September 18-26, 2010
9 days
Pickup: Lancaster, Ephrata
Times pending
Price per person, double occupancy:
Category JJ (Interior State Room) $2,895
Category BE (Balcony State Room) $3,205
Deposit - $700 per person at registration
Balance due by July 2, 2010
Package includes:
·Air fare
·
Port taxes & fees ·
Airport transfers from Lancaster ·
Fuel surcharge (subject to change)
·
All meals on ship
Airlines luggage charge not included.
uPhoto ID requiredu
SAT, SEP 18 (Day 1)
Ah....the warm breezes and carefree island wonders that await us in Hawaii. We are transferred to the airport for our flight today, bound for "paradise in the Pacific." In the evening, we arrive in Honolulu and board our luxury liner, Norwegian Cruise Line's Pride of America.
SUN, SEP 19 (Day 2)
Maui is called “The Valley Isle,” a name that implies a sort of relaxed peacefulness. Condé Nast Traveler voted Maui the best island in the
world for eleven years in a row. This tropical paradise has it all: hundreds of spectacular
beaches, cascading waterfalls, voluptuous jungles bursting with color and birdsong,
dramatic volcanic craters and small, charming
Hawaiian towns. You’ll agree—there’s nothing on earth quite like it. There are many optional excursion possibilities, and we overnight here so we will have more opportunities for sightseeing.
MON, SEP 20 (Day 3)
We spend the bulk of the day here in Maui so make sure you see it all before our late afternoon departure.
TUE, SEP 21 (Day 4)
“The Big Island” offers two dramatically different experiences, from lush rainforests of Hilo to the
arid coast of Kona. Larger than Hawaii’s other main islands combined, the Big Island of Hawaii is spectacularly diverse in both landscapes and activities. Pristine beaches, curious lava formations, and the earth’s tallest sea mountain all make this island a completely unique adventure. Enjoy your time in paradise. Tonight we sail by Mount Kilauea (the world’s most continuously active volcano).
WED, SEP 22 (Day 5)
Today we move around “The Big Island” to the other side where we drop anchor at Kona. Located on Hawaii's western shore, where the
slopes of Mauna Loa and Hualalai meet the sea, the Kona Coast is a region of endless lava fields and golden Pacific sunsets. The clear waters are perfect for diving, snorkeling, and deep-sea fishing. It's the geography of the Big Island that makes Kona, Hawaii, the sportfishing capital of the Pacific. At the heart of the Kona Coast lies the charming resort village of
Kailua. Because two other “Kailuas” exist within the state, the Big Island’s Kailua is
often called Kailua-Kona for clarity. Five huge mountain masses protect the Kona coast from the winds resulting in sea conditions that are usually as calm as a lake.
THU, SEP 23 (Day 6)
Beautiful Nawiliwili is your passage into the sacred "Garden Isle." We overnight here in Nawiliwili giving us more time to enjoy this beautiful place. Kauai offers a different kind of paradise—more low-key and pristine, and somehow more authentic. A Kauai rule states no building can exceed the height of a coconut tree, so the skyline is dominated by swaying palms, majestic mountains and almost daily rainbows.
THU, SEP 24 (Day 7)
We depart this magnificent island early this morning. Enjoy the rest of the day at sea aboard one of Norwegian Cruise Line’s newest vessels. Pride of America has been designed to reflect many diverse parts of the country, from an Alaskan Gold Rush Pub to a New Orleans’ Mardi Gras Cabaret Lounge to a Hawaii-themed Aloha Café and Waikiki Bar. We will be able to experience the flavor of the U.S. while enjoying the Aloha Spirit of the crew on board.
FRI, SEP 25 & SAT, SEP 26 (Days 8 & 9)
This morning we disembark in Honolulu, where we board our flight home and then are transferred to Lancaster.
This tour is being offered in cooperation with Christian Tours.
September 25-October 1, 2010
7 days
Pickup: Lancaster, Ephrata
Lv-7:00 am Rt-8:30 pm
Price per person: $1,374 Double $1,679 Single
$1,315 Triple
Deposit - $200 per person at registration
Balance due by August 13, 2010
6 breakfasts 4 lunches 6 dinners
uPhoto ID required for West Pointu
SAT, SEP 25 (Day 1)
Our train adventure begins by traveling to Essex, CT, to board the Essex Steam Train. We will relax in coaches dating from 1919 to 1930, as the 1920 steam locomotive transports us along the Connecticut River, through the mountains and picturesque towns. Next, we board the Essex Valley Riverboat for a leisurely cruise back to Essex. Dinner and overnight in Groton, CT. (D)
SUN, SEP 26 (Day 2)
This morning, we travel to Buzzards Bay, MA, for their one-of-a-kind festival, the Bourne Scallop Festival. There will be plenty of time to browse the craft tents and enjoy a scrumptious scallop luncheon, or BBQ chicken if you are not a scallop lover. Next we board a train for Hyannis, MA, enjoying the cranberry bogs and scenic woodlands along the way. We walk 100 yards to the train station and enjoy a picturesque ride to Hyannis. Cranberry bogs and natural woodlands and marshes highlight our panoramic view from the train. In Hyannis, we are transferred to the dock for a narrated harbor cruise, which offers a peek at the Kennedy Compound, only visible from the water. Dinner and overnight in Hyannis, MA. (B, L, D)
MON, SEP 27 (Day 3)
This morning we travel into New Hampshire to catch the Hobo Scenic Railroad, which was once part of the Boston, Concord and Montreal Railroad. Today we sit back, munch on our "Hobo Picnic Lunch" and enjoy a scenic, relaxing ride through a natural woodsy setting along the winding "Pemi" River. Our travels to our overnight take us along the famed Kancamagus Highway, one of the nation's most scenic by-ways. The road meanders through vast forests, old logging roads and Indian hunting paths. Overnight in the North Conway, NH area. (B, L, D)
TUE, SEP 28 (Day 4)
Today we explore New Hampshire's White Mountains. We start the day as guests on the Winnepesaukee Belle. The "Winni Belle" is a 70-foot replica turn-of-the-century paddle- wheeler boat, whose home dock is Wolfeboro, NH, also known as "America's oldest summer resort." From outside under the canopied deck or inside in the salon, we get to see "the big lake" up close, including its shores, islands and the surrounding mountains. After lunch in the quaint village of Woodstock, NH, we travel to the prettiest state park in the country, Franconia Notch State Park. After a brief stop at the visitors center, we ride the aerial tram to the top of Cannon Mountain for a spectacular view. Next we journey through historic Bretton Woods for a photo stop at Mt. Washington Hotel, one of the few remaining grand hotels in New England, then continue on to Crawford Notch for more breathtaking views of New Hampshire's most rugged scenery. Dinner tonight will be served on the North Conway Dinner Train. As we settle in comfortably aboard the elegantly restored 1929 Dining Car "Chocorua", we savor both our delectable dinner and the expansive Mt. Washington Valley unfolding just outside the window. Overnight in
the North Conway, NH area. (B, D)
WED, SEP 29 (Day 5)
This morning we depart for the Green Mountain State of Vermont. In White River Junction, we board the Green Mountain Flyer for a narrated excursion through the picturesque Vermont countryside as we munch on our boxed lunch aboard the train. After a quick picture stop at Quechee Gorge, Vermont's little grand canyon, we visit the Luce family at Sugarbush Farms for an insider’s view of their maple syrup and cheese production. Later this afternoon we will be guests at the beautifully preserved President Calvin Coolidge Historic Homestead. Our dinner and overnight are in the Rutland, VT area. (B, L, D)
THU, SEP 30 (Day 6)
We spend this morning along the southern shores of Lake Champlain aboard the ma and pa owned and operated M/V Carillon. After lunch and free time in Middlebury, VT, Fred and Judi Danforth will give us a close-up view of their family's lovingly revived tradition of pewtersmithing at Danforth Pewter. You may even get to try your hand at pewter making. Afternoon tea is served in Brandon Inn before we return to our hotel to freshen up for dinner at a quaint country inn. (B, D)
FRI, OCT 1 (Day 7)
Traveling homeward, we make appropriate stops along the way before having our included lunch at the Hotel Thayer at West Point, NY. A guided tour of the West Point Military Academy grounds concludes our time together before arrival in Lancaster. (B, L)
DUNES MANOR ON THE BEACH
OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND
September 20-22, 2010
3 days
Pickup: Lancaster, Ephrata, Gap
Lv-7:00 am Rt-9:00 pm
Price per person: $325 Double $396 Single $305 Triple
$295 Quad
Deposit - $75 per person at registration
Balance due by August 6, 2010
2 breakfasts 3 dinners
MON, SEP 20 (Day 1)
We get an early start today as we travel to the beach at Ocean City, Maryland. We arrive at the beautiful, Victorian-style Dunes Manor Hotel around noon, our home for the next two days. All rooms in this hotel are oceanfront. The afternoon is yours to explore the hotel, enjoy lunch at one of the many fine restaurants, take a stroll along the beach or the boardwalk, or just relax. Complimentary tea is served at the hotel each afternoon at 3:00 pm. A sumptuous dinner awaits you this evening at our hotel and is served at your leisure between 4:00 and 9:00 pm. (D)
TUE, SEP 21 (Day 2)
Enjoy a delicious breakfast at your leisure, along with a view of the ocean, from our hotel dining room beginning at 7:30 a.m. Following breakfast, we have the option to take a short drive to Assateague Island Park to see the wild ponies and visit the Assateague Lighthouse. We'll return to our hotel mid-afternoon, and the remainder of the day is yours to do whatever you choose or relax and enjoy your lovely surroundings. Remember to stop by and have some tea at 3:00 pm if you're around the hotel. Dinner tonight is again offered in the hotel dining room and is served from 4:00 to 9:00 pm. (B, D)
WED, SEP 22 (Day 3)
Enjoy another wonderful breakfast at your leisure in our hotel dining room beginning at
7:30 am. After breakfast, you're on your own until 3:00 pm, at which time we will bid farewell
to the Dunes and board our coach for the drive home. We will make a dinner stop en route in the Dover area before continuing on to Lancaster. (B, D)
September 25-October 2, 2010
8 days
Pickup: Lancaster, America’s Keswick (Whiting, NJ)
Times pending
Price per person:
Garden View - $2,248 Single** $2,168 Double $1,978 Triple
Water View - $2,648 Single $2,298 Double $2,098 Triple
Deposit - $500 per person at registration
Balance due by July 23, 2010
7 breakfasts 7 dinners
Includes airfare & airport transfers from Lancaster or Whiting, NJ to Newark Airport
Airlines luggage charge not included.
uValid passport
requiredu
**Thank you to Willowbank for extending this special rate for our single travelers. Single, Garden View room requests will be assigned the best available room, which means a possible complimentary upgrade to Oceanview accommodations, depending upon availability at time of arrival.
Bermuda is a chain of coral islands, located 568 miles east of Cape Hatteras, North Carolina, and only a two-hour flight from the Newark International Airport. (Let us know if you wish to fly out of another airport, and we will contact you.) The sun-bathed islands are outlined by pink beaches and blue-green waters. Although there are more than 300 isles, the seven main islands are joined by roads and bridges. The well-groomed homes are surrounded by amaryllis, oleander, gladiola, hibiscus, and poinsettias. The daytime temperatures at this time of year are in the low to mid 80's. Bermuda is a place to relax, enjoy the ocean, and visit the small out-of-the-way shops. The restful days, lovely surroundings, and fellowship with other Christians will make this trip a memorable one. Much of our time is spent at the Willowbank Resort, one of the most beautiful and tranquil locations in Bermuda. Sponsored by the Willowbank Foundation, a non-denominational Christian trust, Willowbank's purpose is that people "in a hurried and anxious world might find rest, recreation and renewed purpose." Situated between picturesque Ely's Harbor and the majestic Atlantic Ocean is six acres of semi-tropical paradise. Nearby your Bermuda cottage are two sandy beaches, one on the Harbor side and the other on the ocean side. Equally as close is the fresh water swimming pool, the all-weather tennis courts, shuffleboard, and fishing. You may wish to tour these islands on a moped or by taxi. Times of singing and group activities will round out the daily schedule.
An important part of the experience at Willowbank is the “Serendipity” time held daily, Monday through Saturday. The guest speaker, known as the “Pastor in Residence,” will lead a time of devotion and Bible study. Serendipity attendance is optional, but each and every guest is welcome to attend. Guests meet with our visiting speaker for 30 minutes following breakfast so there’s plenty of time to enjoy the rest of the day relaxing or doing some sightseeing. It’s a great way to start the day. Over the dates we are in Bermuda, the special Bible teacher at Willowbank will be John Hibbard. For many years, Reverend Hibbard was the pastor of Pemberton’s First Baptist Church, Pemberton, NJ. He has also served as chaplain with some of the professional sports teams in Philadelphia. Of special note also is that John is on the board of America’s Keswick, and what a treat it will be to have him as our special Bible teacher each morning of our outstanding vacation.
This tour is being offered in cooperation with America’s Keswick, Whiting, NJ
October 4-7, 2010
4 days
Pickup: Lancaster, Ephrata
Lv-7:00 am Rt-9:00 pm
Price per person: $649 Double $874 Single $549 Triple
$537 Quad
Deposit - $125 per person at registration
Balance due by August 20, 2010
3 breakfasts 1 lunch 3 dinners
Each year, this is one of our popular tours, and those who register
enjoy the adventure! Although we cannot tell you our stops, we can pass along the
following clues. Our destination is a place that Bob Neff Tours has not visited before or within the last 10 years, and one that we feel you will enjoy.
This is a mystery you won't want to miss.
The schedule is packed full of fun.
Can't tell what attractions or even where
But our hotel is scenic and A-number one.
We just know you will love this place.
There is so much to see and do.
We can't be specific about what's in store
But, in general, the list we'll go through.
The attractions we'll visit cover air, land and sea.
They range from very old to next to new.
So let's start out with stop number one:
Popcorn and chocolate is your very first clue.
Next a state park with something quite unique;
Then an interactive museum.
Next a garden memorial for some who died.
They’re gone—don't expect to see 'em.
We will spend a day in a national spot,
Set aside for us to see and enjoy.
Sit back and take in the legends and lore—
How they saved them from being destroyed.
We are so excited about this tour.
We know it will be worth every minute.
But it's also a fact we won't have as much fun
If the coach leaves and you are not in it.
NIAGARA FALLS & TORONTO, CANADA
October 11-14, 2010
4 days
Pickup: Lancaster, Ephrata, Harrisburg
Lv-6:30 am Rt-9:00 pm
Price per person: $559 Double $685 Single $519 Triple
$499 Quad
Deposit - $100 per person at registration
Balance due by August 20, 2010
3 breakfasts 1 lunch 3 dinners
uPassport requiredu
MON, OCT 11 (Day 1)
We travel northward making a lunch stop near Bath, New York, before arriving at beautiful Letchworth State Park in New York, noted for the three waterfalls of the Genesee River Gorge. The walls of the 17-mile winding gorge reach heights up to 600 feet, offering spectacular views of the river, surrounding area and fall colors. Leaving the park, we head to the US/Canadian Border at Niagara Falls. The two countries are separated by the Niagara River, which we cross via Rainbow Bridge. Our hotel accommodations for the next three nights are in Niagara Falls, Ontario, just a short distance from the Falls. On this first evening, we will enjoy a delicious dinner atop the Skylon Tower, rising 520 feet above the ground and 800 feet above the base of the Falls. What a magnificent view! (D)
TUE, OCT 12 (Day 2)
Today we visit the famous Floral Clock, designed, planted, and maintained by The Niagara Parks Commission. Built in 1950, and inspired by the original floral clock in Edinburgh, Scotland, it is one of the world's largest—measuring 40 feet in diameter. Next the Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory exhibits over 2000 exotic live butterflies from around the world, living in a tropical rain forest environment. Then The Maid Of The Mist cruise (slickers are provided to keep us snug and dry) takes us to an up-close look at the base of the mighty waterfall. Lunch is on our own, and we have free time to explore the Table Rock complex, located at the brink of the Canadian Horseshoe Falls. Next, the IMAX Theater shows us the Falls in a colorful, larger-than-life production. The Daredevil Museum allows us to view some of the feats of those who dared to defy the mighty force of the Falls. We drive to dinner at a fine local restaurant. Before returning to our hotel for the night, we stop to see the mighty Falls illuminated by changing colored lights. (B, D)
WED, OCT 13 (Day 3)
Our morning begins as we travel west and north around Lake Ontario to “Canada’s most beautiful city”—Toronto. We’ll stop at Casa Loma, a fairy tale castle in the heart of the city. We will be able to explore its 98 rooms, hidden passages and tunnels and its lovely gardens. We have lunch at CN Tower, the world’s tallest free-standing structure. Then we drive to Niagara-on-the-Lake for a browsing environment like none other. Take a carriage ride or a classic car tour through the old town or stroll the historic streets of a by-gone era. Dinner is on your own here before we return to our accommodations in Niagara Falls. (B, L)
THU, OCT 14 (Day 4)
Journeying toward home, we visit the Corning Glass Center, where we can watch skilled craftspeople as they shape globs of molten glass into exquisite works of art. Stroll through the Museum Of Glass and see priceless Tiffany and Stueben ware. Visit the shops for a unique gift item or souvenir, and enjoy lunch in the cafeteria. A delicious buffet dinner and some free time at the Country Cupboard is included before arriving in Lancaster.
VERMONT & NEW HAMPSHIRE FALL SPLENDOR
October 11-16, 2010
6 days
Pickup: Lancaster, Ephrata
Lv-7:00 am Rt-9:30 pm
Price per person: $825 Double $1,095 Single $735 Triple
$695 Quad
Deposit - $150 per person at registration
Balance due by August 20, 2010
5 breakfasts 4 lunches 2 dinners
MON, OCT 11 (Day 1)
We spend the morning and early afternoon traveling toward our first stop at the Bennington Museum in Bennington, VT. Their galleries are well known for having the largest collection of Grandma Moses art available to the public, as well as showcasing the rich heritage of this state with local paintings, pottery and furniture. Dinner and overnight in Rutland. (D)
TUE, OCT 12 (Day 2)
America first fell in love with Norman Rockwell's endearing art on the cover of the Saturday Evening Post. This morning, we stroll through the Norman Rockwell Museum in Rutland, VT. This collection of his artwork commemorates his Vermont years and the entire span of his career with more than 2,500 Rockwell magazine covers, advertisements, calendars and other published works. The sap will not be running in October, but no visit to New England is complete without a stop at the New England Maple Museum, where we’ll trace the "sweet," tasty history of maple sugaring from the Native Americans to today. Lunch today is at the elegant Waybury Inn. You may recognize it as the home of the Bob Newhart Show. Poet Robert Frost knew it as his favorite dinner spot. This afternoon, we visit the fabulous Shelburne Museum, without question, the nation's finest, most diverse and unconventional museum of art and Americana. Their beautifully landscaped grounds are home to 39 buildings, many of which are original structures relocated to the museum and exhibiting quilts, textiles, wagons, stagecoaches, lighthouses, rail cars, printing presses, woodworking and vintage toys and more. Don't miss the 1950's, post WWII home. Their gift shop is exceptional. Overnight in South Burlington, VT. (B, L)
WED, OCT 13 (Day 3)
We board the Spirit of Ethan Allen III for a cruise around Lake Champlain as our captain regales us with his tales of the area's rich history. Next we enjoy a sumptuous lunch at the Trapp Lodge. This lodge received its name from the singing Trapp family, the inspiration for the classic musical and movie, The Sound of Music. Overnight in Lincoln, NH. (B, L)
THU, OCT 14 (Day 4)
Get your cameras ready! Our journey today includes a stunning display of fall color. This morning we relive an authentic "Golden Days" experience on the Conway Scenic Railroad. From the comfort of its restored vintage coaches, we take in the gorgeous autumn beauty of the Mount Washington Valley countryside. We enjoy lunch in the dining car as we meander through the picturesque valley. Traveling to our hotel is an attraction in itself as we take to the Kancamagus Scenic Highway meandering through the heart of the White Mountains and famous for its spectacular spectrum of color in the fall. We spend the afternoon wandering past vast forests, old logging roads, Indian hunting paths and making picture stops at scenic overlooks. Overnight in Lincoln, NH. (B, L)
FRI, OCT 15 (Day 5)
This morning's foliage vista is high in the Ossipee Mountain range at the Castle in the Clouds. Thomas Plant had this mountaintop retreat built in 1913-14 for his new bride. Each room in the exquisite 16-room mansion features skilled hand craftsmanship and breathtaking views. The acreage surrounding the mansion overflows with cascading waterfalls, winding paths and sumptuous gardens. Don't miss the New Hampshire themed gift shoppe. Lunch will be at a fine local restaurant followed by a delightful spin around Lake Winnipesaukee aboard the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad. When this railroad line was built in 1849, the area was remote. We roam along the now busy shoreline from the comfort of its cars, enjoying our view of the water and many quaint vacation dwellings. Overnight in Andover, MA. (B, L)
SAT, OCT 16 (Day 6)
Today we visit the fascinating city of Boston and the New England Aquarium, which features more than 20,000 fish and aquatic animals. You will witness a coral reef with tropical fish and underwater life including sharks, turtles and Moray Eels. Lunch in Boston's famous Quincy Market is on your own before we head homeward. (B, D)
October 14-15, 2010
2 days
Pickup: Lancaster, Ephrata, Harrisburg
Lv-7:00 am Rt-9:30 pm
Price per person: $289 Double $339 Single $273 Triple
$262 Quad
Deposit - $50 per person at registration
Balance due by September 3, 2010
1 breakfast 1 lunch 1 dinner
THU, OCT 14 (Day 1)
Today we travel to the village of Watkins Glen, once a major producer of salt for the state. Adjoining the village, at the south end of Seneca Lake, Watkins Glen State Park is our destination. Rock formations and 18 waterfalls highlight the scenic glen, which drops about 400 feet in 2 miles. Cliffs rise 300 feet above the stream, and a bridge 165 feet above the water spans the glen. (Note: There are 800 steps to bottom of glen.) We'll take our coach to the top of the glen and walk down, to avoid the strenuous climb. Those not wishing to walk through the glen may browse the quaint shops in the village. We continue northward along the western shore of Seneca Lake, largest of the Finger Lakes, to Geneva, NY, nestled in the center of a rich agricultural and nursery region, and our overnight accommodations. American Indian folklore states that the Finger Lakes were formed when God placed His handprint on some of the most beautiful land ever created. Dinner tonight is at the Belhurst Castle, a few minutes from our hotel. (D)
FRI, OCT 15 (Day 2)
Following a bountiful breakfast at our hotel, we drive to Canandaigua, built on the site of the Seneca Indian village Kan-an-dar-gue. Here we visit the Granger Homestead and Carriage Museum. This is the impressive home of Gideon Granger, who was active in state politics during the American Revolution and Postmaster General during the presidential administrations of Thomas Jefferson and James Madison. Built in 1816, this grand home has many of the original furnishings. Our guide will share many fascinating details about the Grangers and the
collections on display. Then, it's time for a drive southward to Canandaigua Lake, considered to be the most beautiful of the Finger Lakes. We board the Canandaigua Lady, a paddle wheel steamboat, and enjoy an elegant luncheon cruise while viewing the passing lake-shore. When we board our coach, we head toward home, stopping at the Country Cupboard in Lewisburg, where we have time to browse through their many gift shops and have dinner on our own. (B, L)
October 23-28, 2010
6 days
Pickup: Lancaster, Ephrata
Lv-7:00 am Rt-7:00 pm
Price per person: $4,799 + air Double $5,428 + air Single
$4,789 + air Triple
Deposit - $900 at registration
Balance due by June 11, 2010
+Approximate air costs - $900 per person
3 breakfasts 2 lunches 5 dinners
*Add $150 for Travelers Protection Plan.
uPassport
requiredu
Early Bird Savings
Register before May 20, 2010 and deduct
$150 per person
Journey to the land of the Polar Bear, where the Northern Lights dance across the Arctic sky. Get up close and personal with these thousand-pound wonders in the wild. Thrill to the magnificent scenery, natural beauty and rare wildlife from your warm Tundra Bus. Join us for an adventure of a lifetime in the Canadian wilderness!
SAT, OCT 23 (Day 1)
We are transferred to the airport for our flight to Winnipeg and arrive at our hotel. Rising from the shores of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers, Winnipeg is the capital and largest city in the province of Manitoba. The city's rich architecture, brick warehouses and rail depots reflect its importance as an historic supply center. A 1920’s boomtown, Winnipeg is a vibrant Canadian cultural center with its many art galleries, museums and The Forks market. It is here you'll meet your traveling companions for a welcome dinner. (D)
SUN, OCT 24 (Day 2)
Today we will board our aircraft for the flight to Churchill, where we will be transferred to the Lazy Bear Lodge. Rustic and charming, the Lazy Bear Lodge is an elegant, handcrafted log building providing warm, comfortable accommodations. The newest in Churchill, the Lazy Bear Lodge is smoke-free and family-run, bringing you the best in personal service and quality amenities. Eat fireside at the Lazy Bear Café as you feast on homemade cuisine, creating a true Northern ambiance you'll always remember. A Churchill Cultural Heritage Tour is enjoyed before having dinner at the Lodge. (D)
MON, OCT 25 (Day 3)
We have a full day of Polar Bear viewing aboard a heated tundra bus, with included lunch. Established as a grain port in the early 1700s, the frontier town of Churchill is home to the world's southernmost population of polar bears. These magnificent creatures, the monarch of the Arctic, tip the scales at over 1300 pounds and can stand some 10 feet tall. Anticipating the winter freeze, polar bears congregate along the coast beginning in October to return to the seal-rich feeding grounds on the ice flows of Hudson Bay. Watch as they search for food, play and roughhouse as they have for centuries. Tours are led by experienced driver-guides whose years of hands-on experience in the Churchill region provide an insightful narration. In your hunt for wildlife, you may also sight arctic foxes, arctic hares, caribou, ringed seals and the beautiful willow ptarmigan. Dinner and overnight at the Lazy Bear Lodge. (B, L, D)
TUE, OCT 26 (Day 4)
This is another full day of Polar Bear viewing aboard a heated tundra bus, with included lunch. Dinner and overnight at the Lazy Bear Lodge. (B, L, D)
WED, OCT 27 (Day 5)
Today we board our aircraft for the return flight to Winnipeg and are transferred to our hotel. We’ll have a farewell dinner together this evening. (B, D)
THU, OCT 28 (Day 6)
We arrive at the Winnipeg Airport for our return flight home and then are transferred to Lancaster.
ITALIAN DISCOVERY
Rome, Florence, Milan, Verona & Venice
November 11-21, 2010
11 days
Pickup: Lancaster, Ephrata
Times pending
Price per person: $3,676 Double $4,006 Single
$3,616 Triple
Deposit - $700 per person at registration**
Balance due by August 20, 2010
Package includes airfare, air taxes, airport transfers
9 breakfasts 5 dinners
uPassport (with minimum of 6 months validity)
requiredu
THU, NOV 11 (Day 1)
We are transferred to the airport for our overnight flight to Rome. Our exciting Italian vacation has begun!
FRI, NOV 12 (Day 2)
This morning, upon our arrival in Rome, we check into our hotel. The remainder of the day is free for you to relax or explore the Eternal City at your leisure. Take in some shopping, maybe a museum or two, just don't try to see it all on the first day! We'll end up the day with a warm welcome from our local tour guide who will explain about tomorrow's schedule. Overnight in Rome.
SAT, NOV 13 (Day 3)
Our first highlight today is a guided tour of the Sistine Chapel, enhanced by the use of our audio system used by our local guide, where we can gaze in awe at Michelangelo's beautiful painted ceiling. Next we visit St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican, and then cross the Tiber River to ancient Rome where we will overlook the Forum and visit the Colosseum, infamous for gladiatorial combat, and also see the Circus Maximus, where chariot races were once held. Later you may enjoy time on your own and perhaps try some Roman cuisine in a typical trattoria and watch Rome go by! Overnight in Rome. (B)
SUN, NOV 14 (Day 4)
Our Tour Director will take the time to show us a true Hidden Treasure during our journey today! We start by driving through the regions of Latium, Umbria and into Tuscany to Renaissance Florence. On our arrival, we enjoy the view from Piazzale Michaelangelo before our guided walking tour reveals to us the medieval and Renaissance past of this culturally rich city. We will see the Piazza Signoria, the political centre of the 15th century city, with its impressive sculptures and imposing palazzos, the multi-coloured marble Duomo and the famous Baptistery with the bronze doors designed by the Renaissance artist Ghiberti. We will also visit the Basilica of the Holy Cross, where so many of the great men of Italy are buried, including Michaelangelo. Then you will have time at leisure to further explore the city or to shop for high quality leather and 18-carat gold jewelry. Tonight we enjoy an authentic Tuscan dinner of local produce in a restaurant with stunning views over the vineyards of the Chianti Hills. Overnight in Florence. (B)
MON, NOV 15 (Day 5)
This morning after breakfast, our first stop will be at Pisa with its famous Leaning Tower and cathedral in the Square of Miracles. Here there's time for photos before we continue our drive past the quarries of Carrara and the resorts of Portofino, Rapallo and Genoa, Columbus' birthplace. Then on to Turin where our orientation shows us the Antonelliana building and the Piazza san Carlo. Tonight why not sample a dinner of local specialities in a local restaurant? Overnight in Turin. (B, D)
TUE, NOV 16 (Day 6)
First we travel to Lake Maggiore, which is the most westerly of the three large prealpine lakes of Italy. From here we enjoy a scenic drive along the lake and then head south for the capital of Lombardy, Milan. Here our guided tour includes the Galleria, the Piazza del Duomo where we admire the Gothic cathedral, bristling with innumerable sculptures, and the renowned opera house, La Scala. Overnight in Milan. (B, D)
WED, NOV 17 (Day 7)
This morning our first stop is a visit to the Cistercian Abbey of Pavia, an important architectural monument in Italy. Later we continue our journey into the Veneto stopping to see Juliet's balcony in Shakespeare's Verona. We also see the 2,000 year old Roman arena, still in use today, before continuing to magical Venice for two nights. Overnight in Venice. (B, D)
THU, NOV 18 (Day 8)
After breakfast we will take a morning cruise by private motor launch to St. Mark's Square highlighting the Doge's Palace and Basilica en route to one of the oldest Murano glass-blowing workshops. We'll witness a demonstration of this ancient art before time at leisure. You may wish to relax in a café or take an optional excursion to one of the islands in the Lagoon! Later after dinner at the hotel, why not experience this city from an elegant gondola? Overnight in Venice. (B, D)
FRI, NOV 19 (Day 9)
First we visit Mantua, the setting for Verdi's opera, Rigoletto, with its arcaded streets and cathedral. Later we arrive in Bologna, famous for its university, architecture, fine sausages and hams. Bologna is a feast for the senses and the stomach! Here a sightseeing tour with a local guide will show us Neptune's fountain, the Kissing Towers and Piazza Maggiore. Later, perhaps enjoy some of the city's fine cuisine at a local trattoria! Overnight in Bologna. (B)
SAT, NOV 20 (Day 10)
This morning we travel over the Apennine Mountains stopping at Assisi for a walking tour, using our audio system, of the peaceful hometown of St. Francis. It was here that he founded his Order of Grey Friars or Franciscans in 1208 and he died here in 1226 and was canonized just two years later. We will visit the magnificent basilica and see the tomb of St. Francis and later also see the Church of St. Mary of the Angels, which stands on the site of where he died. From here it's a short drive back to the 'Eternal City,' Rome, via the impressive hill-top town of Orte. Tonight, we enjoy a Farewell Dinner together with our tour director and traveling companions. Overnight in Rome. (B, D)
SUN, NOV 21 (Day 11)
This morning it's 'buon viaggio' to our tour director as our Italian vacation comes to an end. We fly home and are transferred to Lancaster. (B)
Ground arrangements by Trafalgar.
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