Grand Circle Cruise Line - GCCL TRAVEL PLANNING GUIDE Cruising Burgundy & Provence to the Cote d'Azur - Grand Circle Travel
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GCCL TRAVEL PLANNING GUIDE
Cruising Burgundy & Provence to the Cote d’Azur
2021
Learn how to personalize your experience on this vacation
Grand Circle Cruise Line ®
The Leader in River Cruising Worldwide
1
Grand Circle Cruise Line ®
347 Congress Street, Boston, MA 02210
Dear Traveler,
At last, the world is opening up again for curious travel lovers like you and me. Soon, you’ll once again
be discovering the places you’ve dreamed of. In the meantime, the enclosed Grand Circle Cruise Line
Travel Planning Guide should help you keep those dreams vividly alive.
Before you start dreaming, please let me reassure you that your health and safety is our number
one priority. As such, we’re requiring that all Grand Circle Cruise Line travelers, ship crew,
Program Directors, and coach drivers must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 at least 14 days
prior to departure. Our new, updated health and safety protocols are described inside.
The journey you’ve expressed interest in, Cruising Burgundy & Provence to the Cote d’Azur River
Cruise Tour, will be an excellent way to resume your discoveries. It takes you into the true heart
of France, thanks to our groups of 38-45 travelers. Plus, our French Program Director will reveal
their country’s secret treasures as only an insider can. You can also rely on the seasoned team at
our regional office in Lyon, who are ready to help 24/7 in case any unexpected circumstances arise.
Throughout your explorations, you’ll meet local people and gain an intimate understanding of
the regional culture. Take in scenes of everyday life, and browse a variety of sweet and savory
goods during a trip to a traditional French market in Lyon; and share a sweet treat and friendly
conversation with a family in Vienne during a Home-Hosted Visit. Plus, a portion of our proceeds
goes toward the charitable efforts of Grand Circle Foundation: inside you’ll also see how your
travel dollar helps make the world a better place.
We understand that no two people are the same. That’s why more than 80% of our travelers take
advantage of the freedom to personalize their experience. Join the 48% of travelers who extend
their time abroad. Add the pre-trip extension to France: Paris, post-trip extension to France: Nice,
Cannes & Antibes or Italy: Italian Riviera & the Cinque Terre, or a combination of these extensions to
your French vacation.
I hope you find this Grand Circle Travel Planning Guide helpful. If you have any further questions,
don’t hesitate to contact one of our Travel Counselors at 1-800-221-2610.
Warm regards,
Harriet R. Lewis
Vice Chairman
Overseas Adventure Travel
P.S. For further peace of mind, please know that we are EXTENDING our Risk-Free Booking
Policy through 12/31/21. Learn more at www.gct.com/riskfree-booking.
2
WHAT’S INSIDE
TRIP SUMMARY
It’s Included . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Departure Dates and Prices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Deck Plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Freedom to Personalize Your Experience . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
DETAILED DAY-TO-DAY ITINERARY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
ESSENTIAL TRAVEL INFORMATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Travel Documents & Entry Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Rigors, Vaccines & General Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Money Matters: Local Currency & Tipping Guidelines . . . . . . . . . 35
Air, Optional Tours & Staying in Touch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Packing: What to Bring & Luggage Limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Climate & Average Temperatures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Aboard Your Ship: Cabin Features, Dining & Services . . . . . . . . . 52
About Your Destinations: Culture, Etiquette & More. . . . . . . . . . . 57
Demographics & History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Resources: Suggested Reading & Movies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Health & Safety Measures – Vaccines Required . . . . . . . . . . 82
MAP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
3
Cruising Burgundy & Provence
to the Cote d’Azur
France: Paris, Macon, Lyon, Vienne, Viviers, Avignon, Arles, Nice
Countries: 1 | Cities: 8 | 7 Nights Aboard Our Privately Owned 86-passenger M/S River Chanson
Saône River, Lyon, France
Cruise through France aboard the newly-refurbished M/S River Chanson, the latest addition
to our privately-owned fleet
$3495 IT’S INCLUDED
13 days from
Including international airfare International airfare, airport transfers, government taxes, fees, and airline
from New York fuel surcharges, unless you choose to make your own air arrangements
Travel from only $269 per day Accommodations for 2 nights at the Hotel Carlton’s Montmartre or similar,
7 nights aboard the M/S River Chanson with wireless Internet access in all
common areas and cabins, and 2 nights at the Radisson Blu Nice or similar
12 days from $ 2695 27 meals: 11 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 8 dinners—including 1 meal in a local
River Cruise Tour only
restaurant and 1 light lunch in a chateau—plus all onboard house beer, wine,
Travel from only $225 per day and soft drinks
8 included tours with personal headsets and 5 Exclusive Discovery Series
Single Supplement: $595
events—French culture and language lesson • French market experience •
Home-Hosted Visit • Herbs de Provence presentation • Bull farm visit
MAXIMIZE YOUR
Local Program Directors, a Grand Circle Cruise Line exclusive: Our
DISCOVERIES & VALUE dedicated experts are with you and your group of 38-45 travelers from
beginning to end to provide an insider’s knowledge and perspective
OPTIONAL EXTENSIONS
all with FREE Single Supplements Gratuities for local guides and motorcoach drivers
Paris, France All port charges
3 nights pre-trip from $745
Baggage handling for 1 piece of luggage per person, including tips
Nice, France
3 nights post-trip from $795 5% Frequent Traveler Credit toward your next trip
Italian Riviera & the Cinque Terre
4 nights post-trip from $1195
To get a richer view of the Included Features on this trip,
watch our Trip Itinerary video at www.gct.com/ron2021
Cruising Burgundy & Provence to the Cote d’Azur
4
CRUISING BURGUNDY & RISK-FREE BOOKING POLICY: RESERVE WITH
CONFIDENCE—NOW THROUGH 12/31/21
PROVENCE TO THE COTE D’AZUR We will waive any change fees if you transfer to another departure date for
any reason—up until 24 hours prior to departure.
2021 DATES & PRICES See details at www.gct.com/riskfree-booking.
To calculate your trip price with airfare, add deck price to air add-ons below.
JULY;
CABIN APR MAY MAY AUG AUG OCT
CATEGORY 13-27 4, 11 18, 25 JUNE 3-17 24, 31 SEPTEMBER OCT 5 12, 19 OCT 26 NOVEMBER
A Main Deck $4295 $4895 $4695 $4795 $4395 $4695 $5095 $4795 $4595 $4195 $3295
D $4095 $4695 $4495 $4595 $4195 $4495 $4895 $4595 $4395 $3995 $3095
Lower
C $3895 $4495 $4295 $4395 $3995 $4295 $4695 $4395 $4195 $3795 $2895
Deck
B $3495 $4095 $3895 $3995 $3695 $3995 $4295 $4095 $3895 $3495 $2695
APR 13-27; MAY 4, 11; MAY 18, 25;
AIR ADD-ONS SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER JUNE-AUGUST NOVEMBER
New York $900 $1200 $800
Denver, Newark $1000 $1300 $900
Baltimore, Boston, Chicago, Detroit, Houston, Miami, Washington, DC $1100 $1400 $1000
Atlanta, Los Angeles, Minneapolis, Orlando, Philadelphia, Portland,
$1200 $1500 $1100
San Francisco, Seattle, Tampa
Dallas, Phoenix, San Diego $1300 $1600 $1200
Additional departure cities are available. Upgrade to Business Class may be available for the international portion of your flight. Call for details. RON2021
SHIP & CRUISE DIRECTION Prices are per person. Airfare prices include
Paris to Cote d'Azur Cote d'Azur to Paris government taxes, fees, and airline fuel surcharges.
Standard Terms & Conditions apply, please visit our
Departure Ship Departure Ship website: www.gct.com/tc. Every effort has been made
to produce this information accurately. We reserve the
4/13, 4/27; 5/11, 4/20; 5/4, 5/18; 6/1,
right to correct errors.
5/25; 6/8, 6/22; 6/15, 6/29; 7/13,
7/6, 7/20; 8/3, 8/17, M/S River Chanson 7/27; 8/10, 8/24; M/S River Chanson Low-cost Single Supplement is $595 on your main trip
8/31; 9/14, 9/28; 9/7, 9/21; 10/5, & FREE on all extensions.
10/12, 10/26 10/19; 11/2
For specific departure dates, current availability, and detailed pricing, visit www.gct.com/ron2021pricing
SAVE UP TO 10% WITH OUR GOOD BUY PLAN SHARE YOUR LOVE OF TRAVEL
The earlier you reserve your departure and pay in full, the more New travelers you refer will instantly save $100, and you’ll earn
you’ll save—up to 10%—plus, you’ll lock in your price. increasing rewards—up to a FREE trip!
For details, visit www.gct.com/gbd For details, visit www.gct.com/va
Publication Date 5/19/21
1-800-221-2610 • www.gct.com/ron2021
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Your Rhone
River Ship
Sail aboard our recently refurbished, privately owned
86-passenger M/S River Chanson
The M/S River Chanson provides an intimate cruising experience for two groups of no more than 38-45 travelers.
Connect with your fellow travelers in the comfortable common areas, and enjoy striking panoramic vistas of
villages and vineyards from the teak-covered Sun Deck or your outside-facing cabin. All the while, our gracious,
English-speaking ship crew will ensure that you enjoy a welcoming onboard experience.
Shipboard Features
• Dining room with single, open seating: Enjoy fine • Sun Deck: Sit outside and enjoy the view as your ship
cuisine in your ship’s dining room. glides past the French countryside.
• Bar & lounge: Relax with friends old and new. • English-speaking crew: Our crew is dedicated to your
comfort, and all shipboard announcements are made
• Complimentary beverages: Enjoy house beer and
in English
house wine—as well as soft drinks—at any time of day
while onboard. • Shipboard security: State-of-the-art, shipboard radar
ensures safe navigation at night and in low visibility;
• Complimentary wireless Internet access: Connect
safe docking space; onboard security staff; up-to-date
online in cabins and common areas. Please note:
fire safety system; and secured entryway doors.
Connectivity may be limited at certain points throughout
your River Cruise Tour. • Complimentary bicycles: Explore like a local on one of
our complimentary electric or standard bicycles.
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M/S RIVER CHANSON
SUN DECK
14 12 10 8 6 4 2
15 11 9 7 5 3
MAIN DECK
44 42 40 38 36 34 32 30 28 26 24 22 20 18 16
45 43 41 39 37 35 33 31 29 27 25 23 21 19 17
LOWER DECK
Registry: France Passenger capacity: 86 Number of cabins:
CABIN CATEGORIES
Width: 32 ft. International crew: 24 43 cabins—all outside
A B C D
Length: 338 ft. Decks: 3 Elevator: No
CABIN FEATURES
• Outside cabins with a river view
• Cabin sizes are approximately 120- to 150-sq.-ft.
• Main Deck cabins 2-15 feature double beds that cannot be
separated; upper-deck views; and closer proximity to the
ship’s bar, restaurant, lounge, and library
• All cabins have a wardrobe and a drawer, and luggage
storage space under the beds
• Private bath with shower, hair dryer, shampoo, and soap
• Flat-screen color TV & radio, including CNN, movies,
and a “view from the bow” camera looking out the front
of your ship
• Direct-dial telephone; emergency call buttons
• In-room safe Relax in your comfortable outside cabin.
• All non-smoking cabins
1-800-221-2610 • www.gct.com
7
Freedom to Personalize Your Experience
Your Choice, Your Trip, Your Way
Extending the length of your stay in a destination can improve your overall travel experience—and allow you
to seek out even more eye-opening cultural interactions. Your local Program Director will help to ensure you’re
getting the personalized experiences you’re looking for. In fact, 85% of our travelers are personalizing their
experience in more than 85 countries.
Call us at 1-800-221-2610 to discuss personalizing your River Cruise Tour today or visit us online at
www.gct.com/personalize-ron2021.
Maximize Your Time & Value: 55% of our travelers Cabin Upgrade: Choose the onboard experience
choose to take a pre- or post-trip extension that’s right for you
See more of the world and maximize your value by taking Perhaps you’d like to be close to the elevator, dining
advantage of your already-included airfare. On this River room, or even your friend’s cabin—we’ll help you
Cruise Tour, you can choose between Paris, France; Nice, select the ship cabin or deck category that works
France; or Italian Riviera & the Cinque Terre. best for you.
“Break Away” Options: 30% of our travelers choose Air Options: More than 50% of our travelers
to arrive early or stay late in their destination customize their flights
Before or after your main River Cruise Tour or trip We make every effort to provide you with non-stop
extension, “break away” anywhere you’d like to go to flights and acceptable connection times to and
do more exploring entirely on your own. from your destination. You also have several other
ways you can personalize your air itinerary, including
Back-to-Back Trips: 90% of our travelers who choosing your departure city and airline, upgrading
combined two vacations rated it excellent your seat, and more.
Save $250 per person when you reserve two trips
right after one another. One of the most common
River Cruise Tours travelers combine with this one
is The Seine: Paris to Normandy.
Village of Manarola, Cinque Terre, Italy
8
Cruising Burgundy & Provence
to the Cote d’Azur
2021
13-Day River Cruise Tour
EXTEND YOUR TRIP
PRE-TRIP
Paris, France
POST-TRIPS
Nice, France
OR Italian Riviera & the Cinque Terre
Your Day-to-Day Itinerary
9
GRAND CIRCLE CRUISE LINE
Grand Circle Cruise Line is the leader in river cruising worldwide—offering American travelers unique
experiences at unbeatable value aboard our privately owned fleet of 86- to 162-passenger ships. With
each River Cruise, you’ll enjoy unmatched discoveries, leisurely pacing, and the freedom to personalize
your experience. Plus, Grand Circle Cruise Line is the only cruise company with expert, resident
Program Directors who accompany you throughout your trip, enhancing your exploration with the kind
of insight and passion that only a local can provide.
YOUR GRAND CIRCLE PROGRAM DIRECTOR TOUR
During your Grand Circle vacation, you’ll have reliable assistance available at all times from an
on-site local Grand Circle Cruise Line Program Director throughout your trip, who will serve as your
trip experience leader. He or she is fluent in English and can give you an inside perspective on your
destinations. You will also be supported along the way by local tour guides, who lead you expertly
through particular sites and cities.
Many Program Directors are graduates of professional education programs for travel guides. In
addition, they receive specialized training directly from Grand Circle, based on what we’ve learned
from past travelers about how to make the trip most enjoyable. Your Program Director offers both
a deep knowledge of the region and a commitment to make this a very pleasant, informative, and
rewarding travel experience for you.
He or she will provide sightseeing trips, handle all travel details, reserve optional tours you choose to
take, oversee your Exclusive Discovery Series events, and provide any other assistance you may need.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
10INCLUDED IN YOUR PRICE
International airfare, airport transfers, Local Program Directors, a Grand Circle
government taxes, fees, and airline fuel Cruise Line exclusive: Our dedicated experts
surcharges, unless you choose to make your are with you and your group of 38-45 travelers
own air arrangements from beginning to end to provide an insider’s
knowledge and perspective
Accommodations for 2 nights at the Hotel
Carlton’s Montmartre or similar, 7 nights Gratuities for local guides and
aboard the M/S River Chanson with wireless motorcoach drivers
Internet access in all common areas and cabins,
All port charges
and 2 nights at the Radisson Blu Nice or similar
Baggage handling for 1 piece of luggage per
27 meals: 11 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 8
person, including tips
dinners—including 1 meal in a local restaurant
and 1 light lunch in a chateau—plus all onboard 5% Frequent Traveler Credit toward
house beer, wine, and soft drinks your next trip
8 included tours with personal headsets and
5 Exclusive Discovery Series events—French
culture and language lesson • French market
experience • Home-Hosted Visit • Herbs de
Provence presentation • Bull farm visit
WHAT THIS TRIP IS LIKE
GROUP SIZE » Not accessible for travelers using
» This trip has a group size of 38-45 travelers wheelchairs or scooters
with our local Program Director exclusive to » Travelers using walkers, crutches, or other
Grand Circle mobility aids must travel with a companion
who can assist them
PACING
» We reserve the right for Program Directors
» 13 days, with 7 nights aboard the M/S River
to restrict participation, or in some
Chanson, and 2 two-night hotel stays
circumstances send travelers home, if their
» 1 day features a total of 6 hours of travel limitations impact the group’s experience
through the Burgundy countryside
including a stop, utilizing 1 motorcoach TERRAIN & TRANSPORTATION
» Uneven walking surfaces, including
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS unpaved paths, hills, stairs, and
» Walk 1-3 miles unassisted and participate cobblestones, which can be slippery in wet
in 2-3 hours of physical activities each day, or colder conditions
including stairs
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
11» Travel by 86-passenger river ship and
49-seat coach
» Changes in water-level depths may require
adjustments to your itinerary
CLIMATE
» Daytime temperatures range from 50-90°F
during cruising season
» June-August are the warmest months
» March and November weather can be
unpredictable and change quickly
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
12Cruising Burgundy & Provence
to the Cote d’Azur
YOUR DETAILED ITINERARY
BEGIN YOUR TRIP WITH AN OPTIONAL PRE-TRIP EXTENSION
3 nights in Paris, France
Day 1 Depart U.S. Day 4 Paris
Day 2 Arrive Paris, France Day 5 Paris
Day 3 Paris
Day 1 Depart U.S. Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
rest of your evening as you wish—ask your
Depart today on your flight to Paris, France. Program Director for recommendations.
Please refer to your individual air itinerary for
exact departure and arrival times.
Day 3 Explore Paris • Welcome Dinner
• Destination: Paris
Day 2 Arrive Paris, France
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
• Destination: Paris
• Accommodations: Hotel Carlton’s
• Accommodations: Hotel Carlton’s
Montmartre or similar
Montmartre or similar
Activity Note: Versailles is closed on Mondays.
Morning/Afternoon: Arrive in Paris today,
where you’ll be met at the airport and Breakfast: Included at your hotel this morning.
transferred to your hotel. You can choose to
Morning: Get to know the famed “City
join your Program Director for a leisurely
of Light” this morning, starting with
orientation walk to get acquainted with the area
a panoramic bus tour of its highlights.
around your hotel.
Witness the metropolis from different
Later, gather with your Program Director and perspectives as you travel along the notable
traveling companions, including those from the Champs-Elysees—and as it ends at the large
Paris, France pre-trip extension, for a Welcome central roundabout, where twelve elegant
Drink and briefing. tree-lined avenues converge, see the Arc de
Triomphe, commissioned by Napoleon in
Dinner: On your own—ask your Program
1806 and completed in 1836. You’ll also drive
Director for local restaurant recommendations.
by the Cathedral of Notre Dame and iconic
Eiffel Tower.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
13Lunch: On your own. Feel free to ask your Lunch: Enjoy a light French lunch buffet
Program Director for local recommendations. complete with Burgundy wine at the chateau
this afternoon.
Afternoon: The afternoon is yours in Paris to
pursue your own interests. Head to the Louvre Afternoon: After lunch, depart by motorcoach
using public transportation, exploring its to board the ship. Embark the ship and begin
many galleries at your leisure, or venture out sailing towards Lyon this afternoon. Onboard,
to gilded Palace of Versailles to set eyes on its get an introduction to this exceptional country
magnificent Grand Chambers and the Hall of and brush up on your conversational French
Mirrors, where the Treaty of Versailles, ending during an Exclusive Discovery Series culture
World War I, was signed in 1919. and language lesson.
Dinner: This evening, join your fellow Dinner: This evening, get to know your fellow
travelers at a brasserie for a distinctly Parisian travelers and the crew with your Captain’s
Welcome Dinner. Welcome Dinner, complete with a live musical
performance.
Evening: You may choose to return to your
hotel and rest up for tomorrow’s discoveries or Evening: After the entertainment, feel free to
continue your exploration of Paris this evening. relax in the ship’s common areas and settle
into your comfortable cabin, which will be your
Day 4 Paris • Macon • Embark ship • Lyon • home for the next seven nights.
Captain’s Welcome Dinner
• Destination: Macon
Day 5 Explore Lyon
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner • Destination: Lyon
• Accommodations: M/S River Chanson • Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodations: M/S River Chanson
Breakfast: Included at your hotel this morning.
Breakfast: Onboard in the ship’s dining room.
Morning: Hop aboard a train to Macon and
travel as the locals do by high-speed Train Morning: Disembark this morning for a tour
à Grande Vitesse (TGV). Once you arrive, of historic Lyon, a UNESCO World Heritage
you’ll visit a local chateau and learn about Site, by foot and public transportation. Once
the production of the Beaujolais region’s the capital of Gaul under the Romans, Lyon
signature wine. flourished as a Renaissance trading center
based on its extensive silk industry, and the
France is acclaimed for its legendary wine—a first automatic loom able to weave complex
deeply ingrained part of its heritage and source patterns was invented here in the 1800s. In a
of national pride. One of the country’s eleven country known for its fine cuisine, Lyon is said
major wine regions, the Beaujolais region’s to be a gastronomic capital.
granite-rich soil is ideal for producing the
region’s signature Beaujolais Nouveau, a light After your tour, explore Lyon’s delights on
and fruity red wine made from the Gamay your own, from its modern restaurants to its
grape. Stop along the way early this afternoon medieval ramparts.
for a Beaujolais wine experience at a local
Lunch: You’ll return to your ship for lunch,
chateau, where you’ll learn more about this
which will be served in the dining room.
famed region.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
14Afternoon: Later this afternoon, take part in an Day 7 Explore Vienne • Home-Hosted Visit
Exclusive Discovery Series discussion with a
• Destination: Vienne
local expert about the effects World War II had
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
on the area.
• Accommodations: M/S River Chanson
Dinner: This evening, enjoy a French-themed
Breakfast: Onboard in the ship’s dining room.
dinner, or a guinguette evening, complete with
decorations and authentic cuisine onboard Morning: Enjoy a walking tour of
your ship. historically-rich Vienne this morning. This
small town has its roots in Gallo-Roman
Evening: Set out for a Lyon evening cruise,
times, and following your tour, you’ll have free
where you can admire the lights of the city from
time to explore its ancient ruins and narrow,
the top deck of your ship.
cobblestone alleyways on your own.
Day 6 Lyon • French market experience Lunch: Onboard in the ship’s dining room.
• Destination: Vienne Afternoon: After lunch, learn about daily life
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner in France during an Exclusive Discovery Series
• Accommodations: M/S River Chanson Home-Hosted Visit with a French family.
During your stay, practice key French words
Breakfast: Onboard in the ship’s dining room.
and phrases with your hosts as you share a
Morning: Start the day with an Exclusive sweet treat.
Discovery Series French market experience,
Dinner: Onboard in the ship’s dining room.
which takes place both onboard and off. First,
explore a local market in Lyon, taking in the Evening: Continue sailing towards Viviers this
scenes of everyday life and varied sweet and evening. After dinner, join your fellow travelers
savory items for sale. Then return to the ship for some onboard entertainment.
for another Exclusive Discovery Series event
where you’ll learn more about—and taste—the
Day 8 Explore Viviers • Herbs de
many kinds of French breads, from the long,
Provence presentation • Cooking
thin baguettes to the plumper loaves.
demonstration • Avignon
Enjoy free time in Lyon later this morning. • Destination: Avignon
Lunch: Transfer back to your ship for lunch. • Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodations: M/S River Chanson
Afternoon: You may return to Lyon to explore
Activity Note: The game of Petanque is subject
its charms further before setting sail for Vienne
to weather conditions.
later on.
Breakfast: Onboard in the ship’s dining room.
Dinner: Onboard in the ship’s dining room.
Morning: Arrive in Viviers—the gateway to
Evening: Enjoy a French lesson, take a
Provence—early this morning. Get a closer look
guided tour of the ship’s bridge, or just
at this charming town during a walking tour.
relax in the lounge tonight as your ship sails
Then, join your Program Director in a game of
towards Vienne.
Petanque or enjoy time on your own. Akin to
horseshoes, players of this local pastime aim
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
15to get hollow metal balls as close to a wooden Afternoon: The latter part of the day is yours to
ball as possible without stepping outside of a make your own discoveries in Avignon. Wend
marked circle. the winding streets of some of the city’s ancient
neighborhoods, or relax at an outdoor cafe. Or,
Lunch: Onboard in the ship’s dining room.
join an optional Afternoon in Provence to visit
Afternoon: After lunch, begin cruising towards the Provencal village of Les Baux-de-Provence
Avignon. During your afternoon at leisure, find and the Carrieres de Lumieres, where artwork
a comfortable deck chair and relax as you pass is displayed on the walls of carved limestone
through a stretch of the Ardeche region, an area chambers.
of ancient villages and spa towns set against the
Dinner: Gather with your fellow travelers
backdrop of a rugged, natural landscape. You’ll
for a Provencal-themed dinner and musical
also learn about Herbs de Provence, and its use in
entertainment onboard.
the legendary foods associated with this region,
during an Exclusive Discovery Series event. Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
You may also enjoy a cooking demonstration. rest of your evening as you wish—ask your
Program Director for recommendations.
Dinner: Onboard in the ship’s dining room.
Evening: Dock in Avignon tonight and enjoy the Day 10 Explore Arles • Bull farm visit •
evening however you wish to. Captain’s Farewell Dinner
• Destination: Arles
Day 9 Explore Avignon Optional • Optional • Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Afternoon in Provence tour • Accommodations: M/S River Chanson
• Destination: Avignon
Activity Note: Some groups may visit the bull
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner farm in the morning and enjoy a walking tour in
• Accommodations: M/S River Chanson the afternoon.
Activity Note: A full exploration of the Palace
Breakfast: Onboard in the ship’s dining room.
of the Popes requires climbing a total of more
than 200 steps over the course of your visit. Morning: In the early morning hours, begin
cruising to Arles. Arrive after breakfast and set
Breakfast: Onboard in the ship’s dining room.
off on a walking tour of the town beloved by
Morning: Marvel at Avignon, known as the Vincent van Gogh—and find signs indicating
“City of Popes,” on a morning walking tour. places rendered in his works. Visit the hospital
For most of the 14th century, the popes left the where he stayed and painted Hospital in Arles
turmoil of Rome and installed themselves in and infamously cut off his ear See the Cafe
this calm possession of the Catholic Church. l’Alcazar, the still-standing establishment
Beginning with Clement V (who was born that inspired the painting Cafe Terrace at
here), they built residences, chateaux, a Night. During his stay, he also used the cafe’s
number of fortified palaces, and churches manager, Madame Ginoux, as his model for his
in Avignon. You’ll have guided exploration painting l’Arlesienne.
of the impressive Palace of the Popes during
Lunch: Onboard in the ship’s dining room.
your tour.
Lunch: Onboard in the ship’s dining room.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
16Afternoon: Head into the Camargue Lunch: Included at a local restaurant in
region—Europe’s largest delta, a dramatic Draguignan this afternoon for a taste of local
landscape caught between land and sea—for an fare and a sip of rosé.
Exclusive Discovery Series excursion to a bull
Afternoon: Continue on to Nice. The rest of the
farm. The keepers of this land are its gardians,
day is yours to settle in, relax, and get to know
akin to our cowboys. They live here with their
the area.
families, often several generations together,
carving out lifestyles in sync with the land, Dinner: On your own—ask your Program
following the rhythms of nature and the needs Director for local restaurant recommendations.
of the livestock they tend. During your visit
to a locally-owned gardian’s bull farm, you’ll Evening: Continue your exploration of Nice or
experience traditional daily life while taking return to your hotel to rest.
in their down-to-earth hospitality. You’ll also
climb aboard a farm truck to see the bulls in Day 12 Nice
their natural environment.
• Destination: Nice
Dinner: Gather with your fellow travelers for • Included Meals: Breakfast
the Captain’s Farewell Dinner. • Accommodations: Radisson Blu Nice
or similar
Evening: Relax and reflect on the discoveries
you’ve made in this magical part of the world. Breakfast: Included at your hotel this morning.
Morning: Nice is the Cote d’Azur’s premier
Day 11 Arles • Disembark ship • Rhone Riviera resort—a city of art and theater known
American Cemetery • Nice for its lush gardens and superb setting on
• Destination: Nice the Mediterranean’s Bay of Angels. On your
discovery walk with your Program Director
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
this morning, take in the city’s unique, seaside
• Accommodations: Radisson Blu Nice
spirit as you stroll Vieux Nice (Old Town) and the
or similar
Promenade des Anglais.
Breakfast: Onboard in the ship’s dining room.
Lunch: Experience the city’s diverse culinary
Morning: Conclude the River Cruise portion options during your independent lunch.
of your trip this morning, disembarking after
breakfast to travel through scenic Provence to Afternoon: Use the remainder of the day to
Nice on the Cote d’Azur (French Riviera). pursue your personal interests. Perhaps you’ll
head over to the Musée Matisse to view works
Stop en route this morning in Draguignan to of the famed master artist. Or, unwind on
visit the Rhone American Cemetery, set on one of the local beaches such as Ponchettes or
twelve acres outside the city. Established just Centenaire. The Cote d’Azur’s stunning coast
days after Allied troops landed and began an is comprised of large, uneven pebbles, known
offensive against the German Army in southern locally as galets. Travelers from across the
France and the Rhone Valley, the cemetery country and beyond flock to the region for a
commemorates one of the important battles little relaxation and sunshine.
that followed the D-Day landings on the
beaches of Normandy. Today, 861 American Dinner: On your own—ask your Program
soldiers are buried at the memorial site. Director for local restaurant recommendations.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
17Evening: You may use this evening to fit in any Morning: Transfer to the airport for your flight
last minute discoveries in France, or return to home. Or continue your discoveries with our
your hotel to rest up for your journey home. Nice, France or Italian Rivieria & the Cinque Terre
post-trip extensions.
Day 13 Nice • Return to U.S.
• Included Meals: Breakfast
Breakfast: Included at your hotel this morning.
END YOUR TRIP WITH AN OPTIONAL POST-TRIP EXTENSION
3 nights in Nice, France
Day 1 Nice Day 3 Nice • Antibes & Cannes
Day 2 Nice Day 4 Nice • Return to U.S.
OR
4 nights in Italian Riviera & the Cinque Terre
Day 1 Nice • Santa Margherita Ligure Day 4 Santa Margherita Ligure
Day 2 Santa Margherita Ligure • Portofino Day 5 Santa Margherita Ligure •
Return to U.S.
Day 3 Santa Margherita Ligure • Cinque
Terre National Park
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
18OPTIONAL TOURS
During your trip you will be able to book optional tours directly with us. We will ask you to confirm the
payment for these tours by filling out a payment form and swiping your credit card at the ship’s front
desk. Optional tours can only be purchased with a credit or debit card. We accept MasterCard and Visa
on all trips, and Discover on all trips except river cruises in France. We also accept Visa and MasterCard
debit cards, but it must be a debit card that allows you to sign for purchases.
In order to correctly process these charges, there can be a delay of 2-3 months from the date of your
return for the charges to be posted to your account. Therefore we ask that you use a card that will not
expire in the 2-3 months following your return.
Please note: Optional tour prices are listed in U.S. dollar estimates determined at the time of publication and
are subject to change. Optional tours may vary.
Chauvet Cave Afternoon in Provence
(Day 8 $85 per person) (Day 9 $95 per person)
Discover the unique landscape of the Ardèche See why Provence stirs the imagination and
River valley from its limestone plateau to the stimulates the senses, with its soft light and
impressive Gorges which have earned the vivid landscape of pastel colors that have
distinction of being referred to as the European inspired writers and artists from F. Scott
“Grand Canyon.” The entrance to this rugged Fitzgerald to Van Gogh and Picasso. The
region is through the Pont D’Arc which, at 192 fragrant countryside, with its wild herbs
feet, is considered to be the largest natural and olive tree groves, is dotted with historic
bridge in Europe. It was here in 1994 where one hilltowns. Explore Les Baux, a remarkable mix
of archaeology’s greatest discoveries was made: of quaint winding streets, romantic fortress
The Grotte Chauvet (Chauvet Cave). ruins, and lovely vistas over the countryside.
Then, visit the Carrieres de Lumieres, an
The Chauvet Cave—a UNESCO World Heritage
ancient quarry that has been transformed into a
Site—is home to the oldest cave paintings on
display of art and music.
record (some of them up to 32,000 years old).
Its cave-art is surprisingly extensive, varied,
and well executed. Some images give us insight
into long-extinct animals as well, such as the
Eurasian cave lion and the famous Mammoth.
You’ll begin your visit here at the Galerie
Museum where you’ll learn more about the
history of the caves, the animal pictures you’ll
see, and ancient materials found at the site.
Then you’ll continue on for a guided tour of the
caves themselves.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
19PRE-TRIP
Paris, France
INCLUDED IN YOUR PRICE
» Accommodations for 3 nights » Dedicated services of a local
» 3 breakfasts Program Director
» Guided tour with personal headsets: » Gratuities for local guides and
Montmartre motorcoach drivers
» 3-day Paris Metro pass » All transfers
PRE-TRIP EXTENSION ITINERARY
Often referred to as the “City of Light,” the French capital is one of Europe’s most stunning and influential
metropolitan centers, featuring renowned landmarks and world-famous art museums—combined with
romance, style, and a certain je ne sais quoi that make it one of the world’s leading travel destinations.
Day 1 Depart U.S. Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
rest of your evening as you wish—ask your
Depart today on your overnight flight to Program Director for recommendations.
Paris, France.
Day 3 Paris
Day 2 Arrive Paris, France
• Destination: Paris
• Destination: Paris
• Included Meals: Breakfast
• Accommodations: Hotel Carlton’s
• Accommodations: Hotel Carlton’s
Montmartre or similar
Montmartre or similar
Morning/Afternoon: Arrive today in Paris.
Breakfast: Included at your hotel this morning.
After checking in, you can join your Program
Director for a vicinity walk of the neighborhood Morning: Experience one of Paris’ most famous
around your hotel. They will also explain how and lively districts, Montmartre, this morning
to use your included 3-day Paris Metro pass, arriving via the city’s Metro. Spend some free
which can take you all over the city. time on your own following your included
walking tour exploring the charming streets
Before dinner, join your fellow travelers this
of this romantic neighborhood, and view the
evening for a Welcome Drink and briefing.
famed Sacre Coeur Basilica, with its dramatic
Dinner: On your own—ask your Program perch on the top of the Montmartre hill.
Director for local restaurant recommendations.
Lunch: On your own—ask your Program
Director for local restaurant recommendations.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
20Afternoon: The rest of your day is at leisure witnessed the village of Giverny while looking
to do as you please. You may want to visit the out a train window in 1883, and the unique light
Musee d’Orsay, known as much for the building of the Seine Valley kept him in residence for 43
in which it is housed as for its superb collection years. He stayed here until his death in 1926,
of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and Art and you’ll find his grave in the family vault at
Nouveau artists. It was classified as a Historical the town’s Romanesque church.
Monument in 1976 and inaugurated as a
Lunch: On your own—ask your Program
museum in 1986.
Director for local restaurant recommendations.
Dinner: On your own—ask your Program
Dinner: On your own—ask your Program
Director for local restaurant recommendations.
Director for local restaurant recommendations.
Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
rest of your evening as you wish—ask your
rest of your evening as you wish—ask your
Program Director for recommendations.
Program Director for recommendations.
Day 4 Paris
Day 5 Paris
• Destination: Paris
• Destination: Paris
• Included Meals: Breakfast
• Included Meals: Breakfast
• Accommodations: Hotel Carlton’s
Montmartre or similar Breakfast: Included at your hotel this morning.
Activity Note: The optional tour is offered on Morning/Afternoon: Enjoy another day to
April through October departures only. When discover Paris at your own pace. Perhaps
Giverny is closed, an optional tour of the Louvre you’ll explore the Place de la Concorde, or take
will be offered. advantage of the fine shopping to be had in
Paris’s fashionable shops and boutiques.
Breakfast: Included at your hotel this morning.
Lunch/Dinner: On your own—ask your
Morning/Afternoon: The day is yours to
Program Director for local restaurant
explore Paris on your own, perhaps strolling
recommendations.
the Champs d’Elysee.
Evening: You’ll meet your fellow travelers and
Or spend the morning in Giverny on an
begin your Cruising Burgundy & Provence to the
optional tour to the countryside to see the
Cote d’Azur River Cruise Tour.
lovely landscapes that inspired Monet. He first
OPTIONAL TOUR
Giverny Giverny while looking out of a train window in
(Day 4 $85 per person) 1883. He stayed here until his death in 1926,
The unique light of the area’s Seine Valley and his grave is in the family vault at the
in Normandy kept Monet in residence for town’s Romanesque church. Travel to Monet’s
43 years after he “discovered” the village of beloved village of Giverny, and explore the
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
21artist’s home and gardens, now a museum
dedicated to the great painter. The house is
furnished as it was when the leader of the
Impressionist School lived here, including his
precious collection of Japanese engravings.
The gardens have been replanted and, as you
stroll through them, you’ll see with your own
eyes the landscapes that have graced countless
Monet paintings. Here are his familiar Japanese
bridge and water garden shaded by weeping
willows, with its pond still full of the water
lilies that so inspired his work. You’ll also visit
the American-Impressionist Museum during
your time here.
This optional tour is offered on April through
October departures only. When Giverny is closed,
an optional tour of the Louvre will be offered.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
22POST-TRIP
Nice, France
INCLUDED IN YOUR PRICE
» Accommodations for 3 nights » Dedicated services of a local
» 3 breakfasts Program Director
» Guided tour with personal headsets: Cannes » Gratuities for local guides and
& Antibes motorcoach drivers
» All transfers
POST-TRIP EXTENSION ITINERARY
Elegant hotels, fashionable seaside promenades, an opulent casino, and famous sunny beaches—Nice more
than merits her title as the grande dame of the Cote d’Azur. Stroll the ancient lanes of this city, where the
French Riviera phenomenon began more than a century ago.
Day 1 Nice Day 2 Nice
• Destination: Nice • Destination: Nice
• Accommodations: Splendid Hotel & Spa • Included Meals: Breakfast
or similar • Accommodations: Splendid Hotel & Spa
Morning/Afternoon: As your main trip or similar
concludes this morning, the day is yours to Breakfast: Included at your hotel this morning.
explore this delightful seaside town at your own
pace. Perhaps you’ll stroll the Promenade des Morning/Afternoon: Spend the day pursuing
Anglais and admire the ocean on one side of you your own interests. Perhaps you’ll visit Nice’s
and Nice’s finest hotels, restaurants, and shops charming Old Town and pick up a freshly cut
on the other. Or you might visit one of the city’s bouquet at the Cours Saleya flower market.
many museums, including the Marc Chagall In addition to fuchsias, and Gerbera daisies,
Museum, featuring work from the great artist’s you’ll also find vibrant produce, and handmade
long and storied career. goods, beneath the colorfully striped awnings
of this more than a 100-year-old institution.
Lunch: On your own—ask your Program
Director for local restaurant recommendations. Or, join a full-day optional outing to Monaco,
which begins with a visit to the gardens and
Dinner: On your own—ask your Program ground floor of the stunning Villa Rothschild.
Director for local restaurant recommendations. Then explore the old town of Monaco on a
walking tour that includes the 19th-century
Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
Monaco Cathedral, Monte Carlo and its most
rest of your evening as you wish—ask your
famous square, Place du Casino, home of the
Program Director for recommendations.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
23legendary Grand Casino. Finally, enjoy a scenic Then, head into Antibes, lined with pristine
drive along the magnificent Moyenne Corniche, Mediterranean beaches and an old town
with panoramic views of the Cote d’Azur. encircled in 16th-century ramparts. Enjoy time
on your own here to soak in the atmosphere.
Lunch: On your own—ask your Program
Director for local restaurant recommendations. Lunch: On your own—ask your Program
Director for local restaurant recommendations.
Dinner: On your own—ask your Program
Director for local restaurant recommendations. Afternoon: Continue to seaside Cannes. Famous
for its film festival, Cannes has also earned
Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
the reputation as a destination for the rich and
rest of your evening as you wish—ask your
famous. Stroll La Croisette, the waterfront
Program Director for recommendations.
boulevard known for its picturesque beaches,
restaurants, cafes, and boutiques. Then return
Day 3 Nice • Antibes & Cannes to Nice.
• Destination: Antibes & Cannes
Dinner: On your own—ask your Program
• Included Meals: Breakfast
Director for local restaurant recommendations.
• Accommodations: Splendid Hotel & Spa
or similar Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
rest of your evening as you wish—ask your
Breakfast: Included at your hotel this morning.
Program Director for recommendations.
Morning: Spend the day exploring the
Provencal countryside—beginning in the Day 4 Nice • Return to U.S.
countryside for visit to a producer of Provence
• Included Meals: Breakfast
specialties. Here you’ll learn how regional
delicacies are created and have the chance to Breakfast: Included at your hotel this morning.
taste locally produced olives, tomatoes, and
Morning: Transfer to the airport for your
tapenade.
flight home.
OPTIONAL TOUR
Monaco du Casino, home of the legendary Grand Casino.
(Day 2 $135 per person) You’ll also travel along a portion of the Grand
Experience glamorous Monaco, where the Prix Motor Race circuit. Finally, enjoy a scenic
Grimaldis have ruled since 1297, on a full-day drive along the magnificent Moyenne Corniche,
tour that begins with a visit to the gardens and with panoramic views of the Cote d’Azur.
ground floor of the stunning Villa Rothschild.
Then explore the old town of Monaco on a
walking tour that includes the 19th-century
Monaco Cathedral, final resting-place of the
Princess of Monaco, Grace Kelly, as well as
Monte Carlo and its most famous square, Place
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
24POST-TRIP
Italian Riviera & the Cinque Terre
INCLUDED IN YOUR PRICE
» Accommodations for 4 nights » Dedicated services of a local
» 4 breakfasts Program Director
» 2 guided tours with personal headsets: » Gratuities for local guides and
Portofino • Cinque Terre motorcoach drivers
» All transfers
POST-TRIP EXTENSION ITINERARY
This lovely seaside resort town is home to several medieval relics, like a 16th-century castle, and the Abbazia
della Cervara (Abbey of Cervara), which was erected in the late 1300s, and features an expansive garden
overlooking the sea. Santa Margherita is a charming place to relax and sample the town’s vintages.
Day 1 Nice • Santa Margherita Ligure Day 2 Santa Margherita Ligure • Portofino
• Destination: Santa Margherita Ligure • Destination: Portofino
• Accommodations: Hotel Jolanda or similar • Included Meals: Breakfast
Morning/Afternoon: After your Cruising • Accommodations: Hotel Jolanda or similar
Burgundy & Provence to the Cote d’Azur River Activity Note: Boat ride depends on weather
Cruise Tour, you’ll transfer to Santa Margherita conditions, and is not available from
Ligure, Italy. Depending on when you arrive, mid-October through November, as well as
enjoy free time to relax or explore, and in the in March. In these instances, the boat will be
afternoon, your Program Director will provide replaced by a bus ride.
an orientation walk of Santa Margherita Ligure.
Breakfast: Included at your hotel this morning.
Lunch: On your own—ask your Program
Director for local restaurant recommendations. Morning: Take a walking tour of Santa
Margherita Ligure with your Program Director
Dinner: On your own—ask your Program before embarking on a boat ride to Portofino,
Director for local restaurant recommendations. one of the gems of the Italian Riviera. Following
your discovery walk of Portofino, you’ll have
Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
free time to explore further.
rest of your evening as you wish—ask your
Program Director for recommendations. Lunch: On your own—ask your Program
Director for local restaurant recommendations.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
25Afternoon: Return by boat back to Santa Dinner: On your own—ask your Program
Margherita Ligure in the afternoon. The latter Director for local restaurant recommendations.
part of the day is yours to pursue your own
Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
interests.
rest of your evening as you wish—ask your
Dinner: On your own—ask your Program Program Director for recommendations.
Director for local restaurant recommendations.
Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
Day 4 Santa Margherita Ligure
rest of your evening as you wish—ask your • Destination: Santa Margherita Ligure
Program Director for recommendations. • Included Meals: Breakfast
• Accommodations: Hotel Jolanda or similar
Day 3 Santa Margherita Ligure • Cinque Breakfast: Included at your hotel this morning.
Terre National Park
Morning/Afternoon: Take advantage of a full
• Destination: Cinque Terre
day to savor the delights of the Italian Riviera
• Included Meals: Breakfast
according to your own interests. Perhaps you
• Accommodations: Hotel Jolanda or similar will visit the Abbazia della Cervara (Abbey of
Activity Note: Seats on public trains in Italy Cervara), or the cerulean bay of Paraggi, which
are available on a first-come first-served is a little over a mile away and accessible by
basis. Overcrowded passenger cars may require boat or bus.
travelers to stand throughout the duration
Or, join us today for an optional tour of Genoa,
of their hour and fifteen-minute journey.
the capital of the Italian Riviera. A short drive
Departure and arrival delays are common. For
along the coast takes us to this grand maritime
boarding and exiting the train, riders must
city that was once a rival to Venice, Pisa, and
climb and descend three steep steps.
Amalfi for control of the Mediterranean. Genoa
Breakfast: Included at your hotel this morning. is also known as the hometown of explorer
Christopher Columbus.
Morning: Depart for an included tour of Cinque
Terre National Park, where clusters of terraces After a panoramic drive, we’ll begin our
are fastened to cliffs that drop dramatically walking tour, accompanied by an expert local
into the sea. This UNESCO World Heritage Site guide, of the monumental Strada Nuova. This
is comprised of five captivating villages, most 400-year-old street is lined with elegant
of which are solely connected by pathways and mansions that have been celebrated by Rubens
train stations, making them delightfully free of in pictures, as well as by Lord Byron and Mark
car traffic. We’ll explore by local train and on Twain in words. We’ll continue our walking
foot today. tour by exploring the Caruggi, an intricate maze
of the picturesque streets that connect the town
Lunch: On your own—ask your Program center with the port docks—where, until the
Director for local restaurant recommendations. 1960s, giant transatlantic liners departed for
Afternoon: Take the train back to Santa the U.S. with Italian emigrants seeking new
Margherita Ligure, arriving in the early opportunities.
evening.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
26Lunch: Travelers who choose the optional tour Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
will enjoy lunch in a local trattoria. Otherwise, rest of your evening as you wish—ask your
lunch is on your own—ask your Program Program Director for recommendations.
Director for local restaurant recommendations.
Dinner: Join your fellow travelers for a Farewell Day 5 Santa Margherita Ligure •
Drink before free time to discover one of the Return to U.S.
area’s charming locally-owned restaurants • Included Meals: Breakfast
independently. Ask your Program Director for
Breakfast: Included at your hotel this morning.
local restaurant recommendations.
Morning: You will have a one-hour transfer
to the airport in Genoa, Italy, for your return
flight home.
OPTIONAL TOUR
Genoa
(Day 4 $115 per person)
Join us for an excursion to Genoa, the capital of
the Italian Riviera. The city once rivaled other
grand maritime cities such as Pisa, Venice,
and Amalfi. Genoa offers magnificent palaces,
museums, and of course is famous as the
hometown of Christopher Columbus. Along our
ride there, we’ll stop to take in panoramic views
of the picturesque coastline. Enjoy a walking
tour of the city, narrated by an expert local
guide—you’ll stroll down the famous Strada
Nuova, admiring the elegant architecture and
exploring the network of side streets which
connect the town center with its ancient port.
We’ll enjoy lunch in a local trattoria before
returning to our hotel.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
27ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT THIS TRIP:
With the planning of any vacation comes the need to research and ask
questions—and even more so with international travel. We’re here to
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on subjects ranging from passports to weather,
currency to recommended reading.
This is also a preview of the in-depth information that you’ll receive
bSPYdZ`]P^P]aPdZ`]OP[L]_`]PZQ_ST^_]T[%Z`]ZʯNTLW?]T[3LYOMZZV^
which outline everything you’ll need to know before and during your
vacation. What’s more, our Travel Counselors will be ready and eager to
address any additional questions you may have.
With all of our resources available to you, enjoy peace of mind …
and look forward to the incredible discoveries that await.
28CONTENTS
TRAVEL DOCUMENTS & ENTRY REQUIREMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . .30
RIGORS, VACCINES & GENERAL HEALTH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32
MONEY MATTERS: LOCAL CURRENCY & TIPPING GUIDELINES . . .35
Top 3 Suggestions
Local Currency
Tipping Guidelines
AIR, OPTIONAL TOURS & STAYING IN TOUCH . . . . . . . . . . . . .39
PACKING: WHAT TO BRING & LUGGAGE LIMITS . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43
CLIMATE & AVERAGE TEMPERATURES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49
ABOARD YOUR SHIP: CABIN FEATURES, DINING & SERVICES . . . .52
ABOUT YOUR DESTINATIONS: CULTURE, ETIQUETTE & MORE . . .57
Culture & Points to Know
Shopping
DEMOGRAPHICS & HISTORY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71
RESOURCES: SUGGESTED READING & MOVIES. . . . . . . . . . . . . .76
29TRAVEL DOCUMENTS & ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Your Passport
• Must be in good condition
• Must be valid for at least 6 months after your scheduled return to the U.S.
• Must have the required number of blank pages (details below)
• The blank pages must be labeled “Visas” at the top. Pages labeled “Amendments and
Endorsements” are not acceptable
Need to Renew Your Passport?
Contact the National Passport Information Center (NPIC) at 1-877-487-2778, or visit their
website at www.travel.state.gov for information on obtaining a new passport or renewing
your existing passport. You may also contact our recommended visa service company, PVS
International, at 1-800-556-9990 for help with your passport.
Recommended Blank Pages
Please confirm that your passport has enough blank pages for this vacation.
• Main trip only: You will need 2 blank passport pages.
• Pre- and/or post-trip extension: No additional blank pages are needed for any of the
extensions.
No Visas Required
Travelers with a U.S. passport do not need any visas for this vacation, including the optional trip
extensions.
Traveling Without a U.S. Passport?
If you are not a U.S. citizen, or if your passport is from any country other than the U.S., it is your
responsibility to check with your local consulate, embassy, or a visa services company about visa
requirements. We recommend the services of PVS International, a national visa service located in
Washington D.C.; they can be reached at 1-800-556-9990 or www.pvsinternational.org.
Traveling With a Minor?
Some governments may require certain documentation for minors to enter and depart the
country or to obtain a visa (if applicable). For further detail on the required documentation, please
contact your local embassy or consulate.
30You can also read
