seas,

SCOTLAND Capital: Edinburgh Population: 5,194,000 Area: 30,420 sq. miles Currency: Sterling Pound Official Language: English What To See Edinburgh is one of Europe’s most attractive and historic cities. Its famed international festivals attract the world’s leading performers, and its galleries display cutting-edge art. The “Granite City” of Aberdeen has spectacular architecture and captivating museums, fascinating history and a wealth of art and culture. Dundee is a lively commercial and artistic center, while Glasgow is brimming with style and culture, thanks to its irresistible blend of internationally acclaimed museums and galleries, stunning architecture and vibrant nightlife. Inverness’s enviable location on the River Ness at the head of the Great Glen, makes it an ideal base for exploring the many attractions in the surrounding countryside. SPAIN Capital: Madrid Population: 45,957,671 Area: 195,379 sq. miles Currency: Euro Official Language: Spanish What To See Madrid is a remarkable capital city with numerous interesting attractions and an important history. Visit sun-kissed Andalusia to discover the wonders of Moorish Spain. One of the grand cities of Spain, Seville attracts many tourists due to its splendid architecture, sumptuous restaurants and opulent residences and gardens. The historic center of Cordoba is a UNESCO World Heritage site best known for its Moorish

Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

Europe Fact File extravaganza, the Mezquita Mosque. Home to the magnificent Alhambra, Granada is a beautiful town with a glorious setting in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Spend some time soaking up the rays on the Costa del Sol. With excellent beaches and a lovely cathedral, Valencia is the gateway to the Costa Blanca, another of Spain’s noted coastal resort areas. SWEDEN Capital: Stockholm Population: 9,415,570 Area: 173,732 sq. miles Currency: Swedish Krona Official Language: Swedish What To See Stockholm, Sweden’s capital, is a delightful city spread out over 14 islands. Gothenburg, also known as Göteborg, is the perfect base to explore the coastal towns to the north and the Varberg Fortress. Uppsala is widely regarded as the center of Swedish culture and history. Kalmar is home to the famed Kalmar Castle and the Domykyrkan or the cathedral — and just to the west of the city, you can discover Crystal country, also known as “Kingdom of Crystal”. If you want to bask in the sun, enjoy the idyllic countryside, and explore an interesting historic area, the island of Gotland may be just the place for you. SWITZERLAND Capital: Berne Population: 8,014,000 Area: 15,940 sq. miles Currency: Swiss Franc Official Languages: German, French, Italian and Romansh What To See A landlocked country in the heart of Europe with no natural borders, Switzerland is divided into 26 cantons, each with their own unique cultural and historic signatures. The country can be visited at any time throughout the year with each season offering its own unique landscapes and characteristics. Zurich, Geneva and Lucerne are great places to explore on foot. They have excellent restaurants and a lively nightlife as well as numerous museums and art galleries. Beyond

the main cities, Switzerland’s scenery ranges from dramatic mountain vistas, picturesque valleys and fairytale villages to glacier lakes as well as almost Mediterranean landscapes in the Southern part around Lugano.

Explore the forests and alpine meadows of the lovely Carpathian Mountains. Wander the cobblestone streets of medieval Lviv, and explore its mysteries, myths and legends. UNITED KINGDOM

TURKEY Capital: Ankara Population: 74,815,703 Area: 302,535 sq. miles Currency: Turkish Lira Official Language: Turkish What To See One of the world’s great metropolises, Istanbul is truly where East meets West. The Aegean Coast of Turkey contains fine archaeological sites, beautiful beaches, great scenery, and a host of towns that are excellent destinations. Izmir serves as a convenient base to explore the Aegean coast and has many prime archaeological sites. Kusadasi is a resort town known for its nightlife; the city’s harbor is the gateway to Ephesus for many cruise lines. Anatalya is a good starting place for your explanation of Anatolia. Cappadocia is the home to mystical, rock chimney dwellings and man-made cave homes in eastern Turkey. Çanakkale is your best base for visiting the Gallipoli battlefields and the ruins of Troy. And Pamukkale boasts some popular hot springs and scenery so stunning it’s been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. UKRAINE Capital: Kiev Population: 48,760,474 Area: 233,090 sq. miles Currency: Hryvnia Official Language: Ukrainian What To See Kiev is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, with historical and architectural gems, ethnic restaurants and cafés, fantastic theaters and museums, and friendly people. The resorts in Crimea are famous for their mineral waters, and the area is also known for its wines. Yalta, a seaside resort surrounded by steep mountain peaks, is the jewel of the Crimean peninsula.

Capital: London Population: 63,181,775 Area: 94,060 sq. miles Currency: Pound Sterling Official Language: English What To See The U.K has always had a history and heritage to be proud of, and a glorious regional diversity – from coast to hills, festivals to foodstuff – with few parallels. But for all the glories of the past, in recent times it’s had an injection of life that makes it as thrilling a destination as any in Europe. To begin with, London is the place to start. Nowhere else in the country can match the scope and innovation of the metropolis, a colossal, frenetic city that’s going through a convulsion of improvements done for 2012 Olympics. It’s here that you’ll find England’s best spread of cultural events, museums, galleries, pubs and restaurants. However, each of the other large cities – Birmingham, Bristol, Newcastle, Leeds, Sheffield, Manchester and Liverpool – makes its own claim for historic and cultural diversity, and you certainly won’t have a representative view of England’s cities if you venture no further than the capital. For the most part it is in these regional centers where the most exciting architectural and social developments are taking place, though for many visitors they rank a long way behind ancient cities like Lincoln, Canterbury, York, Salisbury, Durham and Winchester – to name a few of those with the most celebrated of England’s cathedrals – or the university cities of Cambridge and Oxford, arguably the two most beautiful seats of learning in the world. Most beguiling of all, though, are the long-established villages of England, hundreds of which amount to nothing more than a pub, a shop, a gaggle of cottages and a farmhouse. Devon, Cornwall, the Cotswolds and the Yorkshire Dales harbor some especially picturesque specimens, but every county can boast a decent showing of photogenic hamlets.

Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

67


Festivals in Europe

Geirangerfjord, Fjord Norway

There’s no better way to get to know Europe like a local than by attending and participating in one of the continent’s colorful festivals. Whether you’re feasting like a Viking in Iceland, catching some cutting-edge theater in Krakow’s drama festival, celebrating the summer solstice in Sweden, running with the bulls in Pamplona, sharing the fruits of the harvest in Portugal or ringing in the season at Germany’s oldest Christmas celebration, you’re sure to have an amazing experience full of unforgettable memories. Check out some of Europe’s festivals below. FESTIVAL

Stockholm, Sweden

From design innovations to world-class cuisine, discover what you can experience

its historic landscape. Scandinavia summons reference to no other place. Norway, Denmark and Sweden offer breathtaking nature which blends effortlessly with its culture. Sublime beauty and an elivening atmosphere exist at every turn, whether its experienced

Kiruna Snow

Kiruna, Sweden

January

Thorrablot

Iceland

January

The Viking’s midwinter feast.

Burns Night

Scotland

January

A festive night celebrating Scotlands National poet Robbie Burns.

Winter Lights Festival

Reykjavik, Iceland

January

Reykjavik’s multi-arts festival with music, dances and street theater.

Berlinale

Berlin, Germany

February

International Film festival.

Fat Tuesday

Throughout Catholic Europe

February

Celebrations throughout Catholic Europe. A day of feasting before the fasting season of lent begins.

Slovenia

February

Festival of Christians Spain and Moors Venice Carnival

enchanted with the Scandinavian way of life by discovering all three destinations.

SCANDINAVIAN AIRLINES Scandinavian Airlines offers the most nonstop flights from the U.S. to Scandinavia, with flights from New York /Newark, Chicago, Washington D.C. and San Francisco flysas.com/Scandinavia CONTACT YOUR DESTINATION SPECIALIST AT COX & KINGS TO PLAN YOUR TRIP TO SCANDINAVIA.

LOCATION

MONTH

DESCRIPTION

Stonehenge, U.K.

June

Prague Festival

Prague, Czech Republic

June

Spring International Music Festival.

Midsommar

Sweden

July

Celebrates the longest day of the year.

Bastille Day

France

July

French National & Independence Day.

San Fermin Festival

Spain

July

Running of the bulls in Pamplona.

National Day of Culture.

Tallinn Maritime Days

Tallinn, Estonia

July

This festival is a celebration of city’s relationship with the sea.

February

Medieval Festival near Valencia Spain.

Montreux Jazz Festival

Montreux, Switzerland

July

Music festival on the shores of beautiful Lake Geneva.

Venice, Italy

FebruaryMarch

Famous and traditional Carnival celebration featuring elaborate masks and costumes.

Exit festival

Novi Sad, Serbia

July

Attracts biggest DJs and bands to the country.

Fallas de Valencia

Valencia, Spain

March

Festival of burning the winter demons.

Salzburg Festival

Salzburg, Austria

July-August

Festival of Classical Music & Mozart.

Father’s Day

Italy

March

Festivities to celebrate all Fathers.

Il Palio di Siena

Siena, Italy

July & August

Horse race in the main square.

Planica

Slovenia

March

Ski Jumping World Championships.

La Tomatina Festival

Valencia, Spain

August

Tomato fight in the streets of Valencia.

Struga, Macedonia

August

Summer / Poetry festival in Struga.

St. Patricks Day

Ireland

March

Day celebrating the patroint saint.

Poetry Festival

Theatre Reminiscences

Krakow, Poland

April

Kracow’s festivals of plays- features both new and old playwrights.

Korca City Beer Fest Korca City, Albania

August

The largest festival in Albania.

Witches’ Nught

Czech Republic

April

Similar to Halloween, bonfires etc.

St. Stephen’s Day

Budapest, Hungary

August

Hungarian National Holiday with air show in Budapest.

Baltic Ballet Festival

Riga, Latvia

April

Baltic Ballet Festival.

Festa della Rificolona

Florence, Italy

September

Children from all over the area carrying candle lit paper lanterns.

April

Built as a platform for communication between European and Turkish filmmakers, the Istanbul Film Festival is one of the most popular spring events in the city.

Aarhus, Denmark

Denmark

September

Broad arts festival in a beautiful location.

Oktoberfest

Munich, Germany

September- World’s biggest fair. October

Festival of lights

Berlin, Germany

October

The biggest festival of lights in the world.

Istanbul, Turkey

Burns an ‘a’ that

Scotland

May

Now recognised as the largest arts and cultural festival in the West of Scotland.

Independence Day

Norway

May

Norway’s Constitution Day.

Icelandic Airwaves

Iceland

October

Cutting edge music festival.

International Theatre Festival

Sarajevo, Bosnia

October

Presents over fifty productions in a variety of artistic disciplines, from several continents.

Pálinka Festival

Budapest, Hungary

May

Unique gastronomic event where visitors can taste over 300 different types of pálinka, a special Hungarian type of brandy.

Constitution Day

Poland

May

Celebrates Europe’s first constitution.

Feira de Outubro

Portugal

October

Harvest festival outside of Lisbon.

White Nights Festival

Russia

May

International Ballet and Opera festival.

Dresden Striezelmarkt

Dresden, Germany

November

Oldest traditional Christmas Market in Germany ( founded 1484).

Cannes Film Festival

Montenegro

November

May

The setting itself along the French Riviera is as famed and glamorous as the everchanging roster of celebrities who attend this world-class film festival.

Zabljak Winter Cup

Cannes, France

Car races on snow which are held in winter months on Durmitor.

National Gastronomy Festival Portugal

November

Food, parades, bull fights, wine tasting.

St. Martins Day

Croatia, Slovenia

November

Day to celeabrate the new wine.

May-July

Night is an extended twilight—one long sunset of amber, violet, and red that rolls right into sunrise. The festival is an extravaganza of the arts - music, opera, film and outdoor celebrations during this time.

Christmas Crib Contest

Poland

December

Kracow’s craftsmen decorate cribs.

Konya celebrations

Konya, Turkey

December

Mevlana Memorial celebrations.

Tivoli Gardens Christmas Market,

Copenhagen, Denmark

December

Copenhagen’s grand amuseument park opens for the holidays.

Hogamany

Scotland

December

Scotland’s big New Years Eve Party.

STOCKHOLM

eco-friendly Copenhagen where bicycles prove as commonplace as cars. Become

FESTIVAL Stonehenge Summer Solstice

OSLO

within Norway’s spectacular fjords, Stockholm’s archipelago or along the streets of

DESCRIPTION

Druids, hippies, New Age prophets and mystery seekers gather at Stonehenge to worship the sun during the northern hemisphere’s shortest night of the year.

Istanbul International Film Festival

A destination heralded for innovation and contemporary genius, yet firmly rooted within

MONTH

Skiing and ice skating competitions and reindeer and dog sled races.

Preseren Day

Copenhagen, Denmark

LOCATION

St. Petersburg,

COPENHAGEN Stars of the White Nights

St. Petersburg, Russia

Cest is d’best

Zagreb, Croatia

June

Zagreb’s streets turn into an open air theater.

Summer Festival

Vienna, Austria

June

Vienna Festival of Arts and Music.

Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

69


Weather Chart

Weather Chart

This guide explains the general weather conditions in each featured country and details the best time of year to travel to your chosen destination.

Albania Albania has hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. The Albanian coastline benefits from moderate sea breezes in the summer, making for a very pleasant climate. The central mountains can become very cold in the winter months, particularly at night. The best time to visit Albania is either side of the summer peak. Mar Apr May

Jun

Ave. Max. Temp (°F) 53.6 55.4 57.2 64.4 69.8

Tirana

Jan

Feb

77

Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 46.4 42.8 46.4 51.8

59

Aug

Sep

Oct Nov Dec

82.4 82.4

Jul

77

71.6 60.8 55.4

66.2 66.2 69.8 64.4 57.2

50

44.6

Austria Winters are sunny, but tend to be cold with snow and rain. Summers are warm with a moderate climate; temperatures can rise to up to 80 degrees Fahrenheit in peak months. The weather stays warm throughout September and early October. Vienna

Jan

Feb

Mar Apr May

Ave. Max. Temp (°F) 37.4 42.8

50

Ave. Min. Temp (°F)

37

28

35

Aug

Sep

Oct Nov Dec

60.8 71.6 75.2 78.8 78.8

68

59

49

33

37

56

Jun

61

Jul

68

63

46.4 39.2 39

29

Bosnia & Herzegovina Bosnia & Herzegovina has a varied climate with broadly hot temperatures during the summer, but very cold in the winter. The mountainous areas attract heavy rain year round and snow in the winter months. Sarajevo

Jan

Feb

Mar Apr May

Jun

Ave. Max. Temp (°F) 7.4

41

53.6 60.8 71.6

77

Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 26.6 28.4 35.6

41

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct Nov Dec

80.6 82.4

68

64.4

48.2 53.6 57.2 57.2

50

46.4 39.2 30.2

50

39.2

Copenhagen Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Ave. Max. Temp (°F) 35.6 35.6 41.0 50.0 60.8 66.2 71.6 69.8 64.4 53.6 44.6 39.2 Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 28.4 26.6 30.2 37.4 46.4 51.8 57.2 57.2 51.8 44.6 37.4 33.8

Estonia Estonia, much like the other Baltic States, has a similar climate to neighbouring parts of Russia, although a little milder due to the influence of the Baltic Sea. July and August are the warmest months and spring and autumn are relatively mild. Winter, from November to mid-March, can be very cold. Rain falls throughout the year with the heaviest in August. Snowfall is common in winter. Tallinn Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Ave. Max. Temp (°F) 24.8 24.8 32.0 44.6 57.2 66.2 68.0 66.2 59.0 50.0 37.4 30.2 Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 14.0 12.2 19.4 32.0 41.0 50.0 53.6 51.8 48.2 39.2 30.2 19.4

France France is a country of variety as far as weather is concerned. The southernmost part experiences hot and sunny summers and mild winters, with the occasional bout of rain and it is worth remembering that spring can bring the Mistral wind, which carries cold and blustery weather around March time, temporarily disrupting the balmy weather. The lower regions of central and eastern France suffers from colder winters than the south, although the summers can be just as warm and bright. Rainfall is possible throughout the year. The mountain region often has snow in the winter and early spring months, making the Northern Alps particularly enjoyable for winter sport enthusiasts. Paris

Jan

Feb

Mar Apr May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct Nov Dec

Ave. Max. Temp (°F) 42.8 44.6 53.6 60.8 68.0 73.4 77.0 75.2 69.8 60.8 50.0 44.6 Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 33.8 33.8 39.2 42.8 50.0 55.4 59.0 57.2 53.6 46.4 41.0 35.6 Lille

Jan

Feb

Mar Apr May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct Nov Dec

Croatia

Ave. Max. Temp (°F) 42.8 44.6 50.0 57.2 64.4 68.0 73.4 73.4 68.0 59.0 48.2 42.8

Croatia has a varied climate, with continental climate conditions in the north and Mediterranean temperatures on the Adriatic coast. Rainfall is heaviest from October to January.

Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 33.8 33.8 39.0 41.0 48.2 53.6 57.2 57.2 51.8 46.4 39.2 37.4

Dubrovnik

Jan

Feb

Ave. Max. Temp (°F) 53.6 55.4

Mar Apr May 59

Aug

Sep

Oct Nov Dec

62.6 73.4 80.6 84.2 84.2

77

69.8 62.6 55.4

Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 44.6 44.6 48.2 53.6 62.6

Jun

68

Jul

71.6 73.4 66.2 60.8 53.6 46.4

Czech Republic The weather can be quite unsettled, with generally cold winters and mild summers. Spring and summer have the highest rainfall. Prague

Jan

Feb

Mar Apr May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct Nov Dec

Ave. Max. Temp (°F) 32.0 33.8 44.6 53.6 64.4 69.8 73.4 71.6 64.4 53.6 41.0 33.8 Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 23.0 24.8 30.2 37.4 46.4 51.8 55.4 55.4 48.2 41.0 33.8 26.6

Denmark Danish weather is quite similar to that of the British Isles. Summers are warm but with rainfall, winters are chilly and cloudy, with snow a possibilityFebruary is the coldest month. The west coast is more prone to rain and strong gales throughout the year, than the eastern side. Copenhagen’s climate is maritime and quite changeable.

70

Germany It is generally temperate throughout the country with warm summers and cold winters, however prolonged periods of frost or snow are rare. The Baltic coast experiences harsher winters than the area near to the North Sea Coast. Summers can be very warm, although thunderstorms are commonplace. Inland there are smaller differences from region to region. The east is more likely to experience cold winters from Russia. Summers are sunnier and less wet in the inland towns and cities than on the coast. Rain is likely throughout the year. Berlin

Jan

Feb

Mar Apr May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Jan

Feb

Mar Apr May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct Nov Dec

Ave. Max. Temp (°F) 55

Athens

52

60

66

76

82

88

88

81

70

62

58

Ave. Min. Temp (°F)

39

40

42

47

56

63

70

70

64

54

47

44

Santorini

Oct Nov Dec

Jan

Feb

Mar Apr May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Ave. Max. Temp (°F) 57

58

60

66

72

80

82

81

78

71

66

60

Vilnius

Ave. Min. Temp (°F)

48

50

54

59

66

71

71

67

61

56

51

Ave. Max. Temp (°F) 23.0 26.6 33.8 53.6 64.4 69.8 73.4 71.6 62.6 51.8 39.2 26.6

48

The warm Gulf Stream provides a temperate ocean climate and helps to keep Icelandic winters mild, snow is not as common as may be expected and, if it does fall in the capital, it does not lie for long. Northern Iceland has longer periods of snow. The temperatures throughout summer seldom reach as high as 68 degrees fahrenheit. As Iceland is in the path of Atlantic depressions, changeable weather on a daily basis, is to be expected. The colorful Aurora Borealis appears towards the end of August. Reykjavik

Jan

Feb

Spring (April - June) is the prime time to visit because the weather is good throughout the country and the peak tourist seaon has not begun. Fall (midSeptember to mid-October) is the second most preferable time to travel. However, Greece enjoys a moderate climate throughout the year and so city breaks can be taken all year round. Attention during July and August in the islands: strong “Meltemi” winds may interfere with ferry schedules.

Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

Jun

Feb

Mar Apr May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct Nov Dec

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct Nov Dec

Norway The lowlands to the south have cold winters and warmer summers than the coastal areas. Northern areas have continuous sunshine during midsummer with twilight all day in the winter months. The Gulf Stream and North Atlantic Drift give the coastal areas a moderate climate. The coast is often wet and prone to gales. Rain occurs throughout the year, with inland areas experiencing snowfall during the winter. Norway is at its best between June and August.

Ave. Max. Temp (°F) 35.6 37.4 39.2 42.8 50.0 53.6 57.2 57.2 51.8 44.6 39.2 35.6

Oslo

Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 28.4 23.0 30.2 33.8 39.2 44.6 48.2 46.4 42.8 37.4 32.0 28.4

Ave. Max. Temp (°F) 28.4 30.2 39.2 50.0 60.8 68.0 71.6 69.8 60.8 48.2 37.4 32.0

Italy

Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 19.4 19.4 24.8 33.8 42.8 50.0 55.4 53.6 46.4 37.4 30.2 24.8

Italy is very hot in summer, with the highest temperatures in the south. The southernmost tip of the country has the hottest and sunniest conditions in spring and summer with autumn and winter quite mild and dry. The peak mountain areas have snow during winter and rain in the summer months. More central areas are mild throughout the year. The weather in Sicily is particularly changeable in the winter months; a cloudy wet day can often quickly change to sunny and mild. Summers are more settled with generally 10 hours of sunshine a day, in contrast to 4 or 5 in the winter months. The heat is at its most intense in July and August, although it can be cooled by daytime sea breezes. Nights however can still be humid in summer. Jun

Jul

Aug

Ave. Max. Temp (°F) 55.4 55.4 60.8 64.4 73.4 80.6

Naples

Jan

86

87.8 80.6 73.4 64.4 57.2

Ave. Min. Temp (°F)

68

41

Feb 41

Mar Apr May

44.6 48.2 55.4 62.6

68

Sep

Oct Nov Dec

62.6 57.2 48.2 44.6

Bergen

Jan

Jan

Feb

Feb

Mar Apr May

Mar Apr May

Jun

Jun

Jul

Jul

Aug

Aug

Sep

Sep

Oct Nov Dec

Oct Nov Dec

Ave. Max. Temp (°F) 37.4 37.4 42.8 48.2 57.2 60.8 66.2 66.2 59.0 51.8 46.4 41.0 Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 30.2 30.2 32.0 37.4 44.6 50.0 53.6 53.6 50.0 42.8 37.4 33.8 Tromsø

Jan

Feb

Mar Apr May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct Nov Dec

Ave. Max. Temp (°F) 28.4 30.2 32.0 39.2 46.4 53.6 59.0 57.2 50.0 41.0 33.8 30.2 Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 30.2 30.2 32.0 37.4 44.6 50.0 53.6 53.6 50.0 42.8 37.4 33.8

Poland Poland has a moderate continental climate, although the weather can be unpredictable due to the influence of the Baltic coast. Summers are warm, July being the hottest month, with spring and autumn generally warm but with rainfall. Snowfall is heaviest from December to March and can last until May. Warsaw

Jan

Feb

Mar Apr May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct Nov Dec

Ave. Max. Temp (°F) 32.0 32.0 42.8 53.6 68.0 73.4 75.2 73.4 66.2 55.4 42.8 35.6 Milan

Jan

Feb

Mar Apr May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct Nov Dec

Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 21.2 21.2 28.4 37.4 48.2 53.6 59.0 57.2 50.0 41.0 33.8 26.6

Ave. Max. Temp (°F) 44.1 46.4 55.4 64.4 73.4 80.6 84.2 82.4 75.2 62.6 50.0 42.8 Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 32.0 35.6 42.8 50.0 57.2 62.6 68.0 66.2 60.8 51.8 42.8 35.6 Palermo

Jan

Feb

Mar Apr May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct Nov Dec

Krakow

Jan

Feb

Mar Apr May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct Nov Dec

Ave. Max. Temp (°F) 32

35.6 44.6 55.4 66.2 69.8 73.4 73.4 64.4 55.4 42.8 35.6

Ave. Min. Temp (°F)

23

24.8

32

Gdansk

Jan

Feb

Mar Apr May

39.2 48.2 53.6 57.2 55.4 48.2

41

33.8 37.4

Ave. Max. Temp (°F) 60.8 60.8 62.6 68.0 75.2 80.6 86.0 86.0 82.4 77.0 69.8 64.4 Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 46.4 46.4 48.2 51.8 57.2 64.4 69.8 69.8 66.2 60.8 53.6 50.0

Jan

Feb

Mar Apr May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct Nov Dec

Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 30.2 30.2 33.8 39.2 50.0 53.6 60.8 60.8 51.8 44.6 37.4 32.0

Latvia has a similar climate to neighbouring Russia, although it is a little milder due to the influence of the Baltic Sea. It is moderately humid and warm from spring to summer, although it can be cloudy. July and August are the warmest months. Winter can be cold with snowfall common from December until March. Rain is to be expected throughout the year. Riga

Jun

Ave. Max. Temp (°F) 35.6 37.4 41.0 50.0 60.8 66.2 69.8 71.6 64.4 55.4 44.6 37.4

Latvia

Ave. Max. Temp (°F) 35.6 37.4 46.4 55.4 66.2 71.6 75.2 73.4 68.0 55.4 44.6 37.4

GREECE

Mar Apr May

Jan

Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 12.2 14.0 19.4 35.6 44.6 51.8 53.6 51.8 46.4 39.2 30.2 19.4

Iceland

Oct Nov Dec

Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 26.6 26.6 32.0 39.2 46.4 53.6 57.2 55.4 50.0 42.8 35.6 30.2

Lithuania Summer is very warm, with mild temperatures in autumn and spring. The winters are very cold and generally last from November until late March. The heaviest rainfall tends to be in the middle of summer.

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct Nov Dec

Ave. Max. Temp (°F) 24.8 26.6 35.6 50.0 60.8 69.8 71.6 69.8 62.6 51.8 39.2 28.4 Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 14.0 14.0 19.4 33.8 42.8 48.2 51.8 51.8 46.4 39.2 30.2 19.4

Russia Moscow: Autumn is brief, with the city generally frozen over by November. Heavy snowfall generally stays until late March/early April. The thaw, which happens as soon as spring arrives, can take about a month to disappear fully. Despite July and August being the warmest months, they are also the wettest. St. Petersburg: It is worth noting that this is a windy city and the prevailing winds from the Baltic Sea during winter months can be fierce. St. Petersburg

Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

71


Weather Chart tends to be a little warmer than Moscow during the winter months, however in midwinter, there are very few hours of daylight. Summer days are long; due to its northern latitude the city has no real darkness during the midsummer. These ‘White Nights’ generally last from 11th June until 2nd July. From mid May to early September, both cities are warm and pleasant. The area between Moscow and St. Petersburg is marginally wetter than the rest of European Russia, however it is lower in comparison, that that of several other European cities, such as Rome. Kamchatka: The sea and strong winds greatly influence the climate of Kamchatka. The diverse climatic zones include a maritime zone on the coasts, a continental zone in the central valley and an arctic zone in the north of the peninsula. Around Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky city, the temperatures are at their best from July to September, although this is can be the wettest time too. Nights are cold even in the summer months. Generally the weather is changeable and the rains frequent. Moscow

Jan

Ave. Max. Temp (°F) 23

Feb

Aug

Sep

Oct Nov Dec

24.8 35.6 51.8 64.4 71.6 75.2 71.6

59

46.4

Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 17.6 15.8 St. Petersburg

Jan

Feb

Mar Apr May 23

Jun

Mar Apr May

Feb

24.8

59

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct Nov Dec

68

71.6

68

59

46.4 33.8 28.4

Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 17.6 17.6 24.8 33.8 44.6 53.6 Jan

32

35.6 46.4 53.6 57.2 53.6 46.4 37.4 26.6 17.6

Ave. Max. Temp (°F) 24.8 24.8 35.6 48.2

Vladivostok

Jul

Mar Apr May

Jun

59 Jul

Petropavlovsk

Jan

6.8 Feb

Aug

Sep

Oct Nov Dec

19.4 33.8 42.8 51.8 60.8 64.4 55.4 41.0 24.8 Mar Apr May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

8.6

Oct Nov Dec

Ave. Max. Temp (°F) 24.8 24.8 30.2 37.4 46.4 55.4 60.8 60.8 57.2 46.4 33.8 26.6 Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 17.6 15.8 21.2 28.4 35.6 42.8 50.0 51.8 46.4 37.4 26.6 19.4

Slovenia Slovenia has a continental climate, with warm summers and cold winters. The Alps are often covered in snow throughout the winter months. There is a balmy Mediterranean climate towards the coast. Ljubljana

Jan

Feb

Mar Apr May

Jun

Jul

Jan

Feb

Aug

Sep

Oct Nov Dec

Ave. Max. Temp (°F) 35.6 41.0 50.0 59.0 68.0 75.2 80.6 78.8 71.6 59.0 46.4 39.2 Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 24.8 24.8 32.0 39.2 48.2 53.6 57.2 57.2 51.8 42.8 35.6 30.2

Andalucían winter days are generally clear and sunny. Temperatures are approximately 68 degrees Fahrenheit with evenings around 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Rain is possible from September with downpours heavy but rarely lasting more than a day or two at a time.

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct Nov Dec 68

57.2

42.8 37.4

59

50

Seville

Sep

Oct Nov Dec

Jan

Feb

Mar Apr May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Ave. Max. Temp (°F) 59.0 62.6 68.0 75.2 80.6 89.6 96.8 96.8 89.6 78.8 68.0 60.8 Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 42.8 44.6 48.2 51.8 55.4 62.6 68.0 68.0 64.4 57.2 50.0 44.6 Malaga

Jan

Feb

Mar Apr May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct Nov Dec

CITY FROM Helsinki Stockholm Oslo

Ave. Max. Temp (°F) 62.6 64.4 68.0 69.8 75.2 82.4 86.0 87.8 82.4 75.2 68.0 64.4 Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 46.4 48.2 50.0 51.8 57.2 64.4 68.0 69.8 66.2 59.0 53.6 48.2

Sweden In southern and central Sweden, summers are long and warm, with little rain. Winters tend to be bitterly cold with snow a certainty. The rain in this area is heaviest during the spring and autumn. Northern regions are freezing in winter, with generally up to 4 months of snow. Summer months are changeable, with balmy sunshine (despite the proximity to the Arctic Circle) and occasional showers.

CITY TO

DRIVING TIME

FLYING TIME

CITY FROM

CITY TO

DRIVING TIME

FLYING TIME

Stockholm

N/A

30 mins

Basel

Lucerne

2 hrs

N/A

Murmansk

N/A

1 hr 19 mins

Lucerne

Lugano

2 hrs 30 mins

N/A

Oslo

N/A

31 mins

Lugano

St. Moritz

3 hrs 45 mins

N/A

Bergen

N/A

23 mins

St. Moritz

Zermatt

2 hrs 50 mins

N/A

Lom

5 hrs

N/A

Zermatt

Lausanne

1 hr 40 mins

N/A

Lausanne

Geneva

45 mins

N/A

Dijon

3 hrs 10 mins

N/A

Loire Valley

3 hrs 25 mins

N/A N/A

Geilo

3 hrs 43 mins

N/A

Lom

Oye

3 hrs 55 mins

N/A

Oye

Solvorn

2 hrs 15 mins

N/A

Copenhagen

N/A

51 mins

Dijon

Avignon

6 hrs

Solvorn

3 hrs 40 mins

N/A

Avignon

Nice

2 hrs 45 mins

N/A

Geilo

4 hrs 06 mins

N/A

Loire Valley

Lyon

3 hrs 20 mins

N/A

Bergen Reykjavik Edinburgh Fort William / Oban

Vik

2 hrs 20 mins

N/A

Lyon

St. Tropez

5 hrs 15 mins

N/A

2 hrs 30 mins

N/A

Bordeaux

Biarritz

2 hrs 10 mins

N/A

Perthshire

1 hr 10 mins

N/A

Biarritz

Luz-Saint-Sauveur

3 hrs 40 mins

N/A

Inverness

1 hr 40 mins

N/A

Luz-Saint-Sauveur

Saint-Lary-Soulan

2 hrs

N/A

Saint-Lary-Soulan

Carcassonne

3 hrs 50 mins

N/A

Carcassonne

Cordes-sur-Ciel

4 hrs 15 mins

N/A

Cordes-sur-Ciel

Rocamadour

3 hrs

N/A

Rocamadour

Sarlat

45 mins

N/A

Sarlat

Bordeaux

2 hrs 20 mins

N/A

Vitoria

4 hrs 45 mins

N/A

Seville

5 hrs 35 mins

N/A

Vitoria

Pamplona

1 hr 45 mins

N/A

Pamplona

Barcelona

5 hrs 40 mins

N/A

Barcelona

Valencia

4 hrs 50 mins

N/A

Valencia

Granada

6 hrs 10 mins

N/A

Inverness

Aberdeen

2 hrs

N/A

Aberdeen

Perthshire

1 hr 25 mins

N/A

Ave. Max. Temp (°F) 30.2 30.2 37.4 46.4 57.2 66.2 71.6 68.0 59.0 48.2 41.0 35.6

Perthshire

Strathisla

2 hrs 15 mins

N/A

Cotswolds

2 hrs

N/A

Bath

2 hrs 30 mins

N/A

Oxford

1 hr 15 mins

N/A

Edinburgh

N/A

40 mins

Cotswolds

Bath

1 hr 05 mins

N/A

Dublin

Waterford

1 hr 40 mins

N/A

Waterford

Killarney

2 hrs

N/A

Jan

Feb

Mar Apr May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 23.0 23.0 24.8 33.8 42.8 51.8 57.2 55.4 48.2 41.0 33.8 28.4

Turkey

London

The interior of Turkey is hot and arid in summer and cold in winter. The coastal towns and resorts are generally warm and sunny in summer with mild weather during the autumn and winter months, however temperatures do vary depending where on the coastal area. The area surrounding Istanbul and the Black Sea is colder in winter, yet mild in summer. Southern towns, such as Izmir on the Mediterranean coast, are more humid with hotter days in summer. Evenings can be oppressive. Desertlike climates are found on the area bordering Syria, at the entrance of the Taurus Mountains. Istanbul

Jan

Feb

Mar Apr May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct Nov Dec

Ave. Max. Temp (°F) 46.4 48.2 51.8 60.8 69.8 77.0 82.4 82.4 75.2 68.0 59.0 51.8

Killarney

Adare

1 hr 10 mins

N/A

Moscow

St. Petersburg

N/A

47 mins

Tallinn

Riga

3 hrs 30 mins

N/A

Riga

Klaipeda

2 hrs 40 mins

N/A

Klaipeda

Vilnius

3 hrs 40 mins

N/A

Warsaw

Krakow

4 hrs

N/A

Budapest

Vienna

2 hrs 50 mins

N/A

Prague

3 hrs 40 mins

N/A

Lake Fuschl

4 hrs

N/A

Sinaia

1 hr 30 mins

N/A

Sibiu

1 hr 40 mins

N/A

Vienna

Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 37.4 35.6 37.4 44.6 53.6 60.8 64.4 66.2 60.8 55.4 48.2 41.0 Izmir

Jan

Feb

Mar Apr May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct Nov Dec

Bucharest

Paris

Fort William / Oban

Oct Nov Dec

Stockholm

Madrid

Granada

Costa-del Sol

3 hrs 45 mins

N/A

Costa-del Sol

Seville

2 hrs 15 mins

N/A

Milan

Lake Como

50 mins

N/A

Lake Como

Venice

3 hrs 30 mins

N/A

Venice

Florence

3 hrs 20 mins

N/A

Florence

Rome

3 hrs 40 mins

N/A

Capri

3 hrs 50 mins

N/A

Positano

3 hrs 40 mins

N/A

Paestum

4 hrs 20 mins

N/A

Split

3 hrs

N/A

Split

3 hrs 30 mins

N/A

Korcula

2 hrs

Belgrade

9 hrs

Rome Zagreb Dubrovnik

Ave. Max. Temp (°F) 55.4 57.2 62.6 69.8 78.8 87.8 91.4 91.4 84.2 75.2 66.2 57.2

Sinaia

Brasov

45 mins

N/A

Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 39.2 42.8 42.8 46.4 50.0 53.6 55.4 53.6 50.0 46.4 42.8 39.2

Brasov

Gura Humorului

3 hrs 15 mins

N/A

Gura Humorului

Sighisoara

3 hrs

N/A

Sarajevo

Sighisoara

Sibiu

2 hrs 10 mins

N/A

Korcula

1 hr 30 mins

N/A

Kiev

Yalta

7 hrs 35 mins

N/A

Tirana

Lake Ohrid

2 hrs 15 mins

N/A

Tbilisi

Kutaisi

2 hrs 10 mins

N/A

Lake Ohrid

Korca

4 hrs 10 mins

N/A

Korca

Gjirokaster

6 hrs 15 mins

N/A

Frankfurt

1 hr

N/A

Gjirokaster

Saranda

1 hr 50 mins

N/A

Wurttemberg

30 mins

N/A

Saranda

Vlora

3 hrs 40 mins

N/A

Wurttemberg

Rothenburg

1 hr 40 mins

N/A

Vlora

Durres

2 hrs

N/A

Rothenburg

Donauworth

1 hr 44 mins

N/A

Durres

Shkoder

2 hrs 12 mins

N/A

Donauworth

Fussen

1 hr 48 mins

N/A

Crete

N/A

25 mins

Ukraine Inland Ukraine enjoys a moderately continental climate. The hottest month is July, which is similar to the rest of Europe, winter however is literally freezing. Eastern Ukraine can catch Siberian winds, whilst the western side catches the warm Mediterranean winds. Odessa and Yalta along the coast enjoy marginally subtropical weather. The wettest months are June-July in the interior. Simferopol

Jan

Feb

Mar Apr May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct Nov Dec

Heidelberg

N/A N/ACarnival

Fussen

Garmisch

40 mins

N/A

Santorini

N/A

40 mins

Ave. Max. Temp (°F) 37.4 41.0 48.2 60.8 71.6 77.0 82.4 82.4 73.4 62.6 53.6 44.6

Garmisch

Munich

1 hr 10 mins

N/A

Mykonos

N/A

45 mins

Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 23.0 26.6 30.2 41.0 50.0 57.2 60.8 59.0 53.6 44.6 39.2 32.0

Innsbruck

Salzburg

2 hrs 15 mins

N/A

Canakkale

5 hrs 50 mins

N/A

Salzburg

Lake Fuschl

35 mins

N/A

Van

N/A

2 hrs 20 mins

Zurich

Basel

1 hr 05 mins

N/A

Izmar

5 hrs 30 mins

N/A

Please note the codes on the weather charts indicate the following: • Ave. Max. Temp (°F) = Average maximum temperature in Fahrenheit • Ave. Min. Temp (°F) = Average minimum temperature in Fahrenheit

72

Road Distance & Traveling Time Chart

50

Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 35.6 37.4 42.8 44.6 51.8 60.8 64.4 64.4

Spain The best months are from April to October, mid-summer (July to August) can be excessively hot with very little rain. Daily highs can rise to the high 30’s in Centigrade, with night time temperatures around 64 Degrees Fahrenheit. Rain is heaviest in the winter months. Summer temperatures last longer the further south you travel. Winters are warmer than the UK, although it can still be occasionally wet and windy.

Mar Apr May

53.6 60.8 64.4 71.6 84.2 89.6 89.6 80.6

55.4 46.4 39.2 28.4 21.2

Ave. Max. Temp (°F) 12.2 21.2 33.8 46.4 55.4 62.6 71.6 75.2 68.0 55.4 35.6 19.4 Ave. Min. Temp (°F) -0.4

Madrid

Ave. Max. Temp (°F) 50

Distance Chart

Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

Athens

Istanbul

Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

73


Travel Insurance WE’VE GOT YOUR BACK Custom Allianz Global Travel Insurance for Cox & Kings travelers is all about peace of mind. When you purchase coverage, you can stop worrying about what would happen if you had to cancel your trip, if you got sick or hurt while abroad, or if your baggage was lost on your way to the far-flung, exotic destination you’ve been dreaming about exploring for years. WHY BUY TRAVEL INSURANCE? Many of our travelers have said that they don’t need travel insurance because they’re going on the trip, no matter what. But life has a way of upsetting even the best-laid plans — and we think it’s always better to be prepared. WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS? Our unique coverage is available at both Classic and Deluxe levels, but our coverage starts the day after you purchase a policy and doesn’t stop until you get home from your trip. If you get sick or have an accident while traveling, Allianz Global Assistance will get you to the best available facility that provides high standards of Western health care. And throughout your trip, you get 24/7/365 assistance from U.S.-based associates who speak more than 40 foreign languages and include ER nurses and physicians. Here’s how the benefits of coverage break down: • Trip Cost Protection: We’ve got you covered for trip cancellation, trip interruption, travel delays and missed connections. • Medical Protection: We’ll take care of you in a medical emergency abroad. Relax and leave the details to us, including organizing logistics for medical and dental coverage, as well as medical transportation if needed. • Baggage Protection: Accidents happen, even on the best airlines. Travel insurance provides benefits for lost, damaged and stolen luggage — and can reimburse the purchase of essential items when baggage is delayed. Allianz Global Travel Insurance for Cox & Kings is also available with some special benefits if you purchase your policy at the time you make your final payment for your journey: • Free coverage for kids (17 and under) when traveling with their parents or grandparents (Classic only) • Existing medical conditions protection (Classic and Deluxe) • Coverage for trip interruption/cancellation due to work (Classic only) • Protection that lets you cancel anytime (Classic only) So don’t let an unfortunate accident ruin your trip of a lifetime. Contact Cox & Kings to insure your trip — and pick up a little peace of mind.

74

Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

Terms & Conditions Booking Procedures Please read the conditions of travel as your booking is subject to the terms listed below. A contract is entered into once your travel agent or Cox & Kings (East India Travel Company, Inc.) receives your deposit and we accept and confirm the booking. Please note that travel arrangements are not confirmed until stated so in writing by Cox & Kings. Payment of any monies constitutes acceptance and understanding of Cox & Kings’ Terms & Conditions as laid out below, as listed on our website and in our pre travel documentation. Payment For most trips, a per person deposit of 25% of the program price is required to secure the arrangements, and will be your only obligation until 90 days prior to your departure date. For trips with other deposit and cancellation requirements, your travel specialist will inform you at time of booking. The balance of the cost must be paid 91 days before you travel. Payment should be made to Cox & Kings in Los Angeles, California. If the final balance is not received on time, Cox & Kings reserves the right to treat the booking as cancelled by you and to levy cancellation charges. If you book your travel 90 days or prior to departure, the full amount of your trip must be paid in order to confirm the booking. Alterations by You If you request any amendments to your travel arrangements once your booking has been confirmed, an amendment fee of $150 per alteration will be charged. If you request any changes in services or accommodation, once commencement of travel, Cox & Kings will do all possible to accommodate your request, however, any costs incurred due to such amendments, you will be liable for any cancellation/retention charges that may be levied for the previously booked service and for any costs incurred to secure revised arrangements. Cancellation by You Should you wish to cancel your travel arrangements, you must notify Cox & Kings in writing. Please note that deposits are-refundable minus a per person administrative fee of $400 if the cancellation is received more than 91 days prior to departure. Please state the reason for cancellation as you may be covered by your insurance policy. For notification received within 90 days of departure, the following cancellation charges are applicable: Days before Departure Cancellation Charge 91 days or longer $400 per person administrative fee (some exceptions apply, you will be notified at time of booking) 90 to 61 20% of total land program price 60 to 31 50% of total land program price 30 to Day of Departure 100% of total land program price Cancellations received Fridays for tour departures that same weekend (Saturday, Sunday and Monday) will be treated as a day of departure cancellation. We cannot give any allowance or refund for meals, rooms, excursions, etc. that have not been consumed or utilized, when these services have been included in the price of the program. No refund can be made on lost, mislaid or destroyed travel tickets. Certain programs and holiday departure dates may have higher penalties for cancellation, your travel specialist will advise at time of booking. Any air tickets issued at any time are subject to the terms of the airline. To protect your investment, we strongly

recommend that you purchase full coverage travel insurance (see page 74 for more details). Alterations Made to the Scheduled Program Travel arrangements are planned and secured in advance and so changes in itinerary content may be unavoidable. These changes may be due to circumstances amounting to “force majeure” or reasons beyond Cox & Kings’ control. They could include but not limited to; delay in departure due to flight disruption, closure of a hotel, strikes, riots, natural occurrences, decisions by State Governments or Tourist Organizations that cause forced alterations to a planned itinerary, its duration, time spent in a city or requiring the need to remove a city or part of from the itinerary caused by a local occurrence or situation. In such cases, Cox & Kings will offer comparable alternative arrangements. If any of the circumstances listed above occur during the course of the program, we reserve the right to alter the scheduled itinerary accordingly and compensation cannot be paid. We will make every reasonable effort to provide the booked arrangements but minor changes may occur. If changes are significant we shall where possible, inform you or your travel agent before your departure. Please note that Cox & Kings cannot be held responsible for any price increases or surcharges caused by governmental action, additional taxes imposed, fluctuations in exchange rates, increases in scheduled airfare or increases in fuel surcharges should Cox & Kings need to pass along these increases. Any increase in the original program price will be notified to you at least 91 days before departure. If you make your booking within 90 days of departure, the surcharge will be included in your invoice. Any surcharge will not exceed 10 percent of the listed program price. For scheduled group departures, it may be necessary to re-cost your program due to a low number of participants. You will be contacted 90 days prior to your departure date and advised should a supplementary fee apply. If all group members accept the increased cost the tour will operate as scheduled. However, if the supplement is not accepted by you then you will be entitled to a full refund of all monies paid or to transfer your deposit to a different program. Documentation Required For Travel: Passports, Visas and Your Responsibilities All travelers require a passport with at least six months validity beyond completion of travel. The client accepts full responsibility for obtaining all travel documentation, including but not limited to passport, entry visa and permits prior to commencement of travel, and is solely responsible for any consequences resulting from missing or defective documentation. Any information or advice given by Cox & Kings regarding visas, vaccinations, climate, what to pack, baggage, etc., is purely advisory and provided as a courtesy. Cox & Kings is not responsible for any errors or omissions as to the information provided by third parties. Visas may be required to travel to your chosen destination and U.S. citizens should consult with the appropriate Consulates and Embassies. It is the responsibility of the individual traveler to secure the proper documentation prior to commencement of travel. Travel Warnings It is the responsibility of The Traveler to become informed about the most current travel advisories and warnings by referring to the U.S. State

Call Your Favorite Travel Professional I coxandkingsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

75


Department’s travel website at www.travel.state.gov or by phone at 1-888-407-4747. In the event of an active State Department Travel Warning against travel to the specific destination location/s of the trip, should The Traveler still choose to travel, notwithstanding any travel advisory or warning, The Traveler assumes all risk of personal injury, death or property damage that may arise out of the events like those advised or warned against. • • • • • • • • • •

What Your Land Program Price Includes: Private arrival and departure airport transfers to and from your hotel All planning, handling and operational charges Accommodation as noted in itinerary, based on double occupancy Double Occupancy in standard room accommodation Privately guided sightseeing Services of Professional English-Speaking Guides and/or Tour Escort as detailed in your itinerary All entrance fees Meals as mentioned in itinerary (B= Breakfast, L= Lunch, D=Dinner) Baggage handling, 2 pieces per person unless otherwise noted. (Additional luggage will require modification in vehicle size) Other inclusions as noted in your itinerary

What Your Land Program Price Excludes: • International and internal region airfare, unless otherwise stated • Meals other than those mentioned in itinerary • The cost of personal items such as laundry, drinks with meals or otherwise, additional incidentals, etc. • Airport Security Charges if levied by any airport to cover the cost of security arrangements and payable locally • Airport Departure Taxes • Optional and additional sightseeing not included in itinerary • Cost of obtaining passports or required visas where necessary • Any fees associated with using air miles for your air travel • Transport between your home and home airport/port/station • Gratuities unless stated in “What Your Land Price Includes” • Travel Protection Insurance (strongly recommended, please see separate detailed insurance form) • Other inclusions if not noted under “Includes” Cox & Kings’ Limits of Responsibilities Except where otherwise stated in these Terms & Conditions, neither Cox & Kings nor any of our Third Party Suppliers can accept liability or pay compensation if our services are affected due to reasons beyond our control, such as but not limited to force majeure, and as a result you suffer any damage, loss or injury. In these terms and conditions force majeure means any event which we / the supplier of the service(s) or the third party supplier could not, even with all due care, foresee or avoid. Such events may include but not be limited to; actual or threatened war, riot, civil strife, terrorist activity, industrial dispute, natural or nuclear disaster, adverse weather conditions, epidemics, fire, and all similar events outside the control of the party concerned. Cox & Kings makes arrangements with airlines, hotels and other independent parties to provide the travel services you purchase. We do not own or operate any of the accommodation, transport or other facilities used in connection with our programs. We therefore cannot accept liability for negligence of the staff of these organizations. These parties are independent suppliers over whom we have no direct control. Cox & Kings is not liable

76

in the event of any failure by any person or company to render any transportation, accommodation or other travel service to be provided on the journeys, or for expenses incurred due to delays caused by weather, strikes, war, civil disturbances, natural disasters, flight delays, government actions, mechanical failures or any acts of God. Cox & Kings cannot assume any responsibility for flight delays, cancellations or missed connections and is not liable for any expenses or consequences resulting therefrom, and such expenses are to be borne by the traveler. When you travel with an airline the Conditions of Carriage of that airline will apply. These conditions are the subject of International Agreements and may limit or exclude liability. Your travel agent or airline can advise you of these conditions. The participant waives any claim against Cox & Kings for any damage to, or loss of, property, or injury to, or death of, due to any act, or negligence of any airlines, surface transportation companies, hotels or any person rendering any of the services or accommodations included. Cox & Kings cannot be held responsible for any claim, losses, damages for delay of baggage or other properties, inconvenience, loss of enjoyment, upset and disappointment, distress or frustrations, whether physical or mental, resulting from the act or omission of any party providing services. We do take all reasonable steps to insure that organizations providing services maintain standards, which are acceptable within the norm in each locality. The participant assumes and understands that all travel has inherent risk that may result in injury or death and that participation in activities, including but not limited to, driving, hiking, walking, touring, visiting archeological sites, walking on uneven surfaces, riding on rough roads, rafting, boating, canoeing riding in helicopters, on trains, boats, swimming, surfing, horseback or camel riding, and any other activities. The information contained in this brochure and online has been compiled with all reasonable care, is accurate to the best of our knowledge and is given in good faith. All services are subject to the laws of the countries in which these services are rendered. Venue for all claims or disputes shall be exclusively in Los Angeles County, California, U.S.A., whose courts, using California Law, shall have exclusive jurisdiction. Damage claims against Cox & Kings shall be limited to the value of the particular item in dispute and not for any incidental, consequential, or special damages. Cox & Kings assumes responsibility for representations it makes, but not for those made by others and including, but not limited to, any employee of Cox & Kings or independent travel agent. Payment for reservations on any Cox & Kings travel arrangements shall constitute consent to all the provisions in the Booking Terms & Conditions published herein and is binding on all travel participants. United States Tour Operators Association $1 Million Travelers Assistance Program Cox & Kings, The Americas, as an Active Member of USTOA, is required to post $1 Million with USTOA to be used to reimburse, in accordance with the terms and conditions of the USTOA $1 Million Travelers Assistance Program, the advance payments of Cox & Kings, The Americas’ customers in the unlikely event of Cox & Kings, The Americas bankruptcy, insolvency or cessation of business. Further, you should understand that the $1 Million posted by Cox & Kings, The Americas may be sufficient to provide only a partial recovery of the advance payments received by Cox & Kings, The Americas. More details of the USTOA Travelers Assistance Program may be obtained by writing to USTOA at 345 Seventh Avenue, Suite 1801, New York, New York 10001, or by email to information@ustoa.com or by visiting their website at www.USTOA.com.

COX & KINGS, THE AMERICAS Cox & Kings Building, 8060 Melrose Avenue, 3rd Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90046 USA Tel: 1.323.655.1758 • Fax: 1.323.655.1774 • Email: journeys@coxandkingsusa.com • Toll Free: 1.800.999.1758 • coxandkingsusa.com

Icelandic Horses, Snaefellsnes Peninsula


COX & KINGS SPECIALIST BROCHURES COX & KINGS WILL SHOW YOU THE WORLD IN THE MOST AMAZING WAYS Latin America & Antarctica 2014-15

Latin America & Antarctica

Explore Africa & Arabia

Explore Asia & The Pacific 2014-15

2014-15

Explore Asia & The Pacific

Explore Africa & Arabia

India & The Subcontinent 2014-15

India & The Subcontinent

Order These Brochures At coxandkingsusa.com

COX & KINGS, THE AMERICAS Cox & Kings Building, 8060 Melrose Avenue, 3rd Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90046 USA Tel: 1.323.655.1758 • Fax: 1.323.655.1774 • Email: journeys@coxandkingsusa.com Toll Free: 1.800.999.1758 • coxandkingsusa.com • CST - 2105853-50


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.