| Tour Name (click name for details) |
Duration |
Region |
Date(s) |
Price From |
Description |
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Best of Germany (2012 2013)
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11 Days |
Central & Eastern Europe |
June 28, 2012 |
$2125 |
Be captivated by the old world charm of Rothenburg and Nuremberg, the mountain scenery of Bavaria and the amazing re-birth of Dresden to its former baroque splendour. |
Included:
INCLUDED HIGHLIGHTS
•Rhine Valley: Enjoy a scenic Rhine cruise. See the Deutsches Eck Monument in Koblenz. Survey the views from the heights of the Liebstein fortress and the Niederwald Monument.
•Heidelberg: Visit the Castle overlooking the Neckar River.
•Black Forest: Hear about the origins and artisan manufacture of the cuckoo clock. Enjoy a scenic drive.
•Donaueschingen: See the source of the River Danube.
•Munich: See the Olympic Stadium, Marienplatz, Town Hall and Glockenspiel.
•Bavarian Alps: See the Passion Play Theatre in Oberammergau. Visit the Wieskirche a masterpiece of Bavarian rococo. Visit the fairy tale castle of Neuschwanstein
•Nuremberg: See the city walls and tour the old town.
•Rothenburg-ob-der Tauber: Explore the most well-preserved medieval town in Germany.
•Bayreuth: Visit this famous musical city.
•Dreseden: See the Frauenkirche, mosaic mural, Opera House and Zwinger Palace.
•Berlin: Drive along the Unter den Linden past the Humboldt University and Opera. See the Brandenburg Gate and Reichstag building.
INCLUDED QUALITY DINING
•A Welcome Reception with light meal (WR)
•Choose from a selection of local restaurants on your Dine-Around evening in Rothenburg (DA)
•Celebration Dinner with wine in Berlin (CD)
•9 Buffet Breakfasts (BB), 1 three-course table d’hôte Dinner, or Buffet, plus tea or coffee (D)
INCLUDED FIRST CLASS SERVICES
•Escorted by a professional Tour Director
•Headsets for all guided visits and walking tours
•Enjoy the unique comfort of Insight’s luxury air-conditioned 40 seat coach with extended leg room and on-board restroom
•Insight Hotels include all service charges, taxes and porterage
•Insight Traveller Welcome pack
•Airport arrival and departure transfers at scheduled times on Day 2 and Day 11 (Should your flights not coincide with these transfers, please make your own way to/from the airport or purchase a transfer)
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Day 1 - DEPART
Board your overnight flight (not included).
Day 2 - ARRIVE FRANKFURT – WIESBADEN
Welcome to a contrasting journey of cosmopolitan cities, historic old towns and breathtaking natural scenery. On arrival at Frankfurt Airport, your transfer leaves for Wiesbaden at 09:30 & 12:00. Your luxury hotel is a member of the ‘Leading Hotels of the World’ nestled in the centre of this elegant spa town, opposite the magnificent Kurhaus. Tonight, join your Tour Director for a Welcome reception with drink and a light meal.
Hotel: Nassauer Hof
Meals: Welcome Reception
Day 3 - CASTLES OF THE RHINE EXCURSION
Begin the day with a relaxing cruise past steep sided vineyards, half-timbered taverns, the Cat and Mouse castles and the notorious Lorelei Rock. Alight at Boppard and continue to Koblenz where a gigantic equestrian statue of Wilhelm I guards the junction of the Rhine and Moselle. Cameras at the ready as you return along the eastern bank. Drive up to the twin castles of the ‘Enemy Brothers’ - from the ruined Liebstein fortress there is a fine panorama. Your next scenic viewpoint is at the mighty Niederwald Monument, comprising a 32 ton statue of Germania. Back in Wiesbaden you are at leisure.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 4 - WIESBADEN - HEIDELBERG - BLACK FOREST
Head to Heidelberg, on the banks of the River Neckar. Enjoy the view from the heights of the castle fortress before a guided visit. See the Great Wine Vat, with its associated tales of the dwarf court jester, Perkeo! Now it’s into the Black Forest, land of cherry cake and traditional farmhouses which dip their thatched roofs almost to the ground. Climb up to the High Road for superb views, then wind through the valleys and pine forests to visit one of the centres of the local cuckoo clock industry. Time then to browse among the shops and admire the brightly coloured houses before reaching your hotel.
Hotel: Maritim Titisee
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner
Day 5 - BLACK FOREST – MUNICH
Leave the Black Forest via the small town of Donaueschingen, where a fountain forms the official source of the river Danube. Drive along the flower-decked shores of Lake Constance, which marks part of the Swiss border. Pass through the heart of Bavaria to fun-loving Munich. Your orientation tour shows you the Olympic Stadium, university, Victory Arch and ends in the Marienplatz, where crowds gather outside the Town Hall to watch the figures of the Glockenspiel stage an elaborate performance. Tonight, perhaps consider a lively evening at one of Munich’s famous ‘Bier Kellers’?
Hotel: Sheraton Munich Arabellapark
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 6 - BAVARIAN ALPS EXCURSION
Travel into the beautiful German Alps to visit the village of Oberammergau, home since 1634 of the Passion Play. After seeing the immense Theatre and colourfully-painted chalets, continue along part of the Alpine Road amidst beautiful scenery to the Wieskirche, a masterpiece of Bavarian rococo. Now to the ‘fairy tale’ castle Neuschwanstein, perched on a spectacular Alpine mountainside. This was Ludwig II’s favourite castle, though he spent little time here before his death. Visit exuberantly decorated apartments, including the Throne Room and Lohengrin Grotto. Return to Munich where you are at leisure.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 7 - MUNICH - ROTHENBURG
Drive north across the Danube to Nuremberg, still entirely enclosed by its fortifications. Witness the charming blend of stone and timbered dwellings in the Old Town as well as the massive ramparts. Perhaps shop for delicious Lebkuchen (gingerbread) before continuing to Rothenburg-ob-der Tauber, the most well-preserved town on the Romantic Road. Plunge back into the 16th Century as you walk through narrow cobbled streets lined with high-gabled houses to the market square dominated by its Renaissance town hall. This evening, you are offered a selection of restaurants to choose from for your dining pleasure.
Hotel: Eisenhut
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dine Around
Day 8 - ROTHENBURG - BAYREUTH - DRESDEN
Journey through wooded Swiss Franconia, passing rocky crags and ‘Hansel and Gretl’ style villages, to reach Bayreuth, famous for its annual Richard Wagner Festival. Your journey continues behind the former iron curtain to the ‘Florence of the Elbe’, Dresden.
Hotel: Westin Bellevue Dresden
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 9 - DRESDEN - BERLIN
Join a local guide to see the splendours of the city. From the Frauenkirche, which has risen again from the destruction of World War II, walk past ‘The Procession of the Dukes’, a mosaic of colossal proportions on the Royal Palace façade. You also see the enormous cathedral, Semper Opera House and baroque Zwinger Palace. Now head north to the historic German capital.
Hotel: Marriott
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 10 - BERLIN SIGHTSEEING
A guided sightseeing tour takes you along the Unter den Linden past the Humboldt University and Opera. Stop on Museum Island before passing the Brandenburg Gate, symbol of the reunification. See Norman Foster’s glassdome atop the reconstructed Reichstag building and drive through the Tiergarten. Spend the afternoon at leisure in this once divided city, shopping along the Kurfürstendamm or exploring the new vibrant Potsdamer Platz. This evening to round off your tour, enjoy a farewell Celebration Dinner with wine at a lively Berlin restaurant.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Celebration Dinner
Day 11 - RETURN HOME
Your tour comes to an end after breakfast today. Departure transfers arrive at Berlin’s Tegel Airport at 08:00 & 10:00.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
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Iberian Classic (2012 2013) Gold
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12 Days |
Spain, Portugal & Morocco |
Aug 1, 2012 |
$2835 |
Come away a changed person. A devotee not only of the delicious food, but the gregarious nature of Tapas. Smitten by the ground breaking art and architecture, which ranges from Arabic to avant-garde. Like fiery Flamenco itself, you’ll be forever inspired by the Iberian appetite for life. |
Included:
YOUR DELICIOUS DINING EXPERIENCES
• Get to know your Tour Director and fellow guests over a Welcome Reception including a light buffet meal (WR)
• End-of-tour Celebration Dinner with wine in Barcelona (CD)
• 10 Buffet Breakfasts (BB), 4 three course dinners with choice (D)
YOUR EXCLUSIVE COLLECTION OF INCLUDED HIGHLIGHTS
• Lisbon: See St George’s Castle; wander the Alfama district; see the Monument of the Discoveries; see the lavish Belem Tower; visit Jeronimo’s Monastery, with its famous cloisters; Stroll through the Terreiro do Paco; Cross the Vasco da Gama Bridge.
• Evora: Spend some time in one of Portugal’s most delightful towns, with a large number of wonderfully preserved buildings and monuments - listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Seville: Visit the Plaza de España in Maria Loiusa Park; stroll through the pretty Santa Cruz quarter to visit the Cathedral and climb the Giralda tower if you wish; horse and carriage-ride
• Granada: Visit the amazing Alhambra Palace and walk through the rich scented Gardens of the Generalife.
• Baeza: See the Fountain of the Lions in the Plaza del Populo.
• Consuegra: Drive up to the crest of windmills overlooking the plains of La Mancha.
• Madrid: A guided tour of the magnificent Prado museum. See the monument to Cervantes in the Plaza de España; drive along the Gran Via and the Puerto del Sol; See the Cibeles Fountain.
• Toledo: Enjoy a guided visit to the Cathedral.
• Valencia: Enjoy a guided tour to witness both the old and new parts of the city.
• Peñíscola: Explore the cobbled lanes, shops, restaurants and white walled cottages around the base of the castle.
• Barcelona: Enjoy a walking tour through the old lanes of the Gothic Quarter. Drive down the elegant Passeig de Gracia to take in the some of the city’s daring Modernist architecture Visit Antoni Gaudi’s amazing Sagrada Familia church.
YOUR INCLUSIVE GOLD SERVICES
• Escorted by your ‘Personal Concierge’, an Insight professional Tour Director; and accompanied by expert local guides where appropriate.
• Enjoy the unique comfort of Insight’s luxury air-conditioned 40 seat coach with extended leg room and on-board restroom
• Insight Traveller Welcome pack
• Airport arrival and departure transfers at scheduled times on Day 2 and Day 12.
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Day 1 - DEPART USA
Board your overnight flight (not included).
Day 2 - LISBON AT LEISURE
Welcome to Portugal! After being greeted by your Tour Director, transfers depart Lisbon Portela Airport at 09:30 12:30 and 15:30 hours. Arrive at your elegant modern hotel, one of the most recognized icons of Lisbon. Tonight, join your Tour Director for a Welcome Reception with drink and a light meal, followed by time to relax and explore.
Hotel: Sheraton
Meals: Welcome Reception
Day 3 - CITY OF THE EXPLORERS
Join an expert guide who introduces you to all of Lisbon’s must-see sights. See St George’s Castle, stroll the medieval maze of the Alfama district, see the Monument of the Discoveries, the lavish Belem Tower and visit the interior of Jeronimo’s Monastery, built during the city’s Age of Discovery. Finish at the vast Terreiro do Paco, the finest square in the city. This is a great spot to begin your afternoon of leisure time and personal exploration.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 4 - LISBON – EVORA – CARMONA
Cross Europe’s longest suspension bridge and head for the medieval, walled city of Evora. See its famous Roman Temple and spend some time in the Praça do Giraldo surrounded by attractive townhouses with wrought-iron balconies. Then traverse the wide Alentejo plateau to the Spanish border and continue to Carmona a bustling Roman town, with lively bars, restaurants, magnificent gates, and the largest necropolis outside Rome.
Hotel: Casa de Carmona
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner
Day 5 - SEVILLE THE CITY OF CARMEN
Drive to Seville, exquisite capital of Andalusia for a pleasant horse and carriage ride. Meet your guide at the leafy Maria Louisa Park to see the iconic Plaza de España. Then explore the narrow lanes and pretty squares of the old Santa Cruz quarter. Emerge by the walls of the 14th-century Alcazar palace. In front of you stands the massive Cathedral and Moorish Giralda Tower and inside you’ll visit the tomb of Columbus. The afternoon is entirely free for you to bask in the romantic aura and enjoy the flavours of Andalucía.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 6 - CARMONA – GRANADA
A beautiful drive through gleaming white villages and a sea of olive groves brings you to Granada. Here the Alhambra awaits: a fantasy of stone-cut lace, arabesque gardens and fountains, built as a citadel by the Moors in the 13th century. You also visit the exotic water-gardens of the Generalife, the royal summer residence. Relax here in the sunshine and enjoy the fine views over the town and its three verdant hills. Right next door, your exquisite hotel reflects the Moorish splendour, enchantment and beauty of the palace.
Hotel: Alhambra Palace
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner
Day 7 - GRANADA – BAEZA – MADRID
Make a morning stop in the beautiful town of Baeza, acknowledged by UNESCO for its Renaissance architecture. After some free time in the historic centre, continue through the mountains to climb the Pass of Despenaperros. Descend to the flat plains of La Mancha, where Don Quixote tilted at windmills as his faithful Sancho Panza looked on. Eleven of these windmills crown the ridge above Consuegra and the sweeping views over the plains are superb. Move on to the Spanish capital and your elegant hotel located near the Prado Museum - ranked as one of the world’s best hotels by Condé Nast Traveler’s 2010 Gold List.
Hotel: Westin Palace
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner
Day 8 - MADRID SIGHTSEEING
Your Madrid guide provides the perfect introduction to the city! Drive along the elegant tree lined avenues to the grandiose Cibeles Fountain. Turn down the Gran Via to see the monument to Cervantes in the Plaza de España and Royal Palace then continue through the Puerto del Sol. Highlight is a guided tour of the magnificent Prado museum housing works by Titian, Botticelli, Rubens and many others. This afternoon you are at leisure to explore, relax and enjoy the rest of your stay to the full.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 9 - MADRID – TOLEDO – VALENCIA
Drive out to Toledo, situated high above the River Tagus. Your guide leads you through the narrow cobbled streets where Arab, Jewish and Christian cultures flourished side-by-side during the Middle Ages. Visit the historic cathedral housing works by the artist El Greco. Continue on through the weathered landscape towards the Orange Blossom Coast and the delightful city of Valencia.
Hotel: Westin
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner
Day 10 - VALENCIA – BARCELONA
Your hotel is not far from the ultra-modern Centre for Arts and Sciences, an amazing contrast to the old town which you see next. A local guide shows you the Cathedral, Bull Ring, La Lonja and medieval towers of Serrano and Quart. Now through the famous orange groves before stopping in Peniscola - its sea-lapped castle was used in the film El Cid. Follow the sunny Costa Dorada past the rice fields of the Ebro Delta to the vibrant port and Catalonian capital of Barcelona. Check-in to your sumptuous hotel which evokes the majesty of the 1920’s.
Hotel: El Palace
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 11 - BARCELONA SIGHTSEEING
This morning, meet your local guide who shows you the narrow lanes of the Gothic Quarter, centred around the old Cathedral. Then pass the leafy Rambla to see some of the finest Modernist buildings on the gracious Passeig de Gracia. The highlight is entrance into Gaudi’s extraordinary Sagrada Familia Cathedral. The cuisine of Catalonia is justifiably famous so please join us for a celebration finalé dinner with wine tonight.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Celebration Dinner
Day 12 - RETURN TO USA
Departure transfers arrive at Barcelona Airport at 07:00, 09:00 & 11:00.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
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Cities of the East Coast (2012 2013) GOLD
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8 Days |
USA |
June 23 & July 28, 2012 |
$1915 |
Capture the spirit of America on this enlightening tour of the nation’s major founding cities so pivotal to its past and present history. |
Included:
YOUR EXCLUSIVE COLLECTION OF INCLUDED HIGHLIGHTS
•New York: Take an exclusive tour of the Waldorf=Astoria. Ascend to the Top of the Rock observation deck for stunning views of the skyline. Join a local guide and get an insider’s look at New York’s top landmarks and attractions. View the former site of the World Trade Center, the Empire State and Chrysler buildings and Central Park.
•Newport: Tour The Breakers, the opulent mansion of the wealthy Vanderbilt family, and the grandest of Newport’s summer cottages.
•Boston: Your Tour Director brings the story of the American Revolution to life as you walk along the Freedom Trail. View the colourful neighborhoods of Back Bay and Bunker Hill, site of the noted revolutionary battle.
•Philadelphia: Tour the award-winning National Constitution Center and the Liberty Bell Center. Learn the steps taken to achieve American independence at Philadelphia’s Independence National Historic Park. See Independence Hall.
•Baltimore: Visit the historic Inner Harbor and browse its many attractions.
•Washington, D.C.: Join a local guide for insights into the capital city’s most iconic sites and see the White House, the Capitol, the Washington Monument and National Mall. Visit the moving World War II and Lincoln memorials and learn about final resting place of America’s patriots aboard a narrated Tourmobile at Arlington National Cemetery.
•Countryside Discovery: Discover the charming colonial town of Newport, Rhode Island, and travel along Ocean Drive.
YOUR DELICIOUS DINING EXPERIENCES
•Get to know your Tour Director and fellow guests over a Welcome Reception including a light buffet meal (WR)
•2 Highlight Dinners of local cuisine with wine in Philadelphia and Boston
•Enjoy a Celebration Dinner with wine in Washington, D.C. (CD)
•7 Full Breakfasts (FB)
YOUR INCLUSIVE GOLD SERVICES
•Escorted by a professional Tour Director
•Headsets for all guided visits and walking tours
•Luxury air-conditioned 40-guest coaches with extra leg room and onboard restroom
•Insight Hotels include all service charges, taxes and porterage
•Insight Traveller Welcome pack
•Airport arrival and departure transfers on Day 1 and Day 8
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Day 1 - ARRIVE NEW YORK CITY
Welcome to New York City! On arrival at JFK, Newark or La Guardia airports, your transfer service takes you to your grand hotel, the iconic Waldorf=Astoria New York. Your Tour Director is available at the hotel this afternoon to greet you and answer questions. At 6 p.m., gather at the hotel with your Tour Director and fellow travelers for a Welcome Reception and light buffet.
Hotel: Waldorf-Astoria New York
Meals: Welcome Reception
Day 2 - NEW YORK CITY SIGHTSEEING
Wake up refreshed and relaxed in the heart of “the city that never sleeps” and begin your day with an insider’s tour of your renowned hotel. See the magnificent Grand Ballroom, the Starlight roof and the famed Waldorf=Astoria Suite and hear the stories of its more than a century of history hosting the who’s who of the world. Then join a local guide to see the city’s favourite sites. View the Statue of Liberty from Battery Park. Take a pause at the former site of the World Trade Center, future home of the Freedom Tower. Marvel at New York’s iconic skyscrapers including the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building and get an overview of the gardens and attractions at Central Park. Look out on the whole fantastic cityscape when you ascend to the Top of the Rock observation deck and the rest of the afternoon is at your leisure. Perhaps take in a Broadway show, go shopping or explore New York’s acclaimed museums.
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 3 - NEW YORK CITY - BOSTON
This morning, journey to historic Newport, Rhode Island. Travel along Ocean Drive, lined with the Gilded Age mansions of America’s wealthiest families. Visit The Breakers, the grandest of Newport’s summer ‘cottages’ and a symbol of the prestigious Vanderbilt family’s social and financial preeminence in turn of the century America. Later this evening, arrive in Boston. Relax and linger over a delicious dinner at a popular local restaurant.
Meals: Full Breakfast / Highlight Dinner
Day 4 - BOSTON SIGHTSEEING
Your Tour Director will provide fascinating insight into the history of “Beantown” on this morning’s historical sightseeing tour. With several stops along Boston’s famed Freedom Trail, you’ll hear all about the struggle and courage of the American colonists during revolutionary times. Then, view the colourful neighborhoods of Back Bay and Bunker Hill, site of the noted revolutionary battle. Your afternoon is free to pursue your own interests. Perhaps take a stroll through Boston Common or browse the 100-plus shops and restaurants at historic Faneuil Hall Marketplace. Or join an optional excursion including a tour of the prestigious campus of Harvard University, America’s oldest university founded in 1636.
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 5 - BOSTON - PHILADELPHIA
Set out for Philadelphia, known as the “City of Brotherly Love”. Explore the comprehensive Independence National Historic Park and its many historic attractions. View Independence Hall, where America’s founding fathers signed the Declaration of Independence July 4, 1776, and the giant cracked Liberty Bell in its own glass pavilion. Check into your five-star, luxury hotel, in the heart of Philadelphia. Tonight, enjoy a sumptuous meal at one of the city’s popular restaurants, complete with wine and a happy, relaxed atmosphere.
Hotel: Four Seasons Philadelphia
Meals: Full Breakfast / Highlight Dinner
Day 6 - PHILADELPHIA - WASHINGTON D.C.
Gain a deeper understanding of the United States Constitution, its history and its relevance today, during a morning visit to the National Constitution Center. Depart for Baltimore where you visit the historic Inner Harbor. Explore the vibrant waterfront, home to a variety of shops, restaurants, museums and attractions. Arrive in Washington, D.C. this afternoon where the rest of the day is at leisure. Settle into your elegant hotel located in Washington’s fashionable West End and known for its service and stylish surroundings.
Hotel: The Fairmont Washington, D.C
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 7 - WASHINGTON D.C. SIGHTSEEING AND AT LEISURE
Begin your day with an insightful tour of Washington, D.C. with a local guide. View the capital’s iconic landmarks, including the White House, Washington Monument and National Mall. Contemplate and be inspired as you visit the World War II and Lincoln Memorials. Visit Arlington National Cemetery where you’ll step aboard a narrated Tourmobile to learn about the final resting place of America’s patriots. You’ll see the eternal flame at President Kennedy’s grave and visit the Tomb of the Unknowns. The rest of the afternoon is at your leisure. This evening, join your Tour Director for a finalé Celebration Dinner at one of D.C.’s prized restaurants.
Meals: Full Breakfast / Celebration Dinner
Day 8 - WASHINGTON D.C. - DEPART NEW YORK CITY
Your tour ends in New York with a departure transfer to JFK Airport and the tour hotel in New York City for travellers wishing to extend their stay. Please do not schedule flights before 7 p.m.
Meals: Full Breakfast
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Enchanting Canyonlands 2012
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7 Days |
USA |
June 23 & July 14, 21 & 28, 2012 |
$1509 |
The amazing and diverse scenery of America’s canyonlands is concentrated in a relatively small area surrounding the Colorado River. Traveling just short distances each day, this tour allows plenty of time for exploring the incredible landscapes. |
Included:
INCLUDED FIRST CLASS SERVICES
• Escorted by a professional Tour Director
• Headsets for all guided visits and walking tours
• Luxury air-conditioned 40-guest coaches with extra leg room and onboard restroom
• Insight Hotels include all service charges, taxes and porterage
• Insight Traveler Welcome pack
• Airport arrival and departure transfers on Day 1 and Day 7
INCLUDED HIGHLIGHTS
• Sedona: Visit the artist colony that’s set in the splendor of Red Rock Country.
• Grand Canyon: Discover the wonders with a local expert; then stroll with your Tour Director while enjoying outstanding views as the sun sets on the canyon walls.
• Cameron: Stop at the historic Cameron Trading Post featuring a collection of Native American arts and crafts.
• Glen Canyon: Stop at the Visitor Center and learn about the Colorado River Storage Project.
• Lake Powell: Take a leisurely cruise and explore the scenic Antelope Canyon. Experience an informative presentation about the ecosystem of the Colorado Plateau.
• Monument Valley: Join a Local guide in a special vehicle to explore the iconic vistas made famous in America’s favorite Western movies.
• Bryce Canyon National Park: Explore the rugged beauty of the National Park with a leisurely walk along Sunset Point to view the unusual rock spires known as hoodoos.
• Zion National Park: Join a private shuttle with live commentary.
• Countryside: Drive through the amazing landscape of Oak Creek Canyon. Travel the length of scenic Desert View Drive along the Grand Canyon’s South Rim. Journey through the Painted Desert and Navajo Indian Reservation.
INCLUDED QUALITY DINING
• Enjoy a Welcome Reception with light buffet (WR)
• A Highlight Dinner with wine at the Grand Canyon (HD)
• A Celebration Dinner with wine in Zion/Bryce National Park (CD)
• 6 Full Breakfasts (FB) and 1 three-course table d’hote Dinners or Buffets (D)
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Day 1 - ARRIVE PHOENIX - SCOTTSDALE
Your airport transfer service takes you to your tour hotel in Scottsdale. Your Tour Director is available at the hotel this afternoon to greet you and answer your questions. At 6 p.m., gather at the hotel with your Tour Director and fellow travelers for a Welcome Reception and light buffet.
Meals: Welcome Reception and light meal!!
Day 2 - SCOTTSDALE - GRAND CANYON
Head north to the quaint bohemian colony of Sedona. Browse the stores and galleries, or join a fun optional jeep excursion through the superb landscape. Enjoy one of Arizona’s finest drives through Oak Creek Canyon, before traveling on to Grand Canyon National Park. Join a local specialist for an informative presentation about the wonders of the Grand Canyon. Then, experience breathtaking vistas as the sun sets on the canyon walls during a stroll with your Tour Director along the rim. Spend the night inside the park, enjoying peace and quiet after the crowds have departed. This evening, enjoy a private dinner in the Thunderbird Room while taking in the magnificent views of the Grand Canyon’s South Rim.
Meals: Full Breakfast / Highlight Dinner
Day 3 - GRAND CANYON - LAKE POWELL
The choice is yours in the morning: wake up early and see the sun rise over the canyon, board the park shuttle to explore the various lookout points, or take a short hike down into the canyon. Optional flightseeing tours over the Grand Canyon by helicopter or plane are available from your Tour Director. After bidding farewell to this natural wonder, head to Historic Cameron Trading Post, featuring Southwest Native American arts and crafts. The journey carries on through the Painted Desert, a colorful fantasyland of mesas, buttes and badlands, and through the Navajo Indian Reservation. Stop at the Glen Canyon Dam to learn about its impact on the Colorado River before arriving at the lakefront resort. Take a leisurely cruise on spectacular Lake Powell and explore the scenic Antelope Canyon with its dramatic steep, sandstone walls. This evening, enjoy an interpretive presentation about the diverse ecosystem of the Colorado Plateau.
Meals: Full Breakfast / Dinner
Day 4 - LAKE POWELL AT LEISURE
The entire day is yours to do as you please. Relax and enjoy the resort’s facilities, or join a complimentary excursion to Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park for a guided tour. The choice is yours; your Tour Director will be happy to assist you in planning your day.
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 5 - LAKE POWELL - BRYCE OR ZION
Perhaps join an optional float trip down one of the most scenic stretches of the Colorado River before heading to Bryce Canyon National Park in Southern Utah. Enjoy a leisurely walk along Sunset Point to view the great amphitheatres of odd-shaped monoliths known as hoodoos. There is time at leisure before checking in at the lodge. Selected departures will continue on to Zion National Park for an overnight stay. In the evening, join your Tour Director and newfound friends for a celebration dinner.
Meals: Full Breakfast / Celebration Dinner with wine
Day 6 - BRYCE OR ZION - LAS VEGAS
Travel through more amazing scenery to the lush cliff-and-canyon landscape of Zion National Park. Join a private Zion Canyon Shuttle with live commentary to experience the scenic highlights of the park, followed by some time to explore at your own pace. Keep an eye out for deer and other wildlife, or hike through the narrow pink-colored gorges and dramatic canyons. A complete change of scenery awaits you in the afternoon when you arrive in Las Vegas, a collection of bright lights and neon signs, huge themed hotels of unbelievable design and the omnipresent slot machine. The remainder of the day is yours to do as you please.
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 7 - DEPART LAS VEGAS
Your Enchanting Canyonlands adventure ends with a departure transfer to Las Vegas International Airport. Or, if you feel you would like to experience more of America’s national parks, this itinerary forms part of both the Great Western American Adventure and the America’s Magnificent National Parks.
Meals: Full Breakfast
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Best of Ireland and Scotland (2012 2013)
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15 Days |
UK, Ireland & Scotland |
July 20, 2012 |
$2485 |
This well paced tour has two-night stays in Dublin, Killarney, the Highlands and Edinburgh. The driving days are of a reasonable length with frequent stops for refreshment. |
Included:
INCLUDED HIGHLIGHTS
•Dublin: Visit the Book of Kells in the Trinity College Library.See the Customs House and elegant Georgian Squares.
•Kildare: Visit Ireland’s National Stud and Japanese Gardens.
•Kilkenny: See the 13C castle.
•Waterford: Visit the Crystal showrooms.
•Blarney: Visit the Castle and kiss the Blarney stone.
•Killarney: Take a ride with a Jarvie on one of the famous jaunting cars. Enjoy a scenic tour around the Ring of Kerry.
•Limerick: See King John’s Castle and St Mary’s Cathedral.
•Galway: See the Cathedral, Spanish Arch and Eyre Square.
•Belleek: Visit the Pottery Centre.
•Londonderry: See ‘Derry’s Walls’ and Georgian houses.
•Giant’s Causeway: Visit this UNESCO World Heritage site.
•Alloway: Visit Robert Burns’ birthplace.
•Loch Lomond: Embark on a guided highlight cruise.
•Glencoe: Travel through its dramatic scenery.
•Great Glen: View the Commando memorial and Ben Nevis.
•Highlands: Visit Tomatin Whisky Distillery, Culloden Visitor Centre and Battlefield, visit the Highland capital and drive along Loch Ness.
•St Andrews: Visit the university town and see the golf course.
•Edinburgh: Visit the Castle during your guided city tourSelected departures experience the Edinburgh Military Tattoo
•Scenic drives: Connemara, Antrim & Ayrshire Coasts, Highlands.
INCLUDED QUALITY DINING
•A Welcome Reception with light informal meal (WR)
•Choose from a selection of restaurants in Killarney (DA)
•Traditional Highland Dinner with Scottish entertainment (HD)
•Enjoy an Edinburgh finalé Celebration Dinner with wine (CD)
•13 full Breakfasts (FB), 4 three-course Evening Meals with choice, or buffets, plus tea or coffee (D)
INCLUDED FIRST CLASS SERVICES
•Escorted by a professional Tour Director
•Headsets for all guided visits and walking tours
•Enjoy the unique comfort of Insight’s Luxury air-conditioned 40 seat coach with extended leg room and on-board restroom
•Insight Hotels include all service charges, taxes and porterage
•Insight Traveller Welcome pack
•Airport arrival and departure transfers at scheduled times on Day 1 and Day 14(Should your flights not coincide with these transfers, please make your own way to/from the airport)
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Day 1 - DEPART
Board your overnight flight (not included).
Day 2 - ARRIVE DUBLIN
Welcome to Ireland! On arrival at Dublin Airport, your airport transfer service leaves for the tour hotel at 08:00, 11:00 & 13:30. Perhaps stroll around the shops of Grafton Street? Tonight, join your Tour Director and fellow guests for a Welcome Reception and light informal meal.
Hotel: Burlington/Herbert Park
Meals: Welcome Reception
Day 3 - DUBLIN SIGHTSEEING
A sightseeing tour of Dublin includes the elegant Georgian squares of Ireland’s ‘fair city’ and a visit to the Old Library of Trinity College to admire the 8th century Book of Kells. See also famous O’Connell Street and the historic Customs House, one of architect James Gandon’s masterpieces. As evening falls, there is time for shopping and the chance to see an Irish Cabaret show.
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 4 - DUBLIN – KILDARE – WATERFORD
This morning drive to Kildare for a look behind the scenes at one of the country’s main racehorse breeding centres and to visit Europe’s finest Japanese Gardens. Continue to the medieval town of Kilkenny to see the 13C castle. Then head for Waterford to see Reginald’s Tower, the ruined city walls and visit the famous Waterford Crystal Showroom.
Hotel: Dooleys
Meals: Full Breakfast / Dinner
Day 5 - WATERFORD – CORK – KILLARNEY
Travel via the fishing village of Dungarvan to Cork for an orientation tour. Acquire the ‘gift of the gab’ by kissing the Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle and shop for woollens at the Blarney Mills. Continue to Killarney where you join a local ‘Jarvie’ aboard one of the jaunting cars.
Hotel: Killarney Towers/Killarney Avenue
Meals: Full Breakfast / Dinner
Day 6 - RING OF KERRY EXCURSION
A highlight Ring of Kerry tour opens up superb seascapes, towering cliffs and spectacular mountains. Unhurried Irish life surrounds you as you travel through charming villages to view the three Lakes of Killarney before returning mid afternoon for time at leisure. Tonight, for your dining pleasure, choose from a selection of local restaurants.
Hotel: Killarney Towers/Killarney Avenue
Meals: Full Breakfast / Dine Around
Day 7 - KILLARNEY – ADARE – LIMERICK
Journey through picturesque Adare to Limerick, on the shores of the Shannon, Ireland’s longest river and the setting of Angela’s Ashes. Sightseeing takes in the ruins of 13C King John’s Castle and St Mary’s Cathedral.
Hotel: Boutique Hotel
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 8 - LIMERICK – GALWAY – ROSSES POINT
Visit Galway to see the Cathedral of St Nicholas, the Spanish Arch and Eyre Square, dedicated to the late US President John F. Kennedy. Now drive out to the Connemara, a scenic wonderland of rivers, lakes and silent hills. Stay tonight in a picturesque holiday village on the shores of Sligo Bay.
Hotel: Yeats Country Hotel
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 9 - ROSSES POINT – BELLEEK – BALLYGALLY
Visit the Belleek Pottery Centre before reaching Derry, its well preserved walls are still topped with cannon. Sightseeing with a local guide takes you past the Georgian houses of Shipquay Street to the Gothic Guildhall. Continue around the coast to the amazing ‘Giant’s Causeway’. Now enjoy a spectacular drive along the Antrim coast road to your hotel.
Hotel: Ballygally Castle
Meals: Full Breakfast / Dinner
Day 10 - BALLYGALLY – ALLOWAY – GLASGOW
Take the ferry to Scotland and continue along the Ayrshire coast, taking in views of the Firth of Clyde and the Island of Arran. Pass the Open golf links of Turnberry before arriving in Alloway, where you will visit Robert Burns’ birthplace and see Burns’ Monument and the famous ‘Brig O’ Doon’. Spend the night in the vibrant city of Glasgow.
Hotel: Crowne Plaza
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 11 - GLASGOW – HIGHLANDS
It’s only a short drive from Glasgow to the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond where you will enjoy a guided cruise on this beautiful loch. Now into the dramatic scenery of Glencoe, still echoing with the cries of massacred clansmen, before reaching Fort William. Pause at the Commando Memorial for a view of Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis, then continue along Loch Laggan to Newtonmore.
Hotel: Highlander
Meals: Full Breakfast / Dinner
Day 12 - HIGHLAND EXCURSION
Drive along the Spey Valley to visit the Culloden Visitor Centre on the moor, where Bonnie Prince Charlie’s Jacobite army was finally defeated. Pause for a wee dram of the finest Highland whisky at the Tomatin distillery before continuing to Inverness and the mysterious shores of Loch Ness. Return to your hotel for a rousing evening, Highland style! Enjoy dinner with haggis and traditional Scottish entertainment.
Meals: Full Breakfast / Highlight Dinner
Day 13 - HIGHLAND EXCURSION
A scenic drive takes you through the Grampian Mountains past the Duke of Atholl’s Blair Castle. Travel via the Pass of Killiecrankie to Pitlochry, famous for its Salmon Leap. Drive down and cross the Tay to visit St. Andrews, the home of golf. Now continue across the majestic Forth Road Bridge to the Scottish Capital. Selected departures enjoy the spectacular flood-lit Edinburgh Military Tattoo at the castle.
Hotel: Apex
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 14 - EDINBURGH SIGHTSEEING
Join your guide for a tour of Edinburgh Castle, which houses the Scottish Crown Jewels. Pass St Giles’ Cathedral, as you drive down the Royal Mile to Holyroodhouse Palace. Turn on to Princes Street, past the Scott Memorial to see Edinburgh’s famous Georgian New Town. Later, there is still time to shop. Join your friends in raising your glasses at a tour finalé Celebration Dinner tonight.
Meals: Full Breakfast / Celebration Dinner
Day 15 - RETURN HOME
Departure transfers arrive at Edinburgh Airport at 06:15 & 09:00.
Meals: Full Breakfast
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Britain and Ireland Discovery (2012)
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26 Days |
UK, Ireland & Scotland |
June 12 & July 5, 2012 |
$4135 |
A well paced tour with a blend of two-night stays in key cities plus the change of pace with two different Irish ferry crossings and pleasant driving days with frequent stops. |
Included:
INCLUDED FIRST CLASS SERVICES
• Escorted by a professional Tour Director
• Headsets for all guided visits and walking tours
• Enjoy the unique comfort of Insight’s Luxury air-conditioned 40 seat coach with extended leg room and on-board restroom
• Insight Hotels include all service charges, taxes and porterage
• Insight Traveller Welcome pack
• London Airport transfer service available
INCLUDED HIGHLIGHTS
• Central England: See the ‘dreaming spires’ and colleges of Oxford. Visit William Shakespeare’s birthplace in Stratford.
• North England: See York Minster, city walls and “Shambles”.Visit William Wordsworth’s grave in Grasmere.
• Central Scotland: Visit the Castle during your guided tour of Edinburgh. Selected departures experience the Edinburgh Military Tattoo. Visit St Andrews, home of golf.
• Highlands: Visit Tomatin Whisky Distillery, Culloden Visitor Centre and Battlefield and see Loch Ness and Eilean Donan.
• Orkney Islands: Excursion to visit Skara Brae, the Ring of Brodgar, Kirkwall and Italian Chapel.
• Northern Ireland: Visit these amazing Giant’s Causeway. See ‘Derry’s walls’ and Guildhall. Visit Belleek Pottery Centre
• Republic of Ireland: Visit the grave of WB Yeats. Visit the Connemara marble factory. See the sights of Galway. Visit Bunratty Folk Park. See King John’s Castle in Limerick. Visit the village of Adare. Ride on a jaunting car. Experience views over mountains and sea on the Ring of Kerry. Visit Blarney Castle and kiss the Blarney stone. See the sights of Cork. Visit the Waterford Crystal Showroom. See Kilkenny Castle. Visit the Book of Kells in Trinity College Library on your guided tour.
• Welsh Marches: See Chester’s ‘Rows’, city walls and Cathedral. Visit the quaint border town of Ludlow
• South West England: Visit the Roman Baths and Pump Rooms. Visit Glastonbury. Enjoy a cruise on Plymouth harbour. Visit the fishing village of Looe. Visit Stonehenge.
• Scenic drives – Cotswolds, Lake District, Highlands, Glencoe, Isle of Skye, Loch Lomond, Antrim coast, Connemara, Ring of Kerry, Wye Valley, Severn Bridge, Cornish Coast.
• London: See Westminster Abbey, Big Ben and Buckingham Palace on your London sightseeing tour
INCLUDED QUALITY DINING
• A Welcome Reception with light informal meal (WR)
• Traditional Highland Dinner with Scottish entertainment (HD)
• Choose from a selection of restaurants in Killarney (DA)
• Enjoy finalé Celebration Dinner with wine (CD)
• 24 full Breakfasts (FB), 8 three-course Evening Meals with choice, or buffets, plus tea or coffee (D)
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Day 1 - DEPART USA
Board your overnight flight (not included).
Day 2 - ARRIVE LONDON
Welcome to London! After checking in to your hotel you are at leisure.
Hotel: Thistle Marble Arch
Day 3 - LONDON SIGHTSEEING
Your half day sightseeing tour of London’s West End shows you all the main sights including Big Ben and Buckingham Palace.
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 4 - LONDON – STRATFORD
After a warm welcome from your Tour Director, head for Oxford, ‘City of Dreaming Spires’. Continue on through pretty Cotswold villages to Stratford, nestled beside the river Avon, where you visit the birthplace of William Shakespeare. Tonight enjoy a Welcome Reception and light informal meal
Hotel: Alveston Manor
Meals: Welcome Reception
Day 5 - STRATFORD – YORK
A leisurely drive brings you to the walled city of York. See the huge York Minster and stroll through the maze of cobbled streets to the crooked houses of the Shambles.
Hotel: Marriott
Meals: Full Breakfast / Dinner
Day 6 - YORK – LAKE DISTRICT – GRETNA – EDINBURGH
Tour the beautiful Lake District and visit Wordsworth’s grave in the village of Grasmere. Cross into Scotland and stop briefly at Gretna Green. Then it’s on to the majestic Scottish capital. Tonight, selected departures attend the spectacular flood lit Military Tattoo at Edinburgh Castle.
Hotel: Royal Terrace/Roxburghe
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 7 - EDINBURGH SIGHTSEEING
Take a guided tour inside historic Edinburgh Castle, home to the Honours of Scotland. Continue down the Royal Mile, past St Giles’ Cathedral to the Queen’s Holyroodhouse Palace. Then cross over to the 18th century New Town. The afternoon is at leisure.
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 8 - EDINBURGH – ST ANDREWS – HIGHLANDS
Cross the Firth of Forth on your way to St Andrews – the home of golf. Continue over the River Tay into the Grampian Mountains. You pass Blair Athol Castle before reaching the sparkling Spey Valley. Tonight, enjoy a Highland Style dinner with bagpipes.
Hotel: Laggan Country Hotel
Meals: Full Breakfast / Highlight Dinner
Day 9 - HIGHLANDS – WICK
The morning, enjoy a wee dram of the finest Highland whisky at the Tomatin distillery before visiting the Culloden Visitor Centre and battlefield, scene of the 1746 defeat of the Jacobites. Later drive via stately Inverness and along the shores of Loch Ness in search of the monster. Now follow the lovely coastal route north to Wick.
Hotel: Norseman
Meals: Full Breakfast / Dinner
Day 10 - ORKNEY ISLANDS EXCURSION
Drive to John O’Groats, the most northerly town on the British mainland, where you board a ferry to the Orkney Islands. Visit the village of Skara Brae, the Ring of Brodgar, Kirkwall and the Italian Chapel. Head back to the mainland for the evening.
Meals: Full Breakfast / Dinner
Day 11 - THURSO – ISLE OF SKYE
Relax and enjoy the pristine landscapes of lochs and mountains on your way to the fishing town of Ullapool. Then it’s ‘over the sea to Skye’. Admire the scenic splendour of the Cuillin Hills en route to your hotel in Portree.
Hotel: Tongadale
Meals: Full Breakfast / Dinner
Day 12 - ISLE OF SKYE – LOCH LOMOND – GLASGOW
Take in magnificent scenery as you pass Eilean Donan Castle and continue to Glencoe. Stop on the ‘bonnie banks’ of Loch Lomond before arriving in Glasgow.
Hotel: Marriott/Crowne Plaza
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 13 - GLASGOW – LONDONDERRY
Bid farewell to Scotland as you cross the Irish Sea, enjoying views of the Island of Arran on the way. Take the scenic Antrim coast road to the amazing rock formation known as the Giant’s Causeway before reaching your hotel.
Hotel: City
Meals: Full Breakfast / Dinner
Day 14 - LONDONDERRY – BELLEEK – SLIGO
Join a local guide to see Derry’s Walls, the Guildhall and the city’s cathedral. Cross the border to see O’Donnell’s Castle in Donegal. Drive south to visit the Belleek Pottery Centre. Continue to the churchyard at Drumcliff, the last resting place of Irish poet WB Yeats. Then it’s on to Sligo.
Hotel: Radisson Blu
Meals: Full Breakfast / Dinner
Day 15 - SLIGO – GALWAY – LIMERICK
Take a scenic drive through the beautiful Connemara region to visit the famous marble factory. Continue on to Galway where you see St Nicholas Cathedral, the Spanish Arch and Eyre Square. Now for a visit to Bunratty Folk Park, where old Ireland comes to life! Stay tonight in Limerick, famous for rhymes, lace and Georgian houses.
Hotel: George Boutique Hotel
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 16 - LIMERICK – KILLARNEY
An orientation tour shows you King John’s Castle, St. Mary’s Cathedral and the treaty stone. Now drive through the charming village of Adare into County Kerry. In Killarney, enjoy a ride on a famous jaunting car.
Hotel: Killarney Towers/Killarney Avenue
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 17 - RING OF KERRY EXCURSION
Experience the spectacular scenery of the Ring of Kerry. Tonight enjoy a selection of restaurants for your dining pleasure.
Meals: Full Breakfast / Dine Around
Day 18 - KILLARNEY – BLARNEY – WATERFORD
Kiss the Stone of Eloquence at Blarney Castle. Enjoy an orientation tour of Cork seeing St Finbar’s Cathedral before continuing along the coast to your hotel in Waterford.
Hotel: Dooleys
Meals: Full Breakfast / Dinner
Day 19 - WATERFORD – KILKENNY – DUBLIN
Visit the Waterford Crystal showroom. Drive to Kilkenny to see the magnificent 13C castle. Continue to the fun-loving Irish capital, Dublin.
Hotel: Academy Plaza/ Burlington/Herbert Park
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 20 - DUBLIN SIGHTSEEING
Tour Dublin’s elegant Georgian squares with a local guide. You also see the Irish President’s home, O’Connell Street and Customs House. Then visit the Old Library of Trinity College to admire the 8th century Book of Kells. This afternoon you are at leisure.
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 21 - DUBLIN – CHESTER
Cross the Irish Sea and travel through North Wales, past Conwy Castle, to Chester. See the ruined Roman amphitheatre, city walls Tudor ‘Rows’ and cathedral.
Hotel: Queen
Meals: Full Breakfast / Dinner
Day 22 - CHESTER – BRISTOL
Drive to the border town of Ludlow, rich in tragic royal history. Continue along the Wye Valley past Tintern Abbey and over the soaring Severn Bridge to Bristol.
Hotel: Marriott City Centre
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 23 - BRISTOL – BATH – PLYMOUTH
Travel the short distance to the beautiful Georgian city of Bath. Visit the Roman Baths before moving on to Plymouth, taking in Glastonbury along the way.
Hotel: Jurys Inn/Copthorne
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 24 - CORNWALL EXCURSION
Enjoy a highlight cruise on the harbour then see the Barbican and Hoe. Cross the Tamar river to enter Cornwall - land of smugglers’ coves and delightful fishing villages, to visit Looe. This evening enjoy a glass of wine with your Celebration Dinner
Meals: Full Breakfast / Celebration Dinner
Day 25 - PLYMOUTH – STONEHENGE – LONDON
Visit mysterious Stonehenge before crossing Salisbury Plain to return to London, where you bid farewell to your Tour Director.
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 26 - RETURN TO USA
Your tour comes to an end after breakfast.
Meals: Full Breakfast
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Select Dublin 2012
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5 Days |
UK, Ireland & Scotland |
May - Oct 2012 |
$469 |
Ireland’s warm hearted capital keeps one eye on the past with its well preserved mansions and castles, magnificent churches and cathedrals, and fascinating museums. But Dublin is also a modern European city; a cultural centre with a youthful vibe, adorned with top-class shops, buzzing pubs and fine restaurants. |
Included:
INCLUDED FEATURES
Dublin: Enjoy an open top bus tour of the city which shows you the River Liffey, Grafton Street, Trinity College, St. Patricks’ Cathedral, St. Stephens Green and Merion Square.
INCLUDED FIRST CLASS SERVICES
- 3 nights in a First Class hotel in a central location
- All hotel service charges, taxes and porterage
- Personal Concierge service at your hotel
- Destination Briefing
- Special document wallet Insight Traveller Welcome pack and city map
INCLUDED QUALITY DINING
- Welcome Drink Reception (WR)
- 3 delicious cooked Irish breakfasts (B)
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Day 1 - DEPART USA
Board your overnight flight (not included).
Day 2 - ARRIVE DUBLIN
Welcome to Ireland. After checking into your hotel, take time to relax, shop or explore. Later this afternoon enjoy an included orientation tour by open-top bus of this ‘fair city’, which shows the River Liffey, Dublin’s smart shopping area of Grafton Street, St. Stephens Green and the painted doors of Merion Square. This evening, be our guest for a Welcome Drink with your Insight Personal Concierge.
Hotel: The Burlington/Herbert Park
Day 3 - Day 4 - DUBLIN AT LEISURE
There is so much to enjoy in this great Irish capital and you have two full days at your disposal. Admire the 18C buildings surrounding the courtyards of Trinity College, visit Dublin Castle or St Patrick’s Cathedral, where Jonathan Swift was Dean?
Day 5 - RETURN TO USA
Sadly your short break in Dublin’s quaint city comes to an end after breakfast today.
Meals: Breakfast
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Focus on Ireland (2012 2013)
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9 Days |
UK, Ireland & Scotland |
June 30, 2012 |
$1605 |
Well paced with three-nights in Killarney, and overnight stays in Galway and Blarney. The driving days are of a reasonable length with scenic stops offering photo opportunities. |
Included:
INCLUDED HIGHLIGHTS
•Dublin: See the Customs House, Guinness Brewery and Dublin Castle. Visit the Book of Kells in the Trinity College Library.
•Galway: See the Lynch Memorial, Church of St. Nicholas, Spanish Arch and Eyre Square.
•Burren: Drive through the rocky limestone landscape.
•Cliffs of Moher: Admire views and visit the Exhibition Centre.
•Bunratty: Visit the Folk Park.
•Limerick: See Treaty Stone, King John’s Castle and Cathedral.
•Adare: See the main street lined with thatched cottages.
•Killarney: Enjoy a scenic tour around the Ring of Kerry. Join your ‘Jarvie’ for a ride on a jaunting car.
•Dingle Peninsula: Visit the Blasket Centre.
•Cobh: Visit the Heritage Centre.
•Cork: Enjoy an orientation tour.
•Blarney: Visit the Castle to kiss the Blarney Stone.
•Cahir: See the medieval Castle.
•Cashel: View St. Patrick’s Rock.
•Kildare: Visit Ireland’s National Stud and Japanese Gardens.
INCLUDED QUALITY DINING
•A Welcome Reception with light informal meal (WR)
•Stop on your journey around the Ring of Kerry for an authentic two-course lunch including a glass of wine. (HL)
•Enjoy an authentic two-course lunch including a glass of wine at a Dingle seafood restaurant. (HL)
•Dine-Around evening at your own choice of restaurant from our selection in Killarney (DA)
•An end of tour Celebration Dinner including a glass of sparkling wine and tea or coffee (CD)
•7 full Breakfasts (FB), 1 three-course Evening Meal with choice, or buffets, plus tea or coffee (D)
INCLUDED FIRST CLASS SERVICES
•Escorted by a professional Tour Director
•Headsets for all guided visits and walking tours
•Enjoy the unique comfort of Insight’s Luxury air-conditioned 40 seat coach with extended leg room and on-board restroom
•Insight Hotels include all service charges, taxes and porterage
•Insight Traveller Welcome pack
•Airport arrival and departure transfers at scheduled times on Day 1 and Day 8(Should your flights not coincide with these transfers, please make your own way to/from the airport)
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Day 1 - DEPART
Board your overnight flight (not included).
Day 2 - ARRIVE DUBLIN
Welcome to a land of legends, of misty mountains, lovely lakes and a warm friendly greeting wherever you go. At Dublin Airport,transfers leave for the tour hotel at 08:00, 11:00 & 13:30. Later, a sightseeing tour of Dublin takes you past the Customs House, along O’Connell Street and through Phoenix Park. Travel along the river Liffey to see the Guinness Brewery and Dublin Castle before admiring the 18C buildings of the Georgian section of the city. Visit the Old Library of Trinity College which houses the 8C Book of Kells, its delicate paintings one of the treasures of the Middle Ages. Later, join your Tour Director for a Welcome Reception and light informal meal.
Hotel: Burlington/Herbert Park
Meals: Welcome Reception
Day 3 - DUBLIN – GALWAY
Drive through the ‘forty shades of green’ landscape of the Emerald Isle. Pass by the former fortress town of Athlone on the River Shannon, to reach historic Galway, ‘City of the Tribes’, at the mouth of the Corrib River. Join your Tour Director to see the infamous Lynch Memorial and the Church of St. Nicholas, where Christopher Columbus reputedly prayed before his discovery of America. Also see the aged Spanish Arch and Eyre Square, dedicated to the late US President, John F Kennedy
Hotel: Clayton
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 4 - GALWAY – LIMERICK – KILLARNEY
Take the scenic route through the mysterious rocky limestone landscape of the Burren, riddled with underground caverns and streams and known for its rare flora. Stop at the Exhibition Centre at the 700-foot Cliffs of Moher with breathtaking views of the Clare Coast. Not far from here Ireland’s rural heritage comes to life as you walk through the cobbled streets of Bunratty Folk Park, lined with buildings from a bygone era. Later, stop in Limerick, famous for rhymes, lace and elegant Georgian houses. See King John’s castle, St Mary’s Cathedral and the Treaty Stone. Continue past the charming thatched cottages of Adare, through the land of song and legend to Killarney.
Hotel: Killarney Towers/Killarney Avenue
Meals: Full Breakfast / Dinner
Day 5 - RING OF KERRY EXCURSION
After a hearty Irish breakfast, take a leisurely excursion around the magnificent Ring of Kerry to enjoy the breathtaking views over mountains and sea. Pass through the small towns of Killorglin, where the famous Puck Fair takes place, and Caherciveen, birthplace of the great patriot Daniel O’Connel. Follow the narrow road as it winds along the cliffs to the fishing town of Waterville. Pause in Sneem, where reservations for an authentic local lunch have been made. Later, continue across the peat bogs of the Black Mountains to Moll’s Gap to admire Queen Victoria’s ‘Ladies View’. Back in Killarney, enjoy a memorable ride on a traditional horse-drawn jaunting car with the local ‘Jarvies’.
Meals: Full Breakfast / Highlight Lunch
Day 6 - DINGLE PENINSULA AND BLASKET CENTRE
Travel through the town of Tralee, famous for its Rose of Tralee Festival and out to the rugged Dingle Peninsula, a land of blue gold hills, which inspired films such as ‘Ryan’s Daughter’ and ‘Far and Away’. At the very tip of the peninsula, visit the Blasket Centre which celebrates the language, culture and tradition of the Blasket Islanders. During your excursion, enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the peninsula’s great seafood restaurants. Back in Killarney, create your own personal dining experience by choosing from a selection of local restaurants tonight.
Meals: Full Breakfast / Highlight Lunch / Dine Around
Day 7 - KILLARNEY – COBH – CORK – BLARNEY
Journey through the rugged Derrynasaggart Mountains to the pretty riverside village of Cobh, which was the last port of call for the Titanic. As you walk through the Heritage Centre relive the story of emigration of Irish people and the life of this once great passenger port. Then drive along spacious Grand Parade and South Mall of Cork, seeing the Court House and fine Georgian houses. At nearby Blarney, visit the 15C Castle, home of the famous Stone of Eloquence, once kissed - never forgotten! You also have a chance to shop for woolens at the Blarney Mills before reaching your hotel. Tonight, enjoy a farewell Celebration Dinner.
Hotel: Blarney Golf Resort
Meals: Full Breakfast / Celebration Dinner
Day 8 - BLARNEY – CAHIR – ROCK OF CASHEL - KILDARE – DUBLIN
This morning drive to Fermoy and through the Golden Vale with its beautiful pastoral countryside to Cahir to see its imposing 15th century castle, featured in the film Excalibur. Continue to St. Patrick’s Rock of Cashel, home to Irish kings, for amazing views of one of Ireland’s most popular monuments. Next visit the Irish National Stud and Japanese gardens in Kildare, before arriving early afternoon in Ireland’s fun-loving capital, for last minute shopping.
Hotel: Burlington/Herbert Park
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 9 - RETURN HOME
Your memorable tour comes to an end today. Departure transfers arrive at Dublin Airport at 07:30, 09:30 & 11:30.
Meals: Full Breakfast
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Esprit de France (2012 2013)Gold
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13 Days |
France |
Apr 2 - Oct 25, 2012 |
$5655 |
France is synonymous with fine wine and food so we include some fabulous, authentic dining experiences here. Your journey also brings you tête-a-tête with the country’s artistic heritage and wealth of historic and architectural marvels . |
Included:
YOUR DELICIOUS DINING EXPERIENCES
• Get to know your Tour Director and fellow guests over a Welcome Reception including a light meal (WR)
• A highlight lunch in the Champagne region. (HL)
• Wine pairing and gala dinner on a chateau estate in Bordeaux (HD)
• A highlight lunch of authentic local cuisine in the village of St Paul de Vence. (HL)
• A Celebration dinner with wine on the French Riviera. (CD).
• 11 Buffet Breakfasts (BB), 3 three course dinners with choice (D).
YOUR EXCLUSIVE COLLECTION OF INCLUDED HIGHLIGHTS
• Reims: See the Cathedral
• Champagne: Cellar visit and Champagne tasting.
• Paris: See the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe and other major landmarks as well as a guided tour of the Louvre Museum.
• Chartres: Visit the magnificent gothic Cathedral.
• Loire Valley: Visit the grand Château de Chambord.
. Cognac: Witness the distillation process and taste the brandy.
• Bordeaux: See the façades of the quaysides, the Grand Théâtre and Esplanade des Quinconces on your orientation tour.
• Dordogne Valley: Visit St Emillion and enjoy a wine tasting.
• Carcassonne: Enjoy the ambience of this medieval walled town.
• Avignon: Visit the Palace of the Popes and the famous bridge.
• Saint-Rémy-de-Provence: Visit St. Paul de Mausole monastery, where Van Gogh painted some of his most famous works.
• Les Baux-de-Provence: One of the most beautiful villages in France set on a rocky spur in the Alpilles mountains.
• Aix-en-Provence: Enjoy the ambience of the Cours Mirabeau.
• St Paul de Vence: Wander through the narrow cobbled streets and enjoy the panoramic views.
• Monaco: Walk through the old town to see the Royal Palace and visit the Cathedral.
• Cap Ferrat: Visit the Belle Epoque style Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, set on a hill with dizzying sea views on both sides.
YOUR INCLUSIVE GOLD SERVICES
• Escorted by your ‘Personal Concierge’, an Insight professional Tour Director; and accompanied by expert local guides where appropriate.
• First Class TGV train from Paris to Reims
• Enjoy the unique comfort of Insight’s luxury air-conditioned 40 seat coach with extended leg room and on-board restroom.
• Insight Traveller Welcome pack
• Airport arrival and departure transfers at scheduled times on Day 2 and Day 13.
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Day 1 - DEPART USA
Board your overnight flight (not included).
Day 2 - PARIS
Welcome to Paris! After a warm welcome from your Tour Director, transfers depart Charles de Gaulle Airport at 08:30 11:00 and 13:30 hours for your landmark hotel in the City of Light. The epitome of Parisian chic, settle in and relax before a Welcome Reception this evening. Get to know your fellow guests over a drink and light dinner.
Hotel: Hilton Arc De Triomphe
Meals: Welcome Reception
Day 3 - SPARKLING CHAMPAGNE
The high speed TGV train ferries you eastwards to the town of Reims, important in French history as the coronation place of kings. Drive out into the Champagne vineyards to learn about the appellation system. Walk in the footsteps of Napoleon as you visit the underground cellars and taste some exceptional champagne. An exquisite and delicious lunch has been arranged, which of course includes a glass of the local sparkling wine. Then return to Paris where the evening is at leisure.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Highlight Lunch
Day 4 - PARIS AND THE PALAIS DU LOUVRE
In the mid 19th century, Baron Haussmann transformed much of medieval Paris into something more modern. Admire his work as you glide along the elegant, tree lined boulevards that link all the iconic sights like the Arc de Triomphe and Eiffel Tower. Disembark for a private tour of one of the world’s greatest art collections at the Louvre Museum. Your guide leads you through the galleries to see the Venus de Milo, Winged Victory, Mona Lisa and many more works amassed over the ages by the Kings of France.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 5 - PARIS – CHARTRES – LOIRE VALLEY
Head south to Chartres to visit the magnificent gothic Cathedral, world renowned for its stained glass windows. Then on again, past Orleans, and along the valley of the Loire River, where the nobility and royalty of France built their chateaux as symbols of their wealth and power. Visit King Francis’ ‘hunting lodge’ of Chambord - 440 rooms and a chimney for every day of the year! Now on through Chinon, with its associations with Joan of Arc, to your 15th century château hotel, set in its own park.
Hotel: Château de Marçay
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner
Day 6 - LOIRE – COGNAC – BORDEAUX
Enter Aquitaine today, paradoxically named land of water but in fact famous for its wines. Stop in Cognac to examine the secrets of the distillation process and taste the brandy. Then move on to Bordeaux, containing the finest examples of 18C architecture in France. See the façades of the quay sides, the Grand Théâtre and magnificent Esplanade des Quinconces. Tonight, your gala evening begins with a drive to the Chateau Smith-Haut-Lafitte, one of the leading estates in the Graves region. On arrival taste some of the recent vintage before sitting down to a mouth watering three course dinner, all accompanied with matching wine to enhance your dining experience.
Hotel: Regent Grand
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Highlight Dinner
Day 7 - ST EMILION AND THE DORDOGNE
Travel out to the wine town of St-Emilion perched on a rocky out crop overlooking the Dordogne Valley. St-Emilion offers all the beauty of a medieval village with ancient paved streets, ramparts surrounded by vines and rows of houses that slope down the plains below. Then take a scenic excursion into the beautiful countryside of the Dordogne. Today’s excursion also includes a tasting of the full-bodied red wines for which the region is famous.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 8 - BORDEAUX – CARCASSONNE – FLOURE
As you follow the fertile Garonne Valley upstream this morning, vineyards are everywhere. Travel through the plum growing region, where the prunes ‘pruneaux d’Agen’ are renowned throughout France. Continuing east, you arrive at the medieval town of Carcassonne. Entering Carcassonne is like stepping back in time; the city has a complete set of ramparts, a medieval keep, even a sports ground for jousting! In a tiny, nearby village your charming, rustic and unmistakably French hotel awaits with its heavy oak beams, lovely gardens and a great outdoor pool.
Hotel: Chateau de Floure
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner
Day 9 - FLOURE – VILLENEUVE-LÈS-AVIGNON
Head east and follow the Golfe du Lion around the flat marshy area formed by the Rhone Delta, famous for wild, white horses, black bulls and pink flamingoes. Upon reaching historic Avignon, visit the 14th Century ‘Palace of Popes’ and see the four remaining arches of the Bridge of St. Benezet, the Pont D’Avignon of the famous song. Your 5 star hotel lies across the river, nestled in a priest’s garden perfumed by roses and wisteria.
Hotel: Le Prieure
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner
Day 10 - POST-IMPRESSIONISTS LANDS
A journey into the sun baked landscapes that played a key role in the development of modern art. First drive to the charming village of St Remy, birthplace of Nostradamus. At the nearby asylum of St. Paul de Mausole, Van Gogh painted some of his most famous works. Visit the beautiful cloister, gardens and upstairs Van Gogh’s bedroom and bath. Now visit medieval Les Baux-de-Provence, perched atop a rocky spur, and crowned with a ruined castle. After taking in the magnificent views, taste the local produce at a nearby olive oil mill. Return to your charming and elegant hotel, where you are at leisure.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 11 - VILLENEUVE-LÈS-AVIGNON – NICE
Eastwards today to the thermal resort of Aix-en-Provence for a brief stop near the fountains and shady plane trees of the elegant Cours Mirabeau. Take ‘La Provençale’, the inland highway, towards the Côte d’Azur before veering off to the hill-top village of St Paul de Vence, where famous contemporary painters perpetuate art as a living tradition. Savour a glass of wine and superb highlight lunch before driving down to the sparkling Mediterranean and the elegant resort of Nice. Take a stroll along the fabled Promenade des Anglais, or browse in the exclusive boutiques.
Hotel: Boscolo Exedra/Fairmont Monte Carlo (in Monaco)
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Highlight Lunch
Day 12 - THE LEGENDARY CÔTE D’AZUR
Drive to Monaco to walk through the old town to see the Royal Palace, the yacht-filled harbour and the Cathedral where the late Prince Ranier and Princess Grace are buried. Then return along the coast to the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild on Cap Ferrat. Surrounded by 17 acres of landscaped gardens, the magnificent rose-coloured villa of Baroness Rothschild is filled with rare porcelain, old master paintings and antique furniture. Balance of the afternoon is at leisure in Nice. Tonight you have reservations for an end-of-tour Celebration dinner with wine at a delightful local restaurant.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Celebration Dinner
Day 13 - RETURN TO USA
Your tour comes to an end after breakfast. Transfers arrive at Nice Airport at 06:15 and 09:00 hours.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
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Wonders of the American West (2012 2013)
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10 Days |
USA |
July 14, 2012 |
$2059 |
This sojourn provides an ideal pace, combining short jaunts and single overnight stays with longer, comfortable journeys and two-night stops. Altitude and level of activity are suitable for the reasonably fit traveller. |
Included:
INCLUDED HIGHLIGHTS
•Canyonlands National Park: Drive to the Island in the Sky.
•Arches National Park: Admire the sandstone arches and drive along spectacular Scenic Drive.
•Anasazi Heritage Center: Learn about the Ancestral Puebloans in Dolores.
•Mesa Verde National Park: Descend into a canyon for a visit to the Spruce Tree House cliff dwelling.
•Monument Valley: Board all-terrain vehicles for a guided sunset tour of the valley floor.
•Lake Powell: Take in the breathtaking views as you ferry across the second largest man-made lake in America and marvel at the red rock views over from your lakeside hotel.
•Capitol Reef National Park: Take in the magnificent scenery.
•Bryce Canyon National Park: Enjoy a leisurely walk along Sunset Point to view the unusual rock spires known as hoodoos.
•Zion National Park: Join a private shuttle with live commentary to explore this stunning canyon.
•Grand Canyon National park: Journey along the Cape Royal Scenic Drive.
•Countryside: Journey along Colorado’s Interstate 70 with the best views of the Rocky Mountains. Travel down Upper Colorado River Scenic Byway, past iconic Castle Rock. Meander along scenic Highway 211 with superb views of earth-etched canyons. Travel along the Trail of the Ancients, through the Ute Reservation. Journey through Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument along the All American Road, Scenic Byway 12. Drive along Zion National Park Scenic Byway, one of the top 10 US Scenic Drives. Travel through the stunning Virgin River Gorge with steep overhanging limestone walls.
INCLUDED QUALITY DINING
•Enjoy a Welcome Reception with light buffet (WR)
•Highlight Dinners with wine in Moab and Monument Valley (HD)
•Enjoy a Celebration Dinner with wine at the Grand Canyon (CD)
•9 Full Breakfasts (FB) and 2 three-course table d’hote Dinners or Buffets (D)
INCLUDED FIRST CLASS SERVICES
•Escorted by a professional Tour Director
•Headsets for all guided visits and walking tours
•Luxury air-conditioned 40-guest coaches with extra leg room and onboard restroom
•Insight Hotels include all service charges, taxes and porterage
•Insight Traveller Welcome pack
•Airport arrival and departure transfers on Day 1 and Day 10
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Day 1 - ARRIVE DENVER
Welcome to Denver! On arrival at Denver International Airport, your airport transfer service takes you to your tour hotel. At 6 p.m., gather at the hotel with your Tour Director and fellow travellers for a Welcome Reception and light buffet.
Hotel: Sheraton Denver Downtown
Meals: Welcome Reception
Day 2 - DENVER - MOAB
Stop at the resort of Vail and wander the pedestrian-only streets of this quaint alpine village. Continue west through the breathtaking Rocky Mountains, enter the state of Utah and take in the spectacular red rock scenery of Castle Valley. Settle in at your ranch-style lodge, superbly located under lofty red rock cliffs on the banks of the Colorado River. Tonight enjoy a Cowboy BBQ with all the fixin's.
Hotel: Red Cliffs Lodge
Meals: Full Breakfast / Highlight Dinner
Day 3 - CANYONLANDS NATIONAL PARK
Explore Canyonlands National Park and stop at the Island in the Sky, a mesa resting 1000 feet above the surrounding terrain and offering the best views of Canyonlands' spectacular landscape of canyons, mesas and buttes. Back at the lodge, the afternoon is at leisure. A variety of optional activities will be available, including an exciting sunset jetboat ride on the mighty Colorado River.
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 4 - MOAB - MESA VERDE NATIONAL PARK
Start the day with a visit to Arches National Park, the greatest concentration of natural arches in the world. Head south and re-enter Colorado. In Dolores, explore the Anasazi Heritage Center and learn about the history and culture of the Puebloans. End the day at Mesa Verde National Park, where your inside-the-park lodge offers sweeping vistas reaching into three states. Tonight, enjoy a gourmet dinner inspired by Native American flavours.
Hotel: Far View Lodge
Meals: Full Breakfast / Dinner
Day 5 - MESA VERDE - MONUMENT VALLEY
Enjoy an in-depth visit of fascinating Mesa Verde. Descend into a canyon for a visit to the impressive Spruce Tree House, an amazing dwelling built into a natural alcove containing 130 rooms and eight kivas. Continue to Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park and board all-terrain vehicles for a guided tour of the valley floor, used as a backdrop for many western films. Visit some of the legendary sites where these movies were made, as well as restricted areas with rock windows and arches of unique shapes and sizes. Finish your evening with a Navajo cookout amidst the giant buttes and mesas of this unique landscape, while listening to Navajo storytelling and music.
Hotel: The View Hotel
Meals: Full Breakfast / Highlight Dinner
Day 6 - MONUMENT VALLEY - LAKE POWELL
Wake up this morning to the backdrop of Monument Valley right outside your window. Perhaps take a leisurely stroll on a portion of the Wildcat Trail adjacent to the hotel. Be prepared for a dramatic change of scenery as you head to Lake Powell, the second largest man-made lake in the United States. Board a ferry at Hall's Crossing and cross the lake to Bullfrog Marina and your lodge, where the views from your room overlooking Bullfrog Bay will take your breath away.
Hotel: Defiance House Lodge (Guaranteed Lake View Rooms)
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 7 - LAKE POWELL - BRYCE CANYON NATIONAL PARK
Magnificent scenery awaits you at Capitol Reef National Park, best known for its Waterpocket Fold, a 100-mile-long warp in the earth's crust. Then journey along one of the most beautiful roads in the world, Scenic Byway 12, winding through stunning Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. Arrive at Bryce Canyon National Park and travel the length of this great natural amphitheatre. Learn how wind, erosion and iron oxidation created the extraordinary formations called hoodoos. Experience Bryce Canyon at sunset, when the light is at its best for picture-taking.
Hotel: Bryce Canyon National Park Lodge
Meals: Full Breakfast / Dinner
Day 8 - BRYCE CANYON - GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK
Enjoy a last look at Bryce Canyon's orange and red rock formations glowing in the early morning light before heading to Zion National Park, one of the most scenic canyons in the United States. Here, join a guided tour by private shuttle and view the park's best sites. Later head south into Arizona to the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park and the historic Grand Canyon Lodge. This evening watch the colours change by the minute as the sun sets on the canyon.
Hotel: Grand Canyon Lodge
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 9 - GRAND CANYON SIGHTSEEING
If you thought last night's sunset was great, don't miss sunrise for a completely different experience! After a leisurely breakfast, journey along the winding Cape Royal Scenic Drive to Point Imperial and Cape Royal for dazzling panoramas over the Grand Canyon. This afternoon is free; perhaps take a self-guided nature walk along one of the many trails, or simply relax at the lodge. This evening join us for a celebration dinner in the lodge's magnificent dining room with superb views over the canyon.
Meals: Full Breakfast / Celebration Dinner
Day 10 - GRAND CANYON - DEPART LAS VEGAS
Your tour ends with a departure transfer to Las Vegas International Airport and the hotel on the famous Strip for passengers extending their stay in Las Vegas. Please do not schedule flights before 5:30 p.m.
Meals: Full Breakfast
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European Spotlight (2012 2013)
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14 Days |
Central & Eastern Europe |
June 12 & July 1, 2012 |
$3095 |
The contrasts on this tour are remarkable, ranging from the low lying Netherlands to the Austrian High Alps and from the canals of Venice to the wide boulevards of Paris. |
Included:
INCLUDED HIGHLIGHTS
•Amsterdam: Cruise the waterways in a glass-topped boat. See Dam Square, the Royal Palace and Mint Tower. Witness a demonstration of diamond cutting
•Boppard: Explore the quaint Romantic Rhine Gorge village.
•Rhine Cruise: Past villages, vineyards and cliff-top castles.
•Heidelberg: See the red sandstone castle.
•Füssen: See the fairy-tale castle of Neuschwanstein.
•Innsbruck: See the Golden Roof and Imperial Palace.
•Verona: See the ancient Roman Arena and Juliet’s Balcony.
•Venice: Cruise, with commentary, to St Mark’s Square. See the Doges’ Palace, Bridge of Sighs and St Mark’s BasilicaEnjoy a gondola serenade along the atmospheric canalsVenetian glass-blowing demonstration.
•Lucerne: See Chapel Bridge, Lion Monument & Jesuit Church.Enjoy an exhilarating ride by cog-wheel train and cable-car to the summit of Mount Pilatus.
•Paris: See the Mona Lisa on your visit to the Louvre MuseumSee Notre Dame Cathedral, Place de la Concorde & Opera House. Drive along the Champs Elysées to the Arc de Triomphe. Ascend the Eiffel Tower for views over the city.
•Scenic Drives: Fern Pass, Europa Bridge, Brenner Pass and St Gotthard.
•London: See Westminster Abbey, Big Ben and Buckingham Palace on your London sightseeing tour
INCLUDED QUALITY DINING
•A Welcome Reception with light meal (WR)
•Choose from a selection of Lucerne’s restaurants for your dining pleasure (DA)
•Enjoy an end-of-tour Celebration Dinner with wine in a Parisian restaurant (CD)
•1 Continental Breakfast & 11 Buffet Breakfasts (BB), 2 three-course table d’hôte Dinners, or Buffets, plus tea or coffee (D)
INCLUDED FIRST CLASS SERVICES
•Escorted by a professional Tour Director
•Headsets for all guided visits and walking tours
•Enjoy the unique comfort of Insight’s Luxury air-conditioned 40 seat coach with extended leg room and on-board restroom
•Insight Hotels include all service charges, taxes and porterage
•Insight Traveller Welcome pack
•London Airport transfer service available
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Day 1 - DEPART
Board your overnight flight (not included).
Day 2 - ARRIVE LONDON
Welcome to London! After checking in to your hotel, perhaps take a stroll to Hyde Park or the department stores of Oxford Street.
Hotel: Thistle Marble Arch
Day 3 - LONDON SIGHTSEEING
Your half day sightseeing tour of London’s West End shows you Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and historic Westminster Abbey where kings and queens have been crowned through the centuries. Continue to Trafalgar Square and Buckingham Palace, home of the Queen. The afternoon is at leisure to explore or shop.
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 4 - LONDON – AMSTERDAM
After a warm welcome from your Tour Director this morning, drive to the famous white cliffs of Dover to cross the English Channel by ferry. Disembark at Calais and follow the coast into Belgium past the port of Antwerp. After entering the Netherlands, see the first of the windmills on your way to Amsterdam. Tonight, enjoy a Welcome Reception with drink and a light meal, followed by time to relax and explore.
Hotel: Mövenpick City Centre
Meals: Continental Breakfast / Welcome Reception
Day 5 - AMSTERDAM SIGHTSEEING
Take an orientation tour past the Mint Tower, floating Flower Market and Royal Palace in Dam Square. Then board a special canal cruiser to glide under low bridges, past the magnificent gabled mansions of the 17th century merchants. After a demonstration of diamonds being cut and polished, the afternoon is at leisure. Perhaps enjoy an excursion to the picturesque village of Volendam.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 6 - AMSTERDAM – RHINE GORGE – RHINELAND
Pass Arnhem, renowned for its ‘Bridge Too Far’, before crossing the German border bound for the Romantic Rhine. Take time to explore the lovely little village of Boppard, nestled on the largest loop of the Rhine, before embarking on your scenic cruise. Drift past steep leafy vineyards, medieval hill top castles and hear the legend of the Loreley Rock. Rejoin your coach and head for Ladenburg on the Bertha Benz Memorial Route.
Hotel: Leonardo
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner
Day 7 - RHINELAND – INNSBRUCK
Follow the Neckar river to nearby Heidelberg, known for its castle and baroque style Old Town. Skirt the northern Black Forest and head for the rolling Bavarian Alps. Stop beneath the renowned royal castles of Hohenschwangau and King Ludwig’s fairy-tale Neuschwanstein. Once over the Austrian border continue to Innsbruck, capital of the Tyrol. Tour the architectural jewels of the city, seeing the Imperial Palace, delightful Golden Roof and the 14th century houses of the old town.
Hotel: Hilton
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 8 - INNSBRUCK – VERONA – VENICE
Leave Innsbruck and travel across the impressive Europa Bridge, and cross the Brenner Pass into Italy. Follow the Adige River through spectacular scenery down to the great plain. Visit fascinating Verona, with its first century Roman Arena, maze of elegant squares and, of course, Juliet’s balcony. Now on to glorious Venice, ‘Queen of the Adriatic’.
Hotel: Bellini
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner
Day 9 - VENICE SIGHTSEEING
Relax on a private launch as it cruises past the island of San Giorgio before alighting at St Mark’s Square. Stroll along the water’s edge to see the Bridge of Sighs which connects the Doges’ Palace with the prisons. It was from here that Casanova made his daring escape! See St Mark’s Basilica and bell tower before watching one of the few remaining craftsmen hand-blow Venetian glass. A visit to Venice would be incomplete without a gondola serenade. Glide along the atmospheric canals exploring the intimate and hidden parts of this unique city while musicians set the mood with traditional songs. Now enjoy free time for your own pursuits.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 10 - VENICE – LUCERNE
Travel through some of the richest farmland in Europe as you cross northern Italy. Glimpse the beautiful Italian Lake District as you continue into the heart of the Swiss Alps, through St. Gotthard then alongside towering mountains and past rushing torrents, down to scenic Lake Lucerne.
Hotel: Astoria
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 11 - LUCERNE SIGHTSEEING
Walk with your Tour Director to visit the emotive Lion Monument. Then spend time shopping in the traffic-free Old Town, or stroll across the Chapel Bridge to the ornate Jesuit Church. Later, embark on a highlight excursion by cog-wheel train and cable-car to the summit of one of Switzerland’s most famous mountains, Mount Pilatus. Admire the views over the snow-capped Jungfrau and Eiger peaks before returning to Lucerne. This evening, get together with your friends and choose from our selection of restaurants for your dining pleasure.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dine Around
Day 12 - LUCERNE – PARIS
Drive to Basel before crossing the Rhine to enter France. Travel through the wine-growing Burgundy region to Paris, the vibrant heart of French life. This evening enjoy good food, wine and company at an end-of-tour Celebration Dinner in a typical Parisian bistro.
Hotel: Le Méridien Etoile
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Celebration Dinner
Day 13 - PARIS SIGHTSEEING
Sightseeing with a local guide takes you by Notre Dame Cathedral with its famous tale of Quasimodo. Then visit perhaps the best known art collection in the world. Your guide leads you through the galleries of the Louvre to see the Venus de Milo, Winged Victory, Mona Lisa and many more priceless works amassed over the ages by the Kings of France. Drive now from the Place de la Concorde, down the Champs Élysées to the Arc de Triomphe. Ascend to the viewing platforms of the Eiffel Tower for panoramic vistas over the city. The afternoon is at leisure to enjoy at our own pace.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 14 - RETURN HOME
After breakfast, your departure transfer will arrive at Charles de Gaulle Airport at 08:00. Also available on most departures is a complimentary transfer back to London's Thistle Marble Arch Hotel where you can extend your stay with extra nights. To book this version of the tour please contact reservations.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
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America's Magnificent National Parks (2012 2013)
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16 Days |
USA |
June 30 & July 14, 28, 2012 |
$3175 |
This tour combines the Enchanting Canyonlands with the American Parks Trail to form a complete experience of North America’s most popular parks including the Grand Canyon and Yellowstone National Parks. |
Included:
INCLUDED HIGHLIGHTS
•Sedona: Visit this Red Rock Country artists’ colony.
•Grand Canyon: Discover the wonders with a local expert. Enjoy stunning views on a sun set walk.
•Cameron: Stop at the Historic Trading Post featuring a collection of Native American arts and crafts.
•Glen Canyon: Stop at the Visitor Center.
•Lake Powell: Take a leisurely cruise and explore the scenic Antelope Canyon. Experience an informative presentation about the ecosystem of the Colorado Plateau.
•Monument Valley: Join a guided tour of the Navajo Tribal Park.
•Bryce Canyon National Park: Enjoy the rugged beauty with a leisurely walk along Sunset Point to view the hoodoos.
•Zion Canyon: Join a private Shuttle with live commentary.
•Salt Lake City: View Temple Square and the headquarters for the Mormon religion.
•Jackson: See the town’s iconic antler arch.
•Grand Teton National Park: Enjoy views of Jenny Lake.
•Yellowstone National Park: Take a guided stroll in the Upper Geyser Basin. See Old Faithful and the other natural wonders.
•Cody: Explore the Buffalo Bill Historical Center.
•Little Bighorn: Relive “Custer’s Last Stand” at the National Monument and learn all about Sitting Bull, Crazy Horse and the history of the Indian Wars.
•Deadwood: Join Kevin Costner’s Original Tour.
•Black Hills: Witness the huge Crazy Horse Memorial and the famous Mount Rushmore National Memorial.
•Fort Laramie: Visit this former frontier outpost.
•Countryside: Oak Creek Canyon, Grand Canyon’s South Rim, Painted Desert and Rocky Mountain National Park.
INCLUDED QUALITY DINING
•Enjoy a Welcome Reception with light buffet (WR)
•Highlight Dinner with wine in the Grand Canyon (HD)
•Dine-Around evenings with wine in Billings (DA)
•Enjoy a Celebration Dinner with wine in Denver (CD)
•15 Full Breakfasts (FB) and 4 three-course table d’hote Dinners or Buffets (D)
INCLUDED FIRST CLASS SERVICES
•Escorted by a professional Tour Director
•Headsets for all guided visits and walking tours
•Luxury air-conditioned 40-guest coaches with extra leg room and onboard restroom
•Insight Hotels include all service charges, taxes and porterage
•Insight Traveller Welcome pack
•Airport arrival and departure transfers on Day 1 and Day 16
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Day 1 - ARRIVE PHOENIX - SCOTTSDALE
Your airport transfer service takes you to your tour hotel in Scottsdale. At 6 p.m., gather at the hotel with your Tour Director and fellow travellers for a Welcome Reception and light buffet.
Hotel: The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa
Meals: Welcome Reception
Day 2 - SCOTTSDALE - GRAND CANYON
Today’s first stop is in the artist colony and New Age spiritual mecca of Sedona, in the heart of Red Rock Country. Travel through Oak Creek Canyon on your way to one of the world’s great natural wonders - Grand Canyon National Park. Join a local specialist for an informative presentation about the amazing features of the Grand Canyon. Then, don’t forget your camera as you embark on a stroll with your Tour Director along the rim to watch the sun set over the canyon walls. Tonight, enjoy a private dinner in the Thunderbird Room while taking in the magnificent views of the Grand Canyon’s South Rim.
Hotel: National Park Lodges
Meals: Full Breakfast / Highlight Dinner
Day 3 - GRAND CANYON - LAKE POWELL
After a morning at leisure at the Grand Canyon, move on to the Historic Cameron Trading Post. Your journey continues through the Painted Desert, a colourful fantasy land of mesas, buttes and badlands, and through the Navajo Indian Reservation. Stop at the Glen Canyon Dam to learn about its impact on the Colorado River before arriving at your resort where you are guaranteed lake view rooms. The scenery is breathtaking with towering rock walls rising out of the water. Take a leisurely cruise on the spectacular Lake Powell and explore the scenic Antelope Canyon, with its dramatic steep sandstone walls. This evening, enjoy an interpretive presentation about the diverse ecosystem of the Colorado Plateau.
Hotel: Lake Powell Resorts (Guaranteed Lake View Rooms)
Meals: Full Breakfast / Dinner
Day 4 - LAKE POWELL AT LEISURE
The entire day is yours to relax and enjoy the resort’s facilities. Perhaps take a hike or a dip in the lake or join our complimentary excursion to Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park for a guided tour of this amazing landscape. The choice is yours.
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 5 - LAKE POWELL - BRYCE OR ZION
This morning, perhaps enjoy an optional float trip down the Colorado River. Later, visit the balanced rocks, gravity-defying bridges and rock spires of Bryce Canyon National Park. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along Sunset Point to view the hoodoos before checking in at the lodge. Selected departures continue to Zion National Park for the night.
Hotel: Bryce Canyon National Park Lodge or Zion National Park Lodges
Meals: Full Breakfast / Dinner
Day 6 - BRYCE OR ZION - LAS VEGAS
Travel through more amazing scenery to Zion National Park. Join a private Zion Canyon Shuttle with live commentary to experience the scenic highlights of the park, followed by some time at leisure. A complete change of scenery awaits upon your arrival in glittering Las Vegas.
Hotel: Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 7 - LAS VEGAS - SALT LAKE CITY
Travel on to Salt Lake City, host city of the 2002 Winter Olympics and headquarters for the Mormon religion.
Hotel: Salt Lake City Marriott Downtown
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 8 - SALT LAKE CITY - GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK
See Temple Square before travelling across the Oregon Trail to Jackson, Wyoming. Continue to your lakeside lodge overlooking Jackson Lake and the stunning peaks and glaciers of Grand Teton National Park.
Hotel: Jackson Lake Lodge
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 9 - GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK - YELLOWSTONE
Explore Grand Teton National Park, stopping to admire the incredible views at Jenny Lake. Move on to Yellowstone, established in 1872 as the world’s first national park and renowned for its geothermal activity, spectacular landscapes and abundant wildlife. Join a local guide for an informative stroll through Yellowstone’s Upper Geyser Basin.
Hotel: National Park Lodges
Meals: Full Breakfast / Dinner
Day 10 - YELLOWSTONE SIGHTSEEING
Explore Yellowstone National Park; walk among the erupting geysers, see colourful bubbling mudpots and witness Old Faithful shooting over 120ft into the air. See free-roaming herds of buffalo, deer, elk and bear in their natural habitat, and don’t miss the thundering Lower Yellowstone Falls.
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 11 - YELLOWSTONE - BILLINGS
Travel down the Shoshone Canyon through the Absaroka Rocky Mountains to the old Wild West town of Cody to visit the Buffalo Bill Historical Center, built in honour of one of America’s great Western legends. Stay overnight in the old cattle town of Billings, Montana. This evening, your Tour Director offers you a selection of restaurants for your dining pleasure.
Hotel: Crowne Plaza Hotel Billings
Meals: Full Breakfast / Dine Around
Day 12 - BILLINGS - CUSTER STATE PARK
Relive “Custer’s Last Stand” at the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument, before driving into the Black Hills of South Dakota. Join Kevin Costner’s Original Deadwood Tour and explore this once lawless town with a local expert. Relive the days of Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane, who made this town famous during the gold rush of the 1870s. Now continue to Custer State Park, teeming with wildlife such as buffalo, deer and elk.
Hotel: The State Game Lodge
Meals: Full Breakfast / Dinner
Day 13 - BLACK HILLS EXCURSION
Start the day at Crazy Horse Memorial, a gigantic sculpture dedicated to all Native Americans. Come face-to-face with four American Presidents at Mount Rushmore National Memorial. Spend the rest of the day at leisure.
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 14 - CUSTER STATE PARK - CHEYENNE
Travel across the high plains into Wyoming. Stop at the historic Fort Laramie, site of one of the great frontier outposts, before continuing to Cheyenne for an orientation tour and overnight stay.
Hotel: Little America Hotel & Resort Cheyenne
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 15 - CHEYENNE - DENVER
Enter Rocky Mountain National Park and pass over Trail Ridge Road to the source of the Colorado River (weather permitting). Take an orientation tour of the Mile High City of Denver, before a celebration dinner with newfound friends.
Hotel: Sheraton Denver Downtown
Meals: Full Breakfast / Celebration Dinner
Day 16 - DENVER DEPARTURE
Your vacation comes to an end today. A departure transfer to Denver International Airport is provided.
Meals: Full Breakfast
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Country Roads of France (2012) Reverse
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17 Days |
France |
June 8, 2012 |
$3655 |
Leafy vineyards, majestic mountains, Riviera sunshine, Roman remains and fortified towns combine with great food and wine for an engaging ‘Tour de France’. |
Included:
INCLUDED FIRST CLASS SERVICES
• Escorted by a professional Tour Director
• Headsets for all guided visits and walking tours
• Enjoy the unique comfort of Insight’s Luxury air-conditioned 40 seat coach with extended leg room and on-board restroom
• Insight Hotels include all service charges, taxes and porterage
• Standard class train journey by TGV from Poitiers to Paris
• Insight Traveller Welcome pack
• Airport arrival and departure transfers at scheduled times on Day 2 and Day 17 (Should your flights not coincide with these transfers, please make your own way to/from the airport)
INCLUDED HIGHLIGHTS
• Troyes: Explore the medieval heart of the Champagne capital.
• Chablis: Enjoy a short tutorial and taste the famous wines.
• Vézelay: Visit this medieval town with its famous basilica.
• Chamonix: Stay in France’s mountaineering capital.Excursion by cable-car to the summit of the Aiguille du Midi.
• Monaco: See the Royal Palace and visit the Cathedral.
Saint-Paul de Vence: Discover the village’s artistic vocation.
• Aix-en-Provence: See the mansions of the Cours Mirabeau.
• Avignon: Visit the old Papal Palace and see the famous bridge.
• Pont du Gard: See the famous Roman aqueduct.
• Châteauneuf-du-Pape: Wine tasting.
• Arles: Visit the Roman Amphitheatre.
• Camargue: Visit Stes Maries-de-la-Mer.
• Nîmes: See the Maison Carrée and Roman Arena.
• Carcassonne: Enjoy a walking tour of this fortified town.
• Cahors: Visit this lovely town.
• Rocamadour: Visit this medieval cliff top town.
• Dordogne: See the prehistoric cave paintings of Lascaux.See the golden limestone houses of Sarlat-la-Canéda.
• Paris: See Notre Dame Cathedral, Louvre, Arc de Triomphe and Eiffel Tower. Relax on a Seine cruise and visit Napoleon’s tomb.
• Scenic Drives: Burgundy, High Alps, Route Napoleon, Cote d’Azur, Camargue, Dordogne Valley.
INCLUDED QUALITY DINING
• A Welcome Reception with light informal meal (WR)
• Enjoy an authentic Provençal Highlight Lunch with drinks (HL)
• Choose from a selection of restaurants in the Dordogne (DA)
• Celebration Dinner with wine at a Parisian Restaurant (CD)
• 15 Buffet Breakfasts (BB), 4 three-course table d’hôte Dinners, or Buffets, plus tea or coffee (D)
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Day 1 - DEPART
Board your overnight flight (not included).
Day 2 - PARIS AT LEISURE
Welcome to Paris, one of the world’s most exciting cities! Airport transfers depart from Charles de Gaulle Airport for the tour hotel at 08:30, 11:00 & 13:30. Relax and settle in, or start exploring this great capital. This evening, join your Tour Director for a Welcome Reception and light informal meal. Afterwards, the ‘city of light’ awaits.
Hotel: Le Méridien Etoile/Pullman Tour Eiffel
Meals: Welcome Reception
Day 3 - PARIS – TROYES – CHABLIS – DIJON
Head to Troyes, capital of the Champagne region - its magnificent core of medieval buildings is appropriately shaped like a champagne cork. Continue into Burgundy, once a powerful duchy and synonymous with fine wine. En route, hear an informative tutorial about the wines that make this region so famous. Stop in the quiet village of Chablis for a taste of the local nectar before reaching Dijon.
Hotel: Sofitel
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 4 - VÉZELAY EXCURSION
Set off through the leafy Burgundian countryside with road signs that read like a wine list. Stop in the picturesque town of Vézelay. Tradition has it that Mary Magdalene was buried here and Richard the Lionheart set off for the Crusades from the famous basilica. Later, return to your hotel for some relaxing time at leisure.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 5 - DIJON – CHAMONIX
Head towards the Maconnais and Beaujolais before turning east into the Alps. A scenic symphony awaits you as you head into the high Alps, and climb towards Mont Blanc and the fashionable ski resort of Chamonix. On arrival, take the cable-car to the summit of the Aiguille du Midi, where the panoramic views of the French, Swiss and Italian Alps are spectacular!
Hotel: Prieure
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 6 - CHAMONIX – ANNECY – AIX-LES-BAINS
After breakfast, embark on a breathtaking drive to the lake-side town of Annecy. Free time for lunch in the Little Venice area or take a boat trip. Continue to your hotel in the spa town of Aix-les-Bains, nestled on the edge of France’s largest and most celebrated lake, Lac du Bourget and overlooked by Mt Revard.
Hotel: Adelphia
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner
Day 7 - AIX-LES-BAINS – NICE
Glorious mountain scenery today, as you travel in the footsteps of Napoleon, as he made his victorious return from Elba. A scenic, rugged landscape leads from the Alps, down to the French Riviera and the elegant resort of Nice.
Hotel: Radisson Blu
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 8 - MONACO EXCURSION
On a morning sightseeing tour, journey to the principality of Monaco to see the Grimaldi Palace. You also visit the cathedral, burial place of Princess Grace and Prince Rainier. Enjoy a drive on the Grand Prix circuit and views of the port with its luxury yachts. The rest of the day is set aside for you to enjoy the French Riviera.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 9 - NICE – AIX-EN-PROVENCE – AVIGNON
Visit the medieval village of St Paul de Vence, perched high above the Riviera beaches. A walk through its winding streets reveals elegant fountains, vine-covered stone walls and views of mountains and sea. Continue to Aix-en-Provence to see the cafés and sumptuous mansions lining the Cours Mirabeau. A fabulous highlight lunch including wine has been arranged for you here. Journey into the Luberon, made famous by Peter Mayle’s book “A Year in Provence” and head for Avignon.
Hotel: Avignon Grand
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Highlight Lunch
Day 10 - RHÔNE EXCURSION
First to perhaps the greatest legacy of the Romans’ presence, the imposing three tiered aqueduct, Pont du Gard. Head towards the Rhône River and the village of Châteauneuf-du-Pape to taste the famous wine. Return to Avignon, where you see the ‘Pont d’Avignon’ and visit the mighty Palace of the Popes.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner
Day 11 - AVIGNON – ARLES – NÎMES
Drive to Arles, one-time home to Van Gogh and Roman legionnaires, and visit the Amphitheatre. Continue through the Camargue to Stes Maries-de-la-Mer, where Gypsies gather annually to honour their patron saint. You may see flamingos and wild horses on the way to Nîmes. An orientation tour shows you the Roman Arena and 2,000-year-old Roman Temple, Maison Carrée.
Hotel: Imperator
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 12 - NÎMES – CARCASSONNE – ALBI
Cross the fertile Languedoc region, before heading inland to the fortified town of Carcassonne. The city has a complete set of ramparts and a medieval keep. After your walking tour, continue to your hotel in Albi, known for its Cathedral and the birthplace of Toulouse Lautrec.
Hotel: St Antoine
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner
Day 13 - ALBI – ROCAMADOUR – DORDOGNE
Stop in Cahors, famous for its ‘Black Wine’, before heading to Rocamadour. A resting place for pilgrims on their way to Spain, the medieval town is perched on a cliff side above the Alzou River. After some time to explore, drive on to your hotel in the Dordogne. There is a selection of local restaurants to choose from for your dining pleasure tonight.
Hotel: La Truffe Noire/Le Quercy
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dine Around
Day 14 - DORDOGNE VALLEY EXCURSION
A morning drive takes you into the stunning Valley of the Dordogne to visit the prehistoric site at Lascaux to view the world-famous cave paintings. Later make your way to the town of Sarlat-la-Canéda with its fine historic golden limestone houses.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner
Day 15 - DORDOGNE – PARIS
Drive to historic Poitiers to board your sleek TGV train for the fast and comfortable journey to Paris. By night why not try a French cabaret show?
Hotel: Pullman Montparnasse/Pullman Tour Eiffel
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 16 - PARIS SIGHTSEEING
Sightseeing with a local guide shows you Notre Dame Cathedral and façades of the Louvre. Drive along the Champs Élysées to the Arc de Triomphe. Stop for a photo of the Eiffel Tower before embarking on a scenic cruise along the Seine. Then transfer to the gilded Église du Dôme for a visit to the tomb of Napoleon. For your final night on tour enjoy a Celebration Dinner at a typical Parisian restaurant with good wine, food and company.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Celebration Dinner
Day 17 - RETURN HOME
Bid au revoir to the French capital. Departure transfers arrive at Charles de Gaulle Airport at 08:00 & 11:00. Alternatively, transfer to the elegant River Baroness for a delightful 7 night river cruise down the Seine.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
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West East Trans Canada Odyssey
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15 Days |
Canada |
May 28, 2012 |
$4169 |
A well-balanced tour combining coach, ferry and rail. Spend two nights unwinding in Victoria and Banff, with a further relaxing journey aboard VIA Rail Canada’s The Canadian train. Two nights in cosmopolitan Toronto cap off a fantastic trip. |
Included:
INCLUDED FIRST CLASS SERVICES
• Escorted by a professional Tour Director
• Headsets for all guided visits and walking tours
• Luxury air-conditioned 40-guest coaches with extra leg room and onboard restroom
• Insight Hotels include all service charges, taxes and porterage
• Insight Traveller Welcome pack
• Airport arrival and departure transfers on Day 1 and Day 15
• Sleeper Touring class on VIA Rail Canada’s The Canadian train including gratuities to onboard train personnel
INCLUDED HIGHLIGHTS
• Vancouver: See English Bay, Chinatown, Gastown and the totem poles of Vancouver’s Stanley Park.
• Victoria: Enjoy breakfast then explore the floral displays and join an informative talk at Butchart Gardens. See the Inner Harbour, Parliament Buildings and Bastion Square in Victoria.
• Whistler: Enjoy a walking tour of the village
• Kelowna: Taste local vintages at a beautiful winery.
• Banff Nation Park: Stroll along Lake Louise and enjoy an informative talk with your Tour Director. Also view Moraine Lake, the Spiral Tunnels and Natural Bridge.
• Yoho National Park: Gather around a bonfire overlooking Emerald Lake, roast s’mores and enjoy a liqueur.
• Athabasca Glacier: Board in Ice Explorer to visit the glacier.
• Jasper National Park: Enjoy a fun get together with a wildlife expert. Join an interpretive walk at Maligne Canyon.
• The Canadian Train: Relive the Golden Age of Travel on one of the world’s greatest rail journeys
• Toronto: Explore with a “Hop-on, Hop-off” pass
• Niagara Falls: Sample wines of the Niagara Peninsula. Experience close-up views on the Maid of the Mist cruise. Stop at the Whirlpool and Rapids observation deck.
• Countryside: Icefields Parkway, Niagara Peninsula
INCLUDED QUALITY DINING
• Enjoy a Welcome Reception with light buffet (WR)
• A Highlight Dinners with wine in Victoria (HD)
• A Dine-Around evening with wine at your own choice of fine restaurants from our selection in Banff (DA)
• Enjoy a Celebration Dinner with wine in Jasper (CD)
• 11 Full Breakfasts (FB) and 2 three-course table d’hote Dinners or Buffets (D)
• 3 Full Breakfasts (FB), 2 Lunches (L) and 3 three-course table d’hote Dinners (D) onboard the VIA Rail’s The Canadian train
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Day 1 - ARRIVE VANCOUVER
Welcome to Vancouver! On arrival at Vancouver International Airport, your airport transfer service takes you to your tour hotel. At 6 p.m., gather at the hotel with your Tour Director and fellow travellers for a Welcome Reception and light buffet meal.
Hotel: Fairmont Pacific Rim
Meals: Welcome Reception
Day 2 - VANCOUVER - VICTORIA
Explore Vancouver - see Stanley Park, English Bay, Gastown and Chinatown. Later, travel by ferry to Victoria and join an orientation tour that introduces you to the Inner Harbour, ornate Parliament Buildings and Bastion Square. Perhaps hire a horse-drawn carriage ride to complete your tour. Dinner tonight is served at one of Victoria's restaurants.
Hotel: Victoria Marriott Inner Harbour
Meals: Full Breakfast / Highlight Dinner
Day 3 - VICTORIA SIGHTSEEING
Start the day with breakfast at the famous Butchart Gardens, 55 acres of exquisite floral displays, meandering paths and spectacular views. A representative from the gardens will give a brief talk on the gardens and the history of the Butchart family. You then have ample time to explore these gardens which have delighted visitors from around the world for over one hundred years. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure in Victoria. Perhaps take advantage of a sparkling day for a whale-watching cruise?
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 4 - VICTORIA - WHISTLER
Enjoy the morning at leisure before your journey across the Strait of Georgia back to the mainland. Travel to Whistler and join a guided walking tour of the village and learn about this 2010 Olympic venue.
Hotel: Westin Whistler
Meals: Full Breakfast / Dinner
Day 5 - WHISTLER - KELOWNA
Travel into the lush Okanagan Valley to Kelowna. Visit a beautiful winery and enjoy a wine tasting of an array of outstanding local wines.This evening is at leisure.
Hotel: Delta Grand Okanagan Resort
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 6 - KELOWNA - BANFF NATIONAL PARK
Journey through four of Canada's most breathtaking national parks: Mount Revelstoke, Glacier, Yoho and Banff. Enjoy a sightseeing tour of Banff before arriving at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel for a two-night stay in the heart of Banff National Park. This evening, your Tour Director offers you a selection of restaurants for your dining pleasure.
Hotel: The Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel
Meals: Full Breakfast / Dine Around
Day 7 - BANFF AT LEISURE
Today is at leisure in Banff. Perhaps enjoy an optional float trip down the Bow River or a helicopter tour of Mount Assiniboine. Your Tour Director will be happy to assist you in planning your day.
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 8 - BANFF - YOHO NATIONAL PARK
Enjoy an interpretive walk along the shore of Lake Louise and learn about the history and geography of this stunning area. Later see another great icon of the Canadian Rockies, Moraine Lake, crowned by ten notable peaks. Stop at the Spiral Tunnels viewpoint and learn about the construction of these famous tunnels. Pass by the spectacular Natural Bridge and arrive at exquisite Emerald Lake, one of Canada’s most outstanding wilderness settings. Your home tonight is the historic Emerald Lake Lodge. After dinner, stargaze under the night sky and savour a liqueur and s'mores, a traditional American campfire treat, by a lakeside bonfire.
Hotel: Emerald Lake Lodge
Meals: Full Breakfast / Dinner
Day 9 - YOHO NATIONAL PARK - JASPER NATIONAL PARK
Today motor along the unforgettable Icefields Parkway and witness amazing scenes such as the Crowfoot Glacier and Columbia Icefield, North America’s largest sub-polar ice pack. At the Athabasca Glacier, climb aboard a specially-designed Ice Explorer for a guided tour over steep grades, snow and ice as you ascend part way up the glacier. Your home for tonight is at the beautiful Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, in the heart of Jasper National Park, an alpine wonderland of immense forests, jewelled lakes, soaring waterfalls, soothing mineral hot springs, rugged glaciers, colourful meadows and majestic mountains. Tonight, enjoy a Celebration Dinner with your Tour Director and traveling companions.
Hotel: The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge
Meals: Full Breakfast / Celebration Dinner
Day 10 - JASPER - THE CANADIAN TRAIN
Join your Tour Director for an interpretive walk at Maligne Canyon, one of the most scenic gorges in the Canadian Rockies. Join an informative presentation about some of the park’s most interesting residents including elk, moose, mountain goat, bighorn sheep, grizzly bear, black bear, beaver and caribou. Late afternoon, bid farewell to your Tour Director and settle in your private compartment with en-suite facilities in VIA Rail Canada's Sleeper Touring class on board The Canadian, one of the world’s greatest rail journeys.
Meals: Full Breakfast / Dinner
Day 11 - Day 12 - THE CANADIAN TRAIN
Enjoy comfortable accommodations, delicious meals and impeccable service on board the train. See prairies stretching to the horizon and cross forests studded with sparkling lakes. Discover the unique pleasure of rail travel by night as the gentle rocking of the train lulls you to sleep.
Meals: Full Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 13 - THE CANADIAN TRAIN - TORONTO SIGHTSEEING
After breakfast, arrive in Toronto and transfer to the hotel. Spend the day discovering cosmopolitan Toronto, using a "Hop-on, Hop-off" sightseeing pass to see the city's highlights.
Hotel: Hilton Toronto
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 14 - NIAGARA FALLS EXCURSION
Travel to one of the world's great natural wonders, Niagara Falls. Enjoy close-up views of the falls on the Maid of the Mist cruise. Later, journey along the Niagara Peninsula to the picturesque community of Niagara-on-the-Lake, the colonial capital of Upper Canada and a nationally recognized historic site. The region's climate is ideal for wine-making, so there is a stop at a local winery for tasting before returning to Toronto.
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 15 - DEPART TORONTO
Your tour comes to an end with a departure transfer to Toronto International Airport.
Meals: Full Breakfast
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Country Roads of Italy (2012 2013)
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17 Days |
Italy & Sicily |
June 14, 2012 |
$3399 |
Between the major cities, you’ll find littleknown gems like Orvieto, Assisi and Perugia, Tuscan hill towns, Etruscan tombs, a formidable abbey and Italy’s finest stretch of coastline. |
Included:
INCLUDED FIRST CLASS SERVICES
• Escorted by a professional Tour Director
• Headsets for all guided visits and walking tours
• Enjoy the unique comfort of Insight’s Luxury air-conditioned 40 seat coach with extended leg room and on-board restroom
• Insight Hotels include all service charges, taxes and porterage
• Insight Traveller Welcome pack
• Airport arrival and departure transfers at scheduled times on Day 2 and Day 17 (Should your flights not coincide with these transfers, please make your own way to/from the airport)
INCLUDED HIGHLIGHTS
• Rome: Visit the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel. Tour St Peter’s Basilica. Visit the Colosseum and overlook the Forum.
• Monte Cassino: Visit the hill-top Abbey.
• Cassino: Visit the peaceful Commonwealth War Cemetery.
• Pompeii: Join a local guide for a walking tour.
• Sorrento: Drive along the Amalfi Coast to visit Positano. Join in the Italian social ritual of ‘La Passeggiata’.Cruise to the isle of Capri, ride into Capri town by open top taxi (weather permitting) and return by funicular railway. ‘Intarsio’ demonstration.
• Castel Gandolfo: See the Pope’s summer residence.
• Orvieto: Visit Piazza del Duomo to admire the Cathedral.
• Assisi: Walk through the cobbled steets to visit St Francis Basilica, St Mary of the Angels and St Clare’s church.
• Perugia: See the Priors’ Palace and Collegio del Cambio.
• Siena: Visit the Campo Square, fountain and Cathedral.
• San Gimignano: Visit the medieval Manhattan of Italy!
• Florence: Visit the Academy Gallery to see the Statue of David. See the ‘Gates of Paradise’, Basilica of Santa Croce and visit Signoria Square. Traditional leather-work demonstration
• Bologna: See Giambologna’s Fountain and Piazza Nettuno.
• Venice: Drift through the canals by traditional gondola. Cruise to St Mark’s Square. See the Bridge of Sighs, Doges’ Palace and St Mark’s Basilica. Venetian glass-blowing demonstration
• Ravenna: Witness some of the finest mosaics in Europe.
• Montepulciano: Visit the old town.
• Tivoli: Visit the amazing water gardens of the Villa d’Este.
INCLUDED QUALITY DINING
• A Welcome Reception with light informal meal (WR)
• Choose from a selection of restaurants in Sorrento (DA)
• Enjoy a two-course Highlight Lunch in Bologna (HL)
• End-of-tour Celebration Dinner of local cuisine with wine and entertainment in Rome (CD)
• 15 Buffet Breakfasts (BB), 3 three-course table d’hôte Dinners, plus tea or coffee (D)
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Day 1 - DEPART
Board your overnight flight (not included).
Day 2 - ROME AT LEISURE
Welcome to Rome! On arrival at Rome’s Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci Airport, your airport transfers leave for the tour hotel at 09:30, 12:30 & 15:30. Then there is time to relax and begin to enjoy La Dolce Vita (the sweet life). Later, join your Tour Director for a Welcome reception with drink and a light meal, followed by time to relax and explore.
Hotel: Cicerone/Veneto
Meals: Welcome Reception
Day 3 - ROME SIGHTSEEING
With your local guide, visit the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel. Next door, tour St Peter’s Basilica, seeing Michelangelo’s Pieta. Cross the Tiber to visit the Colosseum and see the Forum. There is time in the afternoon to relax or explore.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 4 - ROME - POMPEII - SORRENTO
Visit the formidable mountain top Abbey of Monte Cassino, rebuilt after the epic battle of 1944. Stop at the Commonwealth War Cemetery before continuing to ill-fated Pompeii for a guided tour through the cobbled streets. A scenic cliff-top drive leads you to Sorrento. Tonight, choose from a selection of local restaurants for your dining pleasure.
Hotel: La Favorita/Cesare Augusto
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dine Around
Day 5 - AMALFI COASTAL DRIVE
Travel along Italy’s finest coastline, the Amalfi Coast. Stop for a bird’s-eye view of the terraced houses of Positano before boarding minibuses to explore the heart of the town. There’s time to be tempted by the boutiques before returning to your hotel. Why not work up an appetite by joining the traditional ritual of passeggiata, a pre-dinner promenade, to ‘see and be seen’.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 6 - ISLE OF CAPRI EXCURSION
For 2,000 years, Capri has beckoned visitors from Tiberius Caesar to Gracie Fields. Arriving at the Marina Grande by boat, ascend to Capri Town by open top taxi. Browse in the elegant shops and enjoy the sea views before returning to Sorrento.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 7 - SORRENTO - ORVIETO
Travel north to the celebrated wine town of Frascati and then see the Pope’s summer residence at Castel Gandolfo. Continue to Orvieto, which looks down from its cliff-edged balcony over a vineyard covered plain. Savour the distinctly medieval ambiance during your orientation tour and admire the richly decorated façade of the Cathedral in Piazza del Duomo.
Hotel: Aquila Bianca
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 8 - ORVIETO - ASSISI - PERUGIA
Cross the River Tiber to arrive at St Mary of the Angels Basilica, erected where St Francis died. Continue on to hill-top Assisi to visit the huge Basilica. Stroll down the Via San Francesco to St Clare’s church, then see the Cathedral with its baptismal font where St Francis was christened. Move on to beautiful Perugia, the jewel of Umbria.
Hotel: Sangallo Palace
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner
Day 9 - PERUGIA SIGHTSEEING
Your sightseeing begins on foot in the main street of Perugia’s Old Town. See the Collegio del Cambio, the splendid Priors’ Palace, the Cathedral and the finely sculptured Great Fountain. Later there is time at leisure in this beautiful, historic town.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 10 - PERUGIA - SIENA - FLORENCE
Stroll through the narrow cobbled streets of Siena with a local guide to the vast Campo Square. See Della Quercia’s ‘Fonte Gaia’, then continue to the zebra striped cathedral. Follow the Tuscan country roads to San Gimignano to admire the Salucci Towers, Chigi Towers and Cathedral. A delightful drive through cypresses and olive groves brings you to the Renaissance city of Florence.
Hotel: NH Firenze/Londra
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner
Day 11 - FLORENCE SIGHTSEEING
With a local guide, admire the original statue of David in the Academy Gallery. Continue to see the marble clad Cathedral, bell tower and see the Gates of Paradise on the Baptistery. Walk on to Signoria Square, an open air gallery of sculpture and fountains. Visit the Basilica of Santa Croce, to see Michelangelo’s tomb and finish with a Florentine leather-work demonstration.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 12 - FLORENCE - BOLOGNA - VENICE
Through the Appenine mountains to stop in Bologna - gastronomic capital of Italy. Here your guided tour includes Giambologna’s Neptune Fountain in Piazza Nettuno and the Old Town. Savour some of the local specialties and a glass of wine during your superb highlight lunch in one of the fine trattorias. Continue across the fertile plains to Venice. Of the two featured hotels, one stands on the banks of the Grand Canal, a mere stroll from St Mark’s Square, while the other enjoys one of the most famous views in the world, across the water from the Doges’ Palace.
Hotel: Bauers Palladio Hotel & Spa/NH Manin
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Highlight Lunch
Day 13 - VENICE SIGHTSEEING
Only minutes away by private launch is St Mark’s Square. See Lord Byron’s Bridge of Sighs connecting the Doges’ Palace to the Prisons, before admiring the Byzantine Basilica and belltower. A glass-blowing demonstration is followed by a gondola serenade. Enjoy the atmosphere, music and songs as you drift along the canals. The rest of the day is at leisure in this remarkable city.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 14 - VENICE - CLASSE - CHIANCIANO TERME
Stop on the outskirts of Ravenna this morning to visit the church of St Apollinaris in Classe which houses some of the finest mosaics in Europe. Continue into the Apennines to the spa town of Chianciano Terme.
Hotel: Grande Albergo Fortuna
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner
Day 15 - MONTEPULCIANO EXCURSION
Embark on an excursion to beautiful Montepulciano, one of Tuscany’s highest hill towns, its fortifications offering broad views over Umbria and Southern Tuscany. Explore the streets brimming with Reniassance palazzi before returning to your hotel.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 16 - CHIANCIANO TERME - TIVOLI - ROME
Climb up to the pleasant hilltop town of Tivoli where you visit the amazing 16th century water gardens of the Villa d’Este - an oasis of cool tranquillity amid the bustle of modern life! Continue past the sulphurous medicinal springs at Bagni di Tivoli to return to the ‘eternal city’ of Rome. This evening enjoy a last night Celebration Dinner at a local restaurant.
Hotel: Sheraton
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Celebration Dinner
Day 17 - RETURN HOME
Arrivederci Roma! Departure transfers arrive at Rome’s Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci Airport at 07:00 & 09:30.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
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Treasures of Italy (2012)
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12 Days |
Italy & Sicily |
June 17, 2012 |
$3125 |
This tour certainly ticks a lot of boxes! Historic cities, idyllic fishing villages, islands, lakes, canals, a wealth of art and heritage buildings, not to mention the fabulous food, all complemented by a backdrop of breathtaking scenery. |
Included:
INCLUDED FIRST CLASS SERVICES
• Escorted by a professional Tour Director
• Headsets for all guided visits and walking tours
• Enjoy the unique comfort of Insight’s Luxury air-conditioned 40 seat coach with extended leg room and on-board restroom
• Insight Hotels include all service charges, taxes and porterage
• Insight Traveller Welcome pack
• Airport arrival and departure transfers at scheduled times on Day 2 and Day 12 (Should your flights not coincide with these transfers, please make your own way to/from the airport)
INCLUDED HIGHLIGHTS
• Rome: Tour the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St Peter’s Basilica. Visit the Colosseum and see the Forum.
• Pompeii: Tour the excavations of this buried Roman resort.
• Capri: Transfer to hotel by open top taxi (weather permitting) and funicular railway. Join a sightseeing tour to Capri town and enjoy a scenic chairlift to the summit of Monte Solaro.
• Florence: Admire Michelangelo’s original ‘Statue of David’ in the Academy Gallery. See the Cathedral, bell tower, ‘Gates of Paradise’ and visit the ‘open air gallery’ of Signoria Square.Traditional Florence leather-work demonstration
• Cinque Terre: Visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Portofino: Get a taste of the ‘sweet life’ in this most elegant of fishing villages.
• Italian Lakes: Join us in the social ritual of ‘La Passeggiata’.
• Verona: See the Roman Arena and Juliet’s balcony.
• Venice: Drift through the canals on a gondola serenade. Cruise, with commentary, to St Mark’s Square. See the Bridge of Sighs, Doges’ Palace and St Mark’s Basilica.Venetian glass-blowing demonstration.
• Scenic Drives: Italian Riviera, Apennine Mountains.
INCLUDED QUALITY DINING
• A Welcome Reception with light meal (WR)
• Dine-Around evening at your own choice of restaurant from our selection in Capri (DA)
• Stop in Verona for an authentic two-course Highlight lunch including a glass of wine. (HL)
• Celebration Dinner of local cuisine and wine in Venice (CD)
• 10 Buffet Breakfasts (BB), 2 three-course table d’hôte Dinners, or Buffets, plus tea or coffee (D)
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Day 1 - DEPART USA
Board your overnight flight (not included).
Day 2 - ROME AT LEISURE
Welcome to Rome, former religious, political and commercial heart of a vast empire. You are met on arrival at Rome’s Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci Airport. At 09:30, 12:30 & 15:30 your transfer departs for your tour hotel. Relax and settle in. Join your Tour Director for a Welcome Reception this evening which includes a drink and a light informal meal.
Hotel: Koru/La Griffe
Meals: Welcome Reception
Day 3 - ROME SIGHTSEEING
In the Vatican City you are joined by a resident expert who guides you through the priceless art collection of the Vatican Museums culminating beneath Michelangelo’s famous ceiling in the Sistine Chapel. More of Michelangelo’s genius is on display next door in St Peter’s Basilica. Now cross the Tiber to overlook the Roman Forum and visit the Colosseum where your guide sets the scene of bloody contests, wild beasts and Gladiators. Rome is now yours to discover at your leisure.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 4 - ROME – POMPEII – ISLE OF CAPRI
Journey to the ill-fated town of Pompeii, frozen in time when it was engulfed by an eruption of Vesuvius in AD 79. Walk with a local guide through the cobbled streets to learn about Roman life in the first century. Then continue to the Bay of Naples and board your hydrofoil to the island of Capri. In brilliant sunshine, enjoy a scenic drive by open top taxi past orange and lemon groves to the shady streets of Anacapri. After checking in to your hotel, there’s time to appreciate the glorious vistas over the rugged coastline and sparkling sea. For your dining pleasure tonight, you are invited to choose from a selection of local restaurants.
Hotel: Blu Capri Relais
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dine Around
Day 5 - CAPRI SIGHTSEEING
During your guided tour embark on a scenic chairlift ride to the summit of Monte Solaro and enjoy a spectacular panorama over the island and across the Bay of Naples. You’ll also visit Capri town, with its whitewashed houses, winding alleyways and small cafés. The afternoon is yours to devote to Capri’s fashionable boutiques, craft shops and artisans studios. As the glow of twilight descends and the day trippers have gone home, the island is yours to saunter along scenic paths, gather with the locals in the piazzetta or relax with a glass of wine at an al-fresco restaurant.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 6 - ISLE OF CAPRI FLORENCE
Take the hydrofoil across the bay to Naples and follow the ‘Motorway of the Sun’ north, past Rome through the Province of Umbria. Continue through idyllic Tuscan landscapes to Florence, centre of art and culture, and heart of the Italian Renaissance.
Hotel: NH Firenze/NH Anglo American
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner
Day 7 - FLORENCE SIGHTSEEING
Join your local guide for a tour of the Academy Gallery to see Michelangelo’s beautiful statue of David. Continue to Giotto’s belltower next to the Cathedral and see the ‘Gates of Paradise’ before visiting the Piazza della Signoria, an open air museum and still the political heart of Florence. Stroll on to Piazza Santa Croce famous for its cathedral and luxury shops. The joys of Florence are varied so the afternoon is free for your own personal exploration.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 8 - FLORENCE – CINQUE TERRE – GENOA
Head for the famous Italian Riviera and a highlight of your tour, the Cinque Terre. A UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Italy’s best kept secrets! Appreciate the views as you approach one of the picturesque fishing villages by boat. Spend some time exploring the old medieval quarter or the popular sandy beach before continuing along the coast to the port of Genoa, birthplace of Christopher Columbus.
Hotel: Star Hotel President
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner
Day 9 - GENOA – PORTOFINO – ITALIAN LAKES
This morning visit the elegant seaside village of Portofino, epitome of La Dolce Vita. Admire the gaily-coloured houses, browse the boutiques, stay a while in the café bars on the piazzetta and watch the yachts moored in the harbour. Later, head north to beautiful Lake Maggiore in the Italian Lake District, a favourite retreat of the rich and famous where Alpine scenery combines with luxuriant subtropical vegetation. Relax and enjoy this popular resort and beautiful lake, or perhaps take a cruise out to the lovely Borromean Islands?
Hotel: Grand Hotel Dino
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 10 - ITALIAN LAKES – VERONA – VENICE
This morning follow the southern fringes of the European Alps to Verona, setting for one of history’s saddest love stories. Walk with your Tour Director to Juliet’s balcony in the inner courtyard of the Capulet home and see the well preserved Roman Arena (still used for open-air opera performances). While here, an authentic two course highlight lunch, typical of the region, has been arranged on your behalf, including a glass of wine. Afterwards continue to the Venice Lido, the ‘Golden Island’ and your distinguished hotel, fashionable abode for the rich and famous during the Venice Film Festival.
Hotel: Excelsior
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Highlight Lunch
Day 11 - VENICE SIGHTSEEING
Cruise by private launch to St Mark’s Square where the city’s former wealth and power is evidenced by the riches of St Mark’s Basilica. Admire also the Doge’s Palace and its adjoining Bridge of Sighs. No visit to Venice would be complete without a gondola serenade through the ‘watery streets’. Relax and enjoy the atmosphere, music and songs as you drift along the romantic canals. The afternoon is entirely yours to lose yourself in the hidden parts of the city. As evening descends, you are invited to a tour finalé Celebration Dinner favoured with good food, good wine and good company.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Celebration Dinner
Day 12 - RETURN TO USA
Alas you must bid farewell to this enchanting city today. Your departure transfer arrives at Venice Airport at 08:00.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
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Grand Tour of Italy and Sicily (2012 2013)
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17 Days |
Italy & Sicily |
July 5, 2012 |
$3465 |
A comprehensive exploration from the wellheeled north to the bucolic south. Contrast Sicily’s Greek heritage with the beauty of Capri and Venice’s very own captivating character. |
Included:
INCLUDED FIRST CLASS SERVICES
• Escorted by a professional Tour Director
• Headsets for all guided visits and walking tours
• Enjoy the unique comfort of Insight’s Luxury air-conditioned 40 seat coach with extended leg room and on-board restroom
• Insight Hotels include all service charges, taxes and porterage
• Insight Traveller Welcome pack
• Airport arrival and departure transfers at scheduled times on Day 2 and Day 17 (Should your flights not coincide with these transfers, please make your own way to/from the airport)
INCLUDED HIGHLIGHTS
• Rome: Visit the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel. Tour St Peter’s Basilica. Visit the Colosseum and overlook the Forum.
• Tuscany: Enjoy a tasting and talk about Chianti wine.
• Pisa: See the Cathedral, Baptistery and ‘Leaning Tower.
• Portofino: Cruise the Ligurian coast to this beautiful port (weather permitting).
• Italian Lakes: Join us in the social ritual of ‘La Passeggiata’.
• Verona: See the Roman Arena and Juliet’s balcony.
• Venice: Drift through the canals on a traditional gondola serenade. Cruise to St Mark’s Square. See the Bridge of Sighs, Doges’ Palace and St Mark’s Basilica. Venetian glass-blowing demonstration
• Florence: Visit the Academy Gallery to see the Statue of David. See the ‘Gates of Paradise’, Basilica of Santa Croce and visit Signoria Square. Traditional leather-work demonstration
• Cassino: Visit the peaceful Commonwealth War Cemetery.
• Sorrento: Cruise to the isle of Capri, ride into Capri town by open top taxi (weather permitting) and return by funicular railway. ‘Intarsio’ demonstration
• Taormina: Visit the Greek Theatre with views of Mt. Etna. Visit the courtyard of Palazzo Corvaja, seat of the first Sicilian parliament, and stroll along Corso Umberto to Piazza IX Aprile.
• Enna: Visit the hill top fortress town.
• Agrigento: Enjoy a guided tour of the Valley of the Temples.
• Palermo: See Quattro Canti Square, visit Palermo Cathedral and admire the dazzling mosaics in the Palatine Chapel
• Pompeii: Tour the excavations with a local guide.
INCLUDED QUALITY DINING
• A Welcome Reception with light informal meal (WR)
• Stop in Verona for a Highlight Lunch (HL)
• Choose from a selection of restaurants in Sorrento (DA)
• End-of-tour Celebration Dinner of local cuisine with wine and entertainment in Rome (CD)
• 15 Buffet Breakfasts (BB), 5 three-course table d’hôte Dinners, plus tea or coffee (D)`
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Day 1 - DEPART
Board your overnight flight (not included).
Day 2 - ROME AT LEISURE
Welcome to Rome - not only the fascinating modern capital of Italy but also a spectacular encyclopedia of living history! On arrival at Rome’s Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci Airport, your airport transfer leaves for the tour hotel at 09:30, 12:30 & 15:30. Perhaps take a stroll in the Piazza Navona before joining your Tour Director in the early evening for a Welcome reception including a drink and light meal.
Hotel: Mediterraneo
Meals: Welcome Reception
Day 3 - ROME SIGHTSEEING
Enjoy a tour of the priceless art of the Vatican Museums, followed by a visit to the Sistine Chapel. Using your audio headset, a local guide explains the significance of Michelangelo’s famous painted ceiling. Then visit St Peter’s Basilica, one of the largest churches in the world. Cross the Tiber to enter the Colosseum and see the Roman Forum. You are at leisure this afternoon.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 4 - ROME – PISA – SANTA MARGHERITA
Drive northwards today through the Tuscan hills. En route, there is a wine tasting and informative talk about the Chianti wines that make this region so famous. Then cross the Arno river to Pisa. Celebrated for its incredible leaning tower, Pisa also boasts a beautiful cathedral and baptistry. Continue along the coast, through tunnels and mountains that plunge dramatically into the sparkling sea. Your destination is the charming seaside resort of Santa Margherita.
Hotel: Best Western Hotel Regina Elena
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner
Day 5 - SANTA MARGHERITA - PORTOFINO - ITALIAN LAKES
Enjoy a short cruise (weather permitting) along the Ligurian coast to the exclusive and elegant village of Portofino, epitome of La Dolce Vita. Admire the gaily-coloured houses, browse the boutiques, stay a while in the café bars on the piazzetta and watch the yachts moored in the harbour. Later, head north to beautiful Lake Maggiore in the Italian Lake District. Why not join in the traditional ritual of la passeggiata tonight.
Hotel: Simplon
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner
Day 6 - ITALIAN LAKES - VERONA - VENICE
Follow the southern fringes of the Alps to romantic Verona, setting for one of history’s saddest love stories. See Juliet’s balcony and the Roman Arena before enjoying an authentic two course highlight lunch, typical of the region, including a glass of the region’s finest. Then it’s off to romantic Venice, ‘Queen of the Adriatic’.
Hotel: Molino Stucky Hilton
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Highlight Lunch
Day 7 - VENICE SIGHTSEEING
Cruise by private launch along canals lined with ornate palaces. Alight at St Mark’s Square where St Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace and its adjoining Bridge of Sighs await. After a Venetian glass blowing demonstration step aboard your gondola serenade. Relax and enjoy the atmosphere, music and songs as you drift along the romantic canals. The afternoon is entirely at leisure.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 8 - VENICE - FLORENCE
Head for the Apennines and the Tuscan capital of Florence. Join your local guide to visit the Statue of David in the Academy Gallery. Walk to the Cathedral to see Giotto’s bell tower and ‘Gates of Paradise’ before continuing to Signoria Square. Your walking tour finishes at the Basilica of Santa Croce, where Michelangelo lies buried. Finally, watch a leather work demonstration before enjoying time at leisure.
Hotel: NH Firenze
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner
Day 9 - FLORENCE AT LEISURE
A whole day is set aside to explore this glorious city, the treasure house of the Italian Renaissance. Check out the art galleries or take an optional drive into the beautiful Tuscan countryside?
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 10 - FLORENCE - SORRENTO
Take the smooth motorway southwards through the province of Umbria . Continue through the rich volcanic hills of Frascati to Cassino where you visit the Commonwealth Cemetery, overlooked by the austere monastery of Montecassino. Now follow the cliff top road to the resort of Sorrento.
Hotel: Grand Hotel La Pace
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 11 - ISLE OF CAPRI EXCURSION
See the local art of ‘intarsio’, before cruising to the beautiful Isle of Capri. An open top taxi takes you up to Capri town to spend time among the shops and admiring the sea views. Descend to the port by funicular and return to Sorrento. For your dining pleasure tonight, choose from a selection of local restaurants.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dine Around
Day 12 - SORRENTO - GIARDINI NAXOS
Head south this morning, following the smooth Autostrada along the very edge of the mountainous Calabria region, so often compared to Switzerland. Continuing down to the very toe of Italy to Reggio Calabria, make the short ferry crossing to Sicily and continue to your seaside resort.
Hotel: Sant Alphio Garden
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner
Day 13 - TAORMINA SIGHTSEEING
Drive up to Taormina, clinging to the side of Mount Tauro. Walk with your guide to the tiny courtyard of the Palazzo Corvaja. Visit the Greek Theatre, graced with the most spectacular of backdrops. Now stroll along elegant Corso Umberto to Piazza IX Aprile for more panoramic views. The rest of the day is yours to relax and enjoy at your own pace.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 14 - GIARDINI NAXOS - AGRIGENTO
Travel to the hilltop town of Enna, the Belvedere of Sicily. Explore the quaint streets, see the cathedral or enjoy the views from the medieval castle. Move on to Agrigento on the southern coast of Sicily where the Valley of the Temples once formed part of the Greek colony of Akragas. Walk with your guide along the fortified ridge to witness the main temples.
Hotel: Della Valle
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner
Day 15 - AGRIGENTO - PALERMO - OVERNIGHT BOAT
Cross the island to Palermo where a local guide shows you the highlights of the capital. Pass the huge Teatro Massimo to the baroque Quattro Canti Square and glimpse the ‘fountain of shame’. Visit Palermo Cathedral and admire the golden mosaics in the Palatine Chapel of the Palace of the Normans. Enjoy free time to explore until it’s time to board your overnight ferry.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 16 - NAPLES - POMPEII - ROME
Arrive in Naples in time for breakfast and an orientation tour of the city. Afterwards, continue to Pompeii, buried in 79 AD by an eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Walk through the cobbled streets with your guide and inspect some of the villas before returning to Rome. Tonight, join us for a farewell Celebration Dinner complete with pasta and music.
Hotel: Sheraton Rome
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Celebration Dinner with wine
Day 17 - RETURN HOME
Arrivederci Roma! Departure transfers arrive at Rome’s Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci Airport at 07:00 & 09:30.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
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Playgrounds of Europe (2012 2013) Gold
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12 Days |
Central Europe |
June 20, 2012 |
$3899 |
Follow the trail of mega-yachts, luxury villas, designer stores and chic cafés from the glistening lakes of Italy to the glamour of the French Riviera. One minute you’re spirited away for dinner by private launch in Venice, the other you’re hobnobbing with the haut monde in St Moritz or calling in, by boat, to the resort of Portofino. |
Included:
YOUR DELICIOUS DINING EXPERIENCES
• Get to know your Tour Director and fellow guests over a Welcome Reception including a light meal (WR)
• Cruise by private launch to a historic restaurant tucked in behind St Mark’s Square for a highlight dinner with wine (HD)
• Enjoy an end-of-tour Celebration dinner with wine at a delightful restaurant on the Côte d’Azur. (CD)
• 10 Buffet Breakfasts (BB), 2 three course dinners with choice (D).
YOUR EXCLUSIVE COLLECTION OF INCLUDED HIGHLIGHTS
• Milan: See the Gothic Milan Cathedral and La Scala Theatre, with ample time for shopping
• Lake Como: Visit the town of Como, dominated by its marble cathedral. Drive past beautiful villas and resort villages.
• St Moritz: Board the panoramic viewing carriages of the Bernina Express for one of Europe’s outstanding train journeys.
• Venice: Drift through the canals accompanied by musicians on a gondola serenade; See St Mark’s Basilica and the Bridge of Sighs. Witness a Venetian glass-blowing demonstration.
• Florence: Marvel at Michelangelo’s original statue of David in the Academy of Fine Arts; see the marble Cathedral, Giotto’s belltower, the ‘Gates of Paradise’, Piazza Santa Croce and the open-air gallery of Signoria Square.
• Tuscany: Travel through the famous Chianti vineyards and taste some of the local wine.
• Pisa: See the famous leaning tower and Cathedral
• Portofino: Take a short cruise along the Ligurian coast to the exclusive and elegant village of Portofino
• Monaco: Drive along part of the Grand Prix circuit, walk through the old town to see the Royal Palace and visit the Cathedral.
YOUR INCLUSIVE GOLD SERVICES
• Escorted by your ‘Personal Concierge’, an Insight professional Tour Director; and accompanied by expert local guides where appropriate.
• Enjoy the unique comfort of Insight’s luxury air-conditioned 40 seat coach with extended leg room and on-board restroom.
• Insight Traveller Welcome pack
• Airport arrival and departure transfers at scheduled times on Day 1 and Day 11.
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Day 1 - DEPART USA
Board your overnight flight (not included).
Day 2 - ARRIVE MILAN – LAKE MAGGIORE
Welcome to Italy! After being greeted by your Tour Director at Milan’s Malpensa Airport, your transfer departs for the Italian Lake District at 09:00 & 12:30. Settle in to your luxury hotel set on the stunning shores of Lake Maggiore, overlooking the enchanting Borromean Islands. This evening, you are invited to a Welcome Reception with drink and a light meal, followed by time to relax.
Hotel: Villa & Palazzo Aminta
Meals: Welcome Reception
Day 3 - FACADES AND FASHION IN MILAN
Get a taste of Italy’s renowned fashion capital today. A short drive brings you to the vibrant city of Milan where you can see the magnificent Cathedral, with its impressive façade and the world famous La Scala Theatre. Linking the two is the elegant, glass vaulted shopping arcade of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, lined with luxury boutiques. There is ample time for shopping, or to sip a cappuccino in one of the cafés, meeting places of the rich and famous. Afterwards, return to your lakeside oasis for time at leisure.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 4 - LAKE MAGGIORE – COMO – ST MORITZ
Drive over to enchanting Lake Como, considered the jewel of the Italian Lakes for its superb mountain setting. Stop a while in the town of Como, dominated by its marble cathedral, set in the narrow streets of the old town. See why this lake has long been a favourite of films stars, writers, diplomats and royalty as you journey along the sparkling water’s edge, lined with beautiful villas and resorts. North now through the town of Chiavenna, and cross into the Grisons, the largest of the Swiss cantons. Take thirteen hairpin bends up the Maloja Pass to reach the Engadine Region. Your destination is the chic ‘jet-set’ resort of St Moritz. Mingle with the millionaires this afternoon as the majestic Grisons Alps tower above.
Hotel: Schweizerhof
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 5 - ST MORITZ – VENICE
Board the panoramic viewing carriages of the Bernina Express for one of Europe’s outstanding train journeys. Enjoy a visual feast of glaciers, lakes and forest as you ride this roller-coaster route up the Bernina Pass, only to descend via a series of sharp zigzags and tortuous loops. End of the line is in the Italian town of Tirano. After free time for lunch, re-join your coach and continue down to the fertile plains and on to romantic Venice. Your exclusive 5-star luxury hotel is set on its own private Island, overlooking St. Mark’s Basin, Giudecca island and the Lido. As evening descends, you are collected by private launch to arrive in style at your historic restaurant, nestled a tangle of ‘calli’ behind St Mark’s Square. After a magical evening, savour the moment on your return cruise across the lagoon; cheeks flushed with wine and luscious food, laughter hangs on a warm breeze and the lights of Venice twinkling all around.
Hotel: San Clemente Palace
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Highlight Dinner
Day 6 - THE MAGIC OF LA SERENISSIMA
Venice was once one of the greatest trading centres of the world. The city’s wealth and power is evidenced by the riches of St Mark’s Basilica. Admire also the Doge’s Palace and its adjoining Bridge of Sighs. No visit to Venice would be complete without a gondola serenade through the romantic canals. The afternoon is entirely yours to lose yourself in the hidden parts of the city.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 7 - VENICE – FLORENCE
After a pleasant morning’s drive arrive in the beautiful rolling countryside of Tuscany, and continue to Florence, known for its Renaissance art and architecture. Join your local guide for a tour of the Academy Gallery to see Michelangelo’s beautiful statue of David. Continue to the multi-coloured marble cathedral, Giotto’s belltower and ‘Gates of Paradise’ before visiting the Piazza della Signoria, an open air museum and still the political heart of Florence. Pause for a refreshing gelato before strolling on to Piazza Santa Croce famous for its cathedral and luxury shops. Your downtown hotel is full of charm and character, only a stone’s throw from the cathedral.
Hotel: Brunelleschi
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner
Day 8 - FLORENCE AT LEISURE
The joys of Florence are varied so today is entirely free for your own personal exploration. Head down to the Ponte Vecchio, haggle for leather goods at the market around San Lorenzo or relax amid the terraces of the Boboli Gardens. By night, make the most of warm summer evenings by following the locals to the buzzing covered markets for rustic Florentine dishes. Alternatively, dine alfresco with crisp table-top linen and crystal glassware.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 9 - FLORENCE – PISA – VIAREGGIO
Sleep in, relax over breakfast and read the paper. Mid-morning board your coach for a drive through the patchwork of vines, olives and cypresses that typify the Chianti hills. In one of the small bucolic towns, typical of the area, stop for a taste of local Chianti wine. Now head for the coast, pausing on the way at the incredible Leaning Tower of Pisa, which leans 5.5 degrees (about 15 feet) from the perpendicular. Take time to explore the Square of Miracles before heading for the famous Italian Riviera and your historic and prestigious 5-star hotel on Viareggio’s sea front.
Hotel: Grand Principe di Piemonte
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner
Day 10 - VIAREGGIO – PORTOFINO – NICE
This morning, the Highway of the Flowers takes you along the enchanting Italian Riviera, with fine views of the Mediterranean. Enjoy a short cruise (weather permitting) along the Ligurian coast to the exclusive and elegant village of Portofino, epitome of La Dolce Vita. Stay a while in the fashion boutiques of the old town, the café bars in Piazzetta or watch the yachts moored in the harbour. On to glamorous Nice - Queen of the Riviera. Take a stroll along the fabled Promenade des Anglais, or browse in the exclusive boutiques.
Hotel: Boscolo Exedra/Fairmont Monte Carlo (in Monaco)
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 11 - THE PRINCIPALITY OF MONACO
Drive to Monaco to walk through the old town to see the Royal Palace, the yacht-filled harbour and the Cathedral where the late Prince Ranier and Princess Grace are buried. Then continue to the medieval village of Eze, perched high on a rock above the Mediterranean. After time to explore the narrow streets in this spectacular village return to Nice for an afternoon at leisure. As night time closes in you have reservations for an end-of-tour Celebration dinner with wine at a local restaurant. (BB,CD).
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Celebration Dinner
Day 12 - RETURN TO USA
Your tour draws to a close this morning. Transfers arrive at Nice Airport at 06:15 & 09:00.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
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Alpine Harmony (2012 2013) Gold
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11 Days |
Central & Eastern Europe |
Apr 2 - Oct 25, 2012 |
$4505 |
Crystal is everywhere on this journey. Not only has it been produced in the Tyrol for over 100 years, but it’s also reflected in the snowy peaks, mineral rich streams and glistening glaciers. It sparkles in the imperial palaces and gleams on the crisp white linen of your restaurant table. |
Included:
YOUR DELICIOUS DINING EXPERIENCES
• Get to know your Tour Director and fellow guests over a Welcome Reception including a light meal (WR)
• A Highlight Lunch served at your seat aboard the Glacier Express
• End-of-tour Celebration Dinner with wine in Vienna (CD)
• 9 Buffet Breakfasts (BB), 2 three course dinners with choice (D)
YOUR EXCLUSIVE COLLECTION OF INCLUDED HIGHLIGHTS
• Montreux: Enjoy a guided visit to Chillon Castle.
• Martigny: View the Roman Amphitheatre.
• Sion: See the two fortress-churches, Cathedral and Town Hall.
• Zermatt: Journey aboard the highest open-air railway in Europe to the summit of the Gornergrat for superb views of the Matterhorn and Monte Rosa.
• Glacier Express: Enjoy a scenic ride through the heart of the Swiss Alps.
• St Moritz: Enjoy the freedom of a mountain railways pass.
• Innsbruck: See the Golden Roof and the Royal Palace.
• Kufstein: Visit the Riedel Glass factory.
• Salzburg: See the Mirabell Gardens, Mozart’s birthplace on the Getreidegasse and visit the Cathedral in the Old Town.
• Melk: A guided visit of the huge Baroque-style monastery.
• Wachau Valley: Join a cruise along the most beautiful part of the Danube.
• Vienna: Enjoy a guided tour of the Schönbrunn Palace and its formal gardens followed by a strudel demonstration in the court bakery. Tour the Ring Road seeing the Winter Palace City Hall and Parliament.
• Scenic Drives: Engadine Valley, Salzkammergut.
YOUR INCLUSIVE GOLD SERVICES
• Escorted by your ‘Personal Concierge’, an Insight professional Tour Director; and accompanied by expert local guides where appropriate.
• Enjoy the unique comfort of Insight’s luxury air-conditioned 40 seat coach with extended leg room and on-board restroom
• Enjoy First Class seats aboard the Glacier Express all the way from Zermatt to St. Moritz.
• Insight Traveller Welcome pack
• Airport arrival and departure transfers at scheduled times on Day 1 and Day 10.
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Day 1 - DEPART USA
Board your overnight flight (not included).
Day 2 - ARRIVE GENEVA – MONTREUX
Welcome to Switzerland! After being greeted by your Tour Director, transfers depart Geneva Airport at 11:00, 13:00 and 16:00 hours. A beautiful drive along the lake brings you to your sumptuous hotel situated on the shores of Lake Geneva, in the heart of Montreux – the pearl of the Swiss Riviera. Tonight, join your Tour Director for a Welcome Reception with drink and a light meal, followed by time to relax and explore.
Hotel: Fairmont Le Montreux Palace
Meals: Welcome Reception
Day 3 - MONTREUX – ZERMATT
The associations with the early ‘Romantic’ movement in Europe are very strong here, especially in the poetry of Lord Byron and much of his inspiration was drawn from Château de Chillon. After a guided visit of this castle set on a rocky islet in the lake, journey to Martigny to view the Roman Amphitheatre which was able to seat 6,000 people. Continue through the Rhône valley to Sion, dominated by two rocky peaks, each crowned with episcopal fortresses. Enjoy the varied architecture and see the cathedral and Old Town Hall. The final stage of your journey to the traffic-free mountain resort of Zermatt is by cog-wheel train. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of a-la-carte dining tonight.
Hotel: Grand Hotel Zermatterhof
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner
Day 4 - JOURNEY TO THE ROOF OF EUROPE
Gather at the station to board the cog-wheel train which winds slowly up the Gornergrat mountain, the highest open-air railway in Europe. The train crosses impressive bridges, galleries and tunnels, in the midst of aromatic forests and alpine meadows. From the summit you can expect superb views of the Matterhorn and Monte Rosa (Switzerland’s highest mountain). This afternoon you are at leisure to browse among the shops, explore the ancient wooden farmhouses and ‘mazot’ barns in the back alleys, or visit the Alpine Museum with its fascinating recreation of local life.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 5 - ZERMATT – ST MORITZ
This morning join the Glacier Express for a spectacular ride through the heart of the Swiss Alps with views of snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows and picturesque villages with chalet-style houses. Up to the 2,033-meter-high Oberalp Pass, down into the Rhine Canyon, through 91 tunnels and over 291 bridges, from Zermatt at the foot of the Matterhorn, to the world-famous resort St. Moritz. Enjoy the view while lunch is served on board.
Hotel: Schweizerhof
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Highlight Lunch
Day 6 - ST MORITZ AT LEISURE
Today is entirely yours to enjoy the marvellous scenery and fresh air - perhaps take a horse-drawn carriage ride to the foot of a nearby glacier or browse in the elegant boutiques? To help you make the most of your day, Insight has arranged a mountain railways pass providing free travel on all cable cars, funiculars and chairlifts (if open) in Engadin St. Moritz. Enjoy!
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 7 - ST MORITZ – INNSBRUCK – SALZBURG
The clear skies of the Engadine Valley provide incomparable scenery as you follow the River Inn to Austria. In the mountain ringed city of Innsbruck see the Golden Roof of Emperor Maximilian and the Royal Palace. Then enjoy some time to relax among the typical Austrian cafes of the Old Quarter, with its narrow arcades and gabled shop fronts. Continue eastwards for a stop at the Riedel glass factory in Kufstein before continuing through the mountains to your elegant 5-star Salzburg hotel.
Hotel: Radisson Blu Altstadt
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner
Day 8 - THE CITY OF MOZART
A guided tour this morning introduces you to Mozart’s home city. In the Cathedral Square view the domed cathedral and splendid Residenz fountain. Stroll through the old town’s narrow lanes to see Mozart’s Birthplace on the Getreidegasse, a lively shopping street lined with attractive wrought iron signs. Cross the river to the formal gardens of the Mirabell Palace where there is a great chance to photograph the city skyline crowned by the castle heights. The afternoon is at leisure to discover more of the city’s delights or shop in the traditional passageways of the old town.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 9 - SALZBURG – VIENNA
Enjoy a fine view of the Mondsee as you journey through the lakes and mountains of the Salzkammergut, and across the rich farmlands of eastern Austria. At the picturesque medieval town of Melk, a local guide waits to show you through the colossal Baroque style monastery, one of most famous in the world. Then join a scenic cruise along the River Danube through the Wachau Valley, where vineyards cover hillsides overlooked by ruined castles. Finally head for Austria’s great Imperial capital and your deluxe hotel, where Queen Elizabeth II, Charlie Chaplin, Michael Jackson, and Vladimir Putin have all stayed.
Hotel: Imperial
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 10 - CITY OF THE HABSBURGS
Vienna owes much of its present day charm to the long reign of the Habsburgs, so acquaint yourself with Europe’s greatest ruling dynasty at Maria Theresa’s Schonbrunn Palace and formal gardens. Following your guided visit there is a strudel demonstration at the court bakery. Next, join your guide for a drive around the famous ring road. This grand boulevard, built along the lines of the old city walls, show-cases many of the capital’s architectural masterpieces, including the Opera House, magnificent Hofburg Imperial Residence and Parliament building. This evening you are invited to a Celebration Dinner with wine - a fitting finalé to your tour.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Celebration Dinner
Day 11 - RETURN TO USA
Departure transfers arrive at Vienna Airport at 07:00 & 09:00.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
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Romantic Britain and Ireland (2012 2013)
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22 Days |
UK, Ireland & Scotland |
July 28, 2012 |
$3899 |
The alternating mix of touring days and two night stays makes for a moderately paced tour. However, Waterford to Cardiff requires an early start in order to catch the morning ferry. |
Included:
INCLUDED FIRST CLASS SERVICES
• Escorted by a professional Tour Director
• Headsets for all guided visits and walking tours
• Enjoy the unique comfort of Insight’s Luxury air-conditioned 40 seat coach with extended leg room and on-board restroom
• Insight Hotels include all service charges, taxes and porterage
• Insight Traveller Welcome pack
• London Airport transfer service available
INCLUDED HIGHLIGHTS
• Oxford: See the ‘dreaming spires’ and colleges.
• Stratford: Visit the birthplace of William Shakespeare.
• Lincoln: Visit one of England’s finest Medieval cathedrals.
• York: See York Minster, city walls and medieval “Shambles”
• Yorkshire Dales: Hear about life as a local hillside farmer.
• Edinburgh: Visit the Castle during your guided city tour. Selected departures experience the Edinburgh Military Tattoo
• St Andrews: Visit the birthplace of golf.
• Highlands: Visit Culloden Battlefield and Visitor Centre and see Loch Ness.
• Mull & Iona: Tour the Isle of Mull and visit Iona Abbey.
• Loch Lomond: Embark on a guided scenic cruise.
• Arran: Visit Arran Aromatics and a local whisky distillery.
• Belfast: Visit the new Titanic Belfast Exhibition on your guided city tour.
• Dublin: Visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral during a guided city tour.
• Galway: See the cathedral and Eyre Square.
• Cliffs of Moher: Visit the Exhibition Centre.
• Killarney: Tour the scenic Ring of Kerry.
• Blarney: Visit the Castle and kiss the Blarney stone.
• Waterford: Visit the Crystal Showroom.
• Cardiff: See the castle and Millennium Stadium.
• Bath: Visit the Roman Baths and Georgian Pump Rooms.
• Stonehenge: Visit the mysterious megaliths.
• Scenic drives – Cotswolds, Yorkshire Dales, Highlands, Glencoe, Mull & Arran, Dingle, Ring of Kerry, Severn Bridge.
• Glasgow: Enjoy an orientation tour
• London: See Westminster Abbey, Big Ben and Buckingham Palace on your London sightseeing tour
INCLUDED QUALITY DINING
• A Welcome Reception with light informal meal (WR)
• Traditional Highland Dinner with Scottish entertainment (HD)
• Choose from a selection of restaurants in Killarney (DA)
• Enjoy a tour finalé Celebration Dinner with wine (CD)
• 20 full Breakfasts (FB)
• 5 three-course Dinners with choice, or buffets, plus tea or coffee (D)
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Day 1 - DEPART USA
Board your overnight flight (not included).
Day 2 - ARRIVE LONDON
Welcome to London! After checking in to your hotel you are at leisure.
Hotel: Thistle Marble Arch
Day 3 - LONDON SIGHTSEEING
Your half day sightseeing tour of London’s West End shows you all the main sights including Big Ben and Buckingham Palace.
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 4 - LONDON – OXFORD – STRATFORD
After a warm welcome from your Tour Director, drive to the famous university town of Oxford. Admire its beautiful spires before continuing via pretty Cotswolds villages to Stratford-upon- Avon. Visit the birthplace of the Bard, William Shakespeare and enjoy some free time to stroll along the River Avon. Tonight, enjoy a Welcome Reception and light informal meal.
Hotel: Falcon
Meals: Welcome Reception
Day 5 - STRATFORD – LINCOLN – YORK – LEEDS
Travel through the heart of ‘Robin Hood Country’ on your way to visit Lincoln Cathedral, one of Europe’s finest medieval buildings, featured in the Da Vinci Code. Later continue to York, once the Viking Capital of Britain. Saunter along the Shambles to reach York Minster, in the very heart of this medieval gem. Continue to Leeds, ‘Gateway to the Yorkshire Dales’.
Hotel: Park Plaza
Meals: Full Breakfast / Dinner
Day 6 - LEEDS – YORKSHIRE DALES – EDINBURGH
Enjoy a different side of England as you enter the Yorkshire Dales National Park via Leyburn and stop in the quaint village of Hawes. See the outstanding natural beauty of Upper Wensleydale, famous for its cheese before crossing the border at Gretna and continuing to the Scottish capital.
Hotel: Roxburghe
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 7 - EDINBURGH SIGHTSEEING.
Walk with your guide inside Edinburgh Castle for spectacular views of the town. Continue down the Royal Mile, past the St Giles’ Cathedral, to the Queen’s Holyroodhouse Palace before crossing over to the ‘New Town’. The afternoon is free to shop on Princes Street. Tonight, selected departures enjoy the Military Tattoo – a colourful mixture of historic battles and military manoeuvres, complete with pipes and drums.
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 8 - EDINBURGH – ST ANDREWS – HIGHLANDS
Drive to the town St Andrews, home of golf! Continue over the River Tay, through Dundee and Perth to Pitlochry, and cross the Grampian Mountains to your Highland hotel. This evening enjoy a Highlight Dinner with haggis, accompanied by dancing and the sound of the bagpipes.
Hotel: Laggan Country Hotel
Meals: Full Breakfast / Highlight Dinner
Day 9 - EDINBURGH – ST ANDREWS – HIGHLANDS
Follow the Spey Valley and stop at tragic Culloden Moor and visitor centre, where the pride of the Highland clans was finally crushed. Drive via the Highland capital of Inverness to the scenic shores of Loch Ness in search of the monster. Continue to the Commando Memorial in the shadow of Ben Nevis and stop a wee while in Fort William. Move on to the pretty coastal resort of Oban.
Hotel: Oban Bay
Meals: Full Breakfast / Dinner
Day 10 - MULL AND IONA EXCURSION
Ferry across Loch Linnhe to reach the Isle of Mull. Enjoy a scenic drive across the island before a short boat ride to Iona. This early centre of Celtic Christianity is the burial place of many Scottish kings, and your visit to Iona Abbey shows why this remains one of Scotland’s most sacred sites.
Meals: Full Breakfast / Dinner
Day 11 - OBAN – LOCH LOMOND – TROON
Drive through the beautiful scenery of the Trossachs to Loch Lomond and embark on a guided lake cruise. Continue to the city of Glasgow for an orientation tour and free time. Then on to your hotel in Troon.
Hotel: Barcelo Marine/Menzies Irvine
Meals: Full Breakfast / Dinner
Day 12 - ISLE OF ARRAN EXCURSION
A short ferry ride takes you to Brodick on the Isle of Arran. Your tour of the Island includes a visit to Arran Aromatics to see the production of luxury soaps, creams and candles at Scotland’s leading manufacturer. Next learn all about whisky making from the professionals at Arran Distillery, and sample a ‘wee dram’.
Meals: Full Breakfast / Dinner
Day 13 - TROON – BELFAST
Bid farewell to Scotland as you cross the Irish Sea and drive to the vibrant city of Belfast, capital of Northern Ireland. Meet your local guide for a panoramic tour. Highlights include the City Hall, Queen’s University and Stormont Castle. RMS Titanic was built in Belfast - follow the story of the ill fated ship at the new state of the art Titanic Belfast building and exhibition.
Hotel: Europa
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 14 - BELFAST – DUBLIN
Travel alongside the Mountains of Mourne to Drogheda, taking a short drive along the historic Boyne Valley, sight of the Battle of Boyne where William of Orange defeated the forces of Catholic King James. This afternoon, on your guided tour of Ireland’s ‘fair city’ see O’Connell Street, historic Phoenix Park and visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
Hotel: Burlington/Herbert Park
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 15 - DUBLIN AT LEISURE
A whole day at leisure to shop, continue sightseeing or just enjoy a pint of Guinness at the local pub!
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 16 - DUBLIN – GALWAY – LIMERICK
West to Galway to see Galway Cathedral. Continue around the famous bay to the Visitors’ Centre at the 700-foot Cliffs of Moher and the breathtaking vistas of the Clare Coast. Cross the Burren en route to Limerick.
Hotel: George Boutique Hotel
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 17 - LIMERICK – DINGLE – KILLARNEY
Travel via the picturesque thatched village of Adare, to Tralee. Enjoy more spectacular scenery as you make your way into the great cliffs, wide skies and ocean views of the Dingle Peninsula. Choose from a selection of restaurants in Killarney this evening.
Hotel: Killarney Towers/Killarney Avenue
Meals: Full Breakfast / Dine Around
Day 18 - RING OF KERRY EXCURSION
A delightful excursion takes you around the Ring of Kerry, a world of towering cliffs, lush lake lands and remote villages. Continue through Ireland’s highest mountain range, the MacGillicuddy Reeks, to the three peaceful Lakes of Killarney
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 19 - KILLARNEY – WATERFORD
Visit Blarney Castle, the home of the famous stone of eloquence, once kissed, never forgotten! Travel on through the port of Dungarvan to the walled city of Waterford, where you can admire a sparkling display of crystal. Enjoy a glass of wine with your Celebration Dinner at the hotel tonight.
Hotel: Fitzwilton
Meals: Full Breakfast / Celebration Dinner
Day 20 - WATERFORD – CARDIFF
Take the ferry across the Irish Sea to Pembroke. Continue on to the Welsh capital of Cardiff, famous for its castle and Millennium Stadium.
Hotel: Radisson Blu
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 21 - CARDIFF – BATH – LONDON
Over the Severn Bridge, then it is not far to Bath with its Georgian streets and crescents, and visit the Roman Baths. Cross Salisbury Plain and stop to visit the mysterious megaliths of Stonehenge. From here, travel to London, where your tour comes to an end
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 22 - RETURN TO USA
Your tour comes to an end after breakfast.
Meals: Full Breakfast
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Hawaiian Dreams (including Kauai 2012 2013) Gold
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12 Days |
Hawaii |
July 14, 2012 |
$3515 |
The warm Pacific laps gently at your toes as you recline on white-sand beaches, lush jungle hillsides reveal cascading waterfalls and the scent of plumeria envelops you with its sweet perfume. Hawaii beckons with its sensual tropical beauty — and enchants you with its gentle spirit of Aloha. |
Included:
YOUR DELICIOUS DINING EXPERIENCES
• Enjoy a Welcome Reception with Hawaiian pupus (WR)
• 9 or 11* Full Breakfasts (FB), 1 lunch, 1 three-course table d’hôte dinner on Hawaii (D)
• *2 Highlight Lunches in Lahaina and Hanalei Bay (HL)
• 2 Highlight Dinners with wine in Waikiki and on Hawaii (HD)
• Hawaiian Luau Highlight Dinner with open bar in Kaanapali (HD)
• *Celebration Dinner with wine at a restaurant on Kauai (CD)
YOUR EXCLUSIVE COLLECTION OF INCLUDED HIGHLIGHTS
• Oahu: Learn about Hawaii’s former royalty on a guided tour of the Iolani Palace and explore downtown Honolulu. Honour those who gave their lives during the attack on Pearl Harbor at the USS Arizona Memorial. Join a WWII Veteran to tour the Punchbowl Cemetery. Meet one of Waikiki’s famous beach boys and “talk story” about surfing.
• Maui: Tour Alii Kula Lavender and sip lavender tea accompanied by lavender scones. Taste award-winning goat cheeses at the Surfing Goat Dairy and discover the secrets of the famed Maui sweet onions at Kula Country Farms. Be enlightened about the ever-active geology of the formation of the Hawaiian Archipelago with an expert naturalist.
• Hawaii: Visit the Jaggar Museum in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, look out upon the caldera, walk through a lava tube and circle Kilauea. See Hulihee Palace, Mokuaikaua Church, and St. Michael’s Catholic Church in historic Kailua. Visit the Kona Coffee Living History Farm. Take a guided walk through coffee and macadamia nut orchards and visit the only cacao farm in America that grows, processes and produces chocolate. Learn about ranching in Hawaii at historic Anna Ranch. Enjoy your “Fun N Sun Activity Pass” – a US$75 value per person
• *Kauai: Marvel at the views of Hanalei Bay; view the beautiful Opaekaa Falls and Spouting Horn blowhole and drive under the famous “Tunnel of Trees.” Join a local artisan for an exclusive lesson on making authentic Hawaii lei. Explore spectacular Waimea Canyon, the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.”
YOUR INCLUSIVE GOLD SERVICES
• Escorted by a professional Tour Director
• Headsets for all guided visits and walking tours
• Luxury air-conditioned 40-guest coach with extended legroom and onboard restroom
• Insight Hotels include all service charges, taxes and porterage
• Insight Traveller Welcome pack
• Economy inter-island airfares on Hawaiian Airlines fromHonolulu to Kahului, Kahului to Hilo & Kona to Lihue*
• Airport arrival and departure transfers on; Day 1 and Day 10 for the 10-day tour Day 1 and Day 12 for the 12-day tour.
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Day 1 - ARRIVE HONOLULU
Aloha and welcome to the beautiful Hawaiian islands! After being greeted with smiling faces and a traditional flower lei, you will be transferred to your elegant beachfront resort, which has welcomed visitors to Waikiki since 1905. With its expansive pool, stretch of golden beach, luxurious guest rooms and the first and only beach front spa in the area, the Moana Surfrider surely deserves its nickname as the "First Lady of Waikiki." Settle into island time and relax or enjoy a dip in the Pacific or a stroll on the famous beach. Gather at 6 p.m. with your fellow guests and Tour Director for a Welcome Reception and Hawaiian appetizers, known as pupus here on the islands.
Hotel: Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, Banyan Ocean-view Room
Meals: Welcome Reception
Day 2 - HONOLULU
Hawaii is known around the world for its great surfing and this morning you will get a chance to meet one of the famous Waikiki beach boys who will "talk story" with you about surfing and share with you their ocean skills storytelling talents and aloha. If you feel adventurous, paddling out and standing up on your big board is optional. The rest of your day is at leisure — perhaps explore the Waikiki International Marketplace and its more than 100 carts, shops and artisan stands. Alternatively, relax at your oceanfront resort, be pampered at the spa, sip cocktails on the verandah, or read a book under an umbrella on the sandy beach or poolside… the choice is yours and the options are nearly endless.
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 3 - HONOLULU SIGHTSEEING
Begin your day with a little island history, starting with a private guided tour of Iolani Palace, the former home of Hawaiian royalty — the only official royal residence in the United States. Explore downtown Honolulu and view the current State Capitol, the King Kamehameha Statue at Aliiolani Hale and Washington Place, the Greek-revival-style palace where Queen Liliuokalani was arrested during the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom. Visit Pearl Harbor and the poignant USS Arizona Memorial. Take a moment to honour the American soldiers who gave their lives during the surprise attack that launched the United States into World War II. Head to Punchbowl National Cemetery and its rolling green hills bursting with flowers. Meet a WWII Veteran and explore this famous site where those who died in the Pacific naval war are buried. This evening watch the sun dip below the horizon as you enjoy elegant ocean-side dining and classic modern cuisine at a Highlight Dinner at the award-winning Beachhouse restaurant at your resort.
Meals: Full Breakfast / Highlight Dinner
Day 4 - DEPART HONOLULU - MAUI
Soar high above the Pacific and enjoy the island views as you fly to Maui, the Magic Isle. Head for famed Kaanapali Beach, once designated the best beach in the United States. Your home for the next three nights is the luxurious beachfront Westin Kaanapali Ocean Resort Villas. Relax and enjoy the spectacular views from your private balcony, the sumptuous cuisine, beautiful pool and a host of activities. This afternoon, choose from three included pastimes: will it be a lesson to learn how to hula dance or play the ukulele, or a visit to the resort's world-class spa, voted by SpaFinder's readers as one of the Top 10 New Getaway Spas?
Hotel: The Westin Kaanapali Ocean Resort Villas. Oceanview Studio Villa
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 5 - MAUI SIGHTSEEING
Today is a journey for all five senses; tasting, smelling, touching, seeing and hearing, while experiencing the eclectic homegrown specialities of Maui. Follow the little-travelled back roads to explore the island's unique boutique farms. Take a deep breath — you may think you have been transported to Provence, but what you're smelling is simply the enticing scent of the royal lavender of Kula at Alii Kula Lavender Farm. Learn how lavender is grown as you tour the farm; then indulge your palate as you sip lavender tea and sample scones baked with lavender. At the Surfing Goat Dairy, winner of 16 national awards, try the award-winning goat cheeses; then detour to Kula Country Farms where you'll learn why Maui's sweet onions are truly no kaoi — the best. Top off your cornucopia of tasting with a Highlight Lunch served al fresco on the beach at I'0 restaurant, renowned for its contemporary Pacific cuisine. This afternoon, stroll the shops and galleries along Front Street in Lahaina and enjoy an evening at leisure.
Meals: Full Breakfast / Highlight Lunch
Day 6 - MAUI AT LEISURE
Today is yours to explore further or succumb to the pleasures of your resort. If you're ready for more adventure, rise before dawn for an optional tour to greet the sunrise from atop a volcano. Perhaps embark on a cruise to spot the migrating humpback whales, breaching and spy hopping (in season) or just relax and enjoy the beach and spa at your luxurious resort overlooking a spectacular stretch of Kaanapali Beach. This afternoon, meet with a local naturalist for an enlightening talk about the ever-changing geology and the formation of the Hawaiian Archipelago. Tonight, celebrate Hawaii's culture and traditions at an authentic Hawaiian Luau Highlight Dinner. Sip tropical cocktails, sample traditional poi and roasted pig, as well as a feast of Hawaiian specialities, and enjoy the lilting Hawaiian songs and hula dances.
Meals: Full Breakfast / Highlight Dinner
Day 7 - DEPART MAUI - HAWAII
Fly on to the Big Island of Hawaii, arriving in Hilo. Wind your way through rolling volcanic hills and the lush foliage of the "wet side" of the island to visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the park is home to the world's largest volcano, Mauna Loa, and one of the most active, Kilauea. Visit the Jaggar Museum to learn about the lava flows and explosive beginnings of the Hawaiian Islands. Look down on the Kilauea Caldera and there's even the chance to walk through the Thurston Lava tube, a massive, hollow chamber formed when lava drained from it some 500 years ago. After lunch, travel along the Hamakua shoreline on the Kohala Coast to the spectacular Fairmont Orchid, your home for the next three nights. At this exceptional resort, every detail has been designed to immerse you in the natural beauty and cultured relaxation of the Hawaiian Islands. From your distinctive guest room to the personalised service, striking public spaces and enchanted setting by the sea, you won't soon forget your stay in lovely Kona. This evening, indulge in Hawaiian elegance with a four-course Highlight Dinner with wine at the award-winning Brown's Beach House Restaurant, the place for the quintessential island fine dining experience located just steps from shore.
Hotel: The Fairmont Orchid, Partial Oceanview room
Meals: Full Breakfast / Lunch / Highlight Dinner
Day 8 - HAWAII SIGHTSEEING
This morning soak up the atmosphere on a guided walk through coffee and macademia nut orchards, and the only cacao farm in North America that grows, processes and produces chocolate. You'll be treated to their unique American Estate Grown Chocolate and taste a cup of 100% pure Kona Coffee. Then step back in time at Puuhonua o Honaunau (place of refuge) National Historical Park, a restored religious sanctuary designed to keep stories and traditions of Old Hawaii alive. Explore the historic town of Kailua, viewing Hulihee Palace, Mokuaikaua Church and St Michael's Church. On the way back to the resort, stop at historic Anna Ranch, beautifully set against the backdrop of Waimea's lush green hills. Anna Ranch embodies the history of ranching with an emphasis on Hawaiian ranch life in the early 20th Century. Enjoy this rare opportunity to visit the restored ranch house and outbuildings, and meet the on-site blacksmith and Master saddle maker and leather crafter who can be seen in action most days.
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 9 - HAWAII AT LEISURE
Today is yours to spend as you please, enjoying your resort's extensive activities with your Fun N Sun Activity Pass which Insight has included for you. If you're feeling adventurous, don a snorkel and fins to explore the underwater life, guide a kayak through the clear waters, or even learn how to paddle a traditional outrigger canoe. Up for some cultural exploration? Visit the Pacific's largest field of petroglyphs or practice weaving a coconut-leaf basket. More interested in the inner journey? Spend some time soothing your soul at the famed Spa Without Walls, which offers beachfront massage and other restorative treatments. Be sure to leave some time to visit the friendly colony of native Hawaiian green sea turtles that bask on the shores each afternoon. Later, enjoy a mixology Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spaclass to learn how to make the perfect Mai Tai, Blue Hawaiian and Pina Colada and get a taste of your favourite concoction! If you're returning home tomorrow, toast your Tour Director and fellow guests farewell at tonight's hotel dinner.
Meals: Full Breakfast / Dinner
Day 10 - ARRIVE KAUAI
Guests opting for the 12-day tour depart Hawaii for the lush garden isle of Kauai. Head north to Princeville, overlooking Hanalei Bay, where movies such as South Pacific, From Here to Eternity, Blue Hawaii, and the Jurassic Park trilogy were shot. Enjoy a highlight lunch on a terrace overlooking the majestic mountains and white sand of the 2-mile long crescent-shaped bay. Heading south, stop at the mountain ringed Opaekaa Falls and the Spouting Horn blowhole, one of Kauai's most photographed places. Drive through the magnificent eucalyptus "Tunnel of Trees" en route to the glorious beaches of Poipu. Your award-winning resort is nestled in one of the prettiest bays in the islands. Sleep, dine and relax in style for the next two nights as you get in tune with the rhythmic wash of waves, the bright sun gilding the sparkling water and scent of the tropical gardenias and pua kenikenis that perfume the manicured grounds. This afternoon, do as the locals do and learn how to make traditional flower leis at an exclusive class led by a master artisan. Suitably attired for dinner on your own tonight, perhaps enjoy some fresh seafood or a nice steak with some of your travelling companions.
Hotel: Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa, Partial Oceanview room
Meals: Full Breakfast / Highlight Lunch
Day 11 - KAUAI SIGHTSEEING AND AT LEISURE
After breakfast, explore immense Waimea Canyon, the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, to marvel at its vibrant colours resplendent in the changing island light. Back at your hotel, the afternoon is at leisure to enjoy the lovely beach, pool and spa — for no Hawaiian idyll is complete without some serious relaxation. On your final night on Kauai, join your Tour Director and travelling companions for a festive Celebration Dinner of contemporary Hawaiian cuisine and wine, served in the unique Hawaiian setting of Tidepools restaurant, with its idyllic open-air hale pili (thatched huts), waterfalls and koi-filled lagoons. Awarded Honolulu Magazine's prestigious Hale 'Aina award for fine dining in Kauai year after year, you'll enjoy the tempting combinations inspired by the natural ingredients and rich traditions of Hawaii.
Meals: Full Breakfast / Celebration Dinner
Day 12 - DEPART HAWAII
After a leisurely breakfast overlooking the Pacific, bid Aloha to the Hawaiian Islands, and take your complimentary transfer to Lihue or linger longer in the islands with additional nights on Kauai.
Meals: Full Breakfast
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Capitals of Eastern Canada (2012 2013)
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7 Days |
Canada |
July 1, 2012 |
$1375 |
Enjoy two-night stays in cosmopolitan Toronto and romantic Quebec City, plus overnight stops in vibrant Montreal and the nation’s capital city, Ottawa. |
Included:
INCLUDED HIGHLIGHTS
•Toronto: Rise to the top of the CN Tower. See museum row, Queen’s Park and City Hall.
•Niagara Falls: Enjoy close-up views on the Maid of the Mist cruise. Browse the shops and galleries of Niagara-on-the-Lake.
•Ottawa: Visit the Canadian Museum of Civilization and see the Parliament, Royal Canadian Mint and National Art Gallery.
•Quebec: Visit the shrine of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupre and the Montmorency Falls. See the Plains of Abraham and Citadel
•Montreal: Enjoy the views from Mount Royal and explore the Old Town. Visit the dramatic Notre-Dame Basilica.
INCLUDED QUALITY DINING
•Enjoy a Welcome Reception with light buffet (WR)
•A Dine-Around evening with wine in Ottawa (DA)
•Enjoy a Celebration Dinner with wine in Montreal (CD)
•6 Full breakfasts (FB)
•7 Full breakfasts (FB), 6 lunches (L) and 7 dinners (D) included aboard the ms Maasdam*
INCLUDED FIRST CLASS SERVICES
•Escorted by a professional Tour Director
•Headsets for all guided visits and walking tours
•Luxury air-conditioned 40-guest coaches with extra leg room and onboard restroom
•Insight Hotels include all service charges, taxes and porterage
•Insight Traveller Welcome pack
•Airport arrival and departure transfers on Day 1 and Day 7 for the land tour; and Day 1 and Day 14 for those taking the cruise portion.
•All facilities aboard the Holland America Line cruise ship*(*Exclusive to 14-Day Land Tour & Cruise)
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Day 1 - ARRIVE TORONTO
On arrival at Toronto International Airport, your airport transfer service takes you to your tour hotel. At 6 p.m., gather at the hotel with your Tour Director and fellow travellers for a Welcome Reception and light buffet.
Hotel: Fairmont Royal York Hotel
Meals: Welcome Reception
Day 2 - TORONTO SIGHTSEEING AND NIAGARA FALLS EXCURSION
Spend the morning exploring cosmopolitan Toronto. Rise to the top of the CN Tower and view Toronto from four different lookout levels. Travelling up stately University Avenue, see Ontario's Parliament buildings, Queen's Park and the city's museum row. Move on to one of the world's great natural wonders, Niagara Falls. Enjoy close-up views of the falls on the Maid of the Mist cruise before browsing the shops and galleries of Niagara-on-the-Lake.
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 3 - TORONTO - OTTAWA
Travel north along the shores of Lake Ontario to Canada's first capital, Kingston. Your orientation tour shows you the numerous historic buildings, churches, picturesque neighbourhoods and 19th century fortifications. Arrive in Ottawa, the nation's capital, and visit the Canadian Museum of Civilization, Canada's largest and most popular cultural institution. This evening your Tour Director offers you a selection of restaurants for your dining pleasure.
Hotel: Fairmont Chateau Laurier
Meals: Full Breakfast / Dine Around
Day 4 - OTTAWA - QUEBEC CITY
This morning enjoy an orientation tour of Ottawa, famous for its stately boulevards, imposing buildings and tulip-filled gardens during the spring. See the green-peaked roofs of the Parliament, the Royal Canadian Mint, City Hall and the National Art Gallery. Then, follow the St. Lawrence River to Quebec City, the first French settlement in North America, reminiscent of a medieval European village. This evening is at leisure to enjoy this romantic city. Perhaps join your Tour Director for an optional French Bistro dinner inside the walled city.
Hotel: Hilton Quebec
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 5 - QUEBEC CITY SIGHTSEEING
Let a local guide show you the charm of this historic city, with its Latin Quarter, Plains of Abraham, ramparts, National Assembly, Basilica, City Hall, Place Royale and Citadel. Then venture north to visit the shrine of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupre, the first pilgrimage shrine in North America, and the spectacular Montmorency Falls, before returning to Quebec City where the rest of the day is free.
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 6 - QUEBEC CITY - MONTREAL
Continue to Quebec's largest city, Montreal. On a locally guided tour, admire the city's diversity, from the grand mansions of Mount Royal to the modern downtown area. See the historic old town with its cobblestone streets of Old Montreal and the Old Port. Visit dramatic Notre-Dame Basilica with its glorious stained-glass windows depicting Montreal's religious history. This evening, bid "au revoir" to your Tour Director and fellow guests with a delicious Celebration Dinner at a local restaurant in Old Montreal.
Hotel: Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth
Meals: Full Breakfast / Celebration Dinner
Day 7 - DEPART MONTREAL
For guests not continuing on the cruise, your tour ends upon hotel checkout. A departure transfer to Montreal International Airport is provided.
Meals: Full Breakfast
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Treasures of Spain, Portugal and Morocco (2012 2013)
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18 Days |
Spain, Portugal & Morocco |
July 5, 2012 |
$2805 |
A kaleidoscopic adventure that takes you from some of Europe’s most cosmopolitan cities, to an exotic and vivid land of medinas and minarets. |
Included:
INCLUDED HIGHLIGHTS
•Madrid: Experience the grandeur of the state apartments in the Royal Palace. See the Cervantes Monument, Cibeles Fountain and cross the Puerta del Sol.
•Consuegra: Enjoy views from the windmills above the town.
•Valdepeñas: Enjoy a short tutorial on wine.
•Granada: Visit the Alhambra Palace and Generalife Gardens.
•Gibraltar: Visit the Rock and St. Michael’s Cave.
•Tangier: See the Medina and Casbah.
•Fes: Visit the Medina and shop for Moroccan carpets.
•Marrakesh: Horse and carriage ride to Jemaa el Fna Square. See the Koutobia Minaret and visit the Bahia Palace,.
•Rabat: View the Royal Palace and Hassan Tower.
•Seville: Enjoy a walking tour of the Santa Cruz Quarter. See the Alcazar, Giralda Tower and tomb of Columbus in the Cathedral.
•Lisbon: Visit the Discoveries Monument and Belem Tower.
•Fatima: Visit the great Basilica.
•Salamanca: See the cathedral in the university town.
•Toledo: See the paintings of El Greco in the Cathedral.
•Scenic drives: Atlas Mountains, Costa del Sol, Sierra Nevada.
INCLUDED QUALITY DINING
•A Welcome Reception with light informal meal (WR)
•Dine Around evening at a selection of Granada restaurants. (DA)
•Highlight Dinner, folklore show & belly dancing in Fes (HD)
•Two-course Highlight Lunch at Rick’s Bar, Casablanca (HL)
•Highlight Dinner featuring Flamenco in Seville (HD)
•Two-course Highlight Lunch in eastern Portugal (HL)
•End-of-tour Celebration Dinner with wine in Madrid (CD)
•16 Buffet Breakfasts (BB), 4 three-course table d’hôte Dinners, or Buffets, plus tea or coffee (D)
INCLUDED FIRST CLASS SERVICES
•Escorted by a professional Tour Director
•Headsets for all guided visits and walking tours
•Enjoy the unique comfort of Insight’s Luxury air-conditioned 40 seat coach with extended leg room and on-board restroom
•Insight Hotels include all service charges, taxes and porterage
•Insight Traveller Welcome pack
•Airport arrival and departure transfers at scheduled times on Day 2 and Day 18 (Should your flights not coincide with these transfers, please make your own way to/from the airport)
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Day 1 - DEPART
Board your overnight flight (not included).
Day 2 - MADRID AT LEISURE
Welcome to Madrid - Europe’s highest capital! Transfers leave Madrid Airport for the tour hotel at 09:00, 11:00, 13:30 and 16:00. As evening falls, you’re invited to a Welcome reception with drink and a light meal.
Hotel: Conde Duque/NH Nacional
Meals: Welcome Reception
Day 3 - MADRID SIGHTSEEING
Take a guided tour down the Gran Via to the Cibeles Fountain on the wide Paseo de la Castellana. Cross the Puerta del Sol and see the Cervantes Monument in the Plaza de España before visiting the state apartments of the Royal Palace. The afternoon is at leisure.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 4 - MADRID - GRANADA
Drive up to the windmills on the ridge above Consuegra for views over the plains of La Mancha. Continue through Valdepeñas and hear about the wines that make this region so famous. Upon reaching Granada, enjoy a guided tour of the Alhambra Palace: a fantasy of stone cut lace, arabesque gardens and fountains. You also visit the exotic water gardens of the Generalife. For your dining pleasure tonight, choose from a selection of restaurants.
Hotel: Saray
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dine Around
Day 5 - GRANADA - COSTA DEL SOL
Time at leisure this morning. Then drive past olive groves to the sun drenched Costa del Sol.
Hotel: Melia Costa Del Sol
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 6 - COSTA DEL SOL – GIBRALTAR – TANGIER
Travel along the coast road past exclusive resorts to Gibraltar, a British territory since 1704. Visit the Rock of Gibraltar, St. Michael’s Cave and see the Barbary Apes! Set sail across the Straits of Gibraltar to Morocco, a world of veils, musky spices, bazaars, souks and snake charmers.
Hotel: Andalucia Golf
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner
Day 7 - TANGIER - FES
On a sightseeing tour of Tangier, see the famous Medina and the Casbah before continuing to Fes, the most ancient of Morocco’s cities. Enjoy a superb Moroccan Dinner and a Folklore Show with drums and belly dancing.
Hotel: Palais Medina & Spa
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Highlight Dinner
Day 8 - FES SIGHTSEEING
During a guided tour visit the Medina and the walled city of hidden courtyards, mosques and tiny workshops, the ancient bazaar and a carpet co-operative. Afterwards, you are at leisure.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner
Day 9 - FES - MARRAKESH
Travel via the Atlas Mountains, past mud-walled villages to Marrakesh.
Hotel: Atlas Medina & Spa
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner
Day 10 - MARRAKESH SIGHTSEEING
Take a horse and carriage ride to Jemaa el Fna Square where acrobats, dancers and fortune tellers entertain you. Continue on your guided tour to explore the Medina with its many souks, see the Koutobia Minaret and visit the Bahia Palace.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 11 - MARRAKESH - CASABLANCA - RABAT
Did Humphrey Bogart really say ‘Play it again Sam’? Find out at Rick’s Café, recreated from the famous movie. Enjoy a two course lunch and drink before an orientation tour of Casablanca. Continue to Rabat to see the Royal Palace and Hassan Tower.
Hotel: Golden Tulip
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Highlight Lunch / Dinner
Day 12 - RABAT - SEVILLE
Cross back over to Spain and continue to Seville, exquisite capital of Andalusia.
Hotel: Melia Seville/Abba Tirana
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 13 - SEVILLE SIGHTSEEING
Soak up the atmosphere on a walking tour of the Santa Cruz Quarter, with its narrow lanes and flower decked wrought iron balconies. See the fabulous Alcazar and slender Giralda Tower before entering the immense 15C Cathedral, the final resting place of Christopher Columbus. The afternoon is at leisure. Tonight your Highlight Dinner includes a fiery Flamenco show.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Highlight Dinner
Day 14 - SEVILLE - LISBON
Cross the Guadiana river and leave Spain, driving on to Portugal’s beautiful Algarve coast. Around lunch time, stop in one of the pleasant towns of this sun drenched region. Now head for Lisbon, historic capital of Portugal.
Hotel: Marriott/Altis Lisbon
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 15 - 14 LISBON SIGHTSEEING
Sightseeing with your local guide, shows you Sao Jorge Castle, the Monument to the Discoveries and the Belem Tower, starting point for Portugal’s great navigators and explorers, and the famous Jeronimo’s Monastery. This afternoon is at leisure.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 16 - LISBON – FATIMA – SALAMANCA
Drive into the green hills north of Lisbon to visit Portugal’s celebrated pilgrimage town of Fatima. Moving on, a highlight lunch has been arranged in the eastern fortified town of Belmonte. Then cross back into Spain and continue to Salamanca, famous for its golden stone buildings.
Hotel: Alameda Palace
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Highlight Lunch
Day 17 - SALAMANCA – TOLEDO – MADRID
See the New and Old Cathedrals before continuing past the walls of Avila to Toledo. Walk through the maze of cobbled streets to visit the Cathedral with its paintings by El Greco. On arrival in Madrid, enjoy a Celebration Dinner with wine at a local restaurant.
Hotel: Miguel Angel/Melia Galgos
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Celebration Dinner with wine
Day 18 - RETURN HOME
Your tour draws to a close today. Departure transfers arrive at Madrid Airport at 07:00, 09:00 & 11:00.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
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Best of Italy (2012 2013)
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11 Days |
Italy & Sicily |
June 27, 2012 |
$2445 |
Roman antiquities, pious Assisi, Venetian canals, Renaissance Florence and Capri sunshine are fused with a touch of 'la dolce vita' for the perfect tour of Italy. |
Included:
INCLUDED FIRST CLASS SERVICES
• Escorted by a professional Tour Director
• Headsets for all guided visits and walking tours
• Enjoy the unique comfort of Insight’s Luxury air-conditioned 40 seat coach with extended leg room and on-board restroom
• Sleek, high-speed Eurostar Italia train from Florence to Naples
• Insight Hotels include all service charges, taxes and porterage
• Insight Traveller Welcome pack
• Airport arrival and departure transfers at scheduled times on Day 2 and Day 11 (Should your flights not coincide with these transfers, please make your own way to/from the airport)
INCLUDED HIGHLIGHTS
• Rome: Tour the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St Peter’s Basilica. Visit the Colosseum and see the Forum.
• Assisi: See the Saint Mary Basilica then walk through the cobbled streets to visit the Basilica of St Francis.
• Venice: Cruise, with commentary, to St Mark’s Square. See the Bridge of Sighs, Doges’ Palace and St Mark’s Basilica. Drift through the canals on a traditional gondola serenade. Demonstration of traditional glass-blowing.
• Pisa: See the Cathedral, Baptistery and ‘Leaning Tower.
• Florence: Admire Michelangelo’s original ‘Statue of David’ in the Academy Gallery. See the Cathedral, bell tower, ‘Gates of Paradise’ and visit Signoria Square. Demonstration of traditional Florentine leather-work.
• Sorrento: Cruise to Capri, the Island of Dreams, ride into Capri town by open top taxi (weather permitting) and return by funicular railway. Join in the Italian social ritual of ‘La Passeggiata’. Demonstration of ‘Intarsio’ inlay woodworking.
• Pompeii: Tour the excavations of this buried Roman resort.
• Scenic Drives: Apennine Mountains, Sorrento clifftops.
INCLUDED QUALITY DINING
• A Welcome Reception with light meal (WR)
• Dine-Around evening at your own choice of restaurant from our selection in Sorrento (DA)
• Celebration Dinner of local cuisine with entertainment in Rome (CD)
• 9 Buffet Breakfasts (BB), 2 three-course table d’hôte Dinners, or Buffets, plus tea or coffee (D)
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Day 1 - DEPART
Board your overnight flight (not included).
Day 2 - ROME AT LEISURE
Welcome to Rome, a glorious city filled with Classical antiquities, medieval buildings, Renaissance palaces and baroque churches. On arrival at Rome’s Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci Airport, your airport shuttle service leaves for the tour hotel at 09:30, 12:30 & 15:30. Tonight meet your Tour Director for a Welcome Reception and light informal meal.
Hotel: La Griffe/Cicerone
Meals: Welcome Reception
Day 3 - ROME SIGHTSEEING
Enjoy an in-depth sightseeing tour with a local guide who will take you inside the Vatican Museums to gaze upon the treasures of the Popes. Enjoy clear commentary via your audio headset as you admire Michelangelo’s famous ceiling inside the Sistine Chapel. Now enter St Peter’s Basilica to wonder at another of his works, the emotive ‘Pieta’. Then cross the Tiber to visit the Colosseum, scene of many gladiatorial contests. After seeing the Roman Forum, the rest of the day is yours to sightsee or shop.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 4 - ROME - ASSISI
Leave Rome and follow the valley of the River Tiber to the hills of Umbria, which form part of the Apennines. Your destination is peaceful Assisi, one of Italy’s most beautiful mountain towns, home of St. Francis. First in the valley see the famous Church of St. Mary of the Angels, then continue up Mount Subasio to the upper town. Step inside the huge Basilica, built in the 13th Century after St. Francis’ death, where the frescoes by Giotto heralded a new era in Italian art.
Hotel: Giotto/Roseo
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner
Day 5 - ASSISI - VENICE
A pleasant drive leads to the romantic city of Venice, and what better way to see it than from a private launch? Cruise past Palladian churches and 13C palaces to St Mark’s Square. See the Doges’ Palace, connected to the prisons by the Bridge of Sighs. It was from here that Casanova made his daring escape. Now admire the mosaics of St Mark’s Basilica and watch one of the few remaining masters blow molten glass into a unique creation at a Venetian glass showroom. Relax and enjoy the atmosphere, music and songs as you drift along the romantic Venetian canals by gondola.
Hotel: Al Sole/Gabrielli/NH Manin
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 6 - VENICE - FLORENCE
Back on the mainland, cross the plain of the Po River and traverse the Apennines to reach the peaceful landscapes of Tuscany. Follow the river to the coastal town of Pisa to see the famous Leaning Tower. Time also to admire the marble cathedral and Baptistery before continuing to Florence.
Hotel: NH Firenze/Cavour
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner
Day 7 - FLORENCE SIGHTSEEING
Join a local guide for a walking tour of the historic city centre. A highlight is the visit to the Academy Gallery to see Michelangelo’s monumental figure of David. Continue to the multi-coloured marble Cathedral to see Giotto’s bell tower and ‘Gates of Paradise’ before visiting the Piazza della Signoria, still the political heart of Florence. The area around Santa Croce Basilica is famous for the quality of its luxury goods; see a demonstration of leather work in the very place this craft first established itself. Then, there’s free time to shop for Florence’s finest or continue sightseeing. This evening don’t miss the chance to sample the fine Florentine cuisine - tasty starters, rich pastas, accompanied by Chianti wine.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 8 - FLORENCE - SORRENTO
After breakfast this morning board your sleek, high-speed Eurostar Italia train bound for Naples. Relax in air-conditioned comfort as the countryside slips past your window. In only three hours you arrive in to Naples where your transfer coach awaits to take you along the scenic cliff top road to the picturesque resort of Sorrento.
Hotel: La Favorita/Grand Hotel La Pace
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 9 - ISLE OF CAPRI EXCURSION
Investigate the art of ‘intarsio’ or marquetry wood inlaying before cruising to Capri - the isle of dreams. Under the Mediterranean sun, take an open top taxi up to Capri Town, where you can explore the narrow alleyways, browse in exclusive boutiques and enjoy the views over the Tyrrhenian Sea. Perhaps join an optional tour to visit Axel Munthe’s Villa San Michele? Descend to the port by funicular railway and return to Sorrento for some relaxation time. Later, why not immerse yourself in the Italian culture and work up an appetite on a traditional evening stroll (passeggiata) - it’s a time to ‘see and be seen’. Afterwards, you are offered a selection of local restaurants for your dining pleasure.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dine Around
Day 10 - SORRENTO - POMPEII - ROME
Only a short drive from the hotel lies Pompeii, the opulent Roman town which was preserved by layers of ash from the disastrous eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD79. A walking tour with a local guide through the cobbled streets and extensive excavations reveals the daily life of ancient Roman civilisation. Afterwards, the smooth motorway leads back to the ‘Eternal City’ of Rome. Tonight, join your fellow passengers for a last night Celebration Dinner of local cuisine, complete with wine and entertainment.
Hotel: Sheraton
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Celebration Dinner
Day 11 - RETURN HOME
Arrivederci Roma! Sadly, your tour comes to an end after breakfast. Departure transfers arrive at Rome’s Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci Airport at 07:00 & 09:30.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
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Northern Spain (2012 2013)
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12 Days |
Spain, Portugal & Morocco |
July 20, 2012 |
$2155 |
Discover the delights of this forgotten part of Spain, from the misty green hills of Galicia and Asturias to the laid back beach resorts of the Basque Country. Compare Oviedo’s ancient churches with Barcelona’s crazy Sagrada Familia. |
Included:
INCLUDED HIGHLIGHTS
•Madrid: Take a guided tour through the famous Prado Museum See the statue of Don Quixote in the Plaza de España, Cibeles Fountain and Puerta del Sol. .
•Zamora: See the Cathedral and remains of the city walls.
•Santiago de Compostela: A guided tour of the old town including the impressive Cathedral.
•Costa Verde: Experience the coastal vistas of Asturias.
•Oviedo: With a local guide, see 1,000 year old wall paintings in the 9 C church of San Julian; Plaza Alfonso II, cathedral and sample Northern Spain’s ‘Sidra’.
•Covadonga: Visit the shrine to Pelayo.
•Santillana del Mar: Visit ‘the most beautiful village in Spain.’
•Bilbao: See the spectacular modern Guggenheim Museum.
•Zumaia: See the rock known as ‘el ratón’ (the mouse).
•San Sebastian: Enjoy a guided walking tour of the Old Quarter including Plaza de la Constitucion.
•Pamplona: Visit the city of the running of the bulls.
•Barcelona: Enjoy a walking tour of the Gothic quarter. Admire the modernist buildings of the Passeig de Gracia. Witness Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia church from both the inside and out.
•Scenic Drives: Costa Verda, Picos de Europa, Costa Vasca Costa de Cantabria, Rioja wine–region.
INCLUDED QUALITY DINING
•A Welcome Reception with light informal meal (WR)
•Choose from a selection of restaurants on your San Sebastian Dine-Around evening (DA)
•A celebration dinner with wine at a Barcelona restaurant (CD)
•10 Buffet Breakfasts (BB), 3 three-course table d’hôte Dinners, or Buffets, plus tea or coffee (D)
INCLUDED FIRST CLASS SERVICES
•Escorted by a professional Tour Director
•Headsets for all guided visits and walking tours
•Enjoy the unique comfort of Insight’s Luxury air-conditioned 40 seat coach with extended leg room and on-board restroom
•Insight Hotels include all service charges, taxes and porterage
•Insight Traveller Welcome pack
•Airport arrival and departure transfers at scheduled times on Day 2 and Day 12. (Should your flights not coincide with these transfers, please make your own way to/from the airport)
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Day 1 - DEPART
Board your overnight flight (not included).
Day 2 - MADRID AT LEISURE
Welcome to Madrid! On arrival at Madrid Airport, your airport transfers leave for the tour hotel at 09:00, 11:00, 13:30 & 16:00. Relax and settle in. This evening you are invited to a Welcome Reception with your Tour Director which includes a welcome drink and a light informal meal.
Hotel: Melia Galgos
Meals: Welcome Reception
Day 3 - MADRID SIGHTSEEING
Join a local guide for a sightseeing tour along the noble avenues. Drive by the statue of Cervantes’ fictional hero, Don Quixote, in the Plaza de España. Continue past Cibeles Fountain and the Parliament and cross the Puerta del Sol. Visit the Prado Museum, a rose coloured palace housing works by Velázquez, Goya, Titian, Botticelli, Rubens, and many others. Take time out to relax at a café or shop in the boutiques. In the evening, consider joining a dinner of regional Spanish food, complete with wine and music.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 4 - MADRID – ZAMORA – SANTIAGO DE
Northwards today through the Guadarrama Mountains to the infinite horizons of Old Castille. See the impressive Castillo de la Motta, conquered by Queen Isabella, before arriving in the fortified town of Zamora, where among the famous 12C Romanesque churches there are good cafés and tapas bars to choose from. Continue north to Santiago de Compostela, founded in 813 when, according to legend, the tomb containing the remains of the Apostle St James was discovered. For dinner this evening, enjoy the freedom of your Dine-Around program, and choose from a selection of restaurants recommended by your Tour Director.
Hotel: NH Obradoiro
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner
Day 5 - SANTIAGO SIGHTSEEING
In the Middle Ages, Santiago De Compostela was the third most important city for religious pilgrimage after Jerusalem and Rome, attracting pilgrims from all parts of Europe. Remaining as one of Spain’s most remarkable cities, your local guide will acquaint you with its buildings and heritage. The majestic Praça do Obradoiro is one of the world’s finest squares. Gaze upon the impressive façade of the Cathedral, built upon the site of the original basilica erected over the Apostles tomb. This afternoon there is free time to explore the narrow streets and old squares at your leisure.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 6 - SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA – OVIEDO
Get your cameras ready for a scenic drive along the Costa Verde. This Green Coast of Asturias, one of Spain’s most beautiful, is named after the colour of the sea, and the pine and eucalyptus trees that line the shore. Your route reveals glorious coastal vistas before turning inland to the modern town of Oviedo. A local guide shows you the 9th century churches built when the city was capital of Christian Spain. Visit the church of San Julian covered with 1,000 year old wall paintings and the stately square of Plaza Alfonso II, next to the cathedral. Round off the day with an introduction to Northern Spain’s drink of choice in the ‘Boulevard of Cider’.
Hotel: Silken Monumental Naranco/Silken Gijon
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner
Day 7 - OVIEDO – SANTANDER
See the unique Roman bridge in Cangas de Onis as you head into the foothills of the Picos de Europa, Spain’s second largest National Park which encompasses 647 square kms of spectacular mountain and gorge scenery. Here visit the holy cave of Covadonga, a shrine to Pelayo, who achieved the first Christian victory over the Moors in 722. Continue to Santillana del Mar, which many writers have called ‘the most beautiful village in Spain.’ Stroll through the rustic cobblestone streets with stone houses decorated with carved heraldic symbols and reach the delightful church square. After time to explore, drive along the corniche road, with views of the Costa de Cantabria to reach the sophisticated beach resort of Santander.
Hotel: Santemar
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner
Day 8 - SANTANDER – BILBAO – SAN SEBASTIÁN
Drive to nearby Bilbao to admire the striking modern architecture of the Guggenheim museum, one of the world’s most spectacular buildings. Now a pleasant drive along part of the Costa Vasca, dotted with small coastal fishing villages. Pause in Zumaia at the mouth of the Urola, where you can see ‘el ratón’, the mouse shaped rock. Continue on to San Sebastián, the pearl the pearl of the Cantabrian coast. The city has a harbour filled with fishing boats and pleasure craft and you can enjoy a number of sporting activities on its large sandy beach.
Hotel: Barcelo Costa Vasca
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dine Around
Day 9 - SAN SEBASTIÁN SIGHTSEEING
Admire the beauty of San Sebastián on a guided walking tour of the Old Quarter. See the numbered balconies of the Plaza de la Constitucion, a reminder of the days when bullfights were held in the square. The afternoon is at leisure to stroll along San Sebastián’s boardwalk or ascend Monte Igueldo for beautiful views of the town and bay. Tonight maybe discover the city’s rich gastronomic tradition?
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 10 - SAN SEBASTIÁN – PAMPLONA – ZARAGOZA – BARCELONA
First stop this morning is in Pamplona, the city of the running of the bulls. Perhaps take a stroll to the famous Estafeta Street before moving on past the famous Rioja wine–producing region. Lunch time finds you in the Plaza del Pilar, in the shadow of Zaragoza’s famous Cathedrals. Continue to Catalonia’s vibrant capital, Barcelona.
Hotel: Pullman Skipper
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 11 - BARCELONA SIGHTSEEING
Join your local guide in the Plaça Nova in the heart of the Gothic quarter. See the cathedral and walk through the Roman gate to tour the narrow lanes and old squares. Now drive by the lively Rambla and along the Passeig de Gràcia, adorned with elegant wrought-iron street lamps and the most flamboyant Modernist buildings. Continue through the Eixample district to visit Gaudi’s extraordinary, unfinished Sagrada Familia church. Both inside and out, it defies belief! The afternoon is at leisure. This evening, raise your glasses at a finale Celebration Dinner with wine at a local restaurant.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Celebration Dinner
Day 12 - RETURN HOME
Your tour ends after breakfast. Departure transfers arrive at Barcelona Airport at 07:00, 09:00 & 11:00. The 09:00 transfer will continue to Madrid, scheduled to arrive early evening.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
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Hawaiian Dreams Gold (2012)
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10 Days |
Hawaii |
July 14, 2012 |
$2869 |
The warm Pacific laps gently at your toes as you recline on white-sand beaches, lush jungle hillsides reveal cascading waterfalls and the scent of plumeria envelops you with its sweet perfume. Hawaii beckons with its sensual tropical beauty — and enchants you with its gentle spirit of Aloha. |
Included:
YOUR DELICIOUS DINING EXPERIENCES
• Enjoy a Welcome Reception with Hawaiian pupus (WR)
• 9 Full Breakfasts (FB), 1 lunch, 1 three-course table d’hôte dinner on Hawaii (D)
• 1 Highlight Lunch in Lahaina (HL)
• 2 Highlight Dinners with wine in Waikiki and on Hawaii (HD)
• Hawaiian Luau Highlight Dinner with open bar in Kaanapali (HD)
YOUR EXCLUSIVE COLLECTION OF INCLUDED HIGHLIGHTS
• Oahu: Learn about Hawaii’s former royalty on a guided tour of the Iolani Palace and explore downtown Honolulu. Honour those who gave their lives during the attack on Pearl Harbor at the USS Arizona Memorial. Join a WWII Veteran to tour the Punchbowl Cemetery. Meet one of Waikiki’s famous beach boys and “talk story” about surfing.
• Maui: Tour Alii Kula Lavender and sip lavender tea accompanied by lavender scones. Taste award-winning goat cheeses at the Surfing Goat Dairy and discover the secrets of the famed Maui sweet onions at Kula Country Farms. Be enlightened about the ever-active geology of the formation of the Hawaiian Archipelago with an expert naturalist.
• Hawaii: Visit the Jaggar Museum in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, look out upon the caldera, walk through a lava tube and circle Kilauea. See Hulihee Palace, Mokuaikaua Church, and St. Michael’s Catholic Church in historic Kailua. Visit the Kona Coffee Living History Farm. Take a guided walk through coffee and macadamia nut orchards and visit the only cacao farm in America that grows, processes and produces chocolate. Learn about ranching in Hawaii at historic Anna Ranch. Enjoy your “Fun N Sun Activity Pass” – a US$75 value per person.
YOUR INCLUSIVE GOLD SERVICES
• Escorted by a professional Tour Director
• Headsets for all guided visits and walking tours
• Luxury air-conditioned 40-guest coach with extended legroom and onboard restroom
• Insight Hotels include all service charges, taxes and porterage
• Insight Traveller Welcome pack
• Economy inter-island airfares on Hawaiian Airlines from Honolulu to Kahului and Kahului to Hilo
• Airport arrival and departure transfers on Day 1 and Day 10
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Day 1 - ARRIVE HONOLULU
Aloha and welcome to the beautiful Hawaiian islands! After being greeted with smiling faces and a traditional flower lei, you will be transferred to your elegant beachfront resort, which has welcomed visitors to Waikiki since 1905. With its expansive pool, stretch of golden beach, luxurious guest rooms and the first and only beach front spa in the area, the Moana Surfrider surely deserves its nickname as the "First Lady of Waikiki." Settle into island time and relax or enjoy a dip in the Pacific or a stroll on the famous beach. Gather at 6 p.m. with your fellow guests and Tour Director for a Welcome Reception and Hawaiian appetizers, known as pupus here on the islands.
Hotel: Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, Banyan Ocean-view Room
Meals: Welcome Reception
Day 2 - HONOLULU
Hawaii is known around the world for its great surfing and this morning you will get a chance to meet one of the famous Waikiki beach boys who will "talk story" with you about surfing and share with you their ocean skills storytelling talents and aloha. If you feel adventurous, paddling out and standing up on your big board is optional. The rest of your day is at leisure — perhaps explore the Waikiki International Marketplace and its more than 100 carts, shops and artisan stands. Alternatively, relax at your oceanfront resort, be pampered at the spa, sip cocktails on the verandah, or read a book under an umbrella on the sandy beach or poolside… the choice is yours and the options are nearly endless.
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 3 - HONOLULU SIGHTSEEING
Begin your day with a little island history, starting with a private guided tour of Iolani Palace, the former home of Hawaiian royalty — the only official royal residence in the United States. Explore downtown Honolulu and view the current State Capitol, the King Kamehameha Statue at Aliiolani Hale and Washington Place, the Greek-revival-style palace where Queen Liliuokalani was arrested during the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom. Visit Pearl Harbor and the poignant USS Arizona Memorial. Take a moment to honour the American soldiers who gave their lives during the surprise attack that launched the United States into World War II. Head to Punchbowl National Cemetery and its rolling green hills bursting with flowers. Meet a WWII Veteran and explore this famous site where those who died in the Pacific naval war are buried. This evening watch the sun dip below the horizon as you enjoy elegant ocean-side dining and classic modern cuisine at a Highlight Dinner at the award-winning Beachhouse restaurant at your resort.
Meals: Full Breakfast / Highlight Dinner
Day 4 - DEPART HONOLULU - MAUI
Soar high above the Pacific and enjoy the island views as you fly to Maui, the Magic Isle. Head for famed Kaanapali Beach, once designated the best beach in the United States. Your home for the next three nights is the luxurious beachfront Westin Kaanapali Ocean Resort Villas. Relax and enjoy the spectacular views from your private balcony, the sumptuous cuisine, beautiful pool and a host of activities. This afternoon, choose from three included pastimes: will it be a lesson to learn how to hula dance or play the ukulele, or a visit to the resort's world-class spa, voted by SpaFinder's readers as one of the Top 10 New Getaway Spas?
Hotel: The Westin Kaanapali Ocean Resort Villas. Oceanview Studio Villa
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 5 - MAUI SIGHTSEEING
Today is a journey for all five senses; tasting, smelling, touching, seeing and hearing, while experiencing the eclectic homegrown specialities of Maui. Follow the little-travelled back roads to explore the island's unique boutique farms. Take a deep breath — you may think you have been transported to Provence, but what you're smelling is simply the enticing scent of the royal lavender of Kula at Alii Kula Lavender Farm. Learn how lavender is grown as you tour the farm; then indulge your palate as you sip lavender tea and sample scones baked with lavender. At the Surfing Goat Dairy, winner of 16 national awards, try the award-winning goat cheeses; then detour to Kula Country Farms where you'll learn why Maui's sweet onions are truly no kaoi — the best. Top off your cornucopia of tasting with a Highlight Lunch served al fresco on the beach at I'0 restaurant, renowned for its contemporary Pacific cuisine. This afternoon, stroll the shops and galleries along Front Street in Lahaina and enjoy an evening at leisure.
Meals: Full Breakfast / Highlight Lunch
Day 6 - MAUI AT LEISURE
Today is yours to explore further or succumb to the pleasures of your resort. If you're ready for more adventure, rise before dawn for an optional tour to greet the sunrise from atop a volcano. Perhaps embark on a cruise to spot the migrating humpback whales, breaching and spy hopping (in season) or just relax and enjoy the beach and spa at your luxurious resort overlooking a spectacular stretch of Kaanapali Beach. This afternoon, meet with a local naturalist for an enlightening talk about the ever-changing geology and the formation of the Hawaiian Archipelago. Tonight, celebrate Hawaii's culture and traditions at an authentic Hawaiian Luau Highlight Dinner. Sip tropical cocktails, sample traditional poi and roasted pig, as well as a feast of Hawaiian specialities, and enjoy the lilting Hawaiian songs and hula dances.
Meals: Full Breakfast / Highlight Dinner
Day 7 - DEPART MAUI - HAWAII
Fly on to the Big Island of Hawaii, arriving in Hilo. Wind your way through rolling volcanic hills and the lush foliage of the "wet side" of the island to visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the park is home to the world's largest volcano, Mauna Loa, and one of the most active, Kilauea. Visit the Jaggar Museum to learn about the lava flows and explosive beginnings of the Hawaiian Islands. Look down on the Kilauea Caldera and there's even the chance to walk through the Thurston Lava tube, a massive, hollow chamber formed when lava drained from it some 500 years ago. After lunch, travel along the Hamakua shoreline on the Kohala Coast to the spectacular Fairmont Orchid, your home for the next three nights. At this exceptional resort, every detail has been designed to immerse you in the natural beauty and cultured relaxation of the Hawaiian Islands. From your distinctive guest room to the personalised service, striking public spaces and enchanted setting by the sea, you won't soon forget your stay in lovely Kona. This evening, indulge in Hawaiian elegance with a four-course Highlight Dinner with wine at the award-winning Brown's Beach House Restaurant, the place for the quintessential island fine dining experience located just steps from shore.
Hotel: The Fairmont Orchid, Partial Oceanview room
Meals: Full Breakfast / Lunch / Highlight Dinner
Day 8 - HAWAII SIGHTSEEING
This morning soak up the atmosphere on a guided walk through coffee and macademia nut orchards, and the only cacao farm in North America that grows, processes and produces chocolate. You'll be treated to their unique American Estate Grown Chocolate and taste a cup of 100% pure Kona Coffee. Then step back in time at Puuhonua o Honaunau (place of refuge) National Historical Park, a restored religious sanctuary designed to keep stories and traditions of Old Hawaii alive. Explore the historic town of Kailua, viewing Hulihee Palace, Mokuaikaua Church and St Michael's Church. On the way back to the resort, stop at historic Anna Ranch, beautifully set against the backdrop of Waimea's lush green hills. Anna Ranch embodies the history of ranching with an emphasis on Hawaiian ranch life in the early 20th Century. Enjoy this rare opportunity to visit the restored ranch house and outbuildings, and meet the on-site blacksmith and Master saddle maker and leather crafter who can be seen in action most days.
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 9 - HAWAII AT LEISURE
Today is yours to spend as you please, enjoying your resort's extensive activities with your Fun N Sun Activity Pass which Insight has included for you. If you're feeling adventurous, don a snorkel and fins to explore the underwater life, guide a kayak through the clear waters, or even learn how to paddle a traditional outrigger canoe. Up for some cultural exploration? Visit the Pacific's largest field of petroglyphs or practice weaving a coconut-leaf basket. More interested in the inner journey? Spend some time soothing your soul at the famed Spa Without Walls, which offers beachfront massage and other restorative treatments. Be sure to leave some time to visit the friendly colony of native Hawaiian green sea turtles that bask on the shores each afternoon. Later, enjoy a mixology Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spaclass to learn how to make the perfect Mai Tai, Blue Hawaiian and Pina Colada and get a taste of your favourite concoction! If you're returning home tomorrow, toast your Tour Director and fellow guests farewell at tonight's hotel dinner.
Meals: Full Breakfast / Dinner
Day 10 - DEPART HAWAII
Bid the fair islands good-bye and take your complimentary transfer to Kona International Airport at Keahole to return home.
Meals: Full Breakfast
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European Grandeur Start Paris (2012 2013)
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28 Days |
Central & Eastern Europe |
July 9 & 23, 2012 |
$5939 |
An epic adventure covering all points of the European compass. From Amsterdam in the north to Rome in the south, Vienna in the east and Madrid in the west. |
Included:
INCLUDED HIGHLIGHTS
•Vimy Ridge: An introduction to tragic events of WWI.
•Paris: A guided tour of the Louvre. Ascend the Eiffel Tower. See Notre Dame, Place de la Concorde and Arc de Triomphe.
•Loire Valley: Visit the magnificent Château of Chenonceau.
•Bordeaux: Enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of the city.
•Lourdes: Visit the Grotto and join in the torch light procession.
•Madrid: A highlight tour of the magnificent Prado Museum.
•Barcelona: Tour the Gothic Quarter, drive down the Passeig de Gràcia and visit Gaudi’s amazing Sagrada Familia.
•Monaco: See the Cathedral and Royal Palace. Excursion to the medieval village of Eze and visit a French perfumery.
•Pisa: See the famous Leaning Tower.
•Florence: Enjoy views from Piazzale Michelangelo then a guide shows you Signoria Square, the Duomo and Baptistery.
•Orvieto: See the famous Cathedral.
•Rome: Tour the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St Peter’s Basilica. Overlook the Forum and visit the Colosseum.
•Sorrento: Cruise to the Isle of Capri. Ride to Capri town by open top taxi (weather permitting) and funicular railway.
•Pompeii: A guided tour of the ill fated Roman resort.
•Assisi: Visit the Basilica of St Francis.
•Venice: See the Doges’ Palace, Bridge of Sighs and St Mark’s Basilica. Enjoy a gondola serenade along the canals.
•Vienna: Visit Schönbrunn Palace with a local guide. See the Parliament, Imperial Palace and Opera House.
•Salzburg: Walk through the Mirabell Gardens with a guide, see Mozart’s Birthplace and the Cathedral.
•Munich: See the Marienplatz and neogothic Town Hall.
•Lucerne: See Chapel Bridge, Lion Monument & Jesuit Church.Cog-wheel train and cable-car ride to the top of Mount Pilatus.
•St Goar: Embark on a Rhine cruise past vineyards and castles.
•Amsterdam: Orientation tour and Dutch countryside excursion.
INCLUDED QUALITY DINING
•A Welcome Reception with light meal (WR)
•Choose from a selection of restaurants in Munich (DA)
•Celebration Dinner with wine in an Amsterdam restaurant (CD)
•26 Buffet Breakfasts (BB), 8 three-course table d’hôte Dinners, or Buffets, plus tea or coffee (D)
INCLUDED FIRST CLASS SERVICES
•Escorted by a professional Tour Director
•Headsets for all guided visits and walking tours
•Enjoy the unique comfort of Insight’s Luxury air-conditioned 40 seat coach with extended leg room and on-board restroom
•Insight Hotels include all service charges, taxes and porterage
•Insight Traveller Welcome pack
•London Airport transfer service available
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Day 1 - DEPART
Board your overnight flight (not included).
Day 2 - PARIS
Welcome to Paris for a Welcome Reception with drink and a light meal. Charles de Gaulle Airport arrival transfers on Day 1 operate at 08:30, 11:00 and 13:30.
Hotel: Le Méridien Etoile
Meals: Welcome Reception
Day 3 - PARIS SIGHTSEEING
Enjoy a guided tour of the Louvre Museum. Then see Notre Dame Cathedral, the Place de la Concorde, Arc de Triomphe and ascend the Eiffel Tower. The afternoon is at leisure.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 4 - PARIS – LOIRE VALLEY – BORDEAUX
Visit the magnificent Château of Chenonceau in the Loire Valley. Continue through the famous vineyards to Bordeaux au Lac.
Hotel: Pullman Aquitania
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner
Day 5 - BORDEAUX – LOURDES
Witness some of Bordeaux’s 18C character on your guided city tour. Then drive to Lourdes to visit the Grotto and drink the spring waters. Join the pilgrims in a procession tonight.
Hotel: De La Grotte
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner
Day 6 - LOURDES – MADRID
Cross the Pyrenees and Sierras into the heart of Spain and continue to the capital, Madrid.
Hotel: NH Nacional
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 7 - MADRID SIGHTSEEING
A local guide introduces you to all the main sights of Madrid, the highlight being a tour of the magnificent Prado Museum housing works of Velázquez and Goya. The afternoon is at leisure.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 8 - MADRID – ZARAGOZA – BARCELONA
Cross the Castilian plain for a short stop in Zaragoza. Continue to the vibrant port of Barcelona.
Hotel: Melia
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 9 - BARCELONA SIGHTSEEING
On a guided tour, walk around the Gothic Quarter, see the extraordinary architecture of the Passeig de Gràcia and visit Gaudi’s incredible Sagrada Familia.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 10 - BARCELONA – MONACO
Re-enter France and follow the coast across the Provençal plains to the Cote d’Azur and chic Monaco.
Hotel: Fairmont Monte Carlo
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 11 - EXCURSION TO EZE
Visit the medieval village of Eze, miraculously perched high on a rock and surrounded by ancient walls. After taking in the views, visit a French perfumery then return to Monaco for time at leisure.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 12 - MONACO – PISA – FLORENCE
Depart for Italy and drive along the Italian Riviera to see the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Stay in Florence.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner
Day 13 - FLORENCE SIGHTSEEING
Enjoy views over Florence from Piazzale Michelangelo then a guide shows you Signoria Square, the Duomo and Baptistery.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 14 - FLORENCE – ORVIETO – ROME
Travel through the Chianti hills on your way to hill top Orvieto, perched on a 900 foot high plateau. See the Cathedral before continuing to Rome.
Hotel: Grand Hotel Beverly Hills
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 15 - ROME SIGHTSEEING
With a local guide, visit the Sistine Chapel and the Vatican Museums. Continue into St Peter’s Basilica, then cross the Tiber to visit the mighty Colosseum and see the Roman Forum.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 16 - ROME – CAPRI – SORRENTO
Down to the Bay of Naples to cross over to the Isle of Capri. Ride up to Capri Town for a guided tour and free time. Seeing the art of ‘intarsio’ wood laying in cliff top Sorrento.
Hotel: Corallo
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner
Day 17 - SORRENTO – POMPEII – ASSISI
Visit the ill fated Roman town of Pompeii with your local guide. Continue north to St. Francis’s town of Assisi.
Hotel: Giotto
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner
Day 18 - ASSISI – VENICE
Visit St Francis Basilica. Cross the Apennines to the Po Valley and on to the beautiful canals of Venice.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner
Day 19 - VENICE SIGHTSEEING
Take a private launch to St Mark’s Square. See the Bridge of Sighs, Doges’ Palace and St Mark’s Basilica. Watch Venetian glass being blown and then enjoy a gondola serenade through the canals.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 20 - VENICE – VIENNA
The Carnic Alps herald the Austrian Lake District. Then a scenic drive across the Styrian Alps to Vienna.
Hotel: Hilton Vienna Plaza
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 21 - VIENNA SIGHTSEEING
Sightseeing with a local guide includes a visit to magnificent Schönbrunn Palace. Continue around the ring road seeing the Parliament, Imperial Palace and Opera House.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 22 - VIENNA – SALZBURG – MUNICH
Drive to Salzburg where a local guide shows you Mozart’s birthplace, the Cathedral and Mirabell Gardens. In fun loving Munich tonight’s Dine-Around evening offers you a selection of restaurants to choose from.
Hotel: Westin Grand Arabellapark
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dine Around
Day 23 - MUNICH – VADUZ – LAKE LUCERNE
See the Marienplatz with its Glockenspiel. Drive to Vaduz in Liechtenstein to see the castle. Then enjoy a beautiful drive to lovely Lake Lucerne in Switzerland.
Hotel: Post Hotel Weggis
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 24 - LUCERNE SIGHTSEEING
Sightseeing includes the Chapel Bridge and emotive Lion Monument before ascending nearby Mount Pilatus by cog-wheel railway and cable-car for views over the Swiss Alps.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner
Day 25 - LAKE LUCERNE – RHINELAND
See the thundering Rhine Falls before crossing into Germany and travelling through the legendary Black Forest en route to the Rhineland.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner
Day 26 - RHINELAND – BOPPARD – AMSTERDAM
Take a scenic cruise along the Rhine. In Boppard, time to explore this quaint wine village, before heading north to your hotel in lively Amsterdam.
Hotel: Mövenpick City Centre
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 27 - AMSTERDAM SIGHTSEEING
Cross Dam Square and pass the Royal Palace to see diamonds being cut and polished. Then join an included drive through typical Dutch countryside. Enjoy a Celebration Dinner with wine tonight.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Celebration Dinner
Day 28 - RETURN HOME
The tour ends in Amsterdam with departure transfers arriving at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol at 08:00 and 10:00.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
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Best of Eastern Canada and USA (2012 2013)
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16 Days |
Canada & USA |
June 24 & July 8, 2012 |
$3195 |
Join this comprehensive tour and enjoy two-night stays in some of North America’s key destinations: Toronto, Quebec City, Bar Harbor, Boston, Washington, D.C. and New York City. The spectacular scenery en route ensures that every day is as enjoyable as the previous one. |
Included:
INCLUDED HIGHLIGHTS
•Toronto: Rise to the top of the CN Tower. See museum row, Queen’s Park and City Hall.
•Niagara Falls: Enjoy close-up views of the falls on the Maid of the Mist cruise. Browse the shops and galleries of Niagara-on-the-Lake.
•Ottawa: Transfer to Turtle Island by canoe and explore the village with a native interpreter. Explore 20,000 years of human history at the Canadian Museum of Civilization; also see the Parliament building, Royal Canadian Mint and National Art Gallery.
•Montreal: Enjoy the views from Mount Royal and explore the Old Town. Experience the dramatic architecture and grand decor of Notre-Dame Basilica.
•Quebec: Visit the shrine of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupre and the Montmorency Falls. See the Plains of Abraham, the Citadel and the historic walls of the City
•Bar Harbor: Take in the natural beauty of Acadia National Park on a morning excursion.
•Kennebunkport: Stroll along the shops and historic waterfront buildings.
•Boston: Your Tour Director brings the story of the American Revolution to life as you walk along the Freedom Trail.
•Philadelphia: Tour the award-winning National Constitution Center. View Independence Hall and visit the Liberty Bell.
•Washington, D.C.: Board the narrated Tourmobile and visit the National Cemetery in Arlington. See the Capitol, Lincoln and Jefferson Memorials and The White House.
•New York: Embark on a harbor cruise and view the Statue of Liberty. Stop at the Top of the Rock observation deck for stunning views of the skyline. Take in all the famous sights.
INCLUDED QUALITY DINING
•Enjoy a Welcome Reception with light buffet (WR)
•15 Full Breakfasts (FB) and 1 three-course table d’hôte Dinner (D)
•1 Highlight Dinner featuring traditional food in Ottawa (HD)
•1 Highlight Dinner with wine in Quebec (HD)
•1 Highlight Lobster Dinner with wine Bar Harbor (HD)
•Enjoy a Dine-Around evening with wine in Boston (DA)
•Enjoy a Celebration Dinner with wine in New York (CD)
INCLUDED FIRST CLASS SERVICES
•Escorted by a professional Tour Director
•Headsets for all guided visits and walking tours
•Luxury air-conditioned 40-guest coaches with extra leg room and onboard restroom
•Insight Hotels include all service charges, taxes and porterage
•Insight Traveler Welcome pack
•Airport arrival and departure transfers on Day 1 and Day 16
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Day 1 - ARRIVE TORONTO
On arrival at Toronto International Airport, your airport transfer service takes you to your tour hotel. Your Tour Director is at the hotel this afternoon to greet you and answer your questions. At 6 p.m., gather at the hotel with your Tour Director and fellow travelers for a Welcome Reception and light buffet.
Meals: Welcome Reception
Day 2 - TORONTO SIGHTSEEING AND NIAGARA FALLS EXCURSION
Rise to the top of the CN Tower, the tallest free-standing tower in the Americas, for views from four look-out levels. Travel up University Avenue to see Queen’s Park, the Parliament buildings and museum row. Now it’s on to Niagara Falls. View this great natural wonder up-close on the Maid of the Mist cruise. Browse the shops and galleries of Niagara-on-the-Lake before returning to Toronto.
Meals: Full Breakfast / Dinner
Day 3 - TORONTO - OTTAWA
Follow the shores of Lake Ontario to historic Kingston where you view the old buildings, churches and fortifications. Now continue to the capital of Ottawa to visit the Canadian Museum of Civilization. Tonight, travel by giant canoe to Turtle Island to savor a native feast accompanied by traditional dance.
Meals: Full Breakfast / Highlight Dinner
Day 4 - OTTAWA - MONTREAL
Enjoy an orientation tour along the stately boulevards of Ottawa seeing the green-peaked roofs of the Parliament, City Hall and the National Art Gallery of Canada. Now continue to Montreal in the French speaking province of Quebec. Join a local guide to see the cobblestone streets and buildings of the old town, the grand mansions of Mount Royal, downtown area and visit Notre-Dame Basilica.
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 5 - MONTREAL - QUEBEC CITY
Depart Montreal and venture north to visit Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupre, the first pilgrimage shrine in North America and Montmorency Falls. Continue to Quebec City, set atop sheer cliffs at a narrowing of the St. Lawrence River. The rest of the day is at leisure to soak up the city’s old world-charm. Tonight, savor typical Quebecois cuisine Highlight Dinner with wine at a charming restaurant in Old Quebec City.
Meals: Full Breakfast / Highlight Dinner
Day 6 - QUEBEC CITY SIGHTSEEING
Experience Quebec’s unique European charm with a local guide: the Latin Quarter, Plains of Abraham, ramparts, National Assembly, Basilica, City Hall, Place Royale and Citadel.
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 7 - QUEBEC CITY - BAR HARBOR
Bid “Au Revoir” to Quebec and cross the US border. Relax and enjoy the countryside while traveling east toward the Atlantic coast, to the quintessential New England fishing village of Bar Harbor, Maine.
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 8 - BAR HARBOR - ACADIA EXCURSION
Take in the natural beauty of Acadia National Park, with its dramatic rocky shoreline, beaver ponds and spectacular views from the top of Cadillac Mountain. Explore Bar Harbor on your own this afternoon or perhaps join an optional nature cruise. This evening, feast on a traditional Maine lobster dinner.
Meals: Full Breakfast / Highlight Dinner
Day 9 - BAR HARBOR - BOSTON
Follow the rocky Maine shoreline south, stopping in picturesque Kennebunkport for a chance to soak up typical New England life. Pass Portsmouth, New Hampshire’s only coastal city, en route to Boston, Massachusetts.
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 10 - BOSTON SIGHTSEEING
Boston is one of America’s oldest and most historic cities. Join your Tour Director for a trip along the Freedom Trail. See Beacon Hill, Faneuil Hall, Charlestown, Bunker Hill Pavilion and the meeting house where the Boston Tea Party was planned. The afternoon is at leisure. Tonight, enjoy a selection of restaurants for your dining pleasure.
Meals: Full Breakfast / Dine Around
Day 11 - BOSTON - PHILADELPHIA
Travel to Philadelphia where both the Declaration of Independence and US Constitution were written. Explore Independence National Historic Park, visit the Liberty Bell and view Independence Hall.
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 12 - PHILADELPHIA - WASHINGTON D.C.
Tour the award winning National Constitution Center before continuing to Washington, D.C.. The afternoon is free to perhaps visit one of the Smithsonian’s museums, the Kennedy Center, or stroll through the historic cobblestone streets of Georgetown.
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 13 - WASHINGTON D.C. SIGHTSEEING
See Capitol Hill and The White House on your morning guided city tour. Stops include the Jefferson and Lincoln Memorials and the WWII and Vietnam Veterans Memorials. In Arlington, board the narrated Tourmobile and visit the National Cemetery.
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 14 - WASHINGTON D.C. - NEW YORK CITY
Depart the nation’s capital and head to the Big Apple. Embark upon a harbour cruise to get dazzling views of Manhattan’s skyline, Ellis Island and the towering Statue of Liberty. Enjoy your evening at leisure.
Meals: Full Breakfast
Day 15 - NEW YORK CITY SIGHTSEEING
This mornings orientation tour includes Times Square, the Financial and Broadway Districts and Battery Park. After, visit the Top of the Rock observation deck with stunning views of the New York skyline. In the evening, join your Tour Director and newfound friends for a celebration dinner at a New York restaurant.
Meals: Full Breakfast / Celebration Dinner with wine
Day 16 - DEPART NEW YORK CITY
The tour comes to an end with departure transfers to JFK, Newark International Airport and La Guardia Airport.
Meals: Full Breakfast
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