Bordeaux, France
Luxury eight day river cruise July 23-30, 2017
BORDEAUX, VINEYARDS, AND CHATEAUX
Join us on an incredible eight day sailing down the Dordogne and Garrone Rivers through one of the most acclaimed wine regions in the world. We will embark on the River Royale with Uniworld River Cruise Line. Uniworld is the proud Winner of the 2016 Travel and Leisure World's Best Awards as the #1 River Cruise Line, and Best Culinary Cruise Line by Saveur, and it isn't hard to see why. With truly all inclusive pricing that includes all gratuities both on and off the ship, shore excursions, unlimited top shelf spirits, local wines, and craft beer, and farm to table cuisine, all delivered by a highly trained professional staff whose motto is, "No request too large, no detail too small," it is no surprise this boutique cruise line is a leader in its industry.
Join us on an incredible eight day sailing down the Dordogne and Garrone Rivers through one of the most acclaimed wine regions in the world. We will embark on the River Royale with Uniworld River Cruise Line. Uniworld is the proud Winner of the 2016 Travel and Leisure World's Best Awards as the #1 River Cruise Line, and Best Culinary Cruise Line by Saveur, and it isn't hard to see why. With truly all inclusive pricing that includes all gratuities both on and off the ship, shore excursions, unlimited top shelf spirits, local wines, and craft beer, and farm to table cuisine, all delivered by a highly trained professional staff whose motto is, "No request too large, no detail too small," it is no surprise this boutique cruise line is a leader in its industry.
BORDEAUX TO BORDEAUX
Day 1 – Bordeaux (embark)
Day 2 – Cadillac, Bordeaux
FEATURED EXCURSIONS:
Cadillac, châteaux and Sauternes vineyards with exclusive artisanal wine-pairing lunch at Château de Cazeneuve
You’re in for a treat as you embark on a fascinating study of Sauternes, the highly prized, golden-hued sweet wine that takes its name from the region. Visit one of the area’s finest estates for a wine tasting, and then be treated to a delectable wine-pairing lunch at Château de Cazeneuve, an 85-acre estate. Learn how easy (and fun) it is to pair a sweet wine with a whole new variety of dishes. Extend your celebration into the evening with the Captain’s Welcome Reception and Gala Dinner. Note: Sailing this stretch of the Garonne depends on the tides. If it is not possible to sail to Cadillac, you will be taken to your destination via motorcoach.
Day 3 – Cruising the Garonne River and Gironde Estuary, Pauillac
FEATURED EXCURSIONS:
Choice of Médoc city tour with exclusive wine tasting OR exclusive guided “Go Active” vineyard bike ride with wine tasting
Sail the Garonne River and the Gironde Estuary before heading to Pauillac, gateway to the storied Médoc wine route and the prestigious “châteaux road.” You’ll have a panoramic tour of the heart of the celebrated Haut-Médoc wine-growing region and taste wines at one of its estates. If you wish for a more active exploration of the region, take a guided bicycle ride through Pauillac and the lush landscapes of historic estates that have seemingly remained unchanged for centuries. Do all those beautiful vineyards make you yearn to sample their fruit? Luckily, this adventure includes a stop at Château Lynch-Bages for a wine tasting.
Day 4 – Blaye, cruising the Gironde Estuary and Dordogne River, Libourne
FEATURED EXCURSIONS:
Scenic drive along the Route de la Corniche Fleurie with Blaye Fortress
Sail across the peaceful waters of the estuary, where fishing huts rise above grassy marshlands edged by limestone cliffs, as you make your way to the town of Blaye. A visual feast awaits you on a storied road named for the many flowers that line it, Route de la Corniche Fleurie, which wends its way through picturesque hamlets filled with old stone houses. Stop in the medieval walled village of Bourg-sur-Gironde, with a rich historic and architectural heritage, before heading back to Blaye, where you’ll be guided through the imposing 17th-century Blaye Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Day 5 – Libourne (Saint-Émilion)
FEATURED EXCURSIONS:
Saint-Émilion walking discovery tour with wine tasting
Hilltop Saint-Émilion offers both exceptional architecture and historic vineyards. The Romans were the first to plant grapes here, and this was the first vineyard region to be protected by UNESCO because of its history. Saint-Émilion is entered by way of one of the seven gates that are part of the original medieval fortifications. Inside the walls, discover steep, narrow cobblestone streets, stores brimming with wine and wine tools, and the extraordinary 12th-century Monolithic Church, carved into a cliff—only the tower is above ground; the rest of the church is subterranean. After touring Saint-Émilion, you’ll visit the cellars of a premier Grand Cru estate where you’ll taste some of the world’s most highly rated wines.
Day 6 – Libourne, cruising the Garonne River, Bordeaux
FEATURED EXCURSIONS:
Libourne “Village Day” with farmers’ market, and exclusive “Bordeaux under the Stars” tour
How could you visit this rich agricultural land without delving into a farmers’ market? Libourne’s sprawling farmers’ market is a food lover’s paradise, with stands selling fresh produce, cheeses, charcuterie and more. Explore its bounty with a local expert and take a peek inside the workshops of talented local artisans. Cap the day off with the “Bordeaux under the Stars” tour via an open-top bus for a view of this extraordinarily beautiful city illuminated at night.
Day 7 – Bordeaux
FEATURED EXCURSIONS:
Choice of exclusive “Do as the Locals Do” Bordeaux walking tour OR exclusive guided “Go Active” bike ride through the Bordeaux backstreets
How to spend your last day in Bordeaux? You have two exclusive opportunities to see this magnificent place, whose seamless blend of classical and neoclassical architecture led to its being designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. “Do as the Locals Do” as you stroll the most graceful streets with your local expert, including luxury food halls, local delicacies such as canelés and chocolates, and popular wine bars. If you prefer a more active experience, join a guide for a bicycle ride through city. Celebrate your last evening onboard with the festive Captain’s Farewell Reception and Gala Dinner.
Day 8 – Bordeaux (disembark)
Day 1 – Bordeaux (embark)
Day 2 – Cadillac, Bordeaux
FEATURED EXCURSIONS:
Cadillac, châteaux and Sauternes vineyards with exclusive artisanal wine-pairing lunch at Château de Cazeneuve
You’re in for a treat as you embark on a fascinating study of Sauternes, the highly prized, golden-hued sweet wine that takes its name from the region. Visit one of the area’s finest estates for a wine tasting, and then be treated to a delectable wine-pairing lunch at Château de Cazeneuve, an 85-acre estate. Learn how easy (and fun) it is to pair a sweet wine with a whole new variety of dishes. Extend your celebration into the evening with the Captain’s Welcome Reception and Gala Dinner. Note: Sailing this stretch of the Garonne depends on the tides. If it is not possible to sail to Cadillac, you will be taken to your destination via motorcoach.
Day 3 – Cruising the Garonne River and Gironde Estuary, Pauillac
FEATURED EXCURSIONS:
Choice of Médoc city tour with exclusive wine tasting OR exclusive guided “Go Active” vineyard bike ride with wine tasting
Sail the Garonne River and the Gironde Estuary before heading to Pauillac, gateway to the storied Médoc wine route and the prestigious “châteaux road.” You’ll have a panoramic tour of the heart of the celebrated Haut-Médoc wine-growing region and taste wines at one of its estates. If you wish for a more active exploration of the region, take a guided bicycle ride through Pauillac and the lush landscapes of historic estates that have seemingly remained unchanged for centuries. Do all those beautiful vineyards make you yearn to sample their fruit? Luckily, this adventure includes a stop at Château Lynch-Bages for a wine tasting.
Day 4 – Blaye, cruising the Gironde Estuary and Dordogne River, Libourne
FEATURED EXCURSIONS:
Scenic drive along the Route de la Corniche Fleurie with Blaye Fortress
Sail across the peaceful waters of the estuary, where fishing huts rise above grassy marshlands edged by limestone cliffs, as you make your way to the town of Blaye. A visual feast awaits you on a storied road named for the many flowers that line it, Route de la Corniche Fleurie, which wends its way through picturesque hamlets filled with old stone houses. Stop in the medieval walled village of Bourg-sur-Gironde, with a rich historic and architectural heritage, before heading back to Blaye, where you’ll be guided through the imposing 17th-century Blaye Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Day 5 – Libourne (Saint-Émilion)
FEATURED EXCURSIONS:
Saint-Émilion walking discovery tour with wine tasting
Hilltop Saint-Émilion offers both exceptional architecture and historic vineyards. The Romans were the first to plant grapes here, and this was the first vineyard region to be protected by UNESCO because of its history. Saint-Émilion is entered by way of one of the seven gates that are part of the original medieval fortifications. Inside the walls, discover steep, narrow cobblestone streets, stores brimming with wine and wine tools, and the extraordinary 12th-century Monolithic Church, carved into a cliff—only the tower is above ground; the rest of the church is subterranean. After touring Saint-Émilion, you’ll visit the cellars of a premier Grand Cru estate where you’ll taste some of the world’s most highly rated wines.
Day 6 – Libourne, cruising the Garonne River, Bordeaux
FEATURED EXCURSIONS:
Libourne “Village Day” with farmers’ market, and exclusive “Bordeaux under the Stars” tour
How could you visit this rich agricultural land without delving into a farmers’ market? Libourne’s sprawling farmers’ market is a food lover’s paradise, with stands selling fresh produce, cheeses, charcuterie and more. Explore its bounty with a local expert and take a peek inside the workshops of talented local artisans. Cap the day off with the “Bordeaux under the Stars” tour via an open-top bus for a view of this extraordinarily beautiful city illuminated at night.
Day 7 – Bordeaux
FEATURED EXCURSIONS:
Choice of exclusive “Do as the Locals Do” Bordeaux walking tour OR exclusive guided “Go Active” bike ride through the Bordeaux backstreets
How to spend your last day in Bordeaux? You have two exclusive opportunities to see this magnificent place, whose seamless blend of classical and neoclassical architecture led to its being designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. “Do as the Locals Do” as you stroll the most graceful streets with your local expert, including luxury food halls, local delicacies such as canelés and chocolates, and popular wine bars. If you prefer a more active experience, join a guide for a bicycle ride through city. Celebrate your last evening onboard with the festive Captain’s Farewell Reception and Gala Dinner.
Day 8 – Bordeaux (disembark)
Contact Marissa for additional information, availability, and pricing.
Photos and video courtesy of Uniworld Boutique River Cruises
5 day/4 night Fall Caribbean Getaway to El Dorado Royale
Voted one of Conde Nast Traveler's top 100 hotels
November 2-6, 2017
Join Marissa and fellow Distinguished Travelers as we take a well deserved break before the frenzy of the holiday season is upon us. We will be
flying to Cancun, Mexico and staying at the adult only, beachfront, El Dorado Royale Gourmet All-Inclusive resort.
Resort Overview: This laid-back, adults-only resort is set on the Riviera Maya, a 25 minute drive south of Cancun.
Suite comforts: All suites offer jetted tubs and balconies/patios with ocean or garden views.
Recreation options: El Dorado Royal By Karisma All Inclusive features a variety of gourmet dining options and bars, 24-hour room service, 6 on site swimming pools, daily excursions, and exciting nightlife.
Special group pricing from $1,295 per person including round trip airfare, resort accommodations, and ground transfers. Price assumes double occupancy, pending availability at time of booking. Space is limited.
Trip insurance is recommended and is available for purchase, covering medical emergencies, lost luggage, trip delays, and more.
Contact Marissa: Marissa@DistinguishedTravelers.com
615.933.6155
Special group pricing from $1,295 per person including round trip airfare, resort accommodations, and ground transfers. Price assumes double occupancy, pending availability at time of booking. Space is limited.
Trip insurance is recommended and is available for purchase, covering medical emergencies, lost luggage, trip delays, and more.
Contact Marissa: Marissa@DistinguishedTravelers.com
615.933.6155
Photos courtesy of Karisma Resorts and El Dorado Royale
PARIS, PROVENCE, AND THE FRENCH RIVIERA INCLUDING MONACO MARCH 9-18, 2018
Join Marissa and her her group of Distinguished Travelers as they tour Paris, Provence, and the surrounding areas of the French Riviera including Nice and Monaco. Distinguished Travelers emphasizes experiencing a destination in an immersive, authentic travel experience. We are travelers, not tourists. Marissa will personally lead this tour. Travel Marissa's way!
Friday, March 9: Depart US for overseas flight to France
Saturday, March 10: Paris
Upon arrival, we will be met by our tour guide, Etienne, for a panoramic tour of the city. We will take in the Opera House, the Palace De La Concorde (Where Louis XVI was beheaded), Champs Elysees (trendiest avenue in the world) the Arc D’ Triomph, Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Left bank including Notre Dame Cathedral, the Sarbonne, Luxembourg Gardens and Pantheon among other sights. The afternoon will be at your leisure to explore more in depth those sights that interest you. Dinner on own. Overnight in Paris.
Our accommodations in Paris will be HOTEL ANDRE LATIN which is an excellent boutique hotel near the Luxembourg Gardens, Parthenon, Sorbonne, and Notre Dame.
Sunday, March 11: Paris, Versailles, and Montmarte
Today we will depart Paris for a short drive to Versailles where we will visit the Palace of the Sun King (Louis XIV) and the beautiful Gardens of Le Notre. In the afternoon we will make our way to Montmartre to observe the artists at work and the beautiful basilica of the Sacre Coeur. Dinner back in Paris will be on your own, followed by an evening cruise on the River Seine. Overnight in Paris.
Monday, March 12: Paris and Aix En Provence
This morning we depart Paris for Aix En Provence aboard the TGV train. Aix En Provence is known as one of the jewels of Southern France; a town of water and art. Aix was founded in 123 BC on the site of a natural spring. You will find numerous fountains throughout the town, with most of the most famous ones located on the Cours Mirabeau. Old Town includes a myriad of winding streets with local markets, shops, and squares. Dinner provided, and overnight in Aix En Provence.
Our accommodations in Aix En Provence will be at the sumptuous HOTEL AQUABELLA which is a Sumptuous 4 star hotel in the heart of the city.
Tuesday, March 13: St. Remy, Gourdes, Roussillon
St. Remy is closely tied to the works of the artist Vincent Van Gogh during his stay in the region. St. Remy is considered one of the most beautiful villages in France. This afternoon we will continue to visit some of the beautiful towns in the area. Gordes is a village perched in the Luberon Valley and home to an imposing renaissance castle and church, and the famed lavender fields. Dinner is provided. Overnight in Aix En Provence.
Wednesday, March 14: Avignon and the Pont Du Gard Bridge
Depart Aix En Provence for Avignon where we will visit the Pope’s castle and the famous bridge Pont D’ Avignon. We will end our morning with a visit to the famous winery The Chateau Du Pape. This afternoon we will arrive at the Pont Du Gard Bridge which is a true masterpiece of ancient architecture. The Roman aqueduct is on one of the most beautiful examples of Roman construction in the region. We will return to Aix En Provence later in the afternoon where dinner will be provided. Overnight in Aix En Provence.
Thursday, March 15: Calanques, Vence, Saint Paul De Vence, Nice
Today we leave Provence for the magical the French Riviera. Our day will begin with a short cruise to the Calanques (the Mediterranean’s version of the Scandanavian Fjords). We will then continue to Vence where we will visit the Matisse Chapel, the Cathedral (where a famous mosaic by the artist Marc Chagall “Moses saved by the Nile” is on display. Time permitting, we will continue to St. Paul De Vence to see the Maegfoundation where many works by Chagall, Matisse, Picasso, and other famous artists are found. Dinner is provided. Overnight in Nice.
Our accommodations in Nice will be at the NICE RIVIERA 4 star hotel which is very centrally located and very close to the Promenade Des Anglais. Amenities include an on site heated swimming pool and jacuzzi.
Friday, March 16: Nice
After a short tour of Nice we continue to the elegant city of Cannes, well known as the capital of the world-famous film festival. From there we will go to Grasse where we will visit a perfume factory. In the afternoon, we will visit the famous Chagall Biblical Museum. Dinner on own. Overnight in Nice.
Saturday, March 17: Nice, Monte Carlo, Eze Village, Villa Ephrussi
Today we will drive along the Corniche to Monte Carlo, the capital of the little state of Monaco where we will visit the royal palace and botanical gardens. Then we are off to the “Eagle’s Nest Village” of Eze that is perched 1,500 feet above the Mediterranean and offers spectacular views. Our day will end with a visit to the villa and gardens of Ephrussi which pertain to the Rothschild family and is truly one of the jewels of the French Riviera. Farewell dinner with wine provided. Overnight in Nice.
Sunday, March 18: Nice to US
Transfer from hotel in Nice to the airport in Nice for departure flights back to the US
PRICE: $2,750 PER PERSON
Pricing is per person and assumes double occupancy. Pricing includes: 8 nights hotel accommodations, buffet breakfasts at the hotel, dinners as indicated in the itinerary, activities, visits, and guided tours as described in the itinerary, including entrance fees, transport by private bus and TGV train during the tour, and local taxes.
Price does not include: Personal expenses, meals (lunches and dinners not indicated in the itinerary), beverages during meals unless specified in the itinerary, gratuities to tour guides, hotel staff, or bus driver, any services not mentioned in the program, or international airfare. Travel insurance is highly recommended and will be available for purchase separately.
Many travelers have varying preferences when it comes to international air travel. For that reason, airfare is NOT included in the package price and leaves the option of purchasing airfare with reward points or paying directly and selecting the level of service that best suits your budget and preference. However, if I have a minimum of 10 travelers interested in group airfare rates from a US gateway, very favorable prices are available. Distinguished Travelers is happy to assist you with flights in both economy and Business Class. Contact Marissa for assistance with air travel itineraries.
Contact Marissa: Marissa@DistinguishedTravelers.com
615.933.6155
Gastronomy, Wine, Beer, and Historical Tour Through Venice and Slovenia
Whether you’re chasing cultural highs or pursuing nature’s pleasures, treading lightly or veering off the beaten path, there’s a good chance you’ll find what you’re looking for here. Sure, it may not be easy to find Slovenia on a map, but you’ll have a hard time finding a place so small offering so much. Everywhere and any time you go you’ll always run into something that reflects your unique taste and view of the world. The only question that remains is: what’s going to be your way of feeling Slovenia? Our tour will start in Venice, the Pearl of the Mediterranean, which has been defying the sea for thousands of years. Its rich history, architecture and cuisine will not leave you unaffected. Our journey will then take you to a marvellous Central European country. Slovenia, this paradise 2 hours' drive away from Venice, with its two million people living on 20,000 km2, will transport you into a marvellous world of diversity. Our tour will also feature superb local food, great hospitality and beautiful landscape.
Day by Day Itinerary
DAY 1: ITALY / VENICE
Welcome to Europe! On arrival at Marco Polo airport you will be met by your guide who will be with you throughout the whole tour, and who will attend to all your wishes. You will be transferred to the hotel in Venice. There you will be able to enjoy a rest after your long journey to Europe. You can spend the afternoon at your leisure.
INCLUDED: private transfer, private English speaking guide, accommodation in 4* Hotel
INCLUDED: private transfer, private English speaking guide, accommodation in 4* Hotel
DAY 2: ITALY / VENICE - LJUBLJANA
After a plentiful breakfast, your tour guide will be waiting to take you sightseeing through famous Venice. You will spend a pleasant morning in the "City of Romanticism and Love", as many cosmopolitans call it. We will view St. Mark's Square along the Grand Canal (Canal Grande), and this will be the starting point for your tour of Venice. St. Mark's Square is the most famous of Venice's sights, and around it are several places worth a visit: St. Mark's Basilica, the Campanile (bell tower), the Doge's Palace, the Correr Museum and the Bridge of Sighs. To round off our sightseeing tour of Venice a divine lunch by choice awaits us, with authentic Italian food and excellent wine. After this romantic occasion we will return to the mainland, past Murano Island, the site of the famous Murano glass industry. The driver will already be waiting to take us to Slovenia. Arriving in Slovenia in the late afternoon, we will have a rest in a design hotel in Ljubljana.
DAILY HIGHLIGHTS: Venice: Grand Canal, St. Mark’s Square, St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s palace, Correr Museum, Bridge of Sighs.
INCLUDED: private transfer, private English speaking guide, accommodation in 4* Design Hotel
DAILY HIGHLIGHTS: Venice: Grand Canal, St. Mark’s Square, St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s palace, Correr Museum, Bridge of Sighs.
INCLUDED: private transfer, private English speaking guide, accommodation in 4* Design Hotel
DAY 3: SLOVENIA / LJUBLJANA – POSTOJNA – LJUBLJANA
After a delicious breakfast, you can spend morning at your leisure. In the afternoon, we will visit one of the greatest natural wonders of the world: the karst cave. Our destination is the largest European karst cave accessible to tourists, the Postojna Cave, which you will not just adore - it will leave you speechless with excitement. You will be able to admire the unique beauties of a karst cave - One of its dripstones is some 500.000 years old and the olm (Proteus) which only lives in this area and is an indigenous species. This cave's history is also linked to the First World War: far in its interior you will be able to see the Russian bridge, built by Russian prisoners of war during WW1. You will pass this bridge on your tour of the cave, and your guide will draw your attention to it and tell you more about it. After our inspection of the cave we will visit also the Predjama castle a world-famous cave castle. Than we will return to our vehicle and make our way to the Smrekar Homestead, an excellent local restaurant where we will enjoy their traditional specialty food. We will of course also sample home-brewed spirits and wine. After the dinner the drive to Ljubljana will follow, free evening at your leisure.
DAILY HIGHLIGHTS: Ostojna Cave, Predjama Castle.
INCLUDED: private transfer, private English speaking guide, entrance to Postojna Cave, dinner with wine tasting, accommodation in 4* Design Hotel
DAILY HIGHLIGHTS: Ostojna Cave, Predjama Castle.
INCLUDED: private transfer, private English speaking guide, entrance to Postojna Cave, dinner with wine tasting, accommodation in 4* Design Hotel
DAY 4: LJUBLJANA
Our fourth day together will be dedicated mostly to sightseeing in the capital of our country, much beloved by the locals. This is also evident from its name, which is derived from the word "ljubljena" - the Beloved. After breakfast we will explore Ljubljana's secrets. It is a small city with a rich history, offering you a smorgasbord of exceptional architecture, an enviable open-air market, a castle and many archaeological excavations from ancient Roman times. A free afternoon follows, and towards the evening we will visit the Pivovarna Union (Union Brewery), regarded as the largest in the country. An inspection of the brewery will be followed by a true beer lover's feast.
DAILY HIGHLIGHTS: sightseeing in the capital: Ljubljana Castle, Plečnik’s Ljubljana, Dragon Bridge, Central Market, Town Hall, Tivoli Park, Brewery experience.
INCLUDED: private English speaking guide, dinner with Brewery experience, accommodation in 4* Design Hotel
DAILY HIGHLIGHTS: sightseeing in the capital: Ljubljana Castle, Plečnik’s Ljubljana, Dragon Bridge, Central Market, Town Hall, Tivoli Park, Brewery experience.
INCLUDED: private English speaking guide, dinner with Brewery experience, accommodation in 4* Design Hotel
DAY 5: LJUBLJANA – CERKLJE NA GORENJSKEM
After a plentiful breakfast, free morning at your leisure follows. In the afternoon drive towards “Gorenjska” region where we will take part in an extensive cooking workshop where we will prepare a tasty Slovenian lunch and dessert under the professional guidance of the best chefs in Slovenia. This will be followed by a delicious feast. After the workshop we will make our way back to Ljubljana Free evening will follow.
DAILY HIGHLIGHTS: cooking workshop.
INCLUDED: Private transfer, private English speaking guide, cooking workshop, accommodation in 4* Design Hotel
DAILY HIGHLIGHTS: cooking workshop.
INCLUDED: Private transfer, private English speaking guide, cooking workshop, accommodation in 4* Design Hotel
DAY 6: LJUBLJANA – VELIKA PLANINA - BLED
Good Morning! This is your last day in the capital, so free morning to stroll around the city follows. In the afternoon we will make our way to the Velika planina mountain plateau, where we will get a taste of authentic Slovenian dairy farming. The pristine nature surrounding you and the down-to-earth farmers will introduce you to a world of pastures and cheese-making workshops. Than we will take the cable car down into the valley and make our way towards fashionable Bled in the Alps where you will have a broad choice of wellness services. Dinner on your own.
DAILY HIGHLIGHTS: Velika planina mountain plateau, cheese-making workshop.
INCLUDED: cable car, cheese-making workshop, accommodation in 4* Hotel
DAILY HIGHLIGHTS: Velika planina mountain plateau, cheese-making workshop.
INCLUDED: cable car, cheese-making workshop, accommodation in 4* Hotel
DAY 7: BLED
You will wake up in the heart of the Alps. A tasteful breakfast will be the perfect start of the day. Free morning follows. In the afternoon we will take a ride in the "pletna", Bled's flat-bottomed boat and we will visit Bled Castle with its idyllic view, where we will be able sampling the best cream cakes in Slovenia. Dinner on your own.
DAILY HIGHLIGHTS: Bled Island, Pletna boat, Bled castle
INCLUDED: private transfer, private English speaking guide, Pletna boat, entrance to the castle, accommodation in 4* Hotel.
OPTIONAL ADD ON: visit of the Vintgar Gorge and dinner in a typical Slovenian restaurant with a sweet hearts workshop.
DAILY HIGHLIGHTS: Bled Island, Pletna boat, Bled castle
INCLUDED: private transfer, private English speaking guide, Pletna boat, entrance to the castle, accommodation in 4* Hotel.
OPTIONAL ADD ON: visit of the Vintgar Gorge and dinner in a typical Slovenian restaurant with a sweet hearts workshop.
DAY 8: BLED – KRANJSKA GORA - BOVEC
In the morning we will head to Kranjska Gora, the alpine jewel that lies in the heart of Julian Alps. Our first stop will be at emerald green Zelenci, natural reserve, than we will visit Planica a sports paradise under the Ponce mountains. Planica is the Slovenian cradle of ski jumping and flying. Time for a lunch by choice. After the lunch we will continue our way out towards the Vršič mountain pass, built in 1915 by some 10,000 Russian prisoners of war. On the way to the pass we will also stop at the Russian Chapel, erected as a memorial to some of the builders and their guards who died in an avalanche. We will then go our way across Vršič, the highest Slovenian mountain pass - where you can admire the mystical Triglav National Park - to the town of Bovec, where we will settle into our hotel rooms.
DAILY HIGHLIGHTS: Planica, the Slovenian cradle of ski jumping and flying, mountain pass Vršič.
INCLUDED: private transfer, private English speaking guide, accommodation in 4* Hotel
DAILY HIGHLIGHTS: Planica, the Slovenian cradle of ski jumping and flying, mountain pass Vršič.
INCLUDED: private transfer, private English speaking guide, accommodation in 4* Hotel
DAY 9: OVEC – VENICE/ ITALY
After waking up this morning and having a good breakfast we will visit the museum dedicated to the Great War. Free time for a lunch by choice follows. After the lunch we will head our way to the Venice, where you will have time to rest, before your journey back home. Accommodation in the hotel near the Venice airport. EvenIng at leisure.
DAILY HIGHLIGHTS: Museum dedicated to the war, Soca river, nature.
INCLUDED: private transfer, private English speaking guide, entrance to the museum, accommodation in 4* Hotel
DAILY HIGHLIGHTS: Museum dedicated to the war, Soca river, nature.
INCLUDED: private transfer, private English speaking guide, entrance to the museum, accommodation in 4* Hotel
DAY 10: VENICE / DEPART FOR HOME
In the morning you will be taken to Venice International Airport, where our time together will come to an end. But we sincerely hope that this will not be the last time we see each other! We wish you a pleasant and peaceful trip back to the USA.
INCLUDED: private transfer, private English speaking guide
INCLUDED: private transfer, private English speaking guide
YOUR LUXURY TOUR INCLUDES:
➢ Private transfers (comfortable van)
➢ Private English speaking guide throughout the tour ➢ Entrance to the Ljubljana Castle and cable car
➢ Ride with cable car at Velika Planina
➢ Food & beer tastings at brewery Union
➢ Wine tasting and dinner in Postojna
➢ Visit to Postojna cave and Predjama Castle
➢ Visit to Museum of 1st WW in Kobarid
➢ Hands-on cooking class
➢ Make-your-own cheese class
➢ “Pletna” boat ride in Bled
➢ Entrance to the Bled castle
➢ 1 x BB at 4* hotel in Venice
➢ 4 x BB at 4* hotels in Ljubljana
➢ 2 x BB at 4*S hotel in Bled
➢ 1 x BB at 4* hotel in Bovec
➢ 1 x BB at 4*S hotel in Venice near the airport
PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE:
➢ Airplane tickets and airfare
➢ Lunch and dinner not specified in day by day itinerary
➢ Any personal expenses or services not specified
➢ Extra charge for single occupancy room
➢ Dinner with gingerbread workshop at Lectar restaurant in Radovljica (55 € per person to be paid on site)
➢ Tips
TOUR PRICE LISTED IS PER PERSON AND BASED ON A MINIMUM OF SIX TRAVELERS. PRICE WILL BE ADJUSTED ACCORDINGLY BASED ON FINAL NUMBER OF TRAVELERS
At the time of booking guests are requested to pay non – refundable 30 % deposit of total. Final payment is due 90 days prior to departure.
THREE OPTIONAL DATES OF TRAVEL (FLIGHT DAYS NOT INCLUDED)
May 11-20, 2020
June 15-24, 2020
September 7 – 16, 2020
ADDITIONAL OR OPTIONAL DATES MAY BE AVAILABLE. PLEASE INQUIRE.
$3449.00 PER PERSON AND ASSUMES DOUBLE OCCUPANCY made payable directly to Distinguished Travelers LLC
➢ Private transfers (comfortable van)
➢ Private English speaking guide throughout the tour ➢ Entrance to the Ljubljana Castle and cable car
➢ Ride with cable car at Velika Planina
➢ Food & beer tastings at brewery Union
➢ Wine tasting and dinner in Postojna
➢ Visit to Postojna cave and Predjama Castle
➢ Visit to Museum of 1st WW in Kobarid
➢ Hands-on cooking class
➢ Make-your-own cheese class
➢ “Pletna” boat ride in Bled
➢ Entrance to the Bled castle
➢ 1 x BB at 4* hotel in Venice
➢ 4 x BB at 4* hotels in Ljubljana
➢ 2 x BB at 4*S hotel in Bled
➢ 1 x BB at 4* hotel in Bovec
➢ 1 x BB at 4*S hotel in Venice near the airport
PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE:
➢ Airplane tickets and airfare
➢ Lunch and dinner not specified in day by day itinerary
➢ Any personal expenses or services not specified
➢ Extra charge for single occupancy room
➢ Dinner with gingerbread workshop at Lectar restaurant in Radovljica (55 € per person to be paid on site)
➢ Tips
TOUR PRICE LISTED IS PER PERSON AND BASED ON A MINIMUM OF SIX TRAVELERS. PRICE WILL BE ADJUSTED ACCORDINGLY BASED ON FINAL NUMBER OF TRAVELERS
At the time of booking guests are requested to pay non – refundable 30 % deposit of total. Final payment is due 90 days prior to departure.
THREE OPTIONAL DATES OF TRAVEL (FLIGHT DAYS NOT INCLUDED)
May 11-20, 2020
June 15-24, 2020
September 7 – 16, 2020
ADDITIONAL OR OPTIONAL DATES MAY BE AVAILABLE. PLEASE INQUIRE.
$3449.00 PER PERSON AND ASSUMES DOUBLE OCCUPANCY made payable directly to Distinguished Travelers LLC