reservations - Trips Unlimited
Transcription
reservations - Trips Unlimited
Trips Unlimited 2015 Tour Catalog 504-340-8747—New Orleans Area 800-542-8785—Out-of-Town www.tripsunlimited.travel P AGE 2 T ABLE OF C ONTENTS DAYTRIPS 3 APRIL Apr 21-22 Marksville Paragon Adventure 4 MAY May 4-9 May 13-14 May 26-28 Beautiful Tulip Time in Pella, Iowa Cajun Train Adventure Spring Mystery Tour 8 5 6 JUNE Jun 14-28 Jun 11-15 Jun 17-21 Jun 22-29 Wild West Adventure Banjo Boogie Train National Quilting Association’s 46th Annual Quilt Show European Traditions 12 16 10 14 JULY Jul 8-9 Jul 8-13 Jul 15-16 Grandparent Tour: Train to Lafayette & Blue Bayou “Get Your Kicks on Route 66” Saints & Sinners Train Adventure 17 18 7 AUGUST Aug 16-31 Aug 24- Sep 3 Nova Scotia Ultimate Michigan Tour 20 22 SEPTEMBER Sep 9-13 Sep 13-20 Sep 20-29 A Day At The Races Hot in Cleveland! Oktoberfest in the Midwest 25 26 28 OCTOBER Oct 6-14 Oct 11-16 Oct 14-20 Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta Branson Fall Foliage Fall Foliage at the Beautiful Mount Magazine 30 35 32 NOVEMBER Nov 8-14 Nov 29-Dec 4 Nov 12-16 The Saint Training Home - The Legendary Greenbrier Resort Christmas Snow Christmas In Branson DECEMBER Dec 7-15 Dec 7-10 Dec 9-10 Dec 30-Jan 4 Christmas in Miami & Key West Christmas Mystery Natchitoches Christmas Lights New Year’s Eve at the Galt House & Opryland Hotel Policies & Procedures * cover picture: Balloon Fiesta (Page 30) Below: Nova Scotia (Page 20) 34 36 brochure 38 40 37 40 42 Daytrips FUN, FOOD & FOAM March 22, 2015 Tour #1522 P AGE 3 ANGOLA RODEO & CRAFT FAIR Let’s spend a beautiful Spring day on the Northshore! We’ll experience the eclectic Mandeville Trailhead Farmer’s Market where we enjoy entertainment, refreshments, and an opportunity to buy one-of-a-kind artworks, craft items, unique house wares, produce, cooked items, homemade baked goods and much more. Afterwards we partake in a delicious lunch at a local café before enjoying a tour and tasting of the many beers at Abita Springs Brewery. (Includes lunch) April 18, 2015 Tour #1523 Come join us for the most exciting craft show in the state. The Angola Rodeo and Craft Show is the longest running Prison Rodeo in the nation! What began 40 years ago as a “fun” thing by a handful of inmates is now a professionally run prison rodeo. Enjoy the one-of-akind inmate hobbycrafts and unique things to eat before being seated in a covered arena for the “Wildest Show in the South”! $54 per person Full payment with reservation $57 per person Full payment with reservation “12 YEARS A SLAVE” & OTHER STORIES May 12, 2015 Tour #1521 Join us as we travel to Vacherie, Louisiana for a tour of St. Joseph Plantation and Felicity Plantation where much of the movie, “12 Years a Slave, was filmed”. Felicity was built in 1846 and has been in the same family since 1889. Although the plantation home is currently in renovation we will tour the grounds where the movie was actually filmed. St Joseph is one of the few working sugar cane plantations in the River Parishes. In addition to the Manor Home there are many authentic outbuildings to explore including the original slave quarters, a detached kitchen, the blacksmith shop, the schoolhouse and more. Most tours are given by the family members who tell stories about their ancestral home and history as well as the movies that were filmed on location of St. Joseph and Felicity, including “Skeleton Key” and “12 Years A Slave”. (Includes Lunch) $69 per person Full payment with reservation TEA ON ST. CHARLES June 9, 2015 Tour #1520 $76 per person Full payment with reservation Discover New Orleans at the Elms Mansion. We depart this morning for an adventure in our own back yard! After a short drive to St. Charles Avenue, we arrive at the Van Benthuysen Elms Mansion for a mansion tour and a traditional tea. This magnificent Italianate Style Mansion built in 1869 boasts 24-K gold sconces & a 48-ft grand ballroom lined with jeweled windows. Enjoy a late-morning tea complete with traditional tea sandwiches, scones and sweets as we sit overlooking the beautifully landscaped gardens. Then it’s off to tour the U. S. Mint, built in 1835. The U.S. Mint is the only building in America to have served both as a United States and a Confederate Mint. Today it houses many interesting exhibits. (Includes Traditional Tea) P AGE 4 WWW . TRIPSUNLIMITED . TRAVEL M ARKSVILLE P ARAGON A DVENTURE 2 D AYS A PRIL 21-22, 2015 Paragon Casino Resort Day 1 - We begin our Paragon Adventure with a relaxing ride to our state’s capital, Baton Rouge. We start with a tour of the Magnolia Mound Plantation, a French Creole plantation that preserves the culture that still influences Louisiana today. Built in 1791 and surrounded by many old live oaks, the plantation house has retained its Creole character for over 200 years. This afternoon we get in the ‘tiger spirit’ as we travel to the LSU campus for a delicious lunch and a guided tour by one of LSU’s own students. We tour the stadium, the academic buildings and Sorority Row. No tour would be complete without a visit to meet the famous LSU tiger, Mike, in his habitat. We continue to travel north to Marksville where we spend the night at a Louisiana hot-spot - The Paragon Casino Resort, where the food is legendary and lady-luck is hot. At the Paragon the action never stops with slots, offtrack betting and all our favorite table games. Take in the view in the soaring bayou-themed atrium where we may even spot a gator or two looking up at us from the water! (L) T OUR #1512 Day 2 - After a fun-filled night and a leisurely morning, we bid farewell to Marksville. We travel to the Lafayette area to enjoy an entertaining tour of Martin’s Accordions. We’ll listen to Jr. Martin and his family tell interesting tales of the history of the accordion with traditional Cajun music playing throughout our tour. Next we’ll see how the Cajuns make their instruments and see them in various stages of completion. As we begin our journey home, we stop along the way to enjoy a delicious lunch at McGee’s Landing with it’s scenic beauty, cultural history and just good ole’ Cajun hospitality. Browse the many artifacts from the Atchafalaya Basin, shop in the quaint little gift shop, enjoy a breath- taking view of the Atchafalaya Basin and indulge in home-style Cajun food. (B, L) Magnolia Mound Plantation Overnight: Paragon Casino Resort, Marksville, LA Tour Cost Per Person: Single: $198 Double: $158 Triple: $148 Quad: $138 $50 deposit due with reservation Final payment due March 7th Mike - The LSU Tiger P AGE 5 C AJUN T RAIN A DVENTURE 2 D AYS M AY 13-14, 2015 Sunset Limited to Lafayette T OUR #1515 Day 2 - Today we enjoy a leisurely drive to Charenton, LA, to the Cypress Bayou Casino where we have 600 of the newest and most popular slot machines from which to choose. From the fun and excitement of the one-cent slot machines to the heart pounding, edge of our seat experience of the twenty-five dollar machine, Cypress Bayou’s got it covered. If table games are what we’re looking for this casino has over 35 table games such as Blackjack, Roulette and Poker. This afternoon we travel home taking with us memories of our time spent enjoying the Cajun Culture. (B) Day 1 – Let’s go on a springtime adventure to Cajun country. We begin by traveling to Lafayette by train. Board the Sunset Limited in New Orleans and travel across the beautiful wetlands to the Cajun city of Lafayette. We step back in time as we travel through picturesque moss draped oak and cypress trees to Vermilionville Living History Museum and Folklife Park. Enjoy a delicious Cajun lunch and watch artisan’s demonstrations of a variety of essential crafts performed by the early Acadians and Creoles. A short drive takes us to the Acadian Cultural Center where we learn about the origins, migration, settlement and extraordinary culture of the Acadians. Films and exhibits share local traditions including music, story-telling, dance and food. Explore the mysteries of the Atchafalaya Basin, Louisiana’s wildest place! Tonight we arrive at our hotel in time to enjoy complimentary cocktails. (L) Overnight: Pear Tree Inn, Lafayette, LA Musician in Vermilionville Tour Cost Per Person: Single: $258 Double: $198 Triple: $174 Quad: $169 $50 deposit due with reservation Final payment due March 13th Vermilionville Living History and Folk Museum P AGE 6 S PRING M YSTERY T OUR 3 D AYS M AY 26-28, 2015 T OUR #1540 Our Mystery Tours have become so poplar that we have included two this year. In addition to our Christmas Mystery Tour we have brought back the Spring Mystery Tour due to a high volume of customer requests. You can be assured that this exciting tour offers the same value and quality you would expect to find on any of our tours. Day 1 - Early morning finds us ready to embark on the Spring Mystery Tour! As we board the motorcoach the suspense mounts...where are we going? The guessing begins...will we go North or South, East or West? Who can guess how many miles we travel today? Our first stop serves up hearty helpings of delicious cuisine and an even bigger portion of friendliness. Top it off with a little something sweet, time in the gift shop and we’ll be happy, happy, happy! This afternoon we will visit a place with an interesting mix of collections and many stories to tell. Beginning as a candy company, this family business changed the way a popular product was packaged and sold. Expanding to cover distribution in many different states, it rose to the ninth largest of its kind in the United States. The family had many areas of involvement including politics, entertainment and beautiful gardens, all showcased in this exquisite place. After checking into our hotel, we enjoy a delicious dinner ‘on the trail’. (L, D) Day 2 - This morning we visit a place that seeks to preserve, promote and honor military and aviation history and the men and women who contributed to it. We enjoy exploration stations for interactive fun, aviation restoration and more. This afternoon we are on the move again as our mystery continues. We visit a place that celebrates the accomplishments of this state with a Hall of Fame exhibit, and an interactive media trace of the history, drama and excitement with touch-screens that reveal life stories, career stats and colorful quotes. Tonight we enjoy a delicious dinner at a popular Cajun restaurant. (B, D) Day 3 - Today as we begin to make our way home, we have a few more surprises. But don't get star-struck at our first stop, just browse through, buy or sell - it’s a Cajun good time for all! Our next stop is the only building in this town that was not burned down during the Civil War. As the Union army was pulling out, the community’s priest impersonated a Union general and ordered the troop to spare this structure and it worked - the building was spared. In the next town we stop at a small house that was a part of an academy award winning movie. We continue traveling home with just one more stop. Lunchtime finds us in a little restaurant with a big reputation. Here we enjoy a simple lunch with a big desert. (B, L) Tour Cost Per Person: Single: $565 Double: $425 Triple: $395 Quad: $375 $50 deposit due with reservation Final payment due April 9th P AGE 7 S AINTS & S INNERS T RAIN A DVENTURE 2 D AYS J ULY 15-16, 2015 T OUR #1514 Day 2 – We begin our day traveling south to New Iberia to The Rosary House famous for hand-made rosaries, statues and other religious items since the 1940’s. This is the home of Ava Marie Rosaries where people come from far and near to view the South’s largest source of religious articles. Next we head to Cypress Bayou Casino owned by the only remaining community of the Chitimacha Indian Tribe. Here we enjoy the most popular slots and tables and perhaps a little ‘Lady Luck’ before heading home. With over 1300 machines from which to choose, Cypress Bayou Casino offers the hottest slot action in Acadiana. (B) Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist Day 1 – We start our summer adventure by boarding the Sunset Limited in New Orleans and travel by rail to the heart of Cajun country – Lafayette. Sit back and relax as we enjoy a unique train ride through the fascinating wetlands for which Louisiana is known. Arriving in Lafayette, enjoy a delicious lunch before touring the beautiful Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist, the Cathedral Museum and the St. John Oak which is over 500 years old and one of the founding members of the ‘Live Oak Society’. The Cathedral, built at the turn of the century and on the list of historic places, has massive brick walls that contrast with the graceful arches and delicate red and white brickwork. Tuttettes flank the octagon steeple above which the bells toll. In the evening we check into our hotel where we enjoy cocktails and appetizers. (L) Overnight: Drury Inn & Suites, Lafayette, LA St. John Live Oak - Over 500 Years Old Tour Cost Per Person: Single: $258 Double: $198 Triple: $174 Quad: $169 $50 deposit due with reservation Final payment due May 15th Sunset Limited to Lafayette P AGE 8 B EAUTIFUL T ULIP T IME 6 D AYS IN P ELLA, I OWA M AY 4-9, 2015 T OUR #1501 Day 3 - Leaving Hannibal behind we arrive at the Amana Colonies just in time for a delicious homecooked meal. After feasting a wonderful family style lunch at the Ox Yoke Inn, we tour this area which has been a landmark on the Iowa prairie for over 150 years. As we step into the past, we enjoy the historic buildings, an amalgamation of architectural styles and traditional German craftsmanship. This evening we arrive in Knoxville, a small town which is home to the Knoxville Raceway where we visit the Racer Hall of Fame before checking into our hotel. (B, L) Overnight: Cobblestone Inn, Knoxville, IA Day 1 - We depart this morning for this delightful spring tour. As we relax, enjoy the passing scenery and get to know our fellow passengers, we make our way to Sikeston, MO for the night. Tonight we enjoy a special dining experience at the home of the ’throwed rolls’, Lamberts Café. (D) Overnight: Pear Tree Inn & Suites, Sikeston, MO Day 2 - This morning we head northward to Hannibal, MO, Mark Twain’s sleepy little town on the Mississippi River. We explore the boyhood home of this beloved American actor and learn much about the influences of his youth. Tonight we step back in time to the days when the riverboat was the way to travel. On the Mark Twain Riverboat Dinner Cruise we enjoy a delightful meal and the tradition of music on the river with the sounds of Jazz, Blues and Big Band. (B, D) Overnight: Best Western Plus, Hannibal, MO Mark Twain Riverboat Dinner Cruise P AGE 9 Day 4 - Today we enjoy ‘Dutch fun for everyone’ at the 80th annual Pella Tulip Time. There are so many wonderful things to do here amongst the brilliant colors of thousands of Tulip blooms. We can watch craftmen make the delicious Dutch chocolates (with free samples) learn about the different types of Dutch costumes, and tip toe through the Tulips with a guided Tulip stroll. We experience the Pella Historical Village which includes the Wyatt Earp House, Van Spanckeren’s General Store, the Dutch bakery and the impressive Vermeer Windmill, the largest working windmill in the country. We can enjoy the many unique demonstrations such as Yoke Carving, Wooden Shoes, Rug Braiding, and so much more. This afternoon we have a Grandstand Show Street Scrubbers - Pella Tulip Time with Dutch Dancers, Street Scrubbers and the best Day 6 - As we travel home, we bid farewell to the beautiful view of the Volks Parade! With so much to see, don’t countryside of tulips and windmills. We say goodbye to our forget to stroll through the Dutch Craft Market for all new friends taking with us memories of our time spent enour shopping delights. (B, D) joying our spring adventure. (B) Overnight: Cobblestone Inn, Knoxville, IA Day 5 - Today we head south as we begin our trek home. We travel through Iowa and into Missouri to Sikeston where we spend the night. (B, L) Overnight: Drury Inn & Suites, Sikeston, MO Tour Cost Per Person: Single: $1248 Double: $998 Triple: $948 Quad: $898 $100 deposit due with reservation Final payment due March 20th Volks Parade - Pella Tulip Time P AGE 10 N ATIONAL Q UILTING A SSOCIATION ’ S 46 TH A NNUAL Q UILT S HOW 5 D AYS J UNE 17-21, 2015 T OUR #1532 Join us as we enjoy the NQA Annual Quilt Show! We’ll enjoy all the festivities including beautiful homemade quilts on special display, quilt competitions, fund-raising quilt auctions to promote the art of quilt making, quilt challenges and many professional classes will be offered. There will be over 100 venders showing all the latest fabrics and quilt ideas as well as some optional tours to enjoy Little Rock. Day 3 - This morning we return to the NQA Quilt Show as we continue to enjoy all that it has to offer: exhibits, unlimited quilting supplies, unique quilt challenges, great classroom opportunities, and more. Tonight features the Little Quilt Auction to raise funds for the NQA Grant Program which promotes the art, craft and legacy of quilt making. Anyone can contribute to this auction of small quilts, doll quilts and wall hangings which supports the furthering of the art of quilt making. (B) (*for those who do not want to spend every minute at the show, we offer optional tours on days 3 & 4, see next page) Overnight: Comfort Inn & Suites Presidential, Little Rock, AR Day 4 - As the Quilt Show begins to wind down, we return to get those last minute treasures or to take one more class. (B) Overnight: Comfort Inn & Suites Presidential, Little Rock, AR Day 1 - As we begin our adventure we can relax, enjoy the passing scenery and get to know our fellow quilting enthusiasts. We Day 5 - Today we make our way home with our new quilting travel through Louisiana, Mississippi and into Arkansas to friends and memories of all the quilt show had to offer. We arrive Little Rock where we unpack for a three day stay. We kick off our home late afternoon . (B) fun-filled week of the 46th Annual National Quilting Association Quilt Show with a special ‘Ice Cream Social and Music’. We will see the top quilt winner revealed for the first time and the opening of the merchant mall for shopping. Overnight: Comfort Inn & Suites Presidential, Little Rock, AR Day 2 - Today we have our first full day at the NQA Quilt Show. NQA is known for its fabulous quilt exhibits, fantastic teachers and first rate vendors. The Show will display over 400 competition quilts and 200-300 additional quilts as special exhibits. There will be a special Sew Batik Challenge where quilts may be entered and judged in ten different categories and a Themed Quilt Challenge ’Down by the Riverside’. The merchants mall has over 100 booths where we can ‘shop till we drop’ for all our quilting supplies as well as all those unique quilting fabrics that we just can’t pass up. We can enroll in 1/2 day and all day classes that include every area of quilting. Tonight we enjoy a delicious dinner and an evening of entertainment. (B, D) Overnight: Comfort Inn & Suites Presidential, Little Rock, AR P AGE 11 *Optional Tours in Little Rock Arkansas A Taste of Bourbon, Olive Oil and Balsamic Day 3 - After lunch we offer a unique afternoon tour of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and bourbon. We unlock the mysteries of olive oil at Strippaggio where the subtle differences of style, type of olive and method of pressing makes for a wide range of taste and flavor profiles. We taste the different olive oils from bright and floral to deeper and peppery and learn to pair it with just the right balsamic vinegars. Next we enjoy a tour of Rock Town Distillery, named one of the 10 best Craft Distillery tours. We learn the origins of Bourbon in a guided tour that takes us form ‘grain to glass’ and get to taste all of Rock Town’s award winning spirits. ($25 p/p) Clinton Presidential Library and Museum Store Day 4 - We offer a morning tour of the Clinton Presidential Library which houses the largest collection of American presidential history including a full-scale replica of the Oval Office. We also visit the Clinton Museum Store which offers a diverse selection of unique souvenirs, President Clinton’s Favorite books, a large array of specialty items and more. We will arrive at the quilt show in time for afternoon classes. ($8 p/p) Anyone interested in entering their work, joining one of the quilt challenges or donating a quilt to be sold at the Little Quilt auction fund raising event, please call our office for more details. Tour Cost Per Person: Single: $759 Double: $569 Triple: $529 Quad: $479 $100 deposit due with reservation Final payment due May 2nd P AGE 12 W ILD W EST A DVENTURE - Y ELLOWSTONE , M OUNT R USHMORE & C OLORADO 15 D AYS J UNE 14 - 28, 2015 T OUR #1510 Day 4 - Today we travel northwest to South Dakota. Afternoon finds us in Keystone where we can marvel at the beauty of the Black Hills and the amazing Mount Rushmore National Memorial, famous for the faces of four presidents carved on the Mountain - Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln & Roosevelt. After checking into our hotel, we enjoy a delicious dinner before returning to Mount Rushmore for the Evening Lighting Ceremony - What a sight to behold! (B, D) Overnight: K Bar S Ranch, Keystone, SD Day 5 - This morning we go to Crazy Horse Memorial, the largest mountain carving in the world. Sculptor Korczak Ziolkouski officially started the carving in 1948 at the invitation of Chief Standing Bear and to date it is still a Grand Tetons National Park work in progress. The memorial’s mission is to honor the culture, traditions and living heritage of North American Indians. Enjoy the many artifacts on display at this site. Day 1 - As we begin our Wild West Adventure, we can relax, enjoy the scenery and get to know our fellow travel- This afternoon we continue to Sheridan, Wyoming. (B, L) ers. We travel through Louisiana to our neighbors to the west - Texas. We spend the night in Dallas, also known as Overnight: Wingate, Sheridan, WY the “Big D’. Day 6 - Today we travel to Cody, Wyoming, the site of Overnight: Hampton Inn, Dallas, TX the award-winning Buffalo Bill Center of the West, an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution. Explore the life of Day 2 - Today as we continue northward, we arrive in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma where our wild west adven- “Buffalo Bill” Cody, view a grand exhibit of thousands of ture begins. We enjoy the National Cowboy and West- rare firearms, examine the evolution of nature in the ern Heritage Center. Formerly known as the Cowboy Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, and view artwork portraying the beauty and myths of the west and much more. Hall of Fame, the center keeps western heritage alive, (B) proudly interpreting the sagas of those who settled the American West. We’ll enjoy interactive history galleries Overnight: Holiday Inn, Cody, WY that focus on the American Cowboy, Native American Day 7 - This morning we leave for Yellowstone NaCulture, Rodeos and more. Day’s end finds us in Wichita, tional Park. As we enter the park, we meet a local KS, where we spend the night. (B, L) guide who will be with Overnight: Drury Plaza Hotel Broadview, Wichita, KS us the entire day as we Day 3 - We continue traveling west to Nebraska. Arriv- tour the lower loop of the park. We stand in ing in Kearney, we visit the Great Platte River Road awe of Old Faithful, the Archway where we experience the journey of a nation through the eyes of those who lived it. The Archway spans most well-known of the many geysers in the park as 310 feet across Interstate 80 and presents 170 years of well as Lower Falls, American history including first-hand challenges pioneers Grand Prismatic faced as they looked for a better life. We’ll relive the Spring and many other breathtaking experience of Pony Express riders as they sprinted across the prairie and the revolution of communi- breathtaking sights. We walk among the Painted cation with the first transcontinental telegraph line. (B) Pots and ride through the Overnight: Holiday Inn Express, Kearney, NE park making many stops for pictures. (B, L) Overnight: Dessert Inn, West Yellowstone, MT P AGE 13 Royal Gorge Railroad Day 8 - Having been impressed by the beauty of the lower loop of the park, we are anxious to explore the upper loop. Once again our guide will meet us to show us the high points; perhaps the most outstanding is Mammoth Hot Springs where we eat lunch. Don’t forget to keep your eyes open for wildlife throughout the park. Later, we return to West Yellowstone where we can explore this interesting town. (B, L) Overnight: Dessert Inn, West Yellowstone, MT Day 9 - Today we leave Yellowstone; however, beauty is still all around us. That beauty is the Grand Tetons Mountain Range. We leisurely spend time in the Grand Tetons National Park before arriving in the authentic western town, Jackson Hole. Quaint gift shops, restaurants, western saloons, an evening gunfight - all are part of this popular town. (B) Day 12– This morning we’ll tour the Air Force Academy. At the book store we’ll see a movie on the Air Force School and have time to marvel at the many different Air Force Souvenirs. Those who wish can take a short walk to the beautiful chapel where the cadets of all denominations enjoy a place to worship. Next we go to the Garden of the Gods where we have a local guide explain the many formations. We enjoy the dramatic views, 300-ft towering stone rock formations against the backdrop of snow-capped Pikes Peak and brilliant blue skies. Later we climb aboard Colorado’s most scenic train for a journey through the spectacular Royal Gorge. The Royal Gorge Railroad follows the winding, tumbling Arkansas River deep within the soaring 1,000-ft granite cliffs. We top off our day with a spectacular view from the Royal Gorge Bridge, one of the highest suspension bridges in the world. (B, L) Overnight: Drury Inn & Suites, Colorado Springs, CO Day 13 - Heading southeast, we arrive in Amarillo, Texas in the late afternoon. Tonight we enjoy a delicious dinner at the Big Texan, a Texas tradition. (B, D) Overnight: Drury Inn and Suites, Amarillo, TX Day 14 - Today we continue our eastward route arriving in Mesquite, Texas. This evening we enjoy a delicious farewell dinner. (B, D) Overnight: Courtyard by Marriott, Mesquite, TX Day 15 - We’re on the road again! Today our destination is Overnight: Painted Buffalo Inn, Jackson Hole, WY home as we reminisce about the mysterious beauty we’ve seen on this western adventure. (B) Day 10 - Today we begin to travel south. Evening finds us in the Southern Wyoming city of Cheyenne, “the magic city of the plains”. (CB, D) Overnight: Little America Hotel, Cheyenne, WY Day 11 - Continuing south, we cross into Colorado where our first stop is Boulder. Here we enjoy a tour of the Celestial Tea Company,where we see how the teas are blended and packaged, enjoy free samples and discover the gallery of original artwork from their famous tea boxes. Next we travel to Denver where we visit the Money Museum at the Federal Reserve Bank. The Denver Branch offers a unique and up-close look at the nation’s financial system in action and we see how workers destroy the money that is out of circulation. This afternoon we travel along some of this country’s most beautiful scenery The Colorado Rocky Mountains. Day’s end finds us in Colorado Springs where we unpack our bags for a 2-night stay. (B) Overnight: Drury Inn & Suites, Colorado Springs, CO Tour Cost Per Person: Single: $3749 Double: $2765 Triple: $2449 Quad: $2299 $250 deposit due with reservation Final payment due April 14th P AGE 14 E UROPEAN T RADITIONS 8 D AYS J UNE 22-29, 2015 T OUR #1502 In this great American country we have a melting pot of different cultures which our fore-fathers brought with them from many European countries. Little by little we are losing our old world traditions as time marches on. Join us for a tour where we can re-live some old European customs, music, dances and delicious food. Day 1 - As we leave New Orleans behind, we can relax, enjoy the passing scenery and get to know our fellow passengers. We make our way to Sikeston, Missouri where we enjoy a welcome aboard dinner at Lambert’s Café, ‘home of the throwed rolls’. (D) Overnight: Pear Tree Inn, Sikeston, MO Day 2 - This morning we travel to Purina Farms, owned and operated by Purina, a leader in pet care and nutrition for over 80 years. Here we will have a unique experience as the visitor center welcomes us to over 300 acres of rolling hills that offer animal lovers an opportunity to meet barnyard animals, see canine performances, cow milking demonstrations and more. Evening finds us in the town of Independence, Missouri, where we spend the night. (B) Overnight: Drury Inn & Suites, Independence, MO Day 3 - We start our day with a visit to the Truman Library and Museum. Harry S. Truman, our 33 president, came from humble beginnings to become the most powerful man in the world. For nearly eight years he guided the United States through perilous times: the end of WWII, and the founding of the United Nations, NATO, The Marshall Plan and more. This afternoon we travel to Omaha, NE where we spend the next three nights. Tonight we ‘visit’ the country of Ireland as we enjoy a dinner cruise with delicious Irish food and the great sounds of Irish music. (B, D) Overnight: Comfort Inn, Omaha, NE Day 4 - We begin our ‘European journey’ by learning about the Ukraine. Our speaker, Olesia showcases various Ukrainian linens and enlightens us about their connection to the history, customs and traditions of the Ukraine people. She will also talk about her experience as a slave laborer for the German Army during WWII. Next we enjoy a driving tour of Omaha’s past, present and Boys Town future. Tour the Historic Old Market District, Louis & Clark Landing, the historic Gold Coast District, the Blackstone Hotel - birth place of the Reuben Sandwich, TD Ameritrade Park - Home of the College World Series and much more. Next let’s explore a bit of France by having a delectable lunch at LeVoltaire Restaurant. French Chef Cedric is definitely going to prepare a wonderful treat for us! This afternoon we explore Scotland. We see the historic 1903 Jolsyn Castle, enjoy Scottish dancers and learn about Scottish traditions. Tonight we experience Germany as we enjoy German singing and dancing as well as delicious German food at the German American Society Center. (B, L, D) Overnight: Comfort Inn, Omaha, NE The Historic 1903 Jolsyn Castle P AGE 15 Day 6 - Today we reluctantly leave Omaha and begin our journey home. But before we leave we experience one more country by stopping at the Lithuanian Bakery where we enjoy the sampling of delicious torts made in that wonderful European tradition. Traveling east we arrive in Springfield, MO. It’s time to enjoy a tour of Fantastic Caverns, one of few caves we can tour by tram. Discovered in 1862 by a farmer’s dog, the caverns temperature remains constantly at a comfortable 60 degrees. (B) Overnight: Drury Inn & Suites, Springfield, MO Colorful Mexican Dancers Day 5 - This morning we have a short but very unique mystery tour! Later we enjoy a tour of the world-famous Father Flanagan’s Boys Town. On this inspirational stop, we visit the hall of history where we learn the interesting story of how this became a city of children. We see several beautiful chapels and tour the restored home of Father Flanagan. Lunch is at a Czech landmark - The Bohemian Café which has been open since 1924. Here we learn about the Omaha Czech community, enjoy a delicious lunch and learn to make Kolache, a Czech special dessert. After lunch we enjoy a little Mexican culture with traditional dances and elaborate costumes from various regions of Mexico. We experience the Mexican Revolution as Poncho Villa’s rebels enter in costume, traditional Aztec dancers and colorful Mexican Polka dances. Tonight we enjoy a tour of the beautiful Greek Orthodox Church along with a delicious homemade Greek dinner. After dinner we’ll leave our cares behind and dance as we learn the traditional Greek dances. (B, L, D) Irish Music and Food River Cruise Day 7 - As we continue our journey home, we travel south to Little Rock where we enjoy the Clinton Presidential Library which arches over the timeless Arkansas River. Here we learn the inside story of the Clinton Presidency through actual memos, pictures and countless unique artiOvernight: Comfort Inn Omaha, NE facts. For our last night of our tour we enjoy a fun farewell dinner. (B, D) Overnight: Wingate Inn, Little Rock, AR Day 8 - Today we head home, laden with memories of our fun filled adventure. (B) Tour Cost Per Person: Single: $1535 Double: $1235 Triple: $1185 Quad: $1135 $150 deposit due with reservation Final payment due May 7th Old Market Historic District P AGE 16 B ANJO B OOGIE T RAIN 5 D AYS J UNE 11-15, 2015 Big South Fork Scenic Railway - Banjo Boogie Train Day 1 - We begin by traveling through Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and into Tennessee where we spend the night at the Chattanooga Choo Choo. Always a favorite we enjoy the unique train station lobby and delicious welcome aboard dinner. (D) T OUR #1516 Day 3 - We begin our day with a step-on guide to enjoy this unique artisan town including the artist village and Berea College, the first college in southern United States to be both co-educational and fully racially integrated. Today the college has work programs and charges no tuition. This afternoon we travel to the Stearns area where we check into our hotel before we enjoy the Banjo Boogie Express! First we are treated to a mouth-watering barbecue dinner and then embark on an evening train ride through beautiful scenery seasoned with toetapping sounds of Bluegrass and Country music. (B, D) Overnight: Hampton Inn & Suites, Williamsburg, KY Overnight: Chattanooga Choo Choo, Chattanooga, TN Day 2 - Today we travel north to Cumberland Falls located in the Daniel Boone National Forest which embraces the Cumberland Plateau where steep forested slopes, sandstone cliffs and narrow ravines characterize the land. Known as the Niagara of the South, Cumberland Falls has a 125 ft wide wall of water that drops into a boulder-strewn gorge making it the largest waterfall south of Niagara. After enjoying breathtaking views of the falls we can partake in some local gem mining at the gemstone flume. Have fun discovering real colorful gemstones such as Topaz, Moonstone, Pyrite, Citrine and more. Next we travel to the original Kentucky Fried Chicken where Col. Sanders perfected his secret blend of 11 herbs and spices. We experience the 1940’s dine-in atmosphere at the Harland Sanders Café, the restaurant where the famous chicken got its start, and enjoy a “finger-licken’ good” lunch. Tonight we go to the beautiful Renfro Valley proudly known as ‘Kentucky’s Country Music Capital’. Here we enjoy a tradition that dates back to 1939, good food and good music. (B, L, D) Cumberland Falls - Niagara of the South Day 4 - We continue our exciting summer getaway as we travel west to Bowling Green, KY where we enjoy the National Corvette Museum home to more than 70 Corvette models and rare finds in mint condition. Enjoy thousands of photos, movies and rare memorabilia spanning the Overnight: Fairfield Inn & Suites, Berea, KY history of Corvette and maybe try out the driving simulators or have a photo op in a Corvette . Next we travel to the Aviation Heritage Park, a memorial to all distinguished aviators who have called Kentucky home. We see fully restored military aircraft with compelling ties to local aviators as well as having their own interesting stories. Aviation Heritage Park P AGE 17 Day 5 - As we leave our adventures behind we travel home taking with us memories of our exciting summer getaway. We arrive home in the late afternoon. (B) Tour Cost Per Person: Single: $1098 Double: $878 Triple: $ 798 Quad: $768 $100 deposit due with reservation Final payment due April 27th This afternoon we have a step-on-guide who will take us to some of the unique points of interest such as a 1920 Standard Oil Station, beautiful St. Joseph’s Catholic Church and the local tradition of Quilt Squares on area barns. Leaving Bowling Green behind we head for Franklin, TN where we enjoy ‘cocktail hour’ at our hotel. (B, L) Overnight Drury Plaza Hotel, Franklin, TN G RANDPARENTS T OUR - T RAIN TO L AFAYETTE & B LUE B AYOU 2 D AYS J ULY 8-9, 2015 T OUR #1517 and rocks as we encounter the beauty that can be found by digging a little deeper through the earth’s crust and enjoy a planetarium display that will show us the constellations in the night sky. (L) Overnight: Drury Inn & Suites, Lafayette, LA Day 2 - Today we enjoy a delicious hot breakfast before traveling to Baton Rouge, LA to enjoy Blue Bayou Water Park and Dixie Landing Theme Park with over 70 ways to enjoy water fun and rides. Blue Bayou Water Park has many different water slides, splash fun, wave action and 6 of the largest water rides in the world. Dixie Landing Theme Park has great rides and games for the whole family with four rollercoasters and a kiddie area for our younger passengers. (B) Day 1 - Join us for a fun-filled two-day Grandparent tour. Our luxury motorcoach takes us to the New Orleans train station where we board the Sunset Limited and travel by rail to the heart of Cajun country - Lafayette. Take a step back in time as we ride the rails across the Atchafalaya . Basin, the largest wetland and swamp in the nation. Arriving in Lafayette, we enjoy a delicious lunch at a popular pizza parlor before spending the afternoon at the Lafayette Science Center and Planetarium. Prepare to take a journey of discovery enjoying hands-on experiences for curious minds of all ages as we explore the universe of space travel. We can touch crystallized minerals Tour Cost Per Person: Single: $319 Double: $268 Triple: $248 Quad: $238 $184 per child $50 deposit due with reservation Final payment due June 1st P AGE 18 “G ET Y OUR K ICKS 6 D AYS ON R OUTE 66” J ULY 8-13, 2015 T OUR #1503 Looking for Some Unique Experiences? Join us as we explore the beginning of U.S. Route 66, colloquially known as The Mother Road & Main Street America. See Unique Countryside, Original Murals and Barn Quilts Enjoy the 35th Annual ‘Taste of Chicago’ - a 4-Star Feastival of Food & Fun. Day 3 - This morning we take a short drive north to Chicago where Route 66 started. It was the first U. S. Highway to connect the east and west coast - to get to California you had to go through Chicago. We’ll have some free time to walk along the Magnificent Mile, the most prestigious section of Chicago’s Michigan Avenue with shops, restaurants, museums and hotels. We enjoy a delicious lunch at the Walnut Room, a Chicago tradition since 1907, located on the 7th floor of Macy’s, formerly Marshall Fields. This afternoon we enjoy a guided tour of Chicago highlights. Evening finds us at the Taste of Chicago, the nation’s premier food festival showcasing the diversity of Chicago’s dining opportunities complemented by music. We’ll spend a few hours in the beautiful Grant Park on the shores of Lake Michigan which has been home to this great food festival since 1980. (B, L, D) Day 1 - We begin our adventure traveling through Louisiana, Mississippi, Arkansas and part of Tennessee before we find ourselves in Sikeston, Missouri, where we spend the night. Tonight we enjoy a different sort of adventure as we navigate through dinner at Lambert’s Café, “Home of the Throwed Rolls”. (D) Overnight: Pear Tree Inn, Sikeston, MO Day 2 - Today we travel north into Illinois, where the Mother Road begins. We spend a few days in different areas of Illinois enjoying this beautiful state and historical Route 66. This afternoon we have a special experience at the Bennett-Curtis House, shaded by 100 year old maples flanked by bubbling fountains, sweeping lawns, lush cool ferns and colorful flowers. This evening we enjoy a special surprise among the inlaid wood floors, stained glass and velvet drapery. We experience a night of artsy fun that includes food, wine and everything we’ll need to create our very own masterpieces. (B, D) Overnight: Country Inn & Suites, Manteno, IL Overnight: Country Inn & Suites, Manteno, IL P AGE 19 Day 5 - We begin our journey home, traveling through Illinois, Missouri, Arkansas and into Mississippi. Afternoon finds us in Tunica where we test our luck at the Mississippi casino capital. (B, D) Overnight: Gold Strike Casino Resort, Tunica, MS Day 6 - As we continue home we remember all of the diverse experiences which we enjoyed throughout our tour. (B) Tour Cost Per Person: Single: $1199 Double: $998 Triple: $824 Quad: $889 $100 deposit due with reservation Final payment due May 24th Day 4 - We start our day with a tour of the scenic countryside of Kankakee County. Located within an hour of the busy city of Chicago, the setting is beautifully tranquil. We explore some of the Barn Quilts that are unique to this area. Barns are iconic reminders of our country’s proud agricultural heritage. Kankakee Country celebrates this with colorful quilt patterns lovingly displayed on historic barns throughout this area. Experience the traditions and enjoy the beautiful architecture, stately steeples and stained glass windows of the beautiful historic churches founded in the 1800’s. Lunch finds us in the nearby city of Pontiac at the Old Log Cabin. Built in 1926 the Old Log Cabin was one of the first restaurants on Route 66 and still serves travelers today. After lunch we enjoy a trolley tour where we’ll see a unique collection of outdoor murals located in and around the historic district and enjoy beautiful art in a Norman Rockwell town like setting. Chicago to Pontiac was the first leg of Route 66, there is a lot of history here! We enjoy a piece of that history in the Route 66 Hall of Fame and Museum. Housed in a historic firehouse, the museum tells the story of the people and places that are significant along Route 66 including a photo journal that captures the true spirit of an era. (B, L) Overnight: Country Inn & Suites, Bloomington, IL Chicago Skyline - Lake Michigan Kankakee Barn Quilt P AGE 20 N OVA S COTIA 16 D AYS A UGUST 16 - 31, 2015 P ASSPORT R EQUIRED T OUR #1505 Day 5 - Leaving Bangor behind, we say goodbye to the United States for a few days. Canada - here we come! After crossing the border, we arrive in St. John, New Brunswick’s largest city. A local guide will join us as we discover nearly 400 years of history in Canada’s oldest city. We view Reversing Falls where the mighty Bay of Fundy causes the Saint John River to reverse direction and flow upstream. The Bay of Fundy has the highest range of tides in the world; the difference between high and low tide can sometimes be 40 feet! (B) Overnight: Hampton Inn, St. John, New Brunswick Day 6 - This morning we leave St. John and travel to the French town of Moncton. Here we visit Magnetic Hill, a natural phenomenon where nature contradicts itself Day 1 - We begin our journey to Acadian country by travel- and cars coast uphill backwards. Next we travel to Charing through Mississippi, Alabama and into Tennessee. We lottetown on Prince Edward Island. We cross the Confederation Bridge, the longest bridge in the world to can relax and get to know our fellow passenger as we emcross over ice-covered water, which makes Prince Edbark on this adventure together. Day’s end finds us at the Chattanooga Choo Choo where we enjoy a delicious ward Island accessible year-round. We arrive in Charlottetown where we unpack our bags for a 2-night welcome aboard dinner. (D) stay. Tonight we enjoy a special theatre surprise. (B, Overnight: Chattanooga Choo Choo, Chattanooga, TN D) Day 2 - We travel today through the lovely rolling countryOvernight: Rodd Royalty, Charlottetown, PEI side of Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley. Our destination Day 7 - We start our Island adventure with a city tour of is Harrisonburg in the beautiful Appalachian Range nestled between the Allegheny and Blue Ridge Mountains. (B, Charlottetown. Our guide will tell us all there is to know about this charming city which is the Birthplace of Canada. D) Next we set out to explore the scenic North Shore of the Overnight: Quality Inn, Harrisonburg, VA island with a visit to Prince Edward Island National Day 3 - We continue our journey through the picturesque Park, renowned for its red sandstone cliffs, white sand Shenandoah Valley also know as ’The Big Valley’ immortal- beaches and rolling sand dunes. In Cavendish, we visit the ized in song, film and television. We travel to the east coast House of Green Gables, famous around the world as the to the New England town of New Haven, one of the inspiration for the classic novel - Anne of Green Gables. largest cities in Connecticut, where we spend the night. (B) Tonight we enjoy a special Lobster Dinner, complete Overnight: Best Western Plus, New Haven, CT with all the trimmings! (B, D) Prince Edward Island Day 4 - Continuing through New England we find ourselves in Maine, nicknamed ‘Vacationland’. We arrive in Bangor where we visit the Cole Land Museum where we see a cross section of Maine’s transportation history through rare artifacts and exhibits. The WWII, Vietnam and Purple Heart Memorials are dedicated to the tens of thousands that served our country. (B, D) Overnight: Country Inn, Bangor, ME Grand Pre’ National Historic Site P AGE 21 Day 8 - Today we leave Prince Edward Island and take the ferry to Cape Breton Island. In Baddeck we visit the Alexander Graham Bell Museum, a fascinating tribute to the genius of this man. This afternoon we check into our hotel where we will spend the next two nights. (B,D) Overnight: Inverary Resort , Baddeck, NS Day 9 - As we continue our adventure, a local guide will join us as we head out to experience one of the most stunning picturesque drives in North America. The Cabot Trail winds around the rocky splendor of Cape Breton’s northern shore, ascending to the incredible plateaus of Cape Breton Highlands National Park. With breathtaking vistas at every turn, be sure to have your camera on Day 12 - What an exciting day we have today. We board hand. (B) the brand new luxury ship, the Nova Star and cross Overnight: Inverary Resort, Baddeck, NS the Atlantic Ocean into the United States. We spend the day enjoying this unique experience that includes a variety Day 10 - Leaving Baddeck behind, we travel to the capi- of delicious dining options, a casino, spa, live entertaintal of Nova Scotia, Halifax, which is located on the ment and more. (B, D) second largest harbor in the world. Our kilted guide will Overnight: Merry Manor Inn, Portland, ME join us for an informative and fun-filled ride through the streets of Halifax which immerses us in the culture and Day 13 - We begin our journey home as we travel southhistory of this city. See The Titanic Burial site, the ward through the New England States. Days end finds us Spring Garden Road area, Citadel Hill, the Old in Harrisburg, PA where we spend the night. (B) Town Clock, St Paul’s Church and much more. Overnight: Wingate Hotel, Harrisburg, PA From tales of disaster and triumph to remarkable stories of everyday life, discover the people and places that have Day 14 - As we continue our southern route home , we made Halifax one of the most unique cites in North Amer- make a quick stop in Hershey, also known as Chocoica. (B) late Town, USA. Here we view how chocolate is made Overnight: Chocolate Lake Hotel, Halifax, NS and have an opportunity to take some home. (B, L) Overnight: Country Inn, Roanoke, VA Day 15 - Today we travel to Birmingham, AL where we can enjoy a few cocktails as we settle in for the night. (B) Overnight: Drury Inn & Suites, Birmingham, AL Peggy’s Cove Day 11 - Today we travel to Nova Scotia’s famous fishing village - Peggy’s Cove, named after the only survivor of a . schooner that sank in 1800. We’ll see the famous Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse and enjoy the peaceful countryside before eating an early lunch in the village. This afternoon we visit the Grand-Pre’ National Historic Site of Canada commemorating the Acadians deported from their homes. The gardens, the monuments, the church with is paintings and stained glass all tell the story of the Acadian people. (B, L) Overnight: Rodd Grand , Yarmouth, NS Day 16 - We can relive our Nova Scotia Adventure as we regretfully say goodbye to our new friends and eagerly plan our next adventure. (B, L) Tour Cost Per Person: Single: $3998 Double: $3098 Triple: $2848 Quad: $2698 $250 deposit due with reservation Final payment due June 16th P AGE 22 T HE U NTIMATE M ICHIGAN T OUR 10 D AYS A UGUST 24-S EPTEMBER 2, 2015 T OUR #1513 Day 4 - We drive north to the shores of Lake Huron. A ferry will take us for the short crossing to Mackinac Island where we will spend the next two nights at Lake View Hotel . Here we take a step back in time to a bygone era where transportation is limited to horse and buggy. The stunning Victorian architecture of this Island resort has been lovingly preserved; nothing intrudes on the serenity and national beauty of the island. (B, D) Overnight: Lake View Hotel, Mackinac Island, MI View of Lake Huron as seen from Mackinac Island Day 1 - We begin our journey to the beautiful state of Michigan including the Upper Peninsula. Michigan is known as the Great Lakes State because it is surrounded by Lake Michigan, Lake Huron and Lake Superior. We travel northeast through Mississippi, Alabama and into Tennessee to Franklin where we spend the night. Overnight: Drury Plaza Hotel, Franklin, TN Day 2 - Today we continue traveling north through Kentucky and into Indiana, the Hoosier State. We spend the night in Kokomo where we are treated to a special dinner. (B, D) Overnight: Fairfield Inn, Kokomo, IN Day 3 - As we continue our Michigan adventure, we enter into the Great Lakes State and continue to Grand Rapids where we are treated to the beautiful Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. Here we enjoy a tour that includes the Tropical Conservatory, Vitoria Gardens, Arid Gardens as well as the Sculpture Park which features over 30 permanent sculptures by world-renowned artists. (B, L) Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park Day 5 - This morning we board a horse-drawn carriage for a tour of the Island. Winding our way up scenic bluffs and past charming Victorian homes, we arrive at the majestic Grand Hotel - the crown jewel of Mackinac Island. After feasting on the Grand’s sumptuous luncheon buffet, we can stroll through the hotel’s beautifully landscaped gardens or take in the view from its 660-foot-long front Overnight: Holiday Inn Express, Walker, MI porch that overlooks the Straits of Mackinaw. The remainder of the day is at leisure to relax or browse the many specialty shops that line Huron Avenue in the historic downtown area. Don’t forget to try the famous Mackinac Island fudge! (B, L, D). Overnight: Lake View Hotel, Mackinac Island, MI No cars on Mackinac Island P AGE 23 Day 7 - This morning we have a special adventure - The Soo Locks Boat Tour! Experience “locking through” the Soo Locks as our boat is raised 21 feet, straight up, to the level of Lake Superior. After our “downbound lockage”, we enjoy a cruise along the historic waterfronts of Michigan and Canada taking in sights that include three hydroelectric plants and the rapids of St Mary’s. This afternoon we travel south to Day 6 - Reluctantly we leave the beauty of Mackinac Island another unique city behind and travel north across the Straits of Mackinac Frankenmuth, where Lake Michigan and Lake Huron meet. We continue ‘Michigan’s Little Baour scenic drive through Michigan’s Upper Peninsula varia’. Here the authento Whitefish Point located on the shores of Lake Supe- tic Bavarian architecture, a rior. Deceivingly beautiful, Lake Superior’s unrelenting quaint covered bridge, and Glockenspiels - Frankenmuth fury has earned the reputation of being the most treacherous the Glockenspiel beckon us of the Great Lakes and has caused more than 6000 shipto explore the old world charm of this enchanting little vilwrecks. Here we enjoy the Whitefish Point Light Stalage. Tonight we enjoy a delicious Frankenmuth style tion and the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum where dinner. (B, D) shipwreck legends come to life! (B, D) Overnight: Zehnder’s Hotel, Frankenmuth, MI Overnight: Best Western Sault Ste Marie, Day 8 - We start our day with a tour of Frankenmuth Sault Ste Marie, MI and some free time to enjoy this little Bavarian town and find superb shopping Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland where it’s Christmas all year long. We continue traveling south into Indiana to Indianapolis where we spend the night. (B) Overnight: Drury Inn & Suites, Indianapolis, IN Day 9 - We start our trek home today traveling south though Missouri, Tennessee and into Mississippi to Tunica, where we enjoy a delicious farewell dinner. We check into the Gold Strike Casino Resort for the night. (B, D) Overnight: Gold Strike Casino Resort, Tunica, MS Day 10 - We travel home today taking with us memories of a unique Michigan Adventure! (B) The bell of the Edmund Fitzgerald (1975) Shipwreck Museum, White Fish Point Because we strive to make our tours the best they can be, we sometimes make changes to a tour in order to improve it. After hearing comments about this tour we took out the train in Canada, we changed hotels on Mackinac Island and adjusted the price accordingly. Tour Cost Per Person: Single: $2324 Double: $1759 Triple: $1659 Quad: $1559 $200 deposit due with reservation Final payment due June 24th P AGE 24 Earn $5 worth of Trip Bucks for every day of travel. Use as a $5 per day discount on your next tour. Use early booking discounts and Trip Bucks together for double saving SAVE NOW with EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNTS! Book and deposit on any of our the new 2015 Catalog Tours by April 15, 2015 to receive special discounts. That would include tours on pages 6, 10 & 25-42 3-5 Day Tours 6-8 Day Tours 9+ Day Tours $20 per person $30 per person $40 per person SAVE LATER with our new TRIP BUCKS! Book and make your deposit on any new 2015 Catalog Tour by March 31, 2015 and earn Trip Bucks to be used as a discount on your next tours! T RAVEL AND S TYLE ABOARD L OUISIANA T RAILWAYS IN C OMFORT “O FFICIAL C ARRIER OF T RIPS U NLIMITED ” Louisiana Trailways drivers and staff are professionally trained to ensure the highest level of customer satisfaction and safety. Our fleet consists of late model “State of the Art” MCI Motor Coaches. Our motor coaches feature; Reclining Seats with Foot Rests, Clean Comfortable Rest Rooms, State of the Art Audio / Video Systems, Window Shades, Kneeling Entrance Way and much more. Louisiana Trailways holds a “Satisfactory” D.O.T. safety rating and received a #1 Safety Rating by the Dept. of Defense. Both of these achievements are the highest possible in the motor coach industry. We are also fully licensed and insured. Please visit our web site at: www.louisianacoaches.com or e-mail us at info@louisianacoaches.com for more information. Thank you for your interest in Louisiana Trailways where Customer Service and Safety are our Top Priority. P AGE 25 A D AY A T T HE R ACES 5 D AYS S EPTEMBER 9-13, 2015 T OUR #1533 Day 3 - We begin our day at The Kentucky Show!, an exciting emotionally compelling large screen experience narrated by Ashley Judd that captures Kentucky’s people, culture, history, music and spirit. Afterwards we’re ‘off to the races’ as we begin our day at Churchill Downs, the worlds’ most legendary racetrack. At the Kentucky Derby Museum we immerse ourselves in the excitement of the “Greatest Two Minutes in Sports”! We enjoy interactive exhibits, a 360 degree hi-definition film, a behind the scenes tour of Churchill Downs, a delicious lunch on Millionaires Row and experience the thrill of live horse racing at the world’s most iconic racetrack. (B, L) Overnight: The Galt House, Louisville, KY Day 1 - Come join us on a fun-filled excursion to Churchill Downs for a day at the races. We begin our journey with a relaxing ride east through Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and into Tennessee to Franklin where we spend the night. Overnight: Drury Plaza, Franklin, TN Day 2 - Today we travel to Louisville, Kentucky where we begin our adventure with a tour of the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory where some of the best baseball bats in America are made. As we tour the factory, we see bats being made for the major baseball leagues, the minor leagues and individuals. At the end of our tour, we are presented with a miniature ‘Louisville slugger’ to take home as a souvenir. This afternoon we enjoy the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience, the newest addition to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Located in the downtown Louisville historic ‘Whiskey Row’, the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience will take us back in time to 1783 to experience life and distilling as it was in the early days of the Republic. We’ll not only learn about making bourbon, but we will watch it being made before our very eyes & then enjoying a premium bourbon tasting. (B, D) Day 4 - As we leave the excitement of “Derby City” behind, we begin making our way home. We travel south through Kentucky to Bowling Green where we stop at the National Corvette Museum dedicated to the Corvette - an international symbol of American automotive innovation! Inside this 115, 000 sq ft showroom we will see more that 70 Corvettes and one-of-a-kind concept cars, striking full-scale dioramas, thousands of Corvette photos, movies and videos and the one millionth Corvette donated by Chevrolet. This afternoon we continue south to Birmingham, Alabama where we spend the night. (B) Overnight: Drury Inn & Suites, Birmingham, AL Overnight: The Galt House, Louisville, KY Day 5 - Today we travel home taking with us memories of our exciting day at the races! (B, L) Tour Cost Per Person: Single: $1035 Double: $798 Triple: $748 Quad: $698 $100 deposit due with reservation Final payment due August 3rd P AGE 26 H OT IN C LEVELAND ! 8 D AYS S EPTEMBER 13-20, 2015 T OUR #1524 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame * Cuyahog Valley Scenic Railroad * Hot in Cleveland House * Christmas Story House Pro Football Hall of Fame * Lunch Cruise aboard the Nautica Queen * Lunch & Entertainment at Hofbrauhaus Cleveland Botanical Gardens Beer Tasting * Ohio Amish Country * Yoders Farm * Warther Carvings Day 3 - We continue traveling north to Cleveland, OH where we begin our visit by touring the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, a world-class museum on the banks of Lake Erie dedicated to celebrating and preserving the musicians and music that changed the world, as well as educating visitors and fans about the history and continuing significance of rock and roll music. This afternoon we take a city-tour of ‘C-Town’ where we see the ‘Hot in Cleveland’ House, University Circle, Public Square, Christmas Story House and more. (B, D) Overnight: Hampton Inn, Cleveland, OH Day 4 - We begin our day with a step-back in time at the historic West Side Market, named as one of “10 Great Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Public Places in America”. Built in 1912, it served as a public Day 1 - Join us for a hot time in Cleveland. We begin our market to the growing immigrant population and is one of journey with a relaxing ride through Louisiana, Mississippi, very few remaining today. Beautifully designed, the grand structure has a 44 foot high Guastavina tile vaulted ceiling Alabama and into Tennessee where we stop in Franklin and a clock tower which stands 137 ft tall. Next we board for the night. the Nautica Queen for a unique adventure on the Ohio Overnight: Drury Plaza Hotel, Franklin, TN River. We cruise under historic bridges, experience breathDay 2 - As we continue north towards Ohio, we stop in taking views of Downtown Cleveland’s ever-changing skyNewport, KY at Hofbrauhaus Newport, modeled line and enjoy a delicious lunch with musical entertainment. after the legendary 400 year old Hofbrauhaus in Munich, Tonight we have a special evening planned at the Cleveland Germany. Here we enjoy lively music and a delicious Botanical Gardens where we enjoy ‘Hoppy Hour Beer Bavarian lunch overlooking the Cincinnati Skyline. After Tasting’. After touring this vibrant ever-changing oasis lunch we embark on a multi-city tour which begins with with 20 distinct gardens and a Glasshouse showcasing both Newport’s notorious past of gangsters, gamblers and ladies rainforest and desert plants, we gather together and sample of the night. Then we cross the Ohio River and explore pale ales, dark lagers and other cool craft brews. (B, L) Cincinnati and Over-the-Rhine, which contains the largOvernight: Hampton Inn, Cleveland, OH est collection of Italianate architecture in the United States and is a perfect example of an intact 19-century neighborhood. Its architectural significance has been compared to the French Quarter and Savannah. (B, L) Overnight: Drury Inn & Suites, Cincinnati, OH P AGE 27 Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Train Day 5 - Let’s ‘ride the rails’ on the Cuyahogn Valley Day 8 - We continue to make our way south as we travel Scenic Railroad, one of the oldest and most scenic tourist home taking memories of all the new and interesting things excursion trains in the country. Experience the adventure, we experienced on our tour. (B, L) romance and nostalgia of a vintage train ride as we ride through the heart of Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Arriving in Akron, we board our motorcoach for a short drive to Canton, OH to tour the Pro Football Hall of Fame which has been honoring the great players of the professional football world since 1920. This afternoon we arrive in Wilmot, OH, the heart of the Ohio Amish country. After checking into our charming hotel we tour Yoder’s Amish Home and Farm. Here we get a glimpse into their quiet and simple lifestyle as friendly guides explain the history and customs of the Amish faith. Tonight we have a special evening planned as we tour the unique Warthers Carvings delighting in the many detailed carvings in wood and ivory. (B, D) Overnight: Inn at Amish Door, Wilmot, OH Day 6 - We continue touring the Amish countryside enjoying stops at Lehman’s General Store, Heini’s Cheese, Kauffman Country Bakery and more. We have free time in Berlin where we can shop where the Amish shop for everything from furniture to hand-made gifts. This afternoon we begin our trek home traveling into Kentucky to Lexington where we spend the night. (B,D) Overnight: Holiday Inn Express. Lexington, KY Day 7 - Today we leave Kentucky behind and travel into Tennessee to Lynnville where we stop at Soda Pop Junction, an old-fashioned soda shop serving awardwinning hamburgers since 1860. Afterwards we visit the Tennessee South Distillery where we enjoy a tour and taste eight different spirits. We continue to Birmingham, AL, where we spend the night. (B, L) Overnight: Drury Inn & Suites, Birmingham, AL Ohio Amish Country Tour Cost Per Person: Single: $1859 Double: $1359 Triple: $1259 Quad:$1179 $150 deposit due with reservation Final payment due July 29th P AGE 28 O KTOBERFEST 10 D AYS IN THE M IDWEST EPTEMBER Day 1 - We begin our fantastic fall foliage adventure by traveling north to Missouri. We can relax, enjoy the passing scenery and get to know our fellow travelers as we make our way to Sikeston, for the night. This evening we enjoy dinner at Lambert’s Café, home of the “Throwed Rolls”. (D) Overnight: Pear Tree Inn, Sikeston, MO Day 2 - After leaving Sikeston behind, we stop in the quaint city of St. Charles, Missouri where we will meet a stepon guide. St Charles made quite a mark on history, Lewis and Clark began their western expedition here, Daniel Boone and his family built their homestead, and German settlers developed a wine region and created a booming pioneer town. We spend some time in the historic district meandering through the little shops and restaurants frequented by visitors and locals alike. This afternoon we continue traveling north into Iowa to Clarksville where we spend the night. (B) 20-29, 2015 T OUR #1525 Day 4 - We start our ‘Twin City’ experience with a tour of Minneapolis and St. Paul, dressed in fall color. Separated by the Mississippi River, diversity is at the heart of these unique cities, with a comfortable blend of old and new - contemporary and old world, Art Deco and Victorian. The Twin Cities will take us by surprise at every turn. We’ll see the beautiful Summit Avenue lined with historic 19th century mansions, St. Paul’s Cathedral, the skyway system, television home of Mary Tyler Moore, the famous Nicollet Mall and much more. This afternoon we explore Minnesota through large-scale museum exhibits, hands-on experiences and multimedia presentations at the Minnesota History Center. We learn about Minnesota’s extreme weather, enjoy the nostalgia of re-visiting our childhood toys, hear the stories of The Beatles ‘One Night Stand’, and much more. (B, D) Overnight: Country Inn & Suites, Bloomington, MN Overnight: Homeward Suites, Clarksville, IA Day 3 - A short drive takes us to the seven villages of the Amana Colonies where we can step back in time and experience this quiet German settlement that has been a treasure on the Iowa prairie, welcoming visitors for over 150 years. The Colonies offer a unique history and culture found nowhere else in the Amana Colonies world. This afternoon we arrive in Bloomington, Minnesota for the next 3-nights. Our hotel is just across the street from the Mall of America, a one-of -a-kind experience that includes over 500 stores, 50 restaurants, 14 movie screens, an underwater adventure aquarium, ACES Flight simulator, Bloomingdales, Nordstrom's, an amusement park and much more. (B, L) Overnight: Country Inn & Suites, Bloomington, MN St. Paul, Minnesota in the Autumn P AGE 29 Day 7 - This morning we learn the art of making cheese at the National Cheesemaking Center. We’ll be amazed by stories of early cheesemaking over a century ago and now with today’s modern conveniences. Next we visit Swiss Colony Cheese Outlet which originated in this area of Wisconsin. Enjoy lots of free samples and shop at discounted prices. As lunchtime approaches, we find ourselves at the New Glarus Oktoberfest Festival! We can sample the great food & German beer throughout the afternoon and evening as we enjoy the music and many activities and shops. Listen to the great music and maybe even do the ‘Chicken Dance’. (B) Overnight: Chalet Landhaus, New Glarus, WI Oktoberfest! Day 5 - This morning we enjoy a tour of the Mill City Museum. Built in the ruins of what was once the world’s largest flour mill, Mill City Museum is located in the historic Mississippi Riverfront. Here we learn about the intertwined histories of the flour industry and the Mississippi River. From a Baking Lab to an elevator ride through an exhibit, Mill City is an adventure for all the senses. Lunch finds us at the American Swedish Institute where we enjoy a traditional Swedish Luncheon. Afterwards we explore this exquisite 33-room mansion, including the detailed wood carvings, sculpted ceilings, 11 hand-crafted Swedish tile stoves and more. (B, L) Overnight: Country Inn & Suites, Bloomington, MN Day 6 - Leaving Minnesota behind, we travel east to the ‘Dairy State’ of Wisconsin. This afternoon finds us in New Glarus to celebrate the annual Oktoberfest! Nestled in the rolling hills of southern Wisconsin, New Glarus resembles the Alpine Farmland and is known as America’s “Little Switzerland”. The Swiss heritage is present in the towns architecture, geranium filled flower boxes and delicious ethnic food. We take a journey back in time as we tour the Swiss Historical Village where we get a glimpse of Swiss pioneer life. Next we check-in to the Chalet Landhaus where we unpack our bags for a 2-night stay. The Oktoberfest kicks off tonight for those who want to enjoy the festivities. (B, D) Day 8 - Today we travel through America’s heartland to Springfield, Illinois where inspiration awaits us at the Lincoln Presidential Library. Here we see letters and manuscripts written or signed by President Lincoln including the Gettysburg address and the emancipation proclamation. (B) Overnight: Drury Inn & Suites, Springfield, IL Day 9 - We continue traveling south through Missouri, Arkansas and into Mississippi to Tunica where we spend the night at the Gold Strike Casino Resort. (B, D) Overnight: Gold Strike Casino Resort, Tunica, MS Day 10 - As we make our way home, we say goodbye to new friends and reflect on our one-of-a-kind experiences. (B) Tour Cost Per Person: Single: $2129 Double: $1599 Triple: $1449 Quad: $1349 $150 deposit due with reservation Final payment due August 2nd Overnight: Chalet Landhaus, New Glarus, WI Chalet Landhaus - New Glarus, WI P AGE 30 T HE A LBUQUERQUE I NTERNATIONAL B ALLOON F IESTA 9 D AYS O CTOBER 6-14, 201 5 Day 1 – Welcome aboard this unique trip to New Mexico, the “Land of Enchantment”. We begin our tour with a relaxing ride as we enjoy the passing countryside. We make our way through Louisiana and into Texas where we spend the night in Dallas, a unique blend of Old West charm and cosmopolitan flair. T OUR #1508 Day 4 – Our day begins early as we are whisked away to the Balloon Fiesta for the unforgettable Mass Ascension. See hundreds of hot air balloons take off, turning the sky into a virtual rainbow of colors. Today we are treated to the ‘Special Shape Rodeo’ which showcases such dynamic shapes like the famous bees, a pink dragon, Orca the whale Overnight: Hampton Inn, Dallas, TX and many more. After a truly exhilarating morning we head back to Historic Old Town to explore its quaint streets, Day 2 –Today we see a Texas tradition of big sky, endless southwestern shops, restaurants and galleries. Tonight we plains, enormous cattle ranches, and steadily pumping oil return to the Balloon fiesta to enjoy Glowdeo. Just before wells. Our destination today is Amarillo, one of the last dusk balloons are inflated and tethered filling the sky with a places on Earth where the Old West still lives. Enjoy dinner kaleidoscope of brilliant colors. (B, D) this evening at the Big Texan, an internationally known resOvernight: Rio Grande Inn, Albuquerque, NM taurant famous for its great Texas atmosphere. (B, D) Overnight: Drury Inn & Suites, Amarillo, TX Day 5 –This morning it’s a short drive to Santa Fe, nestled in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and known for its rich Day 3 – Our drive today takes us into New Mexico known cultural heritage, striking adobe architecture, breathtaking for its striking scenery and rich heritage. This afternoon we natural beauty and its local artists and crafters. We enjoy a arrive in Albuquerque for a three-night stay. Nestled be- visit to the famous Loretto Chapel. Surrounded in mystery tween the towering Sandia Mountains and the Rio Grande with its "Miraculous Staircase", some say was built by St JoValley, the city offers a rich cultural heritage, set in a breath- seph himself. There is free time to explore the historic Plaza taking landscape. This afternoon we enjoy a tram tour of and the many shops and the local artists and crafters that offer Historic Old Town, Albuquerque’s first neighborhood. unique handcrafted items. We return to Albuquerque via Founded in 1706, the settlers built their town in the tradione of the most scenic and historic routes in New Mexico, tional Spanish colonial style with a central plaza anchored by the Turquoise Trail. This evening we enjoy a delicious dinner a church. Today it’s the city’s cultural center with five muse- at the foot of Sandia Peak to experience a symphony of ums and more than 100 shops, galleries and restaurants. (B, color at sunset and a panoramic view of the city lights as we D) dine. (B, D) Overnight: Rio Grande Inn, Albuquerque, NM Overnight: Rio Grande Inn, Albuquerque, NM Old Town - Albuquerque, New Mexico P AGE 31 Loretto Chapel and the Miraculous Staircase Day 6 – Departing Albuquerque this morning, we travel southeast through New Mexico. Our trek then takes us into the westernmost region of Texas which boasts wide open skies, and the beautiful Davis Mountains. Days end finds us in Sweetwater where we spend the night. (B) Day 8 - Our day begins with a tour of the SAS Shoe factory, one of the few remaining shoe factories in America. We get a firsthand glimpse of the skill and craftsmanship that goes into each pair of SAS shoes. Then we step back in time at the SAS General Store where old fashioned values is the rule, not the exception, and the shoes are sold at a discount. This afternoon we enjoy a delicious lunch at La Margarita Restaurant located in “El Mercado”, better known as the Mexican Market. Enjoy the lively music of Mariachis who impart the color and flavor of old Mexico. Next we hop aboard a river barge for an amusing cruise along the shady banks of the Riverwalk as we hear about its history. Afterwards we enjoy free time on the famous San Antonio Riverwalk, an oasis of cypress-lined paved paths, arched stone bridges and lush landscapes that gently winds through the city giving easy access to cultural hot spots, historic sites, restaurants and other attractions. (B, L) Overnight: Drury Inn & Suites, San Antonio, TX Overnight: Holiday Inn Express, Sweetwater, TX Day 7 – Today’s drive takes us through an ever-changing Texas prairie panorama to San Antonio, a city steeped in history with a rich cultural heritage. We arrive at the historic Menger Hotel in time to enjoy a delicious lunch. Opened in 1859, the Menger Hotel was one of the first luxury hotels west of the Mississippi River which entertained cattle barons, presidents and movie stars including Roy Rodgers and Dale Evans, Davey Crockett, Ulysses S. Grant, Babe Ruth, Oscar Wilde, Mae West, and more. After lunch we tour the Alamo originally known as the Mission San Antonio de Valero and the site of the 1836 battle that enshrined it in the heart of Texans everywhere. This afternoon we visit the Mission San Jose, located on the banks of the San Antonio River. Known as the ‘Queen of the Missions”, its imposing complex of stone walls, bastions, granary and magnificent church was completed by 1782 and fully restored in 1930. (B, L) Overnight: Drury Inn & Suites, San Antonio, TX Santa Fe, New Mexico Day 9 – We head home today feeling enriched through the unique things we have experienced and interesting places we have visited on this extraordinary autumn journey. (B) Tour Cost Per Person: Single: $1998 Double: $1479 Triple: $1379 Quad: $1279 $150 deposit due with reservation Final payment due August 6th Mission San Jose P AGE 32 F ALL F OLIAGE 7 D AYS AT THE B EAUTIFUL M OUNT M AGAZINE O CTOBER 14-20, 2015 T OUR #1546 Day 3 - Today is a special day filled with the very best original and unusual handmade treasures as the Ozark Mountains come alive with the sights, sounds and aroma of the War Eagle Mill Fall Arts and Crafts Fair. Professional craft men and women offer original handmade work such as folk art, pottery, stoneware, quilts, homemade soaps, handmade furniture, watercolor paintings and so much more from the hands of the best artisans from across the country. (B, D) Overnight: Double Tree by Hilton, Springdale, AR View from Mt Magazine - Paris, AR Day 1 - We begin our colorful fall foliage tour with a relaxing ride through Louisiana, Mississippi and into Arkansas, blessed with the beautiful Ozarks Mountains, one of the South’s most unforgettable fall destinations. This afternoon we arrive in Little Rock where we spend the night. (D) Day 4 - Today we board the Missouri and Arkansas Overnight: Wingate by Wyndham, Little Rock, AR Railroad winner of the “Railway Age Regional RailDay 2 - Today we travel north to Fayetteville where the way of the Year” award. We enjoy a scenic trip through most powerful union in politics began, Bill and Hilary’s the Ozarks as we burrow through the quarter mile Winslow first home. Visit the living room where they were marTunnel and travel high trestles of 125-feet from the ground. ried, view rare memorabilia from Bill’s early political career Our train adventure ends in Van Buren , but our adventure and tour the First Ladies Garden. After a delicious lunch we has just begun. We continue our travels through the celebrate the beauty of this area with a tour of the Botani- Ozarks where we arrive in Paris, located on the Arkancal Gardens of the Ozarks. Located on 86 acres adjoin- sas River. A short drive takes us to Mount Magazine ing Lake Fayetteville, the gardens include 12 themed garState Park, the highest point in Arkansas featuring eight dens including the four seasons garden, the rock and water scenic overlooks. We check into The Lodge at Mount garden and a butterfly house. A short drive take us to Magazine where we unpack our bags for a 2-night stay. (B, Springdale where we spend the night. (B, L) D) Overnight: Double Tree By Hilton, Springdale, AR Overnight: The Lodge at Mount Magazine, Paris, AR Mount Magazine Resort, Paris, AR P AGE 33 Day 6 - We enjoy a relaxing morning before we reluctantly leave the lodge behind. But we have one more stop before we leave this lovely state park, the Visitors Center where we discover the fascinating history of Mount Magazine and a large wildlife observation area overlooking a native plant garden. As we travel south through Arkansas and into Mississippi we find ourselves in Tunica where we spend the night in luxury at the Gold Strike Casino Resort. For those who enjoy gaming, the casino is opened all night. (B, D) Overnight:The Gold Strike Casino Resort, Tunica, ,MS Day 7 - Today we continue our journey home with a new perception of our beautiful state of Arkansas. (B) Day 5 - We have a special day planned today at this beautiful Mountaintop resort overlooking the Petit Jean River Valley and Blue Mountain Lake. Gracing the south bluff of Arkansas’s high point, the Lodge at Mount Magazine offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in The Natural State. Today we can enjoy the exquisite nature that is all around us with its fall color and local wildlife. We have a few options today to help us enjoy our free time. We can enjoy basket weaving, we learn how to garden for wildlife or maybe make a rag doll to remember us experience at this modern, rustic-style lodge in the Ozark Mountains. (B, D) Overnight: The Lodge at Mount Magazine, Paris, AR Tour Cost Per Person: Single: $1398 Double: $1098 Triple: $1029 Quad: $979 $100 deposit due with reservation Final payment due August 24th P AGE 34 T HE S AINTS T RAINING H OME - T HE L EGENDARY G REENBRIER R ESORT 7 D AYS N OVEMBER 8-14, 2015 T OUR #1527 Join us for a journey to a National Historic Landmark and the Saints official new training Camp! Greenbrier Resort Day 1 - Join us for a journey to a National Historic Landmark, The Greenbrier Resort. Combining graciousness of the past with exceptional comforts of today, a new era of elegance awaits us at the Greenbrier. As we begin our tour, we can enjoy the passing scenery and get to know our fellow travelers. We travel through Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and into Tennessee. Days end finds us in Chattanooga, nestled in the foothills of the Smokey Mountains, where we spend the night at another historic hotel, the Chattanooga Choo Choo. (D) Day 3 - Today we arrive at the award-winning Greenbrier Resort located in White Sulphur Springs, WV. Standing gracefully in the beautiful Allegheny Mountains, the Greenbrier was chosen to be the New Orleans Saints official summer training camp. With three new practice fields, a performance center, weight rooms, locker rooms, training and physical therapy accommodations, the Greenbrier has truly rolled out the red carpet for New Orleans. Widely regarded as a one of the finest luxury resorts around the world, the hotel has been welcoming guests since 1778. We arrive late morning with the whole day to discover all this hotel has to offer including tours, shops and boutiques, golf, spa treatments, afternoon tea, and a 103 square foot gaming and entertainment venue. Explore 10,000 acre playground and discover an unparalleled selection of luxury leisure pursuits and outdoor adventures designed to satisfy and stimulate our widest range of interests. (B, D) Overnight: The Greenbrier Resort, White Sulphur Springs, WV Overnight: Chattanooga Choo Choo, Chattanooga, TN Day 2 - We continue traveling north into Virginia to the beautiful Roanoke Valley, located at the foot of the bluehued peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains, where we spend the night. (B, D) Overnight: Country Inn & Suites, Roanoke, VA The new Advocare Sports Performance Center where the New Orleans Saints train. Day 4 - This morning we have a special treat in store for us. We will tour the Saints training area where we get a feel for the hard work our boys endure. This afternoon we take a short drive to Lewisburg, named ‘America’s Coolest Small Town’. Tucked away in the rolling hills of the Greenbrier Valley, the picture-perfect main street offers the finest in southern hospitalities, unique shopping, sidewalk cafés, antique shops and more. We tour the Historic General Lewis Inn, a unique blend of the old and new. We enjoy a delicious homemade dinner in the original 1834 section of the Inn. We return to The Greenbrier Resort for the night. (B, D) Callaway Gardens Overnight: The Greenbrier Resort, White Sulphur Springs, WV P AGE 35 Day 5 - Reluctantly we leave Greenbrier behind and travel south through some of the most beautiful scenery in eastern United States. Tonight’s destination is Greenville, South Carolina where we enjoy ‘Happy Hour’ at our hotel. (B) Day 7 - As our extraordinary journey comes to an end, we travel home, but memories of the legendary Greenbrier Resort are sure to linger. (B) Overnight: Drury Inn & Sites, Greenville, SC Day 6 - Today we continue to travel south into Georgia to Pine Mountain where we arrive at Callaway Gardens. We enjoy a delightful tour of the gardens, home to a world of nature and wildlife, the butterfly center, the Discover Center, the observatory and more. Tonight we have a delicious farewell tour dinner. (B, D) Tour Cost Per Person: Single: $1779 Double: $1379 Triple: $1279 Quad: $1179 $150 deposit due with reservation Final payment due September 8th Overnight: Callaway Gardens Resort, Pine Mountain, GA B RANSON F ALL F OLIAGE 6 D AYS O CTOBER 11-16, 2015 T OUR # 1543 Day 1 - Depart this morning for a relaxing drive through Mississippi and into Arkansas. Enjoy the beautiful fall colors and passing landscape and get acquainted with newfound friends as we make our way to Little Rock for the night. (D) Day 4 - After enjoying free time, we are treated to another afternoon of entertaining music shows. The award-winning Texas Tenors bring their unique blend of country, gospel, classical and broadway to the stage and stolen the hearts of Overnight: Wingate by Wyndham , Little Rock, AR millions of fans around the world. Tonight as a special treat, we see the all-new, Day 2 - Today enjoy a scenic drive through the beautiful Tony Award winOzark Mountains as we make our way to Branson, Missouri ning Broadway where we will unpack our bags for a 3-night stay. Branson is a production, Milunique place where an old-fashioned sense of Americana is lion Dollar Quartet! combined with dazzling world-class entertainment. LegenInspired by an incredidary stars as well as original Branson entertainers perform a ble true story of one fabulous variety of country, comedy, magic, and Broadway- magical night - an imstyle shows. We begin with the ever promptu jam session popular Showboat Branson Belle. As we with Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl cruise on Table Rock Lake, we enjoy the Perkins. Together, on this one night only, these four music changing of the colors, a delicious 3-course icons created sounds that would span decades and generations. meal and a brand new variety show. Tonight we enjoy The (B, D) Duttons, a family of amazing performers that play everything Overnight: Grand Country Inn, Branson. MO from bluegrass to Classical featuring a variety of instruments including violin, guitar, bass, viola, banjo, mandolin, keyDay 5—Leaving the music and excitement of Branson behind, our fun-filled trek takes us to the heart of the Mississippi Delta board, harmonica and drums. (B, D) Overnight: Grand Country Resort, Branson, MO -Tunica. we check-in into the fabulous Gold Strike Casino Resort where we’ll be pampered in 24K style. (B, D) Day 3 - This morning we experience the extraordinary musiOvernight: Gold Strike Casino Resort, Tunica, MS cal entertainment of Shoji Tabuchi. Beginning his American career at the Grand Ole Opry, Shoji brings a little bit of magic Day 6—Today depart for home having experienced the “Best to the stage with his repertoire of country, gospel, Hawaiian, of Branson”. We arrive back home in late afternoon. (B) patriotic, rock and a little bit of the orient. Tonight we have a treat - The Lettermen, one of music’s most memorable and successful singing trios, sing their biggest hits of the 60’s! An Tour Cost Per Person: impressive 32 albums, all charting on the top 100 include hits Single: $1249 Double: $1089 Triple: $1049 Quad: $989 like Put Your Head On My Shoulder, Goin’ Out of My Head/Can’t Take My Eyes Off You, I Only Have Eyes For You, Sealed With A $100 deposit due with reservation Kiss and much more. (B, D) Overnight: Grand Country Inn, Branson, MO Final payment due August 20th P AGE 36 C HRISTMAS S NOW 6 D AYS N OVEMBER 29 - D ECEMBER 4, 2015 T OUR 1507 of Missouri’s most beautiful attractions, The Precious Moments Chapel includes an inviting Visitor Center, Gift Shop, Café, and beautiful manicured gardens adorned with bronze statues and fountains. This afternoon we travel to Springfield, MO where we tour the amazing Fantastic Caverns, America’s drive through cave, located under the rolling hills of the Ozark Mountains. No need to maneuver through this cave, all tours take place on jeep pulled trams by knowledgeable guides. After checking into our hotel, we enjoy ‘happy hour’ with cocktails and snacks before we experience a “wild time” at the Bass Pro Shop. Here we enjoy the huge compound which includes a Wildlife Museum, Day 1 –Join us for a fun Christmas adventure as we make many tanks and aquariums and a multitude of Christmas our way to Sikeston, Missouri where we spend the night. decorations. (B, L) This evening we enjoy dinner at Lamberts Café, home of Overnight: Drury Inn & Suites, Springfield, MO the “throwed rolls” (D) Day 4 - We couldn't come this close to Branson without Overnight: Pear Tree Inn, Sikeston, MO enjoying their outstanding Christmas entertainment. We Day 2 - Today we travel northeast to the town of Bellebegin with one of the most popular shows in Branson, Doug ville, IL. Our first stop is Eckert’s Country Store and Gabriel, named ‘Male Vocalist of the Year’ three years Farm, family-owned and operated since 1837 by seven gen- in a row. Let the music take us back as Doug performs chart erations of Eckerts. We topping hits for the 50’s and beautiful Christmas arrangeenjoy a special treat this ments mixed with comedy and the true Christmas message. morning as we make our Tonight we go to Andy Williams Moon River Theatre for very own gingerbread house one of the best Christmas shows in Branson - The Andy with a lot of guidance from Williams Christmas Spectacular! Those of us who the folks at Eckert’s. After a were privileged to hear Andy Williams perform know that delicious lunch at the farm, his favorite time of year was Christmas. His legacy continues we continue our Christmas as performers such as the Osmond Brothers and the journey with a tour of the Lennon Sisters delight audiences with a tribute to beautiful St. Peter’s CaMr. Christmas - Andy Williams. (B, D) thedral, the largest catheOvernight: Center Point Inn, Branson, MO dral in Illinois. Built in the English Gothic style, St Peter’s is modeled after the Cathedral of Exeter in England. This afternoon we tour the Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows, the largest outside shrine in North America. Wintertime sparkles here at the Annual Way of Lights Christmas display which illuminates the grounds with a breathtaking display that focuses on the birth of Christ. (B, L) Overnight: Drury Inn and Suites, Belleville, IL Day 3 - This morning we travel west to The Precious Moments Chapel in Carthage, MO often described as “America’s Sistine Chapel” as an artful representation of Michelangelo’s own Sistine Chapel in Rome. Serving as one Doug Gabriel - Branson’s Male Vocalist of the Year P AGE 37 Day 5 - Today we head south as we begin to make our way home. We’ll make a quick stop at Robertson’s Orchard to enjoy some Christmas goodies. Evening find us in Tunica, Mississippi, where we can test our luck at the games of chance. (B, D) Tour Cost Per Person: Single: $1179 Double: $979 Triple: $899 Quad: $859 Overnight: Gold Strike Casino Resort, Tunica, MS $100 deposit due with reservation Day 6 - Sadly our Christmas adventure comes to an end as we travel home with a bit more Christmas spirit in our hearts. (B) Final payment due October 14th N ATCHITOCHES C HRISTMAS L IGHTS 2 D AYS D ECEMBER 9-10, 2015 T OUR #1542 Day 2 - We begin our day with a tour of this quaint little city as we explore its unique heritage and amazing scenery. We meet our guide at the Oakland Plantation, where writer Robert Harling lived. Harling is best known for writing ‘Steal Magnolias’, based on his early life in Natchitoches. Built in the architectural style of a French Creole plantation house, Oakland is particularly interesting for the majestic oak alley at its entrance. After our tour we begin our journey home. Along the way we will stop at Lea’s Lunchroom known for it homemade pies. (B, L) Tour Cost Per Person: Day 1 - Come join us for a Christmas adventure to the Natchitoches Christmas Lights! We get to know our fellow travelers as we make our way to Natchitoches, Louisiana, the oldest settlement in the state. Arriving in Natchitoches, we visit the new Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame which showcases the accomplishments of Louisiana’s extraordinary athletes, coaches and sport stars. We hear entertaining stories of the ‘best of the best’, enjoy interactive exhibits and see memorabilia of some of Louisiana’s finest athletes including Archie Manning, Willis Reed, Shaquille O’Neal, Pete Maravich and much more. Next we have free time to enjoy historic Natchitoches as we stroll down Front Street where the visitors center is located along with several quaint little shops. After a delicious dinner, we return to Front Street and the Cane River to enjoy the famous Natchitoches Christmas lights named as one of the most spectacular light shows in the country. (D) Overnight; Holiday Inn Express, Natchitoches, LA Single: $335 Double: $269 Triple: $249 Quad: $239 $50 deposit due with reservation Final payment due October 19th P AGE 38 C HRISTMAS 9 D AYS IN M IAMI & K EY W EST D ECEMBER 7-15, 2015 T OUR #1528 Day 3 - This morning we travel a short distance to Miami, one of the world’s most popular vacation spots. We take a city tour where we see the Brickell Financial District with Miami’s oldest archaeological site and its first sky scraper, the tallest buildings in Florida. We head to Coconut Grove a bayside neighborhood with a distinctive culture that always attracts a colorful cast of individuals. We see some of the most unique and colorful areas in Miami, the Wynwood Art District and the Miami Beach Art Deco District. This afternoon we enjoy a relaxing sightseeing cruise along Biscayne Bay where we have the best views of the Downtown Miami Skyline, the port of Miami, Fisher Island, Miami Beach and Millionaire's Row, an upscale tropical playDay 1 - Come join us on this unique festive Christmas holiday ground for the rich and famous and some of the most luxurigetaway. As the temperature drops in New Orleans, the ous homes in the south. (B) Florida Keys are still a tropical paradise. We enjoy the passOvernight: Yve Hotel, Miami, FL ing scenery and get acquainted with our fellow travelers as we travel through Mississippi, Alabama and into Florida. Tonight finds us in Lake City where we will spend the night. (D) Overnight: Country Inn & Suites, Lake City, FL Day 2 - Today we travel south, further into the Sunshine State. This afternoon we arrive in Fort Lauderdale known for its beaches, arts and culture. Tonight we enjoy the Mai Kai where the essence of Polynesia comes alive in the songs and dances of the celebrated Islanders Revue, inspired by village life in the South Pacific at the turn of the century. We lose ourselves in the romantic Hawaiian Wedding Dance and the thrilling Samoan Fire Dance performed by native Polynesian dancers, while enjoying delicious Asian cuisine. Day 4 - We begin our day with a visit to the oldest Catholic (B, D) church in all of South Florida, Gesu. Founded in 1896 just Overnight: Oceanside Inn, Fort Lauderdale, FL before the city of Miami was incorporated, Gesu Catholic Church serves as a sanctuary to present and past generations. Next we are treated to a visit to Pinecrest Gardens where we discover hidden treasures in South Florida’s Cultural Arts Park, which features over 1000 varieties of rare and exotic tropical plants mixed with beautiful sculptures, statues and paintings. This afternoon we visit Little Havana, a taste of multicultural Miami at its best. Cuban culture permeates everything in Little Havana—colorful murals, cigar rollers deep at work and the ever-present aroma of Cuban coffee. We have free time at Calle Ocho, the main drag where fruit stands, art galleries, Cuban restaurants and cigar shops line the avenue. The rest of the afternoon is free to explore Bayside Marketplace on the waterfront. Located by our hotel this festive marketplace includes great shops, restaurants, nightclubs and more in a relaxing atmosphere. There is always something going on at Bayside. (B, D) Miami Beach Overnight: Yve Hotel, Miami, FL P AGE 39 Day 7 - Leaving Key West, we continue to bask in the exotic tropical beauty as we travel north through Florida. Afternoon finds us in Orlando where stop at the Victorian themed Grand Floridian Resort where we will marvel at the 16-foot Victorian gingerbread house which actually serves as a shop that offers baked items. (B ) Overnight: Drury Inn, Orlando, FL Day 8 - This morning we explore the Gaylord Palms Hotel which features a five acre atrium that contains Florida attractions such as Ponce de Leon Fountain of Youth, the Everglades and a 60-ft sailboat. Next we continue our Ernest Hemmingway Home Christmas journey with a magical adventure in ice. The ICE Exhibit is an indoor winter wonderland made from Day 5 - As we leave Miami behind, we continue southward two million pounds of colorful hand-carved ice sculptures and concludes with a breath-taking Nativity Scene carved to the Florida Keys, a 112 mile long chain of islands that from crystal clear ice. Leaving the Palms behind, we travel are often referred to as America’s Caribbean. Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico the northward to Florida’s capital city where we spend the Keys are home to the only living Coral Reef in the Con- night. (B, D) tinental United States. This afternoon finds us in Key Overnight: Holiday Inn Express, Tallahassee, FL West, Florida’s irreverent southernmost subtropical paradise. Palm-lined streets with gingerbread mansions and tinroofed conch houses were home to Ernest Hemingway, Tennessee Williams, Robert Frost and Jimmy Buffet, a few of the famous people who discovered solace and inspiration in this exotic island. We tour by trolley through the streets of Key West and experience its rich history and get to know our little corner of paradise. We tour the Ernest Hemmingway House, home to one of America’s most honored and respected authors. Here he lived and wrote for more than 10 years, finding solace in the turquoise waters that surround this tiny island. After checking into our hotel, we spend the evening on the famous Mallory Square. Here as part of the Key West Sunset Celebration we enjoy the street performers, artists, local musicians, food carts and a Day 9 - Today we travel home taking with us memories of breathtaking sight of the glowing pink and red sun sinking tropical Christmas adventures and preparing to put the fininto the Gulf of Mexico horizon. (B) ishing touches on our own Christmas celebrations. (B, L) Overnight: Fairfield Inn, Key West, FL Day 6 - This morning we visit the Truman Little White House, President Harry L. Truman’s winter White House and a favorite spot for later presidents including Eisenhower, Taft, Kennedy, Carter and Clinton. This afternoon we’ll have free time to enjoy the different areas of the island with a hop-on-hop-off trolley ticket. Don’t forget to explore Duval Street, one of America’s renowned gems. (B, D) Overnight: Fairfield Inn, Key West, FL Tour Cost Per Person: Single: $2289 Double: $1689 Triple: $1589 Quad: $1489 $200 deposit due with reservation Final payment due September 5th P AGE 40 C HRISTMAS M YSTERY T OUR - L IFE I S B ETTER W ITH A S OUTHERN ACCENT ! 4 D AYS D ECEMBER 7-10, 2015 T OUR #1509 Let’s get into the Christmas Spirit by going on a Christmas Mystery Tour! Where are we going? Only one way to find out! Day 1 - Early morning finds us ready to embark on the Great Christmas Mystery Tour. This morning the suspense builds as we meet our fellow travelers and try to guess our destination. Will we go North, South, East or West? Day’s end finds us in a capital city where we will spend the next 3 days. Day 2 - We begin our day with a visit to a modern museum located on the banks of a gently flowing river and home to thousands of photographs, documents, and artifacts. Next we step back and enjoy rich Victorian atmosphere and luxury as we will be treated to a delicious Christmas Tea complete with silver trays and all the ‘Victorian touches’. After our Tea we will enjoy an historic tour of the award-winning estate. This afternoon we experience a different type of Christmas spirit, one we can taste after learning how it is made. Tonight we have a special treat as we delight in a delicious meal and hilarious entertainment. (B, Tea, D) Day 3 - This morning we will get to know this southern city. Lunchtime is a treat at the home of a nationally know home and garden guru, designer & author. We bask in the beautiful decorations and atmosphere which he has created for this magical season. Tonight we enjoy a breath-taking Christmas light show at a world-class botanical garden located on a peninsula. Frequently described as one of the most beautiful places in the state, we walk through a magical Christmas wonderland decked out with nearly two million lights coordinated with Christmas music. We also enjoy a candy cane forest, a magnificent chapel, hot chocolate and roasted marshmallows. (B, L, D) Day 4 - Today we reluctantly say good-bye and head home full of the holiday Spirit. (B) Tour Cost Per Person: Single: $659 Double: $549 Triple: $509 Quad: $489 $50 deposit due with reservation Final payment due October 22nd N EW Y EAR ’ S E VE AT THE G ALT H OUSE & THE O PRYLAND H OTEL 6 D AYS D ECEMBER 30, 2015 - J ANUARY 4, 2016 T OUR #1541 ‘Whiskey Row’, the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience will take us back in time to 1783 to experience life and distilling as it was in the early days of the Republic. We’ll not only learn about making bourbon, but we will watch it being made before our very eyes & then enjoy a premium bourbon tasting. After checking into our hotel, we take time to relax before departing Day 1 - Get ready to ‘ring in the New Year’! Celebrate New for our New Year’s Year’s Eve at the Galt House and the Derby Dinner Playhouse. Eve celebration. We begin our adventure by traveling through Mississippi, Arriving at the Derby Alabama and into Tennessee where we spend the night in Dinner Playhouse Franklin. we indulge in a deliOvernight: Drury Plaza, Franklin, TN cious dinner buffet before being treated to Irving Berlin’s White Christmas. Day 2 - We continue our journey to Louisville, Kentucky After the play we ring in the new year with music and where we spend the next two nights at the Galt House, a dancing. At midnight we have a champagne toast sophisticated hotel that stands tall on the Ohio River. Arriving and enjoy a breakfast buffet and dance the night in Louisville, we visit the Evan Williams Bourbon away. (B, D, B) Experience, the newest addition to the Kentucky BourOvernight: The Galt House Hotel, Louisville, KY bon Trail. Located in the downtown Louisville historic P AGE 41 Day 5 - Today we travel south through Tennessee. We stop in Lynchburg, where we are treated to a unique lunch experience at Miss Mary Bobo’s Boarding House. Since 1908, this has been a place for true Southern hospitality and traditional home cooking. As we continue our journey south, we travel through Alabama to Birmingham where we spend the night. (B, L) Overnight: Drury Inn & Suites, Birmingham, AL Day 6 - Leaving Birmingham behind, we return home with memories of our New Year’s adventures. (B, L) Day 3 - We begin our day a bit later this morning with a special New Year’s Eve Brunch. This afternoon we visit the Frazier Museum for the Spirit of the Bluegrass: Prohibition and Kentucky Exhibit which explores how Bourbon shaped Kentucky and prohibition had a profound effect on the whole country. Later we tour the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory where some of the best baseball bats in America are made. As we tour the factory, we see bats being made for the major baseball leagues, the minor leagues and individuals. At the end of our tour, we are presented with a miniature ‘Louisville slugger’ to take home as a souvenir. (Brunch, D) Overnight: The Galt House Hotel, Louisville, KY Day 4 - Leaving Louisville behind, we travel south to Tennessee. We arrive in Nashville where we tour the Fontanel Mansion, the 27,000 square foot former home of country singer super-star Barbara Mandrell. While touring this log masterpiece, we will be entertained by personal stories of the Mandrell family along with incredible stories of other artists that spent time in the house; Dick Clark, Big & Rich, Bob Hope and Oprah Winfrey to name just a few people who have passed through this amazing home. Strum Buck Owen’s guitar, try on Kenny Chesney’s tour jacket, Fontanel encourages you to touch memorabilia from Alabama, Gretchen Wilson and more. After enjoying a delicious lunch at the mansion, we top off our New Years with an overnight stay at the amazing Opryland Hotel. But our first stop is at the ICE Exhibit, an incredible holiday attraction hand-carved from nearly two million pounds of ice. This ’Winter Wonderland’ features many rooms of colorful ice sculptures, three ice slides for the more adventurous, and a breath-taking Nativity Scene carved from crystal clear ice. (B, L) Overnight: Opryland Hotel, Nashville, TN Inside of Fontanel Mansion Tour Cost Per Person: Single: $1450 Double: $1098 Triple: $998 Quad: $948 $200 deposit due with reservation Final payment due October 29th Atrium rooms available at the Opryland Hotel C AL : 504-340-8747 P AGE 42 OR 800-542-8785 RESERVATIONS: We encourage you to make your reservation at the earliest possible date. Why? A lot of our more popular tours sellout quickly. A deposit assures you a seat on the tour of your choice, and because your deposit is fully refundable, you have nothing to lose by making the reservation early. In addition, booking early helps to avoid the possibility of a tour being canceled due to a low number of tour participants. To make a reservation, simply call our office. Give your name, complete address and telephone number along with the following: the name of the tour and the tour number, whether you require single, double, triple, or quad accommodations, your pick-up point and the method of payment you will be using. Deposits are due within 10 days of making your reservation. We accept Visa, Master Card, American Express, and Discover. PICK-UP POINTS: Westbank - Trips Unlimited/Louisiana Coaches Office - 5056 Taravella Road, Marrero Metairie – Landmark Hotel (back of hotel - N. Hullen St. Parking Lot) Covington, LA - Rouses Supermaket, 50 Park Place (next to Home Depot) (Covington Pick-up is not available on tour traveling south form New Orleans) * We are happy to make special pick-ups along our route. Special pick-ups in Lafayette, Picayune, Hattiesburg,& Meridian on selected tours. Please call office for details! * Please Note: We offer free parking at our Trips Unlimited Office location. Although it is a safe location and behind a fence, there is no guard on duty; you park at your own risk. We can not give permission to park at any other location. Transfer Service: Transfer Service from out-of-town areas can be arranged for an additional fee if a minimum of 10 passengers is picked up at the same location. YOUR MARK OF CONFIDENCE Be assured our credentials are the highest with careful attention to proper licensing and insurance requirements. We firmly believe in practicing sound business ethics, especially when handling your money. Our membership in the National Tour Association (NTA) is a symbol of excellence and your “mark of confidence” throughout the tour and travel industry. Back Cover Top: Elk grazing in Yellowstone National Park - Wild West Adventure (Page 12) Windmill in a field of tulips - Beautiful Tulip Time in Pella, Iowa (Page 8) Bottom: flowers on Prince Edward Island - Nova Scotia (Page 20) Balancing Rock in Garden of the Gods - Wild West Adventure (Page 12) TRIPS UNLIMITED INC. 5056 TARAVELLA RD., MARRERO, LA 70072 P AGE 43 GENERAL INFORMATION & POLICIES TOUR INCLUDES: Transportation, sightseeing, guide fees and admissions as outlined, hotel with private bath, fees for baggage handling, services of a professional tour escort. TOUR DOES NOT INCLUDE: Wines, liquors, telephone calls, other items of a personal nature. MEALS: For easy reference, each included meal is listed at the end of each day's itinerary. (B-Breakfast, CB-Continental Breakfast, L-Lunch, D-Dinner) All other meals are at traveler's expense. Coffee breaks are arranged daily and lunch stops are made where reasonable prices are available. GRATUITIES: The tour escort handles gratuities for baggage handling, sightseeing and meals that are included in the tour. Gratuity to tour escort and motorcoach driver are not included in your tour cost and should be extended on a voluntary individual basis. ( Suggestion: $2-$3 per day, per person) SEATING: Passengers rotate seats at the direction of the tour director. LUGGAGE: Limit of one (1) piece of luggage per person. A train case or tote bag is allowed if carried by the passenger. $3.00 per day will be charged for each additional piece of luggage. Trips Unlimited, Inc. is not responsible or liable for loss, damage or theft of luggage and/or personal belongings. However, be assured that it is our policy to handle all your belongings carefully. FINAL TOUR INFORMATION AND DOCUMENTS: Ten to fifteen days before departure you will receive your final tour information including specific departure point and time, baggage tag, hotel directory, and other information that will assist you in your travel preparation. CANCELLATION POLICY: Regardless of the reason, cancellations result in a costly process of letters, toll calls, refunds and adjustments as well as many non-refundable. To offset these costs, the following fees will apply. In fairness to others, we cannot make any exceptions. Motorcoach Tours: * Full pay date-30 days prior to the departure date 25% of total price 29-22 days prior to the departure date 50% of total price 21 days or less 100% of total price Air/Motorcoach Tours: * Full pay date-45 days prior to the departure date 25% of total price 44-22 days prior to the departure date 50% of total price 21 days or less 100% of total price * Additional penalties may apply to any non-refundable tour cost incurred by Trips Unlimited. We strongly recommend purchasing Optional Travel Protection Insurance. Note: Those with pre-existing conditions must purchase Travel Protection Insurance within 14 days of sending their deposit in order for preexisting conditions to be covered. Please call for a copy of the Trip Cancellation Brochure and Application. We reserve the right to remove anyone who is being disruptive or causing a disturbance on the tour. Anyone who fails to appear on the day of departure shall forfeit all moneys paid. Minimum of 30 paid passengers is needed or the tour may be canceled. Refunds cannot be made for any portion of tour which traveler chooses to omit as tour is sold as a package with all services contracted for a group. CHANGES IN ITINERARY: In the event that a change must be made in a tour itinerary, Trips Unlimited will substitute the best alternative available. Since tours are planned as far as a year in advance, sometimes there are unforeseen circumstances that necessitate a change, and occasionally a change will be made solely for the purpose of improving the tour. PARTIAL ROOM CANCELLATION: A person canceling while a roommate(s) remains constitutes a change in the type of accommodation and a rebooking of another type (quad to triple, triple to double, double to single). The price charged to the remaining person(s) is the new higher price for the new accommodation. TRAVELERS NEEDING SPECIAL ASSISTANCE: Trips Unlimited regrets that it cannot provide individual assistance to tour participants with special needs for walking, dining, and other personal or medical needs. A qualified companion must accompany travelers who need such assistance. SMOKING: Smoking is not permitted on the motorcoach or in the non-smoking hotels. Frequent stops are made for coffee breaks (mid-morning and afternoon), lunch and sightseeing. CHURCH SERVICES: Our travel schedules are very full, and our drivers have many obligations concerning servicing our motor coaches. If we arrive at a hotel in time for you to attend a church service, please feel free to check schedules and cab services. RESPONSIBILITY CLAUSE: TRIPS UNLIMITED, INC. acts solely as agent in arranging for transportation, hotels and other services, and does not assume liability for injury, damage, loss, accident or delay due to any act of a company or person engaged in transporting or rendering any other service or carrying out arrangements for any tour, or by act or default of any hotel proprietor or servant. Trips Unlimited assumes no liability for personal injury, accident and/or illness. Right is reserved to decline, to accept, or retain any person as a member of any tour or to cancel or alter any tour, as circumstances require it. Trips Unlimited Inc. 5056 Taravella Rd. Marrero, LA 70072 Top: Yellowstone National Park, Tulip Time in Pella Bottom: Nova Scotia, Garden of the Gods 504-340-8747—New Orleans Area 800-542-8785—Out-of-Town